Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

California Dreamin' - Ultimate West Coast Adventure

Viewed by 72 travelers
Day 1 · Sat, Dec 23
San Francisco, United States · Saturday, December 23, 2023

Day 1: San Francisco - Dec 23, 2023

  • Visit to California Academy of Sciences ($35 · 3-4 hours)
  • Fresh Seafood at Fisherman's Wharf ($25 · 1-2 hours)
  • Sunset at Twin Peaks (Free · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Start the day with a visit to the historic Japanese Tea Garden, followed by a leisurely walk through the Botanical Gardens. Afterward, head to the California Academy of Sciences to dive into the world of natural history and aquatic life.

Afternoon:

Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local eateries, then stroll along the waterfront to Pier 39. Don't miss the lively sea lion colony basking in the sun. Cap off the afternoon with a visit to the fascinating Madame Tussauds San Francisco.

Evening:

Drive to the top of Twin Peaks for breathtaking panoramic views of the city as the sun sets behind the Golden Gate Bridge.

San Francisco → Napa Valley
Day 2 · Sun, Dec 24
Napa Valley, United States · Sunday, December 24, 2023

Day 2: Napa Valley Excursion - Dec 24, 2023

  • Winery Tour at Domaine Carneros ($50 · 2-3 hours)
  • Lunch at Michelin-starred Restaurant ($100 · 1-2 hours)
  • Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride ($250 · 3-4 hours)

Morning:

Embark on a guided tour of the stunning chateau of Domaine Carneros, where you'll learn about the art of winemaking and enjoy a tasting of their exquisite sparkling wines.

Afternoon:

Savor a delightful lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Yountville, known for its culinary excellence and charming ambiance.

Evening:

Drift above the picturesque vineyards and rolling hills of Napa Valley as you witness a magnificent sunset from a hot air balloon.

Napa Valley → Big Sur
Day 3 · Mon, Dec 25
Big Sur, United States · Monday, December 25, 2023

Day 3: Coastal Drive to Big Sur - Dec 25, 2023

  • Scenic Drive to Bixby Creek Bridge (Gas cost · 4-5 hours)
  • Hiking at McWay Falls (Park entrance fee · 2-3 hours)
  • Sunset at Pfeiffer Beach (Free · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Embark on a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and make a stop at the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge for breathtaking photo opportunities amidst the rugged coastline.

Afternoon:

Take a leisurely hike to the secluded McWay Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades onto a pristine beach, creating a picturesque scene nestled within the cliffs of Big Sur.

Evening:

Relax on the unique purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach and witness the magical hues of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Big Sur → San Simeon
Day 4 · Tue, Dec 26
San Simeon, United States · Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Day 4: San Simeon and Hearst Castle - Dec 26, 2023

  • Tour of Hearst Castle ($30 · 2-3 hours)
  • Elephant Seal Rookery (Park entrance fee · 1-2 hours)
  • Sunset Dinner at Moonstone Beach ($50 · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Embark on a guided tour of the opulent Hearst Castle, a magnificent estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, featuring stunning architectural masterpieces and luxurious gardens.

Afternoon:

Observe the fascinating elephant seals in their natural habitat as they bask on the beaches and engage in playful interactions.

Evening:

Enjoy a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant along Moonstone Beach, known for its serene coastal views and fresh seafood.

San Simeon → Santa Barbara
Day 5 · Wed, Dec 27
Santa Barbara, United States · Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Day 5: Santa Barbara - Dec 27, 2023

  • Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Pier (Free · 2-3 hours)
  • Visit to Santa Barbara Courthouse (Free · 1-2 hours)
  • Sunset Cruise ($75 · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Take a leisurely stroll along Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Pier, lined with charming shops, delightful eateries, and stunning ocean views.

Afternoon:

Explore the iconic Santa Barbara Courthouse, known for its Spanish-Moorish architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, offering panoramic views of the city.

Evening:

Embark on a relaxing sunset cruise along the coastline, sipping wine as you take in the splendor of the Santa Barbara shoreline.

Santa Barbara → Malibu
Day 6 · Thu, Dec 28
Malibu, United States · Thursday, December 28, 2023

Day 6: Malibu Retreat - Dec 28, 2023

  • Zuma Beach Relaxation (Free · 4-5 hours)
  • Malibu Wine Safari ($150 · 3-4 hours)
  • Sunset Dinner at Nobu Malibu ($200 · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Spend a leisurely day lounging on the sandy shores of Zuma Beach, known for its pristine coastline and tranquil atmosphere.

Afternoon:

Embark on a unique wine experience at Saddlerock Ranch, where you'll embark on a safari tour through the vineyards and enjoy wine tastings amidst picturesque surroundings.

Evening:

Savor a delectable dinner at the iconic Nobu Malibu, renowned for its upscale Japanese cuisine and breathtaking oceanfront views.

Malibu → Los Angeles
Day 7 · Fri, Dec 29
Los Angeles, United States · Friday, December 29, 2023

Day 7: Los Angeles - Dec 29, 2023

  • Visit to The Getty Center (Free · 3-4 hours)
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame (Free · 1-2 hours)
  • Sunset at Griffith Observatory (Free · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Spend a few hours exploring the magnificent art collections, stunning architecture, and lush gardens of The Getty Center, offering unparalleled views of the city.

Afternoon:

Embark on a leisurely stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, lined with stars honoring legendary personalities in the entertainment industry.

Evening:

Head to Griffith Observatory to witness a captivating sunset over the glittering cityscape of Los Angeles and stargaze through the observatory's telescopes.

Los Angeles → Santa Monica
Day 8 · Sat, Dec 30
Santa Monica, United States · Saturday, December 30, 2023

Day 8: Santa Monica Farewell - Dec 30, 2023

  • Santa Monica Pier and Beach (Free · 2-3 hours)
  • Third Street Promenade (Variable · 2-3 hours)
  • Farewell Sunset at Palisades Park (Free · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Spend the morning enjoying the iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its lively amusement park, vibrant street performers, and panoramic views of the coastline.

Afternoon:

Explore the bustling open-air shopping district, Third Street Promenade, filled with an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Evening:

Head to Palisades Park for a serene farewell sunset, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica coastline.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version