This Coastal California tour with Audley Travel takes you on a scenic road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, following the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. Along the way, you'll explore charming seaside towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara, marvel at the rugged beauty of Big Sur, and enjoy wine tasting in California’s renowned vineyards. With breathtaking ocean views, cultural highlights, and a relaxed coastal vibe, this journey captures the best of California’s scenic and laid-back lifestyle.

Overview

• Duration: 14 days

Destinations:

• • Vibrant Citie: Explore San Francisco’s iconic landmarks, from the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz Island
  • Coastal Towns: Wander through Monterey’s historic Cannery Row and Carmel’s charming art galleries
  • Scenic Landscapes: Drive along Big Sur’s rugged coastline, stopping at Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls.
  • Wine Regions: Enjoy tastings in Paso Robles and Santa Barbara’s vineyards
  • Beachside Retreats: Relax in Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean-style setting and stroll along Santa Monica Beach.

Highlights:

• • Driving the iconic Pacific Coast Highway with breathtaking ocean views.
  • Visiting historic and cultural sites, including Hearst Castle and Santa Barbara Mission.
  • Experiencing diverse landscapes, from redwood forests to golden beaches.
  • Tasting world-class wines in California’s renowned wine country.
  • Enjoying a mix of city exploration, outdoor adventure, and coastal relaxation

From £3,195 pp

Itinerary overview

San Francisco -- Monterey -- Pismo Beach -- Santa Barbara -- Hollywood -- Coronado 

Itineraries

Day 1

San Francisco

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to San Francisco. On arrival in San Francisco, make your way to Fisherman's Wharf to begin your California road trip. Fisherman's Wharf is an ideal base for your time in San Francisco as there are many easily accessible restaurants, family-friendly museums and, of course, the playful sea lions that bask in the sun at Pier 39.

 

Day 2

San Francisco

Today, you are booked on a tour of the legendary Alcatraz prison. The ferry to Alcatraz Island leaves from Fisherman's Wharf. You'll sail across the bay, marvelling at a different view of the city. Once you arrive, you will walk around the prison with your own personal headset, listening to audio from ex-inmates that tells you all about the history of the island. On certain days, there is the possibility of children joining the Junior Ranger programme led by national park staff.

 

Day 3

San Francisco

Another day to enjoy beautiful San Francisco. With your experienced guide, you'll have your family's bikes fitted to size in their shop, before cycling from Fisherman's Wharf around the Bay and across the Golden Gate Bridge. Once over the bridge, you'll be in the quaint bayside town of Sausalito for a well-earned post-cycle lunch.

 

 

Day 4

Monterey

This morning, pick up your rental car, and you'll be heading down the coast. Your first drive of the trip is a two-hour journey out of the city along the Pacific Coast Highway, through the undulating Santa Cruz Mountains, and along the coastal highway to Monterey. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town at leisure; we recommend the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which showcases the native marine life along the Pacific Coast.

 

Day 5

Monterey

Make your way to the marina, where you'll embark on an exciting three-hour shared whale-watching expedition. The area becomes a feeding ground for blue whales, Risso’s dolphins, humpback whales, northern right whale dolphins, and orcas, depending on the season. The whole family will enjoy this exhilarating trip out on the water, learning about marine mammals.

 

 

Day 6

Pismo Beach

Departing Monterey, drive three hours south along the rugged Pacific Coast Highway, passing Big Sur and many small coastal towns along the way. There are some really lovely small hikes in the forest and ocean-side coves that are great for stretching everyone's legs and having a picnic along the way. When you arrive in Pismo Beach, be sure to watch out for surfers on the pier.

 

 

Day 7

Santa Barbara

Start your morning by heading to Pismo Beach itself, perfect for exploring the sandy shores, playing in the waves, and building sandcastles. In the afternoon, begin the drive down to Santa Barbara, which takes around an hour and a half. Once in the bustling town of Santa Barbara, take the hop-on, hop-off tram around town to get your bearings and enjoy an ice cream on Stearns Wharf!

 

 

Day 8

Santa Barbara

We love starting the day by wandering down the tree-lined State Street and enjoying a delicious breakfast in one of the local bistros. In the afternoon, you'll head out onto the water in a kayak to get up close to the wildlife in the Santa Barbara Harbor. Your experienced guide will show you the paddling basics before you take to the water and double kayaks are available for adults and children to share.

 

 

Day 9

Hollywood

A change from the coast to the city, as you drive two hours south to Los Angeles and the glittering lights of Hollywood. For a scenic view of the iconic Hollywood Sign and the surrounding hills, drive up to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook. It's a great spot for taking family photos and soaking in the views of the city. Spend the afternoon playing in the pool at the hotel and taking some well deserved relaxation time.

 

 

Day 10

Hollywood

Today's tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood will create lasting memories for the whole family. Be prepared to snap photos with characters, conquer thrilling rides together, and enjoy delicious themed snacks. Immerse yourself in the world of Hollywood movies and entertainment for the day.

 

 

Day 11

Coronado

Continuing your family's coastal road trip with a two-hour drive down to sunny beachside San Diego. Take a stroll along the Coronado Ferry Landing, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the San Diego skyline and watch boats sail by.

 

Day 12

Coronado

Spend a day building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply relaxing on the pristine shores of Coronado Beach. The wide expanse of soft sand and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for family fun by the sea. If your family is looking for more active pursuits, take a walk around Balboa Park and explore the many museums, galleries and attractions there.

 

Day 13

Coronado

Start your day by visiting the USS Midway Museum. Explore the historic aircraft carrier and learn about its fascinating history through interactive exhibits, restored aircraft, and informative tours. Everyone will enjoy climbing aboard the massive ship, exploring the flight deck, and seeing the various aircraft up close.

Day 14

Return home

You'll have most of the day to enjoy San Diego before your onward flight. Take some time to soak up the sunshine, collect last-minute souvenirs and take as many photos as you can. Make your own way to the airport for your flight home.

• Scheduled international flights
• In-destination transfers
• Activities and excursions as detailed
• All accommodation
• 24-hour support while you travel

• Gibraltar - London flights (can be arranged) 
• Optional extra activities 

From £3,19 per person (based on July departure date)