01 Mar RE-DISCOVER CALIFORNIA – BEYOND THE CITIES TO CLIFFS, CAPITALS, COASTS AND CABINS
FROM: LOS ANGELES TO LOS ANGELES
1N SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK/ 1N YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK/ 1N MAMMOTH LAKES/ 2N LAKE TAHOE/ 1N SACREMENTO/ 1N NAPA VALLEY/ 1N BIG SUR/2N SANTA BARBARA
Beyond the glitz of Los Angeles, the startups of San Fransisco and the beaches of San Diego there is a whole new California that is just begging to be discovered. It’s full of adventure and luxury. There is beauty, there is food and there is the charm of California.
Pick up your car from the Los Angeles and reach the largest living things at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and drive along to the waterfalls and granites to Yosemite and the mountain town full of Mammoth Lakes. Follow a spectacular route to Lake Tahoe and continue onwards to the capital city of Sacramento. Take a wine filled train ride in Napa Valley before driving past San Fransico to see Carmel and Big Sur. Finally, for the finale make your way to the coastal town of Santa Barbara; and just a two-hour drive from where the journey started.
So get your self drive car, roll down the windows to let the summer winds flow and crank up your music!
Let the beauty of nature and the lure of the ocean pull you in!
This is the perfect itinerary for those who have already been to the major tourist cities of San Fransico and Los Angeles!!
Day 1: LOS ANGELES TO SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK:
Distance: 230 Miles
Duration: 8-9 Hours
Motto: Go Big or go home
Playlist: From Seed To Sequoia by Hillsong Worship
Pick up your self-drive car early in the morning and make a three-hour drive along the highway to reach the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park.
GRAB A BITE TO EAT: Right before you enter Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park on highway 198 there is Antoinette’s Coffee & Goodies. With fresh coffee and goodies have your morning cup of café and sugar buzz just before you enter the National Park!
Discover SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK: Sequoia & King’s Canyon National Parks are home to natural wonders, from massive mountains to deep canyons and huge trees. Perhaps what is the most important to see here are Sequoia Grooves. Whether you see them from a car or hike to a remote grove the elevations, which range from 1,500 to 14,491 feet, are indeed breathtaking.
STOPS:
- Seeing the Sequoia Giants:
Start with the Giant Forest Museum. The museum is housed in the historic Giant Forest market building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From here, stroll on easy paths (suitable for wheelchairs), including the Big Trees Trail and the General Sherman Tree Trail.
General Sherman Tree: General Sherman is the largest living thing in the world! It measures 103/31-meters around, and soars 275 feet/84 meters into the blue Sierra sky—and it’s still growing. It takes a good 20-30 minutes round-trip to see General Sherman.
The Must Do: Drive through the Tunnel Log to Crystal Meadow
Tunnel Log which is not technically a stop more like a drive through but it is impossible not to get down click a few pictures before you drive or walk through the fallen sequoia; which is the only tree you can drive through in this national park. The Crystal Meadow provides some great picnic spots where you can have your lunch. Though do make sure that the car fits through!!
- Crystal Caves:
A marble karst cave which gives a glimpse of geology in action. The structure of the cave is such that one needs to take an approximate 45 minute guided tour. Tickets are not sold at the cave itself and need to be purchased preferably online or at Foothills or Lodgepole Visitor Centers. Family tour is approximately for 50 minutes.
- THE SLEEP: WUKSACHI LODGE
The Wuksachi Lodge is Sequoia’s best hotel both in its location and its quality. Located just 40 minutes from the Crystal cave it is striking stone-and-cedar mountain lodge surrounded by a mighty sequoia forest and soaring Sierra peaks. With limitless Wifi, natural wood décor and all the basic amenities it is as luxurious as it gets in Sequoia. Don’t forget to eat at The Peaks Restuarant at the Wuksachi Lodge.
DAY 2: SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK TO YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK:
Distance: 220 Miles
Duration: 8-9 Hours
Motto: Adapt to the pace of nature
Playlist: Hider Yosemite
After breakfast start towards to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that attracts 4 million visitors each year. The park itself covers more than 1,100 square miles, and it features stark natural beauty from the Yosemite Valley to the Tuolumne Mountains. It is stunning and perhaps for the most adventurers, it is a spot of adrenaline delight. You can, however, get a glimpse of its beauty through its major highlights.
STOPS:
- Tunnel View: A panoramic viewpoint area, located directly east of the Wawona Tunnel portal. This is a majestic viewpoint if there was any, with a panoramic view of Half Dome, El Capitan, Three Brothers and Bridalveil Falls
- Yosemite Valley Lodge Tour and Activity Desk: Around 15 minutes from Tunnel View is the activity desk from which all Yosemite tours depart. You can take the Yosemite Valley Floor Tour which is approximately 2 hours long. A guided tour has the benefit of the guide who will tell you about all the history and facts that you are sure to miss out on if you venture on your own. Sit in an open tram and enjoy the highlights of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall and more. Just a mile away is the Ansel Adams gallery which shows photographs taken by Ansel Adams.
- Glacier Point: The final highlight of any trip to Yosemite has to be the Glacier Point. Glacier Point is one of the most awe-inspiring of all Yosemite views. Perched on an outcropping of granite 3,000 feet up on the rim of the Yosemite Valley, you’ll fill your eyes with one of the greatest sights on earth—mountain peaks, waterfalls and the pristine valley below. Glacier Point is best reached from Yosemite Valley via Glacier Point Road, which is open from approximately late May or early June through October or November. On the way, you may want to stop at Washburn Point, which has similar views, but with a more direct look at Vernal and Nevada Falls. It is best to keep around two hours for Glacier Point (if you are not permitted to drive there and always inquire about the weather and the route before leaving.
- GRAB A BITE TO EAT: The Majestic Yosemite dining room is a perfect place for a meal in Yosemite. Lunch doesn’t have a dress code but dinner does. Also, it’s better to book it in advance.
- YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE: Yosemite Valley Lodge is a favorite choice for families and large groups. Its close proximity to Yosemite Falls makes it the perfect base camp for exploring Yosemite National Park. It is perhaps not as luxurious as the Majestic Yosemite but its location is equally appealing.
DAY 3: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK TO MAMMOTH LAKES:
Distance: 120 Miles
Duration: 7-8 Hours
Motto: Life is better at the lake.
Song: Paradise by Coldplay
After breakfast today a new adventure will take you to Mammoth Lakes and surrounding. Majestic in scale and awesome in its natural beauty, the year-round adventure land of Mammoth Lakes is one of those rare places that is unbelievably stunning. The name speaks to the size of the mountains, the expanse of the valleys, the incredible number of crystal clear mountain lakes and the endless opportunities for adventure just at the doorstep.
Firstly from Yosemite drive to Mono Lakes. The large shallow saline lake is known for its stunning tufas, calcium formations created when the lake’s water dropped. But the lake is also a vital habitat and nesting ground for migratory birds.
STOPS:
- Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area Visitor Centre located just north of the small village of Lee Vining on U.S. Highway 395. The U.S. Forest Service facility houses an incredible collection of interpretive exhibits presenting the ecology, geology, anthropology, and management of the Mono Lake Basin. Make a quick stop here first in order to make it to the South Tufa Area.
Next, drive to South Tufa Area and walk the loop trail—take the free guided tour if your timing is right (10:00 am). The reserve was established to preserve the spectacular “tufa towers,” calcium-carbonate spires and knobs formed by the interaction of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water. It also protects the lake surface itself as well as the wetlands and other sensitive habitats for the 1 – 2 million birds that feed and rest at Mono Lake each year.
- GRAB A BITE TO EAT: Roberto’s Café is one of Mammoth Lakes favorite. It serves great Mexican and has also a TripAdvisor winner of the Certificate of Excellence.
Mammoth Lakes Basin is a beautiful alpine setting home to spectacular lakes. They are Glacier-carved lakes form the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George and Horseshoe Lake are nestled below jagged peaks and pine forest. It is easily accessible by car and can simply stop by the lakes for some gorgeous views. Follow Main Street until it becomes Lake Mary Road and proceed three miles, just a 10-minute drive from Mammoth Lakes. Total driving tour through the Lakes Basin will take 30 to 45 minutes excluding the scenic stops.
- Glacier Point: The final highlight of any trip to Yosemite has to be the Glacier Point. Glacier Point is one of the most awe-inspiring of all Yosemite views. Perched on an outcropping of granite 3,000 feet up on the rim of the Yosemite Valley, you’ll fill your eyes with one of the greatest sights on earth—mountain peaks, waterfalls and the pristine valley below. Glacier Point is best reached from Yosemite Valley via Glacier Point Road, which is open from approximately late May or early June through October or November. On the way, you may want to stop at Washburn Point, which has similar views, but with a more direct look at Vernal and Nevada Falls. It is best to keep around two hours for Glacier Point (if you are not permitted to drive there and always inquire about the weather and the route before leaving.
- The June Lake Loop drive is approximately 15 miles of dramatic Sierra peaks and alpine scenery with a chain of gorgeous lakes. Grant Lake, Silver Lake, Gull Lake and June Lake all nestle in a steep, horseshoe-shaped canyon. Along the southernmost rim of the Mono Basin, California State Route 158 loops away from U.S. Highway 395 for 16 miles, then returns. It follows a horseshoe-shaped canyon containing four lakes, surrounded by a dramatic mountainous backdrop.
- DOUBLE EAGLE RESORT AND SPA is located in June Lake and provides some of the most scenic views in the region. The guests can use the Creekside Spa and Fitness Center for free! That includes the indoor pool, whirlpool, and gym. The luxury rooms are located overlooking Ron’s pond and include balcony and wifi.
DAY 4: MAMMOTH LAKES TO LAKE TAHOE:
Distance: 150 Miles
Duration: 9-10 Hours
Motto: Discover the blue
Playlist: Crystal Blue Persuasion – Tommy James & The Shondells
From Mammoth Lakes make your way to Lake Tahoe. Blue as a topaz and circled by majestic peaks, this High Sierra gem straddling the California-Nevada border is a bucket-list essential. Lakefront towns dot the shoreline, each with their own appeal. Winter and springtime snow lets you carve it up at world-class alpine resorts. Summer brings out the water toys—sailboats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and almost anything that floats.
ON THE WAY STOP: BODIE GHOST TOWN
Take a small detour which should put you back no less than an hour and a half to explore one of the best Ghost Towns in the west. Located around 50 miles from Mammoth Lakes the last three miles can be a little difficult to navigate but well worth it. Bodie State Historic Park is a genuine California gold mining town. Visitors can walk down the deserted streets of a town that once had a population of nearly 10,000 people. A small part of the town has been preserved in a state of “arrested decay”.
Finally, reach the Lake Tahoe region. There are a lot of activities that are available in the Lake Tahoe Region. Visitors can choose from a range of activities that helps them decide what fits their taste. Cruises, hiking, concerts to dining there is just so much you can pack during your stay in Lake Tahoe.
STOPS:
- Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola: Check-in and if you have the time take a 2.4-mile ride up in the Heavenly Mountain Gondola renders the visitors breathless as they take in panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. On your way up, stop at the Observation Deck for photos, a latte at Cafe Blue or a unique Heavenly souvenir at The Gondola Sports shop. Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Shopping: The Shops at Heavenly Village boast the region’s best shopping–with over 40 shops featuring local and national brands.
- Live Theater: The Loft Theater is Tahoe No1 Magic Fusion, starring award-winning magicians from around the world.
- GRAB A BITE TO EAT: There is a range of restaurants that are located in the region with just all sorts of cuisines. From Asian to Italian to Mexican there is a wide range of options that are available in Heavenly Village.
- FiRE + iCE – Fire and Ice is one of the favorite dinner spots in South Lake Tahoe. Located in the Heavenly Village, Fire and Ice offers a unique dining experience that is fun for the entire family. Each person selects the veggies, starch, protein, and sauce that they would like cooked and put it into a bowl. Then watch as the chef grills it right there and then.
- Late Nighters: Whiskey Dicks Saloon is Lake Tahoe’s live music leader. Open till 2:00 AM it is fun, lively and a perfect time to spend some time in.
- Harrah’s Lake Tahoe is located on the state line in South Lake Tahoe. It offers a relaxing spa, an indoor pool, and a full casino. There are plenty of gambling options, including table games and slot machines, as well as in-house concert venues and nightclubs. Harrah’s is also home to a spa and several upscale and casual dining options.
DAY 5: LAKE TAHOE:
Distance: Less than 50 Miles
Duration: Felxible
Motto: Fly High and Sail Strong
Playlist: The Zephyr Song – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Today you can choose from a range of activities. Keep the day open based on what you prefer. The variety of activities that you can choose at Lake Tahoe is as follows:
- MS DIXIE II: There is a range of cruises to choose from but MS Dixie II is the best of the lot. This Daytime Scenic Cruise on Lake Tahoe has been voted “Best Cruise in Nevada” by Nevada Magazine. This 2.5-hour scenic daytime cruise offers fabulous photo opportunities, sunshine, and fresh Lake Tahoe air, which has a way of invigorating everyone around. As you cruise to Emerald Bay, you’ll learn how it was formed, some of its fascinating histories, and enjoy a special video presentation. It departs from Zephyr Cove Resort and you can choose from 11:00 AM, 2:30 PM or 6:00 PM for evening sunset cruise. The entire ride takes around 2 hours.
- Lake Tahoe Balloon Ride: The adventure begins shortly after sunrise (approximately 5:15 AM – 6:45 AM) when balloon conditions are the best and the natural beauty of this alpine setting is revealed. The journey begins at Tahoe Keys Marina where they board the Tahoe Flyer, the worlds only U.S.C.G. certified balloon launch and recovery vessel. While cruising to the designated launch site on Lake Tahoe, a full array of beverages and refreshments is available onboard. The entire experience takes around 4 hours. This is well worth the 300USD.
- Beach and water activities: There is a range of beaches available in both South and North Lake Tahoe. You can go to Pope’s Beach, El Dorado Beach, Kings Beach on the North side etc. From Parasailing to stand- up paddleboarding to Kayaking or simply relaxing on the beach, there is a wide range of activities that one can indulge in.
- Helicopter rides: There a range of helicopter rides that one can choose from. Soar above Lake Tahoe’s south shore on a 20-minute helicopter ride or soak up jaw-dropping views of Chimney Beach, Secret Harbor, Glenbrook Bay and Skunk Harbor. The cost of the ride averages USD 200 per person.
- WHAT IS HAPPENING IN TAHOE:
South Lake Tahoe concerts heat up in the summer and each year the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys hosts some of the hottest music acts under the stars in their 4,000-seat amphitheater. Check out who is performing and get your tickets. Not just that the region is alive with festivals from free summer concerts on the beach, wine walks, art festivals to stand-ups there are simply so many things going on
- GREAT EATS:
Basecamp Beer Garden: Just a few blocks from the lake is Basecamp Hotel, a boutique hotel where locals and tourists (and their dogs) gather day and night to hang out, drink beer, play corn hole, listen to live music roast marshmallows in the fire pits, snack on pretzel bites and sausages, and make new friends.
- Boathouse on the Pier: The key to maximizing your enjoyment at The Boathouse on the Pier is to get there for the afternoon happy hour (daily, from 3 to 6 pm). Then you can sip discounted drinks on a picnic table on the longest pier in Tahoe while watching people boat, kayak, and paddle board around the lake. If you go for dinner, be sure to arrive well before the sun goes down and grab a seat on the top deck for maximum romance. Like almost every restaurant with a view in Tahoe, the prices aren’t cheap, but the fish tacos and Crab Clubhouse sandwich are both delicious and “just” $15.
- Lakeside Beach House Restaurant: This outdoor restaurant is right on the beach, which means, yup: really awesome views of the lake no matter where you’re sitting (clear partitions keep the sun and wind out). The menu has burgers and salads, but the thing to get is the Santa Maria-style barbecue, which is lighter and fresher and perfect for if you are getting back in your bathing suit later. Pair it with one of five beers on tap and a glorious sunset for a meal you won’t soon forget.
DAY 6: LAKE TAHOE TO SACREMENTO:
Distance: 120 Miles
Duration: 6-7 Hours
Motto: Breath in a little bit of city air
Playlist: “Arco Arena” by Cake
Today make a short drive to the capital city of California Sacremento for a much-needed city break. Sacremento is often hidden in the bright lights of San Fransico and Los Angeles but it is a capital city in its own rights. It is quickly reinventing itself with a great art and culture scene, great restaurants, diverse wineries and even a good nightlife.
STOPS:
- PLACERVILLE: Placerville is a charming California “gold rush” town named after the placer gold deposits found in its river beds and hills in the late 1840’s. Its treasured heritage is reflected in the historical, nineteenth-century architecture of its downtown. An important historic landmark that still remains on Main Street is the Bell Tower, which stands as a monument to the city’s volunteer firemen. Today, the Bell Tower serves as a gathering place for parades, celebrations, and other Historic Main Street events.
- GRAB A BITE TO EAT: The Fudge Factory Farm is a sustainable family-run organic farm. From handmade chocolates to 40 different flavors of homemade fudge made fresh daily. They also turn out 20 types of candy coated apples, delicious caramel corn, freshly baked hand pies, creamy truffles, crisp English toffee, amazing ice cream sundaes and velvety smooth caramel. Tour the farms, and meet the resident ALPACAS!
From there make your way to the fast-growing and booming Sacremento.
- OLD SACREMENTO: Old Sacramento is a unique 28-acre National Historic Landmark District and State Historic Park that lives in homage to California’s beginning with the Gold Rush of 1849. The district is located along the beautiful Sacramento River. Bustling with activity, it is alive with shopping, dining, entertainment, historical attractions and world-renowned museums set within the time of the California Gold Rush and the Transcontinental Railroad.
- CALIFORNIA STATE RAILROAD MUSEUM: One of the most popular museums in Sacramento is the California State Railroad Museum. Each year over 500,000 people flocks to this museum to step back in time and discover the history of the railroad. There are six buildings at the museum that cover an area of 225,000 square feet. Don’t forget to take a scenic, 45-minute ride along the Sacramento River as a part of the excursion train ride.
Explore the town your own pace. Make sure to stroll along the Riverfront Promenade, walk to the iconic Tower Bridge or visit the California State Capitol.
- Grab A BIT TO EAT: Sacremento has a rich dining scene. Some of the top places that one needs to try without fail include:
- The Firehouse Resturant: Showcasing the region’s most extensive wine collection and an unparalleled menu featuring the freshest local ingredients in an inviting classic atmosphere, The Firehouse Restaurant is the destination for an incomparable dining and event experience.
- Rio City Café: Rio City Café is situated in beautiful historic Old Sacramento, overlooking some of the most prominent landmarks in Sacramento. The Sacramento River runs by the spacious outdoor patio, with spectacular views of the historic Tower Bridge and the Ziggurat building.
- Burgers and Brew: Founded close to 10 years ago, Burgers and Brew is today the best place to grab a burger along with some fine craft beer.
- STAY: Hilton Embassy Suites Sacramento-Riverfront Promenade
Enjoy the best of historic Old Town Sacramento and the modernity of downtown. The centrally-located Embassy Suites Sacramento-Riverfront Promenade hotel provides a comfortable all-suites experience. Located alongside the beautiful Riverside Promenade, Embassy Suites Sacramento – Riverfront Promenade is within easy reach of a number of notable shops, museums and many other attractions in the Sacramento district.
Day 7: SACREMENTO TO NAPA VALLEY:
Distance: 70 Miles
Duration: Felxible
Motto: Wine flies when you are having fun.
Playlist: Cheers (Drink to That)- Rihanna
Leave early in the morning and make your way to the Napa Valley. California’s most famous wine address is Napa Valley, a 56-mile-long wine heaven with hundreds of wineries in everything from rustic barns to lavish castles and historic mansions. Explore the countless wineries and simply enjoy the way things are in Napa.
STOPS:
- NAPA VALLEY WINE TOUR: Drop your car and luggage at the hotel and make your way to Napa Valley Wine Train for one of the most unique experiences. Napa Valley Wine Train is art distinctive Napa Valley fine dining restaurant. Part museum, it’s made up of exquisitely and faithfully restored vintage early 20th century Pullman cars. Part journey, to some of California’s most celebrated wineries. You get to sit back, relax, and savor every delicious bite, every bit of extraordinary scenery, every taste, and tour. There are lots of ways to explore Napa Valley. This one is an experience you will never forget.
The train offers a full day winery tour to half day tours. There is also a lunch or dinner rain.
- WHAT ELSE IN NAPA? Instead of taking the bike ride one can also explore vineyards by own or a guided tour, bike, relax by the pool, sample the wine or enjoy the various activities that are offered in the resort.
- THE SILVERADO RESORT AND SPA is located on 1,200 acres in Napa and minutes from over 400 wineries. The Silverado Resort and Spa feature 1 tennis courts, 10 pools and 2 championship golf courses. Silverado Resort boasts a 16,000-square foot spa that includes 17 private treatment rooms.
DAY 8: NAPA VALLEY TO BIG SUR:
Distance: 202 Miles
Duration: 8 -9 Hours
Motto: Live in a world with no malls
Playlist: Turner Overdrive Roll On Down the Highway-Bachman
Drive from Napa Valley via Monterey, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach and Carmel by the sea to Big Sur. Big Sur is one of the world’s most unforgettable stretches of coastline. This roughly 90-mile-long stretch of redwood- and fog-trimmed waterfront between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hearst Castle has no specific boundaries, no urban core, but with it’s with a magical allure that is almost palpable it draws people in. This is, quite simply, a place you want to be—bluffs, sea, and sky.
STOPS:
- Monterey Peninsula: Wrapped by the Pacific on three sides, the Monterey Peninsula at once offers wind-tossed beaches and quiet coves, fine dining and casual eats, early history, and postmodern art. Visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. With its psychedelic jellies and bat-ray petting tanks, the aquarium is a must-visit, especially for families. Mesmerizing tanks and exhibits showcase more than 35,000 animals and plants representing over 550 species—a large number of them California natives, including California sea otters.
- 17-Mile Drive: It is a scenic road through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula in California, much of which hugs the Pacific coastline and passes famous golf courses, mansions, and scenic.
- Carmel by the sea ( 32 km) – Browse galleries and follow the Carmel Wine Walk by the Sea. Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small beach city on California’s Monterey Peninsula. It’s known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages and galleries of its village-like center. South lie the sea animals and whaling museum of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Spend some time exploring the small town.
GRAB A BITE TO EAT:
- La Bicyclette Restaurant: Cozy, established bistro offering unpretentious French-Italian fare on a weekly-changing menu.
- Il Tegamino: Charming, rustic Italian bistro for classic comfort food with a cozy interior & outdoor courtyard.
- Dametra Café: Cozy yet high-energy choice for Mediterranean specialties, pizza & pasta in a rustic space.
- THE DRIVE: THE BIXBY CREEK BRIDGE
Bixby Creek Bridge, also known as Bixby Bridge, on the Big Sur coast of California, is one of the most photographed bridges in California due to its aesthetic design, “graceful architecture and magnificent setting”.
GRAB A BITE TO EAT:
- NEPENTHE: Big Sur views that can only be beaten if you’re a seagull, this cliff-topping restaurant rightfully makes it onto everyone’s bucket list. At Nepenthe, located on Highway 1 between Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge and Castro Canyon you get the best of both worlds. You have the stunning views and the Ambrosia Burger which is perhaps the best. It is open until 10:00 PM but better to arrive a little early and if nothing at least make reservations!
BIG SUR LODGE is located amidst the natural serenity that surrounds you, Big Sur Lodge offers the comfort and convenience of 62 cottage-style rooms with a wide array of options. And while you stay in the heart of the breathtaking beauty of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, even more, exciting adventures and activities lay ready just a short drive away.
DAY 9: BIG SUR TO SANTA BARBARA:
Distance: 340 Kms
Duration: 7 -8 Hours
Motto: Push it to the end
Playlist: Castle on the hill – Ed Sheeran
Today drive along the coast and make stops at some of the iconic places in California. Marvel at the pool in Hearst Castle, walk along the beach at Morro Bay and finally make your way to the charming coastal town of Santa Barbara.
STOPS:
- Hearst Castle – Hearst Castle is a National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark mansion located on the Central Coast of California, United States. Designed by architect Julia Morgan, it was a residence for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst between 1919 and 1947. Choose from four unforgettable tours at Californis’s grandest estate, Hearst Castle. The most suggestable tour is the Grand Rooms tour whose highlights include Assembly Room, Refectory, Billiard Room, Theater, Gardens, Neptune Pool and Roman Pool.
- Morro Bay – Morro Bay is a coastal city in California. It’s known for Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound at the end of Morro Rock Beach. The rock sits within Morro Bay State Park, home to lagoons, trails and a bird-rich saltwater marsh. Morro Bay State Park’s Museum of Natural History features exhibits on ecology and local Native American culture. Trails lead up Black Hill for views over the city and Morro Bay.
GRAB A BITE TO EAT:
- Frankie and Lola’s: Frankie and Lola’s is a great place for breakfast and lunch with a twist on traditional favorites. This restaurant is along the bay, offers a pet-friendly patio and provides great views of Morro Rock and the beach.
- Pismo Beach – Stroll the long beach or boardwalk for a grand oceanfront view.
GRAB A BITE TO EAT:
- The Solvang Bakery – At the Solvang Bakery find elaborate gingerbread houses. They have been cooking the same for the past 30 years and it is a must stop to enjoy the same. Pair private label wines with music at Cali Love Wines, where the owners are in a country-rock band.
SANTA BARBARA – With its Mediterranean climate and cache of culture, this seaside city deserves to be called the “American Riviera”
Next stop on your coastal cruise is this elegant city hugging the coastal hills, where classic Spanish architecture gives the region a sun-washed European look straight out of the Riviera. The Santa Barbara may have a burnished antique look, the current fantasy of Spanish colonial-style architecture—all red-tiled roofs and whitewashed courtyards covered in climbing bougainvillea—didn’t take root until 1925, when an earthquake damaged downtown buildings, making room for a whole new style. And in this case, it was a romantic look back, a nod to the region’s first Spanish visitors more than 150 years before. The elegant building style has stuck around, and become the city’s visual touchstone.
- HARBOR VIEW INN
Harbor View Inn is located just 1 minute away from the beach and 5 minutes’ walk from Stearn’s Wharf. The hotel has modern rooms, a full-service spa, on-site restaurants, and a fitness center.
DAY 10: SANTA BARBARA:
Distance: Less than 50 Km
Duration: Flexible
Motto: Feet in the sand
Song: Take it slow – John Legend
Today enjoy a very low key day with most of the time spent on the beach. You can for breaks go for some shopping or grab some delicious seafood!
STOPS:
- State Street: It is the most famous avenue, State Street cuts through downtown and leads right onto Stearns Wharf. It’s nearly impossible to miss with its shops, art galleries, theaters, and museums.
- Funk Zone: It spans the area between the ocean and Highway 101 which is full of boutique tasting rooms, cafes, galleries, and shops that cater to Santa Barbara’s contemporary side.
- Stearn’s Wharf: Stearn’s Wharf is a pier in the harbor that has everything from fun recreation, great restaurants, and amazing creatures at the Sea Center.
- Overnight at Santa Barbara.
As your tenth night ends in Santa Barbara, the following day make your way to Los Angeles at your own pace. It is located just two hours away!!!