Coastal California

This classic, all-American road trip takes you along one of the USA’s most renowned routes, Highway One. A cliff-hugging, twisting, turning, awe-inspiring coastal extravaganza, Highway One – the Pacific Coast Highway – never fails to impress. Viewed best when driving from north to south (right-hand driving takes you to the very edge of this spectacular coastline), Highway One isn’t the most direct route between San Francisco and Los Angeles, but it’s one of the most scenic drives in the world. End your road trip in sunny San Diego with its fabulously laid-back lifestyle, miles of sandy beaches, and enticing Mexican flair, owing to the border being just 17 miles from downtown.

This 2-week itinerary is perfect for families as it not only highlights the best of the West Coast but also factors in plenty of beach time!

Stay for 3 nights in the heart of San Francisco at Argonaut Hotel on Fisherman's Wharf and spend your time exploring the city, boating on the bay and riding the cable cars, then pick up your car from the nearby downtown depot and head south to Monterey. 

Spend 2 nights in Monterey at InterContinental The Clement to recharge your batteries, and enjoy time at the aquarium with its brightly coloured jellyfish.

Travel south to Santa Barbara via Big Sur on famous Highway 1 (* see note below) and spend 2 nights at Kimpton Canary.  Try surf lessons, join a kayak tour, hire bikes, hit the hiking trails or spend a day exploring the fascinating Channel Islands... California's version of the Galapagos!

The next stretch of this road trip takes you south past Malibu (be sure to pop into Malibu Pier Farm for a bite to eat whilst you watch the surfers) and onwards to Santa Monica. Spend 3 nights just a few blocks from the vast stretch of sandy beach at Le Meridien Delfina and get to know this sensational city by the ocean. During your few days here, head to the thrills and delights of Universal Studios and Disneyland.

Your last piece of the road trip puzzle takes you to sunny San Diego, a laidback city known for its bays, beaches and addictive SoCal lifestyle. Spend 3 nights in the heart of the city at Pendry San Diego and spend your days on the nearby beaches as well as more active advenrtures such as visiting SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Legoland and even a day trip to neighbouring Mexico!

(*) NOTE: The Big Sur coast road has been affected by landslips and parts of Highway One are closed for repairs. Re-opening is expected in mid-2024. During the road closure, take the road inland and join the faster Highway 101 to travel north and south.