Day 1 – Day 3
San Diego
Fly into San Diego and independently travel to your hotel, Once settled stroll your surroundings and explore its diverse array of activities, from exploring Balboa Park's cultural gems to enjoying its pristine beaches like Coronado and La Jolla Cove. Dive into history at Old Town, shop and dine at Seaport Village, or catch a Padres game at Petco Park. Explore maritime history aboard the USS Midway Museum or embark on a harbour tour for stunning bay views. Nature lovers can hike in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Stay overnight in San Diego for the next 3 nights.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Bayside Inn or similar. Upgrade to Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown or similar
Day 4
San Diego - Los Angeles/ Anaheim
This morning, head out to breakfast at a local restaurant before making your way to San Diego Downtown Station and onboarding the Amtrak Rail Surfliner towards Los Angeles. The journey takes around 3 hours but you’ll have the comfort of your seat, wifi and beautiful scenic views as you travel up the coast. With the Surfliner, you can buy drinks and food onboard at the Market Café and have the option to upgrade to Business Class seats where you will receive, priority board, complimentary snacks and drinks and reserved seating.
Once you arrive in Los Angeles downtown, choose to stay within this area or travel out to the hills of Hollywood or the beach Santa Monica. By staying at The Garland, enjoy complimentary shuttles to Universal Studios, Citywalk and metro station. Alternatively, the Surfliner train stops at Anaheim if you wanted to go to Disney California! Stay in Los Angeles area for the next 3 nights.
Overnight: The Garland or similar. Upgrade to Andaz West Hollywood or Viceroy Santa Monica or similar
Day 5 – Day 6
Los Angeles
Spend the day explore the many attractions Los Angeles has to offer! See Hollywood and the TCL Chinese Theatre and stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a must visit is the Universal Studios or tour Warner Bros Studio tour. In Santa Monica, visit the famous pier and take a ride on the Ferris Wheel. Rent bikes and ride along the seafront taking in the laid-back vibe or how about doing a spot of shopping at Third Street Promenade? There’s so much to explore and easily accessible with subway transportation and taxis/ Ubers.
Overnight: The Garland or similar. Upgrade to Andaz West Hollywood or Viceroy Santa Monica or similar
Day 7
Los Angeles – San Luis Obispo/ Pismo Beach
Today, head to Los Angeles Downtown Station as you travel to San Luis Obispo. This journey takes around 5 hours so if you were to upgrade your seat, I’d do it on this one! Continue travelling north hugging California’s coastline as you travel past other coastal towns such as Ventura and Santa Barbara. Stay either inland at San Luis Obispo or stay along the coast and stay at Pismo Beach for the next 2 nights. Grover Beach Station is the gateway to Pismo Beach and a short taxi to your chosen hotel.
Overnight: Apple Farm Inn or similar. Upgrade to The Cliffs Hotel and Spa or similar
Day 8
San Luis Obispo/ Pismo Beach
Nestled in California's Central Coast, the city offers a charming blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. Explore the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, stroll through downtown's quaint shops and eateries, or hike the nearby Cerro San Luis for panoramic views. The city's renowned Thursday night farmers' market is a must-visit, showcasing local produce, crafts, and live entertainment.
Overnight: Apple Farm Inn or similar. Upgrade to The Cliffs Hotel and Spa or similar
Day 9
San Luis Obispo/ Pismo Beach – San Francisco
This afternoon you will swap a train for a dedicated Amtrak Coach taking you up to San Francisco, a journey of around 5 hours. All Amtrak Coaches feature onboard toilets, roomy reclining seating with leg rests and individual lighting. Arrive into San Francisco in the evening and make your way to your hotel. Explore the culinary scene by visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown or Union Square! Overnight in San Francisco for 3 nights.
Overnight: Hotel RIU Fisherman’s Wharf or similar. Upgrade to Beacon Grand, a Union Square Hotel or similar.
Day 10 – Day 11
Discover San Francisco's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighbourhoods. Begin with a stroll along Fisherman's Wharf, then delve into the city's history with a tour of Alcatraz. Enjoy shopping in Union Square and immersing in the cultural tapestry of Chinatown and North Beach. How about exploring Golden Gate Park's attractions before delving into the eclectic vibes of Haight-Ashbury and the Mission District. Conclude your trip with a serene sunset cruise on the bay, encapsulating the city's charm, diversity, and breathtaking beauty.
Overnight: Hotel RIU Fisherman’s Wharf or similar. Upgrade to Beacon Grand, a Union Square Hotel or similar.
Day 12
Fly home from San Francisco
Make your way independently to San Francisco airport for your flight home
