California offers a plethora of opportunities to fully engage with its diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. The state caters to both urban explorers delving into iconic cities and nature enthusiasts embarking on road trips to savor the natural splendor and culinary delights abundant in this vibrant region.
Whether you are organizing a trip for a group of friends, planning a romantic escapade for two, or seeking a family adventure, California promises an unforgettable experience. The itineraries outlined below serve as a source of inspiration for crafting a memorable journey. For further travel ideas, refer to the comprehensive guidebook recently released by Visit California in collaboration with AFAR.
Exploring Culinary Delights and Wineries from Northern California to the Central Coast
California boasts exceptional culinary and wine regions that cater to food enthusiasts. Embark on curated expeditions through the renowned Wine Country of Northern California and the Central Coast to get a taste of the region’s offerings.
Begin your four-day exploration in Northern California by touring the neighboring wine regions of Napa and Sonoma. Opt for a convertible to revel in the picturesque landscapes or choose a chauffeur service to fully immerse yourself in wine tasting and scenic beauty. Commence your journey in Napa, a town renowned for its coffee shops, art galleries, and wine tasting venues.
Venture north towards the Yountville area, characterized by expansive vineyards. Secure a reservation well in advance at the , an esteemed establishment holding three Michelin stars. Subsequently, dedicate a leisurely day to visiting wineries in the rustic surroundings of Rutherford. In proximity to St. Helena, the offers cozy accommodations central to historic wineries, including the prestigious .
Proceed westward to Sonoma County for the final two days of your journey, where the verdant hills bordering Napa Valley transition into the lush landscapes of the Russian River Valley. Just north of the historic town of Sonoma, the exudes elegance in a mission-style resort setting. Nestled near a bend in the river in Forestville, the combines a rich ranching heritage with modern amenities, including a Michelin-starred restaurant and a 24-hour pool.
Explore local wineries such as , known for sustainable viticulture practices, and , featuring an aesthetically pleasing tasting room amidst blooming fields. Continue your expedition towards and journey along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), pausing to relish fresh oysters and crab.
Alternatively, travelers can embark on a five-day excursion through Central Coast Wine Country to sample exceptional wines in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo before concluding their trip in Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara, epitomes of luxurious relaxation. With over 500 wineries spanning SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County, California) and Santa Barbara County, this region caters to wine enthusiasts.
Commence your journey in Paso Robles and visit the family-operated , renowned for its bordeaux varietals and panoramic hilltop vistas. Indulge in a refined six-course tasting menu at to experience California cuisine at its finest. For accommodation, consider the , a boutique hotel offering personalized services.
Continue your expedition to San Luis Obispo. Along the San Simeon coast, the legendary epitomizes luxurious living at its peak. Enjoy an oceanfront wine tasting experience at the . The nearby modern hotel boasts a coveted penthouse suite.
On the third day, venture into the Santa Ynez Valley, a charming rural area characterized by family-owned farms, boutique wineries, and quaint walkable towns. Los Olivos features over 50 tasting rooms lining its picturesque streets. Opt for a stay at the , a new lodge within a historic 1800s setting.
Conclude your journey with a two-day retreat in the chic and sun-kissed Santa Barbara. Revel in the oceanfront suites at the mission-style , offering a spa, multiple pools, diverse dining options, and direct beach access.
Embracing Nature and Wellness in the High Sierras and Big Sur
Embark on two remarkable journeys—one inland and the other along the coast—to immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility and rejuvenating essence. Traverse the Sierra Nevada on a road trip to encounter awe-inspiring beauty and luxurious comfort. The High Sierras beckon visitors year-round with the allure of Lake Tahoe’s azure waters and the crystalline pools surrounding Mammoth Lakes. This region offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, where the ski season extends across three seasons from fall to spring.
Apart from winter sports, the area entices visitors with exceptional hiking and fishing opportunities. Initiate your journey in the historic town of Truckee, nestled amidst towering peaks. The is centrally located within Northstar California Resort, a sprawling hub for skiing and outdoor adventures on Mount Pluto’s slopes.
Further south, explore the serene communities of Tahoe Vista and Dollar Point. Cruise the pine-fringed shoreline aboard a classic varnished wood lake cruiser. Indulge in French-inspired cuisine with scenic lakefront views at in Tahoe City. Olympic Valley, situated west of the lake at the base of the 1960 Winter Olympics site, hosts Palisades Tahoe renowned for world-class activities year-round.
From Lake Tahoe, follow Highway 395 south along the Sierra crest to Yosemite National Park, where you’ll witness rushing rivers and serene solitude amidst breathtaking vistas. Spend a night at the historic 1927 hotel, , before reveling in the mesmerizing views of the High Sierra reflecting on the indigo waters of Mammoth Lakes on your final day. Ascend to the 11,053-foot summit of Mammoth Mountain for panoramic views extending for miles. Whether trekking on foot, mountain biking, or skiing, the year-round outdoor experiences are unparalleled.
For a coastal escapade, delve into the enchanting beauty of Monterey and Big Sur on a four-day excursion. Embark on a journey along the Pacific Coast Highway in a vintage roadster or luxury cruiser, pausing to explore tide pools, waterfalls, boutique resorts, wineries, and nearly 20 Michelin-acclaimed restaurants along the route.
Commence your adventure in coastal Carmel-by-the-Sea within the Monterey Peninsula, renowned for its art galleries, upscale shopping, and fine dining featuring locally sourced ingredients. Secure advance reservations at and , the latter earning a Michelin star in 2023. Unwind in recently opened boutique hotels or in Carmel Valley, where you can partake in yoga, self-improvement activities, and golf amidst the sprawling 500-acre estate.
Embark on the third day with a classic 90-mile drive south along the Pacific Coast Highway from Monterey through Big Sur to San Simeon. This picturesque route winds between the Santa Lucia Mountains and steep ocean cliffs overlooking the Pacific’s tumultuous waters. Big Sur is renowned for its secluded resorts seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings. Indulge in the comfort of suites at , offering a harmonious blend with nature. Opt for a suite featuring a private hot tub and savor a three-hour prix-fixe menu at the Glass House restaurant, boasting oceanfront views. Alternatively, check into the esteemed Big Sur resort, , offering rooms with varied panoramas of the ocean, forest, and mountains.
Family Fun in Orange County
Immerse yourself in family-friendly adventures along the Southern California shores of Orange County (The OC). Commence your journey in Anaheim at , where you can experience the latest attraction, the newly added . Adjacent to the park, Disney’s California Adventure promises its own thrills. For a hassle-free experience, consider hiring an official VIP Tour Guide to navigate the crowds. The offers suites with balconies providing views of the Magic Kingdom.
On the second day, venture to Huntington Beach, famed for its historic pier extending 1,850 feet over the Pacific Ocean. For a quintessential OC experience on the water, contemplate a yacht rental at Newport Harbor. Book a stay at , featuring nautical-themed rooms and offering sailboat rentals and sailing lessons. Indulge in exquisite Spanish cuisine with Japanese influences at Costa Mesa’s renowned restaurant, .
Conclude your coastal exploration in the picturesque communities of Laguna Beach and Dana Point along the southern coast. Founded by artists attracted to the pristine seaside light, Laguna Beach now hosts over 100 galleries and artists’ studios. Embark on a whale-watching excursion with expert guides from to witness blue, humpback, or gray whales during their annual migrations.