Curated trips
See the Sunny State: Two-Week California Road Trip
See the Sunny State: Two-Week California Road Trip
18 days  ·  9 places  ·  1 country

Traverse the sunny-side of the US coast: home to star-studded cities, simmering coastlines and diverse natural vistas.

Welcome to the sunny-side of the US coast- home to star-studded cities, simmering coastlines and diverse natural vistas.

Due to California’s excellent network of charging stations, your adventure will be best suited to a Tesla- which you can pick up on arrival at San Francisco International Airport before endeavoring to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Hit up the Library Bar at the Fairmont Hotel offering classic cocktails in an intimate atmosphere or, The Comstock Saloon for a touch of heritage and live music- the perfect fit for introducing you to the area’s jazzy culture. For eats, the Birdsong restaurant is on call for a tasting menu of delicious creative fare in a hideaway location. These hidden bars and restaurants will give you a chance to experience the best of San Francisco's food and drink scene in a more intimate and exclusive setting.

Car Hire
California, United States
·
San Francisco International Airport
San Francisco International Airport
Day 1 - Day 18 · Rent your Car through Luxury Escapes
Day 1 - Day 18 · Rent your Car through Luxury Escapes
San Francisco, CA 94128
Why book with Luxury Escapes? - Free cancellation: We offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your pick-up time. - Trusted rental partners: Discover an extensive range of vehicles from our trusted suppliers. - 24/7 Support service: Our support team is always on standby, available 24/7.

Why book with Luxury Escapes?

  • Free cancellation: We offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your pick-up time.
  • Trusted rental partners: Discover an extensive range of vehicles from our trusted suppliers.
  • 24/7 Support service: Our support team is always on standby, available 24/7.

Healdsburg is home to many award-winning vineyards and restaurants that offer a world-class culinary experience. Visit the Jordan Vineyard & Winery for an elegant tasting experience in a beautiful chateau setting. The Seghesio Family Vineyards is another popular option, known for their Zinfandel and Italian varietals. Visitors can also enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at the Michelin-starred Single Thread Farms or indulge in contemporary American cuisine at the Valette restaurant. The Spoonbar offers a more casual dining experience with inventive cocktails and small plates, while the Barndiva provides an elegant and romantic setting for dinner. These vineyards and restaurants offer a taste of the best of Sonoma County's food and wine scene.

Napa Valley is home to an array of celebrated wineries, but it might be worth visiting some lesser-known spots for award-winning wines with exceptional value. Visit family-owned venues such as the Verge Vineyards and The Smith-Madrone Vineyards for intimate tastings against a rustic backdrop or, stop by the Larkmead Vineyards for a boutique winery that focuses on sustainable farming practices and offers tours of their scenic estate. These lesser-known areas provide a unique and intimate wine-tasting experience that is not to be missed.

Big Sur is a stunning coastal region in central California that offers a range of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Explore the many hiking trails in the area, such as the famous McWay Falls Trail or the Ewoldsen Trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at lookout points to take in the breathtaking views. The Pfeiffer Beach is a must-visit, with its iconic purple sand and rock formations. Finally, the Japanese hot springs at Ventana Inn provide a relaxing soak after a day of outdoor exploration.

Monterey, California is a coastal town with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. Visit the must-see Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features an impressive collection of marine life, explore Cannery Row, a historic waterfront district that's now home to shops, restaurants, and galleries and take scenic drives along 17-Mile Drive provide breathtaking coastal views. Join a whale watching tour from Fisherman’s Warf and tuck in to fresh seafood and see a glimpse into the town’s past from The Monterey State Historic Park with its well-preserved adobe structures. Lastly, head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for more hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities to spot sea otters and whales.

Drive up to sunny Santa Monica, a beachfront city in California where you can stroll along the famous Santa Monica Pier, which offers an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can also spend time at the beach or take a bike ride along the boardwalk. Shopping and dining options are plentiful at Third Street Promenade, while the Annenberg Community Beach House provides a unique beachside experience with a pool, playground, and historic mansion. Other popular attractions include the Santa Monica Museum of Art, the Getty, and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

Laguna Beach offers a plethora of dining and drinking options, ranging from casual beachside cafes to upscale fine dining restaurants. Here’s a list of our most recommended eateries to check out in Laguna Beach:

  1. Splashes Restaurant: This upscale beachfront restaurant offers California cuisine and stunning ocean views.
  2. The Rooftop Lounge: Located at the top of the La Casa del Camino hotel, this rooftop bar has panoramic ocean views and an extensive drink menu.
  3. K'ya Bistro: This cosy bistro serves small plates with global flavours and a great selection of wine.
  4. Nick's Laguna Beach: This popular restaurant serves American comfort food with a contemporary twist and features an extensive bar menu.
    1. The Deck on Laguna Beach: An American seafood restaurant on the beach with stunning views of the ocean.

San Diego is a city full of popular tourist attractions, but there are also plenty of hidden gems for visitors to discover. One of these is the Secret Swings, a set of swings hidden in a eucalyptus grove that offer stunning views of the city. Visitors can also explore the murals and street art of Chicano Park or visit the hidden Tide Pools in Point Loma at low tide. The Mount Soledad Cross offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean, while the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge provides a unique and thrilling walkway over a canyon. Finally, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps provides a lesser-known alternative to the crowded San Diego Zoo.

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