Home - California 2027

From soaring redwoods to cultural meccas and verdant valleys, explore the rich sights, sounds, and tastes of California. Wander through a forest of some of the world’s largest trees at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Dive into history in San Diego and into the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles. Discover a centuries-old mission in Santa Barbara and go on a walking food tour in the charming coastal town of Carlsbad. Savor a glass of locally produced wine and lunch at a Paso Robles vineyard.

Day 1: June 16, 2027

San Diego

From the cosmopolitan, cultural cities of San Diego and Los Angeles to the laid-back, beachy vibes of California’s Central Coast and the awe-inspiring scenery of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, this journey has it all. Your tour opens in San Diego, known for its seaside location and idyllic climate. As travelers' arrival times vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. Dinner is on your own this evening.

Day 2: June 17. 2027

San Diego

This morning, join a local guide for a tour through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, including downtown, Balboa Park, Coronado Island, and Old Town San Diego. The afternoon is yours to experience San Diego at your leisure. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (B, D)

Day 3: June 18, 2027

San Diego, Carlsbad & Los Angeles

Start the day on a harbor cruise of San Diego Bay. Cruise beside playful sea lions, Navy ships, and beautiful architecture while hearing fascinating stories that link the city’s past and present. Later, head north to the coastal town of Carlsbad, where you’ll explore the town center on a walking food tour for lunch. This afternoon, arrive in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world. Tonight, join your Tour Manager and walk to the bustling Grand Central Market – a favorite with locals looking for a casual meal. (B, L)

Day 4: June 19, 2027

Los Angeles

Today, explore the City of Angels on a combination bus/walking tour. Stop for photos at Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall and the famed Bradbury Building, an ornate architectural landmark featured in several films. Then, admire the mansions on our way to Griffith Observatory to take in panoramic views of the city and the famed Hollywood sign. Stroll along the Walk of Fame to Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Dolby, home of the Academy Awards. Get a close-up look at the iconic Beverly Hills sign and soak in the glitz and glamour of Rodeo Drive. After lunch on your own at the Original Farmers Market, we’ll pass by other landmarks as we make our way back to the hotel. (B, D)

Day 5: June 20, 2027

Los Angeles, Santa Barbara & Pismo Beach

Today, head to California’s Central Coast. Enjoy free time in this beautiful city, admiring its Spanish colonial architecture and small-town atmosphere. Stop for a self-guided tour of the Old Mission of Santa Barbara, the tenth of 21 Spanish missions founded by the Franciscans and the only one the friars still occupy. Enjoy the gorgeous grounds of the “Queen of the Missions,” the gardens, cemetery, and chapel. Arrive this afternoon in Pismo Beach, another Central Coast gem, and your home for two nights. (B, D)

Day 6: June 21, 2027

Pismo Beach

Enjoy a day at leisure at your seaside hotel. Or continue your exploration of the Central Coast by joining an optional excursion to Hearst Castle, the historic estate built by publishing tycoon William Randall Hearst and his architect, Julia Morgan. Enjoy a tour of the opulent Grand Rooms, imagining what it must have been like to be a guest here during the Roaring Twenties. Before lunch, visit an elephant seal rookery and see a colony of seals at the beach. Don’t miss the spectacular sunset back in Pismo Beach this evening! (B)

Day 7: June 22, 2027

Pismo Beach, Paso Robles & Visalia

Today, travel inland to the Paso Robles wine region, home to more than 200 family-run wineries. This Central Coast wine region is less known than Napa, but no less beautiful. Stop for lunch here and later arrive in the charming town of Visalia, gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. (B, L)

Day 8: June 23, 2027

Visalia

Today, head to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in the southern Sierra Nevada, where a local guide will join you. See the General Grant tree on a guided walking tour. On the way to your picnic lunch spot, learn about the park’s ecology, flora, fauna, and history, including Native American history. This afternoon, visit the largest tree in the world, the General Sherman tree, on a half-mile walking tour. Then, it’s your choice! Continue with your local guide -OR- take a brisk hike with your Tour Manager along the Congress Trail. Back in Visalia, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. This day is sure to be the highlight of your California adventure! (B, L, D)

Day 9: June 24, 2027

Visalia & Los Angeles

This morning, bid farewell to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range and head south to Los Angeles for a final night. But first, visit the Getty Center, nestled on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains. This world-famous museum is known for its private collection, with something here for everyone: fine art, impressive architecture, lush gardens, and spectacular city views. (B)

Day 10: June 25, 2027

Tour Ends

Your tour ends today. As you return home, reflect on your favorite moments from your journey — from the Coast of California to the Sequoia Trees.

B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

Activity Level 2 - Moderate

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. Expect some full days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included activities.