LOS ANGELES, CA tours and multi centre itineraries

We set off from LA to the desert town of Palm Springs and on to Phoenix, Arizona. From there we head through the Sonoran Desert to Sedona, where spectacular red rock formations dominate. The stunning vistas of Oak Creek Canyon are a prelude to our arrival at the Grand Canyon, one of the seven great natural wonders of the world. After drinking in the views, it’s off to the Navajo Indian Reservation and through the Painted Desert to Monument Valley, just as it was in the days of the Old West. A night in the Arizona town of Page will leave you refreshed as we head for the huge Glen Canyon Dam and on to Bryce Canyon in Utah. Next stop is the awe-inspiring rock formations of Zion National Park before we arrive back in the 21st century in Las Vegas, with its casinos, entertainment and 24-hour shopping. Then it’s back to Los Angeles via the Mojave Desert.

We set off through the arid and mountainous Mojave Desert and emerge in the 24-hour entertainment capital of Las Vegas, stopping at the famous welcome sign for photos. The hustle and bustle of Vegas is left behind as we head for Death Valley – one of the hottest places on earth – taking in the landscapes of Zabriskie Point and the visitor centre at Furnace Creek Ranch, before climbing into the Sierra Nevada mountains to the former gold mining town of Mammoth Lakes, now an Alpine ski resort. From there, it’s through the Tioga Pass (weather permitting) and into the spectacular wilderness of Yosemite National Park, with its peaks, waterfalls and wildlife. Watch out for bears and cougars! We then travel back to the ocean and San Francisco to enjoy the city’s many sights before a scenic jaunt takes us down the coast to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula and cosy Carmel-by-the-sea. There’s still time to savour the typically Californian delights of Santa Barbara, Malibu, Santa Monica and the stars’ enclave of Beverley Hills before concluding this unforgettable tour.

The wonder of the Pacific Coast awaits you along stretches of road made famous for its unique natural beauty. Drive through lush Northwest forests near the still active Mount St. Helens volcano and into Mt Rainer National Park where pines stretch out in every direction. The unique evergreen coastline of Oregon will inspire long stops and lazy picnics among some of the most picturesque dunes, shapes by wind and time that weave down the Pacific for miles on end. As you enter California, be prepared to amaze at the sheer grandeur of the Redwoods, the tallest trees on earth that cover over 51,000 acres of protected forest. With fairy-tale communities like Mendocino, and Carmel along the way, there will be plenty of reasons to stop and explore shops, picturesque American streets, and cliff side hiking trails.  Trade the serene coastal highways for the bustling energy of two of California’s great cities, San Francisco and Los Angeles, with options to visit iconic landmarks such as Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier in each city.

Your first days after your arrive you will explore San Francisco. Heading south from San Francisco follow the Pacific Coast Highway through Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur, Malibu, Santa Monica, to Los Angeles. Along the way you will experience stunning coastal views, seaside villages and untouched forests. You can choose to visit the Monterrey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, shop Cannery Row, or stroll small town shops, cafes, and restaurants. Highlights include the 17-mile Scenic Drive and Solvang, a unique town founded by Danish immigrants. Solvang is known for its bakery and specialty shops. In Los Angeles you can visit Disneyland, Universal Studios, or just get to know the city – including Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas will take you through the desert. Enjoy a full day in Las Vegas with an option to fly over the Grand Canyon. Finally return to the coast, this time to San Diego – where you can the beach, zoo, Sea World, or other local activities.

Begin in Los Angeles and visit one of the world famous theme parks before heading to the ultimate desert playground in Palm Springs. Soak up the sun and the majestic scenery before continuing on to Phoenix and the Old West charm of Scottsdale. Enjoy the scenic drive north to one of the 7 Wonders of the World – the Grand Canyon. Explore the power of nature from a series of scenic overlooks or a walk along the Rim Trail. Next witness the power of man as you take part of the old Route 66 to the mighty Hoover Dam before ending you day in the city that needs no introduction, Las Vegas. Enjoy a full day to lounge by the pool, gamble, catch a show, enjoy world class dining, the options are endless. Leaving Las Vegas, enter the stark contrast of the desolate Mojave Desert before heading north to the high alpine mountains, waterfalls, and meadows of Yosemite. After a few days in nature, plunge back into urban life in San Francisco. Pick from seeming endless one-of-a-kind sights to fill your day in San Francisco before heading south along the stunning Pacific Coast. Along the way you’ll visit quaint towns and scenic beach before returning the urban environment of Sand Diego – content that you’ve experiences the best of the west.

The starting point is a half-day introductory tour of San Francisco taking in some of its iconic sights, such as Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf, with plenty more time to explore independently. Then we head inland to explore the wonders of Yosemite National Park before striking out across the Mojave Desert via Fresno towards the man-made wonders of Las Vegas, with its 24-hour casino, entertainment and shopping culture. Our next stop is the breath-taking Grand Canyon, one of the world’s seven natural wonders, passing the country’s largest reservoir – Lake Mead – on the way. After returning to enjoy free time in Vegas, we’re off again to the stylish Hollywood winter resort of Palm Springs and on to Los Angeles. On your first day there, enjoy a full city tour taking in Santa Monica, with its famous beach lifeguard towers, Hollywood and the home suburb of the stars, Beverley Hills. Wind down your tour by relaxing by the pool, exploring on your own or taking one of our optional tours.

Los Angeles is the starting point for this tour and after passing through Palm Springs en route to Phoenix, the adventure really begins. In the next days there are the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, captured so often on film and photograph, and Bryce Canyon. In one way there is a brief respite from the landscapes with time in Las Vegas. In another way, Las Vegas, as a 24/7 city, offers no respite at all. It is then off through Death Valley to a region well-known during the Gold Rush and into Yosemite National Park. While that brings to a close one part of the adventure, few will ever be disappointed by the City of San Francisco and its many famous landmarks. There is the Golden Gate, Alcatraz and Union Square. You can visit California’s famous wine are, Napa Valley but then it is time to head south. The road running parallel with the Pacific down to Los Angeles offers many magnificent views and is an excellent way to finish a holiday full of stunning experiences. 

Head down the Pacific Coast of the USA from Seattle to Los Angeles!

Day 1: Los Angeles Arrival in Los Angeles. You will be met at the airport by a local guide. Enjoy an included welcome drink as you get to know your fellow travelers.   You will get your travel kit including a reusable water bottle and an insulated bag that will come in handy during the planned picnics.   Day 2: Los Angeles Start the day with a guided tour of Los Angeles. Our first visit will be at Olvera Street, known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles.” Olvera Street is a Mexican Marketplace that recreates a romantic “Old Los Angeles” with a block-long narrow, tree-shaded, brick-lined market with old structures, painted stalls, street vendors, cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. Make a photo-stop at nearby Union Station and marvel at it’s Art Deco architecture. Continue to Hollywood home to the legendary Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Take a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and search for your favorite celebrity’s star. Next, we venture on to the Los Angeles Farmer’s Market for lunch (not included). The LA Farmer’s Market is a foodie’s paradise featuring over 100 vendors serving something for everyone’s tastes. After lunch, you will discover Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive – one of the world’s most exclusive luxury destinations. This afternoon, we head to Santa Monica. Santa Monica is a blend of California beach town, Riviera-style romance and Hollywood glamour. Enjoy a scenic walk along the Pacific Ocean to Venice Beach (2,5 miles). Venice Beach is known for its canals, beaches and circus-like Ocean Front Walk, a two-and-a-half-mile pedestrian-only promenade that features performers, fortune-tellers, artists, and vendors. You will be given some time at leisure to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and enjoy dinner (not included) in Venice Beach. Return transfer to your hotel. Overnight. Day 3: Los Angeles – Las Vegas (335 miles - 5h40) This morning departure to Joshua Tree National Park. The park encompasses some of the most interesting geologic displays found in California’s deserts : rugged mountains of twisted rock and exposed granite monoliths testify to the tremendous geological forces that shaped and formed this land. The slow-growing Joshua tree, which graces much of the park's desert ecosystem, is probably the most famous resident of the park. Named by Mormon settlers who crossed the Mojave Desert in the mid-1800s, the tree's unusual shape reminded them of the Bible story in which Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky in prayer. Enjoy a walk along the scenic Hidden Valley trail (1 mile loop). Picnic lunch in the park (not included, a stop will be planned before arrival into the park for you to purchase picnic items). Afternoon drive to Las Vegas – the incredible man-made oasis in the dessert. Check in to your hotel.   Day 4: Las Vegas - Grand Canyon (280 miles - 4h15) Head towards the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, superb geographical phenomenon. Stop in Seligman on the iconic Route 66. Lunch on your own, then discover one of the wonders of the world : the Grand Canyon. Located at 6971 feet above sea level the Grand Canyon is the spectacular result of millions of years of wind and water erosion. Surrounded by a magnificent forest, the canyon seems to be protected by a lush screen of greenery. This will certainly be one of the highlights of your trip. We suggest a 1.7 mile hike (1-2 hours) to Ooh Aah Point. Overnight in the Grand Canyon village.   Day 5: Grand Canyon - Monument Valley – Page (325 miles – 5h30) Depart the Grand Canyon by driving along the scenic Desert View Drive. Stop at the Desert View Watchtower. Modeled after ancient Puebloan watchtowers, the Watchtower at Desert View features murals by Hopi artist Frank Kabotie. Time permitting, you may have a chance to climb the stairs to the top for an outstanding view of the Canyon and the surrounding area. Continue on to Monument Valley, where you will find yourself surrounded by imposing, crimson monoliths. This 25 mile-long and 16-mile wide desert plain has served as the backdrop to numerous westerns including five John Ford classics. Enjoy an included lunch of Navajo specialties followed by a jeep tour of the valley with local a Navajo guide. Arrive in Page in the afternoon. Change at your hotel then enjoy a dip in Lake Powell at Lone Rock Beach. Overnight in Page.   Day 6: Page – Horseshoe Bend - Bryce (150 miles – 2h40) To start the day you will visit Horseshoe Bend (1.2 mi roundtrip hike): a geologic masterpiece sculpted by the Colorado River. Horseshoe Bend is an example of what happens when water takes the path of least resistance. With the help of gravity, the Colorado River began cutting through rock layers deep and fast. The result is the 270° bend in the river. Discovered by Mormons at the end of the 19th century, Bryce Canyon is considered one of the jewels of the National Parks system. The shapes, colors and shades of the stone and the famous Pink Cliffs are constantly changing from dawn to dusk. Hike down the canyon to get closer to the hoodoos (thin spires of rock)*. Picnic lunch in the park (not included, a stop will be planned before arrival into the park for you to purchase picnic items). Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the park at your own pace. Overnight in the region.   * this hike is not advised for people with heart conditions due to significant elevation change.  Day 7: Bryce Canyon – Zion – Las Vegas (250 miles - 4h45) Departure for your visit of Zion National Park. Follow the paths where ancient native people and pioneers walked. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience wilderness in a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present day adventures. Picnic lunch in the park (not included, a stop will be planned before arrival into the park for you to purchase picnic items). This afternoon, we return to Las Vegas. Rest of the day at leisure to try your luck gambling, do some shopping, or enjoy on of the many world class entertainment options the city has to offer. Optional: join your guide on a visit of Las Vegas by night. Overnight.  Day 8: Departure Day on your own and transfer to the airport depending on your flight schedule.

After passing Palm Springs, the next State, Arizona, Phoenix is known for its immaculate golf courses. The natural landscape is the major reason for heading this way; the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Bryce Canyon are all magnificent. There is a break from nature to see the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, a city built in the middle of the Mojave Desert. It is then off through Death Valley with Yosemite now the major attraction as you head towards San Francisco. The National Park is a true wonder. An early start the next day allows you to reach San Francisco with time for a sightseeing tour the same day. The next full day offers a variety of things to do and see. The trip south back to Los Angeles follows the Pacific Coast with Monterey and Carmel among the places you will see before your holiday finishes back where you began in LA.

We start in San Francisco before heading to Sacramento and the beauty of Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains. A trip to the 19th century mining town of Virginia City will evoke the Old West before we arrive in the casino town of Reno. Our next destination is the stark beauty of Black Rock desert and we follow the Humboldt River route taken by early pioneers to Elko, once a Wild West town in the most literal sense! We then visit Craters of the Moon National Monument and arrive in Yellowstone National Park, taking in sights such as Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs. Grand Tetons National park is the next stop and then it’s on to Salt Lake City and the huge canyons of Moab and Arches National Park. Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon are followed by Flagstaff, Arizona and the Route 66 town of Seligman before we arrive in Las Vegas. Then it’s off to Los Angeles and our final stop in San Francisco.

Prepare for a feast of sights and sounds from your arrival in San Francisco to its conclusion in Los Angeles. It starts with a great introductory half day tour of San Francisco with plenty of time for independent touring of the city before we head inland to the wonders of Yosemite National Park. After marvelling at the scenery and hopefully spotting some bears we set off across the huge Mojave Desert via Fresno to the frenetic delights of Las Vegas, with its 24-hour shopping, shows and casinos. From there, it’s back via the stylish desert resort of Palm Springs to Los Angeles, with a city tour to kick things off taking in Beverley Hills, Hollywood and other landmarks. Then it’s off the airport for your flight to either Honolulu or Maui, where you will be met where the traditional greeting of a flower lei before you relax and enjoy four days of island hospitality. The last leg takes you back to Los Angeles and home.

The tour starts in San Francisco before heading inland, with Sacramento and gorgeous Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains our first stops. From there, we head to Reno and into the Black Rock Desert before crossing the Nevada state line into Idaho at Twin Falls. After a visit to the Craters of the Moon National Monument we arrive in the magnificent Yellowstone National Park, with its geysers and waterfalls. We move on to Grand Tetons National Park, Jackson Hole in the Rockies and Salt Lake City in the Mormon state of Utah. Our next stop is the canyon country of Moab and Arches National Park before we head for Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell and the unmissable splendour of the Grand Canyon. If you can tear yourself away, we move on to Flagstaff, Arizona before pushing on through the Mojave Desert to the 24-hour hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. After trying your luck at the casinos, or indulging in some luxury shopping, it’s back across the desert to Los Angeles, where our tour concludes.  

Climb on your favorite Harley and ride through the South-West on this 8 day motorcycle adventure: Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. With over one thousand miles of pure motorcycle bliss, you don't want to miss out on the ride of your life.

California offers rich variety with the natural environment still a major attraction despite human development in such iconic cities as Los Angeles and San Francisco. You can enjoy the comforts of this wealthy State, take in the Pacific and that includes a few days into its waters on a flight to see Hawaii. LA is your starting point but Hollywood is for another day. San Diego, Palm Springs, Las Vegas and California’s stunning National Parks, Yosemite included, come early on your dream holiday. You then head to San Francisco, the Golden Gate, Alcatraz and Napa Valley’s wonderful wines. The return route hugging the Pacific Coastline heading south back to Los Angeles is truly stunning before LA stuns you even further with Santa Barbara, Malibu, Beverley Hills and Hollywood itself on the agenda. Leaving LA in the morning, the flight to Hawaii is the beginning of a few days relaxation in the USA’s newest State. You can relax or explore the choice is yours in Hawaii before you return to LA as a final flight before your journey home after a truly amazing 20 days.

Day 1: Los Angeles Arrival in Los Angeles. Take the complimentary shuttle to your hotel located near the airport. Your local tour director will be at the hotel in the evening to answer any initial questions about the tour.  Enjoy an included welcome drink as you get to know your fellow travelers.   You will get your travel kit including a reusable water bottle and an insulated bag that will come in handy during the planned picnics.   Day 2: Los Angeles Start the day with a guided tour of Los Angeles. Our first visit will be at Olvera Street, known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles.” Olvera Street is a Mexican Marketplace that recreates a romantic “Old Los Angeles” with a block-long narrow, tree-shaded, brick-lined market with old structures, painted stalls, street vendors, cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. Make a photo-stop at nearby Union Station and marvel at it’s Art Deco architecture. Continue to Hollywood home to the legendary Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Take a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and search for your favorite celebrity’s star. Next, we venture on to the Los Angeles Farmer’s Market for lunch (not included). The LA Farmer’s Market is a foodie’s paradise featuring over 100 vendors serving something for everyone’s tastes. After lunch, you will discover Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive – one of the world’s most exclusive luxury destinations. This afternoon, we head to Santa Monica. Santa Monica is a blend of California beach town, Riviera-style romance and Hollywood glamour. Enjoy a scenic walk along the Pacific Ocean to Venice Beach (2,5 miles). Venice Beach is known for its canals, beaches and circus-like Ocean Front Walk, a two-and-a-half-mile pedestrian-only promenade that features performers, fortune-tellers, artists, and vendors. You will be given some time at leisure to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and enjoy dinner (not included) in Venice Beach. Return transfer to your hotel. Overnight.     Day 3: Los Angeles – Las Vegas (335 miles - 5h40) This morning departure to Joshua Tree National Park. The park encompasses some of the most interesting geologic displays found in California’s deserts : rugged mountains of twisted rock and exposed granite monoliths testify to the tremendous geological forces that shaped and formed this land. The slow-growing Joshua tree, which graces much of the park's desert ecosystem, is probably the most famous resident of the park. Named by Mormon settlers who crossed the Mojave Desert in the mid-1800s, the tree's unusual shape reminded them of the Bible story in which Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky in prayer. Enjoy a walk along the scenic Hidden Valley trail (1 mile loop). Picnic lunch in the park (a stop will be planned before arrival into the park to purchase picnic items). Afternoon drive to Las Vegas – the incredible man-made oasis in the dessert. Check in to your hotel.   Day 4: Las Vegas - Grand Canyon (280 miles - 4h15) Head towards the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, superb geographical phenomenon. Stop in Seligman on the iconic Route 66. Lunch on your own, then discover one of the wonders of the world : the Grand Canyon. Located at 6971 feet above sea level the Grand Canyon is the spectacular result of millions of years of wind and water erosion. Surrounded by a magnificent forest, the canyon seems to be protected by a lush screen of greenery. This will certainly be one of the highlights of your trip. We suggest a 1.7 mile hike (1-2 hours) to Ooh Aah Point. Overnight in the Grand Canyon village.   Day 5: Grand Canyon - Monument Valley – Page (325 miles – 5h30) Depart the Grand Canyon by driving along the scenic Desert View Drive. Stop at the Desert View Watchtower. Modeled after ancient Puebloan watchtowers, the Watchtower at Desert View features murals by Hopi artist Frank Kabotie. Time permitting, you may have a chance to climb the stairs to the top for an outstanding view of the Canyon and the surrounding area. Continue on to Monument Valley, where you will find yourself surrounded by imposing, crimson monoliths. This 25 mile-long and 16-mile wide desert plain has served as the backdrop to numerous westerns including five John Ford classics. Enjoy an included lunch of Navajo specialties followed by a jeep tour of the valley with local a Navajo guide. Arrive in Page in the afternoon. Change at your hotel then enjoy a dip in Lake Powell at Lone Rock Beach. Overnight in Page.   Day 6: Page – Horseshoe Bend - Bryce (150 miles – 2h40) To start the day you will visit Horseshoe Bend (1.2 mi roundtrip hike): a geologic masterpiece sculpted by the Colorado River. Horseshoe Bend is an example of what happens when water takes the path of least resistance. With the help of gravity, the Colorado River began cutting through rock layers deep and fast. The result is the 270° bend in the river. Discovered by Mormons at the end of the 19th century, Bryce Canyon is considered one of the jewels of the National Parks system. The shapes, colors and shades of the stone and the famous Pink Cliffs are constantly changing from dawn to dusk. Hike down the canyon to get closer to the hoodoos (thin spires of rock)*. Picnic lunch in the park (a stop will be planned before arrival into the park to purchase picnic items). Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the park at your own pace. Overnight in the region.   * this hike is not advised for people with heart conditions due to significant elevation change.   Day 7: Bryce Canyon – Zion – Las Vegas (250 miles - 4h45) Departure for your visit of Zion National Park. Follow the paths where ancient native people and pioneers walked. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience wilderness in a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present day adventures. Picnic lunch in the park (a stop will be planned before arrival into the park to purchase picnic items). This afternoon, we return to Las Vegas. Rest of the day at leisure to try your luck gambling, do some shopping, or enjoy on of the many world class entertainment options the city has to offer. Optional: join your guide on a visit of Las Vegas by night. Overnight.   Day 8: Las Vegas - Death Valley – Mammoth Lakes (352 miles – 6h00) Today you will drive through the Nevada Desert and cross the border to California where you will descend into famous Death Valley. At 282 feet below sea level, Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth. The landscape is so deserted that the first cowboys to have crossed it said of it: "Not a stream to drink from, not a tree to hang on". You will discover Furnace Creek, and the sand dunes of Stovepipe Wells. Lunch on your own. This afternoon, we drive high into the Sierra Nevada range as we make our way to the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. Overnight. *If the Tioga Pass is closed, the groups will be relocated to Bakersfield   Day 9: Mammoth Lakes – Yosemite – San Francisco (300 miles – 6h30) This morning we take a scenic drive on the Tioga pass as we enter Yosemite National Park.  Yosemite will delight you with its Alpine landscape, with pine forests, waterfalls, and rivers, all dominated by the silhouette of great white monoliths. Marvel at the giant redwoods, Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and a few famous waterfalls such as Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Falls (often dry in the summer). Picnic on your own in the park (a stop will be planned before arrival into the park to purchase picnic items). Continue towards San Francisco for a 3 night stay. Overnight.   Day 10: San Francisco Start the day with a guided tour of San Francisco, one of the most photographed, filmed, and documented cities in the world. The city is a a tantalizing mix of history, modern sophistication, and stunning natural beauty. Start with (weather permitting) a panoramic view from the top of Twin Peaks, you will have an unrivaled perspective of the city from the bay to the Golden Gate strait.  Next you will discover Golden Gate Park. Continue your tour with a stop at Alamo Square, where you will see the best examples of San Francisco's iconic Victorian homes, the “Painted Ladies.” Make a stop at the world famous Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy some time on your own for lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf. End the day with stops at Chinatown, Union Square and the Civic Center, with is Beaux-Arts City Hall.  Overnight.   Day 11: San Francisco Start the day with a short hike to Muir Beach. The Muir Beach Overlook provides expansive views of the Pacific Coast, including the Point Reyes Peninsula. Relax on the beach or explore the several historic base-end stations, observation posts that were part of the San Francisco Bay coastal defense system. Next you will visit Sausalito, famous for it’s waterfront cafés, art galleries, and charming house boats. Time at leisure to enjoy lunch on your own. Return to San Francisco by taking a scenic ferry ride across the bay. Afternoon at leisure to do some shopping, visit one of the city’s world-class museums, or perhaps rent a bike for a ride along the waterfront. Overnight.   Day 12: San Francisco - Monterey - Carmel – Santa Maria (290 miles - 4h50) Leave for Monterey Peninsula. Tour of the town of Monterey, particularly the fishing port and Cannery Row, made famous by the writer John Steinbeck. Visit of nearby Carmel, one the most charming coastal towns of California, with prestine beaches and trendy boutiques. Enjoy some time for lunch on your own. You will then drive along the superb Big Sur coastline: the majestic Santa Lucia range gives way to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Stops will be made along the way to snap some pictures and enjoy a few short hikes to soak up the scenery. Arrival in Santa Maria at the end of the day. Overnight.   Day 13: San Luis Obispo - Santa Barbara - Los Angeles (160 miles - 2h55) Morning drive to lovely Santa Barbara known for its golden beaches, palm-lined bay, red-tiled roofs and Spanish architecture. Visit the beautiful mission Santa Barbara, the largest Franciscan convent in California today, considered to be the queen of the California missions. Time for lunch on your own before continuing towards Los Angeles. Make a stop in luxurious Malibu for a visit of the Adamson House, a National Historic Site and California Historic Landmark. The Spanish Colonial Revival style home occupies one of the most idyllic oceanfront spots in all of Southern California. Situated near the  Malibu Lagoon, the house boasts an exotic mix of Spanish and Moorish influences with dazzling displays of decorative tiles and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship including hand-carved doors, hand-painted frescoes, molded ceilings, distinctive cast ironwork and lead-framed bottle glass windows. Finally, we end the day with a stop at the Griffith Observatory to get some of the best views of Downtown Los Angeles as well as the famous Hollywood Sign, a landmark and American cultural icon.   Day 14: Departure Day on your own and transfer to the airport depending on your flight schedule.