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- California Coast, Mountains & Deserts
California Coast, Mountains & Deserts
From £2,015 pp
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14 nights
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Economy flights
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Available January - December
Take in the best that the west coast of the USA has to offer. Your journey starts in the jewel of the west coast, San Francisco, and will take you through towering mountains, valleys, and deserts, through to the lush landscape of Riverside County. The trip concludes in the vibrant City of Angels, Los Angeles. Though this trip can be enjoyed year round, visit between May and October for the shortest driving distances - otherwise add another 200 miles onto your journey to Yosemite.
What's Included?
- International flights from the UK based on economy class
- Accommodation for 14 nights
- 12 days compact car hire with fully inclusive insurance, unlimited mileage and taxes
Special Offers
Take advantage of the following offers on this holiday
Save up to £500 per booking
Book by 31st August and take advantage of our exclusive savings
Book your next American adventure by 31 August 2025 and you can save up to £500 per booking. You’ll save:
• £500 on bookings over £10,000
• £350 on bookings between £7,500-£9,999
• £300 on bookings between £5,000-£7,499
• £250 on bookings between £2,500-£4,999
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Stream, surf, and share more with up to 10GB data on us. Book by 31st August 2025.
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Holiday Map
Explore our interactive map to discover your holiday route and key points of interest.
Start
Finish
Stops
Point of interest
Your day-to-day plan
Day 1-3
Arrive in San Francisco
Upon arrival make your way to your hotel either by train or taxi and spend the rest of the day exploring this remarkable city and enjoying the cuisine for which the city is famous.
San Francisco is one of the most exciting cities in the United States and has something for everyone. Be sure to experience the eight hairpin turns of Lombard Street, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and explore Fisherman’s Wharf.
You could also rent a bike and cycle across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, taking some stunning pictures along your way to Sausalito where you can take a ferry back to San Francisco.
Day 4
San Francisco to Napa, 52 miles
After collecting your hire car from downtown San Francisco, you will head to the town of Napa. Napa Valley is considered to be one of the best wine producing regions in the USA and is home to 400 plus wineries. Visit different wineries, take a wine tasting session and enjoy the idyllic surroundings.
Day 5-6
Napa Valley to Yosemite National Park, 192 miles
Today’s drive will take you east via the old Copper mining town of Copperopolis, which is registered as a California Historical Landmark, before taking you into Mariposa County, home to one of the most recognisable National Parks in the USA, Yosemite. Whilst here, discover the breathtaking sights of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan and Tunnel View.
Day 7
Yosemite to Death Valley National Park, 300 miles
Today is all about the stunning drive via the Tioga Pass to Death Valley National Park, home to barren desert landscapes sculpted through the harsh summers and temperate winters. Here you will find the lowest point in the western hemisphere at 282ft below sea level at Badwater. See the aptly named Devil’s Golf Course and enjoy your overnight stay at the Ranch at Death Valley, where you can watch the sunset over the distant mountains.
Day 8-9
Death Valley National Park to Palm Springs, 280 miles
Your journey begins with a drive out of Death Valley National Park to the quaint town of Baker. From here, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through the arid high mountain desert of San Bernadino County, before arriving into the popular desert communities that make up the Coachella Valley, including Palm Springs, which is a sun lovers dream as well as a golfers retreat. A superb choice of dining and shopping awaits. Be sure to take in the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. For some upscale retail therapy, visit El Paseo or simply relax during the day and spend your evenings in downtown Palm Springs.
Day 10
Palm Springs to Temecula, 75 miles
A spectacular drive awaits on the Palms to Pines Highway and be sure to stop at The Paradise Valley Café for lunch. Carry on your drive to the Temecula Wine Country which is the heart of the Central Coast Wine Region. At 1,500 foot above sea level, the elevation makes for cool nights and delightful breezes every afternoon throughout the summer.
Day 11-12
Temecula to San Diego, 76 miles
Today you’ll embark on a short drive down to San Diego and, by taking Interstate-5, you’ll be hugging the dramatic pacific coastline and will be able to visit the coastal towns of Oceanside, Carlsbad and Del Mar. Whilst in San Diego, relax and enjoy some of the California sunshine, enjoy a visit to Sea World or San Diego Zoo, or take a trip to the Old Town State Park.
Day 13-14
San Diego to Los Angeles, 130 miles
Use your time in Los Angeles to explore the sights, sounds and fantastic culinary offerings of this dynamic city. Take a trip to Malibu or Marina Del Rey, visit Universal Studios Hollywood or take a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Day 15
Homeward Bound
Your holiday is coming to its end. Return your rental car before departing from Los Angeles for your homebound flight.
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American Affair Recommends
The drives between San Francisco and Monterey on days 4 – 6 and Los Angeles to Vegas on day 12 are the crowning moments of this holiday. 17-mile drive and Big Sur are two of the best drives in the world and offer unmatched views of California’s rugged coastlines, and the drive between LA and Vegas is equally enchanting and awe-inspiring. This is truly a road trip like no other.
This holiday requires an ESTA for entry to the United States, for full details and to apply please see below:
Please note selected national parks in the USA require reservations for vehicles in order to enter the parks. Reservations are required in advance. This is in addition to purchasing a national park entrance ticket. Early booking is recommended.
Further information on the parks, where vehicle reservations are required and how to book can be found on:
USA National Parks
