The California Adventure Tour

Arrival, Day One:

Fly into San Jose and Transfer to the hotel for the evening.  

Day Two:

Following a delicious breakfast, we pack up our vehicle and commence our journey.

Let’s set our course for Monterey, a two-hour journey ahead. Along the way, we’ll traverse through Silicon Valley, renowned for its abundance of start-ups and prominent tech corporations. Upon arriving in Monterey, our first stop will be the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, famous for its exceptional sea-otter rescue and rehabilitation program. We’ll immerse ourselves in the wonders of the facility, taking our time to explore its captivating exhibits, and afterward, we can enjoy a delightful lunch at a nearby spot.

Afterward, we’ll trace the crimson-marked path of 17 Mile Drive, leading us to a captivating realm brimming with breathtaking coastal cliffs, pristine white beaches, enchanting forests, and renowned golf courses. Embark on an unforgettable journey along one of the world’s most picturesque drives as you encounter the awe-inspiring Lone Cypress, marvel at the majestic trees of Crocker Grove, immerse yourself in the untouched splendor of Fanshell Beach, witness the mighty force of the Restless Sea at Point Joe, and leisurely stroll along the boardwalk above Spanish Bay’s beautiful shoreline.

Visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a serene coastal retreat with charming architecture and stunning beaches. Enjoy leisurely walks through the streets adorned with art galleries and boutique shops, and savor gourmet dining experiences in this picturesque town.

We end our day’s adventure lodging in Monterey.

Day Three:

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After enjoying a morning repast, we set forth on an expedition along the captivating Pacific Coast Highway, charting a course toward the famous Hearst Castle. Created at the behest of William Randolph Hearst between 1919 and 1947, this lavish estate encompasses four structures, 165 rooms, and more than 40,000 acres of sprawling magnificence adorned with a plethora of captivating artifacts. Our journey includes a guided exploration of a portion this majestic abode, allowing us to immerse ourselves in its historical significance and architectural marvels.

As our exploration of Hearst Castle concludes, we resume our drive along the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway, delighting in the enchanting coastal panoramas as we make our way to the charming town of Cambria. There, we can continue to bask in the allure of the Pacific shoreline before settling in for a serene overnight stay in Cambria.

Day Four:

Leaving Cambria behind, our journey leads us straight to the awe-inspiring Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Our day is filled with memorable adventures as we hike through the enchanting Crescent Meadow and marvel at the majestic General Sherman Tree, the largest known living tree on Earth. Throughout the day, we’ll explore other scenic wonders this pristine park has to offer.

As the evening approaches, we find rest and tranquility at the picturesque John Muir Lodge, nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the park. Surrounded by towering trees and natural splendor, we immerse ourselves in the serene ambiance of this unforgettable wilderness retreat.

DAY Five:

Leaving the serene John Muir Lodge behind, we venture towards the renowned Grant’s Grove, where ancient sequoias stand tall like silent sentinels in this majestic forest. Among them, the awe-inspiring General Grant tree takes center stage as the second-largest tree on Earth and holds the honor of being the nation’s Christmas tree.

The grove’s natural beauty extends beyond sequoias, showcasing a diverse array of flora, including sugar pine, incense cedar, white fir, black oak, and mountain dogwood.

Our journey then takes us a short distance to the iconic Glacier Point in Yosemite, offering one of the most breathtaking vistas in the entire world!

For a restful night, we settle into the comfortable accommodations nearby, ensuring we wake up refreshed and ready to embrace more unforgettable experiences in this magnificent national park.

Overnight near Yosemite.

Day Six:

This entire day is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Yosemite Valley, where you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridal Veil Falls, and Yosemite Falls. A pleasant stroll to Mirror Lake awaits, offering another beautiful natural gem. Don’t miss the chance to savor a delightful lunch at the renowned Ahwahnee Lodge.

In the afternoon, you have the freedom to explore the Visitor Center, browse the captivating Ansel Adams Gallery, and indulge in any other activities that pique your interest. Our accommodations will be conveniently located near Yosemite, ensuring you have a comfortable place to unwind and rest after a day filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences.

Overnight near Yosemite.

Day Seven:

After breakfast, we will begin our journey to Mono Lake.  As we pass through Yosemite one last time we will be stopping along the Tioga pass route for views of Half Dome, a chance to view wildlife and wildflowers at Tuolumne Meadows, and finally Ellery Lake for some time on the shore of this pristine alpine lake.

Our journey continues towards Mono Lake, where we’ll be treated to breathtaking views. We’ll leisurely drive to some of the more scenic points of the lake, savoring the scenic beauty surrounding us. Along the way, we’ll make a quick stop at the Mammoth ski area to take in the alpine charm.

The night’s rest awaits us in Bishop, CA, where we can unwind and recharge, ready for more adventures that lie ahead.

Overnight Bishop, CA

Day Eight:

After a hearty breakfast and packing up, our journey leads us to Death Valley. En route, we’ll make a poignant stop at Manzanar Internment Camp, reflecting on its historical significance. Our exploration in Death Valley will include visiting iconic sites like the “Star Wars” canyon, where we hope to witness Navy Jets soaring through the canyon’s beauty.

Additionally, we’ll tour famous locations such as Badwater, Zabriskie Point, and Artist’s Palette, immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of the valley. We’ll enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst this awe-inspiring landscape before continuing our adventure toward Las Vegas.

This evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner to bid our goodbyes.

Lodging in Las Vegas, NV

Day Nine:

Your Guide will take those guests that choose to the airport this morning.  For those that choose to wait for a later departure or to explore the city of Las Vegas the hotel offers a shuttle service to the airport throughout the day.  

Depart Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport