California Explorer

Monterey County, Monterey County, CA, USA

Experience the ultimate self-drive journey through California's most iconic destinations with our California Explorer tour. This luxurious 12-day adventure takes you from the stunning coastal vistas of Monterey to the awe...See more

Experience the ultimate self-drive journey through California’s most iconic destinations with our California Explorer tour. This luxurious 12-day adventure takes you from the stunning coastal vistas of Monterey to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yosemite National Park, and finally to the vibrant city of San Francisco.

California Explorer

The California Explorer tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the Golden State’s diverse attractions. Begin your journey along the breathtaking Pacific coastline, where you’ll explore charming coastal towns and have the chance to play at world-renowned golf courses. Continue your adventure through California’s wine country before discovering the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park with its towering sequoias and dramatic waterfalls. Complete your experience in the vibrant city of San Francisco, where you’ll discover iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city’s unique culture.

California Tours

Monterey

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Duration

12 Days

Tour Type

Self Drive Holidays

Language

English

Highlights

Play golf at world-renowned courses, including Spyglass Hill and Pebble Beach Golf Links
Drive along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway with breathtaking ocean views
Explore the charming coastal towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea
Experience the majestic landscapes of Yosemite National Park
Discover the vibrant city of San Francisco with its iconic landmarks
Enjoy wine tasting in California's renowned wine regions
Experience the perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and luxury accommodations

Include/Exclude

International flights from the UK
12 nights luxury accommodation
Car rental for the duration of your stay
Breakfast daily at your accommodation
Detailed self-drive itinerary and maps
Pre-booked golf tee times at selected courses
All taxes and service charges

Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Meals not mentioned (lunches and dinners)
Fuel costs for rental vehicle
Optional activities and excursions
Gratuities
Golf club rentals and caddie fees

Sample Travel Itinerary

Day 1 UK to San Francisco

Day 2 Arrival in San Francisco and Drive to Monterey

Day 3 Monterey and Golf

Day 4 Pebble Beach Golf

Day 5 Monterey to Yosemite National Park

Day 6 Yosemite National Park Exploration

Day 7 Yosemite Leisure Day

Day 8 Yosemite to Napa Valley

Day 9 Napa Valley Wine Experience

Day 10 Napa Valley to San Francisco

Day 11 San Francisco Exploration

Day 12 Departure

Book This Tour

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Let's Plan Your Journey

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit California?

April to October offers optimal weather for this tour. Spring (April-May) brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season with warm, sunny days ideal for outdoor activities. Fall (September-October) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, plus harvest season in wine country.

Do I need to book golf tee times in advance?

Yes, especially for prestigious courses like Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill. These world-renowned courses are in high demand and should be booked months in advance. Our tour includes pre-arranged tee times, but specific requests should be communicated at the time of booking.

What type of vehicle do you recommend for this self-drive tour?

We recommend a mid-size SUV or luxury sedan for comfort and space during your journey. The roads are well-maintained, but an SUV offers better visibility and comfort, especially for the mountainous drives to Yosemite. Upgrade options are available upon request.

Is Yosemite National Park accessible year-round?

While Yosemite is open year-round, some roads and trails may be closed during winter months (November-May) due to snow. The Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road typically close from November through late May or early June. Our tour is designed to visit when all major attractions are accessible.

What should I pack for this trip?

Pack layers for varying climates – coastal areas can be cool even in summer, while inland areas get quite warm. Include comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and hiking trails, golf attire if playing, swimwear for hotel pools, and a light jacket for evenings. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera for capturing California's stunning landscapes.

Are wine tastings included in the tour?

Wine tastings are not included in the base tour price, allowing you flexibility to choose wineries that match your preferences. However, we can arrange premium wine tasting experiences, private tours, or even exclusive winemaker dinners upon request for an additional fee.

How difficult are the hiking trails in Yosemite?

Yosemite offers trails for all fitness levels. Easy walks include the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail and Bridalveil Fall Trail (less than 1 mile round trip). Moderate hikes include the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall (3 miles round trip). Challenging hikes include Half Dome (14-16 miles round trip, permit required). Your itinerary can be customized based on your hiking preferences.

Can I modify the itinerary to spend more time in a particular location?

Absolutely! This self-drive tour is fully customizable. If you'd like to spend more time golfing in Monterey, exploring Yosemite, or enjoying San Francisco, we can adjust the itinerary accordingly. Just let us know your preferences when booking.

California Explorer