7 Day Bay Area & Central Coast California Fly & Drive

DAY 1, Sunday - Arrive in San Francisco
Welcome to San Francisco! Arrive independently to your hotel in San Francisco to begin your vacation in California. This afternoon, begin your discovery of this beloved “City by the Bay.” The best way to see San Francisco is on foot combined with public transportation. This afternoon stroll around Union Square, complete with people watching, window-shopping and views of the astonishing architecture. Continue on to Chinatown, the largest of its kind in North America, with its open markets, storefront temples and hundreds of stores displaying Asian wares. Enjoy dinner tonight at one of the many restaurants or Dim-Sum shops
Overnight: San Francisco

DAY 2, Monday - Full day in San Francisco
Explore unforgettable San Francisco today. The options are endless. Take a stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and watch the sea lions in the Bay. You can set sail and cruise to notorious Alcatraz, the maximum-security prison in the Bay -- you can walk the cellblocks where the Birdman of Alcatraz and Al Capone spent time. See the breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge before continuing to Golden Gate Park. Ride a Cable Car and enjoy the views and the steep hills…it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss. If you’re in the mood for delicious chocolates, then head to the early 20th century complex of Ghiradelli Square with its chocolate and souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. Other not-to-be-missed visits include the famous San Francisco Zoo, Haight-Asbury and the Mission District. Tonight, your choice of fine restaurants, concerts and performances await all over the city. For live music try the cosmopolitan North Beach area
Overnight: San Francisco

DAY 3, Tuesday - Drive to Monterey
This morning, depart your hotel and independently transfer to the airport. Proceed to the Rental Car Center to pick up your car and begin your drive to Monterey. Travel along the scenic coastal route, stopping along the way to see the Old Mission San Juan Bautista, in a historic park surrounded by 18th and 19th century buildings. Then, drive past wetlands, artichoke and strawberry fields before arriving in stunning Monterey on the Monterey Peninsula with its extraordinary coastline and wind swept beaches. The region has fantastic state parks, beaches and picturesque trails for walking, jogging, hiking or biking. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the most respected aquariums in the world showcasing over 200 uniquely designed marine exhibits and petting pools. Stop by Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck in his novel about working people and the sardine canneries; today the area has been converted into restaurants, galleries and shops. Tonight, visit Fisherman’s Wharf for a wide choice of casual seafood restaurants
Drive Time: 2-3 hours*
Distance: 80 miles*
Overnight: Monterey

DAY 4, Wednesday - Drive to the San Simeon Area
Depart Monterey, driving south along the rugged and winding coast to San Simeon. Here, you’ll see opulent Hearst Castle, sitting in solitary splendor atop a hill; its buildings and gardens are spread over 127 acres of land, once part of newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst’s 250,000-acre ranch. It took nearly 30 years for Hearst to build this elaborate estate, which was never lived in, but donated to the State of California. Consider taking a tour, beginning with a film presentation about the Hearst family and the building of this estate, followed by a tour of the highlights of the castle, including the home’s antiques, fine art and other exotic treasures from all over the world that cost over $50 million. Walk through the magnificent fragrant gardens before departing the castle and driving to your hotel in San Simeon or Cambia
Drive Time: 3-4 hours*
Distance: 100 miles*
Overnight: San Simeon or Cambria

DAY 5, Thursday - Drive to Santa Barbara
Drive south to gorgeous Santa Barbara, known as “America’s Riviera,” nestled between lofty mountains and the shimmering Pacific Ocean. Santa Barbara is chic and relaxed, with superb scenery accented by red tile roofs, white stucco buildings and California’s most beautiful white sandy beaches. After a relaxing lunch, stroll the pristine downtown area, admire the charming California Mission-style architecture and see the city’s famous landmarks such as Stearns Wharf by the harbor, bustling State Street, El Presidio and Mission Santa Barbara, a colonial historic site. Drive up into the Santa Ynez Mountains past vineyards and organic farms and the growing wine industry. Stop at Rattlesnake Canyon’s waterfalls before continuing to your hotel in Santa Barbara for overnight. In the evening, the after-dark scene revolves around downtown’s State Street or the waterfront area
Drive Time: 3-4 hours*
Distance: 110 miles*
Overnight: Santa Barbara

DAY 6, Friday - Drive to Los Angeles
Depart Santa Barbara driving via the stunning coastal drive to bustling Los Angeles with its contrasting neighborhoods, sparkling celebrity homes, chic beaches, and new urban renaissance. There are thousands of things to do and to see. Begin with a view of the famous Hollywood sign in Griffin Park, and its observatory with panoramic views of the city. Or, visit the downtown area and see some of the legendary sights, such as the Walk of Fame, and Graumann’s Chinese Theatre. A stroll along plush Rodeo Drive is a must. Stop at one of the outdoor cafés and just people-watch – perhaps you’ll see one of the famous residents. If you’re looking for offbeat, then travel to Venice Beach, notable for its bodybuilders, skaters, hippies and bizarre goods sold on the streets. In the evening, try to get tickets to the Hollywood Bowl, or the Walt Disney Concert Hall or the Greek Theatre – it is indeed a very cultural city
Drive Time: 2-4 hours*
Distance: 90 miles*
Overnight: Los Angeles

DAY 7, Saturday - Return home from Los Angeles
Dependent on your schedule, spend more time in Los Angeles. Return your vehicle at the Car Rental Facility at Los Angeles Airport before your departure flight home