Welcome to the City by the Bay! This evening, your Tour Director hosts a welcome reception, where you will learn more about the experience ahead. Enjoy your two-night stay at the elegant Westin St. Francis Hotel. (WR)
Day 2: Wednesday June, 13 (San Francisco)
San Francisco
After breakfast, explore highlights of San Francisco, including Chinatown, North Beach, Twin Peaks, Telegraph Hill, and Fisherman’s Wharf. A delightful BAY CRUISE takes you out to the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz, formerly a prison fortress. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure for exploration on your own (B,D)
Day 3: Thursday June, 14 (San Francisco)
San Francisco–Napa Valley
This morning, drive north to the sublime Napa Valley, where lush vineyards spread to gently rounded oak-covered hillsides, and a spectacular array of wineries compete for visitors’ attention. We’ll visit two local WINERIES for a tour and a tasting. (B,D)
Day 4: Friday June, 15 (San Francisco)
Napa Valley–Yosemite National Park
This morning, drive across California’s Central Valley to the Sierra foothills and Gold Rush country and learn about the great gold rush back in 1849. Continue to Yosemite National Park for a relaxing two-night stay. (B,D)
Day 5: Saturday June, 16 (San Francisco)
Yosemite National Park
This morning, tour the world-famous Yosemite Valley by OPEN-AIR TRAM, viewing such renowned highlights as Bridal Veil Falls and Half Dome. The rest of the day is yours to explore on your own. (B)
Day 6: Sunday June, 17 (Monterey)
Yosemite National Park–Monterey
This morning, travel westward toward the scenic California coast and beautiful Monterey, where you will enjoy the MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM and explore Cannery Row. Monterey’s original fish canneries that John Steinbeck immortalized in Cannery Row are now home to numerous shops and galleries. (B,D)
Day 7: Monday June, 18 (Monterey)
Monterey–Shell Beach
The Monterey Peninsula’s famed 17-MILE DRIVE passes Pebble Beach and the famed Lone Cypress. Then the Big Sur highway winds along cliffside roads high above the Pacific en route to San Simeon and the HEARST CASTLE. High on a hilltop, the splendid art-filled “Cuesta Encantada” is surrounded by exquisite pools, landscaped gardens, and terraces. Continue south along the coast highway to The Cliffs at Shell Beach, dramatically located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. (B,D)
Day 8: Tuesday June, 19 (Long Beach)
Shell Beach–Long Beach
This morning, browse the shops of Solvang, the “Danish Capital of the United States.” Continue down the Pacific Coast Highway through Santa Barbara en route to Los Angeles. Highlights of your “City of Angels” tour include Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Mann’s Chinese Theater. (B)
Day 9: Wednesday June, 20 (Long Beach)
Long Beach. Catalina Island Cruise
This morning, CRUISE across the 26-mile San Pedro Channel to beautiful Catalina Island. Enjoy the vivid blue waters sparkling in the harbor of Avalon as you tour the streets of this lovely resort town. Tonight, be our guest at a farewell dinner hosted by your Brennan Tour Director. (B,D)
Day 10: Thursday June, 21 (Long Beach)
Long Beach
Your vacation comes to an end this morning. After breakfast, transfer to the Los Angeles (LAx) or Long Beach Airports. Flights should be booked after 11 a.m. (B)