Dream big in the Golden State.
Plan your trip.
SAN FRANCISCO
Famous for grand-dame Victorians, cable cars, a dynamic waterfront, and a soaring golden bridge, this city truly has it all. With trend-defining cuisine ranging from Michelin-starred dining to outrageous food trucks; world-renowned symphony, ballet, theater, and opera; plus almost boundless outdoor adventures.
LOS ANGELES
Here, A-list celebrities really do walk the sidewalks, triple-shot macchiatos in one hand, cell phones in the other. While travelers may bypass much of the city by staying on a network of freeways that crisscross the region, they’re missing L.A.’s hidden gems. Turn off onto side streets to discover inviting neighborhoods, incredible museums, and shopping hot spots.
SAN DIEGO
As if all that sunshine weren’t enough, San Diego is a waterfront city with top-notch restaurants, beautiful ocean-sprayed vistas, neighborhoods that are steeped in history and culture, and a centrally located urban park. Whether spending a few days indulging in the city’s myriad of beaches and surf spots, visiting the aquatic attractions, or exploring the inland offerings of the city, San Diego will not disappoint.
SANTA BARBARA
Bougainvillea twining across red-tiled rooftops, birdsong mingling with the ocean breeze, islands and whale spouts on the horizon—Santa Barbara’s charms tempt at every turn. Perfect getaways don’t get much more perfect.
SONOMA
The best way to get better acquainted with the city of Sonoma, in the heart of Sonoma County, is through its wine. But you can also get a sense of the past—just for good measure—at the tasting room of Three Sticks Wines at The Adobe: It’s actually set inside the historic 1842 Vallejo-Casteñada Adobe home, and features artifacts like an 1800s horse stirrup, delicate china, and tools.
PALM SPRINGS
Fed by a deep underground aquifer, the desert in Greater Palm Springs gushes to life in regal palm groves and fabulous swimming pools, and also in a string of vibrant communities—Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, and the namesake town of Palm Springs. This is where 1950s celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley built sleek estates, played golf at championship courses, and wined and dined the desert night away.
Buckle up and begin your search for a life-changing adventure.
The Highway 1, aka Pacific Coast Highway, road trip that passes through Big Sur on California’s Central Coast is perhaps the most famous scenic drive in the Golden State. But it’s not the only scenic, unforgettable road trip in California—by far. Consider one of these 10 classic road trips, rich with magical scenery like pounding surf, rolling hills, waterfalls, and plenty of wineries. Most make for a great weekend or even day trip. Choose your favorites from these trips, then roll down the windows and get going.
Highway One Classic
Follow this spectacular coast-hugging drive, making time for stops in places like Huntington Beach, Santa Barbara, and Monterey.
Start: San Diego
End: Hilton San Francisco Union Square
4 – 7 Days, 12 Stops, 587 Miles
Amazing Views
Tall trees, towering waterfalls, and fascinating geological formations provide a scenic backdrop on this winding five-day tour.
Start: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
End: Avenue of the Giants
4 – 6 Days, 10 Stops, 862 Miles
Shopping Spree
Steer your car to these tony boutiques, high-end open-air malls, factory outlets, and specialty stores.
Start: Westfield UTC, La Jolla
End: El Paseo, Palm Desert
3 – 5 Days, 10 Stops, 286 Miles
Theme Park Thrills
Whether you’re tooling around with old friends or a backseat full of kids, this trek is certain to please the young at heart.
Start: SeaWorld San Diego
End: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Santa Clarita
6 – 8 Days, 8 Stops, 165 Miles
Rock ‘n’ Roll Road Trip
A curated playlist is essential for any road trip—but on this two-day journey, the music isn’t just in the background, it’s the main event.
Start: Watson’s Soda Fountain & Cafe
End: Joshua Tree Inn
3 – 4 Days, 11 Stops, 235 Miles
Winding Through Wine Country
Sample the flavors of the Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and the Anderson Valley on this scenic drive past rolling hills and endless vineyards.
