Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
From soaring redwoods to cultural meccas and verdant valleys, explore the rich sights, sounds, and tastes of California. Wander through a forest of some of the world's largest trees at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Dive into history in San Diego and into the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles. Discover a centuries-old mission in Santa Barbara and go on a walking food tour in the charming coastal town of Carlsbad. Savor a glass of locally produced wine and lunch at a Paso Robles vineyard.
Call (209) 521-0800 for more information or to book today! Mention code 19072917
- Tour Operator
- Collette
- Duration
- 10 Days
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | San Diego | From the cosmopolitan, cultural cities of San Diego and Los Angeles to the laid-back, beachy vibes of California's Central Coast and the awe-inspiring scenery of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, this journey has it all. Your tour opens in San Diego, known for its seaside location and idyllic climate. As travelers' arrival times vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. |
| Day 2 | San Diego | This morning, join a local guide for a tour through the city's diverse neighborhoods, including downtown, Balboa Park, Coronado Island, and Old Town San Diego. The afternoon is yours to experience San Diego at your leisure. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. |
| Day 3 | San Diego | Start the day on a harbor cruise of San Diego Bay. Cruise beside playful sea lions, Navy ships, and beautiful architecture while hearing fascinating stories that link the city's past and present. Later, head north to the coastal town of Carlsbad, where you'll explore the town center on a walking food tour for lunch. This afternoon, arrive in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world. Tonight, join your Tour Manager and walk to the bustling Grand Central Market - a favorite with locals looking for a casual meal. |
| Day 4 | Los Angeles | Today, explore the City of Angels on a combination bus/walking tour. Stop for photos at the Frank Gehry's Walt Disney Concert Hall and the famed Bradbury Building, an ornate architectural landmark featured in several films. Then admire the mansions on our way to the Griffith Observatory to take in panoramic views of the city and the famed Hollywood sign. Stroll along the Walk of Fame to Grauman's Chinese Theatre and the Dolby, home of the Academy Awards. Get a close-up look at the iconic Beverly Hills sign and soak in the glitz and glamour of Rodeo Drive. After lunch on your own at the Original Farmers Market, we'll pass by other landmarks as we make our way back to the hotel. |
| Day 5 | Los Angeles | Today, head to California's Central Coast. Enjoy free time in this beautiful city, admiring its Spanish colonial architecture and small-town atmosphere. Stop for a self-guided tour of the Old Mission of Santa Barbara, the tenth of 21 Spanish Missions founded by the Franciscans and the only one the friars still occupy. Enjoy the gorgeous grounds of the "Queen of the Missions," the gardens, cemetery, and chapel. Arrive this afternoon in Pismo Beach, another Central Coast gem, and your home for two nights. |
| Day 6 | Pismo Beach | Enjoy a day at leisure at your seaside hotel. Or, continue your exploration of the central coast by joining an optional excursion to Hearst Castle, the historic estate built by publishing tycoon William Randall Hearst and his architect, Julia Morgan. Enjoy a tour of the opulent Grand Rooms, imagining what it must have been like to be a guest here during the Roaring Twenties. Before lunch, visit an elephant seal rookery and see a colony of seals at the beach. Don't miss the spectacular sunset back in Pismo Beach this evening! |
| Day 7 | Pismo Beach | Today, travel inland to the Paso Robles wine region, home to more than 200 family-run wineries. This Central Coast wine region is less known than Napa, but no less beautiful. Stop for lunch here and later, arrive in the charming town of Visalia, gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. |
| Day 8 | VISALIA | Today, head to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in the southern Sierra Nevada, where a local guide will join you. See the General Grant tree on a guided walking tour. On the way to your picnic lunch spot, learn about the park's ecology, flora, fauna, and history, including Native American history. This afternoon, visit the largest tree in the world, the General Sherman tree, on a half-mile walking tour. Then, it's your choice! Continue with your local guide -OR- take a brisk hike with your Tour Manager along the Congress Trail. Back in Visalia, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. This day is sure to be the highlight of your California adventure! |
| Day 9 | VISALIA | This morning, bid farewell to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range and head south to Los Angeles for a final night. But first, visit the Getty Center, nestled on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains. This world-famous museum is known for its private collection, with something here for everyone: fine art, impressive architecture, lush gardens, and spectacular city views. |
| Day 10 | Los Angeles | Your tour ends today. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Lodging
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown - San Diego, CA,
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza - Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach - Pismo Beach, United States
- Visalia Marriott - Visalia, CA, United States
- Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport - Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Disclaimer
- * NOTE: Tour prices are land only rates based on per person, double occupancy. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking. Government taxes and fees are additional. Land rates are guaranteed at time of deposit. Certain taxes and fees are to be paid upon exiting the country in local currencies.
Airfare is additional and is available through Collette Vacations.
