Why travel to California?

A tour to California offers unforgettable natural experiences – from the iconic rock formations in Yosemite National Park to the stunning coastlines along Highway 1. You can also dive into the exciting culture and entertainment in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, or soak up the sun and sand at beaches like Santa Monica, Venice, and Santa Cruz Beach.

With its diversity of experiences and spectacular landscapes, California is a destination that guarantees a memorable tour.

Our tours in California

All of our tours in California are self-drive holidays.

Whichever tour you choose, there’s a world of adventures to discover. From the glamorous city life of Los Angeles to the pristine desert landscapes of Death Valley. Below, we have compiled some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic metropolis and one of the world’s most iconic cities. It is known for its film industry, cultural diversity, and sunny climate.

Visit Santa Monica Beach, where the historic pier and the attractions at Pacific Park create a lively atmosphere. Or explore Venice Beach, where skateboarders, street performers, and colourful stalls along the promenade offer a unique, bohemian vibe.

Additionally, Los Angeles is one of the cities in the world where the most entertainment is produced. With attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Universal Studios, you can go behind the scenes to see how your favourite films are made.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park, located in eastern California near the Nevada border, is one of the most unique and fascinating places in the USA.

Spanning over 13,650 square kilometres, Death Valley is home to a range of geological wonders. Travellers can explore impressive salt flats at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, sitting 86 metres below sea level.

Death Valley is not only characterised by its extreme landscapes but also its extreme temperatures. In summer, temperatures can soar above 50°C, making the park a challenging but unforgettable place to visit.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is one of the USA’s most iconic and visited national parks.

Founded on October 1^st in 1890, and having been on the UNESCO world heritage list since 1984, Yosemite is renowned for its exceptional geological formations such as El Capitan and Half Dome, which attract climbers from around the world, as well as it’s incredibly beautiful waterfalls.

Yosemite Valley, the heart of the park, is famous for its lush meadows and breathtaking views, attracting millions of visitors each year.

San Francisco – the city of bridges and hills

San Francisco is a vibrant city located in northern California, renowned for its steep streets, spectacular views, and world-famous landmarks.

The city is home to some of the most famous attractions in the USA:

• The Golden Gate Bridge – this world-renowned bridge is a must-see, offering breathtaking views over the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, and the city. Head to spots like Crissy Field and Baker Beach for a stunning view of the bridge.

• Alcatraz, the former prison island that housed some of the USA’s most notorious criminals between the 1930s and 1960s, including Al Capone. Today, Alcatraz is a national park and a popular attraction. Visitors can take a ferry to the island to explore the historic prison.

• The historic cable cars are both a fun and practical way to get around the city, especially to places like Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square. The cable cars are pulled by an underground cable that operates on three different lines in the city. Laid down in the late 19th century, a ride on them offers fantastic views across the city.

Highway 1

Highway 1 is not just a road – it’s an experience. Stretching over 1,055 kilometres along the Pacific coast, it’s regarded as one of the most scenic routes in the world. Here, you can witness dramatic coastal cliffs, charming seaside towns, and unforgettable sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.

The route is occasionally closed, yet you can still explore large sections of this iconic coastline, including some of its most beautiful spots. One spectacular stop is Big Sur, where the rugged cliffs rise dramatically above the roaring ocean. Don’t forget to capture a photo at the iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the USA.

San Diego

San Diego is California’s second largest city, offering plenty to discover!

This sunny coastal city in southern California presents a fascinating blend of American and Mexican culture. Due to its proximity to Mexico, the city boasts rich cultural roots stemming from both countries, evident in the street scenes. For example, you can explore Old Town San Diego, a district brimming with Mexican influence and heritage.

Beyond its Mexican influence, San Diego has a rich military history, with several well-known bases and museums located in the city. At the USS Midway, you can experience what it is like to live and work aboard an aircraft carrier. Engage with interactive exhibits, stand on the flight deck amongst historic fighter planes, and learn about life at sea.

Other highlights in California

California is a treasure trove of experiences. Below, you can read about other attractions that you can explore on your tour of California.

You can also experience:

• Monterey is a small harbour town along California’s coastline. It offers a unique charm with a lovely waterfront promenade by the Pacific Ocean, where you can spot pelicans while dining at the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Furthermore, Monterey is a popular starting point for whale watching in the Monterey Bay Submarine Canyon.

• Santa Barbara is a city steeped in history, famously known for its Spanish-style architecture. This charming coastal city was the backdrop for hundreds of silent films in the 1920s, featuring icons such as Charlie Chaplin. Besides its historical significance, Santa Barbara boasts a stunning beach and seafront promenade.

• Sonoma and Napa Valley are regions just north of San Francisco, renowned as ‘Wine Country.’ Travellers flock here for their world-famous wines, which receive rave reviews year after year.

Combine with …

Our tours to California can be combined with attractions in other states across the USA. For example, you can visit the gambling city of Las Vegas in Nevada and the city that never sleeps, New York City, in the state of New York.

New York City

Combine your road trip in California with a tour to New York in the eastern USA.

Here, you’ll find a city brimming with fantastic cultural impressions and exciting experiences.

Venture into New York’s fascinating neighbourhoods, such as Manhattan and Queens, and dive into renowned attractions, often seen on film:

• Be dazzled by Times Square, which adds a kaleidoscope of colour to the city with its vibrant billboards. By day, you can shop in the area’s many stores, and by night, you can experience the lights and energy of this famous intersection.

• Enjoy tranquility in the city’s green retreat, Central Park, where the tops of towering buildings peek through the trees.

• Complete your visit with a meeting with the Statue of Liberty, originally gifted by the French but now a symbol of freedom and democracy in the USA.

Las Vegas

Many of our tours in California incorporate visits to multiple states in the western USA, including Nevada, where you’ll find the iconic city of Las Vegas.

In Las Vegas, you’ll discover countless casinos, luxurious resorts, and a vibrant nightlife, offering entertaining and spectacular shows. Even the hotels are attractions in themselves, where you can, for instance, see a replica of the Eiffel Tower at Hotel Paris or gondolas gliding through indoor canals at The Venetian.

Outside the city, enjoy remarkable natural wonders. Take a drive to the Valley of Fire State Park to admire the stunning red rock formations, or cross the state line to Utah, where Zion National Park awaits – roughly a two-hour drive away.

Frequently asked questions about tours to California

Here, we answer the most common questions about tours to California, helping you plan your dream trip.

When is the best time to visit California?

You can visit California all year round and bring home fantastic memories. The best time depends on what you want to experience.

Spring (March-May) offers mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes, especially along the coast where wildflowers, including the California poppy, blanket the scenery. This flower is also featured on many Californian road signs.

Summer (June-August) is warm and sunny – perfect for a beach day in Los Angeles or San Diego. However, temperatures can soar in inland areas like Las Vegas, Death Valley, and Yosemite National Park. Popular attractions may be quite busy during this time too.

Autumn (September-November) brings pleasant temperatures and dry weather, making it one of the best times to visit the wine regions of Sonoma and Napa Valley. Here, the vineyards display stunning golden hues and the harvest season is in full swing.

Winter (December-February) is generally mild in low-lying areas like Los Angeles and San Diego, whereas the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges might experience snowfall.

Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit California, offering comfortable weather and fewer visitors.

What is included in your self-drive holidays in California?

Our California tours are package holidays, which include flights, car hire, and accommodation, with some tours also featuring scheduled excursions and activities.

However, please note that if you want to explore on your own beyond what is planned, such as visiting Universal Studios or the wine country near San Francisco, any ticket prices are not included.

Is it safe to drive in California?

Yes, driving in California is safe, and the state is wonderful to explore by car.

The roads are generally in good condition, with speed limits clearly set everywhere. Since many American cars are larger than those you might be used to, some roads are also wider than those back home.

When driving in the USA, you may encounter traffic rules that differ from those you know. For instance, speed limits can vary depending on the number of lanes on a highway.

Read more about driving in America, including age restrictions, and whether you can use your UK driving licence.

As with all destinations, we recommend exercising caution and following local advice, especially when driving in larger cities like San Diego and Los Angeles, where it can be densely populated and traffic-heavy. Additionally, check current weather and road conditions if travelling during snowy periods, particularly to California’s national parks.

Where are the best beaches in California?

California, on the USA’s west coast, offers stunning beaches ideal for a swim.

For instance, you can enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles. The beach is known for its famous pier with roller coasters and shops, plus a beautiful cycle path running alongside the shore.

You might also visit beaches like Venice Beach and Santa Cruz Beach, celebrated for their promenades with street performers, amusements, and shops.

In San Diego, Mission Beach is one of the city’s most popular beaches and a lovely place to bask in the sun. The beach area is also home to Belmont Park, a classic amusement park featuring the iconic wooden rollercoaster, Giant Dipper, offering rides with a sea view.

Which national parks should I visit in California?

California is home to some of the USA’s most breathtaking national parks, offering everything from giant rock formations to vast desert landscapes.

Yosemite National Park is famed for its awe-inspiring waterfalls, towering sequoia trees, and iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome.

Death Valley National Park is one of the hottest places on Earth, featuring dramatic landscapes, sand dunes, and salt flats. Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, and Zabriskie Point offers unforgettable views.

Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for its unique trees and surreal desert scenery. The rugged terrain contrasts beautifully with the green cacti and blue skies.

Do I need a visa to travel to California?

No, as a UK citizen, you do not need a visa to travel to California on holiday, but you must apply for an ESTA approval to travel to the USA.

THe ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a travel permit allowing you to visit the USA without a visa, provided your stay does not exceed 90 days, which is the case with our tours. You must apply for ESTA online at least 72 hours before departure, though preferably earlier. Read more about the requirements and how to apply for ESTA on our practical info page.

Book your holiday to California with TourCompass

Dreaming of experiencing California’s iconic roads, extraordinary national parks, and sun-kissed beaches on a road trip?

At TourCompass, we focus on creating tours that make lifelong memories. Our travel specialists are ready to help you find the perfect tour for your Californian adventure.

Ready to book a tour to the USA? Contact us today – we’re here to help you.

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