The Ultimate 8-day Itinerary For An Elating California Trip

Author: Nidhi Sood on Mar 05,2023

Embark on an 8-day itinerary through the Golden State, and experience some of the best California offers. Take California's beauty, culture, and adventure from Los Angeles to San Francisco, from Joshua National Park to the Redwoods. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the best of California with this fantastic 8-day guided trip itinerary.

A tour at a glance

Tour Price

Our private tours typically range from $500 - $1000 per person/per night depending on chosen hotels and room categories, vehicles used, types of tours, flight cost, time of year and other factors. Make an inquiry for a customized trip quote.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Los Angeles

Meet your private guide at the airport, who will drive you to your hotel. Later, visit the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, to the Chinese Theater. Visit the Getty Center and the Natural History Museum, and finally, spend the evening shopping at Rodeo Drive. Return to the hotel for dinner.

Day 2: San Diego

Get out of town for the day and go to sunny San Diego. Explore the museums and gardens of Balboa Park and the decommissioned USS Midway aircraft carrier anchored in the port next to the Maritime Museum. Discover the city by wandering the streets where locals congregate to enjoy live music and art displays. Return to your hotel for dinner. 

Day 3: Joshua Tree National Park

Your private guide will drive you to Joshua Tree National Park for two hours and thirty minutes. Take a guided walk across the desert terrain to see the gigantic Joshua trees and fauna, such as bighorn sheep and tarantulas. Spend the day visiting neighboring Palm Springs and its vintage stores before taking a picturesque canyon ride on spinning tram vehicles. Before returning to the hotel, have a great meal at a gourmet restaurant.

Day 4: Death Valley National Park

Take a day's trip to Death Valley National Park. Then, to Racetrack Playa to see how the stones tumble over the barren terrain. Stand at the lowest point in the United States, Badwater Basin, which records the world's highest temperature. Hike through borax hills, explore winding valleys, stop at a desert oasis, and slide down dunes. In the evening, get a private transfer to Las Vegas, about a three-hour drive away. Visit the Hoover Dam, shop at the world's largest gift and accessories expo, and spend the night at a luxurious hotel in Las Vegas.

Day 5: San Francisco

Venture out in the tropical climate of San Francisco. Visit Alamo Square and Chinatown, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Visit the Exploratorium, a fascinating interactive science museum. After lunch, it's time to head to the Asian Art Museum, home to the most extensive collection of Asian art in the world. In December, attend the famous Christmas Boat Parade.

Day 6: Monterey & Santa Cruz

Set off to discover Monterey, a coastal city with a world-renowned aquarium, miles of stunning beaches, and vibrant art, music, and cuisine culture. Visit the aquarium and have a guided tour of the kelp forest. Take a stroll along the glistening sands of Pacific Grove, just outside of Monterey. Then, go south of the city to Santa Cruz to view the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the country's oldest known wooden roller coaster, or to visit the city's many art galleries.

Day 7: Napa Valley

Get on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a guided tour of the valley and stops at vineyards, including the illustrious Domaine Chandon. Learn about winemaking, sample wines, and even pick your grapes at the Napa Valley Vineyard.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, your private guide will help you with international departure. Get a private transfer to the airport and fly home. 

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