Your free time in Santa Barbara - Scott Dunn suggests

From skiing in Whistler, one of the best and most famous ski resorts in the world to the sun and surf of the sunshine state California, this incredible itinerary is a unique holiday.

Get lost in the magic of LA, diving under its skin as you discover what makes this iconic city tick with rich cultural experiences and active adventures. Stay at ultra-chic hotels, with exclusive experiences showcasing the best of West Hollywood and downtown Santa Barbara. Submerging in the eclectic culture and beautiful coastline as you admire its hip enclaves, gourmet foodie scene and glossy boulevards, all just steps from the iconic waterfront.

Carmel Valley Ranch is nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the leafy vineyards of Carmel. An ideal base to explore the Carmel and Monterey region, the resort offers both a superb chance to relax and explore.

In the midst of the Carneros winegrowing region is Carneros Resort & Spa. Nestled amongst 28 acres of endless vineyards, farmland and apple orchards, Carneros cottages and homes take on a modern agricultural aesthetic to create a unique Napa retreat.

The Montage at Laguna Beach is one of those places where you feel as if you have arrived - the service is immaculate, the ocean views to die for, and the artistic community of Laguna Beach just the place for boutique, gallery browsing and fine dining.

Sophisticated and playful in equal measure, this hotel is the epitome of laid-back California cool with a prime location on West Hollywood’s iconic Sunset Boulevard.

Perched 1200 feet up on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is an architectural gem, and seamlessly blends understated rustic luxury, immaculate cuisine and astounding service.

One of LA’s landmark hotels, this beachfront property is full of laidback glamour. With an ocean-facing terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean, smart dining options, elegant décor, spacious coastal-chic guestrooms, it’s the A-Listers favourite beach house.

Nestled among the giant redwood trees, stay in your own log cabin in Yosemite's Wawona area. Peaceful, private and authentic, the self-catered homes are located on private property within the National Park.

Located in San Francisco's trendy SoMA district, St Regis San Francisco is a luxurious city hotel with a contemporary edge. Boasting stylish interiors and well-appointed lavish suites, the St Regis is perfect for families exploring the city by the bay.

The Parker Palm Springs is a resort that brings together a quirky, retro design making it an ideal escape from the mundane. With 13 acres of landscaped gardens it creates a palm fringed oasis.

Soak in breathtaking views as you embark on a guided horseback ride along Santa Barbara’s sun-drenched coastline.

Walking and biking are the most popular ways to see Yosemite, with self-guide trail maps issued at the entrance. Wardens at the visitors centre can advise on activities & the newspaper will tell you what's going on from star-gazing to wildlife talks!

Take in the ocean breezes, visit the historic Venice Canals, ride through Marina del Rey, take pictures with the Art Walls, and explore Muscle Beach. The sunny California weather makes this tour a fun and beautiful experience for culture enthusiasts!

Yosemite's Granite Cliffs and Giant Sequoias make for incredible hiking country. With easy to moderate options, experience this World Heritage Center with an expert private guide by your side to show you what you may not see with your own eyes.

Hire a bike and cycle over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from Fisherman's Wharf to charming Sausalito, perched on the hillside between the Bay and the Marin Headlands, or for the really energetic keep pedalling to Tiburon for lunch at Sam's!

Star treatment awaits the fortunate few on this exclusive guided behind-the-scenes tour, revealing world class production facilities & movie sets normally closed to the public and enjoying front-of-line access to all rides, attractions & gourmet lunch.

Journey to Alcatraz Island to visit the world-renowned Cellhouse on a self-guided audio tour

Warner Bros takes you “into-the-scenes” of your favourite shows at the world’s busiest motion picture and TV studio. From Batman to Argo, to The Big Bang Theory to Friends, the studio will show you how the magic is made. The tour is 3 hours for 8yrs+.

Monterey's aquarium is located on the former site of a sardine cannery; much more than a collection of glass tanks, 200 gallons of seawater provide homes to sea life from kid-tolerant starfish to friendly penguins, sea turtles and hammerhead sharks.