Best of Northern California
Discover Northern California in style and take in its natural wonders on this guided USA tour. Go hiking, kayaking or rafting and enjoy other exclusive experiences through Sonoma, Yosemite, Lake Tahoe and the Monterey Peninsula.
Journey highlights
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Drive down the iconic Big Sur to explore secret beaches, watch sealions play, or hike inland through ancient redwood forests
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Explore the waters of Monterey Bay and experience a private behind-the-scenes tour of Monterey's famous aquarium
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Kayak through the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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The California coast has a year-round climate. Summer (June - September) is the peak-tourist season, this is when the weather is hottest but beaches and roads can be crowded. April and October are good times to visit for fewer crowds. May and June bring a morning marine layer, a cloudy overcast, fog-like cloud which can affect the beach in the mornings, but this usually clears in the afternoon. January and February are the rainiest months, and although still a spectacular drive and far less crowded, the weather can be unpredictable.
Itinerary
Forestville, Sonoma, California, United States of America
Departing from San Francisco, cross the Golden Gate Bridge en route to the Sonoma Coast. After getting settled at your hotel, meet a local guide for a private hike through Sonoma County’s stunning wilderness. Follow an enchanting trail as you learn about the hulking redwood trees that anchor this unique ecosystem before emerging from the woods and feeling the salty spray of the ocean at a scenic cliffside overlook.
Accommodation: Farmhouse Inn ( 2 nights )
Northstar, Lake Tahoe, California, United States of America
Leave the coast behind as you proceed inland through California’s fertile central valley to the picture-perfect shores of Lake Tahoe. Explore the lake’s crystal-clear waters on a private guided kayak tour where you'll have time to enjoy lunch on a relaxed beach and soak up the sunshine. Drawing on your local guide’s insider knowledge, visit hidden beaches and secluded coves in this undeveloped section of the lake.
Accommodation: The Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe ( 2 nights )
Chilnualna Falls, Yosemite National Park, California, United States of America
Trace a scenic route along California’s eastern border en route to Yosemite National Park. Explore Yosemite with a local conservationist guide and private driver, enjoying a route customized to your physical abilities and interests. Gaze at majestic cliffs, giant sequoia trees and tumbling waterfalls as your guide explains the region's geography, wildlife, and ecology.
Accommodation: The Redwoods in Yosemite ( 2 nights )
Carmel Valley, Monterey and Carmel, California, United States of America
Depart Yosemite and soak in the scenic Carmel Valley. Along the way, you may opt to stop by America’s technology hub, the Silicon Valley for a self-guided exploration. Stroll across Facebook’s high-tech campus and walk through the beautiful sculpture garden at the prestigious Stanford University.
Then head to Moss Landing where you will speed through the waters of the bay on an exciting private eco-raft ocean safari. Get up close and personal with the region's magnificent residents, including humpback and blue whales, dolphins, otters, and seals. Then head into town for a behind-the-scenes tour of the fabulous Monterey Bay Aquarium that will allow you to visit areas off-limits to the general public.
Later, navigate south to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, travelling along California’s breathtaking Highway 1. Meet your private guide for a scenic hiking tour that will reveal the spectacular beauty of this park, such as old-growth redwoods, mountain streams, and rugged ocean coves.
Finally, make your way to Monterey, San Francisco or San Jose airports to drop off your rental car in time for your flight. Safe travels!
Call us on 020 3813 3729 to start planning your holiday.