Coastal California & Yosemite

Coastal California & Yosemite

88 Views
10 Days From

$2655

$2267

Coastal California & Yosemite

10 Days Starting in San Francisco, USA and ending in Los Angeles, USA

Visiting: San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Monterey, Los Angeles, San Diego, North America

Tour operator:

Cosmos

Tour code:

8560-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2655 $2267 Operator discount: -$389 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Experience exciting big cities, charming seaside towns, amazing natural wonders, and a coastline like no other on this value-minded tour highlighting the best of California. Starting in San Francisco, see its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf and then have free time to enjoy this lovely ‘City by the Bay.’ Travel across the Central Valley to Yosemite National Park, where giant granite peaks, dramatic waterfalls, and lush forests and meadows will leave you in awe. Visit Monterey and see historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel. While there, take an optional whale-watching excursion to look for humpback whales that call Monterey Bay home from late April through November. Go on the stunning 17-Mile Drive with its scenic ocean views, the famed Lone Cypress, and Pebble Beach Golf Course, then visit the storybook village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Drive Big Sur, one of the world’s most unforgettable stretches of coastline with its rugged cliffs, giant redwoods, and spectacular vistas. Arrive in Los Angeles, where guided sightseeing includes the legendary TCL Chinese Theater, the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards, and the star-studded sidewalks of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Take a stroll along Santa Monica Pier and then have time to explore ‘Tinseltown’ on your own. Continue south and tour Mission San Juan Capistrano, called the “Jewel of the Missions’ due to the beauty of its buildings and gardens, before arriving in San Diego. This southernmost city in the Golden State is known for its idyllic climate, beautiful beaches, and world-class attractions. Sightseeing includes city highlights and Coronado Island and the historic Hotel del Coronado, featured in numerous films. Then have time on your own to discover why some call this “America’s Finest City.” Return to Los Angeles where this journey ends, but you’ll be taking home memories that will last a lifetime!

Highlights

  • Tour the "City by the Bay" in San Francisco, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.

  • Explore Yosemite National Park, featuring El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome.

  • Visit Monterey Harbor’s historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row.

  • Drive along the scenic 17-Mile Drive, see the Lone Cypress, and visit Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur.

  • Experience the Danish-inspired village of Solvang and the Spanish-style architecture of Santa Barbara.

  • Tour Hollywood landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and Hollywood Walk of Fame, and visit the Santa Monica Pier.

  • Explore Mission San Juan Capistrano and take a city tour of San Diego, including the Hotel Coronado.

Places You'll See

Parc 55 San Francisco

Fairfield Inn & Suites Oakhurst Yosemite

Monterey Downtown Days Inn

Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach

Westin Bonaventure

Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: San Francisco

Location: San Francisco

Accommodation Name: Parc 55 San Francisco

Welcome to San Francisco! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.
SAN FRANCISCO Welcome to San Francisco! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.

Day 2: San Francisco

Location: San Francisco

Accommodation Name: Parc 55 San Francisco

Today we tour the “City by the Bay.” Sightseeing includes the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf. This afternoon is yours to explore. Perhaps take an iconic cable-car ride, visit Golden Gate Park or tour infamous Alcatraz Island Prison. Or let the good times roll on an optional Bike the Bridge tour across the Golden Gate Bridge by pedal or e-bike. Then grab a bite in the lovely village of Sausalito before taking the ferry back to Fisherman’s Wharf.NOTE:If going to Alcatraz Island, consider purchasing tickets in advance with the National Park Service.
SAN FRANCISCO Today we tour the “City by the Bay.” Sightseeing includes the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf. This afternoon is yours to explore. Perhaps take an iconic cable-car ride, visit Golden Gate Park or tour infamous Alcatraz Island Prison. Or let the good times roll on an optional Bike the Bridge tour across the Golden Gate Bridge by pedal or e-bike. Then grab a bite in the lovely village of Sausalito before taking the ferry back to Fisherman’s Wharf.

NOTE:
If going to Alcatraz Island, consider purchasing tickets in advance with the National Park Service.

Day 3: San Francisco,Yosemite National Park,Oakhurst

Location: Yosemite National Park

Accommodation Name: Fairfield Inn & Suites Oakhurst Yosemite

This morning, travel east through California’s Central Valley and enter Yosemite, one of the country’s most popular national parks. Yosemite is a wonderland of soaring granite peaks, towering pinnacles, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. See famous El Capitan, the world’s largest granite monolith, Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in North America, and mighty Half Dome. Overnight in nearby Oakhurst.
SAN FRANCISCO–YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK–OAKHURST This morning, travel east through California’s Central Valley and enter Yosemite, one of the country’s most popular national parks. Yosemite is a wonderland of soaring granite peaks, towering pinnacles, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. See famous El Capitan, the world’s largest granite monolith, Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in North America, and mighty Half Dome. Overnight in nearby Oakhurst.

Day 4: Oakhurst,Yosemite National Park,Monterey

Location: Yosemite National Park

Accommodation Name: Monterey Downtown Days Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today re-enter Yosemite to experience the magnificent giant sequoias. Then head west for a late afternoon arrival in picturesque Monterey. Visit Monterey Harbor’s historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf where you can look for sea lions and otters, then visit Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name. Take to the sea for a memorable optional Sunset Whale Watching Cruise to spy humpbacks and other whales and dolphins as you watch the sunset on Monterey Bay.
OAKHURST–YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK–MONTEREY Today re-enter Yosemite to experience the magnificent giant sequoias. Then head west for a late afternoon arrival in picturesque Monterey. Visit Monterey Harbor’s historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf where you can look for sea lions and otters, then visit Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name. Take to the sea for a memorable optional Sunset Whale Watching Cruise to spy humpbacks and other whales and dolphins as you watch the sunset on Monterey Bay. (B)

Day 5: Monterey,17-Mile Drive,Carmel,Pismo Beach

Location: Monterey

Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take in spectacular views of the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean on scenic 17-Mile Drive. See the iconic Lone Cypress and pass by Pebble Beach and its legendary golf course. Arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a fairytale village nestled in a pine forest beside the picturesque coast. The majestic scenery continues on Big Sur, one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Experience stunning views, redwood forests, and the Pacific Ocean crashing below. Overnight in Pismo Beach. NOTE:The drive along the coast to Big Sur is dependent on current road conditions on Pacific Coast Highway 1.
MONTEREY–17-MILE DRIVE–CARMEL–PISMO BEACH Take in spectacular views of the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean on scenic 17-Mile Drive. See the iconic Lone Cypress and pass by Pebble Beach and its legendary golf course. Arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a fairytale village nestled in a pine forest beside the picturesque coast. The majestic scenery continues on Big Sur, one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Experience stunning views, redwood forests, and the Pacific Ocean crashing below. Overnight in Pismo Beach. (CB)

NOTE:
The drive along the coast to Big Sur is dependent on current road conditions on Pacific Coast Highway 1.

Day 6: Pismo Beach,Solvang,Santa Barbara,Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles

Accommodation Name: Westin Bonaventure

Continuing down the coast, stop in Solvang, where Denmark has been recreated with picturesque buildings and windmills. There’s time to walk the flower-lined village streets, view the “Old World” architecture and savor a tasty treat from a Danish bakery. Arrive in Santa Barbara with its Spanish-style architecture and Mediterranean climate. Enjoy a stroll on the pier or shop at one of the many boutiques. Late afternoon arrival in Los Angeles.
PISMO BEACH–SOLVANG–SANTA BARBARA–LOS ANGELES Continuing down the coast, stop in Solvang, where Denmark has been recreated with picturesque buildings and windmills. There’s time to walk the flower-lined village streets, view the “Old World” architecture and savor a tasty treat from a Danish bakery. Arrive in Santa Barbara with its Spanish-style architecture and Mediterranean climate. Enjoy a stroll on the pier or shop at one of the many boutiques. Late afternoon arrival in Los Angeles.

Day 7: Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles

Accommodation Name: Westin Bonaventure

Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Tinseltown. See the historic TCL Chinese Theatre which has hosted some of the most exclusive movie premieres in Hollywood history and the Dolby Theatre, the first permanent home of the glamorous Academy Awards. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with sidewalks that have more than 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars honoring the best in the entertainment industry. Then head to the Santa Monica Pier and the ultimate Southern California beach. The remainder of the day is at leisure. No acceptance speech needed if you choose to join the optional excursion to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for an illuminating look at the world of moviemaking and cinematic history.
LOS ANGELES Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Tinseltown. See the historic TCL Chinese Theatre which has hosted some of the most exclusive movie premieres in Hollywood history and the Dolby Theatre, the first permanent home of the glamorous Academy Awards. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with sidewalks that have more than 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars honoring the best in the entertainment industry. Then head to the Santa Monica Pier and the ultimate Southern California beach. The remainder of the day is at leisure. No acceptance speech needed if you choose to join the optional excursion to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for an illuminating look at the world of moviemaking and cinematic history.

Day 8: Los Angeles,Mission San Juan Capistrano,San Diego

Location: San Diego

Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Today we head south to San Diego, stopping for a tour of Mission San Juan Capistrano along the way. This historic landmark was founded more than two hundred years ago and is considered the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Today it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history. Arrive in San Diego and take a city tour that includes a visit to the Hotel Coronado, made famous by movies like ‘Some Like it Hot.’ Return to downtown for a relaxing evening on your own and discover the city’s vibrant dining scene.
LOS ANGELES–MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO–SAN DIEGO Today we head south to San Diego, stopping for a tour of Mission San Juan Capistrano along the way. This historic landmark was founded more than two hundred years ago and is considered the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Today it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history. Arrive in San Diego and take a city tour that includes a visit to the Hotel Coronado, made famous by movies like ‘Some Like it Hot.’ Return to downtown for a relaxing evening on your own and discover the city’s vibrant dining scene.

Day 9: San Diego

Location: San Diego

Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Enjoy a day at leisure. There are many ways to experience this very walkable town known for its picture-perfect weather. Bike by the waterfront, take a harbor cruise, or monkey around with an optional excursion to the San Diego Zoo, a world-famous wildlife park and botanical garden that has over 3,700 rare and endangered animals and more than 700,000 plants.
SAN DIEGO Enjoy a day at leisure. There are many ways to experience this very walkable town known for its picture-perfect weather. Bike by the waterfront, take a harbor cruise, or monkey around with an optional excursion to the San Diego Zoo, a world-famous wildlife park and botanical garden that has over 3,700 rare and endangered animals and more than 700,000 plants.

Day 10: San Diego,Dana Point,Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles

Spend the morning at leisure before traveling back to Los Angeles. On the way, stop at Dana Point, a coastal town with gorgeous ocean vistas before heading to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) where your vacation ends. Please schedule flights for 5 p.m. or later. You may also choose to extend your vacation with extra nights to further explore Los Angeles.
SAN DIEGO–DANA POINT–LOS ANGELES Spend the morning at leisure before traveling back to Los Angeles. On the way, stop at Dana Point, a coastal town with gorgeous ocean vistas before heading to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) where your vacation ends. Please schedule flights for 5 p.m. or later. You may also choose to extend your vacation with extra nights to further explore Los Angeles.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in various hotels including Parc 55 San Francisco, Fairfield Inn & Suites Oakhurst Yosemite, Monterey Downtown Days Inn, Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach, Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles, and Best Western Plus Bayside Inn in San Diego.

  • Sightseeing in San Francisco

    Tour of San Francisco including Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

  • Yosemite National Park

    Visit to Yosemite National Park including sights like El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome.

  • Monterey and Carmel

    Visit to Monterey Harbor’s historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and scenic 17-Mile Drive including Carmel-by-the-Sea.

  • Big Sur

    Drive along Big Sur with stunning views, redwood forests, and the Pacific Ocean.

  • Solvang and Santa Barbara

    Visit to Solvang and Santa Barbara with time to explore the local architecture and shops.

  • Los Angeles Sightseeing

    Sightseeing tour of Los Angeles including TCL Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Santa Monica Pier.

  • Mission San Juan Capistrano

    Tour of Mission San Juan Capistrano, a historic landmark.

  • San Diego City Tour

    City tour of San Diego including a visit to the Hotel Coronado.

  • Dana Point

    Stop at Dana Point with ocean vistas.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions such as Bike the Bridge tour, Sunset Whale Watching Cruise, and visit to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.

  • Alcatraz Island Tickets

    Tickets to Alcatraz Island are not included and should be purchased in advance.

  • Meals

    Meals are not included except for breakfast on Day 4 and Day 5.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional food and drinks, and other personal items are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    Flights to and from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are not included.

UNESCO Sites

Yosemite National Park

Accommodation

San Francisco:Parc 55 San Francisco
Oakhurst:Fairfield Inn & Suites Oakhurst Yosemite
Monterey:Monterey Downtown Days Inn
Pismo Beach:Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach
Los Angeles:Westin Bonaventure
San Diego:Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Mode of Transport

Travel includes scenic drives through California's Central Valley, along the Pacific Coast Highway, and visits to iconic locations such as Yosemite National Park, Monterey, and Los Angeles.

Check out our Q&As

  • What are some of the key attractions visited in San Francisco during the tour?

    In San Francisco, the tour includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf. There is also free time to explore options like a cable-car ride, Golden Gate Park, or Alcatraz Island.

  • What natural wonders can be expected at Yosemite National Park?

    Yosemite National Park offers breathtaking views of soaring granite peaks, towering pinnacles, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Key sights include El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome.

  • Is there an opportunity for whale watching during the tour?

    Yes, there is an optional Sunset Whale Watching Cruise available in Monterey where you can potentially see humpbacks, other whales, and dolphins.

  • What unique experiences are offered in Solvang and Santa Barbara?

    In Solvang, you can explore the Danish-inspired village with its picturesque buildings and windmills. Santa Barbara offers Spanish-style architecture and a Mediterranean climate, with opportunities to stroll on the pier or shop at local boutiques.

  • What Hollywood landmarks are included in the Los Angeles sightseeing tour?

    The Los Angeles sightseeing tour includes visits to the TCL Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Santa Monica Pier.

  • What can be expected during the visit to Mission San Juan Capistrano?

    Mission San Juan Capistrano is a historic landmark known as the 'Jewel of the California Missions.' It offers insights into California’s multi-cultural history.

  • What activities are available during the leisure day in San Diego?

    In San Diego, you can enjoy activities such as biking by the waterfront, taking a harbor cruise, or visiting the San Diego Zoo, which is renowned for its diverse wildlife and botanical gardens.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1961

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this operator

Mrs Susan Hyland  

We have just returned from a Cosmos…

28-Sep-2022

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday

Trustpilot
Rick  

Excellent in every respect

08-Dec-2022

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again

Trustpilot
John Lomanno  

A wonderrful experience

09-Nov-2022

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.

Trustpilot
Bruce  

Old South &Florida tour

27-Oct-2022

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can

Trustpilot
Francine Ramos  

The tour director expertise and…

18-Dec-2022

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you

Trustpilot

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Operator discount: -$389

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Operator discount: -$454

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Operator discount: -$454

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Operator discount: -$454

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Operator discount: -$454

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Operator discount: -$454

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Operator discount: -$454

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Operator discount: -$454

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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