Day #1 San Francisco. Arrive in San Francisco and pick up your rental car at the airport.

Day #2 San Francisco. An entire day to enjoy the many sights of San Francisco. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf to sample the local fare or visit infamous Alcatraz Island.

Day #3 San Francisco–Monterey. Start your drive down the beautiful California coast. Head south on Highway 1 and stop in Pescadero to visit Big Basin Redwoods Station Park. Continue on to Monterey. Approximately 126 miles/202 km.

Day #4 Monterey–Pacific Coast Highway–San Simeon. Perhaps begin the day with stunning 17-Mile Drive, offering spectacular views of the rugged California coast. Continue to San Simeon, home to Hearst Castle, the opulent mansion of wealthy newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. You may want to take a tour and enjoy a stroll through the impressive 123-acre estate. Approximately 97 miles/156 km.

Day #5 San Simeon–Santa Barbara. Continue south today and consider visiting Solvang, where Denmark has been recreated with charming buildings and windmills. End your day in Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera.” Here you can visit the famous Santa Barbara Mission, enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach, browse through unique shops, or explore nearby wine country. Approximately 137 miles/220 km.

Day #6 Santa Barbara–Los Angeles. A short drive today to glamorous Los Angeles. Visit Hollywood and its Walk of Fame, shop along Rodeo Drive, look for celebrities at the Farmers Market, or maybe enjoy a cruise down famed Mulholland Drive. Approximately 95 miles/153 km.

Day #7 Los Angeles. Return your rental car at the airport prior to departure.