California Express

California Express

245 Views
3 Days From

$560

California Express

3 Days Starting in Parking lot, 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA and ending in 6333 W. 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90036

Visiting: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Yosemite National Park

Tour operator:

Empire Vacations

Tour code:

SFY

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 100

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

0-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Kosher, Halal

Tour operated in:

English , French , German , Spanish

Interests:

Beach Tours, Photography

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $560

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

WINTER ITINERARY  PLEASE SCROLL DOWN                                        SUMMER ITINERARY   Nov 1 – Mar 31                                        April 1 – Oct 31                                                               SUMMERDay 1: LOS ANGELES – SANTA BARBARA – ROUTE 1/17 MILE DRIVE – CARMELDepart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara.
Visit a Spanish Mission and learn how these religious outposts were key in the development of the entire region.
Continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse in the local shops.
We head north to the world-famous Route #1 where we get to see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively).
After our visit we visit the town of Carmel, home to the actor Clint Eastwood, before enjoying the coastal views heading toward San Francisco for the evening.
Overnight: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland AirportDay 2: SAN FRANCISCO – BAY CRUISE – GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE – CHINATOWNToday we understand why San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
We start our tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay, On the way to Sausalito we will have great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
Next, we return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill.
Our day ends with a panoramic view of the city from the Bay Bridge as we make our way to the hotel for the evening.
Overnight: Modesto – Modesto HotelDay 3: SAN FRANCISCO – YOSEMITE – LOS ANGELESSummer Route: We head east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park.
This 1,200 square mile wonderland of forests, lakes, and waterfalls is located in the Sierra Nevada.
Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome to continue for a walk from the Yosemite Visitor Center to reach one of the highest waterfalls in North America (730 meters) Yosemite Falls.
After a beautiful day in the park we head back to Los Angeles in the evening.
WINTERDay 1: LOS ANGELES – SANTA BARBARA – SOLVANG – SAN FRANCISCODepart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara.
We start our tour when we stop at the heart of downtown at “state street promenade” stroll through the exclusive shops and restaurants at this beautiful part of town which is insulated from traffic while enjoying the architectural beauty, sights and sounds in a peaceful setting.
Continue to Santa Barbara beaches and Stearns wharf to “walk on the water” and enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean, we finish our visit at the Spanish Mission Santa Barbara and learn how these religious outposts were key in the development of the entire region.
From the mission we continue to Solvang, “the Danish capital of America” a quaint Danish community at the heart of California.
Enjoy the Danish-style architecture while browsing in the local shops and restaurants.
After our lunch break, we head north through Silicon Valley before departing to reach our hotel overnight.
Overnight: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland AirportDay 2: SAN FRANCISCO – BAY CRUISE – GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE – CHINATOWNToday we understand why San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
We start our tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world famous bay, On the way to Sausalito we will have great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz island.
Next, we return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown and Nob Hill.
Our tour ends with a night view of the city from the Bay Bridge.
Overnight: Springhill Suites Oakland AirportDay 3: SAN FRANCISCO – MONTEREY – LOS ANGELESWe start the day with a visit to Monterey to include the wharf and Cannery Row.
What was once a line of sardine factories along the wharf is now a picturesque haven for people to enjoy a leisurely day while exploring its rich history.
We continue our tour of the beautiful California Coast with a visit to the town of Carmel-by-the-sea, home to actor/director Clint Eastwood.
Enjoy some free time to stroll in town and enjoy the beautiful boutiques and galleries.
We head south to the world-famous Route #1 where we get to see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full size coaches will travel the 17 mile drive exclusively) afternoon drive back to return to Los Angeles.

TOUR INCLUDES:
• 2 nights hotel accommodation including tax and Continental Breakfast
• Air Conditioned Bus or Van & Professional Tour Guide
• Bay cruise in San Francisco
• Admission to Yosemite Park in summer
• Sightseeing in Santa Barbara, Carmel, (San Luis Obispo/Big Sur in winter) and San Francisco
• A Tree will be planted in your honor when joining this tour An Eco Positive Tour by an Earth Friendly Company

Highlights

  • Travel up the California Coast along the Scenic drives only available on Route #1 or 17 mile drive

  • Visit beautiful San Francisco, Enjoy a bay cruise to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island

  • Explore Yosemite National Park to gaze upon the views and scenery native to northern California

Places You'll See

Alcatraz Island

Chinatown

Yosemite Waterfall

Golden Gate Bridge From Bay Cruise

Golden Gate Bridge

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Los Angeles – Santa Barbara – Route 1/17 Mile Drive – Carmel

Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles

Accommodation Name: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport

Depart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Visit a Spanish Mission and learn how these religious outposts were key in the development of the entire region. Continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse in the local shops. We head north to the world famous Route #1 where we get to see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). After our visit we visit the town of Carmel home to the actor Clint Eastwood. Enjoy some free time to stroll in town before departing to reach our hotel for overnight.

Overnight: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport

Day 2 : San Francisco – Bay Cruise – Golden Gate Bridge – Chinatown

Location: San Francisco

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Best Western Palm Court Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we understand why San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. We start our tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay, On the way to Sausalito we will have great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Next, we return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, Chinatown and Nob Hill. Our tour ends with a night view of the city from the Bay Bridge.

Overnight: Modesto – Best Western Palm Court Inn (In Winter Monterey/Holiday Inn hotel)

Day 3 : San Francisco – Yosemite – Los Angeles

Location: Yosemite National Park, Los Angeles

Meals Included: Breakfast

Summer Route: We head east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park. This 1,200 square mile wonderland of forests, lakes and waterfalls is located in the Sierra Nevada. Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome to continue for a walk from the Yosemite Visitor Center to reach one of the highest waterfalls in North America (730 meters) Yosemite Falls.

Winter Route: We start the day with a tour of Monterrey to include the wharf and Cannery Row after our tour we depart south a visit to the world famous Hearst Castle. Built by the newspaper baron William Randolph Hearst, tours the famous house filled with antiques and see why the castle served as a playground for the rich and famous for the first half of the 20th century. In the evening, drive back to return to Los Angeles.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

  • Entrance Fees

  • Fully Guided

  • Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

    Based on hotel availability

  • Meals – Breakfast Only

    For every night slept

  • Free Wi-fi available on coaches

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Personal expenses

Check out our Q&As

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Visa requirements depend on the traveller, we do not require visas for the tour.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    No, We do not provide pre and post tour accomodations

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All our accommodations based upon US 3 star hotels (normally European - 3.5 - 4 stars)

  • Services included in your tour price

    All our tours include your Transportation, Guide, Accommodation, Entrance fees and Breakfast for every night slept on tour.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    We provide electronic vouchers which can be displayed when join the tour

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    We are members of multiple trade organisations in the USA - US Travel, International Inbound Travel Association(IITA), NYC and CO (The New York City Travel Trade Association), Better Business Bureau of New Jersey BBB

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    All of our services are cleaned and disinfected as per the United States CDC guidelines. This includes buses, Hotels and Atractions

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

    We offer 1 free date change for every reservation up to 3 days prior to departure

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Our company has been operating escorted tours since 1999

  • Language Guided tours

    All of our tours are available in the language of your choice. We offer English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Japanese and Chinese

Reviews of this operator

Paco Lam (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our trip on...

07-Oct-2024

We booked our trip on Klook and it was really enjoyable! Other than the fact that we have to wake up 6 am everyday, the spots we went are really nice and beautiful. Our guide Lorenzo was super helpful along the way and he speaks English, Spanish and Italian so everyone fully understood the instructions. Highly recommend!

Meng Lin (Google Reviewer)  

My mom and I had...

16-Oct-2024

My mom and I had an incredible experience with Lorenzo as our guide to Grand Canyon! Not only was he extremely knowledgeable about the area, but he was also very considerate and attentive to the needs of everyone in the group. Lorenzo made sure we were comfortable and took the time to answer all our questions. Another standout part of the experience was his talent for photography. He captured some stunning shots of us at the most scenic spots, making the trip even more memorable. If you're looking for a guide who is thoughtful and has a great eye for photography, I highly recommend Lorenzo cus we really had a great time!

Loretta Hileman (Google Reviewer)  

In LV with friends, booked...

13-Nov-2024

In LV with friends, booked a day trip to Valley of Fire and Zion National Park! The day could not have been any better! Stellar in all ways! Mario and Walter were outstanding, above and beyond as our tour guides!!! They made the 6 hr drive , there and back , exciting, so very informative, We hiked several exquisite trails, breathtaking views, and were educated along the way with history and fun facts on this beautiful part of the country! Walter repeatedly suggested/ offered the perfect photo spots, taking the photos for us! Mario was a conscientious, safe driver taking us there and back with many laughs along the way. Walter shared his knowledge of the views from left to right! Incredible!. In a few downtimes along the ride, we turned up the music and sang ! So very fun , highly recommend these two individuals as they perform their job so well, It is obvious they love what they do. And they know their stuff. As Walter says.. " Let me show you the way.."

Sean Farrell (Google Reviewer)  

Wonderful experience, Lorenzo is a...

07-Oct-2024

Wonderful experience, Lorenzo is a class guide, very informative and full of knowledge about every place we visited. It was such a pleasure to learn so much history of Arizona and Utah.

Yafa Daisudov (Google Reviewer)  

My sister Yael and her...

03-Aug-2024

My sister Yael and her friend Batia had the most wonderful time on your tour. The guides were very helpful and knowledgeable. Thanks for making our trip so memorable. We will most definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in visiting the US.

Merly Mathew (Google Reviewer)  

Me and my family went...

07-May-2024

Me and my family went on a one day Washington tour with Empire vacations recently. The trip was fun and extremely enjoyable. The tour guides were very polite and knowledgeable. The entire trip was very well coordinated with impeccable time management. Highly recommended.

Alena Shako (Google Reviewer)  

Lorenzo was an absolutely incredible...

07-Oct-2024

Lorenzo was an absolutely incredible and knowledgeable guide, providing us with fascinating insights and making the entire experience memorable. His deep understanding of the history, culture, and hidden gems of each destination truly enhanced our trip. Gerardo, our driver, was equally amazing—professional, friendly, and always ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. His expertise behind the wheel allowed us to relax and fully enjoy the beautiful scenery. Thank you both for making this 3-day tour such an unforgettable adventure!

Zhanna Arsirii (Google Reviewer)  

My recent trip to Niagara...

22-Oct-2024

My recent trip to Niagara Falls, Toronto, and the Thousand Islands was absolutely fabulous! Over the course of three days, I enjoyed a kind and warm atmosphere that made the experience unforgettable. Our guides were professional , ensuring that we made the most of our time together. Each location we visited was breathtaking, from the stunning views of Niagara Falls to the picturesque beauty of the Thousand Islands. This trip truly exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a memorable adventure filled with stunning scenery and exceptional service.

Nancy Ramírez (Google Reviewer)  

The best experience. The people...

01-Jan-2024

The best experience. The people were really nice and kind. Perfect way to start the new year.

Osc Wh (Google Reviewer)  

Great tour, wonderful experience and...

29-Sep-2023

Great tour, wonderful experience and guid.

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Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 01, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

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Monday - Wednesday

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Monday - Wednesday

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Monday - Wednesday

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Monday - Wednesday

Jul 28, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
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Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

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Monday - Wednesday

Aug 25, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

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Monday - Wednesday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

Sep 22, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
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Monday - Wednesday

Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Oct 27, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Nov 24, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Dec 08, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Dec 15, 2025 - Dec 17, 2025
$560

Monday - Wednesday

Dec 22, 2025 - Dec 24, 2025
$560

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Empire Vacations allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 7 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Empire Vacations allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform empire vacations, 3 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Empire Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 5 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

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

    Up to 4 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.