US multi-centre itinerary: San Francisco to Vegas

Day 1 – Arrive in San Francisco (2 nights)

Where your journey begins, San Francisco welcomes regular flights from the UK with leading airlines such as Virgin Atlantic and British Airways, with an approximate flight time of 10 hours 30 minutes. This laid back city is brimming with unique attractions; take a day trip to the eerie Alcatraz Island, explore the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf area and make sure you don’t forget the postcard image opportunities at the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street. 2 Nights here is an ideal amount of time to adapt to the time difference and surroundings before heading inland to Sacramento.

Our top tip: San Fran is a very walkable city, with great public transport so there is no real need to use a car here. Save yourself money and pick up your car on the way out of the city.

Where to stay:



 

Day 3 – San Francisco to Sacramento (1 night)

Separated by just 90 miles (1hour 30mins by car), Sacramento is California’s golden capital city, formerly a thriving gold rush town that has transformed into an urban haven steeped in history. The old part of the city spans across 28 acres, home to more than 50 significant buildings of interest, where visitors can relive western lifestyle by commuting by horse and carriage, or voyaging on a relaxing riverboat cruise.

Our top tip: Sacramento is located in the heart of America’s wine country, so a visit to a winery or two is another great way to spend your day here.




Day 4 – Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe (3 nights)

Just 2 hours by car from Sacramento, Lake Tahoe is unquestionably a destination for those who love the great outdoors. With so much to do here, we recommend a 3 night stay to experience in full what Lake Tahoe and its surroundings have to offer. From its water recreational activities, winter sports, biking trails and stunning waterfalls, to pristine golf courses, casinos, shopping and spas. Lake Tahoe has something to offer everyone, throughout every season.

Our top tip: A must for all adrenaline junkies, try the brand new 1,000 foot zip line, 2 ropes challenge courses and zip line canopy tour at Adventure Peak.



 

Day 7 – South Lake Tahoe to San Jose (1 night)

Travel from the natural serenity of Lake Tahoe to the urban metropolis of San Jose, offering a complete contrast of surroundings. San Jose is considerably larger than its neighbour San Francisco so we recommend spending the day in the city’s revitalised downtown area. This is a great opportunity to explore the many shops situated in this district, along with San Jose’s best restaurants, before continuing south to the hugely desirably coastal town of Santa Barbara.

Our top tip: One of the longest drives on your itinerary (3hrs 30mins), so we suggest waking early to make sure you don’t miss out on the delights San Jose has in store for you.


Day 8 – San Jose to Santa Barbara (2 nights)

Labelled as the American Riviera, as soon as you set your eyes on Santa Barbara you immediately realise why, as the chiselled Californian mountains make way to pristine beaches and the vibrant blue Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re seeking to simply relax accompanied by exquisite wine and cuisine, or visit Culture 101 and the activities surrounding the waterfront, 2 days spent in this haven will give you the energy required for the next mini adventure of your trip, Los Angeles.

Our top tip: 4 hours and 30 minutes can seem like a long time. Stopping just over half way at Morro Bay for lunch is an excellent option. If you like freshly caught seafood, Galley Seafood Grill & Bar is our favourite.



 

Day 10 – Santa Barbara to Los Angeles (2 nights)

Separated less than 2 hours from one another, yet offering a completely different experience, Los Angeles is one of America’s most visited cities. 2 Days in LA gives you enough time to explore the city’s star attractions. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities in Hollywood, browse the mansions in Beverly Hills, before heading to Rodeo Drive for a spot of retail therapy, aligned with luxury designers and quaint boutiques.

Our top tip: Leave the car in the safe hands of your hotel’s car park for 2 days and use the city’s easy to navigate network of subways and light rails instead; you will get to see and do a lot more this way without the frustration of being stuck in traffic.




Day 12 – Los Angeles to San Diego (1 night)

A mere 120 miles further down the coast (2 hours), close to the boarder of Mexico, rests San Diego, labelled as ‘America’s Finest City’ and it’s easy to see why. Plenty of sunny days combined with beautiful beaches accounts to its welcoming ambiance. Head just north of the city and stroll through the lush gardens of Balboa Park, or visit San Diego Zoo for a glimpse of pandas in their natural environment.

Our top pick: If you’re missing home, visit the hidden gem of North Park to sample the many artisanal brews that make San Diego America’s leading city for craft beers.



 

Day 13 – San Diego to Palm Springs (2 nights)

A city just 75 years old, Palm Springs has generated its emphatic reputation by containing some of America’s best hotels, amenities and services, combined with its year round warm weather. The short 2 hour 30 minute drive from San Diego allows you to arrive feeling refreshed for a relaxing stay at this unique destination. Take a stroll to the Uptown Design District in the evening for some retail therapy before indulging in one of the several appetising restaurants also located here.

Our top tip: Make sure you take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for the best way to observe this unique destination, as you rotate your way to the top where 55 miles of hiking trails await you.



 

Day 15 – Palm Springs toLas Vegas (3 nights)

A destination that needs no introduction and the last stop of your journey. Las Vegas is the world’s entertainment capital, situated within Nevada’s dessert and home to a vast selection of expansive hotels, casinos, shows, fine dining restaurants, golf and shopping. Staying for 3 nights is an ideal amount of time to accomplish everything you want to see and do here, before embarking on your 10 hour flight home.

Our top tip: The 4 hour route takes you through the beautiful Mojave National Preserve; stock on plenty of food and drink for a lunchtime picnic in one of the most surreal settings in the entirety of the States.

Where to stay:


17 Night multi-centre package holiday including flights & car hire:

On a budget itinerary: £1,079 per person

Our top pick’s itinerary: £1,269 per person

Luxury living itinerary: £1, 699 per person

Prices are based in November 2014, flying from London Heathrow to San Francisco and returning from Las Vegas with United Airlines. Car hire is also included within the price. For alternative dates, destinations and accommodations you can contact Ocean Florida on 020 7939 7775 or make an online enquiry here http://www.ocean-florida.co.uk/enquiries.aspx