Help - The perfect California trip
 

With our first F flights booked, I am now keen to start planning an itinerary for what is likely to be a once in a lifetime holiday. The West Coast has so much to offer, and I am looking for some suggestions and recommendations on a plan of action. Perhaps more suited to the California forum, I suspect the advice I could get here is likely to be more worthy having seen the high calibre of responses to similar requests.

My 3 friends and I have 18 days on the West Coast in August, flying into LAX and out of SFO. With the help of the BA forum, this trip which we have talked about for many years will start and finish in FIRST, so now I need to get the bit in between up to standard.

We want to base our selves in LA/So Cal, it is the one part of the West Coast I am familiar with although I could still use advice as I will need to do the ‘tourist thing’ for my Friends having maybe grown apart from it myself. We plan on doing a long weekend in Vegas, including a visit to the Grand Canyon, and taking PCH up to San Fran. I would love to visit Yosemite however with the time I would like to spend in So Cal, I am unsure if we could manage it.

A rough itinerary I currently have in my mind is as follows:

Day 1(Fri): Land at LAX, pick up rental car for a week or 2, stay with family friends in East LA
Day 2: Hollywood sightseeing, stay at the Andaz WeHo where we have a Suite pre-paid for at a very affordable rate thanks to a generous FT friend. A night out on the strip hoping we have conquered the Jet lag quick enough
Day 3: Santa Monica, Venice, Hollywood. Have a reservation at the W Westwood
Day 4: No plans… possibly Universal Studios
Day 5: Have a reservation at the Hyatt Huntington Beach for 2 nights
Day 6: Huntington Beach
Day 7: No plans….
Day 8(Fri): Drive to Las Vegas for the weekend, how is the drive? Where should we stay?… this is my first time to Sin City. Should we return the car or hold on to it?
Day 9: LAS
Day 10: LAS
Day 11: Grand Canyon… should we drive or get a tour?
Day 12: Drive or fly back to LA pending on rental car status (W Hollywood res. for 3 nights)
Day 13: Disneyland (for my friends;)) (
Day 14: La Jolla/San Diego
Day 15 (Fri): Final Day in LA
Day 16: PCH
Day 17-19: SFO, we have a reservation at the W, I am guessing we could loose the car?

How does this sound? Outwith the Andaz on our second evening, nothing is confirmed and this is all easily changeable, W Hotels were only booked as the cheap points availability was there. I really do not know how to play it with rental cars and Las Vegas. Our first weekend will obviously be in LA, and our last in or heading towards San Fran per our flights meaning Las Vegas will have to be the middle. Would welcome any advice on things to do and see on PCH and in San Fran, aswell as less obvious recommendations for LA.

Also, to keep it semi on topic... Flying F, we will have Quintessentially membership; is there any way this service could enhance our trip?

I appreciate I am being vague, the Grand Canyon or Las Vegas Hotel suggestions alone could merit their own thread.

Many thanks

You can do a bus trip from San Francisco to Yosemite and back in a day. I've done it, and whilst it's a log time on the bus it was well worth it.

In San Francisco go out to Alcatraz and pick up the free audio tour guide.

Wine tasting is great too, and a trip to Sausalito is well worth it.

There's also Muir Woods if you don't get to Yosemite, it's a lot smaller but again I enjoyed it.

Get a muni pass for getting around San Francisco, real cheap if you decide on a few cable car trips.

If you're staying in WEHO, The Abbey is a great bar and the food is great too.

In LA I always end up at the Getty Museum, free to enter you just pay $15 to park. The buildings are great and the views on a clear day outstanding.

We spent one night in Vegas and it was plenty. Drive to the Grand Canyon but don't go there and back in a day - you will be tempted to go only as far as the privately owned Skywalk but the public-access South Rim is much better. Pause en-route at the Hoover Dam. Use the other spare day/night for Death Valley, maybe with a swing up to Bishop, Bristlecone Pines, Bodie and Lake Mono. But we prefer the great American outdoors to synthetic sleaze and YMMV.

As ever a short run here before moving on to the California forum for further expert input.

Swanhunter
Moderator, BAEC

Hi Pazza, California is quite an amazing state, there is such a variety unlike any other state I would guess.
Before getting really stuck into the detail, I have another suggestion, but it does mean forgoing the PCH.
If you can take in San Diego before going to Vegas, you can go straight from Vegas to San Fran. In fact, Vegas hotels are much cheaper during the week, so maybe consider going on the Monday?
From Vegas you can then drive through Death Valley (although it would be hotter than hell in August!), the sunrise/sunset in DV is something to behold. From DV you can drive north and then accross the Tioga pass into Yosemite. You could then spend a couple of nights in Yosemite.
If you have time I'd then suggest going to Sonoma to spend a day in the wine country before heading over the Golden Gate bridge for San Fran.
Its a shame to miss out on the PCH, but I did this trip above (in reverse, and in November) and it was very cool.
We took a helicopter tour from LV to the Grand Canyon. This saves a lot of time, and we got fantastic views of the Strip, lake Mead, and Hoover Dam. Unfortunately the canyon was a bit of a let down for me, because we only landed in the western section. I don't think choppers are allowed to fly over the southern rim (the really wide bit). However I think its quite a long road trip to get to that part from LV.

During your time in LA, you wish to try to Warner Brothers VIP Tour. It is Burbank which is just slightly further than Hollywood.

If you like movies and American TV, you get to see some of the sets like the outside scenes of Desperate Housewives, etc. They take you around the sets and sound studios in a large golf buggy with about 12 people. If you take the lunch tour, you may even see a celebrity or two if you are that way inclined. We had lunch next to Michael Boulton.

Unlike Universal Studios which is really a theme park with rides, the Warner Brothers takes you to sets where they really do make movies and tv shows. Now thats Hollywood.

Regarding the car, hold on to it since it is just for a couple of days. Las Vegas is in Nevada not California so it is a bit more hassle with one way rentals given the state licence plates (twice). You might not use the car in LAS given most folks takes taxis or walk. Still, if you want visit the Premium Shopping Outlets or the old downtown area, a car can be useful.

One very interesting stop along the PCH is Heart Castle. It is a very over the top mansion not a castle. However, you have to pre-book a tour time if you do not wish to hang around waiting for the next available tour. Remember to open your car window when you drive through Gilroy (you'll know why when you get there!)

I must admit, I am surprise by all the hotel changes even within the Los Angeles area. I do not like packing and unpacking that much - too much like work trips.

Just remember the drive to Disneyland from West Hollywood will take awhile to drive to. It is the drive back that is very very tiring after spending a full day at the Disneyland. I have never stayed in Arnheim and have always driven from West Hollywood so I know.

I would agree that splurging for a helicopter ride is the best way to fully take on the full size of the Grand Canyon. Choose one where the helicopter stops by the edge or lets you off to go on the river; which gets you appreciate the full height of the canyon.

I do have one concern with your itinerary - you have no left time to rest! You will need a holiday after your holiday

Congrats on the F tickets and the planned trip!

Just a few remarks from someone living in southern California:

1) What is the attraction to Huntington Beach? I live nearby and I would save at least 1 (valuable) day for something else, it just doesn't seem that unique to me. Perhaps someone can correct me here.

2) Grand Canyon: Can be worthwhile but it is a LONG haul from Vegas for 1 day. If you go at all, I suggest staying one night at the NORTH rim. It is far less crowded and the lodge is a historic building right on the edge of the canyon. Don't overlook Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park in southern Utah, they are also close to Vegas for an overnight trip! I don't think you would regret going to any or all of these places, assuming you and your friends want some natural beauty.

3) La Jolla/San Diego: Totally worth it for a day trip, we do this all the time. I'd suggest the Cottage in La Jolla for breakfast (go early, it is popular). The San Diego Zoo is one of the best in the country and good for at least several hours. It has an affiliated Safari Park near Escondido which is also excellent. Also nearby is the Stone brewery if you are into American craft beer, the restaurant is beautiful and pretty good.

4) Yosemite: So worth it! Keep in mind that in August a lot of the waterfalls will be low flow/dry. Still, the valley is one of the most beautiful places on earth IMO and should not be missed. An interesting drive would be to go north from Vegas and through the high road (highway 120) into Yosemite. You could stay one night and then drive back to LA in the afternoon the next day. Only downside is that during summer it can be very crowded and almost everything is booked fully.

5) About your PCH drive: Also very worthwhile, the central coast is great! Make sure to check road conditions online before you leave as the highway is currently closed for at least a month due to a collapse (winter rainstorms). Big Sur is one of my favorite places anywhere and a great place to stop for lunch (Sierra Mar, Nepenthe, Deetjen's are all great, Sierra Mar my favorite). Monterey and Carmel offer a swankier alternative if that is your thing.

6) Vegas: First you should know that Vegas in August will be absurdly hot (38+), so plan accordingly. I love Wynn/Encore but it really depends on what you are going to Vegas for. We like it for good food and great rooms, but it seems a bit dull and expensive for gambling. I highly recommend the "Premium Outlets" a few miles north of the strip.

Feel free to PM me.

If you're planning to stay overnight at the Grand Canyon (your itinerary suggests you are) now is not early to book a room if you wish to stay at the rim itself (such as El Tovar, the Bright Angel or Kachina Lodges, etc). There are limited lodging options there and they book up far in advance.

Most alternatives to staying at the rim itself (for example, Williams, Arizona) are horrible and you might be in for a bit of culture shock at how bad the accommodations and those areas can be.

I second what britbronco22 said.

I lived in SF for four years, and visited Yosemite numerous times - it really would be a shame to miss it. And the drive from Vegas through Death Valley and Yosemite to SF is fantastic. I love the Pacific Highway, but honestly think this is even better - Tioga pass, from between the desert and the mountains is amazing.

I did this route in reverse when we left SF, and it was the experience of a lifetime - we actually did a coast-to-coast road-trip (SF-Yosemite-Vegas-Grand Canyon-NM-TX-LA(New Orleans)-TN(Memphis/Nashville)-DC-NYC) and I can honestly say the drive through Yosemite and Death Valley to Vegas was the best part ^

Once you get to SF (regardless of the above), I'd recommend keeping the car for a day. You can drive up to Twin Peaks for amazing views over the City (GG to Bay Bridge panorama), drive out over Golden Gate itself (always fun) and take the first left (signposted for PCH) and head for Point Bonita - an old Lighthouse accessed by a rope bridge and fabulous views back to GG bridge.

Also do the SF hills to pretend you're Steve McQueen in Bullitt - join the queue to drive down Lombard (from Hyde to Leavenworth), but then drive back round the block and go down Filbert instead - you'll understand once you've been there :D

Definitely do Alcatraz, and if you have time (and the weather holds) hire bikes and cycle across GG and round to Sausalito, stop for some lunch and get the ferry back to SF.

Ah, nostalgia :)

tf

Where in ELA?
Your age group?
Month?
Are you going to do the night life?
Interests? Food, is it important?

I noticed that you are spend quite a few one nighters. It would help me to guide you if you answer those questions... You are the "wild and crazy" guys aren't you???? Maybe I will send you to a monastery? Socal has lots of beautiful ones ;), for real. Lots of missions. How about Mission viejo?

Take the time to drive Highway 1 along the Pacific coast, the area down from 30 or so miles South of San Francisco to about San Luis Obispo is the most beautiful piece of this planet I have ever seen.

Consider taking two days for LA - SF on the PCH.

Detour through Santa Barbara, Morro Bay, Carmel, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay. Stay overnight in Carmel? Lots to explore. Note that PCH is (was?) closed right now due to slide, verify conditions CalTrans website or 800-GAS-ROAD.

Great choice, we've done BA F and Calinfornia for the past 3 years each summer and it never gets boring!!

Yosemite is so worth a visit- hire bikes and explore the trails on your own. We had a picnic when we went, it's simply stunning place with waterfalls and the giant redwoods too. I can reccomend Tenya Lodge in Yosemite. Our car had a flat tyre when we got there and they arranged a replacement and were just generally brilliant!

We love Newport Beach if whilst you're in the LA area, great beaches and just generally a nice area to visit (We normally split three weeks between there and the Hills).

Santa Barbara is another amazing place- the scenery is fantastic and the people are so genuinely warm and kind. There I can reccomend the Four Seasons if you want a really stunning place to stay. The whole hotel's set like a rustic Mexican Villa (that is a compliment, trust me) and you get the impression that everyone wants you to have a really great stay!

Whilst I'm on the topic let me reccomend at least one night in Beverly Hills ( We love it so much it's normally more like a week) staying at the Wilshire. Such a brilliant place and another incredible hotel ( you have to try the best steaks ever at 'Cut' in the hotel -WOW! :D

Anyway, have fun It's an incredible area!! Now I can't wait for next summer!!

ps. A trip report wouldn't go amiss ;)

A few remarks as well:

1. I don't care how good of friends they are, spending the night in East LA is not worth it (depending on what you consider East LA).

2. As someone who loves in LA, I caution those who enjoy culture, sophistication and high quality people and experiences to spend as little time here as possible. Go to SAN for some relaxation and beaches, LAS for some nightlife and gaming (if that's your thing) and spend the rest of the time in NorCal. You can spend a few days in wine country and the rest of the time exploring SF. If you get bored, you're a quick hop up to SEA on AS.

3. Depending on what time you'll be arriving at LAX, have a driver meet you and pick up your rental car the following day at a branch location. Getting out of there and to anywhere at the wrong time of day is hell on earth (then again, from my POV, so is living in LA ;)).

4. I personally would only do the trip to GC and LAS by car one-way. Drive out, then fly back, make sure you arrive at the right time (like 11am), pick up a car at LAX and shoot right up the PCH for NorCal.

5. Whatever you do, enjoy the trip!

Having done the PCH last summer from San Diego to SFO I'd suggest another route into the SFO area and then drive south to Big Sur and back again to Carmel/Monterey. This is the best part of the PCH and it's much better to drive the PCH north to south as getting to the scenic view stops will be much easier - ie you don't have to cross over the road twice to stop, if that makes sense.

BTW and IMHO the Amalfi Coast in Italy beats the pants of the PCH (*dons flack jacket and takes cover*).

The weather can also be poor in NoCal in August - we had cool drizzle in Monterey - and the SFO fog for 2 out of 3 days. Can recommend the Segway tour in SFO but bring cool weather gear and gloves!