Over the years, countless films, photographs and guidebooks have attempted to capture the size, beauty and diversity of California. But nothing lives up to the reality of driving along the Golden State’s winding coastline, gazing out over Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point, biking across the Golden Gate Bridge or spotting your favorite celebrity’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
From the towering redwoods and fruitful vineyards of the north to the golden beaches and relaxed surfer lifestyle of the south, our specialists will help plan your trip to California so you can uncover the state’s many sides. We visit the region regularly — particularly behind the wheel of a car — and will plan your ideal vacation to California around your personal tastes and interests.
Suggested tours for California
These tours give you a starting point for what your vacation to California could entail. Treat them as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you.
Why travel with Audley?
- 100% tailor-made tours
- Fully protected travel
- Established for over 25 years
- 98% of our clients would recommend us
Best time to visit
Our specialists advise on the best months to visit California, including information about climate, events and festivals.
Travel advice
Practical tips for traveling to California, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.
Request our brochure
Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.
California in pictures
Our expert guides to traveling in California
Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to California. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate California at its best.
-
Family vacations in California ![Redwood National Park]()
Family vacations in California
Family vacations in California
USA specialist David picks some of his highlights for a family vacation in California. From enjoying the different cultures in San Francisco to whale watching in Monterey, touring the film studies in Los Angeles to exploring Redwood National Park, California has a range of experiences for all ages.
Read this guide -
Self-drive vacations in California ![Route 190, California]()
Self-drive vacations in California
Self-drive vacations in California
Take a fly-drive along the California coast and explore some of the region鈥檚 most captivating towns, cities and national parks, from glamorous LA, home of the US film industry, to the dramatic geological spectacles of Yosemite National Park.
Read this guide -
Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway ![Bixby bridge, Big Sur]()
Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway
Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway
Experience some of California's most impressive scenery on a drive along its central coast on Highway 1, taking in the sights of San Francisco, Los Angeles and everything in between. US specialist, Alex, discusses the route鈥檚 highlights, from laid-back beach communities to historic towns and vibrant cities.
Read this guide -
What to do in Yosemite National Park: our highlights guide ![Valley View, Yosemite National Park]()
What to do in Yosemite National Park: our highlights guide
What to do in Yosemite National Park: our highlights guide
Yosemite in California is one of America's most visited national parks. In order to get the most from your trip we highlight some of the finest trails and accommodation as well as recommending the best time to visit.
Read this guide
