3 Days Private Pacific Tour to Big Sur Hearst Castle and more

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Pick up from Los Angeles - Solvang - Ragged Point - Sand Dollar Beach - Carmel-by-the-Sea
5 stops
1
Solvang
Welcome to Solvang, a charming Danish-inspired village nestled in California’s Central Coast. During our 1.5-hour stop here, you'll have the chance to stroll through the colorful streets, admire the windmills and delightful architecture, and take plenty of photos of this fairy-tale-like town. Feel free to explore the unique shops, pick up some souvenirs, or simply relax and soak in the charming atmosphere. For lunch, you can choose from a variety of local restaurants and bakeries (meals not included), where you might enjoy delicious Danish pastries, sandwiches, or a cozy coffee. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy beautiful scenery, and get a taste of European charm before we continue our scenic journey along the coast.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Elephant Seal Vista Point
Next, we'll head to the Elephant Seal Vista Point, a fantastic opportunity to witness these incredible marine mammals in their natural habitat. During our 30-minute stay, you'll walk along the beach and get up close to the elephant seals lounging on the sand—males, females, and pups all resting and basking in the sun. It’s a fascinating sight, offering a rare glimpse into their behaviors and natural environment. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these majestic creatures in their coastal haven, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the ocean as you learn about their unique life cycle from our knowledgeable guide.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
3
Our next stop is Ragged Point, a stunning scenic overlook along the Pacific Coast. During our hour here, you’ll have plenty of time to take breathtaking photos with the famous Ragged Point Sign and soak in the spectacular coastal views. It’s a perfect spot to capture memorable pictures of the rugged cliffs and crashing waves below. If you’re in need of a quick refresh, there are cozy coffee shops where you can enjoy a warm drink or a light snack while taking in the stunning scenery. Ragged Point truly offers a dramatic and picturesque pause on our scenic journey along the coast.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
4
Next up is Sand Dollar Beach, a hidden gem along the Big Sur coast renowned for its expansive sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters. During your 30-minute to 1-hour visit, you can relax on the beach, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, or if you're feeling adventurous, enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean. The scenic surroundings, with rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views, make it a perfect spot for photos and unwinding amidst nature. Whether you choose to lounge, explore, or dip your toes in the water, Sand Dollar Beach offers a peaceful and breathtaking coastal experience. Please note: There are no showers on this beach
1 hour • Admission ticket included
5
(Optional) After our time at Sand Dollar Beach, we’ll embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Sensorio in Paso Robles, arriving just before sunset for the best experience. Sensorio is a stunning outdoor art installation featuring thousands of illuminated, flower-shaped lights that create a mesmerizing field of glowing art. Admission prices vary, with the Classic Glow experience costing $50 for adults and $22 for children (plus fees), which is usually sufficient for an awe-inspiring visit. It’s a captivating blend of art, nature, and light that promises to be a highlight of your journey. After experiencing the magical glow of Sensorio, we will head to your hotel where you’ll be dropped off—either in Carmel, which we recommend for its charming coastal atmosphere and excellent accommodations, or another nearby location of your choice. This concludes your first day of exploring along the stunning California coast, leaving you ready to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included
Day 2
Carmel-by-the-Sea - Point Lobos - Soberanes Point - Bixby Bridge - Point Sur - McWay Falls - State Park - Monterrey
9 stops
6
Carmel
For Day 2, we’ll start with a relaxing breakfast in downtown Carmel, a charming and historic area known for its quaint streets, cozy coffee shops, and boutique shops. If your hotel is in Carmel, you can enjoy a leisurely morning without the need for an early drive. Otherwise, we’ll take approximately 2 hours to drive from Paso Robles to Carmel. During your 1.5-hour stop, you’ll have time to stroll through the picturesque downtown, savor a delicious breakfast, and soak in the scenic views of the beach and waterfront. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the town’s laid-back vibe, explore the local shops, and get ready for the adventures ahead in this enchanting coastal setting.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
7
Point Lobos
Next, just a short 10-minute drive away, we’ll visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a true jewel along the California coast. During your 30-minute visit, you can take a leisurely walk along the stunning waterfront trails, enjoying breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s a perfect spot to breathe in the fresh ocean air, capture some incredible photos, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this protected area. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply seeking peaceful coastal scenery, Point Lobos offers an unforgettable experience in a compact, scenic package.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
After exploring Point Lobos, we’ll head just 10 minutes to Soberanes Point, where a short and relatively easy hike awaits. In about 15 to 20 minutes, you can climb up to Whale Peak, standing at 266 feet, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline and ocean below. It’s a fantastic opportunity to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and capture incredible photos from the top. The hike is suitable for most, making it a memorable highlight of your coastal adventure with breathtaking vistas at every turn.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Bixby Bridge
Just a short 10-minute drive from Soberanes Point, we’ll arrive at the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, built in 1932 and renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking setting. Although you can’t walk through the bridge itself, it’s an ideal spot to stop and take plenty of photos of this historic marvel, with its impressive span perched dramatically over the rugged coastline. The views here are truly spectacular, making it a perfect photo opportunity and a must-see landmark along the Pacific Coast Highway.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Point Sur State Historic Park
After Bixby Bridge, we’ll head just 10 minutes to Point Sur State Historic Park, where a brief 15-minute stop allows you to capture stunning photos of this dramatic lighthouse perched atop a rugged volcanic rock formation. While the park offers optional lighthouse and moonlight tours for an additional fee—usually once a day on specific days—you can let us know if you’re interested, and we’ll do our best to customize your experience accordingly. This spot offers incredible photo opportunities and a chance to learn a bit about the area's rich history and geology, making it a memorable part of your coastal journey.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
11
Pfeiffer Beach
Our next stop is Pfeiffer Beach, a breathtaking hidden gem along the Big Sur coast, famous for its striking purple sand and unique rock formations. During your approximately 1-hour visit, you can walk along the sandy shoreline, marvel at the iconic Keyhole Rock, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the rugged coastline. It’s a perfect spot for taking stunning photos, relaxing by the ocean, or exploring the tide pools. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a dramatic coastal backdrop, Pfeiffer Beach offers an unforgettable experience immersed in nature’s raw beauty.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
12
Next, we’ll take you to Partington Cove, where a scenic 30-minute walk awaits. The trail leads down through lush greenery and rocky terrain to a secluded cove at the ocean’s edge. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, and once at the cove, you can relax and take in the serene beauty of this hidden spot. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, capture some stunning photos, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the waves crashing against the rocks in this tranquil coastal setting.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
13
McWay Falls
Our next stop is the breathtaking McWay Falls, one of Big Sur’s most iconic sights. During your approximately 45-minute visit, you’ll walk down a short trail from the parking lot to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the waterfall cascading directly onto the beach below. The stunning vista of the 80-foot waterfall flowing onto the cove framed by cliffs and lush greenery makes for incredible photos and a truly memorable experience. It’s a perfect spot to marvel at nature’s beauty and capture the essence of Big Sur’s rugged coastal charm.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
14
Old Fisherman's Wharf
After exploring Big Sur, we’ll drive approximately 1 hour back to Monterey for a relaxing dinner at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can choose from a variety of seafood restaurants offering fresh catches and local specialties. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the bustling Wharf area, enjoying the lively atmosphere, street performers, and ocean views. If time permits, you can also explore the charming historic downtown of Monterey with its quaint shops and scenic waterfront. Once your evening concludes, we’ll take you to the hotel of your choice—possibly the same one from the previous night if it’s nearby—to relax and unwind after an exciting day of coastal adventures.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Monterrey - Hearst Castle - Santa Barbara - drop off in your hotel in Los Angeles
2 stops
15
Hearst Castle
On our third day, after checking out from your hotel and enjoying a delicious breakfast, we’ll drive to the awe-inspiring Hearst Castle, a historic and architectural marvel perched atop the California coast. You’ll have approximately 4 hours to explore this magnificent estate, with various tour options available to suit your interests—ranging from grand rooms and lush gardens to private suites and pools. Please note that tickets and tours are available for an additional fee, and we can help customize your experience based on your preferences. This iconic site offers a fascinating glimpse into history, luxury, and breathtaking views, making it a perfect highlight to conclude your memorable California journey. Please note that only one of the tours (except Julia Morgan Tour or Art under the moonlight Tour) is included in the price. If you would like to have multiple tours you will need to purchase those tickets by yourself. Tickets price start at 35$ for adult and 18$ for children 5-12
4 hours • Admission ticket included
16
After exploring Hearst Castle, we’ll embark on a scenic approximately 2.5-hour drive to Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy a lovely dinner along the picturesque pier. If time permits, you can also take a brief walk around downtown Santa Barbara to explore its charming streets, Spanish-style architecture, and vibrant atmosphere before we head back to Los Angeles. This relaxing stop offers a perfect opportunity to unwind, enjoy the ocean views, and reflect on your memorable California adventure before concluding your trip.
2 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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