Central Coast Safari, Wine & Rails

Day 1 – Coastal Train Ride, Pismo Beach (Wednesday, February 17)

From our departure points this morning we’ll travel aboard a deluxe motorcoach to downtown Los Angeles’ Union Station. All aboard Amtrak’s renowned Coast Starlight train for a spectacular, five-hour rail journey along California’s dramatic coastline and through its fertile valleys. We’ll travel along Point Conception and through Vandenberg Space Force Base, offering views of launch complexes and pristine, undeveloped coastline only visible by train. Enjoy an included boxed lunch onboard, with additional snacks and drinks available for purchase in the snack bar. Relax in your reclining seat or check out the view from the Observation Car (all group seats and observation car seats are located on the upper level of the train with stairs required), featuring floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows providing unparalleled views. Upon arrival in San Luis Obispo, we’ll reboard our motorcoach for the short drive to Pismo Beach, a classic California beach town with sweeping views of the Pacific. Settle in for a relaxing two-night stay in an oceanview room—complete with private balcony or pati­o­—at an upscale, oceanfront hotel that perfectly blends contemporary style with a splash of retro nostalgia. Perched on a bluff overlooking the coast, this seaside retreat features a heated pool, multiple spas, and four viewing terraces, including a rooftop terrace with cozy fire pits. With an on-site restaurant and direct stairway access to the untouched sandy beach below, it’s the perfect coastal getaway. (Lunch)

Day 2 – Paso Robles Wine Country, Pismo Beach (Thursday, February 18)

Following an included breakfast at the hotel, we’ll head to a local horse and goat farm for a series of unique, interactive animal encounters. On a guided tour, we’ll meet and mingle with miniature horses, alpacas, and playful goats (at the time of year when baby goats are most likely). You’ll learn fun facts about these charming animals as you pet and interact with them, and can browse the farm store afterward for homemade treats like their popular goat milk lotion. Next, we’ll head deep into the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country, where California’s winemaking roots run deep. First planted by Franciscan monks in the late 1700s along El Camino Real, the region has grown into the state’s fastest-growing wine destination, boasting over 200 wineries and earning global acclaim for its world- class Rhône varietals and blends. We’ll be the judges during an included lunch and wine tasting at a picturesque, boutique vineyard where rustic elegance meets wine country charm. This afternoon, we’ll return to the coast to visit the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, where vibrant orange and black Monarch butterflies gather each winter in the eucalyptus trees. Natural population numbers fluctuate from year to year, but the grove has seen impressive surges, with over 24,000 butterflies counted in recent seasons. This evening, dinner is on your own at one of the restaurants within walk- ing distance of the hotel. Or, take advantage of our complimentary motorcoach transportation to the famous Downtown San Luis Obispo’s Farmers’ Market and street faire (weather permitting). This iconic, one-night-a-week event has been a Central Coast treasure since 1983, bringing locals and visitors together across five lively, historic blocks. You’ll have time at leisure to explore stalls packed with famous barbecued specialties, fresh-picked produce, baked goods, crafts, and entertaining local street performers. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 3 – Solvang, Journey Home (Friday, February 19)

Following an included breakfast at the hotel, we’ll visit a turtle and tortoise sanctuary—a lush, ecologically friendly 5-acre haven that provides shelter for these amazing reptiles and their fellow cohabiting creatures. On a guided tour, we’ll get up close to a variety of fascinating residents and learn about the sanctuary’s inspiring mission, which has rescued, protected, and nurtured an estimated 5,000 animals over the last 30 years! We’ll travel south to the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley and the historic Danish town of Solvang. Known as America’s famous “Little Denmark,” Solvang will captivate you with its traditional old-world architecture, spinning windmills, and flower-lined streets that make it an incredibly walkable village. Enjoy time at leisure for lunch on your own and exploration of 100 one-of-a-kind boutiques, European import shops, and artisan galleries. Be sure to visit the authentic Danish bakeries selling fresh-made aebleskivers, crisp butter cookies, and flaky fruit kringles! We’ll continue south to our drop-off points, returning this evening with many fond memories of our adventures along California’s beautiful Central Coast. (Breakfast)

While a rare occurrence, should Amtrak cancel the Coast Starlight train, an Amtrak Surfliner train will be substituted, or a sit-down lunch will be added in lieu of the train and boxed lunch. Farm/sanctuary visits may be replaced in inclement weather.

While we make every effort to operate our tours as outlined in the itinerary, we ask for your patience, understanding and flexibility and to retain a sense of adventure while traveling with us. Situations may arise that necessitate changes to the itinerary. Should we need to adjust the itinerary either prior to or while on tour, these changes will be communicated to you and only done when absolutely necessary.