Monterey, Carmel, Redwoods & Rails

Day 1 – Coastal Train Ride (Sunday, June 28)

From our departure points this morning we’ll travel aboard a deluxe motorcoach to downtown Los Angeles’ historic 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, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that provide unparalleled views. Upon arrival in San Luis Obispo, we’ll reboard our motorcoach and continue north to the Monterey Peninsula where we’ll enjoy a three-night stay at the Portola Hotel & Spa, a AAA Four Diamond bayfront hotel adjacent to Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf in Old Monterey. Enjoy the balance of the evening at leisure with dinner on your own at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. (Lunch)

Day 2 – 17-Mile Drive, Carmel-by-the-Sea (Monday, June 29)

Following an included breakfast at the hotel, we’ll join a local guide for a immersive exploration of the Monterey Peninsula. Wrapped by the Pacific Ocean on three sides, the Monterey Peninsula is often described as “the greatest meeting of land and sea.” For centuries, artists, poets, explorers and novelists have been drawn to the rugged beauty here – from the crashing surf to the towering redwoods to the unspoiled wildlife. On this in-depth driving tour, we’ll wind our way through the storied streets of historic Old Monterey and before heading into the coastal beauty of Pacific Grove. We’ll travel along world-famous 17-Mile Drive, an enchanting route that weaves through mystical forests and along dramatic cliffs, offering glimpses of snow-white beaches. Along the way, we’ll encounter spectacular sights like the iconic Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, celebrity homes and the legendary fairways of Pebble Beach Golf Links. This afternoon we’ll arrive in the “fairytale” village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy time at leisure to wander its hidden courtyards, browse its high-end galleries and enjoy lunch on your own in one of its great eateries. We return to the hotel with the balance of the evening at leisure. (Breakfast)

Day 3 – Redwoods, Monterey Bay Aquarium (Tuesday, June 30)

This morning we’ll take a step back in time as we journey into the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Welcome to Roaring Camp, a meticulously recreated 1880s logging town complete with an old-fashioned general store, opera house, and covered bridge. The highlight of our morning is a journey aboard the Redwood Forest Steam Train. As we climb the winding narrow-gauge grade toward the summit of Bear Mountain, we’ll travel behind authentic 19th century engines – some of the oldest and best-preserved in America – while soaring Redwoods and historic trestles frame our view. We return to Monterey this afternoon with time at leisure to browse Monterey’s historic Cannery Row and take advantage of included admission to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Housed in a former sardine cannery on the ocean’s edge of Cannery Row, this architectural marvel offers spectacular coastal views and a window into the deep. From the playful antics of sea otters to the hypnotic pulse of the Kelp Forest, you’ll encounter 35,000 incredible creatures in one of the world’s most immersive marine environments. The evening is yours to enjoy the salt air and local flavors of Monterey at your leisure. (Breakfast)

Day 4 – Madonna Inn, Santa Barbara, Journey Home (Wednesday, July 1)

Following an included breakfast, we’ll begin our scenic motorcoach journey south, stopping in San Luis Obispo to explore the eclectic charm of the Madonna Inn. A California landmark since 1958, its whimsical décor and storied history offer a delightful glimpse into the Golden State’s colorful past. This afternoon we’ll enjoy time at leisure for browsing and lunch on your own in downtown Santa Barbara, renowned for its sun-drenched, palm-lined thoroughfares and distinctive Mediterranean architecture. Explore Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean-style, outdoor shopping center as well as the State Street Promenade – a sprawling, 10-block pedestrian oasis where you can shop, sip, and dine in peace away from car traffic. We return to our departure points this evening with many fond memories of our rhythmic rail journeys, the hallowed silence of the Redwoods, and the timeless beauty of the Central Coast at a delightful time of year. (Breakfast)

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.