San Francisco

Begin your trip in one of America’s most iconic cities – just don’t call it ‘San Fran’, the locals will instantly clock you as a tourist! Navigate the crazily steep streets on a historic cable car and whizz from the shops of Union Square to the bustling atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf. See the cheeky sea lions at Pier 39 before catching the boat over to the eerie and fascinating prison island of Alcatraz. Get up close to the city’s most recognisable landmark by cycling across the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge.

You don’t need to hire a car while you’re in San Francisco, so only pick up your car on the morning you leave. It’s time to head south on your road trip along the California Coast.

Monterey

First up, you otter go to Monterey to see one of the cutest animals on the planet, the sea otter! The fun seaside town of Monterey has a bay that teems with wildlife, and as well as adorable sea otters it’s also one of the best places to go on a whale watching trip.

Big Sur

Highway 1 (AKA the Pacific Coast Highway) runs down the length of California, with nowhere being more spectacular than Big Sur. Here the coastal road winds its way past stunning ocean views from atop the cliffs – it’s one of the most iconic drives in the world! Even once you pass the famed vistas of the Big Sur area you’ll encounter hidden coves, sandy beaches and adorable villages as you continue south along the coast.

Santa Barbara

Think glamour combined with a laidback vibe, then sprinkle in Spanish architecture, a mountain backdrop and a gorgeous sandy beach and you’ve got Santa Barbara. Nestled next to one of California’s premier wine regions, there’s an array of bougie wine bars and tasting rooms to discover. Go for a bike ride along the boardwalk and continue on to the neighbouring and ultra-exclusive town of Montecito - it’s a great place for celeb spotting!

Los Angeles

Continue south to the big boy of California, the vibrant metropolis of Los Angeles. Tick off famous sites like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Rodeo Drive, soak up the beach life vibes of Santa Monica and see the buff bods of Muscle Beach working out. Get your theme park thrills at Universal Studios Hollywood where movie sets are combined with heart pounding rides. In the evening head to the Sunset Strip for comedy clubs and legendary music venues like The Roxy and Whisky a Go Go.

San Diego

One final drive down the coast takes you to sunny San Diego. There’s bountiful beautiful beaches to unwind on (including Coronado beach where they filmed both Top Gun films), but also varied neighbourhoods and tons of culture and attractions. Its nearest neighbour is Mexico and the Mexican influence abounds, especially in food. This is the city for authentic tacos and burritos north of the border and you can wash it down with a margarita or two from a tequila bar.

Soak up one last mesmerising sunset over the Pacific Ocean as your journey down the coast of California comes to an end.