California, Nevada & Arizona Self Drive Holiday

Sample Itinerary of California, Nevada & Arizona Self Drive Holiday

Day 1 - 4: San Francisco

Begin your California, Nevada, Arizona holiday in the stunning city of San Francisco, where you can see world famous landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the Painted Ladies and much more. Be sure to stroll along Fisherman's Wharf to enjoy scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, visit Pier 39 and see the California Sea Lions and even take a day trip out to Muir Woods, the home of California's beloved Redwood Trees. In San Francisco we recommend staying in the Argonaut hotel - this luxury hotel is located in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf and offers fantastic views out over the Bay and even of Alcatraz Island.

Days 4 - 5 - Yosemite National Park

On day four of your California, Nevada, Arizona holiday you will make the drive out to Yosemite National Park, one of the seven natural wonders of the USA. Yosemite National Park provides an amazing array of beautiful scenery and landscapes including the towering Cliff edge of El Capitan and the cascading waterfalls of the valley. Whilst in Yosemite National Park be sure to walk the tremendous hiking trails dotted throughout the Valley; there are a variety of hiking trails that are suited for all different capabilities that incorporate both flat and hilly terrain. We recommend staying in Yosemite Valley Lodge whilst in Yosemite National Park; this Lodge is located in the heart of Yosemite National Park and offers fantastic views of the Yosemite Falls. This hotel has a much more rustic feel than you will have experienced so far, however it ties in perfectly with the secluded and wild nature of Yosemite National Park. Additionally, though rustic, the hotel features a great steak and seafood restaurant.

Day 5 – 6 Death Valley

As your drive continues towards Death Valley, you will enjoy the sprawling landscape that spreads from the Sierra Nevada Mountains all the way into California. Death Valley is actually the largest National Park south of Alaska! In Death Valley you'll be treated to amazing views that offer fantastic contrasts: from the glistening sand dunes to the towering snow-capped mountains rising above you. We recommend staying at The Inn at Death Valley - again, a more rustic hotel in the heart of Death Valley that offers fantastic views out over the National Park, and even has opportunity for golf and fine dining.

Days 6 – 8 - Las Vegas

On day 6, your self-drive California, Nevada, Arizona holiday will take you out of California and into Nevada where you can enjoy Sin City in its full glory. Las Vegas offers non-stop entertainment from the amazing Promenade at the LINQ Hotel to the infamous Las Vegas Strip. From Las Vegas there is plenty of day trips including visiting the Hoover Dam, or if you prefer to just stay in the city there is plenty to do including visiting the world-famous hotels and casinos. In Las Vegas, we recommend staying at the Bellagio - after the more rustic lodgings in Yosemite National Park and Death Valley, the Bellagio Hotel is a luxurious change that offers modern comforts, fantastic amenities, dancing fountains, elegant rooms and decoration, and an all-round luxurious resort feel.

Day 8 - 10 - The Grand Canyon National Park

Your self-drive holiday will then take you into Arizona, where you can enjoy The Grand Canyon National Park! The Grand Canyon National Park rivals Yosemite National Park for its wonderful views; for the best viewpoints out over the Canyon, we recommend taking the shuttle bus from the Canyon Plaza visitor centre or enjoy the 25-mile desert view scenic self-drive road. To see The Grand Canyon in all its glory, why not take a helicopter ride over the Canyon itself for a full Birdseye view including view of the Colorado River. At the Grand Canyon National Park, we recommend staying at the Thunderbird Lodge - this hotel is located within The Grand Canyon National Park itself on the Canyon Rim. Rooms offer comfortable accommodation with unobstructed views out over one of the greatest wonders of the world.

Day 10 - 11 - Kingman and Route 66

Day 10 of your self-drive California, Nevada, Arizona holiday will take you along the infamous Route 66, where you will stay in Kingman for the night. Kingman is the heart of the original Route 66 and is one of the towns that still maintains the authentic Route 66 retro-vibe that takes visitors back in time to Route 66’s hay day. Whilst in Kingman be sure to visit the historic Route 66 museum for more insights into Americas most famous road. In Kingman we recommend staying in the Historic El Rancho Hotel - this really transports visitors back to the height of Route 66 and the little motels that sprang up all along the road for travellers to stay in.

Days 11 – 13 - Los Angeles

Back in California now, the next stop on your journey is one of America’s most famous cities, Los Angeles. Los Angeles is known for its Hollywood sign, the Sunset Strip, Santa Monica Pier, the beaches of Malibu and much more. Whilst in Los Angeles be sure to shop on, or just walk down, Rodeo Drive, explore Venice Beach and its infamous promenade, or even visit Disneyland California and Universal Studios Hollywood. For a hotel outside the city, we recommend staying in Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica. Shutters on the Beach is a world-famous beach house inspired hotel located directly on the Santa Monica Beach. From this hotel, you can explore the Santa Monica Pier and the shops of 3rd St Promenade. For those looking to stay more centrally in Los Angeles, and wanting to visit the theme parks of California, then why not stay at the Hilton Los Angeles/ Universal City-located just outside of Universal Studios Hollywood.

Day 14 – 15 - Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal town within California that offers a small-town vibe compared to the larger city of Los Angeles you just left. Santa Barbara is often known as the American Riviera and offers visitors a sophisticated yet authentic small town Californian atmosphere. Whilst in Santa Barbara be sure to relax on the beach, or even go on a wine tasting tour at one of the local vineyards. Santa Barbara is also known for its culture including unique boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Whilst in Santa Barbara we recommend staying at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort - this is a beautiful beachfront resort in Santa Barbara that offers amazing views out over the ocean, as well as great restaurants and even a spa.

Day 15 – 16 - Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is a quaint Californian beach town where you can relax, enjoy some of the local wines from the vineyards, take a stroll along the boardwalk or the pier, visit the famous Hearst Castle, and even learn to surf! At Pismo Beach we recommend staying at the Beachfront Sea Venture Resort - it is a quaint beach front resort on one of California's most relaxing beaches where you can try your luck at surfing with the locals or just enjoy the stunning views.

Day 16 – 17 – Monterey

Monterrey is one of the best places to see wildlife in California; you can explore the Bay by kayak and see sea lions, seals, and otters up close, or go whale watching and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. From Monterrey be sure to take a trip to Carmel - a seaside Californian town known for its arty yet sophisticated wine tasting restaurants, shops and more. In Monterrey we recommend staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Monterey - this is a quaint coastal hotel with its own pool, restaurant and is close to all of the best things to do in Monterey including the Aquarium.

Day 17 - 18 San Francisco

Finally, your California, Nevada, Arizona self-drive road trip will bring you back to San Francisco, where you will stay for the night before catching your flight home. Whilst in San Francisco be sure to take one final stroll down Fisherman's Wharf and taking the beautiful view out over San Francisco Bay.

Of course, all of our holiday itineraries and suggestions are completely customisable to suit you and your budget. We can offer you a variety of different hotel options and different route options that may be more suited to your budget or personal needs. So why not talk to one of our America Specialists today by calling us on 01635 551011 or enquiring here via our website, and see how we can book you the California, Nevada, and Arizona Road Trip of a lifetime!

All our holidays are tailor-made and can be adapted by changing hotels durations and destinations to suit the individuals tastes and requirements – please do get in touch so we can start planning.