Call us: (910) 742-5324
Call us: (910) 742-5324
Join Sisterhood Travels for an unforgettable women-only tour through California’s most iconic destinations. This 11-day journey takes you from the vibrant waterfront of San Diego and the star-studded streets of Los Angeles to the charming coastal towns of Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach, and deep into the awe-inspiring Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. If you’ve been dreaming of a California vacation that blends scenic beauty, rich history, and meaningful connection, this is the perfect adventure.
Designed specifically for women who love to explore, this small-group tour of California includes guided city tours, food tastings, scenic drives, and time to unwind in luxurious, centrally located hotels. You’ll visit top attractions like the Getty Center, Hearst Castle, and Griffith Observatory, stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and stand in wonder beneath the world’s largest trees—the General Sherman and General Grant. With a balanced mix of cultural experiences, light outdoor activities, and plenty of sisterhood, this California getaway offers something truly special for women seeking connection, adventure, and lasting memories.
Welcome to beautiful San Diego! Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the terminal and transfer you to our hotel. The rest of the day is yours to rest, rejuvenate, or explore independently. This evening, join your Group Leaders for an informal gathering to meet your new Sisters. (No meals included today, but lite bites and drinks are complimentary during Happy Hour at our hotel)
Hotel: Embassy Suites San Diego Bay – Downtown
After breakfast, use your included one-day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley passes to independently explore San Diego and Coronado with your Sisters – be sure to check out the famous San Diego Zoo! (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Embassy Suites San Diego Bay – Downtown
This morning, we’ll kick off our adventure with a guided tour led by a friendly local who’ll introduce us to some of San Diego’s most vibrant neighborhoods. We’ll explore the charm of downtown, the beauty of Balboa Park, the laid-back vibe of Coronado Island, and the rich history of Old Town. The afternoon is all yours—whether you want to stroll along the waterfront, hit the shops, or just soak up that famous SoCal sunshine. Tonight, we’ll come back together for a special Welcome Dinner—a chance to toast new friendships and the journey ahead! (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Embassy Suites San Diego Bay – Downtown
We’ll start our morning with a scenic harbor cruise through San Diego Bay—keep an eye out for playful sea lions, impressive Navy ships, and some striking waterfront architecture. As we sail along, you’ll hear captivating stories that blend San Diego’s rich history with its modern-day charm. Then we’re off to the laid-back coastal town of Carlsbad! There, we’ll take a delicious walking food tour through the heart of the town, sampling local flavors and soaking up that beachy atmosphere over lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to Los Angeles—glamorous, energetic, and iconic. This evening, you’ll have the option of joining our Tour Director for a stroll to the lively Grand Central Market, a local favorite where you can grab a bite and experience the flavors of LA like a true Angeleno. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Hotel: Omni Los Angeles
Get ready for a full day of exploring the best of Los Angeles with a mix of guided touring and leisurely strolls. We’ll start by snapping some photos at a few of the city’s most iconic spots, before cruising past celebrity homes on our way to the Griffith Observatory, where you can take in sweeping views of the city skyline and, of course, that legendary Hollywood sign.
Next, we’ll head to Hollywood Boulevard to walk among the stars on the Walk of Fame, see Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and check out the Dolby Theatre, where the Oscars take place. Then it’s off to Beverly Hills for a peek at the glamorous lifestyle—complete with a photo op at the iconic Beverly Hills sign and a little time to window-shop along Rodeo Drive. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed lunch on your own with your Sisters at the Original Farmers Market, a beloved LA foodie hub. On our way back to the hotel, we’ll pass by even more of the city’s landmarks—sit back, relax, and soak up the LA vibe! (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Omni Los Angeles
This morning, we’ll make our way up California’s stunning Central Coast, where laid-back charm meets timeless beauty. Our first stop is the lovely city of Santa Barbara, known for its red-tiled roofs, whitewashed buildings, and coastal elegance. You’ll have some free time with your Sisters to wander, shop, or just soak in the sunshine and Spanish colonial vibes.
Next, we’ll visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara—often called the “Queen of the Missions.” Take your time exploring this peaceful and picturesque site with its beautifully preserved chapel, gardens, and cemetery. It’s the only mission still inhabited by Franciscan friars, and it’s truly a window into California’s early history. Later this afternoon, we’ll arrive in the coastal town of Pismo Beach, where breezy ocean views and a laid-back vibe await. Settle in and get ready to enjoy two relaxing nights in this coastal gem. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach
Today, we’re diving into California’s storied past with a visit to the legendary Hearst Castle—an architectural masterpiece perched high above the coast. Built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and trailblazing architect Julia Morgan, this lavish estate is a true slice of Gilded Age glamour. We’ll tour the Grand Rooms, where you can imagine yourself mingling with Hollywood stars and world leaders during one of Hearst’s famously extravagant gatherings in the 1920s. Before we head up to the estate, we’ll make a quick stop at the nearby elephant seal rookery. It’s such a treat to watch these massive, blubbery creatures lounging on the beach and flipping sand onto themselves—nature at its most fascinating! After exploring the castle, we’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch with a view before heading back to Pismo Beach. Don’t forget to catch the sunset this evening—it’s pure Central Coast magic, especially with your toes in the sand and a glass of local wine in hand. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Hotel: Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach
Today, we’ll leave the coast behind and journey inland to the rolling hills of Paso Robles—one of California’s hidden wine country gems. With over 200 boutique, family-owned wineries, this laid-back region may fly under the radar compared to Napa, but it offers just as much beauty, flavor, and heart. We’ll pause here to enjoy a delicious lunch (maybe with a glass of local vino, if you’re feeling it!) and take in the vineyard views.
This afternoon, we’ll continue on to the welcoming town of Visalia, a cozy little spot that serves as our home base for exploring the awe-inspiring Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Rest up and get ready—the next part of our adventure is full of giant trees, mountain air, and unforgettable natural wonders. (Breakfast and Lunch included).
Hotel: Visalia Marriott at the Convention Center
Today, we’re heading into the heart of the Sierra Nevada to explore the natural wonders of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. A local expert will join us for the day, bringing the landscape to life with stories about the region’s diverse wildlife, ancient ecosystems, and the rich cultural history of the Native peoples who first called this land home.
We’ll start with a gentle guided walk to visit the majestic General Grant Tree—known as the “Nation’s Christmas Tree”—before continuing on to a scenic spot for a relaxing picnic lunch surrounded by towering giants. In the afternoon, we’ll set out on a short hike to see the world’s largest tree by volume, the awe-inspiring General Sherman Tree. Standing beneath its massive branches is one of those “pinch-me” moments you won’t forget.
Then, the afternoon is yours to tailor! Stick with our local guide for more insights into this extraordinary forest or join our Tour Director for a livelier hike along the beautiful Congress Trail, lined with clusters of massive sequoias. We’ll wrap up our incredible day back in Visalia with a special Farewell Dinner—sharing stories, laughter, and maybe a toast to all the memories we’ve made together. It’s the perfect ending to our California adventure. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Hotel: Visalia Marriott at the Convention Center
This morning, we’ll say goodbye to the peaceful foothills of the Sierra Nevada as we make our way back south toward vibrant Los Angeles for one final night together. But before we return to the city lights, we have one last gem to explore—the stunning Getty Center. Perched high in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty is more than just a museum—it’s a full sensory experience. Stroll through galleries filled with incredible works of art, admire the sleek modern architecture, wander through beautifully manicured gardens, and take in sweeping views of LA that stretch all the way to the ocean. Whether you’re an art lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply here for the views, the Getty has a little magic for everyone. This evening is yours to dine independently with your new, lifelong best friends. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Hyatt Regency LAX
Sadly, our journey together ends today as we transfer to the Los Angeles (LAX) airport via the hotel shuttle for our return flights home. (Breakfast included)
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
This California journey is ideal for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who are comfortable walking short to moderate distances, occasionally navigating stairs or uneven ground, and spending time on their feet during sightseeing. While there’s plenty of time to unwind and explore at your own pace, the itinerary includes walking tours, time outdoors, and travel days with varied activity levels. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what to expect:
Walking & Standing:
You’ll enjoy daily sightseeing in cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara, which includes strolling through neighborhoods, historic districts, and waterfronts. Walking tours in Carlsbad, Santa Barbara’s Mission, and at Hearst Castle may involve standing for extended periods and navigating both paved and uneven walkways. Visits to iconic LA landmarks like Hollywood Boulevard, Rodeo Drive, and Griffith Observatory include walking and standing, often on inclines or stairs. The Getty Center features large indoor and outdoor spaces with art galleries, gardens, and walkways that may require walking at a relaxed pace for up to a mile.
Stairs, Trails & Inclines:
At Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, short hikes and nature walks include dirt paths, forest trails, and gentle inclines. Visiting the General Grant Tree and General Sherman Tree requires walking on designated park trails, which may have uneven terrain, natural surfaces, and limited seating. Optional hike along the Congress Trail includes moderate inclines and uneven ground—perfect for those wanting a bit more movement in the fresh mountain air. Hearst Castle involves stairs and walking through the estate’s historic rooms and grounds, with some elevation changes.
Scenic Drives & Long Travel Days:
Several travel days involve comfortable drives along California’s Central Coast, through wine country, and into the Sierra foothills. Expect long but scenic drives between Pismo Beach, Paso Robles, Visalia, and Los Angeles, with stops along the way for sightseeing, lunch, and leg-stretching breaks. Airport transfers and navigating hotels are easygoing, though travelers should be comfortable handling their own luggage for short distances.
Boat & Optional Experiences:
A San Diego Harbor Cruise offers a relaxed way to take in city views but may involve boarding and disembarking on floating docks. Optional strolls to local dining spots like Grand Central Market in LA or walks along the beach in Pismo add a few extra steps for those who want to explore more.
