Southern California Dreaming

8 days
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4.9/5 Excellent
51 reviews  
98%
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Small Group Tour
Celebrate California’s Hollywood vibe strolling down the Walk of Stars and shopping on Rodeo Drive…Chill Out cruising the sun-spangled Pacific coastline… Peace Out in the sophisticated serenity of Catalina Island… Fall in Love with wildlife at the San Diego Zoo… and, revel in the natural beauty and slick urban offerings of Palm Springs. This is California Dre...
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$3,935
From$3,199
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Get glitzy along the Walk of Fame in Hollywood
    • Travel to Catalina Island and relax amongst the laid-back locals
    • Spot your favorite animal at the world famous San Diego Zoo
    • Play in Palm Springs, the playground for Hollywood celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Elizabeth Taylor
    • Stargaze in in one of the clearest skies in one of America's deserts

What's this trip about?

    Celebrate California’s Hollywood vibe strolling down the Walk of Stars and shopping on Rodeo Drive…Chill Out cruising the sun-spangled Pacific coastline… Peace Out in the sophisticated serenity of Catalina Island… Fall in Love with wildlife at the San Diego Zoo… and, revel in the natural beauty and slick urban offerings of Palm Springs. This is California Dreaming.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - 24 max
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportRound trip airfare and all internal transport included
Start CityLos Angles, CA
End CityPalm Springs, CA

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural
  • Education / Learning

Destinations

  • North America
  • United States

Attractions

  • Los Angeles
  • Pacific Ocean

Activities

  • Culture
  • Educational/ learning
  • History
  • Short Cruise

Trip includes

    • Roundtrip Airfare
    • Airport Transfers
    • Motor Coach Transportation 7 Nights Accommodations with Baggage Handling
    • 12 Meals LA City Guided Tour
    • Skyline Drive Tour of Catalina Island Return Ferry Catalina Island
    • Entrance to San Diego Zoo with Bus Tour & Balboa Park Palm Springs Guided Tour
    • Windmill Farm & Stargazing Experience Palm Springs Aerial Tram
    • Tours of Distinction Tour Director Gratuities for Tour Director, Local Guides & Drivers

Popular Trips

Itinerary

 Day 1 - Arrive Los Angeles, California Transfer to the airport for the flight to Los Angeles. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, we transfer to our hotel in Santa Monica. After some down-time, we have dinner at a local restaurant. LA is much more than Hollywood. It is America’s second oldest city and entertainment capital and has 75 miles of pristine coastline, the San Gabriel Mountain Range and an ideal climate to explore year-round. Plus, let’s not forget impressive Galleries, Museums and a thriving chef scene. Oh, and the shopping is second-to-none. Do not leave LA without making your own local purchase. Our hotel for 2 nights is the DoubleTree in Santa Monica which is one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Beach Cities in the World. We are ideally situated to enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, numerous restaurants, shopping and cultural attractions that have attracted celebrities for decades. (D)  Day 2 - Los Angeles After breakfast, we journey through the city of Los Angeles on a tour guided by a local. Sights include: Downtown, Olvera Street -Old Town, Hollywood & Mann’s Chinese Theater, Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive, Farmer’s Market, Chinatown & Little Tokyo.… Look-out for the Hollywood Sign! This afternoon, have your own ”Red Carpet Moment” on the Hollywood Walk-of-Fame Tour. Afterwards, we will enjoy dinner in the area. (B,D)  Day 3 - Los Angeles The second largest city in America offers so much! Today is at leisure to discover everything Los Angeles is know for. Your Tour Director can offer many great ideas for sightseeing. (B)  Day 4 - Los Angeles - Catalina Island - San Diego This morning, a short ferry ride will take us to the town of Avalon on Catalina Island! The town surrounds beautiful Avalon Bay on the southeast end of Catalina Island. We will take a guided tour off-the-beaten-path along “Skyline Drive” which travels 10 miles into the Island’s lush and protected wilderness area. Keep an eye out for spectacular vistas, ocean views and the largest of their inhabitants –the Buffalo! Enjoy some free time on Catalina before we ferry to Dana Point and transfer to San Diego. Upon arrival, we check in to our centrally located hotel for our 2 night stay. With near perfect weather year-round, 70 miles of spectacular coastline, world-class attractions and a thriving urban core, complete with a sophisticated art, dining and nightlife scene, San Diego has earned the name of California’s Beach City. (B)  Day 5 - San Diego After breakfast, we head to the San Diego Zoo. Our visit includes entrance to the Zoo (with bus tour). This100-acre (40-hectare) zoo is home to more than 3,500 rare and endangered animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies, and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 exotic plants. The afternoon is at leisure to explore America’s Beach City. Some great sights to check out include:the Coronado, USS Midway & Maritime Museum to name a few. We have an Italian dinner tonight in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. (B,D)  Day 6 - Palm Springs, CA This morning, say goodbye to San Diego & the Pacific Ocean as we journey inland to Palm Springs. The Aerial Tramway in Palm Springs is the world’s largest rotating tram car and travels over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting riders to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Once at the top, we have lunch with spectacular views! After, we transfer to our hotel and check in for our 2 night stay. Tonight is at leisure for you to explore your hotel and the surrounding area on your own. Palm Springs is a desert oasis set in the Coachella Valley. For more than half a century, Palm Springs has been a playground for Hollywood celebrities—Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Elizabeth Taylor all visited here often. Today, this trending and vibrant city has a unique food and drinks scene, a plethora of outdoor activities & great health escapes. (B,L)  Day 7 - Palm Springs Discover Palm Springs on a 2.5 hour bus tour of the place that was once known as ‘Hollywood’s Playground.’ Your guide will provide commentary on stars who have lived in this exclusive California destination: including luminaries like Marilyn Monroe, Nat King Cole, and Elvis Presley. The remainder of the day is at leisure until our dinner this evening. Later, we embark on a Stargazing experience. (B,D)  Day 8 - Depart Palm Springs This morning, we head to the airport and check in for our flight. Upon arrival, transfer home with memories of that California Sunshine.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,199
Price per day$400
Last Updated: 2/23/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Tours of Distinction.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tours of Distinction Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5  Excellent
Excellent
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Great
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Other Tours of Distinction Reviews

J

J Lamb

Aug 2023

Written on

Great Itinerary and Value

We loved this trip. Our guide was excellent. We really enjoyed all th...

S

Suzie

Sep 2022

Written on

The trip itself was amazing!

The trip itself was amazing! The Venus were interesting and beautiful. The food was delicious (especially the buffet at The Grand on Mackinac Island). We enjoyed get...

M

MISLED

Feb 2024

Tours of Distinction Company Reviewsby Tours of Distinction

UNDERWHELMING TO SAY THE LEAST

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE DECEMBER 29, 2023 - JANUARY 3, 2024 I have wanted to attend The Rose Bowl Parade since I was a kid. Happened to spot the L.A./Pasadena tri...

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Tour Operator

Tours of Distinction

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Since 1971, Tours of Distinction has offered a diverse collection of escorted and customized individual tours, carefully crafted by our professional travel team to over 500,000 travelers. We are one of the best tour companies that specialize in everything from carefree Day Trips, Land & Multi-day Tours and Cruises. From the USA, Canada and all over the world, whether you are a first-time traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, if you love life-enriching moments and experiencing the heart, soul, and adventure of a destination, then traveling with Tours of Distinction is the right vacation for you.

We’ve been providing life-enriching experiences putting you at the heart of the destination and creating lasting memories for 50 years. Our expert service, guidance and years of experience help make all the difference.

Most tours are fully inclusive of airfare, superior accommodations, most meals, all gratuities, and the highlights of each destination. Mixed with a balance of free-time and the leadership of a professional Tours of Distinction Tour Director, you will see what you have dreamed to see in safety and security.

For Tours of Distinction, our goal is to make sure your journey is as distinct as you, and the best it can be.

Our name says it all.

Distinct Commitments:

Accountability 

Here at Tours of Distinction we believe in delivering on the commitments we make – to our colleagues, to our clients, to our community, and to our fellow travelers. Everything we do is done with purpose, passion, and a promise to always do the right thing.

Authenticity

We know because we’ve been there. Here at Tours of Distinction we are passionate about travel! With more than 45 years as a respected tour operator and more than 100 years of combined travel & tourism expertise, we know what’s important to consider when booking a tour. What’s more, many of our staff have traveled to the destinations we promote and are well-equipped to handle different situations as they may arise.

Easy to work with

We pride ourselves on being responsive and easy to work with from the very first point of contact to post-trip.

Support

Whether you are a solo traveler or part of a pre-formed group, our dedicated staff of professional Tour Planners and Tour Directors work hard to finesse all the details of custom planning, booking, and escorting your trip to ensure that you have the smoothest, most memorable experience possible.

Community Focused

Tours of Distinction is a close-knit bunch. Creating enjoyable tour experiences, along with a history of shared memories with our colleagues, clients, and fellow travelers is what unifies us and encourages loyalty. We value our clients and reward loyalty through several programs.

Innovative

Keeping up with the latest trends in travel and, more important, how you prefer to travel is paramount to how we operate. We are always leveraging the feedback we receive and industry data to deliver unique tour packages that inspire the imagination, offer relaxation, and promote optimal well-being.

Back & Relax Even Before Your Tour Begins:

Daily Experience                                                              

It's all in the details. Our Tour Directors are constantly working behind the scenes to ensure every moment matters. Hotel check-ins, porterage, meals and all our other tour inclusions are coordinated so everything runs right on time. Not only will your experience be seamless, but we promise you top-of-the-line accommodations, restaurants, and even more exclusive ways to witness first-hand the must-see sights of each and every area!

Professional & Passionate

Each of our Tours of Distinction Tour Directors has over 20 years of experience. They know how to make each tour safe, fun and inclusive. Sit back and relax - you are in good hands!

Knowledge

Been there and done that. Our Tour Directors know the road, and what works to really make each trip extra special and memorable. Their local knowledge of special sights, sounds and smells make every moment fun and the journey smooth.           

Local Guides

At times, our Tour Directors enlist the assistance of local guides in order to give our clients a more in-depth and authentic experience. Local guides are thoughtfully chosen for their insider's knowledge of local customs and traditions that gives visitors a glimpse of how life is really lived.

Time and Money

Your time and money are valuable! Guided travel offers you the unique value of saving precious time. Don't spend even a minute stressing over every aspect of your getaway, such as missing flights, the best attractions and incredible cuisine. Instead, we plan out every detail so you never have to think twice about your vacation running smoothly.

Get the most out of your travel experience traveling at the right time of year and getting the best experiences with the best people. We know the perfect time of the year to visit each of our unique locations around the world, for the very best value. Plus, our tour vacation packages are fully inclusive.

Small Groups

There are so many rewards to small group travel, which is the reason why Tours of Distinction specializes in this type of travel experience. As a general rule of thumb, small group travel means that group sizes are limited and normally do not include more than twenty people.

New Friends

One of the basic advantages to small group travel is that you will visit a destination with like-minded travelers. Traveling with people and sharing interests as well as experiences often bond travelers together. Small group travel is not only sharing life-changing experiences with others, but you also come away with fabulous memories and new friends!

Just Enjoy

Another perk of small group travel is that you get a more in-depth look at a destination without the logistical hassles of traveling completely on your own. In short, with a small group, you are able to enjoy more time experiencing a destination rather than organizing and haggling when in it.

Authentic Experiences

Much of the time, small group itineraries offer more authentic off the beaten path experiences that you would not find on your own. Special local guides take you into the heart of a destination allowing you to see more with the added benefit of sharing the delights of the adventure with like-minded others.

More Personalized

An experienced guide often makes a destination come alive by providing first hand, on the spot travel experience, knowledge and stories. Small group travel is more personalized and will make you feel more like a traveler and less like a tourist.

Safe

If safety is on your mind, when traveling with a small group you are most likely less likely to be blend-in with the local atmosphere. Plus, it is much easier for our Tour Directors to get know everyone.

We have partnered with the World Travel and Tourism Council with our Ready, Set Travel campaign highlighting our new safety policies and hygiene guidelines.

Economical

Economically small group travel is an excellent value for your money. In addition to the non-tangible benefits of a small group, on a Tours of Distinction tour the cost is calculated up front so once you have paid for your trip, all you need to bring along is some spending money for personal items and souvenirs.

Eco-Friendly

If you are concerned about the environmental footprint, small group travel is structured to leave a lighter footprint on a destination. For example, traveling in a group leaves a much lighter carbon footprint than if each person in the group hired an individual car. A small group also offer the added benefit of utilizing more local restaurants, guides, and hotels giving a little more back to the community we are visiting.

Tours of Distinction offers small group tours nationally and internationally.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel Insurance, Alcoholic Beverages, Items of a Personal Nature

Accommodation

,Premier Accommodation
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included

7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Additional Information
Trip ID
tourso-SoCaDiTo

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