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One of my favourite holidays was an unforgettable journey I did along the West Coast of America, starting in the city of San Francisco. Known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, diverse neighbourhoods, and vibrant arts scene, San Francisco is the perfect place to kick off this holiday adventure. Also driving down the coast means you are on the correct side of the road to see the coastline an its beauty!
After spending a few days exploring the San Francisco city’s famous attractions such as Alcatraz Island and Fisherman’s Wharf, I hit the road and headed south towards the stunning Big Sur coastline. Driving along Highway 1, I was in awe of the breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush forests that surrounded me. Big Sur is truly a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and whale watching.
Next stop on my journey was the charming town of Monterey, known for its historic Cannery Row and world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. I spent a leisurely day strolling along the waterfront, sampling fresh seafood, and marvelling at the diverse marine life in the aquarium’s giant tanks.
As I continued my road trip, I made a stop at Pismo Beach, a laid-back seaside town famous for its sandy beaches and picturesque dunes. I soaked up the sun and enjoyed a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant and also went to a drive thru movie which was a great experience!
Santa Barbara was my next destination, with its Mediterranean-style, a chic coastal city that offers a mix of Spanish colonial architecture, upscale boutiques, and beautiful beaches. Take a stroll down State Street, the city’s main shopping and dining district. I visited the stunning Botanic Garden, here you can also indulge in some wine tasting at the nearby Santa Ynez Valley vineyards.
We then drove further down the coast to Los Angeles which is a bustling metropolis that offers something for everyone. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the beach vibes of Venice Beach, there is never a dull moment in the City of Angels. Here I visited Universal Studios and did the movie stars home tour and got close to the big Hollywood sign for a photo opportunity!
Las Vegas was last stop on this adventure, the city is famous for its vibrant nightlife, endless entertainment options, and, of course, the iconic Las Vegas Strip. I watched a cirque du soleil show which was truly amazing! This really is a one-of-a-kind city.
And finally, no visit to Las Vegas can be complete without a trip to The Grand Canyon, there are so many excursions to choose from. We did the West Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas is an exhilarating adventure that offers a unique perspective of this natural wonder. Exploring the canyon by plane, helicopter, and boat allows you to see the canyon from different angles and truly appreciate its grandeur.
The journey started with a scenic flight from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West Rim. Flying over the rugged landscape of the American Southwest, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the desert, mountains, and canyons below. The aerial perspective offers a bird’s-eye view of the vastness and scale of the Grand Canyon, giving you a sense of its sheer magnitude.
Upon arriving at the West Rim, you’ll then board a helicopter for a thrilling ride over the canyon. The helicopter tour takes you down into the depths of the canyon, flying past towering rock formations, deep gorges, and the winding Colorado River below.
After the helicopter tour, the adventure continues with a boat ride along the Colorado River. The boat tour takes you through the bottom of the canyon, offering a completely different perspective
Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the West Rim of the Grand Canyon and take in the stunning viewpoints, including the famous Skywalk bridge. Which offers a thrilling glass-bottomed view of the canyon below. Not for the faint hearted! You can also learn about the history and geology of the canyon at the various visitor centers and exhibits.
Travelling along the West Coast of America is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With so much to see and do, this beautiful stretch of coastline offers something for everyone, from the bustling cities to the charming beach towns. Whether you’re looking to explore the rich history of San Francisco, relax on the sandy shores of Santa Barbara, or party the night away in Las Vegas, the West Coast has it all. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
If you are considering travelling to the West coast of America please get in touch!
T: 01275 774886
E: clevedon@globalindependenttravel.com