LA to the Bay | 2026
LA to the Bay | 2026
$3135
LA to the Bay | 2026
11 Days Starting in Los Angeles (CA) and ending in San Francisco
Visiting: Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Barstow, Yosemite National Park, San Francisco
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LATB26
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
3 states, 11 days, 1 damn fine vacay. From the Golden Gate to the Hollywood sign, your eyes will be a popping the whole trip long. We'll feast on legit Mexican food, marvel at Joshua Trees and party in Vegas.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles
Accommodation: Kawada Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Kawada Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to LA, home to celeb-swamped suburbs, blistering beaches, open-air gyms and of course, all things Hollywood. We’ll start our West Coast adventure with a visit to Beverly Hills, Mann’s Chinese Theatre (the home of the Oscars), plus a wander around Santa Monica. Does it get more star-studded than this? We think not.
Day 2: Los Angeles To San Diego
Location: Los Angeles, San Diego
Accommodation: Days Hotel San Diego Hotel Circle (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Hotel San Diego Hotel Circle (or similar)
Today you’ll join the crew to travel the Pacific Coast Highway before winding around to the super laid back locale of San Diego. First up, we'll stop at one of the white sand beaches on the SoCal coast, then do San Diego by night hitting up the Gas Lamp District. Recline into relaxation mode and take in the laid back nature of San Diego.
Day 3: San Diego To Phoenix
Location: San Diego, Phoenix
Accommodation: Days Inn by Wyndham Mesa (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Inn by Wyndham Mesa (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Now you've had a taste of living the San Diego dream, it's time to crank up the heat as we enter the desert. We say farewell to our California love and delve a little deeper inland to see what Arizona has to offer. This impressive metropolis is situated right smack bang in the middle of the desert and is a sight you won't forget anytime soon. Uninterrupted sunshine is expected for approximately 300 days a year, making this place a super steamy urban mirage perfect for shopping and sporting events. We'll enjoy an Arizonan BBQ dinner at Rustler’s Rooste.
Day 4: Phoenix To The Grand Canyon
Location: Phoenix, Grand Canyon
Accommodation: Red Feather Lodge (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Yavapai Lodge Grand Canyon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
A hot air balloon ride over the "Valley of the Sun" – sounds like a bucket list kind of thing (because it is) and you have the chance to tick it off the list right here. There's a champagne breakfast provided in the deal too so try to keep breathing so you don't miss out. The thrill of the desert continues and the next stop will make any nature lover weak at the knees. This location is one of the world’s most recognizable natural wonders and the pride of Arizona. The thrill of the desert continues and the next stop will make any nature lover weak at the knees. This location is one of the world’s most recognizable natural wonders and the pride of Arizona. We'll settle in for the night before the great Grand Canyon reveals itself tomorrow. Take a step outside and take a peep at the endless starry skies, tomorrow will be a day to remember.
Day 5: The Grand Canyon
Location: Grand Canyon
Accommodation: Red Feather Lodge (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Yavapai Lodge Grand Canyon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You deserve a full day out here to truly appreciate the wilderness taking in its dramatic scenery. This day will be like no other; beginning with a hike through the UNESCO World Heritage listed site, there's also the option of a bike ride, then the day will end with a spine-tingling sunset. Incredibly, there's also the option to view this wonder from the best and most thrill-seeking seat in the house – a helicopter.
Day 6: The Grand Canyon To Las Vegas
Location: Grand Canyon, Las Vegas
Accommodation: The Strat Hotel & Casino (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Strat Hotel & Casino (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Get ready for a full-blown, non-stop assault on the senses. This is Las Vegas - sometimes known as Sin City - a place of dreams & epic debauchery. This huge man-made entertainment precinct in the middle of the desert is all about total excess. You’ll be blinded by the bright lights and gob smacked at the thought of all that money running through more than 75 massive casinos. On arrival, enjoy a tour of the famous ‘Strip’, including a stop for pics at the legendary Vegas sign will show you just what is on offer after dark in this absolutely outrageous city. Fremont Street is on tonight's agenda, where the main attraction is a super impressive light and laser show, before no doubt heading out and straight into what Vegas is all about.
Day 7: Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Accommodation: The Strat Hotel & Casino (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Strat Hotel & Casino (or similar)
You have today all to yourself but you’ll need to run to a tight schedule to fit in all of Vegas' weird and wonderful charms. Travel the world in a day, taking in the famous Bellagio fountain, a Venetian gondola and even an Egyptian pyramid, all whilst staying firmly within the city's realm. Feeling romantic? Stop by and see one of the many Elvis impersonators for a shotgun wedding ceremony, and maybe even get hitched yourself...(joking). Tonight you’ll witness the 24-hour party scene first hand when you head out for a night with the crew.
Day 8: Las Vegas To Oakhurst Via Barstow
Location: Las Vegas, Barstow
Accommodation: The Pines Resort (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Pines Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
From the ridiculously flashy Vegas ‘Strip’ to the outdoor capital of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this change of scenery will bring you and the crew back to nature again. Hungry for In n Out Burger? Dumb question. Get your fast food fix on this West Coast takeaway fave, then sit back and relax as we head to our next destination. Welcome to Oakhurst, a tranquil little town close to the Yosemite entrance. It's been a long day of travel, so wind down at our hotel and take in the picturesque surroundings. Fancy a dip in the pool? You got it! Nothing like much needed R&R after fast and furious Vegas.
Day 9: Oakhurst (Including Yosemite National Park)
Location: Yosemite National Park
Accommodation: The Pines Resort (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Pines Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's the day! We're hitting up the oh-so-lovely Yosemite. The breathtaking majesty of Yosemite National Park can only be truly appreciated in person. A land inundated with mountains, waterfalls, wildflowers & rock formations, you can stick to your trusty two feet or jump on a mountain bike to explore. Back at our Oakhurst base, you have the option to take a dip in the pool once again, if you like. Just make sure to get a good night's sleep, cuz tomorrow the Golden Gate City is gonna be all ours to explore.
Day 10: Oakhurst To San Francisco
Location: San Francisco
Accommodation: Hotel Zephyr (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Zephyr (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Oakhurst, it's time to go. Bid farewell to this achingly picturesque spot, and get ready for some city magic. After getting a dose of San Fran exploring, spend your final night with your Contiki fam with an included dinner. There's no better way to reminisce than over a delicious meal.
Day 11: End San Francisco
Location: San Francisco
And just like that, it's time for the journey to come to an end. It's been more than real, & we sense more travels on the horizon.
What's Included
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Dining Summary
The tour includes 4 dinners and 7 breakfasts.
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Los Angeles Experience
Explore the palm-lined playground of the rich and famous, visit the red pagoda on Hollywood Boulevard, and soak up the Cali vibes at the iconic pier.
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Phoenix Experience
Enjoy an Arizonan BBQ dinner at Rustler’s Rooste and explore Scottsdale Old Town.
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Grand Canyon Experience
Hike the South Rim for awesome views and enjoy a full day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Las Vegas Experience
Tour the famous 'Strip', enjoy a light and laser show on Fremont Street, and explore the city's unique attractions.
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Yosemite National Park Experience
Orientation of the Yosemite Valley to explore Half Dome, El Capitan, and Cook’s Meadow.
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San Francisco Experience
Stroll around the hilly streets, taking in the sights of the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.
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Transport
Travel along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, explore the desert landscapes of Arizona, and experience the vibrant cityscapes of Las Vegas and San Francisco, all while enjoying the convenience of organized transportation throughout the tour.
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Accommodation
Stay in comfort at a variety of accommodations including the Kawada Hotel in Los Angeles, Days Hotel San Diego, Days Inn by Wyndham Mesa, Red Feather Lodge at the Grand Canyon, The Strat Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, The Pines Resort at Bass Lake, and Hotel Zephyr in San Francisco.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a hot air balloon ride over Phoenix and a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
Dining Summary
4 Dinner (D)7 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
Los Angeles: This needs no introduction. See the palm-lined playground of the rich and famous!Los Angeles: Sure, it’s a bit random. But this red pagoda on Hollywood Boulevard has held more movie premieres than you’ve had hot dinners.Los Angeles: Soak up those cool Cali vibes and explore the iconic pier and array of boutiques, bars and eateries.Phoenix:Grand Canyon: Lace up your walking boots and pack some extra water. The South Rim is a must-do hike for awesome Grand Canyon views.Grand Canyon: An experience you’ll want to relive in your mind. Over and over again. #travelgoalsLas Vegas: Just when you thought Vegas couldn’t get any crazier, this nightly light show comes along and proves you wrong. Intense!Las Vegas: Where else would you find the Eiffel Tower and a Sphinx on the same street? See all the weird and wonderful Vegas highlights.Yosemite National Park: An orientation of the Yosemite Valley to prep you for a day of exploring. See Half Dome, El Capitan and Cook’s Meadow.San Francisco: Stroll around the hilly streets of San Fran, taking in the sights of the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.
FAQs
Los Angeles: What should I pack? This trip involves visiting National Parks, so expect to be walking and light hiking when visiting all the viewpoints listed. It’s a good idea to pack appropriate clothing for light hiking, swimming and biking. Closed shoes are required for most activities.Los Angeles: What will the weather be like? The climate in this region is extremely varied. In shoulder season (May, September, and October) you can expect temperatures to vary between single digits and warm sunny days, while from June until September temperatures can reach well above 30 C (86 F). It is always a good idea to bring a warm windproof jacket. No matter which time of year you decide to travel, it can get quite cool at night especially outside of the cities, so we recommend that you bring a warm jacket or fleece.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes organized transportation throughout, allowing you to travel along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, explore the desert landscapes of Arizona, and experience the vibrant cityscapes of Las Vegas and San Francisco.
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What types of accommodations are included in the tour?
The tour includes stays at a variety of accommodations such as the Kawada Hotel in Los Angeles, Days Hotel San Diego, Days Inn by Wyndham Mesa, Red Feather Lodge at the Grand Canyon, The Strat Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, The Pines Resort at Bass Lake, and Hotel Zephyr in San Francisco.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 4 dinners and 7 breakfasts as part of the package.
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What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities include a hot air balloon ride over Phoenix and a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, which are not included in the tour package.
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What should I pack for the tour?
It's recommended to pack appropriate clothing for light hiking, swimming, and biking, as the tour involves visiting National Parks. Closed shoes are required for most activities. Additionally, bring a warm windproof jacket as temperatures can vary, especially at night.
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What is the weather like during the tour?
The climate in the region is extremely varied. During the shoulder season (May, September, and October), temperatures can range from single digits to warm sunny days. From June to September, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F). It can get quite cool at night, especially outside of the cities, so a warm jacket or fleece is recommended.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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