From LA: SF, Yosemite, Santa Barbara and Carmel 3-Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing California’s most iconic sights in just a few days, this 3-day tour from Los Angeles might be exactly what you need. Offered by Amadeo Travel, this trip packs in a surprising amount of highlights—from the breathtaking vistas of Yosemite to the charming streets of Carmel, and the famous landmarks of San Francisco. It’s a whirlwind adventure, but one designed thoughtfully to balance sightseeing, comfort, and authentic experiences.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it blends scenic drives with culturally rich stops. The inclusion of a bay cruise, visits to iconic landmarks, and comfortable accommodations helps create a well-rounded experience. However, it’s worth noting that because of the packed itinerary, some might find the pace a bit quick, especially if you love lingering in each spot. This tour suits travelers who want to see a lot without sacrificing comfort, and who don’t mind a fairly full schedule.

This trip offers great value for those keen on capturing the essence of California in just three days. Whether you’re coming from out of state or a visitor with limited time, it provides a practical and enjoyable way to tick many boxes—and maybe even fall a little in love with the Golden State along the way.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major sights like Yosemite, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Carmel.
• Comfortable Transportation & Accommodation: Air-conditioned buses and 2-night hotel stays offer convenience and rest.
• Expert Guides: Guides provide insightful commentary, with reviews highlighting their friendliness and knowledge.
• Scenic Drives: Notable routes include the famous 17-Mile Drive and California coast corridors, offering spectacular views.
• Balanced Experience: Combines sightseeing, cultural stops, and some free time, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Mixed Seasons: Summer includes Yosemite, while winter shifts focus to Monterey and Carmel, adjusting to seasonal highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, Carmel, and the Scenic Coast

The journey begins in Los Angeles, heading north along California’s stunning coast. In summer, the route takes you through the famous 17-Mile Drive, renowned for its jaw-dropping ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and luxurious golf courses. Travelers will love the chance to see iconic sights like Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress. One reviewer noted that the drive “offers spectacular views,” making it a memorable start.

In Santa Barbara, you’ll visit a Spanish Mission that played a key role in the early development of California. The architecture and history provide a window into the past. For those with a sweet tooth, a stop in Solvang, a charming Danish village, offers a chance to browse bakeries and boutique shops. Here, the atmosphere is cozy and distinctly European, a nice break from the coast’s rugged beauty.

The highlight for many is Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its fairy-tale cottages and Clint Eastwood’s former hometown. You have free time to stroll the art-filled streets, perhaps stopping for a coffee or browsing galleries. This segment balances scenic beauty with cultural charm, making it a favorite among travelers.

In winter, the route shifts slightly to include Santa Barbara’s downtown, with stops at the State Street promenade, beaches, and Stearns Wharf. After lunch, a scenic drive through Silicon Valley provides a look into California’s tech hub before arriving at your hotel in Oakland.

Day 2: San Francisco – The Classic Bay and City Tour

The day kicks off at Fisherman’s Wharf, where many travelers love the lively atmosphere and fresh seafood. The bay cruise is often praised for its excellent views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge—two icons that define San Francisco’s skyline and history. Several reviews mention that the cruise offers “great views,” and makes for a fantastic photo opportunity.

Following the cruise, you’ll return to Pier 39 for lunch. Afterwards, the guided city tour hits all the highlights—Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Union Square, and Nob Hill. The guides are often singled out for their friendliness and deep knowledge, with one reviewer calling Roberto and Feng “AMAZING” guides. Expect to see the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own vibe, and to hear engaging insights about San Francisco’s layered history.

Overnight stays vary depending on the season: Summer travelers stay in Modesto, while winter guests remain in Oakland, making logistics straightforward.

Day 3: From Yosemite or Monterey to Los Angeles

For summer visitors, the highlight is Yosemite National Park. The drive east takes you through the fertile Joaquin Valley, with stops at El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and the impressive Half Dome. Yosemite’s sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls often leave travelers speechless, and reviews confirm this. “We loved the way Yosemite was included in the trip,” one traveler said, “seeing El Capitan and Bridal Veil Falls in one day was unforgettable.”

In winter, the focus shifts to the idyllic towns of Monterey and Carmel. The tour includes a visit to the famous Cannery Row and the picturesque streets of Carmel, perfect for leisurely strolling and appreciating local art and architecture. The coastal drive along Route 1 offers jaw-dropping views of cliffs and waves, with some travelers noting that small vehicles travel the southern part of the route, allowing for more intimate sightseeing.

The return to Los Angeles wraps up the trip, with many travelers feeling they’ve seen a generous slice of California’s diverse scenery and culture.

Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise as a major plus. One traveler from the U.S. said, “Roberto was AMAZING… stops for bathrooms and nice hotels made the trip so smooth.” This attention to comfort turns what could be a stressful schedule into a relaxed exploration, especially appreciated on a multi-day tour.

The scenic drives, like the 17-Mile Drive and California coast routes, are often mentioned as the trip’s most memorable parts. These routes offer jaw-dropping vistas that you could spend hours photographing. The inclusion of a bay cruise in San Francisco is a real highlight; it’s a chance to see the city’s landmarks from the water, which many travelers find magical.

The accommodation, generally at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott, receives praise for its quality and convenience. The breakfast included each morning adds good value, helping travelers start the day energized.

Conversely, some mention the quick pace—there’s a lot to see, and time is tight. If you dislike feeling rushed or prefer long, lingering visits, this might not suit you perfectly. Still, most agree the itinerary hits the right balance for a memorable overview.

While prices aren’t explicitly listed here, reviews suggest that the experience offers good value considering the included amenities: round-trip transportation, two nights in quality hotels, a bay cruise, and guided commentary. The inclusion of Yosemite admission in summer adds extra appeal for outdoor lovers.

You’ll save on the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs and accommodation bookings, making this a practical choice for travelers who want an efficient, guided experience. The ability to enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and natural wonders without the stress of navigating or booking independently makes it attractive, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking a rundown of California’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect if you want a mix of natural beauty, city sights, and coastal charm—all with the comfort of guided tours and comfortable hotels.

It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate insightful guides, scenic routes, and memorable experiences like bay cruises. The moderate pace and included amenities make it ideal for older travelers or families who prefer convenience but still want an authentic taste of California.

However, if you’re the type who wants to linger longer at specific spots or explore off the beaten path, you might find the schedule a bit too tight. Similarly, if you’re a foodie looking for gourmet experiences, note that food and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

This 3-day California tour offers an engaging mix of landscapes, cultures, and iconic sights—all delivered with knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations. It provides excellent value for travelers eager to see a broad swath of the Golden State without the stress of logistics.

The inclusion of Yosemite, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Carmel ensures you’ll come away with a well-rounded impression of California’s diversity. The scenic drives alone are worth the price, and the guided commentary enriches your understanding of what you’re seeing.

Most reviewers agree the highlights—like the bay cruise, Yosemite’s waterfalls, and the coastal vistas—live up to the hype, making this an enjoyable, hassle-free way to experience California’s best in just a few days.

If your goal is to check off many must-see sights with comfort and expert guidance, this tour stands out as a practical, memorable choice. Travelers who value quality transportation, insightful guides, and a balanced itinerary will find it hard to beat.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, all ages are allowed. Infants will need a backpack or chest carrier to comfortably enjoy the trip.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as there will be some walking at stops like Santa Barbara Mission and Carmel. Don’t forget your camera and a jacket, especially for coastal and Yosemite visits.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to budget extra for lunches and snacks, especially in San Francisco and Carmel.

What are the accommodations like?
Most travelers stay at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport, praised for its quality and convenience. Breakfast is generally included.

How long are the driving segments?
Expect long stretches between sights, especially when traveling from LA to Yosemite or Monterey. The scenic routes are worth it, but prepare for some hours on the bus.

Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, guides are offered in various languages and provide engaging commentary throughout the trip, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a structured guided tour, customization options are limited. However, the stops and highlights are designed to give you a broad experience of California’s best.

This 3-day tour from Los Angeles offers a vibrant taste of California’s natural beauty, urban charm, and coastal splendor. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a lively, well-organized way to make the most of a short trip—and maybe even get a little inspired to come back and explore more in depth.

You can check availability for your dates here: