California's Pacific Coast Highway
Plus San Francisco
November 13 - November 19, 2026This trip combines the rugged beauty along California's Pacific Coast Highway with San Francisco, one of our favorite cities. Join us as we make our way down to the Monterey Peninsula and the famous 17-Mile Drive. We'll see the beauty and charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur and enjoy the incredible vistas available from these charming seaside towns. We conclude with 2 days in the City by the Bay where the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge enshrouded in fog is a sight to behold. Be sure to hop aboard a cable car for an unforgettable ride. This tour is one of our most popular West Coast itineraries for good reason.
California's Pacific Coast Highway
November 13 - November 19, 2026Highlights
- See John Steinbeck's Monterey
- Drive the famed 17-Mile Drive
- Tour San Francisco, the City by the Bay
- Cruise the bay to Alcatraz
- Take in the vistas of the California coastline
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for additional things to see
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 60% Easy (city walking involved)
- 40% Moderate (nature walks and drive times)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Friday, 13 November 2026: Arrive San Jose, CA; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into San Jose no later than 3:30 pm. Make your way to the hotel, check in and relax a bit before our Welcome Meeting at 5:30pm in the lobby of our hotel. Following this meeting, we will enjoy dinner together to get better acquainted and discuss the week's upcoming adventures. Overnight San Jose - 1 night
Saturday, 14 November 2026: Leisurely Drive to Monterey; Free Time in Monterey (B,L)
We begin our journey south to Monterey, taking the scenic route to better appreciate this part of California. After arriving in Monterey in the late afternoon and checking into our hotel, there will be time to stroll along Cannery Row--immortalized in John Steinbeck's novel of the same name--and Old Fisherman's Wharf. This is also the best time to visit world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium (not included) if you're so inclined. Overnight Monterey - 2 nights
Sunday, 15 November 2026: Drive the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur (B,L)
Superlatives don't do justice to the sweeping views we'll see as we drive along one of the most scenic portions of the legendary Pacific Coast Highway today. The drive from Monterey to Big Sur and beyond is where the PCH really shines with non-stop ocean vistas and jagged coastlines. We'll cross Bixby Bridge, one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world and one of the most photographed bridges on the Pacific Coast. To truly appreciate this area, we have planned a leisurely walk along the McWay Falls Trail to an 80-foot waterfall that plunges from the cliffs into the Pacific. We'll take time to enjoy lunch together in the laid-back community of Big Sur before returning to Monterery this afternoon.
Monday, 16 November 2026: 17-Mile Drive; Carmel-by-the-Sea; Drive to San Francisco (B,L)
We're in for another unforgettable day as we take in 17-Mile Drive, the scenic road through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, known for its elite golf courses and large mansions. There are many places to pull over and take in the beauty and we'll do just that. We'll stop at the inspiring and iconic Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees in the world believed to be at least 250 years old, and behold the power of the Restless Sea at Point Joe where early mariners often crashed upon the rocks. We'll enjoy lunch together in Carmel-by-the-Sea, one of the most charming small towns in California. Later this afternoon, we'll make our way back up to the City by the Bay. Overnight San Francisco - 3 nights
Tuesday, 17 November 2026: San Francisco City Tour; Alcatraz (L)
San Francisco is one of the world’s great cities with a golden bridge, steep hills, a sparkling bay, and streets lined with elegant Victorian homes. Our day begins with a city tour that will take us past many famous landmarks and provide a glimpse into the history of this fascinating city. Later this afternoon, we'll board a boat to what was once perhaps the most famous prison in the world, Alcatraz. This will give us a different perspective of the city from the water, as well as provide an interesting look into the island known as "The Rock."
Wednesday, 18 November 2026: Free Day in San Francisco (D)
Today is yours to do as you wish and enjoy all San Francisco has to offer. Perhaps you'd like to explore one of the city's well-known neighborhoods such as Chinatown or North Beach. Or take a steep walk along the crookedest street in the world. And don't forget to ride one of those famous cable cars (dating from the late 1800s) designed to cope with all the steep hills. Your Tour Leader will have suggestions to make the most of your time. We gather for our Farewell Dinner tonight and talk about our adventures of the week.
Thursday, 19 November 2026: Return Home from San Francisco
Alas, it is time to return home. Depart at you convenience. Based on the departure time you provide WTT, your Tour Leader can assist with organizing travelers into small groups so you can ride-share to the airport if you wish.
California's Pacific Coast Highway
November 13 - November 19, 2026Pricing
Room Share
$3,038.00Single Room
$4,280.00Non-Members
ADD $50.00Status of this Tour
More than 1/2 Full
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation from your home and return to your home
- Airport transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any gratuities for the WTT tour leader
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Sunday, 17 May 2026: Last day $250 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Saturday, 15 Aug 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Tuesday, 29 Sep 2026 results in a cancellation penalty of 50% of your Total Tour Cost.
Tuesday, 29 Sep 2026: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after
your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your
cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate.
WTT is not licensed to sell travel insurance. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
California's Pacific Coast Highway
November 13 - November 19, 2026Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Arrival & Departure Information
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: SJC - San Jose, CA (Mineta San Jose Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Friday, November 13th. Arrive no later than 3:30pm.
Arrival Transfer: Use local taxi or shuttle service. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: SFO - San Francisco, CA (San Francisco Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Thursday, November 19th. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
San Jose: Hotel Valencia Santana Row
Monterey: Victorian Inn
San Francisco: Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf SF
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour state date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Winchester Mystery House Tour
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$435.00 Roomshare pp $738.00 Single Occupancy
The pre-tour package is an optional service. Rates are established at time of tour posting. Early check-in is solely at the discretion of the hotel and cannot be arranged in advance.
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
California's Pacific Coast Highway
November 13 - November 19, 2026Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 60% Easy (city walking involved)
- 40% Moderate (nature walks and drive times)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and gluten-free dietary restrictions can be accommodated on this tour with limited selections.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
For This Tour You May Want—
- Comfortable walking shoes with good tread that are sturdy for walking over a variety of terrain
- Sunscreen, hat and /or sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
We will use the WTT Coach. Luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicle and the requirement that travelers manage their belongings on their own.
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase and a day pack or shoulder bag to keep with you in the coach.
- Maximum suitcase size: 22-24 inches in height. This is the size of bag that fits into the overhead bins of aircraft. Suitcases larger than this will not fit properly in the WTT coach; don't bring them.
- The weight of your bag should not exceed 30 pounds as you will need to lift it into the coach luggage compartment.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach and load it on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient. The possibility of steps exist at most hotel entrances.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
All tips to local guides during your tour will be paid on your behalf.
- You are responsible for tipping waitstaff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel or other public locations.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
California's Pacific Coast Highway
November 13 - November 19, 2026SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.
Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.