3 Days Private Pacific Tour to Big Sur Hearst Castle and more

Explore California’s Most Iconic Sights in 3 Days with Photravel Adventures

This private 3-day tour from Los Angeles, priced at $2,990 for groups up to 4, offers an immersive journey through some of California’s most breathtaking locations. With fully customizable itineraries, the tour combines natural beauty, historic landmarks, and picture-perfect scenery. From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur and the iconic Bixby Bridge to the grandeur of Hearst Castle and charming Santa Barbara, each day is packed with memorable stops and photo opportunities. The tour features private transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, and bottled water, making it a comfortable and flexible experience tailored to your interests.

While the tour includes many highlights, travelers should be aware that meals and hotel accommodations are not included. This setup suits those who appreciate personalized attention and a leisurely pace, with the ability to add special stops like Fort Ross or be dropped in San Francisco. Led by local guides dedicated to creating an extraordinary adventure, this tour promises a combination of natural wonders, cultural sites, and fun photo spots.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable 3-day tour departing from Los Angeles
• Cost: $2,990 per group (up to 4 people)
• Includes transportation, bottled water, parking, and entry fees for specific sites
• Highlights include Big Sur, Bixby Bridge, Sand Dollar Beach, and Hearst Castle
• Stops at charming towns like Solvang and Carmel, plus scenic hikes and viewpoints
• Ideal for those seeking personalized, leisurely exploration of California’s coast and landmarks

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Los Angeles

The tour begins bright and early at 7:30 am in Los Angeles, with private transportation provided throughout the three days. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped to handle the group comfortably, ensuring a smooth ride between stops. Pickup is offered, simplifying the logistics for travelers staying in or near Los Angeles. The entire experience is designed to be flexible, with the opportunity to discuss additional stops or drop-offs, such as San Francisco, with the tour provider.

Because the tour is private, your group enjoys a personalized experience, avoiding crowded tours and long lines. The confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with straightforward physical requirements for the hikes and scenic stops. Cancellation policies allow full refunds if canceled at least 6 days in advance, making it a low-risk option for planning ahead.

Day 1: Charming Solvang and Big Sur’s Stunning Coastal Views

The journey kicks off with a visit to Solvang, a Danish-inspired town in California’s Central Coast. During approximately 1.5 hours, you wander colorful streets, admire windmills, and explore local delis—a delightful taste of European charm. This stop is perfect for snapping photos and enjoying a relaxed start to your trip.

Next, the tour heads to the Elephant Seal Vista Point, where you observe marine mammals in their natural habitat. The 30-minute walk along the beach reveals curious elephant seals soaking up the sun, a fascinating sight for nature lovers. Admission is included, giving you an up-close view of these impressive creatures.

The scenic drive continues to Ragged Point, a renowned overlook along the Pacific Coast. During an hour here, you can capture sweeping vistas of the coastline, take photos with the famous Ragged Point Sign, and simply breathe in the fresh ocean air. The location offers ample room for pictures and reflection on the journey ahead.

From Ragged Point, travelers visit Sand Dollar Beach, known for its expansive sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters. A visit lasting around 1 hour provides time to relax on the beach, walk along the shore, or enjoy the view of the rugged cliffs. The stop is included in the tour, making it easy to enjoy a peaceful moment amid the scenery.

If desired, the tour can include a visit to Sensorio in Paso Robles, an outdoor art installation that arrives just before sunset. This optional stop takes about 2 hours but is not included in the base price, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience.

Day 2: Coastal Charm from Carmel to Big Sur’s Natural Marvels

The second day begins in Carmel, where a relaxing 1.5-hour breakfast is an ideal way to enjoy the town’s cozy cafes and boutique shops. If staying in Carmel, a local guide can suggest additional sights or walking routes to make the most of this quaint area before heading out.

A short 10-minute drive takes you to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a highlight for visitors seeking dramatic coastal scenery. During a 30-minute walk, you explore rugged coastline, tide pools, and hidden coves—perfect for photography or a quick nature fix.

Next, a brief 15-minute walk up Soberanes Point Trail leads you to Whale Peak, a 266-foot summit offering panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. This easy hike takes about 15 to 20 minutes, making it accessible even for casual walkers.

The tour then stops at Bixby Bridge, an architectural marvel from 1932. The 10-minute stop allows for photos of the stunning arch set against cliffs and ocean vistas. The site is one of California’s most photographed landmarks, thanks to its breathtaking setting.

A short 10-minute drive brings you to Point Sur State Historic Park, home to a lighthouse perched on volcanic rock. The 15-minute visit offers scenic photo opportunities of this rugged landmark, though the admission fee is not included in the tour.

Next, Pfeiffer Beach welcomes visitors for about 1 hour to walk along the purple sands and explore the unique rock formations. This famous Big Sur beach is known for its striking scenery and photo-ready vistas, making it a highlight of the trip.

From there, the journey continues to Partington Cove, where a 30-minute walk leads down to a secluded coastal cove. The trail winds through lush greenery and rocky terrain, making it a scenic spot for a moment of quiet amidst nature.

The iconic McWay Falls is the last stop before returning south. During a 45-minute visit, a short walk reveals a waterfall cascading onto the beach below—a picture-perfect scene that captures Big Sur’s wild beauty.

In the evening, the tour drives approximately 1 hour back to Monterey for dinner at the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. The lively waterfront offers a variety of seafood restaurants, with fresh catches and local specialties available in a relaxed setting.

Day 3: Majestic Hearst Castle and Santa Barbara’s Coastal Charm

The third day begins with a delicious breakfast before heading north to Hearst Castle. The visit lasts around 4 hours, during which guests explore the grand estate perched above the California coast. The tour includes an admission fee to the castle, ensuring access to the opulent rooms, art collections, and sweeping terraces.

After the castle tour, the group embarks on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Santa Barbara. The city’s picturesque waterfront and historic architecture set the stage for a relaxing dinner along the pier, with many seafood options available.

If time permits, a brief walk along Pier Santa Barbara offers additional photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the ocean breeze. The day wraps up with a peaceful evening in this charming coastal city.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Personalization and Scenic Variety

The fully private nature of this tour means you have the flexibility to customize stops and extend time at favorite locations. The local guides are dedicated to creating a tailored experience, whether that involves visiting Fort Ross or arranging a drop-off in San Francisco.

The itinerary balances natural wonders like McWay Falls and Sand Dollar Beach with cultural landmarks such as Hearst Castle and charming towns like Solvang and Carmel. Every stop is selected for its photo potential and scenic impact, making this tour ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of California’s coast.

While the tour offers many included attractions, some stops, like Sensorio and Point Sur, are optional and not included in the base price, giving flexibility to tailor the experience further.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This private tour is perfect for small groups seeking a personalized journey through California’s coast and landmarks. It suits travelers who appreciate flexibility, scenic drives, and photo opportunities. The tour’s pace allows for leisurely exploration and short hikes, making it accessible to most physically able guests.

Because meals and hotel stays are not included, this tour works best for those who prefer to plan their own dining and accommodations. It is especially appealing to photographers, families, or small groups looking for a detailed, curated experience without the crowds of larger tours.

The Sum Up: A Customizable Coastal Adventure from Los Angeles

The 3 Days Private Pacific Tour offers a flexible way to discover California’s stunning coastline, historic sites, and charming towns. The expertly curated stops and personalized approach make it a strong choice for those wanting a tailored experience with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views.

While the tour’s price includes several key attractions and private transportation, it’s important to remember that meals and accommodations are separate. The optional stops like Sensorio or additional drop-offs can be added to suit interests, making this a highly adaptable journey.

This tour delivers a comfortable, scenic, and customizable exploration of California’s most celebrated coastlines and landmarks—ideal for small groups eager to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed, personalized trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves some short hikes and walking, but the overall pace is manageable for most physically able travelers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully private and customizable, allowing you to add stops like Fort Ross or arrange drop-offs in other locations.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. The tour focuses on sightseeing, with options to explore local restaurants at stops like Monterey and Santa Barbara.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the start date for a full refund. Cancellations later than that are subject to different refund policies.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is designed for groups of up to 4 people, perfect for families or small groups seeking a personalized experience.