LA: San Francisco, Yosemite, Santa Barbara & Carmel, 3-Days

Experience the Best of California in 3 Days — Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of checking off some of California’s most iconic sights but only have a short window, a 3-day tour like this might be just what you need. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, we’ve spent plenty of time on similar tours, and from what we see, it offers a whirlwind opportunity to see California’s urban charm and stunning outdoors.

What really draws us in is the chance to visit places like Yosemite National Park and San Francisco, plus charming coastal towns like Carmel and Santa Barbara—all in just a few days. We also appreciate that this tour packs in two nights of accommodations and a driver-guide, making logistics a lot simpler.

On the flip side, with such a tight schedule and a lot of ground to cover, there’s a chance you’ll feel a bit rushed—especially if you love lingering at each spot or want a more relaxed pace. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a quick, rundown rather than an in-depth exploration of each destination.

If your idea of a trip is ticking off big sights without worrying about every detail, this could be perfect. But if you prefer more time at each stop or detailed local experiences, you might want to consider a longer or more leisurely trip.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary covering California highlights in just 3 days.
• Knowledgeable guides and a well-organized schedule, according to reviews.
• Stunning scenery and city sights packed into a manageable trip.
• Potential for feeling rushed, especially on the last day.
• Variety of stops, from outdoor parks to charming towns and bustling cities.
• Good value for the comprehensive experience, including hotel and some activities.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day California Coast Tour

This tour is marketed as a fast-track way to see some of California’s most famous spots—from beaches to mountains and vibrant cities. It’s run by Empire Vacations and costs around $620 per person, which for a three-day trip, isn’t bad when you factor in the included accommodations, some entrance fees, and activities like the San Francisco Bay cruise.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in either an air-conditioned van or full-sized bus, depending on the group size. The reviews suggest this is generally comfortable, though there have been some service hiccups, such as bus breakdowns. It’s worth noting that some travelers found the traffic and long hours in coach to be tiring, especially if you’re not used to spending so much time on a bus.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which strikes a balance between being able to see everything and avoiding the chaos of a very large tour.

Pricing and Value

At $620, this tour offers a lot—visiting multiple states, natural wonders, and cities in just three days. Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially if you want a snapshot of California rather than a slow, detailed exploration. However, some mention that the hotel quality in Modesto was quite basic, and this could impact overall comfort.

The Itinerary — What to Expect

Day 1: Coastal California & Santa Barbara

The trip kicks off early, often around 6:30 am, from a central LA meeting point. Expect to head straight north along the coast, with the route depending on the season. During summer, you’ll visit Old Mission Santa Barbara, a historic site that reveals how Spanish missions shaped California’s development. This spot is a favorite for many, offering not only a look into the past but also lovely surroundings.

Next, you’ll stop in Solvang, a charming Danish town. The reviews emphasize the quaint architecture, Danish bakeries, and shops—perfect for a quick browse and snack. From there, you’re headed to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a town loved for its artistic vibe, walkable streets, and scenic coastline.

The highlight of the day is the 17-Mile Drive, often considered one of the most beautiful scenic routes in the world. If you’re on a full-sized coach, you’ll get to enjoy the drive through the drive itself, with views of the coastline, Pebble Beach, and famous golf courses. It’s a truly postcard-worthy drive, and travelers often mention how stunning the scenery is.

After exploring Carmel, you’ll head to your hotel near Silicon Valley for the night. Some reviews mention that the hotels in Modesto or Santa Clara were basic—so don’t expect luxury, but they’re generally acceptable.

Day 2: San Francisco & Bay Area

This is the big city day. The morning includes a walk around San Francisco City Hall, followed by a cruise from Fisherman’s Wharf, taking you under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island. The boat cruise is highly praised, offering a memorable perspective of the city’s skyline and iconic bridge.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore neighborhoods like Chinatown and Sausalito, and head up to Twin Peaks for panoramic views. These stops give you a taste of San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods—definitely a highlight for many travelers.

Reviews mention that guides do their best to balance the busy schedule, and many praise the expertise of guides like Roberto and Dorit. However, some find the pace a bit hurried, especially if they want more time at scenic viewpoints or shopping.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures or Historic Sites

The last day varies with the season. During summer, you’ll head east into Yosemite National Park, where you’ll visit landmarks like El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome. This is a true highlight—many reviews describe Yosemite as awe-inspiring, with waterfalls, giant granite formations, and majestic views.

In winter months, the plan switches to a visit to Hearst Castle, a historic estate with sprawling grounds and impressive architecture. This flexibility makes sense depending on weather conditions and accessibility.

The return trip down the coast wraps up the tour, with scenic drives either along the coast itself or via the famous 17-Mile Drive, depending on availability and season.

What Travelers Love

Many reviews mention knowledgeable guides who make the tour more engaging. For example, one reviewer appreciated Roberto’s storytelling, noting his “incredible amount of historical knowledge.” Others enjoyed the spectacular views, especially on the Pacific Coast Highway and the scenic drives through Carmel and Pebble Beach.

Travelers also appreciated the variety of destinations—from beaches and charming towns to world-famous parks and cityscapes. The Bay cruise in San Francisco is often highlighted as a memorable experience that offers great photo ops and a different perspective of the city.

The Downsides — What to Watch Out For

Some reviews point out that the schedule can be rushed. For example, one said, “Most of sightseeing was rushed,” which is a common theme in short tours covering so much ground. If you’re someone who prefers to linger at each spot, this might be frustrating.

Vehicle breakdowns have also been reported, with some travelers describing long waits due to bus issues. While these seem to be isolated incidents, they underscore why it’s important to be flexible.

Hotel quality is another aspect to consider. Some found the accommodations in Modesto or Santa Clara to be quite basic, with limited amenities or renovations ongoing. This might not be a deal-breaker if your priority is seeing the sights rather than luxury lodging.

Is It Worth the Price?

For $620, you get a lot—multiple destinations, guided commentary, some entrance fees, and two nights of hotel. Reviews suggest that many travelers feel it’s good value, especially if you want a rundown in a short time.

However, keep in mind that the cost does not include meals beyond breakfast or tips, so budget accordingly. Also, some feel that the experience is a bit too packed, and a longer trip might allow for more relaxed exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits those who want to maximize their California experience in a short period. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a quick overview of the coast, Yosemite, and San Francisco, without the hassle of organizing transport and accommodations.

If you’re comfortable spending long hours in a coach and don’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll find this tour offers great highlights and expert guides. However, if you’re looking for a leisurely trip or are sensitive to bus breakdowns and basic hotels, you might want to consider a more relaxed itinerary or a longer stay.

It’s also a good fit for outdoor lovers who don’t mind a bit of a rush, as Yosemite and Hearst Castle are included depending on the season.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day California tour provides a practical, reasonably priced way to see some of the state’s most famous sights. The guides are well-liked and the scenery is spectacular, often earning praise for the views and informative commentary. The inclusion of transportation, accommodations, and activities makes it a convenient package—especially for those who prefer not to organize each detail themselves.

That said, the trip does ask for a tolerance for long travel hours and rushed sightseeing. The hotel quality can vary, and occasional vehicle issues have been reported, so flexibility is key.

If your goal is to get a taste of California’s diversity—beaches, mountains, cities, and historic sites—and you’re okay with a fast-paced adventure, this could be a good pick. For those wanting a more laid-back experience or to explore at their own pace, consider spreading out the trip or choosing a longer tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
No, you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting points listed in the tour. Parking is available at both locations, and ride-shares are an option.

What vehicles are used for transportation?
Depending on the group size, you’ll be traveling in either a comfortable air-conditioned bus or van.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided on full-sized coaches, but it’s mainly for browsing and messaging—not streaming or heavy use.

Can I bring children or infants?
Children under 2 can travel free as lap children with a paying adult. Car seats are available if requested with at least 24 hours notice, and strollers are allowed—just not included in luggage, so plan accordingly.

How many hotel rooms will I get?
One room per reservation, with a maximum of three guests per room. If traveling with a larger group, make separate bookings with notes about traveling together.

What should I expect in terms of pace?
Most travelers agree the schedule is packed, with little time at each stop. Be prepared for a busy three days with early mornings and long drives.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included for two mornings. Other meals are at your own expense, with options available at each stop.

What if the bus breaks down?
Some reviews mention bus issues, but the tour company seems to respond quickly with replacements. Flexibility and patience are helpful, especially in unforeseen circumstances.

In all, this tour offers a snapshot of California’s famed landscapes and cities—perfect if you’re looking for a guided, hassle-free experience and don’t mind a fast pace. Just pack your sense of adventure and a bit of patience for a memorable quick trip through the Golden State.