Your free time in Santa Barbara - Scott Dunn suggests

Carmel Valley Ranch is nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the leafy vineyards of Carmel. An ideal base to explore the Carmel and Monterey region, the resort offers both a superb chance to relax and explore.

Located near exclusive Nob Hill and close to the heart of downtown San Francisco and Union Square, the historic Ritz Carlton offers guests a timeless escape into luxury. With a cable car stop right outside it's also perfectly placed for exploring too.

Stanly Ranch is a 21st century luxury resort, winery and residential community set in over 700 acres of rolling green vineyards.

Located in San Francisco's trendy SoMA district, St Regis San Francisco is a luxurious city hotel with a contemporary edge. Boasting stylish interiors and well-appointed lavish suites, the St Regis is perfect for families exploring the city by the bay.

Sophisticated and playful in equal measure, this hotel is the epitome of laid-back California cool with a prime location on West Hollywood’s iconic Sunset Boulevard.

Rewarding guests with spectacular views of the Pacific Big Sur coastline, Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, is an adults only retreat, brimming with pampering amenities and perfectly placed to explore this remarkable stretch of the California coast.

A historic Mediterranean-style Santa Barbara retreat with romantic bungalows, spa, coastal dining, and easy access to beaches, wine country, and the Channel Islands.

Enviably located just steps from the beach, Hotel Californian is a celebration of Spanish Colonial architecture and modern style and design. Featuring a rooftop pool with panoramic ocean views, there's no better place to experience the American Riviera.

Perched 1200 feet up on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is an architectural gem, and seamlessly blends understated rustic luxury, immaculate cuisine and astounding service.

Take a private sightseeing tour aboard the Powell-Hyde streetcar, enjoying stunning views of San Francisco's landmarks, from Coit Tower to Lombard Street, with a local guide.

Soak in breathtaking views as you embark on a guided horseback ride along Santa Barbara’s sun-drenched coastline.

Set sail from Newport Beach for a half-day sailing adventure. Help hoist the sails, explore Laguna Beach's secluded coves, swim, and enjoy marine life sightings, before returning to the marina.

Enjoy a private 27-foot luxury boat tour of Lake Tahoe with a guide. Explore Tahoe City, Emerald Bay, and Camp Richardson, plus enjoy hiking, local culture, and scenic views before returning to your hotel.

Explore Joshua Tree’s wild beauty on a 1-6 mile off-trail adventure. Hike through canyons, towering rocks, and surreal vistas while your guide shares history, geology, and wildlife insights—plus optional rock scrambling!

Learn to surf along the California coast with a private expert instructor. Master wave timing, pop-ups, paddling, and ocean safety, leaving confident and ready to ride like a pro!

Set sail on a private 3-hour charter from Sausalito to San Francisco, enjoying stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city's iconic skyline.

This morning, explore Yosemite's Mariposa Grove on a private guided hike. Marvel at giant sequoias on a tailored 4- to 5-hour trek or shorter 2-hour walk. Learn their ecology, capture stunning photos, and enjoy lunch back at your hotel afterward.

Dive into Palm Springs' mid-century modern scene on a private tour. Explore iconic homes, admire interiors, and learn about architects like Wexler and Frey. See outdoor art and celebrity estates on this insider’s journey!

Experience the magic of Disneyland with a VIP guide, skipping queues and customizing your day! Meet Disney characters, enjoy top attractions, and access exclusive parade and show viewing areas.

Explore LA with a journalist guide! Bike through Venice Beach, enjoy a picnic in Santa Monica, and take a scenic coastal drive to hidden landmarks, colorful murals, and stunning ocean views.

Embark on a VIP apiary tour in Carmel Valley, donning beekeeping gear to explore a hive of 60,000 Italian honeybees. Learn about their social structure, sample fresh honey, and take home a special gift.