Your free time in Santa Barbara - Scott Dunn suggests

Designated a historical landmark, the legendary Hotel del Coronado is set on 28 acres of Coronado Island beachfront. The beach cottages and villas are an ideal choice for families wanting a luxurious base from which to visit theme parks and attractions.

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.

As Napa’s first resort set within a world-class vineyard, the Four Seasons Napa Valley offers a seamless and integrated grape-to-glass experience, along with glorious views, well-appointed accommodation, superb dining, two pools, spa, and fitness room.

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.

Situated atop a 150-foot bluff overlooking a superb surf beach, the elegant Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel offers a peaceful sanctuary with impeccable service and superb facilities only a 10-minute drive from exclusive Laguna Beach.

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

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 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.

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

Embark on a thrilling private offshore adventure from Newport Beach in search of whales and marine life.

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.

Enjoy a private, half-day tour of Hearst Castle, bypassing lines for exclusive access to this opulent estate. Tailored to your interests, explore lavish rooms, gardens, art collections, and breathtaking views.

Enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset sail on an authentic America's Cup yacht. Join the crew, learn sailing, or relax as you explore the Bay, guided by expert captains. Snacks, water, and gear provided!

Fly over LA's iconic landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign and Beverly Hills, then land in Malibu for a private picnic with stunning views before returning to Burbank.

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.

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.

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!

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.