Your free time in Santa Barbara - Scott Dunn suggests

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.

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.

The Montage at Laguna Beach is one of those places where you feel as if you have arrived - the service is immaculate, the ocean views to die for, and the artistic community of Laguna Beach just the place for boutique, gallery browsing and fine dining.

Nestled among the giant redwood trees, stay in your own log cabin in Yosemite's Wawona area. Peaceful, private and authentic, the self-catered homes are located on private property within the National Park.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes VIP experience at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where you'll interact with charismatic marine life like octopuses, sea otters, penguins, and seals, plus explore other exhibits.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.