Your free time in Santa Barbara - Scott Dunn suggests

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.

Sleek and sophisticated, with an elegance only rivalled by the spectacular azure waters of Lake Tahoe and the tall forests and mountains beyond, The Lodge at Edgewood is a well-appointed property with superb amenities.

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.

An award-winning escape, Cavallo Point Lodge is a luxury San Francisco hotel located at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge in one of America’s most popular National Parks.

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.

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.

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.

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

Located in the prestigious heart of Beverly Hills, mere moments from exclusive Rodeo Drive, The Maybourne Beverly Hills is a timelessly elegant Los Angeles hotel, defining luxury and fine service within sumptuous and comforting surroundings.

Walking and biking are the most popular ways to see Yosemite, with self-guide trail maps issued at the entrance. Wardens at the visitors centre can advise on activities & the newspaper will tell you what's going on from star-gazing to wildlife talks!

Warner Bros takes you “into-the-scenes” of your favourite shows at the world’s busiest motion picture and TV studio. From Batman to Argo, to The Big Bang Theory to Friends, the studio will show you how the magic is made. The tour is 3 hours for 8yrs+.

Go hiking in Hollywood Hills with a private guide. Be starstruck by the Hollywood sign, explore the Griffith Observatory and be inspired by beautiful views of the City of Angels, from the skyscrapers to Beverly Hills and beyond.

Take in the ocean breezes, visit the historic Venice Canals, ride through Marina del Rey, take pictures with the Art Walls, and explore Muscle Beach. The sunny California weather makes this tour a fun and beautiful experience for culture enthusiasts!

Monterey's aquarium is located on the former site of a sardine cannery; much more than a collection of glass tanks, 200 gallons of seawater provide homes to sea life from kid-tolerant starfish to friendly penguins, sea turtles and hammerhead sharks.

Star treatment awaits the fortunate few on this exclusive guided behind-the-scenes tour, revealing world class production facilities & movie sets normally closed to the public and enjoying front-of-line access to all rides, attractions & gourmet lunch.

Yosemite's Granite Cliffs and Giant Sequoias make for incredible hiking country. With easy to moderate options, experience this World Heritage Center with an expert private guide by your side to show you what you may not see with your own eyes.

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

Journey to Alcatraz Island to visit the world-renowned Cellhouse on a self-guided audio tour