California's famous central coast is dotted with stunning golden beaches set against a backdrop of magnificent mountains and rolling valleys. Combining the very best picturesque scenes and the height of glamour, the cities boasting prime location along the coastline exude a distinctive charm and elegance. The coastal roads boast wonderful scenic views so hiring a car and travelling between these destinations will make the very most of your trip.

Pismo Beach
Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco lies the city of Pismo Beach. The long white beaches are ideal for taking a pleasant stroll or for just enjoying the spectacular views. Prefer a more active holiday? Golfing, riding the dunes in a fourwheel drive, horse riding, surfing, body boarding, or fishing from the 1,200-foot pier can all be part of your California adventure. Pismo Beach Pier is perfect for sightseeing, walking and an unforgettable sunset.

Santa Barbara
Known as the American Riviera and set amid 25 miles of prime Pacific coastline at the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is a big city with the unique feeling of a small Spanish town. The city embodies the legendary Southern California lifestyle indulging a beach-party atmosphere, celebrity hideaway and wine-lover's retreat. Visit the waterfront on a Sunday and you're sure to see the weekly Arts and Crafts Show, one of the city's bestloved traditions. The fabulous Mediterranean climate makes Santa Barbara a farmer's paradise, giving restaurateurs an abundance of seasonal foods to work with, plus with the ocean a stone's throw away fresh catches will make seafood lovers swoon. Outdoor activities range from the aquatic: surfing, scuba-diving, whale-spotting; to the dizzying heights of the hills - be sure to hike to the hot springs of Gaviota Peak!

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Nestled on the Monterey Peninsula 120 miles south of San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a romantic, European-style beach town endowed with a rich history and a wonderful white-sand beach. Since its inception at the turn of the last century, Carmel has been a stage for the performing arts - enjoy live music and world class performances at a host of playhouses and theatres. It is also a great place to shop with more than 500 boutiques and outdoor malls. Most shops are packed into the small stretch of Ocean Avenue between Junipero and San Antonio avenues. Carmel Beach City Park is one of the best beaches in California - it may not be blisteringly hot but the sands are soft, the waves crash gracefully against the shore and everyone is welcome… beach bonfires provide a perfect romantic setting. Carmel is also known for its elegant restaurants and family-owned bistros. Awardwinning Rio Grill is the place to try rare California vintages.

Monterey
Five miles north of Carmel lies the once Spanish capital of old California. In Monterey start by exploring the shops and attractions of iconic Cannery Row, then sip hand-made wines at tucked-away tasting rooms where the winemaker might just be the person pouring. Take a surfing lesson or polish up your golf skills as you play 18 holes at legendary golf courses. When it comes to dining, seafood is a must. Walk down Old Fisherman's Wharf and snack on cups of fresh seafood then spend the rest of the day on the Grapevine Express touring local wine tasting rooms.