California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii

Aerial view of Waikiki

For a complete contrast, why not extend your holiday in an exciting resort in Hawaii, famous for its white sand beaches and beautiful scenery?

Your Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - San Francisco.

Fly to San Francisco where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights.

DAY 2: San Francisco.

Regarded by many as the USA's most beautiful city, San Francisco is packed with famous landmarks and scenic attractions. This morning, during our city tour see the glorious Golden Gate Bridge, colourful China Town, pretty Fisherman's Wharf and elegant Nob Hill. Since the afternoon is at leisure why not ride the steep streets on a trundling tram or catch a cruise around the bay to wallow in the magnificent views over the sparkling coastline.

DAY 3: San Francisco - Sausalito - Santa Rosa. Napa Valley Wine Train.

This morning, your adventure continues in Sausalito, the jewel of San Francisco Bay. This picture-postcard artisan's village is known for its 'free spirits', winding streets and colourful houseboats. There's time to amble around its charming centre, enjoy the breathtaking views over the bay and browse the offbeat boutiques and galleries. Later, climb aboard the sleek Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic ride through the sublime Napa Valley countryside, including an elegant 3-course lunch. Sit back and soak up the splendid passing vistas - sun-drenched valleys, wildflower meadows and the rolling vineyards and grand mansions of many of the region's most notable wineries. After taking your leave of this lovely train, your next stop is Santa Rosa, the largest city in California's wine country. (L)

DAY 4: Santa Rosa - Korbel Winery - Fort Bragg.

Today we make our way to Korbel Winery, where world-famous Korbel Champagne, the favourite of many US Presidents, is produced. Set in the historic Russian River Valley, our visit to this stately winery includes a fascinating tour of the barrel-filled antique vaults of its Champagne Cellar, together with a tasting session. Later we journey along the historic Highway 1 for your overnight stay in the coastal town of Fort Bragg.

DAY 5: Fort Bragg - Skunk Train excursion - Sacramento.

A treat awaits today, with an excursion on the historic Skunk Train to Willits, winding through California's mighty Redwood forests. Built in 1885 as a logging railroad, this historic line got its name from the smell of its steam engines, and winds through the spectacular Coastal Mountains before following the Noyo River Canyon. After stepping aboard the restored rail cars, you'll travel through towering Redwoods, gorgeous open meadows and across wooden 'trestle' bridges. Next it's on to Sacramento, the former gold rush town and now California's capital.

DAY 6: Sacramento – California State Railroad Museum - Jamestown - Sonora.

Today begins with a sightseeing tour that includes Old Sacramento, the downtown area, the Governor's Mansion and State Capitol. Next, we visit the California State Railroad Museum to see its beautifully restored railcars and steam locomotives. Afterwards we travel to Jamestown and Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Its historic locomotives and cars have starred in many films and TV shows. This evening enjoy a delicious, sunset meal while travelling on the Sierra Railroad Dinner Train. (D)

DAY 7: Sonora - Yosemite National Park - Merced.

Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park is one of the USA's first wilderness parks and an awe-inspiring 1,200 square-mile montage of deep valleys, soaring peaks, ancient giant sequoias and crashing waterfalls. Today, you'll have time to savour its jaw-dropping beauty, perhaps taking an open-air tram ride, renting a pedal bike, joining a trail ride or picnicking amidst what is one of the planet's greatest natural wonderlands. Make sure to visit the Ansel Adams Studio, homage to the legendary park images captured by its best-known photographer.

DAY 8: Merced - 17-Mile Drive - Monterey.

Today, we switch attention to California's picturesque coast, with a visit to the lovely town of Carmel, a popular haunt for celebrities, writers and artists. En route to Monterey, we take the legendary 17-Mile Drive, a scenic rollercoaster of a coastal road that passes stunning landmarks such as the famous Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill PGA golf courses, Cypress Point and the Lone Cypress - a single tree perched on wave-lashed rocks at Pebble Beach. On arrival in Monterey, enjoy a sightseeing tour around the town's historic Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row, made famous by novelist John Steinbeck. Afterwards, there's time to explore its colourful shops, observe the sea lions and otters in the Bay and watch the magical underwater life on show at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

DAY 9: Monterey - Roaring Camp Railroad - San Francisco.

A trip on a 100-year-old steam locomotive on the Roaring Camp Railroad beckons today. This narrow gauge railroad runs to the summit of Bear Mountain, clickety-clacking over 'trestle' bridges and through soaring Redwoods. Explore Roaring Camp, an atmospheric recreation of a 19th century logging town, complete with olde-worlde opera house, sawmill, general store and a tiny covered bridge. This afternoon, you'll travel back to San Francisco.

DAY 10: San Francisco - Hawaii.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hawaii.

DAY 11 to 16: Honolulu, Hawaii.

Six whole days to relax or explore Honolulu and the surrounding area.

DAY 17: Hawaii - UK.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

DAY 18: Home landing in the UK.

Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
3diamond rating

The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel offers a glimpse of Hawaii's royal past in the heart of Waikiki Beach. Once home to Hawaii's Princess Victoria Kawekiu Lunalilo Kalaninuiahilapalapa Ka'iulani, the hotel houses historic photographs of the princess and the royal monarchy throughout the property.

Location: Next door to the International Marketplace and King's Village. Adjacent to Kalakaua Avenue with its wonderful array of shops and restaurants, with easy access to 3 sister hotels and famous Waikiki Beach. A short walk left along the beachfront (ideal for sunset) will take you to Kapiolani Park then on to Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium.

Facilities: Swimming pool with free chairs and sunbeds; restaurant; bar with pool service; free pool and beach towels; shop; internet access; lounge; laundry; room service; concierge; lifts.

Prices includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee-maker; cable TV; clock radio; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; mini-fridge; safety deposit box (daily charge).

Optional Excursions

To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list of optional excursions available to you.

Evening In Chinatown

Explore this vibrant historic section of San Francisco that houses the largest Chinese community outside of Asia. Included in this evening's agenda is a lavish four-course dinner in an authentic Chinese restaurant. This evening will include a short walking tour of Chinatown.

$42 (US Dollar)

San Francisco By Night with dinner at The Franciscan

The evening begins with dinner at a popular Fisherman's Wharf restaurant and spectacular views of the bay. Afterwards visit historic Ghirardelli Square. Set on the city's dynamic waterfront, the square offers a great view of the sea and elegant 19th-century factor and mill buildings that are worth exploring. During your visit, relax with an Irish coffee and some world famous chocolates. Before heading back to your hotel we will drive out to Treasure Island to view the city lights from across the bay.

$63 (US Dollar)

Rocket Boat

Get blown away on this 30-minute high-speed tour of the City's historic waterfront. Sail past the sea lions, zoom to the Bay Bridge, fly down to AT&T Park, scream past Treasure Island, and breeze by Alcatraz on the way back to PIER 39. This exciting ride pauses occasionally to allow passengers to catch their breath and capture unique sightseeing and photo opportunities unavailable on other tours. RocketBoat, it's an extreme adventure powered by biodiesel fuel. A blast on the Bay that is not to be missed.

$24 (US Dollar)

Bay Cruise

This fully narrated one-hour tour sails under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. Experience the thrilling history of San Francisco Bay with all the sound and glory it deserves. The tour also sails along San Francisco's historic waterfront where there's no better way to experience unobstructed views of sensational skylines in every direction. It's a great vantage point for snapping pictures or simply reflecting on the vast beauty of the San Francisco Bay. Sail past the PIER 39 sea lions, under the Golden Gate Bridge and circle Alcatraz Island. Onboard narration describes the City and its landmarks as you sail along in comfort; both indoor and outdoor seating are provided. (Cruise is 1 hour)

$25 (US Dollar)

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore the wonders of our ocean planet in nearly 200 galleries and exhibits at one of the world's finest aquariums. Highlights include a million-gallon indoor ocean with giant bluefin tuna, sharks, sea turtles, stingrays and barracuda; plus the largest jellyfish exhibits anywhere.

$33 (US Dollar)

Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.

California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii 16 nights

Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the calendar.

Earlier 2012 Later
Sep Mon 03 Sep Mon 17 Oct Mon 01          
Aberdeen    

Departure Times

10:00 United Airlines
           
London Heathrow

Departure Times

14:10 United Airlines

Departure Times

14:10 United Airlines

Departure Times

14:10 United Airlines
           

California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii 16 nights

Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the grid.

Earlier Dates Date Depart From Price from PP   Later Dates
  3 Sep 2012 London Heathrow

Departure Times

14:10 United Airlines
Select  
  17 Sep 2012 London Heathrow

Departure Times

14:10 United Airlines
Select  

California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii

Price from £2529.00

Holiday Highlights

  • Napa Valley Wine Train with lunch
  • Skunk Train
  • Jamestown State Historic Park
  • Sierra Railroad Dinner Train with sunset dinner
  • Yosemite National Park
  • 17-Mile Drive
  • Roaring Camp Railroad Excursion to Bear Mountain

Departures from

  • Aberdeen
  • London Heathrow

Departures between

03 Sep 2012 to 01 Oct 2012

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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme

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