IF you’re tired of going to same old places, year after year, why not head off to California for a trip to remember that will really put you on cloud nine…. not that you’ll see many clouds around these parts.

The USA’s sun drenched west coast has long been a dream destination for holidaymakers and it’s easy to see why. There’s just so much diversity in California; pack in everything from golden sandy beaches, surfing hotspots, bustling cities, buzzing nightlife, glorious vineyards, or quaint sleepy towns and everything in between- and all in the same State.

For first timers, the big three are probably the best places to get a feel for California and if you centre yourself around any of these three cities, there’s always loads of excursions available to take you further afield if you wish.

If, however, your wanderlust has given into the temptation of a road trip, you’ve come to the right place. Pick up a snazzy open top car and hit the road for an adventure you’ll never forget. We’ve got some good ideas for fly-drive packages below but if you want someone else to navigate, there’s also some really good escorted tour holidays available too.

Top California Hotspots

San Francisco

Famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, this is a city to really fall in love with. There’s so much to see and do but it’s also just a joy to look at! San Francisco lies midway along the Pacific coast of California and is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

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Visitors won’t be stuck for entertainment either, boasting an impressive calendar of arts events; San Francisco is the cultural epicentre of California. Throughout the year you will find plenty of opera and ballet performances and don’t miss a trip to Alcatraz Island that used to house some of America’s most notorious criminals. Today, tourists can visit the island and is definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in San Francisco.

Los Angeles

From Malibu to the South Bay, Los Angeles is home to some of the best beaches in Southern California. For the ideal California beach experience, a visit to Santa Monica Beach is a must but LA is the entertainment capital of the world so a tour of the famous Tinseltown landmarks of Hollywood are a must for any self respecting movie buff.

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Fashionistas won’t be disappointed either if retail therapy is on the cards. Shop ‘til you drop at the plentiful malls and outlets or for the ultimate shopping experience, take a stroll on world-famous Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

San Diego

The gorgeous city of San Diego has pristine Pacific beaches, just perfect for surfers or to just soak up the sun after a few hours on the road.

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Although beach life is a huge part of San Diego’s attraction, there’s also some glitzy nightlife to be found after dark in the historic Gaslamp Quarter – San Diego’s dining, entertainment and urban shopping district.

If you’ve started California dreamin’ then why not take a look at some of these great holidays available from talkholiday. You’ll have to pinch yourself when you see how affordable this trip of a lifetime can be. Year round departures from the UK with regional connections available with some packages.

talkholiday is a social travel network where you can plan, prepare and purchase every aspect of your trip. There’s even a crisis support feature if you lose your passport, mobile phone or luggage. Translator and consular services are also available. Join the The Sunday Post travel club on talkholiday today.