Famed for its fog-shrouded bridge and gastronomy scene, San Francisco is a charismatic city overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Ride the cable cars along its hilly streets and down to the lively Fisherman’s Wharf, then jump aboard a boat to visit the island prison of Alcatraz. Cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, walk amidst the towering old-growth redwoods in Muir Woods and mingle with the locals during a baseball game at AT&T Park.

Overlooking the rugged Central Coast of California, Monterey is a historic city that’s home to a renowned aquarium. Explore the shops and restaurants that occupy the former sardine-packing factories of Cannery Row and stroll amidst the Victorian homes of Pacific Grove to the Point Pinos Lighthouse. A short hop south takes you to the Spanish mission at Carmel-by-the-Sea and the scenic 17 Mile Drive with its famous “Lone Cypress” tree.

Clustered around an 18th-century Spanish mission, San Luis Obispo is a lively city on California’s Central Coast. It’s home to Bubblegum Alley where you can add your creative touch, as well as the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art where contemporary local artists are showcased. See how the rich and famous live on a tour of heritage-listed Hearst Castle, then cellar door hop through the wineries that dot the city’s picturesque surrounds.

Considered the “Riviera of the West”, Santa Barbara is an affluent coastal city backed by the rugged Santa Ynez Mountains. It’s centred around a Mediterranean-style historic core that’s packed with upscale boutiques, as well as the lively restaurant and shopping strip of State Street. Explore the 18th-century Mission Santa Barbara that perches atop a nearby hill and hit the urban wine trail to discover Santa Barbara’s Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.

The home of Hollywood, Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis that includes upmarket beachside burbs, outstanding museums and a colourful farmer’s market. Take in the city views from the Griffith Observatory and stroll along the Walk of Fame, then go shopping along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Head to Santa Monica to see its famous pier and the fitness fanatics at Muscle Beach before discovering the exhilarating nightlife of West Hollywood.