California holidays

If you're a UK citizen planning to visit California, here's what you need to know about U.S. entry requirements:

Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
As a UK citizen, you can travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa, thanks to the Visa Waiver Program. However, you must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before your trip. The ESTA is an online application that determines your eligibility to travel under the VWP. It's advisable to apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure.

Visitor Visa (B-2):
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, intend to work, study, or engage in other activities not permitted under the VWP, you'll need to apply for a B-2 Visitor Visa. This visa is suitable for tourism, visiting family or friends, or receiving medical treatment. The application process involves completing the DS-160 form, paying the visa fee, and attending an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Important Notes:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of arrival in the U.S.

• If you have dual nationality, ensure you apply for ESTA using the passport you intend to travel with.

• Approval of an ESTA does not guarantee entry into the U.S.; final admission is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry.

For the most current and detailed information, visit the official U.S. Department of State website.

If you’re wondering where to go in California, you’re in for a treat! The state’s packed with beautiful places, so here's a laid-back guide to some of the best spots to check out:

San Francisco – Start in the city by the bay. You’ve got the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and those famous cable cars. Wander around Fisherman’s Wharf, visit the quirky neighbourhoods like Haight-Ashbury, or check out the amazing views from Twin Peaks.

Los Angeles – If you're into big city vibes and entertainment, LA's your place. There’s the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Park for views of the Hollywood sign, and Venice Beach for a chill time by the ocean. Plus, don't miss Universal Studios or the Getty Center for something cultural.

Yosemite National Park – If you’re a nature lover, Yosemite’s a must-see. From stunning waterfalls to giant sequoia trees, it’s all about the outdoors here. Take a hike, enjoy the views, or just relax in the beauty of the park.

San Diego – For a more laid-back vibe, head south to San Diego. The beaches are beautiful, the San Diego Zoo is world-famous, and there’s Balboa Park to explore. It’s perfect for families or anyone who just wants to unwind.

Big Sur – This stretch of coast along the Pacific Coast Highway is breathtaking. With cliffs dropping into the ocean and stops like McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach, it’s ideal for scenic drives and getting lost in nature.

Lake Tahoe – Whether you’re into skiing in winter or hiking and swimming in summer, Lake Tahoe is perfect for outdoor fun all year round. You can enjoy the crystal-clear waters, explore the surrounding mountains, or just chill by the lake.

Napa Valley – If wine is your thing, Napa Valley is heaven. Take a tour of the vineyards, sip some of the best wine around, and relax in the peaceful countryside.

Sequoia National Park – Head to Sequoia if you want to stand next to the largest trees in the world. The General Sherman tree is huge, and the park is just stunning, with hiking and mountain views.

Santa Barbara – Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara has beautiful beaches, wine country, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great spot for relaxing by the water, tasting local wine, or exploring downtown.

Death Valley National Park – For something a little more unique, check out Death Valley. It’s the hottest place on Earth, but it’s full of dramatic landscapes and desert beauty, like Badwater Basin and Dante’s View.

California’s got it all – beaches, mountains, cities, and nature. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find a spot that’s perfect for your vibe!

Oh, definitely! California is a fantastic family holiday destination. There’s so much to do for all ages, whether you’re looking for fun adventures, some quality relaxation, or learning experiences. Here’s why it’s awesome for families:

Theme Parks – If you’ve got kids, California is home to some of the best theme parks in the world. Disneyland in Anaheim is a must, with all its magical rides and characters. You’ve also got Universal Studios, LEGOLAND, and Knott’s Berry Farm, so there’s no shortage of fun, especially if your family loves thrill rides and meeting favourite movie characters.

Beaches – California’s coastline is stunning and full of family-friendly beaches. Santa Monica has a fun pier with rides and arcades, and Coronado Beach in San Diego is perfect for sandcastle-building and playing in the waves. Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for a quieter, peaceful beach day.

National Parks – For families who love the outdoors, California has some jaw-dropping national parks. Yosemite has waterfalls and giant sequoia trees that will amaze everyone. Sequoia National Park is home to the world’s biggest trees, and Joshua Tree is super cool for kids to explore with its otherworldly landscape.

Zoos & Aquariums – San Diego is a big hit for families with the famous San Diego Zoo, which is a must-see. They also have the San Diego Safari Park and the Birch Aquarium. Monterey Bay Aquarium is amazing too if your kids are into sea life.

Science and Learning – California is full of interactive museums and exhibits. The California Science Centre in LA is super hands-on and fun for kids of all ages, and the Exploratorium in San Francisco is packed with cool science experiments to get everyone involved.

Kid-Friendly Cities – Places like San Francisco and Los Angeles have tons of family-friendly things to do. In LA, you’ve got Griffith Park, which has a zoo, playgrounds, and an observatory. In San Francisco, you can visit the California Academy of Sciences or take a ferry to Alcatraz Island.

Outdoor Adventures – Whether it's hiking, biking, or just exploring, California offers lots of outdoor fun. From the beaches to the mountains to the national parks, there are tons of places to explore as a family and enjoy the natural beauty of the state.

Yes, you can hire a car in California with a UK driving license! California allows visitors to rent a car using a valid UK driving license, as long as it’s in good standing and you’ve had it for at least a year. Here’s what you need to know:

Driving License: Your UK license should be in English, which is accepted without the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, if your license isn’t in English, it’s a good idea to carry an IDP just in case.

Age Requirements: Most car rental companies in California require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect to pay a young driver surcharge. Some companies may also have a minimum age of 25, so it’s worth checking with the rental company ahead of time.

Insurance: Make sure you’re clear about what insurance coverage you need. It’s common for rental agencies to offer collision damage waivers (CDW) and liability insurance, but you can also check if your credit card provides rental car insurance as an added benefit.

Driving Laws: Be aware of local driving laws, such as speed limits, seat belt requirements, and rules for mobile phone use while driving. California can have strict traffic laws, so always follow the rules of the road.

If you're thinking about a California road trip, the number of days you need depends on how much you want to see and how relaxed you want the trip to be. Here’s a general idea based on different trip vibes:

Quick 5-7 Days
If you’re looking to hit some of the highlights in a short amount of time, 5-7 days works well. You could start in San Francisco, then drive down the Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur, stop in Los Angeles, and wrap it up in San Diego. It’s a quick, action-packed trip, but you’ll hit some of California’s must-see spots.

More Relaxed 10-14 Days
If you have a bit more time and want to enjoy the journey without rushing, a 10-14 day trip is perfect. You can take your time in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, but also explore places like Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Big Sur. You could even add a visit to Yosemite or Sequoia National Park for some outdoor adventures.

Full California Adventure (14-21 Days)
If you’re really looking to explore California from top to bottom, you’ll need around 2-3 weeks. This gives you plenty of time to visit San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, plus cool stops like Lake Tahoe, Death Valley, Napa Valley, and Joshua Tree. You can also spend a few days hiking in national parks or relaxing on different beaches.

So, in short:

• 5-7 days: Quick highlights of the coast and cities.

• 10-14 days: A more relaxed trip with time to explore both cities and nature.

• 14-21 days: The full California adventure, seeing everything from beaches to deserts to mountains.

The more days you have, the more you can explore, but even in a week, you can get a great feel for the state!

If you're looking for the best road trip in California, there's really no competition — the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) takes the crown! It’s one of the most iconic and stunning drives in the world. The PCH runs along California's coastline and offers jaw-dropping views of cliffs, beaches, forests, and mountains. Here’s why it’s the ultimate California road trip:

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Road Trip

This epic route stretches from Northern California all the way down to Southern California, offering some of the most breathtaking coastal views you’ll ever see. You’ll be hugging the coastline, with scenic overlooks, hidden beaches, and charming towns along the way.

Starting in San Francisco

• Start your journey in San Francisco. You can see the famous Golden Gate Bridge, explore the city’s quirky neighbourhoods, and then begin the drive south on Highway 1.

Big Sur

• As you head south, you’ll reach Big Sur, one of the most stunning stretches of coast in the world. The cliffs and ocean views are unreal. Stop at McWay Falls, a waterfall that drops into the ocean, or hike some of the beautiful trails in the area.

Santa Barbara

• After Big Sur, keep cruising south to Santa Barbara, a perfect spot for a break. With beautiful beaches, great wine, and a laid-back vibe, it’s a perfect place to relax and stretch your legs.

Los Angeles

• Continue down the coast and hit Los Angeles, where you can enjoy everything from the iconic Santa Monica Pier to Hollywood, and maybe take a stroll along Venice Beach.

San Diego

• End your journey in San Diego, where you’ll find laid-back vibes, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of things to see, like the famous San Diego Zoo or Balboa Park.

Why the PCH?

• Unbeatable views: From the rugged cliffs to the sparkling Pacific Ocean, it’s a constantly changing, stunning landscape.

• Diverse stops: You’ll pass through small coastal towns, world-famous cities, and natural wonders like Pfeiffer Beach and Point Lobos State Park.

• Beaches & Outdoor Activities: There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, relaxing on beaches, or just pulling over to enjoy the scenery.

Time Needed

• If you want to take your time and explore the small towns, beaches, and nature spots along the way, you should plan for about 7-10 days. It gives you time to stop, take photos, and enjoy the local culture.

The Pacific Coast Highway is easily one of the best road trips you can take in California — it combines the beauty of the coast with charming towns and plenty of things to do. Whether you're looking for adventure or just a relaxing drive, the PCH delivers.