Trip Overview

Join fellow AdventureWomen guests on a week-long exploration of Northern California! Embark on a Yosemite adventure, from El Capitan to valley vistas. Dive into Monterey Bay’s marine wonders with private kayaking, then explore the aquarium’s sea life. Trek through Big Sur’s breathtaking landscapes. Indulge in culinary delights and luxury lodging at intimate lodges.

You’ll meet incredible individuals on your journey. They will help make your experience a fun and personally fulfilling adventure and will cheer you on as you reach beyond your comfort zone and embrace new challenges!

Welcome to Northern California!

Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of San Francisco. As the sun sets over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, your lively group gathers for a warm welcome dinner, filled with laughter and anticipation for the adventures ahead.

The next morning, depart for the majestic Yosemite National Park, where ancient giants await in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Immersed in the towering trees, you’ll embark on a hike, marveling at nature’s grandeur before settling into the luxurious comfort of Tenaya Lodge.

The next day brings a full-day exploration of Yosemite’s breathtaking landscapes, followed by an exquisite dinner at the esteemed Château du Sureau, a haven for fine dining connoisseurs.

After a leisurely morning at the lodge or an optional shared horseback ride, you’ll journey to the historic Mission San Juan Bautista before indulging in the intimate luxury of Bernardus Lodge.

Venturing into the coastal wonders of Northern California, paddle through the serene waters of Elkhorn Slough, savor lunch at the iconic Sly McFly’s, and delve into the wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium on a private guided tour.

The following day unveils the enchanting beauty of Big Sur, where cascading waterfalls, hidden caves, and pristine beaches await exploration. A visit to the legendary Nepenthe for lunch precedes an afternoon in the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, culminating in a farewell dinner filled with shared memories.

As your journey draws to a close, bid farewell to the rugged coastlines and verdant valleys, with hearts full of cherished moments. Departing from the San Francisco Airport, or extending our stay amidst the vineyards of Napa Valley, you’ll carry the spirit of adventure and camaraderie with you.

Main Attractions

  • Embark on a journey through Yosemite National Park, from the towering El Capitan to the valley's finest sights.
  • Dive into the wonders of Monterey Bay with a private kayaking adventure, spotting diverse marine life.
  • Enjoy an exclusive tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, gaining insight into the remarkable sea life of the region.
  • Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Big Sur as you trek through its iconic landscapes.
  • Experience culinary delights and luxurious accommodations at refined and intimate lodges.

What You'll See and Do

  • Cultural Exploration
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Local Delicacies
  • Napa Valley Extension
  • National Parks
  • Optional Horseback Riding (add'l fee)
  • Sightseeing
  • Walking
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If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

The AdventureWomen itineraries are subject to change depending on the chosen departure date. To view a specific departure itinerary, simply click on the "Browse Detailed Itinerary" button above and select your date.

Day 1

Arrive in San Francisco, CA

Arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) by 2 PM today. Group transfers from the airport to the hotel will be provided.

Enjoy a lively welcome dinner where you can connect with your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and discover the unique reasons each woman in your group is excited to explore Northern California.

Dinner 

Overnight: Argonaut Hotel

Day 2

Yosemite National Park 

Following breakfast, meet your private driver-guide for a four-hour journey to Yosemite National Park.

Upon arrival, delight in a hike through the majestic Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, followed by a picturesque picnic lunch in a beautiful setting.

Proceed to your hotel and settle in for a restful overnight stay. Please note that dinner will be on your own tonight.

Today’s Hike: 7 miles (11.3 km) round trip, approximately 2.5 hours, 5,600 feet (1,700 m) elevation at trailhead, 1,200 feet (360 m) of elevation gain

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Tenaya Lodge

Day 3

Yosemite National Park 

Meet your private guide this morning within the Yosemite park entrance for a day-long tour. Discover the renowned highlights of Yosemite, including its major waterfalls, and striking rock formations within Yosemite Valley. In addition, your guide will unveil hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path trails.

Tonight, savor a delightful group dinner at Chateau du Sureau. For over three decades, The Elderberry House has stood as the pinnacle of fine dining in the region. Situated amidst the Sierra Mountains, a few minutes from Yosemite National Park, this European retreat promises an evening of unparalleled delight for food connoisseurs and wine aficionados alike. Every meal at The Elderberry House is a sensory journey, featuring locally sourced ingredients handpicked from nearby farms, ensuring freshness and seasonality. Your dining experience is complemented by elegant surroundings and welcoming service.

Today’s Hike: 10 to 12 miles, 4 to 5 hours, 4,000 ft (1,200 m) at trailhead, up to 1,900 ft (580 m) of elevation gain

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Overnight: Tenaya Lodge

Day 4

Carmel

Indulge in an optional shared two-hour horseback adventure along Yosemite’s Vista Pass Trail, guided by your seasoned Yosemite Cowboy. Traverse a scenic river canyon trail, meandering through verdant forests and crossing Rainer Creek, while soaking in panoramic vistas of the park’s breathtaking natural wonders atop Vista Pass. Please note that, for the safety of our guests, there are weight and height restrictions for this activity. Each participant’s weight and height must be provided to secure a booking. The rider’s Body Mass Index (BMI) should not exceed 32, and the total weight must not exceed 250 lbs. Your AdventureWomen trip manager is available to help guests who wish to reserve their spot (at an additional cost). For those who choose not to participate in the horseback ride, your guide can recommend a short hiking route or you can take advantage of the lodge’s superb amenities and spa services. It is advisable to book spa treatments in advance to ensure availability.

Depart with your private driver-guide for a scenic four-hour journey to Carmel. En route, take a moment to explore the historic Mission San Juan Bautista. Founded on June 24, 1797, by Father Fermín Lasuén of the Franciscan order, this mission stands as the fifteenth of the Spanish missions established in present-day California.

Arrive at the Bernardus Lodge, your home for the next three nights. Nestled on 28 acres in Carmel Valley, it’s a luxurious getaway. Dinner will be at your leisure tonight. Don’t miss the chance to try the lodge’s famous restaurant, known for its outstanding wine selection from their impressive 25,000-bottle cellar.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Bernardus Lodge

Day 5

Carmel and Monterey

This morning, meet your private driver-guide and transfer 30 minutes to Moss Landing for a private guided kayak excursion. The Elkhorn Slough is abundant with life ranging from minute creatures to harbor seals, sea otters, and an array of shorebirds. The Slough, protected from the large swells of Monterey Bay, is a perfect introduction to sea kayaking and marine wildlife.

Continue to downtown Monterey for lunch at a local favorite, Sly’s Refueling Station (also known as Sly McFly’s). Located in the heart of Cannery Row, Sly McFly’s offers fresh seafood, craft burgers, and premium local eats. You can choose to dine outside and look over the bay and the iconic Cannery Row monument or enjoy the cozy family-friendly environment inside.

Unlock the secrets of the Monterey Bay Aquarium with a special guided tour. Follow your guide through staff-only doors to see a different side of the world-famous facility with many amazing displays, including the 28-foot-tall Kelp Forest, one of the tallest aquarium exhibits in the world. Discover what it takes to run a world-class aquarium, learn about the exciting research projects they are conducting, and find out how they prepare food for over 10,000 animals. Afterwards, enjoy time on your own to explore the Aquarium.

Dinner will be on your own tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Bernardus Lodge

Day 6

Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-sea

This morning, meet your private guide in the lobby of your hotel to embark on a hiking adventure through Big Sur. Delve into the enchanting realms of waterfalls, caves, and beaches under the expert guidance of your guide. The Monterey Peninsula and the wilderness of Big Sur are known for incredible foliage and landscapes that contrast against the sea cliffs and ocean.

Sitting up on the hills by the coast in Big Sur, Nepenthe is a place to stop for lunch. The views from there are stunning. Try their special homemade burger with ambrosia sauce while you take in the amazing views of the cliffs and scenery that make Big Sur so popular.

Make your way to the historic town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy stops at galleries, unique village homes, and beautiful boutiques as you learn about the town’s history.

Gather with your group for a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends at La Bicyclette. This cozy restaurant specializes in European Country Cuisine made with local ingredients and traditional techniques. Their dishes are simple yet creative, combining flavors in a spontaneous way. The menu changes weekly to showcase the freshest local produce. Despite the small kitchen, everything is prepared on a six-burner stove and in a wood-fired oven. Witness and savor the delicious options available while reflecting on the cherished memories you’ve created and celebrating the conclusion of an amazing journey through this truly remarkable region.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Overnight: Bernardus Lodge

Day 7

Depart San Francisco, CA

Following breakfast, meet your designated private driver for a two-hour transfer to San Francisco Airport (SFO). Please ensure that your return flight is scheduled for after 12 PM today.

Alternatively, consider extending your stay in Northern California to discover the wonders of Napa Valley. Feel free to inquire about our Wine Country Extension package for further details.

Breakfast

 

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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Traveling to California



Arrival and Departure Information

September 12, 2025  Departure

Arrive: Arrive in San Francisco, CA (SFO) by 2:00 PM on September 12, 2025

Depart: Depart from San Francisco, CA (SFO) after 12:00 PM on September 18, 2025

Group transfers from and to the airport will be provided on arrival and departure days.

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Preparation and Packing  

Please use the following guides as a reference when preparing for your adventure. We also encourage you to adapt the guides to your travel style as well as the destination’s forecasted weather.  

Gratuities  

Gratuities are a personal decision and are at your own discretion based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided. Gratuities are dependent upon the number of guests on your departure, and they vary greatly from trip to trip. As a general reference, AdventureWomen suggests you plan for $125-$175 (or more) worth of gratuities for this adventure. Specific tipping recommendations for your trip will be provided to you closer to your departure date and may fluctuate due to inflation, exchange rates, and the number of travelers on your trip.

Activity Level

We rate this trip as High Energy. Our High Energy adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing. Please note that this is a general description of what you might encounter; for specific details about your trip, please consult the itinerary.

We recommend training before your trip (with your doctor’s permission) to make the most of your adventure. With this itinerary in mind, we have a partnership with Trailblazer Wellness, a woman-owned, women-run company that will design an individualized fitness plan just for you! Best of all, AdventureWomen guests get a 10% discount with the code AVW. Learn more on the Trailblazer Wellness website.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800. You can transfer your deposit to another trip with no additional fee if you notify us within 120 days of the original trip departure date. We can hold your deposit for up to six months as a credit. Failure to book a new trip within this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of your deposit.

Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Supplement Health and Safety Form

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

September 12, 2025 Departure Final Payment Due Date: June 14, 2025

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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What's Included

Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • Beer and wine with dinner
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • All ground transportation
  • All gratuities

Not Included

  • Airfare
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Spa, other services and optional activities booked directly at the lodging

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Accommodations

Argonaut Hotel 

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Fisherman's Wharf, the Argonaut Hotel epitomizes the essence of a boutique hotel. Housed within the historic Haslett Warehouse, a magnificent structure dating back to 1907, the Argonaut boasts a captivating blend of exposed brick, Douglas Fir beams, and coastal charm.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, bathrobes, coffee / tea maker, minibar, cable / satellite flat screen TV, air conditioning

Tenaya Lodge

Tenaya Lodge is a AAA Four-Diamond resort located just two miles from Yosemite National Park's south entrance. Surrounded by towering pines, this property invites you to embark on a Sierra adventure like no other. A beautiful destination throughout the year, this property serves as your premier gateway to the breathtaking Yosemite National Park.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, refrigerator, safe, flat screen TV, air conditioning, private balcony, or patio

Bernardus Lodge

Tucked away on 28 acres in Carmel Valley, the Bernardus Lodge seamlessly combines sumptuous accommodations, captivating landscapes, and acclaimed farm-to-table dining, ensuring an unparalleled experience for all guests. Its 72 guest rooms and suites boast vaulted ceilings, French oak floors, featherbeds, fireplaces, patios, and bathrooms with heated-tile floors and soaking tubs. The spa offers an indoor-outdoor experience with a body-temperature soaking pool. In the center of the resort, you’ll find two other heated pools, an adults-only Jacuzzi, and a compact gym with new Precor workout machines. The critically acclaimed restaurant features one of the best wine lists in the country.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, bathrobes, coffee / tea maker, refrigerator, safe, cable/satellite, flat screen TV, air conditioning, private balcony

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary