Coastal Luxury, Wine & Wellness

A Southern California Road Trip to Remember.

From oceanfront yoga to vineyard sunsets, the 2025 Visit California Agent Advisory Council trip to Southern California was nothing short of magical. Over seven days, we immersed ourselves in the very best that Santa Monica, Newport Beach, and San Luis Obispo County (SLO CAL) had to offer—soaking in luxury stays, coastal cuisine, cultural gems, and that signature laid-back Californian vibe.

And how did I start this dream trip? In style—with United Airlines Polaris Business Class, upgraded both ways. The journey truly began the moment I checked in!

Flying in Comfort: United Polaris Experience

Flying long haul can be exhausting, but not in United Airlines Polaris. From Brisbane via San Francisco, our journey was as comfortable as it was seamless. Priority boarding, lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and restaurant-style dining made the 13-hour flight feel more like a luxury hotel in the sky.

Arriving refreshed and well-rested made a world of difference. And knowing we’d return the same way, with the same high level of comfort, let us enjoy the trip without the usual travel fatigue.

Santa Monica: Glamour, Coastlines & Casual Cool

After clearing immigration in Los Angeles (using the MPC App makes the process so quick!), we met up with the rest of the group and headed to Casa Del Mar, our luxurious beachfront hotel. With sweeping ocean views, a breezy lobby, and beautifully appointed rooms, it was a quintessential start to coastal California living.

Lunch was served on the rooftop at Calabra, where Mediterranean flavours and ocean views made for a memorable welcome. We were joined by our hosts from Santa Monica Tourism and hotel partners, setting the tone for the collaborative journey ahead.

That afternoon, we walked through the chic Santa Monica Proper Hotel before jumping on a private bike tour with Bikes & Hikes LA. We pedalled past the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and scenic beachfront paths, learning about local stories and hidden gems along the way.

Dinner at Marelle, a beautifully designed restaurant by Chef Raphael Lunetta, showcased California cuisine with a creative twist. The evening started with a walkthrough of the new Sandbourne Santa Monica hotel—a modern, pet-friendly property that oozes wellness and sustainability.

The next morning began with beachfront yoga at Tower 24 with Beach Yoga SoCal. There’s something about breathing in the Pacific breeze as you move through poses that grounds you instantly.

After yoga, we enjoyed breakfast at Orla, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, followed by a series of inspiring site visits to Regent Santa Monica Beach, the iconic Georgian Hotel, and shopping time on Montana Avenue. From boutique bookstores to vintage treasures, this area captures Santa Monica’s elevated, artsy soul.

Lunch at Sandpiper in Oceana, Santa Monica, was one of my personal favourites—the interiors feel like a stylish beach house, and the service is world-class.

Our host hotel for night two, Shutters on the Beach, welcomed us with happy hour drinks and unbeatable ocean views.

Dinner at The Penthouse in The Huntley Hotel rounded out our Santa Monica experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a modern menu made for a glamorous evening with exceptional food!

Newport Beach: Chic Seaside Sophistication

After a farewell coffee at Shutters, we headed to West Hollywood for a walking tour of the area and a few stops at some of the iconic areas in West Hollywood. This included Mimosas at Mels Diner and lunch at an amazing rooftop overlooking the city.

After lunch, we drove south to Newport Beach. First stop: a walkthrough of Balboa Bay Resort, followed by a magical sunset cruise through Newport Harbour on the Duffy Boats. Spoilt with Champagne and Snacks, this was a great way to experience the beautiful homes along the canals.

We checked into Lido House, a property that embodies California coastal luxury. That evening, we enjoyed a hosted walkthrough of the hotel and dinner at Mayor’s Table, where fresh seafood and seasonal dishes stole the show.

The next morning kicked off with a Moke tour around town—a unique and breezy way to explore. We stopped at Pendry Newport Beach for a mimosa and walkthrough, then strolled through Fashion Island, one of SoCal’s top shopping destinations.

Lunch at RH Ocean Grill delivered on both style and flavour. The Seafood towers were the best I’ve ever had! Champagne was flowing, and the restaurant had a vibe of relaxed luxury. A walk-through of Crystal Cove gave us a nature break. A surprise experience at The Resort at Pelican Hill, we learnt how to make fresh pasta with Chef Zac. This was the perfect luxury interlude before happy hour at VIEW at VEA Newport Beach, the sunset views were perfect!

SLO CAL: Vineyards, Views & Central Coast Vibes

From Newport, we had an early start as we headed to San Luis Obispo County, meeting up with the Northern California group at Hotel SLO. Of course, we had to have a snack stop and have you really visited California if you haven’t had In and Out? Always worth the stop for fresh hand-cut fries and juicy, tasty burgers…YUM!

The adrenaline kicked in during our Hummer dune ride with Pacific Adventure Tours at Pismo Beach—an experience like no other! We cooled off with a stroll along the Pismo Beach Pier, then visited Vespera Resort and enjoyed sunset s’mores followed by a delicious dinner!

Breakfast at Hidden Kitchen in Cayucos set us up for the next day. We then headed to Elephant Seal Vista Point and onwards to the legendary Hearst Castle for a Grand Rooms Tour.

In Paso Robles, lunch and a tasting at Niner Wine Estates highlighted local sustainability and incredible wines. A walking tour of Paso’s charming downtown followed, along with a site visit and dinner at Allegretto Vineyard Resort.

The highlight of the evening? Sensorio’s Field of Light—an immersive, glowing art installation that lit up the countryside. Check out my TikTok for a great video of this evening.

Our final morning took us to Santa Margarita Ranch for an epic ziplining adventure over vineyards and hills. I’m afraid of heights, so I sat out of this activity and took advantage of the time to grab some needed items from CVS and Trader Joe’s.

Lunch at Colony Market brought the trip to a relaxed, flavourful finish. We headed back to San Fransico for our return flight to Australia. We managed to fit in a quick 60-minute power shop at an outlet mall.

This road trip was a reminder of why California continues to capture my heart and the hearts of travellers. Whether you’re planning a coastal getaway, an active wine country escape, or a blend of both, California delivers every time.

Ready to plan your own Golden State adventure? Let’s make it happen.