Springtime in Southern California
March 30—April 2, 2026

$999 (Per Person, Double Occupancy)

$1,224 (Per Person, Single Occupancy)

Day One: 

We’ll leave the Valley with comfortable rest stops as we travel west toward the California coast. Midday, we’ll stop in Yuma for lunch on self at Lute’s Casino, an iconic local favorite known for classic comfort food in a lively historic setting.

This afternoon, we’ll continue on to Carlsbad, a laid-back seaside community celebrated for ocean breezes, beautiful beaches, and relaxed Southern California charm. Ideally located between San Diego and Temecula Valley Wine Country, Carlsbad offers a peaceful home base—less crowded than downtown San Diego, yet rich in scenery and sunshine. We’ll check into the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad, our home for the next three nights, featuring comfortable accommodations and a full hot breakfast each morning. After time to refresh, we’ll gather for a Welcome Dinner (included)—the perfect opportunity to relax, get acquainted, and officially kick off our springtime adventure together.

Day Two: 

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Afterward, we’ll head north into the rolling hills of Temecula Valley Wine Country, where vineyard-covered slopes, equestrian countryside, and wide-open views set the tone for a relaxed day.  Spanning more than 33,000 acres, Temecula Valley is Southern California’s largest wine-growing region and one of its most welcoming. Our day unfolds along three scenic wine trails, each offering a different perspective of the region. We’ll begin on the De Portola Wine Trail, enjoying a seated wine tasting paired with lunch—giving everyone time to settle in, visit, and savor the flavors and views.

The afternoon continues along the Rancho California Wine Trail, followed by a peaceful conclusion on the Calle Contento Wine Trail, known for hillside vineyards and sweeping valley vistas. All wine tastings and lunch today are included. Late afternoon, we’ll return to Carlsbad. This evening, a convenient shuttle will be offered to the nearby Windmill Food Hall—an easy option for dinner on self, a light bite, or simply relaxing with friends.

Day Three: 

Breakfast is included at the hotel. This morning, we’ll experience one of Southern California’s most anticipated signs of spring at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. For more than six decades, nearly 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus have transformed the hillsides into sweeping bands of color set against the blue of the Pacific Ocean. Our visit is comfortably paced, with time to enjoy walking paths, artist gardens, the greenhouse, browsing the Armstrong Garden Center, and the beloved tractor-pulled wagon ride, a longtime local tradition offering a wonderful overview of the fields.

Late morning, we’ll head south to Little Italy for lunch on self. With its relaxed atmosphere and wide variety of cafés and restaurants, Little Italy is a perfect place to dine, stroll, and soak in coastal energy.

After lunch, we’ll board the Old Town Trolley Tours for a narrated sightseeing experience highlighting Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, Old Town, the Embarcadero, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado—all enjoyed from the comfort of your seat. Late afternoon, we’ll return to Carlsbad. The evening is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace.

Day Four:

Breakfast is included at the hotel. After breakfast, it’s bags out as we begin our journey home, with scenic stops and lunch on self along the way.

Come with us for a spring escape filled with color, comfort, and classic California charm.