Experience the diverse beauty and vibrant culture of California on this unforgettable 11-day summer adventure designed specifically for middle school students in grades 7-8. You'll embark on a carefully curated road trip that takes you from the sunny beaches of Southern California through iconic coastal landmarks and up to the cultural epicenter of San Francisco, traveling along one of the world's most scenic highways and discovering why California is truly the Golden State.

Your journey begins in San Diego, where you'll dive into the laid-back Southern California lifestyle. You'll learn to surf at one of the city's famous beaches, explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter, visit the renowned San Diego Zoo, and see the seals and sea lions of beautiful La Jolla. As part of the program's commitment to authentic travel, you'll also contribute to the community by participating in beach cleanup efforts, leaving the destinations you visit better than you found them.

Next, you'll tackle Los Angeles—the second-largest city in the US—without feeling overwhelmed thanks to expert guidance from caring TFT staff. You'll walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, explore the Chinese Theatre, stroll along Venice Beach and the Santa Monica Pier, shop on Rodeo Drive, and hike through Runyon Canyon to witness incredible views from the Griffith Observatory. For those seeking extra thrills, an optional day trip to Disneyland is available.

The highlight of your journey includes a spectacular drive along Highway 1, widely considered one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world. You'll stop at postcard-perfect destinations including Santa Barbara, the stunning McWay Falls, the quirky Bixby Bridge, and the unique purple sand of Pfeiffer Beach. You'll experience the laid-back beach culture of Santa Cruz and the volcanic landscapes of Morro Bay, creating memories of California's natural diversity.

Your adventure concludes in San Francisco, where you'll experience all the best of the City by the Bay. You'll ride historic cable cars, explore famous Pier 39 and watch sea lions, sample fresh seafood, enjoy a chocolate sundae at Ghirardelli Square, and discover diverse neighborhoods like Haight Ashbury, Chinatown, and SoMa. You'll cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, hike through the impressive redwoods of Muir Woods, and tour the infamous Alcatraz prison.

Throughout this program, you'll stay in carefully selected, centrally located accommodations that prioritize safety and character over chain hotels. All meals (breakfasts and dinners) are included and feature authentic local cuisine rather than Americanized chains. Ground transportation, expert chaperones, guides, and all program activities and admissions are included in the cost. This program emphasizes authentic travel experiences, teaching you to be a traveler rather than a tourist, creating friendships with fellow adventurers that often last long after the trip ends.