The Best Under-The-Radar California Travel Experiences

California needs no introduction. The state, which is among the nation’s most-visited destinations, boasts mild temperatures, beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring deserts along with world-class wineries and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Disneyland, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

While all of the above are well-known facts, the golden state still has some secrets up her sleeve. In order to design a new selection of customizable, private-guided journeys through California, the Kensington Tours team ventured off the beaten path and beyond the Walk of Fame to uncover some of the best under-the-radar California travel experiences available.

Sample wines while yachting on the Napa River

Cruise one of the largest waterways in the Central Coastal Range while enjoying wine country from a different vantage point on a private yachting excursion. Savor mature whites and reds alongside a gourmet charcuterie spread while taking in the region’s beautiful marshes and wildlife preserves.

Experience it as part of Kensington Tours’ customizable Sonoma & Napa Valley in Luxury itinerary.

Visit a gateway to the Ice Age in the heart of Los Angeles

Did you know that Los Angeles lays claim to the only Ice Age fossil site that’s being actively excavated in the middle of a city? Over the last 50,000 years, animals, plants, and insects were trapped in the sticky asphalt of the La Brea tar pits, which preserved them until today. Over 3.5 million fossils have been pulled from the pits including the remains of mammoths, ground sloths and mastodons. Pay a visit and you’ll have the opportunity to witness the bubbling asphalt and learn about the area’s fascinating former inhabitants by touring the on-site museum.

Experience it on a private tour as part of a personalized Southern California – Los Angeles to San Diego itinerary.

Take an evening tour of Alcatraz

Once night falls, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island to tour one of America’s most fabled former federal prison. The Rock housed some of the nation’s most notorious criminals including Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. During an evening tour of Alcatraz you’ll explore the famous prison’s cells and hear stories of attempted escapes.

Experience it as part of a tailor-made Discover San Francisco, Napa Valley and Carmel itinerary.

Enjoy a meal at Clint Eastwood’s place

Perched on the edge of the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-By-The-Sea is one of California’s most picturesque seaside cities. The city captivated longtime Clint Eastwood who, in 1986, became its mayor until 1988. The historic Mission Ranch is a spectacular centuries-old property preserved and restored by Eastwood. Boasting ocean views, 31 hotel rooms and a restaurant serving classic American fare, it’s become one of the area’s must-visit destinations.

Experience it as part of a customizable Spotlight on San Francisco itinerary.

Soar over Sonoma in a hot air balloon

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of one of the world’s most beautiful wine regions aboard a hot air balloon. Drift over vineyards and creeks and catch a glimpse of San Francisco’s iconic bridges and surrounding mountains during a morning ride. After touching down you’ll cap off the experience with a champagne toast.

Experience it as part of a personalized Sonoma & Napa Valley in Luxury itinerary.