Did you see what went down on the Visit California NorCal fam, but what about SoCal? The fam theme for both famils was A Journey Through Iconic Landmarks, Wine Country, and Coastal Wonders, so it’s fab to compare the activities and highlights in both regions.
Thanks to a dream partnership between Visit California, United Airlines, and Infinity Holidays, the Californian Agency Advisory Council (CAAC) is reignited for 2025. Their mission? To elevate California’s tourism messaging and inspire more Australians and New Zealanders to explore the Golden State.
The advisors – selected for their passion and dedication to California – discovered firsthand The Ultimate Playground.
The Southern California fam was under the guidance of Visit California’s Monique Campanella until the two groups united in San Luis Obispo County for the final two days.
If you think the Southern California famil, poetically entitled A Journey Through Iconic Landmarks, Coastal Elegance, and Vineyard Bliss, sounds heavenly, you’re right! Touring Santa Monica, Newport Beach, and San Luis Obispo County, the four jammy agents were living their best lives!
Check out this dynamic map of the SoCal’s itinerary stops. Cool, huh?
Santa Monica
Imagine landing and reaching your beachside accommodation in only 20 minutes. In a destination with 280 days of sunshine a year. And then discovering that said beachside accommodation is truly beachside, with one night at the famous Hotel Casa del Mar and another at the equally famous Shutters on the Beach! What a kick-off to an epic adventure.
Bianca Douglas Watt from Flight Centre raved about Hotel Casa Del Mar. “It is my literal dream property, the detail in every room and the resort itself was incredible and the staff were so kind!”
Santa Monica is an idyllic coastal paradise with good looks, charm, and ample things to see, do, and eat. The group discovered the latter quickly with lunch at the elevated rooftop restaurant, Calabra at Santa Monica Proper Hotel, with epic ocean views.
Did you know Santa Monica has eight distinct neighbourhoods? Iconic attractions include Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park, and shopping on Third Street Promenade and Montana Avenue. On a private bike tour with Bikes and Hikes LA, the group got to experience why SaMo is such a vibe.
The day ended with a fabulous dining experience at Santa Monica native chef Raphael Lunetta’s restaurant, Marelle at Sandbourne Santa Monica.
On day two, the fun continued with yoga on the beach, breakfast at trendy Orla at Regent Santa Monica Beach, and a browse (ahem, shop) along the distinct boutiques on Montana Ave.
Santa Monica Travel & Tourism welcomed the group with lunch at Sandpiper at Oceana Santa Monica, a gorgeous 5-star restaurant, before time at the one and only Santa Monica Pier and dinner at The Penthouse at Huntley Santa Monica Beach.
Amazing, huh? And that’s just days one and two!
Newport Beach
From one idyllic haven to another, the group headed south to upscale Newport Beach. A sunset cruise to discover the lush waterfront homes, oh-la-la yachts, and Newport Beach landmarks, like Balboa Pier was the perfect introduction.
Two nights at the Lido House Hotel, a property oozing sophistication and ‘coastal holiday’ vibes, impressed the group, along with the seasonal food and lush cocktails at the hotel’s Mayor’s Table.
There’s no better way to see Newport than on a Moke Tour for the easy, breezy, and fun way to take in the sights. A mimosa experience at Pendry Newport Beach, a walking tour of Fashion Island luxury shopping plaza, and a stunning Crystal Cove walk revealed more of this beachside haven.
The SoCal itinerary noted a ‘special experience’ at The Resort at Pelican Hill, a luxurious oceanside retreat. Can you guess what it was? A private pasta making class with Chef Zachary “Zack” Kasmar in one of the property’s 4 bedroom luxury villas!
Happy hour followed at VEA Newport Beach, where the views were as fab as the nibbles.
Hayley McGrath from Stage and Screen Travel Services claimed the Duffy boats were her Newport Beach highlight. “Renting a little engine boat is such a good – and unique – way to see everything. I was also surprised by how relaxed the Newport vibe was, it felt like a beach town – though an upmarket one.”
SoCal fam host, Monique Campanella shared, “From the moment we arrived, the energy within the group was incredible. Our first two stops truly set the tone for an unforgettable journey; immersing us in the vibrant culture, iconic landscapes, and unique experiences that make Southern California so special. From bike rides along Santa Monica to boat rides along Newport, every experience and meal exploded with California charm!”
San Luis Obispo County
The laidback charm of San Luis Obispo County was up next, as the full advisory council came together in this Central Coast gem.
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean’s golden beaches and vine-covered hills, this aptly-nicknamed SLO CAL is full of simple pleasures, fresh flavours, and sun-kissed beauty.
Curious to see what the group got up to in San Luis Obispo? Check out our coverage here.
How to get on the CAAC?
When you see itineraries this chocka, FOMO is normal. We know, we’re feeling it, too! So, how can you get an invite to join the California Agent Advisory Council next year?
The eight participants for 2025 stood out as integral players in promoting California to Australians. Not just booking hotels and tours but being passionate about the Golden State.
Eva Huezo, Visit California’s Tourism Development Manager commented, “Being chosen for the Visit California Agent Advisory Council is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of California’s tourism strategy.
“We’re looking for agents who are not only passionate about the destination but also want to shape how it’s presented to the market. This is more than just a trip; it’s a chance to collaborate, share insights, and play a key role in inspiring Australian and New Zealand travellers to discover the best of California.”
Keen to learn more in preparation to snag a 2026 spot? Check this out.
The deets
We’ve no doubt this SoCal itinerary has inspired you (and made you hungry). Infinity Holidays have made life real easy, with bookable packages to match! Check them out.
To discover more Southern California tourism must-dos, explore Visit California. Eva Huezo is your go-to resource for all things California tourism, including destination updates, marketing support, and sales tools. Contact Eva here.
Travel to California is effortless with United Airlines, with trips across the Pacific daily from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Find out more here.
This article is brought to you by Visit California, United Airlines, and Infinity Holidays.
