Los Angeles

We could throw you into the heart of Tinsel Town to begin your central California coastal road trip and visit all the tourist hot spots you’ve heard so much about.

But let’s skip all that and start at the Getty Center to get your culture fix for the day. Art collector and Oil tycoon J. Paul Getty first built the Getty Villa in Malibu, designed by Richard Meier, to house his collection of European art.

His foundation continues to this day to fund this Must-See landmark and the Getty Center. You can take a ride on the tram up to the top of the hill and spend a couple of hours exploring the grounds and galleries.

And before you drive north for your central California coastal road trip, make a quick stop to visit Avalon on Catalina Island. This town, which can be reached via a quick ferry ride from the coast, has a rich history.

It’s frequently compared to the Mediterranean’s strikingly blue waters, rich vegetation, and hillside homes.

Here, you can enjoy some of the best diving and snorkeling in the continental US and many other outdoor activities, including browsing art galleries, shopping, and dining on delicious meals at eateries with stunning views of the water.