Ecotourism in California

Your educational student tour has begun as you travel to Los Angeles. As your plane descends, take a look out of your window to see California’s extensive beaches and high-rise buildings. A local guide will be waiting to transfer you to your beachfront resort. 

The afternoon is yours to explore your environment. Stroll along the beach, or take a dip in the hotel infinity pool, or venture into the city. In the evening, you’ll meet with your group and guide for dinner — a great opportunity to get to know your guides and ask questions about your upcoming adventures.

After a well-rested night, it’s time to experience the incredible beaches and ocean of California. Hop on a bike as you ride through Marvin Braude Bike Trail – an oceanside path that follows the coastline for 22 miles! After a good leg workout, take a break to enjoy lunch on the water and a quick swim. Learn about the Pacific Ocean’s ocean waves, currents, and plate tectonics as you eat. Next, you’ll continue your ride through Venice Beach to finally reach Santa Monica Pier. As a reward, experience its lively amusement park and carnival food. 

A professional in marine science and oceanography will accompany you throughout the trip to learn about the marine life you encounter, as well as their interactions with the environment. Be sure to ask lots of questions so you can return home as an expert on the ocean and its creatures.

Take a break from the water, to explore LA’s most famous attractions. Start at Rodeo Drive to shop with the famous and wealthy. You might even spot a celebrity! Next, you will arrive at The Grove to explore its farmers market and enjoy lunch. After searching for the perfect souvenir, make your way to Griffith Park for spectacular views of the Hollywood sign and cityscape below. Finally, arrive at the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Find your favorite celebrities’ stars before heading back to your resort.

Wake up bright and early to say goodbye to Los Angeles and hello to San Diego. After the three-hour drive, unpack at your city hotel. Next, it’s time for a group sailing trip on the water — marvel at the city’s glistening lights with a complimentary beer or wine in hand. Lunch will also be served on-board by a professional chef. As you sail, learn about the physical and biological aspects of the Pacific Ocean. Grab the binoculars to search for wildlife like whales or dolphins. Finally, the sun will set over the horizon as you sail back to shore.

It’s time to explore the city of San Diego by land! Climb onto your luxury coach to dive to Old Town. Explore its historical buildings and shops. Next, you’re off to downtown San Diego including Little Italy to experience the hustle and bustle of the inner city. Take a break at Balboa Park for a picnic lunch with spectacular views of California’s nature. Stop to take photos at Petco Park and Balboa’s Botanical Garden before making your way up to Mount Soledad. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego and the birthplace of modern California.

Wake up extra early for an unforgettable final day in California. Make your way to La Jolla cove for a briefing on your equipment and the diving site. Next, it’s time to gear up for a guided scuba dive. Marvel at the spectacular biodiversity of this underwater marine park. Enjoy an up-close and personal encounter with the cove’s abounding marine like including the bright garibaldi fish, sea lions, and harbor seals. You’ll likely also see at least one seven-gill shark, horn shark, or leopard shark. Yikes! If you want to learn more about a particular marine animal, signal to your marine scientists who will explain once your above water. This cove is said to be the true jewel of California.

It has been both an adventurous and educational week in California. We hope you had lots of fun, but it’s now time to leave. Enjoy a final breakfast with your group and guides. Talk about your favorite memories and what you have learned. Next, head to the airport for your departure flight home.