Explore some of San Diego's unique and off-the-beaten-path attractions while driving some of the best backroads in San Diego County. We'll make our way to the top of Palomar Mountain and visit the Palomar Observatory and Museum. We'll descend down to the desert town of Borrego Springs with its bighorn sheep and iconic metal sculptures dotting the landscape. Finally, we'll make our way back through the historic mountain town of Julian, known for its delicious apple pies. You'll want to allow a full day for this 152-mile drive. While the drive itself could technically be done in 4 hours, we'll be pointing out several points of interest and places to stop along the way. We'll also share some of the rich history of San Diego's past. Don't miss out on this unforgettable San Diego drive!
- Private transfer from Honolulu airport to your Waikiki/Honolulu hotel
- Travel in the company of just your party: Avoid crowds
- Pickup is timed to coincide with your flight’s arrival: No waiting around
- Meet and greet service by chauffeur and 60 minutes’ waiting time
What To Expect
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle is an outdoor sculpture garden created by artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Lake Wohlford
Enjoy a scenic overlook as you drive by Lake Wohlford.
• Admission Ticket Free
Pauma Valley
Take in the spectacular views of Pauma Valley as we make our way to Palomar Mountain.
• Admission Ticket Free
Palomar Observatory
Stop and visit the Palomar and Observatory and Museum, home to the famous 200-inch Hale Telescope.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
East Grade Road
Enjoy spectacular views of San Diego County from Kica Mik Overlook. Downtown San Diego and the Pacific Ocean are visible on clear days.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Henshaw Scenic Vista Observation Site
Another viewpoint on Palomar’s East Grade Road provides breathtaking views of Lake Henshaw and the surrounding meadows.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Santa Ysabel Mission
Stop and visit out one of southern California’s famous mission churches, dating back to 1818.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Montezuma Valley Road
Enjoy stunning views of the harsh desert landscape and the Salton Sea from the Montezuma Valley Road Scenic Overlook.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
Stop at the Anza Borrego State Park Visitors Center before deciding if you’ll take a short hike into Borrego Palm Canyon to see the fan palm oasis and seasonal creek. Be sure to keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, they blend in surprisingly well with the rocks!
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Borrego Springs Serpent Sculpture
We’ll take you to the some of the most iconic metal sculptures in Borrego Springs. With more than 100 scattered across the desert, you could spend a whole day visiting them.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Julian
Explore the historic mining town of Julian, known today for its apple pies! We’ll tell you the best place to go for pie, plus we’ll point out several other local attractions worth visiting.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
Highlight
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Most travelers can participate
Palomar Observatory Closes at 3PM
Anza Borrego Visitor Center Closes at 5PM
Mom’s Pies in Julian Closes at 5PM
Eagle Mine in Julian Closes at 4PM
Queen Califia’s Has Extremely Limited Hours
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Max group – 5
