8 Days / 7 Nights / 906 miles / 1458 km / 28° - 63° F / 7° - 25° C

Fall colors in the Owens Valley of California, nothin' like it! Rent a VW from Vintage Surfari Wagons, or drive your own and convoy along with like minded folks this October through the Owens Valley on this 8 day guided camp tour.

Convoy with us as we guide you through Vintage Bill's ol' stomping grounds... the Alabama Hills, Eureka Sand Dunes, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Benton Hot Springs, Mono Lake, Mammoth, Crowley Lake, Tom's Place, Bishop and Red Rock Canyon.

We'll treat you to some amazing camp vittles prepared by cooks from the West that love to camp. 

Under starry skies  pull up a chair and warm yourself by the fire, get to know your kindred VDubr's, play charades, have a laugh and sample the campfire favorite - S'mores... reinvented with our grown-up flavor combinations! 

Settle in each night under the canopy of your very own classic Campmobile. A proverbial nest outfitted with cozy down duvets and ultra safe propane heaters. Ahhh-wake in a private paradise with magnificent vistas of the Sierra Mountains.

DAY 1 & 2 :: Fossil Falls, Lone Pine, Whitney Portal, Alabama Hills

DAY 3 :: Eureka Sand Dunes, Death Valley*

DAY 4 :: Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Grandview*

DAY 5 :: Coppertop BBQ, Bishop, Benton Hot Springs

DAY 6 :: Mono Lake, June Lake Loop, Mammoth Mtn, Twin Lakes, Tamarack Lodge

DAY 7 :: Hot Creek, Red Rock Canyon

DAY 8 :: Costa Mesa

*Destination subject to change due to weather conditions.

JOURNEY DETAILS

WHEN:  Your adventure embarks from Vintage Surfari Wagons in Costa Mesa, CA on the morning of Tuesday, October 10th at 8:30 am and will be returning from Red Rock Canyon early evening, Tuesday, October 17th

COST:
• $4825
• Tag-along Buses: Inquire
• Kids 10 Years And Younger Travel Free
auto insurance not included

Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

WHAT'S INCLUDED:  Provided in the cost is an 8 day rental of a classic VW Campmobile, bedding pack, down duvet, propane heater, camp chairs, kitchen galley kit, firewood, camp fees, one nights stay at a luxury retreat in Mammoth, travel snack boxes, 4 impressive evening meals, 4 robust breakfasts, campfire goodies, and a smattering of signature cocktails, all lovingly fabricated by our VSW crew. Oh and of course, your very own bus whisperer Vintage Bill. He'll be more than happy to answer any and all VDub queries, but most importantly he'll keep us all rolling on down the road.

MEALTIMES/PROVISIONS:  Menus will reflect a healthy California cuisine.

A communal grill and camp kitchen will be available for all bus participants to use while we are on the road. In addition, all of our vans have on board galley style kitchens and are fully stocked with all the gear you’ll need to cook and eat with.

We'll make stops strategically along our route so that everyone can purchase personal provisions.

Spontaneously we tend to gather together for restaurant meals along our route. These meals are voluntary and not included so please be prepared to reimburse if a group check is tabulated.

OPTIONS:  If you'd like to add more nights to your journey just ask, or if you have your own bus and want to join in let us know. We aim to please and nothing is out of the question.

Depending on the interest of our campers morning yoga sessions may be available

HERE'S A CLOSER LOOK AT OUR ITINERARY...

Day 1 & 2 Lone Pine | 241 mi - 388 km

From our base camp in Lone Pine you'll be free to explore hiking trails at nearby Whitney Portal  or poke around the Alabama Hills, the Movie Museum, Cerro Gordo Mine, Diaz Lake or Horseshoe Meadow.

Day 3 Eureka Sand Dunes | 91 mi - 46 km

We'll journey on roads less traveled to our dry camp at Eureka Sand Dunes. Here you'll be a witness to tallest natural sand dunes in the United States, 3 square miles of them, rising 700 feet from the valley floor! 

Day 4 Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest | 81 mi - 130 km

After early morning robust provisioning we will wind our way up out of the sand dune valley to the pine mountaintop, setting up camp at Grandview - a popular spot for star gazers and astronomy groups as the night sky is very dark. The following morning we'll explore the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest on a pre-lunch hike. This is home to some of the most gnarled and photogenic trees you may ever see. Methuselah is estimated to be 4,743 years old!

Day 5 Benton | 53 mi - 85 km

The oldest existing town in Mono County, Benton was originally founded by Western Indians who sought out it's natural hot springs. We too will make use of it's hot springs as we soak our hike-aches away at eclectic Benton Hot Springs. Each campsite features it's own private hot tub!

Day 6 Mammoth via Mono Lake | 79 mi - 127 km

Driving out of Benton we'll see dramatic rock formations as we mosey toward Mammoth via Hwy 120 and it's high desert environment. On the way we'll pass by the strangely beautiful Mono Lake and the adjacent towering cinder cones of the young Mono Crater volcanos. From there we'll take a local back road, June Lake Loop into Mammoth Lakes, our final destination - a  luxury retreat in the pines. We'll spend the late afternoon and evening kicking back in front of a majestic stone fireplace. Venture out for a fall color hike and meet up later at our cabin  for vittles and libations. Arise to fresh mountain air and a daub of Sierra views.

Day 7 & 8 Red Rock Canyon and Beyond | 192 mi - 309 km / 163 mi - 262 km

Our final stop on our journey home will find us steppin' back in time at Red Rock Canyon, a 27,000 acre state park situated at the Southern most tip of the Sierra Nevada Range. Spectacular dark red layers of sedimentary rock have been heaved hundreds of feet in the air by the nearby Garlock Fault. Many of Hollywood's biggest Western stars have worked in these canyons, including John Wayne, Hopalong Cassidy, Gene Autry, Gabby Hayes and Gary Cooper.

On Day 8 we'll pull up stakes and roll back to VSW Headquarters in Costa Mesa.

MOVING FORWARD:
Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

CANCELLATIONS:

• More than 60 days from tour departure date: 50% of Deposit

• Less than 60 days from tour departure date: 100% of Tour Cost

  If we can fill your space cancelled prior to more than 30 days before the trip departure date a full refund will be given minus a $250 handling fee. Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain medical/trip insurance.

• In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings and is non-refundable.

CONTACT US:  Speak to one of our guides first. Send us an email and we will schedule a phone call.

"CALIFORNIA SAGA: BIG SUR"
...Cashmere hills filled with evergreens
Flowin' from the clouds down to meet the sea
With the granite cliff as a referee
Crimson sunsets and golden dawns
Mother deer with their newborn fawns
Under Big Sur skies and that's where I belong...

7 Nights / 8 Days

An escape to the great outdoors brings you closer to life's simple pleasures. Reconnect with the outdoors in style. Be warmed by the camaraderie around the campfire, gaze at the brilliance of stars and wake to the aromas of a fireside breakfast. Discover breathtaking landscapes as you cruise the California Coast in a classic VW camper van!

On this October tour we meander North from VSW Headquarters in Costa Mesa with overnight stops at Carpenteria, San Simeon (at the base of Hearst Castle), Fernwood Campground in the heart of Big Sur, Bassetti Vineyards in Cambria, and final surprise location in the Santa Barbara area.

Slow travel with experienced Vdub guides and hosts Diamond D and Vintage Bill, owners of Vintage Surfari Wagons — pioneers of the #vanlife movement.

DAY 1 :: Depart Costa Mesa after a light but refreshing nosh, Cruise Highway 1 through Malibu stopping at Vintage Grocers for lunch and a leg stretch, with Carpinteria State Beach as our final evening destination.

DAY 2 :: San Simeon :: Our final evening destination by way of Morro Bay, and Cambria.

DAY 3, 4 & 5 :: Fernwood Campground :: Our final destination by way of Highwway #1 along the Big Sur coastline. We’ll set up camp here for 3 nights and explore Big Sur — Nepenthe, Ventana, hidden beaches, and cocktails in the creek!

DAY 6 :: Cambria :: Bassetti Vineyard and camping on the vineyard. Farm to Table Dinner (Optional $90 per person) accompanied by Bassetti’s award winning wines.

DAY 7 :: Santa Ynez Valley :: Final evening spent on a Lavender Farm.

DAY 8 :: Highway 1 south costal cruise, returning to Costa Mesa early evening.

JOURNEY DETAILS

WHEN:  Your adventure embarks from Vintage Surfari Wagons in Costa Mesa, CA on the morning of Monday, October 10th at 8:30 am and will be returning from Santa Barbara early evening, Monday, October 17th.

COST:
• Single Occupancy: $2880 USD
• Double Occupancy: $1920 USD (per person)
• Extra Travelers (up to 2 per bus): $80 USD (per person per day)
• Tag-along Buses: $1280 USD (+$80 USD/day for each additional traveler)
• Kids 10 Years And Younger Travel Free
auto insurance not included

WHAT'S INCLUDED:  Provided in the cost is an 8 day rental of a classic VW Camper Van, bedding pack, down duvet, camp chairs, kitchen galley kit, firewood, camp fees, travel snack box, 3 impressive evening meals, 3 robust breakfasts, campfire goodies, and a smattering of signature cocktails, all lovingly fabricated by our VSW crew. One nights stay at The Bassetti Vineyard. Oh and of course, your very own bus whisperer Vintage Bill. He'll be more than happy to answer any and all VDub queries, but most importantly he'll keep us all rolling on down the road.

MEALTIMES/PROVISIONS:  Menus will reflect a healthy California cuisine. We will sample wines from the regions that we are passing through.

A communal grill and camp kitchen will be available for all bus participants to use while we are on the road. In addition, all of our vans have on board galley style kitchens and are fully stocked with all the gear you’ll need to cook and eat with.

We'll make stops strategically along our route so that everyone can purchase personal provisions.

Spontaneously we tend to gather together for restaurant meals along our route. These meals are voluntary and not included so please be prepared to reimburse if a group check is tabulated.

OPTIONS: If you'd like to add more nights to your journey just ask, or if you have your own bus and want to join in let us know. We aim to please and nothing is out of the question. We'll also be adding the option of a Farm to Table dinner paired with award wining wines at Bassetti Vineyards. This option is priced at $90 dollars per person and will be hosted by the Bassetti’s on the vineyard.

MOVING FORWARD:
Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

CANCELLATIONS:

• More than 60 days from tour departure date: 50% of Deposit

• Less than 60 days from tour departure date: 100% of Tour Cost

  If we can fill your space cancelled prior to more than 30 days before the trip departure date a full refund will be given minus a $250 handling fee. Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain medical/trip insurance.

• In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings and is non-refundable.

CONTACT US:  Speak to one of our guides first. Send us an email and we will schedule a phone call.

NEAREST AIRPORT: John Wayne International Airport (SNA) is only 15 minutes away from VSW headquarters in Costa Mesa! If you'd rather land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you'll be about 50 minutes away (depending on traffic). There are several shuttle options from both airports, in addition Uber and Lyft are available. Please check with us and we can recommend the best option.

NEEDED: VW freaks n' fanciers like YOU!

Friday Afternoon - Sunday Evening

So, we've booked a few camp sites close to San Onofre and will stock them with VW buses. Each bus can accommodate 2 peeps in the lower berth and 2 above. Book the bus for yourself, or gather your sistahs, young-un's (16+ accompanied by an adult), kissing cousins, friends - whomever, and share the experience! Just remember... this is a girl power weekend, so no brudah's allowed (except supervising Dads)!

We will be meeting at VSW Headquarters in Costa Mesa on Friday afternoon and head down to San Onofre for a weekend of surfing, sunning, and smore-zing around the campfire. This adventure is for those that want to learn to surf, but are kinda apprehensive or the opportunity never presented itself. Our surf instructors will gently lead you through the moves.

All you need to do is gather your BFFs and book to reserve a spot in the line up. Show up at VSW HQ on Friday afternoon and we will take care of the rest!

In case you're wondering... the water temps in September should be just dandy with as long as you're sportin' a wetsuit.

We are super excited for this trip!

Diane, Marty & Kimber

ABOUT OUR SURF INSTRUCTOR:
Marty got her introduction to surfing at Shallotte Middle NC, as coach of the Shallotte Shredders Surf Team from 1989-1992. She had previously been a Water Safety Instructor and Lifeguard in Williamsburg VA from 1982-1987. Upon moving to the beach, she took up the sport of surfing with the support of her students. She began competitive surfing in 1991 and is still competing in the Eastern Surfing Association competitions and Wahine contests among others. Marty has surfed at the National level in United States Surfing Federation (USSF) Championships held in California, Texas, and Hawaii. She has traveled to Central America many times and has conducted surf lessons and camps since 1992.

COST:
• One person in a bus: $799.
• Each additional person in a bus: $599.

Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings and is non-refundable.

OPTIONS:
• Wetsuits $40 (S, M, L, XL)
• Surfboards $70

WHAT'S INCLUDED:
• Beginner Surf Lessons
• Accommodation in a Vintage Volkswagen
• All Meals + Campfire Goodies
• Shuttle to and from Campground from VSW HQ
• Shuttle to and from Beach Daily

MOVING FORWARD:
Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

CANCELLATIONS:

• More than 60 days from tour departure date: 50% of Deposit

• Less than 60 days from tour departure date: 100% of Tour Cost

  If we can fill your space cancelled prior to more than 30 days before the trip departure date a full refund will be given minus a $250 handling fee. Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain medical/trip insurance.

• In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings.

CONTACT US:  Speak to one of our guides first. Send us an email and we will schedule a phone call.

7 Days / 6 Nights / 560 miles / 900 km

What better way to experience the quintessential California lifestyle than taking a road trip in an iconic Volkswagen bus up Old Highway 1. Join us as we head out to explore the mystical and mighty Central Coast.

On this trail, you, like past Vin de Vine mavericks, will be awed by never ending pacific coast beaches, the breezes that scamper lightly over lush verde hills, and the brilliant azure morning skies that burn orange, peach, apple and strawberry as the sun is lost on the evening horizon. All five senses will be aroused and become alive as trailblazers leave behind VSW Headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA and meander north – making overnight stops in the quaint coastal towns of Ventura, Morro Bay, Moonstone Beach and Los Olivos where you’ll find escapes into nature, including kayaking (or SUP) in Morro Bay, walking the coastal shores along Moonstone Beach just south of San Simeon (find car-sized elephant seals (the world’s largest) on the beaches north of San Simeon) and of course discover award wining wines paired with creative wine-country cuisine at tasting rooms and eateries in Cambria, Paso Robles, the Foxen Wine Trail and Los Olivos.

There’s no end to the discoveries awaiting you in the central coast region of California.

DAY 1 :: VW orientation, light breakfast, and depart Costa Mesa. We will cruise HWY 1 via Santa Monica and Malibu, stopping at Trancas County Market and Vintage Grocers [pitstop for coffee, nosh, potty break] with our afternoon camp destination in Ventura at Waypoint. Check out downtown Ventura, or take a spin along the beach via complementary beach cruisers at Waypoint. Head back to camp for a tasty evening BBQ meal provided by VSW, join in some lawn games and get to know your fellow travelers around the evening campfire.

DAY 2 :: After a light breakfast we will head toward San Marcos Pass, driving secondary highways toward Los Alamos stopping for lunch at French inspired bistro Bell’s. We will continue along HWY 1 toward Morro Bay State Park, our evening destination on Day 2 [we’ll spend 2 nights here]. Feel free to peel away from the group at the Avila Beach turnoff and soak for an hour in one of the private 2 person hillside tubs at Sycamore Hot Springs [reservations need to be made in advance].

DAY 3 :: Chose to explore the Morro Bay, and/or the San Luis Obispo area(s) on your own or opt to experience a custom wine tour with the VSW crew. We will wind and climb up and down the rolling hills of Paso’s Westside, Peachy Canyon Road. The oak studded road works its way past a small creek canyon where mule deer and wild turkeys freely roam. There are several wineries and tasting rooms in the area who invite you to enjoy their award-winning vintages. Return in the early evening to a plate of gourmet inspired camp grub and harmonizing around the campfire! OPTION :: Custom Wine Tour with Lunch.

DAY 4 :: We’ll collect our gear and hit the road stopping in at the charming beach town of Cayucos. Grab up some lunch at the local favorite pint-sized eatery The Hidden Kitchen. Just a short walk around the corner is The Brown Butter Cookie Company where you can sample one-of-a-kind espresso, almond, cinnamon and coconut lime cookies. Up the road from Cayucos is the quirky, quaint must stop enclave of Harmony, population 18. Home to the Harmony Valley Creamery and its famous Scoop Truck, Harmony Glass Works, Harmony Pottery Shop artisan galleries, and Harmony Cellars where you can sample a flight. Then on toward Cambria and Moonstone Beach — our final destination on Day 5. We will enjoy one nights rest at Ocean Point Ranch and an optional farm to table dinner paired with wines from local vineyards. OPTION :: Farm to Table Dinner Paired With Local Wines

DAY 5 :: Enjoy breakfast in the Canteen at Ocean Point Ranch and take a morning walk along the beach at Moonstone. We’ll linger in Cambria for a bit and then make our way back down the coast via the Foxen Wine Trail to the Santa Ynez Valley where we will enjoy our final 2 nights together at a private ranch with views of the Santa Ynez Valley, surrounded by wineries. This farmstay is located on a 20 acre historical equine center. Walking around the ranch you can visit with farm friendly animals – Horses, mini horses, cows, goats, chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys.

DAY 6 :: FREE DAY - Explore the Foxen Wine Trail [a dozen or so vineyards with wine tasting rooms, horse back riding, horse back riding/tasting room experience, hot air balloon rides], the old western town of Los Olivos [wine tasting rooms, electric bike rentals], the Danish town of Solvang [Danish for ‘sunny field’ and known for it’s aebleskivers. Shop for these pastries, chocolate and check out the traditional Danish style architecture]. Head back to the ranch for our final evening meal together and settle in for the night in your private nest on wheels.

DAY 7 :: We will start our day in Solvang. Then onward to the Santa Barbara Mission via the the ‘ol Stagecoach Road [sightseeing stop at Cold Springs Tavern]. Then we’ll head back down HWY 1, stopping for a picnic lunch at the beach before returning to VSW HQ.

JOURNEY DETAILS

NOTE: This is the general route our tour will take, we will be traveling secondary hi-ways whenever possible and staying as close to the coast as possible.

WHEN:  Your adventure embarks from Vintage Surfari Wagons in Costa Mesa, CA on the morning of Sunday, May 22nd at 8:30 am and will be returning from Santa Barbara early evening, Saturday, May 28th.

COST:
• Single Occupancy: $2520 USD
• Double Occupancy: $1680 USD ($3360 for 2 people)
• Extra Travelers (up to 2 per bus): $80 USD (per person per day)
• Tag-along Buses: $1120 (+$80 USD/day for each additional traveler)
• Kids 10 Years And Younger Travel Free
auto insurance not included

Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

WHAT'S INCLUDED:  Provided in the cost is an 7 day rental of a classic VW Campmobile, bedding pack, down duvet, camp chairs, kitchen galley kit, firewood, camp fees, travel snack box, 3 impressive evening meals, 3 robust breakfasts, campfire goodies, and a smattering of signature cocktails, all lovingly fabricated by our VSW crew. One nights stay at Ocean Point Ranch. Oh and of course, your very own bus whisperer Vintage Bill. He'll be more than happy to answer any and all VDub queries, but most importantly he'll keep us all rolling on down the road.

MEALTIMES/PROVISIONS:  Menus will reflect a healthy California cuisine. We will sample wines from the regions that we are passing through.

A communal grill and camp kitchen will be available for all bus participants to use while we are on the road. In addition, all of our vans have on board galley style kitchens and are fully stocked with all the gear you’ll need to cook and eat with.

We'll make stops strategically along our route so that everyone can purchase personal provisions.

Spontaneously we tend to gather together for restaurant meals along our route. These meals are voluntary and not included so please be prepared to reimburse via VENMO, cash, or PayPal if a group check is tabulated.

OPTIONS: If you'd like to add more nights to your journey just ask, or if you have your own bus and want to join in let us know. We aim to please and nothing is out of the question. We'll also be adding the option of touring local wineries whilst staying in the Central Coast; with pick up at our campsite in Morro Bay we will be taken on a private tour of 3-4 wineries with our local guide. This is a one day excursion where you will be responsible for your tasting fees and any food purchased while enroute. A Farm to Table dinner paired with local wines is another option not to be missed. This is priced at approximately $85 dollars per person and will be hosted by Ocean Point Ranch in Moonstone Beach.

MOVING FORWARD:
Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

CANCELLATIONS:

• More than 60 days from tour departure date: 50% of Deposit

• Less than 60 days from tour departure date: 100% of Tour Cost

  If we can fill your space cancelled prior to more than 30 days before the trip departure date a full refund will be given minus a $250 handling fee. Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain medical/trip insurance.

• In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings.

CONTACT US: Speak to one of our guides first! Send us an email and we will schedule a phone call.

NEAREST AIRPORT: John Wayne International Airport (SNA) is only 15 minutes away from VSW headquarters in Costa Mesa! If you'd rather land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you'll be about 50 minutes away (depending on traffic). There are several shuttle options from both airports, as well as Uber and Lyft. Please check with us and we can recommend the best option.

NEEDED: Folks that like to make new friends, that like to camp in comfort, that want to experience the charming coastal California vibe, and sample local wines and locally grown produce, meats, cheese and WINE! Oh, and peeps that aren’t shy bcuz you’ll be exposed to all sorts of waves, smiles and questions like “what year is your bus?” ;)

5 Days / 4 Nights / 452 miles / 727 km

We’re gonna kick up some age-old dust as we trundle across the dry open vistas of the desert. Vintage Surfari Wagons’ expedition guide Happy Harrigan will identify local flora and fauna as we reveal the arid land's most spectacular natural formations such as Slot Canyon in Anza Borrego and the third-largest palm oasis in California tucked away in a rocky V-shaped gorge.

Additional points of interest on this nostalgic VDub adventure and ready for your exploration are the metal sculptures of Ricardo Breceda at Galleta Meadows and Leonard Knight's Salvation Mountain - a brilliant "outsider art " masterpiece!

Get ready to capture some of your own keepsake images. If we’re lucky we may glimpse a bighorn sheep (Borrego) or two!

Bring your appetites and your thirst cause we're gonna be serving up some ding dang fancy camp vittles and libations.

DAY 1:: Julien [Apple Pie] [Sightseeing] [Craft Beef Flight], Great Overland Stage Route

DAY 2 & 3 :: Anza Borrego [Slot Canyon Hike] [Palm Canyon Trail] [Sculptures of Ricardo Breceda]

DAY 4 :: Salvation Mountain, Slab City [Sightseeing], Lake Cahuilla

DAY 5 :: Palms to Pines Highway, Costa Mesa

JOURNEY DETAILS

WHEN:  Your adventure embarks from Vintage Surfari Wagons in Costa Mesa, CA on the morning of Thursday, April 7th and will be returning from Lake Hemit late afternoon, Monday, April 11th.

COST:
• Single Occupancy: $1800 USD
• Double Occupancy: $1200 USD (per person)
• Extra Travelers (up to 2 per bus): $80 USD (per person per day)
• Tag-along Buses: $800 USD (+$80 USD/day for each additional traveler)
• Kids 10 Years And Younger Travel Free
taxes and auto insurance not included

WHAT'S INCLUDED:  Provided in the cost is a 5 day rental of a classic VW Campmobile, bedding pack, down duvet, propane heater, camp chairs, kitchen galley kit, firewood, camp fees, 2 impressive evening meals, 2 robust breakfasts, campfire goodies, and a smattering of signature cocktails, all lovingly fabricated by our VSW crew. Oh and of course, your very own bus whisperer Vintage Bill. He'll be more than happy to answer any and all VDub queries, but most importantly he'll keep us all rolling on down the road.

MEALTIMES/PROVISIONS:  Menus will reflect a healthy California cuisine.

A communal grill and camp kitchen will be available for all bus participants to use while we are on the road. In addition, all of our vans have on board galley style kitchens and are fully stocked with all the gear you’ll need to cook and eat with.

We'll make stops strategically along our route so that everyone can purchase personal provisions.

Spontaneously we tend to gather together for restaurant meals along our route. These meals are voluntary and not included so please be prepared to reimburse if a group check is tabulated.

OPTIONS: If you'd like to add more nights to your journey either at the beginning or at the end please ask, or if you have your own bus and want to join in let us know. We aim to please and nothing is out of the question.

MOVING FORWARD:
Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

CANCELLATIONS:

• More than 60 days from tour departure date: 50% of Deposit

• Less than 60 days from tour departure date: 100% of Tour Cost

  If we can fill your space cancelled prior to more than 30 days before the trip departure date a full refund will be given minus a $250 handling fee. Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain medical/trip insurance.

• In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings.

CONTACT US:  Speak to one of our guides first. Send us an email and we will schedule a phone call.

NEAREST AIRPORT: John Wayne International Airport (SNA) is only 15 minutes away from VSW headquarters in Costa Mesa! If you'd rather land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you'll be about 50 minutes away (depending on traffic). There are several shuttle options from both airports, including Uber and Lyft. Please check with us and we can recommend the best option.

NEEDED: VW freaks n' fanciers like YOU!

6 Days / 5 Nights / 627 miles / 1009 km

Buses by the Bridge (BBB) is one of the most popular VW gatherings in North America and is the largest in the United States. Every January the campout brings 600+ vintage VW buses from all over the US and Canada. In 2023 BBB will be celebrating its 26th event on the desert shores of Lake Havasu, a large reservoir fed by the Colorado River along the border of California and Arizona - home to the famous London Bridge.

We certainly hope that you can join us, for this is sure to be another one of our funtastic, memorable, and quirky treks across the Californian desert!

Here's a peek at our itinerary...

DAY 1 :: Costa Mesa to Joshua Tree National Park

On the morning of day one, our caravan will leave from VSW’s headquarters and motor toward Joshua Tree National Park (JTNP). This year we are switching it up a wee bit and will be camping at a secret location adjacent the park. JTNP is one of the few places in the world where you will find these iconic Joshua trees, also known as Yucca Brevifolia. You’ll be free to explore this unique park, and then head on over to our campsite for the night where we will unwind under a fabulous sunset that only the California desert can provide.

DAY 2 :: Joshua Tree National Park to Lake Havasu City (Buses by the Bridge) via Route 66

On day two, the group will convoy towards BBB, but first we will take mystic Route 66 to Roy’s Café, a local site well known as a relic backdrop for movies, music videos, and photo shoots. After taking time out to shamelessly pose for selfies we’ll be back on the road - heading for Lake Havasu City. We’ll be arriving close to sunset, right on time to set up camp and take a stroll around our outpost for the next few days.

DAY 3 & 4 :: Buses by the Bridge, Lake Havasu City

After having spent the night stargazing under the expansive Milky Way, pondering the vastness of the universe you’ll wake up to to a sea of Volkswagen buses. You’ll spend the rest of the day nosing about the colorful buses and talking up their owners. And for those of you who never return home without a souvenir, there will be plenty of opportunities to purchase handmade goods from the vendors at the BBB event.

As this enchanted day draws to a close, those of you who crave adrenaline might consider taking a walk on the London Bridge (yes – this bridge actually came from London!).

On one of our nights in Havasu we’ll be sharing in a pot-luck dinner, so come prepared to share one of your favorite campout recipes with your new found VW tribe!

DAY 5 :: Lake Havasu City to Landers

This day will wind us along the edges of gorgeous Parker Dam and the Colorado River where we’ll share the road with wild burros! Then we'll drive a straight shot through the Mojave Desert toward our afternoon destination at a private old homestead cabin, ‘Landers Cove’ – just minutes from Pioneer Town and downtown Joshua Tree. Awaiting us at Landers Cove will be our private campsite located adjacent to the cabin complete with stunning views of Goat Mountain. Here we’ll prepare an evening meal to share together, relax, stargaze, listen to LP’s, watch an old western by the wood burning stove, sip Tequila on the patio, cozy up around the outdoor fire pit, and I’m certain all of us will want to enjoy a refreshing cleanse in the outdoor/indoor showers!

Now let's not forget Pioneer Town, home to Pappy and Harriet's Pioneertown Palace! Who knows what talent will be lurking on the eve of Sunday, January 16th!

Stroll around Pioneertown, sit outside in Pappy and Harriet's beer garden. play some pool or hang out and listen to music. Some of the shows are free, but either way, rest assured, there will be live music!

DAY 6
Monday, January 16th :: Landers to Costa Mesa

Just because this is the last day of our excursion, it doesn’t mean the adventure is over. There's always more exploring to do in the light of day... if you'd prefer to break away from the group and poke around Palm Springs, or head back into Joshua Tree National Park it's totally your call. Just be home in time for, well, not dinner, but maybe your flight home ;)

Yes, our final destination is our starting point in Costa Mesa. Undoubtedly the end of this epic journey will be the beginning of lifelong friendships - established through the unforgettable moments shared on this sublime safari.

JOURNEY DETAILS

WHEN:  Your adventure embarks from Vintage Surfari Wagons in Costa Mesa, CA on the morning of Wednesday, January 11th and will be returning from Landers arriving early evening, Monday, January 16th.

COST:
• Single Occupancy: $1800 USD
• Double Occupancy: $1440 USD (per person)
• Extra Travelers (up to 2 per bus): $80 USD (per person per day)
• Tag-along Buses: $600 USD (+$100 USD for each additional traveler)
• Kids 10 Years And Younger Travel Free
auto insurance not included

WHAT'S INCLUDED:  Provided in the cost is the 6 day classic VW Campmobile rental, propane space heater, down duvet, camp chairs, kitchen galley kit, cooler, firewood, all camp fees, 3 ding dang tasty camp dinners and breakfasts, one nights stay at a secret spot adjacent Joshua Tree, one nights stay at Landers Cove Homestead adjacent Pioneer Town and downtown Joshua Tree. And let's not forget - experienced VDub road guides... Vintage Bill and Happy Harrigan!

MEALTIMES/PROVISIONS:  Each camper has it’s own galley style kitchen complete with all the gear you’ll need to cook and eat with. We'll make stops strategically along our route so that everyone can purchase personal provisions. Fresh brewed coffee will be served up with a smile each morning. Be prepared to participate in a pot luck dinner, so bring along your fav dinner recipe!

OPTIONS: We will have access to pontoon boat rentals and if we have a large enough group interested in cruising the lake we’ll take one out for a spin. The cost of this option will be shared with all who participate.

MOVING FORWARD:
Deposit to hold a reservation is 50% of the tour cost
Balance is to be paid in full 60 days prior to the departure date

CANCELLATIONS:

• More than 60 days from tour departure date: 50% of Deposit

• Less than 60 days from tour departure date: 100% of Tour Cost

  If we can fill your space cancelled prior to more than 30 days before the trip departure date a full refund will be given minus a $250 handling fee. Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain medical/trip insurance.

• In the case of a natural disaster we will transfer your deposit or entire tour cost to a voucher for future travel. The voucher can be used for self drive or group tour bookings and is non-refundable.

CONTACT US:  Speak to one of our guides first. Send us an email and we will schedule a phone call.

NEAREST AIRPORT: John Wayne International Airport (SNA) is only 15 minutes away from VSW headquarters in Costa Mesa! If you'd rather land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you'll be about 50 minutes away (depending on traffic). There are several shuttle options from both airports, including Uber and Lyft. Please check with us and we can recommend the best option.

NEEDED: VW freaks n' fanciers like YOU!

Friday Afternoon - Sunday Evening

So, we've booked a few camp sites close to San Onofre and will stock them with VW buses, basically accommodation for up to 16 peeps, but kinda close quarters unless you're family and used to bunking together. Each bus can accommodate 2 peeps in the lower berth and 2 above. Book the bus for yourself, or gather your sistahs, young-un's (16+ accompanied by an adult female), kissing cousins, friends - whomever, and share the experience! Just remember... this is a girl power weekend, so no brudah's allowed!

We will be meeting at VSW Headquarters in Costa Mesa on Friday afternoon and heading down to San Onofre for a weekend of surfing, sunning, and smore-zing around the campfire. This adventure is for those that want to learn to surf, but are kinda scared or the opportunity never presented itself. We will have two surf instructors that will gently lead you through the moves, Jill and John, both native Californians that grew up surfing here on our local beaches.

All you need to do is gather your BFFs and book to reserve a spot in the line up. Show up at VSW HQ on Friday afternoon and we will take care of the rest!

In case you're wondering... the water temps in June should be just dandy with as long as you're sportin' a wetsuit.

We are super excited for this trip!

Diane & Jill

COST:
• One person in a bus: $599.
• Each additional person in a bus: $399.
(taxes not included)

Deposit to hold your reservation: 50%
Balance to be paid one week prior to departure

OPTIONS:
• Wetsuits $60 (S, M, L, XL)
• Surfboards $135

WHAT'S INCLUDED:
• Beginner Surf Lessons
• Accommodation in a Vintage Volkswagen
• All Meals + Campfire Goodies
• Shuttle to and from Campground from VSW HQ
• Shuttle to and from Beach Daily