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United States

USA: Golden State Scholars: Campuses and Culture — Custom School Trips

Groups of 8+ | Custom Dates | Fully Supported | 4.9 on GoOverseas

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Discover California’s vibrant culture and natural beauty with Rustic Pathways. Engage in hands-on learning, community service, and leadership development. Explore iconic landmarks, museums, and universities. Connect with nature on the Channel Islands and bond with peers through team-building activities. A transformative journey awaits, blending education, adventure, and personal growth. Make lasting memories in the Golden State!

Custom School Trip

Contact us for a custom quote

Custom dates & duration. Groups of 8+.

Response within 1 business day

Anna Beckerman

Anna Beckerman

Head of School Group Travel

Dartmouth · 15 years at Rustic

321+ school partners since 2010

Not sure yet?

Email Rustic Pathways

Talk to a personal travel advisor: +1 (440) 975-9691

Schedule a call

View program itinerary

What Does a 8-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Welcome to California!

Your California adventure begins as you touch down at the airport in Los Angeles. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted by your dedicated program leaders who will be your companions and guides throughout this exciting journey. After a short transfer, you will check into your comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city. Take some time to unwind and settle into your rooms before joining the group for a delicious dinner at a local eatery, giving you a taste of LA's vibrant culinary scene. As the day winds down, gather with your fellow travelers for an orientation session. Your program leaders will walk you through the week's itinerary, set expectations for the thrilling days ahead, and provide valuable insights into the local culture. This is your chance to ask questions, get to know your travel mates, and start building the bonds that will make this trip unforgettable. Flight Details: Rustic Pathways is happy to book your flights as an optional add-on service. Overnight: Hotel or Hostel, Los Angeles
2

LA’s Educational Landscapes

After a refreshing night's sleep, begin your day with a hearty breakfast. Today, you will explore one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions – the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Immerse yourself in the vibrant campus life during the tour and gain insights into the academic excellence that defines this university. Following the campus tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, dive into the cultural and scientific marvels of Los Angeles. You have the option to visit the California Science Center, The Getty Center, the Autry Museum of the American West, or the California African American Museum. Alternatively, you can explore the history of Mexican-American culture in California at the historic Olvera Street and La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, which marks the location where Los Angeles was founded. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner and a restful night at the same accommodation in Los Angeles. Overnight: Hotel or Hostel, Los Angeles
3

Channel Islands Exploration

Your day starts early with breakfast at your LA accommodation. After checking out, you'll board your transport for a scenic drive up the coast to Ventura Harbor, enjoying beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean along the way. At the harbor, you'll join Island Packers for an exciting day trip to the Channel Islands. Keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife during the boat journey - your captain will be sure to pause for any whale or dolphin sightings! Once on the island, you'll break for lunch before embarking on a guided hike with a knowledgeable naturalist. They'll introduce you to the unique natural and cultural resources of Channel Islands National Park, covering themes such as adaptation, habitats, endemic organisms, marine ecology, and the island's fascinating human history. After a day full of exploration and learning, you'll ferry back to the mainland. Enjoy dinner before driving to your Santa Barbara area accommodations, where you'll reflect on your remarkable island adventure during an evening debrief. Overnight: El Capitan Canyon or Camp Whittier, Santa Barbara
4

The American Riviera

After breakfast, your day will start with an enriching tour of the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). Immerse yourself in the academic environment and scenic beauty of the campus. For lunch, enjoy a meal that recharges you for the afternoon activities. You have the option to volunteer with the Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration (CCBER), where you will participate in hands-on conservation efforts. Alternatively, spend the afternoon shopping on State Street and relaxing at East Beach or Rincon Beach. Dinner will be followed by a group debrief where you can share what you have learned and experienced so far, fostering a deeper connection with your peers and the places you have visited. Community Service Hours: 4 Overnight: El Capitan Canyon or Camp Whittier, Santa Barbara
5

Leadership and Team Building Camp

Today is all about personal growth and team bonding. After breakfast, dive into a series of engaging leadership and team-building activities. The morning will be dedicated to Field Olympics, fostering friendly competition and cooperation among your group. Following lunch, challenge yourself on the High Ropes Course, pushing your limits and supporting your peers. The afternoon offers some free time to relax or enjoy the pool. As evening falls, gather around the campfire for our final group discussion, s’mores, and the chance to commemorate your journey with Rustic Ties, a traditional Rustic Pathways ceremony that helps you to share and memorialize the most impactful experiences of your trip so far. Overnight: El Capitan Canyon or Camp Whittier, Santa Barbara
6

Goodbye, California!

As your California adventure draws to a close, you'll make your way back to Los Angeles. En route, you'll stop in Santa Monica for a final taste of coastal California life and a chance to pick up any last-minute souvenirs. At the airport, it's time to bid farewell to your Program Leaders and fellow travelers. As you board your flight home, you'll carry with you not just souvenirs, but a wealth of memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of California's diverse landscapes and communities. Flight Details: Rustic Pathways is happy to book your flights as an optional add-on service.

Total: 8 calendar days / 7 nights. International flights are not included.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

Trained Program Leaders

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Customizable Itinerary

Custom dates and duration

Learn more about Rustic Pathways safety protocols.

United States

What Do School Organizers Ask?

Flights & Cost

How do flights work?

School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup and handles all in-country logistics.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Supervision & Safety

Who supervises the students?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Communication

Can students contact home?

Yes. Rustic Pathways’ policy is that students can call, text, or WhatsApp anytime. Rustic Pathways is happy to defer to established school policies instead.

How do families stay informed?

Rustic Pathways sends daily photo updates throughout the program.

Group & Logistics

How big is the group?

Group size varies based on the school’s needs. Contact Rustic Pathways for a custom quote.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Rustic Pathways provides a room list prior to travel. Schools can assign rooming allocations or allow students to choose their roommates.

Program Details

Will students have unsupervised time?

Structured independence with staff nearby. No unsupervised time in public areas.

Can Rustic Pathways accommodate food allergies? 

Yes. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment and shared with all meal providers.

How much spending money should students have?

$150–200 recommended. Tipping is included, no extra cash needed.

Support

What if a student gets homesick?

Homesickness can be common during the first few days; Rustic Pathways is well-prepared. See how staff support students through homesickness

Does Rustic Pathways support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students. Read how Rustic Pathways supports neurodiverse students.

What Should Teachers Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.
United States offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.
How Do Flights Work?
School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways program leaders meet the group at the arrival airport and manage all in-country logistics from there.
What Meals Are Included?
All meals included. Dietary needs accommodated.
Included:
  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support
Not Included:
  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?

United States Americas Adventure
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