road trip louisiana to california

LA to San Francisco Road Trip: Recommended Stops, Planning Tips, and Sample Itineraries

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TL:DR: Make the best of your LA to San Francisco Road Trip with scenic views along Highway 101, stopping in famous beach towns, driving the Bixby bridge, and exploring the food scenes along the way. Here are a few key takaways:

• The two most direct routes from LA to San Francisco are Highway 101 (9-10 hours) and I-5 (6-7 hours). I’ve driven both and I prefer Hwy 101 because there are more places to stop and it’s a nicer drive.
• Along Hwy 101, you can take a surf lesson in Malibu, grab danish patries in Santa Barbra, and stop in Santa Cruz for seaside carnival fun and unforgetable tacos.
• Overnight in San Luis Obispo, stop at the Madonna Inn, or get a two-bedroom 1920’s bungalow in downtown. I also really like Avila Beach glamping if you have an RV or prefer camping.

The best way to experience California is an LA to San Francisco road trip highlighting the top attractions the Golden State offers. 

Tour the historic Hearst Castle, admire elephant seals, watch surfers conquer impossible waves, hike through majestic redwoods, eat all the tacos, and so much more!

I’ve done this road trip several times, and this article includes my favorite stops, from the Hollywood Sign to Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur to the famous Golden Gate Bridge. 

So, if you’re planning a road trip from LA to San Francisco, read on for essential travel tips.

For the ultimate West Coast adventure, combine one of these road trips with a few days in San Diego . Or, continue up the California Coast to the giant redwoods in the far north.

Table of Contents

LA to San Francisco Road Trip Map

How Far is San Francisco From LA?

The shortest driving distance between San Francisco and LA is 383 miles, which takes about six to seven hours on I-5. However, traffic can extend a Los Angeles road trip considerably.

How to Drive from LA to San Francisco: Highway 101 or I-5?

The two most direct routes from LA to San Francisco are Highway 101 and I-5.

The quickest road trip route is I-5, cutting through California’s Central Valley. It takes about six to seven hours to drive the 383 miles from LA to San Francisco along I-5.

This route is the quickest way to get from point A to B, so it’s usually the one your navigation app will pick.

Along it, you’ll go through Santa Clarita, then climb up to Tejon Pass. The road then descends into the Central Valley, where it continues straight across miles of flat farmland. 

There’s little to see and few worthwhile stops, so plan accordingly. 

Looking for food options along the way? Harris Ranch Inn and Restaurant is a popular steakhouse about three hours north of LA in Coalinga.

Or, for a cheaper and faster stop, go to our cult-favorite California chain, In-n-Out Burger, in Kettleman City. 

As for stretching your legs, stop at Vasquez Rocks Natural Park Area, between Santa Clarita and Palmdale, which features some nice rock formations in the high desert.

Pyramid Lake is another good stop. There’s a beach at Emigrant Landing, and boating is allowed on the lake, which you can reach from the Smokey Bear exit near Castaic.

Highway 101/Highway 1 Route

Highway 101, California’s longest route, starts in Washington state and ends in LA. 

LA to San Francisco via Highway 101 and Highway 1 follows the Pacific Ocean coastline and is the more scenic of the two roads. 

It takes nine to ten hours to drive the 430 miles of this route. 

In complete contrast to I-5, there are tons of places to stop along this route, with many of the most interesting cities in California along this stretch. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to take the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), arguably the best drive in the world.

Sights include Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Luis Obispo, San Simeon, Hearst Castle, Pinnacles National Park, San Jose, and Big Sur, where you can see Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, and Sand Dollar Beach.

I-5 vs Highway 101: Which is Better?

I’ve driven both routes and would only take I-5 again if I was in a big hurry. 

There’s not much to see along the route, and worse, not as many places to stop. If traffic is awful and you need to stay the night, there aren’t as many options.

I always choose Highway 101 if I can help it.

Alternative Route: Highway 395

There’s one final route you can take that’s more roundabout and inland: Highway 395. 

This route is the longest road trip at around 866 miles and 16 hours of driving time, but it’s equally spectacular as the coastal drive, especially in autumn with the fall foliage .

This inland route takes you across the Sierra Nevada past some of California’s most spectacular national parks , including Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Yosemite.

Best Stops Along the Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive

Los angeles.

Why it’s worth visiting: The most famous California city boasts movie stars and mountain lions among its residents. Soak up the sunshine and the glamor in this unique, boisterous, and exciting place.

• Have fun at the theme parks, including Disneyland (a bit further south in Anaheim), Knott’s Berry Farm, and Universal Studios.
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign .
• Take a tour of famous homes.
• Snap a pic with your favorite stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
• Take in the view from the Griffith Observatory.
• Visit the LACMA and Urban Light.

Read our guides to the best things to do in LA and where to stay in Los Angeles .

Santa Monica

Why it’s worth visiting: With its famous pier and beach packed with beautiful people, Santa Monica is the postcard-perfect Southern California town.

• Stroll down the iconic Santa Monica Pier and ride the Ferris wheel at Pacific Park.
• Swim at Santa Monica Beach and go on the swings.
• Ride bikes along The Strand.
• Enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants on pedestrianized Third Street Promenade.

Why it’s worth visiting: This beachside city, surrounded by mountains and lush canyons, is a billionaire’s playground and surfer’s paradise.

• See the abandoned M*A*S*H set at Malibu Creek State Park.
• Take a surfing lesson at Zuma Beach.
• Book a table at Nobu or Geoffrey’s for a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Malibu , the best Malibu hikes , and the best beaches in Malibu .

Why it’s worth visiting: Historic downtown Ventura’s independent boutiques make this beachside city perfect for souvenir shopping, while the bustling marina is the gateway to the stunning Channel Islands. It’s also one of the best places on the Central Coast for fresh fish tacos!

• Take a ferry to one or two of the stunning Channel Islands.
• Explore historic downtown Ventura.
• Go on a whale-watching cruise. 
• Take a paddle boat out in the harbor.

Santa Barbara

Why it’s worth visiting: It’s one of the prettiest towns in Central California, with graceful Spanish architecture, beautiful beaches, and the serene Los Padres National Forest. From Ventura to here is also one of the prettiest California road trips. 

• Relax on one of the white sand beaches.
• Go for a hike in Los Padres National Forest.
• Admire the flowers in Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.
• Check out the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo.
• Walk along State Street in downtown Santa Barbara.
• Visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara.

Why it’s worth visiting: Escape to Europe for the day in this quirky town, where you’ll find colorful boutiques, Danish bakeries, and a large windmill.

• Check out the Hans Christian Anderson Museum.
• Savor an authentic Danish pastry at one of the bakeries.
• Go wine tasting at one of the nearby vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Read our complete guide to the best things to do in Solvang .

Pismo Beach

Why it’s worth visiting: This charming Central Coast town is perfect for whale watching and a day at the beach. 

• Take a dune buggy out into the Oceano sand dunes.
• Take a guided kayak tour along the Pismo Beach coast and try to spot some sea life.
• Watch the surfers and enjoy the laidback vibes at Pismo Beach Pier.

San Luis Obispo

Why it’s worth visiting: This foodie destination offers wine-tasting rooms, a farmers’ market, and top restaurants. Go a little further to spot adorable sea otters at nearby Morro Bay.

• Go on a walking tour that includes the famous Bubble Gum Alley.
• Pick out the freshest produce at the Saturday Farmer’s Market.
• Ride the historic trolley to one of the top restaurants downtown.
• Enjoy some wine tasting.
• See the iconic rock formation further north in nearby Morro Bay and admire the sea otters.

Why it’s worth visiting: Media magnate William Randolph Hearst thought San Simeon was so idyllic he built his legacy on the mist-shrouded hill: a castle fit for a newspaper king. 

Aside from the historic home, this is where you can get up close to an extraordinary elephant seal colony.

• Stop for lunch in the cute coastal town of Cambria on the way in.  
• Visit Hearst Castle and take the Grand Rooms Tour to learn about this unique place.
• Visit the elephant seal vista point at Point Piedras Blancas.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Why it’s worth visiting: See the rare tide fall (where a waterfall pours directly into the ocean) at McWay Falls. 

• Hike to McWay Falls to see the waterfall.
• Look out for California condors, a once rare species now flourishing in Big Sur.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Why it’s worth visiting: The most scenic part of the Big Sur region boasts redwoods and a breathtaking coastline. 

Pfeiffer State Park, in the heart of Big Sur, is close to cute bakeries, luxury resorts, and art galleries.

• Stay at the adults-only Ventana Big Sur and treat yourself to one of their massages and Japanese hot baths.
• Stop for a picture of the famous Bixby Bridge just north of the park.
• Experience the sun setting through a natural archway at nearby Pfeiffer Beach, which has purple sand.

Read our guides to the best hikes in Big Sur and Big Sur camping .

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Why it’s worth visiting: Don’t let the fairytale cottages fool you. From history to hikes at Point Lobos State Reserve, there’s much more than meets the eye in the laidback coastal town of Carmel. 

• Hike the trails at California’s “crown jewel” of state parks, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
• Shop the art galleries and boutiques in downtown Carmel.
• See the historic Carmel Mission.
• Relax at Carmel Beach.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Carmel and the best restaurants in Carmel .

Why it’s worth visiting: The Monterey Bay Aquarium gets almost two million annual visitors, but there’s plenty more to see in this fun seaside town. 

Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many top-notch restaurants, kayak the bay, or visit Pebble Beach while you’re here. 

• Spend a few hours at the aquarium.
• Enjoy a local seafood dinner at Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
• Do a road trip along the 17-Mile Drive .
• See the Monarch butterflies return to the Monterey Peninsula at Pacific Grove in the winter.
• Walk around the famous Cannery Row.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Monterey and the best restaurants in Monterey .

Why it’s worth visiting: Santa Cruz is an artistic haven, surfing mecca, and all-around fun town. Although the popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is best in the summer, the city is vibrant all year. 

• Ride the rollercoasters at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
• Take a trip on the Roaring Camp steam train into the Santa Cruz Mountains at Henry Cowell State Park.
• Build sandcastles and explore tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Walk along West Cliff Drive at sunset.
• Explore Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Santa Cruz , the best Santa Cruz hikes , and the best beaches in Santa Cruz .

Why it’s worth visiting: Silicon Valley’s self-styled capital has a thriving downtown with theaters staging the latest broadway shows and a museum showcasing cutting-edge science and cuisine from around the world. 

Also, consider flying in and out of San Jose International Airport, which is smaller than San Francisco International Airport.

• Visit the quirky Winchester Mystery House.
• Peak into the future at The Tech Interactive, an all-ages science museum. 
• Go for a hike in one of San Jose’s beautiful parks.
• Shop ‘til you drop at Santana Row.

Read our guides to the best things to do in San Jose and the best San Jose hikes .

Half Moon Bay

Why it’s worth visiting: Half Moon Bay is the windswept, romantic seaside town of your dreams.

• Relax with a beer at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company.
• Watch the surfers at Mavericks, where the annual surf contest happens.
• Browse the boutiques and bakeries of Main Street.
• Grab some delicious lobster rolls from Sam’s Chowder House.

San Francisco

Why it’s worth visiting: Beyond the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a city of activists, dreamers, artists, and oddballs, all colliding within seven square miles. 

Admire the shiny tech towers downtown at union square, appreciate art in one of the many museums, and hold your nerve as you navigate the vertiginous hills.

• Ride a historic cable car to Fisherman’s Wharf and see the sea lions at Pier 39.
• Bring a picnic to Golden Gate Park and ride a swan boat on Stow Lake.
• Get the perfect picture of the Golden Gate Bridge , then walk or cycle across the landmark.
• Explore San Francisco’s bustling Chinatown.
• Shop at the funky thrift stores and boutiques along Haight Street.
• Enjoy San Francisco’s unique nightlife scene , including its many themed and rooftop bars .
• Hop on the ferry to Alcatraz Island, and tour the famed, now defunct, prison fortress.
• Eat your way around the city–whether that’s pizza , baked goods , or sushi .

Read our guides to the best things to do in San Francisco and the best hikes in San Francisco .

Where to Stay On Your Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

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Hotel Per La – Experience LA glamor at this cool Italian-inspired boutique hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

One-bedroom stone cottage in West LA  – Stay in a cozy cottage close to the action in this guesthouse, which comes with its own pool and hot tub.

Angeles National Forest glamping – Relax in natural surroundings while close to the city in Paradise Springs, a glamping resort perfect for families and adventurous couples.

La Playa Inn  – Rest up at this stylish and welcoming hotel just five minutes from the ocean. Breakfast and Wi-Fi come included in the rate.

Two-bedroom beach house – Open up the patio doors to experience the ocean breezes and indoor-outdoor living at this modern beach house that sits above Mesa Lane Beach.

El Capitan Santa Barbara – Stay in the Santa Ynez Mountains with all your creature comforts at El Capitan Canyon. Kids will love the heated swimming pool, while adults will enjoy the free Saturday night concerts in the summer.

Madonna Inn – Forget the chain hotels and stay in this charming and iconic San Luis Obispo hotel where every room has different wild decor, and the pink champagne cake is to die for.

Two-bedroom 1920’s bungalow in downtown San Luis Obispo – Stay in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo in your own cozy house.

Avila Beach glamping – Sleep by the ocean in your own RV or stay in one of the seaside cottages in Avila Beach at Flying Flags Avila Beach.

Hyatt Carmel Highlands – Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at the beautiful Hyatt Carmel Highlands, which features a top-rated restaurant with sweeping views.

Three-bedroom cottage in downtown Carmel – Walk to downtown and the beach from this classic Carmel cottage, which includes a private courtyard with a fire pit, plus a full kitchen.

Treebones Resort – Get close to nature at Treebones Resort, where you can book your yurt for the night. While it’s not a kid-friendly resort, it’s perfect for couples.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz – This beachside Santa Cruz hotel has a swimming pool and hot tub, plus all guestrooms enjoy spectacular ocean views. 

Two-bedroom home close to Santa Cruz Boardwalk in West Cliff   – Stay like a local in one of West Cliff’s beautiful homes, close to the main attractions of Santa Cruz’s Beach Boardwalk and beaches.

Santa Cruz KOA – This camping resort is perfect for families, with a pool and playground to keep the kids entertained. Stay in your own RV or rent a retro Airstream trailer.

Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf – Stay at Hotel Caza, which boasts spacious rooms, a swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Free bikes are also available to explore the city.

Two-bed apartment in Russian Hill – Stay centrally in Russian Hill, a neighborhood famous for its beautiful homes and steep streets.

Angel Island camping – Bring your own camping gear and stay on Angel Island, a car-free island in the San Francisco Bay. Wake up to million-dollar views from your tent!

Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip Itineraries

2-day itinerary.

A two-day itinerary gives you time to explore some of the Central Coast communities between Los Angeles and San Francisco on a classic California road trip.

Head north on Highway 101 from Los Angeles towards San Luis Obispo. 

After one and a half to two hours, stop in Santa Barbara and explore this city’s waterfront, beautiful beaches, and botanic gardens.

Grab lunch in Santa Barbara, then head to Solvang for dessert from one of the Danish bakeries the town is famous for. 

After admiring the windmill and stocking up on cookies, keep heading north along Highway 101 before stopping again at Pismo Beach. 

Enjoy an afternoon hike along the beach before continuing to San Luis Obispo (or SLO, as locals call it) for dinner and checking into your hotel for the night.

In the morning, spend some time in San Luis Obispo on a walking tour, or if it’s a Saturday, at the farmer’s market. 

Hop in the car and follow Highway 101 north again as it heads away from the Pacific Ocean and cuts through California’s agricultural heartland. 

It will take about two hours to reach Santa Cruz, where you’ll be back on the coast.

Hit up one of Santa Cruz’s authentic Mexican eateries for lunch, such as Taqueria Vallarta, Tortilla Flats, or El Palomar, then make your way over to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk for classic seaside fun. 

If you have time, take Highway 1 up to San Francisco for a scenic route passing through Half Moon Bay and Pacifica.

If you’re short on time, drive through the mountains on Highway 17 before rejoining Highway 101. You’ll end your trip in San Francisco.

3-Day Itinerary

This three-day itinerary from LA to San Francisco gives you more time to explore the Pacific Coast Highway, known as Highway 1, on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip.

On day one, leave Los Angeles and follow Highway 101 to San Luis Obispo, stopping at Santa Barbara, Solvang, and Pismo Beach. You’ll stay in SLO this first night.

Rise early and head north on the Pacific Coast Highway toward Carmel. This road is incredibly scenic but narrow and winding, so take it easy.

Stop at San Simeon for a few hours at Hearst Castle, a mansion built by famed architect Julia Morgan for the media magnate William Randolph Hearst.

At Point Piedras Blancas, pull into the car park at Point Piedras Blancas and check out the elephant seal colony. 

These splendid creatures like to warm themselves on the sand before plunging back into the Pacific to feed.

Soon, you’ll drive into Big Sur, a beautiful stretch of coastline with several state parks to explore. 

Make a quick stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for a hike in the redwoods , and Point Lobos State Park to see the tide pools.

There are no big cities in this wild and difficult-to-reach region. 

There are few roads, and winter storms often wash away whole sections of Highway 1, cutting off Big Sur communities entirely. Check to make sure the road is open before starting your trip. 

You’ll stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea tonight.

The drive from Monterey Bay to San Francisco is about two hours, so spend the morning exploring Carmel and Monterey. 

Tour the fairy tale cottages of Carmel, shop the boutiques and art galleries, then take a mini-road trip up the 17 Mile Drive and see Pebble Beach, one of the best golf courses in the world.

In Monterey, visit the famous aquarium, then enjoy a fresh seafood lunch on Cannery Row or at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Finally, head north up the peninsula to stay in San Francisco.

5-Day Itinerary

A five-day trip gives you more time to explore the coastal communities of Highway 1.

Drive north on Highway 101 from Los Angeles. 

On your first day, stop in Santa Monica to see the famous Santa Monica Pier, Malibu for the beach, and Ventura for its vibrant harbor and downtown. Stay in Santa Barbara this first night.

Spend the day driving between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo on Highway 101, visiting the town of Solvang, pausing for a Santa Ynez Valley wine tasting, and relaxing in Avila Beach.

Stop for lunch in Pismo Beach or Morro Bay, then end the day in San Luis Obispo.

On day three, travel from San Luis Obispo to Carmel-by-the-Sea on Highway 1, which hugs the coast and offers some of the most scenic landscapes in California.

Make stops at San Simeon, Point Piedras Blancas, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Point Lobos State Park before arriving in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Download this Big Sur audio tour so you can learn about this extraordinary stretch of coast as you drive.

Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea tonight.

It’s a short drive between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Cruz along Highway 1, so spend some time in Monterey exploring Pebble Beach, the 17 Mile Drive, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Cannery Row today. 

Stay the night in Santa Cruz.

Take the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to travel between Santa Cruz and San Francisco to enjoy the picturesque beaches along the way. 

There are several coastal cities to stop at on this stretch, including Pescadero, Half Moon Bay, and Pacifica.

End your trip in San Francisco.

7-Day Itinerary

You could easily extend the five-day Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip itinerary with an extra night in Santa Barbara and Carmel or a night in Ventura to visit the Channel Islands. Or, extend it on the frot end by starting your trip from San Diego. 

Alternatively, drive the Sierra Nevada route to some of California’s most beautiful National Parks . 

This LA to San Francisco drive is best in September or October when the crowds diminish and the heat is less intense before the snow.

Drive from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park, which takes around two hours. 

Either stay inside the park if you want to camp or outside if you prefer a vacation rental or hotel in the town of Joshua Tree.

Stay two nights in Joshua Tree National Park, where you can hike, climb, and stargaze in the desert.

Read our guides to glamping in Joshua Tree , Joshua Tree camping , the best Joshua Tre e hikes , and the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

Leave Joshua Tree National Park early and drive the four hours to Death Valley National Park. 

Death Valley is huge, so I recommend staying within the park to reduce driving time. There are hotels as well as campgrounds in Stovepipe Wells and Furnace Creek.

Stay two nights in Death Valley and visit the unique landscape of canyons, salt flats, and incredible vistas.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Death Valley and Death Valley camping .

From the lowest point in the US, hit Highway 395 and drive towards the highest-Mount Whitney. 

From the west entrance of Death Valley National Park, it’s about two hours to Lone Pine, the gateway to Mount Whitney.

Take a detour to drive the scenic Mount Whitney Portal Road. 

Continue driving for another hour along Highway 395 to Bishop, where you can visit the oldest living trees in the world at the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. 

These trees are thousands of years old and form beautiful, sculptural shapes.

The next stop is Mammoth Lakes, high in the Sierras at an elevation of 7,900 feet. This mountain town is an all-season resort, with skiing in the winter and hikes to beautiful Rainbow Falls in the summer. 

From Mammoth Lakes, it’s a 30-minute drive along Highway 395 to Lee Vining, where you’ll spend the night.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Mammoth Lakes and the best hot springs in Mammoth Lakes .

From Lee Vining, take Highway 120 to cross the Sierras through Yosemite National Park. 

Depending on snow conditions, this road is only open in the summer, from around June to November.

Highway 120 (also known as Tioga Road or Tioga Pass) takes you past some of the most beautiful parts of Yosemite, including Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Olmsted Point.

After exiting Yosemite’s western gate, stay in Mariposa.

Read our guides to the best things to do in Yosemite , the two-day Yosemite itinerary , the best views in Yosemite , where to stay in Yosemite , and Yosemite camping .

It’s about a three-hour drive from Yosemite to San Francisco through the upper part of California’s Central Valley. End your road trip in San Francisco.

Best Time to do a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

Highway 101 and I-5 are open year-round, so you can generally do those routes during any season. 

Winter storms occasionally destroy parts of Highway 1, so always check conditions before you leave if you plan to drive the Pacific Coast Highway.

Although Highway 395 is open in the winter, the road through Yosemite National Park closes between November and May, so this is a summer-to-fall route only. 

If you attempt this route in the winter, you need to continue north to Lake Tahoe and head back to the Bay Area by taking the Donner Pass (Interstate 80).

But summer is the best time to make this road trip as driving conditions are predictable. October is also beautiful in the Sierra Nevada region, with leaves in vibrant shades of red and gold.

Spring is also an incredible season in Big Sur because wildflowers burst into colorful life across the hills.

Tips for Planning a Road Trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco

• Due to winter storms, many drivers get stuck when roads suddenly close. Be prepared and check CalTrans for road conditions if you’re driving in the Sierras during fall, winter, or even spring.
• Consider renting a smaller car if you’re planning on driving up the California Coast on a Pacific Coast Highway trip since the roads are narrow and winding.

Renting a Car

To rent a car in California, you’ll need a valid driver’s license (an international license is acceptable, but be also prepared to show your passport), a credit card, and third-party liability insurance, which you can buy separately or at the counter.

In California, a spouse can drive without paying the fee as a second driver, provided they also have a license. Drivers must be at least 25.

A warning on insurance: there are two types of rental insurance: third-party liability and collision damage waiver. 

You do not have to buy either from the rental company, BUT you must at least hold a third-party insurance policy to drive a vehicle in California legally. 

Buying an insurance policy at the counter is expensive, adding up to $25 a day to the cost of the rental car. 

I recommend buying your own policy separately or using your auto insurance if you own your own car in the US.

If you’re picking up a car in Los Angeles, the most convenient and cheapest place to rent is from the Los Angeles International Airport. 

However, driving in LA is a headache–both in terms of LA drivers and the traffic. 

If you’re spending some time in the city before starting your California road trip, it might be better to use public transit and ride shares to get around and pick up a rental once you’re leaving the city.

A standard mid-size rental car could cost between $60 and $100 daily, depending on where and when you rent. 

Alternatively, you could rent a camper van and bring your accommodation with you— a great option if you’re also visiting national parks during your road trip.

FAQs About Getting from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Is it worth driving from LA to San Francisco? Is it pretty?

A road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco is so much fun. 

Stop at sandy beaches, grab lunch in pretty coastal towns, see unique wildlife like elephant seals and sea otters, and learn about the history of California at places like Hearst Castle.

Best of all, you can set your own schedule, spending as much time in each place as you like.

How long does it take to get from Los Angeles to San Francisco by plane? How about by train? How about a bus?

A flight from Los Angeles to San Francisco is about 1.5 hours, and it’s around 10 hours by train. A bus takes approximately eight to nine hours.

An LA to San Francisco tour is an alternative that allows you to see all the sights without driving anywhere.

How long does driving Highway 1 from LA to San Francisco take?

Without stopping, it would take about nine hours to do the LA to San Francisco drive on Highway 1.

How many days do you recommend driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

For the coastal route, I recommend at least three days. 

Five days is best if you don’t want to feel too rushed or want to do the inland route over the Sierras (more if you’re spending time in the national parks).

You can do the Los Angeles to San Francisco drive in one day, but you won’t be able to do much except grab lunch along the way. 

Plus, if you hit bad traffic, you’ll be glad you planned an overnight stop.

Is it better to do a San Francisco to Los Angeles Drive?

A San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip can be nice since you’ll be on the ocean side of the highway the whole way down.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah McDonald

Sarah McDonald is a travel writer based in the Bay Area. She writes for the national parenting website Red Tricycle and on her family travel blog, Tiny Trailblazers. She loves exploring California’s outdoors and has a weakness for a national park gift shop.

Additional Expert Contributors: Suneel Jain and Elina Ansary.

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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The cost of driving from Louisiana (LA) to California (CA) is:

$308.37 one-way / $616.74 round trip, route to drive from louisiana to california.

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest .

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The total cost of driving from Louisiana to California (one-way) is $308.37 at current gas prices.

The round trip cost would be $616.74 to go from Louisiana to California and back to Louisiana again.

Regular fuel costs are around $4.11 per gallon for your trip. This calculation assumes that your vehicle gets an average gas mileage of 25 mpg for a mix of city and highway driving.

All currency units are U.S. Dollars. If you prefer international units, the equivalent petrol pump price is 108.4 cents/litre . This assumes a typical fuel economy of 9.4 L/100 km .

You'll go through 75.1 gallons of gas during this trip. This is equal to 284.4 litres .

If you fill your tank with unleaded gasoline, the carbon emissions will be around 1,470 lbs CO2 . This is equivalent to 667 kg CO2e or 0.67 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents. These numbers may change depending on the exact make and model of your car. If your vehicle uses diesel instead, the CO2 emissions will be around 1,721 lbs CO2 , which is equivalent to 781 kg CO2e or 0.78 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents.

These results are based on the actual driving distance from Louisiana to California, which is 1,878 miles or 3 022 kilometers .

Your trip begins in the state of Louisiana. The price of regular gas is currently averaging $3.23 in Louisiana .

Your trip ends in the state of California. The price of regular gas is around $4.98 in California .

Currently, we only have exact data for locations in the United States. To improve the accuracy of your fuel cost estimate, you can enter the actual price you pay for gas or petrol at the local pump in the table above.

The following chart displays the difference in total cost of driving given varying fuel grades. If your car requires higher octane gas, you can find out how much more it will cost you to drive between Louisiana and California.

Louisiana (LA)

Related links.

• airports in Louisiana
• cities in Louisiana

California (CA)

• airports in California
• cities in California

Cost of driving

Travelmath provides an online driving cost calculator to help you determine how much you'll spend on gas for your next road trip. You can enter airports, cities, states, countries, or zip codes to compute the cost of driving between locations. Driving distances are calculated using actual driving directions if they are available, or a GPS-accurate method for the straight line distance. Automatic estimates are provided for local gas prices and vehicle fuel efficiency in miles per gallon (mpg) or liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km), based on the make and model of your car, SUV, or minivan. Don't let the economy and rising oil prices stop you from taking your next trip. You can use this tool to find out if it's cheaper to fly or drive to your destination.

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15 Must-See Stops on Your LA to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Going on an LA to Grand Canyon road trip is probably one of the most famous bucket list items ever. It’s the stuff of dreams… or movies. These must-see stops are worth the detours to make this epic trip even more spectacular.

Have you ever wanted to do the whole Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas drive? Or fancy yourself a couple of fugitives on the run like Thelma and Louise (minus the driving off the edge of the canyon)? The LA to Grand Canyon road trip is truly like something from the movies. It’s on lots of people’s bucket lists, and for good reason too.

LA, Las Vegas and Arizona are all incredible cities. They’re just so crazy and iconic that everyone has something to say about their time there. And of course, the Grand Canyon is a famous wonder of the world located between Vegas and Arizona. But what I loved most wasn’t the the end points, it was the journey between LA and the Grand Canyon.

If you’re driving on the l-40 E, the distance between LA and the Grand Canyon is 480 miles. This takes approximately 7.5-8 hours, when there’s little traffic. But there’s a whole lot to see if you’re willing to stop and take detours.

On the LA to Grand Canyon road trip, you can see retro diners, TONS of Route 66 photo spots, natural beauty, cowboy towns and a whole lot more.

LA to Grand Canyon Road Trip in 15 Stops

See national parks, craters, and of course – the infamous route 66 on my LA and the Grand Canyon road trip itinerary.

1. Santa Monica Pier, California

The Santa Monica Pier is like stepping into a postcard with its classic Ferris wheel and endless ocean views. You’ll probably have seen it as the backdrop for many films and TV series. I couldn’t resist trying some of the carnival games and grabbing an ice cream before starting the LA and the Grand Canyon road trip.

The vibe here is just buzzing – street performers, the sound of the waves, and that fresh sea air. It’s the perfect spot to kick off an epic journey! There’s also plenty of supermarkets and coffee shops to stock up before you start driving.

We popped into one of the restaurants on the pier and had a delicious chowder, served in a sourdough loaf. So good!

2. Palm Springs, California

About three hours’ drive from Santa Monica Pier you’ll arive at Palm Springs. This place is a retro dream. You can feel like a movie star from the golden age of Hollywood lounging by a chic poolside.

The architecture here is a feast for the eyes – all sleek lines and popping colours. It’s a weird mix of pure relaxation mixed with a touch of glamour. You can do lots of different activities too. Whether you’re here for the spas, the golf, or just to soak up the sun, Palm Springs is a little slice of paradise.

Here are the best things to do in Palm Springs while you’re there.

3. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Next up, Joshua Tree National Park. It’s like landing on a different planet! Those quirky Joshua trees look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. They’re actually a type of Yucca, named by Mormons in the 1850s who thought they looked like Joshua’s arms pointing to the promised land.

The rock formations are absolutely stunning – perfect for a bit of a climb or just to gawk at. If you’re starting your journey at night, you’ll also see incredible starry skies too. The park is open 24 hours, 7 days a week, so you can head there any time.

4. Amboy Crater, California

As you venture further – about an hourish or so from Joshua Tree National Park – make a stop at Amboy Crater in the Mojave Desert. Now, this was a surprise and probably one of my favourite stops on the LA and the Grand Canyon road trip!

It’s not every day you get to see a real-life volcanic crater.

Trekking up to the rim, you can feel like a proper adventurer. The views from the top are incredible and totally worth it. The landscape is so rugged and raw, it’s like being on the set of a sci-fi movie. If you’re up for a bit of a hike and some stunning scenery, Amboy Crater is your spot.

5. Route 66, California to Arizona

Cruising down Route 66, this is when you’ll feel like you’ve jumped into a classic American road movie. This iconic stretch is a treasure trove of quirky roadside attractions and neon-lit diners.

Make sure you take a picture at one. I couldn’t help but stop for a snap at every vintage gas station and kitschy souvenir shop. It’s a journey through time, filled with nostalgia and a sense of adventure. Route 66, you’re a true legend!

You can also take a photo stood on the Route 66 sign painted on the road too. It’s quite a touristy thing to do, but there weren’t any crowds when I was there. I feel like it’s compulsory on any road trip from LA to Vegas or LA to the Grand Canyon.

6. Kingman, Arizona

Ok you’re now officially in Arizona and out of California. Kingman is a gem on Route 66. It’s like stepping back in time with its vintage charm.

I loved wandering around the historic streets, popping into quirky shops, and learning a bit about the area’s rich history. It’s the place where Clark Gable got married while filming Gone with the Wind in 1939 and various films and TV shows took place (episodes from Prison Break, The Sopranos and The Big Bang Theory, and some scenes from Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas).

The local museums are a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia too. And the classic American diners? Don’t even get me started – the milkshakes are to die for!

7. Williams, Arizona

Continue along Route 66 to Williams. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Grand Canyon’, it’s a quaint little town with a big personality. The main street is like a scene from an old Western movie, complete with saloons and cowboy hats.

And the Grand Canyon Railway? It’s like stepping into a time machine. It’s definitely worth going to visit en route, and makes a nice change from being in the car all the time.

8. Flagstaff, Arizona

Next, head to Flagstaff, about 40 minutes’ drive from Williams. This picturesque mountain town is a great base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. It’s surrounded by forests and mountains, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

You’ll love the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals here, which is very different from LA vibes. The historic downtown is full of cute shops and cafes – ideal for a leisurely stroll to stretch those legs. And at night, you can see so many starts it’s like you’re in a fairytale – or camping.

9. Sedona, Arizona

A detour to Sedona is well worth the time. The stunning red rock formations and vibrant arts scene are truly captivating.

Most people feel a real sense of peace and wonder exploring this magical place. There’s lots of galleries and art studios to wander round, and the town just feels kind of spiritual and relaxing. It’s such a different atmosphere to California and all the busier places you’ll have seen on the LA to Grand Canyon road trip.

10. Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona

On your way back from Sedona, drive through the scenic Oak Creek Canyon. The winding road with its lush scenery and towering cliffs is like a green oasis in the desert.

You could stop for a picnic by the creek and just soak in the tranquility. It’s a fantastic spot for a bit of hiking or just to chill and enjoy nature. This canyon is a hidden gem that’s not to be missed on your LA to Grand Canyon road trip, even if you are on your way to see another canyon.

11. Meteor Crater, Arizona

Make your way to Meteor Crater. It’s hard to believe that this massive crater was caused by a meteor! Standing on the edge, looking down into the vast bowl, you’ll realise how small you actually are in the grand scheme of things.

The interactive exhibits are super interesting – you’ll learn a lot about meteors and space. This unique and awe-inspiring stop is definitely worth a visit.

12. Painted Desert, Arizona

The layers of colours in the hills and cliffs are simply stunning – like a natural painting. You just have to stop and take it all in.

The changing light throughout the day makes the landscape look different every time you glance at it. It’s a truly mesmerising sight.

13. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Nearby is the Petrified Forest National Park, where you can explore the fascinating landscapes filled with ancient, fossilised trees. The colours and patterns in the petrified wood are so intricate and beautiful.

Wander around the trails, like a palaeontologist on a discovery mission. It’s a unique and fascinating place.

14. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is one of those places that you see in photos and think, ‘No way it looks like that in real life’. But it does! The view of the Colorado River curving around the rock is spectacular.

Standing on the edge, looking down at the emerald-green water, I felt like I was on top of the world. It’s a bit of a walk to get there, but trust me, it’s worth every step.

15. Grand Canyon

The last stop of the LA to Grand Canyon road trip is a surreal experience. You’ve seen photos of it, but it’s not until you’re there that you realise how huge it is.

It’s also really quiet, which makes the walk around the rim really peaceful. I didn’t opt to do the skywalk, but it is great if you want to add on to the experience.

I did however go on a helicopter ride, which was pretty fun and terrifying at the same time. If you have anyone in your group that’s afraid of heights you might want to give this one a miss. Equally if you’ve got some thrill-seekers then do it!!

The best places to see between Los Angeles and the Grand Canyon

The list above shows just how many charming, retro towns, and incredible natural beauty there is to see when driving from LA to the Grand Canyon. If you were to fly, or even go directly there without stopping, you might miss out on some truly amazing views.

I also feel like the west coast of the US is all about road trips too. It’s about stopping at diners and bars, talking to locals, sleeping under stars and seeing no one for miles. It’s just you and the open road.

If you’re doing this trip solo, then make sure you check out my top tips for a solo road trip . Or if you’ve driving with your partner, why not have some fun road trip games for couples in mind for the lengthier drives in between stops?

Quicklist of stops on my LA to Grand Canyon road trip

• Santa Monica Pier, California
• Palm Springs, California
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Amboy Crater, California
• Route 66, California to Arizona
• Kingman, Arizona
• Williams, Arizona
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Sedona, Arizona
• Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona
• Meteor Crater, Arizona
• Painted Desert, Arizona
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
• Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
• Grand Canyon

How long is it from LA to the Grand Canyon?

The drive from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon is a bit of a trek, but it’s well worth it. You’re looking at about 8 hours on the road, covering roughly 480 miles. Of course, this depends on the route you take and how often you stop along the way. If you fancy a leisurely drive with plenty of sightseeing, you might want to spread the journey over a couple of days.

How much does it cost to drive from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon?

The cost of driving from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon can vary, depending on a few factors like your car’s fuel efficiency and the current price of petrol. On average, you might spend around £100 to £150 on fuel for a round trip. Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs like food, accommodation if you’re planning an overnight stay, and any cheeky little detours you might take along the way.

Is it better to take the train or drive to the Grand Canyon?

The classic train vs car debate! Taking the train, specifically the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona, is a charming and relaxed way to travel. It’s a fantastic experience, especially if you’re a fan of scenic views and a bit of old-world charm. However, driving gives you more flexibility to explore and make impromptu stops. If you’re keen on sightseeing and enjoy taking the scenic route at your own pace, driving might be your best bet.

How many days is enough to see Grand Canyon?

To really soak in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, I’d recommend at least two to three days. This gives you ample time to explore different viewpoints, take a few hikes, and maybe even enjoy a sunrise or sunset over the canyon. If you’re up for more adventure, like a helicopter tour or a rafting trip down the Colorado River, you might want to extend your stay a bit longer. But even if you’ve only got a day to spare, it’s still absolutely worth the visit!

Related Posts:

• 7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Road Trip Budget
• Planning a Road Trip in the USA: 13 Best Routes!
• 14 Amazing Stops on a Phoenix to Las Vegas Drive
• 25+ Top Tips for a Solo Road Trip You NEED To Know
• 10 Awesome Stops from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon by Car
• 10 Greatest Stops on the LA to Vegas Drive

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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The Interstate 10 Road Trip Guide

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on June 1, 2021

Are you ready for a road trip on Interstate 10? This popular road certainly has its share of attractions and great pit stops. In fact, it’s one of the main thoroughfares across America.

There’s a good chance that you’ll wind up on I-10 during your road trip whether you want to or not.

So, come along for the journey as we point out the highlights.

Let’s jump in!

The History of Interstate 10

The Federal-Aid Highway Act initially creating a U.S. Interstate road network was passed in 1956. The $100 billion endeavor was finally completed in the 1990s. Since then, Interstates have made travel fast and easy, directly impacting the growth of cities and changing how business is done. 

The government created Interstate 10 (I-10) as a truck route to connect Los Angeles’ ports to the rest of the country. Drive down any part of I-10, and you’ll surely see a semi-truck (or hundreds) hauling goods from city to city. 

What States Does I-10 Run Through?

Interstate 10 is the southernmost cross-country highway. As a result, it spans from Santa Monica, California, on the west coast to Jacksonville, Florida, on the east coast.

Therefore, it runs through eight states, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

How Long is Interstate 10? 

Interstate 10 is the fourth longest highway in the U.S. at 2,460 miles long. If you’re traveling at an average pace in a RV, it could take around 5 days to complete the entire drive.

Interstate 10 in California

Driving on I-10 through California, you’ll go through the city of Los Angeles and Coachella Valley. There are countless attractions to visit in the Los Angeles area. Coachella Valley offers mountainous and desert landscapes as well as access to the unique Joshua Tree National Park.

We recommend picking up some fresh dates (the fruit, not a Tinder date) at many of the roadside stations across this stretch of I-10.

Keep in mind : Californians call it “The 10” not “I-10”.

Interstate 10 in Arizona

The stretch of road that runs across Arizona is full of desert views and cactus. Soon after crossing the border from California, you’ll get to Quartzsite, a famous boondocking haven for RVers .

The Interstate also runs through Phoenix, the capital of Arizona. And, finally, it runs through Tucson, where you can access the amazing Saguaro National Park.

This stretch of I-10 also has the most scenic view in our opinion. It’s located near the Dragoon exit in eastern Arizona. The rock formations may be the most beautiful and unusual thing you see on I-10.

With that said, I-10 is a notoriously boring road when it comes to the view.

Interstate 10 in New Mexico

The transition on the Interstate from Arizona to New Mexico is quite seamless. In fact, it’s a fairly straight drive through the desert with mountains in the distance.

When you make the descent into the city of Las Cruces from the west, the landscape suddenly changes as the beautiful Organ Mountains appear in front of you. If you happen to drive this stretch as the sun rises over the mountains, it can be an extra special treat.

Depending on which way you’re headed, you’re either anticipating the long drive through west Texas, or celebrating getting through it. Either way, the Las Cruces Walmart is a popular overnight spot for sleepy driver.

Pro Tip : Here’s the rules about camping at Walmart.

Interstate 10 in Texas

The longest stretch of Interstate 10 is in Texas because it runs nearly the full length of the state. It passes through three major cities – El Paso, San Antonio, then Houston.

The geography from El Paso to San Antonio is referred to as the Texas Hill Country due to the rolling hills going on for miles in every direction. Then, from San Antonio to Houston, the road is much flatter with wide-open spaces around you. All three cities have various attractions and historical sites that will certainly please everyone in your car or RV.

Texas has many rest stops, virtually all of them allow overnight parking. It won’t be the best sleep, but it’s better than driving tired.

Interstate 10 in Louisiana

Running close to the Gulf of Mexico and southern Louisiana, this stretch of the Interstate passes through Baton Rouge and just north of New Orleans.

Therefore, you’ll often see heavy traffic. That said, both cities are good places to stop for entertainment and historical places.

The Louisiana stretch of I-10 us know for its poor road quality. We’ve driven it countless times, and hate it more every time.

It’s only saving grace is New Orleans.

Interstate 10 in Mississippi

Mississippi is where I-10 gets closest to the Gulf of Mexico. As a result, you’ll have easy access to some beach time on your road trip. The cities of Gulfport and Biloxi offer waterfront activities and campgrounds. 

Overall, this is an uneventful stretch of I-10.

Interstate 10 in Alabama

Certainly, the shortest stretch of the Interstate is in Alabama. It runs through Mobile then hugs the coastline to Pensacola, Florida. The landscape is lush and swampy, so you might even spot an alligator!

However, you’ll have to drive through a tunnel. For some reason, this is a challenge for many drivers. Keep your cool and don’t slam on your brakes if you don’t have to.

Interstate 10 in Florida

Interstate 10 runs from Pensacola to Tallahassee then to Jacksonville. It’s a hilly ride through parts of the Florida panhandle. There are plenty of campgrounds and state parks along the way.

This is where you’ll come to the end of the road. You can head south to Disney World or north up the east coast.

Regardless, at this point, you’ll be happy to get off of I-10.

Best Hikes off Interstate 10

There are various options for hiking near Interstate 10. Since the road is so long, we recommend stretching your legs with a brisk hike. Here are two of our favorites.

Lost Palms Oasis Trail in Joshua Tree National Park

The Lost Palms Oasis Trail is located in Joshua Tree National Park in California. It is near the south entrance, right off Interstate 10. Rated moderate, it’s a 7.2 mile out and back trail.

The best time of year to hike this trail is from October to April, when the temperatures tend to be on the cooler side.

Hidden Canyon Bowen Loop Trail

The Hidden Canyon Bowen Loop Trail is located in Saguaro National Park West in Tucson, Arizona . It’s a 1.8-mile loop trail that is rated moderate. You’ll have views of the Saguaros and likely wildflowers.

It is open year-round but advised to be extra cautious hiking in the hot summer months.

Best Camping off Interstate 10

You’ll find plenty of options for camping off Interstate 10, but we’re sharing two of our favorite campgrounds.

Cottonwood Campground in Joshua Tree National Park

Cottonwood Campground is located near the southeast entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. It’s a boondocking experience within the park and close to all of its hiking trails.

There are 62 sites, and there is potable water and flush toilets in the campground. Reservations are required from September through May. 

French Quarter RV Resort

The French Quarter RV Resort will get you up close to the action in New Orleans, Louisiana. This is a great place to camp and enjoy The Big Easy by bike, walking, or car. It has paved full hookup 20/30/50 amp sites and a pool. 

Is an Interstate 10 Road Trip Worth It? 

An Interstate 10 road trip is definitely worth it! You’ll get to see varying landscapes and ways of life across the U.S. The Interstate can be traffic-heavy, as it’s a major trucking route. But the access it gives you to the southernmost states makes it one of our highly recommended road trips. 

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you,  we hate paying for camping . There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours.  Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state).  Access the list by submitting your email below:

At 72 and a lifelong traveler over my many decades I’ve done I 10, 40, 70, 80 and 90 in their entirety. And their offshoots like I 8 where I’m camped now at Boulder Oaks Campground in Southern California. I now just stay to the western states. Partly because I’ve been to all the eastern ones many times. Partly because I don’t want the long drive, but I think mostly because of weather. I got tired of the humidity. Got tired of the mosquitoes and ticks. Got tired of dodging tornadoes. And forget being in the SE during hurricane season. In 11 years out west I’ve never had any weather to be alarmed about.

[…] two- or a three-bedroom home, which weighs around 7,500 kilos, affects the weight-related cost of interstate trips in different ways. Another critical factor is the quantity of gas the automobile wants whereas […]

A Vanlifer’s Ultimate California Road Trip [With Local Destination Guides]

The beauty of van life is the ability to drive wherever, whenever you want. And, in our opinion, a California road trip is one of the best adventures you can go on in the United States.

There aren’t many places in the world that have deserts, mountain ranges, and white sandy beaches all in one area — this is why California comes out on top as a road trip destination. From the redwoods in the Sequoia National Park to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, California has it all. And if the Golden State wasn’t on your road trip bucket list already, it will be soon enough.

As road trippers, we know that sometimes the hardest part about van life or road trips is finding a route that’s both time and fuel-efficient. It can be a tedious task, we get it.

But luckily for you, we’ve done the hard part and curated the ultimate California road trip itinerary.

Whether you plan to begin your journey in California or if you’re passing through the area, keep on reading. You won’t want to miss this California coast road trip!

Short On Time? Here’s Our California Road Trip Itinerary

If you don’t have time to read our entire guide, you can view a short version of the itinerary below; you can go ahead and jump to any section that peaks your interest. 

Also, be sure to check out our itinerary maps. So as not to overwhelm you, we’ve split the itinerary into 2 legs:

• Redwood National Park to Los Angeles

LA to Lassen Volcanic National Park

Redwood national park to la.

The first leg largely takes you along the Pacific Coast Highway. Here is our recommended list of stops on this leg of the road trip:

Redwood National Park

Napa valley, san francisco, monterey county, santa barbara.

• Greater Los Angeles

This leg will keep you on the coast until you reach San Diego; from there, you’ll head inland and north again.

These are the stops we’ll recommend for the second leg of the journey:

Palm Springs

• Joshua Tree
• Death Valley

Sequoia National Park

• Lassen National Forest

Our California road trip starts off along the state’s north coast at the Redwood National Park. 

As I’m sure you can gather from the name, the Redwood National Park is one of the top places in the world to walk amongst some of the biggest trees on Earth. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be an ant, then you’ll have your answer after visiting Redwood. 

Some of the trees in the Redwood National Park are over 2,000 years old and stand over 300 feet tall. With countless hikes, scenic drives, and access to the beach, you can spend 2 to 3 days at the National Park, taking in all the natural beauty, wildlife, and breathtaking views. 

Scenic Drives in Redwood National Park

Sometimes, the best part about a road trip is driving along large stretches of road with valleys or coastlines rolling past your windows.

As the Redwood National Park is easily accessible, there are numerous routes you can drive along for uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean or the towering redwoods . Here are some of our favorites: 

• Redwood Creek Overlook
• Klamath River Overlook
• Crescent Beach Overlook
• Howland Hill Road
• Bald Hills Road
• Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
• Coastal Loop

Campgrounds in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is actually split into 4 sections: the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, the Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and the Redwood National Park.

There are no hotels within the National Park boundaries , but there are 4 campsites in the 3 State Parks. It’s best to book these campsites in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months. 

Visitors Centers

As with many National Parks throughout America, the Redwood National Park has a couple of visitor centers where you can learn more about the area and all of its history.

The Kuchel Visitor Center is the park’s main center, but you can also find the Hiouchi Redwoods Visitor Center in the northern section of the park.

From the Redwood National Park, there is a beautiful scenic drive down Highway 1, aka Pacific Coast Highway, which takes you along vast stretches of California’s coast. Many people refer to this drive as the Lost Coast, and we find it the perfect route to the next California road trip stop of Mendocino. 

The drive is roughly 4 hours , but there are numerous campgrounds along the way to break up your time on the road. Some of the campsites are even dotted along the shores, so the journey is a destination in itself. 

When you reach Mendocino, you’re in for even more incredible hikes through spectacular state parks, strolls along the magnificent California coastline, and you can even add a little wine tasting to the itinerary if you so wish. 

State Parks in Mendocino

These are the state parks you’ll find in Mendocino :

• Russian Gulch State Park 
• Mendocino Headlands State Park
• Van Damme State Park

Other Things to Do in Mendocino

Apart from visiting parks, here are a few more things you can do while you’re exploring Mendocino :

• Wonder through Downtown Mendocino
• Visit the Mendocino Bay Viewpoint for that perfect photo opportunity
• Cycle or hike along the Big River Haul Road
• Witness incredible wildlife at the Jug Handle State Natural Reserve
• Kayak or paddle board down the Big River
• Head to the Point Cabrillo Light Station
• Visit one of Mendocino’s vineyards for a wine tasting experience

Also, from November through to April, you can head out on a whale watching tour to see California gray whales .

If you didn’t manage to get any wine tasting done in Mendocino, you’re in luck. Napa Valley is one of California’s most famous wine regions , and is lined with vineyards and wineries of indescribable beauty. If you’re a wine connoisseur, we’d highly urge you to dedicate a few days for a wine country road trip through Napa County.

Of course, as you can imagine, there are numerous vineyards to explore, with the most popular being the Sattui Winery in St. Helena.

Things to Do in Napa Besides Wine Tasting

If you aren’t a fan of wine , don’t worry — there are plenty of other things to do in Napa :

• See the vineyards and Mount Saint Helena from a bird’s eye view in a hot air balloon.
• Ride the 36-mile round trip Napa Valley Wine Train.
• Visit Calistoga and relax in some of the country’s best and only mud baths.
• Walk along the streets of Downtown Napa.
• Dine in style at one of Napa’s six Michelin Star restaurants. 
• Hike up, Mount St. Helena. The hike is moderately challenging, but you get magnificent views of the Napa region.
• Drive down the Silverado Trail to see the hills and vineyards of Napa.

After wrapping up in Napa Valley, you’ll want to make your way down to San Francisco.  Well known throughout the world for its numerous attractions and landmarks, San Francisco is an absolute must-visit destination on your great California road trip. 

Golden Gate Bridge

When 4 engineers designed and built the Golden Gate Bridge in 1937, it was the longest suspension bridge on Earth. That record has now been beaten by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in Tokyo, but the Golden Gate Bridge still remains one of the modern wonders of the world.

The bridge, which is 1.7 miles long , has become the most photographed bridge on the planet and should definitely be on your must-see list when visiting San Francisco.

If famous bridges weren’t enough, San Francisco is also home to — arguably — the world’s most notorious prison, Alcatraz. The federal prison may not house any prisoners today, but it has become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

When you visit the prison on Alcatraz Island, you can take a walk inside and see where the likes of Al Capone and George Kelly served their time . 

Ride the Cable Cars

San Francisco is the only place in the world with manually operated cable car systems running through its streets. 

When the first cable cars were added to their tracks in 1873, their popularity soared. But, just under 20 years later, engineers designed the first electric streetcar, and so the decline of manual cars began. 

In our opinion, the cable cars in San Francisco are an excellent way to see the city, and as they’re the last manual cable cars in the world, its an experience you won’t get elsewhere.

Visit San Francisco’s Resident Sea Lions

If you’ve heard anything about San Francisco, then you’re probably well aware of the city’s resident sea lions. You can find the California sea lion community on the docks of Pier 19 at the Fisherman’s Wharf . 

If you’re traveling with kids, then Fisherman’s Wharf is also a great place to explore as it has a high concentration of family-related activities. The USS Pampanito submarine, which took part in World War II, Madame Tussauds wax museum, and  Ripley’s Believe It or Not! are just a few of the kid-friendly attractions in Fisherman’s Wharf. 

Visit the Twin Peaks

If you’re after amazing views of the Bay Area, you need to head to the Twin Peaks. The peaks stand at 922 feet tall and are easily accessible by car or tourist bus.

After you’ve been to the top of the peaks, you can make your way back down to the 64-acre park and enjoy some quiet time. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly.

Roughly an hour’s drive south of San Francisco is the next stop on your California road trip — Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz sure does have some character and is seen by many as the land of the mountains, surf, and laid-back vibes .

When you think of a Californian beach town, Santa Cruz is what will pop up in your head.  Surfers ripping waves in the ocean, boardwalks along the beach, and plenty of ice cream stalls dotted around the place. 

Whether you stop in Santa Cruz for just the day or if you spend the entire weekend there, you’re guaranteed a fun, relaxed, and enjoyable visit. 

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is iconic. It’s been in numerous movies mainly thanks to its old-fashioned fun fair that features a historic wooden roller coaster, The Giant Dipper. 

Everyone loves amusement parks, especially when they’re situated right alongside the beach, so spend the afternoon getting your adrenaline pumping and indulge in the Boardwalk’s many sweet treats.

Drive Along West Cliff Drive

Driving along any stretch of California’s Pacific Coast Highway is unforgettable, and the West Cliff Drive is no exception. West Cliff has some of the most beautiful views in all of Santa Cruz, and if you have time, we highly recommend getting out of your car and taking in the refreshing ocean air.

You may never have heard of Monterey County, but once your road trip is complete, you’ll most definitely want to head back. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea

One of the most popular attractions in Monterey is the beach in the city of Carmel. The beach is stunning with its white sand and relatively calm waters, which makes it a great stop for families on the road.

After you’ve finished up at the beach, you need to take a stroll through the quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea town. It feels like you’ve jumped in a time machine and headed back in time. The cobblestone paths and unique buildings are an attraction of their own when visiting Monterey. 

Drive the 17 Mile Drive

The 17-mile drive down the Monterey Peninsula’s southern side is an epic road that gives you some of the most beautiful views that Monterey has to offer.

We recommend starting the drive from the Pacific Grove Gate and working your way down to Carmel to enjoy the beach and Carmel city. 

Other Things to Do in Monterey

Here are a few more activities that are worth your time while you’re in Monterey :

• Go shopping on Cannery Row and see one of the largest populations of California sea lions.
• Visit the award-winning Monterey Bay Aquarium.
• Go souvenir shopping at Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
• Head out on one of the many whale watching tours.

A short, 45-minute drive south of Monterey, is Big Sur, which is home to over 90 miles of jagged coastline and the St. Lucia Mountain Range . With this great diversity of landforms come numerous activities for nature lovers to enjoy. 

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park got its name from one of Big Sur’s beloved pioneers, Julia Pfeiffer. While walking one of the seven marked trails, you’ll encounter intriguing coves, picturesque waterfalls, and towering redwood forests. 

One of the most popular trails is the Waterfall Overlook Trail. It’s less than a mile long and takes you to the McWay Falls, which is one of Big Sur’s most popular attractions.

If you’re on the hunt for whales, this is the place to be.

From December to February and March to May, migrating gray whales frequent the waters around the Big Sur coast , with some even coming up into the cove into which the McWay Falls flows.

Pfeiffer Beach

If your feet are sore from hiking, or you’re just short on time, you can head to Pfeiffer Beach.

Pfeiffer offers its visitors expansive shorelines that are towered by rock formations and thick vegetation.

One of the most famous rock formations in the area is a few feet out into the ocean.

This rock is the Pfeiffer Keyhole Rock, which got its distinguishable arch from thousands of years of erosion. During low tide, you’re able to walk through the water to the rock, and if you can wait until sunset, then you’ll have an incredible photo opportunity. 

Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach is Big Sur’s largest stretch of unbroken sand and is said to be one of the best surfing locations in the area.

Now, we know not everyone is into surfing, so if you’re heading to the beach, you can also try your luck at beachcombing.

You see, this is where the shoreline gets its name — from sand dollars that wash up on the shore. Sand dollars are flat, burrowing sea urchins that, once dead, turn white and end up on the beach.

From Big Sur, your next stop will be down the coast in southern California.

Santa Barbara is home to many celebrities , including George Lucas, Ellen DeGeneres, and Drew Barrymore.

And, with celebrities settling in Santa Barbara, it must be a nice place to visit. 

This charming city, which many people nickname the American Riviera, is full of fancy shops and 5-star restaurants, along with beautiful beaches, cozy cafes, and numerous photo opportunities. 

Visit the Mission Santa Barbara

The Mission Santa Barbara is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, which makes it a must-see during your California road trip. 

In 1925, an earthquake destroyed buildings all throughout Santa Barbara. Then, during the rebuild, builders designed and constructed buildings in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, which was inspired by the Mission Santa Barbara.

Stearns Wharf and the Santa Barbara Pier

Stearns Wharf isn’t just a great place to head to if you’re after incredible views — it also leads to the Santa Barbara Pier, which sits at the end of State Street. 

Built in 1872, the Santa Barbara Pier is the oldest working wooden wharf in California . At the time of construction, it was also the longest deep-water pier in the area between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Nowadays, the pier is home to numerous attractions, like the Sea Center and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.

Walk, Skate, or Cycle the Cabrillo Bike Path

If you want to feel like you’re in a California-based movie, you’ll want to either skate, cycle , or walk down the Cabrillo Bike Path. The path runs between some of Santa Barbara’s best beaches and has palm trees lining its edges.

Head to the Funk Zone for Some Nightlife

After a week or two on the road, you may well feel like you need a night out. If that’s the case, the Funk Zone is the perfect place to go!

The Funk Zone is full of some of Santa Barbara’s best cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as boutique shops, art galleries, and street art displays .

Just over an hour down California’s Pacific Coast Highway is the beach city of Malibu.

Now, we would be lying if we said the majority of your time won’t be spent on one of Malibu’s many beaches, because, well, that’s what Malibu is known for!

Point Dume State Beach

One of Malibu’s most popular beaches, Point Dume is the perfect place to relax and unwind. If you aren’t into lying on a beach, the State Beach also has a hiking trail that offers you a short and interesting hike with views of the Santa Monica Bay, Santa Monica Mountains, and, on a clear day, Catalina Island.

Zuma is another one of the city’s well-known beaches. It’s the biggest one in Malibu, so as you can imagine, it’s a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. 

The beach is a great stop for families, couples, or solo travelers; if you can, stay for the sunset . Depending on the conditions, the sky lights up with shades of orange, red, and pink.

Once you finish up in Malibu, you can drive a further 20 minutes south to Santa Monica to enjoy the Santa Monica Pier, the Santa Monica Beach, and even visit the original Muscle Beach Gym.

Los Angeles

Everyone, and we mean everyone, has heard of Los Angeles. So, of course, it was a no-brainer to add to your California road trip itinerary.

LA is home to amazing entertainment, nightlife , restaurants, and theme parks, all of which certainly make it a place you don’t want to miss.

Hollywood Sign

If you head to Santa Monica, the Hollywood Sign in northern Los Angeles is on your way. The Hollywood sign is about a 30-minute drive from Santa Monica , and in our opinion, you can’t visit LA without making a trip to see the world-famous mountainside lettering. 

If you don’t want to hike up to the sign, then there are a few places you can head to that offer amazing views from down below. These include Lake Hollywood Park, the Hollywood Reservoir, and North Beachwood Drive. 

While, sadly, you can’t touch the sign, you can hike up Mount Lee to get views of Los Angeles from behind it.

There are a few options to get you to the top of the mountain; these include:

• Walking along Mulholland Dr or Deronda Dr from Lake Hollywood Park
• Hike the Wonderview Trail
• From the Griffith Observatory parking lot take the Mount Hollywood Trail
• Set off from the Bronson Caves

Stargaze at the Griffith Observatory

At the peak of Griffith Park is the Griffith Observatory, which is one of the world’s finest planetariums. If you’re interested in all things space, then the Griffith Observatory is a must-do while you’re on your California road trip visiting LA. 

The observatory has a 290-seat planetarium, giant telescopes, and educational films that teach you all about the planets, stars, and give you sneak-peek at the mysteries of the universe.  

Take a Ride on a Hop-on-Hop-off Bus

One of the easiest ways to see LA is by jumping on a hop-on hop-off bus. Not only do these buses take you to all the must-see destinations, but they also have guides to the city’s history and other relevant information.

Head Down to Venice Beach

While in LA, you’ll find yet another world-famous California destination — Venice Beach.

Venice Beach is an ideal destination for those looking to catch some waves before relaxing with a drink at one of the many bars.

Drive to Huntington City Beach

If you’re a beach lover, you’ll want to head about an hour south of Venice Beach to Huntington Beach.

On your drive, you’ll also pass through Long Beach; we highly recommend visiting all 3 beaches as they all have unique characteristics that set them apart from the rest.

This one only really applies to all the Disney lovers out there, but when there is a Disney park in the area, you just have to go.

The first-ever Disneyland Park to open was in Anaheim in 1955. Since Anaheim is only a 26 drive from Los Angeles, it is a no-brainer. 

Laguna Beach

If you aren’t a Disney fan, your next stop after departing Los Angeles should be Laguna Beach. It’s about an hour’s drive south, but the picturesque coastline is well worth it. 

After all the outdoor activities you’ve been doing, we hope you aren’t sunburnt by this point, as Laguna Beach has lengthy stretches of sandy seashore, and many hiking trails to explore.

Head to the Beach

As Laguna Beach has seven miles of coastline, you could spend days exploring some of its many beaches. Here are some to help you make a decision:

• Crescent Bay – Good for kayaking and sea lion spottings
• Thalia Street Beach – Perfect for beginner surfers
• Rockpile Beach – Ideal for experienced surfers
• Treasure Island Beach – Amazing views and a secluded cove to explore
• Aliso Beach – For firepits and bonfires
• Main Beach – Basketball and volleyball nets

Hike Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park has 40 miles of trails that wind through vast sycamore and oak woodlands. You can do all sorts of activities on the trails, from mountain biking to bird watching.

The southernmost destination of our California road trip takes us to San Diego.

San Diego is yet another city in California that has unforgettable beaches, vibrant nightlife , and captivating attractions. Exploring these is definitely worth your time.

Visit Balboa Park

Balboa Park is home to the San Diego Zoo, which is classed as one of the best zoos not just in the United States but in the entire world. 

What’s more, the 1,200-acre park that houses the zoo makes an ideal location for bike rides, scenic walks, and picnics.

Spend Time at Mission Beach and Pacific Beach

Mission Beach and Pacific beach connect together to form the shoreline of San Diego. With miles of sand, nearby boardwalks, and even an amusement park, you’ll always find something to keep you entertained throughout your visit. 

Although these beaches are connected and share the same coastline, they couldn’t be any more different from one another. Mission Beach has calmer waters and a more relaxed vibe in general. Pacific Beach, on the other hand, is more upbeat and lively, with restaurants, shops, and bars lining the Mission Boulevard.

Enjoy the Views at Sunset Cliffs

As I’m sure you can tell by its name, Sunset Cliffs is San Diego’s best sunset-watching location. With untouched vegetation and dramatic cliff faces, the area is picture-worthy during the day and night, but it’s best to go around sunset time.

Now it’s time to turn around on your California road trip and head back up north to Palm Springs.

Palm Springs has a few notable attractions that deserve your attention, so it makes sense to stop here before you go on to hike Joshua Tree and Death Valley later on in the trip. 

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Once you make it to Tramway Road, you’ll come across a gondola ride that works its way from Palm Spring up into the San Jacinto Mountains.

If you’ve been struggling with the heat, the aerial tramway will be a godsend as the air temperature drops by double digits once you reach the top . 

Tahquitz Canyon

It’s not every day you see flowing water right in the middle of a desert. But, at Tahquitz Canyon, that is exactly what you’ll see. 

The two-mile loop trail leads you to a waterfall that is tucked into the Tahquitz Canyon. If you worked up a sweat on the trail you can even take a dip in the falls to cool off .

Mount San Jacinto State Park

If you like what you saw on the Palm Spring aerial tramway, why not hike through southern California’s second-highest mountain range?

The Mount San Jacinto State Park takes you up roughly 11,000 feet above sea level and gives you impeccable views of the alpine forests and surrounding areas.

Joshua Tree National Park 

We hope you rested up in Palm Springs as you’ve got some long hikes ahead of you in the Joshua Tree National Park.

Joshua Tree is around a 40-minute drive from Palm Springs and has some stark differences from the coastal towns you drove through not long ago.

Joshua Tree has over 795,000 acres of rock formations and stark desert with hiking trails a-plenty throughout. 

Hidden Valley Nature Trail

The Hidden Valley Nature Trail is one of the shorter and easily accessible hikes in Joshua Tree, and it will take you on a 1-mile loop through an opening into a large rock-walled bowl. 

Barker Dam Nature Trail

The Barker Dam Nature Trail is another relatively short route that goes for 1.3 miles past Joshua trees, rocks, and bodies of water.

Many people turn around and walk the loop back once they reach the remnants of a water tank. But we recommend carrying on. Although this makes the hike shorter, you actually miss the best bit — the largest trees beyond the dam.

Ryan Mountain Hike

If you’re after a more challenging hike, then the path from Park Boulevard up the Ryan Mountain should be right up your alley. Known as the Royal Mountain Hike, this 3-mile up-and-down hike takes you up 1,000 feet of elevation. But the 360-degree views of Joshua Tree at the top are well worth it. 

Other Things to Do in Joshua Tree

Here are a few more things you can do at Joshua Tree National Park apart from hiking:

• Visit Skull Rock
• Drive up to Keys View Lookout Point
• Explore the Cholla Cactus Garden
• Marvel over Joshua Trees’ rare permanent spring, Cottonwood Spring Oasis
• Hike the Arch Rock Trail
• Gaze at the stars come nightfall

What to Do After Joshua Tree

If you want to explore other natural attractions on your California road trip, make your way over to the San Bernardino National Forest. From the deserts in Joshua Tree to the 800,000 acres of woodlands in San Bernardino, you’ll truly feel like you teleported to another world and not just driven an hour down the road. 

San Bernardino is an awesome hiking location with hot springs, the Big Bear Lake, scenic drives, and wildlife encounters. But be aware, there are bears in the area.

Campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree has a large selection of campsites to choose from. However, if you’re traveling into the area with an RV or van, 2 of the best sites are the Black Rock Campground and the Cottonwood Campground as they both have drinking water and flushable toilets.

Death Valley National Park

Now it’s time to head back up to northern California to explore Death Valley. And don’t worry, we know it doesn’t have the most appealing name, but the area is truly magnificent. 

Death Valley is the lowest, driest, and hottest place on Earth. If that doesn’t intrigue you, then I’m not sure what will.

An aptly-named section of the park, Furnace Creek, received the hottest temperature ever recorded in July of 1913.

Wondering what that temperature was?

Well, it was 134°F. Yikes.

Dante’s View

Dante’s View offers one of the best viewpoints at Death Valley.

There is a parking lot at the viewpoint, along with trails, to give you a different perspective of the land down below. 

Zabriskie Point

If you’re visiting Death Valley at sunset, you should head to Zabriskie Point. There is a short walk to the overlook, and then there are short trails that lead out into the hills.

Badwater Basin

Few can say they’ve been to the lowest point in the USA. But you can — if you visit Badwater Basin, that is! Badwater Basin sits 282 feet below sea level and comprises wide-open salt flats.

Other Things to Do in Death Valley

If you feel that you can tolerate a bit more heat, here are a few other activities to engage in at Death Valley National Park :

• Explore the lumpy salt flats of Devil’s Golf Course
• Enjoy the 9-mile scenic drive down Artists Drive
• Hike Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch
• Walk to Darwin Falls and enjoy the natural wonder of a waterfall in the desert
• Sled down the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
• Visit the Ubehebe Crater and witness a once active volcano

Campgrounds in the Death Valley National Park

Campsites in Death Valley work on a first-come-first-serve basis.

That said, the Furnace Creek Campground takes reservations during its busy season.

If you plan to camp at Death Valley, remember — temperatures are scorching during the summer months, and because of this, most campsites are closed.

Time to beat the heat of Death Valley and head west to get to some much-needed shade in the Sequoia National Park.

The Sequoia National Park is home to the world’s largest redwood, Hyperion .

Hyperion stands over 380 feet tall, and if that isn’t a reason to visit Sequoia, then I don’t know what is. 

If the height of Hyperion doesn’t impress you enough, Sequoia is also home to the largest tree by volume. The General Sherman Tree is more than 36 feet in diameter at its base. For perspective, it would take about 20 people holding hands to hug this tree.

Things to Do in the Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park offers more than just majestic redwoods for you to admire; there are plenty of attractions and activities from which to choose.

Here are some that we’d recommend:

• Visit the Giant Forest Museum
• Climb 390 steps to Moro Rock (the view is well worth it)
• Drive through the Tunnel Log
• Explore the Crystal Cave marble cavern
• Take a dip at the Tokopah Falls
• Drive under Tunnel Rock

Hiking Trails in the Sequoia National Park

Needless to say, there are a few excellent hiking trails at the park, too:

• Crescent Meadow Trail
• Big Trees Trail
• Congress Trail

Campgrounds at the Sequoia National Park

There are 7 campgrounds dotted around the park.

That said, the best one to head to if you’re traveling in RVs or vans is the Potwisha Campground.

Potwisha can accommodate RVs up to 24 feet long, and the area has flushing toilets, water, and other amenities.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is one of America’s most famous National Parks. And for a very good reason.

The park’s vistas are stunningly beautiful and offer guests a range of activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and rock climbing. 

Yosemite Falls

One of the prettiest parts of the Yosemite National Park is the Yosemite Falls. This waterfall pours its way down over the granite wall smashing against the rocks down below.

Because of its height, you can see the waterfall from numerous areas in the park, but the best view is at the start of the Yosemite Falls hike. 

You can hike your way down the trail to reach the base of the falls with minimal effort. On particularly hot days, the mist the falls create is pleasant and refreshing, so we highly recommend this hike.

Another of Yosemite’s popular sites is the Half Dome climbing wall. Climbers from all over the country have flocked to Yosemite to tackle the giant granite wall that towers over the valley.

If you aren’t looking to climb the wall, then there are two great options that give you fantastic views of the Half Dome.

The first is at the Glacier Point Lookout, where you can see how much the rockface actually looms over the valley and the surrounding mountains.

And the second option is the Mirror Lake hiking trail, which takes you to the bottom of the rock so you can see it from an ant’s perspective.

Tunnel View

The most iconic Yosemite Valley view is from the Tunnel Valley, which stretches out to Bridalveil Fall, El Captain, and the Half Dome.

The best time to visit is during the afternoon, when all the walls are bathed in direct sunlight.

Other Things to Do at Yosemite

Here are a few more things for you to do while you’re at Yosemite National Park :

• Gaze at the 3,000-foot El Captain Rock.
• Drive an hour up to Glacier Point
• Hike to the Bridalveil Fall
• If you’re skilled, try climbing the rocks of Yosemite
• Hike Tioga Road
• Cycle along Yosemite’s 12 miles of paved paths

Campgrounds at the Yosemite National Park

Yosemite has 13 campgrounds, most of which have sites for RVs.

It’s important to book ahead as much as possible to secure yourself a camp space , as all the campgrounds in Yosemite fill up fast.

Heading further northeast on the ultimate California road trip will take you up to Lake Tahoe, where you can spend the day hiking through the Sierra Nevada Mountains or participating in water sports on the lake itself.

Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay is a small sheltered cove of Lake Tahoe that has relatively shallow water, which gives the bay its beautiful turquoise color . 

Overlooking the bay is a Scandinavian castle, Vikingsholm, which is open to the public. Guests can take a tour inside after hiking its steep one-mile trail.

Alternatively, you can jump in a kayak or get up on a paddle board and explore the lake from the water itself. 

Hiking Lake Tahoe

Some of the more beautiful hiking trails are at the lake’s southern end. These trails include:

• Fallen Leaf Lake Trail
• Cascade Falls Trail
• Rubicon Trail

Partake in Winter Sports

During the winter months, Lake Tahoe transforms into a world-renowned alpine skiing destination. Even if you aren’t an avid skier, the ride to the Observation Deck via a 9,123-foot gondola gives you outstanding views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas. 

Other Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

When you’ve had enough of skiing and water sports, you can still find a few exciting things to do around Lake Tahoe:

• Have a picnic at the D.L Bliss State Park
• Relax on the sandy beaches at the Sand Harbor State Park
• Hike the Eagle Rock Hiking Trail

Sacramento is one of our final stops on this California road trip itinerary. As the state capital, the city features plenty of historical landmarks . Below are our top picks.

California State Railroad Museum

Over 500,000 people flock to the California State Railroad Museum every year, and if you too are interested in trains, we suggest you make a stop there yourself . 

The museum is spread out over six buildings and showcases railroad cars and locomotives, along with their history, and how the railroads shaped California and its economy.

Pony Express Terminal

The endpoint of the Pony Express was in the Pony Express Terminal in Sacramento. Although the mail service is no longer around, the building was named a National Historic Landmark, which now belongs to the Wells Fargo History Museum.

American River Bike Trail

Grab a bike and cycle along 32 miles of paved roads on the American River Bike Trail. The trail runs from Discovery Park to Beal’s Point and has separate lanes for people going either way.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Our final stop on this California road trip will take you to the Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is around a 3-hour drive from Sacramento. And, don’t worry, Lassen is well worth it.

The Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to all 4 types of volcanos: cinder cone, plug dome, composite, and shield. And the best part is some of these volcanos are still active . 

Hikes and trails throughout the park can take you alongside volcanic gas vents, steam vents, turquoise pools of water, and boiling mud pots. Now, that’s something you don’t see every day. 

But, along with the volcanic activity in the area, there are also plenty of lakes, waterfalls, and scenic drives that you can fill your days in Lassen with. 

The Best Trails in the Lassen Volcanic National Park

Not everything comes easy, and some of the best views require some work to get there. We hope you have your hiking boots ready, as the Lassen National Park has some incredible hikes that you won’t want to miss. These include:

• Bumpass Hell Trail – Easy
• Sulphur Works Sidewalk Trail – Easy
• Devils Kitchen Trail – Challenging
• Lassen Peak Trail – Challenging
• Cinder Cone Trail – Challenging

Other Things to Do in the Lassen Volcanic National Park

If you’re tired of hiking, you can find some time to relax and take in the natural beauty at the landmarks below:

• Manzanita Lake 
• Juniper Lake
• Emerald Lake
• Boiling Springs Lake
• Kings Creek Falls
• Mill Creek Falls

Finally, you can take a drive down the Lassen Park Highway and immerse yourself in the surrounding scenery from the comfort of your vehicle.

Campgrounds in Lassen Volcanic National Park

There are 7 separate campgrounds throughout Lassen, but only 3 can accommodate RVs and trailers. These 3 sites include Manzanita Lake, Summit Lake, and Butte Lake.

That said, there are no RV hookups, so make sure your RV or van is equipped with everything you’ll need during your stay. 

California Road Trip: Conclusion

So, there you have it! The ultimate California road trip. We hope this itinerary has helped you shape your future trip through the beautiful state of California.

As we wrap up this article, we’d love to know your favorite parts of California. Did this itinerary help you? And is there anything we should have added to the destination or activity list? Let us know in the comment section down below!

Please note that all comments will be checked by our team before being approved.

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The Perfect 10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Plan the ultimate California road trip itinerary with our 10-day road trip itinerary, including all of the best national parks, cities and other attractions!

California is instantly captivating. Its major cities twinkle in the spotlight, from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles. Its natural beauty is abundant as well, from the cliffs of Big Sur to the beaches of Santa Barbara.

However, California is ever-changing, and it changes fast. Rising snow-capped mountains soar out of lifeless deserts. Roads weave through conifer forests and giant redwoods, where alpine lakes mingle among hot springs and local towns that boomed with the growth of climbing.

Metropolises and epic nature are never far apart in this state. But it’s the California road trips between them that make it the perfect state to turn on the engine and put the car in drive.

This ultimate California road trip itinerary will include the highlights of this massive west coast state. From national parks to big cities, lazy beach towns, and more, here is our guide to planning the best California road trip!

Looking for the absolute best things to do in California? Check out our complete list here !

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Los Angeles

Where to stay in san diego, where to stay in palm springs, where to stay in mammoth lakes, where to stay in lake tahoe, where to stay in sacramento, where to stay in san francisco, where to stay in santa monica, california road trip wrap up, the perfect california road trip itinerary.

The best way to travel from northern California to southern California , or vice versa, is via an epic California road trip. Sure you can take a quick flight, but the best way to absorb all the the Golden State has to offer is by exploring on land.

This 10-day California road trip itinerary gives you a nice introduction to this beautiful state. California is massive, and 10 days is not nearly enough for seeing all of it. But in these 10 days, you’ll get to see as much as possible. Let’s get into it!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Day 1 – Los Angeles

World-famous Los Angeles makes for the perfect place to start your California road trip itinerary. With easy access from around the world, fly into LAX, rent a car, and start exploring. Here are a few of the best things to do in Los Angeles !

• The Griffith Observatory

Start your time in Los Angeles by getting your bearings. The Griffith Observatory offers amazing insight into the cosmos, but just as applicable are its far-reaching views across the city, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific Ocean.

Home to Lotus flower beds, floating swans, and paddle boats, Echo Park is a glimpse into LA’s past and current beauty. Book a paddle boat in advance to best enjoy the scenery. Afterward, pick from a smorgasbord of local food trucks.

• The Hollywood Bowl

As the sun sets on Los Angeles, take in a show at the beloved Hollywood Bowl. The airy amphitheater has consistent events from festivals to concerts featuring a whole range of genres. With the sky a burst of colors, it’s a captivating music space.

• Hop-on Hop-Off Bus

Getting around Los Angeles can be a nightmare. Lack of solid public transport and gridlocks can slow you down on what’s already a tight California road trip itinerary.

The Hop-on Hop-Off Bus delivers you to some of the city’s highlights, including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, and Beverly Hills. You can always wait to pick up your rental car until after you explore LA!

Have more time? Check out our 3 Days in Los Angeles itinerary !

Close to Rodeo Drive, The Peninsula has a world-class restaurant, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. It’s the best option for luxury in Los Angeles!

In Venice Beach, Stay Open brings one of the best beaches in Los Angeles. Enjoy free bike rentals and WiFi so you can explore LA with ease.

Close to Hollywood Boulevard, Banana Bungalow leaves you close to the action with cheap onsite dinners plus regular free BBQs. If you’re on a budget during your California road trip, there are some great cheap hostels around the state!

Day 2 – San Diego

This drive takes 2 hours from downtown Los Angeles

After a leisurely drive from Los Angeles, discover the lovable San Diego , where sprawling parks harbor dozens of museums, galleries, and world-class zoos.

Beaches offer more than just a quick surf, in fact, you can expect to find life-changing burgers. At night, the bay glistens alongside the Gaslamp Quarter, here you can reflect on a busy first few days.

San Diego is a must on any California road trip. Here is our list of the best things to do while visiting San Diego.

• Mission Beach and Hodad’s

Before you make it to downtown San Diego, stop for a swim and the best burgers in America. Big call, so I’ll let you decide. Hodad’s is a gastronomic and cultural gem. While Mission Beach is the perfect way to cool off after a big drive.

• San Diego Zoo

The extensive San Diego Zoo takes you on a journey through our natural world. Experience the Elephant Odyssey or the Polar Bear Plunge alongside 4,500 other endangered or rare animals from across the globe.

• Balboa Park

It takes days to explore the incredible Balboa Park with a fine-tooth comb. But in such a short time, pick your favorites among the 16 museums, impressive Spanish architecture, landscaped gardens, and galleries.

• USS Midway Museum

Covering 10 acres, the USS Midway Museum boasts 30 historic aircraft on board the famous carrier. Learn more about WWII and the Battle of Midway, and experience real cockpits alongside other interactive exhibits. Afterward, wander along the Embarcadero.

• The Gaslamp Quarter

Once the sun has set, the Gaslamp Quarter lights up and the streets’ cobblestones glimmer under the stars. Enjoy a fun night in San Diego while exploring this romantic district home to high-end restaurants and candle-lit cocktail bars.

With four outdoor pools, half a dozen restaurants, a golf course and a spa, the five-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar has all your needs covered.

In Downtown San Diego, Motel6 offers cable TV, free Wi-Fi, and close proximity to the top adventures around the city.

Set in the Gaslamp Quarter, HI San Diego is a refurbished urban hostel with a fun atmosphere, a game room, plus self-guided tours and adventures.

Have more time? Check out our 3 Days in San Diego Itinerary !

Day 3 – Palm Springs

This drive takes 2 hours and 15 minutes from San Diego.

In southern California, Palm Springs is a gateway to epic mountain ranges and mystical deserts. Your time here is packed with hiking trails delivering memorable views and guiding you through a unique national park. But the town itself has a charming culture, shopping, and regular enchanting events.

• Joshua Tree National Park

The main reason to visit Palm Springs is to explore Joshua Tree National Park. This intriguing national park showcases the beauty of the desert landscapes, its unique flora, which gave the park its name, plus the colors that make every use of an open canvas.

• Downtown Palm Springs

After visiting Joshua Tree National Park, shop, eat, and walk your way through downtown Palm Springs. Adorable boutiques whisper your name with handcrafted goods looking to find a home in your road trip vehicle. On Thursday evenings, the town comes to life for its weekly VillageFest.

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

With no time to hike, take a trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the summit of San Jacinto Peak. The stunning rise provides views across the Coachella Valley along with the Chino Canyon.

• Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve

If you choose to avoid downtown Palm Springs, Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is a great alternative. Walk among 150-year-old trees where the desert mixes with exotic landscapes to create a spectacularly colorful ecosystem.

• The San Jacinto Mountains

Another option is to explore the San Jacinto Mountains in greater detail. The Deer Springs Trail is a challenging, designated National Scenic trek that takes you to the San Jacinto peak for an ultimately rewarding experience through memorable desert landscapes.

Find more of the best things to do in Palm Springs here !

Close to downtown Palm Springs, The Paloma Resort is set in historic bungalows with mountain scenery and offers inspired Spanish cuisine in a former mission.

The Travelodge provides travelers with easy access to the town’s best restaurants and shopping while being a great base to explore beyond.

With free onsite parking and complimentary breakfast, the Crashpod Hostel is cozy, inexpensive, and a great place to recuperate.

Day 4 & 5 – Mammoth Lakes

This drive takes 8 hours and 15 minutes from Palm Springs, via Death Valley National Park

Today on your California road trip itinerary, drive from Palm Springs through the ethereal Death Valley. The drive along Route 395 will be unforgettable, delivering you first to Convict Lake and then to the beauty of Mammoth itself.

On the second day, explore the lakes, ride the gondola, and hit the hot springs.

Find more things to do in Southern California here !

• Death Valley National Park

Break up your journey to Mammoth Lakes with a drive through the otherworldly Death Valley National Park. Stop by Badwater Basin and stand almost 240 feet below sea level in the depths of Death Valley.

If you love unique natural scenery, Death Valley is a must on any California road trip!

• Convict Lake

Next, get a sneak peek at Convict Lake. The alpine lake is surrounded by fast-rising peaks and while it’s a sunrise hot spot, its serene beauty can be admired at any point. Just off the highway, you won’t even have to leave the car.

• The Village at Mammoth Lakes

After an enormous and beautiful day on the road, enjoy a relaxing evening in the Village at Mammoth Lakes . Shops, restaurants, and bars combine in this classic mountain village. Enjoy a nice meal before resting up for the day ahead.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding

There’s no better way to enjoy the enchanting lakes than on a stand-up paddleboard. The handful of nearby bodies of water are often calm and glass-like, leading to ease of movement and the chance to feel small alongside the stunning Sierras.

• The Minaret Vista

On your way to Devil’s Postpile, stop at the Minaret Vista to admire the eternal beauty of the Sierra Nevada. Set in the Eastern Sierra Range, these craggy mountains fall down to vast valleys and feature two soaring spires, including Clyde Minaret.

• The Devils Postpile

A national monument, the Devils Postpile is a formation of giant basalt columns. These were created by lava which cooled over 80,000 years ago. The hexagonal columns can reach up to 60 feet in height.

• Rainbow Falls

A part of the Devils Postpile National Monument , don’t miss out on a trek to Rainbow Falls. Walk from the post pile to discover a 100 feet waterfall whose consistent rainbows gave the fall its name. You can also walk directly here by driving to the Rainbow Fall trailhead.

• Mammoth Mountain Gondola

It’s been a busy day of activity, so take it down a notch with a ride on the Mammoth Mountain Gondola . The ride up lands you at over 11,000 feet. The panoramic views span the Mammoth Lakes Basin.

• Wild Willy’s Hot Spring

End your day with a recuperating experience at Wild Willy’s Hot Spring. It’s been a busy trip so far, so put your legs up in one of the two springs whose temperatures range from 95 degrees up to 105.

From Westin Monache Resort , you can take the gondola to the top of Mammoth Mountain before returning to make use of your kitchenette as well as the onsite pool and hot tub.

The Tamarack Lodge dates back to the 1920s and, among the included kitchens and private fireplaces, the lodge hasn’t lost any of its charm.

The Moderne Hostel provides guests with large communal and cooking areas, including BBQ facilities, while being close to Mammoth Mountain.

Day 6 – Lake Tahoe

This drive takes 2 hours and 40 minutes from Mammoth Lakes

With one full day in Lake Tahoe, it’ll be up to you how much you explore. Do you choose to focus your day driving through Yosemite National Park on your way there or do you take the direct route to explore local hikes, parks, and lakeside towns? There’s no losing here.

• Yosemite National Park

An option along the drive from Mammoth Lakes is the world-famous Yosemite National Park. You’ll need to make it a priority to explore well, but views of El Capitan and Half Dome make any “detour” worth it. Yosemite National Park is so famous that you may even choose to solely focus today’s exploration on that! Luckily this ultimate California road trip is customizable, and you can easily change it to allow for more time in Yosemite National Park.

• Fallen Leaf Lake

A direct drive to Lake Tahoe leaves ample time to explore. Check out the nearby, charming Fallen Leaf Lake where you can SUP or kayak before enjoying some waterfront eats surrounded by epic mountains.

• Eagle Rock Trail

For rewarding views of Lake Tahoe without a lengthy hike, meander down the Eagle Rock Trail. The mile-long trek is family-friendly and ends with breathtaking views of the lake with enchanting nature along the way.

• Emerald Bay State Park

Along the west shoreline of Lake Tahoe, you’ll find the popular Emerald Bay State Park. Find hiking, swimming, and mountain biking throughout while you can also explore Vikingsholm, with its impressive Scandinavian design.

Visiting the charming mountain town of Tahoe City is a great way to ring in the evening. Along the lake’s edge, the town has elegant mountain architecture, local galleries, plenty of places to eat, and bars in which to toast to a great day.

If you need more ideas for exploring Lake Tahoe after your California road trip, here are the best things to do in Lake Tahoe !

Live in the lap of luxury at The Ritz-Carlton , complete with on-site restaurants, spas, and a pool with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains.

A stay at the Mother Nature’s Inn comes with free onsite parking, along with inclusive WiFi and Smart TV, while being close to the beach.

The sprawling Mellow Mountain Hostel is close to Heavenly for skiing, summertime gondola rides, the beach, and some of the best action in South Lake Tahoe.

Day 7 – Sacramento

This drive takes 2 hours from Lake Tahoe

Next on your California road trip, enjoy the drive from Lake Tahoe through the Eldorado National Forest on your way to Sacramento.

Take the time to explore the underrated city where farm-to-table restaurants are much more than a niche. Take in the history and, if you have energy, try your hand at some fun outdoor sports.

• Downtown Sacramento

Culture, history, and food collide in downtown Sacramento. A surprising foodie haven and cocktail paradise, travelers will also be happy to see so many museums and galleries to visit as you’ll discover below.

• California State Railroad Museum

Within the Old Sacramento Historic Park, the California State Railroad Museum is an ode to westward expansion and the worker’s efforts. The latter particularly focuses on the prominent role of Chinese railroad workers. Explore 19 authentic trains before traveling on one yourself.

• The American River Trail

If you prefer to keep experiencing the state’s splendid nature, head to Discovery Park. It’s here you can explore one of America’s great bike trails, the American River Trail which spans 32 miles through brilliant scenery.

• White Water Rafting

Add some adrenaline to your California road trip with some white water rafting. With snow melting from the Sierra Nevada, this part of California is prime for some adrenaline-pumping rafting on the American River.

Looking for more incredible things to do in Sacramento? Check out our ultimate guide here !

In central Sacramento, the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel , evokes class and provides high-end amenities with a poolside bar and hotel restaurant.

With easy access to downtown, Wyndham Garden provides a great place to recuperate before with an onsite restaurant and bar, plus free WiFi.

Save money on your California road trip with this incredible hostel! Nestled in a former Victorian mansion, HI Sacramento provides guests with a social experience with a spacious patio and complimentary breakfasts.

Day 8 & 9 – San Francisco

This drive takes 1 hour and 40 minutes from downtown Sacramento

Start your day early and head towards the stunning California coast, where you should reach San Francisco by mid-morning. From there, head to the waterfront where you’ll enjoy delicious cuisine and epic bay views.

With two days of your California road trip, take your time in San Francisco, see all the attractions, and even take a day trip to Napa Valley.

• Embarcadero

Canvassing the waterfront of San Francisco, the Embarcadero is the perfect place to start your exploration. As you wander along the boulevard you’ll pass a number of historic piers with excellent views with many offering boat tours into the harbor and Alcatraz Island .

• Fisherman’s Wharf

With gorgeous views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf is a fantastic lunch spot. The early fishing boats have long gone and the Dungeness crab is ready.

Fisherman’s Wharf is also home to the Hyde Street Pier and its historic ships.

• Lombard Street

Take your mind away from the famed bridge and you’ll notice how undulating San Francisco is. We mean, it’s crazy steep. Lombard Street represents this best. Home to eight compact turns and beautiful landscaping, it’s a unique drive.

• Golden Gate Bridge

Ok, you’ve been patient. It’s time for the Golden Gate Bridge. The incredible site, of orange arches spread between two rising headlands, will be one of the most memorable parts of any California road trip. Admire it from the Presidio before walking along for amazing views of San Francisco.

• Napa Valley

Finding time for Napa Valley with just two days in San Francisco can be tricky. But lovers of wine and captivating landscapes should make time. An hour north of San Francisco, Napa Valley has over 400 wineries covering a range of budgets and styles.

Save time and energy during your visit to Napa Valley with this half-day wine tour .

If you want more ideas, check out our list of the best things to do in San Francisco !

Your second day in San Francisco is all about nature. Start with an early morning hike up to the Twin Peaks. This slice of untouched nature offers splendid from its summit, at 922 feet.

• Golden Gate Park

San Francisco’s own Central Park, Golden Gate Park combines historic architecture and eye-catching nature. Walk or ride along the miles of trails to discover the Dutch Windmill and Japanese Tea Garden to go alongside its Botanical Garden.

• Ocean Beach

After a busy morning of hiking and biking, take some time to relax at Ocean Beach. The three-mile beach spreads the crowds and allows ample room to take in the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and the far horizon.

• Union Square & Chinatown

Having got enough exercise and sun on day 9 of your California road trip, take some time to indulge. Union Square is the city’s top shopping district and also home to the towering Dewy Monument. Afterward, enjoy some mouthwatering eats in SF’s famed Chinatown.

• Oracle Park

Leave room, of course, for a ballpark hot dog as you end your second day in San Francisco at the beautiful Oracle Park. Set right on the bay, it’s a great place to catch a game of baseball as the sun sets to the west.

The high-end Fairmont Heritage Place provides guests with luxurious apartments with full kitchens and a private terrace complete with a fire pit.

Set in Union Square, Club Donatello is a four-star hotel with an onsite restaurant, and a rooftop lounge, and is close to Oracle Park. Make the most of your California road trip itinerary by choosing mid-range accommodation right near all the best attractions!

Enjoy modern amenities and a lively atmosphere at ITH Pacific Tradewinds Hostel which is close to Chinatown and the San Francisco waterfront.

Take a look at our list of the 25 best things to do in Northern California if you need more inspiration!

Day 10 – Santa Monica

This drive takes around 9 hours from downtown San Francisco.

After departing San Francisco, you’ll start wrapping up your California road trip by looping around and heading back down to southern California.

Make your way south on a California coast road trip where you’ll soon meet Half Moon Bay and the splendid beauty of one of the most famous roads in America. We’ve saved the best for last!

The Pacific Coast Highway is packed with highlights and epic scenery like the famous Big Sur, making it the perfect way to end your California road trip.

• Pacific Coast Highway

One of the most iconic roads in America, no California road trip is complete without a journey down the famous Pacific Coast Highway. Yes, you can take this drive from the PNW, but the section between San Francisco and Santa Monica is highlight packed.

Read More: Plan your Pacific Coast Highway road trip with our ultimate guide !

• Carmel By the Sea

10 minutes from the famous Monterey, Carmel By the Sea is laden with adorable seaside cottages that lead to white sand beaches. However, the architecture combines with the art scene to be the true highlight. Explore a town once home to Jack London and now over 100 art galleries.

The section of Highway 1 through Big Sur is a shock to the senses, in all the best ways. From tunnels and Pfeiffer Beach to the unforgettable Bixby Bridge, Big Sur is maybe the most scenic spot on this drive. No California road trip is complete without driving through Big Sur!

• Santa Barbara

You’re almost done with your California road trip, so take a break in Santa Barbara ! The stunning town of Santa Barbara is known for seafood, powdery white sand beaches, and fascinating Spanish history. Though you could easily spend days in Santa Barbara, if you’re short on time you can just have a quick driving break here.

• Santa Monica Pier

There’s no better way to end your California road trip itinerary than with a sunset viewing at the Santa Monica Pier. This iconic landmark will appear around the corner as you caress the edge of Malibu along Pacific Coast Highway . Park the car and watch the sky become ablaze before enjoying some of the pier’s rides.

Check out all the best things to do in Santa Monica here .

Enjoy the beauty of the west coast at the charming Shutters On The Beach with an onsite restaurant along with surfboard and bike rentals.

Enjoy free parking, a simple breakfast, an onsite gym, and free WiFi at the Days Inn which is close to major routes into LA.

A block back from the famed local beaches HI LA – Santa Monica is prime for the last night of your California road trip. They offer lots of fun activities, like a pub crawl and group dinners.

This California road trip itinerary takes you around the state, through its major cities and best national parks. You’ll experience a mix of civilization, lush landscapes, and lifeless deserts, sometimes on the same day.

From the cliffs of Big Sur to the mountains of Yosemite to the beaches of Santa Barbara, there is so much to see in California! Even the best California road trips couldn’t really include it all, but we’ve done our best to give you a good introduction.

Ten days is short for a west coast road trip, but it’s better than nothing! As a quick and inspiring glimpse into the Golden State, it’s the perfect platter to decide what you’ll inevitably later explore in greater detail.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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Road Trip Louisiana With These 50 Fun Things To Do in Louisiana!

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A Louisiana road trip shows you all the fun things to do in Louisiana! Every Louisiana trip must include New Orleans and then add on visits to the Louisiana river road plantations and other road trips in Louisiana, such as to Louisiana Cajun country. When you road trip Louisiana, you will be assured of great food and music as well as a fascinating history. In addition, we also show you how easy it is to do road trips from Louisiana for example, a Louisiana to Florida road trip or a Louisiana to Texas road trip.

Road trips in Louisiana: Louisiana River Road

One of our favourite Louisiana road trips was on the Louisiana River Road. Start in New Orleans and take Louisana Highway 18, aka the Louisiana Great River Road, for about 80 miles up to Baton Rouge. 

The Louisiana River Road plantations start pretty much as soon as you leave New Orleans with Destrehan Plantation and Ormond Plantation . There are 10 River Road plantations to explore so choose the ones that interest you! 

For example, we visited three river road plantations Oak Alley Plantation, Laura Plantation and Whitney Plantation – each of which was chosen for their diversity and family-friendliness.  We felt our kids could visit a maximum of three plantations on the Louisiana river road before we faced rebellion in the ranks.

We stayed overnight at a cottage in the Oak Alley Plantation which was perfect. Not only was the cottage charming but we got to see Oak Alley in the early morning hours before the tourist hordes descended.

A map of the Louisiana river road plantations lining the Louisiana Great River Road

Road Trips From Louisiana

It’s easy to navigate road trips from Louisiana following along on the Gulf Coast for either a Louisiana to Florida road trip on the east or a Louisiana to Texas road trip on the west.

Louisiana to Tennessee

Luisiana to Tennessee makes a great North/South road trip because you can enjoy great food and music in both states!

Head north on a road trip from Louisiana with visits to plantations along the Louisiana Great River Road and ending up in Baton Rouge.

You have two options for Louisiana to Tennessee road trip destinations.  One version uses part of our Alabama road trip itinerary as well. 

•  Go north from Baton Rouge to Birmingham Alabama with its civil rights history, Huntsville Alabama for its NASA space center and then Nashville Tennessee for its music and barbecue!
• Alternatively, music lovers will want to take a road trip along Route 61, aka The Blues Highway, from Baton Rouge to Memphis Tennessee .

This Louisiana road trip shows how easy it is to incorporate a Louisiana trip into a larger Southern USA road trip.

An old plantation bell on a Louisiana trip is a reminder of the conflicted history of this area.

Louisiana to Texas road trip

After Mardi Gras one year, we did a Louisiana to Texas road trip that took us through Louisiana Cajun country.  We flew into the international airport in New Orleans and out of the international airport in Houston. 

Some of the cool things you can do on a Louisiana to Texas road trip:

• visit Avery Island to see where Tabasco is made
• spot alligators on a swamp tour
• eat ice cream at Borden’s, a historic ice cream shop in downtown Lafayette
• chow down on great Gumbo and other cajun food 
• learn about the diversity of Louisiana Cajun country at the Vermillionville living history museum

On this Louisiana to Texas road trip, you will encounter many things in Louisiana Cajun country that make a Louisiana trip truly different from visiting other American states.

Try something sweet in Louisiana Cajun country.

Louisiana to Florida road trip

We have not done the entire Louisiana to Florida road trip – just missing about a  150 miles on the Mississippi coast side. We know people, however, who have done this trip and they say its fabulous.

The distance from Orlando to New Orleans is about 650 miles. This Louisiana to Florida road trip can easily be a 12 hour drive so it makes sense to break it up into smaller sections. Moreover, there’s so much to do and to see along the way!

Road trip Louisiana with this guide!

Drive along the Gulf Coast and some of the things you will encounter are:

• beautiful Gulf Coast beaches and glorious sunsets
• Bilox Mississippi with its casino and fun atmosphere
• Mobile Alabama which will remind you they did Mardi Gras first
• tacky fun in Flori-bama
• small town charm at Apalachicola Florida

There are so many fun things to do in Louisiana that the party doesn’t need to stop if you head east on a Louisiana to Florida road trip.

Louisiana Road Trip Stops

We have asked these travel experts to tell us about their fun things to do in Louisiana. Incorporate these ideas into your Louisiana road trips to make your Louisiana trip truly unforgettable.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Most people who visit Louisiana head straight for New Orleans but just up the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge you’ll find a city marching to the beat of its own drum. Cajun and creole influences combine with a good dose of southern charm in Baton Rouge and here you’ll find a city that’s uniquely Louisiana. Located 2 hours from New Orleans. Baton Rouge’s downtown is compact and very walkable. Start your visit taking in the views of the iconic Mississippi River before checking out the diverse collection at the LSU Museum of Art. Most state capitals have one state building but Baton Rouge happens to have two with very distinct personalities. The Old State Capitol , built in 1852, is a Gothic castle overlooking the Mississippi River. Equal parts Willy Wonka and 19th Century Paris, the colorful interior makes it hard to believe that this was a place for government work. A few blocks away the new State Capitol , an Art Deco masterpiece standing at 450 feet high, is the tallest state capitol building in the country where a rooftop viewing platform offers up sweeping views of the Mississippi. Being in Louisiana, Baton Rouge is definitely a city that takes its food seriously. From classic Louisiana oysters to gourmet tacos White Star Market is a casual food hall with something to suit every taste, if you have a sweet tooth be sure to stop by Elsie’s Plate and Pie for scratchmade pies like coconut cream and smores. – by Brianna Simmons at The Casual Travelist

Lafayette, Louisiana

There is something special about smaller towns – the charm, the food, and the sense of community. Lafayette, LA , is this and so much more. It’s unique culture, history, and delicious food makes it the perfect place to visit on a southern road trip. Lafayette’s heritage is a combination of the arrival of the Acadians from Acadia, Canada in 1765, and the rich presence of the Native Americans and African Americans who already occupied the land. In fact, they have two culture museums dedicated to their history- Vermilionville and Acadian Village . Both museums embody the life and culture of the individuals who lived in Lafayette during the 18th century. The museums include restored homes, historians detailing the history, and musicians performing local zydeco-style music. If there is a love of water or nature, the Bayou Vermilion District has canoes and kayaks for rent. You can take a self-guided tour across the bayou or relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Similarly, the Lafayette area is surrounded by state parks that offers beautiful nature trails to explore. In fact, Louisiana State Parks offers glamping for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the parks overnight. A trip to Lafayette is not complete without enjoying some of it’s amazingly delicious cajun food. Poboys are the quintessential sandwich of Louisiana. Therefore, Pop’s Poboys has to be on your food list. The food is well seasoned and the french bread is soft and fluffy. Similar to poboys, boudin and cracklins is a Louisiana staple. Don’s Speciality Meats makes the best. No matter if history, nature, or food is your jam, Lafayette, a two-hour drive from New Orleans, makes the perfect visit on a Southern road trip.

 – Marquita from Marquita’s Travels

New Orleans, Louisiana 

United States is a huge country with plenty of diversity, amongst which the southern states holds its own. The weather is warm, the food is spicy, the people are known for their “southern” hospitality and there are some unique rituals and festivals that are not observed anywhere else in the country. New Orleans, the major city of Louisiana, stands out on its own because of the French colonialism hangover. The creole-cajun food where African (much like other southern states, Louisiana too had African slaves employed on plantations and cotton fields) and French traditions meet, the strains of Jazz music and the crowd puller Mardi Gras are all nods to its checkered past. There are so many reasons to visit New Orleans, be it to witness the frenzy of Mardi Gras or the liveliness of New Orleans Jazz fest or to taste the amazing diversity in southern food. However, the one thing that you should not miss is the French quarter neighborhood or Vieux Carre , the oldest district of the city and built by the French in 1718. The architecture is distinctly European with slatted windows, beautiful courtyards and fountains. It is a bustling neighborhood with bars, pubs, restaurants and local boutique shops. Bourbon street is the liveliest street which becomes the epicenter of drunken revelry during Mardi Gras while Canal street is where you get to see some of the best parades at that time. The French Quarter is home to the famous Jackson Square , formerly known as the Place d’Armes and later renamed after Andrew Jackson, the hero of the battle of New Orleans. Close by is the iconic Cafe du Monde serving beignets and coffee 24/7 (cash only please). The French Quarter is a must visit if you are in NOLA and you can further enhance your experience by joining one of the many walking tours offered in the neighborhood.  

– by Paroma Chakravarty at Year of the Monkey

River Parishes, Louisiana

Located along the winding Mississippi River in Louisiana, Louisiana’s River Parishes are 120 miles of ancient southern live oaks, green sugar cane fields and stately plantation homes. This region is home to several noteworthy plantation tours of stately mansions and grounds that share the history and stories of their owners and former residents, many of whom were Black slaves. The beautiful River Parishes make for an ideal day trip or road trip destination when visiting New Orleans . Here, prepare to be treated to serious southern hospitality, culture and culinary experiences. It’s impossible to set foot in this region and not appreciate the impact of African culture and the sacrifices of the enslaved. Their influence can be seen in the food, art, architecture, language, folklore and people. Visitors should be mindful that the history of the area and its many fine plantation houses lining the river was once rooted in the business of sugar cane and slavery. For the most comprehensive understanding of how life was once lived by the enslaved, book a tour of the Whitney Plantation , the only museum in Louisiana that focuses exclusively on the lives of enslaved people. For an alternate perspective, tour the grounds of the colorful Laura Plantation , headed by a succession of strong French Creole women. For a taste of the region, don’t a miss an unforgettable hands-on Cajun culinary adventure at Spuddy’s Cajun Foods in Vacherie, Louisiana. Prepare a roux for your jambalaya and learn make your own Andouille and smoked sausages, then sit down to Spuddy’s stories and a savory lunch. – by Claudia LaRoye at Claudia Travels Laura Plantation is one of the Plantations that run along River Road in Louisiana (Image credit: Claudia LaRoye)

Planning Louisiana travel? Lousiana travel road trips are a great way to see the diversity of Louisiana. Louisiana travel things to do include New Orleans, Baton Rouge Louisiana, swamp tours, Louisiana plantation homes, Cajun food and so many other things to do in Louisiana. A New Orleans trip is a must and other Louisiana travel things to do only make it better! You won’t be left wondering what to do in Louisian becuse It’s easy to see why Louisiana is on so many USA road trip bucket lists!

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Natchitoches, louisiana.

Situated on the banks of the Cane River, Natchitoches is a city that you definitely be included on your list of places to visit on a southern road trip. As one of the oldest cities in Louisiana, Natchitoches is packed with history and small town charm. Find your accommodations in the 33-block National Historic Landmark District at one of the many great bed and breakfasts located here like the Steel Magnolia House (where the movie Steel Magnolias was filmed) or the Sweet Can Inn. Both of these are located in the heart of the town where you will find great shopping and restaurants. Be sure and make one of your restaurant stops Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant and try one of their famous meat pies. History lovers are surrounded by history in Natchitoches. There are three plantations in the area that you can visit including Oakland, Magnolia, and Melrose Plantations. In addition to the plantations, you can also explore Los Adaes State Historic Site and Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historical Site. Natchitoches is also home to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, so be sure to check it out during your visit also. Come during Christmas to enjoy the famous Natchitoches Christmas Festival. The city is all lit up with more than 300,000 lights throughout the downtown district and around Cane River Lake. There are really so many things to do in Natchitoches that you could stay busy for days, so grab your road trip essentials and head out to Natchitoches, Louisiana! – by Michelle Snell of That Texas Couple

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The best road trips from L.A.

From weekend jaunts to extended vacations, here’s a list of the best road trips from L.A.

One of our favorite things about L.A. is that you can leave its urban sprawl at a moment’s notice and suddenly find yourself surrounded by nature just a few miles out of town. Whether you’re interested in a whole  weekend getaway  (hello, Vegas or Big Sur) or need a nearby day trip to get some fresh air (maybe Joshua Tree?), this list has a destination for every kind of traveler.

We’ve included some suggestions of things to see and do at each locale, but for some of the bigger destinations—like nearby desert and Bay Area cities—we’ve focused more on the journey, with links out to full guides to each spot for once you’ve wrapped up the road part of your trip. So hop in the car, crank up the tunes and take your pick of scenery: Forest, beach , desert and mountain landscapes all make up these gorgeous road trips from L.A. Happy travels!  

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from Los Angeles

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Top road trips from L.A.

1.  Palm Springs

Miles from L.A.: ~105 Suggested round-trip time: 2 days min. A quick and easy trip from L.A., Palm Springs is definitely doable over a weekend. Head east past miles of wind farms, where turbines cast formidable shadows and make an otherwise monotone landscape come alive. Look out for prehistoric creatures on the side of the road; the 50-foot Cabazon Dinosaurs (a Brontosaurus and a T. Rex, to be exact) are a popular roadside attraction. You can check out the gift shop (in the bront’s belly), but to climb to the top of the T. Rex and sit in his mouth (a la Pee-wee during his big adventure), you’ll have to fork over $15 and weave your way through a fascinating, if factually inaccurate dino park. When you arrive in Palm Springs, pick up a map of modernist buildings at the Albert Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors Center for a self-guided architecture tour of the town.

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs .

2.  Joshua Tree

Miles from L.A.: ~130 Suggested round-trip time: 2–3 days min. Joshua Tree is one of the most magical places in California (and the country, we think). The national park’s varied and alien landscapes—due mostly to gnarled, ancient Joshua Trees and giant boulders strewn willy nilly—make for impressive scenery during leisurely drives. The stargazing is choice here, and wild coyotes may howl you to sleep if you plan an overnight camping trip. Stop at Pappy & Harriet’s for lunch on the way, and stick around for live music and a ghost-town stroll. Pick up a new houseplant at the Cactus Mart , or visit the Integratron (reservations required)  for a new-age sound bath and a shady hammock nap. The town of Joshua Tree itself also offers some fun stops, such as the World Famous Crochet Museum , filled with the kind of quirky public art that only exists in tiny, warm-weather communities . 

Discover the best   things to do in Joshua Tree .

3.  Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~235 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. If you’re a tree lover, you must go see the giant redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks . Driving through and under such gentle giants is an experience that can only be had on the way to and within these parks. Sequoia is slightly more drive-and-look friendly, with cool attractions like the General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing in the world; Tunnel Log, a fallen, hollowed out Sequoia that you can drive your car through; and Moro Rock, a dome-shaped peak accessible via a couple hundred steps. Meanwhile, the winding roads and backcountry trails in Kings Canyon are on every hiker’s bucket list (the drive to the end of Highway 180 is worth it even if you don’t plan on pushing yourself on foot). Just make sure to check conditions before you go: Some roads close after the summer season, and there’s always a risk of wildfires in the area.

4.  Las Vegas

Miles from L.A.: ~270 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Our advice? Never fly to Vegas; the drive is too much fun to miss (well, aside from the traffic on the way home ). First, check out Calico Ghost Town . It’s not the most authentic of ghost towns , but it’s a worthwhile detour for a bit of Wild West history. For something a little stranger, look out for exit 23 on the 15, which will lead you to the ruins of the former Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Created by criminal, quack radio evangelist Curtis Howe Springer back in 1944, the resort duped visitors into thinking they were soaking in healing natural hot springs, when in reality all the pools were boiler-heated. (Eventually the FBI shut this little operation down.) Get even weirder seven miles down the road in Baker with an alien sighting at Alien Jerky , a kitschy, alien-themed sundries shop selling flavored jerky, olives, nuts and candy. If you’re hungry for something more substatial, don’t miss the Mad Greek , a surprisingly delicious Greek fast food joint. In fact you can’t miss it, due to the lifesize plaster statues and Parthenon patio. Get a gyro plate to fuel the rest of your journey to Sin City. If you’re itching for the open road once your’re in Vegas, take a loop through Red Rock Canyon , including a 13-mile scenic loop that follows the canyon walls.

Discover the best  things to do in Las Vegas .

5.  Mammoth Lakes

Miles from L.A.: ~310 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min.

Take the scenic Route 395 and you’ll have a view of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range for most of this gorgeous drive. When you hit Big Pine, stop for a bite at Copper Top BBQ , a bright red smoke shack that serves piping-hot ribs and tri-tips. You may end up befriending some hungry alpine clibers headed to or from Mount Whitney (the highest point in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet!). Take a small detour east to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , home to the oldest trees in the world; some of these beauties have been around for more than 4,000 years. Farther north, stop in Bishop for some fresh-baked loaves or pastries at Erick Schat’s Bakery . Drive up the road to Mahogany Smoked Meats and choose some road snacks from a huge selection of gourmet beef, turkey, elk, buffalo, boar and fish jerkies. Though there’s no formal address, if you’re determined (or willing to ask a local), you can find a group of easily-accessible hot springs right off the 395, just south of Mammoth Yosemite Airport.

6.  San Francisco

Miles from L.A.: ~390 Suggested round trip time: 3–4 days min. There’s more than one way to get up to the Bay; you can choose the scenic route up the Pacific Coast Highway, or the down-and-dirty quick shot up the 5. (Yes, we mean dirty; miles of cattle farms give off a terrible stench, and miles of citrus farms—while more pleasing to the nose—will leave your car covered in bug guts.) For a leisurely road trip, we suggest Highway 1. Stop at the Madonna Inn for a giant slice of cake or a peek into one of the themed guest rooms. If you have more time, Hearst Castle  is a must-see; a sprawling estate with 56 bedrooms, multiple pools, 127 acres of gardens and even grazing zebras. As you continue north, look out for the signs (and smells) of Gilroy, the garlic capital of the world. Take a detour just outside of San Jose for more quirky home architecture at the Winchester Mystery House , supposedly haunted by ghosts of those killed by Winchester rifles, which led Sarah Winchester to build new additions onto the house continuously until her death to confuse the wandering spirits.

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco .

7.  Napa and Sonoma

Miles from L.A.: ~415 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. There’s so much to explore in Wine Country. Enjoy a picturesque drive up the coast, then swing inland for miles and miles of bucolic, verdant, rolling hills dotted with wineries and farms. Once you get close, you’ll have to pick a direction: west for Sonoma , east for Napa . You can’t go wrong, but it isn’t easy to drive back and forth between the two, so if you don’t have time for both, choose between spread out, rustic Sonoma or more condensed and touristy Napa. Spring for a hot air balloon ride if you can, or spot them from the road in the early mornings. The main event here, of course, is wineries—just be sure to drive safely, or turn the wheel over to Lyft for the day.

Discover the best things to do in Napa .

8.  Lake Tahoe

Miles from L.A.: ~465 Suggested round trip time: 4–5 days min. The scenic Route 395 is one of the loveliest roads in California. Wind your way along the Eastern Sierras, stopping in the small towns of Lone Pine, Big Pine and Bishop for quaint strolls and delicious detours (we’ll repeat here our recommendations for  Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine and the famous Schat’s Bakery in Bishop). The area is perfect for exploration by car; take any westward road to head up into the mountains, where you’ll find pine forests, crystal clear snowmelt lakes and tiny towns. Ask the locals where to find one of many natural hot springs to soak tight muscles from a long day’s drive, or pull off at the Happys, Sads or Owens River Gorge, all world-class bouldering and climbing sites, for some rock scrambling. For otherworldly waterscapes, check out Mono Lake’s “tufas,” spindly towers of limestone buildup reflecting across the saline waters. If you have time, a stop in Yosemite National Park  is a must, as is a hike or stroll (or ski day) in Mammoth. Another worthwhile (if far) detour is Bodie, one of the most legitimate and well-preserved ghost towns in America.

Discover the best  things to do in Tahoe

9.  Flagstaff and Sedona

Miles from L.A.: ~470 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. The change of scenery you’ll see on this drive is worth the trip alone: from vast stretches of desert into shrub-covered hills, followed by dense forest and—depending on the time of year—even snow. There are plenty of detours along the way: the Hoover Dam (an inspired Art Deco wonder), the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Las Vegas—it’s definitely a choose-your-own-adventure type of trip, depending on how much time you have. But whether your destination is Flagstaff or Sedona , take the 30-minute drive between the two. Each has distinct offerings; from a hip, small-town feel in Flagstaff with craft beer, live music and friendly folks to stunning views and an overwhelming number of health and wellness spas in sleepy Sedona (treat yo’ self) . 

Discover the best things to do in Flagstaff and the best  things to do in Sedona .

10.  Big Sur

Miles from L.A.: ~350 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Arguably one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the world, the Big Sur area is a road tripper’s paradise. It’s where redwood-covered mountainsides plunge into the surging ocean, with a narrow road carved into the cliffside, offering incredible views and a bit of vertigo. Before you get too far north, stop off at Morro Bay or Pismo Beach (both right near San Luis Obispo) for a dip or a sunbathe and later, look for the sign alerting you of the elephant seals, who crowd along the shoreline. Then steel yourself for a few hours of curves—every one is worth it for the next view around the corner. One of the best ways to see Big Sur is simply by driving along Highway 1, parking your car wherever it looks cool (read: basically everywhere), and following a probably unmarked trail—though be careful of poison oak—down in the direction of the ocean. For more mappable destinations, try the touristy-but-still-totally-worth-it McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach for even more stunning vistas (we also used to suggest you check out the Esalen Institute , as their hot spring baths used to be open to the public from 1–3am with a reservation, but that’s been temporarily, if not permanently, suspended). Dying to get off the beaten path? Head up Nacimiento Road to the remote valley setting of Mission San Antonio de Padua —one spot in Big Sur that you just might have to yourself.

Just a heads up: Increasingly common landslides have temporarily shut down sections of Highway 1 in recent years, so make sure to check up on the latest road closures before you depart. You may only be able to reach certain sections of Big Sur from the Bay Area-end of the highway in the event of a closure.

11.  Salton Sea

Miles from L.A.: ~165 Suggested round trip time: 2 days

Driving south down a desolate stretch of the 111, you’d never guess that the lake was a popular vacation spot in the 1950s, with resorts dotting its eastern shore. But increasing salinity and pollution due to agricutlural runoff have turned what was once a luxury retreat into a destination appealing only to those with an affinity for the forgotten and decaying. Explore abandoned structures along the shoreline as sun-bleached fish bones crunch underfoot. When you get hungry, the Ski Inn  is your best option—and one of the only remaining establishments in the area. Make sure to visit late local Leonard Knight’s gigantic folk art sculpture, Salvation Mountain , a rainbow-hued hill emblazoned with the words “God is Love.”

12.  Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~500 Suggested round trip time: 6–7 days min. The route to southwest Utah will take you directly through Vegas, so you can hit up all the roadside attractions listed above before venturing into more scenic landscape on the second half of your journey. There’s no shortage of incredible parks and monuments to check out in this area, so if you’re looking to see some natural wonders, this is the trip for you. A few must-visits are Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (the backdrop to most Westerns since the 1930s), Glen Canyon National Recreation Area for some swimming amidst the desert landscape (if the season is right) and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument , home of incredible “wave” rock formations and painted desert vistas. You’ll be greeted in Zion by soaring monoliths and sunset-colored cliffs; beyond in Bryce Canyon , the pinks turn to reds in a surreal, hoodoo-covered landscape (hoodoo means rock spire, and is way more fun to say).  

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Itinerary advise please! Road Trip California to Louisiana - Road Trips Forum

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Itinerary advise please! Road Trip California to Louisiana

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I've been dreaming of taking a road trip through the West, and now I finally get my chance! I would appreciate any advise on planning or suggestions for destinations. I plan on taking 2 weeks (or more if needed) total for the trip, in the middle of August, driving the whole way, with a friend of mine (both in our 20's).

Places we plan on visiting:

Wineries/Breweries

Sequoias/Kings Canyon

San Francisco

Los Angeles

Grand Cayon, Bryce, Zion, Arches & Canyon Lake

(Anything missing or not worth the time?)

We'd like to keep a low budget and plan on camping whenever possible. The idea is to take our time and really experience it all instead of cramming it all in.

We're more interested in adventure, culture and excellent cuisine, verses shopping and partying. A perfect trip would include national parks, hiking, backpacking, wineries & breweries, coastal drive, beaches and unique cities.

Any advise on the route to take or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

I don't think two weeks is enough just for the California destinations on your wish list.

Are you flying to CA, enjoying the state, and then flying back? Are you trying to visit Nevada, Arizona, and Utah as well?

Is this a trip for mid-August 2014 or do you hope to start the trip in a few weeks?

I am already in Northern California and will make the journey back to the south, driving the whole thing, next month.

I will not be traveling through Nevada.

I'm still debating Los Angeles

Hi 750travelbug and welcome to TripAdvisor.

Okay, let's see if we've got this straight, and please don't feel that we're trying to discourage you but it looks as if you are planning far, far too many miles for 14 days.

Day 1 - Drive to Arcata, then south through redwoods.

Days 2,3 - south to Big Sur

Days 4,5,6 - to Yosemite

Days 7,8 - Sequoia Kings Canyon

Days 9,10 - San Francisco

Day 11 - Santa Cruz

Day 12 - drive to LA

Days 13,14 - LA

Days 15, 16 - San Diego

Days 17, 18,19,20,21,22 - Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Arches

- - - Canyon Lake? Arizona or Texas or where?

Okay, so now you are in Utah and you still need to drive to Louisiana but you've already used up 22 days.

Then you still need to drive back home to 'Wee'ville?

Right, and those 6 days for GC and Utah are tight as well. I'd cut out some places. It already takes some 9 hours of driving between SD and GC.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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10 Scenic California Road Trips You Should Add To Your Bucket List

• California is filled with natural wonders and a rich cultural heritage, making it a top destination for road trips.
• Scenic road trips in California include the Gold Country, Ancient Bristlecone Scenic Byway, and Bigfoot Scenic Byway.
• These road trips offer stunning landscapes, historical sites, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

Stretching from the Mexican border in the south to the Pacific Ocean in the west, California is one of the crowning jewels of the Americas. The Golden State is filled with natural wonders, a diverse coastline, lush forests, and a rich cultural heritage. From state parks known for hikes with ocean views to unusual places to visit , there's no scarcity of gorgeous places to discover in California.

For road trips, the Golden State is one for the books. Whether it's by the coast, in the gold country, or by the rugged mountains, exciting adventures await travelers to explore the awe-inspiring beauty of California.

Here are the 10 scenic California road trips worth adding to the bucket list!

Related: 10 Most Walkable Cities In California Ranked By Walking Score

Gold Country (Highway 49)

Passes through the mineral deposits and gold mining communities.

The 1849 California Gold Rush attracted about 300,000 people known as '49ers' and has since made history in California's mining industry. Starting in Oakhurst in Sierra Nevada, this scenic road trip winds through counties and communities, including Columbia, a former California Gold Rush town , where travelers can still ride a real stagecoach. Local wildlife, redwood and pine forests, and beautiful lakes and rivers are a sight to behold along Highway 49 ( Gold Country ), also known as the Golden Chain Highway. The roadway then ends at its terminus in Vinton.

• Road Trip Length: 295 miles
• Major Stops: Tahoe National Forest , Columbia State Historic Park , Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
• Best Time to Drive: Year-Round

Travelers should also not miss dropping by the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, which marked James W. Marshall's discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in 1848.

Ancient Bristlecone Scenic Byway (Route 168)

Where you can see the oldest pin tree in the world.

The Ancient Bristlecone Scenic Byway or Highway 168 passes through the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in the White Mountains. It's a protected area in Inyo National Forest, where these pine trees grow up to 11,000 feet above sea level. One notable attraction of this scenic California road trip is the Methuselah Grove, where the Methuselah, a 4,850+ years old pine tree, is found, and it is the oldest in the world. The byway ascends through pinyon-juniper woodlands, starting from Bishop to the Patriarch Grove.

• Road Trip Length: 34 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours
• Major Stops: Inyo National Forest (Mount Whitney, Mono Lake, Mammoth Lakes Basin)
• Best Time to Visit: May to November

Bigfoot Scenic Byway (Route 96)

A possibility to see 'bigfoot' for the lucky ones.

The elusive Sasquatch, most commonly known as 'Bigfoot,' is said to have been inhabiting some forests in the Pacific Northwest, which has the most sightings of Bigfoot . The Bigfoot Scenic Byway begins in Willow Creek through the town of Happy Camp, where a 12-foot-tall Sasquatch statue, which is made of scrap metal, is located. There may be little to zero chance of seeing Bigfoot, but the winding rivers, deep green forests, and natural landscapes are rewarding.

• Road Trip Length: 89 miles
• Major Stops: Redwood National Park , Marble Mountains Wilderness , Six Rivers National Forest , Klamath National Forest
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round

For daring travelers, the Marble Mountains Wilderness offers exciting outdoor excursions, including hiking, rafting, biking, horseback riding, skiing, kayaking, and snowshoeing.

Feather River Scenic Byway (Route 70)

60 miles of natural haven with gigantic rock outcroppings & majestic forests.

The Feather River Scenic Byway leads to the giant rock outcroppings, enchanting waterfalls, beautiful meadows, deep forests, and amazing flora and fauna along Highway 70 from Oroville to the Sierra Valley on the western edge of the Great Basin. Travelers can take in the gorgeous sights of cascading waterfalls, wildflowers blooming in season, gorgeous fall foliage, and stunning woodland ecosystems. Along the way, there are hiking trails, campgrounds, and fun water activities, including kayaking, rafting, and fishing, as well as skiing and snowboarding in winter within the elevated landscape.

• Road Trip Length: 60 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Major Stops: Plumas-Eureka State Park , Tahoe National Forest , Plumas National Forest

Jacinto Reyes Scenic Byway (Route 33)

Beautiful flora and fauna with stunning views of the pacific ocean.

Spectacular views of diverse terrain, gorgeous cliffs, deep riparian zones, stunning rock formations, as well as amazing plantlife and wildlife are fitted along the Jacinto Reyes Scenic Byway on Highway 33. Starting in Ojai, one of the charming towns in California , this scenic road trip leads through the junction of Lockwood Valley Road. The drive also offers stunning coastal views of the Golden State to the south, where the Pacific Ocean is gleaming. Scenic stops include the Rose Valley Recreation Area and the Piedra Blanca Rock Formations in Los Padres National Forest .

• Road Trip Length: 37.7 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 1 hour
• Major Stops: Rose Valley Recreation Area , Dry Lakes Ridge Botanical Area, Piedra Blanca Rock Formations

The scenic stops offer exciting trails for daring travelers who want to go hiking, horseback riding, and biking.

Artists Drive Scenic Loop (Death Valley National Park)

A nine-mile loop drive known for its colorful hills and rugged beauty.

Famed for its multi-colored eroded hills that were formed by sedimentation and volcanic deposits, the Artists Drive Scenic Loop on Death Valley National Park is popular among tourists visiting the area. It's a short nine-mile drive that winds through the Artists Palette, which is splashed with rainbow colors. The Artists Drive is one of the best things to do in the Death Valley National Park region and also showcases the rugged beauty of the Black Mountains and the spiral pattern of the white salt flats.

• Road Trip Length: 9 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 20 minutes
• Major Stops: Artists Palette
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (perfect in afternoon light)

The Artists Drive is one-way and restricts vehicle length of up to 25 feet because of sharp turns and dips.

Related: This California City Is About To Be The State's Number One Place To Live

Death Valley Scenic Byway (Highway 190)

Expansive landscape and natural beauty with rich cultural and historical sites.

Unique desert wildlife, marvelous landscapes, colored dunes, below-sea-level dips, iron-red sandstone canyons, and mysterious singing rocks are a sight to behold along the Death Valley Scenic Byway . The Death Valley is known as the driest and hottest place in America, which is why winter is the best time to visit and explore this 3.3 million-acre park . This scenic road trip begins at the eastern entrance of the park on Highway 190 to its western border.

• Road Trip Length: 81.5 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 2 to 3.5 hours
• Major Stops: Dante's View, Badwater Basin , Telescope Peak
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (perfect in winter and spring)

It is recommended to drop by the Furnace Creek Visitor Center (Death Valley Museum and Visitor Center) before taking the scenic drive to learn more about the park and the best viewpoints along the byway.

Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway (Route 4)

Gorgeous thick forests & open meadows.

Vast sequoia redwood forests, sweeping alpine views, and shimmering lakes await all travelers on the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway on Highway 4. Starting in Arnold, this 61-mile scenic California road trip winds through wild landscapes such as ancient volcanic peaks and granite outcroppings until it ends in the town of Markleeville. In winter, the area provides exciting skiing and snowshoeing activities for those who love winter sports. Also, travelers should look out for bald eagles along the way!

• Road Trip Length: 61 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 2 to 5 hours
• Major Stops: Stanislaus National Forest , Bear Valley Mountain Resort , Grover Hot Springs State Park
• Best Time to Visit: Winter, Summer, Fall

Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Route 180)

A 50-mile scenic byway dotted with giant trees, impressive peaks, and deep forests.

Starting in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in Dunlap, the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway on Highway 180 winds through gorgeous pine, fir, and oak chaparral forests, as well as giant sequoia groves before it ends a little past Cedar Grove in Kings Canyon National Park. Travelers who want to take a day trip to California's stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains will enjoy a scenic road trip on the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway . Take in the sights of gigantic trees, natural caves, cascading waterfalls, and enchanting flora and fauna, and don't miss out on stopping by the Sequoia National Forest, which is home to the General Sherman Tree .

• Road Trip Length: 50 miles
• Major Stops: Sequoia National Forest, Giant Sequoia National Monument , Kings Canyon National Park
• Best Time to Visit: May to October

Although the byway is drivable year-round, the section past the turn-off to Hume Lake is closed in winter. It's recommended to take the road trip sometime between May and October.

Related: 10-Day California Road Trip Itinerary With Scenic Stops

Angeles Crest Scenic Byway (Route 2)

66 miles of lush forests and woodlands over the san gabriel mountains.

Known as the most scenic road trip in Southern California, the Angeles Crest Scenic Byway ascends from 1,500 to 7,900 feet and starts from La Cañada-Flintridge to Wrightwood on Route 138. The drive takes travelers through the awe-inspiring chaparral, woodlands, and montane forests of Angeles National Forest and the gorgeous peaks of the San Gabriel mountain range. A great stop is the Mount Wilson Observatory, which offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles Basin.

• Road Trip Length: 66 miles
• Approximate Driving Time: 3 hours
• Major Stops: Angeles National Forest , Mount Wilson Observatory
• Best Time to Visit: Spring, Summer, Fall

40 Best Stops Between Atlanta and Los Angeles

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How long is the drive from Atlanta to Los Angeles?

The direct drive from Atlanta to Los Angeles is 2,175 mi (3,499 km) , and should have a drive time of 1 day 6 hrs in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Atlanta to Los Angeles, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Las Vegas , Branson , Memphis , Sedona , Grand Canyon National Park , Phoenix , Santa Fe , Greater Palm Springs , Chattanooga , and Albuquerque , as well as top places to visit like Jack Daniel's Distillery Visitor Center and Graceland, or the ever-popular Tennessee Aquarium.

Top cities between Atlanta and Los Angeles

Chattanooga.

Albuquerque

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Grand Canyon National Park

Greater Palm Springs Film Office

Best stops along atlanta to los angeles drive, tennessee aquarium.

Jack Daniel's Distillery Visitor Center

Horseshoe tunica, silver dollar city, crystal bridges museum of american art, oklahoma city national memorial & museum, cadillac ranch, inn & spa at loretto.

Sandia Peak Tramway

Chapel of the holy cross, desert botanical garden, musical instrument museum.

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Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel

Grand canyon west skywalk, valley of fire state park, mike o'callaghan–pat tillman memorial bridge, fremont street experience, las vegas strip, fountains of bellagio.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Seaworld san diego, la jolla cove, legoland california, top searches in los angeles, other popular road trips from atlanta, explore nearby places.

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Los Angeles throughout the year

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Los Angeles?

Get inspired for your trip to Los Angeles with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
• 2-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
• 3-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
• 4-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
• 5-Day Los Angeles Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from atlanta to los angeles.

Yes! You can drive from Atlanta to Los Angeles.

How far is Los Angeles from Atlanta by car?

The drive from Atlanta to Los Angeles is 2,175 miles (3,499 km).

How long does it take to drive from Atlanta to Los Angeles?

Driving from Atlanta to Los Angeles should take you 1 day 6 hrs in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Atlanta to Los Angeles?

Gas from Atlanta to Los Angeles would cost around $191 to $445 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Atlanta to Los Angeles?

You could check out Jack Daniel's Distillery Visitor Center and Graceland, or the always popular Tennessee Aquarium!

What are the best cities to visit between Atlanta and Los Angeles?

People love visiting Las Vegas, Branson, and Memphis, among others.

What's the weather like in Atlanta?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Atlanta in January
• Weather in Atlanta in February
• Weather in Atlanta in March
• Weather in Atlanta in April
• Weather in Atlanta in May
• Weather in Atlanta in June
• Weather in Atlanta in July
• Weather in Atlanta in August
• Weather in Atlanta in September
• Weather in Atlanta in October
• Weather in Atlanta in November
• Weather in Atlanta in December

What are some other road trips from Atlanta?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Atlanta.

• Atlanta to New York City drive
• Atlanta to Orlando drive
• Atlanta to Nashville drive
• Atlanta to Washington DC drive
• Atlanta to New Orleans drive
• Atlanta to Chicago drive
• Atlanta to Savannah drive
• Atlanta to Pigeon Forge drive
• Atlanta to Chattanooga drive
• Atlanta to Charleston drive
• Atlanta to St. Augustine drive
• Atlanta to Memphis drive
• Atlanta to Toronto drive
• Atlanta to Boston drive
• Atlanta to Myrtle Beach drive
• Atlanta to Miami Beach drive
• Atlanta to Tampa drive
• Atlanta to Asheville drive
• Atlanta to Philadelphia drive
• Atlanta to Saint Louis drive
• Atlanta to Niagara Falls drive
• Atlanta to Branson drive
• Atlanta to Louisville drive
• Atlanta to San Antonio drive
• Atlanta to Baltimore drive
• Atlanta to Montreal drive
• Atlanta to Charlotte drive
• Atlanta to Mexico City drive
• Atlanta to Greenville drive
• Atlanta to Williamsburg drive

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Road trip itinerary for California’s Coastal Highway 1

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Take a road trip on California's Highway 1, tracing 655 miles of coastal charm from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Planning a road trip can be overwhelming, especially when it’s as extensive as California’s coastal Highway 1. This is the ultimate guide to tackling a mammoth journey, including best stops, driving times, hotels stops and places to eat, writes Joel Porter

There’s something enduringly romantic about the great American road trip – the wide open roads, the spectacular scenery, and the pure sense of adventure it brings. At the top of the road trip wish list for many is California’s Pacific Coast Highway, a 1050km route that hugs the rugged west coast from Mendocino County in the north to Orange County in the south. The most popular stretch is between San Francisco and Los Angeles , which winds along some of the most beautiful coastline in the world, bookended by stops in two of America’s greatest cities . Allow at least four days for the drive itself plus however long you’d like to spend in each city at either end. This itinerary goes from north to south, but you can just as easily start in LA and do it in reverse.

NOTE: Check road conditions before you travel as adverse weather can often lead to road closures, particularly in the Big Sur area.

READ MORE: The great American road trip: As big as Texas

Day 1 – San Francisco to Carmel

After a couple of days exploring San Francisco, it’s time to jump in the car and head south. There are plenty of car hire companies downtown, but you’ll get more choice at the airport, particularly if you are dropping the car in LA at the end. From the airport, it’s a two-hour drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea; not the prettiest part of the journey by any stretch but once you hit the coast, the stunning scenery begins.

Laidback, well-heeled Carmel has the feel of a little village, with rows of pretty houses and shops arranged neatly on the hill above the beach – walk along Ocean Avenue to discover boutiques, galleries, and cafes, including popular brunch spot Stationæry. Beautiful white-sand Carmel Beach is a must visit for a swim or surf, and it’s well worth taking a stroll along the scenic bluff path where you’ll likely spot sea otters swimming among the kelp. For dinner, book a table at the superb Chez Noir, a relaxed Michelin-starred spot run by chef Jonny Black and his wife, Monique, serving a seafood -centric menu using ingredients sourced from the Monterey Peninsula. Only open since 2022, Chez Noir has quickly become the standout dining option in Carmel, so it’s well worth booking ahead. Stay the night at La Playa Carmel, a historic boutique hotel located in a luxurious mansion originally built in 1905 by an artist as a gift to his wife. Recently refurbished, the hotel has a charming, intimate feel with cosy rooms, period features, sea views, and an outdoor pool.

Day 2 – Carmel to Big Sur

It’s less than an hour’s drive to Big Sur , but plan for a stop at Point Lobos, which is just a few kilometres south of Carmel. This protected natural reserve is famous for its seals and sea lions that can be spotted from the network of hiking trails that wind along the rocky coast – the whole loop takes a couple of hours or simply drive to a handful of specific viewpoints if you’re short on time. The remainder of the drive to Big Sur offers some of the most spectacular scenery (and windy roads) of the trip, passing over the iconic Bixby Bridge while waves crash against the rugged rocks just below the highway.

Big Sur is famed for its beautiful setting, beaches, forested hikes , and literary connections to the likes of Henry Miller, who lived and worked in Big Sur for many years – his old house is now open to the public as the Henry Miller Memorial Library. Experience another slice of Big Sur history by checking into Deetjen’s Inn, a collection of simple wood cabin accommodations (plus an excellent restaurant) that’s been hosting travellers since 1937. There’s no Wi-Fi and no phone signal so it’s a particularly good choice for those seeking true peace and quiet.

Day 3 – Big Sur to Cayucos

Heading south along the Big Sur coast, you’ll be treated to 80km of unspoilt wild coastline so it’s best to take it slow and admire the views at various points along the way. One of the best stops is Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park, which has a lovely beach and hiking trails. Just before you reach San Simeon, pull over at Elephant Seal Point, where gigantic elephant seals bask on the beach in huge numbers, grunting and fighting for space on the sand.

A bit further on and the high, dramatic cliffs begin to wind down towards Cayucos, a quintessential chilled-out California beach town that draws relatively few tourists compared to nearby Cambria and Moro Bay. With a relaxed, local feel, the town comprises little more than a couple of surf shacks and restaurants and has barely changed in the 25 years since I first visited there in 1999. One welcome new arrival is the Pacific Motel, an old 50s roadside motor lodge that’s recently been refurbished by local couple Ryan and Marisa Fortini, who have transformed it into a chic boutique motel with modern, minimalist rooms and fun touches like outdoor fire pits and a table tennis table.

Day 4 – Cayucos to Santa Barbara

In the morning, head down the street to The Hidden Kitchen for its famous blue corn waffles, topped with everything from pulled pork, to peanut butter and banana. It’s a two-hour drive to Santa Barbara and, just past Moro Bay, the road starts to route inland away from the coast and the scenery flattens out. Make a stop in the tiny town of Los Alamos for lunch at Bell’s, an excellent modern French bistro from chef Daisy Ryan, a recipient of Food & Wine’s prestigious Best New Chef award. Fans of the movie Sideways can make a small detour to the town of Buellton, where much of it was filmed, and check out the Windmill Motel, now re-branded as the Sideways Motel.

Save your wine tasting for Santa Barbara, however, where there are a multitude of great tasting rooms packed into the pretty grid of streets near the beach. One of the best is Au Bon Climat, which offers tasting flights of its signature chardonnays and pinot noirs. After a walk along the palm tree-lined beach head out for a taco tour along S. Milpas St, with stops at La Super-Rica, El Bajio, and East Beach Tacos. Check in for the night at the five-star Hotel Californian , which has an unbeatable location in the heart of Santa Barbara’s lively Funk Zone and offers luxurious rooms, a spa, outdoor pool, and several bars and restaurants.

Day 5 – Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

It’s just one more two-hour drive into Los Angeles, with the road mostly following the coast again for this final stretch. All of LA is your oyster but I prefer to stick by the sea, and for this trip, I checked into The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica for the final two nights. Originally opened in 1933 when it was known as the Grand Dame of Santa Monica, the hotel was a magnet for Hollywood A-listers in its heyday but fell into disrepair in later years. New owners BLVD Hospitality have given it a stunning makeover with bright Art Deco interiors and a buzzy, speakeasy-style restaurant that has bought The Georgian back to its former glory.

Just down the road from the hotel is the iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its fairground rides and amusement arcades; it’s also the official start/end point of America’s most famous historic highway, Route 66, commemorated by a sign at the end of the pier. Our California road trip ends here, but if you had the time, it could easily be the start of another big adventure.

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Los Angeles Dodgers | Dodgers end successful road trip with shutout…

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Los Angeles Dodgers

Los angeles dodgers | dodgers end successful road trip with shutout win in arizona, yoshinobu yamamoto pitches six scoreless innings, extending his scoreless innings streak to 15 in an 8-0 win. the dodgers won seven of nine games on their three-city trip..

The Dodgers scored five times in the second inning and coasted to an 8-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks with Yamamoto turning in his second consecutive scoreless start.

As The Bee Guy’s 15 minutes of fame wound down , the Dodgers won their third series on the three-city, two-country, 5,425-mile cavalcade.

“Everybody just expects us to dominate, dominate, dominate,” Dodgers catcher Austin Barnes said of the swing from a 3-6 homestand to a 7-2 road trip. “Baseball’s hard. It’s a tough game. I feel like we came on the road and played some good baseball together and hopefully we’ll just keep carrying on.”

The Dodgers did come pretty close to “dominate, dominate, dominate” on this trip. They outscored their three opponents (the Washington Nationals, Toronto Blue Jays and Diamondbacks) 45-19 and trailed at the end of a total of just 15 of the 82 innings played.

“You look back 11 days ago and we were in a tough spot, weren’t playing good baseball,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “To go on the road, East Coast trip, to go north of the border and then come back here and play a division rival and end up 7-2, it was a nice feat, a lot of good baseball.

“Offensively, I thought outside of last night ( a 4-3 loss in extra innings ) we were really good the entire road trip and then the pitching, the defense, has been the best we’ve had all year.”

Yamamoto neutralized the Diamondbacks as effectively as The Bee Guy’s “non-pesticidal solution” knocked out Tuesday’s bee swarm. The Japanese right-hander allowed five hits and walked two in six scoreless innings and now has a 15-inning scoreless streak.

The Diamondbacks only got two baserunners to second base against Yamamoto – one in the first inning then later in the sixth. Both were stranded there.

“I think I’m being able to keep myself very calm. That’s one of the biggest reasons I’m being able to execute,” Yamamoto said through his interpreter.

“There are some differences between here and Japan, such as the PitchCom, pitch clock. I think I’m being able to get myself used to it. And I’m feeling more comfortable. … I think I’m just getting used to the environment since I came here.”

Roberts said he has seen Yamamoto’s confidence grow with each start since the debacle in South Korea .

“He’s continuing to build confidence. With the confidence he’s finishing all his throws,” Roberts said. “The fastball has the life. It’s in the zone. It’s commanded. The curveball played really well tonight, as did the split.”

Barnes has caught three of Yamamoto’s starts since Korea. He hasn’t allowed a run over 17 innings in those starts.

“I thought he pitched really well,” Barnes said. “I thought with a six-run lead he attacked hitters. I thought he was pretty efficient early on, taking his outs, not trying to chase punch (strikeouts).

“I think after every start he probably gets more confidence. He’s only 25 years old and it’s a new league for him. He’s been throwing the ball really well so it’s hard to say he doesn’t have his feet under him. He was great today.”

Diamondbacks left-hander Jordan Montgomery was scheduled to start Tuesday’s bee game and went through his pregame routine only to be scratched when the start was delayed almost two hours.

He might have been wishing for locusts if he’d known how it was going to go Wednesday.

The Dodgers scored five times on four hits and two walks in the second inning against Montgomery.

Andy Pages’ two-run home run started the scoring. Barnes doubled in another run when his fly ball glanced off center fielder Corbin Carroll’s glove and dropped to the warning track. Mookie Betts drove in two more runs with the first of his three singles in the game.

The MLB leader in hits (49), Betts has had 12 multi-hit games in the first 33 games of the season, five of three hits or more.

Will Smith led off the third with a solo home run and Montgomery’s night was just about over. The Dodgers added two more runs in a four-walk seventh inning against Diamondbacks relievers Blake Walston (making his MLB debut) and Brandon Hughes. Miguel Rojas and Chris Taylor had back-to-back bases-loaded walks.

The bottom half of the Dodgers’ lineup started to contribute offensively on this trip, sparked by Pages. In Wednesday’s win, the final four hitters – Pages, Rojas, Taylor and Barnes – combined for five hits and three walks, scored four of the Dodgers’ runs and drove in five.

“Andy’s a big part of that,” Roberts said of the bottom half of the lineup gaining punch. “Certainly once he got called up, the bottom part of the order solidified and became more productive. I like to think that – you look at these 10 games, these nine games, and the production that the bottom half has given us, that that narrative should be silenced a little bit.”

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3 bodies found in Mexican region where Australian, American surfers went missing, FBI says

Updated on: May 4, 2024 / 8:34 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Three bodies have been found in a Mexican town near where three surfers — two Australians and an American — went missing last weekend, the FBI confirmed Friday evening.

In a statement to CBS News, the FBI said that three bodies were found in the town of Santa Tomas in the Mexican state of Baja California. The Baja California prosecutor's office told CBS News that the bodies have not yet been positively identified, which will be done by the state medical examiner.

"While we cannot comment on specifics to preserve the sanctity of the investigative and legal processes, along with protecting the privacy of those impacted, we can assure you that we are assessing every tip," the FBI's statement read. "If credible, we will pursue those leads with rigor. We are in contact with the family of the U.S. Citizen, and we are steadfast with our international law enforcement partners in finding answers."

On Saturday, María Elena Andrade Ramírez, the Baja California state attorney general, told Reuters in a statement that "all three bodies meet the characteristics to assume with a high degree of probability that they are the American Carter Rhoad as well as the Robinson brothers from Australia," said Baja California's state Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade."  

Andrade Ramírez told Reuters that the three bodies were found in an advanced state of decomposition at the bottom of a well more than 50 feet deep. 

Mexican authorities Thursday reported that they had found tents and questioned three people in the case. The Pacific coast state of Baja California is a popular tourist destination that is also plagued by cartel violence.

Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend have not been seen since April 27, officials said.

Andrade Ramírez Thursday would not say whether the three people questioned were considered possible suspects or witnesses in the case. She said only that some were tied directly to the case, and others indirectly.

But Andrade Ramírez said evidence found along with the abandoned tents was somehow linked to the three. The three foreigners were believed to have been surfing and camping along the Baja coast near the coastal city of Ensenada, but did not show up at their planned accommodations over the weekend.

"A working team (of investigators) is at the site where they were last seen, where tents and other evidence was found that could be linked to these three people we have under investigation," Andrade Ramírez said. "There is a lot of important information that we can't make public."

"We do not know what condition they are in," she added. While drug cartels are active in the area, she said "all lines of investigation are open at this time. We cannot rule anything out until we find them."

On Wednesday, the missing Australians' mother, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page an appeal for helping in finding her sons. Robinson said her son had not been heard from since Saturday, April 27. They had booked accommodations in the nearby city of Rosarito, Baja California.

Robinson said one of her sons, Callum, is diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

Andrade Ramírez said her office was in contact with Australian and U.S. officials. But she suggested that the time that had passed might make it harder to find them.

"Unfortunately, it wasn't until the last few days that they were reported missing. So, that meant that important hours or time was lost," she said.

The investigation was being coordinated with the FBI and the Australian and U.S. consulates, the prosecutor's office added.

In December, cartel leaders went on a killing rampage to hunt down corrupt police officers who stole a drug shipment in Tijuana, which is located in Baja California.

In 2015, two Australian surfers, Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas , were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California - also known as the Sea of Cortez- from the Baja peninsula. Authorities say they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

AFP contributed to this report.

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National News | ‘Gasoline Rainbow’ is a glorious teen road trip

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National news | review: ‘gasoline rainbow’ is a glorious teen road trip, we are in a hybrid film world, part documentary, part fiction.

In sibling directors Bill and Turner Ross ‘ latest, “Gasoline Rainbow,” five Oregon teens just out of high school make their meandering way some 500 miles to reach the coast for what’s been billed as the “End of the World” party.

They are like countless young protagonists before them: on the road to find out. But while they share much of the same yearnings and anxieties of American road travelers from “On the Road” to “Easy Rider,” the circumstances of their particular coming of age are uniquely theirs — and what’s on the radio dial is, too. “Dude, I want to listen to some Shakira, bro,” one says from the backseat of their van.

This being the Ross brothers — the makers of the Texas-Mexico border portrait “Western” and “Bloody Nose, Empty Pockets,” in which they brought 22 people to a Las Vegas dive bar and asked them to act as though it was closing the next day — we are in a hybrid film world, part documentary, part fiction. Our characters — Micah, Nathaly, Nichole, Tony, Makai — are nonprofessional actors and their journey is a loosely constructed series of encounters that mostly unfold naturally.

It’s a filmmaking approach that can, in its weaker moments, result in the worst of both worlds: the rambling narrative of documentary and the manufactured quality of fiction. But on the whole, the Ross brothers’ observational, immersive filmmaking gets close to something bracingly real.

In the case of “Gasoline Rainbow,” which opens in theaters Friday, much is expressed by the land the teens traverse. Whether by car or on foot, their travels take them under highway overpasses, through sprawling train yards and along long rows of wind turbines. Global warming is mentioned only once, but it hovers over their uncertain future. They make their way across baren, dry lands and industrial blight. The name of that party is no coincidence.

Bleak as that may be, “Gasoline Rainbow” — which would fit comfortably alongside films like Alma Har’el’s “Bombay Beach” and Andrea Arnold’s “American Honey” — is most concerned with the question of: So what now? For these young people, unsure of what to do with their lives, getting out on the road provides plenty of answers. The world they’ve been left by older generations may be damaged. “Do you know what the difference is between kids and adults?” one elder tells them. “Adults aren’t supervised.” But there is beauty to be found, like shimmering pools of gasoline, if you’re willing to hit the road and make some new friends.

The answer lies most in community — in daring to leave the house, meet strangers and find like-minded souls. Perhaps more than anything, the Ross brothers — with a keen eye for American eccentrics — are interested in gathering together all the most interesting people they can find. And the spirit of camaraderie that results warms just as much as the bonfires gathered round in “Gasoline Rainbow.”

“Gasoline Rainbow”

3 stars out of 4

Running time: 110 minutes

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Distance between Louisiana and California

Driving non-stop from louisiana to california.

How far is California from Louisiana? Here's the quick answer if you have friends taking shifts as driver so that you can make the entire trip by car without stopping.

Nonstop drive: 1,187 miles or 1910 km

Driving time: 19 hours, 9 minutes

This is a really long drive, so it's not very realistic to drive nonstop. To get a better idea of how long this road trip would actually take, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would be if you drive with stops .

Flying non-stop from Louisiana to California

Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line between Louisiana (LA) and California, Maryland. Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula. For a long distance, this appears as a curve on the map, and this is often the route that commercial airlines will take so it's a good estimate of the frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate as well.

Flight distance: 1,001 miles or 1611 km

Flight time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

The straight line flight distance is 186 miles less than driving on roads, which means the driving distance is roughly 1.2x of the flight distance.

Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/8th of the time it would take to drive.

This is a medium length flight, so unless you have a nice private jet, you might be booking a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. Scroll down to see a more realistic calculation that takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

Louisiana to California road trip

Realistically, you're not going to want to drive without stopping all the way from Louisiana to California, especially if you're the main driver. So let's say you're actually planning a road trip to California, and you need to stop along the way to rest. Plus if it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping you figure out travel plans in detail.

Based on the length of this trip, we think you could spread out this fun road trip over a number of days.

Road trip: 5 days of driving

With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate your total travel time for this trip.

Travel time: 69.5 hours on the road with 4 overnights

Start at Louisiana .

Drive for about 3.5 hours , then stop in Shreveport and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 2.5 hours then stop in Dallas . Stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 6 hours , then stop in Amarillo and stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 4 hours , then stop in Albuquerque and stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 5.5 hours , then stop in Sedona and stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 3 hours , then stop in Kingman and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 5 hours then stop in Bakersfield . Stay overnight. Finally, drive for about 40 hours and arrive at California .

Louisiana to California airports and flights

In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline (whether it's first class or coach). So that means we really need to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination.

To give you a better estimate of real-life travel, we've put together a flight itinerary with actual airports. Eventually you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports and flights. But for now, here's an example we've selected to give you an idea of how traveling might work between airports.

Departure airport: Alexandria International Airport (AEX)

Arrival airport: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

With the airports selected, we can estimate the travel time to and from the airport, based on how far the airport is from downtown.

Getting to the airport: 123 minutes

Getting to your destination: 143 minutes

Now finally, let's look at an example flight from AEX to DCA and figure out how long it would take to fly including take-off and landing, and time to taxi on the runway.

Commercial flight time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from Louisiana to California including time spent getting to/from the airports, an estimated wait time of 2 hours at the airport for TSA security lines and waiting at the gate, and the actual flight itself.

Total travel time: 9 hours

Plan a trip to California

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to California, Maryland. Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in California . Check out some of the questions people have asked about California like Any "must see" places to go to while staying in California? . Click the button below to explore California in detail.

How far is it the other way?

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse directions to get the distance from California to Louisiana , or go to the main page to calculate the distance between cities .

If you happen to know Louisiana, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about Louisiana!

More info on this route: elevation from Louisiana to California drive from Louisiana to California road conditions alternate routes Google driving directions