california road trip stops

California Road Trip Itinerary: 19 Must-Visit Stops!

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Let me help you plan your epic California road trip itinerary! Trust me; you’ll need all the help you can get to tackle this enormous and diverse state.

After visiting the state several times, getting blown away each time, and realizing the hype is REAL—I had to share what I did and how I did it so you can have an equally fantastic time visiting this gorgeous state. California has literally everything. There are incredible coastlines, verdant forests, unreal national parks, sparkling lakes, snow-capped peaks, and barren but beautiful deserts… What more can you ask for?!

On this California road trip, you get a taste of them ALL. While the entire state has thousands of things to do, I don’t think any of us have time for a year-long road trip just in California, although that does sound amazing.

I had to narrow it down for you to get a taste of everything in just a few weeks. So here we go; here are 19 must-visit stops on a California road trip!

Table of Contents

California Road Trip Itinerary

Where to start your california itinerary, california road trip itinerary tips, getting around on your california road trip, how long should your california road trip be, 1. kelso dunes hike, 2. explore a lava tube, where to stay near mojave desert, 3. zabriskie point, 4. artists pallete, 5. golden canyon, where to stay near death valley, 6. movie road, where to stay near alabama hills, 7. june lakes loop, where to stay near june lakes, 8. glacier point, 9. sentinel dome, 10. vernal falls, where to stay near yosemite, 14. muir woods national monument, 15. golden gate bridge, where to stay near san francisco, 11. 17 mile drive, 12. carmel by the sea, 13. point lobos, where to stay near monterey, 16. big sur, 17. pismo beach, 18. santa barbara, 19. venice beach, where to stay along highway 1, 17 legendary american road trips, your southwest road trip itinerary (1 week - 2 months), your adventurous arizona road trip, your adventurous utah road trip, seattle to san francisco west coast road trip adventures and waterfalls, your adventurous montana road trip.

As we’ve discussed, California is massive. Like literally… It’s the third-largest state in the country, and it also holds some of the country’s most epic, gorgeous, and incredible natural landscapes.

It’s impossible to fit everything into one trip, so while you’re planning this California road trip, you might need to also start planning your return because you’ll undoubtedly want to come back!

The main thing to note about this California Itinerary is that we will focus on the central and some southern parts of the state. If you want to check out some of the other things to do in the north, check out my Seattle to San Francisco road trip or this post on awesome things to do in Northern California .

Honestly, there isn’t much of a difference. As you’ll see below, I’ll tell you where to rent a vehicle from, and from there, you might find starting in a particular city might be cheaper than the other depending on the time of year and your vehicle choice.

It would be best if you started in a big city as it’s much easier to rent a vehicle and your pool of cars to choose from will be ideal as well. So beginning in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento would be your best choice. For me, my friend lives in LA, so I started there.

With that said, we started there and immediately left the city and instead checked out LA last, which was perfect, in my opinion.

Starting in the desert, then getting into the national parks while leaving the populated cities and the coast as our refuge for the last part of our trip worked well. We had way more energy at the start of the journey, so we did the “harder” areas first, where resources were slimmer and more energy was needed.

Then towards the end of our road trip, we got tired. So being near proper stores and having the coast as a relaxing spot towards the end of our trip was awesome.

• Download the GasBuddy app to get the cheapest gas around, any amount of money saved is worth it when road tripping California!
• California has some intense weather and it varies so much across the state. Winter closes roads, and during the summer fires can spread quickly. Always stay up to date on the weather and nature around you.
• With that in mind, also think about seasons. California ia great year round, but I accidentally ended up doing this road trip during one of the worst heat waves! Oops! You kind of have to be prepared for EVERYTHING in California.
• Bring tons of water at all times. I loved having my Grayl so I can drink pretty much any water I want and it filtered it to be safe and tasty. Defintiely bring a filter water bottle!
• Download Google Maps and the specific areas of California before you trip. I also download Map.me as another back up. It also has more trail info while Google doesn’t.
• You’ll be in and out of service, download tons of playlists too.
• I also starred tons of possible campsites on Google Maps just in case before the trip too so if I had no service or access to apps that need the internet, I at least have known campsites in the area starred and the ability to navigate to them.
• Get the National Park pass ! If you plan on popping into a few national parks and spreading your time out too, then you’ll need one.

Well, you’re going to need a car, that’s for sure! Unless you have your own, there are two places I would look:

Car Rentals – You can check here for current car rental deals anywhere in the world.

Outdoorsy – The #1 site for renting vans and RVs, which are by far the best way to go! A road trip is better when you can sleep where you adventure, in my opinion. In fact, you can rent my friend’s RV that we used to do this trip right here .

Like we already discussed, you could take a whole year and probably not see it all!

The below itinerary took me about three weeks! I started in LA, and this is roughly how my weeks went…

California Itinerary Week 1 – Mojave, Death Valley, Alabama Hills

California Itinerary Week 2 – June Lakes and Yosemite

California Itinerary Week 3 – The Coast

Don’t forget how massive this state is, and don’t underestimate your drive times. You’ll also need to re-up your food, get gas very frequently (and pay through the nose, AH!), as well as bathroom breaks and other stops.

This road trip will take time and LOTS of driving. So while you may only spend 4-5 days total exploring, you’ll need those extra two days for driving between places, chilling, and random stops. Take this all into account when planning your road trip.

You’ll need to add even more time if you plan on adding some of these northern California stops too!

Alright, I think that’s enough prepping, let’s get into the good stuff. What to do on your California road trip!

California Road Trip Itinerary: Mojave National Preserve

Although the Mojave Desert is one of the smallest in North America, it still packs a lot of punch, and its small size means you’ll be able to witness many of its highlights with relative ease.

To many, it may seem like a pretty stark and desolate place. Still, if you look beyond the miles and miles of sand, you can uncover treasures such as the bright, colorful flowers that spring from drooping cacti, the iconic Joshua Trees that dot the horizon, accompanied by rugged mountain peaks. Just a few reasons it should be a solid first stop on your California road trip.

The Kelso Dunes are a great stop on any California itinerary if you are headed through the Mojave Desert. The undulating dunes seem to go on forever, only interrupted by the fragile plants that help to make up this unique ecosystem.

Although there is quite a bit of sand in the Mojave Desert, this area of dunes is pretty impressive, with the tallest dune rising to a towering 600 feet! The area is dominated by a central ridge, where many of the tallest sand dunes can be found. In total, the dunes span an area of around 45 square miles, so if you don’t find the central ridge, there is still plenty to see.

You can easily walk around, up and down the dunes all day, and get clear views in every direction. But to get to the top of Kelso Dune, you’ll need to hike up 1.5 miles through sand! Not easy.

Just past this trailhead is a campsite, so you might want to plan to hike this in the morning after you camp or perhaps hike it later in the afternoon before setting up camp for the evening. I went frolicking around the sand dune in the morning when it was a bit cooler, and it was perfect.

Ever fancied venturing inside a tube of rock created by lava? Well, that’s exactly what you can do at the Mojave Preserve. The lava tubes are a must-see in this region, taking you to a subterranean world of rock.

However, it’s not just the fact that you’re inside a lava tube that makes this spot so popular; when the light hits the holes at the top of the tubes just right, you’ll be greeted by a picture-perfect stream of sunlight that graces the cave’s floor. The way the sun breaks through the skylights is magical and worth waiting around for.

You have to take a really crappy dirt road about five miles to get to this spot, but it’s worth it. Just be slow and careful. Make sure you come on a clear day, so the sun is popping through the holes and not too early or late in the day, so the sun is above the skylights. I arrived around 2 pm in June.

After walking about a quarter of a mile (depending on how close your car made it to the “trailhead”), you’ll reach a hole in the ground with a ladder leading inside. The tubes are short and sweet, as they don’t go back too far once you enter. Head in and let your eyes adjust. You’ll see the light at the back of an opening, head towards it slowly, and it will open up into a gorgeous cave cathedral!

Kelso Dunes Camping – Just past Kelso Dune Trailhead, you can find free camping. There are a few vault toilets here, and the site has a campfire ring. You have views of the dunes, and the entire sky is lit up with stars at night! Highly recommend staying here.

Shoshone RV – This is excellent camping and RV spot with a nice natural water hot spring pool. We stayed here after exploring Mojave on the way to Death Valley.

Tiny House in Sandy Valley – This charming tiny house with a rooftop deck sits in the middle of a working ranch.

The Hummingbird – A handcrafted tiny house that lets you wake up in complete tranquillity.

RELATED: Your Southwest Road Trip Itinerary (1 Week – 2 Months)

California Road Trip Itinerary: Death Valley National Park

Death Valley—the national park of extremes. It is the lowest point below sea level in North America and the hottest place on earth!

At times, this dramatic landscape can reach unbearable temperatures even for the hardiest of beachgoers, with very little rain throughout the year. Yet sometimes, the heavy rain can cause flash flooding that pours and gushes into the dry valleys.

Death Valley is surreal, otherworldly, and at times you may feel like you are tracking across Mars. Still, with so many mind-bending and impressive features, it is unmissable on any California Road trip itinerary. There are mountains, brightly colored rock formations, miles and miles of bright white salt flats, along with plenty of viewpoints and hikes to help you take it all in.

The yellow and brown striped hills of the badlands that make up much of the Death Valley landscape have been shaped over many years by water, which may seem quite surprising as you stand there sweating in the pounding sunlight, without a drop of water in sight.

We happen to be riding through Death Valley during its hottest June ever! As a Floridian who is quite used to some heat, I can assure you I have never felt this kind of heat before in my life. It was borderline unbearable and challenging to be outside for more than 10-20 minutes. Be careful visiting the area, particularly during the summer.

Want to see Death Valley in a nutshell? You pretty much can at Zabriskie Point, one of the most photographed spots in the whole of Death Valley. You’ll be able to take in an incredible view of the badlands in all their glory from this easy-to-access, elevated viewpoint.

The undulating landscape seems to spread down from the distant Black Mountains, easily visible just a few miles east of Death Valley. Looking far in the distance, the white salt plains will just be visible, with the twisting badlands spread out below you.

One of the most noticeable points from this view is what is known as Manly Beacon, but with all the other varying landscapes, your eyes will be spoilt for choice.

Although you’ll be able to get a fantastic view from the point, which is just a short, uphill stretch from the parking area, the crowds tend to thin if you venture up into some of the surrounding hills. This is especially useful at some of the area’s busiest times, like sunrise.

From the top of the point, you’ll notice narrow trails twisting and traversing over the ridge leading you further into the alien landscape.

The colorful gem that is Artists Pallete has to be seen to be believed. Yes, the colors are as bright and vibrant as the pictures you’ve seen.

You’ll be able to pick out the pockets of bright rock in varying shades of purple, yellow, green, and oranges right from the parking lot, making it an ideal spot on any California Road trip. However, if you want a truly magical spectacle, I recommend venturing down and getting up close and personal with this glorified stone.

Artists Pallete can be reached relatively easily via Artists Drive. However, pay attention to the time of day you are planning to visit, as the sun’s placement can have a massive impact on the vibrancy of the colors. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon and evening, as harsh bright light can mute the colors rather than make them pop.

The road itself can sometimes feel like a bit of a rollercoaster, with lots of twists, turns, and sharp dips, but it is all just part of the fun. The road is one way and 9 miles long, so make sure you plan enough time to reach it and get back.

*NOTE: No vehicle over 25ft can drive down Artists Pallete.

But how did such a natural phenomenon come about? Well, if you combine elements such as flash floods, the heat of the desert, volcanic ash, and mineral-rich deposits, Artists Palette seems to be the outcome, a rainbow of soft pastel hues spreading across the rocks like spilled paint!

Although some may head to Golden Canyon in the hope of finding their fortune, this scenic part of the park gets its name solely from the golden hue of the rocks, and sadly not, as some might hope, what lies beneath the rock’s surface.

The Golden Canyon is a destination in itself, but the 6-mile hike to get there can be just as impressive, so much so that it is one of the most popular hikes in Death Valley and a highlight of California road trips. However, it can easily be shortened if you don’t have much time, so you can still gawk at this natural wonder.

In fact, just a quick look into the mouth of the canyon a few steps away from the parking area is enough to take your breath away; however, if you can dive into the labyrinth of twisting hills to take in the vast rock formations and inspiring scenery.

It’s worth mentioning we got here a bit later in the day, so we didn’t get to hike too far in. At the start of this hike, there are even warning signs not to hike after 10 am because it’s literally that hot.

It is hard not to delve into every side canyon you see, as they beckon and tempt with their colorful walls. Golden Canyon certainly has the ‘wow’ factor. It’s not just gold, it’s every shade of gold, yellow, and orange you could ever imagine, all crammed haphazardly onto the rocky walls. Visit when the light is not too bright, like early morning or late evening, to really see the canyon at its best and so you don’t roast yourself!

Furnace Creek Campground – Excellent campground right in the middle of the park! It has all the facilities needed, views over the park, but little to no shade. Make sure to check the weather before coming as you will be ROASTING when it’s hot out. Hopefully, your vehicle has air conditioning.

Stovepipe Wells Campsite – This place was a godsend when we were driving through. They had a nice pool, and it was SCORCHING outside. We happily stayed here at their basic but enough campground and vegged out in the pool to keep cool. They have a restaurant with food as well, which was convenient after a hot day adventuring.

Villa Anita – A truly unique stay in the town of Tecopa that’s more like an art installation than a guesthouse.

Artist’s Oasis – A cozy home in Pahrump surrounded by pine trees and one-of-a-kind sculptures.

RELATED: Your Road Trip Essentials Packing List and Tips (+PRINTABLE Checklist! )

California Road Trip Itinerary: Alabama Hills

If you were not reading a post about the best spots on a California Road trip, you might be surprised to find out that the Alabama Hills are not found in the state of Alabama. These towering rocky peaks can actually be explored just off of Highway 395, at the base of the Eastern Sierra mountains. 

It is quite an impressive sight with some incredible rock formations, including several natural arches and towering Mount Whitney in the background. 

So impressive are the sights that many Hollywood blockbusters have been filmed in the area, such as Iron Man, G.I Jane, Transformers, The Lone Ranger, and many others.

An Instagrammers delight, Movie Road has you covered for some incredible shots during your California Road Trip. There are many scenic spots dotted in the Alabama Hills, but Movie Road certainly takes the top spot. 

You’ll have prime viewing of the rocks and mountains that make up this part of California from the relatively straight road. As you start to head out onto the drive, you’ll notice the road’s surface gradually begin to change from asphalt to dirt, but it still doesn’t make for too bad driving conditions. 

From the road, you’ll truly be able to take in the ever-changing colors that surround you, but arguably what is the most impressive is the clear views of Mount Whitney towering ahead. 

You can simply drive along this road and stop at the small pullouts to explore a bit closer on foot. Use Google Maps for ease if you’d like; highlights like Mobius Arch, Heart and Boot Arch, and Lone Ranger Canyon are all well marked, so you know which pull out is which! The small trails would likely total a couple of miles at most, and nothing is strenuous at all.

Numerous Campsites – There are quite a few campgrounds around Alabama Hills, making it easy to stay in the area and catch the Hills during sunrise or sunset. Tuttle Creek and Lone Pine Campground are two of the closest to the Hills.

Keough’s Hot Springs – This is just an hour north of the Alabama Hills, and again, we were looking for a way to cool off! We found a huge pool and some natural spring water pools here, plus they had a charming little campsite.

Mount Whitney Views – This 2-bedroom home in Lone Pine has a private deck and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Lone Pine Cottage – A cozy cabin in the center of the town of Lone Pine that makes a great base for exploring the Alabama Hills.

California Road Trip Itinerary: June Lakes

Is it a mirage? Could it really be water? Dust yourself off from the sandy desert and head to this little area of oasis that is the June Lakes. After days in the desert and the literal hottest place on earth, June Lakes was absolute perfection and came at a perfect time in my California road trip!

The lakes are a mecca for a range of water-based activities but are also just a great place to chill out.

If you don’t fancy getting out onto the water, then just use this time to chill by the glistening lakes and enjoy paddling in the shallows; the icy water is the perfect way to cool down after days in the harsh landscapes of the desert. 

PS – TONS of people rush to Mammoth Lake since they are more popular. If that’s your scene, you can switch this out, but I’m so happy we went to June Lakes instead! We took a peek at Mammoth Lakes, and it was PACKED. We almost couldn’t fit our RV down the road near the lake. So we decided to high-tail it to June Lakes and were immediately greeted with more camping spots, plenty of space, and far fewer people. (Without sacrificing the beauty either!)

One of the best ways to see the lakes is to take the June Lake Scenic Loop, a 16-mile scenic drive, as you pass through aspens reaching up to the blue skies and crystal glacial lakes. June Lake is one of the first lakes that you’ll hit and is just a great place to chill and go for a swim, thanks to its gorgeous beach.

There are four sparkling lakes in total, surrounded by the tall Sierra Mountains, the others being Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake, all of which have something special to offer. 

Bring your kayak, canoe, or even try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. If you don’t have your own gear, then you could always hire them from the retail units around the shore, such as from Mammoth Kayaks . You can boat in any of the four lakes on the loop, and again you can always hire a boat from the marina if you don’t have your own. 

Grant Lake should be your go-to for a bit of an adrenaline rush, as it is the largest of the four. Go wakeboarding, jet skiing, kneeboarding, and water skiing, and take in the scenic surroundings at speed. It is also a huge angling destination, and you can fish from the shore or by boat.

There are also tons of trails surrounding these gorgeous lakes, but all I could do was chill at the water after being in the desert for a week.

Oh Ridge and June Lakes Campground – Awesome campsites both within walking distance to June Lake! It’s a perfect spot for camping and much less crowded than the campsite we tried at Mammoth.

Silver Lake Campground – A 10-minute drive from June Lake and a short walk to the Silver Lake shoreline.

June Lake Villager Motel – Stay right by the lakes in cozy, chalet-style rooms.

Mammoth Condo – A spacious 2-bedroom condo in nearby Mammoth Lakes with stunning views of the mountains .

RELATED: How to Plan a USA Road Trip & Choosing a Vehicle

California Road Trip Itinerary: Yosemite National Park

Located high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite has to be seen to be believed. It is undoubtedly one of the most incredibly stunning places in all of California and possibly the world. The area deserves at least a few days on a California road trip itinerary, with new vistas and natural wonders around every corner!

It is hardly surprising that people come from all over the globe to visit it. There is no end to the things to do and see in the park, whether you want to stay on the valley floor and simply gawk at the waterfalls and granite cliffs that surround you or if you’re going to take the more adventurous option of hiking or climbing them.

You may have seen many pictures of Yosemite when planning your road trip, but nothing will quite prepare you for the sheer size and scale of everything; with the rocks surrounding you towering 3000 feet high, even the trees are enormous. I honestly thought it wasn’t going to be worth the hype—but it is!

No matter what you do, be sure to visit some of the more famous landmarks, including Yosemite and Vernal Falls, the iconic Half Dome, El Capitan, and some of the more scenic viewpoints. However, all the views would be worth seeing if you had enough time.

Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for bears, especially if you’re walking the trails alone!

Glacier Point provides one of the best views of the Yosemite Valley. Seriously, you won’t get a much better vantage point than this, and it isn’t even that hard to get to. The vista that surrounds you when you reach the point will allow you to take in some of the biggest and best landmarks, such as the Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, 3214 feet above the valley floor.

Although Glacier Point is incredible, try not to get too excited thinking you’re about to witness a glacier, as unfortunately, that disappeared thousands of years ago. Still, the name at least seems to have stuck around.

If you decide to stay until the evening, not only will you have much of the commanding view to yourself for some even more incredible photos, the darkness of the night’s sky means that on a clear day, the view of the Milky Way is just about flawless.

If you’re driving from the valley, give yourself an hour to reach the point as you have to go along some long and twisting roads, but from the parking lot, it is only a short paved trail between you and the views. You could always hike from the valley floor, but if you think of the elevation gain, you’ll have some idea about how strenuous this hike is!

Just make sure you visit before the road closes at the end of the season, or you may be very disappointed. Make sure to read my Yosemite itinerary for more info and tips because the park is huge, and you’ll need some preparation to explore it better.

Reaching the top of Sentinel Dome is one of the easiest ways to see miles and miles of Yosemite landscape surrounding you. The views are 360 degrees, so you’ll get a different landscape no matter which way you turn your head.

The north arguably provides the best views, as you’ll be able to take in El Capitan and Yosemite Falls, although to the east, you should spot the iconic Half Dome and Nevada Falls.

The Sentinel Dome Trail itself is short and sweet, with nothing too remarkable to report along the way, but it is a great way to get a pretty impressive panorama from the top with relatively little effort. To get more views, pair this with Taft Point Trail for one epic loop!

Yosemite is certainly not short of waterfalls , but there is something a little bit special about Vernal Falls.

One of the best ways to see the falls is via the Mist Trail, a great way to spend half a day in Yosemite. It will not only take you to the falls but also other few scenic vistas and falls along the way too. The ascent can be very tiring, but the 317-foot waterfall smashing against the rocks will take your mind off the climb.

Once you reach the falls, you have a choice to make, you can either turn around or head back the way you came, or I recommend carrying on the trail and heading back via the John Muir Loop. Not only will you get different scenery and a more leisurely descent via a series of switchbacks, but you’ll also tick off Clark Point and get views of Nevada Falls too!

RELATED: 27 Incredible Waterfall Hikes on the West Coast, USA

Yosemite Flats RV Park – This is one of the closest and cheapest places just outside the park! It was an excellent base for us. It was located just across the road from a beautiful river too!

Edna’s Hearts Desire – In the small town of Wawona, inside the entrance to Yosemite, you’ll find this delightful cottage. The one-bedroom cabin has a small patio, views of the surrounding forest, and full wood paneling inside.

Yosemite Mountain Hideaway – This one-bedroom cabin can be enjoyed at any time of year. For summers, there’s a private deck with stunning views over the valley below, and when it gets cold, you can snuggle up by the open fire.

Sage Cabin – Here you can have complete peace and quiet while still being close to the action – it’s just 15 minutes to the Valley floor. This one-bedroom cabin sleeps four and has a private deck with views over open meadows.

RELATED: Your 1-3 Day Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary

California Road Trip Itinerary: San Francisco

San Francisco is a stark difference from what some may think of as a Californian city, especially when comparing it to Santa Barbara or even LA. Yet, it has a certain rustic charm that makes you want to come back time and time again, plus all those hills will leave you with calves to die for.

The city has it all, surrounded by nature and adventure, with plenty of places to eat, drink, shop, and sightsee within its borders. Of course, there are the main tourist hotspots it would be rude not to hit up, such as Alcatraz, the famed prison on the rock, Pier 58 and the many attractions it holds, and of course the majestic Golden Gate bridge.

If you’re driving, be sure to try heading down Lombard Street, which is often called the most crooked street in the world. There is honestly a laundry list of things to do around here, but this California road trip is pretty full already! Here are the highlights…

T he dense canopy of trees in the Muir Woods is a gem of San Fran, which is why it has earned a spot on this California itinerary. The main reason to visit? The magnificent redwood trees! Some of these incredible trees are between 400 and 800 years old, and in that time, have stretched to over 250 feet tall. 

Exploring the area is easy thanks to the numerous short and flat trails that weave themselves around the thick trunks of these natural giants.

The Bootjack Trail Loop is the one to do if it’s the redwood trees you are interested in or take the Muir Main Trail, which follows the stream, although it still has a fair few Redwoods. The normal-sized trees look miniature in response, but you should be able to make out red maples and Douglas fir, to name a few, their canopies dappled by the light above.

In the summer months, there is a shuttle that will take you directly to the woods, saving you from dealing with the traffic in the area, which is always a handy option.

Golden Gate Bridge, a true icon of San Fran, is a glimmering pathway connecting the city of San Francisco to Marin County. The impressive bridge can be seen from various points throughout the city, but there are a few viewpoints where you’ll be able to take in this vast engineering masterpiece in all its metal glory.

For an easy-to-access view, Crissy Field is a good spot, located right on the waterfront; your views will be pretty much unobstructed.

Want the hilly landscape of San Fran city in the backdrop? Hawk Hill provides the perfect vista and access from the north side of the bridge. The hill offers a unique lofty vantage point that is quite different from the usual bridge pictures that you would expect to see. 

Both Baker and Marshall Beach will not disappoint either; there are so many options to choose from.

Golden Gate Camping – The state reserve has four campgrounds dotted around the Marin Headlands.

City Cottage – A tiny historical cottage hidden right in the heart of San Francisco, next to Park Presidio.

Private Garden Studio – Perfect for two, this studio features a deck surrounded by lush plants with views over the SF Bay.

Dogtown Suite – Across the Bay in Oakland you’ll find this tranquil, renovated studio, close to restaurants and a vibrant art scene.

RELATED: Seattle to San Francisco West Coast Road Trip! Adventures and Waterfalls

California Road Trip Itinerary: Monterey

Monterey is a California Coast hotspot, and for a good reason. It has a great vibe, plenty to do, and some delicious food and drink options. Delve underneath the waves to get an insight into life in the kelp beds, or head to the pier and say hello to the hundreds of sea lions before making your way to Cannery Row.

Spend the evening sampling the delights of the many local eateries and bars. Sure it may be touristy, but people come here for a reason, and it never feels completely overrun and is very deserving of a spot on a California itinerary.

There are so many stops on Monterey’s 17 Mile Drive ; you might want to block out a whole day of your California road trip itinerary to enjoy it. The drive takes you past some of the most scenic spots in this section of coastline, including magnificent beaches, clusters of giant, impressive trees, rocky outcrops, and plenty of places to pull over and simply take in the views.

Suppose you need a little break from the natural wonders of the California coast (but really, why would you). Carmel by the Sea is a picture-perfect little town. The charming streets are the perfect place to rest up and refuel at one of the many local restaurants or bars, or get a little retail therapy in one of the many shops, be it for road trip gear or simply some souvenirs.

If you can’t help get out and about in nature when in Carmel, there is an abundance of hiking trails in the surrounding area, such as the short and sweet Carmel Meadows Trail.

This town is just TOO adorable, and I wish we had more time here. It’s was so chill and charming; I’d love to return to stay a bit longer.

With 280 state parks in California alone, it’s hard for one to stand out from the crowd, but Point Lobos does a pretty good job of it. People come from miles around in the hope of spotting the numerous sea lions, whales, and sea birds that gather in huge numbers throughout the year. It is also considered one of the best scuba diving spots on the west coast.

Want to hike, not swim? The park is crisscrossed with several hiking trails, all of which have been carefully designed to show off the best that the park has to offer.

Some of the best include the Point Lobos Loop Trail around the park or the shorter Cypress Grove Trail. Essentially, it is the California coast, condensed into a small area that’s explorable in a day; you might as well end your road trip here (definitely don’t!).

The park gets PACKED, so parking is often impossible, and you’re left to park on the side of the road! Come early and be prepared to walk a lot.

Laguna Seca – Yes, this is a raceway and a campground in one! While this is a bit of a weird spot with nonpotable water and a raceway surrounding it, it also happens to have great views of Monterey and is one of the cheapest spots in town.

Veteran’s Memorial Park Camping – Just a mile from downtown Monterey you’ll find 50 acres of park with 40 campsites – 30 of them suitable for trailers.

Ocean Wave – The famous Cannery Row will be at your doorstep with this bright and modern condo.

Pacific Grove Cottage – Cosy guesthouse on a quiet tree-lined street, but within walking distance of all the action.

Little Jewel Box – Beautifully renovated cottage in the heart of Monterey with a private terraced garden.

READ MORE: 12 Marvelous Things To Do in Monterey, California

California Road Trip Itinerary: Highway 1

Highway 1 is the iconic American road trip road. It hugs the Pacific Ocean all the way from Dana Point to Leggett for 650 miles, with countless places to stop and gawk at the views and attractions along the way.

The most well-known and well-driven stretch is between Santa Barbara and Monterey. No matter if you’re driving from north to south or vice versa, there are some unmissable stops along the way. While Highway 1 goes through San Francisco as well, the other spots on the list aren’t nearly as major so enjoy these smaller California coastal towns all the way down until you hit the next big one, LA, where your trip will end.

As seen in the intro to countless films and TV shows, the dramatic Big Sur area is something special. At roughly 90 miles in length, Big Sur can quickly be done in a day, but it will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

For much of the time, the highway hugs the cliffs, passing just far enough away from the plunging cliffs, but just close enough that you still feel a little bit of a thrill. When the highway is not passing the sea, it twists its way around mighty groves of redwood trees and deep canyons.

Bixby Bridge is likely to be the most iconic sight in Big Sur. The vast bridge stretches across the rock, adding rather than taking away from the raw beauty of the landscape, hemmed in by the Santa Lucia Mountain Range behind the highway.

Avid hikers can take the trail that leads down to Partington Cove , which, although is short at just 2 miles, heading back, you’ll be scrambling up a 300-foot climb. Once you’ve reached the bottom of the path, a mysterious tunnel awaits you, and as you break through the exit, you’ll be greeted with the picturesque cove.

Pismo Beach makes for quite a destination on a California road trip with a sophisticated culinary scene, endless recreational opportunities, and beautiful landscapes.

Take a stroll along the 1200-foot long Pismo Beach Pier or the oceanfront boardwalk, which will give you a very different experience to the one at nearby Venice Beach. If you’re a beach lover, why not abandon the boardwalk and head directly onto the sand, where the hard-packed grains make it extremely easy to walk on.

Of course, it’s also a surfing haven. Check out the Sandbar Surf School for some lessons, or hop in with your board. It’s a good spot for all levels and has consistent waves that are best at high tide.

You can also explore the waters by boat, so you’ll be able to get a glimpse inside the numerous sea caves. Central Coast Kayaks offer an excellent tour for this. Take to the dunes in a dune buggy for a bit of a thrill, or for those that prefer a more leisurely pace of life, a ride on horseback could be the way to go. 

One unmissable event is when thousands upon thousands of monarch butterflies grace the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove between October and February.

Known lovingly by locals as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara has everything you could want from a beach escape and more on a California itinerary. Here you’ll get a beautiful climate throughout the year and some lovely beaches, all of which provide all sorts of beach-based recreational activity.

Each beach has its own distinct charm, so you might as well visit them all. Helping to add to the Mediterranean vibes are the red tiles that seem to cover every available roof space. You can get a great view of the city and these tiles from the lofty viewpoint of the courthouse clock tower.

Wine lovers can rejoice, as the microclimate of Santa Barbara just happens to be perfect for growing grapes, which means vineyards and wineries aplenty. As well as many vineyards out in the country, there is also an urban wine trail, where there are many different wineries within walking distance of each other.

When you think of Los Angeles, likely one of the first things that spring to mind is the Venice Beach area, but this surfing hotspot has more to offer than its reputation allows.

Take the Venice Canals, for example, tucked away behind the beach. The majority of tourists wouldn’t even know they are there, let alone visit them. Luckily my friend lives here and took me to a fantastic party here during Pride!

As the name suggests, the canal system was built inspired by the infamous waterways in Itlay and offered a completely different side to the classic beach vibe.

Pedestrian bridges stretch their way over the canals, small houses line the waters, and there are very few tourists, apart from the odd paddleboarder who has ventured in to explore. Walking paths on both sides of the canals make for a lovely alternative to stretch your legs.

That isn’t to say that its most well-known attractions are not worth visiting as well. Probably the most famous of which is the iconic boardwalk. In the mile and half stretch, you are likely to encounter dog walkers, buskers, surfers, rollerbladers, shops, cafes, performers, tattoo artists, and a whole other assortment of exciting people and attractions.

Make a stop at the fishing pier where you can watch the many surfers try to catch a wave, or even give it a go yourself, or have a game of volleyball on the courts adjacent to the pier. 

Pismo State Beach Camping – Both North Beach Campground and Oceano Campground have direct access to the beach, with hook-up sites at Oceano.

El Capitan State Beach Campground – You’ll see this popular camping spot just before you reach Santa Barbara, sitting over the bluffs at the beach.

Tuscan Estate – A private studio set on a 1 ½ acre estate in the foothills of Santa Barbara.

Hollywood Studio – Indulge in a little glam with this private studio, complete with a four-poster bed.

RELATED: 17 Legendary American Road Trips

My California road trip was EPIC! See below for more nearby road trip inspo and have an amazing time exploring California.

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California Road Trip: Top 15 Scenic Stops Along the Way

California is truly filled with unique treasures. Although many people associate California with Hollywood, there are so many places to explore in the Golden State ! 

Road-tripping through California could take weeks, and you still won’t see it all. That’s why we’ve put together a California road trip itinerary for you to journey your way down the coast from Northern California through the Central Coast and into Southern California. 

For this California road trip, you’ll mainly be following Highway 1 south. This famous highway gives you incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Even beyond these stops, you’ll see amazing sights throughout your entire journey, even just from your car. 

Once you hit Santa Barbara, it’s time to head back north, but you’ll be following a more inland path. This way, you’ll be able to make time for national parks, hidden hideaways, and fresh food from California’s farmland!

This road trip takes you through some of the more hidden gems of the state, like Half Moon Bay, San Simeon, and Solvang. From wine tours to hiking trails to amusement parks, there’s so much to do at these stunning locations that you may want to spend a few days at each stop. 

But to help you get the most out of each day, we’ve picked out a few of the sights you just can’t miss seeing. Follow this carefully curated California road trip itinerary to uncover all the famous and little-known destinations California has to offer.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Scenic Stops Along Your California Road Trip 

1. explore golden gate park in san francisco.

Before you venture south, start your journey in San Francisco. Known for its steep rolling hills, eclectic architecture, and fantastic food scene, you could spend your whole vacation getting to know this diverse city. But if you’re only stopping by and visiting for a few days, there should be a few highlights on your list of things to do in San Francisco . 

Take a walk along the Lands End Coastal Trail for one of the best views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Then, explore Golden Gate Park, where you’ll find beautiful places to spend an afternoon, like the Japanese Tea Garden or the Conservatory of Flowers . 

Another stop to make is the Palace of Fine Arts , one of the most picturesque structures in the city. If you’d like to see the famous Painted Ladies, head to Alamo Square Park for a view like no other. Finish your eventful day off by dining in Ghirardelli Square .

Experience a Golden Gate Park Segway Tour

2. Have a Beach Day in Half Moon Bay

As a northern California coastal town filled with excellent surfing, clean beaches, and bright blue waters, you may end up spending your entire time in Half Moon Bay relaxing in the sand. But there’s plenty more to do in this charming town, especially if you visit in the fall. 

Located an easy 30 miles south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is known for its pumpkin patches. The farms in Half Moon Bay put on quite a show in autumn, with corn mazes, haunted hayrides, and plenty of pumpkin picking. If you’re visiting closer to winter, many of these pumpkin patches turn into Christmas tree farms, complete with hot cocoa and tons of fun for adults and little ones alike.

Once you’re done at the farms, head to Half Moon Bay’s historic downtown for some great dining options and stores boasting one-of-a-kind finds. Here you’ll find handcrafted trinkets, hand-cut flowers, and even baby chicks to coo over.

3. Catch Epic Waves in Santa Cruz

Venturing an hour south of Half Moon Bay on Highway 1, your next stop should be the laidback and beachy town of Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz is best known for its iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , where you can ride the historic Giant Dipper, play skeeball in a huge and classic arcade, and spend a whole day sampling delicious boardwalk eats. 

But if you’d rather spend time in the forest instead of at the beach, climb aboard a train at the Roaring Camp Railroads . Hop on the Redwood Forest Steam Train for a tour of the redwoods until you reach Bear Mountain. 

Or take the Santa Cruz Beach Train, where you’ll be taken through Henry Cowell State Park and delivered to the Santa Cruz beaches. Around the holiday season, these trains are transformed into an illuminated wonderland.

Santa Cruz also has a diverse downtown, where you’ll find delicious dining options and unique shopping opportunities, as well as live music, historic movie theaters, and more. There are so many fun things to do in this beachside beauty – you could easily spend three days in Santa Cruz .

4. Spot Majestic Sea Creatures in Monterey

Less than an hour south of Santa Cruz is Monterey, another waterfront town with a very different vibe and a must on any California road trip. You won’t find amusement park rides in Monterey, but what you will find is incredible wildlife, amazing eats, and aquatic attractions like no other. There are tons of fun things to do in Monterey !

If you only have a few days in Monterey, you’ll likely want to spend them exploring the bay itself. Climb aboard a kayak at the Monterey Bay, and you’re bound to see sea lions, seals, otters, and maybe even dolphins while you’re paddling. Or venture to Old Fisherman’s Wharf to take a whale-watching tour and see humpbacks, orcas, and many more unique types of whales that spend time in the Monterey waters. 

One of the biggest attractions in Monterey is the Monterey Bay Aquarium , a world-renowned aquarium known for its rehabilitation efforts for abandoned wildlife. Learn about how surrogate otter moms train lost pups to prepare them to be released back into the wild. 

While you’re here, you’ll spot stunning creatures from diverse habitats, from the many organisms that call kelp forests home to the bewildering beauties of the little-seen deep sea. Once you’re done exploring the aquarium, head out to Cannery Row for fine dining options with an ocean view.

5. Take in Unreal Pacific Views in Big Sur

Not too far from Monterey is Big Sur, a historic location on the water. Take a photo at the Bixby Bridge, one of the most beautiful bridges in the world. Then, go for a hike at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the hidden Keyhole Arch!

As you explore this gorgeous park, you’ll come across the 80-foot McWay Falls, a rushing waterfall surrounded by sandy beaches and granite cliffs. Another great hike is the Partington Cove Trail, a one-mile hike that leads you to a cove with tide pools, wildflowers, and one heck of a view.

For another unique beach experience, head to Pfeiffer Beach. Here you’ll walk along shimmering purple sand, which gets its color from manganese garnet. Check the north side of the beach near the tidepools for this naturally occurring phenomenon. 

Experience a Big Sur Guided Tour

6. Check Out the Elephant Seals in San Simeon

When you stop at San Simeon, you’ll find many beautiful beaches to visit, as well as breathtaking views. But there are two locations that you have to check out if you have a short stay in this spectacular town on the water. 

The first is the real jewel of San Simeon, Hearst Castle . Started in 1919, this castle consisted of a twin-towered main building, three guesthouses, and 127 acres of terraced gardens, fountains, and pools. It’s also a museum that’s home to art and antiquities from around the world. 

There are several different types of tours available, including one that invites guests to dress in period costumes and be transported back to the age of William Randolph Hearst himself. Pick the tour that you’d like to go on most, but be sure to book in advance as space is limited.

The other stop you should make is at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery , an easily accessible rookery where you’ll spot (and hear!) thousands of elephant seals nestled in the sand. Although you’ll find elephant seals here all throughout the year, up to 17,000 seals can be found here during peak times, which occur in January, April, and October.

7. Go Kayaking in Morro Bay

Located just 30 miles south of San Simeon, Morro Bay is a fishing village that’s a perfect stop for people who love getting out on the water. Charter your own fishing boat or rent a paddle board to venture around the bay. 

You’re bound to spot playful otters, resting seals, and barking sea lions no matter where you go in Morro Bay. After that, ride off into the sunset on a floating tiki bar complete with 1950s-style cocktails, or paddle as the moon rises over the famous Morro Rock with a sunset kayaking tour .

Morro Bay is often foggy, but the fog typically burns off by midday. Otherwise, the climate is very temperate, so there’s never a bad time to visit this beachside town. But two of the best times to come here are during fall’s Avocado Margarita Festival and spring’s Morro Bay Kite Festival . 

During the Avocado Margarita Festival, you’ll listen to live music in a picturesque setting while you sip on eclectic cocktails and dine on gourmet avocado treats. This festival truly is very Californian! 

During the Kite Festival, you and your family will watch as pieces of art fly overhead, flown by trained kite pilots. For even more fun for the little ones, some of these kites are packed with candy, which will drop at certain times of the day.

8. Rent a Dune Buggy in Pismo Beach

Once the Clam Capital of the World, Pismo Beach is a beachy town filled with places for outdoor adventures. You’ll find this gem 26 miles south of Morro Bay, so it’s a great place to get out and stretch your legs during your California road trip.

From October to February, you can watch thousands of butterflies soar overhead at the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove . You can also head to Dinosaur Caves Park , a bluff park that spans 11 acres. Kids will love playing at the dinosaur-themed playground, while you’ll love sightseeing in the lush green open space. 

For a more tranquil spot, venture over to Eldwayen Ocean Park . During low tide, you’ll spot tons of aquatic creatures here, from anemones to sea stars. But if you’re more of a daredevil, you’ll want to go to Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, the only place in California where motor vehicles can drive on the beach. Rent a dune buggy and go for the ride of your life!

Rent a Dune Buggy in Pismo Beach

9. Wine and Dine in Santa Barbara

Set 82 miles south of Pismo, Santa Barbara is one of the most popular weekend destinations in Southern California for a good reason. This gorgeous coastal town boasts beautiful beaches, gorgeous gardens, and many more amazing activities. 

Explore Lotusland , a lush and whimsical garden sitting on 37 acres and filled with a stunning collection of exotic plants once collected by famous Polish opera singer and socialite Madame Ganna Walska. Or head to Arroyo Burro County Beach Park for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

Santa Barbara is known for its food and wine scene, so if you only have a day or two, join a wine or food tour to get the full experience of this scenic location. Take a sustainable wine tour , where you’ll go behind the scenes to see how small-production wines are made and sample them in private tasting rooms. Or go on a tasting tour to find local eats that are hidden gems to the area. 

End your day here with a show at the Lobero Theatre , the oldest continuously-performing theater in California. Or take in the sunset at Stearns Wharf, the oldest wooden wharf continuously in use in California. 

Now that you’ve made it to Santa Barbara, it’s time to venture back up the state. Although we journeyed down the coast, you’ll be heading back up more inland to mix things up!

Go on a Wine, Chocolate, and History Walking Tour

10. Be Transported to Denmark in Solvang

A must on any California road trip bucket list, the charming village of Solvang will make you feel like you’ve been transported across the world. This town is known for its Danish history, architecture, and treats. 

Ride along the historic horse-drawn Solvang Trolley and take in the sights of this uniquely wonderful location. As you wander along the main street, Mission Drive, you’ll gawk at colorful facades, spectacular windmills, and beautiful blooming flowers. 

Solvang features many wine-tasting rooms, fine dining establishments, and shops with one-of-a-kind treats. Ingeborg’s Danish Chocolate Inc. is a must-do for any sweets lover. Here you’ll find handcrafted chocolates of all kinds. If you’re a fan of the holidays, head to Jule Hus , where it’s Christmas all year long. 

If you’re a history buff, you’ll find many one-of-a-kind museums in Solvang. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum will take you into the life and works of this beloved Danish writer. 

To learn more about the Danish history of the area, the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art will take you through art and artifacts of Solvang’s Danish roots, all housed in a building reminiscent of 18th century Denmark farmhouse. And the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum shows off exotic and vintage motorcycles and European racing bikes, a perfect stop for a racing lover.

Book a Solvang Food & Photo Tour

11. Spend the Night at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo

Continuing north for about an hour, you’ll head to San Luis Obispo, where you’ll find wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, and an entertaining downtown to explore. 

Take a tour of the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa , take a walk through the strange and wonderful Bubblegum Alley, or give your kids a day of play at the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum . For a truly unique site, visit the Cal Poly Architecture Graveyard, a nine-acre area packed with eclectic structures built by students at Cal Poly.

If you have a night to spend in San Luis Obispo, rent a room at the Madonna Inn , a world-famous, whimsical inn with uniquely designed rooms. From rooms that look like they were built into the wall of a canyon to bright pink love shack-inspired suites, this kitschy gem is truly a one-of-a-kind find.

Book a night at the Madonna Inn

12. Go Wine Tasting in Paso Robles

Drive 30 miles north, and you’ll come across Paso Robles, a haven for art, culture, and wine. Visit Senserio , a 15-acre light show across rolling hills, for a spectacle unlike any other. Hike around Carrizo Plain National Monument, where the best time to explore is from March to May when the California poppies are in bloom. 

After that, you can take a hot air balloon ride over Paso Robles’ many vineyards or rest and rejuvenate in the area’s natural hot springs. You can dine on a castle rooftop at Tooth and Nail Winery , but there are plenty more wine-tasting options in the area. Hop aboard Paso Robles’ many wine tours to get a chance to experience several of the area’s biggest and best wineries.

Experience the Wine Country Sightseeing Tour

13. Take a Hike in Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles is a national park located just east of the Salinas Valley. About 23 million years ago, multiple volcanoes erupted, and the lava flow slid to form what would later become Pinnacles National Park. 

Throughout this gorgeous landscape, visitors can journey through chaparral, oak woodlands, and canyon bottoms. This park is home to many rare creatures, like the California condor. Hikers can also venture through talus caves and come out to find towering rock spires.

Because temperatures can reach the 90s and swing wildly throughout the day, it’s not recommended to hike in the Pinnacles during the peak of the summer. Although traveling here in the fall and winter can be beautiful, the best time to visit is in spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom. There are over 30 miles of hiking trails, so there’s plenty to explore here!

14. Try All the Garlicky Treats in Gilroy

Famously the Garlic Capital of the World, Gilroy is an adorable hidden gem in Santa Clara County, roughly an hour from Pinnacles National Park. Stop at one of the many garlic stops along the road here and even try some garlic ice cream if you’re feeling adventurous. 

Follow the Road to Garlic to find restaurants and shops offering the best garlic treats Gilroy has to offer. And if you have little ones, you’ll love Gilroy Gardens , which features beautiful gardens, amusement park rides, and the living sculptures that are the Circus Trees. 

Just outside of Gilroy is Henry W. Coe State Park, the largest state park in northern California and home to 87,000 acres of hills and mountain ridges in the Diablo Mountain Range. Wildflowers bloom all over this park from February to March, so it’s a masterpiece of color by April. With so many trails lining the flower-covered hills, this park is a hiker’s paradise.

15. Take It Easy in the East Bay

Now that you’ve made it back up to northern California finish off your road trip in the East Bay. Lying across the Bay Bridge to San Francisco, the East Bay consists of Contra Costa County and Alameda County. 

Hike your way around Tilden Regional Park, go stargazing at Chabot Space & Science Center , or dine on the water at Jack London Square in Oakland. If you’d like to see the iconic redwoods, be sure to stroll along the trails at Redwood Regional Park.

If you have young children, they’ll love Children’s Fairyland , an amusement park that looks like it came right out of a storybook. It’s conveniently located nearby the scenic Lake Merritt. This lake is also home to a large and eclectic farmers market every Saturday that’s certainly worth a stop. 

And now your California road trip has come to an end! Did we miss any of your favorite road trip stops in California? Let us know in the comments!

Planning a trip to California? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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The Best California Road Trip Itineraries: 13 Grand Adventures

California is built for road trips. We’ve got 163,000 square miles of mountains, desert, redwood forest, beaches and pastoral landscapes. And while driving the Pacific Coast Highway or doing a lap of Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are popular (more on them below), there are a whole lot of other backroads and coastal drives that await you.

So, we’ve compiled our favorite baker’s dozen of California road trip itineraries. These CA road trip ideas cover the whole state, north, south, east and west and all of them promise stunning landscapes and epic adventures.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

• Our 13 Fave California Road Trip Itineraries

This CA road trip planner has a lot of detail. Each itinerary has mileage info and suggested number of days along with a rough idea of which roads to take. We’re also suggesting some itinerary highlights, when to go and some top stays along the way.

We think you should read the whole thing, so that you can get itinerary ideas for multiple trips. But if you’re in a hurry, please use the table of contents to skip around to the areas which most peak your interest.

Pacific Coast Highway: SF to LA

Pacific coast highway: north coast, north coast redwoods, the central coast loop, napa/sonoma wine country drive, highway 49 gold country route, the lassen/shasta volcanic legacy highway.

• National Park Trifecta: Yosemite, King's Canyon and Sequoia National Parks

Highway 395 Eastern Sierra Drive

South coast beaches: la to san diego, california deserts loop: san diego to death valley, the best of the sierra nevada scenic drive, the best california road trip itinerary (in 2 weeks).

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• Start : San Francisco
• End : Los Angeles (you can do the reverse, but pullouts are easier to do north-to-south.)
• Miles : 460
• # of Days : 3-6
• Route : Highway 1 all the way down

The Pacific Coast Highway is America’s classic road trip and hand’s down the most popular California road trip itinerary. It actually runs the full length of California from the Oregon Border to San Diego. And we cover more sections of it in the North Coast and South Coast road trips below.

But the section from SF to LA is a fave Cali road trip for the sheer jaw-dropping scenery. If you need some convincing, check out our advice on why we think Big Sur is so worth it .

Just go ahead and bookmark our SF to LA PCH itinerary . It’s a 5-7 day slow roll down the coast which is optimized for epic coastal views, marine life, wine tasting and fun beaches.

On the northern section of the drive, key stops include whale watching in Monterey Bay, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the 17-mile drive through Carmel .

Once you hit Big Sur , our favorite stops include the Point Lobos State Park, Garrapata Beach, redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach (purple sand!), Sand Dollar Beach, the Piedras Blancas lighthouse , Hearst Castle and elephant seals at Ragged Point.

After Cambria, you can head inland for wine tasting in Paso Robles or stay on the coast road. You can visit quirky Harmony town , do some fun hikes and eat cookies in Cayucos , or take on some activities in Pismo Beach , like visiting Pismo’s best beaches or doing some Edna Valley wine tasting .

In the southern section of the hike, you can visit the quirky Solvang Danish town, do yet more wine tasting in Los Olivos and swing into Santa Barbara to visit the mission and art galleries. Then it’s a long roll down Highway 1 past some of Northern LA County’s prettiest beaches.

When to Do the PCH

Summer is the busiest time to visit Big Sur . And winter is very tricky because winter storms often close Highway 1 through Big Sur. We favor April/May or September-November for the finer weather and slower pace.

Notable Places to Stay on the PCH

The Hyatt Carmel Highlands is a 5-star splurge with killer views. For something more low-key amidst the redwoods, you can also rent glamping cabins in Big Sur . Get an ocean view (with free sunsets!) at the Vespera Marriott in Pismo Beach.

• End : Leggett
• Miles : 210
• # of Days : 3-5
• Route : Highway 1 all the way up

This northern section of the PCH is less popular than the Central California section, but it’s notable for its rugged coastline, Tule elk, some of our favorite northern California coastal towns . And if you’re thirsty, there’s no shortage of wine tasting throughout this region.

On the southern end of this road trip, notable stops include Muir Woods (reservations in advance are required), the Marin Headlands and dog-friendly Stinson Beach (one of our favorite CA hippie towns .)

In the mid section, Point Reyes National Seashore is worth at least a full day, with tons of hikes, Tule elk, elephant seals and the lovely cypress tunnel. There are also wine and cheese tasting rooms nearby. Cute Bodega Bay is worth a stop, as are the Sonoma Coast, Fort Ross and Salt Point State Parks.

There’s also a ton to do in and around Fort Bragg and Mendocino. Detour onto Highway 128 to visit the Anderson Valley vineyards and take a stroll through the Hendy Woods redwood groves. You can also find coast redwoods and a fern grove in Van Damme State Park , killer sunsets on the Mendocino Headlands, a quiet cove at Jug Handle beach and the skunk trail and rail bikes in Fort Bragg.

We are (arbitrarily) ending this routing in Leggett on Highway 101, but you can combine this California road trip plan with the one for the North Coast redwoods and do both as a loop.

When to Do the North Coast

This part of California receives a ton of rain between December and March. Any other months are fine and April/May and Sept/Oct are quieter times to go.

Notable Places to Stay on the North Coast

The Palace Hotel in SF is one of the city’s oldest and it offers afternoon tea in their stunning atrium lobby. For some oceanfront bathing, the Seamist cottage in Bodega Bay has an ocean front hot tup and the North Cliff hotel in Fort Bragg has ocean view bathtubs with a fireplace.

• End : Crescent City
• Miles : 355
• # of Days : 4-7 days
• Route : Highway 101/Highway 1 all the way up

This is one of our favorite California road trip itineraries for all of the forest bathing opportunities. California’s North Coast Redwoods can easily be done as a loop in conjunction with the coastal route just above. Or, if you are keen for some serious me-time in the trees, you can just focus on this particular itinerary.

This road trip covers 13 state parks, one national park and some whacky roadside attractions…all focused on Coast Redwoods. We have a very thorough redwoods road trip itinerary with a full FAQ, map, advice on the best time to visit the redwoods , and trip planning ideas.

But here are some of our favorite highlights: The Avenue of the Giants scenic drive in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, the scenic Drury parkway drive in Prairie Redwoods State Park, the Roosevelt Elk in Prairie Redwoods, the wacky Trees of Mystery , the Lady Bird Johnson grove in Redwoods National park, and the groves and Boy Scout hike in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Phew, that’s a lot of trees!

When to Do the North Coast Redwoods

Notable places to stay in the redwoods.

There aren’t a lot of fancy hotels in this part of California. You’ll want to look for cozy inns and places that give you forest or ocean views. You can go glamping in the woods near Trinidad, or at the Mendocino Grove , or lodge at the Lighthouse Inn in Crescent City is near Jedediah Smith and close to downtown restaurants and the actual lighthouse.

• Loop : Between Monterey and Santa Barbara
• Getting There : ~2 hours from LA to Santa Barbara or SF to Monterey
• Miles : 506
• #of Days : 3-5
• Route : Highway 1, Highway 101, Highway 33

Many folks just drive down Highway 1 through Big Sur, which is certainly worth the views and the beaches. But there are some really great things to see and do on the Central Coast’s interior.

This itinerary goes down (or up) the coast and then laps back, taking some little known scenic roads. This whole region has a chill vibe and you can use that to set a leisurely pace for your road trip.

Drive…stop at a beach…drive…stop for a walk…drive…have a long lunch…drive…do a wine tasting…wash rinse repeat.

All of the key stops that we noted on the PCH itinerary above are still relevant. But some of our favorite interior stops include: wine and olive oil tasting in Paso Robles , the San Luis Obisbo Mission, eating danish in Solvang, and the Carrizo Plain National Monument (if the spring flowers are blooming).

We also recommend taking a winding scenic drive through Los Padres National Forest. It goes from Ventacopa to Ojai on Highway 33. And for that matter, it’s really fun to wander around the wine country backroads in Paso Robles and Los Olivos. Even if you aren’t into wine, the countryside is really beautiful.

When to Do the Central Coast Loop

This route is really fun in the summer, after the June gloom fog clears. The Carizzo Plain often blooms in early April. And there are fall wine harvest festivals, which is a great time to visit Pismo Beach .

Notable Places to Stay in on the Central Coast

There’s the completely over the top Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, the Ojai Valley Inn (with spa!), and yet more glamping tents and trailers at the Flying Flag in Buellton (near Solvang).

• Start/End : Loop from San Francisco
• Mile s: 213
• # of Days : 3-4
• Route : Highway 101, Highway 29, Highway 128, Highway 116

Many people just go to either Napa or Sonoma and hang out in one spot for wine tasting. But it’s worth extending your wine country stay and doing a wider loop because you’ll find lovely country drives, state parks, fine cheeses and fun on the water.

This wine country drive is a loop which starts in SF, goes up Napa Valley and down through Healdsburg, with a side trip to Guerneville before heading down Sonoma Valley. If you want to go wine tasting, especially on a weekend, it’s best to get reservations in advance.

In Napa Valley, start by taking a wander around Napa’s downtown shopping and art district. The Oakville Grocery is a great place to pick up picnic provisions and you can do a mud bath in Calistoga. From there, branch off of Highway 128 and take the slow road to the Petrified Forest and Safari West, before heading into Healdsburg.

Healdsburg has a really cute downtown with galleries, boutiques and a great indy bookstore. Heading southwest on Westside road will take you along the Russian River and past the Armstrong Woods State Park (redwoods!) to quirky Guerneville . If it’s summer you can do a lazy river float along the Russian River, or take a cedar bath at the Osmosis Day Spa. Then head south to groovy Sebastopol where there are three dairy tasting rooms from the California Cheese Trail , Finally, heading back east, taking Highway 12 down Sonoma Valley.

Take a hike in the Trione Anondel State Park or visit the Jack London State Historic Park , then taste some yummy private label Jack London wine at the Kenwood Winery. Sonoma has the well-preserved Sonoma Mission, a chill downtown square and a couple more cheese stops.

When to Do the Napa/Sonoma Drive

This region gets a lot of rain in the winter. Which is not to say that you can’t visit during that time, but pay attention to the forecast. The fall is a fun time because of the wine harvest festivals. Any weekend from May to September is going to be very busy, so book ahead.

Notable Places to Stay in Napa/Sonoma

Go for some Buddhist vibes at Bann in Oak Knoll , Dr. Wilkinson’s spa is a quirky boutique motel with mud baths, Autocamp Russian River has the full glamping experience with luxury tents and Airstreams, or a historic ranch stay at the Beltane in Glen Ellen .

• Start : Mariposa
• End : Nevada City
• Miles : 186
• # of Days : 2-4
• Route : Highway 49 all the way up

By most measures, California’s economy is one of the largest in the world. And it all started when, in 1849, gold was found in them thar hills. This historic Highway 49 route, also known as the Golden Chain Highway, takes in some of California’s well-preserved gold rush history and it has a lot of fun activities for kids and history buffs.

The key on this itinerary is to take it slow and take advantage of the many historic markers and tiny little towns along the route. Start in Mariposa, which is also the western gateway to Yosemite National park. It also has a historic park with gold rush exhibits and one of the oldest (and loveliest) county courthouses in the state.

There’s another small county museum in Coulter and a nice vista along the Don Pedro reservoir. If you’re keen on covered bridges, you can take a detour to Knights Ferry. Otherwise continue to Jamestown for the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, and then through Sonora to the Columbia State Park. It’s an oldey timey gold rush town and living museum.

Take a side trip up Highway 4 to Calaveras Big Trees State Park for some Giant Sequoia trees. Then north to Indian Grinding Rock State Park and then the adorbs little town of Sutter Creek. If you are into wine, there are a lot of places to stop in the stretch between Sutter Creek and Placerville.

North of Placerville, you’ll find the Gold Bug Park and Mine and Sutter’s Mill, which is where gold was initially found. You’ll find the Empire Mine State Park near Grass Valley along with a cute historic downtown in Nevada City, before ending the trip at Malakoff Diggins State Park .

If you have extra time, stay on Highway 49 and then take the Gold Lake Highway scenic byway to Highway 395.

When to Do the Gold Country

Unless there have been heavy winter storms, you can do this drive any time of year. Although expect to find cold winter temps in some of the state parks and Nevada City.

Notable Places to Stay in Gold Country

Bed, breakfast and wine at the Hanford Inn in Sutter Creek. The National Exchange Hotel was built in the throes of the gold rush and it occupies a sweet spot in downtown Nevada City. Or you can go glamping at the Autocamp Midpines , which is just 5 miles from Mariposa.

• Start : Mount Shasta
• End : Lassen National Park
• Route : Highway 89

The official Volcanic Legacy Scenic Highway actually starts at Crater Lake and the full drive is 500 miles. But this alternative routing is shorter and takes in the best bits of the California section. On this drive, you get a lovely mix of volcanic geology, waterfalls and charming historic communities.

This part of northern California is not nearly as popular as places like Lake Tahoe or the PCH, so you can enjoy a relaxed pace and a strong dose of outdoorsy vibe with this itinerary.

Key stops include historic Dunsmuir, Weaverville Joss House State Park, Shasta State Historic Park, Burney Falls, Bumpass Hell hydrothermal pool, Devastated Area interpretive trail and Lake Almador.

When to Do the Lassen/Shasta Drive

Late May through late October. The waterfalls are best in spring, but the main road through Lassen is  closed in the winter .

National Park Trifecta: Yosemite, King’s Canyon and Sequoia National Parks

• Start : Three Rivers
• End : Groveland
• Miles : 276
• # of Days : 4-6
• Route : Generals Highway, Highway 180, Highway 41, Highway 120

This California road trip itinerary is optimized for sheer awe inspiring nature.

Sequoia National Park is famous for their giant Sequoia trees and Kings Canyon has conifer forest and the deepest canyon in North America. There’s a scenic route connecting the two parks. The Generals Highway covers the best-of Sequoia National Park and Highway 180 covers the best-of Kings Canyon, including the Giant Forest, Grant Grove, and trails to Mist Falls and Zumwalt Meadow.

Yosemite is California’s most popular national park, and for good reason. It presents the best of the Sierra Nevada mountain range with pine forests, giant Sequoia groves and soaring granite peaks.

Valley highlights include the Mariposa grove, Glacier Point overlook, Vernal Falls, Mirror Lake loop, and Yosemite falls. In the upper reaches, there’s the scenic drive over Tioga pass, tons of hikes and the Merced grove. Consider cribbing part of this SF to Yosemite itinerary if you’re also keen to add on some Gold Country.

When to Do the National Park Trifecta

Mid-spring through late fall is best. The parks are open throughout the year, but Tioga Pass and the higher elevations will be closed for snow. You can do Yosemite Valley in the winter , but keep an eye on the National Parks site for closures.

Notable Places to Stay on the Trifecta

The Ahwahnee is Yosemite’s historic inn and it has great views and lovely architecture. They Tenaya Lodge is located in the southern section of Yosemite, offering free park entrance and amenities for the kids. And Autocamp in Midpines is a cool glamping option near-ish to Yosemite Valley.

However you stay, even if it’s a modest motel, book early for these parks.

• Start : Bridgeport
• End : Lone Pine
• Miles : 147
• # of Days : 4-6 days
• Route : Highway 395

The Eastern Sierra doesn’t get as much love as the Western Sierra (and Yosemite), but there’s a lot there for people who like crazy geology, hot springs, ghost towns and sparsely populated forests.

This drive is a straight down (or up) Highway 395 and can easily be combined with a visit to Lake Tahoe, the higher elevations of Yosemite National Park or Death Valley. We’ve got a full 5 day Eastern Sierra itinerary along with detailed stay and play guides for both Bishop and Lone Pine .

Some highlights on this itinerary include: Mono Lake and its moonscape, Bodie Ghost Town State Historic Site, the June Lake Loop, Mammoth Lakes, the Devil’s Postpile National Monument, Convict Lake , Hot Creek Geologic site, the Laws Railroad Museum, Manazar National Historic site, and the Alabama Hills.

And if that isn’t enough for you, there are about 2 million acres of National Forest lands which feature alpine lakes, scenic canyon drives and more hiking and fishing than you’ll ever have time for.

When to Do the Highway 395 Drive

Unless you are a skier, winter is not a great time as many of the forest areas and Tioga Pass (via Yosemite) will be closed. Summer is a great time to visit, but it will be hot in the southern end. This is one of our favorite California road trip itineraries for October because the fall color is unbelievable.

Notable Places to Stay in the Eastern Sierra

Just for grins, you can rend a covered wagon at the Virginia Creek Settlement motel . And if you want to pick a central spot for your base, there are tons of condo rentals in Mammoth Lakes .

• Start /End: Los Angeles or San Diego
• Miles : 120
• Route : Highway 1, I-5, Coast Highway/El Camino Real

Forget Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo and the California Missions. This SoCal road trip itinerary is all about the shoreline. And there’s 120 sweet, sweet miles of it between the Los Angeles and San Diego airports.

For this road trip, be sure to override the Google mapping instructions. It will always steer you on the large freeways and this itinerary is best done on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) and the slower surface roads.

Key stops in greater LA include: Manhattan Beach (stroll or bike The Strand), Huntington Beach (10 miles of uninterrupted sand), Newport Beach (electric Duffy Boat rentals), Catalina Island (old school beach resort) and Laguna Beach (Crystal Cove State Park), and Dana Point (whale watching).

Key stops in greater San Diego include: Carlsbad (spring ranunculus flowers), Encinitas (Moonlight Beach), Solana Beach (San Elijo Lagoon), Torrey Pines State Reserve, and La Jolla (sea lions and tide-pooling).

When to Do the South Coast Beaches

Try to avoid the May/June gloom season. Otherwise, go for it!

Notable Places to Stay in on the South Coast

Laguna Beach House , is a unique surf-themed ocean-front stay. The Hotel del Coronado is an old-school 130 year-old luxury resort hotel with historic architectural features and a prime spot on the beach. The Sea Bird is an oceanfront hotel in Oceanside, with a spa!

• Start/End : San Diego
• Miles : 822
• # of Days : 7-8
• Route : San Diego, Julian, Salton Sea/Bombay Beach, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, Kelso Dunes, Death Valley National Park, Ballarat, San Diego

This is one of the best winter California road trip itineraries for its vast open landscape. The southeastern California deserts include both the Sonoran and Mohave deserts. And what to some people is a whole lot of brown, to us is a surprisingly diverse ecosystem with a lot of subtle beauty.

And this lap from San Diego (or LA) shows off the best of CA’s deserts. This itinerary has a fun mix of forest, desert, weird geology and even offbeat art projects.

The first section includes Julian (apple cider and pies), Anza Borrego (hiking and metal sculptures), Slowjamistan (a weird micronation), the Slab City squatter community and the East Jesus art installation .

Center yourself in Palm Springs, taking in the mid-century vibe, palm oasis’ and a scenic lap around the Palms to Pines drive .

Spend at least a day in Joshua Tree (two is better), using our Joshua Tree hiking guide to prioritize which areas to explore, then head into Joshua Tree town for more quirky art projects.

Ignore the Google mapping instructions for how to get to Death Valley and instead, take the slow way to Death Valley via the Amboy Crater and Kelso Dunes. Then use our Death Valley visitor’s guide to plan your time there.

On the way back to San Diego, take the Trona Wildrose road out via Ridgecrest, stopping at Ballarat Death Valley Ghost town on the way out.

When to Do the California Deserts Loop

This whole region is volcanically hot in the summer. October to April is best and going between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is a very quiet time to be in the National Parks.

Notable Places to Stay on the California Deserts Loop

In Palm Springs, go for the Fleur Noire , a low-key spot with floral murals and rosé all day. Joshua Tree town has a ton of quirky trailers and cabins to rent , and the Inn at Death Valley is a fancy historic inn right in the heart of the park.

We’ve also got camping guides for Death Valley , info on hotels and motels in and near Death Valley , and also for Joshua Tree campgrounds .

The two CA road trip itineraries below combine several of the plans noted above into one larger itinerary.

• Start/End : Anywhere along the loop
• Miles : 900-1,000
• # of days : 12-14 days

Glue together the Yosemite/Sequoia, Highway 49 and Highway 395 road trips into one epic, mountain adventure. This itinerary does a full lap around the Sierra Nevada range, with Lake Tahoe at the north end and Lake Isabella at the south end.

After you finish up Highway 49, head over to Lake Tahoe, where you can do a scenic drive around Tahoe . Head over to Highway 395 via either historic Carson City or take Highway 88 over Monitor Pass.

Once you’ve lapped Highway 395, ignore the Google maps instructions and head back over to the western Sierra via Highway 178 and Lake Isabella.

When to Do the Best of the Sierra Nevada Scenic Drive

This drive is best done between late May and early November. You’ll avoid snowy road closures. For any portion of the trip that occurs on a weekend (especially in Yosemite and Tahoe), be sure to book lodging ahead.

• Start/End : San Francisco or LA
• Miles : ~1,000 miles
• # of Days : at least 14, more is better

This loop combines two of the most popular road trips in California: Yosemite/Sequoia and the Pacific Coast Highway from SF to LA.

You can do the drive in either direction, however we like doing the PCH from north-to-south as it’s easier for the scenic pullouts. Do not underestimate how much driving this is, so get an early start everyday and bake in some down time.

If you have extra days and want to spend some time in San Francisco, we have travel tips for SF first timers and a local’s guide to San Francisco .

If you don’t care to visit SF, just use Highway 152 to cut over from Yosemite directly to Monterey and start down Big Sur. If you don’t care to visit LA, head northeast from Ventura, on the scenic Highway 33 through the Los Padres National Forest to Ventacopa, then east from there.

When to Do California’s Most Epic Road Trip

November through April are the worst weather for both the Sierra Nevada range and Big Sur. You’ll also get some June gloom along the coast. We like April/May or July-October for this route.

Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road. Jack Kerouac

Got that right Jack! Enjoy your epic California road trip. Whichever of these routes you take, you are sure to have a most grant adventure.

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The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Get ready to enjoy a scenic Highway 1 road trip. Our Pacific Coast Highway itinerary highlights the best places to stop along the way.

February 16, 2024

“It is all very beautiful and magical here—a quality which cannot be described. You have to live it and breathe it, let the sun bake it into you.” ― Ansel Adams

Brisk, salty air flows through your hair, sweeping curves captivate your senses, and cliffside views take your breath away. Taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway feels like a right of passage and reminds us that it’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

So, load up on your favorite California-made snacks , fill the gas tank, secure your surfboard, turn on the radio, and get ready for the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) road trip . Whether you've recently gotten your car repaired by a mechanic or you’re fresh off the lot , there’s no better way to show off your whip than to take it for a ride along 655 miles of California’s coastline.

Known as one of the most scenic drives in the country, the PCH—also called Highway 1—runs next to the ocean’s crashing waves, from Leggett in  Mendocino County  all the way down to  Dana Point in Orange County . With so many miles to cover, considering all the potential  Pacific Coast Highway stops  can seem daunting—but we found the best road trip sights along the way, so relax and make the most of every minute.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1

Begin your adventure at the starting point of Highway 1, located just beyond Capistrano Beach in Dana Point. You will have an enjoyable and scenic 45-minute drive that takes you past the picturesque Laguna Beach , skirts the edges of Crystal Cove State Park, and brings you close to the Newport Beach Pier, before you reach your destination at Huntington Beach.

Huntington Beach

Dubbed “Surf City USA”, this stop is a must on any true California coastal road trip . Pull over, grab your surfboard, and jump into the swells to really experience the Golden State. After catching the perfect wave, it’s time to climb back into the car, roll down the windows, and breathe in the fresh air as you make your way up the state.

Venice Beach

After driving on Highway 1 for about two hours, you’ll come upon Venice Beach. Between the street performers, local artists, eclectic shops, and gorgeous views of the pier in the distance, this destination is well worth the time spent off the road. Appreciate the quirky culture of the Venice Beach Boardwalk and explore the iconic Venice canals to stay along the water’s edge. 

If the beach is not calling, however, head inland to grab a slice of vegan pizza , visit the art museums of downtown Los Angeles , see the Hollywood Walk of Fame , or admire the architecture of Beverly Hills mansions.  

Santa Monica

Once you’re done exploring Venice, make your way to Santa Monica. The Santa Monica Pier is worth a trip, so take a ride on the ferris wheel at Pacific Park and grab a bite to eat for dinner. With a long day under your belt, spend a luxurious evening in town , rest your head at one of the nearby hotels, and get ready for the adventures awaiting on the next leg of your trip.

Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary: Day 2

The following morning, make the short drive up to Malibu to look at the coastal homes and enjoy breakfast at one of the local restaurants. Stop by the rocky coves, cliffs, and headlands at Point Dume, and practice your skills at one of the most scenic rock-climbing spots in California . Then, take in the views of the San Fernando Valley from Topanga Overlook before continuing on. 

Drive north to Ventura to take a surf break at Surfers Point, see the long Ventura Pier where fishermen cast their lines, walk around Ventura Harbor Village, visit the town’s historical sights, and discover beauty within the art galleries. 

Santa Barbara

From Ventura, it’s a short jaunt to Santa Barbara , where the rolling hills and sweeping vineyards show the agricultural power of the California coast. Indulge in the local goods, dine alfresco, and hike around the varied landscape before hitting the road again. 

San Luis Obispo

Spend some time getting to know the Central Coast’s surf scene to see how it stands up to Southern California’s reputation. Then, explore Pismo Beach’s oceanside parks, farmers market, shopping outlets, and butterfly grove before enjoying a picnic on the sand. After walking around this beloved beach town, head slightly inland to San Luis Obispo .

Admire the Spanish architecture, meander through the museums, snap a pic in the quirky Bubblegum Alley, and check in to the vibrant Madonna Inn for a charming overnight experience unlike any other. 

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 3

Drive for 45 minutes and start the day with a 15-minute excursion inland to San Simeon to tour the elaborate Hearst Castle. While mansions are anything but rare in Southern California, this opulent residence showcases the impressively lavish life of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst , whose home included 165 rooms on 127 acres complete with pools, fountains, and precisely landscaped gardens.

Savor the ocean views from the balconies before heading into town to check out one of the industry-changing surf shops : Hobie Surf Shop. Add another surfboard to your collection, then find your way back onto Highway 1 to experience more of the breathtaking coastline.

In the morning, venture on toward the hot springs , rolling dunes, and unbeatable seafood of Big Sur . Take a short hike to see McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , then continue on to cross the oft-photographed Bixby Bridge and experience the rugged coastal views from atop one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world. Just north of here, you’ll find the quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea , followed by the popular destination of Monterey.

Take some time to explore the aquarium, Cannery Row, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf that make Monterey one of the best stops along the coast . Just on the other side of Monterey Bay, you’ll find the adorable town of Capitola, followed by the ultimate beach-bum town. 

Take the opportunity to surf the waves and ride the roller coasters that epitomize the Santa Cruz lifestyle . Stroll around to see the boutiques and eateries that exude the coastal vibe and the California dream before continuing north.

For a slight detour, jump on Highway 17 to San Jose to witness the incredibly unusual Winchester Mystery House . This supposedly haunted mansion has been under continual construction since 1884, due to Sarah Winchester’s wishes and the upkeep that comes along with having the eccentric home open to the public. 

Half Moon Bay

After exploring the unique San Jose landmark, take Highway 9 south toward Santa Cruz and drive through Castle Rock State Park, or travel north through Mountain View to catch Highway 84, which meets up with Highway 1 again at San Gregorio. Either road will lead you to Half Moon Bay for exclusive beaches and decadent seaside eateries. Once you’ve had your fill of adventures for the day, check in to a nearby hotel and catch the sunset before turning in.

Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary: Day 4

San Francisco

A Highway 1 road trip isn’t complete without a stop in San Francisco . Enjoy sumptuous spoonfuls of clam chowder from a sourdough bread bowl ; indulge in a bar of Dandelion Chocolate ; and say hello to Karl the Fog (who will undoubtedly stop by). Then, drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and visit Sausalito for stunning views of the city before traveling west toward Point Reyes.

Point Reyes

Soon, you’ll find Muir Woods National Monument , which provides the perfect scenery for a forested hike . Continue your outdoor adventure in nearby Stinson Beach and walk around Point Reyes before driving through Bodega Bay. 

Pull off the road in the seaside town of Bodega Bay , and go on a horseback ride to take full advantage of the environs. Sit on the sand to admire the waves, bluffs, and beauty that surrounds you before you tackle the curvy section of the PCH, which eventually leads to Timber Cove Resort —one of the best places to stop on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Check in for the evening, capture the view with a photograph or two, and savor the flavors of sustainable seafood and local produce at Coast Kitchen. Listen to a record and enjoy a pour-over by the fireplace to experience a truly decadent evening in.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 5

Spend the morning relaxing in your room, then set out toward Mendocino . Watch the waves become rougher as the inland scenery incorporates denser brush and taller trees. Get out of the car in Mendocino to look at the historic architecture, making sure to drive north to Fort Bragg to see the intriguingly beautiful Glass Beach. 

Cruise northeast for just over an hour and you’ll find yourself in Leggett, completing the last portion of the drive. When Highway 1 ends, turn around , and prepare yourself as you begin the Pacific Coast Highway road trip from north to south . S top by the colorful fruit stands, fishing villages, intimate beaches, and bustling towns that caught your eye on the way up. Returning home with a happy car and even better memories will leave you eager to plan your next California road trip . 

Ready for another adventure? Check out the sites worth stopping for on Route 66 .

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The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Road Trips , United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

This California road trip itinerary will take you along incredible the famous Pacific Coast highway, through deserts, and around lakes and mountains. It is one of the most diverse road trips you can take in the United States.

We have personally driven these roads and highways on different road trips in California and we visited all the sights recommended. This two week itinerary can easily be mixed and matched to create different California road trips as long or short as you like.

California Road Trip Itinerary

Make sure to download your Pacific Coast highway Self Drive tour before embarking on your California road trip. Explore the California Coast at your own pace as you follow the app to discover monuments, towns, and points of interest along the route. It will track your route and play automatically to tell you about your stops as you drive from Monterey to Pismo Beach.

Table of Contents

California Road Trip Map

1. San Francisco – 2 Days

We’ve planned the initial stage of our California road trip itinerary from San Francisco . It is easy to fly into from all major hubs and car rentals can be picked up directly at the airport. Plus, traffic in San Francisco isn’t as congested as it is in Los Angeles making it the perfect start for any California road trip itinerary.

Spending two days in San Francisco will give you the chance to see all the iconic sites like the incredible Golden Gate Bridge before moving South. We have an excellent 72 hours in San Francisco guide where you can plan your entire stay in San Francisco .

• Tip: When we visited San Francisco for the first time, we bought a  City Pass  and explored all the neighborhoods by bus. It was a great way to get acquainted with the layout of the city and have the option to hop on and hop off whenever we wanted with a 24 or 48-hour pass.
• Click here to search all the car rental agencies and get the best price for your California Road Trip!

Things to do in San Francisco

• San Francisco Cable Car
• Golden Gate Park – one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge
• The Painted Ladies – made famous by Full House
• Hippie district of Haight Ashbury and China Town
• Palace of the arts
• See our complete guide to the Best Hikes in San Francisco

Make sure to get out on the Bay to see the city when in San Francisco, this Golden Gate Bay Cruise let’s you see many of San Francisco’s top attractions. You’ll cruise along the waterfront, sail under the Golden Gate Bay Bridge, go around Alcatraz and see the former hippy enclave of Sausalito. Whatch for marine life such as sea lions, dolphins and whales as you cruise the Marin Headlands wildlife reserves.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

For first-time visitors to San Francisco, we suggest staying near Fisherman’s Wharf. You will be close to all the iconic places in the city.

• Luxury: Argonaut Hotel – A 4-star hotel located next to the SF Maritime National Historic Park for about $300 per night. TripAdvisor / Booking.com
• Mid-Range: Pier 2620 Hotel – This eco-friendly hotel is close to the beach. It is a new and modern design, with a fitness center. $200 per night TripAdvisor / Booking.com
• Budget: Hotel Zephyr – This boutique has nautical-themed rooms, central, near Pier 39, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square. TripAdvisor / Booking.com
• Read our full guide for San Francisco Neighborhoods and Accommodation Where to Stay in San Francisco 

2. Monterey / Carmel By the Sea – 1 Day

Drive just 2 hours and 45 minutes from San Francisco to Monterrey

After leaving San Francisco, we make our way down the Pacific Coast Highway to Monterey. You can stay either stay in Monterey or Carmel by the Sea. Monterey and Carmel by the Sea are only 10 minutes from each other. We stayed at Carmel by the Sea and it was a great location to get around Big Sur.

When visiting Monterey, you’ll want to get out on the water as it is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. This Monterey Bay tour departs from Old Fisherman’s Wharf to set sail for some whale watching. You’ll see Californian Sea Lions basking in the harbor as you pass Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. 

Things to See and Do

• Cycling 17 Mile Drive – If there is one thing to do in Carmel before moving on, you must take a tour of 17-Mile Drive. We had a blast on e-Bikes with Big Sur Adventures . Read about our full experience at 17-Mile Drive – California’s Most Scenic Drive. 
• Cannery Row – The Historic Cannery Row has been transformed from old warehouses to colorful buildings lining the waterfront filled with eateries and shops.
• Monterey Aquarium – The Monterey Aquarium is the centerpiece of the city where they study the waters of Monterey Bay and tackle the oceans health problems.
• Kayaking Monterey Bay – Don’t miss getting on the water in Monterey. We highly recommend taking a kayaking tour of Monterey Bay with Adventures by the Sea to view sea otters and sea lions.
• Surfing Carmel – Beginners will love the easy break and sandy shallow waters of Carmel Bay. We spent the morning taking a lesson with the Carmel Surf Company

Hotels and AirBnBs in Monterrey

The Hideaway – Centrally Located on Juniper Street, a short walk to restaurants, and just a few blocks from the beach. This luxury boutique hotel has in-room fireplaces and offers a modern design. TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Suggested Place to Eat – La Belana Cucina Toscana takes you straight to the heart of Tuscany with a traditional setting. Sit outside on the heated patio and enjoy a fresh farm to table menu drizzled in olive oil and truffles.

4. Big Sur – 1 Day

Continue down the Pacific Coast Highway 1 for an hour from Monterrey to Big Sur .

The Pacific Coast Highway is the Grand Dame of all California road trips. We suggest a minimum of 2 days exploring the coast along Big Sur. You can easily keep your base in Monterey to explore these sights.

A great compliment to your Big Sur road trip is to download this Pacific Coast Highway Self Drive tour. The app showcases the top scenic stops and views from Monterey to Pismo Beach. It tracks your route and the audio guide plays commentary to tell you stories and suggest points of interest. On this leg, you’ll see places like Garrapata State Park, Pfeiffer Canyon, McWay Falls, and the Bixby Bridge.

Considered by many the world’s most scenic drives, The Big Sur portion of California Coastal Drive on Highway 1 is a must for any road trip lover. In our opinion, all California road trips should include this leg as there are so many gorgeous stops from sea cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Things to See in Big Sur

• Bixby Bridge – Don’t miss stopping at the Bixby Bridge. Made famous by many a film and TV Show (most recently Big Little Lies . Tip : Go for sunrise no tourists were there at all when we were up before dawn.
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – This a good place to go for hikes and walk along the trails. It’s most famous for the McWay Waterfalls and offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Pfeiffer Beach – One of the best beaches on the route. Pfeiffer Beach is a bit of a drive off the main highway down a narrow and bumpy road, so it attracts fewer tourists than other viewpoints on Highway 1. Check out: 24 Of The Best Beaches in California
• Garrapata State Park – Hiking trails along the coast, Karst formations, sea arches, and jagged rocks make for extraordinary views of a rugged coastal landscape at Garrapata State Park. For a complete breakdown of photography stops with GPS Co-ordinates visit our Photography Guide to Big Sur

Where to Stay in Big Sur – Ventana Resort

When exploring Big Sur we made a home base at Ventana Resort and spent two days exploring the surrounding area. We spent one night in  their glamping tents  and one night in a luxurious suite overlooking the ocean. Ventana is the perfect base for exploring Big Sur as it’s in the heart of everything.

Check out our guide to The Best Places to Camp in Big Sur

Where to eat in Big Sur

• The Sur House – Located at  Ventana Big Sur , The Sur House is an upscale dining establishment using locally sourced cuisine created by Executive Chef, Paul Corsentino. $90 Fix menu offers a divine three-course meal. Location: 48123 Highway 1
• Big Sur River Inn – The  Big Sur River Inn  was the first hotel and restaurant in the area. Enjoy the photographs from a bygone era dating back to 1932.
• Nepenthe – Open since 1949,  Nepenthe  is a staple of Big Sur attracting artists, poets, and travelers to its 800-foot sea cliff views. Location: 48510 Highway One
• Big Sur Roadhouse – This locally run eatery has a funky vibe with family-style seating. Designer Steve Justrich transformed the roadhouse into a unique design that they claim as homegrown modernism.

5. Coastal Highway Stops

This drive takes 3 hours from Big Sur to Santa Maria, but take you time to see all the sights.

We continue down the coast from Big Sur to the charming town of Santa Maria, which is one of our favorite California road trip stops. Be sure to give ample time for breaks on this route. There is still a lot more to see on this portion of the California Coast and you can easily spend a day exploring the sites as you make your way to your next overnight stop. 

• Hearst Castle – Built by San Simeon, this incredible estate was built on 127 acres on a hill overlooking San Simeon. Pop in for a tour of America’s castle before driving on to spend the night in the lovely town of Santa Maria.
• Morrow Bay – Another beautiful beach, Morrow Bay’s main attraction is Morrow Rock, a 180-meter tall volcanic plug standing proud offshore.
• Pismo Beach is another place to stop if you still have time before spending the night in Santa Maria.

6. Santa Maria – 1 Day

So it is a good time to park your car and get out to explore the nearby vineyards for a proper “Sideways” wine tour experience. We have it as one day on your California road trip itinerary, but if you can spend two days here, we recommend it.

Things to do in Santa Maria

• Wine Tours – There are several vineyards to choose. Hire a private car through Gold Coast Executive Transportation to take you on a wine tour. We had an amazing time touring Wine Caves of  Cottonwood Canyon .
• Dune Buggy Adventure – To explore even more of the highest dunes in the world, go on a Dune Buggy adventure with  Steve’s ATV Rentals, 332 Pier Ave. Oceano.  Get in a dune buggy and hit the dunes.
• Hidden Hollywood – Don’t miss this very cool Hidden Hollywood at the Dunes Center museum in Guadalupe Cecil B. Demille created an entire set of the pyramids of Egypt in the middle of the California Sand Dunes. He didn’t want anyone to use his set again, so he buried it in the desert and didn’t tell anyone where it was. It was nearly forgotten by everyone, until the 1990s when the director, Peter Brosnan decided to search for the hidden city.

Hotels and AirBnBs in Santa Maria

Check in to the historic Santa Maria Inn in the center of town. It has been a staple in Santa Maria since 1917. Be sure to peruse the halls to see legendary movie stars that have stayed here.

• Santa Maria Style Barbecue – If you want to try authentic Santa Maria Style Barbecue, go to Far Western Tavern Tavern in Orcutt.

7. Santa Barbara – 1 Day

Today we drive a short distance of just 1 hour from Santa Maria

Continuing on through wine country and making our way through our California road trip itinerary, we arrive in Santa Barbara for a night before stopping in Los Angeles.

Santa Barbara is considered one of the world’s most beautiful wine regions with nine different wine routes to explore. It is a popular escape from Los Angeles, and there are many things to do here.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

• Sunset Sail – We suggest a sailing trip to enjoy the beautiful sunset and the California Coast followed by dinner on a patio by the waterfront.
• Stearns Wharf – Historic deep-water pier dating back to 1871.
• Shopping – Santa Barbara is all about the upscale experience, stroll the Spanish style shops lining State Street.
• Museums – Check out the many museums. The Museum of Art, MOXI – The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation and Museum of Natural History and the Sea Center.

Santa Barbara Hotels and AirBnBs

We stayed at the luxurious Four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara. This estate is the perfect place to relax after all that driving.

8. Los Angeles – 2 Days

It’s an hour and a half to Los Angeles so you can start enjoying the city immediately

Click here for map CA coast

We’ve come to the next metropolis on our California Road Trip and it is time to explore L.A. Los Angeles is a good place to start for southern California road trips. Who doesn’t love Los Angeles? There are so many things to do in LA , that you could have your entire California road trip right here.

Things to do in Los Angeles

The possibilities are endless for sightseeing in L.A. so you can decide how long you want to stay here. From Universal Studios and Disneyland to hiking up to see the Hollywood sign or follow the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You must get out to see the beaches of Los Angeles. Our favorite beach is Manhattan Beach where you can see the famous 90210 beach house. But everyone loves popping over to Venice Beach too. I hope you’ve rented a nice car to drive along Rodeo Drive but if not, don’t worry, you’ll fit right in with the Bohemian atmosphere of Venice Beach. Read 25 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles – Hollywood, Hikes, And More

• Note: You seriously need a car to explore L.A. It is spread out and it was made for driving.
• Check out our post: Where to Stay in Los Angeles – 4 Hotels to Make You Feel Like a Star. 

Option: Continue to San Diego – Or Turn North

From Los Angeles you can continue south to San Diego or start heading north to make your way back to San Francisco.

• The Best Things to Do in San Diego – A Local’s Guide to the City
• Where To Stay In San Diego – The Best Neighborhoods & Areas

For our road trip, we turned north up towards the National Parks .

9. Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

From Los Angeles we drive two hours to the iconic Joshua Tree National Park .

Get the link to this portion of your road trip ideas in California.

Joshua Tree National Park is where two deserts meet: The Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. There are lookout points and there’s even a cactus garden. You can camp overnight in Joshua Tree and there’s also rock climbing. It’s one of the premier places on earth for bouldering. We only suggest spending a day here on this California Road Trip Itinerary, but if you have more time, put a tent in the back of your car and spend a couple of days hiking Joshua Tree and exploring more of California

10. Death Valley National Park

It takes about 2 hours to drive through non stop

If you are planning a California road trip, you must try to include a day driving through Death Valley. It’s very hot, dry, and it’s a beautiful drive, but this portion of your California road trips planner should involve some precautionary steps. The average temperature is 48 degrees Celcius. (120F) Luckily there are enough stops at viewpoints along the road that keep you from having to trek too far for viewing in the heat.

• Safety in Death Valley : Pack plenty of water, cover-up, and wear sunscreen.
• Get the Google maps of  road trips California with a detour to Vegas .

11. Yosemite National Park – 2 Days

From Death Valley we drive 7 hours to Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the Big 3 National Parks in the USA and it did not disappoint. It is where the legendary photographer Ansel Adams set up shop and took some of the most recognizable nature photographs of all time.

Things to See in Yosemite

Yosemite has all those iconic formations that you’ve all heard of like “The Nose” and “El Capitan”. Here you’ll find Bridalveil Falls, and the famous Tunnel View Lookout. Glacier Point is another not-to-miss stop. It’s also a place for adventurers to get out an enjoy nature. There are so many hiking trails you will need days to complete them all. Read more at Things to do in Yosemite National Park

En route to Yosemite, be sure to stop at Sequoia National Forest. We combined our stay in Yosemite with seeing the sequoias as they are less than an hour away. A highlight for us was taking the park tour to see the Grand Sequoia Trees of Mariposa Grove. It is a bit of a drive from Yosemite, but hey, you’re on a road trip so it’s right up your alley!

When booking accommodation in Yosemite, plan in advance. During high season, things sell out fast! Curry Village has a range of canvas tents and wooden cabins plus hotel rooms. Accommodation range from basic tents with shared bathrooms to private hotel rooms with bathrooms. Check out TripAdvisor for prices .

• Yosemite Valley Lodge is a great location to make a base in Yosemite. There’s free parking, free Internet and a pool. Read more: Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

12. Lake Tahoe – 2 Days

From Yosemite it is 2 hours and 30 minutes to Tahoe.

There are two major tourist areas to make a base in both South and North Lake Tahoe. The south is certainly the busier of the two sides of the lake with casinos, nightclubs and lots of people. While the north side of the lake is all about nature, quiet family run lodges and rugged and historic ski hills, the South sits directly on the Nevada border and feels kitschy and commercial.

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

• Scenic Drive – The best views most certainly happen when driving between South and North Tahoe via Emerald Bay State Park. It takes an entire day to really explore the lake and you must give a lot of time for sightseeing at Emerald Bay.
• Emera l d Bay State Park – Emerald Bay has several different scenic stops and each one is a must! When you pull over, be sure to get out of your car and hike to the viewpoints. They get more spectacular with each turn! Hike down to the bay and see the famous Vikingsholm Castle or go on a lake cruise.
• Camp Richardson – If you are up for more hiking, there are trails all around Camp Richardson that are less steep than the hike down from Emerald Bay. They also offer hotel and cabins for lodging.
• Skiing – Sugar Bowl Ski Resort is the closest skiing to San Francisco and receives the most snowfall out of all the hills in California. After driving up the long and winding road, we stopped for a magnificent view of Donner Lake. North Star offers the luxury end of the spectrum of skiing with the only slope-side five-star lodging in the area, and don’t forget Mt.Rose offering Tahoe’s Highest Base elevation. Heavenly Mountain located in South Tahoe.
• Read Things to do in Lake Tahoe in Winter

Hotels and AirBnBs in Lake Tahoe

• There are plenty of lodging options in North Lake Tahoe and a good stay for families would definitely be our lodge at Cedar Crest Cottages .
• Sunnyside Resort is a welcoming resort located on the Shore of Lake Tahoe. Your stay includes continental breakfast and afternoon tea.

Where to Eat – We loved our meal and the friendly staff at  Sunnyside Restaurant and Resort  located at 1850 W Lake Blvd, Tahoe City. It has been a Sunnyside tradition since 1965.

13. Sacramento – Bonus Night

It’s about a five-hour drive from Lake Tahoe to San Francisco, so if you want to split up the 5-hour drive we suggest stopping in Sacramento . Even if it’s not on your California road trip itinerary from the start, it’s worth the time to see all of this history. The state capital of California is worth a visit even if you only see the historic downtown landmark of Old Sacramento. This 28-acre district is filled with old town saloons and bars taking you back to the 1800s.

Where to Stay in Sacramento

A great place to stay is  The Kimpton Sawyer Hotel  that is just a short 15-minute walk from Old Town. This new upscale hotel is located in the heart of Sacramento overlooking the Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings.

How much does it cost to Road Trip in California?

As you’ve seen, your California road trip itinerary can move in a lot of different directions. There were a lot of stops we didn’t even make because this state is so enormous. As such, the cost can vary greatly depending on lodging.

Accommodation – If you stay in a campground you will pay $35 per night but you can also spend up to $1000 per night in luxury lodges like Ventana in Big Sur or the Four Seasons in Santa Barbara.

This road trip is 1500 miles in total . If the average car gets 20 miles per gallon and the average cost of fuel is $3.50 per gallon, you can expect to pay $262 in fuel for this trip.

Meals too can have a broad range. If you want a multicourse meal at some of the luxury hotels, you can spend up to $200. but you can also hit roadside diners for $20. We mixed and matched packing lunches, eating in diners and sometimes splurging on gourmet meals. We suggest you do the same to make the most of your trip.

If you can get breakfasts included and pack sandwiches and waters for lunch, you have just saved a lot of money for a romantic dinner out.

Full Map of Our Road Trip in California

Whatever route you choose, you will go through some of the best  scenery in all of California . We hope to have given enough information to create your own tour by offering these California road trip ideas.

You have now completed the route and can make your way back to The San Francisco Bay area to return your rental car. Or feel free to stick around California. There are so many places to visit , you can spend months exploring.

Did you enjoy this California Trip Planner? Why not pin it to use as a reference for future road trips.

And that ladies and gentlemen are our picks for the best road trips California has to offer. So, now you are ready to hit the road with a solid plan of all the things to do in California!

To see our full itinerary through California check out  Follow ThePlanetD from Oceans to Mountains  on the Visit California Website.

• Things to do in Napa Valley
• 16 Best Cities in California
• 27 Best Beaches in California
• 15 Best Hikes in California – Inspiration to Get Outdoors

You may also like these other great road trips:

• 25 of The Best Road Trips in the World – That We’ve Taken
• 13 of the Best Canadian Road Trips – That We’ve Done
• Arizona Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary
• Dempster Highway Road Trip – Yes You Can Drive to the Arctic
• The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip
• Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta

Our trip to California was in partnership with Visit California. For more information on California travel and itineraries,  visit their website. As usual, all opinions are our own.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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49 thoughts on “The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary”

Wow, what a great itinerary! I remember my California road trip like it was yesterday – an unforgettable experience. Starting in San Francisco was a smart choice – it’s such a diverse city with so much to see and do. I couldn’t get enough of the panoramic views from Golden Gate Park! And that City Pass was definitely a worthwhile investment. Made getting around the city super convenient. The drive along the Pacific Coast Highway was absolutely stunning. It’s a journey I think everyone should experience at least once. For anyone planning this road trip, don’t rush it! Take your time and really soak in the breathtaking views. It’s worth every second.

Oh wow! This is a great itinerary. Super detailed – thank you. We love California.

Thank You for sharing! This detail very use full for me!

This is really an ultimate road trip! I live in CA and have done so much of this but only little bits at a time. Beautiful photos!

This California road trip is really amazing and very useful for road trippers. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks Sharon, I’m glad we could help! And have a great road trip! When do you leave for California?

This is incredible and you travel photography is totally shocking! In spite of the fact that I live in California, there are a few places on your excursion that I haven’t visited at this point! I’m anticipating getting to Lake Tahoe and Death Valley sooner rather than later! A debt of gratitude is in order for sharing!

You are going to love Lake Tahoe. In the winter it’s a great destination. They really have it figured out as a four season destination. Make sure to bring plenty of water for Death Valley. I am sure you are used to the heat, but we were amazed with how hot it actually was.

Santa Barbara, California is a nice place to vacation and travel to often.

Santa Barbara is gorgeous. I’ve always wanted to go there since the soap opera called Santa Barbara. It didn’t disappoint.

I’m looking forward to getting to Lake Tahoe and Death Valley in the near future! Thanks for sharing!

Enjoy! They are two great and very different locations.

Super detailed – thank you!

Thanks, I’m glad we could help!

This is a great itinerary! There is so much to see in California. I have been creating CA road trip itineraries for 4 years of different duration and covering various interests. I currently have 35 and counting on my blog.

Oh wow! There are so many places to see in California, it really does take years. This road trip planner is from several different trips we’ve taken as well. It would be a dream to do it all again at one time!

I could not agree with you more about California being one of (if not the) best destinations for a road trip. Have you ever thought of renting a campervan to make the trip? It really makes the trip all the more immersive when you can stop and sleep right in the middle of it instead of having to venture off the beaten path to find lodging. And in most cases, you can do that in Cali. I recommend Travellers-Autobarn for an awesome campervan rental. They have locations in San Francisco and LA. I put their link in the website field. Happy Trails!

A campervan would be amazing. We love camping and meeting people on the road and we find that campgrounds are so much fun. Thanks for the tip!

Good to see wonderful snapshot of California and California road trip itinerary.

Thank you for sharing with us.

Great guide. Brings back so many California road trip memories. Planning one now with kids in tow!

Thanks! We love California

California is just amazing and blog was so informative about the Joshua Tree,Los angles ,South Lake Tahoe,Yosemite,Death Valley i love these kinda places actually nice write-up thanks or posting!

This post made me move towards road trip to California. Incredible post along with awesome photograph which is central attraction of the blog. Reading this post made my day. I wish I could travel like you without any worry of time.

Appreciate it for your great effort that made my day with motivation.

I hope you get the chance to road trip in California. We also have a photography guide to Big Sur with all the GPS coordinates so you can make the most of yoru trip. https://theplanetd.com/visual-guide-to-big-sur-coastal-drive-california/

A California road trip has been on the top of my travel bucket list for so long and this post hasn’t changed my mind. I’ve been to both LA and SF but would love to see all the amazing scenery in between.

Two great locations! You already have a great start to your road trip? Where would you like to go next?

This post makes me want to move home and go on a road trip! Thanks for giving me so many places to book mark. Can’t want to visit Cali again now!

Lucky you being from California. It is one of the greatest states in our opinion 🙂

Yes indeed it is great

This is great and you photography is absolutely stunning! Although I live in California, there are several places on your road trip that I haven’t visited yet! I’m looking forward to getting to Lake Tahoe and Death Valley in the near future! Thanks for sharing!

Wow, that is a serious road trip, filled with so many gorgeous things! When I was growing up, we did the Highway 1 trip several times, and I have so many great memories of it. This route takes you to all kinds of places I am yet to explore! Love it!

This is some great advice for our upcoming trip. I’m currently planning a road trip from San Francisco, so this is super helpful! Beautiful pictures you captured. Thank you so much for sharing this post.

I just want to tell that your photographs are really very inspiring and they just got me. I wanted to meander in the streets of this state. Thank you for taking us on this part.

Okay … just read over all the comments and I see a lot of people don’t care for Las Vegas. Fair enough. Please don’t right the whole city off as wasteful and uncaring for the environment. I’d ask you to please be open minded and learn more about our city before jumping to that conclusion. There’s more to Las Vegas than the four miles people know as the Strip.

Get in touch regarding Las Vegas and anything you want to know about the Southwest. I’ve lived in Vegas for five years and know the Southwest well. Would love to chat about your plans and provide recommendations/answer questions. You know where to find me!

We’ve been living in the bay area our whole lives and still haven’t done this route. SF direct to LA yes, but not this kind. Sounds like an adventure! I heard you two were at a Travel Massive event in SF late last year no? It was at a beer shop I believe. We were there too!

Hi. That trip sounds amazing. I’ve actually been to all those places on a Trek America tour. Alcatraz is a must see, there is plenty to do in Vegas without gambling and if you get the chance to take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon do it because the views are to die for. You’ll have a blast! l look forward to reading about it.

You guys are going to have such a great trip! I’m from the SF area, went to college in LA and spent several summers on family backpacking trips in Yosemite, so I have to admit I’m actually a little jealous. Enjoy it extra for me, please!

Too bad you will be missing Lake Tahoe! One of the most beautiful places in the country! You definitely have to plan a trip to visit here at some point 🙂

Did a similar road trip last year and Cam is right, you need to stop by Sequoia National Park and see the General Sherman Tree (it’s basically on the way from Yosemite to Bakersfield!). With that said, still looks like tons of fun and I’m sure it’ll be a blast!

Thanks for the report : ) We will be doing about the saem route in September: Denver-Ouray-Arches-Bryce-Zion-Grand Canyon-Las Vegas-Death Valley-Mammoth Lakes-Yosemite-SFO 🙂

— Anton Way Any Way – Airfare search done right http://www.wayanyway.com

Sounds like a lot of fun. I’ve always wanted to do a west coast road trip. I have driven from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, and I definitely did not spend enough time at the Grand Canyon. Las Vegas is fun, and as for shows any Cirque du Soleil show will be a good bet. I saw O which was fantastic.

Seriously–you are driving right by some really amazing places with no time to stop. You have to add several more days and visit Sequoia National Park (world’s largest trees), and Death Valley National Park.They are both incredible! Las Vegas is soulless and weird and there’s nothing to do if you don’t like gambling (my friend Jane who lives there slaps me every time I say that–well, not really, but I can tell she wants to). Replace your time in Las Vegas with time in Sedona, Arizona, about an hour’s drive south of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Plus, Zion isn’t all that far from Bryce Canyon National Park, which is way better! How’s that for unsolicited advice!

If you want to get out of California, these are all great suggestions. We need a year to really visit California and all the great States that Surround it.

Wha?! You’ve never been to Vegas…? Looks like a fun road trip, we’ve done a couple Californian road trips but we’ve never made it to Utah or Arizona. We originally planned to due a Utah, AZ, NV, CO road trip combined with TBEX this year, but Baby B is not a fan of long car trips, so that ones on the shelf for a few years

What a great route, including some mind-blowing scenery. Don’t spend too long in Vegas. We were disgusted by the excess and waste also. A sidetrip to the Hoover Dam would be an eye-opener as to just how much water is being sucked up. The water of Lake Mead will be so low by 2017 that they dam may not be able to produce any power.

Whoa! I met Felipe from Twtvite in Berlin last summer. Cool guy! Sounds like the road trip will be a blast. Zion National Park is amazing!

You’re not doing Highway 1 at all????

That’s by far one of my favourite road trips, between SF and LA!

Thanks for your great and motivating article.

Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: From the Pacific to the Redwoods!

Are you looking for the best California road trip itinerary to explore the most beautiful places in the Golden State? Our 10 days in California itinerary will take you from the rugged coast and beautiful beaches to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevadas. Hike the Mojave desert, sleep underneath a yucca tree, and visit the lowest place on the continent while you road trip in California. Read our 10 day California Road Trip guide now. You may also like our post on 20 Best Road Trips in the USA .

Welcome to our ultimate California road trip planner!

We created this planner to help you plan the perfect road trip around California and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of California itineraries as well as get more information on California road trip must-see attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Big Sur, Yosemite, and Los Angeles.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in California!

Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary California To Texas road trip planner Best Things to do in Washington State

California is our favorite destination ever.

I have been enamored with California long before I visited it.

California, San Jose, and the West coast are randomly thrown around in conversations in India – because everyone knows someone working in Silicon Valley – and you can’t help but know about this slice of America.

Growing up, I knew more about Cisco, Apple, Google, and Yahoo (remember when everyone used Yahoo?!) than San Francisco, Yosemite, and Big Sur.

And Disney – because everyone knows Disney!

California has such a unique history.

The oldest, tallest, and widest trees live here and guess what, they have been around since prehistoric times – yes, even dinosaurs lived among the redwood trees!

One of the lowest, aridest, and hottest places on earth is right here in California in Badwater Basin.

And as for scenic places: California has so many of them!

We love Big Sur and its rocky coast, the wildflower super blooms, blue Lake Tahoe, Mono Lake and its tufas, unique shapes of Joshua trees!

There are so many things to see in California road trip that the list just goes on!

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

And that’s why in our California road trip itinerary of 10 days, we take you around all these unique and beautiful places in the Golden State.

Our California 10 day road trip itinerary is perfect for driving around dreamy landscapes of yellow poppies, orange orchards, purple foliage, and lush green vineyards.

We have divided this California roadtrip itinerary into 4 essential stretches as per the geographic features of the state – yepp, we are that geeky – and you can customize it as you want. 

Best waterproof walking shoes for California beaches

If you are a beach person like me, then extend the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary to 10 days.

If you are a mountain lover like my hubby, then take a 10 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite.

Pick your favorite area and stay there as long as you want. Or follow our California in 10 days itinerary exactly as described!

As always, we have also included suggestions for if you have more or less time.

Whatever you chose, you are going to have the time of your lives – because this is California!

“Every time I come, I’m still amazed at the breadth California has. Big Sur, Yosemite, the desert… I love it.” – Theo James, the English actor

Best of California Road Trip 10 Days Itinerary

We, like most people, have seen California in bits and pieces rather than in one go.

We first visited California almost a decade ago and did San Francisco, Los Angeles, and the theme parks.

Second time around, we visited Death Valley National Park on a road trip from Vegas.

Then I lived and worked in the Bay area in tech (oh, the irony!) and that’s when we explored the California National Parks, North Coast, and the Sierra Nevada side of the state.

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Most recently, we did the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip along the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway – oh and also road-tripped Southern California and Disney with the kids.

On our next trip – we plan to do the North Coast and Redwoods Scenic Highway AGAIN.

Yeah – that’s how much we love California – have been to many destinations several times and still can’t have enough.

The best way to tour California is obviously by driving. The state is beautiful but huge and it’s not easy planning California trip that covers all the major attractions with limited time in hand.

And planning a California road trip with kids is even more difficult – how do you prioritize between theme parks and natural attractions?

And that’s where we rush in – your knights in shining armor – delivering the ultimate 10 day California road trip itinerary. 

Our California trip planner is more like going on a series of best California road trips – each more gorgeous than the previous.

Also, we follow this road trip along two of California’s most popular routes: south on the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway and then back north along the scenic SR 395 through Eastern California .

That’s what makes our itinerary the absolute best California driving trip planner!

You can also call it the California National Parks road trip because we will be visiting the most popular of them on an epic road trip.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Stretch 1: Down The Pacific Coast – 4 Days

Often enough, when someone talks about a California driving holiday, this stretch along the Pacific Coast Highway is the one they actually mean.

Constantly ranked among the top scenic drives in the world, the coastal drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the best of both worlds.

It combines the urban getaways of California’s two largest cities with the natural panoramas of Big Sur and the Pacific. 

If you have limited time, we would recommend spending 3 to 4 days along this route.

If you want to focus only on this coastal road trip, then just drive south on a road trip from San Francisco on SR1.

Take your own time to enjoy roadside stops like Carmel-By-The-Sea, Morro Bay, and the stunning Big Sur.

Hike or camp and explore nature.

Here’s our suggestion for this stretch of 10 day California itinerary planner.

San Francisco – 1 Day

Start with our San Francisco road trip planner.

San Francisco is our favorite city to start a 10 day California trip.

The city is quite easy to fly into; the 3 airports of San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland are located close by and many airlines have deals to the Bay area.

We would recommend spending a minimum of one day in San Francisco before picking up your rental car and driving south.

Or you can rent a car before, see SF, and then drive the PCH.

You can also start your 10 day road trip from Los Angeles, in that case, adjust your plans accordingly.

Read this now! Whatever you do – don’t casually park your car at an empty garage in San Francisco. Car Break-ins in San Francisco are very common, as we discovered to our ill-fortune . On our latest trip to San Francisco, we had parked in a garage two blocks away from Pier 39 and came back to find the rear glass broken and both our children’s suitcases gone!  We had to spend quite some time to sort the issue and it left a sad memory on an otherwise awesome road trip around California in 10 days. We would recommend parking at your hotel while taking a cab or the tram to explore the city. 

San Francisco has many names – SF, San Fran, Fog City, the City by the Bay, Frisco (though don’t say that in front of locals) or simply, the City – going back to the days of the Wild West when there was nothing much in Northern California but the city.

San Francisco is colorful, vibrant, and bohemian.

It’s amongst our favorite US cities – right there at the top along with New York , Chicago , and New Orleans.

There are quite a few things to do in San Francisco: unsurprisingly most of them begin at or near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco’s gigantic urban park.

Begin your visit at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center near the southern end of the bridge.

Learn interesting facts and see construction relics from the building of the Golden Gate Bridge before visiting the bridge itself.

Next walk across all 1.7 miles of this engineering marvel and icon of America.

The views of the bay from the bridge are beautiful and you feel an indescribable thrill while walking across it.

Definitely the highlight of your California travel itinerary!

Up for more adventure?

Bike the Golden Gate!

We have done it twice – most recently with our 3 yrs and 6 months old kids – it is a superb experience.

We love biking across to Sausalito, exploring the quaint town, and taking the ferry back to San Francisco.

You can also bike to the redwoods if you have more time.

Read our ultimate guide to biking the bridge here.

If not biking, then use the rest of your day to explore San Francisco’s highlights: Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square.

If you want to spend more time in San Francisco, see the Painted Ladies – those famous SF houses shown in Full House!

You can also check out the city from the Twin Peaks.

The Golden Gate Park is perfect for a stroll.

Ride the cable car to Chinatown and have some dumplings and noodles for lunch.

Spend an afternoon admiring the beautiful architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts or visit the prison of Alcatraz Island.

Visit the beautiful redwood trees at Muir Woods National Monument or whale watch and hike at Point Reyes.

San Francisco is a beautiful city and you can easily spend a couple of days there as a part of your 10 day trip to California.

Read our San Francisco posts now to plan this part of the trip: San Francisco 3 to 5-day itinerary ideas 17 Best Things to do in San Francisco on your first visit

The area around San Francisco is also full of activities and tourist attractions.

Here are some suggestions if you want to spend a few more days exploring around the Bay Area during your California itinerary of 10 days:

Napa & Sonoma 

Take a day trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley along the Silverado Trail.

Sonoma County is also a great place to visit for wine lovers.

You can tour the many vineyards, taste local wines, dine at Michelin starred restaurants, and visit famous tasting rooms.

If you happen to visit in the fall, you will see beautiful fall colors in the vineyards and be able to attend grape stomping. 

San Jose is popular with millennials and those working in Silicon Valley.

You will find plenty of trendy nightclubs and bars in San Jose.

If you enjoy shopping, check out the high fashion brands on Santana Row.

For outdoor lovers, a hike to Mission Peak is a must while families will love the Winchester Mystery House.

Silicon Valley

If you love tech then you need to visit Silicon Valley.

It boasts the largest concentration of geeks and nerds – and as a fellow geek, I say it quite fondly!

Start your visit at the Computer History Museum to know everything about the machine that changed our lives.

Then see Google’s Android lawn sculptures in Mountain View or the garage where Hewlett Packard began in Palo Alto.

Visit Stanford University’s sprawling campus as well as Facebook and Apple!

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip – 2 Days

On to the next part of the 10 day road trip in California.

After seeing San Francisco, drive south along the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway.

Over the next 2 days, you will follow the coastal route to Los Angeles while making plenty of stops along the way.

Check the coastal communities of Half Moon Bay and Davenport before reaching Santa Cruz.

If you have kids, spend some time at the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk.

Next visit Monterey and Carmel by the Sea. Hike in Point Lobos or walk the coastal bluffs at Garrapata State Park.

On the way, you will see secret beaches, hidden coves, and beautiful views. 

As you begin driving PCH1 while following our 10 days in California itinerary, you understand why artists settle here, photographers and writers both wax lyrical about this region, and why the drive is called the most beautiful in the world.

We recommend staying somewhere in the vicinity of Carmel Highlands for the night.

The next day, rise early for the star attraction of the drive: the 90-mile long rugged, wild Big Sur.

Big Sur is 6 hours from Los Angeles and you have a big day ahead.

It is really hard to describe Big Sur.

Rocky cliffs, foaming waves, spring wildflowers, lighthouses, migrating whales, turquoise water, redwood trees: Big Sur has everything.

It is gorgeous in a wild way.

In Big Sur, you will find amazing state parks, some of California’s best hiking trails, iconic beaches, and tons of marine life, including otters, elephant seals, and dolphins.

Some areas of Big Sur can be closed at any given time of the year due to floods or landslides – so we recommend checking out the PCH status before your 10 days road trip California.

Read more about all the attractions including the beautiful McWay Falls in our post One day in Big Sur . 

Other attractions of the Pacific Coast Highway drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles include Monterey’s famous 17-mile drive, the seaside towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay, the famous Hearst Castle, Santa Barbara, and the beaches of Malibu.

For the purposes of this California Itinerary of 10 days, we would suggest 2 to 3 days on PCH.

However, if you have more time then the PCH is easily a 4 day to week-long road trip in itself.

To read more about all the awesome stops on PCH and planning a detailed itinerary, check out our article on Planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway . 

Also Read: Top 10 Convertible drives in the USA

Los Angeles – 1 Day

While San Francisco and Silicon Valley are for tech lovers, Los Angeles is for Hollywood fans.

How long to stay in Los Angeles is a tricky question.

If you only have one day in Los Angeles, start by seeing the famous Hollywood sign and then visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to take selfies with your favorite stars.

Also, see the Kodak Theatre (now Dolby Theatre) which hosts the Oscars and tour the movie star homes on Rodeo Drive.

If you have more time to explore Los Angeles, we suggest starting with lunch at the Santa Monica Pier.

Then visit the Griffith Observatory and see Los Angeles from above.

Or you can take a behind the scenes VIP studio tour at one of your favorite studios: pick from Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures or Sony!

You can also check out the beautiful exhibits at the Getty Center or the beautiful modern art at the Broad.

LA also has many other top museums and a large number of attractions – read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles for more ideas.

For more help in planning your day, read our Los Angeles itinerary for first-time visitors .

Here are some suggestions to explore the area beyond Downtown Los Angeles:

No California family road trip is complete without a trip to Disney.

Both of California’s Disney Parks are located close to Los Angeles in Anaheim.

On the best California vacation itinerary, you have to meet Mickey, Goofy and other beloved cartoon characters!

Kids also get to meet Disney’s princesses in full attire at the parks.

To plan a California family vacation itinerary including a trip to Disney, read our Disney posts .

Universal Studios

To understand all about movie-making, see movie sets, and enjoy thrilling rides visit Universal Studios.

This theme park has really cool attractions and the Studio Tour will take you through sets based on Shutter Island, Jaws, King Kong, and more.

Harry Potter fans will love visiting Hogwarts and taking thrilling rides based on the books and movies – and is a must-visit if you are spending 10 days in California.

Channel Islands National Park

For a unique experience, customize our itinerary for California 10 days and visit the remote Channel Islands.

Comprised of 5 islands, the park has excellent wildlife, sea caves, and lots of natural beauty.

You can take a ferry to the park from Ventura.

Optional: San Diego – 1 Day

From Los Angeles, you can venture on the next part of California 10 day itinerary or extend your trip down the coast by visiting San Diego.

Not many people know that San Diego is the oldest city on the West Coast.

It has beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture and lots of history. 

Read our post 22 Best Things to do in San Diego now to know more about this beautiful city.

If you have one day, you can visit the Historic Old Town and understand the Mexican and Wild West roots of the city.

Next, visit the famous Balboa Park with its beautiful architecture, renowned museums, and the San Diego Zoo.

Round off your time in the city by exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter and its Victorian architecture and trendy eateries, hotels, and pubs.

This area is perfect for ending the day with dinner and drinks.

If you have more than a day, visit the famous San Diego Sea World and see the dolphins in action.

San Diego is home to many beautiful beaches; the Mission Beach boardwalk is very popular.

Other things to see include Mission San Diego, Sunset Cliffs Park, and the bustling waterfront area of Seaport Village.

If you have more time on 10 day itinerary California, check out the dramatic sculptures in the desert city of Borrego Springs.

Related: For more California road trip ideas, check out our post on 12 Best California road trips

Stretch 2: Through The Arid Californian Desert – 2 Days

Continue on the California road trip route planner through deserts of southern California.

While most people associate California primarily with the coast and then with the dense redwood forests, the state is also renowned for its unique desert landscapes.

Most of these parts of southern California have a desolate beauty.

It is full of desert cities like Palm Springs which offer unique tourist attractions for visitors.

In this post, we focus our California 10 days itinerary on exploring two of the region’s national parks: Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

Located partly over the Colorado desert and the Mojave desert, Joshua Tree National Park is named after the iconic Joshua tree.

This is a type of Yucca tree that is twisted, scraggly, and found only in the Mojave desert of California.

The easily recognizable tree looks even more dramatic in the desert landscape and bare rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park.

The national park is one of the most underrated California road trip destinations.

Its unique vistas have drawn photographers and artists to the park for decades.

Read our post on One Day in Joshua Tree to plan your trip.

There are many things to do in Joshua Tree and its otherworldly landscape.

One of the best ways to see Joshua Tree is by driving around the paved road in the park.

Campsites in Joshua Tree are spectacular and hikes through Yucca trees and cacti adventurous.

The Hidden Valley Trail is a short mile-long trail that offers great desert landscape views.

The park has many popular geological rock formations that are used for rock climbing.

The park also has a dark night sky and is good for stargazers, astronomy enthusiasts, and night sky photographers.

Wildlife and birding opportunities around the park are also numerous.

Read more in our post 24 Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park .

While deciding how to plan a trip to California, we recommend keeping more time aside to explore the many attractions surrounding Joshua Tree.

You can easily include them on a South California road trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree in this order: San Diego – Anza Borrego – Galleta Meadows – Salton Sea – Palm Springs – Joshua Tree.

Here’s some more information about these desert experiences that are worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

Salton Sea 

The Salton Sea is an inland lake created by flooding from an irrigation canal of the Colorado River that carries water to the Imperial Valley in 1905.

Several resort communities were built along the new lake.

However, the lake has no discharge and as a result, the water became unusually saline causing the death of marine life.

As a result, the communities were abandoned and are extremely popular with ruin photographers.

If you have teens, then definitely include Bombay Beach ruins in your California vacation itinerary – they will love to see random objects lying on the beach.

Today, the Salton Sea shoreline is filled with deteriorating structures and RV communities.

The Salton Sea is also located directly on top of the San Andreas fault and geothermal activity including mud pools are present along the coast.

The Salton Sea State Recreation Area is popular for birding, boating, picnicking, and camping. 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, located in the Colorado desert region, is one of the biggest Californian desert cities.

If you want a relaxing vacation, then Palm Springs is one of the best California ideas.

One of its main attractions is the Palm Springs aerial tramway which takes you up Mount San Jacinto and offers great views of the surrounding area.

Palm Springs also has many great museums, boutique stores, restaurants, and resorts.

It is one of the most popular winter vacation destinations in the USA.

If you plan to visit Palm Springs, then check out our post on 30 Best Things to do in Palm Springs, California.

Anza Borrego and Galleta Meadows Sculptures in Borrego Springs

While California has many beautiful state parks, few know about its largest – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

This park is at its most beautiful in the spring when the cacti flower and the desert landscape comes alive with colors.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park is just two hours away from San Diego and can be seen on a San Diego Joshua Valley road trip.

In nearby Borrego Springs, you can see the unusual Galleta Meadows Estate sculptures.

These sculptures created by artist Ricardo Breceda are free to visit and beautiful works of art.

By driving all over the land you can spot dragons, serpents, wooly mammoths, and other fantastic creatures.  

Also, read our post on Planning the ultimate Southern California itinerary.

Coachella Valley Preserve 

Coachella’s Thousand Palms Oasis is a unique chance to see the oasis environment in the middle of the desert.

The oases directly sit on fault lines and the water seeping through the faults has given life to California Fan Palms and other big palms in the arid desert.

Wildlife including sheep, goats, bobcats, etc, also can be spotted at the oasis.

Entry to the reserve is free and it has many hiking trails plus offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are also other hiking areas close to Coachella Valley Preserve including Indian Canyons where you can hike through slot canyons. 

Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

Comprising of areas of the Mojave desert and the Great Basin desert, Death Valley is vastly different than Joshua Tree National Park.

For the most part, Death Valley is devoid of vegetation and is home to a variety of geological formations including the badlands, sand dunes, and the famous salt flats.

Death Valley also has the distinction of being the lowest point in North America and is also one of the hottest and driest places in the country.

No trip to Death Valley National Park is complete without visiting the Badwater Basin salt flats.

The salt flats, at 282 feet below sea level, are the lowest place in North America.

Death Valley National Park has many scenic drives that are perfect for exploring around the park.

Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes are good for taking a stroll, exploring the desert plants, viewing animal tracks, and sunrise/sunset photography.

The park has many interesting geological formations.

Death Valley also has a dark night sky and is great for stargazing and photographing the Milky Way.

Read our post on 14 Best Things to do in Death Valley National Park for more information.

We know you are planning to roadtrip California, but we can’t talk about Death Valley without mentioning Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is also a great city to begin your road trip to California.

The distance between Vegas and Death Valley is just over 2 hours and the route is quite scenic.

In fact, it is one of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

You can see the Sin City and then go on a road trip through California – an epic Las Vegas Los Angeles San Francisco trip, if you will!

Or you can also go on a memorable Las Vegas Grand Canyon road trip from California.

For Las Vegas travel inspiration, read our post on 52 Best Things to do in Las Vegas .

Stretch 3: Up Through The Sierra Nevada – 4 Days

After seeing Death Valley, take a road trip on California’s Scenic Highway 395.

This road trip is scenic whether you do it from north to south or like we recommend here, from south to north.

The best time to see the aspens turn yellow here is in fall.

The total distance from Death Valley to your final destination of Yosemite is 4 hours when the Lee Vining road to Yosemite is open in the summer.

However, we recommend keeping aside 4 days for this road trip as it has some of the most underrated road trip destinations in California including the Manzanar National Historic Site, Alabama Hills, Ancient Bristlecone pine forest, Bodie Ghost Town, etc.

For more information on these Route 395 stops, see this article .

For the purposes of this itinerary, we focus on the popular attractions of Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe. 

Route 395 will take you high up into the Sierra Nevada mountains, known for their spectacular beauty.

The Sierra Nevadas are home to many national and state parks including the mighty Yosemite and crystal clear high mountain lakes.

For the rest of your Californian road trip, you will be exploring the High Sierras and its many breathtaking attractions.

This is a welcome respite after the desert landscapes of Death Valley and Joshua Tree and depending on when you visit you will be able to see beautiful meadows, wildflowers, fall foliage, and even snow!

Mammoth Lakes And Mono Lake – 1 Day

Contrary to their name, Mammoth Lakes is not a lake but a winter ski town in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Mammoth Mountain is the main winter skiing area with a variety of ski runs.

In summer, it is a favorite with mountain bikers and hikers.

The town does have several beautiful lakes that are accessible only in the summer but none of them are named Mammoth.

The area has beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers in spring and natural hot springs for some R&R.

In one day, we recommend taking the roughly one hour drive around the Lakes Basin and visiting all the lakes.

You can hike, picnic, kayak, and fish in whichever lake you like.

Or maybe just hang up a hammock and read a book by the lake.

Nearby Mono Lake is a saltwater lake surrounded by unique towering limestone formations called the tufa.

The lake visitor center has great information about the formation of the lake and the tufa while the short South Tufa trail is great for exploring the surrounding area.

The trail takes you along the lakeshore and among the tufas.

We suggest stopping here for an hour or so; Mono Lake accepts National Park Pass for entry.

On the way from Mammoth Lakes to Mono Lake, you will pass by June Lake and Devils Postpile Monument.

June Lake Loop Road is a great place to see the fall colors while the Devils Postpile National Monument is a unique geological formation of basalt columns.

Rainbow Falls, a 31m plunging waterfall, is another popular attraction of the monument.

Past Mono Lake, take the Lee Vining Road into Yosemite.

The official name of the road is Tioga Pass Road and it is closed in winter and spring (usually November to May) due to snow.

In that case, you can’t really visit Yosemite from the eastern side.

To know alternative routes in winter, check here . 

Yosemite National Park – 2 Days

Best known for its giant sequoia trees, bald granite cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yosemite along with Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park is known as the ‘Big Three’ and receives over 4 million visitors each year.

Yosemite is a must-stop on any Ca road trip itinerary.

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is from the summer to fall when Tioga Pass Road is open.

We suggest spending 2 days in Yosemite National Park to hike, drive along scenic roads, and see the major attractions. 

On your first day, start by taking a Yosemite Valley Tour.

The Yosemite Valley is surrounded by the bald granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.

Most of the waterfalls including Yosemite Falls are also located in the valley.

The Valley is also where most of the park services including accommodations, shuttle buses, etc are located.

The Valley has hiking trails for all difficulty levels that lead to stunning views of Yosemite.

Lower Yosemite Falls hike is a short and easy trail that goes to the base of the falls.

Touring the Yosemite Valley via the free shuttle bus is the easiest way to see the national park.

However, if you are visiting in summer (especially long weekends) it can get very crowded – so plan to start early in the morning.

The Valley Visitor Center has great information and exhibits about the history and geology of Yosemite, plus it is a good place to get souvenirs, postcards, and magnets.

The aptly-named Mirror Lake reflects Half Dome peak and is beautiful to visit.

However, it dries up towards the end of summer and is best seen in spring/summer. 

Another must in the Valley if you’re visiting in summer is Glacier Point.

Located along the valley rim, it can be reached only by car or private tour.

The views from Glacier Point are stellar. It is also the base for many of Yosemite’s rim hikes.

We suggest spending one day exploring the valley. Yosemite also offers paid guided tours if you prefer them.

On the next day, you can go up the Tioga Pass road if it is clear of snow.

This is your chance to experience Yosemite devoid of the crowds.

The shuttle bus will take you up the Tioga Pass road to Tuolumne Meadows.

To see Yosemite’s giant sequoia trees, visit the Mariposa Grove.

This area is also accessible by the park shuttle.

End your day by visiting Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Village.

Photographer Ansel Adams’s stunning black and white photos of Yosemite are a great reminder of how Yosemite looked over half a century ago.

Lake Tahoe And Emerald Bay – 1 Day

If you continue along Route 395 from Yosemite, you will reach lake Tahoe.

Note: Route 395 itself does not reach Lake Tahoe, so you will be following 207 from the Nevada side. 

The deep blue water of Lake Tahoe surrounded by snow-clad mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevadas is one of California’s iconic images.

Located on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is a popular travel destination for Californians throughout the year.

In winter it is popular for snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding.

Summer in Lake Tahoe is made for biking and camping.

In fall, the area around Lake Tahoe comes alive with spectacular fall foliage and is one of the top fall drives in the country .

South Lake Tahoe or the California side is best for enjoying the outdoors and nature with family while the Nevada side has lots of casinos and is more touristy.

Crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe (CC 2.0 – Christian Abend )

The drive around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles long and takes about three hours.

It is highly scenic and one of the best road trips in California.

Much of the shoreline of Lake Tahoe is public and the views of the lake from the drive are stunning.

The lake looks a pretty shade of blue during the day and taking a beautiful picture of the water is a highlight of your visit.

An essential stop along the drive is the Emerald Bay State Park.

The drive here is spectacular and the views of the turquoise lake are lovely.

There are many other ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe.

You can take a helicopter tour or enjoy watersports on the lake.

The Sierra Nevada mountain ranges are an absolute delight for outdoor and nature lovers.

What you will see in these 4 days is just the tip of the iceberg.

The High Sierras have many beautiful alpine valleys, lakes, ghost towns, waterfalls, and hiking trails worth exploring.

If you can spend more time in the Sierra Nevada, then here are some other must attractions:

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 

These are the two other national parks located in the High Sierras.

The giant sequoias surround you as you drive the park roads creating a surreal and unique experience.

The twisting and turning roads here are not for the faint-hearted (hint: carry some Dramamine!).

Both national parks have great hiking trails and lots of wildlife.

John Muir Trail

While it is not possible to hike in a short time, John Muir Trail deserves a special mention.

This is a long-distance trail in the Sierra Nevada and passes through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks.

It is as renowned as the Appalachian or the Pacific Crest Trail. 

Bodie Ghost Town

The old mining ghost town of Bodie is an hour away from Mammoth Lakes.

Preserved as a state park, the town is full of historic saloons and deserted buildings.

While Sacramento is not in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, the city is on the way while returning to San Francisco from Lake Tahoe and makes for a great addition to our California road trip itinerary recommendations.

One of the top attractions in Sacramento is the California State Railroad Museum.

Stretch 4: Along The Wild North Coast

There are many things to do in Northern California including national parks, scenic drives, beautiful coastal towns, and more.

You will need another 5 days minimum to fully explore the Northern part of the state.

Hence, we do not recommend covering the North Coast if you are following this California Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days – you simply won’t have time.

The best way to explore this region is to plan a separate road trip in the northern part of the state, the details of which you can read here in our post, Ultimate Northern California road trip itinerary .

California’s North Coast is less visited, unspoiled, and partially unexplored compared to the famous central Coast and the crowded southern coast.

The prehistoric coastal redwood trees grow in groves along the road all the way up to Oregon.

Hwy 1 ends at Leggett where it joins Hwy 101.

While the road follows the coast, for the most part, it turns inward in the area of the Lost Coast.

The remote Lost Coast as the name suggests is devoid of major highways and remains the ultimate adventure for a 10 day trip to California.

However, the coast is not the only unique thing about Northern California.

The northern part of the state is also home to geothermal activity.

You can climb lava tunnels at Lava Beds National Monument and see volcanic craters, domes, mud pools, etc at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Here are a few attractions of the region:

Redwoods National and State Park

The Redwoods National and State Parks were created to preserve the old-growth redwood forests.

The Redwoods are the tallest living trees on Earth and also among the oldest.

The National Park and state parks are also home to a number of endangered animals including spotted owl, species of sea lions, etc.

The unique environment of the dense redwood forests by the coast has resulted in the park being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Seeing the Redwoods covered in fog during winter or spring is a surreal experience.

Point Reyes

Point Reyes National Seashore, located in Marin County, preserves a large swath of northern California’s coastal wilderness.

Most popular attractions at Point Reyes include Alamere Falls on Wildcat Beach and Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Other attractions include the endangered tule elk herd that can be seen around Tomales Point, Native American redwood houses, earthquake trail, and dramatic cliffside beaches.

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is an over 30 miles long scenic highway that passes through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park and its mighty coastal redwood trees.

Roadside attractions include tunnels cut into redwood trees, giant groves, and unique roadside attractions like a house created from a single redwood log and a Redwood RV.

We suggest hiking in the Redwood groves to experience the truly gigantic trees.

The quaint seaside town of Mendocino is quite different from the coastal towns on the Central Coast.

It reminded me of Maine and the coastal upper East coast due to its Victorian mansions painted in pretty pastel colors.

The town is a historical landmark and very pretty to wander and explore.

Nearby Mendocino Headlands State Park and Russian Gulch State Park are worth a visit.

Nearby Fort Bragg is no fort but a lumber town on the North Coast.

The famous ‘Glass Beach’ of which I’m sure you have seen pics floating around on social media is in Fort Bragg.

The beach is a part of MacKerricher State Park, a state park with amazing views of the undeveloped headlands, beaches, and tide pools.

Another popular attraction in Fort Bragg is the Skunk Train – a railroad built to haul timber logs from the redwood forests.

Other attractions on the North Coast include the pretty Victorian towns of Ferndale and Eureka, Del Norte Redwood State Park, and the seaport community of Crescent City.

More 10 Day California itinerary ideas for slow travelers

You can use our California road trip planner to customize your itinerary based on your interests. 

If you can only spend 10 days in California, then seeing all the above attractions can be overwhelming; here are a few suggestions for those who like slow travel.

California coast road trip itinerary

One great option is to go on a 10 day pacific coast highway trip or 10 day west coast road trip.

That way you can spend more time in the cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles while seeing Big Sur at a leisurely pace. 

On this San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip in 10 days, you can tour the lighthouses, hike the trails, picnic on the beach, visit the wineries of the Central Coast, and enjoy nature – seriously the best road trip in California. 

You can even do the San Francisco to San Diego road trip in 10 days.

In that case, we would recommend keeping aside 2 days each for the 3 major cities and spending the rest of the time in the Big Sur region. 

This San Francisco 10 days trip lets you enjoy the beauty of the coast while visiting the Sierra Nevadas and the desert later.

California National Parks itinerary

California has 9 national parks – all of them are unique and make for an exciting California National park road trip. 

You can visit either the most popular ones or all of them, depending on how much time you want to spend in each park. 

We would suggest starting from Los Angeles, then seeing Joshua Tree and Death Valley before visiting Kings Canyon and Sequoia. 

Then see the beautiful Yosemite Valley. From Yosemite, head north to Lassen and then finally see Redwoods parks before returning to San Francisco. 

You can also see Pinnacles and Channel Islands if you have the time, to complete the national parks in California road trip. 

You can also use this route for creating your own California RV trip itinerary, since most national parks have RV campgrounds. 

Northern California road trip itinerary

Another great option for those who like slow travel is to plan a Northern California itinerary for 10 days. 

Start your road trip from San Francisco and drive along the less visited North Coast and see the majestic redwood trees. 

Drive along the Redwoods Scenic Byway before turning towards the mountains and exploring the caves at Lava Tubes National Monument. 

Visit Mount Shasta on your way to Lassen Volcanic National Park and end your trip in Sacramento, a couple of hours away from San Francisco. 

For more information on how to plan a California road trip focusing on the northern part of the state, read our in-depth post on Northern California road trip .

If you have less time: California itinerary 7 days

If you can’t spare 10 days, then we also have suggestions for 7 day California road trip routes. 

With only 7 days in california, we would recommend focusing on one region and exploring it at a leisurely pace. 

Of course, you can opt for a 7 day southern California itinerary or a 7 day California coast road trip along the PCH, but you can also consider some unique road trip ideas in California which explore its most popular attractions. 

Here are our favorites if you want to see the best of California in a week:

7 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite

If you are wondering how to spend a week in California but still see the most popular attractions, then this itinerary is for you. 

Start your road trip in San Francisco, see the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Mission District, Fisherman’s Wharf etc in two days. 

Then spend a day in Napa Valley and nearby Calistoga before seeing Sacramento.

In Sacramento, see the state capitol and the railroad museum then make your way to Yosemite National Park. 

Take a tour of the Yosemite Valley and see the famous El Capitan as well as the many waterfalls.

Enjoy the panoramic view from the Tunnel View Outlook. 

Then depending on the season, visit the Tuolumne Meadows area.

Return to San Francisco to complete 7 day road trip in California.

North California coast road trip

This California 1 week itinerary is perfect for slow travel. 

Land in San Francisco and take a day or two to explore it’s many attractions.

Then rent a car and drive north. 

Part of this road trip is on the Pacific Coast Highway 1 till Legett, after which you will be driving along the famous Redwood scenic byway. 

For your first stop, explore the beautiful Point Reyes.

See the lighthouse and the shipwreck, then eat oysters in Tomales Bay. 

Drive along the Avenue of the Giants and pass through the Redwood tunnels. 

Hike in the prehistoric Fern Canyon and visit the glass beach at Fort Bragg, then last stop at Eureka or Crescent City to finish the California coast 7 day itinerary.

7 Day Southern California trip itinerary

For this ca road trip planner, begin your trip with a day or two in San Diego or Los Angeles and then wind your way around Southern California’s desert attractions. 

See famous Joshua Tree and Palm Springs.

Enjoy the fantastic landscape of the Mojave desert and drink a delicious date shake.

See the sculptures in Borrego Springs. 

Then visit Anaheim and enjoy the theme parks.

There are also many things to do in Anaheim besides Disney. 

7 Day California Coast Road Trip

This is one of the most popular california driving holidays itineraries.

Follow this California road trip itinerary 7 days along the world famous Pacific Coast Highway. 

See the major cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Explore the charming mountain side towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Learn to surf and spot the elephant seals. 

Spend some time hiking and enjoying the wild, rugged vibe of Big Sur.

Take a tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse and hike down to Keyhole Rock. Go whale watching. 

If you have more time: California road trip itinerary 14 days

This two week california driving itinerary is perfect for long summer vacations, when most parts of the state including the High Sierras are completely accessible. 

Just use our main California trip planner, but add in all optional ideas including San Diego and the beautiful northern coast. 

Then see the Lassen Volcanic National Park area and visit the beautiful Burney Falls from Redding.

Spend some time in Mount Shasta and head back to San Francisco to complete California 2 week itinerary.

We hope you liked our California road trip blog.

Now you have everything ready to plan your perfect California trip itinerary, so make the most of it.

Did we miss any hidden gems in the Golden State?

Which part of the road trip did you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments!

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16 Epic Stops for Your California Road Trip

Convertible, check. Epic tunes, check. Camera, check. A list of 16 epic stops for a legendary California road trip itinerary—CHECK!

From historic, gastronomic, celeb-concentrated cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco to the snaking Big Sur shoreline with the most abrupt elevation change of the Pacific shore, a California road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway pleases city and nature lovers alike.

Californian cuisine could satiate any appetite, and the rugged and wild mountains of Big Sur stand 5,000 feet above the oft-misty ocean.

But there’s more that makes a drive on California’s winding Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 101, one of the most well-known road trips in all of the world.

So hop in your car and prepare for the trip of a lifetime. To help you navigate, I’ve put together 16 unforgettable California road trip stops for your journey along the Pacific Coast, beginning north in San Francisco and ending 500 miles south of there in San Diego.

And if you want to road trip California’s coast in ultimate comfort and style, why not rent an RV or campervan? Check out these campervan rentals in California for some ideas!

First Stop on Your California Road Trip: San Francisco

All great Pacific Coast Highway road trip itineraries start in San Fran!

Famous for its Golden Gate Bridge, hilly streets, year-round fog and hippy culture, San Francisco is a distinctly creative city.

If you’ve got some time to kill before starting your California coast drive, spend a few days exploring the city before driving south.

There’s a lot to do in San Francisco, but some favorite activities include a stop in Chinatown (the largest Chinatown outside of Asia), a jog through Golden Gate Park , a ride on the cable cars, a walk through the eclectic Mission District (one of San Francisco’s best neighborhoods) and eating just about anywhere.

San Francisco is a food fanatic’s heaven—the city lays claim to inventing everything from sourdough bread to fortune cookies, after all.

Santa Cruz: Get Your Kicks on the Boardwalk

Located just over an hour south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz is the first stop on your California road trip itinerary.

Maybe it’s because Santa Cruz is home to the University of California Santa Cruz, or because the downtown streets are lined with vintage shops, vegetarian restaurants, colorful graffiti and skateboarders cruising down the street, but this coastal city has a youthful, “surf-city” vibe.

If you want a quick stop to stretch your legs, leave your car in one of the public parking spaces for a dollar and take a walk on the Santa Cruz Wharf , a long pier stretching out into Monterey Bay.

Just north of the city lies the Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, where you can find a completely different kind of beauty while meandering amid the giant redwoods. The park is also home to some stunning, natural pools, such as the Garden of Eden. These freshwater oases are perfect for a refreshing dip surrounded by undisturbed natural beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea: The Most Charming Town

With its rugged coastal views from the scenic bluff path and also its quaint European-style architecture, there is no place in California like Carmel-by-the Sea—and that’s why it’s a can’t-miss stop on your Highway 101 road trip through California.

With its bay-windowed cottages covered in moss, gardens, cobblestone courtyards and secret passageways, this unique European-style village will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. There are no mailboxes, addresses or parking meters.

It does, however, have boutique shopping and a burgeoning arts and wine scene.

The best place to explore the city’s array of specialty boutiques is on and around Ocean Avenue. As you wander along, be sure to head down any alley or passage that grabs your attention—the area is ripe for exploration.

Big Sur: Stunning California Coastline

One of the most picturesque views on the best road trip California has to offer.

Perhaps one of the most rugged stretches on this California coast road trip itinerary is Big Sur, which is bordered by the Santa Lucia Mountains to the east and by the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Known for its sparse population and stunning natural beauty, don’t be surprised if this part of your road trip itinerary takes a while to navigate—not just because of the windy and mountainous road, but also because you’ll pull over every few minutes to snap pictures and take in the views of the rugged Pacific coast.

Hearst Castle

In 1865, George Hearst, a miner, rancher and eventual US Senator, bought 40,000 acres of ranchland overlooking the Pacific Ocean in an area outside of San Simeon, California.

Over 50 years later, William Randolph Hearst, George’s son, acquired even more land in the area and also began to build a retreat he called the “Enchanted Hill.”

As a result, today, the Hearst Castle compound is an art museum and open to the public for tours and dining.

San Luis Obispo: The SLO-est Town in the West

Any epic California road trips on the Pacific coast include a stop at the Madonna Inn (and a convertible too)—it’s classic Americana.

One of California’s oldest communities, San Luis Obispo is located in the middle of California’s central coast wine country. And it’s as culturally rich as it is beautiful.

Stop by this stunning city for a breezy outdoor lunch or spend an afternoon touring the history museum and art galleries (The Madonna Inn might as well be an art gallery in itself—this place is a Californian icon!). But no matter what you do in San Luis Obispo, you’ll probably find it hard to hit the road again.

Pismo Beach: Surf's Up!

Pismo is a cute beach town with amazing surf and plenty of coastline to explore.

Another California beach town known for its natural beauty, Pismo Beach is a great place to dip your toes in the surf.

Lovers of water sports could spend days here, but even if you only want to ride the waves for a few hours (you did pack your surfboard, didn’t you?), Pismo Beach will not disappoint. If you prefer land over water, you can also make a stop at Dinosaur Caves Park , an 11-acre oceanfront park that’s a perfect place for a picnic lunch.

Santa Barbara: A Little Bit of Luxury

Sometimes called “The American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is an upscale community on California’s central coast. It’s also widely known for its picturesque downtown of white stucco buildings and red tile roofs, along with its upscale shopping and dining, wine scene and luxury hotels.

You’ll feel like a celebrity in Santa Barbara, even if you’re just passing through.

Malibu: A California Road Trip Itinerary Must-See

Famously known as the place that many of Hollywood’s actors and actresses make their home (Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio, just to name a few), Malibu is another picturesque, upscale city along Highway 101.

With 21 miles of coastline, Malibu’s natural features are stunning. But the mansions and estates that line the coast and nearby canyons are equally fun to check out.

Wine lovers will be pleased to know that the city is also home to some of the finest wineries in the country. Check out the Cornell Winery and Tasting Room for a tastefully curated selection, or Malibu Wine Safari for a totally unique experience.

Los Angeles: The City of Angels

After quaint beach towns, the traffic and pace of Los Angeles might shock you. But after so much slow-paced solitude, why not also spend time in the City of Angels?

From high-profile tourist destinations like Universal Studios and Rodeo Drive to a saunter through Venice Beach or a hike in celebrity hot spot Runyon Canyon, Los Angeles is hip and beautiful. Much like the people that call the city home.

Whether you arrive by car, foot or horseback, the Hollywood Sign is an iconic symbol of Los Angeles. Perched in the hills high over the city, numerous hiking trails lead to the sign and views of the city.

You can take the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and reach the junction of West Trail and Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail. Just hike one mile with 465 feet of elevation change from Western Canyon. Another option is also 0.2 miles with 65 feet of elevation change from Griffith Observatory.

Or you could also take the Wonder View Trail or Aileen Getty Ridge Trail. They’re about a three miles round trip and begin near Lake Hollywood Drive. Just don’t actually touch the sign once you reach it—or at least don’t get caught touching it!

Huntington Beach: Classic California Vibe

If you’re looking for a city that fully embodies southern California’s beach culture, you won’t find a better spot than Huntington Beach. It’s also known as “Surf City USA.” You’ll find board-toting surfers, smoothie shops and plenty of flip-flop clad locals. In fact, this city is so surf-centric that it’s home to the International Surfing Museum !

One of the best ways to get into the spirit of this classic-Californian beach town is by lighting up a bonfire on Huntington State Beach. A series of concrete fire pits in the sand are up for grabs, so head over at sunset for an epic evening experience.

Laguna Beach: Tide Pools and Marine Life

Laguna Beach is a small coastal city well known for its natural beauty, public beaches and coves. Downtown has blocks of quaint and charming shops, galleries and restaurants. They boast outdoor seating and are perfect to stop for a coffee or a cocktail.

For some beach time, check out the stunning tide pools at Main Beach. Bursting with marine life, these tide pools are like natural aquariums.

For an inviting green space, head to Heisler Park. Perched on a bluff above the beach, it’s a perfect place to enjoy stunning ocean views. You can even cook up some food on one of the public barbecues.

Oceanside is an active, outdoorsy town and recreation opportunities abound here. Visitors can sail, fish, surf, swim, kayak or paddleboard. Or they can bike, walk, run and even skydive on land. In fact, Oceanside is so committed to outdoor recreation that they even host California’s annual Ironman 70.3 competition.

If you feel like ditching four wheels for two, one of Oceanside’s most popular attractions is biking. Keep an eye out for companies offering bike rentals and bike tours. The most popular, SoCal Bike , is located at the Oceanside Transit Center.

Encinitas: Laid Back and Low Key

Just as you’d expect in southern California, there’s no shortage of surf towns in these parts. Encinitas , however, is the only one that was recently named by National Geographic as one of the 20 best surf towns in the world.

This town is an eclectic mix of surf shops, record stores, and sidewalk cafes. It has long attracted surfers and hippies with its low-key, laid-back vibe. It’s certainly a must on your California road trip itinerary.

La Jolla: Come for the Food, Stay for the Beauty

It’s well known for its natural beauty, coastal walking trail, and quaint La Jolla village. But what really stands out about this southern California town is the food. That’s because there are high-end restaurants and beachfront brunch spots galore. And locals in La Jolla don’t mess around with their food.

Make the ultimate California road trip itinerary last a little longer by lingering at one of La Jolla’s restaurants. And thanks to the balmy weather, you’ll be able to snag a seat outdoors year-round.

San Diego: The Last Stop of Your California Road Trip

Well, you’ve done it. Five hundred miles of coastline later, you’ve made it to the final stop. And what better city to end your trip than San Diego , known the world over for its perfect weather and quintessential Californian lifestyle?

Celebrate your California coast trip with one of San Diego’s famous microbrews. Or grab a cocktail at one of the Gaslamp District’s rooftop bars. There you can also take in the beautiful San Diego skyline and start making plans for your next road trip.

Once you have reached the end of an epic road trip, you might be bummed. Consequently, no more sun, sand, towering peaks and (maybe!) a celebrity sighting or two. But do not fret—there’s still over 1,000 miles of Pacific Coast Highway to explore. You’re not even close to done with the West Coast, yet!

• How to Prepare for a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
• Best Adventure Vacations in the USA
• U.S. National Parks That Are Ripe for Adventure
• Epic Stops for Your Death Valley National Park Road Trip

California Road Trip FAQs

What is the best road trip in california.

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is the best road trip in California.

How many days do you need for a California road trip?

I recommend taking at least 5-7 days for a California road trip.

Is a California road trip worth it?

A road trip across California is absolutely worth it and will give you a huge range of memorable experiences.

What is the most scenic drive in California?

The Pacific Coast Highway is the most scenic drive in California.

What is the best time to visit California?

Spring is one of the best seasons to visit California.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Thanks for the useful info! A road trip down the CA coast is on my bucket list!

It’s such a beautiful drive. I hope you make it someday!

Great list! What a road trip. I think I’ve been to nearly all of these places. Two favorites were Big Sur and Hearst Castle

Big Sur and Laguna Beach are my favorites! It’s such a good road trip—so much too see. Almost too much… 😉

I’m finding a post for travel, there has been all information about travel as like your post. I think your post is that one I’m finding. I’m planning a trip with my husband on the beach. After reading your post I selected some beach and collect some information. All list of beaches is nice.

Wonderful Post!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for sharing.

Find information on Santa Clara California hotels, Restaurants, Shopping, what to do and events. For visitors, meeting planners and travel agents.

https://www.santaclara.org/stay/santa-clara-hotels-motels/

How long it takes to do this road trip? If you only have 6 days, which of these places would you choose?

Why start in San Francisco and miss the most beautiful part of California, the northern coast? Start in Crescent City.

Great post! I rented a car in San Jose and plan to make a similar trip. I hope on the road everything will be fine!

I loved Santa Cruz, would love to go back in summer!

I really want to do this trip but I am TERRIFIED of spiders. What are the chances of seeing a tarantula?

Very little! I wouldn’t worry about tarantulas on this trip 😉

I’m going to do this! Thanks for advice!

Fantastic ideas Jeremy. I would definitely add Yosemite even if it means leaving the coast. It was the best place we’ve been to (after Iceland, I have to admit).

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California Road Trip: 15 Stops For Outdoor Adventure

Start planning your next adventure with this roundup of the best California road trip stops.

A California road trip is on many adventurer’s bucket lists. There are endless opportunities for outdoor fun in the Golden State including hiking, backpacking, kayaking, swimming, biking not to mention 9 National Parks – more than any other state. Wherever you go, there is adventure for everyone.

But with so much to offer, how do you choose the best road trip stops? In this post, we share our favorite California road trip destinations including some well-known spots as well as a few off-the-beaten-path gems. So pack your bathing suit and hiking boots, it’s time to hit the road!

Start planning your California road trip with these 15 must-visit stops for outdoor adventurers.

California Road Trip Stops – Mapped

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Coastal California Road Trip Stops

1. highway 1.

Highway 1 is one of California’s most popular road trip highlights, and for good reason. Stretching for 656 miles from Los Angeles to just north of Fort Bragg, Highway 1 hugs the Pacific coast and offers incredible views of rugged coastline and desolate beaches. It also passes through small coastal towns and provides plenty of opportunities for hiking and sightseeing.

Many people drive the full length of Highway 1 for their California road trip adventure, but you can also do a shorter stretch to make room for other stops. Check out our guide to the best time to visit California’s Central Coast to start planning.

Located in the lush hills above Ventura, Ojai is a small town with lots to do and see. While slightly touristy, the boutiques, restaurants, and shops that line the main street are fun to visit and explore. If you’re ready for outdoor adventure, grab some bikes and head to the Ojai Valley Trail . This paved and gravel path meanders through the stunning Ojai Valley and eventually ends in the oceanside town of Ventura 15 miles away. There are also tons of hiking trails in Valley View Preserve just a few miles outside of town.

For more things to do and see in Ojai, check out day 3 of our Central California Coast Road Trip Itinerary .

3. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal town that’s full of Mediterranean style architecture, cute boutiques and restaurants, and outdoor adventure for everyone. Spend the day at one of the city’s beautiful beaches, walk the pier, bike the coastal bike path, hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains for expansive views of town, and wind down with dinner and drinks in the Funk Zone where you’ll find plenty of local wineries and breweries to choose from. For some history, visit Mission Santa Barbara and the Presidio .

While the entire drive along Highway 1 is scenic, you will be blown away by Big Sur. This stretch of road will have you perched high alongside cliffs with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean below. Big Sur is a great place to spend a few days on your California road trip with lots of hiking trails and beautiful beaches all among coast redwood trees and other pines.

Grab breakfast to go at the Big Sur Bakery and visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park where you’ll see the famous McWay Falls drop into the ocean. Andrew Molera State Park has some of our favorite hiking trails in the area. As for beaches, watch for wildlife at Garrapata State Park and lake a long walk on Sand Dollar Beach . Pfeiffer Beach is a popular destination as well but can be difficult to access due to limited parking. Big Sur is very popular so be sure to book your campsites or other lodging in advance.

5. Monterey

Monterey is a small seaside town on the California coast that is famous for its world-renowned aquarium as well as its dedication to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly community. At the Monterey Aquarium , see marine life up close as you learn about regional marine habitats, ongoing research, and conservation efforts including the Sustainable Seafood Watch Program. Tickets are available online and should be reserved well ahead of time (in-person tickets are not available for 2021).

If you want to stretch your legs, check out the free self-guided audio walking tour along Cannery Row or the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail to learn more about the natural and human history of the area. Other outdoor activities in Monterey include mountain biking or hiking at Fort Ord National Monument , whale watching, tide-pooling, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, or just relaxing at one of Monterey’s many beautiful sandy beaches.

6. The Redwoods

A road trip to California wouldn’t be complete without a stop to experience California’s majestic redwood trees. There are several places along the northern California coast where you can view old-growth redwood forests, but one of the best is Humboldt Redwoods State Park which has the largest expanse of ancient redwoods left on the planet. Within the park, drive the impressive 31-mile Avenue of the Giants, hike along one of the many hiking trails, swim in the Eel river, and spend the night among the redwoods at one of the picturesque campsites.

Farther north are the Redwood National and State Parks, a string of protected beaches, grasslands, and forests. Hike through dense old-growth forest at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park , visit the magical Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park , look for Roosevelt elk in Elk Prairie , and marvel at the towering trees along the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail in Redwood National Park .

Southern California Road Trip Stops

7. joshua tree national park.

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit on any southern California road trip. Located about 2 hours east of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree is famous for its unique desert landscape strewn with huge boulders and Dr. Suess-like Joshua Trees. There is plenty to do and see in the park including numerous hikes, backpacking routes, bouldering and climbing, star-gazing, and even wildflower viewing in the spring months. Joshua Tree can get busy so be sure to book your campsite ahead of time.

8. Death Valley National Park

Visit the lowest point in North America: Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. At 282 ft below sea level, this salt flat is a unique and surreal experience. In fact, most of Death Valley is a unique experience. Take in the sweeping vistas atop Dante’s View, hike along the ridges of the Mesquite sand dunes, visit the mineral colored hills on Artist’s Drive, and explore the hidden oasis of Darwin Falls, among many other outdoor adventures.

You’ll want to spend a least a few days in Death Valley, so be sure to follow our 3-Day Death Valley National Park Itinerary to hit all the best spots!

High Sierra Road Trip Stops

9. sequoia & kings canyon national parks.

Located in the southern Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are two separate parks, but due to their proximity to one another, they’re often visited together.

Sequoia National Park is home to two notable natural wonders: Mt. Whitney , the highest peak in the lower 48 states at 14,505 feet above sea level and the General Sherman Tree , the largest tree in the world by volume. Both are impressive sights!

Kings Canyon National Park to the north of Sequoia is also home to the giant trees including the largest remaining grove on the planet at Redwood Canyon . The landscape in Kings Canyon rivals that of Yosemite with towering granite canyon walls, lush meadows, and the picturesque King River that flows throughout the park.

While both parks together make up a whopping 865,964 acres, over 90% of that land is designated wilderness with no roads or vehicle access. There are numerous opportunities for incredible overnight backpacking trips in the backcountry, though, if you want to plan for that on your California road trip.

10. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is famed for its stunning scenery, towering granite cliff walls (including the monoliths of El Capitan and Half Dome), gushing waterfalls, and endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, and sightseeing. The overlooks at Tunnel View and Glacier Point are jaw dropping and once you visit those, grab your hiking shoes and hit the trails. We’ve rounded up the Best Hikes in Yosemite and put together a complete guide on Things to do in Yosemite so you can make the most of your visit.

11. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is an outdoor adventure stop for everyone with summer water-based activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and swimming as well as trail adventures including hundreds of miles of hiking paths and mountain biking singletrack. There are also plenty of great restaurants to eat at, music venues, shops, and more.

While the shores of Lake Tahoe do tend to get busy in the summer, it’s still worth a stop on your California road trip to take a dip in the crystal clear water and enjoy a hike on one of the many trails. Kristen visited Lake Tahoe several years ago for a Phish concert, but ended up staying for two weeks! I’ve visited the area several times to mountain bike and one of my favorite rides is the epic 24-mile Tahoe Rim & Flume Trail .

12. Mammoth Lakes, CA

Mammoth Lakes is a small ski resort town nestled at the base of the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range. It’s a year-round destination with outdoor adventure for every season. Summer and fall are the best times to visit if you plan on hiking. Mammoth Lakes has some of the best access to backcountry trails and alpine lakes in the Eastern Sierra! Check out our post on the Best Hikes in Mammoth Lakes for a local’s recommendation on the most scenic trails.

If you’re a mountain biker, Mammoth Lakes is also home to the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park which has over 80 miles of singletrack to explore. If you’re not into mountain biking, you can still take the gondola to the top and enjoy the incredible views out over the Minarets and the backside of Yosemite Valley.

13. Ancient Bristlecone Forest

Walk among some of the oldest trees in the world at the Ancient Bristlecone Forest above Bishop, California. Some of these trees exceed 4000 years of age and are characterized by their twisted and gnarled trunks and limbs that have been shaped by years of harsh wind.

Visit the Schulman Grove Visitor Center to learn more about these amazing trees and then hike along one of the nearby self-guided hiking trails. You’ll be hiking above 10,000ft, so be sure to bring sun protection and lots of water.

You can also visit the Patriarch Grove 13-miles north on a rough dirt road, which is home to the largest Bristlecone in the world, the Patriarch Tree.

The road into the Ancient Bristlecone Forest is closed in the winter due to snow. Also, make sure you have a full tank of gas before setting off.

Northern California Road trip stops

14. lassen volcanic national park.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is an intriguing stop for any northern California road trip. Rich in hydrothermal sites including roaring fumaroles (steam and volcanic-gas vents), bubbling mud pots, boiling pools, and steaming ground, it’s a one-of-a-kind destination. Visit Bumpass Hell and Sulphur Works to get a glimpse of volcanism in action and take a walk along one of the short loops to explore steam vents and boiling pools.

Always stay on the main hiking trails to avoid getting severely burned or injured. Some cauldrons can reach temperatures of over 125 degrees!

Once you’ve visited the hydrothermal sites, Lassen Volcanic National Park is also home to many coldwater lakes for swimming or paddleboarding, numerous trails for day hiking, and opportunities for backcountry wilderness backpacking.

15. Lava Beds National Monument

Located in northern California near the Oregon state line, Lava Beds National Monument is home to many interesting geological and historical sites. With more than 800 caves, several Native American rock art depictions, historic battlefields, and volcanic landscapes, there’s high desert outdoor adventure for everyone.

One of the most popular ways to explore the area is through the numerous caves and lava tubes . These caves were formed thousands of years ago as lava flowed from Medicine Lake Volcano and cooled throughout the surrounding plains. There are caves for all levels of exploration from least challenging to most challenging. Be sure to bring proper equipment like flashlights, helmets, warm clothing layers, and maps.

What are your favorite California road trip stops? Which ones are on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!

After college and a few stints abroad, Becky landed a job with a fleet of National Geographic cruise ships, spending the next 10 years sailing the world. She now adventures from the seat of her bike (and a RAM ProMaster), helping us keep all of our content up to date and relevant here at Bearfoot Theory. Her blog — Two Wheeled Wanderer, — inspires more people to explore the world on two wheels.

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Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Countless songs have been sung about California. It's a land of dreams and opportunity; innovation and enchantment. On this 12-day road trip around the length and breadth of the Golden State, you'll see why it's been a muse to so many and agree with the State Motto – “Eureka!”

On this ultimate California Road trip start on the sun-filled shores of SoCal, drive by the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur to San Francisco, admire the Redwoods, explore distant peaks in the Sierra and be embraced by the solitude of the Mojave Desert.

This curated 12-day itinerary covers as many of the state's varied landscapes as possible – with helpful tips on where to stop and spend the night. Read on below to start planning your own ultimate California road trip.

What is the ultimate California road trip itinerary?

The ultimate California road trip itinerary covers a total distance of 2,455 miles and would take a whopping 55 hours to drive nonstop. We suggest breaking up the drive over 12 days; this makes the average drive time about 4 hours and 30 minutes per day.

Some days entail as much as 7 hours of driving and others are as short as two, so read carefully to see where you'll have more time in a day to explore and note where you might want to spend more than one night if a lot of the previous day was spent driving.

The ultimate road trip itinerary in California

From gorgeous beaches on the sunny Pacific Coast to the towering redwood forests, majestic Sierra Mountain range and breathtaking scenery of Lake Tahoe, this road trip itinerary features the best things to do on the ultimate California road trip.

You can add detours and more days to your itinerary, but we strongly suggest visiting all the places highlighted on the map above for the best experience and an epic Californian adventure.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your ultimate California road trip, why not take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Day 1: Driving from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach

On your very first day on the road, you'll cover 180 miles from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach, which should take around 3 hours and 15 minutes of driving, mostly along the glistening coast.

Road trip route from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach

You'll pass quite a few SoCal hot spots on this first leg of the trip, including Malibu, Ventura, and Santa Barbara as you follow CA Route 1 (CA-1) North, Pacific Coast Highway, all the way to Pismo Beach .

If you'd like to learn more about driving on the Pacific Coast Highway, check out our comprehensive guide .

Things to explore on the way to Pismo Beach

Especially if you are an avid hiker, you won't want to miss Point Mugu State Park on your way north from Los Angeles. Just past Malibu, this state park has over 70 miles of gorgeous hiking and biking trails traversing the coastal hills at the northern end of the Santa Monica Mountains.

The popular Chumash Trail is accessible right off the Pacific Coast Highway. If you're feeling ambitious, do the Mugu Peak Trail. From the modest 1,266-foot elevation, you get sweeping panoramic views of the coast and La Jolla Valley; on a clear day, you can even see the Channel Islands!

If you know anything about California, then you know Santa Barbara is one of the cutest coastal cities in the south of California where you can enjoy the best beaches, wine, and nightlife.

This city makes the most of its enviable warm climate; you can lounge along the broad Leadbetter Beach or walk with an ice cream cone up and down Sterns Wharf.

In town, phenomenal food and wine await you along State Street; some of the best places are in the aptly named, and colorful, Funk Zone.

Santa Barbara is also famed for its Spanish Colonial style of architecture, and you can see great examples of it in the Old Mission as well as in the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Where to stay in Pismo Beach: a dune-buggy destination

One of the most idyllic and popular towns on the central coast, Pismo Beach is one of the few places where you can drive a dune buggy on the beach, see migrating Monarch butterflies, and enjoy a stellar local wine over the sunset.

The Inn at the Cove maximizes the breathtaking coastal vistas of Pismo Beach and is conveniently located off the Pacific Coast Highway. Along with all the standard amenities you would expect at a mid-range hotel, you can also book an in-room spa treatment or massage.

Many of their king rooms have private patios where you can continue to unwind after a long drive with a juicy local pinot noir. Across the highway, you'll find the Pismo Preserve, an abode of coastal serenity and a great place for a vigorous morning walk.

Day 2: Driving from Pismo Beach to Monterey

The second day of driving is slightly shorter at 150 miles, which will take around 3 hours and 30 minutes. You will drive past the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, past scenic Bixby Bridge and admire the crystal-clear ocean views in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

READ MORE - Our Guide to Pismo Beach

Road trip route from Pismo Beach to Monterey

You can look forward to more breathtaking coastal vistas as you continue driving north along US Route 101 North and CA-1. This is a particularly isolated stretch of road once you leave San Luis Obispo you likely won't find another gas station until you get to Big Sur.

Keep in mind that part of this route on the Pacific Coast Highway is currently closed due to rockslides and you might have to make an inland detour to get to Monterey.

Things to explore on the way to Monterey

There are many must-see stops all along the mythically beautiful coast of Big Sur, where mountains meet the sea. The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is much more accessible than the sprawling Peiffer Big Sur State Park and is located right on the coast.

Here you'll find that postcard-perfect McWay Cove Beach with its graceful waterfall.

Further north, treat yourself to some lip-smacking baked goods from the hamlet of Big Sur and make your way to Pfeiffer Beach. Here the sand has a purplish hue from the Manganese garnet cliffs that formed it. Don't miss out on taking a photo of the famous Keyhole Arch while you're here.

The old-world charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a nice change of scenery along a coast known for innovation and new-age eccentricities. Around the immaculate Carmel Plaza, you'll find multiple Michelin Star restaurants and tasting rooms showcasing the area's notable wines.

If you'd prefer a laid-back picnic followed by a hike, then you have a few outstanding options like Garrapata State Park, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and the powdery white sands of Carmel Beach.

Where to stay in Monterey: a sea view over cypress trees

A small, seaside town adjacent to Monterey, Pacific Grove is rustic and relaxing. The main attractions of Monterey are a moderate walk or a short drive away. Make the most of staying on this pleasant spot along the coast at the Seven Gables Inn .

This boutique property is meticulously maintained to take your breath away at every step.

All the common areas and many rooms have fantastic views of the cypress-lined Monterey coast. As if it couldn't get any better, they offer a scrumptious continental breakfast bathed in the coastal light to fully energize you for the next day of driving.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

We highly recommend visiting Monterey State Beach before you leave the city.

Day 3: Driving from Monterey to Sonoma

This is another moderate day of driving 160 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. If you don't hit any traffic along the way, then it should take 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Keep in mind that you'll be passing through the San Francisco Bay Area, so traffic in the mornings and evenings around commute time will be substantial. Traffic aside, it is a beautiful and diverse landscape that makes for a beautiful drive.

Road trip route from Monterey to Sonoma

Start driving north of Monterey on CA-1, this takes you past Santa Cruz, San Gregorio State Beach, and Half Moon Bay into San Francisco.

There's plenty to see here, in case you want to stay a day or two. Take US-101 North across the Golden Gate Bridge, then continue past San Rafael and navigate to CA Routes 121 and 12 to get to Sonoma.

Things to explore on the way to Sonoma

Santa Cruz is a popular weekend destination for people from the Bay Area and we can see why. Even though Southern California has arguably better weather for surfing, Santa Cruz is where this free-spirited water sport took root in the mainland US.

At Steamers Lane, a famous surf spot in the north of town, there's a quirky museum inside a lighthouse where you can learn about the area's connection to the sport dating back to the 1930s.

Santa Cruz is also famous for its Beach Boardwalk, one of the oldest amusement parks in the state featuring classic rides like the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. A pro tip for a great time in Santa Cruz: recharge with a warm cup of Pu-erh or green tea at the Hidden Peak Teahouse.

After exploring Santa Cruz drive another hour and a half north to reach San Francisco. This world-famous city has been booming and innovating for over a century.

Filled with colorful Victorian homes, distinctive neighborhoods, every kind of tasty ethnic cuisine, and major landmarks like Coit Tower, Pier 39, and Alcatraz, you might want to consider more than one night here if you have the time.

If you want to see a historic neighborhood, award-winning museum, and gorgeous park all in one go, then head to Haight-Ashbury to pay tribute to the godfathers of psychedelic rock, then walk through Golden Gate Park to the De Young Museum and admire their distinctive art collection.

On the other side of town, along the bay, grab an expensive-but-worth-it treat at the Embarcadero Market in the Ferry Building then walk along the piers before heading to the heart of the city for some shopping in union Square.

Where to stay in Sonoma: the golden heart of Wine Country

Sonoma is the flagship town of California Wine Country. The many varieties grown here pair well with farm-to-table cuisine available on every corner and the golden rolling hills that surround the area.

We recommend checking out a wonderful boutique hotel here that gives you a glimpse of the best of California living. The rooms of the Cottage Inn & Spa include bungalow-style cottages encircling a courtyard with a beautiful fountain at the center.

Whether you feel like an aromatherapy session or need some deep-tissue work done, their on-site spa has you covered.

It is just a 5-minute walk from Sonoma Plaza. Especially since this is a destination with too many wine-tasting opportunities to count, it is safe and convenient to place to stay within walking distance of all the major tasting rooms.

Day 4: Driving from Sonoma to Mendocino

On this day you'll drive for 140 miles back over to the coast and continue your northward journey along the rugged and breathtaking Sonoma coast. This drive will also take around 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Road trip route from Sonoma to Mendocino

From Sonoma, take CA Route 116 West through Petaluma and hop on Valley Ford Road to CA-1 North in Bodega Bay. From there, drive past Sonoma Coast State Park and Point Arena all the way to Mendocino.

Things to explore on the way to Mendocino

Beyond being the harbor side town where Hitchcock's “Birds” was filmed, Bodega Bay offers charm and opportunities for enjoying the outdoors in equal measure. One of the best local trails leads to the Bodega Head, the hilly tip of a small peninsula that has phenomenal 360-degree views.

If the water is just too tempting, this is also a great place to try kayaking on the scenic waters of the bay. For a delectable lunch in Bodega Bay, consider splurging on the Michelin-rated Terrapin Creek Café or get your seafood fix at Spud Point Crab Company.

A little further north, Salt Point State Park makes for the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs while walking along the Mendocino coast for an hour or two. The trails of this park take you through the dense evergreen forest that gives way to rugged cliffs and the roiling ocean.

This constant bombardment by the waves has sculpted the rocks and tide pools below into the most wondrous formations. Watching wave after wave crash and dissolve into frothy white foam is truly mesmerizing.

Where to stay in Mendocino: between rivers big and small

Mendocino is an isolated town at the mouth of a river that has a unique, East Coast aesthetic that stands out on the Pacific Coast. In addition to superior dining and whale-watching opportunities, the Mendocino Headlands State Park has fantastic trails that follow the Big River as it forms an estuary before merging with the ocean.

Just a little before you reach Mendocino, keep an eye out for Little River and the wonderfully bucolic SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm . It is only a 5-minute drive from the adorable downtown Mendocino area but offers better beach access than most places in town.

We couldn't get over the chance to wake up to a view of llamas overlooking the Pacific Ocean. After enjoying an artisanal breakfast at the inn, you can also walk directly through farm grounds to Van Damme State Beach and through the Spring Ranch Nature Preserve to more pristine coastal outlooks.

Day 5: Driving from Mendocino to Klamath

Today's drive is a little longer at 4 hours and 15 minutes and covers a distance of 210 miles. It takes you deeper into the foggy northern extremes of the redwood curtain.

Road trip route from Mendocino to Klamath

Take CA-1 North from Mendocino and follow it as it wanders inland and merges with US-101 North in Leggett. Here it continues north, but we recommend hopping on CA-254, also called the Avenue of Giants scenic road, just before Phillipsville.

This stunning road through the ancient redwood forests is worth the extra miles and the road eventually re-joins US-101 North just before the town of Stafford. Stay on US-101 North as it heads back towards the coast, past Eureka and Arcata, to Klamath.

Things to explore on the way to Klamath

Eureka is an underrated north coast town that we think is worth a visit. Once a booming port town that shipped lumber from the expansive interior forests to all corners of the globe, the wealth of Eureka's heyday is reflected in the many ornate Victorian homes you can see here.

The historic waterfront is a great place to stop for lunch and wander the docks for an afternoon. In nearby Arcata, there's a more “granola” vibe, with organic markets, Finnish saunas, and a rainbow of characters you can see on any given day in the square.

The biggest attractions in Humboldt County are Redwood National and State Parks. All along the California Coast, you can find Sequoia groves, but the old-growth forests preserved in Redwood National and State Parks are on a whole different level.

Once you pass through the entrance near Orick, you'll feel as if you've been transported back to the Jurassic Age when life was lived on a larger scale. No part of the park embodies this more than Fern Canyon, so be sure to see this when you come to the park.

The 1.4-mile-long trail through Lady Bird Johnson Grove is another easily accessible and breathtaking hike you should do while you're here.

Where to stay in Klamath: the very north of the North Coast

Trinidad is a small town located near Klamath with gorgeous beaches which overlook towering outcrops in the ocean. It is slightly more built up than Klamath, with cafes and markets, which make it a better place to spend some time and stock up on a long trip.

The ranch-style View Crest Lodge operates between a more standard hotel space and several independent cottages spread over verdant grounds, with trails leading deeper into the surrounding redwoods or the beach.

Its quiet location will allow you to fully take in the splendor of the Humboldt coast and the tasty breakfast will have you contemplating spending another night here.

Day 6: Driving from Klamath to Mineral

Today's drive is a 340-mile, 6-hours 30-minutes long haul to the northernmost point in the route which will take you briefly across the Oregon border before you start heading southeast as you start the other half of the state-wide loop.

Road trip route from Klamath to Mineral

After savoring some final glances of the NorCal coast in Klamath, take US-101 North through Crescent City to US Route 199 North to O'Brien, Oregon. From there, take Waldo Road and Greyback Road south to the California border and continue on towards Happy Camp.

Navigate to CA Route 96 East and take that from Happy Camp to Yreka, where you'll be able to get on Interstate 5 and continue driving south past the towering Mt. Shasta. Once you get to Redding, look for CA Routes 44 and 36 which will take you east to Mineral.

Things to explore on the way to Mineral

Just before Crescent City, look out for Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. This is a great place to enjoy a final romp in the coastal redwoods before this route takes you inland.

There are several trails that start from the visitor center, and you will be overcome with the grace of these gentle giants from your first step in the park.

Some trails lead to the ocean and others meander along streams deep in the forest. The redwood curtain is known for wet conditions, so make sure you have some light rain gear to stay dry on a magical, misty trail.

Both the rural town of Mt. Shasta and the towering Volcano of the same name are both worth checking out as you pass by them along I-5. The town is filled with a variety of home-town dining options from casual grills and burger joints to Indian food.

In case you wanted to learn more about this area, which has been revered as a cosmic center by several Native American tribes and settled by people of European ancestry in the late 19th century, head to the Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum.

In case you're itching to stretch your legs, nearby Lake Siskiyou has several pretty trails which offer incredible views of Mt. Shasta. There are even more hiking, biking, and backpacking opportunities a little to the south of Mt. Shasta in Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Where to stay in Mineral: get acquainted with the high Sierras

Mill Creek is another small town, like Mineral, which sits near the entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park in the northern Sierra Nevada Mountain range.

In addition to providing easy access to the nearby national park, the Village at Childs Meadow offers incredibly comfy beds that will be incredibly welcoming after a long day's drive.

Many rooms also have a patio that looks out over the peaks of Lassen. There's also a little market at the property which is incredibly convenient given the limited services and amenities in the surrounding area.

Day 7: Driving from Mineral to Lake Tahoe

The drive from Mineral to Lake Tahoe is a bit easier than the previous days, but you'll still need to be alert and drive carefully on these mountain roads. It will take you just over 4 hours to complete this 180-mile section of the trip.

Road trip route from Mineral to Lake Tahoe

From Mineral, drive via CA-36 East to CA-89 South which will take you through Plumas National Forest to Truckee. From Truckee, head across the Nevada border to Incline Village, then hop on NV-28 South along the lake, which joins with US-50 South.

This will take you through Zephyr Cove and to South Lake Tahoe, which sits on the California border.

Things to explore on the way to Lake Tahoe

You can't come this far north without seeing Lassen Volcanic National Park. With dozens of geothermal features like geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, Lassen is California's own version of Yellowstone.

One of the most popular areas to see these natural wonders is the trail through Bumpass Hell. Another, more accessible, place to see the earth venting off some steam is Sulphur Works.

In addition to these more exotic features, Lassen Volcanic National Park is simply a stunning mountainous area with grand views, miles of hiking trails, and revitalizing high-altitude air.

Truckee is a typical, small Sierra town with a fascinating history going back to the earliest days of the European-American settlement of the region.

Truckee is most well known for being the area near Donner Pass where the infamous Donner Party met with disaster. You can visit the nearby pass as well as a memorial museum in the town itself.

The charming, historic main drag of Truckee along Donner Pass Road is worthwhile walking around. This is a great spot to grab lunch, coffee, or a sip of microbrew before heading off to Tahoe. In case you're making this trip in the winter and are an avid skier,

Truckee is close to some of North Tahoe's best slopes, including NorthStar.

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe: enveloped in evergreen

South Lake Tahoe is the more happening side of the lake where you can try your luck or catch a show at a casino, as well as enjoy the abundant natural beauty of this incredible alpine region.

From the moment you arrive at the Black Bear Lodge, you'll be enveloped in that old Tahoe feel , but one with all the right updates. While the common areas and pool have that wooden, rustic charm, the rooms are clean, spacious, and modern.

Many also have attached patios so you can look out into the evergreen forest and unwind over a hot cocoa or brew of your choice in peace.

Located just a few blocks from the lakeshore and less than two miles to the main downtown area, the location makes it easy to explore the area on foot if you'd like to take a break from driving.

Day 8: Driving from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite

This is a straightforward 110-mile drive towards Lee Vining and Yosemite National Park that will take you 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Road trip route from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park

From South Lake Tahoe, you'll hop briefly back over the border to Nevada and get on US-395 South in Gardnerville, NV. This route takes you east of the Sierra highlands to Lee Vining and the back entrance to Yosemite.

Things to explore on the way to Yosemite National Park

Who doesn't love nature's spa? Travertine Hot Springs are isolated thermal pools that attract a surprising number of visitors. Still, there are many springs with varying temperatures, so you can easily find one to your liking that doesn't feel crowded.

If the natural hot tubs themselves aren't enough to melt away any accumulated stress, then the stunning views will make you feel like you've reached a heavenly land.

Lee Vining is about a half an hour drive from the Tioga Pass entrance of the incomparable Yosemite National Park. The most popular attraction on this side of the park is the idyllic Tuolumne Meadows.

Far fewer visitors come via this entrance, compared to the Yosemite Valley side, so you won't get caught up in the crowds, even if you're making this trip during the summer.

The drive itself over Tioga Pass is stunning and there are places to stop, enjoy the view, and even hike in case you didn't feel like paying the $35 entrance fee at Yosemite.

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park: adventure beyond the park's bounds

Set against the rugged ridges of the Sawtooth Mountain range, Bridgeport has a special place in the heart of all Californian outdoor adventurers who have had the good fortune to find it. Here we recommend staying at the Silver Maple Inn and The Cain House Country Suites .

This has a classic motel vibe with nicely maintained interiors giving the inn a more polished feel than most motels. It is located just 26 miles from the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite, which you might want to see in the morning rather than when you just arrive.

If you happen to arrive with some extra time and energy on hand, they have free bikes for guests to use to explore the beautiful surroundings of Bridgeport.

Day 9: Driving from Yosemite National Park to Bakersfield

On this day you'll log more time on the road than usual, with this leg of the route taking 6 hours to drive, covering approximately 350 miles.

Road trip route from Yosemite National Park to Bakersfield

Get back on US-395 and drive south to Lone Pine. Here you can take country roads towards Panamint Springs and Death Valley if you wanted to include this as a stop on your trip.

To get to Bakersfield from here, drive towards Searles and CA-14. Take this towards the town of Mojave, then hop on CA-58 West to Bakersfield.

Things to explore on the way to Bakersfield

The massive Inyo National Forest is the most visited in California, attracting over 4 million people each year, and with good reason. Inyo is home to Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S. as well as eye-catching geological formations like Banner Peak.

There are abundant backpacking opportunities in the various wilderness areas that lie within the national monument, like the stunning Ansel Adams Wilderness.

Inyo is also home to some of the oldest trees on the planet. While the Ancient Bristlecone Pine forest is a good two-hour hike into the park, it is the chance of a lifetime to see these ancient trees up close.

While visiting Death Valley National Park would likely involve another night's stop before heading on to Bakersfield, it is yet another area of rare natural beauty that you'll probably regret not seeing if you had the chance.

Within its 3 million acres you can visit the lowest point in America at the Badwater Basin salt flats, trace the trails of moving rocks at the Racetrack Playa, and see kaleidoscopic hillsides at Artists Palette.

There's even evidence of relatively recent volcanic activity in the form of the Ubehebe Crater, which measures half a mile across and was likely formed just 2,100 years ago.

Of course in the spring a sight you can't miss are the dozens of species of wildflowers that crop up if there have been enough winter rains. What you see here will forever change your perception of the desert as a barren place.

Where to stay in Bakersfield: experience a bit of Country out West

Bakersfield is the industrial and economic hub in the heart of California's fertile Central Valley. It's also renowned for its country music scene and has a few pockets of vibrant nightlife as well.

Conveniently located in downtown Bakersfield, the Padre Hotel is a historic property with a modern interior. It has on-site parking, so you can give the wheels a break and explore the city on foot.

Attractions like the Bakersfield Museum of Art and the historic Fox Theater are both nearby. In case you're tuckered out and prefer a night in, their restaurant Belvedere is one of the best in town for a delicious dinner.

Day 10: Driving from Bakersfield to Palm Springs

On this drive back into the desert you'll cover 325 miles, which should take you about 6 hours. In terms of scenery, this is not the most exciting day of driving, so have a few episodes of your favorite podcast downloaded and ready to go.

Road trip route from Bakersfield to Palm Springs

From Bakersfield, take CA-58 West to Barstow then hop on CA-34 towards Yucca Valley and the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. You can drive all the way through the park on Pinto Basin Road and Cottonwood Springs Road, which will take you to I-10.

Take I-10 West towards Coachella and Palm Springs.

Things to explore on the way to Palm Springs

Though there aren't many major attractions on the stretch of road leading out of Bakersfield, a few local gems can be found in the heart of tiny Tehachapi, which you'll pass before Barstow and the route into Joshua Tree.

Housed in a beautiful Art Deco building that dates to the 1920s, the Tehachapi Heritage League Museum lays out the natural and native history of this quiet pocket of Central California.

In case you simply can't get enough of mountainous trails through the forest, check out Tehachapi Mountain Park to the south of the town.

Until recently Joshua Tree National Park was only on the radar of particularly outgoing outdoors people and eccentrics from SoCal. Now it is one of the most popular and photographed national parks in the state.

In addition to the spikey and spindly Joshua trees themselves, there are gardens of Cholla cactus and maze-like rock formations along the Skull Rock trail. One of the most accessible and rewarding trails to do here, especially if you're just stopping by for a day, is the Hidden Valley Nature Trail.

Where to stay in Palm Springs: relax under the desert sky

Palm Springs was once an exclusive getaway for the stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood; now it's a place for rejuvenation that welcomes people from all walks of life.

Palm Springs has no dearth of adorable boutique hotels and spas, yet the Fleur Noire Hotel stood out with its bold floral designs , great fire pit for some evening socializing, and lovely pool area. The staff are incredibly welcoming and pay close attention to detail, so you'll be in excellent hands once you arrive.

Day 11: Driving from Palm Springs to San Diego

On this day you'll drive an easy 180 miles from the desert back to the fresh Pacific Coast, which will take 3 hours and 20 minutes. Try to avoid reaching San Diego during the peak afternoon commute time of 4-7 pm.

Road trip route from Palm Springs to San Diego

From Palm Springs head east along I-10 then go south on CA-86 towards Salton City. Look out for CA Route 78 West and take that road past Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Once you reach Descanso Junction, take Interstate 8 West all the way to San Diego.

Things to explore on the way to San Diego

The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is full of surprises. Spread over 600,000 acres, this state park features several different kinds of desert habitats and boasts 12 wilderness areas.

It's possible to spot roadrunners, bighorn sheep, kit foxes, mule deer, iguanas and even red diamond rattlesnakes, so be sure to keep your eyes on the trail as you explore.

There are features you can enjoy all throughout the year like the hike to Slot Canyon or the Fonts Point overlook, but this place really comes to life during the spring.

From January to mid-April the canyon floors become a patchwork of yellow, white, and purple as dormant wildflower seeds briefly wake up to transform the desert landscape, making this a must-see stop on a spring road trip.

If you want to learn more, you can find our guide on the best road trips to see the superbloom locations in California here .

A little closer to San Diego, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is one of those state parks that you could easily overlook, but you'd be missing out. With steams, oak and pine-covered rolling hills, and miles of gorgeous trails you could be forgiven for thinking you're back in the Sierra foothills.

Whether you're rearing to go bouldering on some outcrops, hike to a picturesque pond, admire the deep-red bark of manzanitas, or just stop here to picnic and make use of the well-maintained bathrooms, a few hours here will do your mind and body good.

Where to stay in San Diego: the city of surf and sun

Coronado is on a thin peninsula that forms the San Diego Bay, so staying here will have you as close to the warmest waters in California as you can be.

Just walking distance from one of San Diego's most popular urban beaches, the Hotel Marisol Coronado offers a personal touch that will have you feeling relaxed and ready to explore sunny San Diego.

You can take your time getting here as they offer a 24-hour front desk service. Once you've settled in, consider renting one of the complimentary bikes to explore Coronado or take it easy watching the sunset by the beach.

From here it's easy to enjoy the best that the city has to offer since it is just a 10–15-minute drive on the freeway to places like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.

Day 12: Driving from San Diego to Los Angeles

This final day's driving distance is modest at 125 miles but that can take anywhere from 2 hours to 4 hours to cover depending on the traffic. As your trip literally comes full circle, you'll be able to savor every moment of beach culture and urban chic that SoCal is famous for.

Road trip route from San Diego to Los Angeles

You can take Interstate 5 North all the way from San Diego to Los Angeles. This freeway stays right on the coast as it passes Del Mar, Oceanside, and San Clemente, then it heads inland through Anaheim to reach downtown Los Angeles.

Things to explore on the way to Los Angeles

Both San Diego and Los Angeles have amazing beaches, but Oceanside is a town that lives and breathes beach culture. Surfing and simply being on the beach is such a central component of life here that it was deemed a California Cultural District in 2017.

The California Surf Museum aims to preserve and explore the unique boarding culture shared by both skateboarding and surfing throughout Southern California.

By far one of the must-see local haunts of the Oceanside Municipal Fishing Pier, one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast. It's lined with shops and vendors so you can get your snack on while you people watch and wait for the next big catch.

It might seem a bit cliché, but a stop by Disneyland in Anaheim can really lift the spirits and act as the capstone to a quintessentially Californian road trip.

Disneyland has always been intended as a place where people of all ages can immerse themselves in fantasy and fun, but recently they've made adult-oriented additions like a Star Wars-themed bar and the luxurious Tenaya Spa.

Then of course there are the rides, the characters, and the chance to feel like a kid all over again.

Where to stay in Los Angeles: find your place among the stars

Nestled in the hills between Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, Westwood Village is a gorgeous home base that's close to many of Tinsel Town's major attractions.

In addition to having that classy feeling created by ample hardwood interior finishes, the Plaza la Reina is a comfortable place to spend a few days at the end of your whirlwind trip around the Golden State.

Many rooms have kitchenettes, but our absolute favorite amenity was the on-site washing machines. It is set in a pleasant and safe neighborhood that's perfect for morning walks and it is less than five miles from must-see Los Angeles attractions like Sunset Boulevard and the Getty Museum.

Things to see on the ultimate road trip in California

This trip is the perfect opportunity to take your time and discover the many sides of California. In addition to the main stops, we've given for each day of the trip above, try to see some of these gems as well.

• Malibu - Just north of Santa Monica, there's a lot more to Malibu than celebrity homes. The broad and sandy Zuma Beach is inviting on any day and the cliffs of Point Dume are worth exploring as well.
• San Luis Obispo - This college town a little inland from Pismo Beach has a wonderfully walkable downtown set alongside a creek and features an 18th-century Spanish mission you can tour.
• San Simeon - Perched on the central coast, here you can see an elephant seal rookery from a safe distance or head for the hills and take a tour of the elaborate Hearst Castle.
• The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park - This refreshing state park southeast of Santa Cruz is filled with wandering trails, some challenging changes in elevation, redwoods, and bright yellow banana slugs. For those interested, it was also the center of the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989.
• Half Moon Bay - This charming coastal town north of Santa Cruz has a lovely little marina and pier. If you drive inland along Highway 92 there are some incredible nurseries and craft studios.
• Muir Woods - This enchanting grove of coastal redwoods is a popular weekend excursion, so try to visit on a weekday if you can. Nearby Mill Valley is an adorable town that also makes a good breakfast or lunch spot as you drive north from San Francisco.
• Point Arena - Here you can find a well-preserved lighthouse and museum. From the top, there are breathtaking views of the Mendocino coast.
• Avenue of the Giants - This 31-mile stretch of scenic highway lies parallel to US Route 101 and will have you slowing down to admire the towering trees on either side of the road.
• Luffenholtz Beach - This rugged beach north of Arcata, just before you reach Trinidad, is a wonderful place for a morning stroll and casual tide pool gazing. Steep stairs lead down to the beach, which is rarely crowded.
• Happy Camp - On the long drive through a winding, mountainous road between Klamath and Mineral, Happy Camp is a convenient place to stop and refuel. There's a statue of the legendary Big Foot here, in case you'd like to get a picture with a local celebrity.
• Redding - This sunny mountain town is a hub where you can get a gourmet meal and enjoy creature comforts that are few and far between in the vast forests of Northern California.
• Zephyr Cove, Nevada -Before you reach the relatively Built-up area of South Lake Tahoe, stop by Zephyr Cove to swim, sunbathe, and relax with the heavenly views over Lake Tahoe among minimal crowds.
• Bridgeport - Though too small to be called a town, Bridgeport was established in the mid-19th century and has a quaint, historic main street that speaks to its more populated past. It is surrounded by mountains and wide meadows and is a great base for day hikes and excursions in the surrounding wilderness.
• Mono Lake - This saline, high-altitude lake serves as a unique habitat for dozens of bird species and other wildlife. You can learn more about the natural history of the lake at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center then wander the lake-side trails of the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve.
• Mammoth Lakes and Mountain - A beloved eastern Sierra ski spot, this is a stunning place to visit any time of the year. Hike through the pine-scented air to get unbelievable views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
• Devils Postpile National Monument - If you're an aficionado of the odd geological formation, then make sure you drive the few extra miles behind Mammoth Lakes to see this exquisite example of columnar basalt. Nearby, you can also walk parts of the John Muir and Pacific Coast trails and see Rainbow Falls.
• California Route 66 Museum - Not far from Barstow you can pay homage to the great American tradition of road-tripping and see every kind of road sign and a few vintage vehicles at this museum with just the right amount of kitsch.
• Whitewater Preserve - Explore another stunning desert area near Palm Springs, filled with more colorful flora and water features than you might expect.
• Surfing Heritage and Culture Center - A little inland from San Clemente, this small museum has been curated with love and offers an amazing selection of surfboards and memorabilia from surfing legends.
• San Juan Capistrano - This slightly inland town is most famous for the intricate beauty of the Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano. While the swallows no longer nest here, it is a stunning example of religious architecture on the West Coast.

Best time to go on the ultimate road trip in California

California is a famously sunny state with winters that are much milder than elsewhere in the States, so this is really a trip you could make at any time of the year.

The only caveat is that some of the roads between Mineral and Lee Vining, basically the eastern Sierra portion of the trip, face multiple road closures from November to May so you'll want to plan your trip with this in mind.

Traveling in winter

If winter is the only time you have to explore, or if you were interested in hitting the slopes on some parts of the trip, you could do a modified version of the route we've outlined.

From South Lake Tahoe, take the Golden Chain Highway (CA-49) through several Gold Rush Era towns to get to the Big Oak Flats Entrance of Yosemite. From here you could head to Bakersfield and take a detour east to Death Valley National Park or continue the original route to Palm Springs.

Traveling in summer

For swimming on the coast and being able to adventure in the highest reaches of Lassen and Yosemite National Parks, the summer would be the best time to do this trip.

The only drawbacks are that attractions in major cities might get crowded and some of the desert locations might be too hot to visit during most of the day.

Traveling in spring or fall

While the high-altitude roads will still be closed in the early spring, the late spring could be an ideal time to do this trip, with warm weather interspersed with light showers on the north coast and some lingering wildflowers by the time you reach the southern deserts.

The mid-fall around October, is another surprisingly great time for this trip. You would maximize your chance of seeing clear coastal views along the north coast, be able to access mountain passes before the heavy snow starts and get temperate weather for outdoor activities all over the state.

In addition to timing your trip to coincide with spring blooms or October skies, consider including a few concerts or festivals along the way.

In addition to gigantic festivals like Coachella, which happens in April, there are smaller ones like Outsidelands in San Francisco which takes place every August and the Monterey Jazz Festival in September.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A Two Week California Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 19, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 114 Comments

The United States is pretty much the perfect country to road trip in, with great roads, cheap gas and hundreds of gorgeous destinations to choose from. It’s no wonder that a California road trip is on many visitors to-do lists!

We’ve taken a number of fantastic US road trips , including Route 66 , the Pacific Coast Highway , the Oregon Trail and a route through the Deep South , and have never failed to have an amazing time.

One of our favourite states to explore though has to be California. With a mix of an excellent climate, some of the best National Parks in the country, and world-famous cities to explore, you’re never going to run short of things to do in California.

With this in mind, I wanted to put together a classic two week California road trip itinerary, taking in some of the best that the sunshine state has to offer. I did a trip almost exactly the same as this a few years back, so I know that it’s a good one.

Two weeks is also a good amount of time for a trip like this, although you could of course extend it by a few days if you wanted to see a bit more, or wanted to go a bit slower.

California Road Trip Itinerary

This California road trip itinerary has you starting and finishing in San Francisco. As it’s a loop, you could also start and finish at any other point. If you would prefer another starting location, LA would be the most logical.

The route runs anti-clockwise, but you are welcome to drive it in whichever direction you prefer!

San Francisco – 3 Days

We’re going to start our California road trip with three days in San Francisco. San Francisco is home to the second largest airport in California, so there are plenty of opportunities for getting here for both domestic and international travellers.

San Francisco, and the surrounding San Francisco Bay Area is also an excellent city to base yourself for your first three days.

If you’re arriving internationally, you’re going to want a few days to adjust to the time zone difference before hopping into a car. For this reason, I’m going to recommend spending three nights in San Francisco, and picking up your hire car as you leave. You won’t want (or need!) a car while you’re in the city – parking is expensive and there are plenty of other options to get around.

You won’t be short on things to do in San Francisco, and in fact, might feel a little overwhelmed by all the choices!

Our suggestions would be to take in the Golden Gate bridge (hire a bike to get here easily), explore Chinatown, pop across to Alcatraz , revel in the tourist trap that is Fisherman’s Wharf, don’t miss golden gate park , head to the top of Nob Hill for cocktails at The Mark, hop on a cable car and, if you still have time, take a stroll at Lands End.

To get yourself oriented, we can also recommend taking a walking tour with the excellent SFNative folks, they know the city backwards. Finally, if you’re looking for some great photo opportunities, check out our guide to the best photography locations in San Francisco .

Accommodation wise, there are plenty of options in San Francisco. Here are some of our favourite picks for your stay, across a range of budgets.

• HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel – found right on Fisherman’s Wharf, this budget hostel offers both dormitory and private accommodation options. There’s free breakfast and free parking, making this an excellent option for the location.
• Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel – found in the popular Union Square district, this great value 3-star hotel has a rooftop restaurant, library, and on-site theatre. Rooms have private bathrooms and coffee makers, and breakfast is included. A paid parking garage is available nearby.
• Parker Guest House – found in the old Mission district just behind the San Francisco mission building, this is a well reviewed and good value guesthouse offering private rooms. Free breakfast is available, and parking is available on site for a reasonable (by San Francisco standards) fee.
• Columbus Inn – Just a few hundred yards from Lombardy Street and Fisherman’s Wharf in the North Beach district,  this 3* inn offers great value for the location. Private rooms offer en-suite and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also free parking on site.
• Golden Gate Hotel – a very well reviewed 3* hotel just minutes from Union Square. Continental breakfast and afternoon tea are included. Rooms are definitely on the cosy side, and some have shared bathrooms, but the price is great for the location. Paid parking available nearby.
• Staypineapple Union Square – we stayed at this restored historic 4* 1913 hotel on a recent trip to San Francisco, and loved the mix of the old and the new. We loved the rooms, the colorful pineapple theme, and the free pineapple flavoured cupcakes certainly helped! Parking is available nearby for a fee.
• Four Seasons Hotel – if you are after five star luxury, then consider the Four Seasons hotel. Also found in Union Square, rooms are huge, there’s an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and many rooms have city views.

See more options for hotels in San Francisco here, as well vacation rentals on Plum Guide here and Vrbo here .

Pacific Coast Highway – 2 Days

The drive down the section of the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles is definitely one of the best road trips in the world. So it’s really a no-brainer that this would be your first destination after you pick up your hire car and head out of the city.

There are numerous highlights along the way, from cute seaside towns to gorgeous wilderness areas. Don’t miss Santa Cruz , Monterey , Big Sur and the Julia Pfeffer Burns State Park (camp here if you can!).

The latter is particularly famous for the waterfall that cascades onto the beach, a gorgeous photo opportunity.

From Big Sur head further south and take in highlights like the seals at Cambria , tasty food at San Luis Obispo, the gorgeous Pismo beach, Hearst Castle and more.

For loads more information on this stretch of highway and to help you plan the perfect coastal road trip, check out our super detailed guide to planning a  Pacific Coast Highway road trip .

For the 2 days you’ll spend on this part of your California road trip, we recommend stopping overnight around Monterey or Carmel on your first night, and San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay or Cambria on your second night.

There are plenty of accommodation options all the way down this stretch of highway, from campsites and B&B’s to luxury hotels – it all depends on your budget and what you’re aiming for. Here are a few options to consider in our recommended towns along the way.

For your first night, we recommend one of the following:

• If you like to camp, then there are camping options in the national parks along the route here, including the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground . I’ve camped here and it’s lovely to be surrounded by the massive redwoods. Just be aware that it is popular, and booking in advance is a must.
• Sandpiper Inn , Carmel – we stayed here when we visited Carmel. We enjoyed the comfortable rooms, inclusive breakfast, and proximity to the beach. Free parking is available.
• Coachman’s Inn , Carmel – we’ve stayed at a number of the boutique hotels which are in the Four Sisters Inn collection, and they’ve all been excellent. This inn, found in the heart of Carmel Village, gets good reviews. Rooms include coffee makers and free popcorn, wine with hors d’oeuvres is served in the evenings, and breakfast is included.
• The Inn at 1252 , Monterey – a good value inn on the way into Monterey. Rooms feature coffee makers, and a heated pool is available year round. There’s also a fitness room, free parking and free coffee.
• The Jabberwock B&B , Monterey – just a few blocks from Cannery Row, this very well reviewed B&B offers seven lovely guest rooms, some of which have fireplaces and hot tubs. Free parking, and breakfast is included.

For your second night, we recommend one of the following:

• Apple Farm Inn , San Luis Obispo – we really enjoyed our stay here on one of our Pacific Coast Highway road trips. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, the breakfast was fantastic, and the on-site bakery has some delicious food. There are also two pools on site, and free parking.
• Madonna Inn , San Luis Obispo – this four star family-owned motel just to the south of SLO is a truly quirky destination, and a landmark of the central coast. Each of the 110 rooms is uniquely decorated, with pink being a key theme throughout. We didn’t stay here, but we did have dinner at the Gold Rush steak house on-site, which was fantastic.
• Seaside Inn , Morro Bay – this 2* budget inn is one block from the waterfront. Rooms have a microwave and refrigerator, and there’s free on site parking and coffee.
• Beach Bungalow Inn and Suites , Morro Bay – five minutes walk from the aquarium, this three star inn is very well reviewed. Comfortable rooms have fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee machines, and a hot breakfast is included as is parking.
• Cambria Palms Motel , Cambria – this 2* motel is a couple of blocks from downtown, and offers comfortable rooms at a good price. Rooms have refrigerator and coffee machine, and free parking is available on site.
• El Colibri Hotel & Spa , Cambria – on one of our visits to Cambria we stayed here for a couple of nights and really enjoyed it. The rooms are lovely, with fireplaces, and some have spa tubs. There’s an on-site spa, outdoor hot tub, and breakfast is available. Free parking on-site.
• J Patrick House B&B , Cambria – this five star Irish themed inn was Cambria’s first B&B. There’s a a free wine hour, evening cookies and a full breakfast included with your stay. Each room is individually designed, and there’s free parking on site. A great pick in Cambria.

Santa Monica, LA – 2 Days

Los Angeles can be a big, confusing place, particularly after your trip down the Pacific Coast Highway. That’s why I suggest you head to Santa Monica and make that your LA base.

On the coast, and technically a separate city (it’s kind of hard to tell as LA and its surrounds are part of a fairly vast urban sprawl), you’ll have access to the wonderful beach and pier, as well as nearby Venice, most famous for its beach and people watching opportunities.

Again, there’s no shortage of things to do in LA. If you’re interested in film, you can visit the Hollywood sign, walk the Hollywood walk of fame or go on a tour of the backlot at Universal Studios .

Art lovers will find their thrills at the Getty Center , which also offers gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding city. Other highlights include Sunset Boulevard, and of course, you can hop on one of those tours of the stars homes if you’re so inclined.

LA also has plentiful accommodation options to suit all budget. Here are some of our recommended options:

• Santa Monica Motel – we enjoyed our stay at this basic 2* motel, which is around a 10 minute walk from Santa Monica Pier. There’s free morning coffee and free parking, and rooms come with coffee makers and in-room refrigerators. It’s definitely a value option.
• Banana Bungalow – this hostel offers shared and private accommodation, around a mile from the downtown Hollywood area. There’s free parking on-site, and reviews are positive.
• Magic Castle Hotel – this 3* hotel is a short walk from the Hollywood walk of fame, and you get a pool, unlimited free snacks, free continental breakfast and reasonably priced parking. It’s also a short walk to the Hollywood Bowl, and only three miles from Universal Studios. We really enjoyed staying here.
• Villa Delle Stelle – this boutique hotel in central Hollywood gets excellent reviews and will make you feel like a celebrity. Each suite is designed after a specific old Hollywood Celebrity, and guests can avail of celebrity style services such as in-room massages, private chefs and a personal trainer. Free parking is also included.
• The Georgian Hotel – this beautiful 1933 4* Art Deco hotel is a short walk from Santa Monica pier, and offers ocean views and on-site dining. Breakfast is available, and parking is available on-site for a fee.

See more LA listings here for inspiration , as well as LA listings on Vrbo here . For a more curated apartment rental option, check out Plum Guide. You can see their LA listings here .

If you’re not excited about Los Angeles, you could also choose to skip it and head down the coast to San Diego County and the city of San Diego itself. This is a more laid back (and easily navigable!) experience compared to LA, and there’s a great deal to do here as well.

For more reading on San Diego, check out this guide to things to do in San Diego we put together.

Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

Time to head out of the city, and the remainder of this itinerary is going to focus on exploring some of California’s unbelievable wilderness areas and National Parks. We’re going to start this off with a trip to the Joshua Tree National Park , home to those iconic shaped trees that the park is named for.

It’s a wonderful place, the meeting point of two deserts, and offers good opportunities for camping, hiking and star-gazing.

The best way to experience the park is to camp overnight in one of its many campgrounds (you should definitely reserve a spot well in advance if this is your plan), otherwise, there are various lodging opportunities outside the park if you’re not big into camping. You should also be aware that there is very limited water availability in the park (and no hookups for RV’s), so make sure you bring plenty of water and food – this is a remote desert environment after all!

Here are some suggested accommodation options in nearby Twentynine Palms.

• 9 Palms Inn – this budget 2* property gets good reviews, and rooms come with a coffee machine, microwave and refrigerator. There’s also free parking on site.
• El Rancho Dolores – this is a great value 3* property with a seasonal pool. Rooms have microwaves and refrigerator, and free parking is included.
• Sunnyvale Garden Suites – a very well rated 2* hotel offering a range of suites, each of which comes with a BBQ as well as a full kitchen. There’s a hot tub and gym on site, and free parking is available.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – this 3* chain hotel offers comfortable and well reviewed accommodation, with an outdoor heated pool and fitness centre. Rooms have coffee making facilities, microwave and small fridge, and there are BBQ facilities available for guest use.
• Flying Point Homestead – if you want something a little bit different, check out this property. It’s actually a holiday home rather than a hotel, but one of the options is a beautiful silver streak trailer!

See more listings for Twentynine Palms and this general region on  Plum Guide here .

Note, if you want to include a detour to Las Vegas, this would be the moment to do just that. We’d suggest adding a couple of days to your trip if you want to experience the city and its surrounds as there’s a lot to see and do here. Then you can rejoin the trip at the next stop.

For more on that sort of trip, check out our two week USA road trip itinerary , which include Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.

Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

Moving on from one desert environment to another desert environment – and the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Death Valley (the name was given by gold rush travellers who nearly perished here) is the hottest and driest place in North America, and has recorded the hottest ambient air temperature in the world.

So, overall, a hot place.

Other than making you want to crank up the AC then, what does Death Valley offer? Well, there’s that sense of remoteness. The vast, unforgiving wilderness. The knowledge that you’d probably die fairly quickly if you happen to wander off and get lost (don’t wander off and get lost folks).

Truth be told, there’s plenty to do here. You can visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the entire North America, which actually sits 86 metres below sea level. Then there are sand dunes, salt flats, craters, colourful canyons and hiking opportunities galore.

Just be aware that this is a seriously inhospitable, and, in the summer months, unbearably hot, destination, so plan and pack accordingly . If you’re looking for more ideas on spending a day in Death Valley, check out this excellent post .

Mammoth Lakes – 1 Day

From Death Valley we’re going to head further north, up to Mammoth Lakes . This drive is quite incredible, along the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the scenery (and temperatures) will change dramatically as you ascend into this gorgeous part of the world.

Mammoth Lakes are an adventure lovers playground. You can go hiking, camping, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing – the list goes on! There’s also a ghost town , craft beer companies, shopping opportunities – basically, pretty much everything you could imagine.

Whilst you’re here, you should also take the opportunity to visit Lake Mono . Now a state nature reserve, Lake Mono is a million year old lake notable for the “tufa” towers, calcium carbonate structures that stand above the lake like strange modern art installations. Definitely worth a visit, and particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset.

Yosemite National Park – 3 Days

Finally on our awesome California road trip, I’m going to suggest you spend three days exploring Yosemite National Park before heading back to San Francisco to return your hire vehicle and head home.

Yosemite is without doubt one of my favourite places in the entire United States. It’s a wonder of nature, a photographer’s paradise, and somewhere I dare anyone to visit without falling instantly in love.

There’s a lot to see and do here, which is why I’m going to suggest taking three days to get the most out of your visit. This will let you see all the highlights, as well as go for some longer hikes (or drives), and not feel too rushed.

I’ve got a full guide to the best photography locations in Yosemite , but in brief, don’t miss Yosemite Falls, the hike up to Nevada and Vernal Falls, the drive (or hike) to Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Valley View and Bridalveil Falls.

If you love longer, more challenging day hikes, then Half Dome is a seriously challenging walk (permit required), as is the walk up to the top of Yosemite Falls .

There are a range of accommodation options in Yosemite National Park, ranging from campsites to canvas-sided tent cabins, through to luxury hotels.

There are 13 campsites available in the park , with a number of these available for reservation, and the rest operated on a first come first serve basis. If you want to camp, we highly recommend booking well in advance, which you can do here .

There are also nine lodging options operated by Yosemite Hospitality inside the park, which are the only other accommodation options available in the park itself. These can be reserved up to a year in advance, and range from simple canvas cabins through to a high-end luxury hotel. These can all be reserved online in advance here .

Important –  As of 2022, Yosemite has introduced a reservation system for park entry. If you are visiting between late May and the end of September and planning on driving into or through the park between 6am and 4pm you will need to have a reservation. You can find out more and make your reservations online here .

California Road Trip Map

We’ve put together a map of our suggested California road trip itinerary, which you can see below, and also on Google Maps here . Note that depending on the time of year, access to Yosemite can be restricted due to snow, so you have to take the longer way round.

In addition, parts of the Pacific Coast Highway are often closed due to damage caused by landslides. As such, the map should be seen as an overview rather than a definitive route. You’ll want to plan your own California road trip route that matches any current road conditions and closures.

You can check the status of the coast route (state highway 1), as well as all the other roads in the state, on the Caltrans website here .

California Road Trip Itinerary Overview

• Days 1 – 3: San Francisco
• Days 4 – 5: Pacific Coast Highway
• Days 6 & 7: Los Angeles
• Day 8: Joshua Tree
• Day 9: Death Valley
• Day 10: Mammoth Lakes
• Days 11 – 13: Yosemite National Park
• Day 14: Return to San Francisco

When to Take a California Road Trip

California is a fairly good year round destination, but there are a few things to be aware of when planning your trip. In the Winter months, places like Yosemite can become accessible particularly from the east side, due to snow, as you can see in the map above.

The main road in to Yosemite is the Tioga Road, and this is usually closed from November through to May or even June. In addition, parts of the park, including Glacier Point road, are often closed for a similar timeframe.

If this happens to you, you’ll have to take a serious detour to get in based on this itinerary. A better option might be to embrace the snow, and head up to Lake Tahoe for some fantastic skiing opportunities. Or, you can head east, out to Nevada and the pleasure city of Las Vegas.

In summertime, the heat can be quite intense, in particular in places like Death Valley, where in the summer months temperatures can exceed 100F, and it’s not recommended to spend much time outside.

Where to Stay in California

California has a serious range of accommodation options to meet pretty much every budget, although larger cities and busier months do tend to increase the prices. We’d always recommend booking in advance for your trip if possible – in particular for national park campsites and hotels, and to get the best deals on city centre hotels.

For two people travelling together, you’re looking at a budget range of $60 – $150 per night for comfortable private en-suite accommodation, although you can obviously spend far more than that!

Our preferred option for hotel booking is booking.com, as they usually have the best prices, regularly run deals, and many properties offer good last minute cancellation policies. See their listings for California , San Francisco and Los Angeles to get you started.

We also use and recommend Plum Guide and Vrbo for vacation rentals.

For more ideas, take a look at our travel resources page for helpful hints and tips on getting the best deal on accommodation when you travel.

How to Get Around California

This is a road trip, so obviously you’re going to want a hire a car! We recommend searching for your car rental on Discover Cars here . They compare a range of providers so you can find the best deal for your trip.

Drivers with foreign licenses are allowed to drive, if your license is in a language other than English then you would be best with either an international drivers license, or a certified translation.

Another option of course is to hire a camper van or RV, which will let you stay in campgrounds and other, more out of the way areas. This can be a fun way to travel in a more self sufficient style. If this sounds like you, we recommend comparing RV rental prices at Motorhome Republic . They list all RVs from many of the major suppliers to help you find the right one for you. See their USA listings here .

We can also recommend checking out  RVShare , who offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental! Similar options include Outdoorsy and RVEzy .

If this is your first time in the USA, or you just want a reminder of what it’s like to drive in the USA, check out our guide to driving in the USA for lots of tips!

Practicalities for a California Road trip

Travelling in the USA is relatively easy, but we wanted to share a few things to help make planning your California road trip a little easier.

Electricity

The USA uses a 110v electrical system, with plugs that are either two pin or three pin. The holes are flat, and sometimes the two pin plug holes will be different sizes, so the plug will only go in one way.

If you’re coming from much of the rest of the world, including Europe, the UK or Asia, you will definitely need a travel adaptor like this . You will also need to check that your equipment supports the 110v supply, as much of the rest of the world uses a 220v supply.

In our experience, most electronics like laptops and phone chargers accept a universal voltage, whilst higher power devices like hairdryers do not. Always check the device itself, the voltage rating should be on your plug or adaptor somewhere.

Internet Access

Internet access is widely available across the USA in the form of WiFi, which can be found for free at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants. There are also a number of free WiFi hotspots in some of the cities on our list.

If your phone is unlocked you can pick up a pay as you go SIM in the USA. One of the better options is from Straight Talk , which you can buy in Walmart stores.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options.

The USA uses the US dollar, and there are ATM’s available throughout. In our experience though, you can pay for nearly everything with a credit card, so you will rarely need cash. Whilst it is worth having a few bills on you, for the most part you won’t need them.

Instead, just make sure you have a credit or debit card that doesn’t charge you any foreign transaction fees and uses a fair price for currency conversions, and you should be good to go.

Water across the USA is safe to drink, unless otherwise indicated. There are drinking fountains in the majority of public locations, and we recommend you travel with a re-usable water bottle so you can just fill it up as you go.

One thing we always love about travelling in the USA is how drinking water is always brought to your table at a restaurant – something we wish was standard around the world!

For the most part, the USA is a safe destination to travel in, and we have never had any problems. Of course, every country has crime, and areas where you would be wiser to avoid, however if you practice basic safety precautions, keep your valuables out of sight and behave as you would at home, you should be fine!

Further Reading and Resources for a California Road Trip

California is a very popular destination, so there’s no shortage of research material to help you plan your trip! Here are some of my favourite resources:

• We have a guide to things to do in San Diego
• I’ve written a guide featuring some of my top tips for driving in the USA to help get you going on the road!
• Wondering how much a California road trip will cost? Check out our  guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA to help you plan your trip budget.
• Jess has a guide to driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which will give you lots of ideas for that section of the road
• If you’re interested in California’s wine country, see our guide to visiting Napa Valley
• Route 66 ends in California, so take a look at our guide to planning a route 66 trip , as well as our detailed 2 week Route 66 itinerary and 1 week Route 66 itinerary
• Fodor’s Guide to California , which also includes details on a number of fantastic road trips
• The Lonely Planet California Guide , which is great for finding things to do, places to eat and places to stay
• A US road atlas , because sometimes you don’t want to rely on GPS!
• If you’re planning on hiring an RV or camping, this guide to free and super cheap campgrounds will quickly pay for itself
• The official Visit California page, which will give you more advice on what to see and when to visit
• For more in California, see this awesome guide to places to visit in California , from fellow bloggers at yTravelBlog
• My guide to things to do in Redding California , if you decide to head to northern California
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• And if you’re looking for inspiration for the rest of the USA, check out our USA section , which includes a Deep south itinerary , tips for New Orleans during Mardi Gras – and lots more!

And that sums up my perfect two week California road trip itinerary! If you’ve got any comments, suggestions or additions, do pop them in the comments below. Plus, if you liked this post, do check out the rest of my itinerary series , which will help you plan the perfect trips all around the world!

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robert feinberg says

16th December 2023 at 4:48 pm

Hello, we are planning a road trip to California in July, and using your template, but adding a few different options. we are traveling with 2 15 year olds, and they want to surf. any recommendations you can make on that, as well as stops that will be good for them? much appreciated.

Laurence Norah says

16th December 2023 at 8:26 pm

So there are a lot of surfing options all along the coast from San Francisco to San Diego. A lot will depend on the experience of your children and whether or not they are experienced surfers or are looking to learn. Also, some locations will have surfboard rentals wheras others are more remote. So it will depend what you need in that regard. However, there are good options all along the California coast, including Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Pismo, Morro Bay, Ricon Point and Surfrider beach (Malibu). I’d just recommend doing some research to ensure you match the breaks to the skill level required 🙂

Have an awesome trip!

Kim Dawtrey says

7th October 2023 at 9:39 pm

Hi Lawrence We are just home after nearly three weeks in the US on a route based on your California Road Trip, although we also went to the a Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. The information within your blog was a great help in planning our trip. Unfortunately we were unable to drive down the whole Pacific Highway due to landslide near Big Sur, but we loved the 17 mile drive and would recommend staying in Pacific Grove (we stayed in Bide-A-Wee hotel which was great). We were also unable to drive across Death Valley as the NP was closed due to the damage to the roads, we did however visit Death Valley Junction and throughly recommend a visit to Amargosa Opera House. The board outside says tours at 9.00am and 6.00pm, but the young lady in the hotel reception was more than happy to give us a tour for a donation, fascinating place and history. If you haven’t visited I can send you some photos. Another side trip we did was to Bristlecone Ancient Pine Forest, amazing place, great drive up to 10,000 feet, with fresh snow at the top! The Grand Canyon and Yosemite were certainly the highlights for us. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip, thank you for all your valuable information, if we were 40 years younger, we would love to be doing what you and Jess are doing!

8th October 2023 at 12:33 pm

Thank you so much, I’m happy to hear you had a great trip in California and beyond! Unfortunately the Pacific Coast Highway does get blocked quite regularly due to landslides, and it also sounds like unfortunate timing with Death Valley. However I am glad to hear you still had a good time overall! We haven’t visited the Amargosa Opera House, we will definitely have to add that to the list!

Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences, and safe onward travels 🙂 Jess and I love to hear from fellow adventurers who have been out exploring!

All the best,

erika liaci says

3rd July 2023 at 2:54 pm

Hi we are finalising our US Road trip to/from LAX in mid August. Would you recommend still going to the Death valley? I am a bit scared of the temperature which might be 50C? Thanks erika

4th July 2023 at 9:26 am

So I would personally probably skip Death Valley in August. It’s going to be too hot to do very much, and you would likely be able to better spend your time elsewhere. An extra day in Yosemite for example!

Have a great trip!

17th April 2023 at 11:43 am

Hi – this 2 week California road trip looks amazing. Your blog is really helpful for planning our own trip. Would it be possible to know the driving distances between each of the places please. Thanks Sam

18th April 2023 at 8:09 am

Hi Sam, thanks very much! So I didn’t put distances because in my experience they tend to change with side trips etc. Also, the Pacific Coast Highway is regularly affected by landslips so stretches of the route can be closed.

That said, as a rough guide:

From San Francisco to Santa Monica is around 500 miles From Santa Monica to Joshua Tree is around 150 miles From Joshua Tree to Death Valley is around 260 miles From Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes is around 200 miles From Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite is normally around 75 miles but this depends on the pass being open From Yosemite back to San Francisco is around 170 miles.

I hope this helps! Have a great time in California 🙂

28th January 2023 at 2:46 pm

Hi. Would you recommend Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon? We will be driving back from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas and are thinking of an extended detour north rather than going back via Kingman. Thanks

29th January 2023 at 9:07 am

It is with some dismay that I’m not able to accurately answer your question as both parks are still on my to-do list and I haven’t visited either. So rather than inaccurately answer your question I would have to say I don’t know. I definitely want to visit them both, and from the photos I have seen I don’t think you would be disappointed with either, but that’s about as much as I can say for now until I have visited both!

Sorry not to be of more help but I hope you have an amazing trip nonetheless!

Maxine says

4th August 2022 at 8:16 am

This post has been super helpful and given us great ideas for a trip we are planning with our two teenagers next summer. We want to include vegas, therefore, would you recommend that we head there after San Diego before heading back to Yosemite? Thank you

4th August 2022 at 6:06 pm

Thanks very much, glad you found the post useful! So yes, heading from San Diego or Death Valley to Las Vegas would make the most sense. I’ve actually written a trip out that is similar to this one but include Vegas (and the Grand Canyon if you wanted to also include that). That’s here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/2-week-usa-road-trip-itinerary/

You can save time of course by skipping the Grand Canyon 🙂 Let me know if you have any more questions, I’m happy to help. Otherwise, have a great trip!

William D Villont says

6th January 2022 at 9:03 pm

My wife and I took a California trip similar to this one except we went south to San Diego as our final destination. I really enjoyed the trip and can fully understand why you highlight this trip as one someone should surely take. We agree. My only disappointment of the trip is that, at the time, I was doing videography and that is all I took on the trip, my video camera. Now that I have gotten back into photography I wish I had taken my camera as well. We rarely get out the old video (VHS tape) and watch and I have not taken the time to transfer the VHS to DVD yet. I just gave it away, that this trip was sometime ago because I was shooting VHS. Anyway I would love to take this trip again and if this Covid thing ever goes away, maybe I will. Thanks for sharing this trip.

7th January 2022 at 11:29 am

Hi William,

I’m glad to bring back positive memories of your California trip! Interesting to hear you mostly took video. I have a similar reverse quandry when I travel, I usually only find myself able to concentrate on one medium of story telling as we go, so I focus on photos. But I often think it might be nice to have more videos. I hope you get to watch your video soon and also to take the trip again one day!

Have a lovely and safe 2022,

Delaney Blute says

1st July 2021 at 3:18 am

Hi! Thank you so much for the wonderful travel recommendations. I’m planning on taking this trip with my mother and sister, possibly leaving next late summer. Do you have a ball park recommendation for price for the entire trip for 3 people? We plan on budgeting it, but just wanted to know if you had any estimate of what this trip would cost for 3 people. Thanks so much!

1st July 2021 at 12:47 pm

Hi Delaney,

This is a great question. So it’s really hard to give a price estimate because everyone has a different travel style, and it will depend on what type of accommodation you are thinking of booking, whether you are happy to share a room for the three of you vs have individual rooms, whether you are ok with budget dining vs more expensive options and so on. I’m also not sure if you’re from the US or not, so car rental if you need to rent a car would also be a cost to consider.

I do have a guide which has a ballpark idea of costs for travel in the UK, which you can see here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-usa/

That should give you an idea of how much each element of the trip should cost you, to help you come up with a rough figure. The main costs are going to be your accommodation, gas / car rental / car parking in cities, food, and any attraction entry.

I hope this helps! Let me know if I can provide any further input, and have a great trip 🙂

Chantelle says

7th March 2020 at 2:06 pm

We have a trip booked for just short of a month in September! Your blog was really helpful, thank you!

I was wondering if you had some advice on Car vrs Camper. Is it easy to find places to stay in a camper or would you recommend a car and motels. We are happy either way just want our trip to be as stress free as possible!

7th March 2020 at 5:07 pm

Hi Chantelle!

So we have done both, and honestly, we prefer motels / B&Bs to campsites.

In the USA, campsites are a bit different to the UK in my experience. They tend to have more formal “sites” for each visitor, which means they can’t just squeeze another person in. When they are full they’re full. For National Parks especially, this means that they can book out and then you can be stuck trying to find somewhere to stay. You can of course book them in advance, so that’s an option. The other good news is that if you have a campervan all is not lost as there are places you can camp for free. However these tend not to be totally exciting, Walmart carparks for example let folks stay overnight, but this might not be the dream option.

The other thing is that if you do the math, you will find that the cost of renting a campervan + the cost of paying campsite fees will probably be a lot more than the cost of a cheap car and economy lodging. Plus if you plan on visiting a few of the cities in this itinerary a camper will be more effort than it’s worth. You didn’t mention budget so this might not be a huge factor, but I just wanted to highlight it.

I think you can see where my preference lies for this itinerary. Obviously if you love camping and want to spend more time out in the backcountry and national parks, it’s a great option. But you might find that buying a cheap tent and a couple of sleeping bags for a few nights is a better option than renting a camper 🙂

Have a great trip – let me know how it goes and what you decide to do! We have a facebook group you’re welcome to share your experiences in here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/

chantelle sims says

14th March 2020 at 2:44 pm

This has been so incredibly helpful thankyou!!

My pleasure Chantelle – have a great trip!

Sharon says

16th February 2020 at 7:40 pm

Great inspiration and ideas, thanks

16th February 2020 at 9:34 pm

Our pleasure Sharon, thanks for stopping by and commenting!

Thiago says

12th February 2020 at 7:45 pm

Just want to thank you for these super detailed guides, guys;

13th February 2020 at 10:48 am

Our pleasure Thiago, if you have any questions we’re happy to help 🙂 Safe travels!

Kathy Reed says

26th January 2020 at 5:51 pm

Hi – this was an amazing find! Loved all of your recommendations. Do you have any recommendations for anything just a little further north into the Redwoods. Perhaps starting in Santa Monica and going north? Though i do love the loop feature of this itinerary. Makes it so hard to decide. Thanks!

28th January 2020 at 9:19 am

We have travelled north of this itinerary as well, with our highlights including Napa Valley, Point Reyes National Park and Redding, however we’ve not put together a detailed itinerary for this sort of trip as we’ve not covered the area in enough detail. If redwoods are what you are after particularly, then on this itinerary you can see them near Santa Cruz, if you did want to follow it.

Let me know if I can offer any more advice for your trip!

4th January 2020 at 4:39 pm

Hi Great site for info ? Just would like to know what time of year would you recommend doing this road trip ive just read on here ,we’re coming from the UK so any info will help us plan Many thanks Barry

5th January 2020 at 11:25 am

It can definitely be done at any time of year, but I might avoid the depths of winter as snow can make the roads into Yosemite a challenge, plus it will be quite cold. So if you are looking for more of a summery California road trip, I might suggest May through September. We just toured California in August, and it was definitely very hot inland, as well as being busy so perhaps May/June or September would be the best time for a good combination of weather and fewer people 🙂

Debbie says

4th January 2020 at 3:03 pm

Hi We are planning this trip in April 2020! We will skip LA (Not interested) & Yosemite (We’ve already been) & we will only spend 1 day in San Francisco (we’ve already been) my question is do you think we can do the rest in 7 days?? We definitely want to do the scenic drive from San Francisco to San Diego & back to San Fran an thank you for all the wonderful information!!

5th January 2020 at 11:32 am

Hey Debbie!

Awesome 😀 So you can do the Pacific Coast Highway from SF to San Diego in a couple of days if you don’t mind going at a bit of a pace. I’d probably slow it down to 3 days though. I’m not sure if you still plan on seeing Joshua Tree and Death Valley – if you plan on going up and down the Pacific Coast Highway both ways, then you’re actually going to end up driving much more than this itinerary if you do visit Death Valley, as you’ll do about 2/3rds of the route and then turn around.

I’m not sure if you wanted to go to Las Vegas instead, but what you could do instead of going all the way back is finish in Vegas. I have noticed that many car hire firms don’t charge one way fees for trips between SF and Las Vegas, and flights out of Las Vegas are also very inexpensive. Even if you don’t want to do the whole Las Vegas thing, there are some lovely outdoor attractions in the area including the Hoover Dam and the spectacular valley of fire state park.

Anyway, just a thought. To answer your question – yes, you could do the rest in 7 days but I fear it might be a bit rushed,

30th December 2019 at 1:24 am

How many miles is this trip in total?

30th December 2019 at 3:28 pm

Around 1400 miles, but you’ll want to add on detours, side trips etc. So I’d say 1500 – 2000 to be on the safe side 🙂

Mallikarjun says

19th December 2019 at 8:51 pm

Can you please let me know the “Public Transport” options, it may be Bus, Metro or any other services in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego. I am planning for a trip in end of Jan 2020 for about 6 to 7 days to cover these cities. Or is there any travel packages you suggest for these cities. Please let me know.

Thanks, Malli

22nd December 2019 at 5:29 pm

My pleasure, and apologies for the slow response, I’ve had some site issues I’ve been working on.

For your question, are you looking for public transport between the cities, or in the cities? If the former, then I’d generally recommend the long distance bus as the best way to get between the cities in California, although you will struggle to get to more remote locations this way.

For each city you mention, there are different options. San Francisco is the easiest to get around, as there’s a great bus system as well as bikes, e-bikes and scooters. LA is a bit trickier – there are both buses and a metro, but just be aware that the distances can be quite far as the city is very spread out. So the best option is to figure out what you want to see and make sure the accommodation you pick is as close to the sights as possible.

San Diego is also easy to get around for the most part, with buses, trolleys and trains.

I hope this helps 🙂

Samantha says

28th October 2019 at 1:20 pm

Hi! this sounds amazing and I am literally looking at booking this for June next year! From looking about the only area that I am a bit unsure of is Death Valley – where is best to stay around there and if only doing a day – what would be the best suggestion of something to do? I am also thinking that we will add 1 day on to do a Vegas stay since its so close!

29th October 2019 at 8:31 am

Hi Samantha,

So when we visited we stayed just outside the valley at Panamint Springs – specifically we stayed here .

A day is enough to see the highlights of Death Valley. You’ll want to visit Badwater Basin of course, the lowest point in North America. Other highlights including the Mesquite Sand dunes, Zabriskie Point, the Devil’s Golf Course, the Artists Drive and Palette and Mosaic Canyon.

We can definitely recommend tacking on a trip to Vegas as well. We’re actually thinking of publishing a new itinerary in the coming months which includes Vegas, as it’s a popular addition 🙂

Gisele leduc says

13th October 2019 at 3:38 pm

Would like to know w ymt is there a bus trip to 14 days in calif. Where does the bus leave from in the US. And approx how much is the cost

14th October 2019 at 8:36 pm

Sorry, could you clarify? Are you looking for a tour of California?

15th October 2019 at 3:32 pm

Looking for next year we live in Ottawa Canada and would like to take a 14 day bus tour especially san Francesco and pacific route. Are there bus tours leaving let’s say from Buffalo, New York we can easily drive to these destinations. I meant leaving from New York City and Buffalo. What would be the cost and does it include meals. Thank u

Gisele Leduv says

15th October 2019 at 7:37 pm

Hi I would like to know if there are Any bus tours leaving from New York City or buffalo 14 day road trip to California especially the pacific coastland. What would be the cost for such a trip.

16th October 2019 at 8:08 pm

Hey Gisele,

I have looked but most tours that depart from New York and go to California are much longer, because the distance is so great from the east coast to the west coast. If you want a tour that focuses more on California, it would definitely be easier to get one that departs from San Francisco or Las Vegas rather than New York – is that a possibility?

vivianchoo says

5th October 2019 at 4:44 am

Good articles and good photos, Helps a lot. Thank you!

5th October 2019 at 10:16 am

My pleasure – have a great trip!

Jason Parsons says

19th August 2019 at 3:23 pm

This is a super inspiring blog. Which area did you stay in Yosemite? We are planning to complete our road trip with 3 nights in Yosemite. We will have a car and plan on day trip walks within the park.using a hotel or lodge as our base.

19th August 2019 at 4:09 pm

Thanks very much! In Yosemite we’ve stayed in a few places. On the trip with the photos in this post, we stayed in Curry Village, which were canvas tents ( https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/lodge/yosemite-curry-village/ ).

Jess has also stayed at the Wawona hotel, and the other lodge options are The Ahwahnee Hotel and the Yosemite Valley Lodge. I would definitely recommend staying with the park if you can as it makes it a lot easier to see everything within a short distance. The various options are at different price points though, so you’ll have to figure out which is best for you 🙂

Have an amazing trip!

julie morton says

15th June 2019 at 4:36 pm

Great article, thank you. I will be doing a similar route with my husband in September. Do you have any further guides on the Mammoth Lakes area or could you suggest somewhere to base ourselves there for a couple of nights please? We will be coming from Death Valley and then heading on to Yosemite.

15th June 2019 at 8:31 pm

Hi Julie! We don’t have anything else about Mammoth Lakes unfortunately on our blogs. We have guides to other parts of California, including Yosemite, but Mammoth Lakes is still on the to do list.

Have a great trip, sorry we couldn’t help this time!

Tara West says

2nd June 2019 at 6:30 pm

Hi there, Just found your blog. Really helpful. Thank you. We are thinking of doing a Californian road trip with our 5 month old baby in Sept. How long are the drives between the places you mention? I wouldnt want to do LA so would probably do San Diego instead. Is there anywhere you advise missing out with a baby? Thanks so much. Tara

3rd June 2019 at 6:26 pm

Our pleasure, we’re delighted to be able to help 🙂

So the drives will obviously vary depending on what you stop and see, but none of the days on the itinerary should have more than four hours driving. We’ve also not got any personal experience with traveling with a baby, however, just bear in mind that even in September Death Valley is going to be very hot. Other than that I don’t see a reason not to go to any of the locations on the list, and Death Valley will be manageable, just take care with the heat 🙂

Priya Singh says

30th April 2019 at 6:40 am

I really appreciate the work you have done, you explained everything in such an amazing and simple way.Good post. I was searched for this topic. Finally, I got the information on this blog. Thanks for the effective information.

30th April 2019 at 5:38 pm

Thanks Priya – pleased we were able to help! Have a great trip 🙂

Rafael says

5th March 2019 at 1:45 pm

Hi guys, great post. I found it really handy now as i’m planning a 3 week road trip through California (and Nevada) in a month (apr 6 to 27). We are starting in LA, just a few days and then planning to go to Joshua Tree (Mojave, is it worth it?), Las vegas, Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Yosemite, San Francisco, and Route 1 back to LA. It’s quite a lot of days, and i find hard to plan where to sleep every night, as i’m not sure how long would it take me to visit every national park, and even cities. So my question is, should i book in advance all different accomodation? In that case how many days should we give to the different national parks and places. As the trip gets so long, we are being really careful with our budget, and that takes me to the second question, what are the best places to stay on a budget in the different stops?

By the way, we are a group of four, planning to rent a car.

Thanks again for your post. Looking forward to read your answer!

Rafael from Uruguay

5th March 2019 at 2:50 pm

Thanks very much 🙂

So to answer your questions. I think Mojave is worth it if you like deserts and wide open spaces.

In terms of accommodation, you are not travelling at a very busy time of year, although it is easter towards the end of April. However there are no Federal holiday, so it should not be too busy. So this means you should be able to book quite last minute. The only places I would advise maybe booking in advance would be any national parks you want to stay in, which can be busy year round. So Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Death Valley, if you plan on staying inside the park, you will want to plan your accommodation in advance.

In terms of budget accommodation, the parks all have campsites, so that would likely be the cheapest option if you don’t mind camping. Some have existing tents you can hire if you don’t want to bring your own tent – Yosemite for example has some nice fixed tents which are not too expensive. For other cities, I’d advise looking at the budget motel chains like Motel 6, Red Roof Inn and so on. These can be very cheap, but do be aware they are not always very central. So you might find something like AirBnB to be more cost effective.

As you are visiting a number of parks you will probably want to buy a national parks pass, which will save you money on parks entry.

I’d also advise taking a look at my guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA, which should give you some more budgeting ideas 🙂

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-usa/

Let me know if you have any more questions!

c. m. crawford says

17th February 2019 at 3:22 pm

I would take extra care with possessions in the big cities in California. I left my purse in the back of my rental car, parked in a highly visible location on a beach in San Francisco, and even though there were people walking up and down the beach, the window was smashed and the purse stolen. Luckily wallet & phone were on me and the purse was even found and turned in to the police, but I had to exchange the rental car. Other than that California is awesome.

17th February 2019 at 4:34 pm

Sorry to hear that Cris! This is definitely an issue around the world, we always recommend not leaving any valuables in sight in a car as it makes for a tempting option for a thief 🙁 Glad to hear you got your purse back though!

Matthias says

9th February 2019 at 6:57 pm

Hey you guys! You have a great blog and this post inspired the route for my first trip to California with a buddy (we’re planning on doing pretty much the same route). But our plan is doing it the other way around: Also starting end ending in SF but heading to Yosemite from there and doing the trip clockwise. Would love to hear your thoughts on that idea 🙂

10th February 2019 at 6:06 pm

Hi Matthias!

The route would work either way. The only thing is that many people prefer to drive the PCH from north to south as you are on the right hand side of the road, so you get clearer views. But it’s stunning either way to be honest 🙂

Catherine Smithfield says

18th January 2019 at 4:12 pm

Hi Laurence,

Fabulous site guys… I would love some tips please my husband and I are planning a once in a lifetime trip to the USA, we fly into and out of Los Angeles , arriving 16th October and leaving 5th December. We will be spending thanksgiving with friends in Washington state . We would like to drive the Pacific highway, see some of LA, San Fran , Yosemite,Death Valley Las Vegas,- just very quick as we feel we should see it and the Grand Canyon . We love nature, beautiful landscapes, we are also foodies . Any suggestions would be very welcome , hire car v Rv , obviously due to the length of our trip I would like to be sensible on accommodation costs…is there a reliable decent hotel/motel chain you would recommend, or Airbnb. I have also been looking a5 the trusted Housesitters website but have recently come across a few very negative reviews . Many thanks catherine(UK)

18th January 2019 at 6:33 pm

Hi Catherine!

Thanks so much! We’ll do our best to help out.

So first of all, if you haven’t already, we can definitely recommend checking out the USA sections of both our websites:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/category/destinations/north-america/usa/ https://independenttravelcats.com/category/travel-destinations/united-states/

Where we have loads of posts that you will find useful. Most particularly, I’d advise reading our driving in the USA , and our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA . That latter one in particular will help you in terms of costing out the trip.

For a hire car, a normal car rental is going to be a lot cheaper than an RV, especially as you will most likely still have to rent campsite space to stay at. A standard hire car in the US will usually start at around $200 a week. Our US travel budget post has a lot more on how to find the best deal and things to watch out for.

In terms of accommodation, the US has a wide range of options. The cheaper chains include: Red Roof Inn, Motel 6, Super 8, America’s Best Value Inn, Travelodge. The next step up would be Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn.

Note that the cheaper hotels are often found a little way outside of towns, often at interstate exit ramps. It’s also worth being aware that they are nearly all franchises, and so as a result the quality can vary dramatically, so it’s always worth reading reviews before visiting.

For booking and reviews, we highly recommend Booking.com . We have nearly always found this to be the cheapest option, even compared to turning up at the property, and the reviews can be a helpful guide. However, just bear in mind that cheaper hotels tend to rate worse, as folks can have high expectations!

Hopefully all this helps, let us know if you have any more specific questions we can help with!

Natasha says

9th January 2019 at 10:22 am

PS We are also planning to visit family in LA and have possible access to accommodation in Pacific Grove so should we be considering finding snow at Big Sur instead of north of San Fran? PPS Budget is going to be very tight!

9th January 2019 at 10:38 am

Hey Natasha!

So I’ll answer the Big Sur question first 🙂 Snow isn’t very common at Big Sur as it’s right by the sea, and it doesn’t usually get much except at higher elevations. The most reliable option is to head east to Tahoe or Yosemite, although that is going to be quite a drive and won’t fall into the definition of a short drive I’m afraid 🙁 The other option is to head up towards Auburn, as you get closer to the Sierra Nevada Mountains you will definitely find snow, but again, this isn’t going to be a short drive.

Whilst there is always a possibility of snow elsewhere, I wouldn’t want to guarantee it!

In terms of house swaps, the closest option we have for you is TrustedHousesitters , but that’s more of a house sitting opportunity than a home swap. I know there are home swapping platforms, but we’re not familiar with them, so I wouldn’t want to give a recommendation!

I hope you have a wonderful trip!

9th January 2019 at 2:44 pm

Thanks for the super-prompt response! Very helpful to know Big Sur is unlikely to tick the box and we hadn’t considered Auburn so I’ll find out more about that instead. Otherwise we’ll stick to Yosemite or Tahoe, which we’ve heard lots about.

9th January 2019 at 2:50 pm

My pleasure! Those two will definitely be fantastic, Yosemite in winter in particular is stunning. We have a guide to visiting Yosemite here 🙂

Also, I know real snow is ideally preferable, but there are a number of locations that generate snow that are going to be closer to San Francisco. If you google “snow in san francisco” or something similar, you should find some options!

9th January 2019 at 10:17 am

Thrilled to find your fascinating and helpful site! We live in Cape Town, and are planning a month in California between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, focussed around spending time with family in San Fran.

But my 14- and 16-year-olds have never experienced snow so we’re looking for guaranteed on-the-ground snow in early/mid December, as short a drive from SF as possible. Skiing not required, but snowman-building and perhaps some sledging would be great.

Also, can you recommend a site we might arrange a house swap through?

20th November 2018 at 8:30 pm

Hi, I’d like to know if February os a good time to make this travel. And what do you think about Sequoia National park?

27th November 2018 at 11:22 am

February would be good, just be aware that there might still be snow in Yosemite and so you’ll need to keep an eye on road closures around that area. We haven’t visited Sequoia National Park, but we have heard it is a great park, well worth visiting 🙂

12th November 2018 at 10:53 am

Hi there! This post has been really helpful as my partner and I are planning our honeymoon for April 2019 and we would love to roadtrip in the US. We have about 12 nights and would love to spend good chunks of time in San Francisco, LA or Santa Monica and some national parks. We would also love to do the Pacific Coast. We were originally thinking of flying into San Francisco and out of LA, but your post has me wondering if a roundtrip is better. Would you suggest we amend your suggested route? Which of the the national parks would be the best to visit?

12th November 2018 at 4:15 pm

Hey Neely! There are so many great National Parks, but Yosemite is definitely up there as one of my favourites. I would say a round trip is better – the route I have outlined makes a nice loop, and car hire is nearly always better value if you return the car where you picked it up 🙂

Chiara says

2nd October 2018 at 5:21 pm

Hi! I love your blog guys! We are thinking about a road trip in California next summer, and this post is a perfect inspiration! We will travel with our kids, they will be 3 and 6 and we have 3 weeks instead of 2. Do you have suggestions on how/where to use the extra days? Considering we can’t plan super long tiring car journeys and have to incorporate some activities they would enjoy too like some beach life, aquariums… Any suggestion is very welcomed! Thank you very much in advance!

4th October 2018 at 4:20 am

Hey Chiara!

So my suggestion would be to follow this itinerary, but just to go a bit slower and spend a bit more time in each place. I’d definitely suggest the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the San Diego Zoo as two great options along the way, and Universal Studios in LA is also sure to be a hit 🙂 Along the PCH you’ll also find loads of lovely beaches, so I think you’ll easily be able to stretch this two week road trip into a three week California itinerary! Have an awesome time!

4th October 2018 at 2:09 pm

Thank you very much!

ANGELINE MONTIJO says

19th August 2018 at 3:48 pm

Hi Im planning a road trip with my family to California from Orlando,Fl on June 2019. I want some advice where should we start.

19th August 2018 at 5:41 pm

Hi Angeline! Do you mean where to start in terms of planning? If you could let me know how long you are travelling for and what your interests are, then we can try to help. In the meantime, we can help out with some tips on driving in the USA:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-driving-in-usa/

And some tips on budgeting for your trip:

The overall route you take will also take you through part of our Deep South USA itinerary:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/usa-deep-south-road-trip-itinerary/

As well as parts of our Route 66 itinerary:

https://independenttravelcats.com/2-week-route-66-itinerary-ultimate-american-road-trip/

Which should both serve to help inform your planning on your route 🙂

Lisa Stark says

16th August 2018 at 1:20 pm

Hi, my partner and me are planning to do a road trip next September 2019, starting from San Fran and heading south, eventually arriving in San Diego over a 2 week period. Can you recommend a good car hire company, how long before we should book and some nice places to stop with boutique hotels, This will be out first time in America and I’m completely at a loss where to start planning. Many thanks. Lisa

16th August 2018 at 7:05 pm

Hey Lisa! Well, that’s a great question. There are a number of hire car companies that we recommend, you can see our list here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/travel-resources/#Car-Rental

It looks like you are doing a one-way trip, so just bear in mind that sometimes the “meta-search” tools that search a variety of providers don’t always account for that. So it might be easier to go direct. We’ve found that it really varies, but we’ve often had success with Enterprise and Hertz. It’s also worth bearing in mind that pick up from an airport location is nearly always more expensive than a city location, so if you can be flexible in that regard you will likely save a bit of money. Especially somewhere like San Francisco, as you don’t really need the car for the city and it will just end up costing you in car parking fees and wasted rental fees for a car you aren’t using.

For hotel and car bookings, I’d usually say the further in advance the better so you have everything sorted and don’t have to worry about it. In terms of stops, your route pretty much follows the Pacific Coast Highway, and we have a super comprehensive guide to all the towns along the route which you can see here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/planning-a-california-pacific-coast-highway-road-trip-from-san-francisco-to-los-angeles/

That also has planning tips and suggestions. I’d also advise reading our tips for driving in the USA: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-driving-in-usa/

And our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-usa/

In terms of other things to think about, I’m not sure which country you are coming from, but definitely consider getting a travel credit card that won’t charge you for foreign transaction fees, and maybe a SIM card that offers roaming in the USA. Three in the UK has a pretty good deal for SIM cards that offer free data in the USA.

Hopefully this helps a bit, let me know if you have other questions. It gives me an idea to put together a first timers guide to travelling in the USA 🙂

6th August 2018 at 12:24 pm

This is a great read, thank you for sharing. My partner and I are looking to do a similar trip in October this year. However, we are slightly confused on the route (and in what order) to do it all in. We want to do 14 nights and start in San Francisco and either end in San Diego or Vegas. (Everyone says Vegas is a must see at least once and although not on the top of our list, we thought we could add it on the end).

Our initial thoughts are 3 nights in San Fran, 2 in Yosemite, 1 in Monterey, 1 in Santa Barbara. 3 in la, 2 in San Diego and 2 in Vegas. Does this sound too ambitious? And any thoughts on in what order we would do this? I would appreciate anyones input on this. Thank you in advance!

6th August 2018 at 12:58 pm

My pleasure. So the only slight niggle in your itinerary is that Yosemite is the opposite direction to the Pacific Coast Highway, so that will add a bit of driving time to your route (it’s about 3 – 4 hours each way from San Francisco). I definitely recommend Yosemite, it’s just going to take a bit of time to do it on this trip. Overall your route is certainly do-able, as long as you don’t mind a fair bit of driving. I like that you are scheduling multiple nights in the various locations, that will give you more time to enjoy without rushing. I’d say that your order is pretty good, I can’t think of a better way to do it.

6th August 2018 at 1:27 pm

Thank you for taking the time reply! I am glad it sounds doable. I think the multiple stops should help to break up the drive (I won’t be doing it my other half has that pleasurable job =) ). Yes Yosemite is the one we are are a bit confused about as when to add it. Before or after San Fran and at what point as you say it is out of the way, but is a must for us, and we don’t want to miss anything on the drive down from San Fran to La, so a tricky one. Thank you for your input, much appreciated!

Tim Shakespeare says

24th July 2018 at 9:42 am

Hi there, my wife and I are coming mid October to California for a road trip celebrating my 50th. We start in SF, only for 2 days, then have 3 days before we get to Yosemite. Have you any recommendations of where to visit in that time, we don’t mind going in any direction before heading towards Yosemite? We then head to Las Vegas for my actual birthday for 3 days then onto LA for a further 4 days, any suggestions of where to spend time between the cities?

24th July 2018 at 9:42 pm

Hey Tim! Well, it really depends on what you are interested in! Obviously you’re not too far from Napa Valley if it’s wine you’re after, or you could head north to Redding, where there’s some beautiful scenery. A sojourn along the Pacific Coast Highway, or at least part of it, is also an option – there are so many cute towns along that route to check out (see our guide here: https://independenttravelcats.com/planning-a-california-pacific-coast-highway-road-trip-from-san-francisco-to-los-angeles/

Between Vegas and LA, the obvious choices are Joshua Tree National Park, and the whole Mojave Desert is pretty impressive. I’m assuming you’ll stop at Death Valley from Yosemite, but if not, you could head up that way. Another option is to head south from Vegas and find Route 66, and follow then into LA, which is a fun option. You can see more on Route 66 here: https://independenttravelcats.com/2-week-route-66-itinerary-ultimate-american-road-trip/

Hope this helps a bit! Have a great trip and happy birthday!

tim shakespeare says

27th July 2018 at 2:56 pm

Thanks Laurance, that info is really useful

28th July 2018 at 4:08 pm

My pleasure 🙂

Paula Lambie says

20th July 2018 at 2:35 pm

Hi Laurence, Absolutely loved your article. We are a group of 6 friends that are coming from Trinidad and want to stay about 7-8 days on a road trip starting in LA and possibly leaving from San Fran. We are coming around the end of Feb 2019 and leaving around March 6 or 7th. Still in the planning stages and would appreciate any advice or recommendations. I want to include Yosemite and Sequoia but don”t know if it is feasible with the time period we are looking at. Any advice would greatly be appreciated. Take care.

22nd July 2018 at 9:09 pm

Thanks very much. So Yosemite would be feasible, but you have to bear in mind that in February and March it can still be quite snowy in the park, and it’s also a four hour drive each way from San Francisco, so that’s going to eat up a lot of your time. My suggestion would be to definitely do the Pacific Coast Highway over two or three days, and then depending on your interests, either some time in places like the Joshua Tree, or the cities like LA, San Francisco or San Diego. Another option is to go further north of San Francisco, although Yosemite is a really incredible place and well worth the effort to get out there!

Hope this helps, have a great trip!

Louisa says

12th June 2018 at 6:03 pm

Hi Laurence, We are a family of 5 holidaying in California in August and staying San Francisco (3 nights) -Yosemite (3 nights)-Monterey (2 nights)-Santa Barbara (1 night) and at the moment San Diego (2 nights) and LA (3 nights). I am wondering if we are being over ambitious at the end of the holiday and should just stay in LA rather than driving down to San Diego and back to LA for our flight back? Is San Diego a must see? I am torn between wanting to see it all while we are in California but not overdoing it and rushing too much. What are the travel times likely to be realistically between Santa Barbara, LA and San Diego at that time of year? Thank you for any advice.

13th June 2018 at 11:07 am

Hey Louisa!

I think San Diego is worth visiting, and as you have 3 nights already in LA I don’t think you’ll have too much rush. I will be honest and say that I don’t know exactly what the travel times at that time of year will be, but I find that Google usually estimates travel times pretty well – just avoid the peak rush hours and you should generally be fine 🙂

Shelley says

14th May 2018 at 9:00 am

Hi Laurence, Great website! We are booking a 3 week trip over Christmas. LA to San Francisco, via Vegas/Death Valley etc. Weather wise, what should we expect, particularly with Yosemite? Is there anywhere along the coast which is worth stopping off between LA and San Francisco for a night? Many thanks Shelley from Sydney

14th May 2018 at 2:53 pm

Hi Shelley!

Thanks for your comment – sounds like you have a wonderful trip planned. So, Yosemite in particular can be tricky in winter. It can be accessed, but you need to be aware that it will obviously be quite snowy, and access isn’t possible from all sides – the route I have laid out for example you would have to alter a bit in order to access Yosemite in winter, as the Tioga Road is closed. You also usually can’t get up to Glacier point in winter. But the major attractions in the valley are accessible. For more on visiting Yosemite in Winter, you can check out this guide to Yosemite in a day that Jess wrote: https://independenttravelcats.com/planning-day-yosemite-national-park-introduction-yosemite-valley/

There is a lot to see and do on the Pacific Coast Highway, certainly enough to fill a day or two. There are lots of towns to stop at, and which you choose really depends what you are into. Cambria is a favourite of ours, but there’s a lot to see and do. This post breaks down all the highlights, so you can make an informed decision 🙂

Have a fabulous trip!

Lis Brown says

1st May 2018 at 11:15 pm

Hi Laurence, great post and photos! My husband and I are planing to do 2 weeks driving trip in California, i love all your suggested destinations, I may do the same trip as yours. However, I will be 4 months pregnant (planning to go in May) during the trip, may I know if the in-land route/parks and lake visits are suitable for me and accessible by car or light walking/ light hiking? your trip is start from san francisco and end there too, am i right? thanks in advance!

2nd May 2018 at 8:24 pm

Hi Lis! Thanks very much 😀 The trip does start and end in San Francisco yep.

For your question – I have to admit to not being an expert as we’ve not had any kids, however there is definitely light hiking in the majority of places. Just be aware it can get very hot in some parts of California, so do take plenty of water along. My advice would be to check the websites for the national parks you want to visit and see what hiking routes they have – I think you should be fine, but it’s always best to check as one persons “light hike” is another persons marathon 😉

Theresa says

10th April 2018 at 1:59 am

This looks like a great route, but I was really hoping to see Sequoia National Park. Any advice?

13th April 2018 at 6:16 pm

Hi Theresa! Thanks very much! As that’s in the north, you’d want to add it on near San Francisco. So you could either spend less time in the city, or lose a day somewhere else on the route. It’s hard to give specific advice without knowing your exact interests, but as you sound like you prefer nature to cities, perhaps spending less time in the cities might work better for you? Have a great trip!

15th April 2018 at 5:51 pm

Thanks for your reply. Sequoia National Park is south of Yosemite on the map (Redwood National Park is north of San Francisco). It doesn’t appear that there is road access to Sequoia NP on your route which heads north on 395. I did more research and verified that is the case.

18th April 2018 at 6:22 am

Hi! My apologies, I was thinking of the redwoods to the north of San Francisco and got a bit confused – but that is another option if you can’t make it to Sequoia. Road access can be a challenge due the mountains, and also in winter some of the roads into Yosemite are closed due to snow. So you might have to alter the route a fair bit to make it to Sequoia if that’s a priority 🙂

Jacques says

5th April 2018 at 10:41 pm

Hi Lawrence , we are also considering tyis roadtrip this month. Were from Canada. Assuming we are on the road a giving day with no reservations for a room the same night , by what time do we need to confirm a room or is there plenty of options once arriving early evening. Thank for everything.

6th April 2018 at 5:09 pm

Hi Jacques! At this time of year for the most part you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a room at the last minute. It does depend a little on what level of accommodation you are after, but for quick and easy motels we found they had lots of availability in general. We do definitely advise always checking prices online somewhere like booking.com though, as we nearly always got better deals that way compared to turning up – often the person at the desk didn’t have the power to actually match a price. So do keep that in mind 🙂 Have a great trip, and let me know how it goes!

Jacques Gauthier says

20th May 2018 at 1:13 am

Hi Lawrence ! We decided to take two weeks to travel from San Francisco to LA (Manhattan Beach) . We travel along the coast for these 14 days and enjoyed it tremendously. Next trip will be the National Parks .

Thank you .

20th May 2018 at 2:36 pm

13th March 2018 at 1:27 pm

We are hoping to do everything in your itinerary plus San Diego, we will only have 15 nights and would like to spend at least 2 full days in San Diego and 2 full days in SF, do you think this is reasonable without spending too long out of the 15 days in the car?

13th March 2018 at 8:34 pm

I think that should be do-able yes, if you are focused and don’t get too distracted 😉 Have an awesome trip!

Jacqueline says

19th February 2018 at 4:25 pm

Hi! I am planning a trip with my 10 year old son and love the looks of your itinerary. What would you suggest budget wise for this trip (minus flights) for the two of us?

Thanks, Jacqueline

19th February 2018 at 6:03 pm

Hi Jacqueline! It’s quite tricky to put a budget together on a case by case basis because everyone has different styles and standards of travelling. I’d suggest taking a look at my guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA, which covers pretty much all the areas you need to consider, and should give you some ballpark figures 🙂

Let me know if you still have questions after checking that out 😀

Gai Pendlebury says

12th October 2017 at 11:04 pm

Thank you — what a great and helpful site you have made.We are flying into San francisco from Australia in April.We only have 10 nights.Your suggestions are great — we will miss the LA part.Happy for anyone hear to put in their opinions for an itinerary!We will spent 4 or 5 nights in San fran and 3 in yosemite but the 3 nights are up for grabs –we have done Big Sir before so probs wont go south on the coast.I am thinking maybe Lake tahoe,gold rush towns …love to walk,history, beautiful scenery and quaint American towns.Happy to drive long distances– thank you –your photos are wonderful!

Laurence says

13th October 2017 at 10:33 am

Our pleasure – thanks for commenting to let us know, it’s always appreciated. Sounds like you have some good plans already – one idea might be to head north for Shasta Cascade region and see the caves / redwoods. I have a post about that region on the site too 🙂 Have a fabulous trip!

14th October 2017 at 5:09 am

Thank for that .I will look into it a bit more — I am really impressed with your links for such like 12 best spots for photographing San Fran or Yosemite. So helpful to know where to go to get those great shots!

Jules Selby says

28th August 2017 at 10:24 pm

We are planning two weeks but thinking of hiring an RV instead of hotels, what do you think?

28th August 2017 at 10:43 pm

An RV is definitely a good idea, but do be aware that they can be pricey, and you often have to pay for camping on top of that as well – although there are a lot of places you can camp for free in the US! So really it’s up to you – we’ve done both, and RV’ing is definitely a lot of fun!

Bob Steiner, Jr says

25th June 2017 at 4:07 am

You can’t drive a highway 1 through Big Sur. The highest us closed and detours long and winding over dirt roads

25th June 2017 at 1:32 pm

Thanks for pointing this out. Do you know how long the road will be closed? I’ll put a note in the post.

Erica Landry Napolitano says

16th April 2017 at 7:52 pm

This is some great advice for our upcoming trip. We have almost three weeks out in CA and these will be some great spots! Traveling with an 8 and 10 year old this still seems doable! Thanks.

16th April 2017 at 7:54 pm

My pleasure, have an awesome trip!

Jenna Francisco says

17th September 2016 at 5:18 am

So many good ideas here, and I agree that visitors should plan at least 3 days in San Francisco and Yosemite. One suggestion I’d make related to the “when to visit CA” section–SF and much of the coast are cold and foggy in the summer, so it’s a good idea for visitors to dress in layers and expect lots of fog in summer, that way they won’t be disappointed!

Sarah @ Endless Distances says

14th August 2016 at 1:16 pm

Wow this is so exhaustive!! I’ve don’t the pch before and it’s a dream. I would also definitely recommend staying in Santa Barbara – and the Mexican street food!!!

20th August 2016 at 8:28 pm

Thanks Sarah! It’s a fun place to road trip for sure – thanks for the recommendation!

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An Iconic California Coast Road Trip Itinerary (45 Epic Stops!)

Post Summary: 45 Epic California Coast Road Trip Stops (Northbound!)

Did you know that California’s Highway 1 is one of the most popular west coast road trips in the United States?

It makes perfect sense. California’s rugged coastline, gorgeous sunsets, and nostalgic adventure feel have drawn us in more times than we can count!

If you’re hoping to plan your own road trip down the famous Highway 1, you’ve come to the right place. From the Redwoods all the way down to the sunny beaches of San Diego, there are so many amazing stops to see!

In this post, we’re sharing our favorite stops along Highway 1 for the ultimate California coast road trip. We hope this post encourages you to create your own adventure in California and explore this beautiful coast! 

After reading this guide on how to plan a trip to the California coast, you’ll be ready to have another epic western US adventure.

The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip (All The Best Stops)

Where do i begin northbound or southbound.

Where to start your California Coast road trip is completely up to you!

Starting south and driving northbound is probably the most common way to travel Highway 1 because of the easy access to airports and rental cars to begin your journey.

There are easy southern starting points like San Diego or Los Angeles. Northern California starting points are a little more difficult – you’ll have to begin in Medford, Oregon, or Redding, California and drive a few hours to the coast to begin.

However, if you’re driving from Portland or Seattle and following our Pacific Coast Highway road trip or our Oregon Coast Road Trip , you’ll find that going southbound isn’t much of a problem!

For the sake of this post, we’re sharing stops in the order of someone going northbound!

Want To Take On The Entire Pacific Coast Highway?

We’ve got lots of information about the ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip and tons of advice for your journey . Here are some posts to get you started on planning your next road trip on Highway 1!

• The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip (Washington To California)
• 10 Amazing Road Trip Planner Tools + Apps For Your Best Trip Yet
• How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California
• Adventurous Things To Do In And Around San Francisco
• 30 Necessary Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

The California Coast Road Trip – Northbound (Beginning in San Diego!) 

San diego area stops.

To get a taste of SoCal, visit San Diego! San Diego is one of the most beautiful places in California, and it offers visitors gorgeous views, lots of fun attractions, and a diverse array of activities and experiences.

Here are some of the most popular (for good reason!)–and our favorite–places to go in San Diego:

La Jolla is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego! This is because of its cute and high-end shops, delicious restaurants, and tons of amazing places to stay.

If you love animals and long walks, you’ll want to visit the La Jolla Cove and the La Jolla Coast Walking Trail to see all kinds of coastal creatures!

The beaches in La Jolla are also top-notch for ocean kayaking (where you can go into sea caves!)! There are also tons of opportunities to go snorkeling/swimming, and relaxing.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Looking to be close to town while still having adventures in nature? Check out Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve !

In the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, you’ll find tons of hiking trails (both popular and more secluded), unique foliage specific to this area, lots of wildlife, gorgeous Pacific Ocean views, and lovely corners to find solitude and relaxation.

Some of our favorite things about Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve are the beautiful cliffs, blooming wildflowers native to Southern California, and the Torrey Pines State Beach .

A day use fee to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve costs between $10-25 , depending on what vehicle you drive. The gates open at 7:15AM, though the park is busiest from 10AM-1PM everyday!

Just north of San Diego , Encinitas is another perfect stop on your California coast road trip.

Here, you’ll find lots of great beaches to relax or play, including Cardiff State Beach , Swami’s Beach , and Moonlight State Beach !

For a full stay in Encinitas, take a day at LEG O LAND California (just 15 minutes north of Encinitas in Carlsbad, CA)! You can also stroll through the San Diego Botanic Garden , and grab a bite to eat at the famous restaurant, The Taco Stand .

San Clemente

For cute California vibes, you must stop in San Clemente, California!

San Clemente boasts top-notch relaxation and picnicking at the San Clemente State Beac h . There is also fun hiking/strolling along the 2.3-mile San Clemente Beach Trail , great surfing, epic sunset views on the San Clemente Pier , and tons of cute shops and restaurants.

Orange County Stops

Orange County is the place to go if you’re looking for epic outdoor adventures. From surfing their iconic waves to exploring the gorgeous bluffs and canyon trails, there’s so many amazing places to go in Orange County!

Here are some of our favorite things to do:

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is full of amazing opportunities to hit the beach, explore the coast, and stroll around downtown. With their weekly summer art walks, this is a perfect stop for people who love locally-made goods.

Looking to stay on a budget during your California Coast road trip? Here are some free things to do in Orange County to have fun and save money at the same time!

Newport Beach

Newport Beach is the perfect destination for boutique shops, paddle boarders, and sailboat lovers! 

Looking for a bit more adventure? Head over to “The Wave” which is located at the end of the jetty. This is where giant waves come and challenge even the best surfers – you’re sure to get a show here!

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is the place to go if you’re seeking that iconic California coast culture. There won’t be a shortage of surfers here! Some of the best waves on the entire California Coast are found on Huntington Beach.

Want to experience the waves for yourself? Consider taking a lesson with Toes on The Nose surf school to try out a new skill!  

Los Angeles Stops

Los Angeles is another big city stop along your California Coast road trip. Known for its fame and glamor, Los Angeles features the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame , top-tier restaurants, and hundreds of unique shops, hotels, and attractions.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is the place to go for iconic California fun. Popular for its amazing public pier, this area is full of activities to do on your California Coast road trip. Stop a while and play in the waves, check out the amusement park right on the pier, or grab an ice cream cone and watch the sunset.

There isn’t a bad way to experience Santa Monica Pier!

Venice Beach

When planning your California coast road trip itinerary, be sure to include visiting Venice Beach. This is a classic SoCal beach with tons of popular attractions.

Known for its bohemian vibe, the walkable Venice Beach highlights street performers, a fun pier to walk on and watch the sunset, and unique beachside activities.

The Getty Museum is a FREE museum located in West Hollywood in Los Angeles.

Being one of the largest art organizations in the world, you must visit the Getty Museum! Here, you’ll find both American and European Art, lots of unique architecture, and gardens to spend hours in.

Other Famous L.A. Destinations

Want more to do while in Los Angeles? We gotchu! While in this popular SoCal city, be sure to check out The Broad , Griffith Observatory , Hollywood Bowl , Watts Towers Arts Center , Los Angeles Theater , Los Angeles Conservancy , and Huntington Beach Pier .

Topanga State Park

Topanga State Park is known as the largest state park within a city limit in the US. It is one of the easiest natural attractions to access while in the greater Los Angeles area!

With over 76 miles of trails, Topanga State Park is the perfect place to escape after exploring the big city.

The most popular trails in Topanga State Park include the Eagle Rock/Eagle Spring Loop Trail , Musch Ranch Trail , and Will Rogers Trail .

Not up for hiking? Try biking or horseback riding!

Malibu, California is one of the most well-known cities along the California coastline. It’s known for its big estates and the grand homes of celebrities!

In Malibu, you can also expect a relaxed surf culture in places like Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach .

For jaw-dropping harbor scenes and vintage town vibes, be sure to stop in Ventura, CA!

What makes Ventura unique is their popular Surfers Point at Seaside Park . This is a paved beach pathway lined with palm trees–and easy access to Santa Cruz Island . This is an island located in Channel Islands National Park that has tons of hiking, kayaking, diving, and camping.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of the most picturesque areas along the west coast with cool attractions. It’s often called the American Riviera!

Some of the most popular destinations in Santa Barbara include the Old Santa Barbara Mission and botanical gardens, hiking at Figueroa Mountain or Arroyo Burro Beach County Park , and stopping for a margarita, Mexican food, and epic sunsets at the end of the day.

San Lius Obispo Stops

San Luis Obispo, or SLO, is one of the cutest stops on the California coast with many fun attractions!

Here are some of our favorite activities in San Luis Obispo:

Lompoc Flower Fields

The Lompoc Flower Fields is a stunning area filled with larkspur, stock, and sweet peas.

The best times to see the blooms at the Lompoc Flower Fields are between May and June!

While the fields are privately owned (AKA no trespassing!), you can take pictures from the side of the road. Even better, stop to buy some locally owned fruit stands along the way and enjoy a treat!

The Town of San Luis Obispo

The charming town and greater area of San Luis Obispo has lots of things to do for families, couples, individuals, and friends. It’s almost halfway between San Francisco and L.A.!

While in the area, you can relax at Pismo Beach , go wine tasting in SLO’s wine country , or explore the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail (easy, 4.1-mile trek with 229’ elevation gain) in Montaña de Oro State Park .

Hiking the Bluff Trail and tide pooling near Spooners Cove is another fun stop in SLO. It offers visitors epic views of the California coast!

Big Sur Stops

For a complete road trip up the California coast, you must travel along the world-famous Big Sur Scenic Byway.

Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of coast with some of the most scenic curves and bends along the coast. It’s truly a must-see attraction!

Sunrise at Coastal Pullouts

Along these winding, twisting roads are endless opportunities to pull the car over and capture the roaring waves crashing into the cliffs! Foggy hills, jagged rocks, and dramatic coastlines are around every corner here in Big Sur.

Read More: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip

McWay Falls

If any view can sum up your time on the California Coast, the view of this 80ft tall McWay Falls would be it! 

It’s the shortest recorded trail in the Big Sur area. That makes it a perfect option for families and people who want to quickly stop by on their drive.

Park at the parking lot labeled “Overlook/Waterfall Trail/Pelton Wheel” and head back toward the coast. You cross through a tunnel that goes under the highway, and then have access to the boardwalk view of McWay Falls. Viewing platforms, short walk.

There is no beach access at McWay Falls!

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a wonderful place to explore, that’s marbled with purple sand! However, be caution of the route! The way to the beach is through a winding 2-mile narrow road, so be prepared to squeeze right next to another car to get by one another!

Another popular attraction for visitors in Keyhole Rock. Keyhole Rock which is a natural bridge worn through by the crashing waves.

Read More: California’s Black Sand Beach

Bixby Creek Bridge

Did you know this is one of the most photographed bridges in California?

Built in 1932, this bridge was important to the people of Big Sur because it finally connected communities on either side of the canyon. Before the bridge, people had to drive on an 11-mile old and dangerous coastal road to reach the other side!

There are pullouts available on either side of the bridge and an overflow parking lot on the north/inland side.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Stops

One of the cutest and most charming spots along the California coast is Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey!

There are tons of little shops, art galleries, and cafés in these towns. Here are some of our favorite attractions in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos Natural Reserve is located just south of Monterey, California. This area is widely referred to as the “crown jewel” of California state parks. This is because of its focus on natural preservation, miles of trails, and gorgeous coastline. Because of its proximity to larger cities and right off Highway 1, this place is an easy getaway for visitors to be immersed in nature.

You can explore See Monterey’s website for things to do at Point Lobos like as hiking, bird watching, diving and other activities!

Natural Bridges State Beach

For excellent bird watching and places to explore marine life, check out Natural Bridges State Beach!

At Natural Bridges State Beach, you’ll see grand sea stacks along the compact, sandy beach, tide pools that are perfect for curious kids, and lots of wildlife.

Just 10 minutes north of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, CA is another charming town in Central California.

In Monterey, the most popular attractions include visiting Cannery Row. It actually inspired John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row , and the Monterey Bay Aquarium .

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

For a romantic date with your beau or fun day with the family, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk –an amusement park set right along the sandy beaches of Central California!

Admission to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk starts at $40 (though you can often find deals!), and hours are typically 10AM-10PM in the peak summer season.

Shark Fin Cove

Be on the lookout for this spot before the small town Davenport, California because it can be easily missed! There is no sign indicating the cove’s location, just a large pull out on the coastal side of Highway 1! You can park your car free of charge right off the road on a cleared dirt area.

After a brief walk across old train tracks from the “parking lot”, you can stand on the cliffs above to get a dramatic view. There are walking paths to see the “shark fin” from many perspective, and all are unique and beautiful, in our opinion.

You can also choose to climb down to to the bottom to explore on the beach. The beach access is a steep but manageable trail, and we enjoyed an empty beach with the early sunset. Be careful not to enter the natural arch on the far left side of the beach. Loose rocks often fall from the top (we saw it happen!) and standing under when that happens could be extremely dangerous.

Read More: What To Expect At Shark Fin Cove – Davenport, California

Davenport Pier

This is located not even a mile away from Shark Fin Cove. The Davenport Pier was once used for the village of Davenport, but only the concrete base remains intact. Park at the Davenport Beach parking lot to view it from the cliffs about.

The route down to the actual beach is dangerous, so use your best judgement when deciding to make the descent. Here is a helpful article that explains the area and what you might expect here!

San Francisco Area Stops

San Francisco–like many big cities–is a bustling area full of unique places, diverse people, and lots to do!

We’ve narrowed down some of the best stops in San Francisco for you to add to your California Coast road trip itinerary:

Gol d en Gate Bridge

Who doesn’t love a classic? While traveling along the California coast, you must stop at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for pictures and to enjoy the view of the bay and Alcatraz.

Just 30 minutes from the city center, this stop is one of the most convenient along your entire road trip!

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is another one of those iconic San Francisco stops you must take while traveling along the California coast.

Here, you can explore the wharf, rent a bike , go shopping , eat at any of the amazing restaurants, visit local galleries and museums , and more!

Want more activities like this? Check out Pier 39 –a popular pier on the ocean that offers visitors tons of fun activities, shops, restaurants, and experiences!

About 40 minutes from San Francisco, Muir Woods was named a national monument in 1908 after the well-known naturalist, John Muir.

Within Muir Woods, you can hike the Canopy View Trail, which is a great hike that takes you right under big redwoods!

IMPORTANT: Muir Woods has very specific parking requirements, and you must reserve a spot in advance , so be sure to plan ahead before you go as walk-ins are prohibited.

Bolinas Ridge

Bolinas Ridge –a mountain in Mt. Tamalpais State Park –is one of the most popular hiking destinations for visitors and locals alike!

You can summit Bolinas Ridge for yourself on the Bolinas Ridge Trail , which is a 21.9-mile trek with 2,470 feet of elevation gain.

One of the best things about this area is that you can hike it or bike it, take as much or as little time as you’d like, and enjoy the scenery of Central California all the while!

Stinson Beach

Found on Bolinas Bay, Stinson Beach is a great way to stop and have a picnic while driving along the California coastline.

Here, you can look for critters in tide pools with the kids, relax with a book and drink on the beach, or explore the nearby town.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the most unique stops along the Pacific Coast Highway , as it’s known as being one of the “foggiest places in North America,” has lots of hiking, is perfect for camping overnight, and has tons of epic hiking trails .

Some of our favorite hikes (among many more !) in Point Reyes National Seashore include the Laguna Trail Coast Trail Loop (6 miles), Tule Elk Road Tomales Point Trail (9 miles), and Elephant Seal Overlook Trail (0.5 miles).

Northern California Stops

While making your way up to Northern California, you’ll want to make sure to visit these popular attractions:

Just north of San Francisco, Bodega Bay is a must-see stop on your California coast road trip.

Known for its hiking around Bodega Head –which also has epic whale watching–and easy access to the beachside Doran Regional Park , this area is perfect for nature-lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Near Bodega Bay, you can also take a spa day at the OSMOSIS Day Spa Sanctuary , stay at The Lodge at Bodega Bay , or hike around the bay on the Shorttail Gulch Trailhead .

Sonoma Coast State Park

North of Bodega Bay, you’ll find the stunning Sonoma Coast State Park –a natural area full of great hikes, epic Pacific Ocean views, and fun beaches to explore. It’s the perfect place for families or solo trips!

Within Sonoma Coast State Park, you can go horseback riding on the Bodega Dunes trail system , hike the Kortum Trail (easy, 9.3 miles with 912 feet elevation gain), and go beachcombing on the rugged, sandy beaches.

Shelter Cove – Black Sands Beach

With a coastline of over 20 miles and unique black sand, the Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove is one of the coolest beaches in Northern California!

One of the best ways to experience Black Sands Beach is on the Lost Coast Trail –a 24.6-mile trek that offers visitors a unique coastal wilderness hiking adventure and sightings of classic coastal wildlife.

Not up for hiking? This area is perfect for tide pooling and enjoying the natural wildflowers!

Fort Ross and the Fort Ross State Historic Park is a great place to experience the wide variety of stories, cultures, and natural history of the area. The primary people group that inhabits the land have been the Kashia Pomo Indian Tribe . Russian colonizers (1812-1842) and the Ranch era (1842-1972) changed the primary inhabitants, then the area became a protected resource as a State Historic Park.

You can learn more about this area’s rich history at the park’s Visitor Center !

Mendocino is another unique coastal area in Northern California that has lots of things to do on the California coast.

While in the area, you should explore the Mendocino Headlands State Park , peruse the Water Gallery , and walk through the Cypress Grove park .

Eureka! While the name might have a silly history , it also means “I have found it!” with a connotation of discovery. Eureka, California is no exception, as there’s lots to discover in this California coastal town!

While in Eureka, be sure to check out the town’s local stores , explore the Victorian-era Carson Mansion , stop at Stinky Beach (which, unlike the name, is not stinky…anymore), and follow the city’s mural map to see unique art from local artists.

Sue-Meg State Park

Directly 30 miles north of Eureka, Sue-Meg State Park is the perfect stop for those who want to camp overnight , hike, or learn more about the culture and history of the area.

One of the easiest ways to experience Sue-Meg State park is by hiking the 3.1-mile-long Patrick’s Point Rim Trail , which starts at Palmer’s Point and ends at Agate Beach.

If you’re staying here for longer, make it a full day and drive along Wedding Rock Road to make the short, steep climb up to Wedding Rock . Here, you can explore North Coast Native American history at Sumêg Village .

Trinidad is one of the best places in California to explore cool beaches, because of the many sea stacks and unique geological features!

While in Trinidad, you’ll want to check out Agate Beach , Trinidad State Beach (where you can also hike the Trinidad Head Trail Loop ), and Old Home Beach !

Whether you want to go on a morning walk on the beach or love seaside sunsets, Trinidad’s beaches are the way to go.

Redwood National Park Stops

Redwood National Park is one of the coolest national parks in the west–and for good reason! 

If you’re not sure what to do while in Redwood National Park, make sure to add these to your list:

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

To travel the 32-mile-long Avenue of the Giants –a scenic drive through some of the largest redwood trees in the area–you’ll want to visit Humboldt Redwoods State Park !

Open year-round, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the perfect place to vacation and get a taste of Northern California magic.

We suggest stopping by the visitor center , admire the 300-foot-tall trees on the Gould Grove Nature Trail , walk along the fallen Dyerville Giant , and take a dip in the South Fork of the Eel River .

Fern Canyon

The Fern Canyon Trail is one of our favorites in Redwoods National Park and is a Northern California gem. With tons of plants, cool lighting, and enchanting vibes, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale when hiking along the Fern Canyon Trail!

The Fern Canyon Trail is a short 1-mile loop that’s perfect for all levels.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

The expansive Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is one of the best state parks in the redwoods area, as it has over 75 miles of hiking trails, great camping spots , and epic views of Northern California’s world-famous redwood trees.

There’s also tons of resources for kids , making it a perfect stop on your family road trip!

While visiting Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, you might even catch sight of a herd of Roosevelt Elk.

NOTE: Permits/day-use fees are required in some locations in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, such as Gold Bluffs Beach .

Tall Trees Grove

One of the best hiking areas in the greater Redwoods National Park is the Tall Trees Grove .

You can park at the trailhead parking lot and reach the Tall Trees Grove on a 4.5-mile round trip backcountry hike with a total 1,600 feet of elevation gain.

Permits are required to visit the Tall Trees Grove , but they’re easy to get online and FREE! You must reserve your permit 24 hours in advance of visiting the Tall Trees Grove.

California Coast Road Trip Conclusion

Alright, you’ve made it all the way across Highway 1 and 101 on a California Coast road trip! Want to keep driving? Read our guide on the best Oregon Coast road trip route, and even continue to Washington with our Olympic Peninsula road trip route !

We hope you enjoyed our post and happy travels!

READ MORE ROAD TRIP ROUTES

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip

Olympic Peninsula Loop Trip

30 Necessary Essentials For Every Road Trip

101 Fun and Random Road Trip Questions To Ask Your Friends

20 Brilliant Car Camping Hacks For Your Best Trip Yet

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9 Lessons We Learning Living In A Van For 10 Days

Follow Our Pacific Coast Road Trip Board on Pinterest For More California Road Trip Ideas!

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!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The top 5 road trips in California

Sep 10, 2023 • 4 min read

The ultimate California road trips take you from sea to mountains and through desert and redwoods © Oleksandr Telesniuk / 500px

Road-tripping is the ultimate way to experience California , so fill the gas tank and buckle up for unforgettable drives through scenery that tugs at your heart and soul.

Get ready for memory-making encounters as you wheel through sensuous wine country, humbling redwood forests, epic desert expanses, endless miles of coastal highway and sky-touching Sierra Nevada peaks. Just make sure that rental car has unlimited miles – you'll need 'em all.

California is the third-largest state in the US , and you could easily spend weeks navigating its rural byways, safely distant from the nerve-jangling, often-jammed interstate system. These five classic road-tripping routes are soaked in enough epic scenery to make each deliciously slow, winding mile worthwhile.

1. Pacific Coast Highway

Best road trip for world-class ocean views & autumn trips Dana Point at Interstate 5–Hwy 101 in Leggett; 656 miles

No matter if you follow the entire 656 miles or just a short stretch of coast-hugging Hwy 1 , you'll hit the Insta jackpot. Posing options include dramatic sea cliffs, sun-soaked surfing towns, playful harbor seals and the Golden Gate Bridge .

Our top pick for classic California dreamin’ snakes along the Pacific coast, although officially, only the short, sun-loving stretch of Hwy 1 through Orange and Los Angeles Counties can legally call itself Pacific Coast Hwy (PCH). Never mind those technicalities, because equally bewitching ribbons of Hwy 1 and Hwy 101 await all along this route.

Local tip: For best results, avoid driving the PCH in the spring and summer months, when the central and northern coastline can be socked in by fog and the rainy season can initiate landslides. Instead, September and October will yield the sunniest skies and some of the best weather as you spend a week checking this beaut off your bucket list.

2. Route 66

Best for iconic drives & weekend drives Arizona border near Needles–Santa Monica; 315 miles

Get your kicks on America's “ Mother Road ,” which brought Dust Bowl refugees, Hollywood starlets and hippies to California. Cruise from the desert to the Pacific Ocean, pulling up alongside retro relics, sleeping in a tipi hotel and fueling up in neon-lit diners.

The Golden State was the promised land at the end of a long and sometimes lonesome road. Today you motor across the Mojave Desert – a relative breeze compared to times of yore – through famous western towns, like Barstow and Daggett, into the San Bernardino National Forest. Emerge in Pasadena and Los Angeles before dead ending into Hwy 1 in Santa Monica for a grand coastal-view payoff.

3. Gold Country and California Highway 49

Best for historic hills & family road trips Oakhurst–Nevada City; 200 miles

Follow Hwy 49 through the rough-and-tumble Sierra Nevada foothills, a stronghold of gold-rush history with thrilling, mostly true tales of banditry, bordellos and bloodlust.

That highway number is significant: it commemorates the ’49ers who came seeking fame and fortune in California’s original Gold Rush. Today the route winds through Gold Country towns such as Placerville and Nevada City, past ghostly Old West mines and Victorian buildings housing inns, restaurants and museums.

You won't want to miss the blend of western history and charming wineries strung along stunning views of the Sierra Nevada. Give yourself three to four days to enjoy this outdoorsy, family-friendly road trip. Summer and early fall are ideal times to go.

Detour: Hwy 49 comes mighty close to Yosemite National Park (15 miles) and Lake Tahoe (75 miles), both wonderful jumping-off points for family camping and natural majesty.

4. Avenue of the Giants

Best for road trips with kids & raw redwood brilliance Stafford–Highway 101 junction; 32 miles

The incredible 32-mile road at Humboldt Redwoods State Park is canopied by the world's tallest trees, some of which were seedlings during the Roman Empire. It’s one of the most justifiably celebrated drives in California, a place where travelers stand with jaws agape and necks craned upward. The best time is in the morning when sunlight glints off dew-drenched ferns.

The route connects a number of small towns with mid-20th-century motels, diners serving “lumberjack” meals and pull-offs packed with Harleys.

Among the majestic groves along the Avenue, like the rightly famous Rockefeller Grove and the Founders’ Grove, the California Federation of Women’s Clubs Grove is home to an interesting four-sided hearth, designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan. Walking trails wind through all the groves for proper tree-hugging.

5. Desert Solitaire in Death Valley

Best road trip for moody moonscapes & winter or spring driving Palm Springs–Death Valley; 290 miles

Tank up and load the water onboard as you road-trip from Palm Springs through Palm Desert and Joshua Tree up to Death Valley . You’ll drive where California pioneers and gold miners once rolled their wagons. 

In Death Valley National Park the magnum forces of natural and human history collide. Artists Drive is nine miles of vividly variegated desert hills, a taster of the area’s sensuous sand dunes, water-sculpted canyons, rocks moving across the desert floor, extinct volcanic craters, palm-shaded oases, soaring mountains and endemic flora.

Local tip: Go between February and April for spring wildflower blooms and cooler temperatures. Give yourself three days to soak up sites like Badwater Basin (the lowest elevation in the US), Mesquite Flat and Emigrant & Wildrose Canyons .

This article was first published January 2011 and updated September 2023

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The ultimate California road trip

From burgers at In-N-Out to an underground garden, these fun pit stops make up the perfect California road trip

California freeways may be some of the most dreaded in the country, but there’s no doubt they lead to some amazing destinations. It’s worth the hassle to get to famous amusement parks and beaches to enchanting redwood forests and hot springs . And here in the Golden State, the journey can be as rewarding as the destination. When you’re ready to get behind the wheel and explore the state, here are our picks for the best California road trip stops.

The famously scenic landscape (especially the Pacific Coast Highway ) makes taking a California road trip a multifaceted experience. You can piece together diverse cultural offerings, renowned restaurants and stunning national parks for a fun and varied cross-state itinerary. A bird’s eye view of Yosemite , a massive urban park, a pilgrimage to honor a beloved burger and a glimpse into space are just a few of the things you can experience on the ultimate California road trip.

So put together that road trip playlist, pick up a few gas station snacks , and hit the road to conquer California with these exciting destinations.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in California

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Ultimate California road trip

1.  Balboa Park

While San Diego has no shortage of worthy attractions, this 1,200-acre urban park , designed for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, is a must-stop. The big-ticket draw is the San Diego Zoo , but you needn’t shell out any cash to wander its scenic public grounds filled with a stunning botanical garden, artist studios in a colorful Spanish-style village, and free concerts in the outdoor amphitheatre. The park is also home to numerous museums dedicated to every interest including an upcoming Comic-Con museum . 

2.  Pioneertown

Constructed in the 1940s as a locale for Western flicks, this faux Old West town filled with false-front wooden structures has recently been rediscovered by a new generation. They’re here to knock down pins at Pioneer Bowl , shop earthenware at MazAmar Art Pottery , and chug beers with BBQ and live music at the rollicking Pappy & Harriet’s . Make it a weekend at the hip Pioneertown Motel which serves as a good home base for local music fests such as Coachella and Desert Stars.

3.  In-N-Out Museum

In-N-Out’s burgers and shakes fuel nearly every California road trip, so why not pay your respects at the source . Though the original 1948 structure was torn down years ago, the company built a replica for fans to marvel at mid-century relics including an old-fashioned fry maker and vintage cigarette vending machine. You won’t find any 25 burgers sizzling on the long dormant griddle, but you can get your Double-Double fix down the street at an actual locale that’s open for business.

4.  Griffith Observatory

Founded in 1935, this hillside observatory rockets visitors to outer space via immersive exhibits, massive space telescopes, and a sleek planetarium with digital projection. It also offers one of the best vantage points of the Hollywood sign. Plus, it’s hosted nearly as many stars as it observes with notable appearances in movies such as La La Land , The Terminator , and Jurassic Park .

5.  Solvang

Just 35 miles northwest of Santa Barbara , you’ll discover this unexpected fairytale town founded by Danish immigrants . Today, its Disneyesque, half-timber structures draw tourists with Danish trinkets and sweet treats including jam-covered ebelskivers. It’s not all kitsch, though, as evidenced by The Landsby Hotel ’s stylish dining room and guest rooms decked with modern Scandanavian furnishings.

6.  Forestiere Underground Gardens

While you’ll find plenty of extraordinary homes to tour in California, none are burrowed deep into the earth like this three-story Fresno oddity . For roughly forty years, Italian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere tunneled a sprawling complex of underground rooms, grottoes, and gardens to beat the heat of California’s central valley. Today, visitors can tour his catacomb-like former home, noting features such as his ingenious kitchen, soaking tub, and mature citrus trees that shoot up through light-filled courtyards.

7.  Nepenthe

Enjoy edge-of-the-world vistas at this architecturally striking, indoor-outdoor restaurant set 808 feet above the sea. Designed in the 1940s by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, Nepenthe features an airy, lodge-like dining room ringed by numerous outdoor patios overlooking coastal hills and the sparkling Pacific beyond. The overall effect feels more akin to a welcoming public space with roadtrippers popping by for a drink and peek at the stunning views. Save time for the well-curated gift shop which stocks locally made jewelry, textiles, and body products, as well as dreamy picture books on the region.

8.  17-Mile Drive

Plunk down $10.75 per vehicle, and experience the enviable coastal scenery enjoyed by well-heeled residents of the upscale enclave of Pebble Beach . The famed route winds along a craggy coastline filled with white sand beaches, bewitching Cypress forests, and innumerable overlooks of the churning Pacific. You’ll also pass by mega, luxury resorts with world-class golf links and restaurants that often deduct the price of your entrance fee from the bill.

9.  Glacier Point

Rise above the crowds at this scenic vista point perched 3,214 feet above the valley floor. From the lofty perch, you’ll spy some of Yosemite ’s most iconic features including Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. The overlooks is easily reached by car via a one-hour drive from the valley during May through November (check the site for updated road conditions). Otherwise, you’re huffing it 3,200-feet via the Four Mile Trail. Note that nearby Washburn Point offers even better views of Vernal and Nevada Falls.

10.  Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

This picturesque spot along the South Fork of the American River marks where gold was first discovered in California, sparking a Gold Rush that changed, well, everything. It all started in Coloma, California in 1848 when sawmill worker James Marshall discovered flecks of gold glinting in the river. Today, visitors can pan for gold, explore historic structures, and enjoy the lush, riverside beauty of the Sierra foothills.

11.  Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Housed in a lighthouse perched above a famous big-wave surf break, this cozy museum honors the spot surfing was first introduced to the mainland U.S. In 1885, three vacationing Hawaiian princes dazzled locals by surfing repurposed redwood planks, and the rest is history. The museum is filled with vintage surfboards—including one sporting an unsettling shark bite—and other fun memorabilia, while an adjacent overlook offers primo views of surfers shredding sizable swells below. Nearby, Steamer Lane Supply dishes up casual, beachside grub such as poke bowls and fish tacos.

12.  Golden Gate Bridge

Destroyed by countless movie monsters, this celebrity 8,981-foot suspension bridge awes just as it did when it premiered in 1937. The San Francisco side includes a visitor center with fun facts—including its famous color, International Orange—plus scores of photo opps from a cliffside pedestrian trail, while the Marin side offers a basic pull-out lot with gratifying views of the bridge and San Francisco. Yet, the real fun is strolling or biking the 1.7-mile expanse, pausing to gaze down upon the chilly waters 220 feet below.

13.  Navarro Vineyards

Great wine, stunning scenery, and free tastings should be enough to coax you out to Anderson Valley, an oft-overlooked gem hidden between Sonoma County and the Mendocino Coast. The region features numerous wineries dotted along the scenic central Highway 128, yet Navarro is a standout for its striking setting and warm hospitality. Belly up to the bar to taste through their many offerings including an outstanding Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer. 

14.  Mendocino Headlands State Park

While the Pacific Coast Highway from L.A. to San Francisco has achieved road trip royalty status, the route north of San Francisco is no less striking. The payoff is the coastal town of Mendocino, a quaint New England-inspired village set on mesmerizingly beautiful coastal bluffs. These expansive, grassy headlands are criss-crossed with trails that skirt sheer cliffs, quiet beach coves, and mysterious sea caves. They also offer an ideal vantage point for spotting migrating whales just offshore. 

15.  Avenue of the Giants

Humboldt County is home to the most pristine redwood groves on the planet thanks to the efforts of early conservationists who recognized their significance. Many areas require a lengthy hike to see the trees, but the famed Avenue of the Giants lets you enjoy these towering behemoths without stepping outside your car. Keep an eye out for notable stops including Founders’ Grove. 

Headed out on the PCH?

The best stops along the Pacific Coast Highway

This famously scenic route boasts some of the best places to visit in California. 

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Itineraries

12 epic california road trip routes.

(This post was originally published on Savored Journeys .)

California has a land area of over 155,000 square miles, nearly 850 miles of coastline and beaches, countless miles of desert, mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, and immensely beautiful scenery. The best possible way to experience it all is on an epic California road trip.

Whether you have a few days or a few weeks to spend, there is a California road trip itinerary that will suit you. In this post, we’ve compiled 12 possible itineraries that will take you from the top of the state to the bottom. Choose your journey and piece together routes to form your perfect California road trip.

» See a few of these Ultimate California Bucket List places along the way!

» Enjoy your road trip with these 46 Best California Road Trip Songs .

The road will take you along some of the most stunning coastal roads, deep into National Park forests, into the mountains and, of course, to some of California’s biggest cities. It’ll be one of the most enjoyable journeys you’ve ever taken.

• Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco (524 miles)
• Highway 395 Road Trip: Los Angeles to Mammoth Lakes (450 miles)
• Santa Barbara to Paso Robles (120 miles)
• San Luis Obispo to Monterey (280 miles)
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe (200 miles)
• San Francisco to Mendocino (176 miles)
• Mendocino to Redwoods National Park (240 miles)
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park (170+ miles)
• Yosemite National Park to Lassen Volcanic National Park (900 miles)
• Lassen Volcanic National Park to Shasta Trinity National Park (150 miles)
• Yosemite National Park to Death Valley National Park (515 miles)
• Death Valley National Park to Joshua Tree National Park (250 miles)

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco , Los Angeles , Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey , waterfalls in Southern California , and national parks.

Table of Contents

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco

Distance: 524 miles Suggested Duration: 3-4 days

• Malibu Beach
• Pismo Beach
• Monterey Bay
• Carmel-by-the-Sea

See hotels in Los Angeles | Santa Barbara | Monterey

If you’re looking for the quintessential California road trip then you cannot go wrong with  driving the Pacific Coast Highway  from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Also referred to as the Highway 1, this coastal road will take you by some of the most iconic towns and jaw-dropping scenery in California and it is truly a trip to be remembered.

The drive along Highway 1 is about 450 miles total and it’s recommended that you plan to spend three to four days enjoying the highlights of this iconic road trip. This will allow you to take your time and really experience the beauty of the California coast without feeling too rushed.

» You might be interested in the Best California Wine Regions to Visit and 9 Beautiful Waterfalls in Southern California .

Some of the highlights of a PCH road trip include visiting the beaches of Malibu, exploring hip and cool Santa Barbara, and checking out iconic Central Coast seaside towns like Pismo Beach . Venture a little further for a stop at Morro Bay and the wine region of Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo. 

Of course, another highlight of the PCH is visiting the incredible natural area of Big Sur and taking in it’s stunning scenery with a hike , from imposing California redwood forests to dramatic cliff sides, there are few places in the country more beautiful.

Moving a little bit further north, the Monterey Bay area including the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey both have a lot to offer travelers.

The final stop is San Francisco and the beautiful Bay Area, where you’ll also want to spend a few days exploring, taking time to see the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz, and walk along the Pier at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Also try our longer San Francisco to San Diego road trip route that traverses the route the other way around.

» Try this tour : San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

Highway 395 Road Trip: Los Angeles to Mammoth Lakes

Distance: 450 miles Suggested Duration: 4 days

• Red Rock Canyon State Park
• Mammoth Lakes

See hotels in Los Angeles | Lone Pine | Lake Tahoe

This road trip, from Los Angeles to Mammoth Lake along Highway 395, ending at Lake Tahoe, is considered one of the best road trip in the nation. The route takes you through mountains, deserts, forests, lakes, rivers, beautiful waterfalls, and canyons.

The best time to go for this road trip is during fall or late spring when roads are open. Be aware that many of the smaller roads are closed in winter.

The road trip begins in Los Angeles, where we recommend spending at least a few days to see the sights. When you’re ready to drive, head north to Red Rock Canyon State Park. You’ll see some of the colorful rock formations on either side of Hwy 14.

Stop in Lone Pine for small-town USA charm. There are numerous things to do there for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and Western movie fans, plus the scenery is stunning. You might also want to drive the Whitney Portal Road in the Alabama Hills (13 miles of unbelievable scenery!).

The next stop is Mammoth Lakes , which is a destination in itself. In winter, the Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain ski areas are very popular. In summer, you can hike the various trails, go fly fishing, rock climbing , ride the scenic gondola up to the summit, or go shopping in the Village.

The fun-filled journey culminates with the beautiful sight of Lake Tahoe. It is the calm centerpiece of the action, the largest alpine lake in North America and famous for its amazingly clear water. There are activities all around Lake Tahoe, from north to south, so be sure to save time to explore the area.

Always remember when hiking or visiting national parks to take a day pack with essentials like water, sunglasses, hat, smartphone and charging brick, and first aid supplies.

» Try this tour: Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

Central California Road Trips

Santa barbara to paso robles.

Distance: 120 miles Suggested Duration: 1-5 days

• San Luis Obispo
• Montana de Oro State Park
• Paso Robles

See hotels in Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Paso Robles

Road tripping within central California into wine country is a great addition to your travel plans if you like wine tasting, mountain scenery, or the seaside — this area has all three!

While the route from Santa Barbara is only about 120 miles or 2 hours each way, this is an area you could easily spend all week. There are vineyards and tasting rooms the entire length of the journey, with the  wineries in Paso Robles  being some of the best well-known.

Start in Santa Barbara, a perpetual favorite, with many wineries and tasting rooms. It’s also a great base to hike in the Santa Ynez mountains and then surf in the Pacific, all in the same day.

From there, head north to Solvang: this quaint, Danish-themed town has great food from bakeries to restaurants. You won’t want to miss the aebleskiver (a jam-filled donut) at Solvang Restaurant. A jeep tour here is also a must!

Continuing from Solvang, you’ll hit Pismo Beach, where there’s great hiking and biking in the Pismo Reserve. Further north, there’s San Luis Obispo with its historical mission, walkable downtown, and scenic Montana de Oro State Park.

From here, it’s a scenic half-hour drive inland to Paso Robles, with small towns and interesting architecture along the way for the perfect road trip.

Spend at least a day wine tasting in Paso Robles in both the valley and up in the scenic mountainside.

» Try this tour: Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour

San Luis Obispo to Monterey

Distance: 280 miles Suggested Duration: 5-7 days

• Hearst Castle
• Big Sur 90-mile drive

See hotels in San Luis Obispo | Near Hearst Castle | Monterey

Central Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of California. With its rocky shoreline, amazing wildlife (hello whales and sea otters) and beautiful secluded beaches, this less-discovered side of the Golden State is a true gem.

The full road trip across central California spans just 160 miles, but there are many stops along the way, including a few lovely cities, beaches, and the famous Big Sur drive.

Highlights 

Begin your trip in San Luis Obispo , a town nicknamed “The Happiest City in America,” where you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, hike the dormant volcanoes (aka Seven Sisters) and take in the panoramic views of the ocean. 

From San Luis Obispo, continue north. If you have extra time, you can stop off in Paso Robles for a day of wine tasting in the gorgeous countryside.

Then head toward Hearst Castle, a National Historic Landmark located near San Simeon . I recommend purchasing one of the tours to see the interior of the castle and learn its fascinating history. 

Next stop is the magnificent Big Sur, a scenic 90-mile drive, that boasts some of the most beautiful views in California.

This scenic drive stretches for approximately 90, and while it might be tempting to jam-pack everything into one day, you should take your time and enjoy this iconic destination simply because there is so much to do here! 

The top places along Big Sur are Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (home to McWay Waterfalls), Cypress Grove Trail, the Bixby Bridge and The Los Padres National Forest.

But don’t try to cram your Big Sur drive in just one day. This place offers way too many amazing spots, so you should set aside about at least 2-3 days, especially if you are going to visit it for the first time.

Be sure to save a few hours to stroll though the cute oceanfront town of Carmel-by-the-Sea , where you’ll find lots of great wine-tasting rooms. Then take the beautiful 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove to Monterey. Enjoy miles of scenic beaches , bluffs, and overlooks that will leave your jaw on the floor. 

Monterey has a nice waterfront area to walk along as well, which culminates in the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

» Try this tour: Half-Day Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

Road Trips Departing From San Francisco

San francisco to lake tahoe.

Distance: 200 miles Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

• Old Town Sacramento
• Truckee (north shore of Lake Tahoe)
• Squaw Valley ski resort
• Emerald Bay State Park

See hotels in San Francisco | Sacramento | South Lake Tahoe

One of the most popular road trips in California is a visit to the Lake Tahoe area, near the Sierra Mountains and bordering Nevada. This road trip is a typical weekend getaway from San Francisco, and other Northern California destinations, with a distance of approximately 200 miles. It’s a three-and-a half-hour drive direct, but longer with some stops along the way.

There are two actual routes into Lake Tahoe, branching at Sacramento . You can travel by Hwy 80 which leads to the northern part of the lake, through Truckee, or Hwy 50 going to the southern part of Lake Tahoe. Both routes are spectacular and scenic. There are numerous gold rush towns in California that are still thriving and open to the public. You should definitely check out one or two along the way.

When building a road trip along this route, we suggest taking the northern route into Lake Tahoe and driving south along the lake. You can then take the southern route back to San Francisco, if you’re making a round trip.

Fun places to stop for a bite or explore along the way to Lake Tahoe include visiting Old Sacramento with its Gold Rush-era buildings and cobblestone streets, the foothill community of Auburn for more Gold Rush-era history, and grabbing a hearty meal at Truckee , which is a cool western alpine town worth exploring on the north shore of Tahoe.

Once at the lake, you can easily do the loop route around the lake to explore some of the cool towns, beaches, casinos and beautiful landscape to visit in the area on your road trip.

Each side of the lake has its own attractions and appeal. On the north shore. Along the southwest shore is Emerald Bay State Park with incredible views. You can go alpine skiing in Squaw Valley or take the 2.4-mile scenic Heavenly Gondola Ride. Hike the Rubicon Trail on the south side, or go on a boat cruise.

Lake Tahoe Tours You May Enjoy:

• 2 Hour Small Group Sailing Cruise Lake Tahoe
• Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe

San Francisco to Mendocino

Distance: 176 miles Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

• Sonoma Valley wineries
• Geyserville (Francis Ford Coppola Winery)
• Mendocino Headlands State Park

See hotels in San Francisco | Sonoma | Mendocino

A drive from San Francisco to Mendocino is one of the best road trips in California. San Francisco is one of the most popular places to visit in the world, with good reason. It is a beautiful city with so much to do, see and eat, like the famous Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf, to exciting neighborhoods like Chinatown, The Castro and Mission District. 

When you are ready to leave San Francisco, head north over the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Stay in the right lane and pull into the lookout point at the end of the bridge, for one of the most stunning views ever. 

Continue north for 15 minutes and you’ll reach Mill Valley. Stop at Muir Woods for a beautiful hike through the old-growth redwoods, a national monument since 1908.

Drive north to the city of San Rafael for a Puerto Rican lunch at one of the most popular restaurants, Sol Food .  If you would rather a cafe, have lunch at MH Bread & Butter in the nearby town of San Anselmo.

Continue north 20 minutes to the historic downtown of Petaluma, once known as the “egg capital of the world.” Downtown you can see the historical buildings from the late 1800’s, boutiques, shops, and restaurants. Another highlight is to take a tour at the McAvoy Olive Oil Company. Stop for a delicious pastry or dessert and coffee at Della Fattoria.

From Petaluma up through Geyserville, be sure to save time for some wine tasting along the way from Petaluma up through Geyserville. There are dozens of wineries to stop at along the way.

In Geyserville, you can experience some of the best of Sonoma County wines at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery (owned by the famous movie director.)

Drive north until you reach Mendocino, one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Northern California. Be sure to visit Mendocino Headlands State Park for hikes past stunning coastal scenery and Russian Gulch State Park to see the waterfall.

» Try this tour: Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley

Mendocino to Redwoods National Park

Distance: 240 miles Suggested duration: 4 days

• Humboldt Redwood State Park
• Avenue of the Giants Auto Tour
• Redwoods National Park

See hotels in Mendocino | Eureka

Mendocino to Redwoods National Park is one of the most spectacular 5 hour drives in the world. It will take you through the most beautiful 240 miles on scenic Highway 101, alternating between coastal views and redwood forests.

The entire drive is only 5 hours long but with so many things to see along the way, you can easily spend a 2-4 days on this stretch alone. 

Mendocino is a beautiful town, worth staying the night in a home along the coast. If the weather isn’t too cold (which is rare), you’ll have a blast on the beach. The town also has some great foodie places to choose from. 

Just north of Mendocino is Fort Bragg which offers many attractions for the family including the famous Skunk train, glass beach and sea glass museum. But if your short on time and need to complete the drive to the border on the same day, keep driving and you’ll be rewarded by the most majestic redwood forests in the world. 

First you’ll pass through the Humboldt Redwood State Park. Some favorite locations in the park includes the Founders Grove Nature Trail, the 32-mile Avenue of the Giants Auto Tour, and the Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center. You can pick a brochure for the 32-mile auto tour if you’re in a hurry or spend hours on the hikes. If you’re driving in spring, you’ll want to stop in the meadows to see some of California’s gorgeous wildflowers .

At about  half-way point, you’ll reach the city of Eureka. You might want to take a break, replenish food or visit sights such as the Carson mansion or the Discovery Center. 

Beyond Eureka, the rest of the drive is along the Pacific Ocean. It’s arguably one of the most spectacular coastal drive. Try to keep your eyes on the road and stop along the way to soak in the views and the breeze. 

Further along you’ll go through the magnificent Redwoods National and State Park . It is awesome for camping, hiking or simply stopping for lunch. The entire drive through the forests is like driving through a magical kingdom. 

San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

Distance: 170-260 miles Suggested Duration: 4 days

• Tuolumne County
• Sonora Pass
• Yosemite Valley

See hotels in San Francisco | Yosemite West

One of the most popular road trips in California is the route from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. This encompasses two of the State’s most wonderful travel destinations – the glorious city of San Fran and one of the most popular National Parks in the United States. The 4-hour drive is also one of the most scenic routes in the country, with meandering mountainous roads cutting through the forest of redwood trees.

Yosemite is roughly 170 miles from the city and the drive can be broken up into plenty of scenic stops along the way. If you stop at our recommended locations, the drive will increase to roughly 260 miles.

There are few better places to start a road trip than in the Golden Gate city and I recommend spending a  few days in San Francisco  before you travel down to Yosemite, (make sure to visit Pier 39 and take a trip to Alcatraz).

The first of these is the historic town of Oakdale, the cowboy capital of California. Located 1 hour 45-minutes from Pier 39, Oakdale is home to an impressive cowboy museum, a scenic reservoir and a delicious Mexican restaurant if you’re feeling a bit peckish.

The next stop is the gateway to Yosemite, Tuolumne County. A further 42 miles and 52-minute drive from Oakdale, you’ll find this beautiful slice of natural paradise. I recommend spending the night here and continuing on to Yosemite tomorrow because there’s just so many great things to do.

Make sure to photograph the views from the Sonora Pass, participate in some Gold Rush-era experiences such as a train ride at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park and view the fantastic Column of Giants.

The final leg of the journey is to continue on to Yosemite. The park has some of the best hikes in the world such as Yosemite Valley and the striking cascades of Yosemite Falls. The Half Dome is another of the park’s most popular places to visit.

» Try this tour: Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup

Yosemite National Park to Lassen Volcanic National Park

Distance: 900 miles Suggested duration: 5-7 days

• Yosemite National Park
• Russian River
• Glass Beach at Fort Bragg
• Burney Falls
• Lassen Volcanic National Park

See hotels in Yosemite | San Francisco | Fort Bragg | Eureka | Redding

A northern California road trip is one of the top road trips you can take in California! This trip will take you just under 900 miles to complete. It starts in Yosemite National Park and ends at Lava Beds National Monument.

If you’ve already been through San Francisco, you can travel up through Sacramento, for a different route.

Starting at the majestic Yosemite National Park you can hike right next to a waterfall on the Mist Trail and take in the amazing views from Glacier Point. From here head over to San Francisco to check out the city and Muir woods.

Next head up the coast to the Russian River area for one of the best beers in the county at the Russian River Brewing Company and walk on glass beach in Fort Bragg.

Continue up the coast to the unbelievable Redwoods National and State parks where you can drive through a tree and stair up in awe at these giant trees. Then cut back inland to explore the most beautiful waterfall in California: Burney Falls. Continue on to Lassen Volcanic National Park to learn all about volcanoes before finishing your trip by hiking through Lava tubes at Lava Beds National Monument.

Northern California does not disappoint with its grandeur and magnificence at every turn. Pack up the car and head out to explore this unbelievable part of California! 

Lassen Volcanic National Park to Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Distance: 150 miles Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

• Black Butte
• Lake Shastina
• Shasta-Trinity National Forest

See hotels in Redding | Mount Shasta

Beginning in Lassen Volcanic National Park and adventuring up to  Shasta-Trinity National Forest , you’ll experience some of the more hidden gems on this California road trip.

Some stops you’ll want to add to your road trip itinerary include McCloud Falls, Mossbrae Falls, Heart Lake, Black Butte and Lake Shastina.

Visiting all of these stops from Lassen Volcanic NP to Shasta-Trinity National Forest will take a total drive time of 3 hours 13 minutes over 147 miles.  To really explore this area you’ll want at least a few days, but the longer the better!

Lassen Volcanic NP is a treasure trove of geologic wonders, including bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles and other unique volcanic structures. Add to this pristine mountain lakes, tumbling waterfalls and jagged mountain peaks, and you’ll soon be entranced by this parks often overlooked beauty.

After Lassen, your next stop will be possibly the most beautiful waterfall in California; Burney Falls located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. As well as marvelling at the 129-ft high cascading falls, there are also some incredible hikes here, as well as camping and lodging.

Your final stop will be Shasta-Trinity National Forest.  This National Forest encompasses an enormous 2.2 million acres with an almost infinite amount of wilderness walks available.

Yosemite National Park to Death Valley National Park

Distance: 515 miles Suggested duration: 5-7 days

• Mariposa Grove
• Sequoia National Park
• Kings Canyon National Park
• Furnace Creek
• Death Valley National Park

See hotels near Yosemite | near Sequoia | near Death Valley

A classic Californian road trip that takes in four of the state’s legendary national parks is the trip from Yosemite to Death Valley. The driving distance from Yosemite to Death Valley is 515 miles.

It’s often done as part of a longer road trip from San Francisco through to Las Vegas, which is is 830 miles in total.

There is  plenty to see and do in Yosemite , and you should aim to spend at least two to three days.  There are several epic drives in the park, including the route over the Tioga Pass, and the winding road up to Glacier Point.  Along the way, you can take in famous views of the granite peaks from Tunnel View and Olmsted View.

The route out of Yosemite takes you past the famous Victorian-era Wawona hotel and the Mariposa Grove, where you can see your first sequoia trees. From there, it is a straight three-hour drive via Fresno to Sequoia National Park. 

You can easily spend another couple of days exploring Sequoia National Park and the adjacent Kings Canyon National Park.  The parks are home to most of the world’s biggest trees, including the General Sherman Tree (the largest tree in the world) and the General Grant Tree (the world’s second biggest).  The road between them is called the Generals Highway, and there are multiple scenic viewpoints along the way, as well as trailheads to get out and see more of the giant forest.

The last leg of the road trip is a 6.5-hour-drive from Sequoia to Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park . Stop off in Bakersville for something to eat and to fill up on snacks and gas.  You can take Hwy 58 and pass a wind farm near Tehachapi, or the more winding Hwy 178 and see Lake Isabella along the way. 

Spend another couple of days in Death Valley visiting the lowest place in North America (Badwater Basin), sand dunes at Mesquite Flat, slot canyons, abandoned mines, a volcanic crater, etc. before driving another 2.25 hours to Las Vegas.

Death Valley National Park to Joshua Tree National Park

Distance: 250 miles Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

• Furnace Creek (Death Valley National Park)
• Artist’s Palette Drive
• Golden Canyon
• Badwater Basin
• Kelso Dunes
• Amboy Crater
• Joshua Tree National Park

See hotels near Death Valley | near Joshua Tree

Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks are among the most popular things to do on an epic California road trip. The distance between the two is a 252 mile, 4.5 hour drive and many people just bomb through it, hurrying to get from one park to the next. But you may want to slow down cowboy, because there is some pretty interesting stuff to see between the two parks.

Start in Furnace Creek in the core of Death Valley. Use this Death Valley guide to plan your trip and then head south down Badwater Basin road on Highway 178. Stop at the Artist’s Palette Drive, Golden Canyon, and Badwater Basin before continuing south on the scenic road out of the park.

Make a quick pit stop in Tecopa (to see the world’s tallest thermometer) and then take Highway 127 into the Mohave National Preserve. Stop at the Kelso Dunes, which sign-posted nature preserve with hiking opportunities. 

After you cross the National Trails Highway, take a short detour to the Amboy Crater. It’s a BLM landmark and one of the largest volcanic fields in the US. Take Amboy road south and head west into Joshua Tree town.

Before you go into the National Park, be sure to stop into the Noah Purifoy Museum ,  which is an outdoor sculpture garden of “assemblage sculptures” and the World Famous Crochet Museum (because Joshua Tree town is full of quirky art).

Then go into  Joshua Tree National Park for hiking , exploring old mining infrastructure and sunset at Key’s View. 

These California road trips will take you to all corners of the state, along the coast, and into the varied National Parks that make California so unique and interesting. You could easily spend weeks traversing this beautiful state.

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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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10 Classic California Road Trips to Drive in Your Lifetime

The coastal highway 1 route is, of course, on the list, along with many you may have never heard of..

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California is, hands down, one of the best places in the world for a road trip . It’s the third largest state in the USA, and its 164,000 square miles are packed with varied terrain highlighted by some 66 scenic byways . Along the 865 miles of coast, road-trippers will meander by remote beaches and sheer cliff vistas as well as lively urban beach communities, such as Santa Monica and Venice in Los Angeles or laid-back La Jolla in San Diego. Inland, rocky desert landscapes give way to rolling farmlands, and two-lane highways carve through quiet groves of towering sequoias before climbing into the high, rugged peaks of the 352 mountain ranges.

All of that in mind, any Californian would agree that renting a car and hitting the road is a must while visiting (or living) in the Golden State. We’ve gathered together 10 great California road trips to get you started.

Full-state California road trips

The Point Reyes Lighthouse is a short but unforgettable detour from Highway 1.

Photo by Chris LaBasco/Shutterstock

1. California’s Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)

• Start: Dana Point (Orange County)
• End: Leggett (Mendocino County)
• Distance: 656 miles
• Recommended time: At least five days, ideally one or two weeks.

Following the California coastline, the iconic State Route 1—or Highway 1—is one of the best road trips in the world . It is sometimes referred to as the Pacific Coast Highway (or “PCH”), though technically, the PCH is only a southern part of the route ; other sections of Highway 1 are known as Cabrillo Highway, Coast Highway, or Shoreline Highway. Think of Highway 1 as a collection of the state’s greatest hits.

Start off with your toes in the Pacific at Huntington Beach, or Laguna Beach, or any one of the other scenic beaches of sunny southern California , then head north. Catch Spanish colonial architecture and sip local Santa Ynez valley wines in Santa Barbara. Then follow the forested road through Big Sur, stopping often to marvel at mountains that end abruptly in sea cliffs.

Be sure to pay homage to John Steinbeck at Cannery Row in Monterey , then bundle up to cut through the fog in San Francisco . Don’t worry, it tends to clear just after you cross the Golden Gate Bridge. From there, the road gets narrower and feels more remote as it winds through the hills of Marin County. Buy some oysters at the Tomales Bay Oyster Company and picnic along the Point Reyes National Seashore .

Finish up your trip walking driftwood-strewn beaches and tree-lined trails in the sleepy coastal town of Mendocino , or if you’re feeling really intrepid, keep following the coast north. Highway 1 officially ends in Leggett, where it turns to Highway 101, but that route continues more or less along the Pacific all the way into Oregon .

Itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway

Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is home to some of the oldest living things on Earth.

Photo by Laurens Hoddenbagh/Shutterstock

2. The Eastern Sierras (Highway 395)

• Start: Lone Pine
• End: South Lake Tahoe
• Distance: 232 miles
• Recommended time : Four to five days

While Highway 1 follows the coast, its sister trip, Highway 395, traces the Sierra Nevada range, the backbone of California. Rather than beaches and coast, this route features prehistoric forests, historic mining towns, and a variety of geological features. The drive from Lone Pine up to Lake Tahoe is only about four hours—seven if you’re starting in Los Angeles —but you’ll want to plan for a four- or five-day trip.

Kick off your journey in Lone Pine, a former mining town sandwiched between Sequoia National Park and Death Valley National Park . Spend the day hiking among the boulders, arches, and jagged peaks of the Alabama Hills , where a number of movies, including The Lone Ranger, Gladiator, and Django Unchained , were filmed, before heading north. Before you leave, pay a visit to Manzanar National Historic Site to remember and honor the 110,000 Japanese Americans who were stripped of their rights and forced into the internment camp during World War II.

In Big Pine, stop for pulled pork and ribs at Copper Top BBQ , then and take a short detour onto Highway 168 to visit Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , home to some of the oldest living trees on the planet. Be on the lookout for hot springs once you pass the climber’s haven of Bishop: Wild Willy’s Hot Springs and Hot Creek Geologic Park are both worth a stop, but as you continue north there are plenty of secret spots that locals might share if you ask.

A bit farther along Highway 395, you’ll pass Mammoth Mountain , a popular ski resort, and then Mono Lake, with its mud-drip rock formations. Those bound for Yosemite National Park would head west here, but those continuing north might take a detour to explore the ghost town of Bodie off Highway 270. Leave Highway 395 near Topaz Lake and take Highway 89 to Truckee or South Lake Tahoe, where you can finish your trip relaxing on the shores of a place Mark Twain once referred to as the “fairest picture the whole world affords.”

Related: 5 Amazing Lake Tahoe Hotels for Any Season

Northern California road trips

Stay the night at Boonville Hotel, which sits on Boonville’s one main road.

Photo by Jessie Beck

3. The Best of Northern California: Highway 128

• Start: Winters
• Distance : 140 miles
• Recommended time : Three to four days

A road trip along Highway 128, which runs east-west from the Sacramento Valley to the Mendocino coast, means getting to experience some of the most iconic parts of Northern California: Napa and Sonoma wines, redwood forests, Mendocino seafood, Michelin-starred restaurants. The scenery—and attractions—are constantly changing along this 140-mile route.

Start your drive in the agricultural town of Winters with a visit to the region’s breweries ( Berryessa is a local favorite) and, if it’s hot out, a swim at Berryessa Lake. Once in Napa County, stop by Nichelini Family Winery , the oldest continuously operated family winery in Napa, or any number of excellent wineries in the valley . Then end your day with a stay and soak at the geothermal pools at Solage or Calistoga Motor Lodge in Calistoga. The mineral waters that flow underground in this area have long been thought to have healing powers.

Continue winetasting as you drive across Sonoma County. Aim for Healdsburg, where you could stroll the town square and eat all day, or stop and sample the olive oil at Medlock Ames . As you enter Mendocino County and approach Boonville—a small blip of a town surrounded by farms and ranches—the rolling hills and vineyards of Napa and Sonoma give way to redwoods and apple orchards. Explore both with a hike in Hendy Woods State Park and a stop at the farmstand at Philo Apple Farm right outside the park entrance. Plus, of course, enjoy more wine—this time with cheese—at Pennyroyal Farm .

The last stretch of Highway 128 is one of the most scenic, passing through an 11-mile-long “tunnel” of second-growth redwood forest, before popping out on the foggy Mendocino Coast, where travelers can spend the night and sample the freshest catch at Michelin-starred restaurant Harbor House Inn in Elk .

Itinerary: A Food- and Wine-Centric Road Trip Along California’s Highway 128

Be sure to add extra days to your wine country road trip to properly enjoy tastings at wineries like Clos du Val on the Silverado Trail.

Photo by Rocco Cesalin

4. Northern California Wine Country Road Trip in Napa and Sonoma

• Start: San Francisco
• End: San Francisco
• Distance: 161 miles
• Recommended time: Two or three days

Plenty of people treat Northern California wine country as a day trip from San Francisco, but go for a long weekend so that you can really savor those winetastings and pamper yourself with a stay at one of the area’s luxurious hotels .

Make a beeline from San Francisco to Domaine Carneros to start your trip sipping California bubbly. Then jogging north on Highway 121, you’ll pass through the town of Napa, where it’s worth a stop for lunch at the Oxbow Public Market . Continue northeast on Highway 121 and you’ll pass the hot springs resort Vichy Springs , or turn north instead onto the Silverado Trail, where you can hop between some of the best wineries in the area, including Clos du Val and Mumm .

The Silverado Trail ends in Calistoga. Spend the night at Solage or Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs . The next day, loop back to Sonoma via the winding Calistoga Road and Highway 12, stopping to walk off your wine at a few great state parks, including Robert Louis Stevenson State Park , Sugarloaf Ridge State Park , and Jack London State Historic Park . Dine on seasonal tamales at El Molino Central in Sonoma, or pick one of the many restaurants that ring historic Sonoma Square. Spend your second night at the Lodge at Sonoma Resort, Autograph Collection and book a dinner at Animo , a creative new addition to Sonoma’s dining scene inspired by Basque and Korean cuisine.

For your final day, there are plenty of small wineries and towns to explore in this area before you end your trip with a sunset drive back to San Francisco.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is filled with lakes and meadows as well as with hydrothermal sites.

Photo by Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

5. Redding to Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Start: Redding
• End: Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Distance: 188 miles
• Recommended time: Three to five days

Lassen Volcanic National Park and the area around it form one of the more beautiful parts of the state, especially if you’re a mountain junkie who loves craggy peaks and volcanic rock. But it’s one that even locals tend to miss, partly because, at three hours from Sacramento and five hours northeast of San Francisco, it’s harder to get to than the coast or the state’s wine countries. But those who make the trek should plan for a three-day weekend with plenty of day hikes and geologic curiosities—this is, after all, volcano country.

Starting in Redding, a bustling city on the Sacramento River, travel north on 1-5 to Shasta Lake, the largest reservoir in California and a popular spot to rent a houseboat with friends . Continue north on I-5, passing through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and maybe stopping to take in the ragged spires at Castle Crags State Park , before reaching Mount Shasta, where you can stop to stroll through town or hike in the mountain’s foothills.

Then, escape from the interstate and head south on Highway 89. This section of the highway is actually part of the 500-mile Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, which travels from Oregon in the north down to Lassen along the Cascade Mountain Range. Take some time to hike McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and see the 129-foot-tall waterfall that shares a name with the park. Or kayak and paddleboard on serene Lake Almanor. Finish your trip with a day, if not two, wandering through Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is filled with mud pots, geysers, lava fields, shield and cinder cone volcanoes, mountain lakes, and even a few green meadows where you’ll find wildflowers in the spring .

Pass by forest and mountain foothills while on this history-filled road trip.

6. Gold Chain Highway (Highway 49)

• Distance: 295 miles
• Start: Oakhurst
• End: Vinton
• Recommended time: Five or six days

Follow in the footsteps of miners and prospectors through California’s Gold Country along Highway 49—a road named after the gold-seeking immigrants, or “49ers” who made their way to the state during the 1849 Gold Rush. Plan for five days to give yourself a chance to strike it rich panning for gold in the region’s rivers. You’ll want to spend time exploring the rocky meadows and pine-covered foothills of the Sierra Nevadas too. Start off with a history lesson at the California State Mining and Mineral Museum in Mariposa, just north of Oakhurst. As you move north along the route, you’ll pass a number of Gold Rush–era buildings and towns—many of which you’ll have learned about at the Mining and Mineral Museum. In Coulterville, Hotel Jeffery , first built in 1851, is known for paranormal activities and claims John Muir and Theodore Roosevelt as past visitors. Jamestown’s Railtown 1897 Historic State Park gives a glimpse of what transportation was like in the late 1800s, and Columbia State Historic Park and the town of Sonora are both well-preserved mining towns.

Highway 49 passes over the South Fork of the American River near Placerville, which is a popular place for river rafting. A little farther north here, in Coloma, you can actually try your own luck with a gold pan at Sutter’s Mill in Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park . Continue up through Auburn State Recreation Area , where the north and middle forks of the American River meet, stopping in Auburn’s Old Town and later Nevada City—make this an overnight stop and book a room at The National Exchange Hotel .

From there, Highway 49 heads northeast through Tahoe National Forest, but there’s more mining history to see before you end in Vinton. Be sure to stop at Empire Mine in Grass Valley, one of the oldest, largest, deepest, longest, and richest gold mines in California, and Downieville, a town founded during the Gold Rush along the Yuba River and now a popular spot for downhill mountain biking, hiking, and swimming in the summer.

Central California road trips

The road outside of Fresno is best explored in the spring.

Photo by Tommy Lisbin/Unsplash

7. Fresno Blossom and Fruit Trails

• Distance: 85 miles
• Start: Fresno
• End: Clovis
• Recommended time: two days

Best experienced February through September, the areas outside of Fresno erupt in color from blossoming fruit and nut trees—be sure to drive with the windows down, taking in the scent of fresh cherries, plums, and peaches. While it’s on the shorter end of California road trips, plan to stop often.

Kick things off in Fresno with a visit to the Vineyard Farmers’ Market (Wednesdays and Saturdays) to get a taste of the fresh fruit that will line your drive. Next, head to the Forestiere Underground Gardens for one of the area’s unique attractions. This hand-dug maze of courtyards and rooms was mapped and built by an Italian immigrant, Baldassare Forestiere, looking to stay cool during the summertime.

After exploring Fresno, hop in the car and start heading out of the city, first stopping at Simonian Farms , a massive fruit stand—and home to a model Old West town—that’s been managed by the same family for five generations. Continuing west, you’ll also hit the scenic town of Sanger with its hefty roster of wineries.

Keep heading west to Orange Cove, a town known for its citrus, with an optional stop to walk around the quaint downtown area in Reedley. Explore the region’s Swedish roots by admiring the Nordic architecture in Kingsburg, including a water tower modeled after a Swedish coffee pot, and pay a visit to the Sun-Maid raisin market (and the world’s largest raisin box).

The last stop, Clovis, isn’t far from where you started. It’s a haven for antique enthusiasts, who won’t want to miss exploring the town’s memorabilia shops and 6,000-square-foot antique mall.

8. Central Highlights

Napa and Sonoma aren’t the only great wine regions of California: Paso Robles is worth a visit too.

Photo by Shutterstock

• Distance: 185 miles
• Start: Carmel-by-the-Sea
• End: Paso Robles
• Recommended time: Four days

Can’t decide between a nature or food-filled adventure for your road trip itinerary? Then hop in your car and tackle the Central Coast and San Luis Obispo County for a route that marries several of California’s best attractions: food, wine, and stunning ocean views.

Start in Carmel-by-the-Sea with a visit to 17-Mile Drive, a scenic road along the coast between Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach before following Highway 1 south to Big Sur (being mindful of road closures; it’s currently closed southbound until July 14, 2023). Among the area’s many attractions and landmarks, be sure to make a pit stop for McWay Falls, a waterfall that flows into the Pacific Ocean, Rocky Creek Bridge, and Calla Lily Valley—if you’re traveling between late January and April, you’ll find thousands of blooms overlooking the ocean here.

After admiring Big Sur’s natural attractions, drive south to San Simeon (if the road is open) stopping at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery for some seal spotting along the way. This is where you’ll find Hearst Castle, which was once home to publisher William Randolph Hearst and hosted a revolving door of celebrities in the 1920s. Make sure to visit the nearby Hearst Ranch Winery . After, continue on toward Cambria to settle in town for the night—we recommend booking a room at Oceanpoint Ranch.

Farther south, stop to take in the views of sand dunes along the coast at Morro Bay before turning inland for lunch in San Luis Obispo. Next, drive north for some winetasting in Paso Robles, where producers like Opolo , Tablas Creek , and Calcareous Vineyard make the most of the region’s chalky soil. Don’t miss Tin City , a collection of industrial buildings that house local winemakers, brewers, and distilleries, before turning in for the night at luxurious, boutique property Hotel Cheval .

You’ll end the road trip by making the drive back to San Francisco or Los Angeles—just make sure to factor in lots of pit stops for snacks and taking in the views.

Southern California road trips

The stylish cabins at Noble + Proper are an ideal place to spend a night (or two) after ending your road trip in Big Bear.

Jenny Siegwart

9. Rim of the World Scenic Byway (State Highway 18)

• Distance: 117 miles
• Start: Cajon Pass
• End: Big Bear

When most people think of Southern California, they think of beaches. But the lower half of the state has just as much stunning mountain scenery as its other half. For visitors who want to spend most of their vacation frolicking in the sand, but also want some mountain air, the relatively short Rim of the World Scenic Byway offers an easy weekend getaway to the rockier terrain of the Inland Empire. State Highway 18 officially begins at the Cajon Pass, about an hour outside Los Angeles on Highway 138. The route heads east, passing small mountain towns and following cliff edges and skirting the peaks of the San Bernadino Mountains, which are sometimes called the “Alps of Southern California.” Take a slight detour onto route 173 to visit Lake Arrowhead, a popular escape for Angelinos, who head up to camp, hike, and ride the Lake Arrowhead Queen steamboat , and more. You can even hike a section of the Pacific Crest Trail here. Back on Highway 18, at the town of Running Springs, you can take a quick, five-mile side trip up to Keller Peak Fire Lookout, where on a clear day, you might be able to spot the Pacific Ocean.

Finally, Highway 18 follows the edge of Big Bear Lake to the town of Big Bear. Book into a cabin at stylish mountain retreat, Noble + Proper , and enjoy the area’s hiking and water sports in the summer or snow sports in the winter.

Some of California’s most distinctive scenery isn’t along the coasts, it’s in Joshua Tree National Park and other desert areas.

Photo by Lisa Corson

10. The Desert Drive

• Distance: 290 miles
• Start: San Diego
• End: Joshua Tree National Park
• Recommended time: Five to seven days

Plenty of travelers make the trip from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park to marvel at its spiky namesake trees. But many think of Joshua Tree as a destination and miss out on all the beautiful and sometimes quirky things the deserts of Southern California have to offer along the way. In fact, you should really spend a full five days exploring the rock formations, wildflower meadows, art installations, and architectural hot spots of this region.

Starting in San Diego, point your car northeast on Highway 163 to Highway 78 heading toward Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , famous for its wildflower super blooms in the springtime. But even when the flowers aren’t blooming, the landscape is striking, with its badlands, slot canyons, and cactus forests. Near the park entrance, keep an eye out for the 130-foot prehistoric animal sculptures created by Ricardo Breceda .

Once you’ve explored the park, you can either head north on Highway 79 and cut through Anza en route to Palm Springs —the drive through wooded Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument is a nice break from the desert sun—or continue on Palm Canyon Drive toward the dying Salton Sea . Admittedly not the most scenic part of this drive, the Salton Sea is fascinating nonetheless: It’s one of the world’s largest inland seas and is rapidly drying up. Skirt the southside of the body of water, then make your way toward Slab City, an abandoned Navy base that’s become an off-grid living community, and the massive, hand-built and brightly painted art piece Salvation Mountain , just outside.

From Slab City, take Highway 111 north to Palm Springs, an oasis of midcentury modern architecture (which you can learn more about at the Palm Springs Art Museum ) that’s home to plenty of pools that provide respite from the heat. From Palm Springs, follow Highway 10 to Pioneer Town for a drink or a meal or maybe a concert at the famous saloon Pappy and Harriet’s , just outside of Joshua Tree Park. The area has long attracted artists and bohemian types, so while there’s ample natural scenery to enjoy, such as Jumbo Rocks or Skull Rock, you can visit local art galleries, the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum , and the Integratron Sound Bath too.

More: The Best Places to Eat, Stay, and Hike in Joshua Tree, California

This story was originally published in 2020. It was most recently updated on April 21, 2023. Erika Owen contributed to the reporting of this story.

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The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

last Updated: March 27, 2024 big sur california carmel central coast half moon bay highway 1 Los Angeles monterey orange county pismo beach road trip san francisco santa barbara santa cruz santa monica solvang

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Planning a California coast road trip?! Taking a drive down the PCH?! You’re in the right place!  I’ve got loads of info for you!

A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer. 

From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on the California Coast. 

Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel, you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. Let’s get this Pacific Coast Highway road trip under way!

Being one of the most scenic drives in the world (and rightfully so), I advise you to take your sweet time to really savor all the charming beauty of this west coast road trip down California.

And before we go into it, if you’ve got even more time in California and you’d like to visit a few spots off the coast, check out my latest post: 45 (Extremely) Beautiful Places in California   (opens in new tab, don’t worry!) << lots more itinerary inspiration for your California road trip!

Recommended Route down the California Coast

• Stop 1:  San Francisco, California
• Stop 2:  Half Moon Bay
• Stop 3:  Santa Cruz
• Stop 4:  Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Stop 5:  Big Sur
• Stop 6:  San Simeon
• Stop 7:  San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach
• Stop 8:  Solvang
• Stop 9:  Santa Barbara
• Stop 10:  Ventura  → Channel Islands
• Stop 11:  Malibu
• Stop 12:  Los Angeles/Santa Monica
• Stop 13:  Anaheim
• Stop 14:  Orange County
• Stop 15:  San Diego

ALL 75 of my favorite PCH stops RIGHT over here ! There’s tons of ideas in this California coast road trip itinerary, but those are my absolute favorites.

Note that the number of stops you’ll be able to make highly depends on how much time you have allotted for this California road trip.

Suggested One-Week Itinerary: If you have a week or so for this drive down the California Coast, I recommend a day in SF (depending on whether you’ve been or not), a day in Carmel/Monterey, a day in Big Sur , stopping at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, dune-bashing (if that’s your thing) in Pismo Beach, a day in Santa Barbara, stopping in Malibu en route of LA, checking out the main sights of LA/Santa Monica , then some beach time in Orange County .

Yes , it’ll be pretty jam-packed , but highly doable if you plan your drives correctly. You can really spend an infinite amount of time on the California Coast, so it’s hard to say exactly how long this road trip will take. It highly depends on your interest, how much time you wanna spend in the cities, and how much driving per day you wanna do.

Note that you can drive directly from San Francisco to LA in roughly 6 hours, but this route (via Highway 101 and Highway 5) will take you inland, meaning you’ll miss out on so much of the Central Coast. 

If you’re planning to drive round trip, I highly recommend that you drive South down the coast via Highway 1 – the Pacific Coast Highway , and then venture back up North via Highway 5 and Highway 101. 

You can drive either way (from SF to LA/San Diego -or- LA/San Diego to SF), but I prefer driving South, starting in the SF Bay Area and making my way down to LA/SD.  Pssst: the views are better this way as the car will be closer to the water. 😉

Renting a Car: Since this is in fact a  road trip , you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this California coast road trip itinerary!

I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (it may be worth the extra 6 hour drive back to your original starting point to avoid this pesky fee).

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here !

WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA:

First things first, if you’re not a resident of San Francisco (or LA), you’ll of course need to get yourself there. Since SFO is a major international airport, and a hub for many airlines, you can easily find cheap airfare within the states. 

I swear by  Skyscanner  and  Google Flights , and always always  always  use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two. 

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas of the US with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found  here .

If you’ll be following this  itinerary and heading south (without driving the direct 6+ hours back to  San Francisco ), you’ll want to book two one-way tickets. 1) HOME → SFO, 2) LAX→ HOME. Make sure to search for one-way flights when booking tickets.

Totally your call, but I suggest flying round trip from the same airport so you can avoid one-way drop off rental car fees.

When to Drive Down the California Coast

Keep in mind that the summer months (June, July, and August) are usually rather foggy in San Francisco and down the California coast.  Because of this, some mornings will be pretty damp and misty.  For best weather and best chance of sunshine, plan for a road trip in either late September or October. 

If summer is your only option, you may get lucky with clear skies, but don’t count on it.  However, with this in mind, the fog usually clears up by mid-morning/afternoon.  Normal summer temps are in the low-60’s to mid-70’s, so bring a jacket and reconsider that convertible!  “May Grey, June Gloom” is a real thing out here.

*All drive times are approximations.  Traffic can be heavy at some points along the drive, and you’ll likely be getting out of your car occasionally to take photos along the way.

Stumped on what to pack for a California road trip itinerary? Check out this ultimate road trip essentials packing guide (opens in new tab)!

What to Pack for your Pacific coast highway road trip (rotate sideways on Mobile)

Now let’s get this California coast road trip planning on it’s way!

California Coast Road Trip Itinerary:

1) start in san francisco.

Ahhh, SF, my favorite city; although technically I’m biased because I chose to move to the city by the bay from NYC a few years ago. 😉

A few San Francisco must do’s include either walking or driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, wandering around Fisherman’s Wharf (and stuffing your face with an ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli’s), getting spooked at Alcatraz Island (go on the night tour!), relaxing with some coffee in Union Square, walking down twisty Lombard Street, and riding a cable car. 

Get some great views at either Twin Peaks or the top of Coit Tower, check out the Painted Ladies, commonly known as the “Full House” houses, and nosh on some sourdough bread, fresh pasta in North Beach, and a burrito in the Mission District.

Other things to do in San Francisco include taking a panoramic night tour of city , cruise around the bay in a catamaran (champagne included!), see the Golden Gate Bridge from above  on a seaplane tour , and taking a day trip to Napa Valley (not to be missed on any PCH road trip !)

Visiting San Francisco for the first time? Read THIS  and THIS .  🙂 And make sure to check out this perfect 3-day SF itinerary !

Beware, parking is not the greatest (and garages are expensive), and public transportation is somewhat lacking.  I’ve lived here for 4 years now and still don’t love touring the city via car.

I recommend playing tourist and taking a full tour of the city  instead of trying to do everything on your own.  Or rent bikes , electric bikes (!!!), or even a really fun (and kind of cheesy) goCar  if you’d prefer to fly solo. Uber is always a good suggestion, and with my discount code  (jessicak148), you can get a few bucks off your first ride!

Read More about San Francisco:

• A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco
• The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List
• Hiking in San Francisco: A Coastal Walk through Lands’ End
• 25 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco
• Best Places to Photograph the Golden Gate Bridge
• Best Desserts in SF (All my Favorite Spots)

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Intercontinental San Francisco (up-scale luxury and fantastic restaurant)
• Hotel Carlton (travel themed and around the block from Mr. Holmes Bakehouse)

2) Half Moon Bay (45 minutes from SF)

Your first official stop on your California coast road trip (unless you wanna make a few stops in Pacifica /Pescadero – I’ve got a whole road trip guide from San Francisco to Santa Cruz here )!  Say goodbye to the city and venture on over to Half Moon Bay, a cozy little seaside village right on the coast. 

You could easily plan a full day’s worth of activities here, but I suggest spending either a morning or afternoon, unless you want to take the plunge and stay at the ever-so-beautiful Ritz Carlton . 

A few must do’s: go for a stroll on one of the many beaches that dot this area of the coastline (my favorites: Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar), wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street, walk the coastal trail, and indulge in a lobster roll from Sam’s Chowder House.

Read More about Half Moon Bay:

• The Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay
• 12 Reasons to Love the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
• All My Favorite Beaches in Half Moon Bay

3) Santa Cruz (1 hour from Half Moon Bay)

Drive a bit further on Highway 1 and you’ll reach Santa Cruz, where I suggest stopping for a few hours .  Walk on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, ride the Giant Dipper and/or the Ferris Wheel right on the beach, and stop for a snack or two (churros and funnel cake are my favorites).  You can also head to Shark Fin Cove if you’re looking for a unique beach!

Also, don’t miss the Mystery Spot, which I won’t give away for obvious reasons, and make sure you try Marianne’s before heading out (the absolute BEST ice cream in the area).

Read More about Santa Cruz:

15+ Things to do in Santa Cruz

4) Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea (45 minutes from Santa Cruz)

Next up on our Pacific Coast Highway road trip – Monterey and Carmel! California is just full of sweet little seaside towns, and this area, despite being rather touristy, is definitely one to stop at. 

Monterey and Carmel are only a few miles apart, and I highly suggest spending the night in either of these towns (Monterey being the more affordable option) while on your California coast road trip.

A few recommended activities and bites: bundle up on a whale watching tour , indulge in clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s wharf, walk around Cannery Row, and spend a few hours at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (included in the San Francisco CityPASS if you’ve gotten it previously).

Don’t miss a walk around the charming little town of Carmel, cruising around the area in a Sea Car , watching the sunset at Carmel Beach Park, and stopping at the viewpoints along the 17 Mile Drive. 

On our most recent visit, I couldn’t stop raving about the food, with my favorites being the Monterey Crepe Company, Red’s Donuts, and The Poke Lab.  I really should make an-depth guide to Monterey soon!

Read More about Monterey/Carmel:

• Why I Want to Move to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
• Monterey and the 17 Mile Drive

Where to Stay in Monterey:

• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa (located on a golf course!)
• Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row (wonderful location)
• The Monterey Tides Hotel (right on the beach!)

5) Big Sur (50 minutes from Monterey)

Next up: Big Sur , famous for a reason and many people’s favorite stop on this California coast road trip itinerary. Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. 

It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the coast. 

With this being said, plan to drive down the coast and consider setting up camp/hotel in another location, unless you want to fork over some big bucks for a luxury hotel.  I recommend everyone spend a bit of time in Big Sur on a California coast road trip (at least half a day)– it’s too remarkable to miss!

You’ll be stopping on the side of the highway so many times you’ll lose count – the coast line is just that spectacular!  It’s known for its winding turns, seaside cliffs, and breathtaking views of the often misty coastline. 

A few must-do’s here in Big Sur : see McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, wiggle your toes in purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach (yes, parts of it really are purple, I was surprised too…), marvel at the Bixby Creek Bridge, and check out all the views from Point Lobos. OH, and if you’re visiting between February and April, definitely find the hidden blooms at Calla Lily Valley !

Read More on Big Sur

• A Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Big Sur (Super Duper Beautiful Luxury Spots)

• Post Ranch Inn  (cliff-top hotel with a gorgeous spa)
• Ventana Inn  (luxe wilderness resort, with lots of privacy)
• Hyatt Carmel Highlands  (overlooking Big Sur)

6) San Simeon (2 – 4 hours drive, depending on how many stops you make in Big Sur)

Did you think you’d be stopping at a castle on your California coast road trip?  When I first learned about Hearst Castle, I was mesmerized.  Being a historic landmark on the coast, tours do fill up in advance, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time . 

First time visiting?  Sign up for the Grand Rooms Tour – and that’s exactly what you’ll see – plenty of spectacularly ornate rooms, plus lots of time to explore the absolutely stunning grounds. 

Non-negotiable on any California Coast road trip, in my opinion.  Be sure to look out for the zebra on the side of the highway as you enter/leave.  Bizarre, opulent, and oddly satisfying.

And while you’re in the area, make sure to stop at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, a popular spot to observe elephant seals with its own boardwalk and viewing areas. 

The best times to visit the rookery are in late January, late April, and late October, but visits are encouraged year round.  Have you seen an elephant seal use their large, inflatable noses to make noise?  It’s pretty wild!

7) San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach/Morro Bay/Paso Robles (45 minutes from San Simeon)

So there’s kinda a lot to do in this little area – so best to pick and choose your favorites (if not, you can easily spend a whole week here!). 

In SLO (what locals refer to as San Luis Obispo), sip pink drinks at the Madonna Inn , stuff your face with bbq are Firestone Grill, blow bubbles at the Bubble Gum Wall in downtown, and grab donuts at SLO Donut Company (SloDoCo). All my favorites, and I can’t image an afternoon not doing any of these.

Looking to stretch your legs?  Opt for the Bluff Trail at Montaña de Oro State Park, a 3.4 mile round trip relatively flat path with (better-than-okay) ocean views.

Thought Napa/Sonoma were the only wine countries in California? Winos – you’re in luck.  This part of your California coast road trip (in Paso Robles ) features over 100 wineries, and deciding which to visit is the hardest part! 

The DAOU Vineyards gets constant praise, and with it’s wonderful wine, olive oil, and views, it’s hard to beat!

Want someone else to take you around? Probably a good idea if you’ll be drinking lots of wine! Hop on a full-day hop-on, hop-off wine tasting tour (yes, they exist!) and you can choose your own itinerary in Paso Robles Wine Country.

Or take the easy way out and let someone else decide for you on this  Ultimate Wine Experience in San Luis Obispo (foodie lunch and 3-5 wineries included!).

You need to include a dune buggy ride on Pismo Beach on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip ! One of the most epic things to do in this area! More info on that here . Nowhere else in California can you drive a vehicle on a public beach!

Before getting to SLO, you may as well make a pit stop in Moro Bay. If the weather cooperates (always a gamble over here), you’ll be rewarded with views of the giant monolith. Be sure to walk around the nearby beach to find sand dollars, and grab a cinnamon bun from one of the local bakeries.

If you’re thinking of stopping here for the night (or have had too much to drink…), consider staying at no other than the wildly famous Madonna Inn .  But be sure to save your breakfast appetite for SLO’s legendary Big Sky Café.  Oh, and there’s always beach time as well if the weather cooperates.

8) Solvang (1 hour from San Luis Obispo)

A bit in-land, but well worth the few miles off the highway.  This cute little area will feel as if you’ve been transplanted to a Danish village, with authentic Dutch bakeries and international cuisine.  Worth a quick pit stop, for the pastries alone (try the aebleskiver – pancake puffs). 🙂  

Stroll the village to spot Danish icons including the Little Mermaid Fountain, a handful of historic windmills, the giant red clog, and Round Tower.  There’s also two historic churches to check out, Old Mission Santa Ines and Bethania Lutheran.

Looking for something a bit more active? See the unique architecture of the only Danish city in The West via segway tour ! They are so much fun and an easy way to get around!

9) Santa Barbara (45 minutes from Solvang)

An absolute must-stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip !  Here in Santa Barbara – dubbed the American Riviera – you’ll find widespread beaches and a truly relaxed atmosphere. 

Downtown you’ll find Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, which accurately reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage.

And the food! Oh, the food here! Consider joining a historic Santa Barbara Food Tasting Tour  to get a true feel for what the locals love here (hint hint: includes Northern Italian dishes, gourmet cheese, local wine and handcrafted chocolates… yum).

Rather take a beer tour? Sign up for the  Self-Guided Santa Barbara Lagoon Loop Craft Beer Trail  (yes, it’s a thing down here).

Don’t miss Old Mission Santa Barbara, a historic church known for its beauty, a panoramic view of the city from the Clock Tower observation deck of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and the Santa Barbara Public Market. 

Save some time for Stearn’s Wharf and then beach it up, you deserve it!  If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m all about that ice cream – satisfy your sweet tooth at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams (worth the wait and then some).

And whatever you do, don’t leave Santa Barbara without taking a surf lesson  (<– reserve your spot now, as they can fill up pretty quickly during the warmer months).

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara:

• Inn by the Harbor (romantic and Mediterranean two blocks from the waterfront)

Recommended Tours in Santa Barbara:

• El Paseo Wine and Photo Tour
• Santa Barbara Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• Santa Barbara Funk Zone: Food and Photo Tour

10) Ventura for Channel Islands National Park (40 minutes from Santa Barbara)

Usually not very common on a ‘traditional’ California coast road trip, but I couldn’t leave this destination off the list.  In Ventura, be sure to check out Mission San Buenaventura, Olivas Adoble, and Oxnard Beach Part. 

This vibrant town is the unexpected spot to make your way to Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast via ferry, plane, or private boat.

Take a break from the crazy urban life and go for a hike on the Channel Islands, literally!  The park is comprised of 5 islands and their surrounding mile of ocean, so it’s best to decide beforehand where and what to go/do. 

Head to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island for some of the best views of the National Park, and/or you can snorkel/dive/kayak in Landing Cove (Anacapa Island) or at Scorpion Anchorage (Santa Cruz Island).  If you’re on Santa Cruz Island, be sure to check out Cavern Point, which provides a spectacular view after a short hike.  You can even go whale watching around here!

FYI – there is NO transportation available on the islands – you have to either walk, kayak, or cruise around via private boat.  Bicycles are not allowed.  Plan a day trip here from Ventura to get your nature fix.

Recommended Channel Islands Tours

• Channel Islands Full-Day Private Sailing Trip

11) Malibu (50 minutes from Ventura)

Just the name “Malibu” sounds exotic and beachy to me.  Here on your California coast road trip you’ll find wide stretches of beaches, celebrity homes, and The Getty Villa (which is said to be absolutely stunning). 

But Malibu is more than just that, including stunning canyons, horse ranches, waterfront restaurants, acres of land, and lots and lots of hiking trails. You can also take a private surf lesson if you missed out in Santa Barbara!

A few spots not to miss: Paradise Cove (the only restaurant you can actually drink on the beach), Geoffrey’s Malibu for a wonderful lunch view (get some fresh seafood here!), Point Dume Beach (you’ll always see dolphins!), Malibu Pier, a tour of celebrity homes , and wide and sandy Zuma Beach, known for its excellent surf. 

Don’t leave without some gelato from Grom Gelateria, the absolute best of the best! And if you’re a sucker for fantastic views like me, don’t miss out on a Malibu scenic airplane tour ! Your pictures will be epic, I promise!

12) Los Angeles/ Santa Monica (50 minutes from Malibu)

I highly suggest you spend at least 2-3 days here as there is just SO much to do .  You’ll want to divide your time between Downtown LA (DTLA) and Santa Monica/Venice Beach, with possible other stops to make as well.  

After checking out all the necessary tourist hot spots , you’ll have more time to envelope yourself in the “true” feeling of Los Angeles. Promise me you won’t miss a Warner Brothers Hollywood Studio Tour !

In DTLA , I highly suggest the Broad Museum (FREE, but usually a long wait time), getting an egg sandwich at Eggslut, The Last Bookstore, macaroons at Bouttega Louie, and culture and snacks in Little Tokyo.

Don’t feel like walking? Take a segway tour of DTLA ! Don’t feel like figuring out public transportation? A hop-on, hop-off bus of the LA area is always the way to go!

In Santa Monica and Venice , be sure to check out the Santa Monica Boardwalk (ride the ferris wheel and/or the coaster during sunset), Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice Canals, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

In addition, you can’t miss the Urban Lights exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)!  You’ll find pretty cool murals all around the area as well if that’s your type of thing (it most definitely is mine)!

Hike in the Hollywood Hills , take an airplane tour of Santa Monica and the coastline , go on a tour of some movie stars’ homes ,

Read More about Los Angeles/Santa Monica:

• The Ultimate SoCal Guide: 25 “Very LA” Things to do in Los Angeles, California
• The Perfect Way to Spend A Day (or Two) in LA
• The Cool Girl’s Guide to LA: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Los Angeles/Santa Monica

• The Orlando Hotel (middle of West Hollywood and lots of great Mexican nearby!)
• HI Hostel (perfect for solo travelers, and around the block from the beach)

13) Anaheim for Disneyland (45 minutes from LA)

Disney lovers will enjoy this spot for sure, but just for the record, Disneyland is not as large and/or “wow!!!!” as Disney World.  I had a Disney-fanatic-friend visit Disneyland a few months back and she was not impressed to say the least. 

Save this stop if you’ve never been to the location in Florida, or if you can’t stand not to check it out for yourself.  Regardless, you’ll have a grand ol’ time on the rollercoasters and indulging in all things Mickey.

A few parks to check out (click to buy tickets): Universal Studios Hollywood , Disneyland Park , Adventure City, and Disney California Adventure Park.

I highly recommend getting these theme park tickets in advance to by-pass any super-long lines and spend more time in the parks. You’ll save yourself lots of time, that’s for sure!

• Universal Studios Hollywood 1-Day Ticket with Options
• Anaheim: Disneyland Resort 1-Day Entrance Ticket

14) Orange County: Huntington Beach/Newport Beach/Laguna Beach (35 minutes from Anaheim)

This stretch of coast is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and should not be missed if your itinerary has you driving down to San Diego (or even as an extra stop from the LA/Ahaheim area). 

Here you’ll find manicured beach towns, a hell of a lot of beautiful people, and even more beautiful stretches of sand with mesmerizing sunsets. 

The beaches are plentiful, but my favorites include Huntington Beach , Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach, all within a few miles of each other.  We recently spent a bit of time in San Clemente , and fell in love with the town! Don’t miss gelato at Gelato Paradiso and the views from Heisler Park and Dana Point.

You won’t want to skip “The OC” on your California coast road trip – I can promise you that!

Read More about Orange County/Southern California

• My Birthday in Sunny Southern California
• 4 Days in Huntington Beach: Everything You Need to Know
• The Complete Guide to San Clemente

Want to extend your PCH road trip?!

1) GO FURTHER SOUTH! You could choose to venture even further south to San Diego, as there’s lots and lots to do! Watch this space for updates and more information on California, including best things to do in San Diego as well!

2) START UP NORTH! Interested in starting this Pacific Coast Highway road trip a bit north of San Francisco? Check out the drive from San Francisco to Mendocino , highly recommended in my opinion if you’ve got a few more days to explore! A weekend in Mendocino is the perfect way to start your trip! And if you’re looking for some redwoods, you’ll find lots around here !

3) HEAD ALL THE WAY TO SEATTLE! Yes, it’s possible! If you have ample extra time, say another week (or more), check all these stops on a San Francisco to Seattle road trip ! Crater Lake and donuts, anyone?!

Have you ever take a California coast road trip?!  Is taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway on your bucket list?!

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July 30, 2020 at 5:32 pm

Totally agree! I added Santa Barbara last minute to my road trip and you are so right – you don’t want to miss out on this city. The weather was as close to perfect as you can get. It really makes you want to spend as much time outside as possible.

If you are looking for bike rentals I would suggest Cal Coast Adventures as they offer tons of biking options. Beach cruisers to mountain bikes – they really have it all!

Another bucket list item I was able to check off was learning to surf with Santa Barbara Surf School. The instructors were so knowledgeable about ocean life and safety and I stood up on my first wave.

It was an experience I’ll never forget. Can’t wait to make my way back to Santa Barbara!

October 20, 2020 at 8:22 am

I wanted to thank you for all your great advice and suggestions. My husband and I decided to take a spontaneous 4-day weekend road trip down the PCH. We flew in to San Francisco from Minneapolis and, thanks to your posts, were able to experience some amazing sights. We flew in later in the day, so we stayed in Pacifica for the night. We were right on the beach and saw our first California sunset there! I rolled my eyes at your Taco Bell suggestion (in a another post), but we decided to try it (as my husband is a Mt. Dew lover!). What a fun experience … a Mt. Dew margarita, a Grande Burrito and an awesome ocean view!!

The next day we started our journey down 1 and made it from Half Moon Bay down to Santa Barbara and then back up to San Francisco. We had a fabulous experience, thanks to both beautifully sunny, warm October weather and your insight and suggestions (on this post and several others). We packed in a lot, but it was a trip of a lifetime and made more special with your help!

November 15, 2020 at 7:04 pm

Hi Alison – so glad you had such a special trip! I absolutely LOVE the PCH and California in general so I'm so happy my posts were helpful! Hope you get back to CA sooner than later! And yes – we love that Mountain Dew marg, haha!

December 22, 2020 at 12:11 am

Great itinerary and very nice hotel recommendations. I really enjoyed reading this. On stop #10, Ventura, consider stopping by the Hollywood Beach Salon – Spa – Boutique for some relaxation overlooking the beautiful Channel Islands Harbor!

January 18, 2021 at 1:05 pm

I also want to golf at Pebble

January 19, 2021 at 10:23 am

That would be such an experience! It's on my husband's bucket list for sure!

January 22, 2021 at 7:15 am

Hi, I live in Westminster near Anaheim and am going to visit my daughter in Monterey from 2/5-2/7. This is a short trip. I am thinking take the fastest route there and on the way back make short stops at some of the places you recommended. I will have my 3 kids with me in their 20s and possibly my Australian Shepherd. I was wondering what you recommend? The trip back has to be done in one day. I'm a little nervous about driving to since I tend to get lost lol. Thank you

January 22, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Hi Mary! I recommend stopping in Paso Robles, Morro Bay, and San Luis Obispo. These 3 spots are all so different from each other and aren't too far apart. Morro Bay is on the coast (look out for adorable sea otters), Paso has delicious wines (just make sure they aren't take out only right now), and SLO is a fun town to walk around (don't miss the bubble gum wall!).

Also, I'd opt to take the 101 (and NOT highway 1) driving down from Monterey to Paso since the drive from Monterey through Big Sur to Cambria is literally on the side of a cliff and takes forever.

Have fun!!!

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8 Epic California Road Trip Stops

By Paul Rubio

Santa Monica

Kick off your road trip by mixing California seaside charm with the buzz of neighboring Los Angeles in this palm tree-speckled city. Santa Monica promises endless sunshine (averaging 340 sunny days per year), direct access to 3.5 miles of beach, brilliant surf, and one of the most rewarding sections of the 500+ mile Pacific Coast Highway (the drive to Malibu will never get old). After a stay at the chic resort Shutters on the Beach —make sure to hit up the best of LA’s restaurant scene while you’re there—hit the road. Your first pit stop? An oceanside table at Nobu Malibu .

Palm Springs

After its beaches, Southern California is perhaps best known for its diverse desert landscapes (not to mention some of America’s best stargazing). To see it from above, climb aboard Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world's largest rotating tramcar, and climb 8,516 feet up the vertical cliffs of Chino Canyon (at the top lies the snow-covered Mt. San Jacinto Wilderness State Park). Later, drive an hour east to Joshua Tree National Park and you'll feel like you’ve arrived in The Land Before Time : each hairpin turn reveals clusters of spiky, Joshua trees and 100-million-year-old boulders. Pro-tip: bring a picnic lunch to graze on at one of the many stopping points. Stay at the Avalon Hotel and Bungalows (formerly the Viceroy Palm Springs), which is a time capsule of Hollywood Regency design and features lovely courtyards, sculpted gardens, and swimming pools.

Santa Barbara

Stroll Summerland beach (some 100 miles north of Santa Monica) where you’ll watch prized polo horses getting their daily exercise, or lounge among the palm trees on the popular, family-friendly East Beach, one of the several un-tamed beaches defining this city-by-the-sea. Tour the c. 1786 Mission Santa Barbara, the city’s principal cultural and historical landmark or simply cruise through patches of Mission-style architecture. Afterwards, park the car and explore the region’s burgeoning wine country with Cloud Climbers Jeep Tours as your designated driver (they’ll take you to four local wineries in an open-aired jeep). Later kick back at the oceanfront Belmond El Encanto , where guest rooms are outfitted with Earth-toned furnishings, private fireplaces, and heated stone floors.

Sadly, the collapse of Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge on Highway 1 earlier this year means the most extraordinary stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway is off limits until fall 2017— at the earliest. As a result, road trippers will have to re-route inland to US-101 N to cross from central coastal California into northern coastal California. Those keen on still including this fabled region of colossal waves, dramatic cliffs, and arboreal giants should expect long detours, delays and limited services (basically, we don’t recommend it). Thankfully Big Sur’s ultimate hotel for coastal romance—the adults-only Post Ranch Inn —has reopened, albeit in a reduced capacity, and can be reached via helicopter from Monterey with Del Monte Aviation (and you can park your car for free at the terminal).

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Carmel-by-the-Sea

This small beachfront city is dotted with European-style cottages, housing art galleries and specialty boutiques, and serves as the perfect starting point to explore greater Monterey County (who hasn’t binged on Big Little Lies at this point?). Head south to Point Lobos State Nature Reserve and spot jellyfish, seals and gray whales skirting past the rocky coastline. If you're traveling with kids, stop at Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the world’s best and a leader in global marine conservation. Or you can sample wines from regional wineries at the many boutique tasting rooms in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, or just buy a bottle, grab a blanket, head to the beach (don’t worry, it’s legal here). Retreat to L’Auberge Carmel , an intimate stucco inn, built in 1929 and now run by Relais & Chateaux, with a beautiful central courtyard that feels straight out of rural France .

Yosemite National Park

No West Coast road trip is complete without a look at North America’s highest waterfall, Yosemite Falls . Take the requisite selfie in front of the 3000-foot tall granite monolith, El Capitan and then drive up to Glacier Point for dramatic panoramas of the park’s famous granite crest peak, Half-Dome. (It’s worth noting that you’ll have to drive back down to get food.) Unpack at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly Ahwahnee Hotel), the first-ever luxury hotel in America’s national parklands (it opened in 1927).

Napa County

This region merits its own week-long road trip, but for quick immersion into the best of Napa wine country, tour the caves and fuel up on sparkling wine at Schramsberg Vineyards (the official bubbles of the White House). Then spend an afternoon indulging in wine, cheese, and homemade chocolate truffles at the c.1903 European-style historic stone winery, The Hess Collection . You can also browse Donald Hess’ world class private collection of modern art. If you’re feeling panglossian after all that wine and cheese, get reacquainted with nature and feast on three-Michelin starred cuisine at Meadowood in St. Helena. The luxurious cottages dot a private, 250-forested acre estate that also includes numerous walking trails, a golf course, and internationally renowned The Restaurant at Meadowood .

Sonoma County

Don’t overlook Napa’s sister county, a region rich in mom-and-pop establishments, artisanal wineries, towering Redwood trees, and charming small towns. Start in the northwest of the Russian River Valley, near Healdsburg, with a three-mile vineyard hike at Jordan Winery (it ends with a picnic under the trees). Don't forget to save room for a 5-course meal on the terrace at Rodney Strong Vineyards . Or drive to Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve for a hike and then spend an afternoon at The Barlow , an adaptive reuse of a large-scale apple cannery plant filled with craft breweries, distilleries, food producers, and art galleries (for dinner, we love Zazu , the beloved restaurant of celebrity chefs Duskie Estes and John Stewart). Stay at the five-room, Japanese-influenced micro-hotel, Single Thread , which sits above Sonoma’s much-hyped Single Thread restaurant in Healdsburg.

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California road trip stops

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The most popular road trip stops in california.

Not sure where to get started? Here’s a list of the most popular road trip stops in California.

Yosemite National Park

Sequoia National Park

Death Valley National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Redwood National Park

Hearst Castle

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Kings Canyon National Park

Golden Gate Bridge

Avenue Of The Giants

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Hit the road.

The California section of Highway 1 is perhaps most famous for the rugged cliffs, bridges, and waterfalls of Big Sur. But don’t sleep on the 100-mile section just south of Big Sur, known as the Highway 1 Discovery Route.

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California Road Trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco and Must-Visit Stops Along the Way

This article was written and produced in partnership with Allianz Global Assistance. All opinions expressed within are my own.

One of the best things about California is that the opportunities for epic road trips are endless. There’s something for everyone in California, from the surf and sand to the desert, the mountains and everything in between. RELATED: Weekend Getaways For Couples in California

A road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco can take you on a scenic drive with plenty of great stops along the way, like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur and Monterey. Ready to hit the road? Let’s go!

LOS ANGELES

Things to Do in Los Angeles

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without exploring some of Hollywood’s iconic spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and of course, the Hollywood Sign. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll also want to do some fun studio tours, like those offered at Warner Bros, Paramount and Universal Studios (the studio tour is included with park admission to the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.)

Of course, Los Angeles has no shortage of options for outdoor activities, from hiking in Griffith Park and rollerblading in Venice Beach to surfing or playing beach volleyball in any of the many beaches along the coastline (Manhattan Beach, pictured above, is our favorite!) RELATED: Manhattan Beach: The Perfect LAX Layover

Looking for cultural experiences? Visit the Getty Center Museum, the Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Take in a show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall or the Hollywood Bowl. If you’ve got kids, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a must-visit. RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Going to the Hollywood Bowl

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

From downtown city hotels to beach hotels and celebrity hangouts, where you stay all depends on what you want to do while in the City of Angels. The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles is in a great location if you’re interested in catching a game or a show since it’s in the heart of the city’s sports and entertainment district. Looking for a luxurious beach stay? Shutters on the Beach is one of LA’s most popular options ... and for good reason. From its gorgeous rooms to its great location in Santa Monica, you’ll enjoy a luxury but laidback stay. The Beverly Hills Hotel is the place to stay if you’re in the mood for stargazing ... and we’re not talking about the stars in the sky! RELATED: 6 Los Angeles Hotels For Every Kind of Traveler

SANTA BARBARA

Things to do in Santa Barbara

The first stop on this road trip itinerary up the California coast is Santa Barbara and you may want to schedule a handful of days here to enjoy all that it has to offer. Known as ‘the American Riviera’, Santa Barbara is situated on the central coast of California, about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

The city is home to a number of popular tourist destinations, including Stearns Wharf, a historic pier that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment; the Santa Barbara Zoo, which is home to more than 500 animals from around the world and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, which features a collection of over 27,000 works of art from a variety of cultures and time periods. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a must-visit, with or without kids. But if you do have kids, the Prehistoric Forest (pictured above) will thrill adults and children alike.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Santa Barbara is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, surfing, and whale watching. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

While you’re there, you’ll want to visit the Santa Barbara Mission, a beautiful Spanish-style church and museum. A stroll along the Stearns Wharf, a historic pier with restaurants and shops, is a great way to spend the day and if you’re looking for a great place to eat, try Olio e Limone, an upscale Italian restaurant with delicious fresh fare.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Not surprisingly, Santa Barbara is home to a slew of wonderful hotel options, from the upscale Ritz-Carlton Bacara and the Belmond El Encanto , a dreamy stay in the lush hills overlooking the Pacific. More budget-friendly stays like the Leta Santa Barbara Goleta may be easier on the wallet but is still big on style and great, family-friendly amenities. The Hideaway is a gorgeous, meticulously designed boutique property just three blocks from the beach. RELATED: 10 Reasons to Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Things to Do in San Luis Obispo

Midway between Los Angeles and San Franciso and just 95 miles (about an hour and a half drive) from Santa Barbara, is San Luis Obispo, also known as SLO. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, mild climate, and historic downtown area, SLO makes a great road trip stop as you head up the coast.

One of the most popular things to do in San Luis Obispo is to explore the city's historic downtown. The downtown area is home to several historic buildings, including the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, which was founded by Spanish missionaries in 1772. The downtown area also features a wide range of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

While you’re there, you’ll also want to hike the Bishop Peak Trail for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The 1,546-foot summit of the 20-million-year-old rock is a 3.5-mile round trip from the trailhead at Highland Drive. If you keep up a good walking pace, it should take you about 2 to 2 1/2 hours to complete.

In nearby San Simeon, Hearst Castle, a historic mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century, is another popular attraction. The castle is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and features lavish gardens, a museum, and tours of the castle's interior.

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious hotels. SLO Brew Lofts are spacious and luxurious lofts, located above the SLO Brew restaurant and brewery in downtown San Luis Obispo. Each loft features a full kitchen, a living area, and a private balcony. The Granada Hotel & Bistro is a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo and offers stylish and modern rooms, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar. If you like more quirky stays, The Madonna Inn is a unique hotel, known for its eclectic rooms, each with its own distinctive theme and decor. RELATED: Weekend Getaways For Couples in California

Things to Do in Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon. It is characterized by its rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and pristine natural landscapes, and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation.

Big Sur is home to a number of world-famous hiking trails, including the iconic McWay Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall that drops directly into the ocean. Other popular hiking trails in Big Sur include the Ewoldsen Trail, the Partington Cove Trail, and the Pfeiffer Falls Trail. Big Sur is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are often secluded and undeveloped. Some of the most popular beaches in Big Sur include Pfeiffer Beach, Garrapata Beach, and Andrew Molera State Park.

And not to be forgotten, the Bixby Bridge is a famous landmark in Big Sur and one of the most photographed bridges in California. It spans a deep canyon and offers stunning views of the coastline. RELATED: The 10 Most Instagrammable Tourist Attractions in California

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Post Ranch Inn is a world-renowned resort and frequently appears on lists of best hotels in California, and even the world. And for good reason. This secluded luxury property with a focus on sustainability is situated on one of the most enviable locations, atop a 1,200-foot ocean bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Between the views, the service and the luxurious accommodations, this adults-only hotel is a dream stay. Don’t miss dining at Sierra Mar, the hotel’s restaurant with panoramic ocean views and farm-to-table cuisine. Other Big Sur hotels include Ventana Big Sur (also adults only), Glen Oaks Big Sur and the historic Big Sur River Inn .

Things to Do in Monterey

The coastal city of Monterey is full of things to do from visiting its historical landmarks and cultural attractions to taking in the area’s scenic beauty. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the top-rated aquariums in the world, with a vast collection of marine life, interactive exhibits, and daily feedings. Cannery Row: Cannery Row is a historic waterfront district that was once home to a thriving sardine canning industry. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and galleries. If you’re not tired of being in the car, the 17-Mile Drive is a scenic drive that winds through some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the area, including Pebble Beach, the Lone Cypress, and Spanish Bay.

Outdoor adventures abound in Monterey. For example, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a scenic park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the coastline. Monterey’s wine country has over 90 wineries in the area offering wine tastings and tours. The Monterey State Historic Park is a collection of historic buildings and landmarks that tell the story of Monterey's rich history, including the California's first capital building. And the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is an 18-mile trail that offers stunning views of the coastline, and is perfect for biking, jogging, or strolling.

Where to Stay in Monterey

Portola Hotel & Spa is a modern hotel, located in the heart of downtown Monterey, within walking distance of many popular attractions. It features spacious rooms and suites, a spa, and a heated outdoor pool. The Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is a luxurious hotel located on Cannery Row, overlooking Monterey Bay. It features spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop spa, and award-winning restaurants. The InterContinental The Clement Monterey is another waterfront hotel located in the heart of Cannery Row and offers contemporary rooms and suites, a spa, and a rooftop pool. The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa features spacious rooms and suites, multiple dining options, a golf course, a spa, and indoor and outdoor pools.

SAN FRANCISCO

Things to Do in San Francisco

No visit to San Francisco is complete without a visit to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and Golden Gate Park to see the towering redwoods. But if you have time, you’ll want to squeeze in as many of the city’s other great sites as possible. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a historic ferry terminal that has been transformed into a bustling marketplace offering artisanal food and drink, specialty shops, and farmers' markets. The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning landmark that was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, and offers a picturesque setting for photos and relaxation. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a world-renowned museum that features a collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. The Exploratorium is an interactive science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and experiments for visitors of all ages and of course, San Francisco's cable cars are a unique form of transportation and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can ride the cable cars and take in the sights of the city from a unique perspective.

San Francisco also has several distinct and diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Haight-Ashbury is a neighborhood that was once the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement. Visitors can explore the neighborhood's shops, restaurants, and street art, as well as landmarks such as the Haight-Ashbury Flower Power Walking Tour and the Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast. San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and offers a unique cultural experience, with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. The Mission is a diverse neighborhood known for its street art, Latin American cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to many hotels to suit every kind of traveler. One of my family's favorite places to stay is Cavallo Point in Sausalito. The former army barracks have been converted into luxury historic homes and travelers will certainly appreciate the stunning surroundings and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Luxury hotels include the Ritz-Carlton , the Fairmont and the St. Regis . If you prefer a historic hotel, consider the Omni San Francisco , located in the city’s financial district. If boutique hotels are more your vibe, check out the Clift Royal Sonesta , Hotel Vitale and Hotel Drisco .

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Best Coastal California Road Trip Itinerary

Embarking on a California road trip along the picturesque coast promises an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the sun-kissed beaches of Santa Monica to the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, every mile offers a new opportunity for exploration. Here is a look at the best California road trip itinerary for a laid back coastal cruise that dreams are made of!

Table of Contents

Napa Valley: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

Our adventure begins amidst the rolling hills and verdant vineyards of Napa Valley, renowned worldwide for its exceptional wines and breathtaking scenery. Spend your days exploring acclaimed wineries, indulging in wine tastings, and savoring farm-to-table cuisine at gourmet restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to take a hot air balloon ride over the valley at sunrise for a truly unforgettable experience.

The Enchanting Sonoma Coast

Continuing westward, we journey to the rugged beauty of the Sonoma Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Explore charming coastal towns like Bodega Bay and Jenner, known for their picturesque vistas and abundant outdoor activities. Hike along scenic coastal trails, sample fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, or simply relax on sandy beaches as you soak in the coastal splendor.

Monterey: Where History Meets Natural Beauty

Next on our itinerary is the historic seaside town of Monterey, steeped in maritime lore and natural wonders. Explore the iconic Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel, and visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium to marvel at marine life from around the world. Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive, stopping to admire the rugged coastline and famous landmarks like the Lone Cypress.

San Francisco: City by the Bay

No visit to Coastal California would be complete without a stop in San Francisco , a city renowned for its iconic landmarks, diverse culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. Explore the bustling streets of Chinatown, stroll along the historic waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf, and marvel at the engineering marvel of the Golden Gate Bridge. Indulge in world-class dining, shop at eclectic boutiques, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and artistic heritage.

Big Sur: Nature’s Masterpiece

As we continue southward along the Pacific Coast Highway , we enter the realm of Big Sur, a land of rugged cliffs, towering redwoods, and breathtaking ocean vistas. Lose yourself in the majesty of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where ancient forests and cascading waterfalls await. Stop at iconic landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls, and savor moments of serenity amidst one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the world.

Los Angeles: The City of Dreams

Our journey concludes in the dazzling metropolis of Los Angeles , where glitz, glamour, and endless possibilities await. Explore the iconic attractions of Hollywood, stroll along the legendary Sunset Boulevard, and soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of Santa Monica. Discover cultural gems like the Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and indulge in world-class shopping and dining in neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. There is no better way to conclude a California road trip than a visit to some studios in Burbank to see where your favorite road trip movies came to life!

Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or a seeker of urban adventures, let the spirit of exploration guide you as you embark on your own coastal odyssey, crafting the perfect California road trip itinerary that suits your style.

Remember, wherever you decide to travel to, OneStopParking should always be your top choice for booking off-site airport parking.

Pair these L.A. road trips with a hike and a lunch

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In April 2020 — only a month or so into the COVID-19 pandemic — my wife and I were running out of things to do. The novelty of Zoom calls with friends was wearing off. We’d watched lots of movies and TV. We were itching to get out of our apartment, but with the virus still raging, we couldn’t risk being around other people. Then we had an idea: Why not go for a drive?

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For our first trip, we drove the length of Little Tujunga Canyon Road in the Angeles National Forest. After that, we were hooked. In the ensuing months, we crisscrossed the Santa Monica Mountains and made trips into Los Padres National Forest and beyond.

My wife bought me a California road atlas, and it became part of our scenic drive ritual: We’d consult its pages for inspiration, looking for two-lane roads and state highways that squiggled through mountain ranges or meandered through deserts. After returning home, I’d highlight our route. Four years after our first drive, the atlas is full of highlights documenting our travels — and there’s still a lifetime’s worth of backroads we haven’t covered yet.

No matter where we go, each drive gives me a deeper appreciation for the incredible range of landscapes in Southern California. And these journeys have led to many rewarding discoveries, from out-of-the-way diners to new trailheads for hiking and biking.

If you’re tired of visiting the same places, it’s time to hit the road. These two trips — all within a three-hour drive of the city — will get you started.

Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument This route traverses winding mountain roads through Los Padres and spits you out near the southern entrance to Carrizo Plain — a vast preserve of native grassland and a hotspot for wildflowers (at least on some years ) and birdwatching . From Interstate 5, take Exit 205 and head west on Frazier Mountain Park Road. This two-lane road changes names several times as it ascends into the San Emigdio Mountains, passing forested slopes and epic canyon views along the way.

After about 42 miles, you’ll meet California 166. Take a right here and then a left on Soda Lake Road to enter Carrizo Plain National Monument. Drive northwest for 35 miles to the parking lot for the Soda Lake Trail, a short boardwalk that gets you up close to the park’s salt-crusted lake. If you plan ahead, you can also book a guided tour of Painted Rock, a sandstone outcrop with Native American rock art.

Hungry? Head back the way you came, take a right on California 166, and drive west 15 miles to the Cuyama Buckhorn , a renovated ’50s motel, restaurant and bar. The eatery’s Santa Maria-style tri-tip is superb, and if you grab a room, you can turn this scenic drive into a full weekend escape .

Volcan Mountain and Julian This route will take you to Julian , a mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious pies. From Interstate 15, take Exit 58 for California 79. Take a right on Pechanga Parkway and head south. The road becomes Pala Temecula Road and emerges into a wide canyon with mountains towering on either side. Take a left at Pala Mission Road and continue east on California 76, which hugs the San Luis Rey River before ascending more than 1,000 feet up a chaparral-covered ridgeline.

After some hairpin turns, the road levels off and skirts Lake Henshaw, a picturesque reservoir. Take a right on California 79, and after 10 miles, take a left on Wynola Road. Follow that road for about 3.5 miles, then take a left on Farmer Road to arrive at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. Stretch your legs on the Five Oaks Trail , a 1.2-mile path that ascends the western flank of Volcan Mountain and offers sweeping views of the orchards below.

With your appetite revved up, head south on Farmer Road into Julian and make a stop at the Julian Pie Co . Grab a well-deserved slice of apple pie and some apple cider and rest your feet at a picnic table while you chow down.

3 things to do

1. Race plankton in Manhattan Beach In celebration of Earth Day, the Roundhouse Aquarium will hold a day full of educational activities inside and outside its facilities. Highlights include dolphin spotting, a fish feeding, crafts, games, a “shark shack” and, yes, plankton racing. The festivities kick off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and go until 4 p.m. The event is free, but be sure to register ahead of time at roundhouseaquarium.org .

2. Go gardening in San Pedro Give back to the land by planting native species, removing weeds, mulching and watering the White Point Nature Preserve’s garden with the folks at Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. You’ll also have the chance to enter a raffle and take a guided nature walk. As a bonus, refreshments will be provided by Starbucks to keep you cool and hydrated. The three-hour event begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. All volunteers under age 16 should be accompanied by an adult, and all volunteers under age 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver at the event. Register at pvplc.com .

3. Stretch your legs on Venice Boulevard CicLAvia is back. And this time it’s shutting down a 5.75-mile stretch of Venice Boulevard that connects Palms, Mar Vista and Venice Beach for walkers, joggers, bikers, roller skaters, unicyclers, penny-farthings, pogo sticks — anything as long as it’s completely powered by humans. There will be three local hubs along the route where you’ll be able to partake in family-friendly activities, pump air into your bike’s tires, refill your water bottle and use the restroom. Be sure to reference CicLAvia’s digital map so you can scope out the local businesses you’d like to visit along the way. It all takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information about the event and the area it covers, visit ciclavia.org .

The must-read

The Klamath River in Northern California has turned brown and muddy, but that’s a good thing. As Times writer Ian James reports , it’s a side effect of the largest dam removal project in history, which aims to restore the river to its natural state. Four dams are being removed along the Klamath, and the river is passing freely through tunnels in three of them, draining reservoirs and churning up an estimated 2.3 million tons of sediment that had settled along the bottom of those man-made lakes. Although the turbid water might look ugly, restoration advocates and tribal leaders see it as a sign of healing. The muck is passing out of the Klamath, and new life — everything from salmon heading upstream to native plant seedlings along the riverbanks — will soon take its place.

Happy adventuring,

Want to try birding but don’t have binoculars? Head to the Audubon Center in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and you can borrow a free pair of binoculars (as well as a birding guide, backpack and other gear) to help you spot the 140 species of birds that call the park home.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild . And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here .

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Michael Charboneau is a freelance writer covering gear and the outdoors, and he’s writing The Wild newsletter for a few months. He has written for a variety of publications, including Men’s Journal, Runner’s World and InsideHook, and he lives in West L.A. When he’s not writing, he can be found running, hiking and biking around Los Angeles and its mountains.

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Road Trip! Go See These Endangered Species Murals

‘Tis the season for long drives to visit extended family and long-time friends. Inevitably, you’ll have to make a pitstop. You could stop at the roadside gas station or you could stretch your legs while taking in some beautiful artwork. Across California, artists have painted murals featuring endangered species. Join us as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act by visiting one of these murals – some make a great selfie spot! Tag your pic #ESA50. Here’s a few to add to your road trip route.   

Marbled murrelet

Backside of 280 E Street (Intersection of US 101 South and Samoa Boulevard), Arcata, CA 

Stretching more than 250 feet, a mural in the California coastal town of Arcata painted by artist Lucas Thornton features the  marbled murrelet, a seabird listed as threatened under the ESA. About the size of a chubby robin, the marbled murrelet can be found from Canada to California. Its numbers are dwindling due to low reproductive rates and loss of nesting habitat. The Service is working with partners to monitor populations of the bird and look for ways to help its populations recover.

Western snowy plover 

830 S Street, Sacramento, CA

The tall buildings in downtown Sacramento don’t exactly conjure up images of shorebirds, but the Western snowy plover is the star of a wall on the corner of The Nature Conservancy’s office. The shorebird is only about 6 inches long, and its thin dark bill, pale brown to gray back and white belly help it blend in with the coastal sand dunes it calls home. Invasive grasses and ice plant have taken over many of the sand dunes along the California coast, giving coverage to predators that prey on the birds, including coyotes, foxes, and domestic cats and dogs. Several dedicated organizations and volunteer groups are working to improve nesting habitat for the bird by restoring the dunes and removing the invasive plants. These efforts also help build the resilience of the sand dunes as rising sea levels threaten shorelines and habitat. This mural is part of the Audubon Mural Project, which aims to bring visibility to birds that are impacted by climate change climate change Climate change includes both global warming driven by human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting large-scale shifts in weather patterns. Though there have been previous periods of climatic change, since the mid-20th century humans have had an unprecedented impact on Earth's climate system and caused change on a global scale. Learn more about climate change . The mural was painted by Jonathan Martinez in collaboration with Audubon California and Wide Open Walls.

San Francisco garter snake

5400 Hollis Street, Emeryville, CA

Slithering down one of Emeryville’s main streets, an incredibly realistic looking San Francisco garter snake pops from a building wall. Painted by artist Sonny Sundancer, the San Francisco garter snake mural captures the snake’s rich colors of red, bright greenish-blue, black and cream. Due to its beautiful coloring, one of the biggest threats to the species is illegal trapping and sale in the pet trade. The snake is listed as endangered.

Western monarch butterfly

455 Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA

Have you ever seen a 50-foot-tall monarch butterfly? Now you can! The monarch, which is currently a candidate species for listing, is seen softly landing on a California poppy on the side of a building in San Francisco. Each year, Western monarch butterflies travel from the Rocky Mountains to the California coast. It takes four generations of butterflies to complete its entire life cycle, which includes this 1,000-mile journey – quite a feat for any creature, let alone a butterfly! This mural, known as “Le Papillon,” is part of the Migrating Mural series that showcases species in the places where their migration routes intersect with the human world. The mural was designed and developed by artists Jane Kim and Thayer Walker as part of a collaboration Veritas, Bay Area art studio Ink Dwell and the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. This building also contains a smaller mural and artwork on the entryway to the building and garage featuring some of the 34 species of butterflies found around San Francisco.    

Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep

Multiple locations on the Highway 395 Corridor in California (Lone Pine Airport in Lone Pine, Mount Williamson Hotel in Independence, and Sage to Summit in Bishop)

Heading to the eastern part of California? Highway 395 provides breathtaking views of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada range where endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep roam. The historical range of this subspecies of bighorn sheep stretches from Olancha Peak in the south to Sonora Pass in the north. These bighorn sheep live at elevations ranging from 4,000-14,000 feet and have adapted to live in harsh mountain conditions. Predation, environmental factors and concern of disease transmission from domestic sheep pose challenges to the species' recovery. Catching a glimpse of these alpine dwellers is quite rare, but luckily, there are a few murals of the sheep painted by artist Jane Kim along the 395 corridor to enjoy: Lone Pine Airport in Lone Pine, The Mount Williamson Hotel in Independence and Sage to Summit in Bishop. The artwork is also part of the Migrating Mural project and was funded by the Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep Foundation.   

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April 22, 2024

Making history: brightline west breaks ground on america’s first high-speed rail project connecting las vegas to southern california  , officials hammer the first spike commemorating the groundbreaking for brightline west.

LAS VEGAS (April 22, 2024)  – Today, Brightline West officially broke ground on the nation's first true high-speed rail system which will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. The 218-mile system will be constructed in the middle of the I-15 and is based on Brightline’s vision to connect city pairs that are too short to fly and too far to drive. Hailed as the greenest form of transportation in the world, Brightline West will run zero emission, fully electric trains capable of speeds of 200 miles per hour. Brightline West is a watershed project for high-speed rail in America and will establish the foundation for the creation of a new industry and supply chain. The project was recently awarded $3 billion in funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. The rest of the project will be privately funded and has received a total allocation of $3.5 billion in private activity bonds from USDOT.

The groundbreaking included remarks from U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline Founder Wes Edens, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Sen. Jacky Rosen, Senior Advisor to President Biden Steve Benjamin and Vince Saavedra of the Southern Nevada Building Trades. In addition, Nevada Reps. Dina Titus, Susie Lee and Steve Horsford and California Reps. Pete Aguilar and Norma Torres made remarks and joined the celebration. More than 600 people, including union representatives, project supporters and other state and local officials from California and Nevada, attended the event.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades – and now, with billions of dollars of support made possible by President Biden’s historic infrastructure law, it’s finally happening,” said Secretary Buttigieg. “Partnering with state leaders and Brightline West, we’re writing a new chapter in our country’s transportation story that includes thousands of union jobs, new connections to better economic opportunity, less congestion on the roads, and less pollution in the air.”

“This is a historic project and a proud moment where we break ground on America’s first high-speed rail system and lay the foundation for a new industry,” said Wes Edens, Brightline founder. “Today is long overdue, but the blueprint we’ve created with Brightline will allow us to repeat this model in other city pairs around the country.”

CONSTRUCTION OF BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline West's rail system will span 218 miles and reach speeds of 200 mph. The route, which has full environmental clearance, will run within the median of the I-15 highway with zero grade crossings. The system will have stops in Las Vegas, Nev., as well as Victor Valley, Hesperia and Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

The privately led infrastructure project is one of the largest in the nation and will be constructed and operated by union labor. It will use 700,000 concrete rail ties, 2.2 million tons of ballast, and 63,000 tons of 100% American steel rail during construction. Upon completion, it will include 322 miles of overhead lines to power the trains and will include 3.4 million square feet of retaining walls. The project covers more than 160 structures including viaducts and bridges. Brightline West will be fully Buy America Compliant.

STATIONS AND FACILITIES

Brightline West will connect Southern California and Las Vegas in two hours or almost half the time as driving. The Las Vegas Station will be located near the iconic Las Vegas Strip, on a 110-acre property north of Blue Diamond Road between I-15 and Las Vegas Boulevard. The site provides convenient access to the Harry Reid International Airport, the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Raiders’ Allegiant Stadium. The station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

The Victor Valley Station in Apple Valley will be located on a 300-acre parcel southeast of Dale Evans Parkway and the I-15 interchange. The station is intended to offer a future connection to the High Desert Corridor and California High Speed Rail. The Victor Valley Station is approximately 20,000 square feet plus parking.

The Rancho Cucamonga Station will be located on a 5-acre property at the northwest corner of Milliken Avenue and Azusa Court near Ontario International Airport. The station will be co-located with existing multi-modal transportation options including California Metrolink, for seamless connectivity to Downtown Los Angeles and other locations in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Rancho Cucamonga Station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

The Hesperia Station will be located within the I-15 median at the I-15/Joshua Street interchange and will function primarily as a local rail service for residents in the High Desert on select southbound morning and northbound evening weekday trains.

The Vehicle Maintenance Facility (VMF) is a 200,000-square-foot building located on 238 acres in Sloan, Nev., and will be the base for daily maintenance and staging of trains. This site will also serve as one of two hubs for the maintenance of way operations and the operations control center. More than 100 permanent employees will report on a daily basis once operations begin and will serve as train crews, corridor maintenance crews, or operations control center teammates. A second maintenance of way facility will be located adjacent to the Apple Valley station.

The Las Vegas and Southern California travel market is one of the nation’s most attractive corridors with over 50 million trips between the region each year. Additionally, Las Vegas continues to attract visitors from around the world, with 4.7 million international travelers flying into the destination. The city dubs itself on being the world’s No. 1 meeting destination, welcoming nearly 6 million people to the Las Vegas Convention Center last year.

In California, approximately 17 million Southern California residents are within 25 miles of the Brightline West station sites. Studies show that one out of every three visits to Las Vegas come from Southern California.

ECONOMIC & ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

Brightline West's $12 billion infrastructure investment will create over $10 billion in economic impact for Nevada and California and will generate more than 35,000 jobs, including 10,000 direct union construction roles and 1,000 permanent operations and maintenance positions. The investment also includes over $800 million in improvements to the I-15 corridor and involves agreements with several unions for skilled labor. The project supports Nevada and California's climate goals by offering a no-emission mobility option that reduces greenhouse gasses by over 400,000 tons of CO2 annually – reducing vehicle miles traveled by more than 700 million each year and the equivalent of 16,000 short-haul flights. The company will also construct three wildlife overpasses, in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Caltrans for the safe passage of native species, primarily the bighorn sheep.

BRIGHTLINE FLORIDA

Brightline’s first rail system in Florida connecting Miami to Orlando began initial service between its South Florida stations in 2018. In September 2023, Brightline’s Orlando station opened at Orlando International Airport, connecting South Florida to Central Florida. The company has plans to expand its system with future stops in Tampa, Florida’s Space Coast in Cocoa and the Treasure Coast in Stuart.

BRIGHTLINE WEST

ABOUT BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline is the only private provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity passenger rail service in America – offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road by connecting city pairs and congested corridors that are too short to fly and too long to drive. Brightline West will connect Las Vegas and Southern California with the first true high-speed passenger rail system in the nation. The 218-mile, all-electric rail service will include a flagship station in Las Vegas, with additional stations in Victor Valley and Rancho Cucamonga. At speeds up to 200 miles per hour, trains will take passengers from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga in about two hours, twice as fast as the normal drive time.

Brightline is currently operating its first passenger rail system connecting Central and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, with future stations coming to Stuart and Cocoa. For more information, visit  www.brightlinewest.com  and follow on  LinkedIn ,  X ,  Instagram  and  Facebook .

QUOTE SHEET

“Through this visionary partnership, we are going to create thousands of jobs, bring critical transportation infrastructure to the West, and create an innovative, fast, and sustainable transportation solution. Nevada looks forward to partnering with Brightline on this historic project.”  - Governor Joe Lombardo, Nevada

“Today, not only are we breaking ground on a historic high-speed rail project here in Nevada, we are breaking ground on thousands of good paying American jobs, union jobs.”  - Steve Benjamin, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement

“For decades, Nevadans heard about the promise of high-speed rail in our state, and I’m proud to have led the charge to secure the funding to make it a reality. Today’s groundbreaking is the beginning of a new era for southern Nevada -- creating thousands of good-paying union jobs, bringing in billions of dollars of economic development, enhancing tourism to the state, reducing traffic, and creating a more efficient and cleaner way to travel. This is a monumental step, and I’m glad to have worked across the aisle to make this project come true.”  - Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

“Having high-speed rail in Las Vegas will electrify our economy in Southern Nevada, and I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone today. This project is on track to create tens of thousands of good-paying union jobs while cutting down traffic on I-15, and I’ll keep working with the Biden Administration to get this done as quickly as possible and continue delivering easier and cleaner transportation options for everyone in Nevada.”  - Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)

“Today’s groundbreaking is a historic step in modernizing rail service in the United States. Californians driving between the Los Angeles region and Las Vegas often face heavy traffic, causing emissions that pollute the air in surrounding communities. The Brightline West Project will provide travelers with more options—helping Californians and visitors alike get to their final destination without facing gridlock on the road.”  - Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

"High-speed rail in the Southwest has been a dream as far back as the nineties when Governor Bob Miller appointed me to the California-Nevada Super Speed Train Commission. As a senior Member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I am honored to have helped write the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and secure $3 billion to turn that dream into a reality which will generate millions of dollars in tax revenue, reduce carbon emissions by easing traffic on Interstate 15, and create thousands of good-paying union jobs. I am proud to stand with advocates and transportation leaders as we break ground on the Brightline West project and look forward to welcoming high-speed passenger rail to Southern Nevada."  - Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-1)

“For decades, high-speed rail was just a dream in southern Nevada – but now, I’m beyond proud that we finally made it a reality. I worked across the aisle to help negotiate, craft, and ultimately pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because I knew it would kickstart transformative projects like Brightline West that will stand the test of time. Together, we’re cutting down on traffic, boosting our tourism economy, and creating thousands of good-paying union jobs.”  - Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3)

“I am proud to join Brightline West for the groundbreaking of this monumental project for Southern Nevada and the southwestern United States. By connecting Las Vegas to Southern California via high-speed rail, we will boost tourism, reduce congestion on the I-15 corridor, and create jobs. The impact on our local economy and the people of the Silver State will be tremendous. In my conversations with Secretary Buttigieg, Brightline West, and our Nevada labor leaders, I know that local workers and our Nevada small businesses will benefit from this transformational investment. This will be the nation's first true high-speed rail system, blazing a new path forward for our nation’s rail infrastructure, and we hope it will serve as a blueprint for fostering greater regional connections for many other cities across the country.  - Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-4)

“Brightline West’s groundbreaking today marks the construction of a dynamic high-speed rail system that will link Las Vegas, Hesperia, and Apple Valley to Rancho Cucamonga’s Metrolink Station, creating new jobs and fostering economic growth in California’s 23rd Congressional District. This convenient alternative to driving will reduce the number of cars on the road, decreasing emissions and reducing congestion in our High Desert communities. This is an exciting step and I look forward to the completion of this project.”  - Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23)

"Today's groundbreaking on the Brightline West high-speed rail project marks an incredible milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to fulfilling the promise of high-speed rail and emissions-free transportation across the country. As a longtime supporter of this project, I helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has already invested over $3 billion to support the completion of this project. By increasing transportation options, spurring job creation and new economic opportunities, and improving our environment through cutting over 400,000 tons of carbon pollution each year, this project will be transformative to my district and all of Southern California for generations—particularly in and around the last stop in Rancho Cucamonga. With the goal of being operational in time for Los Angeles to host the Summer Olympic Games in 2028, I look forward to Brightline West facilitating travel for the millions visiting our region and elevating our 21st-century connectivity on the global stage."  - Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28)

"As the Member of Congress that represents the City of Rancho Cucamonga and a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, it is my honor to participate in breaking ground on one of the most highly anticipated high-speed rail projects in the country. We gathered today thanks to the Biden Administration's leadership, which enacted the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to fund vital projects like this and transform our economy. The Brightline project is a stellar illustration of the power of successful public-private partnerships. Thanks to all the labor unions, Tribes, and wildlife advocates for their hard work, which brought this project to life. The bright line is fully electric and has zero emissions, which is excellent for our environment. I am eagerly anticipating the completion of this project in my district and look forward to seeing everyone there."  - Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35)

Media Contact

Vanessa Alfonso [email protected]

How to Use the Tesla Trip Planner

Tesla’s Trip Planner can be used on a computer to plan a road trip ahead of time, with the advantage of finding food, lodging, and other stops near chargers. It can also be used on the go to adjust plans. Here’s what you should know.

Telsa Motors, Inc.

What Is Tesla’s Trip Planner?

Tesla’s trip planning tools can be used both before you embark on your trip, as well as when you’re already on the road. Though specific features vary by manufacturer, all electric vehicles have ways to help the owner locate chargers on the go, see chargers’ status, and plan routes to destinations to balance optimizing the car’s range while finding the most convenient available chargers. In that way, Tesla’s trip planning tools are not unique to Tesla vehicles .

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Key Takeaways

• With computer-based and in-car features, Tesla’s Trip Planner can be used well in advance or on the go
• The trip planner helps find the most efficient route to your destination
• Tesla’s tools also help you find chargers along your route.

However, Tesla does have the advantage of being an early innovator in the segment, as well as having access to the formerly proprietary Tesla Supercharger network, widely regarded as the best of its kind in terms of reliability and efficiency.

An EV Road Trip

Warren Clarke Sept. 28, 2023

Tesla’s Trip Planner can be used on a computer to plan a road trip ahead of time, with the advantage of finding food, lodging, and other desired stops near chargers. It can also be used on the go, to adjust plans if needed or desired. Here’s what you need to know.

Get Ready to Go

Use Tesla’s Trip Planner Go Anywhere tool from the comfort of your home, at any or all stages of planning your trip . Whether it’s an overnight or a cross-country jaunt, the Trip Planner can optimize your route, find and recommend Tesla Superchargers, and even suggest Destination Charging . The latter are charging locations specifically located near points of interest, such as restaurants, hotels, and shopping, so you can charge overnight, while eating, or while restocking your road trip supplies and provisions.

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Using the Trip Planner ahead of time means you can ensure you’ll hit your desired points of interest and know where you’ll be spending the night, so you can head out confidently. Yet, if your plans change along the way, Tesla’s got you covered there, too.

On the Road

Whether you’ve planned in advance or it’s more of a last-minute or short trip, Tesla’s Trip Planner is also available behind the wheel. If you’re already in your car, your Tesla’s navigation system will show you the fastest route to your destination, and will highlight Tesla Superchargers along the way. This strategy can help you plan your charging to take advantage of nearby sites so you can explore, rest, or grab something to eat.

How Much Does it Cost to Charge an Electric Car?

Warren Clarke Jan. 16, 2024

The lightning bolt icon on your Tesla’s navigation screen will instantly find the nearest Supercharger to your location, along with its current availability and charging rates . Tesla advises using the trip planner during a trip to stay informed of nearby Tesla Superchargers and your car’s recommendations for charging.

Other Tips and Advice

Tesla offers advice to optimize your charging and range while on a trip. When driving, make sure braking is set to the regenerative setting, which means that the car will recapture energy from braking and send it back to the battery pack, which helps maximize range. Also check your tires and ensure they’re set to the proper pressure, which also helps conserve battery power and reduce how often you’ll need to charge.

Whenever possible, park in the shade to keep the vehicle as cool as possible, and leave the air conditioning running while parked. This way, you can come back to a cool and comfortable vehicle. You can monitor and adjust the car’s cabin temperature remotely through Tesla’s smartphone app.

Note that Tesla advises leaving your vehicle plugged in whenever possible when you’re on a trip. Tesla says this will not degrade the battery or battery life over time.

Planning ahead of time will help ensure peace of mind for an extended road trip, but a combined approach of using Tesla’s trip planner tools both beforehand and on the go can help ensure you’re well prepared for your journey with room for some spontaneity and last-minute surprises. After all, what’s a road trip without the opportunity for a little adventure?

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