best road trip destinations in california

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

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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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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!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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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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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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Scenic California Drives: 7 Routes That Will Make You Swoon

Martin Sundberg/Getty Images 

These seven California drives are guaranteed to make you say "Wow!" — And say it more than once. They're the best places you can go for a short road trip in California, journeys where you will measure progress by photos per mile rather than miles per hour.

If you take them all, you will see waves crashing on coastal cliffs and drive beneath trees that are the tallest living things on earth. You will travel over high mountain passes, through valleys with floors a mile high, feeling small in comparison to the mountains that soar 10,000 feet above you. You will cross the desert through a World Biosphere Reserve and see the lowest place in North America.

All of these road trips are between 100 and 180 miles long, short enough to do in a single day and interesting enough to turn into multi-day trips. In fact, you could string them all together to make the ultimate one- to two-week California road trip vacation. You can see where they are on this handy Google map .

Before you get started, take a little time to go old school. While all of these routes have fantastic views, they can take you far from the nearest cell phone tower. Before you hop in the car, download a map to your mobile device or get one printed on paper.

Big Sur: From Carmel to Morro Bay

Ershov_Maks/Getty Images

California Highway 1 between Morro Bay and Carmel-by-the-Sea is the best drive in California. And it may just be the most famous 155 miles in the world. It's undoubtedly the most photographed, talked about and dreamed about route in the Golden State.

It's all about the scenery on the Big Sur drive, with the highway tracing the curvaceous coastline and the Pacific Ocean crashing on the rocks below.

Driving on this road can be nerve-wracking. Some of the turns are so tight you'll feel like you can see your own taillights. That is when you're not fretting about whether you're going to veer off the road and end up in the ocean at the bottom of those sheer cliffs. To minimize that drama, start in Morro Bay and drive north which puts your vehicle on the land side of the highway.

The 120-mile distance seems short, but photo opportunities, hairpin turns, and slow-moving drivers combine to make the trip take up to twice as long as you might expect.

The best time to go is in spring and fall when the sky is the clearest. In summer, the coast is subject to coastal fog called June Gloom , the road gets crowded, and there are few places to pass those slow-moving vehicles. In winter, mudslides can close Highway 1 for weeks to months at a time. Before you set out, check the road conditions on the CalTrans website and find out what you can do instead if it's closed.

Where to Stop

You can find all the best stops and points of interest in the guide to driving Highway One through Big Sur.

If you want to make this trip in two days, you'll want to spend more time in Morro Bay . You can also spend a day or more exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea .

Places to stay are scarce except around the Big Sur village area where you can find plenty of inns and campgrounds .

What You Need to Know

You can find food and restrooms at Ragged Point, Gorda and in Big Sur village. Purchase gasoline in either Carmel or Morro Bay. If you're driving an electric vehicle, charge up in Big Sur village or Cambria (75 miles apart).

If you or your companions are prone to motion sickness, be prepared. Try these remedies or take the wheel which helps many people avoid the problem.

The highway is a paved, two-lane road suitable for all passenger vehicles. You can take large RVs and travel trailers on it, but most people who have tried that say they won't do it again.

The High Sierras: Bridgeport to Lone Pine

George Rose/Getty Images

Between Bridgeport and Lone Pine, the 150-mile stretch of US Highway 395 passes through a landscape that looks like it was torn from the pages of National Geographic magazine. In the fall when the aspen trees turn golden, it’s arguably the most beautiful drive in California.

One of the delights of 395 is the diversity of landscapes you can see just by looking out your window. You'll travel through the broad, high Owens Valley with the Sierra Nevada mountains on the west side and the White and Inyo Mountains on the east. You'll even be able to see Mount Whitney, the highest summit in the contiguous United States with an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meter).

Fall is the most spectacular season to make the drive. In the spring, you may see wild iris and other wildflowers blooming beside the highway. Summer is also fine, with moderate temperatures and lots of sunshine. In the winter, the area gets snow, which makes the mountains beautiful but can make the driving difficult.

Must-see sights along Highway 395 include Mono Lake and its unique tufa rock formations, Devil's Postpile outside Mammoth, Convict Lake , June Lake , and the Manzanar National Historic Site (a World War II Japanese internment camp). 

If you make this trip in two days, you can also take side trips to see the west's best-preserved ghost town at Bodie State Historic Park, and the bubbling, turquoise-colored mineral springs at Hot Creek.

Bishop is an excellent place to stop, but you can also find lodging in Lee Vining, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, and Lone Pine.

Food, gasoline, and restrooms are available in most of the towns along 395. Most of them also have electric vehicle charging points with at least a few stations.

The highest point on this drive is Conway Summit which is 8,138 feet (2,480 m) high, enough to cause altitude sickness in some people.

The main highway is suitable for any type of vehicle. Passenger vehicles can use the unpaved road to Bodie ghost town, but it is famous for its bumps and potholes. A few of the side trips in the Highway 395 guide are accessed by dirt roads that are passable in a passenger vehicle (although you may come out covered in dust).

Highway 1 North: San Francisco to Fort Bragg

Yuval Helfman/EyeEm/Getty Images

The Big Sur coast is justifiably famous and jaw-droppingly scenic, but it isn't the only part of California Highway 1 that offers views so gorgeous you might not believe they're real.

The 180-mile drive between San Francisco and Fort Bragg on Highway 1 offers scenery and lots of places to stop and explore, from charming villages that look they should be in New England to cliffside vista points so far above the ocean they could give you vertigo.

The best time to go is in spring and fall when the sky is the clearest. In summer, the coast is subject to coastal fog called June Gloom. The highway can sometimes be closed for repairs, especially in the winter. Check for closures and other road conditions at the CalTrans website before you go.

The best stops are at Point Reyes to see one of the coast's most scenic lighthouses, the tiny town of Marshall where you can enjoy oysters fresh from the ocean, and the storybook town of Mendocino .

Between those points of interest, you'll be high above the ocean's edge. You can find out about everything else along the way in the guide to traveling Highway 1 north.

There's enough to enjoy on this route that it would also make a multi-day trip. You can find places to stay in most of the towns you pass through.

Gasoline, food, and restrooms are also available at most of the towns on Highway 1. Many of them also have electric vehicle chargers with at least a few stations.

If winding, clifftop roads make you or your companions nervous, drive from south to north, which will keep your vehicle on the inside of all the curves.

From the Beach to the Desert: San Diego to Palm Springs

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

If you're driving from San Diego to Palm Springs, don't let your GPS or navigation app take you on a boring drive on busy interstate highways. Instead, take control of your route to travel through the Cuyamaca Mountains, visit a gold rush town from the 1870s, and descend to the desert to explore a World Biosphere Reserve. 

Fall, winter, and spring are all great times to go. Between October and January, you can see up to 400 species of migratory birds around the Salton Sea — almost half of those known in North America. In the spring, you might catch the wildflowers at Anza-Borrego. Fall is apple season in the town of Julian. In the summer, desert temperatures are so high that you won't want to get out of your air-conditioned vehicle — but hotel rates in the desert cities will be low.

Along the way, stop in  Julian , a tiny gold rush town that's a good place to shop for antiques and get a slice of apple pie made from fruit grown in the nearby orchards.

On the east side of the mountains is Anza-Borrego, California's largest state park and a World Biosphere Reserve. For a quick visit, stop at the desert garden outside the visitor center which is a concentrated version of the park's entire 600,000 acres. Or go into depth and explore all the things you can do in Anza-Borrego .

At the town of Borrego Springs, detour west on Highway S22. Before long, you'll be rubbing your eyes in disbelief when you start seeing some of the more than 100 metal sculptures scattered over 10 square miles. Created by sculptor Ricardo Breceda for Dennis Avery (of the Avery label company), the Borrego Springs sculpture garden include mammoths, wild horses, giant sloths, camels, birds of prey and saber-tooth tigers. 

Continuing toward Palm Springs, you'll come to the Salton Sea , a body of water that covers almost 350 square miles of the California desert, is twice as salty as the Pacific Ocean, and is disappearing fast. From a distance, it looks like a mirage, an optical illusion formed by shimmering heat waves rising from the desert floor. .

If you want to take the trip in two days, you could stay overnight in Julian or Borrego Springs.

Food, gasoline, and restrooms are available in Julian and Borrego Springs, and you can also find restrooms at the Anza-Borrego visitor center. If you are driving an electric vehicle with a range of fewer than 200 miles, check ahead for charging stations along your route.

To take control of that GPS, map your trip in sections. If you're starting from San Diego, don't type Palm Springs into your mapping app. Set it for Julian instead. When you get there, navigate to Borrego Springs. Then plot a route to Palm Springs using the Interstate or take California Highway 111 which goes through the desert towns south of Palm Springs. If you're starting in Palm Springs, do the reverse: Borrego Springs, then Julian, then San Diego.

This drive is suitable for any type of vehicle, although it has quite a few hilly, curving sections. In the summer, be sure your vehicle is capable of handling high temperatures and check your fluid levels.

Redwood Highway: Oregon Border to Leggett

Jason Langley/Getty Images

Northern California's Redwood Highway takes you through the home of some of the most spectacular trees on earth. They cluster in groves, growing as tall as 300 to 350 feet and spanning 16 to 18 feet across.

The 175-mile route also passes some of Northern California's most dramatic coastal scenery. Between the redwood groves, you can spot elk, hike through a canyon filled with ferns, or stop to see the famous Chandelier Tree where you can actually drive your car through its trunk.

You can do basic drive between Leggett and the Oregon border in a day. If you have more time, take a few side trips. You can travel back in time in Ferndale (a village full of charming Victorian-era homes), watch the waves crash on offshore rocks, or take a photo of yourself next to an oversized statue of Paul Bunyan and his pal Babe the Blue Ox.

You can enjoy this drive any time of year. Winter can be rainy, but snow is rare.

If you only see one thing along the Redwood Highway , it should be Jedediah Smith State Park . The 6-mile drive through the park on Howland Hill Road is a must if you have never been in an unspoiled redwood forest. It's not suitable for all vehicles, though.

You're never far from a service station, a place to eat or a restroom on the highway. Expect to find more amenities in the larger towns. Electric vehicle charging stations may be difficult to find, making it a good idea to search for their locations before you start your trip.

Highway 101 is suitable for any vehicle, including large RVs and travel trailers, even on a side drive through the Avenue of the Giants.

Howland Hill drive is never suitable for large RVs or vehicles towing trailers. If the hard-packed gravel road has been graded recently, it's passable for a family sedan, but conditions can vary from smooth to deeply rutted. Check conditions at one of the park's visitor centers entrance in Crescent City and near the Hiouchi entrance.

Through Yosemite: Mariposa to Lee Vining Over Tioga Pass

David Toussaint/Getty Images

There's a lot more to Yosemite National Park than just the famous valley. On this drive, you'll also see alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and get a bird's eye view of Yosemite Valley from above.

The 100-mile route starts in the foothill town of Mariposa, climbs into the mountains and through the Yosemite Valley alongside the Merced River. Don't give in to temptation and spend all your time visiting the valley unless you have more than one day to make the trip. Instead, drive over the mountains through Tioga Pass to see Yosemite's high country.

This drive is beautiful any time of year. In the spring, you will see lots of flowering trees and wildflowers and the rivers and waterfalls will be at maximum flow. You can take the drive roughly from October through May, but in the winter, the mountain pass closes because of snow. You can get a look at historical opening and closing times at the Yosemite website.

Even though it looks like any other state highway on the map, this route goes through a national park with an entrance fee which applies even if you're only driving through.

Where to Stop The most spectacular vista points along the drive are Olmstead Point, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows.

You can easily make this drive in a day, but if you want to stop along the way, you will find cabins at  White Wolf Lodge  and more lodging at the  Tioga Pass Resort .

You can buy groceries in Yosemite Valley or at the Tuolumne Meadows store.

Gas pumps at Crane Flat (at the junction of Big Oak Flat Road and Tioga Road) are open 24 hours a day year-round, but the store is open only from spring through fall. It will be less expensive to fill up with gasoline in Mariposa or Lee Vining.

Be sure you know where to charge your electric vehicle before you start.

The highest point on this drive is Tioga Pass which is 9,943 feet (3,031 meters) high, enough to cause altitude sickness in some people.

The road is suitable for any type of vehicle, include large RVs and travel trailers.

The Heart of Death Valley: Shoshone to Stovepipe Wells

TripSavvy / Amanda Capritto

Death Valley is the place to travel through some of California' most spectacular desert scenery, an other-worldly landscape that looks like it belongs in an outer space movie. That is, unless If you drive into it on the wrong road, which can be so dull that it will make you wonder why people say that.

If you follow the scenic route, you will travel over two mountain passes before dropping to a spot that's well below sea level. You'll also get a look at Lake Manly which dried up 10,000 years ago. If you're lucky enough to go at the right time, you can see it temporarily come back to life. That happens once every decade or so. The last time was 2015 when a few people went kayaking on it.

The best time to make this drive is between October and April. Some people enjoy summer in Death Valley, but it can get so hot that those cheap dollar store flip-flops might just melt and stick to the pavement if you stand still for too long.

If you want to make this drive into a two-day trip, you can stay at one of the Death Valley hotels or bring your gear and stay in one of the campgrounds .

The only gasoline stations in Death Valley are at Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells. There is also a station at Panamint Springs, but it is exorbitantly expensive. If you are driving an EV, it's best to keep charged up and research charger locations before you go.

To take this drive, follow the route on this handy Google map or use these directions: From Shoshone, California exit Highway 127 onto Highway 178. Travel past the ruined Ashford gold mill to Badwater, then on north past the Devil's Golf Course. Take the side drive through Artist's Palette. Continue to Furnace Creek, then drive north through the park to Stovepipe Wells. It's about 100 miles from Shoshone to there.

From Stovepipe Wells, you can exit the park on Highway 190 over the mountains toward Panamint Springs or go east to Beatty, Nevada.

Death Valley is an unforgiving place that sometimes lives up to its name. Before you go, stock up on water and food and find out how to get to Death Valley without dying on the way.

The main roads described above are all passable in any type of vehicle. If you want to go off-road to locations like The Racetrack, you may need a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: The Complete Guide

The Best National Parks Near Las Vegas

Camping Road Trip: California's Central Coast

August in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Summer in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

November in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

Tuolumne Meadows: A Trip Worth Taking in Yosemite

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: The Complete Guide

The 12 Best Bicycling Paths in California

The 10 Best Day Trips From Palm Springs

The Ultimate Death Valley Photo Tour

Yosemite National Park: The Complete Guide

Los Angeles to San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Highway

April in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

When and Where to See the California Wildflowers

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.

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.

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20 "Don't-Miss" Stops On The Ideal California Road Trip, According To The Travelers Who've Already Crossed It Off Their Bucket Lists

You're not even leaving the state — but you'll feel like you're hopping between countries...

BuzzFeed Staff

As the third-largest state in the US, there's no denying that California is absolutely massive. That's why many people swear that the best way to see everything the Golden State has to offer is by planning an epic road trip. I rounded up the most jaw-dropping stops and helpful insights from Redditors and BuzzFeed readers who've already crossed a California road trip off their bucket list — so whether you're actively planning a getaway or just daydreaming, you can make the most of it. Here's everything to see, eat, and do along the way.

1. "While you’re in San Francisco, I highly recommend crossing the bridge to Marin and Sausalito. It’s so pretty over there, and you'll be awarded with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge."

— u/wickerbicycle

2. "Santa Cruz is worth stopping through for a good, long afternoon. If you like to hike, there are some great trails near the town of Felton, where you will find beautiful redwood trees."

— u/Spare-Arrival8983

3. "In Solvang, be prepared to eat like a hobbit the entire time you are there. You WILL have breakfast, then a second breakfast, then elevensies, lunch, afternoon tea, and so on. Go hungry. SERIOUSLY."

— morganleslay

4. "When driving to San Luis Obispo for a weekend getaway, I found an absolute gem in Buellton called Industrial Eats. It was absolutely amazing, so good that I stopped by again on my way back. 10/10 recommend."

— u/_ohne_dich_

5. "IMO, Santa Barbara is the best place in SoCal and an ideal starting point for any road trip. It’s pedestrian-friendly, has beautiful architecture, and has great bars and restaurants galore."

— u/tee2green

6. "If you are going on California Highway 1 (aka The Pacific Coast Highway), make sure you look at the road closure maps in advance. The PCH often has closures for landslides. US Highway 101 is the workaround."

— u/Mikelowe93

7. "If you plan on visiting Big Sur, spend most of your time in the north end. There's way more to see and do here. Visit Monterey and Carmel and then head south to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Andrew Molera State Park. These spots will give you a perfect feel for the area with their redwoods and beaches. The drive there is absolutely spectacular. The south end of Big Sur is kind of a mess with closures."

— u/Sequoiadendra

8. "Consider visiting Pinnacles, a lesser-known National Park roughly 100 miles south of San Francisco. It's home to tons of very cool geological formations."

— u/pinecone-submarine

9. "Eat some street tacos! California has great Mexican food all over, but if you're driving the PCH from San Francisco to Los Angeles , there are lots of good street vendors just off the highway."

— u/teedubski3

10. "Half Moon Bay is criminally underrated. The entire drive along the Pacific area is absolutely stunning, especially if you take the Skyline route. The woods, the fresh air, and the whole vibe are all incredible. A pit stop at Alice's Restaurant is a must."

— youwishyouwereme007

11. "To hit Yosemite and Tahoe, I suggest taking a nice big loop from Los Angeles on US 395 along the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s a beautiful desert drive, and there's almost never any traffic. June Lake is a lovely small town just off this route with a great brewery. And Mammoth Lakes is also a popular stop. You'll have to take a detour to get to Yosemite Valley, but it’s totally worth it, IMO."

— u/voidfencer

12. "Muir Woods is across the Golden Gate Bridge, and it's amazing. It's a must-see if you're anywhere near San Fransico. It feels totally alien, and there are not many forests like it on Earth. I can't recommend going there enough."

— u/Overman112

13. "Visit anywhere in Humboldt County for its gorgeous rugged coastline and amazing forests. The landscape is truly awe-inspiring. I went to college there and then stayed for a while. It's a breathtakingly beautiful place."

— teamglatz3

14. "To make Los Angeles a more enjoyable experience, try to plan your day out around a specific locale within the city. That way, you won't spend half of that day driving in traffic. Look for other stuff to eat, do, and see near your 'must-see' attraction."

— u/FeelinIrieMon

15. "If you find yourself with extra time, I highly suggest going to San Diego. In my opinion, this city is much better than Los Angeles. There are lots of things to do (some are totally free), like Balboa Park, Friendship Garden, Torrey Pines, and seeing sea lions and seals at La Jolla Cove. The city has excellent breweries and great Mexican food."

16. "If you can get into Nepenthe in Big Sur, it's a must. But even if you can't get a table, grab a coffee and see the view."

— u/taperwaves

17. "Visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks instead of Yosemite. These parks are less crowded and just as spectacular."

— u/ExamNo368

18. "Death Valley is so surreal and beautiful in its own way. There's Badwater Basin, Artists Palette, sand dunes, and super clear skies for stargazing. It really feels like you're on a different planet. Most people make the mistake of visiting when it's too hot, but November to February is *perfect*, and there are a bunch of ghost towns worth visiting if you're road-tripping!"

— fizzingwhizbee713

19. "Pismo and Paso Robles are well worth a trip. You'll find pretty rolling hills, wine country, and lower-cost dining options, along with some great camping and hiking."

— u/deleted

20. "If visiting Yosemite, I’d highly recommend getting a backcountry permit so that you can experience the landscape away from the crowds. We were able to get a lake to ourselves two nights in a row in the Tuolumne Meadows area in July. If you stick to Yosemite Valley, you will experience it with crowds."

— u/english_major

Do you have something to add? What's your must-visit stop along any California road trip? Tell us in the comments below.

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Best California Road Trips: The State’s Most Prettiest + Memorable Drives

last Updated: September 3, 2023 california road trip

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Looking for the best road trips in California? Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a full 2 weeks to explore, look no further – this huge post covers over 15 of the best California road trips! Grab some snacks and turn up the music — we’re going on a road trip! 

We’re awfully lucky here in The Golden State. We’ve got expansive deserts , beautiful beaches , snow-capped mountains, towering redwoods , and of course, my all-time favorite, San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge . But how do you see so many during such a short period of time? By taking advantage of these California road trip ideas below of course!

I sometimes feel I could spend entire years exploring California and still uncover areas most people know nothing about. Have any non-locals ever heard of Lone Pine, Ferndale, or Morro Bay?! See what I mean?

In order to satiate my never-ending love affair with the #westcoastbestcoast, you’ll find us hopping in the car heading off to another CA destination almost every weekend. Well, unless we’re off galavanting around the world of course (to say, Bali , Panama , or Morocco ).

And thankfully, road trippers in California don’t have to drive long distances to see an awful lot. The state is so ridiculously varied – you could be hiking in the desert in the morning ( Joshua Tree ) and relaxing by the beach in the afternoon ( OC ), and even skiing in the mountains on the way (Big Bear)! How’s that for impressive?! 

Sure, the famed Pacific Coast Highway may be the most iconic of all road trips in California, but don’t stop there! There’s panning for gold (and tons of history) in our Gold Rush towns, fantastic geological features in the Eastern Sierras, and off roading in the central coast sand dunes. 

We’ve got wildflower meadows. Film locations. Craggy peaks and volcanic rocks. Tufa formations. Geysers and mud pots and mountain lakes. Historic mining towns. Ghost towns. Ski towns. Etc. etc. etc.

We’ve really got it all. And so much more. You’ll see – I don’t wanna spoil all the fun right away!

So, turn up that California playlist, throw on your comfiest road trip outfit, and charge up that camera! Let’s get the show on the road → off on one of the best California road trips you go!

Psst: read these top road trip tips before heading off! From safety to snacks, you don’t wanna miss anything when you’re miles from home.

→ Whenever we search for car rentals, we ALWAYS check THIS SITE first. And we always save a fair bit of money. 🙂 

California Road Trips Across the State

1. pacific coast highway/highway 1.

Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway is the ultimate of all these California road trips. It’s by far the most popular of all the road trips in California, and I totally get it! The California coast is just begging to be explored, and it’s all so varied! The PCH, commonly known as Highway 1, spans a stunning 650 miles, from up north in Leggett to down south in Dana Point. And on this trip, we’ll be exploring all of it!

Expect to find rugged wild beauty, small town charm, big city sights, sunbathed lifeguards, obnoxious elephant seals, and oh so much more. There’s wild zebras, fresh oysters and lobster rolls, stunning coastline views, and water so turquoise you’ll feel like you’re in Hawaii.

My advice? As the longest of all these California road trips on this list, take as long as you can to drive the entirety of the PCH. It can be done in as little as 5 days, but I highly recommend at LEAST 10 days if you really wanna get out and explore all that the coast has to offer. You can drive the Pacific Coast Highway in either direction, but I enjoy the drive from North to South better (the views are better that way…)!

The Basics:

• Starting Point: Leggett (Mendocino County)
• Ending Point: Dana Point (Orange County)
• Best Time of Year: Late Spring to Early Fall
• Distance : 650 miles (17 hours)
• Suggested # of Days: 10 days to 2 weeks and beyond
• Route At-A-Glance: Leggett – Fort Bragg/Mendocino – Bodega Bay – Point Reyes – San Francisco – Half Moon Bay/Pescadero – Santa Cruz – Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea – Big Sur – Central Coast – Santa Barbara – Malibu – Santa Monica – Laguna/Huntington/Dana Point

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Start off at this epic California road trip at the very start of the PCH – in Leggett! Particularly at the Leggett Drive-Thru Tree Park, where, you guessed it, you can drive directly under a giant redwood tree! Spend a day or two (or three or four) exploring Fort Bragg and Mendocino . Don’t miss the Point Cabrillo Light Station, a stroll along the Mendocino Headlands, a ride on the skunk train through the nearby redwood forest, and some candy cap mushroom ice cream.

Make your way south to Bodega Bay and Point Reyes , stopping at the Cypress Tree Tunnel,  Bodega Head, the Inverness Shipwreck, and Spud Point Crab Company. If you’re looking for that typical Northern California experience, make sure to have an oyster picnic at Hog Island Oyster Company!

If you’ve never been to The City by the Bay, plan to spend at least 3 days in San Francisco . Some of my favorites include: snagging views of the Golden Gate Bridge from either Battery Spencer, Baker Beach, or Crissy Field, strolling around Golden Gate Park, eating everything in North Beach, Chinatown, and Japan Town, and checking out the murals in the Mission.

Don’t miss a few desserts in San Francisco (you’ve earned it after walking up all those hills!) There’s oh so much to do here → check out my bucket list of over 125 things to do in SF !

And if you have some extra time, make sure to check out Pacifica , Half Moon Bay , and Pescadero as well (all local favorites and missed on most road trips in California). Santa Cruz is next, with its cotton candy, kitchy amusement park, and colorful buildings in nearby Capitola.

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

A bit south of Santa Cruz is Carmel and Monterey , known for the touristy Fisherman’s Wharf, great whale watching opportunities, and charming storybook village. Of course Big Sur can’t be missed, with the ever-so-popular Bixby Bridge, stunning McWay Falls, almond croissants at Big Sur Bakery, and my personal favorite, cocktails at Nepenthe.

Most people drive straight from Big Sur to SoCal without stopping much along the way, but don’t be like everyone else! There’s Hearst Castle and elephant seals in San Simeon , olallieberry pie at Linn’s in Cambria (bring the stretchy pants!), and a colorful town and pier in Cayucos .

We love Morro Bay , with its giant monolith jutting out of the water and sand dollars at the adjacent beach. Go kayaking and look out for sea otters holding hands (yes, they actually do hold hands and it’s the most adorable thing in the entire world). 

San Luis Obispo is super quirky and fun; popular spots include the Madonna Hotel (don’t leave without scarfing down some pink champagne cake), Bubblegum Alley, Spooners Cove/Montana de Oro State Park, and sand dunning in nearby Pismo Beach.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Woo — you’ve made it to sunny southern California! Sun-bathed lifeguards, year-round sunshine, and scenic beaches await!

If you wanna feel like you’ve stepped into an authentic Danish village, make a pit stop in Solvang en route to Santa Barbara. Don’t miss the aebleskivers in town (danish fried donut balls with raspberry jam – yum).

In Santa Barbara , go shopping on State Street, grab a cone from McConnells, admire views from the Courthouse Tower, watch the sunset at Butterfly Beach, and sip frose at Lucky Penny. You can also relax at the beach and walk on Stearns Wharf, of course. 

There’s Point Dume and Malibu Farms in Malibu , the Santa Monica pier in Santa Monica , and Muscle Beach, Venice Canals, and Abbot Kinney Blvd (my favorite) in Venice Beach .

In Huntington Beach , watch the pups play at Dog Beach, sip a few cocktails at The Bungalow, walk along the pier and have some shakes at Ruby’s Diner, and get your tan on at the beach! And whatever you do, don’t miss the famous chocolate dipped frozen bananas on nearby Balboa Island! 

Laguna Beach is filled with fun outdoor activities, from hiking in Crystal Cove State Park (the entire area is stunning) and Alta Laguna Park, to casual strolls in Heisler Park and Crescent Bay Beach (I love the viewpoint above).

The last official stop on the Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point , is pretty chill, so plan to watch the sunset with your toes in the sand at Strands Beach and have a seafood dinner on the harbor. You can also hike the Dana Point Headlands if you’re looking for something a bit more active.

And although San Clemente isn’t technically on the PCH, make a short stop at Casa Romantica (it’s one of my favorite places along this California road trip). 

There’s honestly way too much to type out here in this compilation of the best road trips in California, so be sure to check out my ridiculously long guide to the Pacific Coast Highway . It has all the information (and then some) you’ll need!

Main Highlights:

• Driving straight through a giant redwood tree at Leggett’s Drive-Thru Tree Park
• Taking a cable car, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, and walking down Lombard Street in San Francisco
• Being wowed by a waterfall flowing directly into the Pacfic Ocean at McWay Falls in Big Sur
• Exploring all the stops on the 17 mile drive in Monterey/Pacific Grove
• Riding a roller coaster at sunset with views of the beach at the Santa Monica Pier
• Indulging in frozen bananas on Balboa Island
• Walking around Heisler Park in Laguna Beach with tons of million dollar views

2. The Eastern Sierras (Highway 395) 

Driving along Highway 395 in the Eastern Sierras is by far one of the best road trips in California.  Especially for nature and adventure lovers! I mean, it’s even known as California’s most scenic drive by some, running due East of the Sierra Nevada range. And yes, there are plenty of mountains in California (we don’t just have beaches)!

Expect to bask in natural hot springs, tour a creepy ghost town, hike to gushing waterfalls, and summit a mountain over 11,000 feet high via gondola. Basically, endless outdoor opportunities for the ultimate adventurer (despite being one of the shorter road trips in California).

And since it’s not as popular as other spots in The Golden State ( Big Sur and Laguna Beach, I’m looking at you…), you’ll find less crowds and more solitude. 

• Starting Point: Travertine Hot Springs (Mono County)
• Ending Point : Lone Pine (Inyo County)
• Best Time of Year : Fall
• Distance : 112 miles (3 hours)
• Suggested # of Days : 5 -7
• Route at-a-glance : Travertine Hot Springs – Bodie – Yosemite – June Lake – Mammoth Lakes – Lone Pine

The Route: 

Start off this California road trip nice and easy by basking in the warm waters of the Travertine Hot Springs . An absolute must-see on any Eastern Sierra road trip! Pack a swimsuit because these small geothermal pools are perfect for soaking in either day or night. While taking a dip you’ll be surrounded by views of the incredible Sierra Nevada mountains and landscape. 

Free camping is available and at night the spectacular starry sky cannot be beat. There are a half dozen hot springs ranging in temperatures from mild to hot, so make sure to test the water before jumping in! Be prepared to share a pool with other visitors, and be aware — some folks like to soak in the nude! 

Next up → Bodie , a unique town that is now abandoned after its peak during the California Gold Rush. Don’t miss The Bodie State Historic Park, featuring a ghost town of the remaining 200 buildings and structures left over when the town was a bustling gold mine (including an old firehouse!).

The DeChambeau Hotel and Swasey Hotel are must-see brick and wood buildings that have withstood the test of time. Choose to take a tour (you’ll see the Standard Mill!) or wander around the Gold Rush grounds yourself. 

Hot Tip: Allow 2-3 hours to see the entire park and pack lots of water for your trip! It gets hot hot hot over here. 

While not technically on Highway 395, Yosemite National Park ’s an easy drive along Tioga Pass after visiting Bodie. Home to incredible waterfalls, breathtaking views, and scenic hikes, plan to spend at least a full day exploring. Don’t miss Cook’s Meadow with incredible rock formations towering above, an easy stroll around Mirror Lake, and of course looking down into the valley at Tunnel View. Glacier Point and Taft Point are beautiful at sunset!

There are dozens of waterfalls in the park that make Yosemite so unique. And you’ve got lots of options — including Bridalveil Falls, Nevada Falls, Vernal Falls, and Yosemite Falls.

June Lake , our next stop, just so happens to be one of California’s best spots for leaf-peeping . By visiting in autumn, you’ll easily find an array of yellow and orange leaves lining the calm waters of the lake. Scenic hiking trails (like Parker Lake Trailhead), great food and drink (grab a cold beer at June Lake Brewing), and plenty of water activities (including kayaking, swimming, and boating) await as well. 

Rent a kayak at the Silverlake Resort General Store and soak in the beautiful mountainous views around you. No trip to June Lake is complete without driving the stunning June Lake Loop – so don’t miss that!

Mammoth Lakes is a mountain town at 8,000 feet, and get this: there’s no lake named Mammoth! Make a quick stop at the Twin Falls Overlook for an amazing view of the falls and lake traversing through the extraordinary valley below. 

Travel to Mammoth Mountain for an aerial ride on the Panorama Gondola to experience the summit at 11,053 feet. If you’re visiting in winter you’ll probably wanna go skiing. End your night at Mammoth Brewing Company to enjoy a locally brewed beer and lively ambiance.

Finally, you’ll reach the small former mining town of Lone Pine ! First things first, take a driving tour through the Alabama Hills (and look for the dozens of natural arches in the park, especially Mobius Arch). If you’re a movie buff you’ll be impressed to know that a bunch of classic westerns were filmed here – including The Lone Ranger, Django Unchained, and Gladiator! 

Got more time? Drive up to Mt. Whitney via Whitney Portal Road, and do a short hike or two. Soak in Wild Willy’s Hot Springs . Make a short detour to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , where some of the oldest living trees on the planet live. Phew, what a trip!

Main Highlights

• Soaking in the Travertine Hot Springs
• Visiting the Ghost Town of Bodie 
• See the incredible scenery of Tunnel View at Yosemite National Park
• Kayaking on the calm waters of June Lake
• Taking the gondola to the top of Mammoth Mountain

Recommended by Erin McLaughlin from The Gal On The Go

3. California National Parks Road Trip 

California is dotted with National Parks , making a National Parks road trip one of the most scenic on this list! Start the trip in Santa Barbara, head north to Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon before making your way to Yosemite!

This route is actually called the “Majestic Mountain Loop”, and it’s aptly named! Tack on Pinnacles, California’s newest National Park, before returning to the urbanity of San Francisco. That’s 4 National Parks in a short period of time!

• Starting Point: Santa Barbara 
• Ending Point: San Francisco 
• Best Time of Year : Early or late summer
• Distance : 738 miles (13 hours) 
• Suggested # of Days : 1 week – 10 days (or more depending on how many days you’d like to stay in each park!)
• Route-at-a-glance: Santa Barbara-Sequoia-Kings Canyon-Yosemite-Pinnacles-San Francisco

Start this California road trip in Santa Barbara (which there are tons of things to do )! From beach hopping to wine tasting, the options are endless. Eat at all the fancy restaurants and sip all the craft cocktails, because once you leave for the national parks, you won’t find much of that! Once you head outside of this relaxing resort town, you’ll step into the striking nature that the Golden State is known for. 

Our first stop is Sequoia National Park , where the trees are sky-high. Definitely take on the widely noted Big Trees Trail during your stay! Look up at the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree (by volume) in the ENTIRE world (how insane is that?!) It stands 275 feet tall, and is 25 feet in diameter, and is also one of the world’s oldest trees at over 2,300 years old.

And if you’re up for a moderate challenge, tackle the Moro Rock Trail! Hikers will scale a granite dome via a steep ¼ mile staircase all the way to the summit for epic views of the San Joaquin Valley and Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Kings Canyon has breathtaking valleys and mesmerizing hills. Some of its best day hikes include the Mist Falls Trail and the Redwood Creek Loop. And whatever you do, don’t miss General Grant, a huge, well-known Giant sequoia in Grants Grove.

The 2-hour drive between Kings Canyon and Yosemite will expose you to rolling ranges and fields of green. 

Yosemite is one of the most picturesque parks in the U.S, and it wouldn’t be excessive to stay here a few days just for its sunsets. There are a number of hiking trails within the park, but remember to stop by Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, or Tunnel View during sundown for some of the most artistic, spectacular skies! 

Before heading back to the big city, stop at Pinnacles National Park , which is a 3-hour drive from Yosemite. The mountain ranges in Pinnacles are formidable and often attract rock climbers who aim to tackle its peaks. The park also has numerous caves that travelers can visit. Once you’ve summitted a few hills (Kauaeranga Kauri Trail is a great choice), relax at Harlow Cafe before heading back to San Francisco. 

• Big Trees Trail in Sequoia National Park
• Hume Lake in Kings Canyon
• Sentinel Dome in Yosemite for sunset 
• Bear Gulch Cave in Pinnacles

Recommended by Daisy from Beyond My Border

Northern California Road Trips

4. san francisco to mendocino (roundtrip) .

The drive up from San Francisco to Mendocino is absolutely gorgeous. You’ll be driving along the coastline the entire way, then checking out the cute coastal communities of Mendocino and Fort Bragg once you arrive! There’s plenty of restaurants, art galleries, Victorian homes, and more along the route.

Think wildly fresh oysters, casual strolls along the headlands, scenic lighthouse views, raspberry chocolate chunk ice cream, quirky shopping, and a whole slew of California State Parks. One of the best road trips in California for nature lovers by far!

And even better – you can drive back to SF on an entirely different (yet still impressive route!). How’s that for variety?

• Starting Point: San Francisco
• Ending Point: San Francisco (Loop)
• Best Time of Year: Summer and Fall
• Distance : 350 miles (9 hours)
• Suggested # of Days: 5 days
• Route At-A-Glance: San Francisco – Point Reyes – Bodega Bay – Jenner – Point Arena – Mendocino – Fort Bragg – Boonville – San Francisco

If you’ve never ventured over the Golden Gate Bridge before, make a quick stop at the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point. And if you wanna extend your day in the bay, consider a stroll in Sausalito (with Lappert’s ice cream in hand) and a short walk along the towering redwoods in Muir Woods (don’t forget to reserve your parking pass in advance!). There’s also Muir Beach Overlook if you’re coming for the scenic coastal views.

Before you make your way north, consider stopping at the Inverness Shipwreck, Cypress Tree Tunnel, Point Reyes Lighthouse, Sea Lion Overlook, and Hog Island Oyster Co. in Point Reyes . Bodega Bay boasts Bodega Head (look for whales in the distance here!), Spud Point Crab Company, Patrick’s Saltwater Taffy, and the super scenic Pinnacle Gulch Trail.

Jenner is next, a small town situated along the mouth of the Russian River, with rugged hillside hikes in nearby Sonoma Coast State Park. You can also go kayaking, stroll along Jenner Beach, or just relax with some wine in hand.

Before making the final stretch to Mendocino, don’t miss a stop at the Point Arena Lighthouse . And get this — It’s actually the tallest lighthouse in California you can climb, at 145 steps up! There are daily tours offered here as well (around $8).

Once you get to Mendocino , plan to be outside most of your visit! Don’t miss hiking to the Pygmy Forest in Van Damme State Park, a scenic stroll in the meadow at Mendocino Headlands State Park, exploring Russian Gulch State Park, an easy walk to the Point Cabrillo Light Station, and dipping your toes in the sand at Jug Handle State Natural Reserve.

In Fort Bragg , spend the morning exploring the rocky coastline and admiring the colorful blooms at Mendocino Coastal Botanical Gardens, taking a ride on the world-famous historic Skunk Train through the redwoods, and waiting in line at Cowlick’s Ice Cream. The most popular attraction in Fort Bragg? Glass Beach of course! Don’t miss it, then drive up the coast to Pacific Star Winery for some wine and cheese with a view.

On your way back from Mendocino, take the (much) quicker route home to San Francisco via the 128 and Highway 101. You’ll pass Navarro River Redwoods State Park AND Hendy Woods State Park (both great for a quick walk through the redwoods), Philo (for some fresh apple cider) and Boonville (lots of wineries with tastings).

• Watching llamas and chickens from your hotel room at Glendeven Lodge in Mendocino
• Spotting whales at both Bodega Head and/or the Point Arena Lighthouse
• Finding rainbow colored glass at Glass Beach in Fort Bragg
• Riding the historic Skunk Train through the redwoods

5. San Francisco Bay Loop

San Francisco gets all the love, but there’s actually tons of fun spots right around the city! 

Most locals do many of these as day trips from San Francisco , but if you’re from outta town, don’t spend all your time in the actual city. There’s a cypress tree tunnel to walk through, viewpoints of the famed Golden Gate Bridge, so much good food in Oakland and Berkeley (wear your stretchy pants), wacky elephant seals to gawk at, and one of my favorite secret stretches of coastline (which most visitors haven’t even heard of!).

• Best Time of Year: Spring, Summer, and Fall
• Distance : 350 miles (8 hours)
• Suggested # of Days: 4 – 8 days
• Route At-A-Glance: San Francisco – Marin Headlands and Mill Valley – Point Reyes – Petaluma – Napa – Berkeley – Oakland – San Jose – Santa Cruz – Pescadero/Half Moon Bay/Pacifica – San Francisco

First things first, if you’ve never properly explored SF before, make sure you spend the night (although a full 3 days in San Francisco is recommended). Ride a cable car, take the ferry to Alcatraz, photograph the Golden Gate Bridge , and so much more . 

Next, it’s time to get outta the city into the Marin Headlands ! Cross the bridge, make a quick stop at Battery Spencer, walk to Hawk Hill (for even more views of the famed Golden Gate Bridge), and stroll along the pebbles at Rodeo Beach. If you’re visiting on a Sunday or Monday, don’t miss the Point Bonita Lighthouse! We also love the Muir Beach Overlook on a clear, sunny day! Muir Woods is nearby, so make a reservation in advance if meandering on the redwood tree trails is on your agenda.

As you travel up the coastline, consider stopping at the Inverness Shipwreck, Cypress Tree Tunnel, Point Reyes Lighthouse, Sea Lion Overlook, and Hog Island Oyster Co. in Point Reyes . Head east to Petaluma , where you can indulge in sweets from the Petaluma Pie Company and Wicked Slush before making your way down to the river for a casual stroll. There’s lots of wine and beer here, too, if that’s what you’re looking for! 

Nearby Downtown Napa is full of culinary delights, from the eateries at Oxbow Public Market and Gott’s Roadside to the best BBQ in the area at Bounty Hunter Wine Bar. If you wanna sip some fine wines, check out some tasting rooms (it’s what the area’s known for!). Head to Amuse Bouche Wines, Jam Cellars, and/or Bar Lucia. Wanna head into the valley to explore more towns in Napa? Be sure to check out the detailed Wine Country drive in the Northern California road trips section (next on this list).

Once you cross the bridge into the East Bay, smell the roses at the Berkeley Rose Garden, feast on pizza (at Sliver!) and potato puffs (at Gregories), and watch the sunset at Tilden Park. Don’t miss a quick stroll along Telegraph Ave and a walk throughout the stunning UC Berkeley Campus — go up Sather Tower for great views!

You can hike through the redwoods at Reinhardt Redwoods in Oakland , feast on hot chicken sandwiches from Hot Boys, walk around Merritt Lake, burn your calves on the Secret Stairs of the East Bay, and admire the architecture of the Morman Temple in the Oakland Hills. 

San Jose gets a bad rep, but don’t leave before having a picnic among the flowers at the Municipal Rose Garden, eating some Michelin-starred soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung, and wandering around San Pedro Square. The Hakone Estate and Gardens are nearby if you’re looking for a Japanese-inspired outdoor activity before heading to our next stop.

Almost at our last stop of this California road trip – the surfing town of Santa Cruz ! Make sure to walk along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, stopping for a few carnival snacks and hitting up all the rides. If you’re visiting during fall, walk along the Natural Bridges Monarch Trail to see thousands of migrating butterflies. Go for a stroll along West Cliff Drive for some of the best views of the entire area!

Before you make your way back to San Francisco, travel up the coast from Pescadero to Pacifica . Make sure to stop for lobster rolls at Sam’s Chowder House ( Half Moon Bay ), walk along the bluffs atop Shark Fin Cove ( Davenport ), and lace up your shoes for a few coastal hikes in Pacifica .

• Looking up at the bamboo and smelling the roses in San Jose
• Admiring some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge
• Walking through a cypress tree tunnel in Point Reyes
• Hiking along the redwoods of the Reinhardt Redwoods in Oakland
• Spotting wildflowers at Mori Point in Pacifica

6. Northern California Wine Country Road Trip 

If you’re looking for an easy road trip from San Francisco that doesn’t involve too much driving, but does have plenty of delicious restaurants, cute towns, natural beauty, and of course — lots of wine!! — you’ll love a trip to the neighboring wine countries of Sonoma and Napa. 

These two wine countries are close in distance, but the microclimates of each wine region mean different wines excel in each. In Sonoma, think soft Chardonnays, zesty Sauvignon Blancs, fruity Pinot Noirs, and rich Old Vine Zins.

Napa, meanwhile, is known for its robust, high-alcohol Cabernet Sauvignons and it’s oaky, buttery Chardonnays with vanilla tones. Besides wine tasting, you’ll also see rivers, redwoods, and plenty of restaurants, so let’s get going!

• Starting Point : San Francisco
• Ending Point: Napa
• Best Time of Year : Late fall (after harvest season) or late spring
• Distance : 140 miles (3 ½ hours)
• Suggested # of Days : 2 – 4 days
• Route-at-a-glance : San Francisco – Sebastopol – Guerneville – Healdsburg – Calistoga – Napa

Start your day in San Francisco heading North across the Golden Gate Bridge. If it’s your first time in San Francisco, be sure to stop at a few Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints , like Hawk Hill, Battery Spencer , or Golden Gate Bridge View Vista Point on the way out of the city.

Drive up north via the 101, then exit on 116 to get to Sebastopol . Here’s where you should eat lunch — I recommend eating at the cool Barlow retail/restaurant area, where you can dine at Blue Ridge Kitchen if you’re hungry or just grab at an ice cream at Two Dog Night Creamery if you want a snack. Or do both!

Here, you can head to your first Sonoma County vineyard if you wish. I recommend Iron Horse Vineyards if you’re a sparkling wine lover and Dutton-Goldfield for their reds.

Next up is quirky, cool Guerneville . There are also great restaurants here if you weren’t hungry in Sebastopol. The taco truck in front of the Safeway is always spot-on, but there are also hip spots like Noom if you want a sit-down meal.

Be sure to visit Armstrong Woods when in Guerneville! These incredible redwoods are way less crowded than Muir Woods north of San Francisco , and it’s incredibly peaceful and serene with lots of easy trails. If it’s a hot day, you can chill on the river bend for a bit on Johnson’s Beach and even rent or buy an inner tube for some chilled out floating.

Afterwards, there’s Healdsburg for some galleries and even more wine! Check out Paul Mahder Gallery and Upstairs Gallery, and then have wine at Simi just a bit north of the city.

Next up you’ll be leaving Sonoma County for Calistoga , a laid back vacation spot in Napa Valley. Have wines at the chateau-like Castello de Amorosa, check out California’s very own “Old Faithful” geyser, or relax with a mud bath at one of the chic spas in town.

Finally, off to your final stop, Napa — basically wine heaven. There are too many wineries to name, but two favorites are Hendry Winery and Truchard Vineyards. If you’re up for a spot of shopping, the Napa Premium Outlets are here for some budget-friendly browsing!

• Sipping delicious Russian River Valley wines in Sebastopol
• Walking amongst redwoods in Armstrong Woods
• Browsing art galleries in Healdsburg
• Checking out geysers and mud baths in Calistoga

Recommended by Allison from California Crossroads

7. Coastal Redwoods Road Trip 

After taking several road trips in California, the San Francisco to Crescent City route is my favorite. Winding through several of the best redwood parks the state has to offer , and occasionally skirting the coast, this road trip offers some of the most stunning forest hikes and coastal views in the world.

If you’re looking for towering old-growth redwoods, you’ve gotta get this California road trip penciled into your calendar!

• Starting Point:   San Francisco
• Ending Point: Crescent City (Del Norte County)
• Best Time of Year : Late spring
• Distance : 660 miles (7 hours)
• Suggested # of Days: 5
• Route-at-a-glance:   San Francisco – Leggett – Humboldt Redwoods State Park – Trinidad – Eureka – Redwood National Park – Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park – Crescent City – Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Out of all the California road trips on this list, none else will have you more in awe than this one. Especially if you’re a fan of coastal redwoods!

Start off one of the most epic road trips in California in San Francisco , heading north to Leggett. Just an FYI – you’ll pass through wine country on the way, so feel free to make a few stops if you’ve got some time! And if you really wanna see the redwoods straight away, book a reservation at nearby Muir Woods!

Once you reach Leggett , make a stop at our main attraction on day 1 – the Drive-Thru Tree Park! Here, you can literally drive straight through a redwood tree (as the name suggests!). Continuing north, there are several roadside attractions over the next 30 miles, including the One Log House, the Grandfather Tree, and Richardson Grove State Park with its short loop trails.  

You’ll arrive at the South Entrance of the Avenue of the Giants in no time, a 31-mile road winding through the towering redwoods. The entire avenue is remarkable, so you’ll find yourself pulling over more than you think. But whatever you do, don’t miss Founders Grove and the fallen 400-foot long Dyerville Tree.

Once you get outta the redwoods, the stunning coast of Trinidad is your next stop! Plan to spend 1-2 days in the area, offering contrast along the route. Yes, this California road trip focuses on coastal redwoods, but hey, you don’t wanna miss other stuff in the area! 

Hike Trinidad Head, learn local native history at Patrick’s Point State Park, bask on the sand at Trinidad State Beach, and make the steep walk down to College Cove (Trinidad’s most spectacular beach).  Don’t miss lunch at Seascape → the location can’t be beat (or get some crab chowder at Trinidad Bay Eatery and Gallery).

And if you miss the trees oh so much (I don’t blame you), head over to Sequoia Park in Eureka to get your hiking on (all the trails are easy and fun).

Next up → the creme of the crop, Redwood National Park ! Here you’ll find the misty ~1.5 mile loop trail at Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a rainforest-y hike to Trillium Falls, and others. Cross the streams on Davison Road to reach the incredible Fern Canyon Trail in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park . You’ll be walking between lush canyon walls dripping with waterfalls the entire way! Stop at Prairie Creek Visitors Center to find out where to see the local elk herd that day. 

Drive the Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway and then continue onto the Redwood Highway (how fitting?!) for wayside stops with unique attractions, including the Klamath Drive-Thru Tree.  If that’s still not enough, the touristy Trees of Mystery in Klamath offers the adrenaline rush of the Sky Trail and the Canopy Trail. Yup, there’s an aerial tramway through the redwoods and a walk high above the ground, as well as giant chainsaw tree sculptures!

If you still haven’t had enough of the old-growth redwoods, head to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park outside of Crescent City. Hike the half mile Stout Memorial Grove trail, then meander through the forest on Howland Hill Road before heading home!

• Getting some IG-worthy photos at the Leggett Drive-Thru Tree Park , where you can drive through a redwood (Chandelier Tree)
• Driving the 31 miles down the Avenue of the Giants through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park old growth forest, including the world’s tallest tree, the Founders Tree, and the world’s largest fallen redwood, the Dyerville Giant.
• Exploring the waterfront in Trinidad , with it’s rocky shorelines, dark sand beaches, and Native American history.
• Walking through a lush canyon dripping with waterfalls and ferns as far as the eye can see on the Fern Canyon Loop Trail

Contributed by Roxanna from Gypsy With a Day Job

8. California Gold Rush Road Trip (Highway 49) 

Hoping to strike it rich? Add this California road trip idea to your travel calendar, because we’re traveling through California’s Gold Country!  The Gold Rush Trail (also known as Gold Chain Highway) passes through a whole bunch of historic mining communities of the 1849 California gold rush. And we’ll be exploring quite a few!

Travel back in time while panning for gold in the region’s river, finding historic saloons from the 1800’s, enjoying the little towns and panoramic vistas, and drinking sarsaparilla. It’s what makes this such a memorable 400 miles!

Psst: Highway 49 is named after the gold-seeking immigrants who made their way to California in 1849, or “49ers”. Imagine traveling a thousand miles just for a chance to find your pot of gold!

• Starting Point : Oakhurst (Madera County)
• Ending Point: Murphys (Calaveras County)
• Best Time of Year: May to October (mountain passes are still open, the hiking is good and the deserts are cool enough to enjoy)
• Distance : ~300 miles (6 hours)
• Suggested # of Days : 5 – 7
• Route-at-a-glance: Mariposa – Coulterville – Tioga Pass into Yosemite National Park – Murphys – Nevada City

This Gold Rush road trip begins in Oakhurst before heading north to a string of historic towns that have maintained their 1850s charm. First stop, Mariposa , where you can get some gold rush history lessons at the California State Mining and Mineral Museum.

Next up, the historic Coulterville , which has been visited by the likes of John Muir and Theodore Roosevelt in the past. 

You’ll then head east towards Highway 120, also known as Tioga Pass, into Yosemite National Park . With untouched nature and serene views, this is another highlight of this California road trip → you could easily spend days here! Don’t miss Tunnel View, hikes to waterfalls, and a stroll around Mirror Lake. Glacier Point, Yosemite Valley, and Half Dome are all popular sights for a reason!

Murphys is next, where you can enjoy a nice glass of wine at Ironstone Vineyards and/or Hatcher Winery, visit the Old Timers Museum, and go underground at the Mercer Caverns. 

The final leg of this road trip is Nevada City , one of Gold Country’s prettiest towns. Be sure to check out the tulips at the Crystal Hermitage Gardens (in spring!), Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, Victorian Christmas markets (in winter!), and Deer Creek Tribute Trail to find a hidden suspension bridge in the middle of the forest. 

Don’t miss walking around the hippy dippy downtown area with an almond croissant/beer/pizza in hand from Three Forks. Looking for some outdoor activities? Cool off at the South Yuba River and hike to the Emerald Pools!

• Getting Gold Rush history lessons in Mariposa 
• Seeing the popular Glacier Point and Tunnel View in Yosemite National Park
• Getting underground to see the stalagmites and stalactites up close at Mercer Caverns
• Wandering around the western town of Nevada City

Contributed by Anna of Anna Sherchand – a solo female travel blog

9. Lost Coast 

California’s Lost Coast is the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States. For 75 miles, the famed Pacific Coast Highway cuts inland, unable to pass through the rough terrain of the King Range National Recreation Area. 

This road trip from Eureka to Mendocino explores the most remote parts of California’s coast and old-growth redwood forests. Highlights of this trip include escaping to the quiet Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast, visiting the world’s largest old-growth redwood forest in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and driving the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.

• Starting Point: Eureka (Humboldt County)
• Ending Point: Mendocino (Mendocino County)
• Best Time of Year: June to September
• Distance : 235 miles (7 hours)
• Suggested # of days: 3-5
• Route-at-a-glance: Eureka – Ferndale – Humboldt Redwoods State Park – Shelter Cove – Fort Bragg – Mendocino

Out of all these California road trip ideas, I bet you’ve never thought, or even heard of this next one – The Lost Coast! 

Start your Lost Coast road trip in Eureka , California, an old town famous for its Victorian houses and a launching point for adventures in the Redwood National and State Parks. Leave the Pacific Coast Highway behind as you head for the small town of Ferndale . Explore the best of Ferndale by car, stopping to check out the beautiful Victorian homes and the Golden Gait Mercantile.

Mattole Road begins in Ferndale and winds through rolling hills and backcountry before running parallel to the Pacific Ocean. Stop along Mattole Road to enjoy the solitude and coastal views (I doubt you’ll see another person!). As you continue along Mattole Road, keep your eyes peeled for the zebras who live on a farm in Petrolia! Mattole Road continues inland, leaving the rugged Lost Coast behind and entering Humboldt Redwoods State Park. 

Humboldt Redwoods State Park has the largest old-growth redwood forest in the world, which you can explore off of Mattole Road. End your first day in Humboldt Redwoods State Park exploring the Avenue of the Giants, a famous 31-mile scenic drive through the redwoods. Stay the night in one of Humboldt Redwoods State Park’s many campgrounds or if you prefer a hotel, stay at The Tides Inn in Shelter Cove. 

The next morning, make your way to Shelter Cove . Explore Black Sands Beach and grab lunch and a beer at Gyppo. Leave the Lost Coast behind and return to the Pacific Coast Highway, following the coastline to Fort Bragg . Glass Beach in Fort Bragg is famous for its sea glass. Here you can explore the tide pools and watch for whales and seals. 

End your Lost Coast journey in Mendocino by hiking the Mendocino Headlands trail or going on a kayaking tour with Kayak Mendocino.

• Exploring the world’s largest old-growth redwood forest in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
• Dipping your toes into the rugged Black Sands Beach of Shelter Cove
• Searching for rainbow-colored sea glass at Glass Beach

Recommended by Julia from Well Planned Journey

10. San Francisco to Big Sur

Driving from San Francisco to Big Sur is a perfect road trip in California to experience quaint towns and soak in beautiful coastal views. 

The first stop on this road trip is the beautiful historic downtown of Los Gatos. Then you will drive along windy, dense forest roads to the colorful town of Capitola, coastal towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, and finally some breathtaking hikes and views of the Pacific Coast in Big Sur. 

Despite the route being one of the shortest road trips in California on this list, plan at least 4 days if you don’t wanna rush!  

• Ending Point: Big Sur (Monterey County)
• Best Time of Year: Most of the year except the rainy months of Nov – Jan 
• Distance ~150 miles (2 ½ hours)
• Suggested # of days : 4-5 days
• Route-at-a-glance: San Francisco – Los Gatos – Capitola – Monterey – Carmel – Big Sur

After checking out the big city of San Francisco , head on over to Los Gatos! Los Gatos is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Silicon Valley with Spanish colonial architecture and a charming downtown area. Suggested activities in Los Gatos include taking a stroll in the historic Los Gatos Downtown, shopping at boutique stores, wine tasting at Left Bend winery, and indulging in delicious tapas at the Spanish restaurant Pintxo Pote.

If you’re a nature person, check out the beautiful Vasona Lake Park and Los Gatos Creek trail. In the summer, kayak and pedal boat rentals are available in Vasona Lake.

Next up, Capitola , a cute little beach town that’s an absolute must on this California road trip. The seaside village is a great place to enjoy the beach without too many people and is a fun place to relax or surf. Check out the colorful homes at Capitola Beach and take a walk along the pier. Paradise Beach Grille and Wharf House Restaurant are great places to grab a bite.

The stretch of land consisting of Monterey and Carmel is one of the most beautiful stretches of land on the Pacific Coast. One could easily spend a day or two exploring Monterey and Carmel. While in Monterey, don’t miss a visit to Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Monterey Wharf. If you care to dine in Monterey, Monterey’s Fish House and Loulou’s Griddle in the Middle are great choices.

From Monterey, take the scenic 17 mile drive with stops at Pebble Beach, Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay Beach and tons of other spots you encounter on the way. 

Carmel-by-the-sea is a quaint town past Monterey with cute boutique stores, incredible restaurants and a great beach to cool off. Highly recommend walking along Ocean Ave, visiting the Carmel Mission, and watching sunset at Carmel Beach. Carmel also has some great restaurants with varied cuisine like La Bicyclette, Aubergine, Casanova, and Esteban.

Big Sur is a huge stretch of land between Carmel and San Simeon. Big Sur itself takes days to explore if you wish to visit all the gems. There are so many things to do but I have listed the attractions close to Carmel.

Must visit spots past Carmel are the famous McWay falls at Julia Pfeiffer State Park, Garrapata State Park, Pfeiffer Beach and Bixby Bridge. Check out the secret Calla Lily Valley if you’re visiting in February or March. And if you want to experience the most romantic dinner of your life, check out the restaurant at Post Ranch Inn!

• Dipping your toes into purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur
• Checking out the historic Victorian homes in Pacific Grove
• Driving along the 17-mile drive and standing on the green at Pebble Beach
• Walking around historic Los Gatos

Recommended by Aswani from A Charming Escape

Southern California Road Trips

12. socal desert drive.

This road trip through the deserts of Southern California will transport you to another world. A world filled with fields of windmills, almost alien-like yucca trees, a once popular but now deserted lake, a man-made brightly colored mountain, a town that is literally off-the-grid, and sand dunes that will make you forget you’re in Southern California.

It has some of the most unique sights in all of California, some of which are a must-see on any trip to SoCal! This California road trip can be done on an extended weekend, although can be extended. 

Do note this trip requires precise timing and planning since hotels are sparse near the end of this itinerary.

• Starting Point: Dana Point (Orange County)
• Ending Point: Glamis (Imperial County)
• Best Time of Year: November to April
• Distance : 295 miles (5 ½ hours)
• Route at-a-glance : Orange County – Palm Springs – Joshua Tree – Salton Sea – Niland – Glamis

Before hitting the hot deserts, spend a day exploring coastal Orange County ! Hop off California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway where it begins in Dana Point and enjoy the views while you cruise on up to Laguna Beach. Make a stop at Heisler Park, walk through Main Beach, and grab a homemade gelato from Gelato Paradiso.

The beautiful Crystal Cove State Park is up next. Grab a bite to eat at the Shake Shack, walk the Historic District, and check out Peninsula Point. Head to Newport’s Balboa Peninsula and take a ride on the tiny Ferris wheel at the Fun Zone. Next, drive onto the car ferry to Balboa Island for a famous chocolate banana, just like you’re on Arrested Development.

Finally, make your way to the Huntington Beach Pier for dinner at Duke’s and a beach bonfire with s’mores. Stay at the trendy Kimpton Shorebreak for the night.

Colorful Palm Springs is next on our agenda. Wake up bright and early, and make sure to stop at Garnet Ave and North Indian Canyon Drive to get a photo with the windmills on the way into town. In Palm Springs, take a hike through Indian Canyons (for some of the best hiking trails nearby), head up the aerial tram to Mt. San Jacinto for lunch with a view, and spend the night shopping in Uptown or relaxing poolside at your hotel.

Once you’re all well and rested in Palm Springs, make the short drive to Joshua Tree . Explore the tiny downtown area of funky and trendy Joshua Tree, go vintage shopping, try a sound bath at The Integratron, and explore Pioneertown. For dinner, enjoy some live music at Pappy and Harriet’s! Book yourself a funky Airbnb for the night or go glamping in a vintage Airstream.

Plan to spend the entire next day here in Joshua Tree National Park , because there are a lot of things to see! Some of the highlights include Hidden Valley, Arch Rock, Key’s View, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. Stay overnight in the nearby Palm Desert area and fill up on gas, food and water for the next day.

The Salton Sea and its surroundings are next up, making this trip one of the most intriguing of all the best road trips in California!

You’ll start feeling this eerie vibe as you make your way through the Salton Sea. The place feels basically deserted. There is not much around, and you might even be the only one on the road at some point. Stop at Bombay Beach, a tiny town along the water and visit the Bombay Beach Ruins.  Experiencing this deserted area is something you have to experience just once in your life!

Head to Niland to see the insta-famous Salvation Mountain . It is free to enter, just “follow the yellow brick road” from the bottom to the top. Drive one more mile to Slab City, which is an “off-the-grid” community that doesn’t even have running water or electricity, and is not governed by the law. Who would’ve ever thought to build a colorful mountain in the middle of nowhere?

Navigate to the Algodones Dunes (a.k.a Glamis Dunes or Imperial Sand Dunes). Seeing these dunes kind of makes you feel like you are in another country. If possible, rent a dune buggy ahead of time so you can really explore. If not, park at the Cahuilla Ranger Station so you can explore the dunes on foot. Find a hotel in El Centro for the night, which is the closest city to Glamis. 

• Experiencing some of OC’s unique beach cities, all of which have their own vibe
• Taking the rotating tram to the top of the mountain in Palm Springs
• getting a sound bath and walking along the spiky namesake trees in Joshua Tree
• Stopping at the Bombay Beach ruins
• Following the yellow brick road to Salvation Mountain
• Exploring the sand dunes via buggy

I’ve written a crazy in-depth guide to this SoCal desert road trip ; be sure to check it out for lots more info!

Recommended by Heather from That OC Girl

13. Southern California Sunshine

Welcome to the perfect Southern California sunshine road trip! If you’re ready to hit as many incredible beaches as possible in just 4-5 days, this is one of the road trips in California you’ll wanna add to your CA bucket list ! 

This route will take you through all of the best highlights of the Southern California coast, while also including a few hidden gems only locals know about (like where to find the best pizza!) You’ll be spotting sea animals, using a LOT of sunscreen, watching surfer wipeouts, and maybe even catching a glimpse of a celebrity! So let’s get started!

Local Tip: California can be visited in winter or summer! If you’re looking for a tan and lots of swimming, go from May to August. If you’re looking for less crowds, bigger waves, but still plenty of sunshine, try going from September to April. 

• Starting Point: San Diego
• Ending Point: Santa Barbara
• Best time of Year: Summer for swimming and winter for waves
• Distance : 215 miles (4 ½ hours)
• Suggested # of Days : 4 – 5 days 
• Route at-a-glance : San Diego – La Jolla Beach – Dana Point – Laguna Beach – Newport & Huntington Beach – Malibu and/or Venice Beach – Santa Barbara

This sunny Southern California road trip starts in one of the USA’s most popular destinations: San Diego ! If you are flying into Los Angeles, this route can be modified to start from there as well. 

First stop on the sunniest of all the California road trips is La Jolla Beach , famous for its hundreds of seals that lay around waiting to be photographed. You can rent SUP boards or snorkel through the coastal caves. If you prefer to lay your towel out and tan or head into the water to play in the waves, head to nearby Moonlight State Beach.

Glitzy Dana Point is next! If you’re looking for some small waves to learn to surf, you can head to Doheny Beach. Or if you’re looking to see more of the downtown area, head to Dana Point Harbor where you can get a taste of the quintessential California beachside lifestyle.

Nearby, you can stop at a local secret known as the “Best Pizza in Dana Point” at Beach Harbor Pizza (you’ll probably see a whole slew of fancy cars driving by) and then maybe even hop on a whale-watching tour at the harbor afterward! Don’t miss a sunset stroll at Strands Beach, my absolute favorite.

Next up → Laguna Beach ! Yeah, yeah, yeah, I’m almost positive you’ve heard of Laguna before, as this is what most people envision when they think of OC. Laguna Beach is known for its instagram-friendly caves and arches. There is plenty to explore and you might even find a tide pool where you can watch small sea animals wander around their habitats.

From there, you head to two of the best surfing beaches in SoCal: Newport Beach and Huntington Beach which are only a few minutes from each other. 

At Newport, make sure to head to The Wedge to watch the surfers wipeout on some of the roughest waves in California. After you’ve visited Newport, take a walk down Huntington Beach Pier to get some of the best beach views. At the end of the pier, you can even stop at iconic Ruby’s Diner to get some fries and a milkshake! 

If you’re visiting Huntington Beach on a Tuesday, don’t miss the famous Surf City Nights Street Fair with live music and tons of food stands. This area is home to another beautiful pier where you can watch the fisherman with their fishing lines that go deep down into the sea. You can stop by and peer into their buckets to see what they’ve caught that day! You can finish the day at Duke’s, a famous restaurant named after one of the best Hawaiian surfers in the world.

You’ll probably get stuck in some traffic on the drive from OC to Santa Barbara (the route bypasses LA, so figures). Might as well stop at either Malibu or Venice Beach and leave the traffic for later. Here, look for celebrities and try to figure out who owns the gorgeous beach houses looming over the water.

You can also spend your time wandering around the Venice Canals or snapping photos at the easily recognizable and iconic Venice Sign. I’m sure you’ve heard about Muscle Beach – yup, that’s over here as well!

The last stop of this sunny California road trip is Santa Barbara , full of funky wineries (in the aptly named Funk Zone), postcard worthy views of the Spanish-style architecture from atop the courthouse, and of course East Beach by the pier. Looking for that perfect IG photo? Make your way to the Chromatic Gate, a super colorful art installation right by the beach!

Don’t miss a sunset stroll in the gardens above Butterfly Beach, some frose at Lucky Penny, and a walk down popular State Street with some McConnell’s ice cream in hand! If you’re into history (or just need some time away from the beach), make a quick stop at the Old Mission Santa Barbara for a tour of this cultural Spanish mission!

Main Highlights 

• Seal Spotting at La Jolla Beach in San Diego 
• Whale Watching & Delicious Pizza in Dana Point
• Watch Surfers & Wipeouts at the Wedge at Newport Beach
• Night Market in Huntington Beach

Recommended by Dana from Happily Ever Travels

11. San Diego Round Trip

This 223 mile long Southern California Road Trip takes you to some hidden gems and local favorites that not many tourists know about. From psychedelic metal sculptures in the desert to stargazing and wine tasting, this road trip is full of fun things for all ages and interests.

The total driving time is less than 5 hours, so while you technically could do it all in one day, I highly recommend you spread it out to at least a weekend. That way, you can relax and really explore the places you visit and not just check them off your list. 

• Starting Point : San Diego
• Ending Point: San Diego (loop)
• Best Time of Year : Spring (wildflower season)
• Distance : 223 miles (5 hours)
• Suggested # of Days : 2-3
• Route at-a-glance : San Diego – Borrego Springs – Palomar Mountain – Temecula – San Diego

You’ll be starting this California road trip in San Diego , which is a real gem so plan to spend at least 1 full day here. There’s lots of things to do in San Diego, including relaxing on one of the stunning beaches, exploring Balboa Park, Old Town or the downtown/Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego. If you’re into hiking, check out Potato Chip Rock for some really cool photo opps.

Next stop → Borrego Springs ! On the way, stop in Julian for some of the best apple pie you ever had (trust me on that one). Aside from hiking at Anza Borrego State Park, definitely check out the metal sculptures at Galleta Meadows in Borrego Springs. They’re wild.

Palomar Mountain State Park is a perfect hiking spot during your SoCal road trip. The views from up there are simply spectacular, not just during the day. Palomar Mountain is one of the best spots for stargazing in California. The Palomar Observatory by CalTech is an interesting place to visit. They offer tours and impromptu lectures by the university staff working onsite.

Southern California’s largest wine region, Temecula , is one of the most popular weekend getaways from the Los Angeles and San Diego metropolitan areas, especially on the weekends. It can get quite busy, but you’ll have a great time exploring the various wineries and tasting their best wines.

When you get back to San Diego , I recommend heading to La Jolla before you return your car and check out this fun and classy beach town just north of San Diego. Everyone falls in love with La Jolla, and I mean everyone. 

Check out the sea lions sunning themselves on rocks off shore at the Children’s Pool, hike in the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and go tidepooling at Shell Beach. Definitely don’t miss kayaking to Clam Cave.

• A walk around downtown San Diego, enjoying the waterfront and all the little shops and restaurants
• Checking out the metal sculptures in the middle of the dessert at Galleta Meadows 
• Palomar Mountain Observatory, when geeky and romantic particles collide. 
• Checking out Vitagliano Winery in Temecula Valley, a Tuscan inspired winery with stunning grounds 
• Kayaking in caves and snorkeling with leopard sharks in La Jolla 

Recommended by Maria from San Diego Explorer

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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7 Epic California Road Trips to Take this Summer

There is nothing quite as idyllic and magical as a California summer road trip. If you’re looking for where to go, then this is the ultimate list of road trips to consider for your summer adventures.

From southern California to northern California, there is much to love. With several national parks in California , you can easily incorporate one during your road trip. Every year I love to discover a new part of the state, so my most recent road trip included stops in Santa Ynez and a very small town called Cuyama. It was a part of the state I hadn’t seen before and came back wishing I had more time to explore.

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From wine country in Santa Ynez Valley to the mysterious Mendocino coast, these are seven of my favorite California road trips to take this summer!

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What to Know Before Traveling

When to book: I always recommend planning ahead. Though you might be able to find some last-minute deals for more low-key hotels, popular spots definitely need to be booked in advance. I would give it 3-4 weeks in advance for hotels, or as soon as you know where you would like to stay.

Best Places to Book Hotels + Vacation Rentals : From Airbnb to Booking.com , finding the best vacation rentals for your needs is easier than ever. However, my new favorite way to book luxury accommodations is through Plum Guide . This luxe booking company only lists the most stunning properties, making it the perfect resource for the discerning traveler.

Car Rental Information : Depending on where you are traveling, renting a car can be somewhat difficult and pricey. That being said, do your best to book in advance to ensure that you get a fair price along with the specific vehicle that you need for your trip. I prefer to book a deal on Kayak.

1. Central Coast and beyond: Pismo Beach, Santa Ynez Valley, New Cuyama

Central California is one of the most stunning (and somewhat underrated) parts of the state. From laid-back Pismo Beach to wine country in Santa Barbara, Central California truly has something for everyone.

Starting off in Pismo Beach means kicking off your road trip with a breathtaking hike at the Pismo Reserve, sunsets on the beach, and wine tasting at nearby Edna Valley. Pismo is also home to some great restaurants like La Bodega Tapas and Somerset Grill at Vespera Resort .

After Pismo Beach, head down to Santa Ynez Valley for Tuscany-like views, stunning vineyards, and the amazing artisan shopping. There are tons of adorable towns to explore in the valley including picturesque Los Olivos and the Danish town of Solvang.

Since Santa Ynez Valley is becoming more and more popular (especially during the summer), ending your road trip in New Cuyama is super peaceful and restorative. Though there is only one hotel in New Cuyama, Cuyama Buckhorn is so relaxing. From the pool to the old-school bar, there is so much to love about this hotel. I can easily spend a whole two days here lounging at the hotel, but if you want to get out and about, go for a drive to the Carrizo Plain National Monument to check out the stunning grasslands.

Number of Nights: 6-7 Nights Where to Stay: Vespera Resort Hotel Ynez Cuyama Buckhorn

2. Ultimate Northern California Road Trip: San Francisco to Trinidad

Having grown up in Northern California, road-tripping along the coast from San Francisco to Trinidad always takes me down memory lane. If you’re not from the Bay Area, flying into SFO and then renting a car is pretty easy, so I would suggest starting there.

From a foodie tour through Chinatown to walking over the Golden Gate Bridge, there are so many iconic things to check off your bucket list in San Francisco. Though you won’t be able to do it all, I think two to three days in SF is a solid amount of time for a road trip.

Depending on how many stops you want to make, everything from Point Reyes to Timber Cove to Mendocino is worth checking out. If you’re anything like me, Point Reyes is a must. I love the seafood and foggy coastline (oysters at Hog Island are a must). Timber Cove has one of the most unique coastlines that nature lovers and explorers will want to see along with great hiking.

Mendocino is a lively and vibrant coastal town that is also great for indulging in fresh seafood and getting outdoors. However, you need to end your trip in Trinidad so that you can see some of the tallest redwoods in the world at Avenue of the Giants.

Number of Nights:  7 Nights Where to Stay: San Francisco Proper Hotel Nick’s Cove Timber Cove Resort Little River Inn Mendocino Grove Glamping

3. Off-the-Beaten-Path: Gold Country, Sacramento to the Foothills

If you’re looking to blend history and luxury, starting your road trip off in Old Sacramento is a great way to learn more about the Gold Rush era, all while staying at a nice hotel like the Kimpton Sawyer . From the museums to the state capital, there is plenty to see. Plus, Sacramento is full of amazing restaurants, bars, and tasting rooms.

Placer County is a more relaxing and low-key place where unwind and check out stunning spots like the PaZa Estate Winery . Both El Dorado and Amador County are beyond adorable, and foodies will love the charming restaurant and bar scene. More adventurous travelers can even go whitewater rafting on the American River.

Number of nights:  4-5 Nights Where to Stay: Kimpton Sawyer The Citizen Hotel The Flower Farm Inn Park Victorian

4. Central California for Design Lover’s: Paso Robles, SLO, and Cambria

Those that love good food, good wine, and stylish hotels will find themselves right at home on a Central California road trip. If you’re coming from the south, start off with a foodie-centered stay in San Luis Obispo. The San Luis Creek Lodge is California chic while still being affordable, and there are tons of nearby eateries like Mistura and Flour House that provide unforgettable experiences.

Cambria is smaller than SLO, and offers a more quaint and scenic charm. The coast is truly stunning, and there are several coastal hiking trails that are great for catching an epic sunset. Once you make your way up to Paso Robles , you’ll find tons of great wineries and tasting rooms along with the iconic Field of Lights at Sensario.

Number of nights:  5 – 6 Nights Where to Stay: The San Luis Creek Lodge White Water Cambria Geneseo Inn

5. Marin and Sonoma Northern California Road Trip

If you’re looking for a quick yet relaxing getaway in Northern California, this three-day trip from Point Reyes to Elk is amazing. Point Reyes is one of my favorite places to enjoy fresh oysters and check out all of the amazing animals and tide pools at the Point Reyes National Seashore.

On your second day, head to Timber Cove in Sonoma County with steeper cliffs, wider beaches, and even more picturesque views. From kayaking to hiking to wine tasting, you can easily spend at least two nights in Timber Cove. However, if you want to switch things up, drive further and end in Elk at the Harbor House Inn for a cozier and more intimate experience.

Number of nights:  3 Nights Where to Stay: Nick’s Cove The Timber Cove Resort Harbor House Inn

6. Slow Road Trip Guide: Santa Barbara, Ojai, and Ventura

Those looking to road trip closer to SoCal will love driving through the Spanish-style architecture in Santa Barbara, all the way down to the laid-back beach town of Ventura. Santa Barbara seriously has something for everyone, including wine tasting in the Funk Zone, biking along the boardwalk near the harbor, or shopping on State Street.

If you only want to spend one night in Ventura, you can do everything from hit the pier (where they have some of the best fish tacos) or simply enjoy a beach day and explore downtown. However, for those looking for more adventure, take the time to boat over to the Channel Islands, which is one of the most untouched landscapes in the country. From kayaking to snorkeling, there are so many fun things to do!

Once you’re ready to slow down, end your trip in the mellow and magical town of Ojai , which is a bit more inland. If you’re looking to truly relax, Ojai is the place for you. It is the perfect place to chill out with spa days, nature walks, or a visit to the farmers market.

Number of nights:  3 -5 Nights Where to Stay: Kimpton Canary Hotel Waypoint Ventura Capri Hotel

7. California’s Wild North Coast: Mendocino and beyond

If you’re looking to explore the northern coast of California as far as possible, Mendocino is a great starting point. As mentioned above, I loved to enjoy fresh seafood and enjoy the great outdoors while staying in Mendocino. After Mendocino, stop by Fort Bragg to check out the famous Glass Beach.

Next, spend some time in Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Ferndale to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some of that crisp Northern California air. From Old Town Eureka to a Harbor Cruise on the Madaket (the last surviving original ferry from 1910), you’ll definitely want to spend a couple of days here. End with beautiful beaches and hearty comfort cuisine in Trinidad.

Number of nights:  7 – 10 Nights Where to Stay: Glendeven Inn & Lodge This Home from Redwood Coast Vacation Rentals

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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5 Unforgettable California Road Trips

C alifornia has everything from golden beaches to towering redwood forests—rolling vineyards to snow-capped peaks. As the third largest state in the U.S., the vast sprawl and varied topographical scenery mean California makes for some of the world’s most beautiful road trips. Whether you prefer rugged coastlines or the fresh mountain air, sit back, relax, and rev up for these incredible California road trips.

Santa Cruz to Pacifica – 67 Miles

Fields of wildflowers hug the gently sloping hills on one side of the road between Santa Cruz and Pacifica, while rocky cliffs drop precipitously into the crashing waves of the wild Pacific Ocean below on the other. After exploring the rides at the Boardwalk and watching the surfers ride the waves along West Cliff Drive in the laid-back beach town of Santa Cruz, start your journey north to Davenport. This quaint little town perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean is so tiny that you’d miss it if you blink, but it’s well known for two quirky restaurants , the Davenport Roadhouse and Whale City Bakery.

After a lunch of clam chowder or calamari, continue north. Go past Swanton Berry Farm and a string of rugged beaches before stopping to see the elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park. The next stop is the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, built in 1871 and the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast of the United States. Pull into the lovely town of Pacifica as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, and grab a bite at what’s been dubbed “The World’s Most Beautiful Taco Bell,” perched directly on the shores of Pacifica State Beach.

Carmel to Pismo Beach – 168 Miles

The 168-mile stretch between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pismo Beach along the rugged California coast is one of the most spectacular road trips in the world. Towering mountains rise to the heavens on one side, with cliffs dropping precariously to the sea on the other. Craggy rocks dot the coastline, creating spectacular vistas as wild waves crash to shore after their long journey across the Pacific. Make your first stop along this rugged, windy drive at the Bixby Bridge Vista Point to photograph the famous Bixby Bridge. The most photographed bridge on the U.S. West Coast, the Bixby Bridge was built in 1930 and is one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world.

Next, stop at the Big Sur Bakery for the fantastic cinnamon rolls or a wood-fired pizza before continuing south on Highway 1 to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur for a bracing hike through one of the best places to see redwoods in California . A further 65 miles south is a highlight of the road trip—Hearst Castle. A grand historic estate built by the publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst in 1919, Hearst Castle is one of California’s most visited historic monuments. After you tour the 165-room castle, continue the final 53 miles to Pismo Beach to stay overnight in one of the quirky retro-style motels along the beach. Note: Highway 1 is often closed in the winter due to mudslides, so be sure to check for road closures before your trip.

Sacramento to Yosemite – 141 Miles

Yosemite National Park is the fifth most visited National Park in the U.S., for good reason. As soon as you enter its magnificent borders, you feel as though you’ve stepped foot in a magical realm. Granite peaks soar overhead, waterfalls crash hundreds of feet to the valley floor below, and a vast collection of animals roam uninhibited throughout the picturesque landscape. While Yosemite is a gorgeous destination on its own, the road trip to get there is half the fun.

Start your journey in the state capital of Sacramento, the once rollicking wild west town best known as the starting point of the California Gold Rush in 1849. Take a historical walking tour of Old Sacramento’s underground before hitting the road south on State Route 99. Wend through the Central Valley’s golden fields before heading east towards the rustic Gold Rush Country town of Angel’s Camp, one of the area’s most important mining communities in the Mother Lode region during the gold rush. Travel back in time as you walk down the main street past 19th-century storefronts before continuing on State Route 4 to Mercer Caverns just outside the town of Murphy’s. These spectacular caves formed 12 million years ago feature guided tours and exquisite examples of stalactites and stalagmites.

Before you reach Yosemite, stop for an hour or two in the charming Columbia State Historic Park, a former Gold Rush mining town that has been entirely preserved. Mine for gold, visit a historic saloon, or even ride a stagecoach. Finally, drive the last 68 miles to the Yosemite Valley Vista Point, a stunning overlook that gives you a bird’s eye view of California’s most popular national park. This drive is incredibly stunning in the autumn when fall foliage is at its peak in Goldrush Country.

Northern California Volcanoes – 216 Miles

California is part of the Ring of Fire, a geological zone that circles the Pacific Ocean and is a hotspot for volcanic and seismic activity. Thus, it’s no surprise that California is home to over seven volcanoes. While most have not erupted in the past few thousand years, they are still considered potentially hazardous as they still have molten lava deep within their cores. While the threat of an eruption is unlikely, a drive past these majestic volcanoes is highly likely to inspire awe at the wonder of nature.

Head north on Interstate 5 for 163 miles before heading east on State Route 36 to Mineral. It’s here you’ll start the 30-mile Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway (State Route 89), which takes an hour to explore and goes past the Sulphurworks Hydrothermal Area, Emerald Lake, and the towering Lassen Peak. Continue north on CA 89, also known as the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, to Mount Shasta. A popular ski area and stratovolcano in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Mount Shasta last erupted 3,200 years ago. Pop into the Mount Shasta Sisson Museum to learn more about the local history before returning to Interstate 5.

San Francisco to Mendocino Through Wine Country – 189 Miles

Northern California’s most famous wine region provides one of California’s best road trips. California produces a whopping 84 percent of American wine from just 50 miles north of San Francisco in Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. Over 800 wineries are spread out in this beautiful region, where narrow highways lined with rolling vineyards are perfectly backdropped by crisp blue skies most of the year.

Off State Route 12 lies Domaine Carneros, a French-style winery modeled after a historic estate in France’s Champagne region. Sip pinot noir or sparkling wine on an outdoor terrace before continuing to Yountville, where foodies will find the three Michelin-starred restaurant The French Laundry . If you have planned ahead and gotten a coveted reservation, well done! Otherwise, proceed to the elegant Chateau Montelena in Calistoga. This European-style winery has perfected Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc for the past 140 years, making it one of the oldest wineries in the region. Finally, drive the last 100 miles through the redwood forests of California’s coastal mountains before arriving in the peaceful coastal community of Mendocino. Check into the Stanford Inn By the Sea for a cozy stay with spectacular views and a renowned plant-based restaurant.

Whether you choose to sip wine in Napa, walk among the giant redwoods, or eat a taco on the beach in Pacifica, these California road trips promise to provide you with a truly unforgettable experience.

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California's Springtime Road Trip: Exploring 10 Of The State's Best Scenic Routes

There is no better way to experience California's beauty and rich culture than a road trip! Here are the top ten scenic routes to explore in spring.

California is brimming with beautiful landscapes, hip cities, quaint towns, and surprising roadside attractions that one must see to believe . There is no better way to see more of California than to hit the open roads, which will take a road tripper past rocky coastlines, the wildflower super blooms, serene Californian lakes (besides the obvious one, Tahoe) , peculiar Joshua trees, stunning deserts, and imposing mountains. There are many options available depending on one's preferences, such as whether they prefer the beach or the mountains.

Nothing compares to a California road trip in the springtime! During the spring in California, wildflowers begin to bloom, drizzles turn into sunshine and clear skies, and the desert becomes a little cooler, allowing a road tripper to have the experiences of a lifetime. Here are the top ten scenic routes in California to enjoy the best of springtime. Whatever the choice, it will be an unforgettable trip because it will take the traveler to fascinating places to celebrate spring in California besides Los Angeles .

Related: 10 Perfect & Beautiful Lakeside Road Trips

10 San Francisco To San Simeon

• Total Distance : 217 miles
• One-Way Driving Time : 4 hours and 45 minutes
• Route : San Francisco → Half Moon Bay → Santa Cruz → Monterey → Carmel-by-the-Sea → Big Sur → San Simeon

The drive between San Francisco and San Simeon is more appealing than one might imagine. There is a lot to discover and experience on this route, with breathtaking coastal views, lovely beach towns, and popular California cities.

Starting in San Francisco, this route lets the traveler experience the surreal scenery of Half Moon Bay , Santa Cruz's Boardwalk, and wine tastings in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Additionally, the route passes through Monterey, known as one of the best whale-watching locations in the world, and Big Sur, which has many Instagram-worthy locations . The route concludes in San Simeon, where watching elephant seals is an ethereal experience.

9 Los Angeles To South Lake Tahoe

• Total Distance : 453 miles
• One-Way Driving Time : 7 hours and 44 minutes
• Route : Los Angeles → Red Rock Canyon State Park → Lone Pine → Death Valley National Park (optional) → Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest (optional) → Bishop → Mammoth Lakes → Yosemite National Park (optional) → Lake Tahoe

Highway 395's scenic route from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe offers breathtakingly diverse scenery and unending natural beauty, as well as everything else one could want from a memorable road trip.

Beginning in the fabled City of Angels, this Highway 395 road trip takes visitors to Red Rock Canyon State Park's beautiful canyons and hiking trails, Lone Pine, and Bishop's Buttermilks. Two of the country's best national parks and an ancient pine forest are a slight detour from the highway but worth exploring. The final stop is South Lake Tahoe, which has numerous leisure activities , giving this road trip a beautiful end.

8 San Francisco To Crescent City

• Total Distance: 398 miles
• One-Way Driving time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
• Route: San Francisco → Point Reyes National Seashore → Sonoma County → Mendocino Village → Fort Bragg → Redwood National and State Parks → Crescent City → Lassen Volcanic National Park (optional)

A thrilling drive along California's wild and breathtakingly beautiful North Coast is highly recommended to see historic lighthouses, captivating beaches, redwood forests, and beachside towns.

After leaving San Francisco, visit Point Reyes National Seashore to see Point Reyes Lighthouse and sample the local cheese. Further on this route, explore the scenic Sonoma County coastline, Mendocino Coast, Mendocino Village, Mendocino Headlands State Park, Cabrillo Light Station, Mendocino Coast Botanic Gardens, Fort Bragg, Glass Beach, and Redwood National and State Parks. This journey ends at Battery Point Lighthouse in Crescent City. Take a detour to see Lassen Peak and have some incredible hiking experiences in Lassen Volcanic National Park .

7 Route Through California's Deserts From Los Angeles To Los Angeles

• Total Distance : 831 miles
• Driving Time : 14 hours and 30 minutes
• Route : Los Angeles → Palm Springs → Joshua Tree National Park → Salton Sea → Salvation Mountain → Anza Borrego State Park → Temecula → Los Angeles

This LA Loop route via the California Deserts highlights a different facet of the Golden State’s incredible diversity of breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. The awe-inspiring scenery of these expansive desert parks can leave anyone astounded.

The first stop on this route, which begins in Los Angeles, is Red Rock Canyon State Park , featuring dramatic desert cliffs. Other fascinating stops include the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area to see wildflower blooms; Death Valley National Park for hiking; Mojave National Preserve to see the Kelso Sand Dunes; Joshua Tree National Park for rock climbing; and Palm Springs, one of America's most remarkable desert resort cities . The Salton Sea, Anza-Borrego State Park, and Borrego Palm Canyon are the next stops before returning to Los Angeles.

6 Route Through The Wine Region Of Northern California From San Francisco To San Francisco

• Total Distance : 273 miles
• Driving Time : 6 hours
• Route : San Francisco → Napa Valley → Calistoga → Chinese Jade Lake → Sonoma Lake → Healdsburg → Sebastopol → Sonoma County → San Francisco

This epic California countryside road trip is ideal for those who love nature, food, and, above all, wine, as it takes visitors to two of the state's best wine regions: Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

The route runs directly from San Francisco to Napa Valley, where travelers can visit the region's not-to-miss vineyards and restaurants. They can also try a volcanic mud bath in Calistoga and visit the Chinese Jade Lake, Berryessa Lake, and Sonoma Lake. Other attractions include Healdsburg for exciting Russian River activities and Sebastopol for quirky art. The return journey to San Francisco begins in Sonoma County, famous for the last of California's missions built by Spanish missionaries and many stunning wineries.

5 Carmel-By-The-Sea To Los Angeles Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway Route

• Total Distance : 348 miles
• One-Way Driving Time : 5 hours and 34 minutes
• Route : Carmel-by-the-Sea → Big Sur → San Simeon → Santa Monica → Los Angeles

This Big Sur route is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of California's most spectacular stretches of coastline.

Stop by Point Lobos Natural Reserve and Garrapata State Park, which are near Carmel-by-the-Sea and have hiking trails that cross Highway One and the ocean. Other fantastic stops along this route include the historic Point Sur Lightstation, Andrew Molera State Park, Big Sur State Parks, Ragged Point, and the Piedra Blancas Rookery in San Simeon, famous for watching elephant seals. The next destinations are the Santa Ynez Valley, featuring charming towns; Santa Barbara, with a hopping gastronomy scene; and Santa Monica, offering fun activities on the beach and the shopping streets . Last but not least is Los Angeles.

Related: These Are The 10 Best Glampsites In Scenic Big Sur

4 San Francisco Loop Through The Eastern Sierras And Three National Parks

• Distance : 643 miles
• Total Driving Time : 12 hours and 34 minutes
• Route : San Francisco → Sacramento → Truckee → Lake Tahoe → June Lake → Mammoth Lakes → Yosemite → Kings Canyon National Park → Sequoia National Park → San Francisco

This is one of the most scenic springtime California routes, passing through Northern California, the Eastern Sierras, and three national parks, all of which boast incredible natural elegance.

This route from San Francisco covers Sacramento, Truckee, Lake Tahoe, Bridgeport, Lee Vining, and June Lake. After Mammoth Lakes' hot springs, it continues to Yosemite National Park, renowned for the supernatural Horsetail Fire Fall . Next up is Kings Canyon National Park, known for General Grant, the world's third-largest tree, and Redwood Canyon, with meadows full of wildflowers in spring, and then Sequoia National Park, which has the General Sherman Tree , the world's largest tree by volume, and finally a U-turn to San Francisco.

3 Route 66 From The City Of Needles To Santa Monica

• Distance: 315 miles
• One-Way Driving Time: 5 hours and 50 minutes
• Route: Needles City (Arizona-California Border) → Goffs and Essex towns → Amboy → Daggett → Calico Town → Barstow, → Pasadena → Los Angeles → Santa Monica

The iconic Route 66 from the city of Needles to Santa Monica on the Pacific Coast is a must-drive to experience both natural and man-made attractions, as well as an amazing desert drive.

After leaving from Needles City on the border of Arizona and California, the route passes through the ghost towns of Goffs and Essex, Amboy, Amboy Crater, and Daggett before detouring to Calico Town to discover spooks that are worth seeing . Additional stops include Barstow, Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch, San Bernadino, the birthplace of McDonald's, Rancho Cucamonga, Pasadena, and Los Angeles. The Santa Monica Pier is the last stop, where visitors take pictures with the sign "The End of the Trail" as a memento of the journey's memorable end.

2 Redding Loop Through Lassen Volcanic National Park And Mount Shasta

• Distance: 553 miles
• Total Driving time: 8 hours and 46 minutes
• Route: Sacramento → Redding → Lassen Volcanic National Park → McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park → Shasta-Trinity National Forest → Whiskeytown Lake National Recreation Area → Castle Crags State Park → Redding → Sacramento

This route offers some of the most breathtaking hydrothermal features and natural wonders like volcanoes and stunning waterfalls, making it a must-do for those who enjoy adventures and nature.

The route starting from Sacramento heads to Redding, known for the unique Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. Lassen Volcanic National Park is the next stop, where visitors can see the boardwalk, fumaroles, hot springs, and go cross-country skiing. Subway Cave, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, McCloud Falls, and the Shasta-Trinity National Forest are the next stops. Mount Shasta is an inactive volcano that offers a lot of exciting activities and is absolutely picturesque. The journey back to Redding and then to Sacramento continues after stops at Whiskeytown Lake National Recreation Area and Castle Crags State Park.

1 Los Angeles To San Diego Via The Southern Coastline

• Distance : 160 miles
• One-Way Driving Time : 4 hours and 20 minutes
• Route : Los Angeles –> Long Beach –> Huntington Beach –> Laguna Beach –> Dana Point –> Carlsbad –> San Diego

With all the majestic Southern California beaches between Los Angeles and San Diego, this road trip is ideal for beachfront and adventure enthusiasts.

Starting in LA, this route covers all spectacular beaches, including Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Anita Street Beach, and Thousand Steps Beach. Further stops are Dana Point, the first Whale Heritage Site in the US, Doheny State Beach, San Clemente, San Onofre State Beach, Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, and Carlsbad Flower Fields, which are beautiful in spring . The tour's final stop is San Diego, where visitors must watch the sunset at the Point Loma Tide Pools to end it on a beautiful note.

Southern California Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Will Suphan

Will has been living in Arizona off and on for 30+ years in the Phoenix Metro and Tucson areas. He has traveled all over the state as well as having lived all over the Southwest. He's been writing for OnlyInYourState for one year and has previously written for Digital Journal. Will has a passion for travel and writing and combining the two is what he loves most. He loves solo international travel and has been to Thailand, France, Japan, and Cambodia.

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Southern California has some of the most beautiful landscapes for a lovely road trip getaway. Cruising along on a scenic drive along the California coast with dazzling views of the Pacific Ocean or driving through state parks like Sequoia National Park or Kings Canyon National Park with their stunning vistas, beautiful waterfalls, and gorgeous trees will make any day trip on the road an experience you won’t soon forget. Southern California has a lot of areas to explore, from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, however, these 11 road trips will show you the best of it all.

For road trip planning and packing tips, check out OnlyInYourState’s Ultimate Road Trip Packing List . Whether you’re leaving for a single day or a week-long road trip, you can’t forget the snacks: here are 50 on-the-go snack ideas perfect for traveling.

1-Day Road Trip in Southern California

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• Route: Old Point Loma Lighthouse, San Diego > New Point Loma Lighthouse, San Diego > Lighthouse Cafe, Newport Beach > Los Angeles Harbor Light, San Pedro > Point Fermin Lighthouse, San Pedro > Point Vicente Lighthouse, Rancho Palos Verdes
• Distance: 156 miles
• Trip Time: 3 hours, 31 minutes driving time

• Route: Ojai > Sierra Madre > Olde Towne Orange > Wrightwood > Crestline > Oak Glen > Idyllwild > Julian
• Distance: 401 miles
• Trip Time: 8 hours driving time

• Route: La Jolla Shores Beach > Scripps Pier > La Jolla Cove > Birch Aquarium > La Jolla Historical Society > Torrey Pines State Reserve
• Distance: 12 miles
• Trip Time: 38 minutes driving time

• Route: Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley > Great Park Balloon and Carousel in Irvine > Crescent Bay Point Park in Laguna Beach > Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach
• Distance: 34 miles
• Trip Time: 1 hour driving time

• Route: Rim of the World Highway in San Bernardino > Mission Creek Preserve in Desert Hot Springs > Wolf Mountain Sanctuary in Lucerne Valley > Center Stage Theatre in Fontana
• Distance: 201 miles
• Trip Time: 4 hours driving time

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• Route: Unconditional Surrender Statue > Salvation Mountain > International Banana Museum > Ruddy's General Store Museum > Cabazon Dinosaurs > Tio's Tacos > Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch > World's Tallest Thermometer
• Distance: 444 miles
• Trip Time: 7.5 hours driving time

• Route: Jackson Lake > Wrightwood > Big Bear Lake > Snow-Line Orchard > Willowbrook Apple Farm > Riley's Farm > Palomar Mountain State Park > Lake Cuyamaca > Balboa Park
• Distance: 318 miles
• Trip Time: 7.25 hours driving time

• Route: Hotel del Coronado in San Diego > Balboa Park in San Diego > San Diego Bay Parade of Lights on Shelter Island and Coronado > Temecula Valley Wine Country in Temecula > Festival of Lights at Mission Inn in Riverside > Disneyland in Anaheim > LA Zoo Lights in Los Angeles > Robolights in Palm Springs
• Distance: 303 miles
• Trip Time: 5.75 hours driving time

• Route: Pirate's Dinner Adventure in Buena Park > The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles > Galleta Meadows Sculptures in Borrego Springs > Corvette Diner in San Diego
• Distance: 268 miles
• Trip Time: 5.5 hours driving time

• Route: Zabriskie Point in Death Valley > Lava Tube at Mojave National Preserve > Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves in Anza-Borrego State Park > Cedar Creek Falls in Ramona > Sunny Jim Sea Cave in La Jolla > Vasquez Rocks in Agua Dulce > Channel Islands National Park
• Distance: 778 miles
• Trip Time: 14.5 hours driving time

• Route: Wrightwood > Crestline > Lake Arrowhead Village > Running Springs > Big Bear Lake > Forest Falls > Oak Glen > Mt. Baldy
• Distance: 182 miles
• Trip Time: 4.5 hours driving time

Have you been to any of the scenic and beautiful places on these road trips? Do you have any favorite places that you’d like to see? Let us know about them in the comments. If you’d like to see even more natural beauty and enjoy some top-notch wine, take this road trip to some of Southern California’s best waterfalls and wineries .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Amazing attractions in southern california.

What are the most popular landmarks to visit in Southern California?

The most popular landmarks to visit in Southern California include:

• TCL Chinese Theatre. This is the place where some of the most famous movies in the world are premiered and it has the Walk of Fame right in front of it.
• Griffith Park Observatory. This observatory has a scenic view of Los Angeles and has an interactive museum and an amazing planetarium.
• Santa Monica Pier. You’ve likely seen this pier in various movies and it is filled with attractions, rides, games, restaurants, and more.
• Grand Central Market. This market has been around since 1917 and some of the vendors have been selling their food, crafts, and more for over 50 years.

Learn more about the most popular landmarks to visit in Southern California .

What are the most popular state parks to visit in Southern California?

The most popular state parks to visit in Southern California include:

• Malibu Creek State Park. This park was the filming location for the beloved TV show M*A*S*H as well as many films from 20th Century Fox and Paramount Pictures.
• Gaviota State Park. This beautiful park in Santa Barbara County has 34 miles of hiking trails and a historic Southern Pacific Railroad trestle.
• Mount San Jacinto State Park. This place is beloved by locals for its hiking and backpacking trails in a gorgeous dedicated wilderness area.

Find out more about the most popular state parks to visit in Southern California.

What are the major highways in Southern California?

The major highways in Southern California include:

• Interstate 5 - this major highway runs up the entire west coast from San Diego all the way up to Vancouver, BC. It’s a great launching point for side trips to Sequoia National Park to see the great tree known as General Sherman, The Sierra Nevada Mountains, and further up into Northern California and beyond.
• Pacific Coast Highway - Highway 1  is perhaps the most scenic highway in the nation as it follows along the coast through places like Carmel, Monterey, San Francisco, and more with gorgeous ocean views.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Strike it rich on this California Gold Country road trip from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe

April 17, 2024 // By Tamara Gane

By Tamara Gane April 17, 2024

The California gold rush was one of the most exciting times in U.S. history, defined by prospectors, outlaws, and enterprising madams who journeyed to towns like Placerville, Folsom, and Sacramento with dreams of striking it rich.

Today, this history is preserved throughout California. On this California Gold Country road trip, you'll explore towns in Sacramento and El Dorado counties, stopping at museums, pop culture landmarks, and wineries, before ending in South Lake Tahoe.

Note: Although you can start and stop anywhere, budget at least two days to explore each town.

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Rancho Cordova and Sacramento

Start your California Gold Country tour in Rancho Cordova. During the gold rush, the town was a significant supply stop between Sacramento and Folsom. It remains the ideal place to gear up for a road trip since there are dozens of shops, restaurants, and hotels in Rancho Cordova. (Most Rancho Cordova hotels are chains, so keep those loyalty numbers handy.) While you're here, check out the city's vibrant beer, wine, spirits, and mead scene in the Barrel District of Rancho Cordova .

A short distance away, visit historic gold rush buildings dating back to the mid-1800s in Old Sacramento. Today, these buildings hold shops, bars, restaurants, museums, and other tourist attractions. Top attractions include the Sacramento History Museum , the California State Railroad Museum , and a riverfront park with a carousel and waterfront Ferris wheel.

Where to stay in Rancho Cordova: The Courtyard Sacramento Rancho Cordova provides easy access to the freeway and the area's shops and restaurants.

Ten miles from Rancho Cordova, the Folsom Historic District bursts with gold rush-era architecture in upscale boutiques, eateries, coffee shops, inns, and museums. The town square offers a slice of California Gold Country with a historic train depot, turntable, and seasonal activities like gold panning and blacksmithing.

Folsom was founded in 1849 but didn't become a household name until 1955 when Johnny Cash released his single, "Folsom Prison Blues." The singer later recorded two shows and a live album here, cementing its status as one of the most famous penitentiaries in the world. Folsom still operates as a prison, and you can hike or bike past its walls on the wheel-chair accessible Johnny Cash Trail .

Where to stay in Folsom: Bradley House , a bed and breakfast in the middle of Folsom's historic district, is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and The Square.

Placerville

Twenty-five miles away from the Folsom Historic District, Placerville blossomed from a mining camp to California's third-most populous city during the gold rush.

Today, Placerville is one of the best-preserved Gold Country towns in California. You can easily spend a day admiring the architecture and popping into museums, restaurants, and eclectic shops. Don't miss the El Dorado County Historical Museum , which features artifacts and life-sized displays to showcase the area's history.

The Gold Bug Park and Mine carries visitors on a journey back in time with a mining museum, blacksmithing demonstrations, gold panning, and a mine tour.

When it's time for lunch, stop by The Original Mels Diner , part of the nostalgic restaurant chain featured in movies like "American Graffiti" and the television series "Alice." After, head to Apple Hill , where you'll find lovely pastoral views and a collection of farms, orchards, and wineries.

Where to stay in Placerville: The gold rush-era Historic Cary House Hotel offers reasonably priced rooms within walking distance of museums, restaurants, and old-time saloons.

When you leave Placerville, drive 10 miles via Highway 49 to Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma. That's where the California gold rush ignited in 1848. At its peak, 10,000 people called this area home; today, Coloma only has about 200 year-round residents. Historic buildings include two churches, a tiny post office, a schoolhouse, and a blacksmith shop. There are also several replica buildings, including a sawmill and a cabin.

The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park museum tells stories of the California gold rush through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and live events. Guided walking tours, gold-panning lessons, and a junior ranger program are among the most popular programs in the park.

Where to stay in Coloma: Coloma Resort offers accommodations for nearly every type of traveler. Guests can choose between campsites, cabins, or glamping options in tent or wagon villages.

South Lake Tahoe

End your California Gold Country road trip in South Lake Tahoe, about 70 miles from Coloma. The area exploded with commerce during the gold rush due to its prime location between the Comstock Lode in Virginia City and the Central Pacific Railroad near Truckee.

By the time the gold rush waned, many fortunes were made, and wealthy families began summering in Lake Tahoe. You can get a glimpse of what their lives were like at the Tallac Historic Site , a 74-acre lakefront property with three historic estates and the ruins of what was once advertised as "The Grandest Resort In The World."

From May through October, a free museum, special events, and tours of one of the residences are available. The property is free, open to the public year-round, and connects to beaches and hiking trails.

Where to stay in South Lake Tahoe: The century-old Camp Richardson Resort offers traditional hotel rooms, cabins, and campsites within a mile of the Tallac Historic Site.

About Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

Read more about Tamara Gane here.

Connect with Tamara via: Instagram

One-Way RV Road-Trips

With  Cruise America RV rental , you never have to worry about returning your RV to its original location. Instead, you can book a  one-way RV rental  from any of our 132 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

PLAN YOUR ROAD TRIP WITH A ONE-WAY RV RENTAL

When you’re planning an RV road trip across the country or down the coast, one-way RV rental is the way to go. See all the sights you want while you hit the road, and never have to worry about driving back home – just catch a cheap flight at your drop-off point, and you’ve got an easy and inexpensive vacation.

If you’re planning to take one of our RV rentals one way, try one of these fun ideas for vacation routes:

Cross-Country National Parks

Some of the most beautiful sights in the country can be seen in our national parks, and what better way to tour them than by RV? Start off in California with a trip through Yosemite , then head east to the Grand Canyon and Mesa Verde. From there, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is your destination – after which it’s up to you: Florida’s Everglades or Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave. Either way, it’s sure to be a great trip.

Pacific Coastline

Start out in Vancouver, Seattle or Portland and travel south down the coast to San Francisco, Los Angeles or San Diego. Watch as the scenery shifts from the rocky cliffs and historic lighthouses of the Pacific Northwest to the sunny beaches and towering palms of Southern California.

Eastern Seaboard

Pick up your one-way RV rental in Boston, New York City or Washington, D.C. and travel south toward the Florida sunshine. Take a stop in Atlantic City, New Jersey for some gaming fun, or relax for a day along the beautiful historic beaches of South Carolina.

TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF CROSS-COUNTRY MOVES WITH ONE-WAY RENTAL MOVING

Sometimes a one-way RV rental is good for more than a vacation – like when you’re planning to make a cross-country move. With RV rentals, one-way trips from your old home to your new home are relaxing and fun – not harried and stressful. Plus, you’ll save on hotels and other expenses during your trip. You can even pack some of your household items into your RV. View our article on cross-country moving for more tips and advice.

Want to book a round-trip RV vacation instead of a one-way RV rental? That’s easy, too! Simply visit our online booking page to  rent your RV , and you’ll be on your way in no time. Cruise America even offers  RV sales  at sales centers located across the U.S. and Canada, so you can live the RVing life anytime you want.

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