7 Day California Road Trip Itinerary: L.A. To San Francisco
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This 7-day road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco showcases the best of California’s coastline, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Enjoy the journey!
California's Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers one of the most scenic drives in the United States. This 7-day California road trip itinerary will take you from the urban landscape of Los Angeles to the charming streets of San Francisco, with stops at famous landmarks, unique attractions, and local dining spots along the way.
Day 1: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
Morning: Departure from Los Angeles
Breakfast at The Original Pantry Café
Map: Google Maps
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic LA diner known for its generous portions and classic American fare. The diner opened in 1924.
Drive: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (approx. 1.5 hours)
Explore Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara offers stunning coastal views, charming Spanish-style architecture, and a bustling downtown area filled with boutiques, cafes, and wineries.
For more info, check out our Day Trip To Santa Barbara post.
Santa Barbara Mission
Map: Google Maps
Tour this historic mission founded in 1786, often referred to as the "Queen of the Missions."
Stearns Wharf
Map: Google Maps
Walk along California’s oldest working wharf and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Map: Google Maps
Climb the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. Take a few minutes to take a self-guided tour of the interiors of the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural masterpiece.
Dinner at The Lark
Map: Google Maps
Savor locally sourced, seasonal dishes in a restored former fish market.
Stay at Hotel Milo
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Enjoy an oceanfront stay at this charming boutique hotel.
Day 2: Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach
Morning: Departure from Santa Barbara
Breakfast at Jeannine's Bakery
Map: Google Maps
Before heading out for the day walk over to Jeannine's Bakery to delight in a delicious breakfast featuring freshly baked pastries and organic coffee.
Drive: Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach (approx. 1.5 hours)
Explore Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is known for its wide sandy beaches, perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying scenic sunsets. The town also offers a laid-back atmosphere with opportunities for clam digging, exploring nearby wineries, and visiting the famous Pismo Beach Pier.
Dinosaur Caves Park
Map: Google Maps
Visit this unique park featuring dinosaur-themed playgrounds and ocean vistas.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
Map: Google Maps
If visiting between October and February, see thousands of butterflies in this eucalyptus grove.
Dinner at Ventana Grill
Map: Google Maps
Located atop a coastal bluff Ventana Grill offers coastal cuisine with breathtaking views of the Pacific.
Stay at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Unwind in luxury with a room overlooking the ocean.
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Day 3: Pismo Beach to Cambria
Morning: Departure from Pismo Beach
Breakfast at Old West Cinnamon Rolls
Map: Google Maps
Treat yourself to famous cinnamon rolls and espresso from the vintage bakery before hitting the road.
Drive: Pismo Beach to Cambria (approx. 1 hour)
Explore Cambria
Cambria is a quaint coastal town renowned for its dramatic ocean views, charming art galleries, and unique shops. Visitors can explore the picturesque Moonstone Beach or take a short drive to see the historic Hearst Castle nearby.
Moonstone Beach
Map: Google Maps
Walk along the boardwalk to view the unique cragged landscape and native wildflowers fed by the coastal mist.
Hearst Castle
Map: Google Maps
Take a tour of the opulent mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
Map: Google Maps
Observe the massive elephant seals lounging on the beach.
Dinner at Robin's Restaurant
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy Mexican and Thai cuisine in the charming, rustic setting of a restored Adobe home. If weather permits, dine in the beautiful garden terrace.
Stay at Cambria Pines Lodge
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Nestled among gardens, this lodge offers a peaceful retreat.
Day 4: Cambria to Big Sur
Morning: Departure from Cambria
Breakfast at Linn’s Restaurant
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy farm-to-table breakfast dishes in this beloved local eatery.
Drive: Cambria to Big Sur (approx. 1.5 hours)
Explore Big Sur
Big Sur is a breathtaking stretch of California's coastline, famous for its rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along Highway 1, hike through the pristine wilderness, or visit iconic spots like McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge.
McWay Falls
Map: Google Maps
Take a short hike to admire the picturesque waterfall plunging onto the beach. This is one of the most iconic images of Big Sur.
Bixby Creek Bridge
Map: Google Maps
Stop for photos at one of the most photographed bridges in California.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Map: Google Maps
Hike along trails with stunning ocean views and look for sea otters, seals, and whales.
Dinner at Nepenthe
Map: Google Maps
Dine on the deck with stunning ocean views and hearty Californian cuisine. Opened in 1949, this restaurant has served many travelers who fell in love with Big Sur.
Stay at Big Sur Lodge
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Experience the serenity of Big Sur in this lodge-style accommodation located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in California!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Day 5: Big Sur to Monterey
Morning: Departure from Big Sur
Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy a Mexican-inspired breakfast on the outdoor patio with views of the Big Sur River.
Drive: Big Sur to Monterey (approx. 1.5 hours)
Explore Monterey
Monterey is a historic coastal city known for its world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can explore the scenic 17-Mile Drive, shop and eat along the Fisherman’s Wharf, or enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and whale watching.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Map: Google Maps
Spend a few hours exploring the world-renowned aquarium. This is our favorite aquarium of all time.
Cannery Row
Map: Google Maps
Wander through this historic waterfront district with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
17-Mile Drive
Map: Google Maps
Take a scenic drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, with numerous viewpoints along the way.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy seafood, shop for souvenirs, and watch for sea lions and otters.
Dinner at The Sardine Factory
Map: Google Maps
Indulge in seafood delicacies in a historic setting. Wine lovers will enjoy the vast collection of California and international wines.
Stay at InterContinental The Clement Monterey
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Enjoy luxury accommodations with ocean views. Within walking distance to much of Monterey’s top attractions plus the convenience of being affiliated with the IHG chain of hotels.
Day 6: Monterey to Santa Cruz
Morning: Departure from Monterey
Breakfast at First Awakenings
Map: Google Maps
Delight in a wholesome breakfast with a variety of choices including breakfast skillets, omelets, and other American breakfast fare.
Drive: Monterey to Santa Cruz (approx. 1 hour)
Explore Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a lively beach town famous for its historic boardwalk, surf culture, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can enjoy the thrilling rides at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, explore the beautiful redwood forests, or catch some waves at the iconic Steamer Lane.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy classic amusement park rides and games situated on the beach.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Map: Google Maps
Visit this picturesque beach known for its unique rock formations and migrating monarch butterflies.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Map: Google Maps
Take a scenic train ride through the redwoods or along the beach.
Mystery Spot
Map: Google Maps
Experience this gravity-defying attraction that has puzzled visitors for decades. See the allure of the famous bumper sticker.
Dinner at The Crow's Nest
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy seafood and American dishes with panoramic harbor views.
Stay at Dream Inn
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Relax in a stylish modern retro-themed beachfront hotel. Rent a pair of bikes from the hotel concierge and explore the coast on two wheels.
Day 7: Santa Cruz to San Francisco
For More, check out Five Things To See in San Francisco.
Morning: Departure from Santa Cruz
Breakfast at The Buttery
Map: Google Maps
Treat yourself to gourmet pastries and breakfast dishes.
Drive: Santa Cruz to San Francisco (approx. 1.5 hours)
Explore San Francisco
San Francisco is a dynamic city known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, and diverse neighborhoods. Visitors can explore landmarks like Alcatraz Island, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf, or take in panoramic views from Lands End.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Map: Google Maps
Visit Pier 39, see the sea lions, and try clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
Alcatraz Island
Map: Google Maps
Take a ferry to the infamous former prison and enjoy a guided tour. Be sure to book this in advance.
Golden Gate Park
Map: Google Maps
Visit the California Academy of Sciences, the Japanese Tea Garden, and the de Young Museum. Or just take a meandering walk through the massive urban park.
Dinner at Scoma's
Map: Google Maps
End your trip with a memorable meal at this renowned seafood restaurant.
Stay at Fairmont San Francisco
Map: Google Maps
Check Rates: Booking.com
Luxuriate in this historic hotel atop Nob Hill, offering elegant rooms and stunning views. The five-star hotel dates to 1907.
Tips for the Road
Pack layers: Coastal California can be cool and breezy, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Book accommodations in advance: Popular destinations fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Big Sur especially has limited accommodations.
Check road conditions: Parts of Highway 1 can be closed due to landslides or construction, so stay informed.
