california road trip options

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 Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: Cities, Coast, & National Parks

Posted on Last updated: November 29, 2023

Does the ultimate California road trip actually exist? Is it possible to fit all of this extraordinary state into a singular looped route? Well, guys, after living here my whole life and driving countless hours all over the state, I think I have done it with this California road trip itinerary right here.

This California road trip itinerary incorporates the BIG cities in Northern California and Southern California ( San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego ), the whole Pacific Coast Highway , some smaller towns along the West Coast Highway 1 ( Laguna Beach, Malibu, Santa Barbara, SLO, Big Sur, Monterey/Carmel, Santa Cruz, Point Reyes, Fort Bragg, and more), a bit of wine country, and all the epic and drool-worthy California State + National Parks as well ( Yosemite, Sequoia, Death Valley, Big Sur , Highway 395, and more).

This California road trip route is a loop, so you can start and end wherever you want! At the bottom, I have included an optional add-on of San Diego/Southern California and some cool California National Parks down there also. There are so many California road trip ideas… As Will Ferrell once said, SO MUCH room for ACTIVITIES!

About This Freestyle California Road Trip Itinerary

My California road trip itinerary is a bit more freestyle – e.g. I won’t be telling you how many days in each place and where exactly to stay the night. Instead, I will make suggestions of things to, places to stay, and more, and let YOU decide what’s best for YOU.

I’ll let you know how many hours drive it will take between each place, as well as driving distance, how many days you can spend in each of the California road trip stops, and which route/roads are best to plan your trip in California.

Some people may want more time in LA and San Francisco, some may want a whole week in Yosemite or other National Parks, and some may prefer off-the-beaten-path road trip stops to stay the night and take in the nature.

I do have some helpful articles – such as the most unique places to stay in California that you can choose along this route, and especially the most unique Joshua Tree stays , too. Out in the desert, they have some of the coolest rentals EVER.

Whichever way is right for you, I am confident this California Road Trip itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip! I’m already feeling all giddy inside because I can’t wait for your awesome adventure in my beautiful home state 🙂

California Road Trip Map

Here’s a map preview of of all the best places to visit on a road trip in California! LOTS more info below.

California Road Trip Tips to Know Before You Go

For the sake of starting somewhere, this California road trip itinerary will start in Los Angeles and go inland/north, but you can start at any point because it’s one big loop. But, a few things to consider before your trip are:

Planning + Getting to California

If you’re driving – sweet. If visiting from afar, you’ll most likely have to fly. The main hubs are Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO). Either is great, because again, this route is a loop! Check for the best flight rates to Los Angeles here and to San Francisco here on CheapOAir.

Make sure to always book travel insurance – We have used Heymondo for years and love it. Read our review and 5% off Heymondo booking link here , and get your USA ESTA visa also before your trip, if coming internationally.

Transportation

So obviously you kinda need a vehicle to do a California road trip… duh . And unless you have a friend with a car, you’re going to have to rent something. My go-to would be to use RentalCars.com California because they compare the prices of all different rental car companies, giving you the best price for sure.

Try to rent a car with a good amount of space and preferably a 4wd… snow tires would be good in the winter just in case.

Your other option would be to Rent an RV in California. This could have MANY benefits, including saving you on accommodation costs everywhere you go ( besides cheap campground fees). This could potentially be a road trip game changer and money saver, and you could make your new home on wheels into a cozy space. That is, if you don’t want to check out some of the awesome hotels in California. Up to you!

Time of Year

The time of year may dictate roads you can and cannot take on this California road trip itinerary, especially in the Sierra Nevada mountains in Northern California (Yosemite/Sequoia National Parks).

Make sure to check Caltrans for road conditions when you drive. Summer is obviously going to be a lot easier, but more crowded. In winter, you may need chains to drive in some places in the mountains, but the coast will be OK.

Snow flurries sometimes still happen in April in the mountains (Yosemite/Sequoia etc), and rain may make certain hilly roads more difficult. Sometimes June and July are not the best times to visit the west coast, because of dense fog we get in the summer (‘June gloom’).

But, California is known for its perfect weather basically always. Just (common sense) make sure to be wary of the weather! September and October are actually the best times to travel in California.

Do you want to drive clockwise, or counter-clockwise? I assume you will start your California road trip from LA or SF if you are flying in, but it depends if you want to do the beaches and west coast first, or mountains + parks first. Do whatever suits you!

But I must point out, when you drive south from San Francisco, your car is closer to the water on your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip . This itinerary is my most recommended CA road trip route.

California Traffic

In California, traffic is a huge factor. This is unfortunate but true, and you will definitely feel this in LA and SF at the very least. Leave yourself more time if you are driving on a weekday mid-afternoon or morning, especially in the cities!

For more help planning, check out some great road trip planner tools to make the perfect trip. Also see some California Quotes for your inevitable IG pics.

And, without further ado… let’s begin!

California Road Trip: Los Angeles

No California road trip is complete without a stop in the city of Angels. Whether you are a city person or not, there is something for you! I lived in LA for almost five years during college, and in that time I got to know it pretty well.

If you’re a city person, downtown LA and Hollywood might be for you. If you’re a hiker, head to the Pacific Palisades or Griffith Park. For the beach bums, check out Venice Beach or Malibu. If you love to be touristy, go to the Santa Monica Pier and do a Big Bus tour . If you like to get off the beaten track, there are smaller boroughs of LA that have more of a small town vibe.

Check out my post on day trips in LA and you’ll be able to zone in on what LA areas and activities you will like for your California road trip. Or you can follow my recommended ‘classic LA’ activities below.

If you are a lover of great views – whether you want to hike or drive to them – you may also like to check out the 8 Best Views in Los Angeles  (ranked by yours truly), the best sunsets in Los Angeles , and the best Los Angeles captions for your pics.

Things to Do in Los Angeles on a Road Trip

Here are the top things to do and see during your stop in Los Angeles. You could stay in LA for years and not do everything, but here are the main sites and a couple hidden gem ideas for you to choose from.

Go Los Angeles Card – if you are looking to visit theme parks, aquariums, museums, and check out different celebrity/studio tours, this card may be for you. It includes a LOT of main attractions and could save you money if that’s what you are into.

Universal Studios – A must in LA for theme park/film lovers

Santa Monica Pier – touristy, but great classic LA views. Walk the boardwalk or go on rides. Or take an e-bike tour to Venice.

Venice Beach – A classic LA grungy + beautiful beach. You can muscle beach, check out the skate park, shop along the boardwalk, and check out great street art. There’s a beautiful boardwalk that goes all the way between Santa Monica and Venice, which is great to run, walk, or bike.

Los Angeles Sightseeing Hop on Hop Off – touristy, but truly the best way to see the most sights in LA the fastest

Hollywood Sign Hike/Griffith Observatory – Definitely check out the Hollywood Hills. You can hike to the Hollywood sign, check out Griffith Observatory, or do the classic LA Runyon Canyon walk. You can also do a guided Griffith Park + Hollywood Sign Hike .

Hollywood Walk of Fame – walk along Hollywood Blvd and see which names you know on the stars! I always take visitors to LA here, it’s iconic and still fun even for me.

Downtown LA –  Downtown, although not classically the ‘city center’ of LA, is pretty cool to check out. This is where all the tall buildings are. You can check out Pershing Square, go shopping on Santee Alley, or visit Perch rooftop bar.

Getty Museum – This is my favorite view in LA. The museum is cool, but I think the amazing architecture and design make this one of my favorite places in LA. You would have to pay to park, but the entrance is free.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Because LA is such a stupidly HUGE city with bad traffic, I oftentimes recommend to people to spend a few nights in Venice/Santa Monica to do the beach stuff, then spend a few nights in Hollywood or downtown to do the hills and celebrity/big city stuff. If you have to pick just one I would choose the beach.

Airbnb/VRBO: LA is an obvious place to rent a super cool Airbnb. You can find these all over the city, on the beach, in the Hollywood Hills, and more. Check VRBO

Hostels: There are some great hostel options in LA for budget travel. This one in downtown is incredible, this one is right on Venice Beach.

Hotels: In downtown I recommend the Ace Hotel for amazing views and a unique vibe. For something unique by the beach, the Venice Beach House is gorgeous. You can also compare all the options and prices here .

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California Road Trip: Death Valley National Park

(NOTE: Scroll to the bottom of this post to see the “Southern California Add-On” to this road trip – if you would like to include Orange Country, San Diego, Anza Borrego State Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and/or Palm Springs to your trip in between LA and Death Valley. I excluded them for the sake of time but included all the info you need at the bottom.

Distance : 260 miles

Time: 4-5 hours drive (heavily dependent on LA traffic and road conditions/time of year)

Route: After Los Angeles, you can visit California’s most desolate desert, Death Valley, on your California national park road trip. You will first be heading east, towards the Californian deserts and Nevada. You’ll end up on the 178 to get into the National Park, which is near the eastern border of California.

Things to Do in Death Valley on a Road Trip

Death Valley is best known for its rugged desert landscapes, amazing geological formations, and sand dunes. It’s a photographer’s and adventurer’s paradise!

Death Valley is beautiful for getting out into nature and experiencing the unforgiving desert in contrast to the concrete jungle of Los Angeles. It actually contains America’s lowest point of elevation – 282m below sea level – even while being between two mountain ranges (one of which contains the highest mountain in the lower 48).

The best things to do in Death Valley include hiking, biking, 4×4, stargazing, camping, visiting the Badwater salt flats, and the colorful painter’s palette.

Where to Stay in Death Valley:

Camping – Many people choose to camp at Death Valley. As it is a National Park there are a few different sites available to camp, get out into the elements, and do some stargazing!

Hotels:  For hotels, the best towns to get a hotel are Panamint Springs, Stovepipe Wells, and Furnace Creek.

The Ranch at Death Valley (4 star) and The Inn at Death Valley (5 star) are both clear standouts as they are closest in proximity to the park (and comfortable/beautiful/wellness options). If you’re after a cheaper option, the Panamint Springs Motel + Camping is more affordable and nearer the road you will enter from.

If you look closely, you can see the stairs up the rock!

California Road Trip: Sequoia National Park + King’s Canyon (if Weather Permits)

Distance: 300-350 miles

Time: 5-6 hours drive

Route: Next up in your California national Parks road trip itinerary is Sequoia National Park! Now, Sequoia is actually not that far away from Death Valley as the crow flies. But, in that Sequoia is on the west side of the Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges (of which Death Valley is on the east) you will have to drive back down and around these mountains to get on the proper road to get there.

In winter you’ll have to go back down the 178 to the 58 to the 65 to the 198, but if the roads are open you may be able to take the 178 to the 65 to the 198 (see google maps). Check the road conditions in this mountainous area!

Route Tip: If you are pressed for time, you can skip out on Death Valley and reach Sequoia National Park from LA in 3-4 hours.

Things to Do in Sequoia National Park on a Road Trip

My first time visiting Sequoia national park was actually well into my adult life on my own California road trip itinerary. I must say, its unbelievably underrated! This high-elevation national park is home to groves and groves of the largest trees in the world . I’m not kidding, either!

You can visit the actual largest tree in the world here, General Sherman , which has more mass than any other tree on Earth – pictured above. Apparently, the trunk’s diameter is over 100 feet!

It’s not just General Sherman, though. Driving through this area is absolutely incredible, because I swear I saw about ten other trees that were at least almost the same size! It truly is a forest of giants , and these trees are anywhere from 1000 to 3000 years old.

Other than this forest, you can also do lots of hiking in Sequoia NP, my favorite of which was hiking to Morro Rock.  This bite-sized trail goes straight up a granite outcropping of rock which is actually visible from a lot of the park and is doable in an afternoon.

King’s Canyon National Park

King’s Canyon is just north of Sequoia, and you can drive straight there when the roads are open in the summer/spring/fall.

The actual ‘King’s canyon’ is one of the deepest canyons in the country, and also has famously large sequoia trees, amazing mountains views, hikes, nature, and more. To hear more about things to do in Sequoia and King’s Canyon National Parks, click here!

Where to Stay in Sequoia/King’s Canyon National Parks:

Camping: There are lots of camping options here as with most National Parks.

Hotels: There are plenty of adorable, tiny, extremely mountain-esque hotels up here. On a budget at one point, I stayed in the Sierra Lodge Three Rivers which completely met my needs. There are plenty of other hotels near the southern entrance to Sequoia National Park in Three Rivers as well.

You can stay at a few properties inside the national park or out the northern side in Pinehurst. The most popular hotels inside the park are the Wuksachi Lodge  and John Miur Lodge.

My recommendation: if you are doing a hotel, try staying a night in Three Rivers after a driving day, and then explore the park the next day if you are short on time. If you have more time, spend a few nights at a hotel inside the park that will be in close proximity to all adventures you’d like to do.

California Road Trip: Yosemite National Park

Distance : 130-180 miles, depending on accommodation (see below)

Time: 3-4 hours drive

Route: For Yosemite national park, you’ll want to either camp inside the park, or stay at a hotel outside. If you stay inside or close to the park, you’ll drive to Fresno from King’s Canyon and head up the 41 towards Yosemite West.

If you stay in one of many hotels out the north gate, you’ll take the 99 north from Fresno to Merced and end up on the 120 past Groveland (where many Yosemite rangers live).

Things to Do in Yosemite on a California Road Trip

Yosemite is a must-visit in California, and its beauty has made it world famous. Be wary that you were lucky in King’s Canyon and Sequoia – now you’re going to experience real crowds.  That is, unless you are visiting Yosemite National Park in Winter , which is what I did.

My post below details the most basic Yosemite itinerary that you can do in a few days, which includes driving Yosemite Valley and some hikes and waterfalls. It also has the best lodging in Yosemite that are appropriate all year but geared towards winter.

[irp posts=”8192″ name=”Yosemite National Park in Winter: What to Do and Where to Stay”]

Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the picture-perfect part of Yosemite that we have all seen in photos. It is one 7-mile loop that takes you past lots of hikes, river beaches, granite cliffs, camping areas, hikes, and more. This is where you must go if you only have one day in Yosemite!

Tunnel Viewpoint

This is the first viewpoint of Yosemite Valley that will take your breath away!

Glacier Point

If it’s open, Glacier Point may be the best view of your California road trip itinerary. Located above the whole Yosemite Valley, glacier point allows you to look out over sweeping views of El Capitan and Half Dome – and you can drive to it (no hiking involved).

Some waterfalls you may want to check out in Yosemite Valley are: Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Falls (visible from the loop drive) and  Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls (a shorter and longer hike).

Some hikes to check out during a few days in Yosemite are: the Yosemite Falls trail and Bridalveil falls loop (very easy), Mirror Lake Trail (also easy but can extend longer), and the Vernal Falls/Nevada Falls trail (harder) that continues up to the most famous hike up to Half Dome (very difficult).

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Camping: There are lots of camping places in and around Yosemite Valley.

Hotels: During my stay, I stayed at Rush Creek Lodge, which is just outside the park’s northern gates. I absolutely LOVED it here and couldn’t imagine staying anywhere else!

Read more about Rush Creek and other Yosemtie hotels in my Yosemite post. Rush Creek was cheaper in the winter and can get pricey in the summer.

California Road Trip: San Francisco

Days:  2-5+

Distance : 160ish miles

Time: 3ish hours drive

Route: You’ll want to take the 120 to the 205 to the 580 across the Bay Bridge (80) and into the city!

I hope you have enjoyed your time out in nature, because you’ll be livin’ the northern California big city life now! San Francisco is one of my favorite cities in the world – a compact 7×7 mile square full of vibrant culture, interesting people, great food, beautiful views, and so much to do.

Like LA, SF has different areas for different vibes. There’s the Marina for the preppy shoppers and brunchers, The Mission for the trendy and grungy, Haight + Ashbury for the psychedelic hippie, the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s wharf for the tourist, and more. There are loads of different tours and ways to explore the city.

**Optional: If you want to visit California Wine Country, you should visit Napa Valley and Sonoma in between Yosemite and San Francisco. Post coming soon! **

Things to Do in San Francisco on a Road Trip

I could write thousands of words just on San Francisco alone, but I’ll keep it fairly short here for you. All these points of interest and SF California road trip ideas will be visible on Google Maps.

Check out some San Francisco quotes and captions for post ideas and some fun facts about San Francisco before you go.

Viewpoints: Twin Peaks, Bernal Heights, Forest Knolls, Dolores Park (great for picnics!) Check out the best sunsets in San Francisco.

Best Views of the Golden Gate Bridge: Battery Spencer, Baker Beach, Crissy Field, Land’s End Labyrinth (great nature walk too) or a Golden Gate Bay cruise

Golden Gate Park : An iconic huge green leafy park in the city! Try a Self-guided bike tour

Fisherman’s Wharf: Touristy wharf/pier with seafood restaurants and views across the bay

The Mission : Neighborhood with great food (especially Mexican food), shopping, culture

Hop On Hop Off Tour : Easiest way to see the city with little time

Haight + Ashbury: psychedelic area with antiques, costume shops, street art, interesting people, restaurants

GoCar Tour of Lombard + Golden Gate : Super fun way to explore SF

Union Square is like the Times Square of SF with shopping, tall buildings, and ice skating in the winter.

Helicopter Tour: for the BEST view and fast

Visit the prison on Alcatraz Island: If there’s one thing to do in SF, it would be taking a boat to Alcatraz. This tour to Alcatraz also comes with a city tour.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Where to stay in SF depends on your budget and what kind of area you like. I would recommend staying in the Marina (upscale near the water), Haight + Ashbury (more free-spirited and near Golden Gate Park), Pacific Heights (up on the hill above the city), or Downtown/near Union Square (city center) or North Beach/Wharf (near the water).

Airbnb/VRBO: San Francisco has tons of accommodation options! This is my favorite SF VRBO that’s really central AND affordable.

Hostels: There are also quite a few hostels in San Francisco  for more budget travelers, although they are still quite expensive and it might even be cheaper to split the cost of a hotel or Airbnb with travel companions. This hostel in Fisherman’s Wharf is a great location and I’ve heard good things about it.

Hotels: As for hotels, the most fun and unique ones are the Hotel Zephyr – a nautical themed hotel in Fishermans wharf, of the Hotel Vertigo near Union Square from the 1958 Hitchcock film.

California Road Trip: Pacific Coast Highway 1

Days:  2-4+

Distance : 655 miles top to bottom, 460 miles San Francisco to LA

Time: without stops, 10 hours drive along the west coast from SF to LA and probably about 16 hours top to bottom (Leggett to Dana Point). I would recommend spending at least 2 nights/3 days on this road trip, and preferably 4-5+ to really explore the amazing places.

Route:  Just stay on Highway 1… that’s it!

Now it’s time for perhaps the best part of your California road trip itinerary – Pacific Coast Highway/PCH/Highway 1! Before I get too far into it I’ll let you know that I’ve written an ENTIRE POST specifically dedicated to an awesome Pacific Coast Highway road trip and its hidden gems.

It lists over 75 different PCH road trip stops and tell you a little bit about each one so you can decide which places you’d like to stop based on your needs, desires, and time.

I won’t go into as much detail as I do there, so click the photo below or this link for my Highway 1 PCH Road Trip Stops Article to continue your road trip:

A few of the Stops on Your California Coast Road Trip Itinerary:

These are the most important stops on the way from San Francisco back to LA and beyond.

• North of SF: Fort Bragg Glass Beach, Mendocino, Point Reyes Lighthouse + Seashore + Cyprus Tree Tunnel
• Santa Cruz , Monterey Bay, Carmel 17 Mile Drive
• Big Sur, hikes + viewpoints, Nepenthe restaurant overlook, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park waterfall onto the sand, Hearst Castle
• San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach, Santa Barbara
• Malibu + Los Angeles
• Orange County
• tons of waterfalls, lighthouses, state parks, beaches, viewpoints, small towns, and more!
• recommendations of where to stay the night

Use my guide to create the perfect Highway 1 section of your California Road Trip Itinerary. You can either end your loop back in LA, or continue to the Southern California loop I have detailed below.

Views from the beaches of Laguna Beach

California Road Trip Itinerary: Orange County, San Diego, Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, and Anza-Borrego Desert

Now that you have read my PCH Road Trip article above, you will have ended up past Los Angeles and now down into Orange County/San Diego.

Many people consider San Diego as a must-visit in California, and/or may want to visit the esteemed Joshua Tree National Park. This is why I have included this optional add-on for extra California road trip ideas if you have more time. There are also some amazing Southern California beach hikes in this area not to miss!

It may also be a contributing factor that I am from Orange County, and think that some of the best beaches in the whole state (and world) are in Laguna Beach. So take this California road trip loop and put it right between LA and Death Valley if you are so inclined – So Cal is the BEST!

California Road Trip: Orange County

Distance : LA is directly adjacent to Orange County, so if you are making stops along your PCH road trip the distance doesn’t matter as much. For a frame of reference, Newport Beach is about 55 miles from Santa Monica.

Time: About 1-2 hours drive from LA depending on where you start and finish/time of day (traffic)

Route: You can stay on PCH/Highway 1 for the scenic route, or there are quicker freeways available (the 405/5) but they’re very boring!

Most of Orange County is already detailed in my PCH Road trip stops article above and also in my guide of fun things to do in Orange County . Most of the places you’d want to visit in Orange County are along the coast anyway. Here’s a rundown of the places you’d want to see (from north to south):

Huntington Beach

This is the ‘surfing capital’ of the USA and has a lively beachside downtown, busy beach, and pier with a restaurant at the end.

Newport Beach

Newport has a long peninsula/beach that gets pretty busy in the summer, and a great boardwalk to ride your bike or go rollerblading – perhaps with some ice cream! You can also go whale watching. There’s a good bar scene too.

One of the most popular places to visit in California is Disneyland and its Californian counterpart, California Adventure Park. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, Orange County, and is about 45 minutes from LA and the OC coast.

Laguna Beach

This is one of my favorite places in the whole world, and also a great place to spend a night. Check out the 10 best hotels in Laguna Beach for a quick taste, and I also love the Surf & Sand and Montage for ultimate luxury (let’s be honest, I usually just go walking there – but they’re amazing!).

Laguna Beach has some great hiking and outdoor activities. Check out my list of the best laguna beach hiking trails here!

There’s a bustling little downtown with amazing art and galleries all over the place, with great restaurants around as well. There are some beautiful beaches right next to the road, but the true charm comes with the smaller beaches you can only reach via secluded stairwell. The beast few beaches:

• Victoria Beach
• West Street Beach
• Thousand Steps

Dana Point is actually where Pacific Coast Highway begins/ends, depending on which direction you are going. I grew up here, learned to surf here, went to school here, and know the area well.

The Dana Point Harbor is a beautiful place to have a walk or grab a coffee, and Salt Creek Beach is very family-friendly. There are lots of parks and headland hikes with views. Check out my guide below for more info.

California Road Trip: San Diego

Days:  1-3

Distance : Southern Orange County to Downtown San Diego is about 60 miles.

Time: About an hour

Route: You’ll want to stay on the I-5 South, which is what becomes of the Pacific Coast Highway after it finishes in Dana Point.

Sunny San Diego is on the list of many California visitors, with good reason! Located right above the border from Mexico, it basically has perfect weather all year long and is full of tan, fit, not-as-pretentious-as-LA Californians living the good life.

It’s full of beaches, viewpoints, beach towns, happening nightlife, and amazing San Diego sunsets . If you don’t have much time, you can see most of the below in a one-day sightseeing tour. If you have more time, check out this awesome guide of 101 things to do in San Diego!

Things to Do in San Diego on a Road Trip

La jolla .

La Jolla is where the elite of San Diego live – it’s an area where life can’t be much better. For the water-lovers, La Jolla Cove is a beautiful seashore full of caves, cliffs, beaches, grassy parks, and beautiful aqua water. The best things to do here are a snorkel + cave tour  or coast + mountain biking.

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach, or ‘OB’ as it is called, is the more free-spirited and hippie section of San Diego. Expect tattoo parlors, street art, thrift shops, and that type of thing on the main street of OB next to the beach and pier. They also have a fantastic night market.

Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach, or ‘PB,’ is a more upbeat and trendy place full of yoga studios, hip bars, and cafes. There are great family-friendly beaches and the area also borders Mission Bay.

Downtown/Gaslamp District/Balboa Park/Coronado

The Gaslamp Quarter is the heart of downtown San Diego, and there’s a lot going on in this area. The Gaslamp Quarter itself has loads of trendy restaurants and a popping nightlife scene. Balboa Park is a vast park with museums and gardens.

Coronado is an island right off the coast from Downtown San Diego that’s known for its beauty. Here are the top ideas for what to do in San Diego:

• San Diego Craft Brewery Tour is one of the mos popular SD activities for locals and visitors alike
• USS Midway Museum skip-the-line ticket – one of the most popular museums in SD on a war ship
• San Diego Zoo – it’s one of the most famous zoos!
• Balboa Park Scavenger Hunt – A fun way to explore SD’s famous park
• Hop On Hop Off Narrated Tour of Old Town + Coronado for some history

Where to Stay in San Diego

I would recommend getting a place close to the action so you can get everywhere you want to go, quickly. For this reason I would say to stay in the Gaslamp Quarter/Little Italy – or if you need to be beachside, Pacific Beach would be a good idea (La Jolla is a bit farther north – it’s a lovely place to visit but it’s not really close to anything else).

Vacation Rentals: There are some fantastic VRBOs in San Diego to check out.

Hostels: One of the coolest hostels I have seen is this one in Ocean Beach (it’s fully covered in a colorful mural and is right next to the beach and rents surfboards). I recommend Hi Hostel Downtown for location + social atmosphere.

Hotels: There are some lovely boutique options in Pacific Beach and in the Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown I love Staypineapple for a fun + unique boutique hotel.

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California Road Trip: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Days:  1-2

Distance : Just over 80 miles from downtown San Diego

Time: About 1:40-2 hours drive

Route: Check Google Maps on the day of your trip for this one – sometimes it’s faster to take the 1-8E to the 79N to the 78E, and sometimes the 15 to the 67 to the 78E is.

The Anza-Borrego State Park is one of California’s lesser-known gems on a California road trip itineray. You’ll feel like you landed on Mars when you see Anza-Borrego’s incredible desert rock formations and canyons after just having been relaxing on the beach the day before!

This is actually the largest State Park in the lower 48 states, and there’s a LOT to do! Most of the park is free, public land, which means camping is also free. There are amazing wildflower blooms at certain times in the year and beautiful varieties of cacti.

If that wasn’t cool enough, this area has one of California’s only dark sky communities , meaning it’s the BEST place around to see the stars. Free camping + amazing stars gives you some good ideas, doesn’t it?!

Places to Visit in Anza Borrego

• Hikes: Borrego Palm Canyon, Smuggler’s Canyon, Pictograph Trail/Little Blair Valley, Blair Valley
• Font’s Point Viewpoint
• Explore the Badlands
• “The Slot” Slot canyon
• Borrego Springs: Visitor’s Center, small desert town + Accom
• Stargazing: learn more in Borrego springs

Where to Stay in Anza-Borrego Stage Park

There are plenty of trendy desert accommodation options and, of course, free camping like I mentioned.

If you want some luxury, La Casa del Zorro resort is unanimously the place to be. It’s 10 minutes from the state park and has FIVE outdoor pools, among other things. Or, you can stay at a vintage trailer park for a bit of a different experience.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Palm Springs (@visitpalmsprings)

California Road Trip: Palm Springs

Distance : 90ish miles

Time: About 1.5 hours drive

Route:  From Anza-Borrego/Borrego Springs you will take the 78E, to the 86N (and drive along the Salton Sea) to the 10W.

So Palm Springs is an optional stop on your California road trip itinerary, but many people really enjoy this little haven in the desert. Palm Springs is known for having lots of sun and pools to splash around in, and some beautiful mountains you can ascend with a cable car as well. There are loads of big resorts, golf courses, and also boutique hotels for you to relax by the pool.

What to do in Palm Springs:

• Take the aerial tramway up to Mt San Jacinto State park – ascend 6,000ft up into the mountains and go from desert to mountain in just a few minutes. There are miles and miles of hiking up here, or just relax in cooler temperatures.
• Visit celebrity houses – The likes of Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Bob Hope, and more used to have houses in Palm Springs, and these are popular places to visit these days.
• Go Golfing – there are over 100 golf courses in Palm Springs!
• Go for a meal on El Paseo – the main road of town
• Visit the Desert Hills Outlets – if you want some good deals

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is perhaps one of the most famous places for super cute boutique hotels. The Saguaro is beautiful and hosts a music festival a few times a year called Splash House.

Coachella Music Festival is also the first two weekends of April – so if you love festivals it could be a great California road trip idea!  Compare other hotel options here.

California Road Trip: Joshua Tree National Park

Distance : About 35 mi to the National Park Entrance from Palm Springs

Time: About 45 minutes drive

Route: You’ll want to enter Joshua Tree National Park from the north – passing through Yucca Valley and the town of Joshua Tree. So you’ll need to take the 62 from Palm Springs.

Joshua Tree is the last epic California National Park you’ll visit on your ultimate California Road Trip! It’s a high desert- meaning the altitude will change the temperature quite drastically. It could get quite cold at night depending on the time of year.

Joshua Tree is known for having millions and millions of, well, Joshua trees scattered about its vast landscape. There are also incredible stacks of smooth boulders that are tons of fun to explore and climb.

There are many hiking trails through/around these massive piles of boulders as well. There’s also a Joshua Tree Music Festival if you’re there the right time of year.

What to Do in Joshua Tree

• Check out Pioneer Town – it’s a few miles from the entrance. It’s literally an old pioneer town model (it used to be a movie set) with wooden buildings, old-style carriages, and ancient jail, and more. It’s an amazing photo op!
• Wander around the eclectic shops of Joshua Tree town
• Do some hikes/walks through all the Joshua Trees! Some popular hikes/points of interest are: Ryan Mountain, Hidden Valley, Split Rock Loop, and Arch Rock, Skull Rock, and Barker Dam.
• Drive up to different boulder piles and climb them! Explore, see how high you can get, squeeze through crevices, and look through arches.
• Keys View – a popular vierpoint

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree

Well, the obvious choice yet again would be to camp! There are heaps of great campsites inside the park, for which you would obviously just have to pay a small fee. Check out ‘Jumbo Rocks Campground’ and/or ‘Hidden Valley Campground.”

Other than that, Joshua Tree has some pretty awesome accommodation options. There are entire houses, airstreams, treehouses, and cabins to rent on Airbnb/VRBO. Check out my list here of the most unique Joshua Tree stays.

Well, that’s about it for your California road trip itinerary! From Joshua Tree you can just drive 2-2.5 hours/about 130 miles back to LA, dive onto a bed for the night, turn on a movie, and revel in the awesomeness that was your incredible journey!

You visited three main cities, 4+ National Parks, probably 5+ State Parks, tons of beaches, loads of beautiful hiking trails, some charming smaller cities and towns, and probably checked out some pretty sweet accommodation options as well. California really has it all, doesn’t it?! And now, you’ve seen it!

How much of this California Road trip did you complete? What do you think of these California road trip ideas? Would you add or change anything? Or subtract things?! I would love your feedback on everything in the comments below!

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Wednesday 21st of November 2018

[…] Find California Road Trip inspiration  […]

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Saturday 17th of November 2018

[…] and bay. Yet another first we were able to experience together, ticking another milestone off our California road trip bucket […]

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[…] The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary (Including Yosemite!) […]

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[…] The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: Cities, Coast, and National Parks […]

Ashley Cairns

Sunday 28th of October 2018

Wow! So many tips! Hard to know where to begin!

It really is! Los Angeles would be a good start ;)

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The Best California Road Trip Itineraries: 13 Grand Adventures

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

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

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

• Our 13 Fave California Road Trip Itineraries

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

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

Pacific Coast Highway: SF to LA

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

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

Highway 395 Eastern Sierra Drive

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

SCORE A RENTAL CAR DEAL

Make sure you get the best possible deal when renting a car. Compare across brands at Rentalcars.com . Or look for special member deals at Avis , Hertz , Budget or Enterprise .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the PCH

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

Notable Places to Stay on the PCH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the North Coast

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

Notable Places to Stay on the North Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Phew, that’s a lot of trees!

When to Do the North Coast Redwoods

Notable places to stay in the redwoods.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the Central Coast Loop

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

Notable Places to Stay in on the Central Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the Napa/Sonoma Drive

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

Notable Places to Stay in Napa/Sonoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the Gold Country

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

Notable Places to Stay in Gold Country

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the Lassen/Shasta Drive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the National Park Trifecta

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

Notable Places to Stay on the Trifecta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the Highway 395 Drive

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

Notable Places to Stay in the Eastern Sierra

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the South Coast Beaches

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

Notable Places to Stay in on the South Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the California Deserts Loop

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

Notable Places to Stay on the California Deserts Loop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do the Best of the Sierra Nevada Scenic Drive

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Do California’s Most Epic Road Trip

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

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

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

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A Two Week California Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 19, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 114 Comments

The United States is pretty much the perfect country to road trip in, with great roads, cheap gas and hundreds of gorgeous destinations to choose from. It’s no wonder that a California road trip is on many visitors to-do lists!

We’ve taken a number of fantastic US road trips , including Route 66 , the Pacific Coast Highway , the Oregon Trail and a route through the Deep South , and have never failed to have an amazing time.

One of our favourite states to explore though has to be California. With a mix of an excellent climate, some of the best National Parks in the country, and world-famous cities to explore, you’re never going to run short of things to do in California.

With this in mind, I wanted to put together a classic two week California road trip itinerary, taking in some of the best that the sunshine state has to offer. I did a trip almost exactly the same as this a few years back, so I know that it’s a good one.

Two weeks is also a good amount of time for a trip like this, although you could of course extend it by a few days if you wanted to see a bit more, or wanted to go a bit slower.

California Road Trip Itinerary

This California road trip itinerary has you starting and finishing in San Francisco. As it’s a loop, you could also start and finish at any other point. If you would prefer another starting location, LA would be the most logical.

The route runs anti-clockwise, but you are welcome to drive it in whichever direction you prefer!

San Francisco – 3 Days

We’re going to start our California road trip with three days in San Francisco. San Francisco is home to the second largest airport in California, so there are plenty of opportunities for getting here for both domestic and international travellers.

San Francisco, and the surrounding San Francisco Bay Area is also an excellent city to base yourself for your first three days.

If you’re arriving internationally, you’re going to want a few days to adjust to the time zone difference before hopping into a car. For this reason, I’m going to recommend spending three nights in San Francisco, and picking up your hire car as you leave. You won’t want (or need!) a car while you’re in the city – parking is expensive and there are plenty of other options to get around.

You won’t be short on things to do in San Francisco, and in fact, might feel a little overwhelmed by all the choices!

Our suggestions would be to take in the Golden Gate bridge (hire a bike to get here easily), explore Chinatown, pop across to Alcatraz , revel in the tourist trap that is Fisherman’s Wharf, don’t miss golden gate park , head to the top of Nob Hill for cocktails at The Mark, hop on a cable car and, if you still have time, take a stroll at Lands End.

To get yourself oriented, we can also recommend taking a walking tour with the excellent SFNative folks, they know the city backwards. Finally, if you’re looking for some great photo opportunities, check out our guide to the best photography locations in San Francisco .

Accommodation wise, there are plenty of options in San Francisco. Here are some of our favourite picks for your stay, across a range of budgets.

• HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel – found right on Fisherman’s Wharf, this budget hostel offers both dormitory and private accommodation options. There’s free breakfast and free parking, making this an excellent option for the location.
• Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel – found in the popular Union Square district, this great value 3-star hotel has a rooftop restaurant, library, and on-site theatre. Rooms have private bathrooms and coffee makers, and breakfast is included. A paid parking garage is available nearby.
• Parker Guest House – found in the old Mission district just behind the San Francisco mission building, this is a well reviewed and good value guesthouse offering private rooms. Free breakfast is available, and parking is available on site for a reasonable (by San Francisco standards) fee.
• Columbus Inn – Just a few hundred yards from Lombardy Street and Fisherman’s Wharf in the North Beach district,  this 3* inn offers great value for the location. Private rooms offer en-suite and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also free parking on site.
• Golden Gate Hotel – a very well reviewed 3* hotel just minutes from Union Square. Continental breakfast and afternoon tea are included. Rooms are definitely on the cosy side, and some have shared bathrooms, but the price is great for the location. Paid parking available nearby.
• Staypineapple Union Square – we stayed at this restored historic 4* 1913 hotel on a recent trip to San Francisco, and loved the mix of the old and the new. We loved the rooms, the colorful pineapple theme, and the free pineapple flavoured cupcakes certainly helped! Parking is available nearby for a fee.
• Four Seasons Hotel – if you are after five star luxury, then consider the Four Seasons hotel. Also found in Union Square, rooms are huge, there’s an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and many rooms have city views.

See more options for hotels in San Francisco here, as well vacation rentals on Plum Guide here and Vrbo here .

Pacific Coast Highway – 2 Days

The drive down the section of the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles is definitely one of the best road trips in the world. So it’s really a no-brainer that this would be your first destination after you pick up your hire car and head out of the city.

There are numerous highlights along the way, from cute seaside towns to gorgeous wilderness areas. Don’t miss Santa Cruz , Monterey , Big Sur and the Julia Pfeffer Burns State Park (camp here if you can!).

The latter is particularly famous for the waterfall that cascades onto the beach, a gorgeous photo opportunity.

From Big Sur head further south and take in highlights like the seals at Cambria , tasty food at San Luis Obispo, the gorgeous Pismo beach, Hearst Castle and more.

For loads more information on this stretch of highway and to help you plan the perfect coastal road trip, check out our super detailed guide to planning a  Pacific Coast Highway road trip .

For the 2 days you’ll spend on this part of your California road trip, we recommend stopping overnight around Monterey or Carmel on your first night, and San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay or Cambria on your second night.

There are plenty of accommodation options all the way down this stretch of highway, from campsites and B&B’s to luxury hotels – it all depends on your budget and what you’re aiming for. Here are a few options to consider in our recommended towns along the way.

For your first night, we recommend one of the following:

• If you like to camp, then there are camping options in the national parks along the route here, including the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground . I’ve camped here and it’s lovely to be surrounded by the massive redwoods. Just be aware that it is popular, and booking in advance is a must.
• Sandpiper Inn , Carmel – we stayed here when we visited Carmel. We enjoyed the comfortable rooms, inclusive breakfast, and proximity to the beach. Free parking is available.
• Coachman’s Inn , Carmel – we’ve stayed at a number of the boutique hotels which are in the Four Sisters Inn collection, and they’ve all been excellent. This inn, found in the heart of Carmel Village, gets good reviews. Rooms include coffee makers and free popcorn, wine with hors d’oeuvres is served in the evenings, and breakfast is included.
• The Inn at 1252 , Monterey – a good value inn on the way into Monterey. Rooms feature coffee makers, and a heated pool is available year round. There’s also a fitness room, free parking and free coffee.
• The Jabberwock B&B , Monterey – just a few blocks from Cannery Row, this very well reviewed B&B offers seven lovely guest rooms, some of which have fireplaces and hot tubs. Free parking, and breakfast is included.

For your second night, we recommend one of the following:

• Apple Farm Inn , San Luis Obispo – we really enjoyed our stay here on one of our Pacific Coast Highway road trips. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, the breakfast was fantastic, and the on-site bakery has some delicious food. There are also two pools on site, and free parking.
• Madonna Inn , San Luis Obispo – this four star family-owned motel just to the south of SLO is a truly quirky destination, and a landmark of the central coast. Each of the 110 rooms is uniquely decorated, with pink being a key theme throughout. We didn’t stay here, but we did have dinner at the Gold Rush steak house on-site, which was fantastic.
• Seaside Inn , Morro Bay – this 2* budget inn is one block from the waterfront. Rooms have a microwave and refrigerator, and there’s free on site parking and coffee.
• Beach Bungalow Inn and Suites , Morro Bay – five minutes walk from the aquarium, this three star inn is very well reviewed. Comfortable rooms have fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee machines, and a hot breakfast is included as is parking.
• Cambria Palms Motel , Cambria – this 2* motel is a couple of blocks from downtown, and offers comfortable rooms at a good price. Rooms have refrigerator and coffee machine, and free parking is available on site.
• El Colibri Hotel & Spa , Cambria – on one of our visits to Cambria we stayed here for a couple of nights and really enjoyed it. The rooms are lovely, with fireplaces, and some have spa tubs. There’s an on-site spa, outdoor hot tub, and breakfast is available. Free parking on-site.
• J Patrick House B&B , Cambria – this five star Irish themed inn was Cambria’s first B&B. There’s a a free wine hour, evening cookies and a full breakfast included with your stay. Each room is individually designed, and there’s free parking on site. A great pick in Cambria.

Santa Monica, LA – 2 Days

Los Angeles can be a big, confusing place, particularly after your trip down the Pacific Coast Highway. That’s why I suggest you head to Santa Monica and make that your LA base.

On the coast, and technically a separate city (it’s kind of hard to tell as LA and its surrounds are part of a fairly vast urban sprawl), you’ll have access to the wonderful beach and pier, as well as nearby Venice, most famous for its beach and people watching opportunities.

Again, there’s no shortage of things to do in LA. If you’re interested in film, you can visit the Hollywood sign, walk the Hollywood walk of fame or go on a tour of the backlot at Universal Studios .

Art lovers will find their thrills at the Getty Center , which also offers gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding city. Other highlights include Sunset Boulevard, and of course, you can hop on one of those tours of the stars homes if you’re so inclined.

LA also has plentiful accommodation options to suit all budget. Here are some of our recommended options:

• Santa Monica Motel – we enjoyed our stay at this basic 2* motel, which is around a 10 minute walk from Santa Monica Pier. There’s free morning coffee and free parking, and rooms come with coffee makers and in-room refrigerators. It’s definitely a value option.
• Banana Bungalow – this hostel offers shared and private accommodation, around a mile from the downtown Hollywood area. There’s free parking on-site, and reviews are positive.
• Magic Castle Hotel – this 3* hotel is a short walk from the Hollywood walk of fame, and you get a pool, unlimited free snacks, free continental breakfast and reasonably priced parking. It’s also a short walk to the Hollywood Bowl, and only three miles from Universal Studios. We really enjoyed staying here.
• Villa Delle Stelle – this boutique hotel in central Hollywood gets excellent reviews and will make you feel like a celebrity. Each suite is designed after a specific old Hollywood Celebrity, and guests can avail of celebrity style services such as in-room massages, private chefs and a personal trainer. Free parking is also included.
• The Georgian Hotel – this beautiful 1933 4* Art Deco hotel is a short walk from Santa Monica pier, and offers ocean views and on-site dining. Breakfast is available, and parking is available on-site for a fee.

See more LA listings here for inspiration , as well as LA listings on Vrbo here . For a more curated apartment rental option, check out Plum Guide. You can see their LA listings here .

If you’re not excited about Los Angeles, you could also choose to skip it and head down the coast to San Diego County and the city of San Diego itself. This is a more laid back (and easily navigable!) experience compared to LA, and there’s a great deal to do here as well.

For more reading on San Diego, check out this guide to things to do in San Diego we put together.

Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

Time to head out of the city, and the remainder of this itinerary is going to focus on exploring some of California’s unbelievable wilderness areas and National Parks. We’re going to start this off with a trip to the Joshua Tree National Park , home to those iconic shaped trees that the park is named for.

It’s a wonderful place, the meeting point of two deserts, and offers good opportunities for camping, hiking and star-gazing.

The best way to experience the park is to camp overnight in one of its many campgrounds (you should definitely reserve a spot well in advance if this is your plan), otherwise, there are various lodging opportunities outside the park if you’re not big into camping. You should also be aware that there is very limited water availability in the park (and no hookups for RV’s), so make sure you bring plenty of water and food – this is a remote desert environment after all!

Here are some suggested accommodation options in nearby Twentynine Palms.

• 9 Palms Inn – this budget 2* property gets good reviews, and rooms come with a coffee machine, microwave and refrigerator. There’s also free parking on site.
• El Rancho Dolores – this is a great value 3* property with a seasonal pool. Rooms have microwaves and refrigerator, and free parking is included.
• Sunnyvale Garden Suites – a very well rated 2* hotel offering a range of suites, each of which comes with a BBQ as well as a full kitchen. There’s a hot tub and gym on site, and free parking is available.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – this 3* chain hotel offers comfortable and well reviewed accommodation, with an outdoor heated pool and fitness centre. Rooms have coffee making facilities, microwave and small fridge, and there are BBQ facilities available for guest use.
• Flying Point Homestead – if you want something a little bit different, check out this property. It’s actually a holiday home rather than a hotel, but one of the options is a beautiful silver streak trailer!

See more listings for Twentynine Palms and this general region on  Plum Guide here .

Note, if you want to include a detour to Las Vegas, this would be the moment to do just that. We’d suggest adding a couple of days to your trip if you want to experience the city and its surrounds as there’s a lot to see and do here. Then you can rejoin the trip at the next stop.

For more on that sort of trip, check out our two week USA road trip itinerary , which include Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.

Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

Moving on from one desert environment to another desert environment – and the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Death Valley (the name was given by gold rush travellers who nearly perished here) is the hottest and driest place in North America, and has recorded the hottest ambient air temperature in the world.

So, overall, a hot place.

Other than making you want to crank up the AC then, what does Death Valley offer? Well, there’s that sense of remoteness. The vast, unforgiving wilderness. The knowledge that you’d probably die fairly quickly if you happen to wander off and get lost (don’t wander off and get lost folks).

Truth be told, there’s plenty to do here. You can visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the entire North America, which actually sits 86 metres below sea level. Then there are sand dunes, salt flats, craters, colourful canyons and hiking opportunities galore.

Just be aware that this is a seriously inhospitable, and, in the summer months, unbearably hot, destination, so plan and pack accordingly . If you’re looking for more ideas on spending a day in Death Valley, check out this excellent post .

Mammoth Lakes – 1 Day

From Death Valley we’re going to head further north, up to Mammoth Lakes . This drive is quite incredible, along the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the scenery (and temperatures) will change dramatically as you ascend into this gorgeous part of the world.

Mammoth Lakes are an adventure lovers playground. You can go hiking, camping, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing – the list goes on! There’s also a ghost town , craft beer companies, shopping opportunities – basically, pretty much everything you could imagine.

Whilst you’re here, you should also take the opportunity to visit Lake Mono . Now a state nature reserve, Lake Mono is a million year old lake notable for the “tufa” towers, calcium carbonate structures that stand above the lake like strange modern art installations. Definitely worth a visit, and particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset.

Yosemite National Park – 3 Days

Finally on our awesome California road trip, I’m going to suggest you spend three days exploring Yosemite National Park before heading back to San Francisco to return your hire vehicle and head home.

Yosemite is without doubt one of my favourite places in the entire United States. It’s a wonder of nature, a photographer’s paradise, and somewhere I dare anyone to visit without falling instantly in love.

There’s a lot to see and do here, which is why I’m going to suggest taking three days to get the most out of your visit. This will let you see all the highlights, as well as go for some longer hikes (or drives), and not feel too rushed.

I’ve got a full guide to the best photography locations in Yosemite , but in brief, don’t miss Yosemite Falls, the hike up to Nevada and Vernal Falls, the drive (or hike) to Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Valley View and Bridalveil Falls.

If you love longer, more challenging day hikes, then Half Dome is a seriously challenging walk (permit required), as is the walk up to the top of Yosemite Falls .

There are a range of accommodation options in Yosemite National Park, ranging from campsites to canvas-sided tent cabins, through to luxury hotels.

There are 13 campsites available in the park , with a number of these available for reservation, and the rest operated on a first come first serve basis. If you want to camp, we highly recommend booking well in advance, which you can do here .

There are also nine lodging options operated by Yosemite Hospitality inside the park, which are the only other accommodation options available in the park itself. These can be reserved up to a year in advance, and range from simple canvas cabins through to a high-end luxury hotel. These can all be reserved online in advance here .

Important –  As of 2022, Yosemite has introduced a reservation system for park entry. If you are visiting between late May and the end of September and planning on driving into or through the park between 6am and 4pm you will need to have a reservation. You can find out more and make your reservations online here .

California Road Trip Map

We’ve put together a map of our suggested California road trip itinerary, which you can see below, and also on Google Maps here . Note that depending on the time of year, access to Yosemite can be restricted due to snow, so you have to take the longer way round.

In addition, parts of the Pacific Coast Highway are often closed due to damage caused by landslides. As such, the map should be seen as an overview rather than a definitive route. You’ll want to plan your own California road trip route that matches any current road conditions and closures.

You can check the status of the coast route (state highway 1), as well as all the other roads in the state, on the Caltrans website here .

California Road Trip Itinerary Overview

• Days 1 – 3: San Francisco
• Days 4 – 5: Pacific Coast Highway
• Days 6 & 7: Los Angeles
• Day 8: Joshua Tree
• Day 9: Death Valley
• Day 10: Mammoth Lakes
• Days 11 – 13: Yosemite National Park
• Day 14: Return to San Francisco

When to Take a California Road Trip

California is a fairly good year round destination, but there are a few things to be aware of when planning your trip. In the Winter months, places like Yosemite can become accessible particularly from the east side, due to snow, as you can see in the map above.

The main road in to Yosemite is the Tioga Road, and this is usually closed from November through to May or even June. In addition, parts of the park, including Glacier Point road, are often closed for a similar timeframe.

If this happens to you, you’ll have to take a serious detour to get in based on this itinerary. A better option might be to embrace the snow, and head up to Lake Tahoe for some fantastic skiing opportunities. Or, you can head east, out to Nevada and the pleasure city of Las Vegas.

In summertime, the heat can be quite intense, in particular in places like Death Valley, where in the summer months temperatures can exceed 100F, and it’s not recommended to spend much time outside.

Where to Stay in California

California has a serious range of accommodation options to meet pretty much every budget, although larger cities and busier months do tend to increase the prices. We’d always recommend booking in advance for your trip if possible – in particular for national park campsites and hotels, and to get the best deals on city centre hotels.

For two people travelling together, you’re looking at a budget range of $60 – $150 per night for comfortable private en-suite accommodation, although you can obviously spend far more than that!

Our preferred option for hotel booking is booking.com, as they usually have the best prices, regularly run deals, and many properties offer good last minute cancellation policies. See their listings for California , San Francisco and Los Angeles to get you started.

We also use and recommend Plum Guide and Vrbo for vacation rentals.

For more ideas, take a look at our travel resources page for helpful hints and tips on getting the best deal on accommodation when you travel.

How to Get Around California

This is a road trip, so obviously you’re going to want a hire a car! We recommend searching for your car rental on Discover Cars here . They compare a range of providers so you can find the best deal for your trip.

Drivers with foreign licenses are allowed to drive, if your license is in a language other than English then you would be best with either an international drivers license, or a certified translation.

Another option of course is to hire a camper van or RV, which will let you stay in campgrounds and other, more out of the way areas. This can be a fun way to travel in a more self sufficient style. If this sounds like you, we recommend comparing RV rental prices at Motorhome Republic . They list all RVs from many of the major suppliers to help you find the right one for you. See their USA listings here .

We can also recommend checking out  RVShare , who offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental! Similar options include Outdoorsy and RVEzy .

If this is your first time in the USA, or you just want a reminder of what it’s like to drive in the USA, check out our guide to driving in the USA for lots of tips!

Practicalities for a California Road trip

Travelling in the USA is relatively easy, but we wanted to share a few things to help make planning your California road trip a little easier.

Electricity

The USA uses a 110v electrical system, with plugs that are either two pin or three pin. The holes are flat, and sometimes the two pin plug holes will be different sizes, so the plug will only go in one way.

If you’re coming from much of the rest of the world, including Europe, the UK or Asia, you will definitely need a travel adaptor like this . You will also need to check that your equipment supports the 110v supply, as much of the rest of the world uses a 220v supply.

In our experience, most electronics like laptops and phone chargers accept a universal voltage, whilst higher power devices like hairdryers do not. Always check the device itself, the voltage rating should be on your plug or adaptor somewhere.

Internet Access

Internet access is widely available across the USA in the form of WiFi, which can be found for free at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants. There are also a number of free WiFi hotspots in some of the cities on our list.

If your phone is unlocked you can pick up a pay as you go SIM in the USA. One of the better options is from Straight Talk , which you can buy in Walmart stores.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options.

The USA uses the US dollar, and there are ATM’s available throughout. In our experience though, you can pay for nearly everything with a credit card, so you will rarely need cash. Whilst it is worth having a few bills on you, for the most part you won’t need them.

Instead, just make sure you have a credit or debit card that doesn’t charge you any foreign transaction fees and uses a fair price for currency conversions, and you should be good to go.

Water across the USA is safe to drink, unless otherwise indicated. There are drinking fountains in the majority of public locations, and we recommend you travel with a re-usable water bottle so you can just fill it up as you go.

One thing we always love about travelling in the USA is how drinking water is always brought to your table at a restaurant – something we wish was standard around the world!

For the most part, the USA is a safe destination to travel in, and we have never had any problems. Of course, every country has crime, and areas where you would be wiser to avoid, however if you practice basic safety precautions, keep your valuables out of sight and behave as you would at home, you should be fine!

Further Reading and Resources for a California Road Trip

California is a very popular destination, so there’s no shortage of research material to help you plan your trip! Here are some of my favourite resources:

• We have a guide to things to do in San Diego
• I’ve written a guide featuring some of my top tips for driving in the USA to help get you going on the road!
• Wondering how much a California road trip will cost? Check out our  guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA to help you plan your trip budget.
• Jess has a guide to driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which will give you lots of ideas for that section of the road
• If you’re interested in California’s wine country, see our guide to visiting Napa Valley
• Route 66 ends in California, so take a look at our guide to planning a route 66 trip , as well as our detailed 2 week Route 66 itinerary and 1 week Route 66 itinerary
• Fodor’s Guide to California , which also includes details on a number of fantastic road trips
• The Lonely Planet California Guide , which is great for finding things to do, places to eat and places to stay
• A US road atlas , because sometimes you don’t want to rely on GPS!
• If you’re planning on hiring an RV or camping, this guide to free and super cheap campgrounds will quickly pay for itself
• The official Visit California page, which will give you more advice on what to see and when to visit
• For more in California, see this awesome guide to places to visit in California , from fellow bloggers at yTravelBlog
• My guide to things to do in Redding California , if you decide to head to northern California
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• And if you’re looking for inspiration for the rest of the USA, check out our USA section , which includes a Deep south itinerary , tips for New Orleans during Mardi Gras – and lots more!

And that sums up my perfect two week California road trip itinerary! If you’ve got any comments, suggestions or additions, do pop them in the comments below. Plus, if you liked this post, do check out the rest of my itinerary series , which will help you plan the perfect trips all around the world!

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robert feinberg says

16th December 2023 at 4:48 pm

Hello, we are planning a road trip to California in July, and using your template, but adding a few different options. we are traveling with 2 15 year olds, and they want to surf. any recommendations you can make on that, as well as stops that will be good for them? much appreciated.

Laurence Norah says

16th December 2023 at 8:26 pm

So there are a lot of surfing options all along the coast from San Francisco to San Diego. A lot will depend on the experience of your children and whether or not they are experienced surfers or are looking to learn. Also, some locations will have surfboard rentals wheras others are more remote. So it will depend what you need in that regard. However, there are good options all along the California coast, including Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Pismo, Morro Bay, Ricon Point and Surfrider beach (Malibu). I’d just recommend doing some research to ensure you match the breaks to the skill level required 🙂

Have an awesome trip!

Kim Dawtrey says

7th October 2023 at 9:39 pm

Hi Lawrence We are just home after nearly three weeks in the US on a route based on your California Road Trip, although we also went to the a Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. The information within your blog was a great help in planning our trip. Unfortunately we were unable to drive down the whole Pacific Highway due to landslide near Big Sur, but we loved the 17 mile drive and would recommend staying in Pacific Grove (we stayed in Bide-A-Wee hotel which was great). We were also unable to drive across Death Valley as the NP was closed due to the damage to the roads, we did however visit Death Valley Junction and throughly recommend a visit to Amargosa Opera House. The board outside says tours at 9.00am and 6.00pm, but the young lady in the hotel reception was more than happy to give us a tour for a donation, fascinating place and history. If you haven’t visited I can send you some photos. Another side trip we did was to Bristlecone Ancient Pine Forest, amazing place, great drive up to 10,000 feet, with fresh snow at the top! The Grand Canyon and Yosemite were certainly the highlights for us. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip, thank you for all your valuable information, if we were 40 years younger, we would love to be doing what you and Jess are doing!

8th October 2023 at 12:33 pm

Thank you so much, I’m happy to hear you had a great trip in California and beyond! Unfortunately the Pacific Coast Highway does get blocked quite regularly due to landslides, and it also sounds like unfortunate timing with Death Valley. However I am glad to hear you still had a good time overall! We haven’t visited the Amargosa Opera House, we will definitely have to add that to the list!

Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences, and safe onward travels 🙂 Jess and I love to hear from fellow adventurers who have been out exploring!

All the best,

erika liaci says

3rd July 2023 at 2:54 pm

Hi we are finalising our US Road trip to/from LAX in mid August. Would you recommend still going to the Death valley? I am a bit scared of the temperature which might be 50C? Thanks erika

4th July 2023 at 9:26 am

So I would personally probably skip Death Valley in August. It’s going to be too hot to do very much, and you would likely be able to better spend your time elsewhere. An extra day in Yosemite for example!

Have a great trip!

17th April 2023 at 11:43 am

Hi – this 2 week California road trip looks amazing. Your blog is really helpful for planning our own trip. Would it be possible to know the driving distances between each of the places please. Thanks Sam

18th April 2023 at 8:09 am

Hi Sam, thanks very much! So I didn’t put distances because in my experience they tend to change with side trips etc. Also, the Pacific Coast Highway is regularly affected by landslips so stretches of the route can be closed.

That said, as a rough guide:

From San Francisco to Santa Monica is around 500 miles From Santa Monica to Joshua Tree is around 150 miles From Joshua Tree to Death Valley is around 260 miles From Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes is around 200 miles From Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite is normally around 75 miles but this depends on the pass being open From Yosemite back to San Francisco is around 170 miles.

I hope this helps! Have a great time in California 🙂

28th January 2023 at 2:46 pm

Hi. Would you recommend Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon? We will be driving back from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas and are thinking of an extended detour north rather than going back via Kingman. Thanks

29th January 2023 at 9:07 am

It is with some dismay that I’m not able to accurately answer your question as both parks are still on my to-do list and I haven’t visited either. So rather than inaccurately answer your question I would have to say I don’t know. I definitely want to visit them both, and from the photos I have seen I don’t think you would be disappointed with either, but that’s about as much as I can say for now until I have visited both!

Sorry not to be of more help but I hope you have an amazing trip nonetheless!

Maxine says

4th August 2022 at 8:16 am

This post has been super helpful and given us great ideas for a trip we are planning with our two teenagers next summer. We want to include vegas, therefore, would you recommend that we head there after San Diego before heading back to Yosemite? Thank you

4th August 2022 at 6:06 pm

Thanks very much, glad you found the post useful! So yes, heading from San Diego or Death Valley to Las Vegas would make the most sense. I’ve actually written a trip out that is similar to this one but include Vegas (and the Grand Canyon if you wanted to also include that). That’s here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/2-week-usa-road-trip-itinerary/

You can save time of course by skipping the Grand Canyon 🙂 Let me know if you have any more questions, I’m happy to help. Otherwise, have a great trip!

William D Villont says

6th January 2022 at 9:03 pm

My wife and I took a California trip similar to this one except we went south to San Diego as our final destination. I really enjoyed the trip and can fully understand why you highlight this trip as one someone should surely take. We agree. My only disappointment of the trip is that, at the time, I was doing videography and that is all I took on the trip, my video camera. Now that I have gotten back into photography I wish I had taken my camera as well. We rarely get out the old video (VHS tape) and watch and I have not taken the time to transfer the VHS to DVD yet. I just gave it away, that this trip was sometime ago because I was shooting VHS. Anyway I would love to take this trip again and if this Covid thing ever goes away, maybe I will. Thanks for sharing this trip.

7th January 2022 at 11:29 am

Hi William,

I’m glad to bring back positive memories of your California trip! Interesting to hear you mostly took video. I have a similar reverse quandry when I travel, I usually only find myself able to concentrate on one medium of story telling as we go, so I focus on photos. But I often think it might be nice to have more videos. I hope you get to watch your video soon and also to take the trip again one day!

Have a lovely and safe 2022,

Delaney Blute says

1st July 2021 at 3:18 am

Hi! Thank you so much for the wonderful travel recommendations. I’m planning on taking this trip with my mother and sister, possibly leaving next late summer. Do you have a ball park recommendation for price for the entire trip for 3 people? We plan on budgeting it, but just wanted to know if you had any estimate of what this trip would cost for 3 people. Thanks so much!

1st July 2021 at 12:47 pm

Hi Delaney,

This is a great question. So it’s really hard to give a price estimate because everyone has a different travel style, and it will depend on what type of accommodation you are thinking of booking, whether you are happy to share a room for the three of you vs have individual rooms, whether you are ok with budget dining vs more expensive options and so on. I’m also not sure if you’re from the US or not, so car rental if you need to rent a car would also be a cost to consider.

I do have a guide which has a ballpark idea of costs for travel in the UK, which you can see here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-usa/

That should give you an idea of how much each element of the trip should cost you, to help you come up with a rough figure. The main costs are going to be your accommodation, gas / car rental / car parking in cities, food, and any attraction entry.

I hope this helps! Let me know if I can provide any further input, and have a great trip 🙂

Chantelle says

7th March 2020 at 2:06 pm

We have a trip booked for just short of a month in September! Your blog was really helpful, thank you!

I was wondering if you had some advice on Car vrs Camper. Is it easy to find places to stay in a camper or would you recommend a car and motels. We are happy either way just want our trip to be as stress free as possible!

7th March 2020 at 5:07 pm

Hi Chantelle!

So we have done both, and honestly, we prefer motels / B&Bs to campsites.

In the USA, campsites are a bit different to the UK in my experience. They tend to have more formal “sites” for each visitor, which means they can’t just squeeze another person in. When they are full they’re full. For National Parks especially, this means that they can book out and then you can be stuck trying to find somewhere to stay. You can of course book them in advance, so that’s an option. The other good news is that if you have a campervan all is not lost as there are places you can camp for free. However these tend not to be totally exciting, Walmart carparks for example let folks stay overnight, but this might not be the dream option.

The other thing is that if you do the math, you will find that the cost of renting a campervan + the cost of paying campsite fees will probably be a lot more than the cost of a cheap car and economy lodging. Plus if you plan on visiting a few of the cities in this itinerary a camper will be more effort than it’s worth. You didn’t mention budget so this might not be a huge factor, but I just wanted to highlight it.

I think you can see where my preference lies for this itinerary. Obviously if you love camping and want to spend more time out in the backcountry and national parks, it’s a great option. But you might find that buying a cheap tent and a couple of sleeping bags for a few nights is a better option than renting a camper 🙂

Have a great trip – let me know how it goes and what you decide to do! We have a facebook group you’re welcome to share your experiences in here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/

chantelle sims says

14th March 2020 at 2:44 pm

This has been so incredibly helpful thankyou!!

My pleasure Chantelle – have a great trip!

Sharon says

16th February 2020 at 7:40 pm

Great inspiration and ideas, thanks

16th February 2020 at 9:34 pm

Our pleasure Sharon, thanks for stopping by and commenting!

Thiago says

12th February 2020 at 7:45 pm

Just want to thank you for these super detailed guides, guys;

13th February 2020 at 10:48 am

Our pleasure Thiago, if you have any questions we’re happy to help 🙂 Safe travels!

Kathy Reed says

26th January 2020 at 5:51 pm

Hi – this was an amazing find! Loved all of your recommendations. Do you have any recommendations for anything just a little further north into the Redwoods. Perhaps starting in Santa Monica and going north? Though i do love the loop feature of this itinerary. Makes it so hard to decide. Thanks!

28th January 2020 at 9:19 am

We have travelled north of this itinerary as well, with our highlights including Napa Valley, Point Reyes National Park and Redding, however we’ve not put together a detailed itinerary for this sort of trip as we’ve not covered the area in enough detail. If redwoods are what you are after particularly, then on this itinerary you can see them near Santa Cruz, if you did want to follow it.

Let me know if I can offer any more advice for your trip!

4th January 2020 at 4:39 pm

Hi Great site for info ? Just would like to know what time of year would you recommend doing this road trip ive just read on here ,we’re coming from the UK so any info will help us plan Many thanks Barry

5th January 2020 at 11:25 am

It can definitely be done at any time of year, but I might avoid the depths of winter as snow can make the roads into Yosemite a challenge, plus it will be quite cold. So if you are looking for more of a summery California road trip, I might suggest May through September. We just toured California in August, and it was definitely very hot inland, as well as being busy so perhaps May/June or September would be the best time for a good combination of weather and fewer people 🙂

Debbie says

4th January 2020 at 3:03 pm

Hi We are planning this trip in April 2020! We will skip LA (Not interested) & Yosemite (We’ve already been) & we will only spend 1 day in San Francisco (we’ve already been) my question is do you think we can do the rest in 7 days?? We definitely want to do the scenic drive from San Francisco to San Diego & back to San Fran an thank you for all the wonderful information!!

5th January 2020 at 11:32 am

Hey Debbie!

Awesome 😀 So you can do the Pacific Coast Highway from SF to San Diego in a couple of days if you don’t mind going at a bit of a pace. I’d probably slow it down to 3 days though. I’m not sure if you still plan on seeing Joshua Tree and Death Valley – if you plan on going up and down the Pacific Coast Highway both ways, then you’re actually going to end up driving much more than this itinerary if you do visit Death Valley, as you’ll do about 2/3rds of the route and then turn around.

I’m not sure if you wanted to go to Las Vegas instead, but what you could do instead of going all the way back is finish in Vegas. I have noticed that many car hire firms don’t charge one way fees for trips between SF and Las Vegas, and flights out of Las Vegas are also very inexpensive. Even if you don’t want to do the whole Las Vegas thing, there are some lovely outdoor attractions in the area including the Hoover Dam and the spectacular valley of fire state park.

Anyway, just a thought. To answer your question – yes, you could do the rest in 7 days but I fear it might be a bit rushed,

30th December 2019 at 1:24 am

How many miles is this trip in total?

30th December 2019 at 3:28 pm

Around 1400 miles, but you’ll want to add on detours, side trips etc. So I’d say 1500 – 2000 to be on the safe side 🙂

Mallikarjun says

19th December 2019 at 8:51 pm

Can you please let me know the “Public Transport” options, it may be Bus, Metro or any other services in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego. I am planning for a trip in end of Jan 2020 for about 6 to 7 days to cover these cities. Or is there any travel packages you suggest for these cities. Please let me know.

Thanks, Malli

22nd December 2019 at 5:29 pm

My pleasure, and apologies for the slow response, I’ve had some site issues I’ve been working on.

For your question, are you looking for public transport between the cities, or in the cities? If the former, then I’d generally recommend the long distance bus as the best way to get between the cities in California, although you will struggle to get to more remote locations this way.

For each city you mention, there are different options. San Francisco is the easiest to get around, as there’s a great bus system as well as bikes, e-bikes and scooters. LA is a bit trickier – there are both buses and a metro, but just be aware that the distances can be quite far as the city is very spread out. So the best option is to figure out what you want to see and make sure the accommodation you pick is as close to the sights as possible.

San Diego is also easy to get around for the most part, with buses, trolleys and trains.

I hope this helps 🙂

Samantha says

28th October 2019 at 1:20 pm

Hi! this sounds amazing and I am literally looking at booking this for June next year! From looking about the only area that I am a bit unsure of is Death Valley – where is best to stay around there and if only doing a day – what would be the best suggestion of something to do? I am also thinking that we will add 1 day on to do a Vegas stay since its so close!

29th October 2019 at 8:31 am

Hi Samantha,

So when we visited we stayed just outside the valley at Panamint Springs – specifically we stayed here .

A day is enough to see the highlights of Death Valley. You’ll want to visit Badwater Basin of course, the lowest point in North America. Other highlights including the Mesquite Sand dunes, Zabriskie Point, the Devil’s Golf Course, the Artists Drive and Palette and Mosaic Canyon.

We can definitely recommend tacking on a trip to Vegas as well. We’re actually thinking of publishing a new itinerary in the coming months which includes Vegas, as it’s a popular addition 🙂

Gisele leduc says

13th October 2019 at 3:38 pm

Would like to know w ymt is there a bus trip to 14 days in calif. Where does the bus leave from in the US. And approx how much is the cost

14th October 2019 at 8:36 pm

Sorry, could you clarify? Are you looking for a tour of California?

15th October 2019 at 3:32 pm

Looking for next year we live in Ottawa Canada and would like to take a 14 day bus tour especially san Francesco and pacific route. Are there bus tours leaving let’s say from Buffalo, New York we can easily drive to these destinations. I meant leaving from New York City and Buffalo. What would be the cost and does it include meals. Thank u

Gisele Leduv says

15th October 2019 at 7:37 pm

Hi I would like to know if there are Any bus tours leaving from New York City or buffalo 14 day road trip to California especially the pacific coastland. What would be the cost for such a trip.

16th October 2019 at 8:08 pm

Hey Gisele,

I have looked but most tours that depart from New York and go to California are much longer, because the distance is so great from the east coast to the west coast. If you want a tour that focuses more on California, it would definitely be easier to get one that departs from San Francisco or Las Vegas rather than New York – is that a possibility?

vivianchoo says

5th October 2019 at 4:44 am

Good articles and good photos, Helps a lot. Thank you!

5th October 2019 at 10:16 am

My pleasure – have a great trip!

Jason Parsons says

19th August 2019 at 3:23 pm

This is a super inspiring blog. Which area did you stay in Yosemite? We are planning to complete our road trip with 3 nights in Yosemite. We will have a car and plan on day trip walks within the park.using a hotel or lodge as our base.

19th August 2019 at 4:09 pm

Thanks very much! In Yosemite we’ve stayed in a few places. On the trip with the photos in this post, we stayed in Curry Village, which were canvas tents ( https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/lodge/yosemite-curry-village/ ).

Jess has also stayed at the Wawona hotel, and the other lodge options are The Ahwahnee Hotel and the Yosemite Valley Lodge. I would definitely recommend staying with the park if you can as it makes it a lot easier to see everything within a short distance. The various options are at different price points though, so you’ll have to figure out which is best for you 🙂

Have an amazing trip!

julie morton says

15th June 2019 at 4:36 pm

Great article, thank you. I will be doing a similar route with my husband in September. Do you have any further guides on the Mammoth Lakes area or could you suggest somewhere to base ourselves there for a couple of nights please? We will be coming from Death Valley and then heading on to Yosemite.

15th June 2019 at 8:31 pm

Hi Julie! We don’t have anything else about Mammoth Lakes unfortunately on our blogs. We have guides to other parts of California, including Yosemite, but Mammoth Lakes is still on the to do list.

Have a great trip, sorry we couldn’t help this time!

Tara West says

2nd June 2019 at 6:30 pm

Hi there, Just found your blog. Really helpful. Thank you. We are thinking of doing a Californian road trip with our 5 month old baby in Sept. How long are the drives between the places you mention? I wouldnt want to do LA so would probably do San Diego instead. Is there anywhere you advise missing out with a baby? Thanks so much. Tara

3rd June 2019 at 6:26 pm

Our pleasure, we’re delighted to be able to help 🙂

So the drives will obviously vary depending on what you stop and see, but none of the days on the itinerary should have more than four hours driving. We’ve also not got any personal experience with traveling with a baby, however, just bear in mind that even in September Death Valley is going to be very hot. Other than that I don’t see a reason not to go to any of the locations on the list, and Death Valley will be manageable, just take care with the heat 🙂

Priya Singh says

30th April 2019 at 6:40 am

I really appreciate the work you have done, you explained everything in such an amazing and simple way.Good post. I was searched for this topic. Finally, I got the information on this blog. Thanks for the effective information.

30th April 2019 at 5:38 pm

Thanks Priya – pleased we were able to help! Have a great trip 🙂

Rafael says

5th March 2019 at 1:45 pm

Hi guys, great post. I found it really handy now as i’m planning a 3 week road trip through California (and Nevada) in a month (apr 6 to 27). We are starting in LA, just a few days and then planning to go to Joshua Tree (Mojave, is it worth it?), Las vegas, Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Yosemite, San Francisco, and Route 1 back to LA. It’s quite a lot of days, and i find hard to plan where to sleep every night, as i’m not sure how long would it take me to visit every national park, and even cities. So my question is, should i book in advance all different accomodation? In that case how many days should we give to the different national parks and places. As the trip gets so long, we are being really careful with our budget, and that takes me to the second question, what are the best places to stay on a budget in the different stops?

By the way, we are a group of four, planning to rent a car.

Thanks again for your post. Looking forward to read your answer!

Rafael from Uruguay

5th March 2019 at 2:50 pm

Thanks very much 🙂

So to answer your questions. I think Mojave is worth it if you like deserts and wide open spaces.

In terms of accommodation, you are not travelling at a very busy time of year, although it is easter towards the end of April. However there are no Federal holiday, so it should not be too busy. So this means you should be able to book quite last minute. The only places I would advise maybe booking in advance would be any national parks you want to stay in, which can be busy year round. So Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Death Valley, if you plan on staying inside the park, you will want to plan your accommodation in advance.

In terms of budget accommodation, the parks all have campsites, so that would likely be the cheapest option if you don’t mind camping. Some have existing tents you can hire if you don’t want to bring your own tent – Yosemite for example has some nice fixed tents which are not too expensive. For other cities, I’d advise looking at the budget motel chains like Motel 6, Red Roof Inn and so on. These can be very cheap, but do be aware they are not always very central. So you might find something like AirBnB to be more cost effective.

As you are visiting a number of parks you will probably want to buy a national parks pass, which will save you money on parks entry.

I’d also advise taking a look at my guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA, which should give you some more budgeting ideas 🙂

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-usa/

Let me know if you have any more questions!

c. m. crawford says

17th February 2019 at 3:22 pm

I would take extra care with possessions in the big cities in California. I left my purse in the back of my rental car, parked in a highly visible location on a beach in San Francisco, and even though there were people walking up and down the beach, the window was smashed and the purse stolen. Luckily wallet & phone were on me and the purse was even found and turned in to the police, but I had to exchange the rental car. Other than that California is awesome.

17th February 2019 at 4:34 pm

Sorry to hear that Cris! This is definitely an issue around the world, we always recommend not leaving any valuables in sight in a car as it makes for a tempting option for a thief 🙁 Glad to hear you got your purse back though!

Matthias says

9th February 2019 at 6:57 pm

Hey you guys! You have a great blog and this post inspired the route for my first trip to California with a buddy (we’re planning on doing pretty much the same route). But our plan is doing it the other way around: Also starting end ending in SF but heading to Yosemite from there and doing the trip clockwise. Would love to hear your thoughts on that idea 🙂

10th February 2019 at 6:06 pm

Hi Matthias!

The route would work either way. The only thing is that many people prefer to drive the PCH from north to south as you are on the right hand side of the road, so you get clearer views. But it’s stunning either way to be honest 🙂

Catherine Smithfield says

18th January 2019 at 4:12 pm

Hi Laurence,

Fabulous site guys… I would love some tips please my husband and I are planning a once in a lifetime trip to the USA, we fly into and out of Los Angeles , arriving 16th October and leaving 5th December. We will be spending thanksgiving with friends in Washington state . We would like to drive the Pacific highway, see some of LA, San Fran , Yosemite,Death Valley Las Vegas,- just very quick as we feel we should see it and the Grand Canyon . We love nature, beautiful landscapes, we are also foodies . Any suggestions would be very welcome , hire car v Rv , obviously due to the length of our trip I would like to be sensible on accommodation costs…is there a reliable decent hotel/motel chain you would recommend, or Airbnb. I have also been looking a5 the trusted Housesitters website but have recently come across a few very negative reviews . Many thanks catherine(UK)

18th January 2019 at 6:33 pm

Hi Catherine!

Thanks so much! We’ll do our best to help out.

So first of all, if you haven’t already, we can definitely recommend checking out the USA sections of both our websites:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/category/destinations/north-america/usa/ https://independenttravelcats.com/category/travel-destinations/united-states/

Where we have loads of posts that you will find useful. Most particularly, I’d advise reading our driving in the USA , and our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA . That latter one in particular will help you in terms of costing out the trip.

For a hire car, a normal car rental is going to be a lot cheaper than an RV, especially as you will most likely still have to rent campsite space to stay at. A standard hire car in the US will usually start at around $200 a week. Our US travel budget post has a lot more on how to find the best deal and things to watch out for.

In terms of accommodation, the US has a wide range of options. The cheaper chains include: Red Roof Inn, Motel 6, Super 8, America’s Best Value Inn, Travelodge. The next step up would be Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn.

Note that the cheaper hotels are often found a little way outside of towns, often at interstate exit ramps. It’s also worth being aware that they are nearly all franchises, and so as a result the quality can vary dramatically, so it’s always worth reading reviews before visiting.

For booking and reviews, we highly recommend Booking.com . We have nearly always found this to be the cheapest option, even compared to turning up at the property, and the reviews can be a helpful guide. However, just bear in mind that cheaper hotels tend to rate worse, as folks can have high expectations!

Hopefully all this helps, let us know if you have any more specific questions we can help with!

Natasha says

9th January 2019 at 10:22 am

PS We are also planning to visit family in LA and have possible access to accommodation in Pacific Grove so should we be considering finding snow at Big Sur instead of north of San Fran? PPS Budget is going to be very tight!

9th January 2019 at 10:38 am

Hey Natasha!

So I’ll answer the Big Sur question first 🙂 Snow isn’t very common at Big Sur as it’s right by the sea, and it doesn’t usually get much except at higher elevations. The most reliable option is to head east to Tahoe or Yosemite, although that is going to be quite a drive and won’t fall into the definition of a short drive I’m afraid 🙁 The other option is to head up towards Auburn, as you get closer to the Sierra Nevada Mountains you will definitely find snow, but again, this isn’t going to be a short drive.

Whilst there is always a possibility of snow elsewhere, I wouldn’t want to guarantee it!

In terms of house swaps, the closest option we have for you is TrustedHousesitters , but that’s more of a house sitting opportunity than a home swap. I know there are home swapping platforms, but we’re not familiar with them, so I wouldn’t want to give a recommendation!

I hope you have a wonderful trip!

9th January 2019 at 2:44 pm

Thanks for the super-prompt response! Very helpful to know Big Sur is unlikely to tick the box and we hadn’t considered Auburn so I’ll find out more about that instead. Otherwise we’ll stick to Yosemite or Tahoe, which we’ve heard lots about.

9th January 2019 at 2:50 pm

My pleasure! Those two will definitely be fantastic, Yosemite in winter in particular is stunning. We have a guide to visiting Yosemite here 🙂

Also, I know real snow is ideally preferable, but there are a number of locations that generate snow that are going to be closer to San Francisco. If you google “snow in san francisco” or something similar, you should find some options!

9th January 2019 at 10:17 am

Thrilled to find your fascinating and helpful site! We live in Cape Town, and are planning a month in California between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, focussed around spending time with family in San Fran.

But my 14- and 16-year-olds have never experienced snow so we’re looking for guaranteed on-the-ground snow in early/mid December, as short a drive from SF as possible. Skiing not required, but snowman-building and perhaps some sledging would be great.

Also, can you recommend a site we might arrange a house swap through?

20th November 2018 at 8:30 pm

Hi, I’d like to know if February os a good time to make this travel. And what do you think about Sequoia National park?

27th November 2018 at 11:22 am

February would be good, just be aware that there might still be snow in Yosemite and so you’ll need to keep an eye on road closures around that area. We haven’t visited Sequoia National Park, but we have heard it is a great park, well worth visiting 🙂

12th November 2018 at 10:53 am

Hi there! This post has been really helpful as my partner and I are planning our honeymoon for April 2019 and we would love to roadtrip in the US. We have about 12 nights and would love to spend good chunks of time in San Francisco, LA or Santa Monica and some national parks. We would also love to do the Pacific Coast. We were originally thinking of flying into San Francisco and out of LA, but your post has me wondering if a roundtrip is better. Would you suggest we amend your suggested route? Which of the the national parks would be the best to visit?

12th November 2018 at 4:15 pm

Hey Neely! There are so many great National Parks, but Yosemite is definitely up there as one of my favourites. I would say a round trip is better – the route I have outlined makes a nice loop, and car hire is nearly always better value if you return the car where you picked it up 🙂

Chiara says

2nd October 2018 at 5:21 pm

Hi! I love your blog guys! We are thinking about a road trip in California next summer, and this post is a perfect inspiration! We will travel with our kids, they will be 3 and 6 and we have 3 weeks instead of 2. Do you have suggestions on how/where to use the extra days? Considering we can’t plan super long tiring car journeys and have to incorporate some activities they would enjoy too like some beach life, aquariums… Any suggestion is very welcomed! Thank you very much in advance!

4th October 2018 at 4:20 am

Hey Chiara!

So my suggestion would be to follow this itinerary, but just to go a bit slower and spend a bit more time in each place. I’d definitely suggest the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the San Diego Zoo as two great options along the way, and Universal Studios in LA is also sure to be a hit 🙂 Along the PCH you’ll also find loads of lovely beaches, so I think you’ll easily be able to stretch this two week road trip into a three week California itinerary! Have an awesome time!

4th October 2018 at 2:09 pm

Thank you very much!

ANGELINE MONTIJO says

19th August 2018 at 3:48 pm

Hi Im planning a road trip with my family to California from Orlando,Fl on June 2019. I want some advice where should we start.

19th August 2018 at 5:41 pm

Hi Angeline! Do you mean where to start in terms of planning? If you could let me know how long you are travelling for and what your interests are, then we can try to help. In the meantime, we can help out with some tips on driving in the USA:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-driving-in-usa/

And some tips on budgeting for your trip:

The overall route you take will also take you through part of our Deep South USA itinerary:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/usa-deep-south-road-trip-itinerary/

As well as parts of our Route 66 itinerary:

https://independenttravelcats.com/2-week-route-66-itinerary-ultimate-american-road-trip/

Which should both serve to help inform your planning on your route 🙂

Lisa Stark says

16th August 2018 at 1:20 pm

Hi, my partner and me are planning to do a road trip next September 2019, starting from San Fran and heading south, eventually arriving in San Diego over a 2 week period. Can you recommend a good car hire company, how long before we should book and some nice places to stop with boutique hotels, This will be out first time in America and I’m completely at a loss where to start planning. Many thanks. Lisa

16th August 2018 at 7:05 pm

Hey Lisa! Well, that’s a great question. There are a number of hire car companies that we recommend, you can see our list here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/travel-resources/#Car-Rental

It looks like you are doing a one-way trip, so just bear in mind that sometimes the “meta-search” tools that search a variety of providers don’t always account for that. So it might be easier to go direct. We’ve found that it really varies, but we’ve often had success with Enterprise and Hertz. It’s also worth bearing in mind that pick up from an airport location is nearly always more expensive than a city location, so if you can be flexible in that regard you will likely save a bit of money. Especially somewhere like San Francisco, as you don’t really need the car for the city and it will just end up costing you in car parking fees and wasted rental fees for a car you aren’t using.

For hotel and car bookings, I’d usually say the further in advance the better so you have everything sorted and don’t have to worry about it. In terms of stops, your route pretty much follows the Pacific Coast Highway, and we have a super comprehensive guide to all the towns along the route which you can see here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/planning-a-california-pacific-coast-highway-road-trip-from-san-francisco-to-los-angeles/

That also has planning tips and suggestions. I’d also advise reading our tips for driving in the USA: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-driving-in-usa/

And our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-usa/

In terms of other things to think about, I’m not sure which country you are coming from, but definitely consider getting a travel credit card that won’t charge you for foreign transaction fees, and maybe a SIM card that offers roaming in the USA. Three in the UK has a pretty good deal for SIM cards that offer free data in the USA.

Hopefully this helps a bit, let me know if you have other questions. It gives me an idea to put together a first timers guide to travelling in the USA 🙂

6th August 2018 at 12:24 pm

This is a great read, thank you for sharing. My partner and I are looking to do a similar trip in October this year. However, we are slightly confused on the route (and in what order) to do it all in. We want to do 14 nights and start in San Francisco and either end in San Diego or Vegas. (Everyone says Vegas is a must see at least once and although not on the top of our list, we thought we could add it on the end).

Our initial thoughts are 3 nights in San Fran, 2 in Yosemite, 1 in Monterey, 1 in Santa Barbara. 3 in la, 2 in San Diego and 2 in Vegas. Does this sound too ambitious? And any thoughts on in what order we would do this? I would appreciate anyones input on this. Thank you in advance!

6th August 2018 at 12:58 pm

My pleasure. So the only slight niggle in your itinerary is that Yosemite is the opposite direction to the Pacific Coast Highway, so that will add a bit of driving time to your route (it’s about 3 – 4 hours each way from San Francisco). I definitely recommend Yosemite, it’s just going to take a bit of time to do it on this trip. Overall your route is certainly do-able, as long as you don’t mind a fair bit of driving. I like that you are scheduling multiple nights in the various locations, that will give you more time to enjoy without rushing. I’d say that your order is pretty good, I can’t think of a better way to do it.

6th August 2018 at 1:27 pm

Thank you for taking the time reply! I am glad it sounds doable. I think the multiple stops should help to break up the drive (I won’t be doing it my other half has that pleasurable job =) ). Yes Yosemite is the one we are are a bit confused about as when to add it. Before or after San Fran and at what point as you say it is out of the way, but is a must for us, and we don’t want to miss anything on the drive down from San Fran to La, so a tricky one. Thank you for your input, much appreciated!

Tim Shakespeare says

24th July 2018 at 9:42 am

Hi there, my wife and I are coming mid October to California for a road trip celebrating my 50th. We start in SF, only for 2 days, then have 3 days before we get to Yosemite. Have you any recommendations of where to visit in that time, we don’t mind going in any direction before heading towards Yosemite? We then head to Las Vegas for my actual birthday for 3 days then onto LA for a further 4 days, any suggestions of where to spend time between the cities?

24th July 2018 at 9:42 pm

Hey Tim! Well, it really depends on what you are interested in! Obviously you’re not too far from Napa Valley if it’s wine you’re after, or you could head north to Redding, where there’s some beautiful scenery. A sojourn along the Pacific Coast Highway, or at least part of it, is also an option – there are so many cute towns along that route to check out (see our guide here: https://independenttravelcats.com/planning-a-california-pacific-coast-highway-road-trip-from-san-francisco-to-los-angeles/

Between Vegas and LA, the obvious choices are Joshua Tree National Park, and the whole Mojave Desert is pretty impressive. I’m assuming you’ll stop at Death Valley from Yosemite, but if not, you could head up that way. Another option is to head south from Vegas and find Route 66, and follow then into LA, which is a fun option. You can see more on Route 66 here: https://independenttravelcats.com/2-week-route-66-itinerary-ultimate-american-road-trip/

Hope this helps a bit! Have a great trip and happy birthday!

tim shakespeare says

27th July 2018 at 2:56 pm

Thanks Laurance, that info is really useful

28th July 2018 at 4:08 pm

My pleasure 🙂

Paula Lambie says

20th July 2018 at 2:35 pm

Hi Laurence, Absolutely loved your article. We are a group of 6 friends that are coming from Trinidad and want to stay about 7-8 days on a road trip starting in LA and possibly leaving from San Fran. We are coming around the end of Feb 2019 and leaving around March 6 or 7th. Still in the planning stages and would appreciate any advice or recommendations. I want to include Yosemite and Sequoia but don”t know if it is feasible with the time period we are looking at. Any advice would greatly be appreciated. Take care.

22nd July 2018 at 9:09 pm

Thanks very much. So Yosemite would be feasible, but you have to bear in mind that in February and March it can still be quite snowy in the park, and it’s also a four hour drive each way from San Francisco, so that’s going to eat up a lot of your time. My suggestion would be to definitely do the Pacific Coast Highway over two or three days, and then depending on your interests, either some time in places like the Joshua Tree, or the cities like LA, San Francisco or San Diego. Another option is to go further north of San Francisco, although Yosemite is a really incredible place and well worth the effort to get out there!

Hope this helps, have a great trip!

Louisa says

12th June 2018 at 6:03 pm

Hi Laurence, We are a family of 5 holidaying in California in August and staying San Francisco (3 nights) -Yosemite (3 nights)-Monterey (2 nights)-Santa Barbara (1 night) and at the moment San Diego (2 nights) and LA (3 nights). I am wondering if we are being over ambitious at the end of the holiday and should just stay in LA rather than driving down to San Diego and back to LA for our flight back? Is San Diego a must see? I am torn between wanting to see it all while we are in California but not overdoing it and rushing too much. What are the travel times likely to be realistically between Santa Barbara, LA and San Diego at that time of year? Thank you for any advice.

13th June 2018 at 11:07 am

Hey Louisa!

I think San Diego is worth visiting, and as you have 3 nights already in LA I don’t think you’ll have too much rush. I will be honest and say that I don’t know exactly what the travel times at that time of year will be, but I find that Google usually estimates travel times pretty well – just avoid the peak rush hours and you should generally be fine 🙂

Shelley says

14th May 2018 at 9:00 am

Hi Laurence, Great website! We are booking a 3 week trip over Christmas. LA to San Francisco, via Vegas/Death Valley etc. Weather wise, what should we expect, particularly with Yosemite? Is there anywhere along the coast which is worth stopping off between LA and San Francisco for a night? Many thanks Shelley from Sydney

14th May 2018 at 2:53 pm

Hi Shelley!

Thanks for your comment – sounds like you have a wonderful trip planned. So, Yosemite in particular can be tricky in winter. It can be accessed, but you need to be aware that it will obviously be quite snowy, and access isn’t possible from all sides – the route I have laid out for example you would have to alter a bit in order to access Yosemite in winter, as the Tioga Road is closed. You also usually can’t get up to Glacier point in winter. But the major attractions in the valley are accessible. For more on visiting Yosemite in Winter, you can check out this guide to Yosemite in a day that Jess wrote: https://independenttravelcats.com/planning-day-yosemite-national-park-introduction-yosemite-valley/

There is a lot to see and do on the Pacific Coast Highway, certainly enough to fill a day or two. There are lots of towns to stop at, and which you choose really depends what you are into. Cambria is a favourite of ours, but there’s a lot to see and do. This post breaks down all the highlights, so you can make an informed decision 🙂

Have a fabulous trip!

Lis Brown says

1st May 2018 at 11:15 pm

Hi Laurence, great post and photos! My husband and I are planing to do 2 weeks driving trip in California, i love all your suggested destinations, I may do the same trip as yours. However, I will be 4 months pregnant (planning to go in May) during the trip, may I know if the in-land route/parks and lake visits are suitable for me and accessible by car or light walking/ light hiking? your trip is start from san francisco and end there too, am i right? thanks in advance!

2nd May 2018 at 8:24 pm

Hi Lis! Thanks very much 😀 The trip does start and end in San Francisco yep.

For your question – I have to admit to not being an expert as we’ve not had any kids, however there is definitely light hiking in the majority of places. Just be aware it can get very hot in some parts of California, so do take plenty of water along. My advice would be to check the websites for the national parks you want to visit and see what hiking routes they have – I think you should be fine, but it’s always best to check as one persons “light hike” is another persons marathon 😉

Theresa says

10th April 2018 at 1:59 am

This looks like a great route, but I was really hoping to see Sequoia National Park. Any advice?

13th April 2018 at 6:16 pm

Hi Theresa! Thanks very much! As that’s in the north, you’d want to add it on near San Francisco. So you could either spend less time in the city, or lose a day somewhere else on the route. It’s hard to give specific advice without knowing your exact interests, but as you sound like you prefer nature to cities, perhaps spending less time in the cities might work better for you? Have a great trip!

15th April 2018 at 5:51 pm

Thanks for your reply. Sequoia National Park is south of Yosemite on the map (Redwood National Park is north of San Francisco). It doesn’t appear that there is road access to Sequoia NP on your route which heads north on 395. I did more research and verified that is the case.

18th April 2018 at 6:22 am

Hi! My apologies, I was thinking of the redwoods to the north of San Francisco and got a bit confused – but that is another option if you can’t make it to Sequoia. Road access can be a challenge due the mountains, and also in winter some of the roads into Yosemite are closed due to snow. So you might have to alter the route a fair bit to make it to Sequoia if that’s a priority 🙂

Jacques says

5th April 2018 at 10:41 pm

Hi Lawrence , we are also considering tyis roadtrip this month. Were from Canada. Assuming we are on the road a giving day with no reservations for a room the same night , by what time do we need to confirm a room or is there plenty of options once arriving early evening. Thank for everything.

6th April 2018 at 5:09 pm

Hi Jacques! At this time of year for the most part you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a room at the last minute. It does depend a little on what level of accommodation you are after, but for quick and easy motels we found they had lots of availability in general. We do definitely advise always checking prices online somewhere like booking.com though, as we nearly always got better deals that way compared to turning up – often the person at the desk didn’t have the power to actually match a price. So do keep that in mind 🙂 Have a great trip, and let me know how it goes!

Jacques Gauthier says

20th May 2018 at 1:13 am

Hi Lawrence ! We decided to take two weeks to travel from San Francisco to LA (Manhattan Beach) . We travel along the coast for these 14 days and enjoyed it tremendously. Next trip will be the National Parks .

Thank you .

20th May 2018 at 2:36 pm

13th March 2018 at 1:27 pm

We are hoping to do everything in your itinerary plus San Diego, we will only have 15 nights and would like to spend at least 2 full days in San Diego and 2 full days in SF, do you think this is reasonable without spending too long out of the 15 days in the car?

13th March 2018 at 8:34 pm

I think that should be do-able yes, if you are focused and don’t get too distracted 😉 Have an awesome trip!

Jacqueline says

19th February 2018 at 4:25 pm

Hi! I am planning a trip with my 10 year old son and love the looks of your itinerary. What would you suggest budget wise for this trip (minus flights) for the two of us?

Thanks, Jacqueline

19th February 2018 at 6:03 pm

Hi Jacqueline! It’s quite tricky to put a budget together on a case by case basis because everyone has different styles and standards of travelling. I’d suggest taking a look at my guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA, which covers pretty much all the areas you need to consider, and should give you some ballpark figures 🙂

Let me know if you still have questions after checking that out 😀

Gai Pendlebury says

12th October 2017 at 11:04 pm

Thank you — what a great and helpful site you have made.We are flying into San francisco from Australia in April.We only have 10 nights.Your suggestions are great — we will miss the LA part.Happy for anyone hear to put in their opinions for an itinerary!We will spent 4 or 5 nights in San fran and 3 in yosemite but the 3 nights are up for grabs –we have done Big Sir before so probs wont go south on the coast.I am thinking maybe Lake tahoe,gold rush towns …love to walk,history, beautiful scenery and quaint American towns.Happy to drive long distances– thank you –your photos are wonderful!

Laurence says

13th October 2017 at 10:33 am

Our pleasure – thanks for commenting to let us know, it’s always appreciated. Sounds like you have some good plans already – one idea might be to head north for Shasta Cascade region and see the caves / redwoods. I have a post about that region on the site too 🙂 Have a fabulous trip!

14th October 2017 at 5:09 am

Thank for that .I will look into it a bit more — I am really impressed with your links for such like 12 best spots for photographing San Fran or Yosemite. So helpful to know where to go to get those great shots!

Jules Selby says

28th August 2017 at 10:24 pm

We are planning two weeks but thinking of hiring an RV instead of hotels, what do you think?

28th August 2017 at 10:43 pm

An RV is definitely a good idea, but do be aware that they can be pricey, and you often have to pay for camping on top of that as well – although there are a lot of places you can camp for free in the US! So really it’s up to you – we’ve done both, and RV’ing is definitely a lot of fun!

Bob Steiner, Jr says

25th June 2017 at 4:07 am

You can’t drive a highway 1 through Big Sur. The highest us closed and detours long and winding over dirt roads

25th June 2017 at 1:32 pm

Thanks for pointing this out. Do you know how long the road will be closed? I’ll put a note in the post.

Erica Landry Napolitano says

16th April 2017 at 7:52 pm

This is some great advice for our upcoming trip. We have almost three weeks out in CA and these will be some great spots! Traveling with an 8 and 10 year old this still seems doable! Thanks.

16th April 2017 at 7:54 pm

My pleasure, have an awesome trip!

Jenna Francisco says

17th September 2016 at 5:18 am

So many good ideas here, and I agree that visitors should plan at least 3 days in San Francisco and Yosemite. One suggestion I’d make related to the “when to visit CA” section–SF and much of the coast are cold and foggy in the summer, so it’s a good idea for visitors to dress in layers and expect lots of fog in summer, that way they won’t be disappointed!

Sarah @ Endless Distances says

14th August 2016 at 1:16 pm

Wow this is so exhaustive!! I’ve don’t the pch before and it’s a dream. I would also definitely recommend staying in Santa Barbara – and the Mexican street food!!!

20th August 2016 at 8:28 pm

Thanks Sarah! It’s a fun place to road trip for sure – thanks for the recommendation!

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Madelyne on the Move

The Best 7-Day California Road Trip Itinerary

It’s no secret that a road trip is the best way to fully appreciate the beauty and diversity that California has to offer! I’ve done a few different California road trips over the past few years that have taken me from the lowest point in North America (located in Death Valley National Park) to granite giants like Half Dome and El Capitan (located in Yosemite National Park). For me, the biggest struggle is always deciding where to go because there are so many options.

I still have several California road trips on my bucket list (cough cough the Pacific Coast Highway), but I loved every minute of my recent trip to California’s Sierra Nevada. In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know to pull off a successful California road trip itinerary in 7 days. This Sierra Nevada itinerary includes stunning vineyards and delicious wine, unforgettable hikes, charming historic towns, scenic drives, unique experiences, and more!

Visit California sponsored this post. All opinions expressed here are my own.

7-Day California Road Trip Itinerary 

If you plan to fly into California for this trip, renting a car is your best option for getting around. I recommend booking your car rental in advance to streamline to process when you get to the airport so you can hit the road ASAP. I generally use KAYAK.com to find the best deals on car rentals regardless of where I’m going!

California Road Trip Map

When to Road Trip in California

There’s no wrong time to plan a 7-day road trip itinerary in California because the state is so diverse. That being said, the time of year is a big factor to take into consideration when planning a trip. This particular itinerary is best suited for a late spring or summer trip due to potential road closures in the winter months and even into early spring. 

If you’re trying to plan a California road trip during the cooler months, consider a Southern California road trip! Death Valley National Park is a great spot to visit during the off-season.

Day 1: Arrive in Sacramento & Head Toward the Sierra Foothills

Your California road trip starts at the Sacramento Airport, which is where I recommend flying into for this itinerary. From there, you can pick up your rental car and get going! There’s an REI (along with various other retailers) in Sacramento in case you need to pick up any last-minute items or rent gear like snowshoes and trekking poles.

To get to Murphys (your first stop), you’ll embark on a two-hour drive heading southeast from Sacramento toward the Sierra Foothills. Murphys is a charming little town located in Calaveras County that is known for its wine scene and gold rush history . 

Travel days can be exhausting, so I suggest taking it easy on your first afternoon in Murphys. If you’re up for it, go for a stroll around town (it’s not big!) and pop into some of the unique shops like The Spice Tin and the Marisolio Tasting Bar. Then, grab dinner and get some rest!

Where to eat

• Dinner: On your first night, stop by V Restaurant, Bistro & Bar for fresh yet creative cuisine, great drinks, and amazing service. I was a big fan of the calamari and shrimp appetizer as well as the pasta dish I ordered! The atmosphere on the patio combined with a glass of red wine was just what I needed after a long travel day.

Where to stay

I highly recommend staying at the Dunbar House while in Murphys! I’m a sucker for bed and breakfasts because they always have the best vibes. The Dunbar House feels luxurious yet cozy and is in an amazing location! It’s off the main street, which can get a little loud at night, but is still close enough to everything that you’re within walking distance.

Day 2: Explore Calaveras Big Trees State Park & Spend the Afternoon Wine Tasting

Start your first full day in California at Calaveras Big Trees State Park to see some of the largest trees in the world ! FYI – There is an entry fee of $10 per vehicle. The state park is just 15 miles from Murphys, but the weather can change drastically due to the differences in elevation. Make sure you’re prepared! The trail was still covered in several feet of snow when I visited in late March despite there being no snow on the ground in Murphys.

At 1.7 miles roundtrip, the North Grove Trail is a great, easygoing option for marveling at the giant sequoia trees. If you’re up for more of a challenge or want to add more mileage, check out additional hiking options in Calaveras Big Trees State Park. 

After exploring, head back to Murphys for brunch and then spend the afternoon diving into Calaveras County’s wine scene. Make your way to Ironstone Vineyard and Newsome Harlow’s tasting room before grabbing sushi for dinner in downtown Murphys. 

P.S. – If you’re into small-batch spirits and creative cocktails, you must add Hinterhaus Distillery to your itinerary while in Calaveras County! I’m not usually big on spirits, but I really enjoyed stopping by the Hinterhaus tasting room. Everyone there was so kind and knowledgeable. I didn’t know what to order, but they were super helpful at making recommendations. I tried a gin and tonic, which was almost too pretty to drink, and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it!

• Brunch: I cannot recommend the breakfast burrito from Grounds Restaurant enough! Eggs, cheese, tomatillo sauce, sour cream, and fresh salsa… need I say more?!
• Dinner: To be completely honest, I didn’t have high standards for a sushi spot in a small town like Murphys, but a local recommended Doke Sushi to me, so I decided to give it a shot! And I am SO glad I went. Everything from the poke nachos to the sushi was absolutely delicious – and it’s right beside Newsome Harlow’s tasting room!

You can stay at the Dunbar House for an additional night or switch things up and try another lodging option in Murphys. The Victoria Inn and Murphys Historic Hotel are two popular spots right in the heart of downtown Murphys.

Day 3: Immerse Yourself in California’s Gold Rush History 

Wrap up your time in Murphys by grabbing breakfast at Aria and then head over to historic Columbia and spend some time exploring Columbia State Historic Park and immersing yourself in the area’s gold rush history. 

Columbia, which is in Tuolumne County , is just 20 minutes from Murphys. Tuolumne County is divided into three main regions – Yosemite ( over half of Yosemite National Park is in Tuolumne County! ), Gold County, and High Sierra. If you follow this 7-day California road trip itinerary, you’ll experience all three areas!

Columbia might be best known as a historic town, but it’s actually an excellent spot for bouldering! Go bouldering with Golden Chain Climbing Gear if you want to do something adventurous while in Columbia. I’d been rock climbing before but never bouldering and had the best time! It wasn’t as scary as I expected, and I really enjoyed trying something new.

• Breakfast: Start your day with coffee and a breakfast pastry from Aria before heading over to Columbia! 
• Lunch: While walking around Columbia State Historic Park, grab lunch at St Charles Saloon . They have delicious and unique specialty pizzas! The BBQ chicken pizza was SO good (10/10 would recommend)!
• Dinner: Located in downtown Sonora (within walking distance of Hotel Lumberjack) is one of Sonora’s best restaurants – Emberz ! They have tons of options ranging from pizza and pasta dishes (the lobster mac & cheese was delicious!) to steak and seafood. Whatever you do, make sure you save room for dessert because their brownie sundae is amazing! 

Located in Sonora, Hotel Lumberjack is an excellent place to base your stay while adventuring in Tuolumne County! The hotel isn’t overly fancy, but the rooms are modern and clean. I loved the fact that it’s within walking distance of cute shops and restaurants in downtown Sonora.

Day 4: Ski or Snowboard at Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort

I suggest dedicating the fourth day of your California road trip to exploring Tuolumne County’s High Sierra region. I was there in March, which was an excellent time for skiing and snowboarding at Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort . 

Make sure to get to Dodge Ridge early as it can get crowded on weekends if you can’t make it to the resort on a weekday. Nonetheless, it’s an awesome resort with affordable prices and a variety of runs. I took a snowboarding lesson (this was only my second time snowboarding) and my instructor was great! I felt so much more confident after our time together.

If you visit Tuolumne County during the warmer months, there will be even more things to do in the High Sierras – mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing are just a few examples! Within the Stanislaus National Forest are 78 lakes, 811 miles of streams and rivers, and over 1,000 miles of hiking trails. This area is an outdoor lover’s paradise! 

An ionic foot soak at Amala Detox Lounge in downtown Sonora will feel absolutely incredible after a long day of being outside. I had never done anything like this before but really enjoyed the experience. The entire process takes around 45 minutes to an hour, and I promise you’ll walk out feeling like a different person. Make sure to schedule an appointment online in advance if you want to give it a try!

• Breakfast: Walk from Hotel Lumberjack to Revive Coffee for a yummy breakfast and some coffee before heading out for a day full of adventures! 
• Lunch: If you’ll be out and about for the day doing outdoor activities, you may want to pack a lunch. Check out Diamondback Grill for a salad, sandwich, or burger if you’ll be in downtown Sonora around lunchtime. 
• Dinner: Right across the street from Hotel Lumberjack you’ll find an unassuming Mexican restaurant named El Arroyo . This might’ve been my favorite place we ate throughout the entire trip (although I will admit I am partial to Mexican food) – the tacos and service were excellent! 

Hotel options in downtown Sonora are pretty limited, so I recommend spending another evening at Hotel Lumberjack . I always like spending at least two nights at any given destination so I don’t feel super rushed. Alternatively, you could camp in Stanislaus National Forest if you want to be adventurous!

Day 5: Hetch Hetchy Reservoir with ECHO Cooperative (Yosemite National Park!)

If you want to explore Yosemite without the crowds , you need to visit the Yosemite region of Tuolumne County! Hetch Hetchy and Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias are two spots worth adding to your list. 

I’ve explored a sizable number of U.S. National Parks but still get intimidated when visiting new places sometimes. As a result, I’ve done guided hikes in national parks on multiple occasions. I highly recommend it, especially for solo travelers but it’s a great experience for groups too! ECHO Adventure Cooperative operates a variety of guided experiences in Yosemite ranging from day hikes to longer backpacking trips.

We were supposed to hike in the Hetch Hetchy area with our guide from ECHO Adventure Cooperative (who was super friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the area), however, the weather did not want to cooperate! Unfortunately, road closures prevented us from being able to hike in this part of Yosemite. No doubt I will be back to see the area in the future!

After exploring the Yosemite region of Tuolumne County, it’s time to head to Yosemite Valley! You’re in for a TREAT if you’ve never been before. I hadn’t been to Yosemite prior to this trip, but I had heard so much about it and seen countless videos. Driving into the valley was everything I imagined and more! It’s a really special experience.

Remember to grab an America the Beautiful Pass to cover your entrance fee to Yosemite National Park (and all other US national parks for one year from the date of purchase)! The annual pass for national parks is well worth the $80 because it saves you from paying $20-35 per vehicle to get into most parks. California alone has 9 national parks including Yosemite!

• Breakfast: I recommend grabbing breakfast in Sonora before heading out for Yosemite. Willow Wisp Café has a variety of delicious and affordable breakfast options ranging from omelettes to pancakes.
• Lunch: If you go on a guided hike with ECHO Adventure Cooperative, you can opt to have lunch included. Otherwise, I’d plan to pack your own lunch if you’re going to explore on your own! 
• Dinner: The Mountain Room is a great spot to have dinner in Yosemite Valley. It’s a bit more upscale (think steak, fish, etc.) and reservations are necessary. I tried both the filet and salmon since we ate here two nights in a row and was pleased with both dishes! 

Take full advantage of your time in the valley by staying inside the park! Yosemite Valley Lodge is in an amazing location and many of the rooms have incredible views from their balconies. The rooms are a bit rustic, but that’s to be expected in a national park. As I mentioned, the location is the main draw to this spot!

Day 6: Valley Floor Tour, Lower Yosemite Falls & Upper Yosemite Falls (Yosemite National Park!)

Your sixth day is a full day in Yosemite Valley – how exciting! I recommend spending the day hiking and sightseeing in the valley. After breakfast, start your day with a Valley Floor Tour (a guided bus tour) to learn helpful information such as the park’s history and significant landmarks. Your driver will narrate throughout the tour and stop at some key spots to let you off the bus to take photos! The Valley Floor tour lasts approximately two hours. 

You might want to grab lunch after your Valley Floor Tour before spending the afternoon hiking. Alternatively, you could swap things around and hike in the morning then do your Valley Floor Tour in the afternoon! Either way, there are some epic hikes in Yosemite Valley that you don’t want to miss. 

Lower Yosemite Falls (easy), Upper Yosemite Falls (moderate to strenuous), and Half Dome (strenuous) are some great options for hiking! If you decide to hike on one of the moderate to strenuous trails, make sure you’ve done extensive research so that you know what you’re getting yourself into (and whether you need a permit) and that you’re prepared with the Ten Essentials !

By the end of the day, you’ll probably be exhausted from all the exploring you’ve done! Grab a quick dinner, maybe spend some time on your balcony at the lodge, and then head to bed to prepare for a travel day tomorrow.

• Breakfast: Degnan’s Kitchen serves bagels and breakfast sandwiches and has a little coffee shop inside! Alternatively, you could grab breakfast items from the Village Store . 
• Lunch: If you’re not out on a hike, try Curry Village Pizza Deck for lunch! Otherwise, you might want to grab lunch stuff from the Village Store in the morning to take with you on your hike. 
• Dinner: For drinks and a burger or tacos, check out Bar 1899 in Curry Village. It’s a lot more low-key than The Mountain Room and a great place to grab a bite to eat after being out all day!

I highly recommend spending at least two nights at Yosemite Valley Lodge !

Day 7: Depart From Yosemite & Drive Back to Sacramento

On your last day, you’ll drive back to the Sacramento airport to drop off your rental car and head home! It’s quite a drive from Yosemite Valley to the airport (around 4 hours), so make sure you leave with plenty of time to spare to get there before your flight. 

If your flight is early, you may want to drive back to Sacramento the night before so you don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night to get back. There are plenty of lodging options in Sacramento !

Have you been to any of the destinations on this 7-day California road trip itinerary? If so, let me know in the comments! Finally crossing Yosemite off my bucket list was an amazing experience, but I also really enjoyed the time I spent exploring and trying new things in Calaveras County and Tuolumne County.

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Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Countless songs have been sung about California. It's a land of dreams and opportunity; innovation and enchantment. On this 12-day road trip around the length and breadth of the Golden State, you'll see why it's been a muse to so many and agree with the State Motto – “Eureka!”

On this ultimate California Road trip start on the sun-filled shores of SoCal, drive by the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur to San Francisco, admire the Redwoods, explore distant peaks in the Sierra and be embraced by the solitude of the Mojave Desert.

This curated 12-day itinerary covers as many of the state's varied landscapes as possible – with helpful tips on where to stop and spend the night. Read on below to start planning your own ultimate California road trip.

What is the ultimate California road trip itinerary?

The ultimate California road trip itinerary covers a total distance of 2,455 miles and would take a whopping 55 hours to drive nonstop. We suggest breaking up the drive over 12 days; this makes the average drive time about 4 hours and 30 minutes per day.

Some days entail as much as 7 hours of driving and others are as short as two, so read carefully to see where you'll have more time in a day to explore and note where you might want to spend more than one night if a lot of the previous day was spent driving.

The ultimate road trip itinerary in California

From gorgeous beaches on the sunny Pacific Coast to the towering redwood forests, majestic Sierra Mountain range and breathtaking scenery of Lake Tahoe, this road trip itinerary features the best things to do on the ultimate California road trip.

You can add detours and more days to your itinerary, but we strongly suggest visiting all the places highlighted on the map above for the best experience and an epic Californian adventure.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your ultimate California road trip, why not take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Day 1: Driving from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach

On your very first day on the road, you'll cover 180 miles from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach, which should take around 3 hours and 15 minutes of driving, mostly along the glistening coast.

Road trip route from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach

You'll pass quite a few SoCal hot spots on this first leg of the trip, including Malibu, Ventura, and Santa Barbara as you follow CA Route 1 (CA-1) North, Pacific Coast Highway, all the way to Pismo Beach .

If you'd like to learn more about driving on the Pacific Coast Highway, check out our comprehensive guide .

Things to explore on the way to Pismo Beach

Especially if you are an avid hiker, you won't want to miss Point Mugu State Park on your way north from Los Angeles. Just past Malibu, this state park has over 70 miles of gorgeous hiking and biking trails traversing the coastal hills at the northern end of the Santa Monica Mountains.

The popular Chumash Trail is accessible right off the Pacific Coast Highway. If you're feeling ambitious, do the Mugu Peak Trail. From the modest 1,266-foot elevation, you get sweeping panoramic views of the coast and La Jolla Valley; on a clear day, you can even see the Channel Islands!

If you know anything about California, then you know Santa Barbara is one of the cutest coastal cities in the south of California where you can enjoy the best beaches, wine, and nightlife.

This city makes the most of its enviable warm climate; you can lounge along the broad Leadbetter Beach or walk with an ice cream cone up and down Sterns Wharf.

In town, phenomenal food and wine await you along State Street; some of the best places are in the aptly named, and colorful, Funk Zone.

Santa Barbara is also famed for its Spanish Colonial style of architecture, and you can see great examples of it in the Old Mission as well as in the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Where to stay in Pismo Beach: a dune-buggy destination

One of the most idyllic and popular towns on the central coast, Pismo Beach is one of the few places where you can drive a dune buggy on the beach, see migrating Monarch butterflies, and enjoy a stellar local wine over the sunset.

The Inn at the Cove maximizes the breathtaking coastal vistas of Pismo Beach and is conveniently located off the Pacific Coast Highway. Along with all the standard amenities you would expect at a mid-range hotel, you can also book an in-room spa treatment or massage.

Many of their king rooms have private patios where you can continue to unwind after a long drive with a juicy local pinot noir. Across the highway, you'll find the Pismo Preserve, an abode of coastal serenity and a great place for a vigorous morning walk.

Day 2: Driving from Pismo Beach to Monterey

The second day of driving is slightly shorter at 150 miles, which will take around 3 hours and 30 minutes. You will drive past the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, past scenic Bixby Bridge and admire the crystal-clear ocean views in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

READ MORE - Our Guide to Pismo Beach

Road trip route from Pismo Beach to Monterey

You can look forward to more breathtaking coastal vistas as you continue driving north along US Route 101 North and CA-1. This is a particularly isolated stretch of road once you leave San Luis Obispo you likely won't find another gas station until you get to Big Sur.

Keep in mind that part of this route on the Pacific Coast Highway is currently closed due to rockslides and you might have to make an inland detour to get to Monterey.

Things to explore on the way to Monterey

There are many must-see stops all along the mythically beautiful coast of Big Sur, where mountains meet the sea. The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is much more accessible than the sprawling Peiffer Big Sur State Park and is located right on the coast.

Here you'll find that postcard-perfect McWay Cove Beach with its graceful waterfall.

Further north, treat yourself to some lip-smacking baked goods from the hamlet of Big Sur and make your way to Pfeiffer Beach. Here the sand has a purplish hue from the Manganese garnet cliffs that formed it. Don't miss out on taking a photo of the famous Keyhole Arch while you're here.

The old-world charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a nice change of scenery along a coast known for innovation and new-age eccentricities. Around the immaculate Carmel Plaza, you'll find multiple Michelin Star restaurants and tasting rooms showcasing the area's notable wines.

If you'd prefer a laid-back picnic followed by a hike, then you have a few outstanding options like Garrapata State Park, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and the powdery white sands of Carmel Beach.

Where to stay in Monterey: a sea view over cypress trees

A small, seaside town adjacent to Monterey, Pacific Grove is rustic and relaxing. The main attractions of Monterey are a moderate walk or a short drive away. Make the most of staying on this pleasant spot along the coast at the Seven Gables Inn .

This boutique property is meticulously maintained to take your breath away at every step.

All the common areas and many rooms have fantastic views of the cypress-lined Monterey coast. As if it couldn't get any better, they offer a scrumptious continental breakfast bathed in the coastal light to fully energize you for the next day of driving.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

We highly recommend visiting Monterey State Beach before you leave the city.

Day 3: Driving from Monterey to Sonoma

This is another moderate day of driving 160 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. If you don't hit any traffic along the way, then it should take 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Keep in mind that you'll be passing through the San Francisco Bay Area, so traffic in the mornings and evenings around commute time will be substantial. Traffic aside, it is a beautiful and diverse landscape that makes for a beautiful drive.

Road trip route from Monterey to Sonoma

Start driving north of Monterey on CA-1, this takes you past Santa Cruz, San Gregorio State Beach, and Half Moon Bay into San Francisco.

There's plenty to see here, in case you want to stay a day or two. Take US-101 North across the Golden Gate Bridge, then continue past San Rafael and navigate to CA Routes 121 and 12 to get to Sonoma.

Things to explore on the way to Sonoma

Santa Cruz is a popular weekend destination for people from the Bay Area and we can see why. Even though Southern California has arguably better weather for surfing, Santa Cruz is where this free-spirited water sport took root in the mainland US.

At Steamers Lane, a famous surf spot in the north of town, there's a quirky museum inside a lighthouse where you can learn about the area's connection to the sport dating back to the 1930s.

Santa Cruz is also famous for its Beach Boardwalk, one of the oldest amusement parks in the state featuring classic rides like the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. A pro tip for a great time in Santa Cruz: recharge with a warm cup of Pu-erh or green tea at the Hidden Peak Teahouse.

After exploring Santa Cruz drive another hour and a half north to reach San Francisco. This world-famous city has been booming and innovating for over a century.

Filled with colorful Victorian homes, distinctive neighborhoods, every kind of tasty ethnic cuisine, and major landmarks like Coit Tower, Pier 39, and Alcatraz, you might want to consider more than one night here if you have the time.

If you want to see a historic neighborhood, award-winning museum, and gorgeous park all in one go, then head to Haight-Ashbury to pay tribute to the godfathers of psychedelic rock, then walk through Golden Gate Park to the De Young Museum and admire their distinctive art collection.

On the other side of town, along the bay, grab an expensive-but-worth-it treat at the Embarcadero Market in the Ferry Building then walk along the piers before heading to the heart of the city for some shopping in union Square.

Where to stay in Sonoma: the golden heart of Wine Country

Sonoma is the flagship town of California Wine Country. The many varieties grown here pair well with farm-to-table cuisine available on every corner and the golden rolling hills that surround the area.

We recommend checking out a wonderful boutique hotel here that gives you a glimpse of the best of California living. The rooms of the Cottage Inn & Spa include bungalow-style cottages encircling a courtyard with a beautiful fountain at the center.

Whether you feel like an aromatherapy session or need some deep-tissue work done, their on-site spa has you covered.

It is just a 5-minute walk from Sonoma Plaza. Especially since this is a destination with too many wine-tasting opportunities to count, it is safe and convenient to place to stay within walking distance of all the major tasting rooms.

Day 4: Driving from Sonoma to Mendocino

On this day you'll drive for 140 miles back over to the coast and continue your northward journey along the rugged and breathtaking Sonoma coast. This drive will also take around 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Road trip route from Sonoma to Mendocino

From Sonoma, take CA Route 116 West through Petaluma and hop on Valley Ford Road to CA-1 North in Bodega Bay. From there, drive past Sonoma Coast State Park and Point Arena all the way to Mendocino.

Things to explore on the way to Mendocino

Beyond being the harbor side town where Hitchcock's “Birds” was filmed, Bodega Bay offers charm and opportunities for enjoying the outdoors in equal measure. One of the best local trails leads to the Bodega Head, the hilly tip of a small peninsula that has phenomenal 360-degree views.

If the water is just too tempting, this is also a great place to try kayaking on the scenic waters of the bay. For a delectable lunch in Bodega Bay, consider splurging on the Michelin-rated Terrapin Creek Café or get your seafood fix at Spud Point Crab Company.

A little further north, Salt Point State Park makes for the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs while walking along the Mendocino coast for an hour or two. The trails of this park take you through the dense evergreen forest that gives way to rugged cliffs and the roiling ocean.

This constant bombardment by the waves has sculpted the rocks and tide pools below into the most wondrous formations. Watching wave after wave crash and dissolve into frothy white foam is truly mesmerizing.

Where to stay in Mendocino: between rivers big and small

Mendocino is an isolated town at the mouth of a river that has a unique, East Coast aesthetic that stands out on the Pacific Coast. In addition to superior dining and whale-watching opportunities, the Mendocino Headlands State Park has fantastic trails that follow the Big River as it forms an estuary before merging with the ocean.

Just a little before you reach Mendocino, keep an eye out for Little River and the wonderfully bucolic SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm . It is only a 5-minute drive from the adorable downtown Mendocino area but offers better beach access than most places in town.

We couldn't get over the chance to wake up to a view of llamas overlooking the Pacific Ocean. After enjoying an artisanal breakfast at the inn, you can also walk directly through farm grounds to Van Damme State Beach and through the Spring Ranch Nature Preserve to more pristine coastal outlooks.

Day 5: Driving from Mendocino to Klamath

Today's drive is a little longer at 4 hours and 15 minutes and covers a distance of 210 miles. It takes you deeper into the foggy northern extremes of the redwood curtain.

Road trip route from Mendocino to Klamath

Take CA-1 North from Mendocino and follow it as it wanders inland and merges with US-101 North in Leggett. Here it continues north, but we recommend hopping on CA-254, also called the Avenue of Giants scenic road, just before Phillipsville.

This stunning road through the ancient redwood forests is worth the extra miles and the road eventually re-joins US-101 North just before the town of Stafford. Stay on US-101 North as it heads back towards the coast, past Eureka and Arcata, to Klamath.

Things to explore on the way to Klamath

Eureka is an underrated north coast town that we think is worth a visit. Once a booming port town that shipped lumber from the expansive interior forests to all corners of the globe, the wealth of Eureka's heyday is reflected in the many ornate Victorian homes you can see here.

The historic waterfront is a great place to stop for lunch and wander the docks for an afternoon. In nearby Arcata, there's a more “granola” vibe, with organic markets, Finnish saunas, and a rainbow of characters you can see on any given day in the square.

The biggest attractions in Humboldt County are Redwood National and State Parks. All along the California Coast, you can find Sequoia groves, but the old-growth forests preserved in Redwood National and State Parks are on a whole different level.

Once you pass through the entrance near Orick, you'll feel as if you've been transported back to the Jurassic Age when life was lived on a larger scale. No part of the park embodies this more than Fern Canyon, so be sure to see this when you come to the park.

The 1.4-mile-long trail through Lady Bird Johnson Grove is another easily accessible and breathtaking hike you should do while you're here.

Where to stay in Klamath: the very north of the North Coast

Trinidad is a small town located near Klamath with gorgeous beaches which overlook towering outcrops in the ocean. It is slightly more built up than Klamath, with cafes and markets, which make it a better place to spend some time and stock up on a long trip.

The ranch-style View Crest Lodge operates between a more standard hotel space and several independent cottages spread over verdant grounds, with trails leading deeper into the surrounding redwoods or the beach.

Its quiet location will allow you to fully take in the splendor of the Humboldt coast and the tasty breakfast will have you contemplating spending another night here.

Day 6: Driving from Klamath to Mineral

Today's drive is a 340-mile, 6-hours 30-minutes long haul to the northernmost point in the route which will take you briefly across the Oregon border before you start heading southeast as you start the other half of the state-wide loop.

Road trip route from Klamath to Mineral

After savoring some final glances of the NorCal coast in Klamath, take US-101 North through Crescent City to US Route 199 North to O'Brien, Oregon. From there, take Waldo Road and Greyback Road south to the California border and continue on towards Happy Camp.

Navigate to CA Route 96 East and take that from Happy Camp to Yreka, where you'll be able to get on Interstate 5 and continue driving south past the towering Mt. Shasta. Once you get to Redding, look for CA Routes 44 and 36 which will take you east to Mineral.

Things to explore on the way to Mineral

Just before Crescent City, look out for Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. This is a great place to enjoy a final romp in the coastal redwoods before this route takes you inland.

There are several trails that start from the visitor center, and you will be overcome with the grace of these gentle giants from your first step in the park.

Some trails lead to the ocean and others meander along streams deep in the forest. The redwood curtain is known for wet conditions, so make sure you have some light rain gear to stay dry on a magical, misty trail.

Both the rural town of Mt. Shasta and the towering Volcano of the same name are both worth checking out as you pass by them along I-5. The town is filled with a variety of home-town dining options from casual grills and burger joints to Indian food.

In case you wanted to learn more about this area, which has been revered as a cosmic center by several Native American tribes and settled by people of European ancestry in the late 19th century, head to the Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum.

In case you're itching to stretch your legs, nearby Lake Siskiyou has several pretty trails which offer incredible views of Mt. Shasta. There are even more hiking, biking, and backpacking opportunities a little to the south of Mt. Shasta in Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Where to stay in Mineral: get acquainted with the high Sierras

Mill Creek is another small town, like Mineral, which sits near the entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park in the northern Sierra Nevada Mountain range.

In addition to providing easy access to the nearby national park, the Village at Childs Meadow offers incredibly comfy beds that will be incredibly welcoming after a long day's drive.

Many rooms also have a patio that looks out over the peaks of Lassen. There's also a little market at the property which is incredibly convenient given the limited services and amenities in the surrounding area.

Day 7: Driving from Mineral to Lake Tahoe

The drive from Mineral to Lake Tahoe is a bit easier than the previous days, but you'll still need to be alert and drive carefully on these mountain roads. It will take you just over 4 hours to complete this 180-mile section of the trip.

Road trip route from Mineral to Lake Tahoe

From Mineral, drive via CA-36 East to CA-89 South which will take you through Plumas National Forest to Truckee. From Truckee, head across the Nevada border to Incline Village, then hop on NV-28 South along the lake, which joins with US-50 South.

This will take you through Zephyr Cove and to South Lake Tahoe, which sits on the California border.

Things to explore on the way to Lake Tahoe

You can't come this far north without seeing Lassen Volcanic National Park. With dozens of geothermal features like geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, Lassen is California's own version of Yellowstone.

One of the most popular areas to see these natural wonders is the trail through Bumpass Hell. Another, more accessible, place to see the earth venting off some steam is Sulphur Works.

In addition to these more exotic features, Lassen Volcanic National Park is simply a stunning mountainous area with grand views, miles of hiking trails, and revitalizing high-altitude air.

Truckee is a typical, small Sierra town with a fascinating history going back to the earliest days of the European-American settlement of the region.

Truckee is most well known for being the area near Donner Pass where the infamous Donner Party met with disaster. You can visit the nearby pass as well as a memorial museum in the town itself.

The charming, historic main drag of Truckee along Donner Pass Road is worthwhile walking around. This is a great spot to grab lunch, coffee, or a sip of microbrew before heading off to Tahoe. In case you're making this trip in the winter and are an avid skier,

Truckee is close to some of North Tahoe's best slopes, including NorthStar.

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe: enveloped in evergreen

South Lake Tahoe is the more happening side of the lake where you can try your luck or catch a show at a casino, as well as enjoy the abundant natural beauty of this incredible alpine region.

From the moment you arrive at the Black Bear Lodge, you'll be enveloped in that old Tahoe feel , but one with all the right updates. While the common areas and pool have that wooden, rustic charm, the rooms are clean, spacious, and modern.

Many also have attached patios so you can look out into the evergreen forest and unwind over a hot cocoa or brew of your choice in peace.

Located just a few blocks from the lakeshore and less than two miles to the main downtown area, the location makes it easy to explore the area on foot if you'd like to take a break from driving.

Day 8: Driving from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite

This is a straightforward 110-mile drive towards Lee Vining and Yosemite National Park that will take you 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Road trip route from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park

From South Lake Tahoe, you'll hop briefly back over the border to Nevada and get on US-395 South in Gardnerville, NV. This route takes you east of the Sierra highlands to Lee Vining and the back entrance to Yosemite.

Things to explore on the way to Yosemite National Park

Who doesn't love nature's spa? Travertine Hot Springs are isolated thermal pools that attract a surprising number of visitors. Still, there are many springs with varying temperatures, so you can easily find one to your liking that doesn't feel crowded.

If the natural hot tubs themselves aren't enough to melt away any accumulated stress, then the stunning views will make you feel like you've reached a heavenly land.

Lee Vining is about a half an hour drive from the Tioga Pass entrance of the incomparable Yosemite National Park. The most popular attraction on this side of the park is the idyllic Tuolumne Meadows.

Far fewer visitors come via this entrance, compared to the Yosemite Valley side, so you won't get caught up in the crowds, even if you're making this trip during the summer.

The drive itself over Tioga Pass is stunning and there are places to stop, enjoy the view, and even hike in case you didn't feel like paying the $35 entrance fee at Yosemite.

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park: adventure beyond the park's bounds

Set against the rugged ridges of the Sawtooth Mountain range, Bridgeport has a special place in the heart of all Californian outdoor adventurers who have had the good fortune to find it. Here we recommend staying at the Silver Maple Inn and The Cain House Country Suites .

This has a classic motel vibe with nicely maintained interiors giving the inn a more polished feel than most motels. It is located just 26 miles from the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite, which you might want to see in the morning rather than when you just arrive.

If you happen to arrive with some extra time and energy on hand, they have free bikes for guests to use to explore the beautiful surroundings of Bridgeport.

Day 9: Driving from Yosemite National Park to Bakersfield

On this day you'll log more time on the road than usual, with this leg of the route taking 6 hours to drive, covering approximately 350 miles.

Road trip route from Yosemite National Park to Bakersfield

Get back on US-395 and drive south to Lone Pine. Here you can take country roads towards Panamint Springs and Death Valley if you wanted to include this as a stop on your trip.

To get to Bakersfield from here, drive towards Searles and CA-14. Take this towards the town of Mojave, then hop on CA-58 West to Bakersfield.

Things to explore on the way to Bakersfield

The massive Inyo National Forest is the most visited in California, attracting over 4 million people each year, and with good reason. Inyo is home to Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S. as well as eye-catching geological formations like Banner Peak.

There are abundant backpacking opportunities in the various wilderness areas that lie within the national monument, like the stunning Ansel Adams Wilderness.

Inyo is also home to some of the oldest trees on the planet. While the Ancient Bristlecone Pine forest is a good two-hour hike into the park, it is the chance of a lifetime to see these ancient trees up close.

While visiting Death Valley National Park would likely involve another night's stop before heading on to Bakersfield, it is yet another area of rare natural beauty that you'll probably regret not seeing if you had the chance.

Within its 3 million acres you can visit the lowest point in America at the Badwater Basin salt flats, trace the trails of moving rocks at the Racetrack Playa, and see kaleidoscopic hillsides at Artists Palette.

There's even evidence of relatively recent volcanic activity in the form of the Ubehebe Crater, which measures half a mile across and was likely formed just 2,100 years ago.

Of course in the spring a sight you can't miss are the dozens of species of wildflowers that crop up if there have been enough winter rains. What you see here will forever change your perception of the desert as a barren place.

Where to stay in Bakersfield: experience a bit of Country out West

Bakersfield is the industrial and economic hub in the heart of California's fertile Central Valley. It's also renowned for its country music scene and has a few pockets of vibrant nightlife as well.

Conveniently located in downtown Bakersfield, the Padre Hotel is a historic property with a modern interior. It has on-site parking, so you can give the wheels a break and explore the city on foot.

Attractions like the Bakersfield Museum of Art and the historic Fox Theater are both nearby. In case you're tuckered out and prefer a night in, their restaurant Belvedere is one of the best in town for a delicious dinner.

Day 10: Driving from Bakersfield to Palm Springs

On this drive back into the desert you'll cover 325 miles, which should take you about 6 hours. In terms of scenery, this is not the most exciting day of driving, so have a few episodes of your favorite podcast downloaded and ready to go.

Road trip route from Bakersfield to Palm Springs

From Bakersfield, take CA-58 West to Barstow then hop on CA-34 towards Yucca Valley and the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. You can drive all the way through the park on Pinto Basin Road and Cottonwood Springs Road, which will take you to I-10.

Take I-10 West towards Coachella and Palm Springs.

Things to explore on the way to Palm Springs

Though there aren't many major attractions on the stretch of road leading out of Bakersfield, a few local gems can be found in the heart of tiny Tehachapi, which you'll pass before Barstow and the route into Joshua Tree.

Housed in a beautiful Art Deco building that dates to the 1920s, the Tehachapi Heritage League Museum lays out the natural and native history of this quiet pocket of Central California.

In case you simply can't get enough of mountainous trails through the forest, check out Tehachapi Mountain Park to the south of the town.

Until recently Joshua Tree National Park was only on the radar of particularly outgoing outdoors people and eccentrics from SoCal. Now it is one of the most popular and photographed national parks in the state.

In addition to the spikey and spindly Joshua trees themselves, there are gardens of Cholla cactus and maze-like rock formations along the Skull Rock trail. One of the most accessible and rewarding trails to do here, especially if you're just stopping by for a day, is the Hidden Valley Nature Trail.

Where to stay in Palm Springs: relax under the desert sky

Palm Springs was once an exclusive getaway for the stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood; now it's a place for rejuvenation that welcomes people from all walks of life.

Palm Springs has no dearth of adorable boutique hotels and spas, yet the Fleur Noire Hotel stood out with its bold floral designs , great fire pit for some evening socializing, and lovely pool area. The staff are incredibly welcoming and pay close attention to detail, so you'll be in excellent hands once you arrive.

Day 11: Driving from Palm Springs to San Diego

On this day you'll drive an easy 180 miles from the desert back to the fresh Pacific Coast, which will take 3 hours and 20 minutes. Try to avoid reaching San Diego during the peak afternoon commute time of 4-7 pm.

Road trip route from Palm Springs to San Diego

From Palm Springs head east along I-10 then go south on CA-86 towards Salton City. Look out for CA Route 78 West and take that road past Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Once you reach Descanso Junction, take Interstate 8 West all the way to San Diego.

Things to explore on the way to San Diego

The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is full of surprises. Spread over 600,000 acres, this state park features several different kinds of desert habitats and boasts 12 wilderness areas.

It's possible to spot roadrunners, bighorn sheep, kit foxes, mule deer, iguanas and even red diamond rattlesnakes, so be sure to keep your eyes on the trail as you explore.

There are features you can enjoy all throughout the year like the hike to Slot Canyon or the Fonts Point overlook, but this place really comes to life during the spring.

From January to mid-April the canyon floors become a patchwork of yellow, white, and purple as dormant wildflower seeds briefly wake up to transform the desert landscape, making this a must-see stop on a spring road trip.

If you want to learn more, you can find our guide on the best road trips to see the superbloom locations in California here .

A little closer to San Diego, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is one of those state parks that you could easily overlook, but you'd be missing out. With steams, oak and pine-covered rolling hills, and miles of gorgeous trails you could be forgiven for thinking you're back in the Sierra foothills.

Whether you're rearing to go bouldering on some outcrops, hike to a picturesque pond, admire the deep-red bark of manzanitas, or just stop here to picnic and make use of the well-maintained bathrooms, a few hours here will do your mind and body good.

Where to stay in San Diego: the city of surf and sun

Coronado is on a thin peninsula that forms the San Diego Bay, so staying here will have you as close to the warmest waters in California as you can be.

Just walking distance from one of San Diego's most popular urban beaches, the Hotel Marisol Coronado offers a personal touch that will have you feeling relaxed and ready to explore sunny San Diego.

You can take your time getting here as they offer a 24-hour front desk service. Once you've settled in, consider renting one of the complimentary bikes to explore Coronado or take it easy watching the sunset by the beach.

From here it's easy to enjoy the best that the city has to offer since it is just a 10–15-minute drive on the freeway to places like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.

Day 12: Driving from San Diego to Los Angeles

This final day's driving distance is modest at 125 miles but that can take anywhere from 2 hours to 4 hours to cover depending on the traffic. As your trip literally comes full circle, you'll be able to savor every moment of beach culture and urban chic that SoCal is famous for.

Road trip route from San Diego to Los Angeles

You can take Interstate 5 North all the way from San Diego to Los Angeles. This freeway stays right on the coast as it passes Del Mar, Oceanside, and San Clemente, then it heads inland through Anaheim to reach downtown Los Angeles.

Things to explore on the way to Los Angeles

Both San Diego and Los Angeles have amazing beaches, but Oceanside is a town that lives and breathes beach culture. Surfing and simply being on the beach is such a central component of life here that it was deemed a California Cultural District in 2017.

The California Surf Museum aims to preserve and explore the unique boarding culture shared by both skateboarding and surfing throughout Southern California.

By far one of the must-see local haunts of the Oceanside Municipal Fishing Pier, one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast. It's lined with shops and vendors so you can get your snack on while you people watch and wait for the next big catch.

It might seem a bit cliché, but a stop by Disneyland in Anaheim can really lift the spirits and act as the capstone to a quintessentially Californian road trip.

Disneyland has always been intended as a place where people of all ages can immerse themselves in fantasy and fun, but recently they've made adult-oriented additions like a Star Wars-themed bar and the luxurious Tenaya Spa.

Then of course there are the rides, the characters, and the chance to feel like a kid all over again.

Where to stay in Los Angeles: find your place among the stars

Nestled in the hills between Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, Westwood Village is a gorgeous home base that's close to many of Tinsel Town's major attractions.

In addition to having that classy feeling created by ample hardwood interior finishes, the Plaza la Reina is a comfortable place to spend a few days at the end of your whirlwind trip around the Golden State.

Many rooms have kitchenettes, but our absolute favorite amenity was the on-site washing machines. It is set in a pleasant and safe neighborhood that's perfect for morning walks and it is less than five miles from must-see Los Angeles attractions like Sunset Boulevard and the Getty Museum.

Things to see on the ultimate road trip in California

This trip is the perfect opportunity to take your time and discover the many sides of California. In addition to the main stops, we've given for each day of the trip above, try to see some of these gems as well.

• Malibu - Just north of Santa Monica, there's a lot more to Malibu than celebrity homes. The broad and sandy Zuma Beach is inviting on any day and the cliffs of Point Dume are worth exploring as well.
• San Luis Obispo - This college town a little inland from Pismo Beach has a wonderfully walkable downtown set alongside a creek and features an 18th-century Spanish mission you can tour.
• San Simeon - Perched on the central coast, here you can see an elephant seal rookery from a safe distance or head for the hills and take a tour of the elaborate Hearst Castle.
• The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park - This refreshing state park southeast of Santa Cruz is filled with wandering trails, some challenging changes in elevation, redwoods, and bright yellow banana slugs. For those interested, it was also the center of the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989.
• Half Moon Bay - This charming coastal town north of Santa Cruz has a lovely little marina and pier. If you drive inland along Highway 92 there are some incredible nurseries and craft studios.
• Muir Woods - This enchanting grove of coastal redwoods is a popular weekend excursion, so try to visit on a weekday if you can. Nearby Mill Valley is an adorable town that also makes a good breakfast or lunch spot as you drive north from San Francisco.
• Point Arena - Here you can find a well-preserved lighthouse and museum. From the top, there are breathtaking views of the Mendocino coast.
• Avenue of the Giants - This 31-mile stretch of scenic highway lies parallel to US Route 101 and will have you slowing down to admire the towering trees on either side of the road.
• Luffenholtz Beach - This rugged beach north of Arcata, just before you reach Trinidad, is a wonderful place for a morning stroll and casual tide pool gazing. Steep stairs lead down to the beach, which is rarely crowded.
• Happy Camp - On the long drive through a winding, mountainous road between Klamath and Mineral, Happy Camp is a convenient place to stop and refuel. There's a statue of the legendary Big Foot here, in case you'd like to get a picture with a local celebrity.
• Redding - This sunny mountain town is a hub where you can get a gourmet meal and enjoy creature comforts that are few and far between in the vast forests of Northern California.
• Zephyr Cove, Nevada -Before you reach the relatively Built-up area of South Lake Tahoe, stop by Zephyr Cove to swim, sunbathe, and relax with the heavenly views over Lake Tahoe among minimal crowds.
• Bridgeport - Though too small to be called a town, Bridgeport was established in the mid-19th century and has a quaint, historic main street that speaks to its more populated past. It is surrounded by mountains and wide meadows and is a great base for day hikes and excursions in the surrounding wilderness.
• Mono Lake - This saline, high-altitude lake serves as a unique habitat for dozens of bird species and other wildlife. You can learn more about the natural history of the lake at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center then wander the lake-side trails of the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve.
• Mammoth Lakes and Mountain - A beloved eastern Sierra ski spot, this is a stunning place to visit any time of the year. Hike through the pine-scented air to get unbelievable views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
• Devils Postpile National Monument - If you're an aficionado of the odd geological formation, then make sure you drive the few extra miles behind Mammoth Lakes to see this exquisite example of columnar basalt. Nearby, you can also walk parts of the John Muir and Pacific Coast trails and see Rainbow Falls.
• California Route 66 Museum - Not far from Barstow you can pay homage to the great American tradition of road-tripping and see every kind of road sign and a few vintage vehicles at this museum with just the right amount of kitsch.
• Whitewater Preserve - Explore another stunning desert area near Palm Springs, filled with more colorful flora and water features than you might expect.
• Surfing Heritage and Culture Center - A little inland from San Clemente, this small museum has been curated with love and offers an amazing selection of surfboards and memorabilia from surfing legends.
• San Juan Capistrano - This slightly inland town is most famous for the intricate beauty of the Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano. While the swallows no longer nest here, it is a stunning example of religious architecture on the West Coast.

Best time to go on the ultimate road trip in California

California is a famously sunny state with winters that are much milder than elsewhere in the States, so this is really a trip you could make at any time of the year.

The only caveat is that some of the roads between Mineral and Lee Vining, basically the eastern Sierra portion of the trip, face multiple road closures from November to May so you'll want to plan your trip with this in mind.

Traveling in winter

If winter is the only time you have to explore, or if you were interested in hitting the slopes on some parts of the trip, you could do a modified version of the route we've outlined.

From South Lake Tahoe, take the Golden Chain Highway (CA-49) through several Gold Rush Era towns to get to the Big Oak Flats Entrance of Yosemite. From here you could head to Bakersfield and take a detour east to Death Valley National Park or continue the original route to Palm Springs.

Traveling in summer

For swimming on the coast and being able to adventure in the highest reaches of Lassen and Yosemite National Parks, the summer would be the best time to do this trip.

The only drawbacks are that attractions in major cities might get crowded and some of the desert locations might be too hot to visit during most of the day.

Traveling in spring or fall

While the high-altitude roads will still be closed in the early spring, the late spring could be an ideal time to do this trip, with warm weather interspersed with light showers on the north coast and some lingering wildflowers by the time you reach the southern deserts.

The mid-fall around October, is another surprisingly great time for this trip. You would maximize your chance of seeing clear coastal views along the north coast, be able to access mountain passes before the heavy snow starts and get temperate weather for outdoor activities all over the state.

In addition to timing your trip to coincide with spring blooms or October skies, consider including a few concerts or festivals along the way.

In addition to gigantic festivals like Coachella, which happens in April, there are smaller ones like Outsidelands in San Francisco which takes place every August and the Monterey Jazz Festival in September.

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California Road Trip: Top 15 Scenic Stops Along the Way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scenic Stops Along Your California Road Trip 

1. explore golden gate park in san francisco.

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

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

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

Experience a Golden Gate Park Segway Tour

2. Have a Beach Day in Half Moon Bay

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

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

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

3. Catch Epic Waves in Santa Cruz

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

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

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

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

4. Spot Majestic Sea Creatures in Monterey

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

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

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

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

5. Take in Unreal Pacific Views in Big Sur

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

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

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

Experience a Big Sur Guided Tour

6. Check Out the Elephant Seals in San Simeon

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

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

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

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

7. Go Kayaking in Morro Bay

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

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

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

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

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

8. Rent a Dune Buggy in Pismo Beach

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

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

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

Rent a Dune Buggy in Pismo Beach

9. Wine and Dine in Santa Barbara

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

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

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

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

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

Go on a Wine, Chocolate, and History Walking Tour

10. Be Transported to Denmark in Solvang

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

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

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

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

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

Book a Solvang Food & Photo Tour

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

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

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

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

Book a night at the Madonna Inn

12. Go Wine Tasting in Paso Robles

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

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

Experience the Wine Country Sightseeing Tour

13. Take a Hike in Pinnacles National Park

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

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

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

14. Try All the Garlicky Treats in Gilroy

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

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

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

15. Take It Easy in the East Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Author:

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

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The Ultimate California Road Trip: A Step by Step Itinerary 

Planning a California road trip but not sure where to start? This (rather brilliant) California road trip itinerary will take you from beautiful beaches to stunning national parks. Discover now. 

When you hear the word “California” I’ll bet that things like scenic views, gorgeous beaches, and parks — so many parks — come to mind, right?

It figures that there are few places  better than California for you to hop behind the wheel to set off on a road trip. 

My own California road trip was one of the most memorable adventures I’ve had to date. One moment I was chillin’ and eating tacos in San Diego , the next marvelling at the jaw-dropping beauty of Yosemite National Park .

There were coastal hikes skirting giant seal colonies, wine-drenched days in Sonoma , all punctuated with classic Californian sights like the Golden Gate Bridge. 

In short, if you’re not bouncing around in excitement at the prospect of your upcoming road trip, I’m pretty sure you will be after this. 

Enough of the chat. It’s time to explore. 

California Road Trip Itinerary 

Los angeles: california road trip days 1 – 2 .

Los Angeles is the perfect starting point for the best road trips in California, whether you’re heading south or north. 

The weather’s incredible, the city’s vast, the beaches are inviting, the galleries and museums mesmerising, and the food scene… guaranteed to blow your mind (or at least your tastebuds).

Things to Do in Los Angeles

I think we can all agree that it’s straight up  impossible to cover all the cool spots in the course of a few paragraphs, but here are a couple of highlights. 

Want to delve deeper? Check out my Things to do in Los Angeles guide.

Enjoy the Stunning Beaches

It’s no secret that LA has more than its fair share of stunning beaches and it would be a shame not to hang out on at least one of them during your trip. 

Head to Santa Monica beach to sunbathe alongside the city’s elite, or head to eccentric Venice Beach for street performers set on the backdrop of the Pacific.

Visit Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory , only open Friday through Sunday, has a planetarium that transports you to the cosmos, an electrifying Tesla coil exhibition, and a spot providing sweeping views of LA. I’d recommend booking a guided tour to discover more about this fascinating structure. 

Suggested Stay for Los Angeles on Your California Road Trip Itinerary 

Loews Hollywood Hotel –  A rooftop pool and sun terrace make this spot enticing, but the California-inspired cuisine at its restaurants puts it over the top. Alternatively, you can look for other properties in Los Angeles for more choice.

Big Sur: California Road Trip Day 3 

A rugged coastline, verdant forests, and craggy cliffs with waves crashing — along with the gleeful words of writers like Jack Kerouac — have brought Big Sur worldwide acclaim. The highlight of any West Coast road trip , it more than lives up to its promise. 

Things to Do in Big Sur

Julia pfeiffer burns state park.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers marked trails transporting you to a world dominated by waterfalls, wildflowers, hidden coves, and turquoise waters lined with rock formations.

Pfeiffer Beach

Secluded Pfeiffer Beach has unmissable Pfeiffer Keyhole Rock as its top attraction—the sunrise and sunsets are to die for—but an expansive shoreline and tide pools also attract people.

Getting to Big Sur from Los Angeles

Continuing on this part of this California coast road trip, you’ll be covering around 295 miles of road between LA and Big Sur. 

Driving time is around 5 hours 20 minutes. 

Suggested stops if you have more time: Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay.  

Suggested Stay for Big Sur on Your Itinerary 

Hidden Valley Inn – This property’s proximity to Carmel Valley, where fine restaurants and vineyards await, earned my recommendation. If you’re looking for something a little more exuberant, check for other properties in Big Sur .

San Francisco: California Road Trip Days 4 – 6

San Francisco makes up for its relatively small size with scenic beauty, a boatload of attractions, tempting food and a diverse population. 

Things to do in San Francisco

Admire the golden gate bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge and its orange arches are world-renowned. I recommend heading to the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point to glance at San Francisco from a new angle.

Stroll Fisherman’s Wharf

This trendy neighbourhood houses a tonne of restaurants and shopping places in addition to attractions like the Madame Tussauds wax museum and cute sea lions in Pier 39 Marina.

Getting to San Francisco from Big Sur

The journey to San Francisco from Big Sur lasts 141 miles. 

Driving time is around 2.5 hours. 

Suggested stops if you have more time: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey. 

Suggested Stay for San Francisco on Your California Road Trip Itinerary

Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf – Equipped with an outdoor pool, a garden, and a restaurant serving delicious food – is my pick for staying in the Bay. 

Alternatively, you can look at other properties in San Francisco for something that suits you better.

Napa Valley: California Road Trip Day 7

Napa Valley is among the top wine regions globally and, as such, draws visitors who love nothing more than sipping reds and whites. 

Things to do in Napa

Tantalise your buds at a vineyard.

If you’re a wine drinker, I recommend stopping by Domaine Carneros for sparkling and Pinot noir wines coupled with breathtaking views of the valley.

Dine on a Train

The refurbished Napa Valley Wine Train offers a luxurious experience on a 36-mile round trip. Onboard, you can enjoy delectable dishes while exploring the valley by rail.

Getting to Napa Valley from San Francisco

The San Francisco to Napa Valley drive is around 67 miles.

Driving time is around 1 hour. 

Suggested stops if you have more time: Oakland, Berkeley. Or head to Sonoma as an alternative to Napa Valley. 

Suggested Stay for Napa Valley on Your California Road Trip Itinerary 

Napa Winery Inn – Set in a quiet atmosphere and featuring a seasonal pool and spacious rooms with daily breakfast, you won’t go wrong with this place. 

Alternatively, look at other properties in Napa Valley for something that suits you.

Yosemite National Park: California Road Trip Days 8 – 9

Yosemite National Park is teeming with things to do. It’s a natural wonder worth seeing with its verdant forests, towering cliffs, beautiful waterfalls, and many hiking trails. 

Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Marvel at el capitan.

3,000-feet tall El Capitan is a sight to behold and draws in rock climbers and nature lovers by the dozens with just its presence.

Watch the Water Splash at Yosemite Falls

Continuing the theme of unrivalled natural beauty, here is iconic Yosemite Falls. Catch a glance at the cascades from Yosemite Village for the best vista from afar.

Tackle one of Yosemite’s Many Stunning Hikes

Yosemite is a hiker’s paradise with trails for all levels. Whether you’re looking for the adrenalin-rush of taking on the Half Dome or want something a little more low-key, spending some time exploring the park on two feet is a must. 

Getting to Yosemite National Park from Napa Valley

The drive to Yosemite National Park from Napa Valley is 191 miles.

Driving time is around 3.5 hours. 

Suggested Stay for Yosemite National Park on Your California Road Trip Itinerary 

The Ahwanee is one of the few hotels in Yosemite National Park itself and offers high-end rooms with stunning views. 

Browse other properties near Yosemite for comparison.

Death Valley: California Road Trip Day 10

Death Valley spans over 3 million acres, made up of an incredible variety of animals, plants, trails on unique terrain, and fantastic views.

Things to Do in Death Valley

Enjoy dante’s view.

I can’t tell you who Dante is, but one thing I can tell you is that this view of Death Valley is otherworldly, especially with sunsets or sunrises.

Trek to Telescope Peak

While no actual telescope awaits at the top, views of Badwater Basin and Mount Whitney are a worthwhile reward for taking on the 14-mile hike.

Getting to Death Valley from Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park to Death Valley spans 237 miles.

Driving time is around 4 hours. 

Suggested stops if you have more time: Mammoth Lakes, Inyo National Forest. 

Suggested Stay for Death Valley on Your California Road Trip Itinerary 

Best Western Pahrump Oasis – An hour from Death Valley, the accommodation offers a daily breakfast and coffee-making facilities. 

Alternatively, look for other properties near Death Valley .

Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park: California Road Trip Days 11 – 12

Palm Springs , with its plethora of spas, incredible cuisine, and hot springs, is one of the must-see places on a California road trip. 

Joshua Tree is most famous for its unique trees, but it also boasts a variety of plants and animals set in an almost otherworldly landscape. 

Things to do in Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park

Ride an aerial tramway.

The Aerial Tramway whisks you away along the Chino Canyon and rewards all who dare hop on with incredible views.

See the Mid-Century Architecture in Palm Springs 

Palm Springs is a haven of cool architecture – you should visit at least a few during your trip. Put the Kaufmann House, Elrod House and Twin Palms at the top of your list. 

Cholla Cactus Garden

The natural garden has over a thousand chollas lined across the land, which are particularly mesmerising when the sun shines on them.

Getting to Palm Springs from Death Valley

The journey from Death Valley to Palm Springs is 274 miles long.

Driving time is around 4.5 hours. 

Suggested stops if you have more time: Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino National Forest. 

Suggested Stay for Palm Springs on Your California Road Trip Itinerary 

Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs – This luxurious property offers spacious rooms, an exotic spa, and on-site dining options. Check out other properties in Palm Springs .

San Diego: California Road Trip Days 13 – 14

San Diego , an outstanding feature on any southern California road trip, blends cultural diversity, pristine beaches, trendy street art, cool hikes and a rich history to attract all kinds of people.

Things to do in San Diego

Visit san diego zoo.

San Diego Zoo is home to an impressive array of animals, some of which you can get up close and personal with on the Animals in Action Tour.

Party the Night Away at Mission Beach

Quiet by day and lively by night is probably this beach’s motto. Two miles of oceanfront and an electrifying boardwalk teeming with bars and diners await.

Getting to San Diego from Palm Springs

Your trip south to San Diego from Palm Springs is at least 126 miles long.

Driving time is around 2 hours 10 minutes. 

Suggested stops if you have more time: Temecula. 

Suggested Stay for San Diego on Your California Road Trip Itinerary 

Andaz San Diego – The rooftop pool along with a restaurant offering dining coupled with panoramic San Diego views won me over. Alternatively, check out all accommodation in San Diego . 

After San Diego, drive back to LA to finish your road trip! 

If You Have More Time: More Spots for the Best California Road Trips

Due to its vastness when explored via a road trip, California still has a lot (I mean a lot!) more to offer beyond the 14 days I recommend. 

Got more time to play with? Here are a couple of other suggestions for cool places to stop by during your time on the road.

Lake Tahoe – Freshwater lake straddling the California-Nevada border where verdant forest and granite boulders blend with surrounding mountain peaks await hikers.

Mammoth Lakes – A quaint town showcasing high-alpine beauty and offering activities like kayaking, skiing, and climbing.

Redwood National Park – A beautiful park home to 300-feet tall redwoods which you can explore by foot or car.

Handy Tips for Planning Your Road Trip in California

California road trip: group tour or independent travel.

You can tackle this itinerary alone or with a group. Either way, you’ll have fun, although it will differ depending on your choice.

Travelling alone will mean you won’t have to contend or compromise on your preferred destination and activities there. Travelling with a group provides ample opportunity to make lifelong memories with your friends.

G Adventures offer this incredible 18-day road trip covering California in the Southwest . 

Not only does it cover quite a few of the destinations featured in this itinerary, but it also allows you to venture into Nevada, Utah and Arizona to see more stunning locations such as the Grand Canyon , Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park . 

Check out G Adventures’ full range of USA Road Trips here

What to Pack for Your Road Trip in California

To ensure you have the best California road trip, you must pack adequately and have all road trip essentials on you. 

Cali has a Mediterranean-like climate where summers are hot and winters are kind of wet, meaning you’ll have to plan with the season in mind. Here’s a general list to get you started.

• Reusable water bottle – the Hydroflask is a great option 
• Hiking shoes – Tropic Feel’s all weather, all terrain hiking shoes are a gamechanger
• Sunscreen — seriously, California can be scorching.
• Camera for beautiful snaps
• Season-appropriate clothing (raincoats for winter, hats for summer etc.)

I go into a lot more detail on my Road Trip Packing List guide . 

Useful Resources – Getting to California

One of the reasons I chose Los Angeles as the base, in addition to being one of the best places to road trip in California, is because the LAX airport services flights from just about everywhere.

Check flights to Los Angeles on Skyscanner

Getting Around

If you intend to follow this road trip itinerary California has to offer, you will need to rent a car, and you can rely on the following rental agencies.

• Enterprise Rent a Car
• Sixt Car Rental

California Road Trip – Map

Planning Your California Road Trip? Read Next…

• Cool Things to do in California
• The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip
• What to do in… Los Angeles
• What to do in… San Francisco
• The San Diego Explorer Guide
• Discover the Best of Yosemite

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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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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Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

California , Travel , Travel Guides , USA · Last Updated: March 21, 2024

The Ultimate 10 Days in California Road Trip Itinerary

So you’re looking for an Itinerary outlining a 10 day California Road Trip? Well, my friends, you have come to the right place! I have lived in California for over 15 years now and managed to explore most major cities in this beautiful state of ours. Taking an ultimate California coast road trip down the Pacific coast highway is a bucket list trip for most. Whether you want to plan your itinerary relaxing by the beach, adventuring in the mountains, or visiting one of the many major theme parks – California has a little something for everyone to enjoy. Buckle up fam and enjoy this “Ultimate California 10 Day Road Trip Itinerary”.

California Road Trip Map

When starting to plan your itinerary the major thing you want to start with is what airport do I fly into? You can either start in San Francisco and work your way down or in San Diego and work your way up. This California road trip itinerary is designed to start in San Diego. However, it is easy to switch around days and still enjoy everything this road trip itinerary has to offer. Finally, there are 2 or 3 stops that have 2 days in each city. You could easily add on more destinations such as Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, etc. However, I wanted to make this itinerary as leisurely as possible so you can enjoy the California laidback lifestyle.

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days Breakdown

• Day 1 + 2: San Diego
• Day 3 + 4: Los Angeles
• Fifth Day: Santa Barbara
• Day 6: Big Sur
• Day 7: Carmel by the Sea + Monterrey
• Day 8+9: Yosemite
• Day 10: San Francisco

San Diego Itinerary Days One + Two

San Diego is a vibrant coastal city located in Southern California, known for its beautiful beaches, year-round mild climate, and lively cultural scene. With a population of over 1.4 million, San Diego is the second-largest city in California and the eighth-largest in the United States.

Visitors to San Diego can enjoy a variety of attractions, from world-class museums and galleries to iconic landmarks such as the San Diego Zoo and the USS Midway Museum. The city’s diverse neighborhoods offer a range of culinary experiences, with everything from fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine to gourmet burgers and craft beer. Whether you’re a beach bum, a history buff, or a foodie, San Diego has a little something for everyone.

Best Things to Do in San Diego

Balboa park.

Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park located in the heart of San Diego, California. Known as the largest urban cultural park in the United States, Balboa Park is home to over 15 major museums, performing arts venues, and cultural institutions, as well as numerous gardens, restaurants, and recreational opportunities.

The park was first established in 1868 as City Park and was renamed Balboa Park in 1910 in honor of the Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa. The park’s distinctive Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and lush landscaping make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Among its many attractions are the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Zoo, and the Old Globe Theatre. Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Balboa Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Sunset Cliffs

Sunset Cliffs is a stunning coastal park located in San Diego, California. With its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and its iconic sunsets, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Here is everything you need to know about Sunset Cliffs in San Diego.

Location: Sunset Cliffs is located in the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego, just a short drive from downtown. For the best views drive to the end of Sunset Cliffs Blvd and park. You’ll see a staircase at the end of the street and this is where you’ll go to visit the tide pools.

Scenic views: Sunset Cliffs offers some of the most picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, with its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and sea caves. The park is particularly popular for watching the sunset, as the name suggests.

Activities: There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Sunset Cliffs, including hiking, surfing, swimming, and rock climbing. The park has several trails that lead down to the beach.

Wildlife: Sunset Cliffs is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, seals, and dolphins. Visitors can often spot these animals from the shore.

Safety: Visitors to Sunset Cliffs should be aware of the potential hazards, as the cliffs and rocks can be dangerous. It is recommended to stay on designated paths and not to climb on the cliffs or rocks.

Overall, Sunset Cliffs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to San Diego. Whether you are looking to take in stunning views, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply relax on the beach, this coastal park is a true gem of Southern California.

La Jolla literally translates to “The Jewel” and it sure is the jewel of San Diego. It’s a picturesque coastal community. Known for its stunning beaches, oceanfront parks, and upscale shopping and dining, La Jolla is a popular destination. I’m sharing the best things to do when visiting:

• Beaches: La Jolla has several beautiful beaches, including La Jolla Cove, Windansea Beach, and Blacks Beach. These beaches offer everything from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and snorkeling.
• Parks: There are several oceanfront parks in La Jolla, including Ellen Browning Scripps Park and La Jolla Cove Park. These parks offer stunning views of the ocean, as well as picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds. You’ll see the famous Seals and Sea Lions when visiting the cove and it’s important that you keep space. Be respectful since you can get a $10,000 fine if you get too close.
• Shopping: La Jolla is home to several high-end shopping destinations, including the upscale outdoor mall, The Shops at La Jolla Village. Here you’ll find designer stores and boutiques selling everything from clothing and jewelry to art and home decor.
• Dining: La Jolla has a wide variety of dining options, ranging from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes. Some popular spots include George’s at the Cove, The Cottage, and Piatti.
• Attractions: La Jolla has several attractions worth checking out, including the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, and the La Jolla Cove Sea Caves.

Overall, La Jolla is a beautiful and vibrant community that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to soak up the sun on the beach, indulge in some high-end shopping and dining, or explore the local attractions, La Jolla is definitely well worth a visit when in San Diego

Little Italy

Little Italy is known for its vibrant Italian heritage, lively atmosphere, and bustling food scene. Some of my favorite restaurants in San Diego are located in Little Italy and it’s a must-visit for everyone! Below I’m sharing my top picks for places to dine in Little Italy:

• Davanti Enoteca
• Kettner Exchange
• Craft + Commerce
• Morning Glory (brunch)

Finally, every Saturday Little Italy has a farmers market with ocean views. It’s a great way to experience the local community and taste some of the best local flavors.

Coronado is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado, which is a National Historic Landmark. I have a full visiting guide on the best things to do when visiting Coronado .

San Diego Itinerary Breakdown

• Morning in Balboa Park
• Coffee at Craft Cafe by Mingei
• Visit Little Italy
• Walk around and have brunch at Morning Glory
• Head over to Seaport Village (a 30-minute walk from Little Italy)
• You’ll pass the USS Midway and the famous kissing statue
• Explore Seaport Village
• Head to Harbor Island for an early dinner (Coasterra or C Level)
• Visit Sunset Cliffs for Sunset
• Morning at the San Diego Zoo
• Brunch in Coronado
• Drive to La Jolla
• Visit the Cove, lunch at Cody’s or Caroline’s Seaside Cafe
• Explore the beaches and relax for an hour
• Walk the Scripps Coastal Meander
• Visit Torrey Pines Gliderport
• Drive to Los Angeles (2-2.5 hours)

Don’t Miss my Ultimate California Map which has all these locations saved in one place and extras such as hidden gems, best viewpoints, and best hikes!

Use code LEBLOG for 20% off your order today!

Recommended Restaurants

I have a full San Diego Restaurant Guide as well as an Ultimate San Diego Brunch Guide . Make sure to check both of those out for all the options!

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: Recommended Accommodations

La Valencia Hotel – the iconic pink lady as they call it. This hotel is an institution in San Diego. It’s located right on the main street in La Jolla and has stunning ocean views. It feels as though you were transported to Italy. Finally, it’s a bit pricey but if you’re looking for a splurge this is your hotel. Book your stay Here !

Hilton Bayfront – if you’re looking to be more centrally located then consider staying downtown San Diego. This hotel is great because it feels like you’re on a tropical vacation and is set on a corner downtown that is a bit quieter. It’s also located on the water and the pool is one of the best pools in San Diego. Book your stay here !

Paradise Point Resort & Spa – this tropical oasis is located on an island near Mission Bay. You feel as though you are on your own private island. This resort has it all and is perfect for a family vacation. Book your stay here !

Los Angeles Days Three + Four

Los Angeles is commonly referred to as LA or The City of Angels. Known for its iconic landmarks, sunny weather, and vibrant cultural scene, LA is a destination that offers something for everyone. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the laid-back beaches of Santa Monica, LA is a city that never fails to impress.

Arguably it’s one of the most popular cities in the US. With its diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, and endless entertainment options, Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience. You can skip visiting Downtown Los Angeles as there is not much to do down there and unfortunately is home to many homeless encampments. Finally, the traffic in LA is not a myth, so do take that into consideration when traveling here.

Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

Griffith observatory.

The Griffith Observatory is a beloved Los Angeles landmark located in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The observatory offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the universe through its state-of-the-art exhibits, planetarium shows, and telescopes.

Built in 1935, the observatory has played a significant role in advancing public understanding of astronomy and space science. Its iconic Art Deco architecture and stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline have made it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. You can also view the iconic Hollywood Sign from here. It has also been featured in a ton of movies throughout the years including Lalaland and Rebel without a Cause . You have to pay to park here and can get extremely busy mid-day so try and visit in the early morning or for sunset.

Finally, very close by is a view of the Hollywood Sign. In order to view this spot put Lake Hollywood Park into your GPS. You will then walk a bit uphill to get to the area pictured above.

Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is a world-famous neighborhood located in Los Angeles, California. Known for its opulence and exclusivity, Beverly Hills is home to some of the most luxurious homes, hotels, and shopping destinations in the world. Visitors to Beverly Hills can explore a variety of attractions, including Rodeo Drive, a world-renowned shopping district that is home to designer boutiques and high-end retailers.

In addition to its shopping and dining options, Beverly Hills is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the Beverly Hills Sign and the Beverly Hills Hotel. You can visit the Beverly Hills Hotel for lunch. It’s quite pricey however the chance of running into a celebrity is quite high (they all love the BHH). Finally, I ran into Robert Pattinson and it was the highlight of all my Los Angeles visits.

Malibu is a stunning coastal city located in Los Angeles County. It’s quite different from most other areas in LA as it has more of a small-town feel. One of the most popular attractions in Malibu is its beaches. With over 21 miles of coastline, Malibu is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in Southern California, including Surfrider Beach, Zuma Beach, and El Matador Beach (featured in tons of movies such as Grease and The Notebook ). Visitors can swim, surf, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

In addition to its beaches, Malibu is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the Malibu Pier and the Getty Villa, an art museum dedicated to the ancient civilizations of Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum is another popular destination, offering a glimpse into the history and culture of the Malibu area. When visiting I highly suggest The Getty Villa and El Matador State Beach.

Santa Monica

When most people think of Los Angeles, Santa Monica is usually top of mind. The city is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Santa Monica Pier, which boasts an amusement park, an aquarium, and a variety of restaurants and shops. The pier is also a popular spot for fishing and enjoying stunning views of the ocean and the coastline. Furthermore, Santa Monica is also known for its beaches, which offer visitors a chance to swim, sunbathe, and surf in the Pacific Ocean.

Finally, there are a variety of options for shopping in Santa Monica. Including the Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-only street that is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and street performers. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.

Venice Beach + Canals

Venice Beach is a popular destination for its wide sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, and street performers. Visitors can take a stroll down the boardwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and vendors selling a variety of goods. Along with that, this area is mostly occupied by the artist community and loads of street art can be found throughout the community. Abbot Kinney is the most popular street in Venice known for its boutique shops and chic eateries.

The Venice Canals, on the other hand, offer a peaceful escape from the bustling boardwalk. The canals were created in the early 1900s by developer Abbot Kinney, who sought to create a replica of the famous canals in Venice, Italy. Today, visitors can take a walk along the canals and enjoy the serene atmosphere, as well as the charming homes and gardens that line the waterways.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is a premier art museum located in the heart of Los Angeles, California. With over 120,000 objects spanning from ancient times to the present day, LACMA is one of the largest art museums in the United States. LACMA’s collections cover a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, decorative arts, photography, and more.

Some of the most notable pieces in the museum’s collection include works by renowned artists such as Diego Rivera, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso. LACMA’s campus also includes several outdoor installations and sculptures, including the famous “Urban Light” installation by Chris Burden, which features a collection of restored street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s. The Urban Light Installation is free to the public and can get quite busy throughout the day so it’s best to visit in the morning.

Disneyland is an iconic amusement park built by Walt Disney in 1955 and is located in Orange County. Most Disney fanatics travel to California to visit the original Disneyland Park also known as “The Happiest Place on Earth”. One of the main attractions of Disneyland is its rides, which range from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly attractions.

Some of the most popular rides include Space Mountain, the Matterhorn Bobsleds, and Pirates of the Caribbean. But the park has so much more than rides and offers tons of culinary experiences, shopping, and restaurants. If you are able to add an extra day to your itinerary I would highly suggest either visiting Disneyland, Palm Springs, or Joshua Tree National Park.

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: Los Angeles Itinerary Breakdown

• Morning at Griffith Observatory
• Beverly Hills for Brunch
• Shopping on Rodeo Drive
• Visit the LACMA
• Venice Beach
• Venice Canals
• Dinner on Abbot Kinney
• Morning in Santa Monica
• Santa Monica Pier
• Drive to Malibu
• Brunch at Malibu Farm
• Visit the Getty Museum
• El Matador State Beach
• Drive to Santa Barbara (1.5 hours)
• Belle’s Beach House
• The Butcher’s Daughter
• Ka’teen

Recommended Accommodations

Andaz West Hollywood – Boutique hotel located on the Sunset Strip. Offering a rooftop pool and stunning city views. This hotel is very centrally located Book your stay here !

Santa Monica Proper – The most stunning interiors I have ever seen in a hotel, and I travel A LOT. The proper hotels are architectural masterpieces. This particular one offers a rooftop pool and is centrally located. They are pricey however if you’re looking to splurge this is the hotel for you. Book your stay here !

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: Santa Barbara Day Five

Santa Barbara is another famous southern California city on the coast. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and Mediterranean-style architecture. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century when it was established as a Spanish mission. Over the years, Santa Barbara has evolved into a thriving city with tons of things to do!

Since it’s such a small town, I would recommend spending one night here. You can spend a full day sightseeing and knock the majority of the best things to do off your list. Furthermore, most of the below recommendations are very close to each other.

Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara

• Santa Barbara Mission

The Santa Barbara Mission is one of the most historic and iconic landmarks in Santa Barbara. It was founded by the Spanish Franciscan friars in 1786 and is known for its beautiful architecture, cultural significance, and role in the history of California.

The mission is located on a hill overlooking the city of Santa Barbara and is surrounded by lush gardens, historic buildings, and beautiful fountains. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the mission, which includes a visit to the church, cemetery, museum, and various other buildings on the grounds. Finally, it’s open every day from 9 am to 4:30 pm.

• Santa Barbara Courthouse

I know you’re probably thinking why would I want to vacation at a courthouse? Well, when it looks like the Santa Barbara courthouse you give it a visit! It’s a historic landmark and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Santa Barbara. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara it’s widely known for its beautiful Spanish colonial revival architecture and stunning gardens. Finally, it’s hands down the most beautiful place in Santa Barbara so add it to your list!

Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf is a long wooden pier that extends into the Pacific Ocean and is known for its ocean views, shops, restaurants, and recreational activities. To be completely honest I was a little underwhelmed when we visited. For my best advice walk past the pier (don’t walk down it) and visit the beautiful Chase Palms Park instead. It was much more quiet and serene.

• Chromatic Gate

Right across from Chase Palms Park is the unique art sculpture, Chromatic Gate. The Chromatic Gate is a striking piece of art, created by Herbert Bayer, that consists of two towering steel structures. Each structure is painted in a different bold color making a rainbow. The structures are positioned to form an archway and are connected by a series of cables and wires.

The colors used in the Chromatic Gate are intended to symbolize the diverse cultural heritage of Santa Barbara and to create a sense of vibrancy and energy in the surrounding space. The installation is particularly stunning when the sunlight hits the structures, casting vibrant and dramatic shadows on the ground. Finally, it’s completely free to experience. I especially love the ocean views through the gate.

Visit the Funk Zone

Since Santa Barbara is a huge college town, The Funk Zone is a unique and vibrant neighborhood. It’s widely known for its artistic and creative community, trendy shops, wine-tasting rooms, and eclectic restaurants. The Funk Zone is also home to a number of galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists and designers. Visitors can explore the galleries, meet the artists, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces of art.

In addition to the wine-tasting rooms and art galleries, the Funk Zone is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to seafood to tacos. The neighborhood is a popular destination for foodies, who come to sample the local cuisine. Highly recommend spending your evening here!

State Street

State Street is the main drag in Santa Barbara and is known as the cultural hub of town. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, theaters, museums, and art galleries. The shopping scene is elite as it has everything from high-end shops to local artisan boutiques. There are also tons of restaurants and cafes to choose from when exploring.

Santa Barbara Itinerary Breakdown

• Morning at The Funk Zone (coffee shop)
• Stearns Wharf + Chase Palms Park
• Dinner on State Street

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: Recommended Restaurants

• Loquita Santa Barbara
• Finney’s Crafthouse
• Milk + Honey
• Convivo Restaurant + Bar

Kimpton Canary Hotel – Kimpton provides the quintessential Santa Barbara hotel experience, with luxurious accommodations and a staff focused on delighting you at every turn. The crown jewel of this Spanish-style hotel is its rooftop pool, which affords stunning views, particularly at sunset. Book your stay here !

El Encanto – This Belmond property is timeless Californian glamor. Rooms invite coastal-style serenity with a blend of light, airy textures, and locally carved furnishings that echo the tranquility outside. Book your stay here !

Palihouse Santa Barbara – Palihouse Santa Barbara offers guests an intimate and elegant coastal hideaway in the heart of Santa Barbara’s downtown Historic Presidio Neighborhood. Offering 24 spirited and handsomely appointed guest Rooms and Suites, all situated amongst a tranquil Mediterranean-style courtyard. Book your stay here !

Solvang + Big Sur Day Six (Driving Day)

* If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast you can choose to visit Death Valley National Park aside from Big Sur and Carmel on the 10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary. You would skip this portion and head straight to Yosemite from Death Valley. However, coming from a California local I would advise going the route of visiting Big Sur.

Big Sur is a rugged and breathtakingly beautiful stretch of coastline located along the central coast of California, between Carmel and San Simeon. The area is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, rugged beaches, and lush forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and artists.

It’s one of my favorite parts of California as the views will take your breath away. When driving to Big Sur it’s. a bit of a trek coming from Santa Barbara. Most of the day will be spent in the car as it takes roughly 5 hours. And you most definitely do not want to miss the most charming town in California, Solvang on your way up. It’s a small town so spending an hour or two here you can easily see the highlights. Check out my Ultimate Guide to Visiting Solvang for details there. Furthermore, Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo are popular spots to visit as well on the way up.

Once you arrive in Big Sur do know that is home to several state parks and preserves, including Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. These parks offer a variety of hiking trails, camping options, and picnic areas, as well as stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Big Sur

Bixby bridge.

If you’re a fan of cinema, you may recognize this bridge from the famous book to movie adaptation, Big Little Lies . Bixby Bridge is an iconic landmark located on the scenic Highway 1 in Big Sur. It is one of the most photographed bridges along the Pacific Coastline and is renowned for its architectural beauty and dramatic setting.

The bridge’s location on the rugged coastline provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding cliffs, and the picturesque landscape. The combination of the bridge’s design and its scenic backdrop makes it a popular spot for photographers, tourists, and nature enthusiasts. Finally, it’s worth noting that road conditions and access to the Bixby Bridge may vary due to factors such as weather, maintenance, or construction. When you are planning to visit, it’s best to check for any updates or advisories before your trip.

McWay Falls

If the Little Mermaid lived in Big Sur, it would be McWay Falls. McWay Falls is a picturesque waterfall that cascades directly onto a pristine sandy beach, creating a stunning sight where the waterfall meets the ocean. The waterfall drops from a height of around 80 feet into a small cove, making it one of the few waterfalls in California that fall directly into the ocean.

In order to access the trail leading to McWay Falls there is a parking lot that you can pay a small fee to park at. Then it is a short, well-maintained path that is accessible to visitors. However, the trail leading down to the beach and the cove is closed to the public to protect the sensitive habitat and ensure visitor safety. Nonetheless, there are designated viewpoints that provide excellent vantage points to admire the vibrant turquoise water of the falls and the surrounding scenery.

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique features. The beach is famous for its picturesque rock formations, including the Keyhole Rock, which creates a natural archway that frames the ocean and provides a popular photo opportunity. The sand on Pfeiffer Beach is a distinctive purple color, resulting from manganese garnet deposits in the cliffs that surround the beach.

For the best time to visit, Pfeiffer Beach is particularly renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. The combination of the rugged coastline, the unique rock formations, and the vibrant colors in the sky create a magical atmosphere during the evening hours (as long as it’s not overcast). Finally, Pfeiffer Beach is a relatively undeveloped beach with limited facilities. There is a small parking area near the beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Restrooms and drinking water are available near the parking area.

• Nepenthe : a Big Sur institution, Nepenthe has been serving visitors since 1949. Perched on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views of the coastline. The menu features a variety of dishes, including burgers, salads, and seafood, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to try their signature Ambrosia Burger.
• Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn : Deetjen’s is a historic inn with a renowned restaurant that serves up hearty and comforting meals. Their menu features dishes like steak, lamb, seafood, and vegetarian options, prepared with care and attention to detail.
• Coast Big Sur : Located within the iconic Ventana Inn and Spa, Coast Big Sur offers a relaxed and elegant dining experience. The menu features dishes inspired by the coastal region, showcasing local seafood, farm-fresh produce, and artisanal ingredients.

I would recommend staying in Carmel by the Sea for two nights so you can catch your breath. It’s hard moving hotels every night so being that Carmel is close to Big Sur that is the best option.

La Playa Carmel : This historic hotel combines elegance and coastal charm. It features beautifully landscaped gardens, luxurious rooms, and attentive service. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and evening wine and cheese receptions. I’ve personally stayed here and it’s my favorite hotel in this California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days. Book your stay here !

L’Auberge Carmel : Situated in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, L’Auberge Carmel exudes sophistication and European-style luxury. The boutique hotel offers individually designed rooms, a renowned on-site restaurant, and impeccable service. Book your stay here !

Carmel Valley Ranch : Located 15 minutes from the main street in Carmel however if you like to have quiet and privacy this is the hotel for you. It’s so peaceful and serene with outdoor bathtubs in the suites as well as swings adorning the property and rows of lavender and they really do take farm to table seriously here as they have a small working farm. Book your stay here !

Day 7 Carmel by the Sea + Monterrey

Carmel-by-the-Sea, often referred to simply as Carmel, is a charming coastal town located on the Monterey Peninsula in California. Known for its picturesque beauty, artistic heritage, and European village-like atmosphere, Carmel attracts visitors from around the world.

Carmel was founded in 1902 as an artist colony. Many artists, writers, and intellectuals were drawn to the area’s natural beauty and tranquility. The town’s founder, Frank Devendorf, envisioned Carmel as a haven for artists, and it has maintained its artistic and cultural character over the years. It gives off major fairytale vibes. It’s unique because the houses here are not numbered instead they each have a name. It’s most definitely a small-town vibe and one of my favorite places in all of California.

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: Best Things to Do in Carmel

Carmel village.

The downtown area of Carmel is full of charming shops, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll along Ocean Avenue and explore the hidden courtyards and passageways that make Carmel unique. Do note that the village to the beach is quite hilly so prepare for that!

Carmel Mission

Visit the Carmel Mission Basilica, also known as Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo. This historic mission, founded in 1770, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved missions in California. Explore the mission grounds and learn about its history and significance.

17 Mile Drive

The 17-Mile Drive is a picturesque route that takes you through stunning coastal landscapes, including rocky shorelines, cypress groves, and beautiful beaches. The drive offers breathtaking ocean views and opportunities for photography.

Along the drive, you’ll encounter several iconic landmarks and points of interest. Some notable stops include:

• The Lone Cypress: One of California’s most enduring landmarks, this solitary cypress tree perched on a rocky outcrop is a symbol of the Monterey Peninsula.
• Bird Rock: A large offshore rock formation that serves as a rookery for a variety of seabirds, including cormorants and seagulls.
• The Ghost Tree: A striking, gnarled cypress tree that stands as a testament to the harsh coastal conditions.
• Cypress Point Lookout: This viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
• Pebble Beach Golf Links: Renowned as one of the world’s most famous golf courses, Pebble Beach offers picturesque views of the coastline.

Entrance to the 17-mile drive costs $10. If you prefer to ride your bicycle through for an epic experience I believe you can enter for free. Finally, it takes an hour or two to drive with proper stops so prepare for that.

Point Lobos Natural Reserve

Just south of Carmel, Point Lobos is a breathtaking nature reserve known for its scenic coastal trails, diverse wildlife, and beautiful coves. Go hiking, birdwatching, or even scuba diving to explore the marine life in the reserve. The coast here is stunning!

Downtown Monterrey

When ending the 17-mile drive you will end up in Monterrey California. Downtown Monterey has a significant place in California’s history. It was the capital of both Spanish and Mexican California in the 18th and early 19th centuries, and it served as an important center for trade and government. Furthermore, many historic buildings and landmarks still stand, preserving the town’s heritage.

One of the main attractions in downtown Monterey is Cannery Row. Once the center of the sardine canning industry, it has now transformed into a bustling waterfront district filled with shops, restaurants, galleries, and hotels. It’s a popular destination and has been made popular by the popular novel Cannery Row by John Steinbeck. Other things to do in the area include:

• Monterrey Bay Aquarium
• Fishermans Wharf
• Alvarado Street
• Monterey State Historic Park
• La Bicyclette
• Grasing’s Coastal Cuisine
• The Tuck Box
• Dametra Cafe

Big Sur + Carmel by the Sea Itinerary Breakdown

• Leave Santa Barbara early morning
• 1-hour drive to Solvang to have breakfast at Paulas Pancake House
• Walk around Solvang village for 30 minutes
• 4-hour drive to McWay Falls
• 25-minute drive to explore Pfeiffer Beach
• 35-minute drive to Bixby Bridge
• Dinner at Nepenthe Big Sur
• End the evening at Carmel by the Sea
• Spend the morning in Carmel by the Sea Town
• Relax at Carmel Beach
• Take a leisurely 17-mile drive in the afternoon
• Explore downtown Monterrey
• Dinner at La Bicyclette

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: Day 8 + 9 Yosemite National Park

When visiting California, you must stop at the iconic. Yosemite National Park. Yosemite’s human history dates back over 3,000 years to the indigenous Ahwahneechee people. In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, which protected the area and set it aside for preservation and public use. In 1890, Yosemite became the third national park in the United States.

It takes roughly 4 hours to get to Yosemite from Carmel by The Sea so I would plan on spending two nights here as well. Yosemite boasts several famous landmarks and natural features. Some of the notable ones include:

• Half Dome: A granite dome that attracts rock climbers and offers breathtaking views from the top.
• Yosemite Valley: A glacially carved valley known for its towering granite walls, waterfalls (such as Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall), meadows, and the Merced River.
• Mariposa Grove: Home to around 500 mature giant sequoia trees, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
• Glacier Point: A viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and numerous high peaks.

Make sure to check out my Full Visiting Guide to Yosemite for more information on visiting.

Day 10 San Francisco

San Francisco is a vibrant and cultural city known for its hilly terrain, landmarks, delicious cuisine, and technology culture. The Golden Gate Bridge, which is an internationally recognized symbol of the city is the biggest claim to fame. Other notable sites include Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street (known as the “most crooked street in the world”), and the historic cable cars that traverse the city’s hilly streets.

San Francisco is also known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and atmosphere. Some popular neighborhoods include Union Square, known for its high-end shopping and theaters; Chinatown, the oldest and largest Chinatown in North America; the Mission District, a vibrant area with a rich Latino culture; and Haight-Ashbury, famous for its association with the 1960s counterculture.

Best Things to Do in San Francisco

Palace of fine arts.

The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning architectural gem located in the Marina District of San Francisco. It was originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, a world’s fair that celebrated the completion of the Panama Canal and showcased San Francisco’s recovery from the devastating 1906 earthquake. The palace was designed by architect Bernard Maybeck and served as a temporary exhibition hall.

Visitors can stroll along the pathways, taking in the architectural details and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The palace is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and photography. The tranquil surroundings provide a serene escape from the bustling city.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is iconic in California and one of the most recognized landmarks in the world. There are many vantage points to enjoy the view of this stunning landmark. The most iconic one is Battery Spencer. Which is located in Marin County. Battery Spencer offers panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. From this elevated viewpoint, you can see the bridge with the San Francisco skyline in the background.

Another popular one is Baker Beach. This popular beach on the San Francisco side of the Golden Gate Bridge provides a unique perspective. You can capture stunning photos of the bridge with the ocean in the foreground or take a leisurely walk along the shore. Be aware that this is a nude beach. Finally, remember to check the weather conditions, as the bridge can sometimes be shrouded in fog.

Haight Ashbury

Haight-Ashbury played a pivotal role in the hippie counterculture movement of the 1960s. It attracted thousands of young people seeking alternative lifestyles, free expression, and experimentation. The neighborhood became known for its vibrant music scene, cultural activism, and communal living.

While the neighborhood has evolved over the years, there are still some iconic landmarks that harken back to the 1960s. The Red Victorian, a colorful guesthouse, and the Psychedelic Shop, which was the first store in the United States to sell psychedelic merchandise, are notable reminders of the era. The famous Amoeba Music record store is always a fun stop along your journey.

Finally, the neighborhood is surrounded by several green spaces. The nearby Golden Gate Park offers opportunities for leisurely walks, picnics, and visits to notable attractions like the Conservatory of Flowers and the Haight-Ashbury Peace Sculpture.

Fisherman’s Wharf

In my opinion, if you’ve seen one Fisherman’s Wharf you’ve seen them all. However, this spot tends to be one of the most visited when in San Francisco. It’s known for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to sample fresh Dungeness crab or take a boat tour to see sea lions at Pier 39. Finally, you can view Alcatraz Island across the way from this spot.

The Painted Ladies

If you grew up watching Full House you will very much recognize this row of Victorian homes called The Painted Ladies. The Painted Ladies are known for their colorful and ornate Victorian and Edwardian architecture. They showcase the unique and intricate details of the era, featuring elements like decorative trim, bay windows, and steep gabled roofs.

They are situated across from Alamo Square, a picturesque park in San Francisco. This location provides a stunning backdrop for photographs, as it offers an unobstructed view of the row of houses with the city skyline in the background. It almost looks as though they are sinking when you snap a photo with the grass in the foreground.

San Francisco’s Chinatown has a rich history dating back to the 1840s when Chinese immigrants began arriving during the California Gold Rush. It is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and has played a significant role in preserving Chinese culture and heritage in the United States.

The iconic Dragon’s Gate marks the entrance to Chinatown on Grant Avenue. It is adorned with elaborate dragon sculptures, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Furthermore, you can visit the Golden Gate fortune cookie factory in which most of the fortune cookies in America are made.

Ride a Cable Car

The San Francisco cable car system is the world’s last manually operated cable car system and an icon of the city of San Francisco. Riding a cable car offers stunning views of San Francisco’s iconic sights and neighborhoods, including Lombard Street, Coit Tower, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco Bay.

You can enjoy the city’s picturesque beauty as you ride up and down the hills. As well as experience the nostalgia of the city’s past. Finally, to avoid long lines, it’s advisable to catch a cable car at the beginning or end of the line, or consider riding during off-peak hours.

• Benu : Benu is a Michelin three-star restaurant that combines Asian and American flavors to create innovative and meticulously crafted dishes.
• Saison : Another Michelin three-star restaurant, Saison offers a multi-course tasting menu featuring seasonal ingredients and showcasing the culinary artistry of Chef Joshua Skenes.
• State Bird Provisions : Known for its creative and playful small plates, State Bird Provisions offers a unique dining experience where dishes are served dim sum style on rolling carts.
• Zuni Café : Zuni Café is a San Francisco institution known for its wood-fired cuisine, including its famous roast chicken and Caesar salad. It’s a classic and beloved spot in the city.
• Gary Danko : Gary Danko is an upscale restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine with French influences. The menu features a range of gourmet dishes, and the restaurant is known for its impeccable service.
• Boulevard : Located near the Embarcadero, Boulevard is a renowned restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on contemporary American cuisine and a vast selection of wines.
• La Taqueria : For delicious Mexican food, La Taqueria in the Mission District is a must-visit. It’s famous for its flavorful and authentic tacos, particularly the carne asada and carnitas options.

The Ritz-Carlton : Located in Nob Hill, The Ritz-Carlton offers luxury accommodations with elegant rooms, a spa, and impeccable service. It is known for its classic charm and breathtaking views of the city. Book your stay here !

Fairmont San Francisco : Situated atop Nob Hill, Fairmont is an iconic hotel with a rich history. It offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop garden, and stunning views of the city and the bay. Book your stay here !

1 Hotel San Francisco : Overlooking the Embarcadero waterfront, Hotel Vitale offers stylish rooms with bay views, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a spa. It’s a great option for those looking for a contemporary and boutique hotel experience. Book your stay here !

California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: San Francisco Itinerary Breakdown

• Morning at the Palace of Fine Arts
• Drive over to Battery Spencer Park
• Golden Gate Park
• Explore Haight Ashbury
• Visit the Painted Ladies
• Explore Chinatown
• Ride a Cable Car to Fishermans Wharf

Well, there you have it fam! Thank you for reading this lengthy “10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary”. I hoped you gained a lot of insight to make your trip easier. If you have any other questions feel free to comment them below. Enjoy the highlights of the golden state! Finally, don’t forget to check out more of my California Guides .

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10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary: An Epic Los Angeles To Big Sur Road Trip

By Jessie Festa. This Southern California road trip itinerary includes affiliate links to trusted partners!

Planning a 10 day California road trip itinerary ?

Then you’re in the right place, as this guide shares an epic Los Angeles to Big Sur road trip!

Southern California has so much to offer; national parks, hiking, wine, scenic drives, delicious local food, and more. Luckily, the below itinerary includes all this and more.

If you’ve got time to spare, this guide also shares a suggested California road trip itinerary for 14 days — which is highly recommended as it includes an immersive visit to beautiful wine country as well as a Danish village that transports you to Europe.

Along with advice on where to stop, the California road trip plan includes important tips and travel information to help ensure the perfect trip!

Table of Contents

Plan Your California Road Trip (Free Resources!)

But first, before we dive into our 10 day road trip from Los Angeles , I invite you to grab my free  Ultimate Travel Planning Kit  — which also includes a downloadable Google Map of my full Southern California road trip itinerary (with 80 attractions, hikes, and hotels pre-plotted!).

There isn’t great cell reception in many of the places on this route, so downloading the Google Map will save you time as you can simply pull it up before you leave your hotel for the map to work offline.

Simply add the map to your phone to have it ready to go for your road trip .

Bonus: The kit comes with 40+ other travel resources — from printables to quizzes to itineraries — all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!

On that note, let’s go over an unforgettable California itinerary for 10 days in the Golden State!

Renting A Car For Your Southern California Road Trip

To do this Southern California trip itinerary, you’ll need a car. And if you need to rent a car, I highly recommend using Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary: Quick Overview

Here is what I recommend for a 10 days in California itinerary . For this schedule, you’d fly into Los Angeles International Airport and out of San Jose International Airport.

• Los Angeles (1 day)
• Joshua Tree National Park (2 days)
• Sequoia National Park (2 days)
• Yosemite National Park (3 days)
• Carmel-by-the-Sea & Big Sur (2 days)

Want to make this a 2 week California trip itinerary ? I suggest adding on the following. For this schedule, you’d fly round-trip to and from Los Angeles International Airport.

• Paso Robles (2 days)
• Solvang (1 day)

And if you only have time for a 1 week road trip in California , I recommend either choosing to explore the national parks and leaving from Fresno-Yosemite International Airport or flying into San Jose International Airport and doing Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, Paso Robles, Solvang, and Los Angeles and then leaving from Los Angeles International Airport.

Ultimate California Road Trip Map Planner

Looking for a California road trip trip planner map ? Here you go:

You can also click here for the interactive version.

Note that while this map provides general stops for an entire 14 day California road trip, you can get a larger Google map with 80 specific attractions and experiences pre-plotted in my free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit .

Los Angeles To Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary (In-Depth Guide)

So, what is there to do on a Big Sur road trip from Los Angeles ? That is what we’ll cover in this section!

Keep in mind, Los Angeles to Big Sur drive time can be as little as 5 hours and 45 minutes if you drive there directly. Moreover, if you drive from Los Angeles to Carmel-by-the-Sea via Highway 1 you can be there in just 5 hours.

However, for this Big Sur itinerary from Los Angeles we’re extending that time and also including three incredible California national parks for a truly epic trip.

I’ve highlighted each stop in yellow so that you can visually differentiate it from the next in case you want to skim the guide.

Note that this Southern California road trip itinerary is the exact route Andy (my husband) and I took for our honeymoon. We absolutely loved it!

Road Trip Stop #1: Los Angeles (1 night)

Our flight from JFK to Los Angeles International Airport got in pretty late, so we honestly just booked a night at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham LAX .

It was perfect for our needs as it was simple, clean, comfortable, quiet, and included breakfast in the budget-friendly room rate.

Spoiler: If you have more time your first day and are looking for a fun and hip place to stay, we booked The Kinney Venice Beach for the last night of our trip and it was amazing. More on that below!

You can also click here to view a full list of Los Angeles hotels as well as here to see a list of local LA tours .

Road Trip Stop #2: Joshua Tree National Park (2 nights)

Driving time from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park = About 2 hours and 20 minutes (131.3 miles) via I-10 E

Encompassing 1,235 square miles, Joshua Tree National Park features otherworldly desert landscapes dotted with prickly cacti, twisting shrubs, and quirky Joshua Trees that look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book.

Spending a few days hiking here is a must. And even if you’re not into hiking, simply driving the park, seeing the scenery, and stopping at the numerous exhibits and attractions — from giant rock formations to cactus gardens — makes it worth the trip.

Things To Do In Joshua Tree National Park On A California Road Trip

Hike the Lost Horse Mine Trail . This moderate 4-mile trail is one of the best in the park, as it brings together breathtaking natural beauty with history as you trek to a mine that is over 100 years old.

Other highlights of the hike include beautiful desert scenery, gorgeous views over the Lost Horse Valley, and seeing wildlife like lizards, ravens, white-tailed antelope squirrels, and giant caterpillars.

It’s quite a gorgeous hike, as you can see in this short video:

Visit the Cholla Cactus Garden. I loved doing the short hike through this garden — though don’t be fooled by the fuzzy-looking cacti, as they are very painful if you get pricked.⁠

Basically, look but don’t touch and you’ll have an enjoyable experience while getting some beautiful nature photos you won’t be able to get at home!

Create a DIY rock formation scavenger hunt. There are so many “exhibits” in Joshua Tree National Park, which are essentially rock formations and other natural sites you shouldn’t miss.

Interestingly, the rock piles you see began forming underground eons ago due to volcanic activity. Today, they allow visitors to use their imagination to see unlikely yet familiar shapes. My favorite is Skull Rock , a giant rock that looks like a humongous skull — eye sockets included!

See the vista from Keys View. Keys View is the highest point in Joshua Tree National Park, making it a must-stop for anyone who loves beautiful scenery.

From the lookout, you can take in panoramic views of the Coachella Valley from the crest of the Little San Bernardino Mountains.⁠

Hike the Hidden Valley Nature Trail . This easy 1-mile trail is known for showcasing all of the natural features that Joshua Tree National Park is known for, like Joshua Trees, giant rock formations, pinyon pines, beavertail cacti, California juniper, and yucca.

It takes about an hour to hike. During this time, you’ll feel like you’ve been swallowed up by the valley with its towering boulder walls and immersive Mojave desert beauty.

The panoramic views are truly incredible, as you can see in this quick video:

Eat at Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace . This fun and delicious eatery is known for their live music, mason jar cocktails, American and BBQ dishes made with sustainable ingredients, and Old West decor that shares the interesting history of the establishment.

In fact, Pioneertown — where Pappy & Harriet’s is located — was built by a group of filmmakers and Hollywood investors to act as a living movie set with stables, saloons, jails, and a cantina.

It’s this cantina that eventually became the beloved eatery and event space that is now called Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace.

Andy and I shared a full rack of ribs that was absolutely delicious. I also got a mezcal cocktail called the “Highway Queen” that was super spicy and refreshing — perfect after a day of hiking in the hot sun.

Joshua Tree Tours & Activities

Looking for other experiences to add to your California road trip plan? A few highly-rated local tours include:

• Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour
• Half-Day Guided Hike in Joshua Tree National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour
• Rappelling Adventure in Joshua Tree National Park (4 Hours)
• Secrets of Joshua Tree Hidden Valley Scavenger Hunt
• Palm Springs Indian Canyons Bike and Hike from Palm Springs

Click here for a full list of tours near Joshua Tree .

Stay: Romantic Glamping Site (Yucca Valley, California)

As we were on our honeymoon, we booked this romantic glamping site from GlampingHub — though even if you’re enjoying a solo getaway in California or with friends you will absolutely love this accommodation.

The unique glamping site was the perfect way to mix luxury with desert camping. In fact, we had our own hot tub, fire pit, kitchen, and bathroom — all outdoors!

Another highlight was the stargazing platform on the property with mats and a hammock. We saw many shooting stars from here.

Our hosts also gave us a bottle of California sangria, a nice touch to our romantic Southern California road trip.

Looking for additional accommodation options?

Click here for a full list of Joshua Tree hotels and click here for a list of local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park has almost no shade, so it’s important to know what to wear hiking and to be prepared for the elements.

Having extra water as well as the proper hiking attire like moisture-wicking clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat that covers your head and neck will help keep you temperate and safe.

Road Trip Stop #3: Sequoia National Park (2 nights)

Driving time from Joshua Tree National Park to Sequoia National Park = 5 hours 20 minutes (311.1 miles) via CA-58 W

Sequoia National Park showcases 631 square miles of stunning nature, and the beauty begins as soon as you enter the park. The drive along the steep winding road into Sequoia NP showcases dramatic high altitude views.

Moreover, hiking among California’s giant sequoia trees is a magical and humbling experience, as you trek through fairytale forests that remind you just how small you are in this big beautiful world.

In fact, sequoias are the world’s most massive tree, and the park is home to the world’s largest! More on that below.

Things To Do In Sequoia National Park On A California Road Trip

Get acquainted with the park at the Giant Forest Museum. Here you can view exhibits on the park and buy souvenirs like postcards, maps, and books.

Hike the Big Trees Trail. Whether you have one day in Sequoia National Park or a few, hiking the Big Trees Trail is a must! This 1-mile paved and wheelchair-accessible trail takes you around a stunning meadow (called Round Meadow) framed by giant sequoias.

Hike to Crescent Meadow. If you’d like to continue hiking, I recommend connecting a few trails — including the Hazelwood, Alta, and Huckleberry trails — and heading to Tharp’s Log & Crescent Meadow .

In total, you’ll hike 2.9 miles with an elevation gain of 748 feet for a lovely sequoia-filled hike that takes you away from the crowds.

Crescent Meadow, with its golden grass and towering trees, is particularly lovely, which is why author and environmental philosopher John Muir called it the “Gem of the Sierras”.

You can see Crescent Meadow — as well as this entire hike — in this short video:

Visit the world’s largest tree by volume. The famous General Sherman Tree is:

• 52,500 cubic feet in volume
• 2,200 years old
• 1,385 tons in weight
• 275 feet tall
• 102-foot circumference at the ground
• Its branches are almost 7 feet in diameter

You can reach the tree via a 1-mile-round-trip paved trail or a shorter wheelchair-accessible trail.

Hike the Lakes Trail . If you’re up for a challenge, the hard but stunning Lakes Trail takes you to three mountain lakes, including Heather Lake, Emerald Lake, and Pear Lake.

The hike is 12.2 miles and totally worth the trek for the scenery and the panoramic views across the Tokopah Valley.

Sequoia NP Tours & Activities

• Private Guided Hiking Tours in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
• Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare
• Sequoia National Park Snowshoe Adventure from Three Rivers
• Stargazing in Sequoia National Park

Click here for a full list of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park experiences !

Stay: Country Guesthouse At An Animal Rescue (Exeter, California)

If you love animals, this Airbnb will be absolute heaven. Hosts Penni and Steve run an animal rescue onsite with 26 cats and more than 10 dogs to play with.

Andy and I are huge cat people and were missing our two fur babies, so getting to play with all of the kitties was a lot of fun for us. Plus, we bonded with one cat in particular, Jazzy, who ended up snuggling with us at night.

Other highlights include yard games like bocce and ping pong, a private patio, an additional outdoor seating area with grill, a full kitchen, a Keurig with loads of flavors to choose from, and one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in!

Click here for a full list of hotels near Sequoia National Park and click here to view unique local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is right next to Kings Canyon National Park, so try to make time to visit both if possible. Technically if you start early you can visit both in one day if you plan to spend about 4-to-6 hours in each park.

Road Trip Stop #4: Yosemite National Park (3 nights)

Driving time from Sequoia National Park to Yosemite National Park (South Entrance) = 3 hours 21 minutes (154.6 miles) via CA-41 N

Showcasing 747,956 acres of woodland, waterfalls, and massive granite peaks, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit on your California road trip.

Exploring this park allows you to take in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and the views are the kind that will literally leave your mouth hanging open in awe.

Since this California road trip itinerary has limited time, we’ll be sticking to the Yosemite Valley section of the park near the South Gate Entrance.

Note that if you have more time or want to explore something less traversed you can drive along Tioga Road toward the Tioga Pass , the highest highway pass in California! There are some truly incredible hikes over here, like Cloud’s Rest and Lembert Dome — both of which would be great additions to an unforgettable itinerary for Yosemite National Park !

Things To Do In Yosemite National Park On A California Road Trip

Hike Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail . Yes, this 5-mile-round-trip hike is challenging, but it’s so worth it to see not one, but two beautiful waterfalls (Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls). You’ll get to stand below, to the side of, and above both for an array of views.

Taking the John Muir Trail back down adds 1.5 miles to the trek, but is recommended as it’s both easier on your knees and extremely scenic. In fact, it features my favorite view in the whole park, which you can see at the very end of this video:

Do a few easy hikes. While you can certainly find challenging treks in Yosemite National Park, there are also a number of easy ones like Bridalveil Fall (0.5 miles round-trip), Lower Yosemite Fall (1.1 miles round-trip), and the Cook’s Meadow Loop (1 mile).

Drive through the Wawona Tunnel. At 4,233 feet long, Wawona Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in California. Have your camera ready as you exit the tunnel, as with the light brings an amazing view of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.

Also make sure to pull over to the side at the Tunnel View Overlook to really take in the greatness of the park’s towering granite monoliths.

This viewpoint is particularly beautiful at sunset!

Go swimming at Sentinel Beach. Yes, you read that right. The sandy Sentinel Beach sits on the Merced River and is a great spot for swimming and rafting.

You can visit the adjacent Swinging Bridge for views of the Three Brothers, El Capitan, Columbia Rock, and more!

Hike to Columbia Rock . Speaking of Columbia Rock, you can hike to it!

The 2-mile round-trip trek involves a difficult uphill ascent the entire time, though there are various lookouts along the way. Plus, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view from 5,031 feet high at the Columbia Rock viewing platform.

Hike Sentinel Dome to Glacier Point . If you like stunning views without a ton of effort, this moderate trek is for you. While this 5-mile-round-trip hike is beautiful the entire way, there are two major viewpoints to get excited about:

• Sentinel Dome , where you’ll get a true 360-degree view of Yosemite landmarks like Half Dome, North Dome, Basket Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls in the background.
• Glacier Point , where you’ll have a front-row view of Half Dome.

You can see how stunning this California hike is in this short video:

Have dinner at South Gate Brewing Company. It’s always fun to try locally-made food and drinks, and since this is also a brewery you can sample some local IPAs, porters, pilsners, and more.

Not only that, but South Gate Brewing Company makes many of their food dishes from scratch, too, often weaving their beers into the recipes.

We started with a crab and beer cheese dip that was scrumptuous. From there, I took a healthier turn with a homemade black bean burger was absolutely delicious.

Yosemite Tours & Activities

• Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup from Oakhurst
• Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite
• Yosemite Valley Private Winter Hiking Tour
• Private Tuolumne Meadows Hiking Tour from Wawona
• One Day In Yosemite Private Tour: Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point & Giant Sequoias

Click here for a full list of Yosemite National Park tours .

Stay: Eagle Nest Rental With Hot Tub (Ahwahnee, California)

We loved our comfortable Airbnb property in Ahwahnee, which was about a 40-minute drive to the South Gate of Yosemite National Park.

This property included a fully-equipped house with upstairs bedroom, full kitchen, a grill, and a living room featuring games like a wall dart board and a checkers table.

Of course, after a long day of hiking nothing is better than a soak in the hot tub, which the Eagle Nest includes. In the morning, it was also nice to eat breakfast outside with a view of the surrounding mountains.

I have to say, though, my favorite part of this Airbnb was the cats, including an adorable and energetic kitten named Peaches and his buddy Gabriel, an older cat who seemed to be used to Peaches jumping on his legs.

Click here for a full list of hotels near Yosemite and click here to view unique local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Yosemite National Park

When booking your Yosemite National Park accommodation, do your research to make sure you’re staying near your desired entrance gate. The park is massive and it can take hours to drive to a particular trailhead if you’re not staying in the right location.

Road Trip Stop #5: Carmel-by-the-Sea & Big Sur (2 nights)

Driving time from Yosemite National Park (South Entrance) to Carmel-by-the-Sea = 3 hours 41 minutes (186.6 miles) via CA-152 W

Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur are technically two different places, they’re located very close to one another and are easy to explore from the same homebase.

While Carmel-by-the-Sea is a walkable seaside city with loads of restaurants, bars, art galleries, and shops — not to mention beautiful beaches — Big Sur is best known for its many outdoor adventure opportunities and. Spending time in both during your Southern California road trip offers the chance to have two unique experiences in one.

Keep in mind, driving Big Sur is a California road trip in itself, so if you can spend more than 2 nights that is ideal. To help you craft your itinerary, here are some of my favorite things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur.

Things To Do In Big Sur & Carmel-by-the-Sea On A California Road Trip

Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea’s galleries & cottages. Along with being one of the best beach towns in California , it’s also very creative. In fact, Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to almost 100 art galleries, so you’ll have plenty of options for this. Of course, you shouldn’t miss visiting the Thomas Kinkade Gallery  — the artist’s first-ever gallery, which also has a lovely courtyard with paintings to peruse.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also known for its many fairytale cottages known as Comstock Cottages , as they were designed and built by Hugh Comstock. You can explore these on your own or with the help of a self-guided audio tour that takes you to 11 of these unique bungalows and shares interesting information about each.

See the viewpoints that every iconic Highway 1 road trip itinerary is known for. One neat thing about Big Sur’s Highway 1 is there are loads of vista points where you can pull over and take in a stunning view of the rugged coastline, Pacific Ocean, and jagged cliffs all in one postcard-worthy scene. Many of these vista points also have hiking trails that take you to other beautiful settings.

While you’ll simply see the vista points as you drive and can pull over, a few not-to-miss include:

• Kasler Point , a cape with some of the most fantastic views along Highway 1
• Bixby Creek Bridge , an iconic Big Sur attraction dating back to 1932
• Seal Beach Scenic Overlook , where you can look over a cliff to see elephant seals on the beach below

Hit the beach. You can’t explore California travel without spending time at the beach. Luckily, you’ve got a few options to add to your itinerary for your California road trip.

These include Carmel Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea — a large and beautiful free beach — as well as Sand Dollar Beach , a popular spot for swimming, photographing unique rock formations, and beachcombing for sand dollars, serpentine, and jade.

There is also Pfeiffer Beach , a secluded beach with soft sand, a secluded cove, and a very interesting rock arch in the water near the shore.

Go hiking in Big Sur. If you’re always on the lookout for the best trails in the world , you’ll love Big Sur. Honestly, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen so many state parks and nature reserves as close together as along Highway 1.

Here you’ll find Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (full of flat and easy trails and coastal views), Garrapata State Park (featuring 4.6 square miles of coastal trails and beachfront), Andrew Molera State Park (4,766-acres of mostly undeveloped land), Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (sometimes referred to as “mini Yosemite”), Julia Pfeiffer State Park (home to the famous 80-foot McWay Falls ), and Limekiln State Park (where along with scenic hiking you can learn the cultural history of limekilns).

One hike I love in this area is the Buzzard’s Roost Trail Loop in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a moderate 2.6-mile loop that ends with coastal and mountain views. When hiking it ourselves, we saw a number of California condors, too!

Eat up — and don’t miss Nepenthe. There are loads of great local restaurants to enjoy, like From Scratch , which serves hearty made-from-scratch breakfasts; La Bicyclete , a Michelin-starred French restaurant with delicious gnocchi; and the adorable Big Sur Bakery where you can get everything from homemade pastries to woodfire oven-baked pizzas.

This being said, if you only have time for one restaurant, you can’t miss Nepenthe .

Not only does Nepenthe serve delicious food and great drinks, but it offers incredible panoramic views to pair.

They’ve also got loads of seating options, from their funky waiting area with wooden bleachers and pillows to their al fresco viewing platform. Order a spritz and a cheese platter and enjoy the ambiance!

Big Sur Tours & Activities

• Big Sur Self-Driving Audio Tour in California (Highway 1, Pacific Coast Highway)
• Carmel Small-Group Food and Wine Walking Tour
• Big Sur Monterey California Pacific Coast One Day Tour
• 2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove Sea Car Tour
• Macaron making with a Master Chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Half-Day Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

Click here for a list of fun tours in Big Sur as well as nearby Carmel and Monterey !

Stay: Carmel River Inn (Carmel-by-the-Sea, California)

When planning this part of our trip our goal was to stay right in Big Sur, but after researching accommodation we realized that staying in Carmel-by-the-Sea would be more affordable.

Not only that, but the Carmel River Inn had glowing reviews — and after staying for ourselves it’s easy to see why!

Along with hotel rooms, they offer a village of cottages, which is where we stayed. The room was spacious with amenities like a fireplace, private patio with table and chairs, and a deep soaking tub for two.

Bonus: There was a nightly bonfire where you could hang out and meet other guests, too!

Click here for a full list of Big Sur hotels and click here for a full list of local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Big Sur

When doing your Big Sur road trip itinerary , know that there isn’t cell service along Highway 1. For this reason, it’s best to pre-plot your points of interest into a Google Map before you leave your hotel.

I also have a free pre-plotted Big Sur road trip Google map in my Ultimate Travel Planning Kit here .

California Road Trip Itinerary For 14 Days (Bonus Stops!)

If you have time to make this a 14 day Southern California road trip , I highly recommend adding on the following experiences:

Road Trip Stop #6: Paso Robles (2 nights)

Driving time from Big Sur to Paso Robles = 2 hours 25 minutes (104.7 mi) via CA-1 S

If you like wine, a weekend in Paso Robles or even a day or a few weekdays is a must. The region is outstandingly beautiful, not to mention that time just seems to slow down while serotonin levels rise as you sip wine in the vines under the hot California sun.

Paso Robles — which is located in the northern half of San Luis Obispo County along Highway 101 — is home to over 200 wineries and vineyards, many of which are family owned and operated; though, even if you don’t drink, there are other fun Paso Robles activities to add to your California driving vacation itinerary .

Things To Do In Paso Robles On A California Road Trip

Meet the makers at Tin City. This is possibly my favorite attraction mentioned in this entire itinerary for a California road trip! It’s an industrial complex home to over 40 wineries, breweries, cideries, creameries, restaurants, and other local producers.

You can easily spend a day eating and sipping your way around Tin City getting to know Paso Robles through the palate.

Our favorite producer was Field Recordings Winery , who offer delicious wine, a spacious indoor tasting room with album cover art and games, and an outdoor balcony with tables.

They’re open later than majority of the other businesses, too!

See a light show. If you’re looking for a fun evening experience to add to your 10 day California itinerary , check out Field Of Light at Sensorio , an immersive sensory experience showcasing 60,000 fiber-optic stemmed spheres over 15 acres. It’s a really interesting way to explore Paso Robles, especially as the lights illuminate the landscape in unique ways.

Choose your own meal adventure. There are many great restaurants to choose from in Downtown Paso Robles, though one unforgettable dining experience is TASTE! Craft Eatery .

Their menu is hyper-customizable, as you pick how many items you want and then fill the order with your choice of sliders, salads, Brussels sprouts, and mac and cheese (you can even select your own cheese and toppings!).

Not surprisingly, they’ve also got a huge menu of creative cocktails, beers, and wines to pair, including many local libation options.

Tour the vineyards. You can book a wine tour — like one of these — or use Uber to get around on your own without having to worry about having a designated driver. A few wineries to get on your radar include:

• Le Cuvier , which offers a delicious lunch and wine flight experience
• Whalebone Vineyard , where great wine meets history as whale bones and fossils from 30 million years ago were found on this property
• Sculpterra Winery & Sculpture Garden , where you can walk in the vines, listen to live music, and stroll among enormous sculptures of playful cats and pre-historic creatures

Paso Robles Tours & Activities

• Paso Robles Wine Adventure with Pickup from Paso Robles, CA
• Paso Robles Wine Tour (We Drive Your Vehicle)
• Semi-Private Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tasting Tour from Paso Robles

Click here for a full list of Paso Robles wine tours !

Stay: Wild Women Ranch (Templeton, California)

We stayed for 2 nights at the heaven-on-earth Wild Women Ranch Airbnb, and I really wish we could have stayed an extra day just to relax on the giant porch overlooking the Paso Robles countryside and play with the resident kitty named Shop Cat.

Run by a mother-daughter duo, there are multiple rental types to choose from that vary in size. We stayed in the Studio, and it was spacious and amenity-rich with air conditioning, comfortable bedding, giant windows, a big shower with great water pressure, a mini fridge with a local bottle of wine, and plates and cutlery for cooking on the outdoor grill.

The peacefulness of the place makes the perfect homebase for exploring tranquil Paso Robles.

Click here for a full list of hotels in Paso Robles and click here for a full list of local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Paso Robles

When making the drive from Big Sur to Paso Robles, make sure to stop at the Elephant Seal Vista Point ! During birthing and breeding seasons, you can see loads of elephant seals — which can weigh more than 8,000 pounds — laying on the beach and rolling around in the sand.

A few other top attractions on the way include Hearst Castle — the former over-the-top residence of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst — and the Piedras Blancas Light Station , a historic lighthouse and California Coastal National Monument.

Road Trip Stop #7: Solvang (1 night)

Driving time from Paso Robles to Solvang = 1 hour 37 minutes (96.3 miles) via US-101 S

Did you know you can travel to Europe — without even leaving California? More specifically, in the city of Solvang, you can visit an authentic Danish village that transports you to Denmark through food, architecture, and culture.

Solvang dates back to 1911, when it was founded by a group of Danish immigrants on 9,000 acres. Because it was important for them to retain their culture, these immigrants built a Danish folk school, a church, and an educational and Danish cultural institution called Atterdag College.

After World War II, plans to create a genuine Danish village were brought to life, which is what you can explore today.

There are so many fun things to add to a Solvang itinerary if you have the time, which can be worthwhile as there truly isn’t another city like this in California.

Things To Do In Solvang On A California Road Trip

Visit the many museums. Solvang is home to a number of interesting museums!

Love fairytales? The  Hans Christian Andersen Museum celebrates the famed author — who penned classics like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Princess & The Pea” — by showcasing informative exhibits, his books, and his paper scene cuttings.

Prefer local history? The  Elverhøj Museum of History & Art   has Danish cultural exhibits, historical displays, handmade toys, photographs, and paintings.

A few other Solvang museums include the  Old Mission Santa Ines , the  Vintage Motorcycle Museum , and the Wildling Museum of Art and Nature .

Go wine tasting. Solvang is located within the Santa Ynez Valley , which is home to over 120 wineries and vineyards mainly growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Within Solvang’s walkable Danish village, you can stroll to numerous tasting rooms for a guided tasting or just to buy wine by the glass or bottle.

Personally, I loved sitting on the outdoor patio at Lion’s Peak Winery Tasting Room and sipping their rose, which is interestingly made with Cabernet grapes!

Explore the vineyards. If you don’t mind leaving the walkable village, you can be at a gorgeous Santa Ynez Valley vineyard within 10 minutes.

A few nearby include the lavish Sunstone Winery , the sustainable Brave & Maiden Estate , and, my personal favorite, the laid-back surf-themed Kalyra Winery where you can lounge on an Adirondack chair and enjoy views of the vines.

Admire Danish architecture. If you’re looking for unique ideas for your California road trip, exploring the architecture of Solvang is certainly unlike anything else you’ll do along your route.

Bring your camera and keep your eyes wide open to take in windmills and buildings with features like thatched roofs, half-timbered facades, and hand-painted panels.

Shop for Danish goods. After grabbing a pastry from the old world Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery , explore local Danish shops like The Copenhagen House for jewelry, furniture, and housewares showcasing contemporary Danish design; Hanson’s Clock Shop Jewelers for jewelry, watches, and clocks (including Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks); and Jule Hus , a European Christmas store (that feels like a lot like  visiting the Christmas markets in Europe ).

Eat and drink under a windmill. Not only does Solvang Brewery have tasty craft beer, homemade pizzas, and yummy burgers, but you can enjoy your meal inside — or outside under a windmill. It’s a delicious and adorable experience!

Satisfy your sweet tooth (and inner viking) by eating aebleskiver. If you’re looking for delicious Danish food, head to Solvang Restaurant .

Along with typical American diner fare, you can order Danish delights like Danish-style meatballs with red cabbage as well as smørrebrød — open-faced sandwiches on pumpernickel bread with ham, Danish cheese, roast beef, or meatball and served with potato salad.

End your meal with a plate of aebleskiver (sometimes spelled aebleskiver). While the recipe varies, at Solvang Restaurant you can expect round pancake balls topped with jam and powdered sugar.

Interestingly, it’s believed the treat came from the vikings, who were hungry for pancakes after a particularly exhausting fight. They didn’t have cooking supplies, so they used their dented shields as cookware and thus aebleskiver was born.

Solvang Tours & Activities

• Solvang/Santa Ynez Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour
• Solvang Food and Photo Tour
• Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour – Lunch Included
• Wine Country Half-Day Bike Tour from Solvang – Without Lunch
• Wine Country E-Bike Guided Tour – Without Lunch

Click here for a full list of tours in Solvang CA .

Stay: King Frederick Inn (Solvang, California)

The King Frederick Inn is a centrally-located hotel offering the perfect base for your time in Solvang. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, while amenities like a pool, hot tub, fire pit, and complimentary Olsen’s Bakery goodies in the morning enhance the stay.

Bonus: It’s easy to walk to all of Solvang’s many attractions right from the hotel!

Click here for a full list of hotels in Solvang and click here for a full list of local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Solvang

Solvang is completely walkable and it’s easy to explore without a plan. That being said, you can find a free pre-plotted Solvang Google map sharing the local experiences mentioned above — and more — in my Ultimate Travel Planning Kit here .

Just note that the city shuts down early, with many restaurants, shops, and wineries closing between 5pm-8pm, so try to wake up early to really maximize your sightseeing.

If you’re feeling energetic on the way from Paso Robles to Solvang, consider stopping to explore the many beautiful hiking trails in Pismo Beach — another worthwhile California city!

Road Trip Stop #8: Los Angeles (1 night)

Driving time from Solvang to Los Angeles = 2 hours 21 minutes (128.1 miles) via US-101 S

There are so many reasons to add the state capital to your California road trip itinerary, from beautiful beaches to urban hiking to some of the world’s best restaurants and museums — not to mention you can visit famous filming locations or do a movie set tour.

Los Angeles is a driving city and it’s huge, so with just one night it’s best to stick mainly to one neighborhood and explore it fully.

For this LA road trip itinerary, we’re focusing on the neighborhood of Venice Beach.

Things To Do In Los Angeles On A California Road Trip

Spend time at Venice Beach. From soft sand to giant sculptures to colorful murals, there are many experiences to have on Venice Beach.

One of my favorite was hanging out at the Venice Beach Skate Park and watching the incredibly talented skaters do flips and tricks on the half pipes. It’s terrifying yet exciting and very impressive!

Walk the Venice Boardwalk. You can’t visit Venice Beach without walking its famed Venice Boardwalk, featuring over 2 miles of vendors, performers, and food shops.

Here you can buy every type of food imaginable — from corn dogs covered in Rice Krispies to vegan tacos to carnival treats like funnel cake and shaved ice — as well as clothing, art, crystals, pet rocks, suits, skateboards, and more.

Or, you can simply people watch, which is also an interesting experience.

See the famous Venice Canals. Along with Solvang, the Venice Canals off 25th Street offer another chance to visit Europe while really traveling California .

Interestingly, the canals were created in 1905 by millionaire developer Abbot Kinney as a way to bring Venice to America; in fact, the project was called “Venice of America”.

While most have been filled in over the years to make way for roads, a few still stand. You can explore them via a 2.9 mile loop with beautiful views, unique bridges, and the chance to see local homes with docks attached and boats off the yard — which is quite an interesting sight when you think about the location.

Savor sunset tacos in a historic bar. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, The Venice Whaler is a tasty spot on the beach with an interesting history that dates back to 1944 when it was the single-story Crab Shell Bar.

In the 60s and 70s, some of its patrons included iconic bands like The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Doors.

When visiting today, definitely order some fish tacos and a spicy margarita — and if you’re up for an appetizer, the fried wonton nachos topped with poke are delicious!

They’ve got indoor, outdoor, and rooftop seating — perfect for a beach sunset view!

Take in a rooftop bar view. If you love rooftop bars, add High Rooftop Lounge to your California itinerary as they offer yummy drinks (and frose!) along with beautiful views of the beach and city.

Hangout at The Kinney Venice Beach. Honestly, you could just visit Venice Beach and not leave your hotel and you’d have a good time. More on the property below, but I could have chilled or played games on the rooftop or enjoyed the plunge pool and hot tub all day and been happy.

Visit the Griffith Observatory . This was our one non-Venice Beach experience. In fact, we set our GPS to drive straight from Solvang to this Los Angeles attraction!

Not only are the exhibits and planetarium at the Griffith Observatory interesting, but you can take in gorgeous views over the city and out toward the Hollywood sign.

Moreover, you can connect with numerous hiking trails from here, as it’s located within Griffith Park — the largest urban-wilderness municipal park in the United States! A few trails include hiking up Mount Hollywood or Mount Lee , which is home to the Hollywood Sign.

Speaking of hiking, there are also a bunch of great hikes with waterfalls in Los Angeles .

Los Angeles Tours & Activities

Looking for other experiences to add to your California road trip plan, or want to meet people while enjoying solo travel in Los Angeles ? A few highly-rated local tours include:

• Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills
• Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More Bus Tour
• Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Bus Tour
• Catalina Island Day Trip from LAX area hotels with Discover Avalon Scenic Tour
• Old & New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour
• Private Photo Walk in Los Angeles with Personal Photographer & Color Stylist
• Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Click here for a full list of tours in Los Angeles !

Stay: The Kinney Venice Beach (Los Angeles, California)

The Kinney is a hip hotel full of Instagram-worthy art and design touches, from a “wanderlust” wall with a globe to giant colorful murals throughout the hallways.

Our room was super bright and fun with colorful paint splattered walls, neon orange-accented phones, and night stands covered in comic strips.

Not only that, but their outdoor spaces feature numerous amenities like an onsite pool and Jacuzzi, a fire pit, hammocks, lounge chairs, ping pong, and more.

Note that The Kinney is part of the Pacifica Hotels brand, which has other modern properties around California. In Los Angeles specifically, they have The Wayfarer in Downtown LA, the Marina del Rey Hotel in Marina del Rey, the Inn at Venice Beach , and the Golden Sails Hotel in Long Beach.

Click here for a full list of Los Angeles hotels and click here for a full list of local rentals !

Important California Road Trip Tip For Los Angeles

When planning a California road trip , realize that Los Angeles is an enormous sprawling city that often has lots of traffic. For this reason, it’s best to limit the amount of neighborhoods you visit in a day. Pick one or two and really get to know them well.

Shorter 7 Days In California Itinerary

As stated above, if you’re looking to create a California road trip itinerary for 7 days , you’ve got a few options. I recommend choosing one of the following.

California National Park Road Trip Itinerary (Option 1)

Day 1: Los Angeles (fly into Los Angeles International Airport)

Day 2-3: Joshua Tree National Park

Day 4: Sequoia National Park

Day 5-7: Yosemite National Park (fly out of from Fresno-Yosemite International Airport)

Big Sur To Los Angeles Road Trip (Option 2)

Day 1: Carmel-by-the-Sea (fly into San Jose International Airport)

Day 2-3: Big Sur

Day 4-5: Paso Robles

Day 6: Solvang

Day 7: Los Angeles (fly out of Los Angeles International Airport)

San Francisco Road Trip Alternative For Option 2

Of course, there are plenty of options for a Southern California road trip itinerary for 7 days, though I can personally vouch for those two routes.

Note that if you want to focus mainly on the Pacific Coast Highway you could modify the second option to be a road trip from San Francisco, as Carmel-by-the-Sea is only 2 hours south of the city.

This is a great idea as you can then visit famous San Francisco attractions like Lombard Street, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Golden Gate Park — which features 10 lakes within more than 1,000 acres! Moreover, there are many beautiful beaches near San Francisco .

From there, you can enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Big Sur and/or Carmel-by-the-Sea.

California Road Trip Tips

When it comes to how to plan a California road trip , the following tips can help you have the best experience possible!

-A convertible can make your California road trip more fun. We did this and it was a blast!

Being able to take the top down — especially during the California coast road trip itinerary portion when driving Highway 1 — made the trip a lot more fun! Just make sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and, if you have long hair, a ponytail and headband.

-Consider adding more time. I absolutely loved our itinerary, though if you can spend a little more time in each place — a minimum of 2 nights, though better yet 3 — that would be preferable. If I had to choose where I would add an extra day, it would have been Paso Robles!

-Save money on national park visits. Visiting multiple national parks on your California road trip? Get the America The Beautiful Pass! Most national parks charge about $35 to enter and an annual pass is $80, so as long as you visit three parks within the year you’ve saved money.

-Don’t leave food or anything with a strong scent unattended or visible in your car at national parks as you may attract bears.  This includes things like meals and snacks, hand sanitizer, cosmetics, trash, and cleaning supplies. Your best bet is to have a bear-proof box, though if you don’t then store items in a locked trunk.

-When visiting national parks know that you’re on Indigenous land. While the specific tribes vary by park, the story is still essentially the same: they were displaced and/or forced to relocate.

Along with educating yourself on the history and culture of these tribes, consider making a donation to causes and charities that directly support them. Moreover, where possible hire Indigenous guides and purchase from Indigenous-owned businesses.

-You won’t have cell service much of the time. The national parks and Highway 1 have almost no cell service, while the other locations also had very spotty service, particularly when driving. Because of this, it’s smart to pre-load your maps, music, podcasts, and anything you’ll else you’ll need while driving before leaving your hotel.

– Check your fuel indicator.  During certain sections of this road trip, it is quite far between gas stations, so keep an eye on the gas gauge and fill up the tank as much as possible.

Southern California Road Trip Insurance

When visiting California — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What would you add to this 10 day California road trip itinerary?

Have you ever done a los angeles to big sur road trip.

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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.

Share this article.

31 California Road Trip Ideas for Los Angeles Families 2024

By: Author Sarah Auerswald

Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024

Desert Explorers, Beach Bums, Mountain Adventurers, City Culture Lovers – Los Angeles families have many passions and interests, and the great news is: California delivers the goods, no matter what your family likes to do.

Even better news: every hidden gem in our amazing state is just a car ride away!

True, California is a big state, and getting all the way to the farthest corner would take a lot of driving, but it can be done if you’re up for it. If not, there are plenty of places to explore that are just a few hours’ drive from Los Angeles.

Road Trip Inspiration for LA Families

With seemingly endless options and little ones in tow, planning the perfect escape can feel overwhelming. But where to go? How to keep everyone entertained? And how long will it take to get there?

We’ll share insider tips, hidden gems, and travel info to make your next road trip escape a blast. So gather your crew, buckle up, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Quick Road Trip Ideas Near Los Angeles

Sometimes you want to hit the road for an adventure, but the reality is that being in the car for too long just doesn’t work, either for your schedule or hey – you just want to get there quickly!

You’re in luck! There are terrific places to visit that are just a few hours’ drive from LA, so you could even do a Day Trip if you want. Just in case you want to stay over, we’ve listed some hotels in each spot, too.

Santa Barbara:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2 hours. Highlights: Santa Barbara offers beautiful beaches, historic sites like the Santa Barbara Mission, and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Families can also explore Lotusland, a stunning garden estate.

Related: Things to do in Santa Barbara

Family-friendly hotel ideas in santa barbara:.

• Hotel Santa Barbara
• Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
• Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
• Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

These are affiliate links to hotels we think you’ll like.

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: Ojai is a charming town known for its artsy vibe and outdoor activities. Families can explore the Libbey House, go horseback riding, or hike in Los Padres National Forest.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Ojai

• Ojai Valley Inn
• Blue Iguana Inn
• The Capri Hotel

Related: Things to do in Ojai with Kids

Angeles national forest:.

Distance from LA: Within an hour. Highlights: Angeles National Forest is right on the doorstep of Los Angeles and offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Switzer Falls Trail is a popular choice for families.

Oxnard and Ventura:

Distance from LA: Approximately 1-2 hours. Highlights: These coastal cities offer beautiful, family-friendly beaches with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. You can also explore Channel Islands National Park via boat tours from Ventura Harbor.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Oxnard and Ventura

• Crown Plaza Ventura Beach
• La Quinta Inn by Wyndham
• Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
• Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve:

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: In the spring, the Antelope Valley comes alive with vibrant California poppies and other wildflowers. It’s a beautiful destination for families to witness the colorful super bloom and enjoy the great outdoors.

Related: See Spring Wildflowers in SoCal

Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: Lake Arrowhead is a picturesque mountain resort community. Families can enjoy boating and water activities on Lake Arrowhead in the Summer months, go hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest, and visit the Lake Arrowhead Village for shopping and dining. Big Bear is a terrific place to experience Southern California’s snow mountains each Winter, with snowboarding and sledding, or just a snow-ball fight!

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead

• Best Western Big Bear
• Holiday Inn Resort – The Lodge
• Lagonita Lodge
• Noble and Proper

Related: Things to do in Big Bear with Kids

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: Temecula is a wine country destination with family-friendly wineries offering tastings and tours. Families can also explore Old Town Temecula, go hot air ballooning, or visit the Temecula Valley Museum.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Temecula

• South Coast Winery Resort and Spa
• Embassy Suites
• Holiday Inn Express

Related: Fun things to do in Temecula with kids

Catalina island:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 1-2 hours by ferry. Highlights: Catalina Island is a picturesque destination with activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining. You can explore the charming town of Avalon, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or visit the Catalina Island Museum.

OK technically this isn’t a Road Trip, but Catalina is such a cool spot and families can have such fun there that we wanted to include it.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas on Catalina Island

• The Pavilion Hotel
• Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel
• Catalina Courtyard Suites

Related: Fun things to do on Catalina Island with Kids

Hidden gems: northern california + central coast family road trip ideas.

Heading to the Central Coast of California or up to Northern California will for sure mean spending more time in the car. These destinations are approximately 5 hours (plus) away from Los Angeles by car.

And each one of them is worth the drive! Getting to experience the many wonderful things in our state is one of the perks of being a resident, so we hope you get out there and enjoy!

These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from coastal beauty to mountain adventures. Depending on your family’s interests and how far you’re willing to drive, you can choose the perfect destination for your next adventure.

San Francisco

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-8 hours Highlights: Honestly, there are so many highlights to visiting San Francisco, our big sister city to the North, that there’s probably an entire website devoted to it. But when we visit with kids we love to visit Golden Gate Park, ride the trolly cars, see Fisherman’s wharf, climb Coit Tower, enjoy some foggy days, drive down the super famous, zig-zaggy Lombard Street and up and down the nerve-wracking hills, and of course eat some sourdough bread. For starters!

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in San Francisco

• InterContinental San Francisco
• Westin St. Francis
• Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

Monterey Bay

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-7 hours Highlights: The whole family will find things to love in the Monterey Bay area, because you can spend time in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Santa Cruz, too. Visit the Monterey world-famous aquarium and try to time it so you can see the Bluefin Tuna being fed, or hike around the Pacific Grove coastline and you may see some of the Monarch Butterflies that migrate here, stroll the adorable streets of Carmel and have an ice cream cone, and you’ll love the perfect-sized amusement park right on the beach in Santa Cruz. Not to mention the stunning natural scenery at every turn.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in the Monterey Bay Area

• Portola Hotel and Spa
• Hyatt Regency
• Chaminade Resort and Spa Santa Cruz
• Hotel Paradox

Distance from LA: Approximately 5-6 hours. Highlights: Big Sur’s stunning coastline, redwood forests, and hiking trails make it worth the journey. McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, and Pfeiffer Beach are must-visit spots.

Distance from LA: Approximately 8-9 hours. Highlights: Mendocino is a picturesque coastal town with Victorian architecture, art galleries, and scenic coastal views. It’s a peaceful getaway where families can explore tide pools and go whale watching.

Lassen Volcanic National Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 7-8 hours. Highlights: Located in Northern California, this park is known for its geothermal wonders, including hot springs and mud pots. Families can hike to Bumpass Hell, visit Lassen Peak, and enjoy camping in the great outdoors.

Related: Every Kid Outdoors: National Parks for 4th Graders

Lake tahoe:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 7-8 hours. Highlights: Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination offering outdoor activities like skiing in the winter and hiking, boating, and swimming in the summer. Emerald Bay State Park and the Tahoe Rim Trail are family-friendly options.

Related: Family Ski Trip in Lake Tahoe

Redwood National and State Parks:

Distance from LA: Approximately 11-12 hours by car. Highlights: Redwood National and State Parks, located on the northern coast of California, are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, the towering coast redwoods. These are some of the most magical and wonderous things you can experience as a human and we highly recommend it!

Families can explore a network of hiking trails suitable for all levels, take scenic drives, and enjoy ranger-led programs to learn about the park’s unique ecosystems. Popular trails include the Tall Trees Grove and Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Camping and picnicking facilities are also available.

Related: California Road Trip in a Lincoln MKX

Muir woods national monument:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-7 hours. Highlights: Muir Woods, located just north of San Francisco, is known for its majestic coastal redwoods. It’s a shorter drive from Los Angeles compared to the northernmost redwood parks. Families can take leisurely walks along well-maintained wooden boardwalks and trails, making it an accessible destination for all ages. The park provides educational opportunities to learn about these ancient giants. Be prepared to reserve parking ahead of time – see their website for details.

Related: California College Tour in a Chevy Equinox

Sequoia national forest:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 3-4 hours. Highlights: While it’s not the same as the Redwood forests, Sequoia National Forest is home to giant sequoias, which are another awe-inspiring type of tree. Families can see the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth, and enjoy hiking in the beautiful surroundings. Nearby is the Kern River, where families can enjoy whitewater river rafting.

Sacramento:

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-7 hours Highlights: Sacramento, the state capital, is rich in history. Families can visit the California State Capitol Museum, explore the Old Sacramento State Historic Park, and take a scenic riverboat cruise on the Sacramento River. The city also has several family-friendly museums, such as the Crocker Art Museum and the Sacramento Children’s Museum. Plus, within an hour’s drive you can visit the Marshall Gold Discovery State Park and Sutter’s Mill recreation to see where the California Gold Rush began, or visit Apple Hill near Placerville and pick-your-own apples (in season).

Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley:

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 8-9 hours. Highlights: While both the Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley regions are renowned as California’s Wine Country, there are family-friendly options too. Consider visiting places like the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval-style castle winery, the Charles M. Schulz Museum, exploring Calistoga, or see California’s own Old Faithful geyser erupt.

San Diego County Road Trip Ideas

Head South to San Diego and you’ll find destinations that provide a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities for families, ensuring that there’s something to suit every interest and age group. Whether you’re looking for a beach day, a nature hike, or a cultural excursion, you can find it within a reasonable drive from Los Angeles.

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: San Diego offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including visiting the San Diego Zoo, exploring Balboa Park, relaxing on beautiful beaches like La Jolla Cove, and learning about marine life at the Birch Aquarium. Nearby La Jolla is famous for its picturesque coastline, tide pools, and sea caves. Families can explore the Children’s Pool, go snorkeling at La Jolla Cove, and visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Balboa Park in San Diego is a cultural hub with numerous museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. Families can explore the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, and enjoy picnics in the park’s beautiful gardens.

Related: Guide to the San Diego Zoo

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 2-3 hours Highlights: Carlsbad is known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. Families can visit LEGOLAND California Resort, explore the Flower Fields (seasonal), and spend time at Carlsbad State Beach for swimming and sunbathing. The quaint village of Carlsbad also has charming shops and restaurants. Nearby Oceanside features a scenic harbor, a historic pier, and beautiful beaches. Families can visit the Oceanside Pier, take a harbor cruise, or explore the California Surf Museum. And the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located close by.

Related: Roar and Snore at the San Diego Safari Park

Coronado island:.

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 3-4 hours Highlights: Coronado Island boasts a beautiful beach, the historic Hotel del Coronado, and the Coronado Ferry Landing. Families can relax on the beach, rent bicycles, and explore the charming town of Coronado.

Related: Ford Flex Road Trip to Coronado Island

Road trips in the southern california desert.

These destinations offer a mix of outdoor adventures, geological exploration, and unique landscapes for families seeking new experiences within driving distance of Los Angeles. Some locations are even suitable for day trips, if you’re up for it.

Joshua Tree National Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: Known for its unique desert landscapes, Joshua Tree offers hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and the opportunity to explore the San Andreas fault. Barker Dam Trail is a family-friendly hike where you can see ancient petroglyphs, and of course the famous Joshua trees themselves.

Related: Road Trip to the Desert in the Toyota Highlander

Salton sea:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: The Salton Sea is California’s largest lake and an eerie, otherworldly destination. You can explore abandoned buildings in the once-booming resort towns, visit the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, and witness the effects of the San Andreas fault on the landscape.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: This vast desert park is the perfect place for families to enjoy hiking, wildflower viewing (in the spring), and stargazing. The park also features unique geological formations, including the Borrego Badlands, which were shaped by fault activity.

Carrizo Plain National Monument:

Distance from LA: Approximately 3-4 hours. Highlights: Carrizo Plain is a remote and pristine area known for its wildflowers and sweeping grasslands. The San Andreas fault runs through the plain, and the Goodwin Education Center offers insights into its geological significance.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Highlights: Vasquez Rocks is a great day trip for families. These unique rock formations have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. In fact, once you’ve been there, you’ll recognize it immediately! You can hike the trails and learn about the geological history of the area, including its connection to the San Andreas fault.

Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area:

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: This geological wonder features dramatic rock formations created by the San Andreas fault. Families can hike the trails and explore the unique landscapes, including the Devil’s Chair viewpoint.

Palm Springs:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-2.5 hours. Highlights: Palm Springs is known for its desert oasis vibe, hot springs, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Families can explore the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, or take a scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park. Or of course you can spend time poolside, since Palm Springs can get super hot in the Summers.

Related: Things to do with Kids in Palm Springs

Distance from LA: Approximately 2.5-3 hours. Highlights: Julian is a charming mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious apple pies. Families can go apple picking (seasonal), visit the Julian Pioneer Museum, and enjoy hiking in the nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Related: Go Apple Picking in SoCal

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-2.5 hours. Highlights: Idyllwild is a mountain town nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains. It’s a great destination for hiking and outdoor adventures, with numerous trails, including the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail and the Devil’s Slide Trail. The town also has a vibrant arts scene.

Family Road Trips Can Make Family Memories

No matter where you go in California, we bet you’ll have fun! Enjoy!

Sarah Auerswald is the co-Founder and Managing Editor of MomsLA.com.

MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles

Disclaimer:  MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.

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Itineraries

The perfect northern california road trip.

We’ve been all over northern California and I can honestly say that a road trip is our favorite ways to explore it. You can really only go to one or two destinations in the north if you don’t do a road trip because things are so spread out. So trust me, a road trip is the best way to see as much as possible.

This trip covers 1,000 miles. I realize that’s a long way to go. But it can be split into separate legs to make it shorter or to fit your interests. If you can’t devote 2 weeks to this road trip, maybe just plan to do 3 different trips over time.

PRO TIP: You can purchase a California State Parks Pass in advance. Most parks charge $8-10 a day for parking. If you plan to visit many parks, it might be more economical to buy the pass for $125.

» Enjoy your road trip with these 46 Best California Road Trip Songs .

Table of Contents

Highlights of the Northern California Road Trip

• San Francisco is a great city to explore on its own. Take a day to see the sights before starting your journey.
• Learn all about volcanoes at Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Explore the most beautiful waterfall in California: Burney Falls
• Climb through the lava tubes at Lava Beds National Monument
• See Redwoods National and State parks where you can drive through a tree and stare up in awe at these giant trees.
• Stop in Sonoma wine country for some wine tasting
• Enjoy the coastline and beaches at Point Reyes National Seashore

Travel Info

The road trip starts and ends in either San Francisco or Sacramento, as these are major hubs for national and international flights. You can fly in, rent a car, and get started on the road trip immediately. Of course, you can also start anywhere along the way, if you want.

The itinerary begins in San Francisco (or Sacramento, if you wish) and will take you to Lassen Volcanic National Park, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Lava Beds National Monument, and over to Redwoods National & State Parks.

It’s a total of 1,000 miles driven, which can be really overwhelming so be sure to leave yourself a lot of time to do it in. If you don’t want to drive that far, I would suggest trying to fly into Redding to start instead and skipping everything south of the Avenue of the Giants. This will result in a 500-mile itinerary.

Suggested Duration

This Northern California road trip is best done in two weeks. The driving distances between each stop are relatively long (California is a big place), so you will need time to explore the destination and drive on to the next stop, all without overwhelming yourself.

You can do this road trip in either direction, but I do recommend the counter-clockwise route, because then you get the longest drive out of the way at the beginning of the trip. The last part is all gravy.

The Northern California Route

Starting Point: San Francisco

San Francisco is one a vibrant and picturesque city, with a significant number of cultural attractions and world famous landmarks, surrounded by impressive natural beauty.

The sights in San Francisco are as diverse as its history. I would suggest spending 2 days in San Francisco at the beginning of your trip, to see all the top sights, which I’ve listed below.

• Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39: Start your trip with a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. It is touristy, but it has spectacular views of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t miss the famous sea lions lounging on the docks. For a truly local experience, try clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl.
• Ride a Cable Car: You have to ride the historic cable cars. It’s a very unique way to see the city’s hilly streets without walking up them yourself. Head to the Powell Street station for a ride.
• Visit Alcatraz Island: Book a ferry to Alcatraz Island, once a notorious federal prison, now a fascinating national park. Be sure to get the audio tour of the cellhouse. Remember to book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.
• Golden Gate Park: This vast park is a green oasis with gardens, museums, and winding paths. My favorite parts are the Japanese Tea Garden and the de Young Museum. If you’re up for it, rent a bike to cover more ground.
• Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge: This is the best photo opp in the city. It’s a 1.7-mile span and is breathtaking.
• Chinatown: San Francisco’s Chinatown is one of North America’s oldest and most vibrant. Don’t miss the historic Dragon’s Gate at the entrance on Grant Avenue. We also always go shopping for unique fabrics and dresses, and eat Dim Sum.

» Try this tour: Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Twilight or Sunset Cruise

»» Where to Stay: We often stay at Hyatt Regency San Francisco on the waterfront.

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 235 miles = 3:45

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the national parks that no one ever talks about. Why is that? I think it’s one of the most unique treasures in California. It’s choke full of geologic wonders that you can’t see everywhere, including mud pots, steaming fumaroles and unique volcanic structures. There are also gorgeous lakes, waterfalls and mountain peaks, everywhere you look.

The thing to do here is to drive along the scenic main highway, which is about a 30-mile drive. It takes about an hour to drive the length of it without stops. But there are numerous stops you’re going to want to make – some that require getting out for a bit of a hike – so plan for at least 3-5 hours.

If you only have one day, focus on a few key sights like Bumpass Hell and Manzanita Lake, with drives that offer stunning views of the park’s diverse landscape.

Must-See Sights

• Lassen Peak: This is a plug dome volcano and the main feature of the park. The hike to the summit is strenuous but rewarding, with great views. It’s about 5-miles round trip and takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on your fitness level.
• Bumpass Hell: This is the largest hydrothermal area in the park, with hot springs and mud pots. A 3-mile round trip hike is the best way to see it. Plan about 2 hours for this hike.
• Manzanita Lake: The loop around the lake is about 1.5 miles and has some stunning views of Lassen Peak. You can also go for a flat hike or even go kayaking.
• Cinder Cone: The ascent to the top of this volcanic cone is where you can get spectacular views of the Painted Dunes and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The hike is strenuous, about 4 miles round trip and takes 3-4 hours.
• Sulphur Works: This area provides a quick view of some of the park’s hydrothermal activity and is easily accessible from the main road.

Note: There is a $30 7-day pass fee (high season).

»» ACCOMMODATIONS: Manzanita Lake Campground and Cabins and Highlands Ranch Resort

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 70 miles = 1:40

McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park

McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park is the second oldest state park in the California State Parks system. As the name suggestions, the magnificent thing to see here is Burney Falls, a 129-ft high cascading falls.

The falls were once called the Eighth Wonder of the World by President Theodore Roosevelt. The water comes from underground springs above and at the falls, and provides an almost constant flow rate of 379 million liters per day. It’s gorgeous.

There are also some incredible hikes to do here. The best is Burney Creek Trail, a 1-mile easy trail that takes you to the falls. Another easy trail is the 2.5-mile Burney Creek Headwaters Trail, with slightly steeper grades, that also takes you to the falls. You can expect all of these trails to be quite busy.

Note: It costs $10 for parking.

»» Where to Stay: McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground or there are a couple of motel-style places within about 8-15 miles like Shasta Pines Motel or Green Gables Motel

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 50 miles = 1:10

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Your next stop on the road trip is Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This National Forest encompasses an enormous 2.2 million acres with an almost infinite amount of wilderness walks available. The centerpiece of it all are the picturesque twin peaks of Mt Shasta and Mt Shastina. 

You might want to play in the water at Lake Shasta, go on a tour of the Lake Shasta Caverns to see incredible displays of stalagmites and stalactites, or head to Castle Lake for a hike. For a moderate challenge, the Heart Lake trail is a 3-mile round trip that leads to beautiful views of Mount Shasta and the iconic lava cone known as Black Butte in the distance.

The Castle Lake Trail is one of the longer hiking trails in the Mount Shasta area at about 11 miles round trip. It’s a more strenuous hike but has uninterrupted vistas of Mount Shasta and the Klamath Mountains.

»» ACCOMMODATIONS: While disbursed camping is free all around the vast National Forest, if you need hookups or showers/toilets, Fowlers campground is located along the hiking trail between the lower and middle McCloud waterfalls. See hotels in Redding | Mount Shasta

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 116 miles = 2:15 travel time

Lava Beds National Monument

Even if you’ve never heard of it before, Lava Beds National Monument is definitely worth a visit. The monument lies on the northeastern flank of Medicine Lake Volcano and has the largest total area covered by a volcano in the Cascade Range.

I think this park is one of the best kept secrets in the National Park System. When you arrive, you need to grab a cave permit (it’s free) from the visitor center. The rangers will give you all the info you need, as well as a flashlight which you’ll need to explore the caves. Then you can head off to explore on your own.

There are a vast range of easy to difficult caves all within a mile or two radius. In fact, there are up to 500 known lava tube caves within the boundaries of Lava Beds National Monument. You can go inside the easy caves for a look around, or if you’re fully prepared with the right gear, you can go exploring in the more difficult caves.

»» ACCOMMODATIONS: Indian Well Campground or Best Western Plus Olympic Inn in Klamath Falls (30 miles away)

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 239 miles = 4:45

Redwoods National & State Parks

This is the start of the California coast part of the road trip. You’ll be on the iconic Highway 101 at this point all the way back to San Francisco. It’s a unique road that hugs the ocean and has great views.

Redwood National Park is home to the world’s tallest trees and old-growth redwood forests. Many of the trees in the forest are over 300 feet tall and 2,000 years old. You will be astounded by the size of these trees!

Redwoods is actually a complex of one national park and three state parks:  Del Norte Coast ,  Jedediah Smith , and  Prairie Creek . It’s $30 to get into Redwoods National park. Online advanced permits are needed for most of the state parks and there’s a cost of $12 for a day-use pass. If you’re staying at the campground or have a pass, it’s free.

At Jedediah Smith, Stout Grove is one of the most majestic and photographed groves of redwoods. In Redwoods National Park is the famous Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Redwoods Creek Overlook is also nearby.

Fern Canyon is a 1-mile loop with an elevation gain of 150 feet, taking about 30 minutes. The trail takes you through a canyon with two-story walls of ferns. You will get your feet wet! Gold Bluffs Beach nearby is a remote beach where you can spend the day at the beach, have a picnic, and enjoy the natural beauty. There’s also a campground.

As you drive south away from the Redwoods National Park, you can’t miss the Avenue of the Giants – a 31.5-mile drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. There are tons of things to see along the way, so prepare for a lot of stops as the mood strikes you.

»» ACCOMMODATIONS: Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, Elk Prairie Campground, or for a hotel try the Holiday Inn Express Arcata/Eureka

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 192 miles = 3:30

Sonoma County & Napa Valley

I never pass up an opportunity to sip delicious wine in the best wine regions in the world. You shouldn’t either. Sonoma County and Napa Valley both have has some seriously good wine tasting options , as well as lots of other things to do . I think this area deserves at least a day and an overnight, if not more.

You can do wine tasting in any of the many AVAs from Geyserville down to Santa Rosa or from Calistoga down to Napa. You don’t need a reservation at many of them, and since you’re only there for a day (or two, if you stretch it), you can just stop where ever you see signs for wine tasting.

My favorites are Kendall Jackson, Rodney Strong, J Vintners, and the many small tasting rooms in Healdsburg. We also love the Oakville Grocery for picnic supplies.

» Try this tour: Sonoma Wine Rides — Sonoma County Wine Tasting Tours

»» ACCOMMODATIONS: Vintner’s Resort or The Sandman Santa Rosa

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 35 miles = 1:00

Point Reyes National Seashore – California Coast

Point Reyes National Seashore is a vast expanse of protected coastline north of San Francisco. There are thunderous ocean breakers crashing against rocky headlands, expansive sand beaches, open grasslands, brushy hillsides, and forested ridges.

For beaches, there are 80 miles of shoreline, including dozens of miles of sandy beach, like Wildcat Beach, that you can explore and enjoy. There are seemingly endless hiking possibilities, including forest and coastal hikes of all different length and ability level. Out on the rocky point is the 1870 Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Two of our favorite hikes are the Tomales Point Trail, a moderate hike offering opportunities to see tule elk and the Bear Valley Trail, which leads to the spectacular Arch Rock. As a major bird migration route, the area is fantastic for bird watching, with over 490 bird species recorded.

»» ACCOMMODATIONS: Olema House at Point Reyes or Coast Campground and Sky Campground

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 24 miles = 0:45

Mount Tamalpais State Park

Just north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge is  Mount Tamalpais State Park . The primary feature of the park is the 2,571 feet Mount Tamalpais. It’s a very picturesque place that is definitely worth of a stop to take some photos. We like to stop there for a picnic and a short hike.

The mountain is easy to access. You can drive nearly all the way to the top. Once you get there, a few short trails take you up and around the mountain.

The park has over 60 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Trails like the Matt Davis or Steep Ravine trails offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, and the surrounding hills.

DISTANCE TO NEXT STOP: 15 miles = 0:35

Back to San Francisco

California road trip – more options.

• The Perfect Big Sur Road Trip
• Best Stops of a San Fran to Yosemite Road Trip
• 46 Best California Road Trip Songs

This Northern California road trip likely totally wore you out and you’re ready to head home. After 7-14 days driving around in this beautiful state, seeing all the beauty, I’m sure the experience will never leave you. You’ll need to come back for another road trip very soon.

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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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5 Perfect Michigan To California Road Trip Options For Your Next Adventure

A Michigan to California road trip is a quintessential American experience that offers an impressive blend of natural wonders, iconic landmarks, and charming towns along the way. From the stunning lakeshores of Michigan to the sun-soaked beauty of California, you are sure to enjoy the adventures in store no matter which route you take. 

Planning your trip? Use our favorite resources!

For accommodations –   Hotels.com  |  Expedia  |  VRBO ​ For car rentals –   Discover Cars ​ For tours & excursions –   Viator ​ For cheap flights – FareDrop ​ For travel insurance –   Safety Wing

Below are five options for a Michigan to California road trip , designed to suit every traveler’s preferences and interests. Whether you’re drawn to a northern path, a southern adventure, or the quickest possible drive, each route is designed to see the very best along the way.

A couple of notes: you can certainly take each of these road trips backwards, from California to Michigan, if thats works best for you. You’ll just follow the points of interest in the opposite direction.

Also, I set up each of these road trip routes to start in Detroit and end in Los Angeles , simply to make it easier to calculate mileage and drive time (and because if you are flying in/out of a city, it will more than likely be these). However, if you want your starting and ending cities to be different, the mileage and times will be slightly off.

Michigan to California Road Trip Option 1: Route 66

Distance: 2500 miles Approx Driving Time: 36 hours Major Points Of Interest: Route 66 Museum, Gateway Arch, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Cadillac Ranch, Wigwam Motel, Santa Monica Pier

A Route 66 road trip is an iconic drive filled with diverse attractions and unforgettable experiences. This famous highway, often referred to as the “Main Street of America,” is a popular route that stretches across eight states, offering a mix of charming towns, historic landmarks, and quirky roadside stops.

Here’s a glimpse of some of the things you can see and do on your Route 66 journey.

Illinois: The Gateway to Route 66

As you enter Illinois, you’ll find yourself in Chicago. The city is a must-visit, offering a stunning skyline, cultural attractions, and delicious food (deep-dish pizza anyone?). You could spend as much or as little time as you’d like experiencing the city before hitting the road.

The official start of Route 66 is in the middle of Chicago. Snap a photo at the iconic Route 66 Begin sign on E. Adams St. right by the Art Institute of Chicago and follow the route out of the city.

As you head south, take a quick stop in Wilmington to see the famous Gemini Giant statue. Then learn more about the road’s history at the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac.

Missouri: A Taste of the Midwest

As you continue west, Missouri welcomes you with its charming small towns and the bustling city of St. Louis.

Stop by the Gateway Arch in St. Louis for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and enjoy some classic St. Louis BBQ. This would also be a nice city to spend a night in if you wanted to experience more of the historic city on the mighty Mississippi.

If you like exploring caves, Meramec Caverns is right off of the route and could be a fun way to spend an hour or two.

Oklahoma: The Land of Red Earth

Continuing west through Oklahoma, you’ll be treated to its rugged beauty, with red rock formations and stunning sunsets.

Be sure to explore the historic Route 66 districts in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, where you’ll find quirky roadside attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa .

Texas: Wide Open Spaces

Texas offers wide-open spaces and a chance to experience cowboy culture and Tex-Mex cuisine.

The Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo is a famous roadside art installation, with 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground.

For those who want to get out and stretch their legs with a hike or two, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is just south of Route 66 outside of Amarillo. Here you’ll find the second-largest canyon in the country along with stunning landscapes.

New Mexico: A Desert Oasis

New Mexico’s unique landscape features desert vistas and adobe-style architecture. Stop in Santa Fe to appreciate its art scene and dine on delicious Southwestern cuisine.

Arizona: Natural Wonders

Arizona boasts some of the most iconic Route 66 landmarks. Visit the Petrified Forest National Park , the Painted Desert , and stand on the corner in Winslow, Arizona , made famous by the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy.”

You can also spend a night at the famous Wigwam Motel in Holbrook for a truly unique accommodation experience.

Close to the border with California, you can check out Oatman , known for the town’s roaming burros and mining history.

California: The Final Stretch

The final stretch of this scenic journey begins as you reach the Golden State. Before you reach the coast, swing up to Mojave National Preserve, where you can see Joshua Trees and the Kelso Dunes, some of the largest sand dunes in the country.

Don’t forget to soak up the sun and glamor of Los Angeles before you end your road trip. Check out the iconic Santa Monica Pier , where Route 66 officially ends, and see a bit of the stunning coastline of California Highway 1 before you say goodbye.

Michigan to California Road Trip Option 2: The Northern Route

Distance : 4000 miles Approx Driving Time : 48 hours Major Points Of Interest: Mackinac Island, The Great Lakes, Glacier National Park, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Highway 1

For those seeking a northern road trip adventure, this journey from Michigan to California offers a different perspective, with stunning natural beauty and vibrant cities dotting the route. Here’s what you can expect to see along the way.

Mackinac Island

From Detroit, you’ll head north through Michigan to Mackinac Island , a car-free paradise in Lake Huron. Explore the island’s historic charm, with horse-drawn carriages and picturesque views. Biking is a great way to get around, and you can’t leave without trying some of the island’s famous fudge.

The Great Lakes

As you drive through Michigan, you’ll see three of the five Great Lakes: Huron, Michigan, and Superior. Due to its size, Lake Superior is actually considered an inland sea, and when you realize how massive it is, you’ll understand why!

These vast bodies of freshwater offer countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking along the rugged coastlines. As you drive, you should try and stop a few times along the lakes to stretch your legs and soak up the views.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

About halfway through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll come across Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore . This area is absolutely gorgeous and worth spending at least a full day, but more if you have the time.

There are miles and miles of trails here, and you could spend as much time as you wanted exploring the shoreline. I’d recommend doing the Mosquito Falls and Chapel Falls via Chapel Loop trail if you want to experience the best of the shoreline with some waterfalls thrown in.

You can also take a glass bottom boat tour here to check out some of the hundreds of shipwrecks in Lake Superior.

Leaving Michigan behind, your northern route adventure takes you through a piece of Wisconsin before entering Minnesota at Duluth .

This city is nestled on the shore of Lake Superior and is known for its maritime history and vibrant arts scene. See the historic Aerial Lift Bridge and check out Park Point , one of the world’s longest freshwater sand spits. There are also plenty of fantastic restaurants and shops to explore.

For those who want to spend a few days in the area (which you definitely should), a drive up the North Shore towards Canada is an absolute must. Drive as far as you’d like, exploring the various state parks, beaches, lighthouses, and hidden gems along the way.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Continuing westward, you’ll cross through Minnesota and into North Dakota, where the landscape transforms into rolling prairies and unique geological formations.

The state’s wide-open spaces and big skies create a sense of freedom as you travel. Make a stop in Theodore Roosevelt National Park to witness the striking landscapes and encounter local wildlife.

There are three sections of the park: Elkhorn Ranch Unit, North Unit, and South Unit. The South Unit is the section off of I-94 that is along your route. If you are short on time, this unit is worth a stop for some quick exploring. If you have more time, venture up to the other two units to see a side of the park not as many people make the time for.

Glacier National Park

Crossing into Montana, prepare to be awestruck by the pristine wilderness of the state. The drive through Montana is beautiful and worth taking your time.

Then you’ll reach Glacier National Park , probably the most beautiful national park I’ve been to yet. You’ll have the chance to hike through pristine forests, marvel at glacial-carved valleys, and snap photos of crystal-clear lakes. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-drive for breathtaking vistas.

Here’s the perfect one-day itinerary for Glacier National Park for you to get inspiration for your visit here.

North Cascades National Park

As you leave Montana, you’ll go through a small stretch of Idaho and then enter Washington. On your way to Seattle, you’ll pass through North Cascades National Park . This underrated park is stunning and has beautiful mountain forests, glaciers, and lakes. Spend some time here hiking or just enjoying the views from the road.

You’ll then head south to Seattle . Explore this dynamic city known for its coffee culture, iconic Space Needle , and vibrant Pike Place Market . Don’t miss a visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit.

From here, you can also make day trips to two other national parks: Olympic and Mount Rainier . These parks are worth the few extra days in the area.

Continuing south, make a stop in Portland, Oregon, where you can indulge in diverse culinary delights and explore the city’s unique neighborhoods. The city’s vibrant arts scene and lush green spaces add to its charm.

If you aren’t sick of national parks yet (and I don’t know how you could be!), spend a day in Mt Hood National Forest and check out the impressive Mt. Hood , a dormant volcano with excellent skiing in the winter.

From Portland, head to the coast and ride it all the way down through California.

San Francisco

The final leg of your journey begins as you enter California, where you’ll continue south along California Highway 1 to San Francisco .

San Francisco is such a fun city and deserves as much time as you can give it. Discover the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island . Savor fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf and explore the vibrant neighborhoods via the trolleys.

California Highway 1

Continue south from San Francisco along California Highway 1 , one of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the world.

You should do this drive in as many days as you are able. When I did this drive, I took 3 days, but I wish I would have had longer because there were so many more hikes I would have wanted to do and so many more stops I could have made. Three days was adequate, but I wouldn’t do it in less than that.

Wind your way along the rugged coastline, enjoying dramatic ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns. Stop in Carmel-By-The-Sea and take in the breathtaking views at Big Sur before continuing south and ending your road trip in Los Angeles . 

Michigan to California Road Trip Option 3: The Straight Shot

Distance: 2300 miles Approx Driving Time: 33 hours Major Points Of Interest: Chicago, Omaha Zoo, Denver, Zion National Park, Las Vegas, Mojave National Preserve

If you’re looking for a more direct Michigan to California road trip, this route offers a faster journey while still showcasing some exciting points of interest along the way.

Chicago: The Windy City

Crossing from Michigan into Illinois, make a stop in Chicago , often dubbed the “Windy City.”

Admire the city’s iconic skyline, explore world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago , and savor deep-dish pizza, which the city is famous for. 

Omaha Zoo: A Zoological Marvel

Continuing west, Omaha, Nebraska, boasts one of the nation’s top zoos, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . Spend a day exploring its impressive exhibits and getting up close to exotic animals.

I can personally attest that this zoo is the best one I’ve ever seen. My husband and I visited on our way back from a couples road trip through Nebraska, and it was fantastic. In fact, when our son is old enough to really enjoy it, we are going to go back to Omaha purely for the zoo.

Even if you don’t have kids, this zoo is well worth the stop.

Denver: The Mile High City

As you journey further west into Colorado, Denver beckons with its urban charm and stunning mountain backdrop. If you’re craving some hiking, Rocky Mountain National Park is north of the city and worth a day or two of exploring.

In the city itself, you can enjoy the thriving arts scene, visit the Denver Art Museum, check out Coors Brewery, and take a scenic walk through the nearby Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. 

Arches National Park

Entering Utah, you’ll encounter the breathtaking Arches National Park . There’s so much to see here, but some of the highlights include Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden, Balanced Rock, and Courthouse Towers.

Zion National Park

Zion is one of Utah’s most popular national parks. Here you can hike among massive sandstone cliffs and towering red rock formations, visit the waterfalls at the Emerald Pools, explore the iconic Zion Narrows, and witness the Virgin River as it carves through the canyon.

Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital

Your route south takes you to Las Vegas , Nevada, where you can enjoy world-class entertainment, vibrant nightlife, and the famous Las Vegas strip. Try your luck at the casinos or take in a spectacular show. I highly recommend the Cirque du Soleil shows or the Tournament of Kings dinner show.

When you’re ready for a break from the city, take some day trips to places like Valley of Fire State Park , the Hoover Dam , and Red Rock Canyon . You could even do a kayaking trip on the Colorado River , which is one of the tours I did the last time I was in Vegas. It was a fantastic time and a great way to escape the heat of the desert!

Mojave National Preserve: Desert Wilderness

Continuing west into California, the Mojave National Preserve offers a serene escape amidst the desert wilderness. Explore unique geological features like the Kelso Dunes and the Joshua Tree Forest. 

California: The Golden State

From the Mojave Desert, make your way to the bustling streets of Los Angeles or, if you want to keep going, head north to eclectic San Francisco. 

This direct Michigan to California road trip route provides a faster way to reach your destination, while still offering opportunities to explore interesting cities, natural wonders, and iconic landmarks along the way. Whether you’re interested in the urban appeal of Chicago, the natural beauty of Zion National Park, or the excitement of Las Vegas, this journey promises a wide range of experiences to enjoy. 

Michigan to California Road Trip Option 4: The Southern Route

Distance: 3000 miles Approx Driving Time: 43 hours Major Points Of Interest: Cincinnati, Mammoth Cave National Park, Nashville, New Orleans, The Alamo, Saguaro National Park, Joshua Tree National Park

For those seeking a southern road trip from Michigan to California, this route offers a blend of cultural richness, natural wonders, and iconic landmarks. 

Cincinnati: Ohio River City

Crossing from Michigan into Ohio, Cincinnati welcomes you with its scenic views along the Ohio River. Explore the city’s cultural attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum and the historic Over-the-Rhine district. 

Mammoth Cave National Park

Heading south into Kentucky, make a stop at Mammoth Cave National Park . With its sprawling underground labyrinth, this is the longest cave system in the world.

Take a guided tour to explore the fascinating world beneath the earth’s surface or hike the trails above ground that wind through the hills and forest in the area.

Nashville: Music City

As you continue further south into Tennessee, Nashville awaits with its legendary music scene. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Nashville is probably my favorite city in the United States (and I’ve been to a lot of them). I am a huge country music fan, so I feel like it’s mandatory for lovers of the genre to visit at least once.

However, I know quite a few people who aren’t big into country music and they loved the city too . The music scene is much bigger than just the one genre, and you can find so many amazing things to see and do no matter what you like.

New Orleans: The Big Easy

Crossing into Louisiana, New Orleans offers a unique blend of French, African, and Spanish cultures. Experience the lively jazz music scene on Bourbon Street and savor Creole and Cajun cuisine. 

You can also get out of the city for a bit and spend time at a beach, check out a plantation tour, or visit the bayou and scout for alligators.

Houston: The Bayou City

Once you get into Texas, you’ve got a lot of driving ahead of you. Break up the trip by stopping in Houston .

The city has some fascinating museums, like the Holocaust Museum and the National Museum of Funeral History. Take a stroll around the Botanic Garden, visit Battleship Texas, or check out one of the many breweries in the city.

In San Antonio, make a stop at the Alamo , which provides a glimpse into the state’s rich history. Explore the historic Spanish mission and fortress compound and learn about the events that unfolded here. 

Saguaro National Park

Once you make it into Arizona, Saguaro National Park showcases the iconic saguaro cacti, the nation’s largest cacti. Hike the desert trails and witness these towering giants up close. 

Joshua Tree National Park

Once you arrive in California, Joshua Tree National Park offers a stunning desert landscape. Explore unique rock formations, hike among Joshua trees, and stargaze under the clear desert skies. 

Los Angeles

The final leg of this Michigan to California road trip takes you to the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles . Dive into the glamor of Hollywood, stroll along the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, and visit Universal Studios for an unforgettable entertainment experience.

Michigan To California Road Trip Option 5: National Parks

Distance: 4200 miles Approx Driving Time: 38 hours Major Points Of Interest: Badlands National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Death Valley National Park, Yosemite National Park

This route from Michigan to California offers an opportunity to explore a bunch of America’s national parks and journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States.

Since you’ll be visiting a lot of national parks on this itinerary, you should absolutely get an America the Beautiful Pass , which will let you get into all of the mentioned national parks for one price for one year. It will save you hundreds of dollars if you hit all the parks on this route, and you will have paid for the pass after only visiting 3 parks.

Note: There are 15 national parks listed on the map above. Depending on your time restrictions, you may not have the chance to visit them all on this trip. If you can, that’s fantastic (and I’m super jealous). However, feel free to skip any that you’ve visited before or that you’d like to spend more time at a later date.

Indiana Dunes National Park

Located on the southern shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes is a lesser-known national park with diverse plant and bird life.

Hikers will love the over 50 miles of trails, and there are over 15 miles of beaches along the lake for those who want to relax and enjoy the water.

Badlands National Park

Crossing into South Dakota, Badlands National Park welcomes you with its surreal lunar-like landscapes. Hike among striking rock formations and watch for bison and bighorn sheep.

We spent about a day here when we visited and really enjoyed the variety of hiking trails available. We also witnessed a stunning sunrise which was one of the highlights of our trip.

Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park may be on the smaller side, but it is definitely worth spending a few hours here.

The main attraction, the cave itself, is fantastic and well worth the visit. There are also a few trails topside that are enjoyable if you have some extra time to spend here.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Heading further west, you’ll reach Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park . Hike any of the numerous trails and explore alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and soaring peaks. Or drive along Trail Ridge Road, a scenic highway that offers breathtaking views. 

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

To be honest, I didn’t even know this small national park in Colorado existed, but when I did some research, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park looks stunning and well worth a stop on your Michigan to California road trip.

There are plenty of scenic drives that take you around the rim of the canyon, and if you are in the mood for a hike, there are plenty of options of all lengths and difficulty levels.

Entering Utah, you’ll encounter the famous red rocks of Arches National Park. Marvel at over 2,000 natural stone arches and bridges, a photographer’s paradise.

Canyonlands National Park

Another one of the Mighty 5 national parks in Utah, Canyonlands National Park boasts more diverse landscapes, amazing hikes, and breathtaking rock formations.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park boasts fascinating geological wonders, including the Oyster Shell Reef, Strike Valley, Cathedral Valley, Gypsum Sinkhole, and the Waterpocket Fold.

Bryce Canyon National Park

The greatest concentration of hoodoos (irregular spirals of rocks) in the world is located at Bryce Canyon National Park . Visitors can check out the four main viewpoints to see these wonders around the park.

Continuing south, Zion National Park is the last of the Utah Mighty 5 national parks on your road trip. This park offers a dramatic contrast with its lush canyons and towering sandstone cliffs. One of the most popular things to do here is to hike through the narrow slot canyons of The Narrows. 

Grand Canyon National Park

Crossing into Arizona, the Grand Canyon awaits. Stand on the rim and gaze into the vast chasm carved by the Colorado River. Hike the trails or take a helicopter ride for a different perspective. 

Making your way into California, Joshua Tree National Park is small but definitely worth at least a quick visit. Check out the Joshua trees that give the park its name and spend some time looking for wildlife like roadrunners, jackrabbits, and bighorn sheep.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park showcases extreme desert landscapes. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and marvel at Dante’s View for stunning panoramas. 

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is the home of the giant, ancient Sequoia trees that are almost too big to be believed. Marvel at the trees on any of the stunning hikes here, and don’t forget to find General Sherman, the world’s largest tree.

Yosemite National Park

The final highlight of this Michigan to California road trip concludes in the iconic Yosemite National Park . Explore the lush valleys, towering waterfalls, and granite cliffs. Don’t miss a visit to Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point. 

How to Plan a Michigan to California Road Trip

Setting out on a cross-country road trip is an exciting adventure, but a successful journey requires some careful planning and preparation. Here are some key things to consider when getting ready for your epic road trip, no matter which route you decide to take.

Choose Your Route 

Start by selecting which route best suits your desires for your journey. Consider the points of interest and landmarks you’d like to visit along the way.  What time restrictions do you have? Will you be able to see everything you want in the amount of time you have?

Plan Your Stops

Determine your planned stops along the route . Research the attractions, national parks, cities, and scenic spots you want to explore. You may not want to see everything on the above itineraries, and there may also be some places you want to add.

Once you know where you want to stop, create an itinerary that outlines how many days you’ll spend in each location and the activities you want to do there. Be sure to include time for rest and relaxation and also some wiggle room in case you run into car trouble or bad weather.

Make a Budget

Estimate the costs associated with your road trip , including gas, accommodations, food, attractions, and any unexpected expenses or road trip emergencies. Having a budget will help you stay on track financially and make sure you don’t come home completely broke.

Here are some of the best ways to save money on a road trip to help you make the most of your budget.

Book Accommodations & Attraction Tickets

Once you know the places you want to see, where you’ll be stopping, and what your budget is, you should book your accommodations and tickets . You should try to do as much of this in advance as you can, especially if you plan to visit popular tourist destinations.

Booking your hotels ahead of time makes sure that you have someplace to sleep every night. I know that being spontaneous can be a lot of fun, but you’ll also save a lot more money and be able to budget better if you know where you are staying each day.

You should also reserve any attraction tickets or tours you want to experience to avoid disappointment upon arrival.  Some national parks have a ticketed system and only let so many people into the park on a given day, and if you don’t secure these ahead of time, you can’t get in.

Make A Packing List

Create a packing list that includes clothing, toiletries, camping gear (if needed), and any specialized equipment for your planned activities.

Be sure to also pack important documents, including driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration, as well as maps, GPS or navigation apps, and chargers for your devices.

See below for a more detailed list of items you might want to pack.

Get Your Car Tuned Up

Before hitting the road, take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection.

Make sure your car is in good working condition with properly inflated tires, brakes in good shape, and all fluids topped off. Carry essential tools, a spare tire, and an emergency kit. 

Hit the Road

With all your preparations complete, it’s time to hit the road. While you should try to stick to your planned itinerary so you can stay on point with your budget and time frame, you should also be flexible, allowing room for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries along the way. 

What to Pack for a Michigan to California Road Trip

To ensure a successful road trip, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for various situations and destinations along the way. Here are some items to include in your packing list.  

Essential documents

While carrying your driver’s license is probably second nature, you’ll also need to ensure you have the vehicle registration and proof of insurance, as well as health insurance documents.

If you are renting a car, you’ll also want to have the rental paperwork stored in a secure, easy to access location too.

A cooler stocked with drinks and snacks is helpful when you’re on the road and want to stay nourished and hydrated on the drive. It’s also a great place to store perishable items.

Not sure how big of a cooler to get? Here’s a list of the best options for a road trip .

Non-perishable food + drinks

Pack a supply of non-perishable road trip food such as trail mix, granola bars, canned goods, and other items that don’t require refrigeration. Include a variety of beverages that you can pop in the cooler each day to stay hydrated.

Jumper cables + air compressor

It’s always a good idea to have jumper cables to handle any unexpected battery issues. I actually prefer to travel with a portable car battery so you don’t even need another vehicle to get the car started.

An air compressor is also a great tool that can help maintain proper tire pressure and to sustain a leaky tire until you can get it repaired or replaced. 

First aid kit

A well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers is a good idea to pack as well as any necessary prescription medications. 

Road atlas + printed itinerary & directions

While digital navigation is convenient, it’s wise to also have a physical road atlas and a printed itinerary with directions, just in case of poor cell reception or if you phone dies or breaks. 

Tire chains

If you’re traveling through mountainous regions or during the winter, tire chains can provide added traction in snowy or icy conditions. 

Ice scraper/brush

If you are traveling in the winter, or in snowy and cold climates, an ice scraper and brush are essential for cleaning your vehicle’s windows and windshield. 

National Park Pass

If you plan to visit multiple national parks along the way, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass . It provides entry to over 2,000 national sites and is good for one year. 

For a more comprehensive packing list for every road trip adventure, check out this post.

Michigan to California Road Trip FAQs

How long does it take to drive from michigan to california.

Depending on which route you opt to take, it can take anywhere from 33 to 48 hours to drive from Michigan to California, not including time factored in for stops. 

What is the quickest route from Michigan to California?

The quickest route from Michigan to California is “The Straight Shot” itinerary listed above, which takes approximately 33 hours to drive without stops. This is assuming you are driving from Detroit to Los Angeles. If you have a different starting and/or ending city, the time will be slightly different.

What are the top attractions on a Michigan to California road trip?

A Michigan to California road trip boasts an incredible number of attractions, ranging from natural wonders to bustling cities.

Some top attractions include Chicago’s skyline, the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, the iconic Grand Canyon, the majestic Yosemite National Park, and the vibrant cities of New Orleans, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

There are also countless charming small towns, scenic routes, and unique roadside stops along the way to discover. No matter what route you decide to take, you won’t be disappointed in the things to see and do along the way.

What is the best time of year to take a Michigan to California road trip?

Late spring and early fall are among the best times for a Michigan to California road trip, as the weather is milder and there are fewer crowds.

Summers can be beautiful but can also bring more tourists and hot temperatures, especially in the Southwestern deserts.

A winter road trip is possible, but be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions in some regions, especially in the northern states and mountainous areas. If you decide to take this road trip in the winter, factor in extra time and have a backup route in case the highways get shut down due to weather.

Is it better to fly or drive from Michigan to California?

Whether you decide to fly or drive from Michigan to California depends on your budget, preferences, and the amount of time you have available.

Flying can save a lot of time and is more convenient for those who prefer to focus only on the starting and ending destinations. However, you will miss out on all attractions and sights along the way. 

Driving allows you to experience the journey and explore all the gems along the way. If you have the time, a road trip from Michigan to California is a fantastic adventure.

Conclusion: Michigan to California Road Trip

Setting out on a road trip from Michigan to California is a journey filled with adventure and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you choose the northern route, southern route, or a more direct path, this cross-country adventure promises a wide range of natural wonders, cultural gems, and diverse landscapes.

From iconic cities and national parks to charming small towns and quirky roadside attractions, these Michigan to California road trips offer a unique opportunity to explore the heart of America.

Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

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