california road trip san francisco to los angeles

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A Perfect San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

California is our home, and we wouldn’t trade it for the world. Except for the sky-high cost of living. We’d like to trade that, please. But there’s a reason it’s expensive to live in California – it’s a pretty amazing place with unbeatable weather. Our recent California road trip reminded us of just how incredible this state is.

We made our way from San Francisco to Los Angeles, spending four weeks meandering through California, exploring our home state in a way that we hadn’t before. California is known worldwide for its beauty. From breathtaking beaches, to rolling hills lined with vineyards and groves of towering redwoods, coastal California has it all.

On a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you’ll encounter all of those things and more. It’s a picturesque, exhilarating drive with jaw-dropping landscapes, world-class wine tasting, and more hikes than you could complete in a lifetime. The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles along Highway 1 is a road trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

california road trip san francisco to los angeles

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all of the best stops along the way, and give some of our picks for what to check out, eat, and drink in each spot.

Note : You can absolutely reverse this itinerary for a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip.

Before we get to the best stops on your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, a few logistics you’ll need to plan the perfect road trip.

Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one and purchase something, I make a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you. It goes without saying that I would never recommend something I wouldn’t use or do myself.

Where to Fly In and Out Of?

If you’re not already near the San Francisco area, you will want to fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) and rent a car that you can comfortably drive down to Los Angeles.

Plan on flying out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , which is going to be your best bet as far as finding flights for most cities.

There are two smaller airports, Burbank (BUR) and John Wayne (SNA), which will be less of a hassle than super busy (and majorly trafficky) LAX but may not offer as many flight options.

How Many Days to Spend Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The fastest route driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles is straight down Interstate-5 (I-5), which only takes about six hours but is an incredibly boring drive and you miss out on all the best sights along the California coast.

Definitely don’t do that unless you’re in the mood for barren landscapes, lots of big trucks, and the occasional whiff of cattle ranches. We’ve done it and it’s not fun.

When we did the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles, we did it in about 10 days, with plenty of stops on the gorgeous California coast along the way.

Our number one tip is to take it slow .

We recommend spending at least three to five days driving down the coast (sample itineraries below!) so that you can take in all of the beautiful coastal California views.

This route is only about nine hours of drive time, so you’ll be able to make plenty of stops for sightseeing, hikes, and picnics at the beach.

The Route for Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Basically, you’re going to drive highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Follow Highway 1 from San Francisco along one of the most scenic coastlines in the world.

When you reach Santa Barbara, you’ll continue onto Highway 101 for a short stretch and then hop back on Highway 1 to drive through glitzy Malibu into Los Angeles.

Recommended Itineraries for Driving from SF to LA

Wondering exactly how to spend your time on your drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles? Here are some itinerary ideas based on our own personal experience.

Below, in the “best stops” section, we have a bit more detail on each place to help you plan your time.

Note : We’re not counting the day you fly into San Francisco in the number of days.

If you only have three days, here is what we’d recommend.

Day 1: Leave San Francisco early, head to Monterey and walk around Cannery Row, stop at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve before driving through Big Sur , stop at Pfeiffer Beach and McWay Falls, and don’t miss the elephant seals at San Simeone. Spend the night right on the beach at White Water in Cambria, a sleepy coastal town.

Day 2: Grab coffee in San Luis Obispo (we like Scout Coffee A LOT) before heading out to Morro Bay and Montana de Oro . Hike along the coastal bluffs – this is one of our favorite coastal California hikes. Continue the journey south to Avila Beach (stop at the Avila Barn) and Pismo Beach . Both are worth getting out and walking around to stretch your legs. Drive through the Santa Ynez Valley, the best wine region in Southern California, and taste some wine at either Foxen Vineyard & Winery or Babcock Winery & Vineyards. Head into Santa Barbara for the evening – stay at either the Hotel Indigo or the Wayfarer , two of the best places to stay in Santa Barbara . Head to the Funk Zone for some urban wine tasting for the evening, and enjoy dinner at Loquita, a Spanish restaurant right in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Day 3 : Grab coffee at either Dart Coffee or Dune Coffee Roasters and spend the morning exploring the coast around Santa Barbara. Finish your road trip by heading down the coast to Malibu , getting out at Zuma Beach and Point Dume, before continuing down highway 1 and hitting the western edge of Santa Monica . You’ve arrived in LA!

If you have a bit more time, you’ll be able to make a few more stops along the way.

Day 1 : Spend a full day exploring San Francisco. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and hike down to Baker Beach for the best view of the bridge. Check out Lombard Street, the crookedest street in the city, which has amazing views of the Bay. Browse the shops and food stalls at the Ferry Building, a collection of San Francisco’s finest artisans like Blue Bottle Coffee, Heath Ceramics, and Dandelion Chocolate. Do dinner and drinks in the Mission, which is the best neighborhood for foodies in San Francisco. Stay overnight at either Beck’s Motor Lodge or the Kabuki , two of the best places to stay in San Francisco.

Day 2: Head out of the city to the south, stopping in Pacifica and Half Moon Bay , before arriving in Santa Cruz . Walk Westcliff Drive and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and don’t miss coffee at Verve and ice cream at the Penny. Hop back on Highway 1 and head south to Monterey and Carmel , your stop for the evening. Spend the night at Hotel Abrego in Monterey, which is a solid value and will put you in a great position to tackle Big Sur early the next day.

Day 3: Today, head out early with a coffee from Captain + Stoker in Monterey in your hands, and start what we think is the best day on this trip. First, head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and hike the short and easy trail along the coastal bluffs. Then continue on to Big Sur . The stops to make here, in order, are Bixby Bridge, Andrew Molera State Park (great place for a hike along the coast!), Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Limekiln State Park. This should take you a full day, so spend the night in Cambria at White Water , a lovely boutique hotel that is literally across the street from the beach.

Day 4: Continue the coastal drive down to Morro Bay , where you should stop to admire Morro Rock (and catch a glimpse of the resident sea otters) from Morro Rock Beach. Then, head to Montana de Oro State Park and hike the Bluffs Trail (there are other options below for a more strenuous hike). Head into San Luis Obispo for lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co and cider at SLO Cider Co before making the journey to Santa Barbara through the Santa Ynez Valley, stopping in Los Olivos for cider at Tin City Cider and wine tasting. Stay overnight in Santa Barbara at Hotel Indigo or the Wayfarer and explore the Funk Zone for the evening.

Day 5 : Grab coffee at either Dart Coffee or Dune Coffee Roasters in Santa Barbara in the morning and spend the first half of the day exploring the coast around Santa Barbara. Finish your road trip by heading down the coast to Malibu , getting out at Zuma Beach and Point Dume, before continuing down highway 1 and hitting the western edge of Santa Monica . You’ve arrived in LA!

If you have a couple of extra days, I would spend them in San Francisco or LA. Two days in each would be perfect, which would make this an 8 day adventure.

That’s a very, very high level look at what a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip looks like. Continue reading for a detailed look at the best stops to make on the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The Best Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Here are our favorite stops along the Pacific Coast of California that you should make sure to add to your itinerary.

San Francisco

San Francisco is so much more than a starting point for your road trip or a place to pick up your rental car. It’s a vibrant city, full of some of the best food and drinks on the west coast. And hills. Lots of hills.

We called San Francisco home for almost a decade, and we still love the city even though it has become a bit too expensive for our “jobs” (read: exploring the world untethered).

If you want to spend a day or two exploring San Francisco, we have some travel guides to help you find the best spots.

We’d recommend picking up your rental car at the END of your time in San Francisco, because parking is a veritable nightmare in the city.

If you do have a car, plan on paying for parking at your hotel, or paying for at least one parking ticket over the course of your San Francisco itinerary.

If you want to stay overnight in San Francisco, we’d recommend choosing a hotel. Most of the hotels in San Francisco are in Union Square, but it’s really not a great place to stay. We think you should stay at either Beck’s Motor Lodge or the Kabuki .

Here are some San Francisco travel guides to help you plan your time.

4 Days in San Francisco: A Complete SF Itinerary (Local’s Guide)
Where to Stay in San Francisco (and Where Not to Stay)
Gluten Free San Francisco: A Travel Guide for Celiacs
The Best Day Trips from San Francisco

Whether you love the beach or you’d rather explore the mountains, you’re in luck. Santa Cruz has both!

Known for its gorgeous beaches, Santa Cruz has small-town, surfer beach vibes even though it’s not that small.

In the mountains above Santa Cruz, you’ll find some of the tallest Redwood trees in the world. You literally can’t go wrong stopping here, and you might have a hard time leaving!

Take Surfing Lessons

If it’s been your dream to learn how to surf, then Santa Cruz is the place to do it. Surf School Santa Cruz has five-star reviews on Yelp and even has private two-person surfing lessons if you have someone with you who wants to join in on the fun.

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Who doesn’t love a good boardwalk? The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will not disappoint. It’s like a time warp, taking you back into the 1950’s with a wooden roller coaster, arcade games, and other rides like bumper cars.

Take a few hours to walk around, grab some food, and maybe even play some games or go on a couple of rides.

There are rides for daredevils and little kids, so it’s enjoyable for the whole family and such a wholesome, nostalgic way to spend the day!

Walk or Bike Westcliff Drive

If you’re up for a little fresh air and exercise with stunning views of the ocean, then head over to Westcliff Drive.

It’s a scenic three mile biking and walking path along the Pacific Ocean with amazing views of Monterey Bay.

Lighthouse Point has a grassy area to relax and play frisbee looking over Steamer Lane, where you can watch surfers on some of the best waves in the United States.

See the Redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Nature lovers, do not miss this stop. This 40-acre grove of old-growth Redwood trees dates back over 1,500 years, with the tallest tree standing 277 feet tall.

These trees are strikingly massive and totally take your breath away. Pictures just genuinely do not do this state park justice.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see some wildlife, including the famous banana slug, which is the mascot for UC Santa Cruz, the university in town.

Hike the Old Landing Cove Trail

Hop out of the car, throw on your hiking boots (or just your sneakers will do), and head to the Old Landing Cove Trail .

The trail is a 2.3-mile loop that will lead you to views of cliffs along the Pacific Ocean. We’re pretty sure there may literally be no better place to stop and take an easy hike to stretch your legs on a road trip.

Continuing down the coast, next you’ll hit Monterey. Monterey is home to beautiful, uncrowded beaches, all the seafood you could ever want, and the best places to explore the Pacific Ocean.

Well known for its marine life, including the adorable sea otter, it’s also home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

The aquatic life of the Monterey Bay can be seen up close at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium .

With over 20,000 marine animals from sharks to jellyfish to otters, this aquarium is one of the best in the world and a must see if you’re interested in marine life.

Whale Watching

Have you ever been whale watching? It’s truly a unique experience! The best time to go whale watching depends on what you want to see.

Orcas and gray whales? December through May. If you’re more interested in seeing Humpbacks, you’ll have a better chance May to November.

Want to see the Blue Whale (the largest animal on earth)? Your best bet is July through October.

Luckily this means that no matter when you visit you can hop on a whale watching tour and have a good chance at seeing some of these giant, majestic creatures.

Get Out On the Water

A popular activity for those who are a little more adventurous and want to get out there is to rent a kayak or a paddleboard. Rent one from Monterey Bay Kayaks . Take a few hours to explore this beautiful stretch of coast from a new perspective.

Head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a protected coastal area where you can hike and explore the wildlife of Monterey.

View the bluffs and cliffs unique to the California coast and hike the trails to check things out on foot. If you’re lucky you’ll spot some sea lions playing in the ocean below.

It’s a unique spot to see all sorts of wildlife – last time we were there we saw hundreds of giant white pelicans perched all over the trees and cliffs.

Big Sur is known for its rugged coastal cliffs and awe-inspiring views. It’s a popular spot to camp and even to just drive through because you can see so much of it from the car.

Stop for the Amazing Sights (North to South)

Bixby Bridge: While you may not know it’s name, it’s likely that you’ve seen this iconic bridge as it’s one of the most photographed bridges in California.

Andrew Molera State Park : With its undeveloped, raw beauty, this state park has trails along the coastline and a beach where you can stop to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Pfeiffer Beach: The striking rock formations here are perfect for exploring and stopping for a quick photo opportunity.

Mcway Falls : Have you ever seen a waterfall right on the beach? Featuring a 80 foot tall, year round waterfall, that switches from emptying on the beach to directly into the ocean depending on the tide.

Ragged Point: The perfect pit stop! A nature trail leads down to the Pacific Ocean and you can often see elephant seals along the beaches.

Take a Hike

Andrew Molera State Park loop : Just off Highway 1, this trail is an 8 mile long loop featuring scenic ocean bluffs and a river crossing.
Buzzards Roost : For a shorter hike, Buzzards Roost comes in at just 2.6 miles and features the beautiful wildflowers of California. Best to hike March to October.

Treat Yourself

If you want to take a self care day and splurge, then a spa day at Ventana Big Sur offers luxury spa services.

If you want to make this one of your stops for the night, they even have options for glamping in their 20-acre redwood canyon campground.

For a bit more of a rustic, budget friendly self care day check out Esalen Hot Springs to soak in the relaxing, healing waters.

Morro Bay and Cayucos

This is the peak of the Central Coast of California. These small beach towns are pretty sleepy, but filled with cute local shops and nature trails. We spent a full four days in the area, and loved every second of it.

Stop in San Simeone to See the Elephant Seals

This is a quick stop that does not disappoint! Located 7 miles north of San Simeon, you’ll know you’re in the right place when you open your car door and instantly hear their calls.

It’s a popular spot to observe elephant seals as they hang out here year round. However, the best time of the year to see them is October through May.

Eat Beachside at Hidden Kitchen in Cayucos

We are obsessed with the 100% gluten-free blue corn waffles at Hidden Kitchen ! Whether you enjoy savory or sweet, there are options for all taste buds and they’re all gluten free.

Not feeling waffles? They’ve got great tacos too. Get the weirdo, a combination of peanut butter, maple syrup, banana, and BACON.

Hike Around the Base of Morro Rock

Morro Rock stands 576 feet tall above the surrounding ocean, but that’s not even the most impressive thing about it. Morro Rock is actually a volcanic plug that was estimated to have formed about around 23 million years ago.

While you can no longer climb it, you can hike around the base and if you can stick around for sunset you’ll be handsomely rewarded with a breathtaking view.

Make sure to look for sea otters in the calm water flowing from Morro Bay into the open ocean – it’s a favorite hangout for the furry little creatures! They’re Alysha’s favorite.

Explore Montana de Oro State Park

It’s best to enjoy this beautiful state park by hiking one of the many great trails.

Bluffs Trail is a 4.1 loop trail that is rated easy and located near Los Osos. It features wildflowers and if you’re looking for a place to get in your morning run before hitting the road it’s good for a quick trail run too.
Valencia Peak is 4.2 miles long and rated moderate. It allows you to gain elevation to look at the scenic central California coast from above.
Hazard Peak is a harder trail, but completely worth the climb! At 11.2 miles it’s a bit longer for those who are looking for a more rigorous hike that has an 1,800 foot elevation gain.

San Luis Obispo

Welcome to central California! Once you hit San Luis Obispo, you’re about half way through your San Francisco to Los Angeles drive.

Drink Cider at SLO Cider Co

If you’re stopping in SLO (San Luis Obispo), you have to enjoy some cider! SLO Cider Co has dry hard cider that is made in California and is gluten free.

Another great option to try some cider is Cider Bar , San Luis Obispo’s first cider bar.

If you’d rather avoid the hard stuff (because you’re driving), head to Whalebird Kombucha for a refreshingly bubbly probiotic pick me up.

Stop by The Creamery Marketplace

Want to stop and take a walk around to maybe grab a bite to eat or hit a bar?

Make sure you check out The Creamery Marketplace, a collection of bars, restaurants, and shops in Downtown SLO. This open-air public market features a close community of local businesses to support.

Grab Lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co (Gluten Free Options!)

With a walk up window and craft beers on tap, make sure you stop by Old SLO BBQ Co for authentic barbecue.

Many of their recipes date back nearly a century and though it’s not noted on the menu, most of their dishes are gluten free and they have gluten free prep procedures if you let them know your needs.

Make a Stop, or Three, For Coffee

Field Day Coffee has that friendly outdoor, plant filled coffee shop vibe with amazing coffee – and they make their own almond milk.
Scout Coffee Co has two locations in SLO where they feature pastries from their in house bakery and craft roast coffee.
Kreuzberg California is a low key, art-adorned coffee house with good food and space to hang out and enjoy yourself.

Head to Nearby Avila Beach

A short drive from San Luis Obsipo is Avila Beach, a smaller beach town with a few fun sights to check out.

The quick hike down to Pirate’s Cove is one of our favorite stops on this stretch of coast – just note that it is a clothing optional beach, so it’s up to you if you want to avert your eyes or join in.

Another fun stop is the Avila Barn which has the exact farm vibe you’d expect it to!

With tons of produce and baked goods you can pick up a few snacks for the road after feeding some goats and visiting with all the other farm animals.

The Santa Ynez Valley: Solvang and Los Olivos

Wine tasting.

Are you a fan of wine tasting? This is your chance and here are our top choices in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Babcock Vineyards is located in Lompoc with beautiful views and lots of recommendations from locals in the area. Rancho Sisquoc Winery is part of a 37,000 acre cattle ranch and has been crafting small quantities of quality wines for over 40 years.

Priding themselves on minimalist winemaking and sustainable wine-growing, Foxen Vineyard is a solar-powered winery located in nearby Santa Maria.

A town full of tasting rooms! Wine tasting is basically all there is to do here and we’re not complaining.

You can take your pick from the dozens of tasting rooms, but make sure you make a stop in Tin City Cider for a taste of their amazing dry cider.

Well known for its Danish style architecture, Solvang is a bit touristy, but still a fun stop on your way down the coast.

We recommend checking out The Book Loft , Solvang Spice Merchant , and stopping by to check out the Solvang windmill.

Santa Barbara

One of our favorites! There’s a reason many celebrities have homes away from the congestion of Los Angeles in Santa Barbara. It has been coined “The American Riviera” with its dramatic backdrop of mountains and expansive ocean views.

Explore the Funk Zone

Spanning the area between the ocean and Highway 101, the Funk Zone is a district of Downtown Santa Barbara that has become more popular in recent years as tasting rooms, shops, galleries, and cafes have started to pop up.

We love the Valley Project , which focuses on unique wines from the nearby wine regions and has a gorgeous map of the area behind the bar.

Tackle the Urban Wine Trail

Within the Funk Zone is the Urban Wine Trail , which is a self-guided route of over 20 tasting rooms representing Santa Barbara County wines.

Hike to Inspiration Point

A 3.5 mile trail that gives you a chance to experience the beauty of the mountains of Santa Barbara with amazing views of the ocean.

It’s open year round and has a decent amount of shade if you’re there during the summer and are looking for a trail with some relief from the California sun.

Hit the Beach

Leadbetter Beach does get a bit busy in the summer, but if you’re there during the week or off season it’s not too bad. You can grab a blanket, have a picnic and watch the sailboats from the nearby Santa Barbara Harbor.
Butterfly Beach , located in ritzy Montecito just south of Santa Barbara, is a long narrow stretch of beach that’s perfect for walking or relaxing.
Arroyo Burro Beach is a dog friendly beach considered a hidden gem by the locals and has a few restaurants to stop in to eat at if you get hungry.

Where to Eat & Drink in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is full of great food and drinks, including a bunch of gluten free restaurants . Here are our favorites.

For coffee, go to Dune Coffee Roasters , the best coffee in Santa Barbara, or Dart Coffee , whose outdoor patio (“coffee garden”) is a lovely place to enjoy your morning coffee on one of the seemingly unlimited gorgeous days in Santa Barbara.
For incredible Spanish food, head to Loquita and order the paella.
For 100% gluten free brunch, featuring amazing french toast and about as many baked goods as you can possible imagine, Lilac Patisserie is your spot.
Lily’s Tacos are some of the most authentic tacos I’ve had in the US, and it’s all gluten free. And super affordable – you can easily feed a couple for $15.

If boho-chic were a town it would be Ojai. If that’s your vibe, then you’ll definitely want to pass through on your San Francisco to Los Angeles drive.

Lunch at Food Harmonics

Health foodies, there are a lot of great restaurants in Ojai, but this is one you need to check out.

They focus on delicious healing, balancing food and their menu is 100% organic, gluten, sugar, soy, and GMO free.

Browse New and Used Books at Barts Books

Have you ever visited an outdoor bookstore? Barts Books is a quirky bookstore in the middle of a pretty quirky town. If you love being surrounded by books, then you definitely need to stop in because it’s a book lovers paradise.

Grab a Treat at Revel Kombucha Bar

Known for its fresh kombucha on tap, you can also get decadent acai bowls as well as probiotic matcha and coffee.

Fuel Up at Beacon Coffee

Looking for the best coffee in town? Beacon Coffee is the place to stop in if you need a quick caffeine fix and want to support a local business that works with family owned farms around the world.

As a bonus they have several gluten free pastries available for you to snack on – but be sure to come early for these treats, they sell out fast!

Ventura and the Channel Islands

Heading down the coast a bit, you’ll hit Ventura and off the coast in the Pacific Ocean nearby are the Channel Islands.

If you want to take a full day excursion to check out the Channel Islands National Park, book a cruise with Island Packers which offers rides to Santa Cruz (most popular to visit) and Anacapa islands.

The last stop of your road trip has got to be Malibu. To get there, hop back on Highway 1 (locals call this section the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH for short) and drive the coastal route past Malibu into Santa Monica, the western edge of Los Angeles.

Soak in the Sun at Zuma Beach

Zuma is one of the biggest and most popular beaches in Los Angeles county. Plus, it’s a great place to surf if that’s your thing.

Even though there are tons of spaces, parking can get tough in the summer months so make sure you bring some shoes for walking to the beach just in case you have to park farther away.

Watch Surfers at Malibu Lagoon

Where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find Malibu lagoon. On the east side, you can visit Malibu pier and right next door you’ll find Surfrider Beach, one of the best places in California to hang out and watch the surfers.

Hike Los Liones Trail

Because of the location of this hike, it can get a little crowded on weekends, but it’s totally worth checking out!

Make sure you make it all the way to the top for the gorgeous views of the ocean and nearby Pacific Palisades.

It’s a 4.5 mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain, which means it’s in the moderate category as far as difficulty goes.

Los Angeles

Congratulations! You made it!

Los Angeles is a pretty incredible city, and neither of us had spent much time there until we recently spent over a week exploring the city.

Whether you want to eat and drink, relax on the beach, or hit the theme parks, there’s something for everyone in Los Angeles.

Here are some of our Los Angeles travel guides to help you plan your time if you have a couple of extra days at the end of your road trip.

A Complete Los Angeles Itinerary
Where to Stay in Los Angeles: The Best Hotels & Airbnbs
Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Travel Guide for Celiacs

California has so many diverse landscapes, all beautiful in their own right. But if we were to recommend a road trip, San Francisco to Los Angeles would definitely be at the top of our list.

It’s one of the most beautiful drives in the world… if you take the coastal route instead of the inland route, that is.

We hope you enjoy your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip! Did you discover a new spot that we didn’t cover? Let us know so we can add it to our list of places to explore in California!

More to Explore in California

Heading to the great state of California? Here are some other posts you might like.

One Day in San Francisco: How to See the Best of San Francisco in a Day
4 Days in San Francisco: How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco Itinerary
Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay
Gluten Free San Francisco: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 10 Amazing San Francisco Day Trips
5 Days in Los Angeles: How to Plan a Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary
Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide to L.A.’s Best Places to Stay
Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
3 Days in San Diego: How to Plan a Perfect San Diego Itinerary
Where to Stay in San Diego: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay
Gluten Free San Diego: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
Northern California Road Trip: The Best of the Northern California Coast

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi, Is December a good month to travel the San Fran to L.A. coast trip?

December would be a great time to do this. You might get a little bit of rain, and it’s not going to be hot, but December generally has decent weather and it’ll be far less crowded than other times of year. Plus, sunrises/sunsets in December in California are amazing!

Hi, between February and March, which month is a better time to drive down the San Fran to L.A. coast trip?

Hey Tracy! Both are going to be roughly the same in terms of weather. I’d go with March, but there’s not a huge difference between those two months. Enjoy!

I have just booked flights to San Fran for next April, with my hubbie and 2 kids 13 & 11 we plan to take 8 days to drive San Fran to LA then 2 days to vegas, then fly to New York. Your blog giving me great ideas for planning our Road trip, I know we are trying to fit in alot but coming from Ireland this will be a huge adventure for adults and kids. ( I love hiking, hopefully by then I will have converted my family also)

Fun fun! That is a lot to see over a couple of weeks, but eight days between San Francisco and LA is a decent amount of time to see the highlights. Let us know if you have any specific questions as you’re planning – happy to help!

12 Awesome Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Let me show you where to stop on a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip – so good, I’ve done the route twice!

The San Francisco to Los Angeles drive is still one of my absolute favourite I’ve ever done. In fact, it’s so good I’ve done the Pacific Coast Highway road trip twice. Wouldn’t mind driving the California coast again TBH.

The San Francisco to LA drive is well known as one of the prettiest and most scenic routes in the world, never mind America. It’s the ultimate California coastal road trip.

Highway 1, as it’s also known, actually starts as soon as you arrive in California. It begins at the northern border with Oregon and stretches all the way down to finish in San Diego. If you steamed ahead the whole route would take ten hours to do, but then you’d miss out on all the joys of the 1000km of impressive roads, views, and cool places to stop along the way.

Road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles and you’ll enjoy stunning coastal views, Californian sunshine villages, epic forests, cool towns and a wine making district or two, too. I wouldn’t really recommend a rental car for the start and finish cities, but to rely on a professional car service in Los Angeles to navigate the city’s bustling streets, and to use public transport in San Fran. In between? Enjoy the freedom of your own wheels!

Of course you can do Highway 1 the other way, and drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco on a road trip, but this way is generally considered the best. And it’s the only way I’ve ever done it!

Where to stop on the San Francisco to Los Angeles drive

Drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles and you’re in for an incredible trip!

1. San Francisco

San Francisco is a great city, and an excellent place to start your trip driving the California Coast. There’s a good reason why it’s used in so many films as a backdrop, and why it’s on the dream list for so many people to visit.

The Golden Gate Park is an absolute must do while you’re in the city. Have a few days to explore Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island and just relaxing with a coffee in Union Square. Get around via the famous San Francisco tram and make sure to walk down crazy Lombard Street too – don’t attempt to drive it!

Pick up your rental car and drive over the Golden Gate Bridge to get off to a memorable start to your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip. It’s the most recognisable bridge in the world, and is actually surprisingly long. A great opportunity to get used to the glory of those wide lanes in the USA.

Distance from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Here’s a map of the drive from San Francisco to LA.

The San Francisco to Los Angeles drive is 6 h 16 mins (383.1 mi) via I-5 S – the most direct route.

If you want to drive from SF to LA the scenic route, as described here, then you’re looking at around 9 h 19 mins (454 miles) via Highway 1.

ACCOMMODATION IN SAN FRANCISCO: HOTEL ZEPHYR IN FISHERMAN’S WHARF

After landing in San Francisco we went straight to the Hotel Zephyr in Fisherman’s Wharf to freshen up. It had only opened a week before and is in a great location right on the waterfront – it was easy to walk to the famous Pier 39 sea lions and the Golden Gate Bridge viewing point from the front desk.

For dinner I’d recommend the Boudin Bakery over the road for chowder in bread bowls, fish and chips and their signature sourdough bread and butter pudding for dessert. I pretty much carb coma’d into bed that night.

2. San Jose

San Jose could be described as the centre of the western world right now, thanks to the huge companies that now call Silicon Valley home. Facebook and Google HQs are here, and the famous Hewlett Packard Garage from where it all began.

There’s a lot of money floating about in San Jose and if you can get an invite into any of the head offices, take up the offer.

As well as possibly controlling all of our futures, San Jose also has a fascinating past. Galleries, museums, an open air market and a lively downtown make San Jose a must on your road trip from San Francisco to LA.

Also, make sure to swing by the famous Winchester Mystery House. It’s full of curiosities, including dead end hallways, staircases that run up to the ceiling and 165 rooms. The late Sarah Winchester built the place at a cost of over $20m, as instructed by her Medium. Imagine having the money to just follow that advice on a whim – joyful!

You NEED to stop here on a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles – to really say you’ve done a coast of California road trip. If you’re driving for a while, you’ll want to have some snacks in supply. Check out this list of food to take on a road trip for inspiration.

ACCOMMODATION IN SAN JOSE : HOTEL VALENCIA SANTANA ROW

Hotel Valencia Santana Row is the only hotel on Santana Row, and is a real experience after you’ve been on the road all day. With Spanish-style architecture and beautiful interiors, this is a luxury hotel offering two restaurants and a rooftop wine bar with views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. There’s also a great swimming pool to cool off from the day. Stay here and you’ll be in the centre of the action of San Jose, but in a wonderful retreat.

3. Santa Cruz

Look out the window to see the stunning Half Moon Bay as you pass from San Jose, Santa Cruz bound. Even better, pull over and snap a moody pic from the cliff edge before you rush away.

Put “Ano Nuevo State Park” into your sat nav where you can visit the Elephant Seals in the marine park, and take a look at a San Francisco Garter Snake too.

Seriously, don’t miss the Elephant Seals when you’re driving the California Coast. I’ve never seen so many in one place, it was amazing. Definitely one of the highlights of the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.

Ninety minutes from San Jose in your rental car (with no stops) you’ll find yourself in Santa Cruz. The 60s live on here, especially along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with its old-school Americana vibe. Explore the lighthouse on the beautiful beach, and the Big Dipper along the boardwalk. The Mystery Spot – a collection of strange phenomena from the last 70 years – also makes for an entertaining few hours.

On Pacific Avenue you’ll find all kinds of vintage goodies, visit Palomar for night time salsa dancing, Wilder Ranch State Park for hiking and the Rio Theatre for local music. The Wharf is a great place to start for restaurants and shops and if you have the time you can go on a whale watching boat or fishing expedition too.

Lots to do in Santa Cruz so don’t skip it on your Pacific Coast Highway trip!

ACCOMMODATION IN SANTA CRUZ: CASABLANCA ON THE BEACH

Casablanca Inn on The Beach just makes me want to book this road trip all over again. This gorgeous hotel overlooks Monterey Bay, and is located across the street from the Santa Cruz Wharf and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The perfect location for Santa Cruz – and if you’re only staying a night or two, that’s exactly what you want. Most rooms here have ocean views, and the Sawasdee by the Sea Restaurant means you can enjoy those views with some outdoor dining too.

4. Monterey Bay

Just an hour from Santa Cruz you’ll find Monterey Bay on the curve of the coast. Lots to do here, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. You can also go whale watching at Monterey Bay too.

Don’t miss the scenic ’17 Mile Drive’ and have a mooch around Carmel-by-the-Sea – a cute seaside village with shops, cafes and restaurants. Whale watching, sailing, kayaking, golfing and biking are also popular in Monterey.

A gentle uphill drive from here takes you out to the Big Sur, where the fun really begins on your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.

If you want to spend two days in Monterey , check out this post from California Crossroads.

ACCOMMODATION IN MONTEREY: THE JABBERWOCK

If you’re looking for somewhere great to stay in Monterey The Jabberwock is loved by all who stay there. Now, it’s a little different to the other hotels I’ve recommended here – but that’s one of the reasons why it’s so great. This unique 7-bedroom B&B will give you a stay to remember, thanks to the charming guest rooms and excellent location near the beach and the aquarium. There’s free parking here, and your foodie needs are guaranteed to be catered for all day long!

The Bixby Bridge is your best route into the Big Sur, well, pretty much the only one from Highway 1 TBH. It’s one of the tallest single span concrete bridges in the world and one of the most photographed bridges on the West Coast – bar the Golden Gate that you’ll have already driven over. The Bixby Bridge is 714 feet long and 280 feet high.

There are many beautiful sights along the Big Sur driving from San Fran to LA – Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, Point Sur State Historic Park, Ragged Point – lap them up by stopping often. If you have time, take a few days to relax along the route, soak up some of the scenery and just generally chill out.

The journey is as important as the destination, right?

The Big Sur holds an arty, hippy community that, in my experience were quite unwelcoming to anyone who wasn’t in it. We tried to visit the Esalen Institute for the views and natural hot spring baths. Two of my friends were wearing baseball caps and I saw them eye them up before refusing our entry.

If you’re part of the said hippy / arty community then go along and enjoy. If not, just soak up the views and take your money elsewhere!

If this is your vibe you might want to mark out a few nights on your San Fran to LA road trip to stay here.

ACCOMMODATION IN BIG SUR: VENTANA INN & SPA

I stayed at the Ventana Inn & Spa in Big Sur and had a hot tub, and a hammock on my balcony and life was all kinds of amazing. After a delicious dinner looking out over the Big Sur countryside we had a hot tub party and made the most of the mini bar. This was a real luxury trip for us and this place was incredible!

Big Sur also has several campgrounds with coastal access and views, and given the climate and setting it can be a great place to camp. If you are the adventurous type who carries a small tent along on your roadtrips, that could be a more primitive lodging option.

6. San Simeon

Ok, next stop on the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip is San Simeon. The highlight of San Simeon is Hearst Castle high up on The Enchanted Hill. More than 1 million people visit every year – it’s the number one attraction in San Simeon. Lady Gaga filmed a video here, and you can explore the 250,000 acres of rooms, suites, cottages, kitchens and grounds.

Moonstone Beach is also a popular spot in San Simeon, as is the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery and shopping at Cambria Village too. All three are great stops on your California coastal road trip.

ACCCOMMODATION IN SAN SIMEON: SAN SIMEON LODGE

San Simeon Lodge may not be as luxury as the other recommendations for your San Fran to LA road trip, but, just look at that location. Right next to the Pacific Ocean, it’s the perfect spot for a sea dip. The pool is also amazing, and you’ll be just a few miles from Hearst Castle – meaning you can get there early before the crowds!

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7. San Luis Obispo

Right, this is actually kinda absolutely disgusting but in San Luis Obispo there’s a 15-foot high, 70-foot long alley lined with bubblegum. Like, on purpose. You can go and add your mark on the world, if you like.

If you’ve got time to spare in San Luis Obispo hike up Black Hill, Islay Hill, Bishop Peak and round the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden . The Fremont Theatre is also worth a visit, if only for the awesome facade in the evening. Soda Lake is an awesome sight too, especially for anyone with an eye for design.

Pismo Beach is a close enough walk and you can enjoy the tasty restaurants, ATV rentals, wine tasting, fishing, surfing, skydiving, bowling and mineral springs there. Also, they like to feed you clams.

We went sand dune buggying – ever tried it? It’s a lot harder than I thought, and at times pretty damn scary too. It’s perfectly safe as you’re in a roll car and the guys from Sun Buggy in Oceano said there’d never been an accident, but as I was stuck in the sand trying to traverse the huge dunes I was sure I’d be the first.

ACCOMMODATION AT PISMO BEACH: COTTAGE BY THE SEA

We finally arrived at Cottage Inn by the Sea , right on Pismo Beach in a sea view room in San Luis Obispo County. It was straight out again ready for the wine tasting with the the Adelaida Winery . Reds, whites and an 11% cider later and we went off to the famous Madonna Inn for chicken, rice and their famous creamy cakes.

On your way to the famous Santa Barbara you’ll travel on the 101 with great views of the area’s picturesque mountains and vineyards. It’s totally worth a detour here to visit Solvang – a pretty town that will take you back to Europe, but you’re in Cali.

You need to see it to believe. Solvang was founded by Danish immigrants who wanted to feel at home in the USA. Nowadays it’s a great tourist attraction, as well as a place where people actually live.

Visit and you can expect Northern European architecture and shops, and lots of replicas of iconic spots in Copenhagen. Keep an eye out for the Little Mermaid Statue and the Hans Christian Anderson Museum.

You’ll only need an hour or two here, but it’s a cute stop along the San Francisco to LA road trip route.

And if you have even longer to spend, check out the Santa Ynez Valley here too.

ACCOMMODATION IN SOLVANG: HOTEL CORQUE

Located just 5 minutes’ walk away from Old Mission Santa Ines, the Hotel Corque has an outdoor pool and hot tub, and prides itself on their spacious rooms. Some rooms have amazing views of Solvang Village or the Santa Ynez Hills. There’s an onsite restaurant, Root 246, serving farm fresh American cuisine and a good variety of local wines. There’s also a steakhouse offering steaks and seafood. Solvang town centre is just a one minute drive away.

9. Santa Barbara

Next up on your California coast drive is Santa Barbara. It’s the perfect stop off before you hit up the craziness of LA. Hug the coastline here and you’ll get to see Stearns Wharf and East Beach too. Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and Lotusland are all popular things to do in Santa Barbara, while culture vultures can hone in on the Lobero Theatre, the Arlington Theatre and the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.

Keep an eye on the road markings and signs, rather than the sat nav, to be in the right lane for Ventura on the Pacific Coast Highway to carry on with your drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

ACCOMMODATION IN SANTA BARBARA: DRIFT SANTA BARBARA

At Drift Santa Barbara in Downtown Santa Barbara you’ll find free bikes, a terrace, a restaurant and a bar. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel offers a concierge service. The property is less than 1 km from East Beach, and within 1.3 km of the city centre. It’s a great location to enjoy some of what the city offers, while also having a comfortable and safe space to retreat to at the end of the day. And just LOOK at that bed, I want to get in it!

10. Ventura

Do the San Francisco to LA road trip right and you’ll end up on Ventura Beach, right in front of the pier. This is the spot if you want to do some surfing. If not, take a look around the historic Downtown Ventura and make the most of the vintage boutiques and second hand stores.

On a typically sunny day, Ventura really is an amazing stop to enjoy – beautiful sunsets too.

ACCOMMODATION IN VENTURA: CRYSTAL LODGE MOTEL

Crystal Lodge Motel is perfectly situated between Santa Barbara and Malibu, just 800m from the beach. Stay here and you’re guaranteed a comfortable guest room, or a suite. It’s easy to walk to the beach from here, and many of the local attractions too.

Oh Malibu – not the Barbie, or the drink, but the destination. The drive from Ventura to Malibu is stunning. Follow signs to Point Dume and you’ll find a beautiful sandy beach, headlands, cliffs and rocky coves. Wander around Malibu and you’ll find piers, sickeningly beautiful weekend homes and super healthy restaurants – and maybe even the odd celebrity or two.

Stay on Route 27 and you’ll come across offbeat stores, diners and ramshackle saloons along the roadside. Get out at the top for an awesome view over the San Fernando Valley at the top of Topanga Overlook.

You just can’t get a bad view on a San Francisco to LA road trip.

ACCOMMODATION IN MALIBU: MALIBU BEACH INN

The Malibu Beach Inn is a beautiful hotel, with plush, relaxing rooms that are perfect for falling asleep to the sound of the waves in. Featuring a soothing luxury spa and rooms with private balconies overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Malibu Beach Inn lies 10 miles outside downtown Malibu.

All the rooms are oceanfront with contemporary wood furnishings and a hand-picked selection of wines. The digital entertainment features music, games and a flat-screen TV with extended cable channels. The Malibu’s Carbon Beach Club serves coastal cuisine indoors and on a beachfront terrace. The restaurant’s specialty seafood and meat dishes contain fresh produce from local growers. Malibu Beach Inn guests have direct access to the private beach. Veronica’s Skin and Body Care Spa offers offers a menu of exotic massages and treatments that can also be performed in guests’ rooms.

THIS is the place to stay near Malibu!

12. Los Angeles

And you’ve made it!

Your LA to San Francisco road trip is done. In LA you can visit the Kodak Theatre, walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, check out the Santa Monica Pier, drive down Sunset Boulevard and stroll down Rodeo Drive. You could check out the awesome views of the Hollywood sign from Griffith Observatory, or go on a stars homes tour.

Universal Studios is awesome.

They’ve got a whole Springfield area set up where you can drink at Moe’s Tavern, eat a Krusty Burger and go on the new Simpsons simulator ride. I also thoroughly enjoyed being turned into a minion on the Despicable Me simulator and screaming when the bugs came to get me on the Mummy Returns ride.

We also got to go on a Movie Set tour and saw them filming Home and Family (yeah, never heard of it either) and Access Hollywood, we saw the set for Jaws and the stages they used for Jurassic Park 3 and Pitch Perfect 2 too.

LA is such an exciting place, with so much to do in Los Angeles on a budget – you can enjoy the people watching when the inevitable city traffic stops play!

ACCOMMODATION IN LOS ANGELES: HOLLYWOOD HOMES

How about booking an apartment for your time in LA ? Once you’ve done the road trip San Francisco to Los Angeles, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to stay, especially if you’re there a few days. This studio from Hollywood Homes is in a great location to get to everything, and you’ll have your own space to relax in too.

Bonus stop: San Diego

If you have time after your San Fran to LA road trip, I’d definitely recommend going to San Diego – loved it there! Check out the San Diego Zoo (one of the largest zoos in the world ) and Coronada Island too.

Visas for the USA

If you need an ESTA visa for the USA you can order one on that link. Sort your visas for the USA before you go to make sure you’re ready for your trip and don’t have any last minute worries. You don’t want to be worrying about getting one in the airport! And if you’re looking for airport parking voucher codes click that link.

Q&A on the SF to LA road trip

What do you need to know driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

Everything you need to know for your California road trip route is above. Other road trip tips include making sure you’re not travelling with annoying people, having enough money for snacks and petrol, knowing where the gas stations are, and making sure you stick to the correct side of the road and know the local laws.

That should do it!

I’d strongly recommend booking your car hire in advance , so you can get the best deals. Use the price checker below to get an idea of price for your journey.

1. How long to drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip time is approximately 6 hours direct, but that’d be missing all these great California attractions along the way. You don’t want that!

You can do this San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip itinerary in 3 days, to an infinite amount. There’ll be more cool spots to stop along the way that aren’t listed too.

Classic panoramic view of famous Golden Gate Bridge seen from scenic Baker Beach in beautiful golden evening light on a sunny day with blue sky and clouds in summer, San Francisco, California, USA

2. How many times should I stop on the San Fran to LA drive?

Your California road trip itinerary is totally up to you! There’s no golden ratio of the perfect amount of times to stop on the SF to LA drive, it depends how long you have, how long you want to take, and whether you have some place to be or not.

3. When’s the best time to drive from San Fran to LA?

The first time I did the Pacific Coast Highway road trip I did it in April, just before Coachella Festival . This was a beautiful time of year, and there was still a fresh chill in the air.

The second time I drove from San to LA, I did it in July, in a Mustang soft top. Gawd it was incredible. It was definitely warmer, but with the breeze from the fresh coastal air in my air, it was great!

I can recommend spring or summer, and I’m sure autumn would be a pretty sweet time too. Maybe spend winter saving up your pennies / cents, for a better time of year for this California road trip.

4. What does a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles look like?

San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip brings a relaxing drive while having the great sights of the beautiful coastal waters. Expect a lot of twist and turns but the view would be taking your breath away.

5. What does San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip look like on the map?

If you check the map, you would notice that the trip from San Francisco and Los Angeles outlines the edge. Now, bring that visual into real life and you’ll get a sight of breathtaking coast, clear waters, and beautiful landscape.

6. What is the distance to cover on a San Fran to LA road trip?

The driving distance of a road trip from San Fran to LA covers over 617 kilometers (383 miles).

7. What is the best way to travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

Well, I may be a bit biased here but San Francisco to Los Angeles by car is probably the best. Not only that the route is scenic but I was very immersed in the stops I visited while on our way. It’s that amazing! Other transportation options from San Fran to LA are by plane, train (requires transfers), and bus.

More tips for your coastal road trip California

My top tips for driving from San Francisco to LA

How to Save Money on Your USA Road Trip

PIN SAN FRANCISCO TO LOS ANGELES ROAD TRIP FOR LATER

Road Trip Around the USA: How Much Does the Dream Cost?
7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Road Trip Budget
Planning a Road Trip in the USA: 13 Best Routes!
10 Greatest Stops on the LA to Vegas Drive
15 Must-See Stops on Your LA to Grand Canyon Road Trip
25+ Top Tips for a Solo Road Trip You NEED To Know

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

16 Comments

Really great read, so interesting as my wife & I are planning on doing it next year! Before we go to San Francisco, is Sacramento & Oakland worth visiting? Our plan is to fly into Denver and spend some days there before we do our Californian dream.

I look forward to taking this trip from SF to LA by car. Thank you for the tips.

As of today (8/7/23), route is closed 40 miles after Monterey and not going to be opened for another year due to landslide. Please check before you decide to travel, very disappointed 😔!

Hi, great post thank you. We’re planning a 3 week road trip in May 2024, starting in San Fran. Would you recommend hiring a car from the airport or when we leave the city? TIA x

Can’t wait to go this year

have you any details about whether route 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles is closed and what alternative do i have if it is closed. Travelling early June 2023

Ich habe mit großem Vergnügen die vorangegangenen Zeilen gelesen. Es hat mir sehr viel Freude gemacht und große Lust, diesen Trip zu machen. Leider weiß ich nur nicht, ob er auch so seniorengeeignet sein würde. Trotzdem danke.

@Elli, What a great read, we’re coming over end of Feb , few days in SF then down H1 to LA , few days there then onto Vegas to meet friends, then down to Phoenix, Tucson for a few weeks , want to tour Arizona and New Mexicohttps://buggyrents.com/

What a great read, we’re coming over end of Feb , few days in SF then down H1 to LA , few days there then onto Vegas to meet friends, then down to Phoenix, Tucson for a few weeks , want to tour Arizona and New Mexico…then make our way back to SF, we’re over for 5 weeks…Any recommendations , where to go or what to see

Helpful tips incredible

Sounds amazing

Great guide

This is a perfect road trip plan. As the per the information I am going to make road trip on my Harley Davidson.

Oh fab! That makes me so happy to read. I know you’re going to have an incredible time. Enjoy every second!

Thank you a lot for giving everyone remarkably memorable possiblity to read in detail from this blog

No worries. I’m glad you enjoyed it and hope it’s given you a few ideas on what to do and where to go on the road trip!

LA to San Francisco Road Trip Map

How Far is San Francisco From LA?

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

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

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

Picture of afternoon traffic on Interstate 5 Highway in Santa Clarita

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highway 101/Highway 1 Route

Picture of Highway 1 on the Pacific Coast, California

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

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

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

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

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

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

I-5 vs Highway 101: Which is Better?

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

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

I always choose Highway 101 if I can help it.

Alternative Route: Highway 395

A scenic view along Highway 395 in California

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

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

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

Best Stops Along the Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive

Los angeles.

Image of the Hollywood sign seen from above

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

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

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

Santa Monica

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

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

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

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

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

A beautiful view of downtown Ventura from Grant Park in Ventura

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

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

Image of the City of Solvang in Santa Barbara County

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

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

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

Pismo Beach

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

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

San Luis Obispo

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

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

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

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

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

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

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

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

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

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

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

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

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

Beautiful shot of the beach and buildings on Cannery Row in Monterey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A view of the San Jose skyline from a freeway in Silicon Valley

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

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

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

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

Half Moon Bay

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

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

San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip Itineraries

2-day itinerary.

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

Highway around the mountain in San Luis Obispo County, California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3-Day Itinerary

A magnificent view of the Pacific Coast Highway from Monterey to Big Sur

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5-Day Itinerary

Cars driving on scenic Highway 1 on a cloudy day

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

Drive north on Highway 101 from Los Angeles.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea tonight.

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

Stay the night in Santa Cruz.

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

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

End your trip in San Francisco.

7-Day Itinerary

Beautiful view of Mount Whitney from Death Valley Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image of Highway 101 in the California Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image of an RV driving along California's beautiful Central Coast

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

Renting a Car

Picture of a rental car on the San Joaquin Valley Highway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs About Getting from Los Angeles to San Francisco

A picture of a girl on Highway 1 looking out over the beautiful Big Sur coastline.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah McDonald

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

Additional Expert Contributors: Suneel Jain and Elina Ansary.

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Read our related articles below!

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18 Best Weekend Trips From San Francisco (From a Local)

9 Best Places to See Redwoods Near San Francisco in 2024

San Francisco to Yosemite National Park: Best Ways to Get There

San Francisco to Redwood National Park: The Ultimate North Coast Road Trip

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

An Epic California Coastal Drive: San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

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Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles on the Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic American road trip experience. The California coastal drive, which ranks as one of the most gorgeous road trips in the United States, features the majestic western coastline, amazing forests and incredible viewpoints. We meticulously planned our coastal California drive – and are sharing our CA Route 1 itinerary details to help fellow travelers plan their perfect trip!

San Francisco to Los Angeles: Pacific Coast Highway

The San Francisco to Los Angeles coastal drive on the Pacific Coast Highway – or PCH – rolls through small California seaside towns and crosses magnificent bridges.

The scenery along the SF to LA coastal drive is simply breathtaking – and the Big Sur coastal drive section is certainly a highlight of the trip. In our California Coast road trip itinerary, we include the region’s top attractions and best places to stop!

Planning a California Coastal Trip: San Francisco to Los Angeles Highway 1

We believe 4 days is an ideal amount of time for a San Francisco to Los Angeles Pacific Coast Highway road trip. In this itinerary, we outline a 4-Day California coastal trip on the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles – and includes the prime places to stop along the route.

That said, we understand that not all travelers plan to make this SF to LA drive in the same time allotment. Some may only have a couple of days to complete a Cali self-drive tour, while other adventurers plan on spending a week driving the coast of California. In fact, it is even possible to make the San Francisco to LA coastal drive in a single day. Albeit, a very long day with about 10 hours of drive time.

Regardless of your time frame, you can use our coastal road trip planner to create your best California self-drive itinerary. In addition to the sightseeing suggestions we provide to help you plan your California coastal vacation, we include tips of where to stay , what to pack in your suitcase and offer alternate Route 1 stops.

We even share online maps including a San Francisco to Los Angeles coastal drive map marked with top attractions at the end of the article.

Pro Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your Cali Coast Road Trip by using our Travel Planning Printables !

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

Coastal California Trip FAQs

Before jumping into our day-by-day plan for driving down the coast of California, we are answering a few commonly asked questions.

How Long is the California Coast Drive: PCH from San Francisco to LA?

Our California coastal drive itinerary is a one-way trip that begins in San Francisco and ends in Los Angeles. Although there are numerous ways to break up a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, we designed a 3-night, 4-day California road trip between the two cities.

The actual length of your coastal drive in California will depend on whether or not you make any detours or additional stops for sightseeing or hikes.

How to Plan a One Week California Trip

We believe we have outlined the best coastal drive in California in a relatively short amount of time. However, you could easily design a longer, more leisurely San Francisco to Los Angeles PCH drive by making just a few tweaks.

A simple way to turn our trip into a 1-Week San Francisco to Los Angeles itinerary is to stay in each destination for two nights instead of one. This will allow you to thoroughly enjoy the San Francisco to Los Angeles scenic route and have a full day of exploration in between driving PCH.

Alternatively, you could create a complete 1 Week California Itinerary by spending time in both SF and LA before and after your 4-day CA coastal road trip. Our detailed day-by-day California coastal drive vacation does not include time for city exploration in either San Francisco or Los Angeles.

Therefore, in order to create a perfect Week in California, we suggest spending at least a few days in San Francisco before embarking on your SF to LA road trip. Time permitting, one day in Los Angeles at the end of your SF to LA Highway 1 drive would also be ideal.

What’s the Distance from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The distance between San Francisco and Los Angeles on the Pacific Coast Highway is roughly 500 miles. While it is possible to cover that in about 10 hours, it is likely that your San Francisco to Los Angeles drive time will be much longer – due to both traffic and sightseeing.

For each day’s journey of our Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, we indicate the route length and an estimated drive time. Be aware that in the busy summer months, some parts of the California coast experience bumper-to-bumper traffic, resulting in much longer drive times. Pack your patience and adjust your California Coast road trip itinerary as necessary.

Pro Tip: Our San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip itinerary is designed as a scenic drive that features multiple stops. If you are in a hurry and just need to get between the two cities quickly, rather than taking Highway One San Francisco to Los Angeles, it is much faster (about 6 hours) to take I-5.

What Vehicle to Use on Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to LA?

We think it is best to use a rental car for California coastal travel. In fact, an SUV – that sits higher off the ground – is recommended for the scenic drive on the California Coast so that you have the best view of the surrounding landscapes.

Note that our California 1 Pacific Coast Highway road trip is a one-way route. Renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another may incur extra fees, which need to be considered for your overall Road Trip California Coast vacation budget.

Additionally, an international driver’s license may be required for overseas visitors on a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip. Check with the rental car company rules before your SF to LA PCH drive.

Use our Car Rental Tips before you start your online search. Our tips will help you find the best rental car prices for your San Fran to LA drive!

Which Direction is Best for a California Self-Drive Trip?

Many travelers question, Is it better to drive up or down the California coast? We believe the best route on California State Route 1 is from north to south – and why we recommend driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles via the Pacific Coast Highway.

Traveling south on the CA coastal highway allows for uninterrupted views of the shoreline. Plus, it is a lot easier to pull off into most of the scenic overlook spots on the right, rather than having to make a left turn across traffic.

South to North via Pacific Coast Highway: Los Angeles to San Francisco

While we do not prefer it, there is nothing wrong with driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco on Pacific Coast Highway. Views will be slightly obstructed by southbound cars and turning left into scenic overlooks will require caution.

However, it is completely viable to make the northbound Los Angeles to San Francisco coastal drive. For the best places to stay on an LA to SF coastal drive, simply use our outlined itinerary, in reverse!

Where are the Best Overnight Stays on the Coastal Drive from San Francisco to LA?

The overnight California coastal drive stops we include in our itinerary are Monterey, Morro Bay and Santa Barbara.

For each of the stops in our San Francisco to Los Angeles driving itinerary, we include suggested California coastal hotels based on places we have actually stayed.

Those interested in California coastal camping sites (or California coastal RV parks) will find numerous choices. Unfortunately, we do not have any personal recommendations for RV or camping sites as you travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

When is the Best Time for California Coastal Trips?

Deciding the best time to drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 1 depends on many factors. Weather is a concern when driving San Francisco to Los Angeles, but not the sole factor. You will also want to consider the crowds (and, thus, traffic) on your San Francisco to LA drive.

Best Weather to Drive California Coast PCH San Francisco to Los Angeles

Overall, the California coastal region weather is a Mediterranean climate with mild year-round temperatures. Summers are usually dry, but winters can be rainy and windy. When considering weather, the best time to drive Pacific Coast Highway is from late spring through autumn – with summer offering the most ideal weather conditions.

Autumn Road Trip: San Francisco to Los Angeles

We personally think autumn is the best time to visit Big Sur and the central Cali coastal region. We made our Coastal California road trip in mid-autumn – and the weather was absolutely perfect – with full sunshine, pleasant temperatures and minimal traffic congestion.

Pro Tip : The California coast climate can vary dramatically from north to south. Be sure to read our tips for what to pack for your SFO to LA drive below.

Crowds and Traffic on the PCH

While the summer provides the best weather for the SF to LA Route 1 drive, it is also the time of year that PCH is most crowded. With the heavy crowds comes extra traffic…which can result in a very long San Francisco to LA drive time.

Additionally, crowds on the road trip from San Francisco to LA also means more expensive accommodations and full-booked restaurants. If you are going to drive the California coast in summertime, plan ahead and make reservations early.

Will I Be On the “Pacific Coast Highway” from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The Pacific Coast Highway – or ‘PCH’ – is the best route for driving the California Coast. However, when you drive San Francisco to Los Angeles, you will notice that there are multiple names (and signs) for the same road.

The reason for this is that the Pacific Coast Highway is just part of California State Route 1 (or CA SR 1). State Route 1 runs from Leggett (which is north of San Francisco in Mendocino County) south to San Juan Capistrano (which is between LA and San Diego ), where it merges onto Interstate 5.

Only specific portions of the 655-mile-long road are designated as the Pacific Coast Highway. Regardless of proper names, the entire stretch of the San Francisco to Los Angeles drive is commonly referred to as the Pacific Coast Highway.

Also note that a Highway 101 California Road Trip is different from the Coastal Highway California 1 PCH. While the two roads merge (from San Luis Obispo to Pismo Beach and from Gaviota to Ventura), CA Highway 101 is mostly inland.

Fun Fact: The SF to LA road trip is one of the country’s best coastal drives – and as such, the PCH highway is also labeled an All-American Road!

California Coastal Drive by JetSettingFools.com

Our California Coastal Drive

View from Twin Peaks, San Francisco, CA, USA

Now that we have answered commonly asked questions about the San Francisco to LAX drive, we are ready to dive into our coastal drive California itinerary!

In the outline for our road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, we highlight the best places to stop for sightseeing, hikes and viewpoints. Our Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner also includes specifics on where to eat and top places to stay.

With our detailed day-by-day California Coast drive itinerary, you can easily plan your trip on the Pacific Coast Highway. Our plan for 4 days on the California coastal road features great towns, fun attractions and epic viewpoints. Please keep in mind that our estimated driving times do not include stops or HWY1 traffic delays.

Save, Pin, or Bookmark our California Coastal Trip Guide for planning your PCH Drive!

Day 1: Drive the California Coastal Region – San Francisco to Monterey

Fog covers Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

Destinations : San Francisco to Monterey Bay via Highway 1.
Route : Pick up your rental car at the San Francisco International Airport (or Bay Area Airport of your arrival) and start your drive from SF to LA via Pacific Coast Highway. Hop on Route 1 at Pacifica and drive south to Monterey.
Distance from San Francisco to Monterey Bay : 120 miles.
San Francisco to Monterey Bay Driving Time : 2 hours 30 minutes.

The San Francisco to Monterey Pacific Coast Highway route features a beautiful beaches, parks and hiking trails.

Golden Gate Bridge: PCH San Francisco to Los Angeles

Consider making a truly legendary start to your drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles on the Golden Gate Bridge. Not only is it one of the most iconic sights in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge is part of the Pacific Coast Highway! From the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway 1 heads south through San Francisco, passing through Golden Gate Park and Daly City before returning to the coastline at Pacifica.

Pacifica, California

Pacifica marks an excellent start to your San Francisco coastal drive – especially if you are renting a car from the San Francisco Airport, as Pacifica is directly west of SFO.

Shortly after starting the southbound California Coast drive, stop at Devil’s Slide Trail – a 1.3-mile section of Old Route 1 that has been converted into a pedestrian-only path and features stunning ocean views. Also consider making a stop at the Devil’s Slide Bunker for a short hike to the graffiti covered World War II bunker.

Seafood Lunch

On the first day of your SF to LA drive, eat lunch at Moss Beach Distillery, which has an outdoor patio that overlooks Seal Cove. The cliffside eatery features an abundance of seafood and classic American fare.

However, if you are looking for something a little more casual, stop by Sam’s Chowder House (3 miles south on PCH from Moss Beach), where they not only serve award-winning clam chowder but legendary lobster rolls and with a great view of Half Moon Bay!

Half Moon Bay Trail and Beaches

Work off your lunch with a stroll on the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail (you can even rent bikes to pedal along the path) or just put your feet into the sand and walk along the string of beaches along the bay.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

If you are ready to make a detour on your San Francisco to LA road trip, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a super sight off the Pacific Coast. Just keep in mind that the detour will take up a big portion of the day unless you head there directly from SF.

Big Basin Redwoods was designed as a state park in 1902. The area features hiking trails, waterfalls and the famous Coast Redwood Trees, which can live for more than a thousand years and are among the tallest trees in the world.

If time allows in your Highway 1 San Francisco to Los Angeles trip, make a stop in Santa Cruz to walk the wharf and boardwalk. With ample time, consider making the 6-mile roundtrip walk on West Cliff Drive to the Natural Bridges State Beach Vista Point.

The first overnight stop on our Pacific Coast Highway trip planner is Monterey – and it doesn’t disappoint! With heaps of attractions, history and natural beauty, Monterey is one of the best California coastal cities to visit.

Check out the fascinating Jellyfish Exhibit at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, walk from historic Cannery Row to Fisherman’s Wharf and stand on the shore to spot Sea Otters and Sea Lions.

Where To Eat and Drink in Monterey Bay

So many to choose from! We went with sipping locally produced wine at the waterfront Taste of Monterey and then indulged in casual and cozy pub fare and craft beers at Peter B’s Brewpub.

Where To Stay in Monterey Bay

We stayed at the Portola Hotel and Spa – and we highly recommend it to fellow travelers! Centrally located, the fashionable hotel offers excellent amenities and has an on-site spa. Check rates and availability!

California Coast Drive by JetSettingFools.com

Day 2: Big Sur Drive – Monterey to Morro Bay

View of Bixby Bridge, Big Sur, California, PCH, Highway 1, USA

Destinations : Monterey Bay to Morro Bay.
Route : Pacific Coast Highway South.
Distance from Monterey to Morro Bay : 123 miles.
Monterey to Morro Bay Driving Time : 3 hours.

On the second day of your SFO to Los Angeles drive, embark on the HWY 1 Route to Big Sur. The distance from Monterey to Morro Bay is about 125 miles and the route passes through some of the most gorgeous sections of the coastal drive in California.

Leaving Monterey via the 17-Mile Drive (rather than California Route 1), travel through beachside Carmel-by-the-Sea and then follow SR 1 through the incredible beauty of Big Sur and on to Morro Bay.

California 17-Mile Drive

The scenic 17-Mile Drive hugs the coastline of California through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. Sights of interest along this section of California Coast include the Point Pinos Lighthouse, Bird Rock Vista Point, the Lone Cypress tree (a Pebble Beach icon), Pescadero Point and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Rated as one of the best state parks in California, Point Lobos is well-worth a stop on your California coastal drive. If you are feeling ambitious, complete the 6.7-mile Point Lobos Loop Trail, otherwise, just take in the magnificent views by making short jaunts from a few of the parking lots.

Drive to Big Sur

Driving Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway is an absolute highlight of any California road trip! The Big Sur drive features the rugged coastline to the west and the Santa Lucia Mountains to the east. Beyond taking in the stunning scenic landscapes, we recommend seeking out a few must-see Big Sur sights.

Some of the best places to see in Big Sur are Rocky Creek Bridge, Bixby Bridge (also called Bixby Creek Bridge or Bixby Canyon Bridge), Point Sur Lighthouse, Nepenthe restaurant, McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Big Creek Bridge.

Lunch in Big Sur

As one of the best places to visit in Big Sur, Nepenthe is a perfect spot for lunch. Enjoy their Famous Ambrosiaburger on the outdoor patio of the cliff-topping restaurant. The sweeping views are as satisfying as the food! Note : While Nepenthe is an absolute gem of a spot for a Big Sur sunset, you will have to miss it – as there is still more to see before arriving in Morro Bay!

Big Sur to Morro Bay

Continue the Big Sur scenic drive south on California Pacific Coast Highway. After crossing Big Creek Bridge, consider stopping at Limekiln State Park to explore the waterfall and creeks on one (or more) of the three short trails. For more treks, check out this Big Sur guide on day hikes .

Elephant Seal Vista Point

A fun (and sometimes smelly) stop on a PCH road trip is at the Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon. A shoreline boardwalk offers fantastic views of the mammoth Elephant Seals as they dwell in their natural habitat. Plus, volunteers are on hand to answer questions.

Hearst Castle on the Road from San Francisco to Los Angeles

A landmark sight between Big Sur and Morro Bay is the Hearst Castle in San Simeon. It is one of the top places to stop between San Francisco and Los Angeles. While many people include the extraordinary castle as a stop on their California coastal route, we skipped it for more hiking. Deciding if visiting Hearst Castle is worth it is entirely up to you.

Morro Bay, California

Quaint, peaceful and an Underrated US Destination , Morro Bay is an ideal place for some rest and relaxation after two full days on the scenic California coastal drive. For us, it proved to be one of the best places to stay between San Francisco and Los Angeles to recharge.

The Central California seaside town is incredibly laid back and defined by the massive Morro Rock. The volcanic 581-foot-tall monolith is preserved as a California Historical Landmark and is home to numerous bird species, as well as sea lions, otters, seals and other wildlife.

Besides Morro Rock, the town has a charming city center comprised of cozy restaurants, cafes, inns and tourist shops. Morro Bay State Park sits at the south end of town, while The Stacks – three chimney stacks formerly part of a power plant – mark the north end.

Where To Eat in Morro Bay

The pleasant town has numerous waterfront eateries, all of which feature a fresh seafood menu. However, we recommend dining at Dorn’s Breakers Cafe. It’s been a local institution since 1942 and offers fine views of the bay and Morro Rock from the elevated patio.

Where To Stay in Morro Bay

We struggled somewhat to find a hotel in Morro Bay. Desiring to be on the water in the center of town at an affordable price ( not asking too much, right?! ), we chose to stay at the Bayfront Inn. While the hotel doesn’t necessarily dazzle guests, the staff were friendly and the rooms were clean and comfortable. We would definitely stay at the Bayfront Inn again. Check rates and availability!

San Francisco to Los Angeles Coastal Drive by JetSettingFools.com

Day 3: Drive from Morro Bay to Santa Barbara

Morro Rock, Morro Bay, California, PCH, Highway 1, USA

Destination : Morro Bay to Santa Barbara.
Route : CA SR 1 South.
Distance from Morro Bay to Santa Barbara : 126 miles.
Morro Bay to Santa Barbara Driving Time : 2 hours 20 minutes.

Continuing south from Morro Bay, watch as the landscape shifts from dramatic seaside cliffs to vine-covered rolling hills and flat, sandy beaches. State Route 1 – called Cabrillo Highway in this section – deviates inland after Morro Bay, merges at different points with Highway 101 and wiggles its way south. The road eventually makes its way back to the shoreline as you approach Santa Barbara.

San Luis Obispo

Get a jump on the third day of your California Coast trip itinerary and leave Morro Bay early for San Luis Obispo – or just SLO, for short. Stop at the iconic Madonna Inn for breakfast in the over-the-top Copper Cafe. Then duck into the historic town center to visit the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, get a glimpse of Fremont Theater and leave your mark on Bubblegum Alley.

From SLO, it’s just a short drive on Route 1 to Pismo Beach, where you can walk out on the pier or visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove (best from autumn to mid-winter).

Alternatively, take Route 227 south from San Luis Obispo for a beautiful drive through the vineyards of Edna Valley. For more wineries and tasting rooms, consider detouring to nearby Santa Maria Valley wine country.

Solvang, California

Dubbed the “Little Denmark in California,” Solvang in the Santa Ynez Valley was established by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. Today, it is an interesting place to include on your Pacific Coast Highway drive itinerary.

The town features European-style architecture, replicas of Copenhagen landmark sights and an array of bakeries and restaurants serving Danish treats. In addition to the strong ties to the city’s founders, Solvang is home to numerous wineries and wine tasting rooms from local Cali producers.

Santa Barbara: One of our Favorite Coastal California Towns

Continue your California coastline drive to one of the best cities on the Pacific Coast: Santa Barbara.

Stylish and chic, Santa Barbara is brimming with a multitude of tourist attractions, delectable eateries and breezy wine tasting rooms. Also featuring an abundance of nature, history, art and gastronomy, Santa Barbara ranks high on our list of best California coastal towns. It even makes our list of the Best USA Weekend Destinations .

Top things to do in Santa Barbara include visiting the Old Mission, stepping inside the opulent Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and viewing exhibits at the SB Museum of Art. Additionally, shopping at Paseo Nuevo, going to the Botanic Gardens and exploring the many hiking trails are all excellent Santa Barbara activities.

To be perfectly honest, what we love most about Santa Barbara is the fun beach atmosphere and fabulous places to wine and dine!

Where To Eat and Drink in Santa Barbara

After getting settled into your accommodations, take a stroll on West Beach and out on Stearns Wharf. Start your walk up State Street, but detour into the Funk Zone for an afternoon wine tasting. Oreana Winery has always been one of our favorites, but the space in now occupied by Pali Wine Co.

If you can tear yourself away from the fun vibes of the Funk Zone, continue your walk up State Street and pick a place to eat dinner. We suggest indulging in classic Southern California Mexican cuisine at Carlitos Cafe y Cantina or go old school American and Joe’s Cafe.

Where To Stay in Santa Barbara

We have stayed in many hotels in Santa Barbara, but our top pick is the Hotel Milo. With a prominent location right on the waterfront at West Beach and just minutes from Stearns Wharf and the Funk Zone, the boutique property has an outdoor heated pool and stylishly decorated rooms. Check rates and availability!

California Coastal Drive Trip Planner by JetSettingFools.com

Day 4: Los Angeles Coastal Drive from Santa Barbara

View from Point Dume, Malibu, California, USA

Destination : Santa Barbara to LA.
Distance from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles : 100 miles.
Santa Barbara to Los Angeles Driving Time : 2 hours.

On the final morning of your San Francisco coastal drive to Los Angeles, spend some time enjoying just a bit more of Santa Barbara.

Before leaving, eat a classic American breakfast at Chad’s Cafe then work it off with a morning bike ride along the Cabrillo Bike Path that extends all the way to Butterfly Beach.

Next, start the final leg of your California coastal drive to Los Angeles. Work up your appetite on the hour-long drive on the California Coast to Malibu – because Neptune’s Net is a must-see stop on the PCH!

Malibu, California

Home to movie stars and millionaires, Malibu is a posh seaside town that seems to embody the iconic California lifestyle – and Route 1 passes right through it.

For lunch, eat at the landmark Neptune’s Net seafood diner. Established in the 1950s, it has been featured in many films and television shows. Just a bit further down the road, Point Dume Lookout is worth a stop for another elevated view of the California coastline from the rocky bluff.

Top Tip : Be sure to plan your visit with our Best Things To Do in Malibu article!

Santa Monica

As you roll through Santa Monica, you may be tempted to visit the famous Santa Monica Pier. In addition to the giant Ferris wheel and other amusement rides at Pacific Park, there is an aquarium and a few classic eateries. Just south of the pier is the original Muscle Beach, which was designed in the 1930s.

Fun Fact : The Santa Monica Pier marks the western end of Route 66, which begins in Chicago, Illinois , and is another epic American road trip!

Complete Your California Coastal Drive at LAX

From Santa Monica, the Pacific Coast Highway turns inland, passing through Venice Beach (but not on the shore) and leads straight to LAX Airport. You may want to drop off your car rental to avoid fees for overnight parking at your hotel – and then use Uber to get to your accommodations.

Where To Stay in Los Angeles, California

Choosing where to stay in LA is quite the conundrum. There are thousands of LA hotels – in the city, by the airport and at the beaches. Because of LAX’s close proximity to the beach, we have often opted to just stay at an LA airport hotel for the convenience.

The Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel is one of our top picks if you decide to stay near LAX. The sleek (in a 1980’s way) hotel offers spacious rooms, comfortable beds, a pool and free airport transport. Check rates and availability!

That said, we love the friendly, local vibes at Manhattan Beach and think it is a spectacular place to stay as well – especially if you plan on visiting LA for a few days. There are a few hotels right on SR 1 – like Best Western Plus and Wave Hotel – which is just a short walk to the beach, but the chic boutique Shade Hotel is an absolute gem!

California Coastal Map: San Francisco to Los Angeles

Use this Google Map to follow our route on California Highway 1. Our San Francisco to Los Angeles Map is interactive – and we indicate all of the recommended stops on the Pacific Coast Highway Map below.

California Coastal Drive MAP from San Francisco to Los Angeles on PCH by JetSettingFools.com

Check Current State Route 1 Road Conditions

It is essential to check road conditions (including SR 1 road work and HWY 1 road closures) online prior to your trip. We suggest checking the official Caltrans site to check current PCH road conditions.

Alternate California Coastal Drives

Driving amongst the Redwoods on Howland Hill Rd, Crescent City, California

We outlined what we think is the absolute best itinerary for a California coastal drive – but it certainly isn’t the only route to take. In fact, there are numerous different ways to create itineraries for coastal drives in California. Factors to consider are your allotted time, budget and interests. We are highlighting a few other popular ways to drive the Pacific Coast Highway.

San Francisco to Big Sur

For a looping out-and-back California coastal road trip that returns to the Bay Area, consider driving from San Francisco to Big Sur. The San Francisco to Big Sur distance is only about 150 miles.

However, unless you plan on making the return coastal drive to San Francisco, you will need to continue driving south almost to Morro Bay (a total distance of about 240 miles) to be able to hook back up with an inland highway and complete the Big Sur to SFO route.

Those interested in creating an SF to Big Sur California Coastal Drive Itinerary can simply use our outlined route for Days 1 and 2, then make the drive back to SF on Day 3 (either retracing their route back up the coast of California or taking the inland drive).

San Francisco to Santa Barbara

Travelers who are limited to just a 3-Day Pacific Coast Highway road trip can do so by eliminating the last segment of the drive to Los Angeles. In our opinion, the most beautiful part of the coastal drive is from San Francisco to Santa Barbara via Pacific Coast Highway – and Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) has recently added many direct destinations.

San Francisco to San Diego

Driving from San Francisco to San Diego on PCH is a phenomenal way to see the California coastline. The route takes in the major California cities and stunning natural beauty.

It is relatively easy to create a California Coast Drive Itinerary from San Francisco to San Diego on the Pacific Coast Highway. In fact, you only need to add one more day to your Cali Coast trip plan. After staying the night in Los Angeles, hop on the Pacific Coast Highway from LA to San Diego. The distance from LA to SD is about 130 miles and could take 3 to 4 hours (but be prepared for traffic). Note: PCH ends at San Clemente and you will then join Interstate 5 for the rest of the drive to San Diego.

For tips on what to see and do use our Weekend in San Diego Itinerary !

Northern California Coast Drive

The Pacific Coast Highway north of San Francisco is drastically different from the Central California Coast. Characterized by epic scenery, Redwood forests and secluded beaches, a Northern California Coast road trip offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience (but don’t expect to be the only one there!).

Top sights to see on a North California road trip itinerary are Point Reyes National Seashore, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg and the Redwood National Park.

Travelers can even extend their Northern California Coast Drive Itinerary by follow the coastline north from San Francisco to Crescent City – and then continue driving up the Oregon Coast.

To create this epic California to Oregon Drive, use our Oregon Coastal Road Trip Itinerary !

Inland Detours on a California Coast Road Trip

While the coastline offers sublime scenery, there are a few reasons to detour inland during your San Francisco road trip to Los Angeles.

Yosemite National Park Detour on Road Trip SF to LA

Travelers who want to include Yosemite National Park as part of their Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip can make a detour at the beginning of the drive. Just be aware that it will add at least one full day to your trip itinerary (preferably more!).

From San Francisco, instead of heading south, drive east to Yosemite NP. After spending a day or two exploring, drive directly to Monterey. From there, follow the rest of our outlined Road Trip San Francisco to Los Angeles as written.

Paso Robles Detour on Road Trip San Francisco to LA

Paso Robles – known for its wine and olive production – is an easy detour on a San Fran to LA road trip. After passing through Big Sur, head east on 46 (also called Green Valley Road) and follow it to the 101 and on to Paso Robles.

California Coastal Tours and Trains

We detailed a perfect Coastal California Self-Drive Tour – but what if you don’t (or can’t) drive? Those who want to forego the responsibility of driving down the California Coast can join an organized California Coastal Tour.

Multi-Day California Coast Tour

This small-group 3-day tour from San Francisco to Los Angeles is a fantastic way to see the coast. The excursion features most of the highlights of our LA – SF Trip. The best part of this 3 day California Coast tour is that the skilled driver takes the wheel, allowing you time to take in the scenery. Get the details!

California Coast Day Trips

Not everyone has time for 3-day tours from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Visitors to San Francisco and Los Angeles can take day trips that will allow them a glimpse of the magnificent shoreline of a Coastal California tour.

San Francisco Coastal Tour Day Trips

One of the most popular day tours from San Francisco, the full-day trip includes Monterey, the 17-Mile Drive and Carmel. Get the details!

Day Trip from LAX on PCH

This Los Angeles day trip departs the City of Angels and explores Santa Barbara, Solvang and the Hearst Castle. Book it now!

California Coastal Train

Taking the train is an alternate way to see part of the coast of California without driving. However, the majority of the tracks are inland – meaning, it will be a lot less pretty than the PCH scenic drive.

The Coast Starlight route, run by Amtrak, is dubbed the Grand West Coast Train Adventure and runs from Seattle to Los Angeles with stops in Vancouver WA and Portland OR .

We believe the most scenic California Amtrak route is actually the Pacific Surfliner from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, with stops in LA and Santa Barbara.

What You Need For Your California Coastal Road Trip

Before you set off on your California Coast scenic drive, we have a few final tips and packing hacks for your Cali road trip!

Weather Appropriate Clothing

As we already discussed, the California coastal climate varies from north to south – and from season to season. It is best to be prepared with clothing that can be layered. A warm jacket may be required in the north, while you will want to back your swimsuit for Southern California.

A wide-brimmed travel hat , sufficient sunscreen , a lightweight packable raincoat and travel umbrella are also suggested when traveling from San Francisco to LA via Highway 1.

Comfortable Shoes

Short hikes and city exploration are sprinkled throughout our California Coast drive trip. We recommend bringing a few different pairs of travel shoes to ensure you have the proper footwear.

For the cities and towns, I prefer a pair of comfortable walking shoes – like these by New Balance or Columbia . These Merrell trail shoes for men are ideal for a California coast trip. Flip flops are best for the beaches and you may want hiking boots if your PCH trip planner includes some treks.

Find it all and more on our Ultimate Packing List !

California Coastal Highway Map

While you can use our San Francisco to Los Angeles Pacific Coast Highway Map for sightseeing, we think it is best to purchase an actual road map. Buy a California Pacific Coast Highway map – like this one – before your trip.

Binoculars

The scenery on the West Coast California drive is nothing short of spectacular. While the various outlooks offer stellar vantage points to take in the sights, it can be difficult to see the details with the naked eye. With a good pair of binoculars , you will be able to scan the water for whales and clearly appreciate the surrounding nature.

Camera with Zoom Lens

If you are anything like us, you’ll be snapping a ton of pictures on your California Pacific Coast Highway trip! We strongly suggest upgrading to an actual travel camera for this adventure. We carry a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens . This setup can be purchased in a bundle with an array of accessories, which makes it great value for beginner photographers !

Start planning your trip to the US ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing ! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

California Coastal Drive San Francisco to Los Angeles on PCH by JetSettingFools.com

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The Ultimate San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip (+Map!)

November 12, 2023 // by Follow Me Away // Leave a Comment

A San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip is one of my favorite things to do. I grew up traveling California and the Pacific Highway and when I say this journey is breathtaking I mean it.

I have done the road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles multiple times both as a child and an adult so I know what is worth visiting and what isn’t. In this article, I will take the guesswork out of all the planning.

I remember driving the PCH [Pacific Coast Highway, for those new!] in my 40-foot RV growing up, covering my eyes with my Mom being so scared that we would go careening off the side as Dad drove the hairpin turns.

The places to stop between SF and LA have all been tried and tested and are places I feel you just MUST visit. I’ve just made your San Francisco to Los Angeles drive 10 times easier.

This drive is one of my favorites. The landscape at times leaves you breathless, the beaches are some of the best in the world and this road trip has a vibe that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Let’s just say the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip is iconic.

In my opinion, this is one of the must-do American road trips . It’s scenic, and beautiful and takes you to some of the U.S.A.’s most well-known destinations.

So grab a chair get comfy and let me share my thoughts on how best to do a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.

The Pacific Coast Highway running through the moutains. The road runs alongside the sea. The article is about the San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Distance from San Francisco To Los Angeles

I am assuming if you are here that you want to do the San Francisco to Los Angeles drive the scenic way. This means you will be driving down Highway 1. This route is approximately 454 miles and takes anywhere from 9 to 11 hours to drive in full.

There is a faster route along the I-5 which takes six hours and is 383 miles but you miss all the sights and it’s boring.

Highway 1 starts at the northern border of California with Oregon and stretches down to San Diego. Most believe driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles is one of the best stretches of road in the world and it would make my top ten.

Cars driving down The Pacific Highway with palm trees and the sea to the side.

San Francisco To Los Angeles Drive Map

No San Francisco to Los Angeles itinerary would be complete without a map so here is one with the route I believe you should take. This route has you traveling mainly on Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

I would suggest downloading a map or even having a paper map to hand. There may be some areas where you find cell or satellite signals spotty and unreliable.

Enjoy your drive from SF to LA, I know you are going to love it.

Best Stops On The Drive From San Francisco To Los Angeles

I am now going to walk you through my favorite San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip stops. You can either stretch out your journey by spending a night in each location or shorten the journey with stops along the way. The time you spend on this road trip is up to you but I would say take it as slow as you can.

And remember this San Francisco to Los Angeles itinerary can be done in reverse. I’m going to start at San Franciso and work my way down but you could start at L.A. and work your way up. You choose.

The Golden Gate Bridge with the city in the distance in an article about San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Explore San Franciso

No San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip couldn’t include a stop at San Francisco . I adore this city it’s a quirky mix of history, culture, charm, and cool.

If I was you I would spend at least a few days here as there is so much to see and do. My top three things you must see here are Golden Gate Park , Alcatraz Island , and Fisherman Wharf.

If you have more time San Francisco has many museums to explore and Union Square and Chinatown are also great to see. The thrift stores here are amazing as is the nightlife and food with so much variety.

And of course, a trip on the San Francisco Tram, a walk down Lombard Street, and a drive over the Golden Gate Bridge are things you absolutely must do in San Francisco.

Stay At Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

Powell street cable car going up the road with the harbour in the background.

Have Fun In Santa Cruz

About two hours 98 miles away from San Franciso you will reach Santa Cruz. There is plenty to see here if you want to stay a while. This hip, fun beach town has a lot to offer.

The big draw here is Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . It has that old-school Americana vibe and I just love it. Not only does it look picture-perfect but it also has an amusement park, mini golf, a casino, and much more. The Broadwalk is a destination all in itself.

If the boardwalk isn’t your thing there is much more on offer. Pacific Avenue is the place to go for vintage finds, Wilder Ranch State Park for hiking and The Wharf for whale watching.

One of the places I feel is a must-see is Ano Nuevo State Park , which is home to many Elephant Seals. I have never seen so many seals in one place.

After your visit to Santa Cruz, your Pacific Coast Highway road trip between San Francisco and Los Angeles continues to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

Oh, one last thing as you are driving to Santa Cruz when you pass San Jose make sure you stop to view Half Moon Bay if you can. You will get some incredible pictures of the bay from the road.

Stay At Hotel Paradox

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with a rollercoaster and a beach and the sea in the background. The article is about San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Hug A Tree At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

This is a little detour from Highway 1, about 14 minutes to be exact but I think it is worth it. Most mention this place in passing but I think it deserves more than a mere mention.

You can drive here or get a vintage train from Santa Cruz Broadwalk that takes you through the mountains into the park. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is most famous for its 40 acres of huge redwood trees, believe me, they are like nothing you have ever seen.

The tallest tree here is approximately 277 feet tall, about 16 feet wide, and around 1,500 years old. The park is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and camping and is perfect for a picnic.

There is a campground here if you want to stay a while and spend some time in nature. I feel this is one of those places that makes the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip so special.

Stay At Fern River Resort

The Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park with a trail and trees either side.

Do A Bit Of Everything At Monterey

This is one of the places to stop between SF and LA where you will find a lot happening. Whether you drive here from the State Park or Santa Cruz it will take you about an hour.

Highlights in Monterey include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and Cannery Row. These places are all quintessential Monterey and what makes this area so special.

If you have more time whale watching here is fantastic, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is beautiful and the nearby Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is well worth a visit particularly if you are traveling between October and February.

And if you fancy a bit more driving the scenic 17 Mile Drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula is something you won’t want to miss. If you can do this drive as early as possible as it gets very busy.

We are now moving on to my favorite part of the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip the journey to Big Sur. The scenery is about to get a whole lot more dramatic.

Stay At The Victorian Inn

View of Franklin Street in Historic downtown Monterey on a sunny morning. There are buildings down each side.

Marvel At Big Sur

Most agree the most impressive part of the Pacific Coast highway between LA and San Francisco is Big Sur. The route is by The Bixby Bridge which is one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world it is one of the most photographed bridges on the West Coast. At 714 feet long and 280 feet high It’s an awesome sight.

The drive here from Monterey should take just under an hour.

If you were going to take your time anywhere I would make it here. Sights that you must see include Ragged Point, Pfeiffer Beach, Point Sur State Historic Park, and McWay Falls. Here is our guide to Big Sur .

Be prepared for beautiful waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, trees as far as your eyes can see, and incredible views. Oh, and a simple must-do is to see the sun setting through a natural archway at Pfeiffer Beach.

When I say you are going to fall in love with this area I’m not joking. Be prepared as it’s simply stunning you might not want to leave, but you must. Onto San Simeon we go.

Stay At Bir Sur Lodge

Bixby Bridge on the Pacific Coast Highway. The article is about the San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip.

Explore The Castle At San Simeon

Of all the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip stops I love this one. I’m a girl who loves castles and Hearst Castle high up on The Enchanted Hill is just as magical as it sounds. This castle is the main reason people stop here.

This historic estate was conceived by William Randolph Hearst, the publishing tycoon, and brought to life by his architect Julia Morgan. It was built between 1919 and 1947 and honestly, it’s spectacular. There are 250,000 acres to explore and book a guided tour before you go, it’s worth it.

Oh and a bit of trivia for you Lady Gaga filmed a video here.

Other popular places in San Simeon include Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, Moonstone Beach, and Cambria Village.

Stay At Quality Inn near Hearst Castle

Exterior view of Hearst Castle, William Randolph Hearst's extravagant coastal hilltop estate. The picture shows the exterior with a pond and fountains.

Spend A Day At The Beach In Morro Bay and Cayucos

On a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, most people will suggest a trip to Pismo Beach, and while it’s worth a visit I’m going to recommend someone else for you. Morro Bay and Cayucos are lesser known but in my opinion much better.

These two beach towns are close neighbors and both offer something different. Morro Bay has more of a sleepy fishing village vibe and in terms of facilities has a little more to offer Cayucos has more of a California Beach town vibe.

I prefer Cayucos as I find it a little more unique and they also have the Brown Butter Cookie Company which is divine. This place has a slow, laid-back, chill vibe which I love.

Morro Bay is a great place to see sea life. Morro Rock and Morro Strand State Beach are perfect places to enjoy as a family.

These two beach towns are a place I feel you must stop at and are about a 30-minute drive from San Simeon.

Stay At Cayucos Sunset Inn

Admire Archetiture At San Luis Obispo

Just a 16-minute drive from Morro Bay is San Luis Obispo. This city is known for its historic architecture, incredible scenery, and the 1700s Spanish mission Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosawith with a museum.

Perhaps one of the more unique things is an alley lined with bubblegum . This 7-foot-long alley is lined with bubblegum and you can add your own ‘artwork’ if you choose to.

If you are here for a while the hiking around here is very impressive. Black Hill, Islay Hill, and Bishop Peak are all incredible places, and the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden provides some easier walking.

Pismo Beach is great for all the adventurous out there offering all kinds of outdoor activities including ATV rentals, skydiving, and sand buggies.

Stay At Apple Farm Inn

Fountain with brons animal statues and girl at Monastery in downtown San Luis Obispo, California

Get A Taste Of Europe At Solvang

Just over an hour from San Luis Obispo is Solvang. This town looks like it has been transported from Switzerland, Germany, or the Netherlands. If you love European architecture you will love this place.

Founded by Danish immigrants they created a town that reminded them of home. They even created replicas of Copenhagen spots, yes, the Littel Mermaid Statue is there. There is even a Hans Christian Anderson Museum here.

I love this place it’s so cute and unique. It’s also small so you won’t need a long stay here unless you want to stay longer. It’s the perfect spot on the way to Santa Barbara.

If you want to spend a little longer here the vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley will keep you busy for hours.

Stay At Vinland Hotel and Lounge

Danish Style Architecture in The Tourist Destination Solvang, California in an article about San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Relax A While At Santa Barbara

About 40 minutes from Solvang you will get to Santa Barbara. It’s the perfect place to stop for a few days before you hit L.A.

The coastline here is beautiful and Santa Barabar has a lot to offer. Highlights include the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden , the Santa Barbara Zoo , and the Old Mission Santa Barbara . The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is also worth visiting.

If you are a little more laid back the harbour and Stearns Wharf are great areas to explore. If you are staying a bit longer the Urban Wine Trail is a lot of fun. And of course, you have the white sand beaches to enjoy.

I think the journey from Ventura to here is one of the prettiest parts of the Pacific Coast highway between LA and San Francisco so make sure you are looking out the window.

Stay At Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

View on Santa Barbara from the pier showing the beach, palm trees and buildings.

A World Famous Sunset At Ojai

I feel any San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip should include a stop at Ojai. It is 45 minutes from Santa Barbara and feels like it’s in a different world.

Ojai is a small city set in a valley in the Topatopa Mountains. The city has a distinctive new age, spiritual vibe with many boutique shops catering to this clientele.

But it’s nature here that is the. It’s the sunsets here that steal the show. There is a certain point where the fading light hits the Topatopa Mountains turning the valley pink and it’s a phenomenal sight to see.

The best place to see this sunset Is Meditation Mount a 32-acre garden perched above Ojai. It’s a hike up there but well worth it.

Stay At Ojai Retreat & Inn

Chiefs Peak Mountain over Ojai, California is covered in snow and low clouds while overlooking highway

Enjoy Nature At Ventura and the Channel Islands

About 20 minutes away from Ojai on your drive from SF to LA, highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you will find Ventura Beach. If you are a surfer you are going to love this place.

Surfers Point, Ventura Harbor, and the downtown area are the must-see here. If you love shopping this place will also make you happy as there are vintage boutiques and second-hand stores galore.

The city also has a great park system with 32 parks and 800 acres of green space. You will also find many historic sites to enjoy.

While here I highly recommend taking a trip to The Channel Islands National Park. Known as The American Galapagos these five islands are off the Ventura Coast and are stunning. Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands are the closest to Ventura and an hour’s ferry trip away.

Stay At La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Ventura

View of the historic Spanish Colonial era Mission San Buenaventura in Ventura, California.

Live Like A Millionaire In Malibu

As your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip comes to an end let’s end it in style with a stop at Malibu. 50 minutes from Ventura the drive here is beautiful and the multi-million pound houses that line the beach are even more so.

Zuma Beach is well worth visiting and if you drive towards Point Dume you will find the sea and beach in all her glory. Other areas on your must-see list are the abandoned M*A*S*H set at Malibu Creek State Park and Topanga Overlook where you get a great view of the San Fernando Valley.

What’s so beautiful about this area is that it mixes beaches, mountains, and canyons to create something rather special.

Stay At Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

view of the houses on Malibu beach with the ocean in the background.

Let Go In LA

34 minutes from Malibu you finally reach the end of your road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles. And now you are in LA you get to live it up.

There is so much to do here so pick what’s most important to you. Some of my recommendations are Disneyland, Warner Bros Studio , the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Sunset Boulevard, and Rodeo Drive. I could go on and on.

A hike to the Hollywood sign is always fun and I suggest taking one of the tours to make the most of your trip.

LA is a city like no other it is bustling, glamorous, unique, and exciting. It’s one of those places that everyone needs to see once.

Stay At Hotel Figueroa

Take a look at our The Ultimate 2 Days In Los Angeles Itinerary

Cars moving on street amidst beautiful lush trees leading towards Mount Lee with Hollywood sign with sky in background during sunny day

Where To Stay Along The SF To LA Drive

There are so many accommodation options for your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip it’s hard to know where to start. So I have picked an option at the start and finish and one halfway. I have chosen places that I feel will add something extra special to your vacation.

I have also included accommodation options under each suggestion.

The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square – San Francisco

If you want to make your trip to San Franciso even more special then a stay at The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square. With incredible San Francisco Bay views and luxurious interiors, this hotel will delight you.

Rooms contain a high-end entertainment system, and an enclosed glass shower and some have bay views. Coupled with the terraces and fire pits throughout the property and a 2-minute walk away from some of the main attractions this hotel is a great option.

Check Prices At The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square

Hotel restaurant showing set tables the restuarant overlooks the ocean and landscaped grounds.

Alila Ventana Big Sur

This adult-only hotel will make a perfect destination for a romantic layover in Big Sur. Alila Ventana Inn & Spa is situated on a hillside overlooking the Pacific coastline and it’s beautiful.

Set on 160 acres the resort has 2 swimming pools and a Japanese hot bath. The guest rooms are spacious well-appointed and come with a view of the forest, ocean, meadow, or canyon and all have a window seat, balcony, or patio from which to enjoy it.

This hotel will make your stay extra special. It’s the perfect stop on The Pacific Coast Highway road trip between San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Stay At Alila Ventana Big Sur

A resort a Big Sur in the mountains featuring buildings and a poll and surrounding landscaped grounds.

The Beverly Hills Hotel – L.A.

For a stay at a truly Iconic hotel, it has to be The Beverly Hills Hotel. On Sunset Boulevard this hotel offers a full-service spa, an incredible pool, and bragging rights.

If you are not familiar with this hotel it is a bright, light quirky playground loved by many celebrities. Rooms on offer start from superior rooms up to bungalow suites.

The coffee shop is 1950s style the pool plays underwater music and free fruit and juices are available in the fitness center. `

If you want to top your California road trip off this is the place to stay.

Get Prices For The Beverly Hills Hotel

The Beverly Hills Hotel sign on the side of the hotel with palm trees in front of it.

What To Pack For Driving Between San Francisco To Los Angeles

You might be wondering what should I pack for my road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles. I have you covered. When I say I plan and organize all my trips believe me. I’m someone who is prepared for everything.

Things I think you need on your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.

A paper map or a downloaded map of the area. Cell reception can be spotty in some areas of this drive so you won’t be able to rely on your phone and satellite. Be Prepared.
Snacks and water, I know we are in California but you never know what you will and will not be able to find on the way. If you have food intolerances like me it can be hard to find food I can eat at roadside stops so I have to come prepared. Get a refillable water bottle and any food you will need before you set off.
A camera if you can the scenery is incredible. If you are bringing a camera make sure you have a charge spare battery. If you are using your phone bring a car charger or a portable charger that you always charge at each stop.
A small Bluetooth speaker . If like me you LOVE to listen to music when you drive make sure you download the music onto your phone and get a Bluetooth speaker for the car. It makes listening to music so much better.
A roadside emergency kit because you never know. You never know what might happen and where you will be at the time. While this road is a well-traveled route you never know. So if you can get a roadside emergency kit which will contain things like first aid, kit, a flashlight, jumper cable, and things like that.
A Blanket , I know this might be over-planning but I always have a blanket with me because who knows what might happen, I mean I am from Florida so the weather here can sometimes feel chilly to me. It is always a good idea to have a few blankets on board at the very least they also make great picnic blankets.

wild flowers and California coastline in Big Sur at sunset. In an article about San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Where To Fly Into And Out Of

If you are thinking of driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles where to fly depends on which way you are going to the trip and which city is nearest to you.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) will work if you are nearer San Francisco and both have car hire. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is also perfect particularly if you are flying internationally.

There are a few smaller regional airports like Burbank (BUR) and John Wayne (SNA). These are great if you can find a flight and want a less stressful experience.

Wherever you fly from it doesn’t change the places to stop between SF and LA. It just means you might not do them in the order I have listed here, and that is fine.

Beautiful sunset of Los Angeles downtown skyline and palm trees

The Pacific Coast Highway road trip between San Francisco to Los Angeles is like no other and I hope this article helps you plan a little more. You really can’t go wrong on this road trip as everywhere you go you will find something interesting.

This itinerary is the thing I like the best but there are so many different stops so please do your research and stop at the places you want to see. I hope you have an incredible time and please come back and tell me all about your adventures.

The Christmas Market during Prague in Winter

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A San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary (one week)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 14, 2024

Categories North America , USA

Planning your road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles? This 7-day road trip itinerary from SF to LA will show you all the highlights of the California coast!

The best way to enjoy California’s unexpected nature and unique urban centers is traveling by car, hands down. By moving on four wheels, you can cruise along the Pacific Ocean coast and dream about the waves, quickly move from one destination to the next, and carry with you all the hats, lipstick, sandals, and towels you may need!

That is why a Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the quintessential Californian road trip.

READ ALSO : 15 Best Stops on the LA to San Francisco Drive

So, the first thing to do is rent a car (or find a friend with one!) and start planning. In this post, I collect ideas and suggestions for a 7-day San Francisco – Los Angeles road trip along the Californian coast.

Of course, you can easily revert this itinerary and plan the opposite Los Angeles- San Francisco road trip (check out this other post I’ve written on the best stops on the LA to San Francisco drive !)

➤ I usually use Discover Cars to compare rental car prices and book the best option. ➥ COMPARE PRICES HERE

Table of Contents

SAN FRANCISCO TO LOS ANGELES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

This itinerary touches on everything you may want to see on your way from San Francisco to L.A. It’s packed, that’s for sure, but doable. I suggest heading out early in the morning to make the most out of it, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, feel free to skip a few destinations. After all, you’ll probably fall in love with this area anyways, and a second visit will be in the cards.

Now, for the first day, you won’t even need a car, so let’s get going!

Day 1 & 2: San Francisco

San Francisco is famous for almost anything you may imagine, and I recommend starting your trip on foot, since the core of San Francisco is best explored without the hassle of looking for parking.

READ ALSO : A Guide to San Francisco Public Transportation

Before we get started with the itinerary, I want to suggest two combos / tours that can help you save money and time during your short visit in San Francisco.

➤If you’re planning to both visit Alcatraz Island and visit the city via hop on hop off bus, you can save money with this combined premium hop-on-hop-off ticket and Alcatraz Island visit .

➤ If you have only one day at your disposal, or want to make the most of your time, check out also the City Sights, Muir Woods and Alcatraz day tour . This full day tour will bring you to 15 different destinations in one day – you’l get to see all the highlights of San Francisco including Alcatraz, Chinatown, and some of the most famous neighborhoods such as The Castro and The Mission.

Day 1: Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz & Chinatown

On the first day of your San Francisco road trip, begin your explorations up north at the Fisherman’s Wharf and get lost among the shops (like Ghirardelli Chocolate Marketplace on 900 North Point St ).

By the Wharf you can also enjoy the view of the Golden Gate Bridge to your left and the colony of sea lions just in front of you, or visit one of the museums in this very busy corner of San Francisco (my favorite is the Musée Mécanique on Pier 45, featuring cool old-fashioned coin-operated games and arcade machines from a different time).

From here, stroll east on The Embarcadero . On your way you’ll encounter the famous Pier 39 (another shopping heaven) and in less than 30 minutes on foot, you’ll arrive at the Ferry Building . This is a real mecca for food lovers who also want to get a taste of good ol’ San Francisco.

⇒ From here, you’ve got two great options. You can go on a boat ride around the Alcatraz Island and listen to the histories of the criminals who tried to flee the island. You’ll also navigate under the Golden Gate Bridge for spectacular photo opportunities. You won’t visit the island itself, but this 1 hour 30 minute affordable tour is perfect for those with limited time. Book online to skip the lin e .

⇒ The other option is to visit Alcatraz and see the infamous prison with your own eyes. Rather than buying the ticket by itself (which you can certainly do right at the pier), I suggest checking out this full-day tour that includes Alcatraz, a visit to Muir Woods and much more, and for me provides much better value.

After you’ve come back on land, just on the other side of the street you’ll find the San Francisco Railway Museum , where you’ll have the chance to imagine how locals moved around town on the iconic street cars before car sharing apps saw the light of day. The museum’s entrance is on the opposite side of the waterfront, at 77 Steuart St.

For a lunch stop in this area, I always enjoy Boulette Larder + Balibar , an easy French-inspired café inside the Ferry Building. When you’re satisfied and happy, walk up to Washington St at Drumm St and turn west. In the horizon, you’ll see the famous tower Transamerica Pyramid ( 600 Montgomery St ).

After a visit at the top of the pyramid-shaped building, spend your first afternoon browsing books at City Lights , San Francisco’s most well-known bookstore and publisher at 261 Columbus Ave , and losing yourself in nearby Chinatown (roughly spreading between Broadway at Bush St and Powell St at Montgomery St), the oldest Chinese community in the United States.

⇒ You can also join the San Francisco Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour. You’ll eat Dim Sum, visit a Buddhist temple, visit Chinese markets and see how fortune cookies are made. B ook it here .

By night, you can cap off your first day by dining and enjoying yourself by Union Square, just a few blocks to the south. Among the many options, check out the Asian-inspired E&O Kitchen and Bar at 314 Sutter St and the Swedish-themed Sears Fine Food at 439 Powell St .

Day 2: Golden Gate Bridge & Golden Gate Park

On Day 2 of your San Francisco to LA road trip, it’s time to rent a car as San Francisco’s most visible attractions await you, unless you prefer to avoid the hassle and tour the city aboard the hop-on hop-off bus which will bring you to all the destinations of this day and more. I would honestly recommend it, as you’ll end up spending more by renting a car and on parking.

Your first destination of the day is the crooked stretch of Lombard St between Hyde St and Leavenworth St (in this order!!), whose tortuous path is perfect for a slow ride down.

Then it’s time to see the iconic row of colored houses, called Painted Ladies , on Steiner St by Alamo Square Park.

Head then to the Golden Gate Park , which also features more than 1,000 acres on the north-west side of town featuring the de Young Museum (an art museum dedicated to local artists), the San Francisco Botanical Garden , where you can travel the world in 55 acres, and the Stow Lake Boathouse at the heart of the park (for an easier visit, park at the Music Concourse Garage on Fulton St at 10 th Ave ).

Finally there’s the iconic, red Golden Gate Bridge , which you can gloriously ride across until you reach the Vista Point on the other side of the channel of water (technically in the town of Sausalito).

If you’ve got some more time, take the pedestrian path to Baker Beach – this place is off the usual tourist path, but I guarantee you that the views are absolutely gorgeous!

READ ALSO : 6 Unusual Things to do in San Francisco Off the Beaten Path

On your last evening in San Francisco, wander in the Castro neighborhood and the nearby Mission District . Unforgettable locals, great eateries and clubs will be the cherry on your San Francisco 2-day stay.

➤ Here are my 3 recommendations for hotels in San Francisco. • Luxury : Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco • Mid-Range / Boutique Hotel : Staypineapple, Union Square • On a Budget : HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel

Day 3: Monterey, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Big Sur

Start your third day of your San Francisco to Los Angeles trip by saying goodbye to San Francisco and making your way south. Your first stop, the town of Monterey, is about 2 hours away on the I-101 or closer to 2.5 hours, if you prefer to ride along the coast on the much more panoramic State Route 1.

Just south of the Monterey Bay, this old, fishermen town is perfect for some ocean-themed shopping around the harbor or great fish sight-seeing at the Monterey Bay Aquarium ( 886 Cannery Row ).

Another cool activity that both kids and adults will enjoy is a whale watching cruise – in fact, in Monterey Bay you can spot whales all year long! Check out this whale watching tour guided by a marine biologist or naturalist.

For lunch, you may make your way up to the local Victorian-era lighthouse, the oldest operating facility of this kind on the US West coast, situated in the Point Pinos Lighthouse reservation just 15 minutes far from Monterey downtown (and perhaps make a picnic out of it with sandwiches from the Sea Harvest Restaurant and Fish Market, at 598 Foam St).

Otherwise, drive across the peninsula and get to Carmel-By-The-Sea (another 15-minute long ride from Monterey).

Carmel-By-The-Sea

In Carmel-By-The-Sea, I suggest spending time enjoying all things related to the local mission: you may hike in the Mission Trail Nature Preserve , a 34-acre park, and you may visit the Carmel Mission Basilica , built around 1777 and offering a serene place for education, religion, and art.

When you’re back in the Carmel-By-The-Sea central area, take a peek at the glorious beach and rest a bit in one of the several great restaurants this little town has to offer. I like the Mexican bistro Cultura Comida y Bibida ( on Dolores St between 5 th and 6 th Ave ) and Basil Seasonal Dining ( on San Carlos St between Ocean and 7 th Ave ).

After the upscale environs of Monterey and Carmen-By-The-Sea, spend the remainder of your third day by driving your car down the coast in what is called Big Sur.

This stretch of California coastline going from Carmel-By-The-Sea to San Simeon offers really amazing vistas to both the driver and fellow passengers.

To do it well, you absolutely have to take the State Route 1 (not the I-101, which goes inland) and stop in a few key spots to take pictures. There is Pfeiffer Beach with its purple sand, then you should consider the spectacular McWay Falls and the Elephant Seal Vista Point .

And the end of your day, find a place to sleep in one of the campgrounds located in the Hearst San Simeon State Park or in a hotel south of the San Simeon Bay.

➤ I recommend the Cambria Pines Lodge in Cambria or the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort in San Simeon – both are super nice and not too expensive.

Or for a special experience, check out the best glamping at Big Sur spots . Big Sur is one of the best destinations for glamping in Northern California !

Day 4: Hearst Castle, Cambria, Paso Robles

Hearst castle.

No matter where you spend the night, your fourth day will start on the highest note by visiting Hearst Castle , a museum like no other sitting in the mountains above San Simeon.

First conceived by media tycoon William Randolph Hearst in 1919 along with architect Julia Morgan, Hearst Castle is now a wonderful and extravagant open mansion that reminds us of what it meant to be part of the elite in the early decades of the 20 th century.

After parking by the coast and hopping on a bus (the only way to reach the castle atop the hill), visitors may tour the gardens as well as the interiors (don’t forget the Roman pool!), where they’ll find historic furniture and a theater, among other wonders. If it’s a clear day, the views from the castle’s open patios are gorgeous!

About 20 minutes drive to the south, you’ll find the quaint seaside town of Cambria .

Wander in the historic downtown , relax on Moonstone Beach , and grab some lunch at Hidden Kitchen ( 2164 Center St ), serving only organic food, or at The Sow’s Ear ( 2248 Main St ), a locals’ favorite.

Both restaurants are a couple of minutes away both from the Old Santa Rosa Chapel , the oldest church in the county, and the Moonstone Redwood Gallery , if you are yearning for local art (the lucky you, ’cause you’ll find tons of art shops in town!).

Paso Robles

Just a 40-minute drive inland, Paso Robles is your third and last destination of day 4. Now, I might be a little biased since I’ve spent here a whole year as a foreign exchange student in high school, but Paso Robles is definitely worth a stop. It’s a mix of wine country, hipster restaurants and boutique hotels, and would be a real pity to skip it.

The town of Paso Robles hosts the military aviation museum Estrella Warbird Museum ( 4251 Dry Creek Rd ), the art installation Field of Light at Sensorio by Bruce Munro, just north of the I-46, and the Pioneer Museum ( 2010 Riverside Ave ), where local history from the early 19 th century is presented.

However, your visit in Paso Robles will be really worth it only if you make it to a winery. Vineyards, wineries, and wine cellars abound in the area and in any tour you find, you’ll have the opportunity to be driven around in a convenient bus (so you can keep enjoying the wine with not a worry in the world), taste from 3 to 8 different locally made wines, and of course purchase one or two bottles of that same wine you liked so much.

⇒ These are the tours I recommend: • Half- Day Wine Adventure Tour (you’ll visit 3 wineries); • Full Day Wine Adventure (you’ll visit 4 to 6 wineries),

If you’re going to visit on your own, for an eco-friendly option (you know I care!), I recommend Tablas Creek Vineyard ( 9339 Adelaida Rd ).

➤ Here are my 3 recommendations for hotels in Paso Robles. • Luxury : Geneseo Inn • Mid-Range / Boutique Hotel : Hotel Siri Downtown – Paso Robles • On a Budget : Melody Ranch Motel

Day 5: Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach

After a quiet night in the Paso Robles countryside, start your fifth day of your road trip to Los Angeles from San Francisco by driving to Morro Bay, which is about 30 miles from Paso Robles. You’re back on the ocean coast, after what was hopefully an excellent wine tour.

Morro Bay is famous for its namesake, the 581-foot Morro Rock – a large amount of–guess what–rock that sits right on the coast as if a giant had just plopped it there. It’s quite a view! The surrounding entertainment area with candy corn and souvenirs is also worth a walk around it.

A few things to do in Morro Bay are enjoying the beach just north of Morro Rock (perhaps by renting a kayak), spot otters by the pier, hike in the nearby Elfin Forest (an amazing bush-made forest with a view of Morro Bay estuary). A great place for lunch is Taco Temple ( 2680 Main St ) for Mexican American food fare, or check out this list of best restaurants in Morro Bay .

San Luis Obispo

Your next stop will be San Luis Obispo (about 20 minutes away), a lively university town with yet another cute walkable historic downtown and a catholic mission. According to Oprah Winfrey, this is the happiest place in America! To test the truth to this statement, park by downtown and take a stroll all around.

You shouldn’t miss Bubblegum Alley (a narrow street between Higuera St and Garden Alley lined with chewing gum, a real Instagram-friendly place), the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa ( 751 Palm St ), which gives the town its name, and the Historical Jack House and Gardens , a Victorian house where free guided tours are available if you want to jump into Victorian-era furniture and living.

Last but not least, if you jump back in your car a must-see destination in the area is the Madonna Inn ( 100 Madonna Rd ). In this over-the-top restaurant, hotel and entertainment all around, not only you can find great dining (don’t let those pies escape you) but a once-in-a-lifetime visual experience. Back when I was an exchange student at Paso Robles High School, our prom was hosted here and it was really unforgettable.

The last stop for the day will be Pismo Beach , 20-minutes away from San Luis Obispo and right on the coast.

Pismo Beach

There are plenty of things to do in Pismo Beach , but since you’ll arrive later in the day, enjoy the sunset and late-timer surfers by walking down the pier gazing at the ocean and having a cocktail at Puffers of Pismo at 781 Price St (choose if you love live music) or a locally-crafted beer at the Pismo Brewing Company (500 Cypress St ).

READ ALSO : Best Restaurants and Cafes in Pismo Beach

➤ After dinner, there are many places here where you can spend the night and my favorite is The Cliffs Hotel and Spa ( 2757 Shell Beach Rd ), if you want to treat yourself.

➤ In case you are looking for something more central, I recommend the Inn at the Pier ( 601 Cypress St ). They also have a great rooftop bar and restaurant you may enjoy.

Here are 3 other recommendations for hotels in Pismo Beach: • Luxury : Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection • Mid-Range / Boutique Hotel : SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel • On a Budget : Ocean Palms Motel

The next morning, make sure not to leave Pismo Beach before you tried a donut and freshly brewed coffee at Surfside Donuts and Coffee – yummy!( 603 Dolliver St ).

Day 6: Solvang and Santa Barbara

Leave the central coast on the one before the last day and head to Solvang, about 62 miles from Pismo Beach. This is truly a unique place in California, and perhaps in the United States.

The whole town of Solvang is dedicated to Danish culture. Check out the Solvang Windmill and the Little Marmaid Fountain , have a perfectly themed breakfast at Danish Mill Bakery ( 1682 Copenhagen Dr ) on your way in or your way out, and replenish your dessert stock at Ingeborg’s Danish Chocolates ( 1679 Copenhagen Dr ).

For lunch, enjoy the all-you-can eat offering at Bit O’Denmark Restaurant ( 473 Alisal Rd ) or eat light with a sandwich from one of the numerous local cafes.

But are you still thinking about your wine tasting experience in Paso Robles? Check out the offering around this area on day 6 as they are as famous for wine lovers. Already in downtown Solvang, you can visit Casa Cassara Winery and Vineyard ( 1607 Mission Dr ), otherwise consider a visit to Sunstone Winery to the east on 125 N Refugio Road (technically in the town of Santa Ynez).

Santa Barbara

If you go back to your car and ride it 45 minutes south, you’ll be in downtown Santa Barbara. In this sun-kissed charming small city, places like Jaffurs Wine Cellars ( 819 E Montecito St ) and Witchcraft Winery ( 36 S Calle Cesar Chavez ) will offer you a similar a wine-tasting experience with the benefit of already being in the Santa Barbara central area.

Besides its locally grown grapes, Santa Barbara is known for its beach and pier with the historic Stearns Wharf , the Coronado Butterfly Reserve in nearby Goleta , and the 1786 Old Mission .

➤ Renting a room at the H otel Milo Santa Barbara ( 202 W Cabrillo Rd ), which sits right on the ocean next to the main shopping artery State St, has parking spots for its guests and offers free bike rides, will assure your experience is top notch.

Looking for something different? Here are my 3 recommendations for hotels in Santa Barbara. • Luxury : Belmond El Encanto • Mid-Range / Boutique Hotel : Kimpton Goodland • On a Budget : Agave Inn

Day 7: Los Angeles

About 100 miles separate Santa Barbara from Los Angeles but the environment couldn’t be more different. I’ve written a lot about LA in this blog, but I always like to remind you guys about a couple of not-to-miss things to do in one day in this crazy Californian metropolis.

Of course, these are just a few suggestions. There’s a lot more that you can do based on your interests, for example visiting the coastal cities of Santa Monica and Venice Beach , or exploring L.A.’s buzzing downtown with a self-guided walking tour .

READ ALSO : How To Spend a Perfect Day in Venice Beach The Perfect 2 Days in Los Angeles Itinerary

⇒ If it’s your first time in LA and you only have one day, I highly suggest checking out the LA Grand Tour , a full-day tour that will bring you to Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Beach and Griffith Observatory all in one day.

⇒ Another good option to move around the city with ease is to take the hop on hop off bus that completes two routes with 20 different stops of Los Angeles’ top landmarks. I’m suggesting this option because although L.A. is super car friendly, traffic can be a nightmare and parking can be more expensive than the ticket for the hop on hop off bus.

But if you prefer visiting on your own, this is my suggested itinerary. After your drive from Santa Barbara in the morning, visit the Getty Center , a free art museum on the west side offering the public a view of the artworks collected by J. Paul Getty.

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Later, make an IG post with pictures from the art installation Urban Light , in front of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art ( 5905 Wilshire Blvd ).

Dedicate you afternoon to a short hike to the Griffith Observatory , where you’ll have the chance to gaze at the city turning dark with flickering lights at sundown (if you look to your right, you’ll also see the famed Hollywood sign).

⇒ Want to meet some new people? You can join a guided hike that will bring you to the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory. Book it here .

Afterwards, for a different type of night, watch a film on the big screen in the open air cinema Cinespia , hosted by the Hollywood Forever Cemetery ( 6000 Santa Monic Blvd ) and spend the night at The Bissell House Bed and Breakfast ( 201 Orange Grove Ave, in South Pasadena ) between the up and coming Highland Park neighborhood and more classic Pasadena.

➤ Looking for something different? Here are my 3 recommendations for hotels in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the city is biiig! • Luxury : The Beverly Hills Hotel • Mid-Range / Boutique Hotel : The Hoxton – Downtown LA • On a Budget : Banana Bungalow

If your car is a rental and you’re on your way out of California by plane, you can probably drop off the car by the Los Angeles International Airport (check out your car rental company!). Otherwise, I’m jealous of you with your owned car…there are so many more road trips in store for you in California!

I hope this post was useful to organize your SF to LA road trip (or LA to San Francisco road trip if you’re going the opposite way) – if you have any questions, please leave them in the comments!

FAQ: Road Trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles

It can be as long or as short as you want it to be. You could drive from San Fran to L.A. in as little as one day, but plan at least 3 days to see some of the attractions and sights on the way. One week or even 10 days would be the perfect time to enjoy your road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The best route according to me is along the Pacific Coast Highway, that allows you see incre3dible views of the coast, and explore all the coastal charming towns.

The distance from San Francisco to L.A. is 383 miles. It takes approximately 6 hours to drive without any stops… but what’s the fun in that?

WAIT! HERE’S MORE INSPO FOR YOU

13 Dreamy Glamping Spots in Southern California The Perfect 3-Day Road Trip from Los Angeles

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Sunday 16th of April 2023

Sounds good will research for a trip next year

Kritika Panase

Saturday 31st of July 2021

A nice detailed and comprehensive seven day itinerary for a road trip. Road trips are so much exciting and impromptu. The adventure on a road trip is incomparable. Thanks for this wonderful post. The scenic views to Los Angeles from San Francisco and the many adventures on the way seems fun and fulfilling.

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How to Plan the Perfect Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

As a California native, I’m probably a bit biased, but I think a drive up the Golden State’s coast is one of the most exciting and beautiful road trips you can take. There’s a diversity of hikes, beaches, and cool points-of-interest, and each town you pass through along the way is incredibly unique.

If you’re planning a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, you’ll find all of the information you need to plan your trip in the travel guide below.

Planning a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip instead? Just flip the itinerary around and off you go!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need to Drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

You could pretty easily do this drive in a day. It’s a relatively straight shot up I-5 between California’s two main cities, and it’s a well trafficked route.

However, if you take that route, you’re going to be missing just about everything that makes driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco special. The coastal beauty, winding narrow road with incredible views around every bend, charming oceanfront towns, and more.

To experience those things, you’re going to need to drive along Highway 1 – the coastal route between Los Angeles and San Francisco – which is longer and slower.

We think that the absolute minimum amount of time you need is three days . With that, you’ll be able to make a few stops, but you’ll be pressed for time and won’t be able to do as much along the way.

Five or seven days gives you more time to do some good hikes, explore some of the cities along the coast (like Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz), and take it a little slower, basking in the warm California sun and enjoying this incredible stretch of coast.

If you want to spend some time in Los Angeles or San Francisco on either end of the trip, we’d recommend 10 days or more. Both cities really deserve two days each at a minimum, but we understand time is a luxury.

P.S. We have guides to spending a day in San Francisco and a day in Los Angeles , if that’s all the time you can find for those cities.

The Route for Driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco

When driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco, you have two main route options: the coastal route or the main highway through the state, I-5.

Like we mentioned above, the I-5 route is useful if you’re just looking to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. For the majority of this drive (which takes about 6 to 7 hours without stops), you’ll find yourself on a rather unexciting section of the I-5 in the middle of California.

The coastal route, on the other hand, is longer but far more enjoyable. This is the route that you’ll follow for the road trip outlined below.

You’ll want to spend at least two days on this route, but can easily make it a week-long trip . The actual driving time is about 9 hours, but you’ll have plenty of great places to stop at along the way.

This route largely takes you on Highway 1 – also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH). You’ll hop on this highway in Santa Monica, and make your way up the coast until you hit San Francisco!

One thing to note is that Highway 1 occasionally merges and runs concurrently with Highway 101 . This happens in Ventura through Gaviota, and again near Pismo Beach. It’s something to be aware of so that you aren’t confused on your trip!

Recommended Itineraries for the Drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Here, you’ll find three sample itineraries for a 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day trip. They include some of the recommended spots below so that you can make the most of your Pacific Coast Highway trip!

Consider this the short version of how to spend your time on the California coast – below this section, we have a deep dive on the best stops to make along the drive with more detail on each destination.

With 3 Days

While I’d recommend adding more time to your itinerary if you can, you’ll still be able to check out some of the most beautiful sights between L.A. and San Francisco with just three days.

Here’s how you can break down your 3-day road trip.

Day 1 : Malibu + Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo
Day 2 : San Luis Obispo + Big Sur + Stay in Monterey
Day 3 : Monterey + Santa Cruz + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Day 1: Malibu + Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo

Start with an easy hike in Malibu at Point Dume Natural Preserve, and then walk down to Westward Beach. Drive about an hour and 15 minutes to Santa Barbara.

Stop at Lilly’s Taqueria for lunch, and walk over to Dune Coffee for a caffeine boost – this will give you a chance to stroll down the picturesque State Street in the downtown area.

Drive inland to hike Inspiration Point Trail .

After your hike, you’ll drive an hour and 45 minutes north to San Luis Obispo. Get dinner at Old SLO BBQ and drinks at Sidecar .

Stay downtown at Granada Hotel & Bistro .

Day 2: San Luis Obispo + Big Sur + Stay in Monterey

Start your day with coffee and pastries from Scout Coffee , or grab a bigger breakfast at Seeds . Drive over to the Bishop Peak Trail trailhead (about 10 minutes), and hike up to the peak.

Get back in the car, and head over to Cambria for lunch at The Hidden Kitchen . Leisurely drive through Big Sur, stopping by McWay Falls (about an hour and 25 minutes from Cambria), Pfeiffer Beach , and Bixby Creek Bridge.

After the bridge, drive into Monterey (30 minutes north), and grab dinner at Old Fisherman’s Grotto .

Stay at the charming Green Gables Inn .

Day 3: Monterey + Santa Cruz + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Spend the morning at Monterey Bay Aquarium . Walk up to Lovers Point before hitting the road and making your way to Santa Cruz (about an hour drive).

In town, grab lunch at Lúpulo Craft Beer House or Mozaic , and then drive about half an hour up the coast to do an easy hike at the Marsh Trail in Big Basin Redwood State Park .

Drive about an hour north to Pacifica, and do the Mori Point Loop Trail . Once you’re done, head into San Francisco!

Drop your rental car off, head into the city, and stay at the CitizenM San Francisco .

With 5 Days

Adding just two days to your itinerary will give you the chance to see a lot more of the California coast. This is what a 5-day itinerary will look like.

Day 1 : Malibu + Stay in Santa Barbara
Day 2 : San Luis Obispo + Morro Bay + Stay in Cambria
Day 3 : Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Day 4 : Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz
Day 5 : Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Day 1: Malibu + Stay in Santa Barbara

Visit Malibu Lagoon State Beach , and then do an easy hike in Malibu at Point Dume Natural Preserve.

Drive an hour and 15 minutes to Santa Barbara, and grab lunch at Lilly’s Taqueria or La Super-Rica Taqueria . Drive 15 minutes inland to hike Inspiration Point Trail , and then head back to the coast to relax by the water at West Beach.

Enjoy a glass of wine in The Funk Zone before grabbing dinner at Loquita .

Stay for the night at Palihouse Santa Barbara .

Day 2: San Luis Obispo + Morro Bay + Stay in Cambria

Start the day with coffee at Dune Coffee before driving about an hour and 45 minutes to San Luis Obispo.

In SLO, go for a hike at Bishop Peak Trail before heading downtown for lunch at Old SLO BBQ .

Drive about 35 minutes over to Montaña de Oro State Park and hike the Bluff Trail (you can easily cut it down if this is too much hiking in a day).

Drive another 30 minutes to Morro Rock Beach , and then grab a casual seafood dinner at Giovanni’s Fish Market .

Head up to Cambria (about 25 minutes), and stay at White Water for the evening, which is right on the ocean.

Day 3: Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Get breakfast in Cambria at The Hidden Kitchen or Lily’s Coffee House .

Drive about an hour and a half into Big Sur, and make your way to McWay Falls . Grab lunch at Big Sur Deli , and then head over to Pfeiffer Beach .

Stop by Bixby Creek Bridge on your way out of Big Sur, and then visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to do (at least part of) the loop trail .

You’ll end in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Get dinner at La Bicyclette , and stay at the Candle Light Inn .

Day 4: Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz

Spend the morning doing the 17-Mile Drive , and then head into Monterey for lunch at Old Fisherman’s Grotto or Randy’s Sandwich Shop .

Check out the excellent Monterey Bay Aquarium , and drive an hour to Santa Cruz.

Spend some time exploring the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk before making your way to Natural Bridges State Beach .

For dinner, check out Mozaic or Laili , and then stay at Ocean Pacific Lodge.

Day 5: Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Grab coffee and a quick bite at Cat & Cloud before driving 30 minutes north to hike the short Marsh Trail in Big Basin Redwood State Park .

Drive 10 minutes to Pigeon Point Lighthouse , and then another 25 minutes to Redondo Beach .

Stop for lunch at Half Moon Bay Brewing Co ., before making your way to Pacifica (about 15 minutes) to do two hikes before heading into San Francisco: Pedro Point Headlands Trail and Mori Point Loop Trail .

With 7 Days

With a 7-day road trip, you’ll be able to add Channel Islands and San Simeon to the itinerary, and dedicate more time to many of the destinations, particularly in the southern half of the trip. Here’s a look at what a week-long journey will look like.

Day 1 : Malibu + Stay in Ventura
Day 2 : Channel Islands + Stay in Santa Barbara
Day 3 : Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo
Day 4 : Morro Bay + San Simeon + Stay in Cambria
Day 5 : Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Day 6 : Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz
Day 7 : Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Day 1: Malibu + Stay in Ventura

Hike at Los Leones Trail , and then drive to Broad Street Oyster for lunch. Go right across the street to Malibu Lagoon State Beach before driving up to do the easy hike at Point Dume .

Hang out at Zuma Beach, and then drive about an hour to Ventura. Grab dinner at Lure Fish House , and stay at the Pierpont Inn .

Day 2: Channel Islands + Stay in Santa Barbara

Head over to Ventura Harbor to catch an Island Packers Cruise to Santa Cruz Island, and then do an Adventure Sea Cave Kayak tour (or another tour) with Santa Barbara Adventure Company (note: this should all be booked in advance!).

Once you’re back in Ventura, drive 35 minutes up to Santa Barbara. Grab dinner at Loquita , and stay at Palihouse Santa Barbara .

Day 3: Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo

Start the day with coffee from Dune Coffee , and then drive over to Inspiration Point Trail for a hike.

Head back into town for post-hike tacos at Lilly’s Taqueria or La Super-Rica Taqueria before making your way to San Luis Obispo (about an hour and 45 minutes).

Here, you’ll do another hike at Bishop Peak Trail .

Get dinner at Old SLO BBQ , drinks at Sidecar , and stay downtown at Granada Hotel & Bistro .

Day 4: Morro Bay + San Simeon + Stay in Cambria

Grab coffee and a small bite to eat at Scout Coffee , or have a bigger breakfast at Seeds . Drive to Montaña de Oro State Park (35 minutes) and go for a hike on the Bluff Trail .

Head another 30 minutes over to Morro Bay, where you can get lunch at Giovanni’s Fish Market . Stop by Morro Rock Beach before driving 40 minutes to the Elephant Seal Viewing Point in San Simeon.

Stop at Piedras Blancas Light Station , and then backtrack a bit to Cambria to grab dinner (try Robin’s Restaurant ) and stay the night at White Water .

For Days 5, 6, and 7 : Follow days 3, 4, and 5 from the 5-day itinerary above!

The 12 Best Stops to Make on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the major stops to make on your drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco. The sections below go over the highlights to check out in each area.

Planning to spend some time in Los Angeles before your road trip? Here are some L.A. travel guides to help you plan your time.

Exactly How to Spend One Day in Los Angeles
A Weekend in L.A.: A Perfect 2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary
Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide

Drive Time from Santa Monica to Malibu: 35 minutes / 18 miles

To kick off your road trip, you’ll start in the beautiful coastal town of Malibu. Malibu is home to a variety of state parks and natural areas, with amazing hikes and some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Here are a few of the key spots to check out:

Los Leones Trail : This trail is technically in Pacific Palisades, which is just south of Malibu. The 4.4-mile moderate out-and-back trail takes you up the mountain to get sweeping views of the coast.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach : This state beach is famous for being one of the birthplaces of modern-day surf culture. Just north of the beach, there’s a salt marsh that you can explore, and on the opposite side of the beach you’ll see the Malibu Pier. There’s an easy 2-mile path that you can follow to explore the lagoon, beach, and pier. Parking at one of the lots will cost $3.00 per hour.

Point Dume Natural Preserve : This gorgeous reserve sits on top of an oceanside bluff, and offers beautiful views of the coast. An easy 1.4-mile trail goes around the small preserve, and will guide you to some amazing overlooks. You can also follow it down to Westward Beach. There’s a limited number of street parking spots on top of the bluffs, but you can also park at the beach lot .

Zuma Beach : Just a couple miles north is Zuma Beach, one of Malibu’s largest and most famous beaches. This sprawling beach is a great spot to hang out, jump in the water, or catch the sunset. The lot costs $0.25 per 10 minutes, with a max charge of 90 minutes.

Channel Islands National Park

Drive Time from Malibu to Ventura: 50 minutes / 40 miles

The remote location of Channel Islands (which is located off the coast of Ventura) makes it one of the least visited national parks in California, but this means it’s that much more special for those who decide to visit! This national park has five islands where you can hike, snorkel, kayak, and explore sea caves.

Keep in mind that, if you do decide to visit the Channel Islands, it will take up a full day of your road trip.

A one-way boat ride to the most popular island takes an hour, and you’ll also want ample time to explore. Another very important note is that you need to book tours and boat rides in advance.

We’ll go over the specifics on how to get to Channel Islands below, but first, here are some of the things you can do:

Santa Cruz Island Kayaking and Snorkeling Tours : Santa Barbara Adventure Company offers guided kayaking and snorkeling tours around Santa Cruz Island, which is the biggest and most visited island in this national park. You can choose to either kayak or snorkel, or pick a tour package that does both. This is the best way to explore the coast, see some marine life, and venture into the iconic sea caves.

Potato Harbor Trail : This easy Santa Cruz Island trail is 4.9 miles long and has a 603-foot elevation gain. It brings you along the coastal bluffs, and also explores some of the scenery further inland. It’s accessible via the Scorpion Anchorage harbor.

Pelican Bay Trail : This trail is another popular Santa Cruz Island option that’s accessible via Prisoners Harbor. The moderate 4.0-mile hike (which has an elevation gain of 820 feet) takes you on an out-and-back trail that goes along the gorgeous coast.

Getting There : You can get to any of the five islands via Island Packers Cruises . They have daily trips to Santa Cruz Island (with boats going to both of the marinas mentioned above), and also have regular trips to the other islands. These do sell out, so you’ll want to book your ride in advance online. The adult fare for a one-way ticket is currently $31.50. Transportation is not available on the island, so you’ll be exploring by foot or by kayak once you arrive!

Santa Barbara

Drive Time from Ventura to Santa Barbara: 45 minutes / 25 miles

Santa Barbara is a vibrant coastal city that offers just about everything you could want: picturesque beaches, a variety of hikes, and great bars and restaurants.

We have an entire guide dedicated to helping you plan an amazing day in Santa Barbara (or a weekend in Santa Barbara , if you’re lucky enough to have more time).

Here are some of the best spots to eat, drink, and explore.

Wine in The Funk Zone : The Funk Zone is the city’s arts and culture district, and is home to excellent tasting rooms that feature wines produced at Santa Barbara County Vineyards. A few spots to check out are Santa Barbara Wine Collective , Pali Wine Co. , and The Valley Project . You can also take a look at the Urban Wine Trail for more options in the greater Santa Barbara area!

Tacos at Lilly’s Taqueria or La Super-Rica Taqueria : Santa Barbara has some amazing Mexican food, so you won’t want to miss out as you’re passing through. Fun fact about La Super-Rica Taqueria: it was one of Julia Child’s favorites!

Coffee at Dune Coffee or Dart Coffee Co. : If you’re in need of a caffeine boost, you’ll want to stop at one of these coffee shops. There are two Dune locations in the Downtown Santa Barbara area, and Dart (which is located in The Funk Zone) has a beautiful garden space.

Inspiration Point Trail : This gorgeous hillside out-and-back trail leads you to an outlook where you’ll get gorgeous views of the coast and Downtown Santa Barbara. This moderate hike is 3.4 miles long, and has a 935-foot elevation gain.

Rattlesnake Canyon Trail : If you’re looking for a bit more of a workout, this is another great option in the hills that offers beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The 4.4-mile out-and-back trail has an elevation gain of 1,604 feet.

Leadbetter Beach : If you want to spend some time at the beach, consider Leadbetter. This spacious, palm-tree lined beach is a popular spot for surfers and paddle boarders.

San Luis Obispo

Drive Time from Santa Barabra to San Luis Obispo: 1 hour 40 minutes / 95 miles

The town of San Luis Obispo – located on the central coast – is incredibly charming and lively, and the vast natural area surrounding SLO can’t be missed. There’s no shortage of great places to eat, drink, and hike, but here are a few recommendations:

Food at Old SLO BBQ : While you’re in town, stop at this spot for some mouth-watering BBQ. There are two locations in SLO, but head to the one downtown on Higuera Street.

Drinks at Sidecar : Just up the street from Old SLO BBQ, this is the place to be if you’re looking for an expertly made craft cocktail. This bar and restaurant also has a small dinner menu with some delicious comfort food dishes.

Coffee at Scout Coffee : If you want a locally roasted cup of coffee or a freshly baked pastry, head to the downtown Scout Coffee location on Garden Street.

Bishop Peak Trail : Bishop Peak is one of the must-visit spots in SLO, as it offers stunning panoramic views of the area. Hike up to the peak via this moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back trail, which has a 1,130-foot elevation gain.

Reservoir Canyon Loop Trail : On the opposite side of town is this moderate 5.4-mile loop trail, which has a 1,400-foot elevation gain. During the rainy season, you may spot a small waterfall, and you’ll also get lovely views of the town from up above.

Drive Time from SLO to Morro Bay: 20 minutes / 13 miles

Head 20 minutes up the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) and you’ll find yourself in Morro Bay, an idyllic seaside town that is often referred to as the Gibraltar of the Pacific.

This quiet coastal community has miles of beaches to explore, and it’s also a great place to spot marine life! Here are a few places you can’t miss as you’re passing through:

Morro Rock : Morro Bay is most well-known for this massive 576 foot rock formation, which is right on the beach. This historic landmark was formed approximately 23 million years ago from a volcanic plug. Check out the giant rock, and then go for a stroll down Morro Rock Beach.

Otters by the Marina : You won’t want to leave Morro Bay without seeing some otters! The Morro Bay T Pier (and the walkway near the pier) is a great place to spot them.

Montaña de Oro State Park : This coastal state park is technically just south of Morro Bay in Los Osos. It’s a stunning spot to get in some hiking on top of the oceanside bluffs and enjoy the view. One of the best trails in the park is the easy 4.1-mile Bluff Trail . Here are a few pictures from that trail.

Drive Time from Morro Bay to San Simeon: 30 minutes / 30 miles

As you continue north on your L.A. to San Francisco road trip, you’ll pass through San Simeon, a small coastal village that’s home to the world-famous Hearst Castle . The historic museum is closed due to road renovations, but is expected to reopen sometime in 2022. If it’s open when you visit, you can book tour reservations in advance online.

Before getting to San Simeon, you’ll pass by the small town of Cambria . Stop by The Hidden Kitchen for breakfast or lunch – they have a variety of delicious sweet and savory blue corn waffle dishes!

While continuing to drive up the coast, you’ll want to make a quick stop at the Elephant Seal Viewing Point , where the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery (the only elephant seal rookery in the world) is located. Here, you’ll have a chance to see the largest seals in the northern hemisphere (bonus: it’s free!).

Just about two miles up the PCH, you’ll pass by Piedras Blancas Light Station , which was built in the 1870s. You can book a self-guided tour of the still-operational lighthouse online. Advanced reservations are required, and a tour currently costs $10. Hours vary from season to season, so check the website for the most current opening information.

Drive Time from San Simeon to Big Sur (Pfeiffer Beach) : 1 hour 30 minutes / 65 miles

Big Sur is one of the spots you absolutely cannot miss during this road trip. This rocky coastal region (which spans over 70 miles) includes multiple state parks and reserves, and is also partially managed by Los Padres National Forest. These are the top sights that you won’t want to miss:

McWay Falls : McWay Falls is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , and is one of Big Sur’s most famous (and most photographed) sights. You’ll park at the lot on the opposite side of the highway (don’t forget to buy a $10 day use pass – there’s self-registration instructions at the lot), and then follow the 0.6-mile walking path to get a view of the falls.

Partington Cove Trail : If you want to get in a bit of hiking while in Big Sur, check out this 1.1-mile and 347-foot elevation trail, which is also part of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The out-and-back trail splits off into two parts. The northern section leads you to a small, rocky beach, and the southern section takes you through a tunnel from the 1880s, and eventually leads you to Partington Cove.

Pfeiffer Beach : Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur’s most popular beach – is known for its purple sand and massive, picturesque rock formations. It’s managed by Los Padres National Forest, so you will need to pay a separate $12 day use fee.

Bixby Bridge : This concrete bridge (which was built in the 1930s) is up there with McWay Falls as one of Big Sur’s most photographed locations. You’ll get the best view of the bridge from Castle Rock Viewpoint .

PS: We have an entire, detailed guide to exploring Big Sur . Make sure to read that for plenty more details!

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Drive Time from Big Sur (Pfeiffer Beach) to Point Lobos: 30 minutes / 22 miles

As you continue north and make your way out of Big Sur, you’ll hit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve .

This incredibly scenic tree-covered reserve is located right on the water, and you’ll get plenty of amazing views of the rocky coast. You can also expect to see plenty of marine animals and unique birds!

There is a full 6.7-mile loop trail that goes around the entire reserve, and it’s absolutely worth doing the entire loop to get the full experience. You can park at one of the lots for $10, or park along the PCH for free and walk into the reserve.

Drive Time from Point Lobos to Monterey: 15 minutes / 7 miles

Monterey is a charming coastal city located just about 7 miles up Highway 1 from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. There’s no shortage of things to do in Monterey, but here are a few of the sights and activities you can’t miss while passing through:

17-Mile Drive : This stunning drive is located just south of Monterey in Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. The loop takes you along the rocky coast and through densely forested areas, and there are plenty of places to park and take in the view. This drive is located in a gated neighborhood, and you’ll need to pay a fee ( currently $11.25 per car ) at the gate. You can enter the drive at the Highway 1 Gate , and exit at the Samuel F.B. Morse Gate and head into Monterey.

Monterey Bay Aquarium : This oceanfront Monterey Bay Aquarium is considered one of the absolute best in the US, and is definitely worth a visit. There are over 200 exhibits to explore, including the sea otter exhibit and giant kelp forest. Adult tickets are currently $49.95.

Coastal Walk to Lovers Point : Just over a mile up the coast from the aquarium is Lovers Point, a gorgeous rocky coastal spot. Follow the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail to get there from the aquarium, and enjoy the beautiful ocean views on your way up (keep an eye out for sea lions!).

Coffee at Captain + Stoker : If you need a caffeine boost, one of the best places to get a really good cup of coffee is Captain + Stoker. This coffee shop also offers a variety of teas, as well as some smaller bites to eat.

Dessert at Revival Ice Cream : For those with a sweet tooth, you can get amazing, high-quality handcrafted ice cream at Revival.

Drive Time from Monterey to Santa Cruz: 1 hour / 45 miles

Next up on your road trip is Santa Cruz, which is just about 40 miles up the coast from Monterey. This laid-back oceanside city has gorgeous beaches and some amazing hikes in and around town. Here are some recommendations on places to check out during your visit:

Natural Bridges State Beach : This beautiful beach has cool tide pools to explore, as well as plenty of opportunities to see marine wildlife and birds. Keep in mind that you will need to pay $10 to park.

West Cliff Drive Trail : This easy out-and-back walking path is 4 miles long, and takes you along the beautiful ocean cliffs. Natural Bridges State Beach is located on the opposite end, so you can combine this walk with a visit to the beach.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk : For a bit of child-like fun, head over to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It’s the oldest amusement park in the state, dating back to 1907. You’ll find plenty of attractions, but even if you don’t plan on hopping on any rides, you can enjoy a stroll through this colorful beachside amusement park. Fun fact: two of the rides (The Giant Dipper and Looff Carousel) are National Historic Landmarks.

Big Basin Redwood State Park : This state park – which is California’s oldest – is located north of Santa Cruz. Unfortunately, much of the park is closed due to wildfire damage – check the park website for the most up-to-date info. One easy and beautiful hike that is currently open is the Marsh Trail , an out-and-back trail that is just under a mile long. While it’s currently closed, if it reopens when you visit, another great hike is the Skyline to the Sea Trail Short Loop . This easy hike is 2.9-miles long, and has a 298-foot elevation gain.

Año Nuevo State Park : Just up the road on the coastal side of the highway is Año Nuevo State Park, which may be best known for being one of the biggest elephant seal breeding colonies in the world. A scenic coastal hike to check out is the easy Año Nuevo Point Trail , which is 4.3-miles long.

Half Moon Bay

Drive Time from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay: 60 minutes / 50 miles

Head 30 miles up the coast, and you’ll find yourself in the peaceful beachside town of Half Moon Bay. Here are some places to check out in the area:

Pigeon Point Lighthouse : Before you get to Half Moon Bay, you’ll pass by this lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1872. You can’t go into the lighthouse, but you can follow the dirt path and check out the exterior.

Redondo Beach : This beautiful beach has scenic eroded bluffs, and is a great spot for tidepooling. You can park here , and then follow one of the paths down to the beach. There are some easier descents north of the parking lot. Alternatively, if you’re up for a beach walk, you can park at Poplar Beach , and walk south to Redondo Beach.

Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. : This casual brewpub is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and has a great outdoor seating space with views of the bay.

Drive Time from Half Moon Bay to Pacifica: 20 minutes / 14 miles

The final must-see town you’ll pass through on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip is Pacifica! It’s the perfect place to get in some peaceful hiking and beach time before heading into the city. Here are some spots to check out:

Mori Point Loop Trail : This 2.5-mile blufftop trail offers beautiful views of Pacifica’s rugged coastline. It’s rated as moderate, and has a 396-foot elevation gain.

Pedro Point Headlands Trail : Further south at Pedro Point you’ll find a moderately rated 2.4-mile loop trail, which has a 610-foot elevation gain. It brings you out to an overlook of Pedro Point, and through the beautiful headlands.

Devil’s Slide Trail : Just south of Pedro Point, you’ll find this paved coastal trail, which you can also bike along. This easy out-and-back trail is 3.1-miles long and has a 436-foot elevation gain, and takes you down to an old military bunker.

Pacifica State Beach : For your final beach stop on this road trip, consider hanging out at the idyllic Pacifica State Beach, which is a popular surf spot.

Planning to spend some time in San Francisco before you head home? Here are some San Francisco travel guides to help you plan your time.

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Where to Fly In and Out for Your L.A. to San Francisco Road Trip

For this road trip, you’ll fly into Los Angeles, and then head home from San Francisco. Here’s what you need to know about the airports in these areas.

Flying into Los Angeles

You have three airport options around the L.A. area: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), and John Wayne Airport (SNA) located in Orange County.

LAX (Los Angeles International Airport)

LAX – Los Angeles International Airport – is located on the coast near Marina Del Rey. It is by far the largest of the three (it’s the biggest on the west coast) and therefore has the most flight options.

That said, LAX gets insanely busy, and can be a hassle to get in and out of (especially if you’ll be using a rideshare – it’s recently become a nightmare!). Keep this in mind when looking at flights.

BUR (Hollywood Burbank Airport)

An alternative option is Hollywood Burbank Airport , which is located in Burbank.

This airport is much smaller and far less busy, so grabbing your bag and getting out of the airport is typically a pretty easy experience (and getting a rideshare is a breeze). With this in mind, I always prefer flying in and out of Burbank, but since it’s smaller and has fewer flights, this isn’t always an option.

Another factor to note is that BUR is further from the road trip route than LAX – it’s about a 30-mile drive from the southern part of Malibu. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially if you’re planning on spending a day or two in Los Angeles before hitting the road – just something to keep in mind!

SNA (John Wayne)

Your third option is John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, which is approximately the same size as BUR.

This airport is about a one and a half to two-hour drive south of LAX, so you will be adding some travel time – but it’s definitely not a bad option if you’d like to see some of the sights in Orange County!

Besides that, the only downside to SNA is that, like BUR, you’re not going to have as many flight options.

Which is Best?

I’d recommend looking at flights heading into BUR or SNA first , since these airports are less stressful to navigate. If there aren’t any good options, you’ll be able to find a flight that works for you at LAX.

Flying out of San Francisco

Once you’ve completed your drive from L.A. to San Francisco, you’ll want to fly out of either San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) .

San Jose International Airport (SJC) – which is about an hour south of SFO – is also an option, but only if you’re not planning on going into San Francisco.

There are two major benefits of flying out of SFO . One is that this airport is much bigger than OAK, and has far more flight options. The other benefit is that it is conveniently located closer to the city.

That said, SFO has more flight delays when compared to OAK (due to the fog), so you may have to deal with some last-minute travel hiccups when heading back home.

Kyra is a freelance writer and a California native who has lived in the Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles. She loves spending her free time hiking, taking photos, and exploring Southern California and the rest of her home state.

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A 6-Day San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

Table of Contents

This San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary is the most popular road trip in the world today. This stunning route skirts the beautiful Pacific Ocean for most of its way.

To comprehensively enjoy the drive and all the enchanting sites on the way it would be prudent and imperative to take a slow leisurely drive stopping at least three nights in four days. In this guide we describe the designated places where you can take time to relax, rejuvenate or even celebrate a milestone birthday in the USA with friends and family.

Renting a RV in California

A good preparation is half the battle. Therefore, I recommend you book your RV as fast as possible and receive the best road trip car with a great discount. They allow you to easily book your favorite RV by comparing 100s of offers so you can get the best deal possible! You can also find the best motorhome rental advice here.

Travel With Family & Friends

It would be fun to travel on this route with a few friends and family joining in. Stopping frequently at pit stops and interesting landmarks to get that perfect family Instagram shot is a great way to make lasting memories.

San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary – The Route

The distance is a mere 450 miles or 720 kilometers. You could drive in a day on a long clear highway with minimum traffic, but this would deprive you of an exhilarating experience which money could never buy. Relax and take your time as you are on a road trip holiday!

We suggest a 6-day trip that would be a truly exhilarating experience like none other road trip you would have ever undertaken before. California dreaming, here we come!

If you are interested in staying longer, I recommend reading this amazing blog post about 2-week itineraries in the USA .

You can also extend the road trip down south and visit San Diego. But before you do make sure you avoid these mistakes when traveling to San Diego !

If you are interested in continuing your journey east, you should check out this blog post about a road trip on the I40 (starting in LA) that takes all the way to Atlanta and explores wonderful landmarks and attractions along the way.

If you are keen on staying in California and you are interested in exploring the Southern area, I highly recommend the blogpost Best Road Trips in Southern California from Lauren West. She compiled the most beautiful road trips in Southern California for couples.

Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Cruz, Monterey and Carmel | Day 1 & 2

To reach the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) you would need to drive west till you reach Ocean Beach. From here your exhilarating journey down south to the picturesque city of Los Angeles begins.

Santa Cruz BoardWalk Theme Park

Santa Cruz could be your first stop where you have enough time to pick up some grub and enjoy the Santa Cruz BoardWalk Theme Park . The Park features more than 40 rides. It includes two National Historic Landmarks: the world-famous 1924 Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster and the beautiful 1911 Looff Carousel. They also have a lot of restaurants, gift shops, scream-inducing thrill rides, gentle kiddie rides indoor arcades, and miniature golf.

After a long day you might want to check out one of the best breweries in Santa Cruz for a nice cold beer. The perfect way to start a relaxing evening before visting the aquarium the next day!

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey would be your most likely next stop as you would be in for a treat at the Monterey Bay Aquarium which hosts an abundance of colorful fish which would keep you amazed!

Today, more than 30 years after opening, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a showcase for the habitats and sea life of one of the world’s richest marine regions. More than 35,000 creatures representing over 550 species fill 34 major galleries. With nearly 200 exhibits in all, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean.

Stay the night at Carmel and there are plenty of cozy places to select from and have the inherent joy of having spent the night where that icon in Hollywood movie star Clint Eastwood was its Mayor not very far back in time. Carmel-by-the-sea, as it is lovingly referred to by its residents, would give you a wonderfull experience. The laid back atmosphere is just what you need after a day well spent on the road.

Cross the Famous Bixby Creek Bridge | Day 3

The first stop for the day could be none other than at the Bixby Creek Bridge , a construction marvel that is picturesque and spectacular in every way. With the Pacific Ocean on your right and the rugged cliffs to your left, the drive on the Bixby Creek Bridge would push any road tripper’s adrenaline to the limit.

The Big Sur

The Big Sur is a nature reserve that is home to a spectacular 80 foot waterfall that never dries up and located just a short walk from the PCH at the Julia Pfeiffer State Park .

The quaint town of Cayucos would be your watering hole for the night and is a place to relax and enjoy some of the best seafood that you could pick and relish.

Enjoy The Final Night at Santa Barbara | Day 4

Start the day fresh as a flower and after a sumptuous breakfast set off on your way. Deviate slightly to enjoy the sights at San Luis Obispo a town famous for the very popular San Luis Obispo Museum of Art .

A hundred and half kilometers more of driving with stops to take in the beauty of the drive would bring you to the most popular hot-spot of California, the bustling beach town, of Santa Barbara .

There is much to do here and a day would be insufficient to take in all the wonderful sights. Go explore the local museums and learn more about the classic Spanish heritage in Santa Barbara at the Santa Barbara’s Museum Mile.

In the evening it is time to relax and find an amazing restaurant to rest your legs. A local’s favorite, Opal restaurant and bar infuses an Eclectic California Cuisine with creative influences from around the World. The chefs use the freshest of ingredients to create dishes inspired by the colorful multi-cultural heritage of America. These dishses often have an Asian flair.

End the Road Trip in Los Angeles | Day 5 & 6

The final leg of your journey and stopping at many places to enjoy the sights would be a fun way to spend the day in LA. The first couple of stops could be at Carpentaria and Ventura , two of California’s best preserved beach towns.

Of course, if you travel with children a visit to DisneyWorld California would be a great idea as well. Check out these important Disneyland Hacks to make your magical day extra special!

And make sure to check out this blog post about great places to stay in LA to get some rest and relaxing time with the family.

Cuisine Los Angeles

The cuisine served in these towns is much talked about. Enjoy stunning sea-food dishes and grilled meats when visiting these areas, whilst enjoying a beautiful sunset. The Brophy Bros is one of these famous sea-food restaurants and is located in Ventura and Santa Barbara. Their menu consists of famous local fish-species and desserts.

La Nightlife

Reaching your destination Los Angeles late in the evening would enable you to catch a glimpse of the colorful night scene. The perfect way to finish your 6-day California road trip. Go out, have fun with friends and family, and discuss the fun times you had on this trip.

Sound Nightclub is a popular nightclub in Los Angeles Their philosophy is:

Sound was built with a simple philosophy: to bring a novel and always-evolving experience to nightlife in Hollywood. We worked with a dream team of designers, professionals, and industry specialists to create an environment based in cutting-edge visual and audio technology, musical formats, and interior design. Our interior 3D mapping and custom video content, paired with our one-of-a-kind sound system, offer an unparalleled nightclub journey.

Final Words

The final stretch on the PCH is home to some of the best sights of the trip. Give yourself time to make frequent stops to capture them for posterity. With the Pacific Ocean on your right and the changing scenes on your right it is sheer spectacular to say the least.

P.S – Interested in this road trip? Book a great RV or Motorhome for your trip!

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10 Must-See Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

The world-famous Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH for those in the know) is a bucket-list item for many travelers – van lifers and casual vacationers included. It’s a beautiful drive down a spectacular stretch of the California coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles, and if you’re looking for sandy beaches, surf spots, and epic burritos, you can’t go wrong with this route.

This article will approach the trip from a van life perspective – offering campground and parking suggestions over Airbnbs or motels. Be aware that camping along the California coast is incredibly popular, and campsites book up fast. It’s a good idea to plan your road trip and book your spots well ahead of time.

The Road Trip Route

There are a few ways to get from San Francisco to Los Angeles by campervan . The coastal route is called Highway One, stretching down the Pacific Coast of the United States and into Mexico. This is undoubtedly the most beautiful route, but also the slowest, so depending on your timeframe, you might want to spend some time on the bigger highways like the 101, 280, and the 5.

You can make the drive in about 6-7 hours if you put your foot down and just go for it (and we have!) However, to really get the most out of this scenic route, we recommend planning 3-5 days.

This trip is best driven in the fall, as summer tourist traffic makes driving in parts of California an absolute nightmare during the high season. The fall weather is better anyway – many parts of the California coast are socked in with fog during the summer.

1. San Francisco

Obviously, your San Francisco road trip is going to include some sights in San Francisco. You can find camping at several spots just outside the city, including some spots up in the Marin Headlands behind the Golden Gate Bridge that offer spectacular views of the bay.

Kirby Cove is a good option for camping, as well as Rob Hill or the Candlestick RV Park. You may be able to find overnight street parking in San Francisco, but it’s unlikely. Parking is strictly controlled and permitted in most areas.

While in SF, don’t forget to check out Union Square, Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Ghiradelli Chocolate Factory, and the plethora of museums like the Asian Art Museum and de Young Museum.

This is also a good place to get the classic “Mission Style” burrito, which is popular in Nor Cal. You can compare it to the “California” burrito more popular in SoCal when you get to LA (but in my opinion, if you want a real California burrito, you need to keep going until you hit San Diego.)

If you rent a car for this road trip, you can pick up a rental car at the San Francisco International Airport. Most local camper van rental options allow pickups at the airport as well.

2. Santa Cruz

About 100 miles south of San Francisco and 50 miles past Half Moon Bay is the small beach town of Santa Cruz. This makes a great first stop. There are lots of state-run campgrounds, many of them tucked into the redwood trees or right on the beach. Nisene Marks is a popular choice about ten miles south of Santa Cruz.

While you’re in town, check out the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk, or hit up West Cliff Drive to check out the surf. There’s a cute little downtown with shops and restaurants and beautiful hiking trails just north of the city in Wilder Ranch.

3. Monterey

A short drive south of Santa Cruz (about 1 hour if traffic is good) is Monterey, a coastal town known as the setting of the hit HBO series Big Little Lies . If tracking down spots from the show is something you’re interested in, check out Happy Girl Kitchen , Garrapata State Park , and Lovers Point Park .

Monterey is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium , one of the most famous aquariums in the world. It’s right on the coast, so you’ll not only see beautiful fish, sea otters, penguins, and jellyfish inside the aquarium but also sea lions, dolphins, and whales in the Pacific Ocean right outside. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak and paddle out into the bay.

Veteran’s Memorial State Park is a good spot for camping here. Carmel By the Sea isn’t too far away and makes a nice brunch or coffee visit.

If there’s one spot you absolutely should not miss on a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, it’s Big Sur. It’s a rugged headland just 30 miles south of Monterey, boasting some of the most spectacular scenery on the West Coast. It offers plenty of State-run campsites and BLM land. Kirk’s Creek and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are good camp spots.

Big Sur is a nice place to stop and recharge – it’s remote and unpopulated, so you’ll be roughing it a bit more than in other places. Take in the scenery, hike, and spend time on the beach (Jules Pfeiffer Beach is a nice one.) Bixby Creek Bridge has reopened since its collapse in 2021, so you can also drive across this world-famous site.

5. San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is about 170 miles south of Big Sur and home to one of the best-preserved missions on the California coast. If history is your thing, this is a great spot to learn about the Spanish occupation of California and the impact of that occupation on the Native people of the region.

You can also check out the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden , and this is a good jumping-off point to visit Hearst Castle and Elephant Seal Vista Point in San Simeon. On the way, check out Morro Bay, a sleepy little harbor town that makes a nice lunchtime stop.

The city of Solvang is a cute Danish town that looks like it was lifted right out of Holland and plopped in the middle of California. You’ll find an eclectic mix of California wine and cuisine and European bakeries, coffee shops, and windmills.

The town is about 70 miles south of SLO and 35 miles north of Santa Barbara. We don’t recommend spending a night there, but it makes a good lunch stop.

7. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara marks for some the official separation between NorCal and SoCal. It’s about 100 miles south of SLO, and the biggest city you’ll have seen since San Francisco, if you follow this road trip guide.

Santa Barbara is an affluent university town and home to many celebrities. This is relevant because it means prices are high and camping spots are limited. You should plan to camp well outside the city or even stop for the day and continue to your next destination. While in town, check out the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden .

8. Channels Islands National Park

The Channel Islands are a breathtaking string of five islands just off the California coast. You can get to the islands of Santa Cruz and Anacapa by ferry year-round , and to the outer islands of Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara from March through November.

If you can spare a day of your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip to get out to these islands, you should absolutely do it. They are unpopulated and rugged and offer some of the most incredible hiking and scenery in the state.

9. Catalina

Another popular island destination off the California coast is Catalina. A very different vibe from the Channel Islands, this populated island has two main ports: Avalon and Twin Harbors. The town of Avalon offers a slice of Mediterranean escape, while Twin Harbors has camping and hiking trails.

If you get a chance, a trip out to the island of Catalina is a great way to spend a day. There are regular ferries from San Pedro port in Long Beach and from Dana Point.

10. Los Angeles

Unless you plan to go to the Channel Islands or Catalina, I recommend making the drive from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles in one shot. There’s not much to see in Long Beach or Ventura; the real highlight of this part of the journey is driving along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Once you get into LA, Malibu Creek Campground or Musch Trail Camp are possible camping spots, or you could just head out to Los Padres National Forest for a better camping experience. The list of things to do in LA is almost endless, but some popular options include the Hollywood sign, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and the plethora of bars and restaurants all over the city.

Your San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

A San Francisco road trip to Los Angeles is an unforgettable journey . From the redwood forests of San Francisco to the sandy beaches of SoCal, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a diverse and exciting set of experiences.

Make sure to plan your road trip ahead and prepare for busy campsites , particularly in the summer and fall. Don’t forget your swimsuit, and make sure to bring your biggest burrito-loving appetite!

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Explore > Destinations > Los Angeles > The Ultimate San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

The Ultimate San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Route 66 doesn’t have anything on cali’s coastal highway 1.

If you time it right, avoiding rush hour traffic around both cities, the 383-mile drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles takes less than six-and-a-half hours. But road trips are about the journey, not the destination—and the scenic route from SF to LA is one of the most breath-taking in the U.S. So, why not take your time and enjoy a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip that you’ll never forget?

Leaving San Francisco

Sunset view of the Golden Gate Bridge and fog from Battery Spencer, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, in San Francisco, California, when leaving the city to go on a SF to LA road trip.

Whether you’re coming from your home or a San Francisco hotel , there are probably a few last sights you want to see before saying goodbye to the city by the bay. Schedule in a little time to enjoy one last bowl of chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf or to do some last-minute shopping at Union Square before hopping in the car and heading south.

If you want to splurge and travel in style, look for car rentals in San Francisco to cruise down Pacific Coast Highway in a convertible or the classic car of your dreams for really great photo ops. On your way out of town, take one last look at the Golden Gate as your adventure begins.

Half Moon Bay

Just 30 miles south of San Francisco, you’ll find the small coastal city of Half Moon Bay. If your legs are getting stiff, get out and stretch them with a walk along Main Street, which is home to an impressive array of shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

A stop at Half Moon Bay isn’t complete without a visit to Mavericks, a world-famous surfing spot that can see massive waves ranging from 25 to 60 feet high.

USA-Santa Cruz-Natural Bridges State Beach at sunset while on a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Your California coast road trip continues south through Pescadero, above Año Nuevo State Reserve, and into Santa Cruz. One of California’s most beloved and unique beach towns, Santa Cruz boasts the longest pier on the West Coast, famous surf spots, a beachfront amusement park, a lighthouse, and more.

At the end of the day, stop by Natural Bridges State to watch the sun go down behind the park’s namesake rock formation. You won’t have trouble finding great places to stay in Santa Cruz , so be sure to make the most of your time.

A pod of long-beaked common dolphins leap out of the water in Monterey Bay, California.

Curling south along the coast takes you to the city of Monterey, a central coast city initially made famous by John Steinbeck. While the sardine industry is long gone, you can still visit Cannery Row—the setting of two of Steinbeck’s novels—which is now home to popular restaurants and hotels located in warehouses that used to be sardine canneries.

A visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must. Even if you have to fight a crowd, the giant Pacific octopus, Open Sea and Kelp Forest exhibits, and other displays are worth your time. You can even walk out onto ocean-view decks to try to catch a glimpse of migrating whales out in the bay.

17-Mile Drive and Carmel-by-the-Sea

17 Miles Drive at Highway 1 in California is one of the beautiful views you can stop and see while on a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

If you’re looking to make this the best road trip possible, be sure to take some extra time to enjoy 17-Mile Drive. The scenic route takes you out on the Monterey Peninsula, through Pacific Grove, along the renowned Pebble Beach golf course. Bring cash for the $10.50 admission to the road but know that it will be reimbursed if you spend more than $35 at a Pebble Beach restaurant.

After marveling at the picturesque views of 17-Mile Drive, you’ll arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal town filled with shops and restaurants that is perfect for getting some fresh air before continuing your journey south.

Seascape in Big Sur in California while driving through the coast of San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The next stop on your West Coast road trip itinerary is Big Sur, where you might choose to spend a night or two to enjoy all the hiking and scenic vistas the area has to offer. You’ll have plenty of hotels and campsites to choose from, but be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time as they can fill up quickly.

While it’s easy to find breath-taking views throughout Big Sur, you can’t miss the chance to take the quick hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see the 80-foot McWay Falls cascading down to the Pacific.

Male, Female and Baby, Elephant Seals enjoy life on the beach in San Simeon California.

As you enter San Simeon, the zebras running along the hills next to Highway 1 might initially come as a shock. The animals actually live on the property of Hearst Castle and are descendants of zebras that were part of William Randolph Hearst’s private zoo. The opulent residence offers several daily tours, but tours often sell out ahead of time, so book in advance.

The elephant seal rookery on the coast just north of San Simeon is one of the truly can’t-miss Pacific Coast Highway stops. It’s one of the best places in the world to see elephant seals in their natural environment, and there is ample free parking to view the mammals that can reach up to 16 feet long and weigh as much as 5,000 pounds.

Morro Bay and Pismo Beach

Kitesurfing in the evening at Morro Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful stops by driving the road trip down from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Farther south in San Luis Obispo lies Morro Bay, a small town with one of the most recognizable rock formations on the California coast, Morro Rock. The rock is an ancient volcanic plug that now serves as an excellent photo op on any coastal trip.

Known as the Clam Capital of the World, Pismo Beach is an authentic beach town with great seafood and views of the coastline. Nearby Monarch Butterfly Grove is home to thousands of monarchs in the fall and winter as well as year-round hiking.

If you’re willing to drift away from the coast a bit, Solvang is an excellent addition to your California road trip. The windmills, Danish architecture, and horse-drawn carriages will make you feel like you’ve left California behind. And the tasting rooms of nearby Santa Ynez wineries provide a local flavor that can’t be found elsewhere.

Santa Barbara

With Mediterranean-inspired architecture and a climate to match, Santa Barbara is often referred to as the American Riviera. State Street is the place to go to find top-notch shopping and lively nightlife as the sun sets restaurants and bars grow crowded.

During the day, visit Stearns Wharf for sweeping views of the ocean, or head to the Santa Barbara Mission to relax and soak in some history.

Los Angeles

You’ve completed your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, but the fun isn’t over. From hitting the beach in Malibu to hiking at Griffith Park, there is so much to do in town that you will want to find a room at one of the best hotels in LA and stay awhile. Be warned, though, that to see all of Los Angeles, you’ll need to do a lot of driving. So, after all the driving you’ve just done, it might be a good idea to look at car rentals in LA to find a new vehicle to drive around Tinsel Town in style.

Header Image Via kan_khampanya / Shutterstock

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip | San Francisco to Los Angeles

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: January 11, 2024

Categories California , Road Trips , Travel Guides

The Pacific Coast Highway, AKA Highway 1, is one of the most stunning scenic drives in the U.S. The highway stretches 655.8 miles long. In this specific road trip itinerary, we will be covering the section of Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles, CA.

View of Bixby Bridge along the Pacific Coast Highway

There are so many stunning views from the road and many highway pull-offs that will simply blow you away. And if you want to venture out of the car, there are even more incredible sights.

Jake and I spent a week traveling this beautiful section of coast to find all the most beautiful sights. There are TONS of stops along the Pacific Coast Highway, and many different State Parks to enjoy. But ultimately, you just need to decide what resonates with you and can fit in your itinerary.

This itinerary leaves from the San Francisco Bay Area. If you are looking explore SF and the Bay Area specifically, be sure to check out our Ultimate San Francisco Road Trip .

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

HALF MOON BAY:

Mavericks beach.

After leaving San Francisco, the first stop on the Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip is Mavericks Beach. It is a legendary spot for surfers during the months of November to March.

After a strong winter storm in the Northern Pacific Ocean, waves in Mavericks Beach can be over 50 feet tall. This is not a beginner surfers area, and you have to be tracking the weather to know when the best waves will come.

It is also a local spot for a nature walk. We parked at Tide Pools Parking Lot and walked the nature trail along the shore. If you get lucky you might be able to spot some great surfing following a winter storm.

Davenport Pier:

The Davenport pier is the remains of a old pier. The pier (aka: wharf) was built back in 1867 as a way for ships to transport lumber from the hills to Santa Cruz. But the only thing that remains is the concrete pillars the pier once stood on.

Many people venture here to see the history and get a popular Instagram photo of someone swinging in the remains of the old pier (which often gets torn down). You can grab a view from the top of the bluffs or you can hike down to the water. But beware because it is a super steep trail down to the beach.

Shark Fin Cove:

The next stop on the Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip is Shark Fin Cove. It got its name from a rock in this bay that replicates a shark fin. There is no parking lot for this short hike, rather a highway pull-off.

You follow a dirt path to a steep stair-like path down to the ocean floor. Be careful, because it is a man-made path where it can be easy to lose your grip. This can be a great spot to see a beautiful West Coast sunset!

SANTA CRUZ:

Santa Cruz Wharf:

Santa Cruz, a city on Monterey Bay, is most known for its wharf and surfer culture. The wharf is great for sightseeing, dining and shopping.

You can even see birds, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions and sometimes whales from the wharf.

Just a short walk from the wharf you will find the Santa Cruz Boardwalk with a ferris wheel, roller coasters, games, food, etc. Santa Cruz is a popular tourist stop along the Pacific Coast Highway California road trip to get the ultimate feel of West Coast California.

Waterfront Walk:

Multiple surfers surfing the same wave in Santa Cruz

Walk along Santa Cruz’s many scenic walks along the coast. You will see many surfer’s out and people playing in the sand. Choose from these 5 scenic waterfront walks along the Pacific Coast Highway if you are looking for exercise surrounded by California’s beauty.

Santa Cruz Brewery:

If you know us, then you know we stopped at a few breweries along the road trip. Santa Cruz Brewery had a very cool vibe and great artwork. Plus they had an awesome taco truck out back that was very reasonably priced.

There was limited inside seating but plenty of outdoor seating with heaters for those colder months. We highly suggest taking a pit stop here!

Lovers Point Park:

Across Monterey Bay to the south is another stop is Lover’s Point Park. Lover’s Point Park is a marine reserve protected park in the cute seaside town of Pacific Grove.

There is a beautiful walk along the ocean to take in the views of aqua blue water with nature surrounding you. There is also a great beach off the shore where many people hang out during the hotter months.

“Big Sur” is the largest portion of this road trip. It’s famous for massive cliff and mountains that rise out of the Pacific Ocean. The area of Big Sur is loosely used to refer to the coast between the towns of Carmel By The Sea (North) and San Simeon (South).

In our opinion it is the most beautiful stretch along the Pacific Coast Highway. Also, don’t expect to have much cell service in the area.

Carmel by the sea:

Carmel by the sea is a unique beach town known for its village-like setting with old historic cottages aligned with history.

Therefore, one thing you must do while visiting Carmel-by-the-sea is walk downtown. There are many shops, restaurants and great photography opportunities.

Also, we suggest walking down to the beach afterword to take in the view of the coast. You also might catch some surfers or many people enjoying the ocean.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve:

One fun thing to do while in Carmel by the sea is to visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. There is an admission fee, but there are many beautiful hikes where you can catch some fresh air and enjoy the beautiful natural reserve along the Pacific Coast Highway.

There is great opportunities to see birds and marine wildlife.

Two of our favorite hikes in the area were: Cypress Grove Trail & China Cove

If you are up for a real adventure consider scuba diving the natural reserve. The offshore is known to be one of the richest underwater habitats in the world.

Bixby, Rocky, And Big Creek Bridges:

Next up on the Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip are three famous bridges: Bixby Creek, Rocky Creek, and Big Creek.

The most famous one is probably Bixby Creek Bridge. If you have ever seen a photo from the Pacific Coast Highway then you most likely saw this bridge. The bridge was established in 1932.

There is a highway pull-offs near all of these bridges so you can snag one of the famous Bixby Bridge Photos.

Pfeiffer Beach:

Pfeiffer Beach has blown up in popularity over the years. It truly is a beautiful beach in the Big Sur area. Many surfers come to this location to catch some waves, while others come to enjoy the beauty.

The beach is surrounded by bluffs and large rock formations that remain standing in the ocean today. You can sit and watch the waves crash into the rocks and take in the beauty of the ocean.

Be sure to check this spot out early in the day, as it often fills up and they only allow a certain amount of people in per day (small daily fee required).

McWay Falls:

I think the coolest viewpoint along the whole Pacific Coast Highway is McWay Falls. There is a highway pull-off right along the highway where you can grab an awesome view of these falls. The water is bright aqua blue with a waterfall streaming down over a bluff.

You can go into Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to walk to a viewpoint, but we think the better view is from the highway pull off (pictured above).

Salmon Creek Falls:

Jake and Emily perched on a rock looking out to the Salmon Creek Waterfall about .3 miles from the Pacific Coast Highway

Salmon Creek Falls is a hidden gem along the Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip. It’s a short hike right off the highway to a beautiful mossy waterfall.

Salmon Creek Falls is a rather easy hike that stretched .3 miles roundtrip. It’s a great way to get out of the car and stretch your legs.

Though, the last little section to get right up to the falls itself required a little climbing over rocks. Otherwise you can view the falls from a little farther downstream.

Elephant Seal Vista Point:

50+ Elephant seals lined up on the beach along Pacific Coast Highway

Another cool viewpoint is the Elephant Seal Vista Point. The whole beach is lined with elephant seals. It’s like a natural zoo for Elephant Seals. You will hear many of them barking, flipping sand onto themselves to stay cool and many fights for territory between a few seals. It’s really an entertaining sight!

Note : This is where you will finally get cell-phone service again after driving the Big Sur stretch.

Morro Rock:

Morro Bay is iconically known for Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound. Great leisure activities in the area consist of sailing, fishing, biking, hiking and bird watching. You can easily walk around the bay to grab a nice picture of Morro Rock.

Montana de Oro State Park:

This State Park took us by surprise. It’s most known for its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, and the stunning Valencia Peak.

Our favorite trail was Montana Del Oro Bluff Trail which followed along the coastal bluffs, with many spur trails to the ocean floor. There are many beautiful hikes in the area, you could easily spend multiple days exploring.

PISMO BEACH:

Wooly’s:.

If you are looking for great food at a great price, check into Wooly’s. We were looking for a seafood place that had a good environment, location on the beach and a great alcohol selection without breaking the bank.

And for all my Wisconsin lovers out there, they have CHEESECURDS!! Plus I got a delicious seafood roll with lobster, crab, shrimp and bacon which I highly recommend. Jake got the fish and chips which were splendid too!

Emily holding a seafood roll in hand from Wooly's Pismo Beach

They also have a great Happy Hour , so if you are around on the weekdays, be sure to check it out.

SANTA BARBARA:

Santa Barbara is the city with those beautiful spanish colonial heritage houses and the stunning view of the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Explore Downtown:

One fun thing to do is explore the town of Santa Barbara. But if you are on a budget, this might be a scenic shopping trip rather than a purchasing shopping trip. The town is lined with upscale shops and restaurants.

Another super fun activity to do in the area is go on a wine tour. Santa Barabara has an assortment of vineyards in the area, where you can taste some of the finest wines. You can book a guided wine tour where they will drive you around to different vineyards or you can self guide yourself to different vineyards in the area, but make sure you have a DD.

Scenic Drive:

Malibu is an upscale suburb of LA where you can see the beautiful million dollar dream mansions that line the coast. If you are following the Pacific Coast Highway then you will automatically see some of these famous houses along the route.

And if you are feeling adventurous, drive around some of the surrounding neighborhoods and you will see some massive mansions.

Zuma and El Matador Beaches:

Malibu is also known for its beautiful white sandy Zuma Beach, and rocky El Matador Beach.

Zuma Beach can be accessed right from the highway. You will find many surfers and people swimming around the shore.

El Matador State Beach has cliffs, arches, and caves that are a photographers dream. It does require a steep staircase to get down to the beach from the parking lot.

Solstice Canyon Hike:

If you are up for an adventure, then you could hike the short 3.2 mile hike to Solstice Canyon . You will encounter stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and end at a waterfall.

SANTA MONICA:

Jake has family in Santa Monica so we explore this beautiful city a little extra. Santa Monica has many of the most famous oceanfront attractions in Los Angeles.

Topanga State Park:

Jake’s Uncle volunteers as a docent at Topanga State Park, so we went on a guided tour and got to learn all about the different plant life and animals that live within this State Park.

There are a variety of beautiful hikes within the park, but we would suggest Musch Trail To Eagle Rock . It’s a 4.4 mile hike with 921 feet elevation gain. It leads you up a beautiful luscious path to a stunning view of the ocean.

Santa Monica Pier:

Santa Monica is known for its boardwalk. Which is also the endpoint of the famous Route 66. It has many different shops, restaurants, entertainment and an amusement park. It’s both great during the day or nighttime with the beautiful lights.

Marvin Braude Bike Trail:

One of our favorite things we did in the area was ride on the Marvin Braude bike path that parallels the Venice Beach Boardwalk and the pacific ocean. Many people ride bikes, rent scooters or walk on the path parallel.

The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a famous location that has many different cultures that line the beach. Be sure to check out Muscle Beach and the Venice Skate Park .

Stout Burger & Beers:

This place might have the best burgers in town! We had a friend working here, so we decided to stop by and it definitely has some tasty food and had a great selection of beers!

Plus they have a cool patio outside with a view of the ocean in the distance.

And be sure to leave room for desert, because there is a brownie sundae on the menu, and it is HUGE! More than enough to share!

LOS ANGELES:

You made it to the end point! Now time to explore to massive city of Los Angeles! Some popular activities are:

Hollywood Sign:

Of course, if you’re in Los Angeles, you gotta check out the famous Hollywood Sign. There are a few different hiking trails you can take to get a great view. But because of the smog in the area, the view of Hollywood itself is sometimes too foggy to see.

We took the trail to the Griffith Observatory where you could see the Hollywood sign in the distance! Expect most of the trails in the area to be busy.

Universal Studios:

Be the audience on one of your favorite shows. Jake and I are fans of the show “The Voice”, so we signed up to get tickets on 1iota and actually got tickets!

If you are planning this trip in advance, you can apply to all sorts of shows! A dream of mine is still to be on “The Price is Right”!

Honorable Mention:

Garrapata state park:.

At this point of the trip, we felt like we had seen so much beauty of the ocean, we had to start picking and choosing where to spend our money. But Garrapata State Park is a stunning area with many coastal hikes into the dense Redwood Forest.

You can catch some of the most stunning views in the area of the Pacific Coast. If you want to visit Garrapata State Park add this right after Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. One very popular hike in the area is Soberanes Canyon .

Arroyo Seco:

A cool cliff jumping spot South of San Francisco is the Arroyo Seco. But beware, it’s difficult to get to. For more details check out the Outbound Collective .

Slates Hot Springs:

One stop along the road trip we wanted to hit up were the Slates Hot Springs, but you need reservations before you go. You can make reservations here . These hot springs are in a retreat center and clothing is optional.

Andrew Molera State Park:

This is a relatively undeveloped State Park in California. It offers hiking trails, bluffs, beaches and hilltops. It one of the less popular State Parks in the area, so if you are trying to escape the crowds, this might be a great stop for you.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:

Near Pfeiffer Beach, you will find Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and has the nickname of “mini Yosemite”. It has many trails that wind through beautiful redwood groves. It’s also a great spot to camp if you snag reservations for the campground in advance.

Limekiln State Park:

Another beautiful spot along the Pacific Coast Highway is Limekiln State Park. It’s a great spot to camp if you are lucky to grab a reservation . A popular hike in the area is Cascade on Hare Creek which is through a redwood grove and follows a beautiful creek to a waterfall.

The Two Roaming Souls Campervan on the ridge above the Pacific Coast Highway

Camping/Accomodation Along The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip From San Francisco to Los Angeles:

We used the app iOverlander to find spots to camp along Hwy 1. Many of the spots were either highway pull-offs or public land spots that were well off the highway. Some of the spots we stayed at, may or may not still be viable choices, that’s why we left them out. But we did this whole road trip from our campervan so we could take it at a leisurely pace.

The picture from above is from Plaskett Ridge. It was one of the craziest drives we have ever done. But if you have a capable 4×4 high-clearance vehicle, it has some of the coolest campsites in the whole country , perched thousands of feet up in the mountains looking over the Pacific Ocean. We didn’t make it all the way because the road got too gnarly for our RWD campervan.

If you want to ensure you have a campsite, then there are many campgrounds around the area, but do note you will need to book them well in advance. There are also many luxurious hotels along the route if budget isn’t an issue!

Hotels or VRBO’s:

If camping isn’t your thing, there are tons of great hotels and vacation rental homes in many of the coastal towns. You can find great deals on Kayak to book hotels along the route. Or browse VRBO for more home-like rentals.

Takeaway For The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip | San Francisco to Los Angeles

This truly is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. and definitely should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Prepare to see epic mountains and cliffs dramatically rising from the ocean, beautifully remote coastal forests, and laid-back seaside towns. You can make the road trip as long or as short as you would like.

From San Francisco to Los Angeles, Highway 1 is only 442 miles, so you could easily drive this in 1 or 2 days. But in order to enjoy its true beauty, we suggest taking 5-7days.

We hope you enjoy this guide to the Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip!

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15 incredible stops on a los angeles to san francisco road trip.

With its whopping 800+ miles, California is like the holy grail of road trips. Countless tourists come here each year to drive all over the state, and you can go in almost any direction in the state and have a fun drive. However, one of the top picks has to be the classic Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip along Highway 1.

I love this route so much that I’ve actually done it twice, and I have no doubt I’ll do it again in the future. The first was a quick drive along the highway with a few stops here and there, but my last time was a leisurely 5-day trip there. It’s hard to beat a drive that hugs the stunning Pacific Ocean for most of it, plus there are so many fun stops to make along the way. I always wish I had more time on this trip, so I can’t wait to go back again.

There are so many potential places to stop on this road trip from LA to San Francisco, so this article will give you all the different options to choose from. I’ll also give you my best advice to prepare for the drive based on my experience, and I’ll also give you two sample itineraries on this trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco, so let’s get planning!

Table of Contents

Tips for Planning a Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive

I recommend planning your trip in advance when you do a trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco by car so you don’t miss any stops along the way. Here are some tips to help you start crafting your itinerary.

How long is the road trip from LA to San Francisco?

One of the first questions you may have is how long is the road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco. If you were to drive straight without stopping and just take I-5, the driving time from Los Angeles to San Francisco is about six hours (which, of course, does not include the infamous LA traffic!).

However, you’ll want to do a LA to San Francisco drive on Highway 1 because there are so many beautiful places to see. You can complete the drive in about eight to ten hours if you don’t stop much, but I recommend spending several days to fully explore each area. This post includes a suggested itinerary for an LA to SF road trip, but you can make it as short or as long as you want.

How far is it from LA to San Francisco by car?

If you drive straight from Los Angeles to San Francisco on I-5, it’s about 383 miles. However, the most scenic route is along Highway 101, and that route will be about 430 miles. Believe me, it’s worth the extra miles for the views you’ll get!

What’s the best time to do a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip?

When is the best time to drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco? It depends on you and your itinerary.

The months of September through November and March through May offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists than the summer months. Typically, temperatures are more pleasant, and tourist numbers are lower than in the summer. I’ve done this trip in the spring, and it was great – sunny weather and no rain.

The months of June through August are ideal for a road trip through California if you want to soak up the state’s signature summer mood and enjoy the beaches. However, it’s also the time to visit the state, so you’ll encounter more traffic and have long waits at restaurants.

Also, think about any festivals or celebrations you might like to stop at along the journey based on the time of year. Examples include the months of September and October being ideal for a trip to the Central Coast wine areas if wine tasting is on your agenda. The best months to watch monarch butterflies are November and December.

For a longer road trip, check out the drive to Los Angeles from Seattle .

What to pack for a drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco

You’ll want to have the right items with you on a drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco, so check out my essentials for a road trip post for a full list.

Here are my top recommendations to bring with you:

Emergency roadside kit – You never know when you might need to perform a last-minute repair on your car, so it’s important to have this in your trunk during your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip.
Reusable water bottle – Save plastic water bottles and refill this instead during your trip.
Reusable coffee mu g – Similarly, save paper coffee cups and instead get your morning coffee filled up in this each day.
USB car chargers – There are so many scenic places along the way, so make sure your phone and camera are always charged.
Came ra – You’ll want to take hundreds of pictures, so this is essential to have.
Snacks – Save money by bringing your own snacks.

Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip map

I always find it helpful to visually see the places I want to stop, so here is a map of the general route and the recommended stops you’ll be checking out while driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

How to pick a rental car

There are parts of Highway 1 that are narrow and windy, so I don’t recommend picking a large vehicle if you can help it. A medium-sized vehicle is perfect for your road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco so you can fit your passengers and be able to fit into any stops you make along the way.

You can reserve a car in advance in Los Angeles and arrange to drop it off in San Francisco (or vice versa if you’re doing an SF to LA road trip). I love using Discover Cars when I travel since they always have a wide range of vehicles to choose from.

15 Places to Stop on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

There are so many amazing places to stop when driving from LA to San Francisco, but here are my favorite ones.

1. Redondo Beach

I recommend stopping at Redondo Beach at the beginning of your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip for a relaxing start to your vacation. You can visit Redondo Pier to go shopping, stop at a brewery, get ice cream, or have lunch with a view.

You can also walk along the marina and daydream about having your own sailboat or yacht. If you’re staying at one of the hotels in the area, stop at Bluewater Grill for local seafood to enjoy while the sun goes down.

If you have time, check out what to do in Huntington Beach before you begin, known as Surf City USA.

Want to visit a national park? Go on a Sequoia road trip from San Francisco .

2. Los Angeles

There’s plenty to do in Los Angeles, such as visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art , also known as the LACMA . When you first get there, take the time to walk around outside to see the unique public art. Urban Light, the sculpture with 202 lamp posts, is at the Wilshire Boulevard entrance and is so popular that people hang out all night around it.

You can also visit The Grove , which is an outdoor shopping center that’s a fun place to window shop and is also known for celebrity sightings. There are plenty of places to sit outside, and people watch or just enjoy the sun.

Feel like making a detour on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip itinerary? The LA to Tahoe drive is a beautiful one, or you can do a road trip to Palm Springs from LA .

3. Santa Monica

west coast road trip los angeles 850x567 1

Another fun area to visit in the area is Santa Monica, which always has something going on. There are dozens of different shops to stop at if you’re in the mood for shopping.

If you prefer to be more active, you can walk along the beach and see the original Muscle Beach , where you’ll see people doing challenging tricks on rings and bars. You should also take a ride on the Ferris wheel for an incredible view of the beach from up high.

You should try both The Lobster and Huckleberry Cafe if you’re in Santa Monica. In addition to its prime location on Ocean Avenue, The Lobster has amazing fresh seafood with a California flare, along with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Lobster rolls, crab cakes, and artisanal cocktails are what this eatery is famous for.

Huckleberry Cafe is on Wilshire Boulevard and serves up tasty breakfast and brunch selections. The menu at this cafe includes both sweet and savory options, such as pastries, sandwiches, and salads made using organic, locally sourced ingredients.

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

If you came to California in hopes of spotting a celebrity, Malibu may be your best bet. Tons of Hollywood stars call Malibu home, so you may see them around at the local restaurants.

Duke’s Malibu is a popular place for Hawaiian food and tropical drinks, plus you’ll get a great view of the water. If you feel like treating yourself, stop by the infamous Nobu restaurant for Japanese food.

Surfrider Beach , located next to the historic Malibu Pier, is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers alike. Other notable beaches in Malibu include Zuma Beach, El Matador State Beach, and Point Dume State Beach . These all offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and are great spots for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Love the ocean? Check out this scenic drive from Seattle to Cannon Beach .

5. Santa Barbara

This LA to San Francisco road trip was the first time I’d been able to stop in the town of Santa Barbara, even though I’d explored other towns around it before. It was such a cute town, and I wish I had more time to walk through all of it.

For a unique experience, drive onto Stearns Wharf (you can drive right onto the pier and park for free for 90 minutes) to have lunch at the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company . This is a great place to get local seafood while having an ocean view, and is also one of the most romantic getaways in the US .

Visit The Lark if you’re looking for another amazing restaurant in Santa Barbara. The Lark serves up farm-to-table cuisine in the historic Santa Barbara Fish Market structure, so you may sample the bounty of the Central Coast of California without leaving the building. They also feature a wide variety of artisanal drinks, including beer and wine.

If you’re a coffee connoisseur in Santa Barbara, you must stop by Handlebar Coffee Roasters . Situated in the heart of the Funk Zone, this coffee house roasts its own beans and serves a variety of espresso beverages, pour-overs, and cold brews. I loved stopping here to unwind on my LA to SFO road trip with a cup of coffee because of its light and airy decor.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

Want to feel like you’ve been transported to The Netherlands? Then head to the adorable city of Solvang when driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco! The Solvang Village Square is a focal point of the town that has various shops and restaurants serving both traditional Danish and other cuisines. The Bit O’ Denmark Restaurant is one I recommend that has authentic Danish fare like aebleskiver and smorrebrod.

Solvang also has plenty of amazing wineries that you’ll love if you’re a wine enthusiast. Kalyra Winery is one of the more popular ones, which was made famous by the movie Sideways . You’ll love having a glass of wine as you take a break on your road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

If you want an exciting end to a trip, go on a San Francisco to Las Vegas drive .

7. Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach may be my favorite town on this list because I loved the relaxed, casual vibe it had. There are several beachside hotels to stay at, which I recommend splurging on for an incredible view when you wake up. My favorite thing to do here was just walking along the beach and watching both the sunrise and sunset each night.

For an adventure to put on your LA to San Francisco itinerary, head to Oceano Dunes to drive on the sand dunes. One of my favorite photographers, Chris Burkard , has his studio there, and I highly recommend stopping by to pick up a few of his works.

One Pismo Beach restaurant that’s worth checking out is Ventana Grill . Perched on a cliff above the water, this eatery offers a menu that takes inspiration from Latin America but is uniquely Californian. Highlights of the menu include chipotle shrimp tacos, chile relleno, and grilled steak with chimichurri sauce. For dessert, I recommend the churros or the chocolate tamale.

You’ll love the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite or the road trip from San Francisco to Joshua Tree if you enjoy national parks.

8. Hearst Castle

Save a few hours during your LA to San Francisco road trip to visit Hearst Castle, which is an incredible sight. They have multiple tours for different parts of this castle because it’s so giant. You’ll take a bus up the steep hill this is located on, but the views from the top are incredible.

I recommend doing tours of the grand rooms, but you can also see the kitchens or the bedrooms. Make sure to check out the outside as well, with its extravagant gardens and Olympic-sized swimming pool.

The drive from Los Angeles to Sequoia National Park is another fun one.

9. McWay Waterfall Trail

There are multiple places to stop on your drive from LA to San Francisco, but this one is unique because of this iconic waterfall. Chances are you’ve seen this in photos before, as it’s mesmerizing staring at the waterfall “falling” into the Pacific Ocean.

I didn’t want to leave the waterfall, and I wished I brought my camera with me to take better photos of this! Make sure to leave time to stop here on your trip.

10. Pfeiffer Beach

While there are a lot of beaches in California, this one stands out because the sand is purple. You do have to look closely to see the purple (and it’s really hard to see in this picture, but I promise it is!), as parts of the beach looked normal to me.

Admission is $12 to enter , but I recommend stopping here to get some photos. It’s also less crowded than many other beaches, so you’ll have more of it to yourself.

11. Bixby Creek Bridge

You’ll have to drive over this famous bridge on your LA to San Fran road trip anyways, so you might as well stop to get some pictures. The bridge was featured in Big Little Lies and several other shows, so you’ll likely recognize it. There is a safe spot to park just north of the bridge to take photos (don’t walk onto the bridge!).

Carmel is another town that had a relaxed feel that I loved. You can visit Carmel Beach if you want to walk along the sand or dip your toes in the water.

The Carmel Mission is a beautiful place to visit, and you can visit the museum to learn more about its history back in the 1800s. If you want to do a little more shopping on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, head to Ocean Avenue to find a variety of shops.

13. Pebble Beach

The 17-Mile Road is an iconic destination for tourists in Pebble Beach. You’ll see beautiful Pacific Ocean vistas as you go along this path that heads toward the Pebble Beach coast. In addition to the Lone Cypress , one of the most photographed trees in the world, there are other vantage points along the trail.

Pebble Beach Golf Course is another iconic local attraction that you’ll love visiting if you’re a golfer. It’s worth going to the course, even if you don’t play golf, just to take in the breathtaking scenery of the sea and the rocky shoreline.

Dreaming of an even bigger trip? Take the drive from California to Arizona .

14. Monterey

Monterey is one of the best places to stop from Los Angeles to San Francisco because you can either have a relaxing time here or be active. There are plenty of wine shops to visit if you want to try out the local wine, which I highly recommend.

Old Fisherman’s Grotto is one of my go-to spots whenever I’m in Monterey. This restaurant has been open since 1950 and has many traditional seafood dishes in addition to pasta and steak. Alvarado Street Brewery is another great choice, with an extensive range of craft brews and delicious pub-style fare.

If you’re into scuba diving, you’ll want to head to Monterey Bay to take a dive in the kelp forest. This was unlike anything I’d seen before and felt like I was in a new world the further down I went. I recommend going early in the morning before it gets too windy out.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

15. San Francisco

You’ve made it to the end of your trip! Staying the night and getting to know the city is a great idea before you head home. The Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island are two iconic San Francisco attractions that I recommend seeing, even if they’re a bit touristy.

You can drive across the gorgeous Golden Gate Bridge , or you can walk or ride your bike across this famous monument. One of the most infamous jails in American history was housed on Alcatraz Island , in the center of the bay. You can take a ferry to the island, where you can see the old jail cells, discover the island’s fascinating history, and enjoy stunning views over the city.

Ready for more? You’ll love going on a drive from San Francisco to San Diego .

LA to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary: 3 Days

Here’s my itinerary so you can follow the same road trip from LA to San Francisco. You can also do this in reverse if you want to go on a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.

Day 1 – Los Angeles

los-angeles-to-san-francisco-road-trip-redondo-beach

On the first day of your 3 day road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco, you can fly into the Los Angeles International Airport.

There are plenty of places to check out during your one day in Los Angeles , so it’s helpful to create a short list of what you want to see first. You can start by heading over to Redondo Beach to relax and spend the afternoon walking along the water.

If you want to extend your trip, you can always drive from LA to Joshua Tree National Park or even drive from LA to the Grand Canyon .

You could also go down to Costa Mesa, where you’ll find fewer crowds and plenty to do. Make sure to check out some of the best places for brunch in Costa Mesa while you’re there.

For dinner, enjoy a beautiful dinner at Sea Level @ Shade. You’ll have an amazing view of the marina and be able to watch the sun go down. If you want to take some scenic drives from Los Angeles at sunset, you have many different options.

Looking for a longer drive? Check out my itinerary for a San Francisco to Seattle road trip !

Where to Stay: The Shade Redondo Beach Hotel is a beautiful hotel right on the water and a relaxing way to start your trip.

Day 2 – Los Angeles to Pismo Beach

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The next morning, it’s time to start exploring the Route 101 drive. There are so many places to stop, so I recommend getting an early start. Just a note, it takes about 3.5 hours to drive from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach, so keep that in mind while planning your drive for the day.

If you’re looking for some good beaches to stop at, you can stop in Santa Monica to visit the various shops there and visit the pier. Malibu is another popular place to stop, and you may even see a celebrity or two out on the waves.

For lunch, head up to Santa Barbara , where you have a variety of places to stop at. There are also plenty of shops around if you want a souvenir for your trip.

If you want a different but fun experience for lunch, you can stop at Cold Spring Tavern . This is an old stagecoach stop in the mountains with a restaurant and an old village behind it. You can even see the former jail (it’s tiny!). I highly recommend stopping here on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip. I’ll be honest – the food wasn’t amazing, but it’s a really quirky place, so worth the stop.

Before you leave Santa Barbara, you can stop by the Old Mission . The Mission is over 200 years old and has a cemetery, mausoleum, and landscaped gardens. If you want a relaxing afternoon, visit the Salt Cave for a massage or facial or a “salt cave session.”

On your way to your hotel, stop at Cachuma Lake . You can get in here for 20 minutes for free if you just want to drive around and take pictures. There are plenty of areas to have a picnic if you want to spend more time here as well.

After you’re done exploring the lake, it’s time to drive to Pismo Beach to check in to your hotel, which I think is one of the best places to visit on a LA to San Franciso road trip.

I thought I’d catch up on some work while I was here but was quickly distracted. I had my own patio overlooking the beach and could get onto the pier or on the beach within a minute, so that’s mainly what I spent time doing. It’s hard to want to do anything else with such a gorgeous sunset.

Where to Stay: You’re literally steps away from the beach when you stay at Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach , so it doesn’t get much better than that.

Day 3 – Pismo Beach to San Francisco

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During this part of your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, take some time to explore the cute town of Pismo Beach. You can get clam chowder at Splash Cafe for a delicious lunch.

For the next part of your trip, keep in mind that Pismo Beach to Carmel will take about 2.5 hours without stopping. On your way north, you can make a quick stop at Elephant Seal Vista Point . You’ll be able to see elephant seals basking in the sun.

After that, head over to Hearst Castle for a tour of the residence of former publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst. The tours cost $25-30 depending on which tour you do.

You’re probably hungry by now, so drive about 15 minutes north to Nepenthe . This restaurant is on top of a giant hill and has a stunning view of Big Sur. There’s also a bar and boutique store available, which is a popular stop on a San Francisco to Big Sur road trip .

If you just want a snack, you can stop at Big Sur Bakery . This is also the only place around that has Wi-Fi if you need it! That said, I should also mention you probably won’t have service until you get to Carmel, so plan accordingly.

Your next stop is Pfeiffer Beach , which has a sharp turn off Route 101 and then a 2-mile bumpy road to the bottom. It’s known for its sand that looks purple, depending on the lighting.

There are many pull-off spots on the Big Sur day trip, but the most famous is Bixby Creek Bridge , so make sure to stop here on the way north. I have an LA to Big Sur road trip itinerary if you’re short on time and just want to see this section.

For the last day of your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, I recommend getting a late flight out of San Francisco International Airport, so you have time to explore this stretch. It’s only about 2 hours from start to finish, but Carmel has a lot to offer.

You can start your morning relaxing on Carmel Beach or go shopping along Ocean Avenue . Another great place to stop is Point Lobos State Reserve , where you can go hiking and see wildlife.

You can head up to Monterey to grab lunch on Fisherman’s Wharf and do a bit of shopping. I also recommend visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium while you’re there, which is one of the best aquariums in the country.

Where to Stay : If you want to be right by the water, you’ll love staying at Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf , where you’ll have amazing views nearby.

LA to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary: 5 Days

If you have even more time, you’ll love this longer itinerary so you can explore some of my favorite coastal towns on this drive.

Day 1: Redondo Beach to Santa Monica

Redondo Beach is a great starting point for your journey because it’s such a cute beach town in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. You’ll love checking out the many eateries and stores that line the pier and port. When I was there, I started my days with a stroll along the waterfront, admiring the boats.

Go on to Los Angeles, where you can check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame . More than 2,600 stars honoring famous actors, musicians, and other public people are on the pavement at this popular attraction. If you’re looking for more things to do, Ovation Hollywood is just a short drive away and has plenty of restaurants, stores, and attractions to keep you occupied.

Then, head farther up the coast to Santa Monica and spend the afternoon there at the beach or on the Santa Monica Pier. Grab a bite to eat to go so you can walk along the pier and people-watch. You can rent bicycles to ride down the boardwalk or along the neighboring bike trails before calling it a night.

Where to Stay: A convenient place to stay for your first night is Shore Hotel , where you’ll have a private balcony and access to the pool.

Day 2: Malibu to Santa Barbara

On day 2 of your Los Angeles to San Franciso road trip, take a trip up the coast to Malibu, a coastal town with stunning beaches. Enjoy the beautiful beach and hillside scenery as you drive down Pacific Coast Highway. Visit one of the many beaches in the area, like El Matador Beach , known for its spectacular cliffs and towering rock formations.

After lunch, travel up the coast to Santa Barbara , a picturesque town known for its Spanish colonial beauty and beautiful waterfront vistas. The historic Santa Barbara Mission is a majestic church built in the 18th century that you’ll want to stop at during your time here. You can also relax at one of the beaches, such as Butterfly Beach.

Where to Stay: You’ll love staying right on the beach at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort .

Day 3: Solvang to Pismo Beach

To kick off the day, head east to Solvang , a picturesque Danish hamlet in the Santa Ynez Valley. Windmills, Danish pastries, and wine-tasting facilities make this one of the most unique towns in California. Visit one of the surrounding vineyards for a taste, or just stroll the main street and check out all the shops and eateries.

Then keep going westward until you reach Pismo Beach , one of my personal favorite stops on this trip. Long stretches of sand, fascinating tide pools, and tons of sea life to look at make it special. You can also go for an evening walk on the promenade, or you can rent a dune buggy and speed along the sand dunes.

Where to Stay: Enjoy quick access to the pier and beach with sliding glass doors on your room at Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach .

Day 4: Hearst Castle to Monterey

On the fourth day of your trip, head to Hearst Castle , a National Historic Landmark famous for its magnificent architecture, art collections, and beautiful gardens. I’m not always the biggest fan of tours, but this was one of the most surprisingly fun parts of my LA to SF road trip. You can see the castle’s Neptune Pool, Roman Pool, and the impressive Hearst Library on different guided tours.

Afterward, keep driving up the coast to Big Sur, where I highly recommend stopping at the McWay Waterfall Trail . The beautiful McWay Falls plunges 80 feet onto a private beach, and you’ll want to take plenty of pictures.

To end the night, head to Monterey, an oceanfront town with plenty of activities, restaurants, and shopping. Cannery Row is a busy seaside promenade dotted with shops and restaurants, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-renowned attraction displaying a wide diversity of aquatic life.

Where to Stay: Inn By the Bay Monterey is close to many popular attractions you’ll want to see.

Day 5: Pebble Beach to San Francisco

On your last day, you’ll head out from Pebble Beach to drive the magnificent 17-Mile Drive. This scenic route hugs the coastline and offers breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, nearby golf courses, and landmarks like the Lone Cypress tree. Some of the best viewpoints and scenic spots include Spanish Bay, Fanshell Beach, and Bird Cliff .

Next, visit Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, a hidden gem well worth the trek. The beach gained notoriety due to its stunning sunsets, granite rocks, and distinctive purple sand. Not far away is also the breathtaking Bixby Creek Bridge , which you’ll recognize from many popular shows and films.

San Francisco will be the final stop on your journey, and I recommend spending the night here. See the Golden Gate Bridge , one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States, and take a leisurely stroll down the waterfront in Fisherman’s Wharf , where you can enjoy a wide range of restaurants, shops, and even street entertainment.

Where to Stay: You’ll love being able to be close to the action at Hilton San Francisco Union Square .

You can either fly out of the San Jose International Airport or go further north to the San Francisco International Airport when you’re ready to head home.

If you have extra days, you can also go on a road trip from Portland to San Francisco to extend your trip.

No matter how much time you have for your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, I can guarantee you’ll enjoy all the scenery along the way!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

The Best Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

Get ready to set off on the quintessential California road trip from the vibrant streets of Los Angeles to the iconic vistas of San Francisco. This drive will take you from charming coastal towns to towering sequoias, and you will get to admire the vistas on the Pacific Coast Highway. This adventure is truly one of the best drives the Golden State can offer!

You can do this 560-mile road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco in 11 hours. On the way, you can visit Malibu, Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, San Simeon, Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, and Montara.

If you love driving through endless coastal views or want to visit some of the most beloved national parks in sunny Cali, then this sunny drive is for you. Read on to learn more about our recommended routes, where to stop overnight, the best time to travel, and the best things to see and do along the way.

Where is San Francisco and how far is a road trip from Los Angeles?

You'll have two wonderful routes that will take you on the ultimate adventure through California's famous landscapes. Both routes are gateways to the state's iconic natural beauty, exciting cities, and serene coastal towns. Each one has its own set of unique detours and attractions.

The Yosemite National Park Route takes you through the heart of California's wilderness. Here, you'll see the sequoias of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, the cliffs and waterfalls of Yosemite, and the city of Oakland before reaching San Francisco.

Steep winding Lombard Street in San Francisco leading to the city centre, colourful buildings on the right and the bridge in the far distance.

This journey covers about 560 miles and is recommended to be enjoyed over 3 to 4 days. This will give you plenty of time to explore the natural wonders and scenic beauty along the way.

The Monterey Route guides you along California's stunning coastline, featuring stops at the beaches of Malibu, Pismo Beach, and San Simeon. You'll then get to drive through Big Sur before reaching San Francisco.

This route also spans around 560 miles and is best experienced over 3 to 4 days to enjoy its awe-inspiring coastal beauty and fun communities.

How long is the road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco, and how many days will it take?

What is the best road trip route from los angeles to san francisco.

There is no best route for a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco. That being said, this is how our two routes stack up against each other, looking at some factors that might influence your decision.

Driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco via Monterey

On the Monterey Route, prepare yourself for an unforgettable coastal journey along the Pacific Coast Highway that showcases the best of California's scenic beauty.

Starting from world-famous Los Angeles, you'll drive along the coast, with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The road, known for its sharp turns, especially around Big Sur, demands attention but has some of the most picturesque scenery the West Coast offers.

Views of the perfect coastal road trip, winding roads and ocean views along the Pacific Coast Highway

As you drive along the PCH, you'll enjoy plenty of facilities in major cities and tourist destinations. Traffic along this route varies, with potential congestion in cities and popular tourist spots, particularly during peak travel seasons.

The Monterey Route features plenty of activities and attractions. Whether you're shopping and dining in Los Angeles and San Francisco, lounging on the beaches of Pismo Beach, or immersing yourself in nature in Big Sur, there's something for everyone.

If you are following this route, keep in mind that the area near Big Sur on the Pacific Coast Highway is susceptible to landslides, which can cause road closures. Please check before traveling, and plan accordingly.

Driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco via Yosemite National Park

On the Yosemite National Park Route, you'll travel through the heart of California's mountainous scenery. On the way, you'll weave through the wilderness of Sequoia & Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks.

The drive features mountainous passes and winding roads. While the roads are well-maintained, navigating through these conditions can be challenging, especially with seasonal weather, including winter snow, which may require additional preparations like chains for tires.

Winding but well-maintained road into the national park, lined with green trees

As you travel out of LA, the scenery transforms from city to nature. On the way, you'll get up close to some of the world's largest trees in Sequoia & Kings Canyon. You'll also see the famous granite cliffs and waterfalls of Yosemite.

While facilities might be limited in more remote areas, major stops along the way are well-equipped with places to eat, rest, and fuel up. Traffic flow varies, but in national parks, tourist towns, and cities, it can get heavy during peak seasons.

This route is full of things to do and see. From hiking within the national parks to enjoying the towns and cities along the way, there's no shortage of experiences.

Driving Route from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Below, you will find high-level details of the routes from Los Angeles to San Francisco to give you an idea of the general direction you will be traveling through. It is always a good idea to consult GPS for detailed instructions.

Driving the Monterey Route

From Los Angeles, drive northward along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. Your first stop is Malibu, a city synonymous with beautiful beaches and celebrity homes. As you continue north, you'll drive along the ocean and get to experience endless beaches through Ventura and Santa Barbara.

Next, you'll reach Pismo Beach, where you can enjoy the sand, surf, and maybe even some clam chowder. From here, continue north to San Simeon, home to Hearst Castle, the former home of William Randolph Hearst.

You might need to divert to US-101 from PCH if the roads near Big Sur are closed, so check ahead of time.

With or without the diversion, journey becomes increasingly scenic as you enter Big Sur, a highlight of the PCH. This winding section of the PCH offers spectacular vistas of rugged cliffs, vast ocean, and lush redwood forests.

Continuing north, you'll stop in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Davenport. Montara, not far ahead, offers more serene landscapes and the historic Point Montara Lighthouse. Your drive will soon end in beautiful San Francisco.

Exterior view of the extravagant Hearst Castle with a fountain in the front, taken on a sunny day

Driving the Yosemite National Park Route

From Los Angeles, begin your journey north on Interstate 5 (I-5), towards Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. This leg of your trip takes you through California's rugged and beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains.

When you reach Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you can walk next to ancient sequoias, some of the largest trees on Earth. Don't miss the General Sherman Tree and other highlights while you're there.

Continue north to Yosemite National Park, one of the most beautiful places in America and a bucket-list destination for many. Here, you'll see landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and the breathtaking Yosemite Falls.

Leaving Yosemite on CA-120, head west towards San Francisco, passing through California's Central Valley, Oakland, and finally to San Francisco.

Giant sequoia trees in Sequoia National Park, California, USA

Where to stop overnight on a road trip between Los Angeles and San Francisco

There's so much to see and do along the way on this Los Angeles to San Francisco drive. To make the most of all the sights and experiences, we recommend staying at one of the beautiful destinations below.

Yosemite's Southern gateway in Fish Camp

Discover the beauty of Fish Camp, California, on your Yosemite National Park Route journey. Fish Camp serves as one of the best gateways to Yosemite National Park, located about 6 hours into the route.

This town is ideally situated near the park's South Entrance. You couldn't wish for a better location to access to some of Yosemite's most iconic attractions. However, it is good to keep in mind that some roads close down in winter at Mariposa Grove, and to plan accordingly.

Wooden lodge-style building at the entrance to the new Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza

Within a short drive, you can check out Tenaya Falls, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. Also, don't miss Tunnel View a few hours away, with its awe-inspiring views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.

For your stay in Fish Camp, we highly recommend the Big Creek Inn . The communal areas of the inn are stocked with a wide selection of movies, games, and other entertainment.

One of the most enchanting features of the Big Creek Inn is the balcony overlooking the river. Here, you can relax and enjoy nature, hike, or even go bird-watching.

Located within 2 miles of Yosemite's South Entrance and a 20-minute drive to Tenaya Falls, the inn's location is unbeatable if you're looking to explore the park. After a day of adventure, returning to the Big Creek Inn to relax on the river-view balcony or communal areas is a perfect way to end the day.

Ocean vistas and beaches in Monterey

Monterey is a jewel along the Monterey Route that has a blend of marine beauty and historical charm. This city, with its famous Cannery Row, marine life, exquisite dining, and picturesque waterfronts, is located 8 hours and 40 minutes into the route.

If you love the ocean, don't miss McAbee Beach or the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The city's connection to the sea is deep-rooted, offering endless opportunities for kayaking, whale watching, and beach combing.

Orange sunset over the ocean, photo taken from the beach

For a luxurious and relaxing stay, the Spindrift Inn stands out as a haven of relaxation . Nestled in the heart of Cannery Row, the inn offers guest rooms designed with a light coastal décor that channels the relaxed, romantic vibe of its beachfront setting.

Its floor-to-ceiling windows magnify the Spindrift Inn's allure, giving you front-row seats to the breathtaking views of McAbee Beach and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. You'll love the inn's amenities, including a complimentary continental breakfast to start your day the right way.

Within walking distance of the Spindrift Inn, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History features local flora and fauna, just 1.2 miles away. Also nearby is the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, located 2.1 miles from the inn, where you can see monarch butterflies in their natural habitat.

Our favorite place to stay in San Francisco

Once you arrive in San Francisco, the Omni San Francisco is a stylish option that is located in the city's heart. This hotel's central location puts the city's most famous attractions within easy reach. On top of that, you'll love its amenities and 1920s charm combined with modern furniture.

Many of the signature rooms and suites offer stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, setting the scene for a memorable stay.

San Francisco, California, USA with a Cable Car overlooking the sea and mountains in the distance on a sunny day.

Dining at the on-site Monte's Restaurant and Bar offers a taste of old-world charm, with delicious meals served throughout the day. Afterwards, Monte's Bar is the perfect spot for enjoying a curated cocktail in a chic setting.

Located in the vicinity of the hotel are some of San Francisco's most iconic destinations. Just a short walk away, you can explore the rich history of the Gold Rush at the Wells Fargo History Museum or enjoy recreational activities at Empire Park.

Union Square, a shopping, dining, and cultural hub, is also nearby, as well as the Aquarium of the Bay. If you love art, take a short drive to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, home to an iconic collection of contemporary art in a beautiful space.

Best time to travel from Los Angeles to San Francisco on a road trip

This road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco is perfect year-round. However, each season has its highlights. Below is what to expect throughout the year so you can plan your perfect drive.

Traveling to San Francisco from Los Angeles in summer

On the Yosemite Route, summer provides plenty of warm and clear conditions ideal for exploring the national parks. This season is best for hiking, camping, and sightseeing, with all trails and visitor facilities fully accessible.

The Pacific Coast Highway shines in summer, offering mild to warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and sightseeing. Morning and evening coastal fog, particularly around Big Sur and San Francisco, usually clears by the afternoon.

Popular areas can be crowded, and accommodations should be booked in advance. Don't miss events like Santa Barbara's Old Spanish Days Fiesta celebration in August.

Traveling to San Francisco from Los Angeles in winter

Winter in the Sierra Nevada brings cold and snow, affecting travel and access to higher elevations. Yosemite Valley remains open, with scenic winter landscapes and snow sports opportunities near the parks. However, note that the Tioga Pass Entrance to Yosemite will be closed.

Special events like the IllumiNature at Fresno Chaffee Zoo add to the winter charm.

Winter along the Monterey Route features cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, especially in Northern California. The season brings fewer tourists and lush landscapes in Big Sur.

This season allows for experiencing San Francisco's attractions without summer crowds, with mild and wet weather in the city. Don't miss San Francisco's New Year's celebration or Chinatown's Lunar New Year parties.

Golden Chinese dragon being carried by participants of the parade during Chinese New Year celebrations

Traveling to San Francisco from Los Angeles in the shoulder seasons

The shoulder seasons offer a mix of sunny days and occasional rain, with spring bringing blooming wildflowers and fall providing milder temperatures and clearer skies. These seasons are perfect for enjoying the dramatic landscapes without the summer crowds.

Events such as the Monterey Jazz Festival in September and Carnaval San Francisco in May enhance the experience, making these seasons an appealing time for travel.

San Francisco provides a perfect backdrop for exploration, with less fog and mild temperatures, and you will get to enjoy like the Tulare County Renaissance Fair on the Yosemite National Park Route in April.

The best things to see and do on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco

To help you plan your ultimate drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco, we've included our top stops below.

On the Yosemite National Park Route

Hasley Canyon Park: A serene oasis in Castaic, offering picturesque trails and peaceful picnic spots.

Vaquero Beach at Pyramid Lake: A popular destination for water sports, fishing, and boating, Vaquero Beach is a scenic spot with ample recreational facilities.

California Living Museum (CALM) : Dedicated to the plants and animals native to California, CALM offers an educational experience through its zoo, botanical gardens, and exhibits.

Three Rivers: A charming gateway town to Sequoia National Park, known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and quaint local shops.

Visalia Fox Theatre: A historic landmark in downtown Visalia, offering a variety of performances, concerts, and events in an iconic setting.

Fresno Art Museum: An innovative museum in Fresno that showcases modern art pieces alongside cultural exhibitions.

Yosemite Valley - Yosemite National Park, California, USA with a view of the iconic Bridalveil Falls on a sunny day.

Sequoia National Park: Home to the giant sequoias, this park offers breathtaking landscapes, towering trees, and endless hiking trails.

Kings Canyon National Park: Known for its deep valleys, sky-high trees, and rugged terrain, offering adventurous trails and stunning vistas.

Yosemite National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its waterfalls, cliffs, and diverse ecosystems, it's a must-visit for nature lovers.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad: A historic steam train offering scenic rides through the Sierra National Forest, providing a glimpse into the area's logging history.

Bridalveil Fall Hike: A short hike leading to one of Yosemite's most iconic waterfalls, offering stunning views especially in the spring.

Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum: A museum that chronicles the history of the Groveland area and its connection to Yosemite National Park.

The Willms Ranch: A historic ranch offering a glimpse into California's ranching history, set against the backdrop of beautiful landscapes.

Oakland Zoo: Located in the Oakland hills, the zoo is home to over 850 native and exotic animals in naturalistic habitats.

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park: A hidden redwood forest located in the East Bay, offering miles of hiking and biking trails amidst ancient trees.

On the Monterey Route

Malibu Beach, California: An iconic stretch of sandy beach known for its celebrity homes and great waves.

Solstice Canyon: A Malibu treasure offering hiking trails that reveal ruins, waterfalls, and lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers.

Sycamore Cove Beach: A picturesque beach located in the Point Mugu State Park, known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities.

Rincon Point: Famous as a world-class surfing destination, Rincon Point is a must-visit for surfers and beach lovers alike.

Santa Barbara Zoo: A small yet enchanting zoo located on the coast, offering close encounters with a variety of animals in a picturesque setting.

Lake Cachuma: A tranquil reservoir in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its camping spots, fishing opportunities, and wildlife viewing.

Monarch Butterflies clustering together on a pine tree, closeup image

Monarch Butterfly Grove: A unique natural site in Pismo Beach where thousands of monarch butterflies cluster during their migration in winter.

Dinosaur Caves Park, Pismo Beach: An oceanfront park that offers stunning views, play areas, and the chance to explore its namesake caves.

Avila Valley Hot Springs: A historic hot spring and resort offering mineral pools and spa services.

Cambria Historical Museum: Nestled in the heart of Cambria, this museum showcases the town's rich history and heritage in a beautifully preserved setting.

Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center: An informative center near San Simeon, providing insights into the life of elephant seals along the coast.

Calla Lily Valley: A breathtakingly beautiful spot in Big Sur, known for its seasonal blooms of wild calla lilies in a coastal valley.

Old Fisherman's Wharf: A historic landmark in Monterey, known for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and whale watching tours.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum: Housed in a historic lighthouse, this museum celebrates the history of surfing in Santa Cruz with artifacts and photographs.

Duarte's Tavern, Pescadero: A family-owned tavern offering home-cooked meals and famous for its artichoke soup.

Skyline of the city as dusk with the city lights reflecting on the water

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Iconic California Road Trip: San Francisco To Los Angeles

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The best kind of road trip features great scenery, and the road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) certainly fits the bill — it boasts fantastic coastal views, wine country, quaint towns, and much more.

Although California’s balmy weather makes it a great place for a road trip at any time, the very best time for this trip in terms of weather is July through August. This is peak season, so expect more crowds and higher hotel rates. If you prefer to skip the peak season, late spring and early fall are also lovely.

Here are some stops to consider along the way.

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San Francisco

What better place to start your road trip than San Francisco ? Plan on spending several days to fully take in this vibrant city.

Take a tour of Chinatown , spend a few hours perusing the books at City Lights Bookstore , and cross the Golden Gate Bridge or take the ferry to Sausalito .

Then head to Fisherman’s Wharf to grab some San Francisco sourdough sandwiches at Boudin Bakery or sit down for some fresh seafood at Cioppino’s . If you’re really hungry, try the signature dish, the Cioppino, a seafood extravaganza with Dungeness crab legs, clams, mussels, snapper, calamari, and shrimp, all stewed in a savory tomato broth and topped with toasted sourdough bread.

Rest up in the Hotel Griffon on the waterfront, or stay in the Financial District at the newly renovated Clift Royal Sonesta .

Houses near a beach in Santa Cruz, California.

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Take Highway 1 70 miles south of San Francisco, and you’ll find the sandy beaches, redwood-covered mountains, and burgeoning beer and wine scene of Santa Cruz .

While there, visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum , which chronicles 100 years of local surf history, and learn about the birthplace of mainland surfing in the United States. Or if you’ve always wanted to try surfing, take a surf lesson with a local school like Club Ed and pay homage to surfing pioneer Jack O’Neill .

If you plan to spend a night or two, consider the Hotel Paradox or the Chaminade Resort & Spa .

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Monterey County

Another 40 miles along Highway 1 will bring you to the city of Monterey. Monterey County includes the towns of Salinas, Carmel, Big Sur, and Monterey, among others, so plan to spend at least a couple of nights in the area to take in the variety of sights.

The Monterey area was the home of novelist John Steinbeck and inspired many of his most famous works. Consider learning more about his life and legacy at one of these stops .

To better appreciate the area’s natural beauty, visit the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and walk along the banks of the river or hike one of the many scenic trails. If you spend the night there, you can stay at the Big Sur Lodge , located at the park.

Spend a day (or weekend) in Carmel visiting the white sand beaches and enjoying fine dining, wine tastings, and plenty of shopping. Take a 2-hour guided walk through the secret pathways, hidden courtyards, award-winning gardens, and storybook cottages with Gael Gallagher’s Carmel Walks . If you want to spend the night, consider The Hotel Carmel , a cottage-style hotel with a luxury feel.

In Monterey, visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium , take in Cannery Row , dine at Fisherman’s Wharf , and take a walking tour of the historic downtown, among other activities . If you plan on staying overnight, consider the Hotel Pacific , an upscale Spanish Colonial-style hotel.

Biking is a great way to get around. Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop is the only e-bike shop on the Monterey Peninsula. They sell — and rent — high-end e-bikes. Experience the scenic coastal paths and take on some of the hills throughout the towns. All e-bikes come with a Garmin for easy navigation, and the owners will program it depending on where you want to go.

Omengramirez / Shutterstock

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle , the unbelievably opulent home of the publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst, is 90 miles south of Monterey on Highway 1. On a tour of this mountaintop Mediterranean estate designed by architect Julia Morgan, you’ll see a collection of priceless art and antiques. To learn more, see this piece .

Melanie Hobson / Shutterstock

On your way from Hearst Castle to San Luis Obispo, be sure to stop at Morro Bay . The volcanic Morro Rock is where the city got its name. Just offshore is a massive, ancient volcanic plug that rises 576 feet from the ocean. Watch for nesting peregrine falcons there.

Aerial view of San Luis Obispo, California.

joojoob27 / Shutterstock

About 14 miles from Morro Bay is San Luis Obispo . The area has a rich food and wine scene; plenty of art, history, and culture; and a laid-back California vibe.

While there, visit the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa , which was constructed in 1792. The mission, which is still an active church, lies at the center of modern-day downtown San Luis Obispo.

To experience the area’s natural beauty, hike or kayak to the Point San Luis Lighthouse . The lighthouse is a hidden gem on the Central Coast, located on the north side of Port San Luis Harbor near Avila Beach. The 30-acre nature preserve can be reached by a docent-led hike of the Pecho Coast Trail, by classic trolley ride, or by kayak.

Try the signature lemon and herb brined free-range rotisserie chicken at Slo Provisions . Then stay at the new luxury hotel downtown, Hotel Cerro .

Belyay / Shutterstock

Pismo Beach

Wineries and beaches are abundant in Pismo Beach . Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove , one of only five sites in the state that have counts of more than 10,000 butterflies annually. Or go horseback riding on private trails at the Oceano Dunes SVRA , which also offers extensive coastal dunes for off-roading. See this piece for more things to see and do in the area.

Make it a day trip, or spend the night at the Inn at the Pier , a luxury oceanfront hotel.

Jim Ekstrand / Shutterstock

Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country

Just north of Santa Barbara, you’ll find Santa Ynez Valley , one of five distinct American Viticultural Areas located in Santa Barbara County’s vast wine country. It’s home to more than 50 varietals that thrive in the area’s diverse microclimates. More than 120 wineries are located nearby, many of them small family-owned operations where you can taste world-class wines in an unpretentious atmosphere.

Start by buying a pass from the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Association . After a day of wine tastings, check in at the ForFriends Inn , the only boutique bed and breakfast in Santa Ynez. It’s within walking distance of plenty of dining options, and guests enjoy a Friendship Pass with more than $200 in free wine tastings and food in the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country.

S.Borisov / Shutterstock

Santa Barbara

In Santa Barbara , you can enjoy more wine tastings — just grab a map and check out Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail . Then relax at the largest underground salt cave in the U.S., located in downtown Santa Barbara.

Check out the artsy side of Santa Barbara and explore the Funk Zone , full of colorful murals, great restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Visit the beautiful Old Mission Santa Barbara , known as the Queen of the Missions, and then spend the night at the Hotel Californian , a luxury resort.

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

In Ventura , you can spend a day exploring the Ventura Harbor Village or enjoying water activities in the harbor. Then visit the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center to book a trip to the nearby Channel Islands.

When you’re in Ventura, you simply must go whale watching . Blue whales and humpback whales were once a rare sight in the waters off Ventura, but now, from roughly June through mid-September, they can often be seen feeding on floods of nutrient-rich krill, brought up from the depths by the currents. Orca whale pods can be seen in any season.

For unique lodging, stay at the Waypoint Ventura , a hotel featuring luxuriously restored vintage trailers.

View Apart / Shutterstock

Los Angeles

End your California road trip in Los Angeles . The second-most-populous city in the country offers a multitude of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in show business , arts and culture, nightlife, ethnic cuisine , or unique shopping, you’ll find plenty to love in Los Angeles.

Be sure to visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art , the largest art museum in the Western U.S, as well as the city’s other world-class museums .

Stay in four-star luxury at Petit Ermitage , where the saltwater pool, rooftop bar and restaurant, and hummingbird sanctuary will help you relax and rejuvenate after your long trip.

In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

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!

Pacific Coast Highway near Big Sur is the most scenic drive in the world

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!

General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park during the winter

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

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

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

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

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

Best waterproof walking shoes for California beaches

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

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

Yosemite Valley Tunnel View in the winter

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!

Balboa Park's Casa de Balboa Building in San Diego, 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.

Our most popular posts: 22 Best City Breaks in the USA The Best Things to do in New York on your first visit Ultimate List of Best Places to visit in the USA

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.

Huntington Beach, California is sunny and warm in winter

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.

Union Square is the heart of Christmas festivities in San Francisco

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.

San Francisco street cars look charming during the holidays

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.

San Francisco City Hall decorated for Christmas

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.

Wineries near paso Robles in Central California

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.

December in California is the perfect time to go whale watching near Monterey

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.

Beach hiking trails in Monterey 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.

Venice canals at Christmas in Los Angeles

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.

Colorful houses near Santa Cruz, 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

Christmas decorations in Old San Diego Town California

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.

Barker Dam in Joshua Tree National Park at sunrise

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.

Beautiful interior of the church at the Santa Barbara Mission in California near Christmas

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.

Palm Springs California in amazing to visit in December

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.

Scenic road to Death Valley National park, California

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.

Badlands view from Zabriskie Point in Death Valley National Park at Dusk, California

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 .

Frozen Convict Lake surrounded by mountains on a winter day;

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 .

Roads in Kings Canyon National Park in winter

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!

Lake Tahoe looks spectacular even in the winter

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.

Enjoy snowshoeing on Lake Tahoe in winter

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.

Beautiful winter scenery in Yosemite National Park, California

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 Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum August 17, 2021 Updated January 08, 2024

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience and expertise, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Los Angeles and San Francisco — California’s two primary metropolitan jewels — couldn’t be more different.

The quickest way to get from LA’s sunny sprawl to the breezy urban inclines of San Francisco is, of course, to head north on I-5 — that’s called the 5 if you live in LA. Depending on where you start, you may be able to do the whole 385-mile trip in about six hours, give or take, if you don’t hit much traffic.

Of course, what you’d gain in speed you lose out on in everything else.

The better way to road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco is to take the scenic route on Highway 1, better known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). At around nine hours, you can do it in a day if you must, but that would hardly be in the spirit of an easygoing sightseeing coastal drive.

Instead, consider splitting the trip into sections; if you have the time, four or five days is excellent. Even though the first stop of Santa Barbara is less than two hours out of Los Angeles’s clutches, you’ll want to give the elegant, radically different-feeling destination its due.

From there, the Big Sur region draws in just shy of six million tourists a year for a reason, while Carmel’s quaint architecture is a front for one of the state’s most luxurious beachfront communities. Along the way, you’ll also get a beach time, a dose of redwoods, and plenty of California kitsch.

This coastal Los Angeles to San Francisco California road trip covers:

Around 450 miles
Roughly nine hours of driving
Four fantastic cities (in addition to LA and SF)
One state park
Amazing Pacific Ocean views

Related Read: 11 Breezy Oceanfront Camping Spots in California

Los Angeles to San Francisco By Section

Let’s assume you’re starting from Downtown Los Angeles. To do the itinerary below you’ll need four nights. Some of these stops include a couple must-do destinations in one day, and you’ll need to budget even more time if you’re planning to explore any of the side trips or do any hiking.

Section 1: LA to Santa Barbara

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Santa Barbara

How nice — ease your way in to the trip with a mere 90-minute, 95-mile drive to Santa Barbara’s historic architecture, pretty bay beaches, and wine tasting rooms galore.

Distance: 95 miles
Drive time without stops: 90 minutes

Section 1 Highlight: Santa Barbara

Leave Los Angeles early to beat the traffic and give yourself a full day at your first destination. Once you arrive, get a sense of Santa Barbara’s local scenery with a stroll through Chase Palm Park and a beach walk on the adjacent sandy strand. There are a several museums in town; the 3.5 million specimens and expansive outdoor space makes the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History a good one to start with.

Come afternoon, head to Stearns Wharf to eat, drink, and shop a few local mom-and-pop shops. In the evening, keep the car parked and walk from tasting room to tasting room in the Presidio neighborhood to get a feel for the wines from Santa Barbara’s ample vineyards just inland. That, obviously, makes this a good place to spend night one of your LA to San Francisco road trip.

Related Read : 11 Best Resorts in California for Rest & Relaxation

Section 1 Side Trip: Los Padres National Forest

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip los padres national forest

If you’ve got time, trade wineries and historic architecture for your hiking boots. At 1.95 million acres, Los Padres National Forest is vast but a few trails are very close to the border of downtown Santa Barbara.

Tunnel Trail to Inspiration Point is one of the easier routes: though plenty of it is uphill, the hike is only 3.5 miles round-trip. And if you’d rather extend this part of your excursion, you’ve got tons of campgrounds to choose from in the park.

Related Read: 9 Amazing Scenic Drives Near Los Angeles, California

Section 1: Where to Stay

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip de la vina inn

You’ll find plenty of luxury hotels around downtown Santa Barbara and adjacent to Stearns Wharf. Set in an 1895 building, the De La Vina Inn offers both a bit of history along with a place to lay your head for the night. If you’ve done a full day of city sightseeing and would rather keep making tracks and then camp, you can set up at El Capitan State Beach , about 23 miles farther along the overall route.

Traveling in your own accommodation? There’s an RV park in Santa Barbara, and plenty of great camping options . There are also some really nice glamping spots in this area.

Section 2: Santa Barbara to Big Sur

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip big sur

Get up early, pack some snacks, and get ready to drive. Around three hours and 170-200 miles up the coast (depending on how far you go), you’ll find yourself in what feels like another planet: Big Sur .

Just keep in mind that this well-preserved wilderness is something of a victim of its own success when it comes to tourism. It sees heavy traffic even mid-week, and you’ll probably see people climbing over rocks and accessing terrain they shouldn’t. Be a good visitor — pick up your trash, leave the selfie sticks behind, and stay on the trails. Walking (or parking) on grass can damage the ability of plants to grow and lead to massive issues like erosion and habitat destruction. As always, leave no trace .

You’re likely aware that this part of California has been besieged by increasingly frequent fires as well as occasional flooding. Be sure to check the environmental situation before you visit, especially at state parks as trail and road closures are possible.

Distance: 170 miles (give or take)
Drive time without stops: 3 hours

Related read : 6 Stunning National Parks near Los Angeles, California

Section 2 Highlight: Literally All of Highway 1 in Big Sur

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip big sur bixby bridge

There’s so much to see along Highway 1 through Big Sur that the questions is more “where shouldn’t you stop?” Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls, two of the area’s most famous sights, and just off the side of the road on Highway 1. You can check make those two stops and then speed on through, but you’d be missing what makes this section of the LA to San Francisco drive so amazing.

In Big Sur are several different parks. For an easy start, plan some time at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , home to a variety of hiking trails. The park’s Waterfall Overlook Trail is an easy half-mile walk, while Partington Cove Trail is one mile roundtrip, with a pass through a historic tunnel that eventually opens onto stunning coastal views.

Related Read: 7 Stellar Campervan Rental Companies in Southern California

Section 2: Where to Stay

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip big sur camping

Despite its rugged reputation, there are several options for a Big Sur overnight beyond camping, which you can do at the Pfeiffer Big Sur campground .

Most of the hotels in the are pricey (hey, many are on the coast), but if you can swing it, you’ll be wowed by hotels like Post Ranch Inn , Ventana Big Sur , and the (slightly) more affordable Big Sur Lodge. And Treebones Resort is an amazing eco-friendly yurt resort.

Section 3: Big Sur to Monterey

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Carmel Monterey

Rather than making one of these two destinations into an optional side trip, it makes the most sense to start out early and visit both Carmel and Monterey in one hop, spending the night in whichever spot suits you best.

Carmel is about a 40-minute drive from the Pfeiffer Big Sur campground, and Monterey is another 15 minutes north.

Distance: 30 miles (without doing 17-Mile Drive)
Drive time without stops: 40 mins

Section 3 Highlight: Point Lobos State Park

Point Lobos is a fabulous stop for anyone traveling along the coast, but especially for beginner hikers who still want to see the amazing terrain. Most of the trails in this coastal reserve are entirely flat, save for a few beaches you can scramble down to to soak up the sun for a few minutes.

Within Point Lobos are several miles of coastal paths, a whaling museum, a nature trail, and more than a few places where you’ll want to whip out the camera. Parking can be challenging, so try to get there early. There’s also a $10 parking fee, and no dogs are allowed in the park.

Section 3 Highlight: Carmel-by-the-Sea

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Carmel by the sea

Keep cruising along Highway 1 to Carmel. It’s a downright charming town with storybook houses, cobblestone streets, and a total “fancy hippie artist” vibe. Ocean Avenue is downtown Carmel’s main thoroughfare, where in addition to dining and shopping, you can also check out the fairytale-like architecture made famous by early 20th-century developer Hugh Comstock. More of a Frank Lloyd Wright guy? Then walk past the oceanfront Della Walker House .

Want to soak up even more of the area? Check out the history and gardens at the Carmel Mission before taking 17-Mile Drive to Monterey.

Some fun facts about Carmel: every beach is dog friendly, high heels are illegal, and Clint Eastwood of Spaghetti Western fame is the former mayor.

Section 3 Highlight: Monterey

There’s so much to do in Monterey — and so much written online about it — that you’ll want to do your own research on area activities before deciding where to spend the precious time you have to spare on your LA to San Francisco road trip.

But some good places to start include the Old Fisherman’s Wharf (loaded with fantastic seafood restaurants and opportunities for whale watching) the the non-profit Monterey Bay Aquarium , and the sightseeing and activities along Cannery Row (yes, it’s that Cannery Row.)

Section 3: Where to Stay

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Carmel forest lodge

Both Monterey and Carmel are home to a number of hotels and inns, with luxury options particularly plentiful in the latter. The Forest Lodge offers eco-friendly Carmel digs and the Cypress Inn is a very dog-friendly boutique hotel once owned by Doris Day.

Rates will generally be cheaper if you drive inland a bit; hotels in Salinas can easily be half the cost of Monterey. And if you’re going inland, you might as well stop at a few wineries, see the Steinbeck Museum , and visit Pinnacles National Park ….yeah, there’s a lot to do around here.

Section 4: Monterey to San Francisco

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Santa Cruz

Almost there! But first, ease your way back into city life with a stopover in Santa Cruz, known for its offbeat vibes, surf scene, and funky boardwalk. It’s just under an hour from Carmel and Monterey.

Distance: 144 miles
Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 50 mins

Section 4 Highlight: Santa Cruz

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Santa Cruz beach boardwalk

Don’t conflate the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (an amusement park known for its vintage rides and arcade) with the Santa Cruz Wharf , where you can shop and eat. But try to see both before taking a walk or drive along West Cliff Drive, which affords killer views of both sea and talented surfers riding the waves. Try also to stop by Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, a walkable stretch for further drinking, dining, and sightseeing.

Prefer trees to beaches? Try heading inland for a total change of scenery at Roaring Camp Railroad . The narrow-gauge steam train is one of the most unusual way to see California’s iconic redwoods.

Section 4 Highlight: San Francisco

You made it! The last leg of your Los Angles to San Francisco road trip is San Francisco itself. Of the cities in the US, San Francisco has more to do than most. Hang out at the touristy but very cheesy Pier 39 , loaded with shops, restaurants, arcades, stores, and plenty of unique activities. See the sea lions, then head to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory or take the fascinating boat trip to Alcatraz .

Hit up the Exploratorium , head to Golden Gate Park to work on your hacky-sack skills or stroll through the Botanical Garden , or grab a drink in funky Haight-Ashbury . Or visit Chinatown . Or hit a tiki bar. Or ride the trolley. Or go to one of the city’s biggest flea markets . There’s a lot to do within the city’s seven square miles.

Section 4 Side Trip: Half Moon Bay

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip half moon bay

If you need one more hit of salty air before heading to San Francisco, make a stop at Half Moon Bay. In addition to long sandy stretches and scenic cliffs, the small coastal city offers a sweet, walkable downtown and some great multi-use trails .

It’s also one of the best places between LA and San Francisco to see elephant seals , which can grow — wait for it — more than 15 feet long. Woah.

Section 4: Where to Stay

Los Angeles San Francisco road trip Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

There are hotels, motels, and inns around Santa Cruz, particularly near the wharf. It’s a pricey town, but you’ll find a few affordable options like the basic-but-clean Rio Sands just south of the city. If you’re hoping to camp, head inland to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park , a scenic spot you won’t likely want to miss, whether or not you’ve brought your own tent.

There’s also a cute little KOA with basic cabins and shared bathroom facilities. Of course, in San Francisco, you’ll have only about a billion options for hotels, hostels and even camping — in the Presidio .

Explore More in California

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11 Beautiful Airbnbs in Idyllwild, California

The 11 Best Day Trips from San Francisco, California

12 Best Airbnb Rentals in Lake Arrowhead, California

The Best Time to Visit Death Valley National Park, California

Seen in: California , Road Trips , Things to Do in California

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum

Susannah is a freelance writer based in Berlin. She grew up outside New York, went to school in Southern California, and currently gets most of her outdoors fixes on trips to Bavaria in the south of Germany. Susannah’s work has been published on many authoritative publications such as Fast Company, Modern Farmer and Vice.

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The Best Stops on an Epic Dallas to Houston Road Trip

Hitting the road from Dallas to Houston, or vice versa? Spice things up with these fun stops.

20 Stops On a Road Trip From Los Angeles To San Francisco

The coastal route from Los Angeles to San Francisco is one of the most scenic roads to travel in all of California. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning beaches, serene redwoods, historic landmarks, cozy beach towns and so much more. We live on the California coast ourselves and try to do this route once a year.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up all the top stops, attractions, towns, and unique hidden gems to see along a road trip to San Francisco (by a local!).

So pack your bags and get ready to hit the open road! Going on a road trip is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful State.

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission when you book through these links which helps support this blog!

Renting a Car For a Road Trip From Los Angeles To San Francisco

The easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to go on a trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco is in your own private rental car from Discover Cars . I’ve lived in California most of my adult life and this State is not exactly public transportation friendly. You’ll need a car to get around and reach all of the top destinations!

If you’re planning to rent a car for your road trip, Los Angeles is a great place to do so! Discover Cars has a lot of car rental choices & very affordable pricing.

Thinking of renting a campervan or RV for the first time? We recommend using our favorite van rental company Outdoorsy ! Outdoorsy offers thousands of recreational vehicle rentals from popular cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more.

Best Time For a Road Trip In California

California’s coast is known for having some of the best weather in all of the United States. Whether you’re planning a road trip in the spring, summer, fall, or winter – there is no such thing as a ‘bad time’ for traveling in California!

The peak travel times are in the summer months when you can expect a lot more people at attractions and parks.

If you want to enjoy the nice California weather, but avoid the crowds, we recommend going on a road trip from Los Angeles in the spring or fall. During these seasons the hotels and vacation home rentals are also much cheaper so you can often find great deals on accommodations!

What To Pack For a Road Trip

If you’re wondering what you should pack for a San Francisco road trip in a car, check out our post covering must-have road trip essentials here !

These are some of the basics that we recommend bringing along:

Light Jacket . The weather on the California coast can be unpredictable and can change drastically throughout the day. When traveling to the coast it’s always colder than expected so pack a jacket that you can easily carry around and to the beach. I have an ultralight jacket that I bring in my backpack with me everywhere.
Hiking shoes . I prefer wearing hiking shoes with extra grip that prevent me from slipping & falling especially in misty coastal conditions.
Sunglasses . Sunglasses can help battle harsh sun when driving or heading outdoors. I like to use polarized sunglasses that protect my eyes from sun glare.
Sunscreen . This is an absolute must for traveling in California. It’s easy to get sunburned even on foggy days!
Lip Balm . Sitting in front of your car’s air-conditioner can make your lips feel very dry. Bring a lip balm to keep your lips moisturized.
Portable phone charger . It’s always a good idea to bring a phone charger just in case your phone runs out of battery and you need to use it to look up directions.
An emergency roadside tool kit can come in handy if your car breaks down in remote areas like Big Sur and you can’t call roadside assistance.

If you’re planning to rent a campervan , we have a WHOLE separate list covering 85 essentials that you should pack for a road trip in a van .

Best Stops On a Road Trip From Los Angeles To San Francisco:

1. Los Angeles

As the largest city in California, Los Angeles is known for its many exciting tourist attractions and sights. We lived in LA County during our 20s and there is always something fun to do!

If it’s your first time visiting Los Angeles, we recommend starting with:

Hollywood . Hollywood is the entertainment business capital in the US. Here you can visit the world-famous Hollywood sign, Walk of Fame, and spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood .
Beverly Hills . A ritzy area with celebrity homes and luxurious shopping areas like the Rodeo Drive.
Griffith Park. This park & observatory offers many hiking trails and one of the best views of Los Angeles!
The Getty Center . If you enjoy museums and arts, head to the Getty Center. I love coming here for different exhibits and taking a stroll in the manicured gardens.

Not sure where to start? Check out this Los Angeles tour that will take you to the most iconic sights in LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and more!

2. Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a small, but busy coastal town just a short drive from Los Angeles. We recommend stopping by the Santa Monica Pier which is one of the most popular attractions in the area!

The Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier is not just your typical beach pier. Here you can find oceanfront roller coasters , arcades , a Ferris wheel , and delicious seafood restaurants.

In the evenings you can lounge on the beach and enjoy views of the Pier and its bright colors. Overall, this is a great stop for families with kids!

Downtown Santa Monica also has a large outdoor pedestrian mall that has many restaurant choices and stores. If you’re looking to do a bit of shopping, this is where you’ll want to go.

Other local attractions include:

Palisades Park
Tongva Park
Santa Monica State Beach

Malibu is a small city that spans 30 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s known for being one of the nicest places to live in California with homes averaging 3.5 million dollars.

With miles and miles of coastline, Malibu offers an endless list of incredible beaches to visit. Our favorite is the El Matador State Beach which has scenic stairs leading down to hidden beach coves and unique rock formations. This is also a great spot for photography, especially for sunrise or sunset!

Malibu is also one of the best places in Southern California for hiking. A few of our favorite Malibu trails include:

Solstice Canyon Trail
Ocean And Canyon View Trail
Ocean Overlook Loop Trail

Where To Stay In Malibu

Experience the beauty of the California Coast with one of these top places to stay in Malibu:

Malibu Beach Inn . This luxurious four-star hotel sits right on the beach and is a short walk from the Malibu Pier. During your stay, you can pamper yourself at the CURE Daily Spa or enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant.
The Surfrider Malibu . This is an upscale boutique hotel that offers 20 rooms for a peaceful and relaxing stay. Guests especially love the rooftop bar and restaurant where you can enjoy views of the coast.

Ventura has been our home for the past couple of years, and it also happens to be a popular stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco!

Ventura itself is a small, charming coastal city but it offers plenty to see and do such as:

Downtown Ventura . Ventura’s downtown has excellent restaurants and eateries. A few of our favorite places to dine include Rumfish y Vino and Lure Fish House for their fresh seafood.
Ventura Pier . From downtown, you can easily walk over to the Ventura Pier where you can watch local surfers catching waves in the ocean.
Surfers Point at Seaside Park . This is a peaceful beach to come watch the sunset.
Serra Cross Park . An iconic park with one of the best views of the Ventura coastline from up top!

From Ventura, you can easily plan trips to nearby towns such as Ojai or go wine tasting at one of the local wineries.

Ventura is also one of the best spots in California for surfing. For beginner surfers, I recommend taking a surfing lesson with an experienced instructor to help you catch a wave, even if you’ve never been before!

5. Santa Barbara

With long stretches of sandy beaches, a charming downtown, gorgeous Spanish-style buildings, and swaying palm trees Santa Barbara is your quintessential California city.

Santa Barbara also produces some of the best wines in California! Santa Barbara is home to over 200 wineries so there are plenty of places in town where you can take a break from traveling for the night and enjoy some world-class wine tasting .

A few of the top sights in Santa Barbara include:

Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786 – a historic 18th-century Spanish mission building.
Stearns Warf – a pier with excellent seafood restaurants and wildlife-watching opportunities.
State Street . State Street is a beautiful street that runs through downtown Santa Barbara. Along both sides of the street, you can find great restaurants, dessert shops, and boutique clothing stores.
Funk Zone . This is our favorite place to go in town for eateries with fun outdoor patios and craft beers.

Where To Stay In Santa Barbara

Here are some of the best hotels in Santa Barbara for a stay near the beach:

La Playa Inn Santa Barbara . La Playa Inn Santa Barbara is a highly-rated hotel with raving reviews for its friendly staff and excellent facilities. It’s possible to book standard rooms as well as family-friendly suites that can accommodate up to four guests.
Hotel Californian . This five-star hotel is just steps away from the ocean! Hotel Californian is brimming with upscale comforts that include an outdoor pool, an onsite spa, and easy access to local restaurants.

Solvang is a unique Danish town that is like nothing else! It is nicknamed the ‘ The Danish Capital of America ’ due to the European bakeries, restaurants, windmills, and Danish-style architecture that you can experience here.

This charming town started building Danish-style houses in the 1950s and soon after became a popular tourist destination. It’s sort of like going to a mini-Disneyland ( but for free! ).

A few of the must-do things in Solvang include:

Old Mission Santa Ines 1804
Hans Christian Andersen Museum
Wildling Museum
Solvang Trolley
Trying aebleskiver – a delicious Danish pancake pastry

For a fun way to explore Solvang and learn more about its history, check out this Guided Pedicab Tour of Solvang with Wine Tasting !

7. Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is known as one of the best Central Coast stops for its striking ocean views, sandy shorelines, and beachfront hiking trails. In Pismo Beach, you can also rent an ATV to ride around the sand dunes which is such a fun activity!

A few of the top attractions in Pismo Beach include:

Pismo Beach Pier & Plaza – here you can snap a photo in front of the iconic ‘Pismo Beach Pier’ sign.
Monarch Butterfly Grove – best visited in the winter months between October to February.
Dinosaur Caves Park – a beautiful oceanfront park that is a great place for bird-watching.
Oceano Dunes – at Oceano Dunes you can drive your car on the beach. A unique experience that you can’t do anywhere else in California!
Old West Cinnamon Rolls – this little family-operated dessert shop has been in business since 1972 selling THE best cinnamon rolls on the coast. I always stop here whenever I am driving through the area!

If you’re up for stretching your legs, the Spring To Spring Trail at Pismo Preserve is a beautiful oceanfront trail that offers incredible views of the entire Pismo Beach coastline.

Where To Stay In Pismo Beach

Here are some of the best places to stay in Pismo Beach :

SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel . This is considered to be one of the top hotels in Pismo Beach thanks to its prime location next to the ocean. Each room is furnished in a bright and elegant style with modern touches.
Pismo Lighthouse Suites . Pismo Lighthouse Suites has 70 spacious newly renovated suites that are perfect for a family getaway. This family-oriented hotel offers plenty to keep the kids occupied including an outdoor swimming pool and a playground along with a tennis court, putting green, ping pong table, badminton, and life-size chess.

8. San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo ( also known as SLO ) is a small, charming town that’s easily accessible while driving on a road trip from LA to San Francisco. We often stop here to enjoy lunch at one of our favorite local eateries such as SLO Provisions and At Bites Vietnamese restaurant.

A few of the top attractions to visit in SLO include the quirky Madonna Inn , historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa , and the Bubblegum Alley .

Set in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, there are plenty of amazing hiking and mountain biking areas in SLO such as the Irish Hills Natural Reserve .

Where To Stay In San Luis Obispo

Here are some of the best places to stay in San Luis Obispo :

San Luis Creek Lodge . This stylish lodge is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in all of California! San Luis Creek Lodge features king and queen standards furnished with mid-century modern decor, locally sourced art, and fun wallpaper.
Hotel San Luis Obispo . This contemporary hotel is within walking distance of Mission San Luis Obispo and features beautiful rooms. Onsite you can enjoy fantastic amenities including a swimming pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a bar.

9. Morro Bay

Morro Bay is another sleepy town on the Central Coast. It’s not as busy as Pismo Beach, yet it offers plenty of landmarks, hiking trails, and sightseeing opportunities.

The biggest attraction of Morro Bay is Morro Rock , a tall volcanic plug that you can spot from anywhere in town. Morro Bay is also known for fresh, drool-worthy seafood so it’s a great spot to stop for lunch on the waterfront Embarcadero strip.

A few other popular things to do in Morro Bay include:

Hiking Black Hill Trail . You can either hike or drive to the top of Black Hill for panoramic views overlooking Morro Bay.
Camping. Morro Bay has two popular campgrounds that offer camping sites next to the beach – Morro Strand State Beach Campground and Morro Bay State Park Campground . This is a great option if you plan to rent a campervan or an RV for your road trip.
Morro Bay T Pier (Otter Viewing Area) . This is an excellent spot to go for wildlife viewing. Here you can observe sea otters floating in the water with small babies sleeping on their stomachs – the cutest thing you’ll ever see!

Where To Stay In Morro Bay

Here are some of the best hotels to stay in Morro Bay :

Gray’s Inn & Gallery . Gray’s Inn & Gallery is known as one of the top hotels in Morro Bay, thanks to its location overlooking calm ocean waters and the marina. There are three different suites available to choose from, two of which are one bedroom and the other a studio.
Estero Inn . Estero Inn is a sophisticated Morro Bay hotel known for its prime location. This boutique hotel sits along the water’s edge in the heart of Morro Bay and boasts cozy accommodations and views of Morro Rock.

10. San Simeon

San Simeon is a hidden little gem on the Central California coast. This town is known for spectacular views of rugged coastal cliffs, the San Simeon Pier , and the fascinating Hearst Castle .

Hearst Castle is a grand estate that was built by William Randolph Hearst in 1919. The Hearst Castle is like no other estate in California and consists of towers, guest houses, 127 acres of manicured gardens, elaborate water fountains, and pools.

Visitors traveling Highway 1 can stop by Hearst Castle Museum and head on a tour to explore the historic rooms, suites, cottages, and other works of art featured here.

11. Elephant Seal Vista Point

If you enjoy wildlife viewing, Elephant Seal Viewpoint is a must! This is an especially great stop for families with kids where you can view Elephant Seals up close.

Elephant seals were hunted to near extinction in the 1800s but now have repopulated due to preservation and volunteer efforts. This viewpoint is free to visit and there are many information signs where you can learn more about these large animals.

For protection purposes, visitors are not allowed to walk down on the beach. You can observe the elephant seals from a safe distance along the wooden walkways and viewing platforms set up on top of the bluffs.

12. Ragged Point Inn & Resort

Ragged Point Inn And Resort is situated at the beginning of Big Sur and is an excellent spot to stop for lunch, stretch your legs at the beautiful hotel grounds, and peep through the Portal to Big Sur art piece at the rugged coastline.

This location offers several eateries from quick-to-go food options to the fine-dining Ragged Point Restaurant . If you need to fill up on gas before heading into Big Sur, there is a gas station on site along with a small convenience store.

13. McWay Falls

McWay Falls is one of the most popular stops on a California coastal road trip. This stunning beachfront waterfall is situated within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and there is a small $10 fee to visit it.

After parking in the visitor lot, you can take a short 5-minute walk down to the viewing area of the waterfall. It’s best to visit McWay Falls on a clear day, otherwise, the view of the waterfall might be obstructed by a dense fog.

From the overlook, you can observe this scenic 80-foot-tall waterfall that flows down an ocean cliff into a small cove next to the beach. There are only two beachfront waterfalls in California – the McWay Falls and Alamere Falls in Marin County. This is truly a unique attraction that you don’t get to experience very often!

Where To Stay In Big Sur

Due to the remote location, Big Sur has limited accommodation choices. A few of the best places to stay in Big Sur include:

Big Sur Lodge . This resort & campground is situated at the center of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The Big Sur Lodge offers excellent amenities such as onsite dining, a bar, and a camp store for all-in-one convenience!
Big Sur River Inn . This family-friendly lodge is surrounded by a forest and has a relaxing river-front seating area with chairs half-immersed in the water. There is also a seasonal swimming pool, sun deck, restaurant, and a general store on site.

14. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is located in a remote section of the Big Sur coastline and is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the crowd.

At this State Park, you can enjoy a variety of trails that lead through ancient redwoods. From this State Park, you can easily drive down to Pfeiffer Beach to see the stunning Keyhole Arch rock formation.

If you’re planning to do the road trip in a campervan rental , we recommend staying at the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground for a night. This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds in California where you can stay in spacious campsites tucked away amongst ancient redwood trees.

15. Bixby Creek Bridge

The Bixby Creek Bridge is an essential stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco! This bridge was built in 1932 so people traveling up and down Highway 1 could cross Bixby Creek River safely.

Bixby Creek is one of the tallest single-arch bridges in the world . Due to its interesting look, Bixby Creek is an excellent spot to stop for photography while driving through Big Sur.

After parking in the small visitor lot, you can walk down a dirt trail to take in the full view of the bridge. Seeing the Bixby Bridge for the first time will truly take your breath away!

Pssst! I use the Sony a7c camera for my travel photos. This is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera available on the market – perfect for traveling, hiking, and road trips!

16. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the most gorgeous places that you can visit along the coastal drive. This Natural Reserve is located slightly south of Carmel and marks the ending (or starting) point of the Big Sur region.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is known for serene oceanfront trails, stunning viewpoints, wildlife sighting opportunities, and hidden turquoise coves. It’s well worth setting aside an hour or two to visit this natural reserve and hike a few of its trails.

If you’re short on time, the two most popular hikes here are Cypress Grove Trail and Sea Lion Point Trail . Both trails are under a mile long, flat, and can be completed in less than 30 minutes.

Note: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve does not allow dogs , even if you don’t plan to take them out of the car. It costs $10 per car to visit this reserve.

17. Monterey

Situated on a small peninsula, Monterey is one of the top cities to visit on the California coastal drive. Due to the city’s size and convenient location, many people also stop in Monterey for the night before or after traveling into Big Sur.

There are so many great things to do in Monterey including:

Monterey Bay Aquarium – a wonderful place to visit for families with little kids.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf – a historic wharf and fish market where you can get some excellent fresh seafood right out of the water!
Lover’s Point Beach . This scenic beach consists of large boulders and turquoise blue water.

Monterey is also one of the best places for whale watching in all of California! From Monterey, you can arrange 3-hour or half-day whale-watching tours to experience seeing whales, dolphins, and sea lions up close.

18. Santa Cruz

Many people stop by Santa Cruz while traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway to San Francisco. Santa Cruz is known for being a vibrant, quirky community that’s set right on the coast.

A few of the best things to do in Santa Cruz include spending time at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , visiting the Natural Bridges State Beach , and browsing through shops at the Santa Cruz Wharf .

Santa Cruz also offers easy access to nearby redwood State Parks including:

The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Fall Creek Unit
Portola Redwoods State Park

Where To Stay In Santa Cruz

If you plan to stop in Santa Cruz for the night , these are some of the best places to stay in town:

Beach Street Inn and Suites . This is one of the best hotels in Santa Cruz thanks to its location overlooking Main Beach. Some of the top local attractions such as the Boardwalk and the Warf are just a short walk from the hotel.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz . Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a luxurious surf-inspired four-star hotel. The rooms are filled with stylish, modern décor and come with views of the Pacific Ocean.

Read Next: 8 Best Breweries To Try Out In Santa Cruz

Felton is one of the most underrated towns along the West Coast and my personal favorite. Here you can visit and walk amongst some of the oldest and tallest redwood trees in the world.

Some of the top things to do in Felton include:

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park . This park covers over 4650 acres of protected redwood forests. If you’re short on time, I recommend hiking the mile-long Redwood Grove Loop Trail where you can visit trees that are 2000 years old and 300 feet tall!
Roaring Camp . Roaring Camp is situated next to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and offers train rides through one of the oldest redwood preserves in California.
The Mystery Spot . The Mystery Spot is one of the most fun & quirky things to do in the area. The main attraction of the Mystery Spot is a crooked cabin that appears to be gravity-defying!

Where To Stay In Felton

Here are some of the best places to stay in Felton :

Fern River Resort . Whenever we are visiting Felton, we always stay at the Fern River Resort. The Fern River Resort is nestled in a serene redwood property off Highway 9 ensuring easy access to the nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, local restaurants, and shops.
Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort . For RV and campervan travelers, we highly recommend the Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. Here you can stay in spacious campsites surrounded by majestic redwood trees while also enjoying comfortable amenities such as restrooms, hot showers, a clubhouse, and private access to the nearby San Lorenzo River.

20. San Francisco

Last, but not least is your final destination – San Francisco. With a population of over 800,000 people, San Francisco is one of the largest cities in California.

I recently took my mom to San Francisco for the first time. You’d be surprised to know how many people live in California their entire lives and never make it out here!

If it’s your first time visiting San Francisco, we recommend starting with these attractions:

Union Square . This is the main plaza of the city where you can do a bit of window shopping. In the winter Union Square displays an enormous Christmas tree, an ice skating ring, and fun Holiday events.
Golden Gate Bridge . Every time I see the Golden Gate Bridge, it still takes my breath away! Golden Gate Bridge is a giant red 746-foot-tall suspension bridge that connects San Francisco with the rest of Northern California.
Pier 39 . Pier 39 is a popular waterfront pier where you can do some souvenir shopping, wildlife sightseeing, and indulge in fresh seafood. From here you can also head on a tour of the nearby Alcatraz Island .
Lombard Street . This is a short, windy street with many tight hairpin turns. If you dare, you can drive down this street in your own vehicle!
Chinatown . If you’re a foodie, you’ll love San Francisco’s Chinatown. I recommend checking out Begoni Bistro Dim Sum & Wok for their delicious Peking Duck and steamed shrimp dumplings.

San Francisco is a large city that is pretty spread out and has limited parking. Instead of paying for Uber or driving yourself, sign up for this fun GoCar San Francisco Tour !

These GoCars are easy to drive and come with guided navigation so you can learn more about San Francisco as you explore the town.

Where To Stay In San Francisco

I recommend choosing a central hotel so you can easily walk around and not worry about driving.

Palihotel San Francisco . This is where we stayed on our latest visit to San Francisco. Palihotel is situated a couple of blocks from Union Square so we were able to reach all the top attractions within a short walk. Palihotel is a boutique hotel with luxurious rooms and unique, retro decorations throughout.
CitizenM San Francisco Union Square . CitizenM is a vibrant hotel at the center of San Francisco’s downtown. The hotel offers excellent amenities including free WiFi, an onsite restaurant, à la carte breakfast, and a fitness center for those who can’t miss a day at the gym.

Ready to hit the open road? Going on a road trip is such a great way to disconnect from our busy daily lives and explore new places.

We hope this itinerary has inspired you to add a few new stops while driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco!

To help you more with trip planning, here are some frequently asked questions about traveling this route:

What Is The Most Scenic Route From Los Angeles To San Francisco?

If you’re looking for a scenic route between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Highway 1 will be your best option!

This highway travels next to the coast and the Pacific Ocean passing charming towns, redwood forests, waterfalls, and other beautiful landmarks.

How Long Is The Road Trip From LA To San Francisco?

The route from Los Angeles to San Francisco is nearly 500 miles long . Without traffic and any stops, it takes about 10-12 hours to complete it . Even if you don’t plan to do any sightseeing, just adding bathroom & food breaks automatically extends this route into a 2-day drive.

I’ve done this drive many times and it travels pretty slowly because a large portion of it passes through Big Sur which has windy, narrow roads. These roads are very dangerous and should be driven with caution.

If you plan to stop at any of the main attractions and towns, I recommend setting aside 2-4 days for a road trip from LA to San Francisco.

Check out my custom LA to SF road trip map here!

Where Should I Stop Driving From Los Angeles To San Francisco?

Some of the must-see stops while driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco are:

Santa Barbara
Pismo Beach
Elephant Seal Vista Point
Golden Gate Bridge

Here are a few other popular California travel posts that you may like:

15 Best Muir Woods Tours From San Francisco
15 Amazing Redwood Hikes Near Santa Cruz
10 Best VRBOs In Morro Bay For a Cozy Trip To California’s Coast
18 Best Places To Stay In San Simeon, California
10 Incredible VRBO Vacation Rentals In Pismo Beach
5 Great Breweries In Ventura For Amazing Local Beers

Pismo State Beach Oceano Campground Pismo Beach

25 Best Beaches On The Central Coast In California

17 Best Places To Stay In Cambria On The Coast

How To Visit Moonstone Beach Boardwalk In Cambria

California Road Trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco and Must-Visit Stops Along the Way

This article was written and produced in partnership with Allianz Global Assistance. All opinions expressed within are my own.

One of the best things about California is that the opportunities for epic road trips are endless. There’s something for everyone in California, from the surf and sand to the desert, the mountains and everything in between. RELATED: Weekend Getaways For Couples in California

A road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco can take you on a scenic drive with plenty of great stops along the way, like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur and Monterey. Ready to hit the road? Let’s go!

LOS ANGELES

Things to Do in Los Angeles

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without exploring some of Hollywood’s iconic spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and of course, the Hollywood Sign. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll also want to do some fun studio tours, like those offered at Warner Bros, Paramount and Universal Studios (the studio tour is included with park admission to the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.)

Of course, Los Angeles has no shortage of options for outdoor activities, from hiking in Griffith Park and rollerblading in Venice Beach to surfing or playing beach volleyball in any of the many beaches along the coastline (Manhattan Beach, pictured above, is our favorite!) RELATED: Manhattan Beach: The Perfect LAX Layover

Looking for cultural experiences? Visit the Getty Center Museum, the Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Take in a show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall or the Hollywood Bowl. If you’ve got kids, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a must-visit. RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Going to the Hollywood Bowl

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

From downtown city hotels to beach hotels and celebrity hangouts, where you stay all depends on what you want to do while in the City of Angels. The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles is in a great location if you’re interested in catching a game or a show since it’s in the heart of the city’s sports and entertainment district. Looking for a luxurious beach stay? Shutters on the Beach is one of LA’s most popular options ... and for good reason. From its gorgeous rooms to its great location in Santa Monica, you’ll enjoy a luxury but laidback stay. The Beverly Hills Hotel is the place to stay if you’re in the mood for stargazing ... and we’re not talking about the stars in the sky! RELATED: 6 Los Angeles Hotels For Every Kind of Traveler

SANTA BARBARA

Things to do in Santa Barbara

The first stop on this road trip itinerary up the California coast is Santa Barbara and you may want to schedule a handful of days here to enjoy all that it has to offer. Known as ‘the American Riviera’, Santa Barbara is situated on the central coast of California, about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

The city is home to a number of popular tourist destinations, including Stearns Wharf, a historic pier that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment; the Santa Barbara Zoo, which is home to more than 500 animals from around the world and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, which features a collection of over 27,000 works of art from a variety of cultures and time periods. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a must-visit, with or without kids. But if you do have kids, the Prehistoric Forest (pictured above) will thrill adults and children alike.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Santa Barbara is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, surfing, and whale watching. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

While you’re there, you’ll want to visit the Santa Barbara Mission, a beautiful Spanish-style church and museum. A stroll along the Stearns Wharf, a historic pier with restaurants and shops, is a great way to spend the day and if you’re looking for a great place to eat, try Olio e Limone, an upscale Italian restaurant with delicious fresh fare.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Not surprisingly, Santa Barbara is home to a slew of wonderful hotel options, from the upscale Ritz-Carlton Bacara and the Belmond El Encanto , a dreamy stay in the lush hills overlooking the Pacific. More budget-friendly stays like the Leta Santa Barbara Goleta may be easier on the wallet but is still big on style and great, family-friendly amenities. The Hideaway is a gorgeous, meticulously designed boutique property just three blocks from the beach. RELATED: 10 Reasons to Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Things to Do in San Luis Obispo

Midway between Los Angeles and San Franciso and just 95 miles (about an hour and a half drive) from Santa Barbara, is San Luis Obispo, also known as SLO. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, mild climate, and historic downtown area, SLO makes a great road trip stop as you head up the coast.

One of the most popular things to do in San Luis Obispo is to explore the city's historic downtown. The downtown area is home to several historic buildings, including the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, which was founded by Spanish missionaries in 1772. The downtown area also features a wide range of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

While you’re there, you’ll also want to hike the Bishop Peak Trail for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The 1,546-foot summit of the 20-million-year-old rock is a 3.5-mile round trip from the trailhead at Highland Drive. If you keep up a good walking pace, it should take you about 2 to 2 1/2 hours to complete.

In nearby San Simeon, Hearst Castle, a historic mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century, is another popular attraction. The castle is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and features lavish gardens, a museum, and tours of the castle's interior.

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious hotels. SLO Brew Lofts are spacious and luxurious lofts, located above the SLO Brew restaurant and brewery in downtown San Luis Obispo. Each loft features a full kitchen, a living area, and a private balcony. The Granada Hotel & Bistro is a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo and offers stylish and modern rooms, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar. If you like more quirky stays, The Madonna Inn is a unique hotel, known for its eclectic rooms, each with its own distinctive theme and decor. RELATED: Weekend Getaways For Couples in California

Things to Do in Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon. It is characterized by its rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and pristine natural landscapes, and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation.

Big Sur is home to a number of world-famous hiking trails, including the iconic McWay Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall that drops directly into the ocean. Other popular hiking trails in Big Sur include the Ewoldsen Trail, the Partington Cove Trail, and the Pfeiffer Falls Trail. Big Sur is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are often secluded and undeveloped. Some of the most popular beaches in Big Sur include Pfeiffer Beach, Garrapata Beach, and Andrew Molera State Park.

And not to be forgotten, the Bixby Bridge is a famous landmark in Big Sur and one of the most photographed bridges in California. It spans a deep canyon and offers stunning views of the coastline. RELATED: The 10 Most Instagrammable Tourist Attractions in California

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Post Ranch Inn is a world-renowned resort and frequently appears on lists of best hotels in California, and even the world. And for good reason. This secluded luxury property with a focus on sustainability is situated on one of the most enviable locations, atop a 1,200-foot ocean bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Between the views, the service and the luxurious accommodations, this adults-only hotel is a dream stay. Don’t miss dining at Sierra Mar, the hotel’s restaurant with panoramic ocean views and farm-to-table cuisine. Other Big Sur hotels include Ventana Big Sur (also adults only), Glen Oaks Big Sur and the historic Big Sur River Inn .

Things to Do in Monterey

The coastal city of Monterey is full of things to do from visiting its historical landmarks and cultural attractions to taking in the area’s scenic beauty. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the top-rated aquariums in the world, with a vast collection of marine life, interactive exhibits, and daily feedings. Cannery Row: Cannery Row is a historic waterfront district that was once home to a thriving sardine canning industry. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and galleries. If you’re not tired of being in the car, the 17-Mile Drive is a scenic drive that winds through some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the area, including Pebble Beach, the Lone Cypress, and Spanish Bay.

Outdoor adventures abound in Monterey. For example, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a scenic park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the coastline. Monterey’s wine country has over 90 wineries in the area offering wine tastings and tours. The Monterey State Historic Park is a collection of historic buildings and landmarks that tell the story of Monterey's rich history, including the California's first capital building. And the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is an 18-mile trail that offers stunning views of the coastline, and is perfect for biking, jogging, or strolling.

Where to Stay in Monterey

Portola Hotel & Spa is a modern hotel, located in the heart of downtown Monterey, within walking distance of many popular attractions. It features spacious rooms and suites, a spa, and a heated outdoor pool. The Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is a luxurious hotel located on Cannery Row, overlooking Monterey Bay. It features spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop spa, and award-winning restaurants. The InterContinental The Clement Monterey is another waterfront hotel located in the heart of Cannery Row and offers contemporary rooms and suites, a spa, and a rooftop pool. The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa features spacious rooms and suites, multiple dining options, a golf course, a spa, and indoor and outdoor pools.

SAN FRANCISCO

Things to Do in San Francisco

No visit to San Francisco is complete without a visit to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and Golden Gate Park to see the towering redwoods. But if you have time, you’ll want to squeeze in as many of the city’s other great sites as possible. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a historic ferry terminal that has been transformed into a bustling marketplace offering artisanal food and drink, specialty shops, and farmers' markets. The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning landmark that was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, and offers a picturesque setting for photos and relaxation. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a world-renowned museum that features a collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. The Exploratorium is an interactive science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and experiments for visitors of all ages and of course, San Francisco's cable cars are a unique form of transportation and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can ride the cable cars and take in the sights of the city from a unique perspective.

San Francisco also has several distinct and diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Haight-Ashbury is a neighborhood that was once the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement. Visitors can explore the neighborhood's shops, restaurants, and street art, as well as landmarks such as the Haight-Ashbury Flower Power Walking Tour and the Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast. San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and offers a unique cultural experience, with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. The Mission is a diverse neighborhood known for its street art, Latin American cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to many hotels to suit every kind of traveler. One of my family's favorite places to stay is Cavallo Point in Sausalito. The former army barracks have been converted into luxury historic homes and travelers will certainly appreciate the stunning surroundings and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Luxury hotels include the Ritz-Carlton , the Fairmont and the St. Regis . If you prefer a historic hotel, consider the Omni San Francisco , located in the city’s financial district. If boutique hotels are more your vibe, check out the Clift Royal Sonesta , Hotel Vitale and Hotel Drisco .

This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For an explanation of our Advertising Disclosure, visit this page .

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A road trip from L.A. to San Francisco can take you on a scenic drive with great stops along the way, like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur and Monterey.

Pair these L.A. road trips with a hike and a lunch

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In April 2020 — only a month or so into the COVID-19 pandemic — my wife and I were running out of things to do. The novelty of Zoom calls with friends was wearing off. We’d watched lots of movies and TV. We were itching to get out of our apartment, but with the virus still raging, we couldn’t risk being around other people. Then we had an idea: Why not go for a drive?

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For our first trip, we drove the length of Little Tujunga Canyon Road in the Angeles National Forest. After that, we were hooked. In the ensuing months, we crisscrossed the Santa Monica Mountains and made trips into Los Padres National Forest and beyond.

My wife bought me a California road atlas, and it became part of our scenic drive ritual: We’d consult its pages for inspiration, looking for two-lane roads and state highways that squiggled through mountain ranges or meandered through deserts. After returning home, I’d highlight our route. Four years after our first drive, the atlas is full of highlights documenting our travels — and there’s still a lifetime’s worth of backroads we haven’t covered yet.

No matter where we go, each drive gives me a deeper appreciation for the incredible range of landscapes in Southern California. And these journeys have led to many rewarding discoveries, from out-of-the-way diners to new trailheads for hiking and biking.

A mountain path winds around mountains in the distance

If you’re tired of visiting the same places, it’s time to hit the road. These two trips — all within a three-hour drive of the city — will get you started.

Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument This route traverses winding mountain roads through Los Padres and spits you out near the southern entrance to Carrizo Plain — a vast preserve of native grassland and a hotspot for wildflowers (at least on some years ) and birdwatching . From Interstate 5, take Exit 205 and head west on Frazier Mountain Park Road. This two-lane road changes names several times as it ascends into the San Emigdio Mountains, passing forested slopes and epic canyon views along the way.

After about 42 miles, you’ll meet California 166. Take a right here and then a left on Soda Lake Road to enter Carrizo Plain National Monument. Drive northwest for 35 miles to the parking lot for the Soda Lake Trail, a short boardwalk that gets you up close to the park’s salt-crusted lake. If you plan ahead, you can also book a guided tour of Painted Rock, a sandstone outcrop with Native American rock art.

Hungry? Head back the way you came, take a right on California 166, and drive west 15 miles to the Cuyama Buckhorn , a renovated ’50s motel, restaurant and bar. The eatery’s Santa Maria-style tri-tip is superb, and if you grab a room, you can turn this scenic drive into a full weekend escape .

Volcan Mountain and Julian This route will take you to Julian , a mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious pies. From Interstate 15, take Exit 58 for California 79. Take a right on Pechanga Parkway and head south. The road becomes Pala Temecula Road and emerges into a wide canyon with mountains towering on either side. Take a left at Pala Mission Road and continue east on California 76, which hugs the San Luis Rey River before ascending more than 1,000 feet up a chaparral-covered ridgeline.

After some hairpin turns, the road levels off and skirts Lake Henshaw, a picturesque reservoir. Take a right on California 79, and after 10 miles, take a left on Wynola Road. Follow that road for about 3.5 miles, then take a left on Farmer Road to arrive at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. Stretch your legs on the Five Oaks Trail , a 1.2-mile path that ascends the western flank of Volcan Mountain and offers sweeping views of the orchards below.

With your appetite revved up, head south on Farmer Road into Julian and make a stop at the Julian Pie Co . Grab a well-deserved slice of apple pie and some apple cider and rest your feet at a picnic table while you chow down.

3 things to do

Dolphins swim beneath the surface of the water beyond a pier

1. Race plankton in Manhattan Beach In celebration of Earth Day, the Roundhouse Aquarium will hold a day full of educational activities inside and outside its facilities. Highlights include dolphin spotting, a fish feeding, crafts, games, a “shark shack” and, yes, plankton racing. The festivities kick off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and go until 4 p.m. The event is free, but be sure to register ahead of time at roundhouseaquarium.org .

2. Go gardening in San Pedro Give back to the land by planting native species, removing weeds, mulching and watering the White Point Nature Preserve’s garden with the folks at Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. You’ll also have the chance to enter a raffle and take a guided nature walk. As a bonus, refreshments will be provided by Starbucks to keep you cool and hydrated. The three-hour event begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. All volunteers under age 16 should be accompanied by an adult, and all volunteers under age 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver at the event. Register at pvplc.com .

3. Stretch your legs on Venice Boulevard CicLAvia is back. And this time it’s shutting down a 5.75-mile stretch of Venice Boulevard that connects Palms, Mar Vista and Venice Beach for walkers, joggers, bikers, roller skaters, unicyclers, penny-farthings, pogo sticks — anything as long as it’s completely powered by humans. There will be three local hubs along the route where you’ll be able to partake in family-friendly activities, pump air into your bike’s tires, refill your water bottle and use the restroom. Be sure to reference CicLAvia’s digital map so you can scope out the local businesses you’d like to visit along the way. It all takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information about the event and the area it covers, visit ciclavia.org .

The must-read

Klamath dam removal critic Willian Simpson II holds a handful of dead, dried-out fish

The Klamath River in Northern California has turned brown and muddy, but that’s a good thing. As Times writer Ian James reports , it’s a side effect of the largest dam removal project in history, which aims to restore the river to its natural state. Four dams are being removed along the Klamath, and the river is passing freely through tunnels in three of them, draining reservoirs and churning up an estimated 2.3 million tons of sediment that had settled along the bottom of those man-made lakes. Although the turbid water might look ugly, restoration advocates and tribal leaders see it as a sign of healing. The muck is passing out of the Klamath, and new life — everything from salmon heading upstream to native plant seedlings along the riverbanks — will soon take its place.

Happy adventuring,

Want to try birding but don’t have binoculars? Head to the Audubon Center in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and you can borrow a free pair of binoculars (as well as a birding guide, backpack and other gear) to help you spot the 140 species of birds that call the park home.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild . And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here .

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Michael Charboneau is a freelance writer covering gear and the outdoors, and he’s writing The Wild newsletter for a few months. He has written for a variety of publications, including Men’s Journal, Runner’s World and InsideHook, and he lives in West L.A. When he’s not writing, he can be found running, hiking and biking around Los Angeles and its mountains.

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MODESTO, CA - September 21, 2021: The confluence of the San Joaquin River, left, and Tuolumne River, right, along the Dos Rios Ranch Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021 in Modesto, CA. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

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April 22, 2024

Making history: brightline west breaks ground on america’s first high-speed rail project connecting las vegas to southern california , officials hammer the first spike commemorating the groundbreaking for brightline west.

LAS VEGAS (April 22, 2024) – Today, Brightline West officially broke ground on the nation's first true high-speed rail system which will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. The 218-mile system will be constructed in the middle of the I-15 and is based on Brightline’s vision to connect city pairs that are too short to fly and too far to drive. Hailed as the greenest form of transportation in the world, Brightline West will run zero emission, fully electric trains capable of speeds of 200 miles per hour. Brightline West is a watershed project for high-speed rail in America and will establish the foundation for the creation of a new industry and supply chain. The project was recently awarded $3 billion in funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. The rest of the project will be privately funded and has received a total allocation of $3.5 billion in private activity bonds from USDOT.

The groundbreaking included remarks from U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline Founder Wes Edens, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Sen. Jacky Rosen, Senior Advisor to President Biden Steve Benjamin and Vince Saavedra of the Southern Nevada Building Trades. In addition, Nevada Reps. Dina Titus, Susie Lee and Steve Horsford and California Reps. Pete Aguilar and Norma Torres made remarks and joined the celebration. More than 600 people, including union representatives, project supporters and other state and local officials from California and Nevada, attended the event.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades – and now, with billions of dollars of support made possible by President Biden’s historic infrastructure law, it’s finally happening,” said Secretary Buttigieg. “Partnering with state leaders and Brightline West, we’re writing a new chapter in our country’s transportation story that includes thousands of union jobs, new connections to better economic opportunity, less congestion on the roads, and less pollution in the air.”

“This is a historic project and a proud moment where we break ground on America’s first high-speed rail system and lay the foundation for a new industry,” said Wes Edens, Brightline founder. “Today is long overdue, but the blueprint we’ve created with Brightline will allow us to repeat this model in other city pairs around the country.”

CONSTRUCTION OF BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline West's rail system will span 218 miles and reach speeds of 200 mph. The route, which has full environmental clearance, will run within the median of the I-15 highway with zero grade crossings. The system will have stops in Las Vegas, Nev., as well as Victor Valley, Hesperia and Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

The privately led infrastructure project is one of the largest in the nation and will be constructed and operated by union labor. It will use 700,000 concrete rail ties, 2.2 million tons of ballast, and 63,000 tons of 100% American steel rail during construction. Upon completion, it will include 322 miles of overhead lines to power the trains and will include 3.4 million square feet of retaining walls. The project covers more than 160 structures including viaducts and bridges. Brightline West will be fully Buy America Compliant.

STATIONS AND FACILITIES

Brightline West will connect Southern California and Las Vegas in two hours or almost half the time as driving. The Las Vegas Station will be located near the iconic Las Vegas Strip, on a 110-acre property north of Blue Diamond Road between I-15 and Las Vegas Boulevard. The site provides convenient access to the Harry Reid International Airport, the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Raiders’ Allegiant Stadium. The station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

The Victor Valley Station in Apple Valley will be located on a 300-acre parcel southeast of Dale Evans Parkway and the I-15 interchange. The station is intended to offer a future connection to the High Desert Corridor and California High Speed Rail. The Victor Valley Station is approximately 20,000 square feet plus parking.

The Rancho Cucamonga Station will be located on a 5-acre property at the northwest corner of Milliken Avenue and Azusa Court near Ontario International Airport. The station will be co-located with existing multi-modal transportation options including California Metrolink, for seamless connectivity to Downtown Los Angeles and other locations in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Rancho Cucamonga Station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

The Hesperia Station will be located within the I-15 median at the I-15/Joshua Street interchange and will function primarily as a local rail service for residents in the High Desert on select southbound morning and northbound evening weekday trains.

The Vehicle Maintenance Facility (VMF) is a 200,000-square-foot building located on 238 acres in Sloan, Nev., and will be the base for daily maintenance and staging of trains. This site will also serve as one of two hubs for the maintenance of way operations and the operations control center. More than 100 permanent employees will report on a daily basis once operations begin and will serve as train crews, corridor maintenance crews, or operations control center teammates. A second maintenance of way facility will be located adjacent to the Apple Valley station.

The Las Vegas and Southern California travel market is one of the nation’s most attractive corridors with over 50 million trips between the region each year. Additionally, Las Vegas continues to attract visitors from around the world, with 4.7 million international travelers flying into the destination. The city dubs itself on being the world’s No. 1 meeting destination, welcoming nearly 6 million people to the Las Vegas Convention Center last year.

In California, approximately 17 million Southern California residents are within 25 miles of the Brightline West station sites. Studies show that one out of every three visits to Las Vegas come from Southern California.

ECONOMIC & ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

Brightline West's $12 billion infrastructure investment will create over $10 billion in economic impact for Nevada and California and will generate more than 35,000 jobs, including 10,000 direct union construction roles and 1,000 permanent operations and maintenance positions. The investment also includes over $800 million in improvements to the I-15 corridor and involves agreements with several unions for skilled labor. The project supports Nevada and California's climate goals by offering a no-emission mobility option that reduces greenhouse gasses by over 400,000 tons of CO2 annually – reducing vehicle miles traveled by more than 700 million each year and the equivalent of 16,000 short-haul flights. The company will also construct three wildlife overpasses, in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Caltrans for the safe passage of native species, primarily the bighorn sheep.

BRIGHTLINE FLORIDA

Brightline’s first rail system in Florida connecting Miami to Orlando began initial service between its South Florida stations in 2018. In September 2023, Brightline’s Orlando station opened at Orlando International Airport, connecting South Florida to Central Florida. The company has plans to expand its system with future stops in Tampa, Florida’s Space Coast in Cocoa and the Treasure Coast in Stuart.

BRIGHTLINE WEST

ABOUT BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline is the only private provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity passenger rail service in America – offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road by connecting city pairs and congested corridors that are too short to fly and too long to drive. Brightline West will connect Las Vegas and Southern California with the first true high-speed passenger rail system in the nation. The 218-mile, all-electric rail service will include a flagship station in Las Vegas, with additional stations in Victor Valley and Rancho Cucamonga. At speeds up to 200 miles per hour, trains will take passengers from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga in about two hours, twice as fast as the normal drive time.

Brightline is currently operating its first passenger rail system connecting Central and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, with future stations coming to Stuart and Cocoa. For more information, visit www.brightlinewest.com and follow on LinkedIn , X , Instagram and Facebook .

QUOTE SHEET

“Through this visionary partnership, we are going to create thousands of jobs, bring critical transportation infrastructure to the West, and create an innovative, fast, and sustainable transportation solution. Nevada looks forward to partnering with Brightline on this historic project.” - Governor Joe Lombardo, Nevada

“Today, not only are we breaking ground on a historic high-speed rail project here in Nevada, we are breaking ground on thousands of good paying American jobs, union jobs.” - Steve Benjamin, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement

“For decades, Nevadans heard about the promise of high-speed rail in our state, and I’m proud to have led the charge to secure the funding to make it a reality. Today’s groundbreaking is the beginning of a new era for southern Nevada -- creating thousands of good-paying union jobs, bringing in billions of dollars of economic development, enhancing tourism to the state, reducing traffic, and creating a more efficient and cleaner way to travel. This is a monumental step, and I’m glad to have worked across the aisle to make this project come true.” - Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

“Having high-speed rail in Las Vegas will electrify our economy in Southern Nevada, and I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone today. This project is on track to create tens of thousands of good-paying union jobs while cutting down traffic on I-15, and I’ll keep working with the Biden Administration to get this done as quickly as possible and continue delivering easier and cleaner transportation options for everyone in Nevada.” - Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)

“Today’s groundbreaking is a historic step in modernizing rail service in the United States. Californians driving between the Los Angeles region and Las Vegas often face heavy traffic, causing emissions that pollute the air in surrounding communities. The Brightline West Project will provide travelers with more options—helping Californians and visitors alike get to their final destination without facing gridlock on the road.” - Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

"High-speed rail in the Southwest has been a dream as far back as the nineties when Governor Bob Miller appointed me to the California-Nevada Super Speed Train Commission. As a senior Member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I am honored to have helped write the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and secure $3 billion to turn that dream into a reality which will generate millions of dollars in tax revenue, reduce carbon emissions by easing traffic on Interstate 15, and create thousands of good-paying union jobs. I am proud to stand with advocates and transportation leaders as we break ground on the Brightline West project and look forward to welcoming high-speed passenger rail to Southern Nevada." - Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-1)

“For decades, high-speed rail was just a dream in southern Nevada – but now, I’m beyond proud that we finally made it a reality. I worked across the aisle to help negotiate, craft, and ultimately pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because I knew it would kickstart transformative projects like Brightline West that will stand the test of time. Together, we’re cutting down on traffic, boosting our tourism economy, and creating thousands of good-paying union jobs.” - Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3)

“I am proud to join Brightline West for the groundbreaking of this monumental project for Southern Nevada and the southwestern United States. By connecting Las Vegas to Southern California via high-speed rail, we will boost tourism, reduce congestion on the I-15 corridor, and create jobs. The impact on our local economy and the people of the Silver State will be tremendous. In my conversations with Secretary Buttigieg, Brightline West, and our Nevada labor leaders, I know that local workers and our Nevada small businesses will benefit from this transformational investment. This will be the nation's first true high-speed rail system, blazing a new path forward for our nation’s rail infrastructure, and we hope it will serve as a blueprint for fostering greater regional connections for many other cities across the country. - Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-4)

“Brightline West’s groundbreaking today marks the construction of a dynamic high-speed rail system that will link Las Vegas, Hesperia, and Apple Valley to Rancho Cucamonga’s Metrolink Station, creating new jobs and fostering economic growth in California’s 23rd Congressional District. This convenient alternative to driving will reduce the number of cars on the road, decreasing emissions and reducing congestion in our High Desert communities. This is an exciting step and I look forward to the completion of this project.” - Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23)

"Today's groundbreaking on the Brightline West high-speed rail project marks an incredible milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to fulfilling the promise of high-speed rail and emissions-free transportation across the country. As a longtime supporter of this project, I helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has already invested over $3 billion to support the completion of this project. By increasing transportation options, spurring job creation and new economic opportunities, and improving our environment through cutting over 400,000 tons of carbon pollution each year, this project will be transformative to my district and all of Southern California for generations—particularly in and around the last stop in Rancho Cucamonga. With the goal of being operational in time for Los Angeles to host the Summer Olympic Games in 2028, I look forward to Brightline West facilitating travel for the millions visiting our region and elevating our 21st-century connectivity on the global stage." - Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28)

"As the Member of Congress that represents the City of Rancho Cucamonga and a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, it is my honor to participate in breaking ground on one of the most highly anticipated high-speed rail projects in the country. We gathered today thanks to the Biden Administration's leadership, which enacted the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to fund vital projects like this and transform our economy. The Brightline project is a stellar illustration of the power of successful public-private partnerships. Thanks to all the labor unions, Tribes, and wildlife advocates for their hard work, which brought this project to life. The bright line is fully electric and has zero emissions, which is excellent for our environment. I am eagerly anticipating the completion of this project in my district and look forward to seeing everyone there." - Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35)

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Planning a California Coastal Trip: San Francisco to Los Angeles Highway 1 We believe 4 days is an ideal amount of time for a San Francisco to Los Angeles Pacific Coast Highway road trip. In this itinerary, we outline a 4-Day California coastal trip on the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles - and includes the prime places ...
The Ultimate San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip (+Map!)
This route is approximately 454 miles and takes anywhere from 9 to 11 hours to drive in full. There is a faster route along the I-5 which takes six hours and is 383 miles but you miss all the sights and it's boring. Highway 1 starts at the northern border of California with Oregon and stretches down to San Diego.
24 Best Stops Between San Francisco to Los Angeles: PCH Road Trip
2. HALF MOON BAY. Half Moon Bay is a relatively small town 30 miles south of San Francisco and has a number of great cafes and boutique shops to explore. If you're into beaches or surfing, make sure to stop at Mavericks, a world-famous surfing spot where you can witness massive waves ranging from 25 to 60 feet high!
A San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary (one week)
Table of Contents. SAN FRANCISCO TO LOS ANGELES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY. Day 1 & 2: San Francisco. Day 3: Monterey, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Big Sur. Day 4: Hearst Castle, Cambria, Paso Robles. Day 5: Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach. Day 6: Solvang and Santa Barbara. Day 7: Los Angeles. FAQ: Road Trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
The Perfect San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
You can do this 380-mile road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles in 10 hours. On the way you can visit Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Santa Barbara, Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park. On the way, you'll drive through postcard-worthy scenery and plenty of Californian sights.
How to Plan the Perfect Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip
This is what a 5-day itinerary will look like. Day 1: Malibu + Stay in Santa Barbara. Day 2: San Luis Obispo + Morro Bay + Stay in Cambria. Day 3: Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Day 4: Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz. Day 5: Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco.
A 6-Day San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary
Book a great RV or Motorhome for your trip! This 6-day San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary is the most popular road trip on the world today. This stunning route skirts the beautiful Pacific Ocean for most of its way. The distance is a mere 450 miles or 720 kilometers.
10 Must-See Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
4. Big Sur. If there's one spot you absolutely should not miss on a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, it's Big Sur. It's a rugged headland just 30 miles south of Monterey, boasting some of the most spectacular scenery on the West Coast. It offers plenty of State-run campsites and BLM land.
5-Day Ultimate California Coast Road Trip (Hwy 1) Itinerary: Driving
The best route for the California HWY 1 road trip is North to South beginning in San Francisco and ending in Los Angeles.Starting in San Francisco means you will be on the right side of the road closest to the coast for your entire drive.
San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
Santa Cruz to Monterey drive time: approx. 55 mins. Monterey to McWay Falls drive time: approx. 1 hour. McWay Falls to Santa Barbara drive time: approx. 3 hours 40 mins. Day 7 of our San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip was the day made up of the most driving - just over 6 hours in total.
The Ultimate San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
Route 66 doesn't have anything on Cali's coastal highway 1. If you time it right, avoiding rush hour traffic around both cities, the 383-mile drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles takes less than six-and-a-half hours. But road trips are about the journey, not the destination—and the scenic route from SF to LA is one of the most breath ...
The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway California Road Trip
The Pacific Coast Highway, AKA Highway 1, is one of the most stunning scenic drives in the U.S. The highway stretches 655.8 miles long. In this specific road trip itinerary, we will be covering the section of Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles, CA.
15 Incredible Stops on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip
The drive from Los Angeles to Sequoia National Park is another fun one. 9. McWay Waterfall Trail. There are multiple places to stop on your drive from LA to San Francisco, but this one is unique because of this iconic waterfall.
The Best Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip
This adventure is truly one of the best drives the Golden State can offer! You can do this 560-mile road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco in 11 hours. On the way, you can visit Malibu, Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, San Simeon, Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, and Montara.
Iconic California Road Trip: San Francisco To Los Angeles
The best kind of road trip features great scenery, and the road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) certainly fits the bill — it boasts fantastic coastal views, wine country, quaint towns, and much more. Although California's balmy weather makes it a great place for a road trip at ...
Drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 1
Be prepared for the open road by visiting our checklist of road trip essentials. Drive Time from San Francisco to Los Angeles: approximately 10 hours. Distance from San Francisco to Los Angeles: approximately 500 miles. Best car for this road trip: Convertible. Start Your Reservation Today.
Ultimate California Road Trip: Ideas for 7, 10 & 15 Days Itineraries
The perfect 10 Day California Road Trip itinerary for must-visit places to see in California including San Francisco, Los Angeles, things to do along the Pacific Coast Highway and Big Sur, San Deigo, the Californian desert - Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley, the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, Lake Tahoe, etc.
The Ultimate Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip
Section 1: LA to Santa Barbara. Photo: Damien Verrier / Shutterstock. How nice — ease your way in to the trip with a mere 90-minute, 95-mile drive to Santa Barbara's historic architecture, pretty bay beaches, and wine tasting rooms galore. Distance: 95 miles. Drive time without stops: 90 minutes.
20 Stops On a Road Trip From Los Angeles To San Francisco
Bixby Creek Bridge. Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur. The Bixby Creek Bridge is an essential stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco! This bridge was built in 1932 so people traveling up and down Highway 1 could cross Bixby Creek River safely. Bixby Creek is one of the tallest single-arch bridges in the world.
24 Best Stops on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip
13. MORRO BAY. 15 minutes from San Luis Obispo. If you're looking for more off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, then add Morro Bay to your itinerary now! Morro Bay is a small, beachy town alive with family-friendly activities.
California Road Trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco and Must-Visit ...
A road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco can take you on a scenic drive with plenty of great stops along the way, like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur and Monterey.
Pair these L.A. road trips with a hike and a lunch
Take a left at Pala Mission Road and continue east on California 76, which hugs the San Luis Rey River before ascending more than 1,000 feet up a chaparral-covered ridgeline.
Brightline West Breaks Ground on America'S First High-speed Rail
The station will be co-located with existing multi-modal transportation options including California Metrolink, for seamless connectivity to Downtown Los Angeles and other locations in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Rancho Cucamonga Station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

A Perfect San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

Where to Fly In and Out Of?

How Many Days to Spend Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The Route for Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Recommended Itineraries for Driving from SF to LA

The Best Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

San Francisco

Take Surfing Lessons

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Walk or Bike Westcliff Drive

See the Redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Hike the Old Landing Cove Trail

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

Whale Watching

Get Out On the Water

Head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Stop for the Amazing Sights (North to South)

Take a Hike

Treat Yourself

Morro Bay and Cayucos

Stop in San Simeone to See the Elephant Seals

Eat Beachside at Hidden Kitchen in Cayucos

Hike Around the Base of Morro Rock

Explore Montana de Oro State Park

San Luis Obispo

Drink Cider at SLO Cider Co

Stop by The Creamery Marketplace

Grab Lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co (Gluten Free Options!)

Make a Stop, or Three, For Coffee

Head to Nearby Avila Beach

The Santa Ynez Valley: Solvang and Los Olivos

Santa Barbara

Explore the Funk Zone

Tackle the Urban Wine Trail

Hike to Inspiration Point

Hit the Beach

Where to Eat & Drink in Santa Barbara

Lunch at Food Harmonics

Browse New and Used Books at Barts Books

Grab a Treat at Revel Kombucha Bar

Fuel Up at Beacon Coffee

Ventura and the Channel Islands

Soak in the Sun at Zuma Beach

Watch Surfers at Malibu Lagoon

Hike Los Liones Trail

Los Angeles

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12 Awesome Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Where to stop on the San Francisco to Los Angeles drive

1. San Francisco

Distance from San Francisco to Los Angeles

2. San Jose

3. Santa Cruz

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4. Monterey Bay

6. San Simeon

7. San Luis Obispo

9. Santa Barbara

10. Ventura

12. Los Angeles

Bonus stop: San Diego

Visas for the USA

Q&A on the SF to LA road trip

1. How long to drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

2. How many times should I stop on the San Fran to LA drive?

3. When’s the best time to drive from San Fran to LA?

4. What does a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles look like?

5. What does San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip look like on the map?

6. What is the distance to cover on a San Fran to LA road trip?

7. What is the best way to travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

More tips for your coastal road trip California

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LA to San Francisco Road Trip Map

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Highway 101/Highway 1 Route

I-5 vs Highway 101: Which is Better?

Alternative Route: Highway 395