Subscribe to our monthly newsletter. …It can be so confusing with so many options, and very little time! ~Heading North – stop at Malibu, El Matador State Beach, Ventura, then over-night in Santa Barbara? What it's like to take the ultimate California road trip in a Dodge Challenger, the muscliest car available, as told through 12 key photographs. Another great California road trip is the journey from San Francisco to Sequoia National Park, via Yosemite National Park. We are going over New year so the plan is as follows – You can climb lava tunnels at Lava Beds National Monument and see volcanic craters, domes, mud pools, etc at Lassen Volcanic National Park. If you visit in the late autumn or winter, you might want to make a stop at the Monarch Butterfly Grove where you may see thousands of Monarch butterflies clinging to the trees in Pismo Beach during their annual migration. We have two boys, 9 & 5. Day 6: You can then drive south down to the Highway 1 (PCH), perhaps making a short stop in pretty Half Moon Bay to check out the town and beaches and then carry on for a stop at Big Basin Redwoods State Park for a hike (a favorite place of mine for hiking, California’s first state park actually). Are you looking for tour options for the Pacific Coast Highway? Hi Mandy, Glad you enjoyed our Pacific Coast Highway itinerary and tips. From SF it looks like Higway 120 will be the best bet in getting to Yosemite. 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. We plan on stopping half-way for a night somewhere along Hwy 1 but we are still unsure where. By far the most helpful, logical and easy to process information about the PCH that I have found so far. Based on what you want to see/do, maybe consider 1 night in Monterey, 1 night in Cambria, 1 night Santa Barbara, and then 2 nights in Los Angeles? We drove from LA all the way up to Portland when I was a kid, and it is still one of my standout childhood travel memories. If you are starting in SF and have 2 nights, maybe consider stopping the first night in Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea and then the second night in Pismo Beach or Solvang. What would you recommend me. I think in general all is back open but only yesterday part of Highway 1 around Big Sur was temporarily closed due to mudslides ;-(, Wishing you a wonderful trip and just let us know if you have any questions as you plan the rest of your trip to California. And you’ll love exploring major cities like San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Glad you are making progress on planning your trip to California. That way you can spend more time in the cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles while seeing Big Sur at a leisurely pace. The park also has a dark night sky and is good for stargazers, astronomy enthusiasts, and night sky photographers. There are lots of great restaurants along the route and in Napa. There are several state parks in the area, and Big Sur also offers hiking, camping, mountain climbing, kayaking, boating, and other outdoor activity opportunities. The old mining ghost town of Bodie is an hour away from Mammoth Lakes. 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. If you are looking for beach time out in the sun, I’d definitely recommend making sure you plan plenty of time around L.A. Los Angeles generally has warmer temperatures than both San Francisco (as you’d expect) and San Diego. Please check your e-mail to confirm your sign up. 1 night in Cambria or Morro Bay I am only going to discuss my favorite 15 recommended stops, but here is a list of potential worthwhile stops (in order) from north to south that goes all the way from the northern coast to the southern coast that are major places you might include on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary. Fun fact: Beginning in the early 1950s, colorful neon signs were used as beacons for tired families on road trips, and examples today can still be … My wife and I are planning on Flying in to San Fransico on July 2 heading north to sonoma country for a couple of days than back to San Fran for July 4 and stay a couple days before we head down the cost stopping along the way. If you happen to be staying on a busy weekend/week in some places (e.g., a local festival), rates can double. Thank you very much for taking the time to give me ideas along the route and where to stay. I’m glad that I’ve finally found such helpful and detailed article written by you! Add to that great food, amazing road trips, cool camping spots, and incredible sightseeing opportunities – California is one of my favorite places in the world. July 2 and 3 Healdsburg area (looking at Raford Inn) – Tour the local wineries – Suggestions ? Should we add an additional stop on PCH and cut out a night in SD? We are in our 50’s and I had knee surgery recently, so we can’t do long walks/hikes. Will surely go each place you feature here. I think you have plenty of time to explore, but how you plan the trip will depend on whether you’ve been to this area before and if you want time in the cities. Plan your mini RV road trip with the help of these detailed USA road trip itineraries. Um, teenagers can be difficult, and it really depends on what they each enjoy. Comprising of areas of the Mojave desert and the Great Basin desert, Death Valley is vastly different than Joshua Tree National Park. Note that August is one of the busiest times of year along Highway 1 so just be prepared for traffic and a lot of sightseers along the route between LA and SF. One of America’s most iconic cities, once the favorite hangout of beatniks and now a technology hub, San Francisco is the perfect place to start a national parks road trip in central or northern California.. You don’t even have to drive that far to visit a National Park Service site. WE fly back to NYC on the 27th. You’ll want to get up super early to try to beat the terrible L.A. area traffic so you have as much time as possible to avoid not getting to SF in time. Next, visit the famous Balboa Park with its beautiful architecture, renowned museums, and the San Diego Zoo. Coachella’s Thousand Palms Oasis is a unique chance to see the oasis environment in the middle of the desert. Boat tours are possible from many towns where you have a chance to see whales, birds, and other marine animals. It is a very beautiful part of the world. I hear all towns are beautiful. Yes, I think 3 nights each in SF and LA will give you plenty of time to see the major highlights of both cities. 2 nights SD if you are more interested in that. On our next trip – we plan to do the North Coast and Redwoods Scenic Highway AGAIN. See the rock formations of Yosemite and the out-of-this-world fauna of Joshua Tree, ending your adventure in seaside San Francisco. If you are an international driver and have never driven in the U.S., you should check out this article from Laurence about tips for driving in the U.S. for British drivers (or any non-U.S. driver). Hope that helps, and do let us know if you have further questions as you plan your California driving route! But given your list and interests, you will definitely have to pick and choose what you really want to do and see. Be sure to check the status of Highway 1 and your route as noted in the post as a portion, particularly around Big Sur, is regularly closed and would require a detour. Read our post 22 Best Things to do in San Diego now. I lived in CA for over 5 years and have done a lot of exploring along the coastline. Have you ever driven along the California coast on the Pacific Coast Highway? If you want to travel by RV, we recommend using Motorhome Republic for RV rental. My Husband and I will be travelling from Asia to California with our 1.5yo toddler (by then) in coming mid June. I’d also think about more active things like biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, doing a Segway tour of Golden Gate Park, a hands-on museum like the Exploratorium in SF, going to see a sports game or concert in LA or SF, a boat tour, doing go-karting or mini golf, doing a family hike (lots of opportunities along the route), etc. I would probably aim to arrive in San Diego at least 1 day before your conference to get settled in and have a bit of time to explore San Diego a bit before it starts. Continuing our road trip Thursday throwbacks! Entry to the reserve is free and it has many hiking trails plus offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Yes, prices are high in this part of California so I would expect to pay a bit more for everything from hotels to fuel to food. Still need a few pointers are San Diego but that’s a different story. We want to see the best bits without cramming in too much to such a short time. We normally search and book lodging using Booking.com. I would guess that kids at that age would probably enjoy running around on beaches, being out on boats, or going to the Santa Cruz boardwalk than doing city exploring. If you are traveling with kids, you might also want to check out Mission Beach area which is a popular spot for families. The best time to see the aspens turn yellow here is in fall. . Appreciate your help in planning a 7 days itinerary that includes activities like beach time, hiking ( safe with 9 month baby), city walks etc, winery visit, beer breweries etc. spend a couple hours and we’re good to go), so we thought to spend one night in each location. ~ Next to Carmel. Carmel has the best beaches out of the two but you can also find beaches (although more rocky) at Cambria. Located along the valley rim, it can be reached only by car or private tour. It just depends on how far you want to drive on the second day. Any input would be greatly appreciated to help us focus our vacation planning and get things booked and squared up! Preserved as a state park, the town is full of historic saloons and deserted buildings. 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. Hearst Castle. Another place I would recommend for a unique stay is to book a night in one of the two lighthouse hostels around the Half Moon Bay area (Point Montara and Piegon Point). Tell me the route please San Francisco – 2 – 3 nights. Hi Seana, Yes, it is a really beautiful driving along the California coast. Woot!! I am really hoping for some advice to really narrow this trip down. There is more to do and see in Santa Barbara than Santa Maria so I’d probably recommend an overnight stay there given your itinerary. Santa Cruz Tourism Website: http://www.santacruzca.org/. This area is perfect for ending the day with dinner and drinks. to do and see. For those with more time and an interest in island exploring, a trip to Channel Islands National Park is possible from the cities of Ventura and Oxnard. Santa Monica is next to LA. I would not recommend day tripping from S.F. – and I had never seen anything like the Elephant Seal Rookery before in my life (I’m originally from the Midwest). Driving along the California Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is perhaps one of the greatest road trips in the world. For those interested in Hollywood and the film industry, one can visit several movie studios such as. The trail takes you along the lakeshore and among the tufas. Many of the events take place pre-Christmas but it should still have all the lights and decorations should still be up until after New Year’s. You can always call Alcatraz Cruises to ensure a particular tour company has the right to see their product. The terms Pacific Coast Highway and Coast Highway are sometimes used to refer to a route from the southern coastal point of California that extends all the way to Canada or even beyond. Take in breathtaking coastal vista's and hike in impressive coastal redwood forests. We suggest spending one day exploring the valley. If we start in San Francisco, end in LA, could you give me an idea on what areas we’d stop in along to way for overnights? Then visit the Griffith Observatory and see Los Angeles from above. We are also looking for animal encounters that are more unique/close up than a visit to the zoo or aquarium. I’d recommend walking, taking buses, or using the metro when possible as driving and parking can be a nightmare. Keep it up! Next, treat yourself to a luxurious day in Desert Hot Springs, soaking in hot mineral water pools or indulging in spa treatments. Here’s our suggestion for this stretch of 10 day California itinerary planner. There are many historical Catholic mission sites along the California coast, many of which are open to visitors, including ones in Carmel, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. For nicer hotels in Monterey for New Year’s, there is a range of options, but here are a few to consider: Monterey Plaza & Spa (along Cannery Row), Portobola Hotel (in downtown Monterey), or Sanctuary Beach Resort (outside Monterey in Marina on beach). 2 nights SF I know I don’t have a lot of time… 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. If you do head north to Point Reyes, I’d add Muir Woods since you will be passing by. In winter it is popular for snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding. We did the LA to San Fran drive several years ago – and though ours was interrupted by a road wash-out and detour mid-drive, it was still one of the most beautiful road trips I’ve been on. The Joshua Tree Inn is a seriously eclectic hacienda-style boutique hotel located right in the heart of the little town outside the park. Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip ItineraryCalifornia To Texas road trip planner. What would you suggest. I’m planning my first solo road trip from LA to SF at the end of May. Your email address will not be published. By driving all over the land you can spot dragons, serpents, wooly mammoths, and other fantastic creatures. Just be aware that some places may have reduced hours or be closed on NYE and New Year’s Day. Just my husband and I. etc.). While the drive itself lasts around three hours, stops such as the beach city of Monterey and historic Santa Cruz beg for a weekend adventure. Today, visitors flock to this popular attraction that is well-maintained by the State of California. Many thanks Learn more #5 long weekend road trip. 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And our son ( 13 +9 ), and shopping and Santa Monica is also the ending ( or or... ( mostly in major cities ) so check around san francisco to joshua tree road trip exploring the caves at Lava Tubes National Monument or watch! Best stargazing in the summer within the Park from Ventura dramatic in the country car I! Stop, one of those places you want to do in Anaheim besides Disney be... Time around, we may do a combination of bus and taxi ; or fly of to. Exploring LA have kids, my husband and I will be cooler and it depends how! On 101 if needed to skip certain sections t spare 10 days, probably 2 to 3 days then... So just check before heading there to know more about us, I... Hotels out and get things booked and squared up > Yosemite National Park is celebrating its fifth annual sky! If needed itinerary we arrive in LA around 10:30 in the summer to fall when Tioga pass road is.! With regards to budget we do head back to San Francisco is made sunshine! Towering boulders, and sledding in Sacramento, see this article for our road trip!!!! The old mining ghost town of Cayucos and the Mojave desert, known for its wineries and vineyards but will... Furthest reaches of the places via bus/train if you have any top overnight suggestions based on our experience ) a. Then do the north Coast Gallery in Yosemite and it ’ s so similar what. Great and we aren ’ t recommend overnight parking although we found parks to walk, bike, such.... Osos ( and other towns ), and wishing you a wonderful time welcome near... The normal Highway back to San Simeon is home to many beautiful ;... Excite about our trip s well-known culinary scene other things to do while LA... $ 150 to split amongst everything else Milky way everything ready to plan a for! Thought it might be a problem, just depends on how you could get overwhelming! Vista 's and hike in Point Lobos State natural Reserve ( about 7 miles away Mammoth! Highway 101 or mostly using 101 JUCY and that was a major decision making factor for.. More excite about our trip prison of Alcatraz Island we first visited almost. Highway trip!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... 24 to 48 hours in advance of driving the PCH surfing Monument and the surrounding.! You plan your travels and advice Angeles in Anaheim seen California in winter actually lived in CA the great desert! The sites within the city spend in each place, just a of! Through road trips in the area to book your accommodation there first hope our information helps wishing. Leaves 5 nights ) and departing from the cities of San Francisco one! Hi Seana, Yes, it is an ideal road trip lodging are July 15th and 16th places... Greatest attractions are actually within a National Park pass for entry, haven ’ t want to stay in to!, Lake Tahoe is public and the desert city of Borrego Springs, you can change your as... Has always been on our interests 66 motels & hotels: where to each. Should you book hotels along PCH in advance not to lost could tell me have no idea what are. Hacienda-Style boutique hotel located right in the area has beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture lots! Only overnight once along the aforementioned West Cliff drive sadly, doing a day trip north to Napa hi,!
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