There’s no better way to soak in California’s natural beauty than a coastal California road trip itinerary.
This 7-day road trip takes you from the sunny beaches of San Diego to the Golden Gate charm of San Francisco. Along the way, expect iconic ocean views, seaside towns, and unforgettable eats.
Here’s how to make the most of 7 scenic days on Highway 1:
Day 1: San Diego: Sun, Surf, and Start
Kick off in laid-back San Diego. Spend your morning exploring La Jolla Cove or paddleboarding in Mission Bay.
Grab fish tacos at Oscars Mexican Seafood, then head north with a quick stop in Encinitas for surf-town vibes. Overnight in Carlsbad or Oceanside for a mellow start.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss sunset at the Torrey Pines Gliderport with paragliders and Pacific views included.
Day 2: Orange County: Beach Town Hopping
Cruise through Orange County’s coastal gems: Laguna Beach for art galleries and coves, Newport Beach for a harbor cruise, and Huntington Beach for classic SoCal surf culture. Spend the night in Long Beach or continue to Santa Monica for a livelier scene.
Must-Do: Ride the Ferris wheel on Santa Monica Pier for a dose of nostalgia.
Day 3: Los Angeles: Glam Meets Grit
Dedicate a day to LA’s coastal charms. Walk Venice Beach’s boardwalk, bike to Santa Monica, or climb the stairs at Palisades Park for sweeping views.
Hungry? Try a breakfast burrito from Great White. If time allows, detour to Malibu for cliffside dining at Geoffrey’s. Stay the night in Santa Monica, Venice, or Topanga Canyon for a more tranquil base.
Day 4: Santa Barbara: Wine, Waves, and Spanish Style
Continue along Highway 1 to Santa Barbara. Stop at El Matador Beach on the way. In SB, enjoy the red-tiled rooftops, wine tasting in the Funk Zone, and oceanfront walks. Take a late-afternoon stroll along Stearns Wharf before a sunset dinner.
Alternative Stop: Detour inland to Ojai for boho charm and boutique spas.
Day 5: San Luis Obispo + Morro Bay: Central Coast Calm
Morning drive to San Luis Obispo, one of California’s most charming small cities. Check out Bubblegum Alley and stroll Higuera Street. Continue to Morro Bay to see the giant Morro Rock and dine on local seafood.
Pro Tip: Stay overnight in nearby Cambria or book a tour of Hearst Castle.
Day 6: Big Sur: The Crown Jewel
This is what you came for: the Big Sur stretch. Drive slowly, take in Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and stop at Nepenthe for lunch with a view.
Hike among the redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and chase purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach. You can stay overnight in Big Sur or continue north to Monterey if lodging is scarce.
Day 7: Monterey to San Francisco: Finish Strong
Explore Monterey’s Cannery Row or visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Take the scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, then cruise up to Santa Cruz for a boardwalk fix. Arrive in San Francisco by late afternoon, just in time for a Golden Gate photo-op.
Let the Coast Guide You
This 7-day California coastal road trip itinerary is designed for ease, beauty, and balance.
Whether you’re chasing cliffs, tacos, or sunsets, every mile offers something memorable. Drive slow, stop often, and let the Pacific lead the way.
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