Start an amazing journey with this california road trip itinerary 10 days. It takes you through the Golden State’s stunning landscapes, lively cities, and secret spots along the Pacific Coast Highway. From San Francisco’s hills to LA’s beaches, get ready for scenic drives, top attractions, and unique local experiences. This ultimate california road trip itinerary shows you the best places and gives tips for a great trip through California’s variety.
With over 48,000 RV listings on Outdoorsy, finding a place to stay is easy (source:1). You can drive from San Francisco to Monterey in two hours or enjoy the views at Big Sur State Parks. Remember, campsites get full up to six months early, so plan ahead (source:1). Come along on this epic trip, where each day brings new adventures and memories in California’s diverse and stunning landscapes.
Key Takeaways
- Experience iconic cities and breathtaking scenery with this 10-day itinerary.
- Plan ahead as popular campsites can book up to six months in advance.
- Discover local culture, attractions, and culinary delights throughout your trip.
- Avoid peak tourist seasons where possible for a more enjoyable experience.
- Stay flexible in your plans to include spontaneous stops and hidden gems.
Why Choose a California Road Trip?
California is a top choice for a memorable adventure. It offers stunning landscapes from sunny beaches to tall redwood forests. You’ll also find vibrant cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles with their unique cultures.
Using a california road trip planner lets you explore famous spots at your pace. You can make spontaneous stops, try local foods, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and wine tasting. For example, the plan suggests spending three nights in San Diego and visiting other iconic places for a full experience2.
Driving along routes like the Pacific Coast Highway makes the trip special. It’s key to book your stay early to avoid stress. This 10-day, 1,800-mile trip includes many stops to see what California offers3.
Getting ready is important, so pack snacks and a first aid kit. This adventure aims to fulfill your wanderlust and make memories with others2.
Best Time to Plan Your California Road Trip
Planning your California road trip means knowing the best time for a great experience. Late spring to early autumn is the best time, especially September to early October. You’ll enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds in national parks.
Summer can be cool and cloudy, especially in places like San Francisco. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy Southern California’s beauty, late spring is good. Just make sure heavy rains haven’t ruined attractions like Yosemite National Park.
Think about local events and festivals during your trip. They give you a peek into Californian culture. Knowing when to visit makes your trip memorable4.
Knowing the best seasons makes your trip better. You’ll enjoy California’s beautiful views and many activities5.
Day 1 & 2: Discovering San Francisco
Your journey starts as you explore San Francisco, a city full of famous landmarks and fun activities. The first two days are for seeing its top sights and finding a cozy place to stay.
Top Attractions in San Francisco
San Francisco has many attractions you can’t miss. Here are some highlights:
- Golden Gate Bridge – This famous bridge gives amazing views and great photo spots.
- Fisherman’s Wharf – A lively spot with shops, eateries, and sea lions by the dock.
- Alcatraz Island – Take a tour of the old prison that’s now a historic site.
- Painted Ladies – See the stunning Victorian houses against the city skyline.
Don’t forget to visit Muir Woods National Monument. It costs $15 for those 16 and up, and kids 15 and under get in free. It’s open all year, from 8 am to 5 pm, making it easy to visit6.
Recommended Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in San Francisco makes your trip better. Here are some suggestions:
- Mid-range hotels near Fisherman’s Wharf – Close to many attractions, these are budget-friendly but still comfortable.
- Luxury accommodations in Union Square – Perfect for those wanting a fancy stay and easy access to shopping and dining.
- Budget-friendly motels – A good choice for a flexible stay without giving up on convenience.
Booking your stay early, especially in summer, helps get a good spot7.
Day 3: Scenic Drive from San Francisco to Big Sur
The san francisco to big sur drive is a journey that shows off California’s beauty. It covers less than 145 miles and is filled with stunning views. The fastest way takes about 2 hours and 44 minutes, via US 101 S to CA-156 W and then CA-1 S. Taking CA-1 S the whole way adds about 25 minutes, making the trip around 3 hours and 10 minutes long. This longer route gives you more time to enjoy the coast and beautiful stops8.
Highlights Along the Route
There are many spots to see along the way. In Monterey, you can visit the famous aquarium and enjoy the waterfront. Driving through 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach offers amazing coastal views and great photo spots. You can also stop in charming towns like Carmel for a relaxing lunch or a beach walk9.
Planning ahead makes the trip better. Since there’s no direct bus from San Francisco to Big Sur, renting a car is a good idea. This lets you explore at your pace and find hidden spots. Make sure to have extra time to enjoy the views and visit places like Bixby Bridge and Big Sur’s famous coastline10.
| Route | Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Quickest Route (US 101 S to CA-1) | 2 hours 44 minutes | 145 miles |
| Scenic Route (CA-1 S) | 3 hours 10 minutes | 145 miles |
| Bus Option | – | San Francisco to Salinas + taxi to Big Sur ($150-$180) |
Day 4: Exploring Big Sur
Big Sur is famous for its stunning cliffs and vast ocean views. It’s a place full of outdoor adventures. You can hike or check out its unique spots. This 90-mile stretch along the California coast is perfect for nature fans.
Outdoor Activities and Sites
Don’t miss Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and its famous McWay Falls. This waterfall drops right into the ocean. For more fun, there are hiking trails for all levels, from easy to hard.
The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is great for outdoor fun. Plan to stay 1 to 3 days to see everything. Remember, cell service is limited, so download maps before you go.
Point Lobos State Nature Reserve is another spot you can’t miss. It’s full of wildlife and beautiful views, but forget about Wi-Fi. As you explore, enjoy the views and try out local restaurants. Book ahead since they’re very popular.
Hiking or just enjoying the views, Big Sur is a peaceful yet thrilling place. Be ready for high gas prices, up to $6.50 per gallon. Your trip to Big Sur will be unforgettable11.
Day 5: Journey from Big Sur to Paso Robles
The drive from Big Sur to Paso Robles is full of breathtaking stops. You’ll find yourself exploring must-see California attractions along the way. Begin at McWay Falls, where the waterfall meets the ocean, setting the stage for the scenic drive.
Next, visit Hearst Castle, a National Historic Landmark. Its grand architecture and rich history will amaze you. And don’t miss Piedras Blancas to see the elephant seals on the beach. This route is perfect for photography lovers.
Must-See Stops on Your Way
- McWay Falls
- Hearst Castle
- Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
After these stops, plan to stay overnight in Paso Robles. It’s known for its cozy accommodations, especially for wine lovers. The area has many wineries with great tasting experiences, showing off California’s wine heritage. This part of the trip mixes beautiful views with cultural spots, making it a trip highlight from Big Sur to Paso Robles12.
Here’s a quick overview of the top attractions you can visit on your way:
| Attraction | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| McWay Falls | Big Sur | Waterfall, Ocean Views |
| Hearst Castle | San Simeon | Historical Tours, Art Collection |
| Piedras Blancas | San Simeon | Elephant Seals Viewing |
Each stop offers a unique experience as you travel through California’s stunning region. The trip from Big Sur to Paso Robles is unforgettable1314.
Day 6: Wine Tasting in Paso Robles
Day six of your California road trip takes you into Paso Robles’ vibrant wine culture. This area is a paradise for wine fans, with over 300 wineries in the Paso Robles AVA and its 11 sub AVAs15. It’s known for its diverse vineyards, covering nearly 40,000 acres15. Whether you go solo or join a tour, Paso Robles wine tasting is an unforgettable experience.
Top Wineries to Visit
Make sure to visit some top wineries in Paso Robles. Here are a few highly recommended spots:
- Adelaida Vineyards: Known for its stunning estate and excellent Rhône varietals, this winery requires advanced reservations.
- Daou Vineyards: Offers a premium tasting experience called the Discover Daou Experience, with breathtaking views and top-notch wine16.
- Justin Vineyards: Specializes in small-batch Bordeaux blends, offering delicious wines from their 160 acres15.
- Tablas Creek Vineyard: Famous for Rhone grape varietals, it’s dedicated to biodynamic farming15.
- Tooth & Nail Winery: Known for its castle-like tasting room and diverse wine labels15.
For a deeper dive, there are various wine tour options. Choose from self-driving to semi-private tours. Don’t miss out on the unique dining spots like Momotaro Ramen and Fish Gaucho, perfect for pairing with your wine tasting1617.
As the sun sets, consider the Sensorio Light Show. It’s a mesmerizing display that lights up the night with stunning installations16. Paso Robles offers a perfect mix of great wines and unforgettable moments.
| Winery Name | Highlights | Reservation Required |
|---|---|---|
| Adelaida Vineyards | Stunning Rhône varietals | Yes |
| Daou Vineyards | Premium tasting experience | Yes |
| Justin Vineyards | Bordeaux blends | No |
| Tablas Creek Vineyard | Biodynamic practices | No |
| Tooth & Nail Winery | Unique castle tasting room | No |
Day 7: From Paso Robles to San Luis Obispo
Starting your journey from Paso Robles to San Luis Obispo, you’ll find scenic routes in California that are breathtaking. You’ll see beautiful landscapes, quaint towns, and exciting coastal areas. Don’t miss Pismo Beach, where you can relax or try local seafood.
Morro Bay is a gem with its stunning views of Morro Rock. Here, you can enjoy water sports or go on a marine life tour to see sea lions and whales. The area is full of marine life, including tide pools perfect for exploring. The drive from Paso Robles to San Luis Obispo is about 30 minutes, making it easy to get there18.
When you arrive in San Luis Obispo, you’ll love its lively downtown. It’s filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries that show off the local culture. In fact, the downtown area was named the happiest city in America in 2010, showing how welcoming it is18.
For a taste of local wine, check out the Tolosa Winery. They offer amazing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, showing off the region’s best. Plan to stay for at least two days to enjoy everything this enchanting place has to offer. This day is a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, part of the Central California Road Trip.
Day 8: Santa Barbara Adventures
Santa Barbara shows off its charm on Day 8 with lots of attractions for travelers. It’s over 350 miles from San Francisco, taking about 8 hours to get there without stopping. This makes the trip worth it for those who love coastal views19. The city blends culture and outdoor fun, perfect for visitors wanting to see and do new things.
Unique Experiences in Santa Barbara
Walk through the Funk Zone to see art and taste local wines. For a different view, try a bike tour along the beach. You’ll see the ocean and sandy shores up close. Don’t miss the historic Santa Barbara Mission to learn about the area’s history and see beautiful architecture.
Outdoor lovers will find lots to enjoy, like relaxing at East Beach. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with perfect weather for exploring19. As you explore, look out for local events and festivals. They add to the city’s lively vibe.
| Santa Barbara Attractions | Description | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Funk Zone | An arts district filled with galleries and wine tasting rooms. | Local artwork and murals; taste artisan wines. |
| Santa Barbara Mission | Historic mission showcasing beautiful architecture and gardens. | Rich history; notable as a “Queen of the Missions.” |
| East Beach | Popular sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and activities. | Ideal for picnics; excellent views of the coastline. |
| Scenic Bike Tours | Guided and self-guided tours available along the coastline. | Provides unique perspectives of the natural beauty. |
Exploring Santa Barbara gives you lasting memories with fun activities and beautiful sights. It makes sure every visitor feels the city’s unique beauty and spirit19.
Day 9: Southern California Hotspots – Los Angeles
Los Angeles is full of cultural experiences that show off Southern California’s spirit. You’ll see famous landmarks that make the city vibrant. Places like the Hollywood Sign, Venice Beach, and the Santa Monica Pier offer unique attractions. They highlight the city’s diversity through various cultural experiences in LA.
Cultural Attractions in Los Angeles
The Getty Center is a must-see with its amazing art and gardens. You can take a free tour or just enjoy the views. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has a wide range of art, from modern to historical.
Biking along Santa Monica’s beach trail gives you a special view of the coast. It’s a great way to see the area’s beauty20. Santa Monica’s Palisades Park is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the ocean views20.
Guided tours, like architectural walks in Venice and art walks at Bergamot Station, help you learn about the local culture. Ending your visit with a trip to Griffith Observatory gives you great views and teaches you about space and science.
Enjoying the nightlife, trying different foods, and seeing live shows are key to experiencing LA. Each neighborhood has its own story and cultural experiences in LA waiting for you to find them.
| Attraction | Highlight | Distance from Downtown LA |
|---|---|---|
| Getty Center | Art collection & gardens | 10 miles |
| Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) | Extensive exhibitions | 5 miles |
| Santa Monica Pier | Amusement park & beach activities | 15 miles |
| Griffith Observatory | Stargazing & educational exhibits | 6 miles |
Los Angeles is a city full of culture, offering endless adventures and learning. Try to dive into the many cultural experiences that make this city famous21.
Day 10: Wrapping Up in Los Angeles
The last day in Los Angeles is a chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant life. Start at the famous Santa Monica Pier, where rides are $8 each22. Take a walk along the pier for beautiful views and a fresh ocean breeze.
Then, visit the Broad Museum, with parking at $15 for three hours22. This encourages a quick visit to see the exhibits without worry.
For shopping lovers, Rodeo Drive is a must. It’s filled with designer stores and boutiques. It’s a great way to end your trip.
As night falls, go to the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views. Watching the sunset here is a perfect end to your trip.
Finish your trip with dinner at a local restaurant. Los Angeles’s food scene is diverse and delicious, making it a great way to end your journey.
| Activity | Location | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Visit Santa Monica Pier | Santa Monica | 2 hours |
| Explore The Broad Museum | Downtown Los Angeles | 2-3 hours |
| Shopping at Rodeo Drive | Beverly Hills | 2 hours |
| Sunset at Griffith Observatory | Griffith Park | 1 hour |
| Dinner at a local restaurant | Varied locations | 2 hours |
This plan makes sure your last day in Los Angeles is packed with amazing sights and experiences. It leaves you with lasting memories3.
California Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days: A Summary
A 10-day road trip in California is an unforgettable adventure. It’s filled with stunning landscapes and vibrant cities. The journey starts in San Francisco, where you’ll see Coit Tower, a 65-meter tall landmark with amazing city views.
Then, you’ll visit Pier 39, a place where sea lions enjoy the sun and over 100 shops and restaurants await.
Next, you’ll head to Big Sur, where the coast’s beauty will take your breath away. You’ll stop at Monterey Bay Aquarium, where adults pay $59.95 to see marine life. Then, you’ll explore Cannery Row, a famous street in a classic California coastal town.
After that, you’ll venture into Joshua Tree National Park. The park costs $30 per private vehicle to enter. This adds to the excitement of your trip.
In Sequoia National Park, you’ll see the General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing. It’s over 2200 years old and 84 meters tall. Crystal Cave is another highlight, offering a cool tour at 10 degrees Celsius23.
Each day is packed with unique experiences. This makes a detailed recap of your California trip, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
Conclusion
Starting a California road trip is an adventure full of stunning views, different landscapes, and special experiences. Over 10 days, you’ll travel 830 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles. You’ll see famous places like Yosemite National Park and Death Valley, each with unforgettable sights and activities.
This trip makes you open-minded and ready to explore. It’s important to stop at hidden spots along the way. These stops make the trip even better.
Getting ready is key to having a great trip. Plan your budget, know how long it takes to get from one place to another, and take breaks to enjoy the views. These tips will help make your trip smooth and fun.
So, pack your bags and start your journey. Every mile is a chance to discover new things, connect with people, and make lasting memories. California is waiting to show you its beauty and unique experiences2425.
