Big Sur Road Trip from San Diego with Overnight Motel Stay on US-101: July 4-7, 2025

Day 1: Drive & Motel Stay

San Diego to Paso Robles, California, USA on July 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Cottage Restaurant, San Diego

Enjoy a classic American breakfast with fresh ingredients to power up for the day's drive north.
USD25, 1h

8:00am

Drive from San Diego to Paso Robles via US-101

Head north on US-101 for approximately 5 hours, passing through scenic Southern California landscapes and wine country, making sure to enjoy a comfortable and less congested route.
USD0, 5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Firestone Grill, Paso Robles

Savor famous tri-tip sandwiches and casual fare beloved by locals, providing a quick and hearty refuel stop.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Downtown Paso Robles

Stroll around the historic downtown area, browsing local shops and tasting local wine if time permits.
USD0, 1h

3:30pm

Check-in at Motel 6 Paso Robles

Relax and refresh at this budget-friendly motel conveniently located near US-101 for a restful overnight stay.
USD100, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Il Cortile Ristorante

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in an intimate setting just minutes from your motel for a pleasant evening meal.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Big Sur Arrival & Explore

Paso Robles to Big Sur, California, USA on July 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Spearhead Coffee

Grab artisanal coffee and light breakfast items to start early toward Big Sur.
USD15, 0h45m

8:15am

Drive from Paso Robles to Big Sur

Continue your journey for approximately 2.5 hours heading west and north to reach the stunning Big Sur coastline.
USD0, 2h30m

11:00am

Check-in at Big Sur Lodge

Settle into your accommodation at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, ideally placed for quick trail access and relaxation.
USD200, N/A

12:00pm

Lunch at Big Sur Bakery

Relish freshly baked goods and lunch specials in a cozy, woodland atmosphere.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hike the trails to Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View for gorgeous forest and ocean vistas; park open 8am to sunset.
USD10 parking, 3h

5:00pm

Relax at Lodge or Short Walk

Enjoy some rest or take a short sunset walk around the grounds of your lodge to unwind.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Big Sur Roadhouse

Experience a rustic dining atmosphere with locally sourced ingredients and a focus on Californian flavors.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Full Day Big Sur

Big Sur, California, USA on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Enjoy delightful pastries and coffee while planning your adventure-filled day in Big Sur.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Visit McWay Falls

Walk the scenic 0.6-mile round trip trail to admire the iconic waterfall that drops onto the beach below, free and open daily.
USD0, 1h

10:30am

Explore Pfeiffer Beach

Spend time at this secluded beach famous for its purple sand and impressive rock formations; parking available nearby.
USD10 parking, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nepenthe

Dine on the cliffside at Nepenthe with spectacular ocean views and casual American cuisine.
USD35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Limekiln State Park

Explore trails, historic lime kilns, and waterfalls in this beautiful park open 8am to sunset.
USD10 parking, 3h

5:30pm

Return to Lodge, Relaxation

Rest and recharge before dinner, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of your lodge.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sierra Mar

Experience a gourmet meal with breathtaking coastal sunset views at this renowned Post Ranch Inn restaurant.
USD70, 2h
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Day 4: Return to San Diego

Big Sur to San Diego, California, USA on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Lodge

Have a light breakfast on-site before embarking on your long drive south.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Big Sur to San Diego via US-101

Take a comfortable drive south on US-101, approximately 7.5 hours total, with recommended stops to stretch and sightsee.
USD0, 7h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Splash Cafe, Pismo Beach

Enjoy the renowned clam chowder or other fresh seafood dishes to break your journey.
USD25, 1h

3:00pm

Rest stop at Santa Maria

Quick break to stretch and explore a bit of wine country if interested, before finishing the drive south.
USD0, 30m

5:30pm

Arrive in San Diego

Return safely home with wonderful memories from your coastal road trip adventure.
USD0, N/A
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