10-Day Ultimate California Road Trip: From San Francisco to San Diego

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this popular San Francisco spot known for its fresh ingredients and generous portions.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the historic Alcatraz Island. Learn about the former prison through guided tours and audio commentary.
USD45, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf - Boudin Bakery

Enjoy classic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery, a San Francisco institution.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Pier 39 and Aquarium of the Bay

Walk around Pier 39 to see sea lions and visit the Aquarium of the Bay to discover local marine life.
USD35, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll along the Embarcadero and visit Ferry Building Marketplace

Relax with a walk along the waterfront, and sample local gourmet foods inside the Ferry Building.
Free entry & food prices vary, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sotto Mare

Enjoy fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere famous for its Cioppino stew.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 2: San Francisco Sights

San Francisco, USA on July 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Indulge in acclaimed pastries and artisan bread at this beloved bakery.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Golden Gate Bridge and Park

Cycle or walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and explore the nearby scenic parklands.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Warming Hut

A casual café near the bridge offering scenic views and light meals.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit the Exploratorium

Interactive science museum great for all ages, open until 5:00pm.
USD30, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Chinatown

Walk through vibrant Chinatown to experience shops, markets and cultural landmarks.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Z & Y Restaurant

Savour authentic Sichuan cuisine, highly regarded for its bold flavours.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 3: Day Trip to Muir Woods & Sausalito

San Francisco, USA on July 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Grab a quick breakfast to fuel up for your morning nature adventure.
USD15, 0.5h

8:30am

Visit Muir Woods National Monument

Explore trails through majestic coastal redwoods. The park opens at 8am and closes 6pm.
USD15 parking, $0 entrance for walkers, 2h

11:00am

Cross the Golden Gate to Sausalito

Enjoy the charming waterfront town with art galleries and boutiques.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Scoma’s of Sausalito

Seafood dining with views of the bay, perfect for relaxed lunch.
USD40, 1h

3:00pm

Return to San Francisco via ferry

Take a scenic ferry back to San Francisco, enjoying bay views.
USD15, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore local neighbourhood

Unwind or stroll around your local area to rest before dinner.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Foreign Cinema

Dine in a unique setting where classic films play in the background.
USD50, 2h
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Day 4: Travel to Monterey

Monterey, USA on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Bottle Coffee

Enjoy quality coffee and pastries before the drive south.
USD15, 0.5h

9:00am

Drive from San Francisco to Monterey via Highway 1

Scenic 2-hour drive along the coast with notable stops for photos.
Fuel cost approx USD50, 2h

11:30am

Check into hotel and relax

Settle into your Monterey accommodation.
Varies, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cannery Row - The Fish Hopper

Seaside dining with fresh seafood and harbour views.
USD35, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

One of the top aquariums in the world, open from 10am to 5pm.
USD50, 2h

4:30pm

Walk along Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Explore shops, galleries, and enjoy a seaside stroll.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Passionfish

Acclaimed for sustainable seafood and excellent wine pairing.
USD45, 1.5h
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Day 5: Carmel & Scenic Drive

Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Carmel Belle

Healthy, farm-to-table dishes to start your day in Carmel.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea Village

Stroll through quaint streets with charming shops and art galleries.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at La Bicyclette

Rustic European-style bistro serving fresh, local ingredients.
USD35, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Explore stunning coastal trails and wildlife viewing, open 8am-7pm.
USD15 entrance fee, 2h

4:00pm

Drive the scenic 17-Mile Drive

Experience breathtaking coastal views, famous golf courses, and iconic landmarks.
USD11.25 per vehicle, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pacific's Edge at L’Auberge Carmel

Elegant dining with panoramic ocean views, perfect for a special evening.
USD70, 2h
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Day 6: Big Sur Adventure

Big Sur, USA on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or grab to-go from Carmel Bakery

Fuel your day with delicious pastries and coffee.
USD15, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive from Carmel to Big Sur

Scenic coastal drive south about 30 miles, allowing stops for photos.
Fuel cost approx USD10, 1h

9:30am

Hike at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Enjoy nature trails through redwoods and along the Big Sur River. Open from 8am to sunset.
USD15 parking, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Big Sur Bakery

Enjoy artisanal baked goods and rustic Californian dishes.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit McWay Falls and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Views of the stunning 80-foot waterfall cascading onto the beach.
USD15 parking, 1.5h

3:30pm

Relax or explore local galleries and shops

Spend the afternoon soaking in Big Sur’s artistic community.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Nepenthe Restaurant

Dine with spectacular cliffside views and excellent Californian cuisine.
USD50, 1.5h
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Day 7: Santa Barbara Coastal Charm

Santa Barbara, USA on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Big Sur Roadhouse

Comfortable American breakfast in a cosy atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Big Sur to Santa Barbara

Long coastal drive south covering about 140 miles, passing through scenic areas.
Fuel cost approx USD40, 3.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Brophy Bros.

Popular seafood spot right on the harbour serving fresh, local catches.
USD35, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Santa Barbara Mission and Rose Garden

Tour the historic mission founded in 1786 and its beautiful gardens.
USD15, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along State Street

Explore shops, cafes, and local art galleries in the lively downtown.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Lark

Upscale dining offering innovative dishes that showcase Santa Barbara’s produce.
USD60, 2h
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Day 8: Los Angeles Highlights

Los Angeles, USA on July 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Start with organic coffee and fresh pastries in a stylish setting.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Short 2-hour drive to the bustling city of LA.
Fuel cost approx USD30, 2h

11:00am

Visit Griffith Observatory & Park

Offers fantastic views of Los Angeles and hiking trails, open 12pm to 10pm weekdays but Griffith Park area is open all day.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Alcove Café & Bakery

Relaxed spot serving Californian dishes with outdoor seating.
USD30, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre

See famous stars on the pavement and visit the iconic cinema.
Free to explore, approx USD15 for TCL tour, 2h

5:30pm

Drive to Venice Beach

Arrive for a late afternoon beach walk and people watching.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gjelina

Trendy restaurant with excellent Californian cuisine in Venice.
USD50, 2h
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Day 9: Explore San Diego

San Diego, USA on July 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Broken Yolk Café

Hearty breakfast known for large portions and a friendly vibe.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Los Angeles to San Diego

Around 2-hour drive south to sunny San Diego.
Fuel cost approx USD25, 2h

11:00am

Visit Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo

Spend time at Balboa Park’s gardens and museums and enjoy the world-famous San Diego Zoo, open 9am to 6pm.
USD67, 4h

3:30pm

Relax at La Jolla Cove

Stroll along the picturesque coastline and watch seals and sea lions.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at George’s at the Cove

Upscale dining with ocean views focusing on fresh seafood.
USD55, 2h
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Day 10: San Diego Exploration

San Diego, USA on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 222

Famous for peanut butter and banana stuffed French toast, great way to start your day.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit USS Midway Museum

Explore this historic aircraft carrier museum, open daily from 10am to 5pm.
USD30, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Liberty Public Market

Enjoy diverse food stalls offering international and local cuisine.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Discover San Diego’s early history with shops and museums, open 10am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Coronado Beach

Spend your final afternoon relaxing on one of California’s most beautiful beaches.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Peohe’s

Fine dining with waterfront views specialising in seafood and sushi.
USD60, 2h
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