Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Ultimate 17-Day California Road Trip: From Los Angeles to San Francisco and Back

Viewed by 199 travelers

Day 1: Los Angeles Arrival

Los Angeles, USA on July 19, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at République

Start your California trip with breakfast at République, known for its French-inspired pastries and farm-to-table dishes, open from 7am-3pm.
USD20, 1h

10:30am

Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Explore the iconic stars on Hollywood Boulevard and Venice Beach to soak in Los Angeles’ pop culture history.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience a classic California fast-food burger at this popular local chain, open until midnight.
USD10, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Getty Center

Explore world-class art collections and stunning architecture with views over Los Angeles. Open 10am-5:30pm.
Free (parking around USD20), 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bestia

Enjoy upscale Italian cuisine in downtown LA; reservation recommended. Open until 11pm.
USD50, 2h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 2: LA to Santa Barbara

Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, USA on July 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sqirl

Try inventive breakfast bowls and jams at this celebrated local café, open from 8am-4pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Santa Barbara via Pacific Coast Highway

Enjoy scenic coastal views on this roughly 2-hour drive heading north.
Fuel cost approx USD25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Brophy Bros.

Savor fresh seafood with views of the harbor, open 11am-9pm.
USD30, 1.5h

2:00pm

Explore Santa Barbara Mission and Downtown

Visit the historic Mission Santa Barbara and then stroll State Street for shopping and local charm.
Mission entry USD15, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Lark

Enjoy farm-to-table dining in a stylish setting, open 5pm-10pm.
USD40, 2h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Day 3: Santa Barbara to Big Sur

Santa Barbara to Big Sur, USA on July 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Local favorite with hearty breakfasts and delightful pastries, open from 7am.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Big Sur via Highway 1

Experience breathtaking coastal vistas during this longer 4.5-hour drive north.
Fuel cost approx USD35, 4.5h

1:30pm

Lunch picnic at Pfeiffer Beach

Relax at a quiet beach known for purple sand and scenic arches. Pack a lunch or grab takeout en route.
Parking USD15, 1h

3:00pm

Hike McWay Falls Trail

Short Hike to iconic waterfall dropping into the ocean. Open all day, free entry.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Nepenthe

Dine with panoramic views of the coastline, serving American cuisine, open 11am-9pm.
USD40, 2h
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara to Big Sur

Day 4: Big Sur to Monterey

Big Sur to Monterey, USA on July 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Enjoy artisan pastries and coffee in a rustic setting, open from 7:30am.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Monterey

Scenic 1.5-hour drive north along Highway 1.
Fuel approx USD15, 1.5h

11:00am

Monterey Bay Aquarium

One of the top aquariums in the world, open 10am-5pm.
USD60, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Old Fisherman’s Grotto

Seafood spot on historic Cannery Row, open 11:30am-9pm.
USD35, 1.5h

4:00pm

17-Mile Drive to Carmel

Drive along this stunning coastline with stops at famous points like Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress.
USD11.25, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Bicyclette, Carmel

French-inspired cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, open until 9pm.
USD45, 2h
Find Hotels in Big Sur to Monterey

Day 5: Carmel to San Francisco

Carmel to San Francisco, USA on July 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Carmel Bakery

Start your morning with fresh baked goods and coffee, open from 7am.
USD10, 1h

9:00am

Drive to San Francisco

Approximately 2 hours drive via US-101 to the city.
Fuel approx USD20, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Try clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls at Boudin Bakery, open 9am-9pm.
USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Alcatraz Island

Historic prison tour with ferry departure at 1:30pm, book tickets in advance, tour lasts about 3 hours.
USD45, 3h

5:00pm

Walk along Pier 39 and enjoy sea lions

Famous tourist spot with shops, entertainment, and sea lion viewing.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Enjoy sustainable seafood with great views, open until 9pm.
USD50, 2h
Find Hotels in Carmel to San Francisco

Day 6: San Francisco Exploration

San Francisco, USA on July 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Famous for artisanal bread and pastries, typically open from 8am.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Golden Gate Bridge Visit and Walk

Walk or bike across this iconic bridge, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Slanted Door

Modern Vietnamese cuisine in the Ferry Building, open 11:30am-2:30pm.
USD45, 1.5h

2:00pm

Exploratorium Museum

Interactive science museum great for all ages, open 10am-5pm.
USD40, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Zuni Café

Classic Californian cuisine, famous for its roasted chicken, open until 10pm.
USD50, 2h
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 7: San Francisco to Yosemite

San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, USA on July 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Popular breakfast spot in SF, open from 7am.
USD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Yosemite National Park

Approximately 4-hour drive, allow for entrance time.
Entrance USD35 per vehicle, fuel approx USD40, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court

Casual dining inside the park, open from 11am-7pm.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Yosemite Falls and Valley View

See one of the tallest waterfalls and iconic valley vistas inside Yosemite, open all day.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Ahwahnee Dining Room

Elegant dining with spectacular views inside the park, open for dinner 5:30pm-9pm. Reservation recommended.
USD60, 2h
Find Hotels in San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

Day 8: Full Day Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, USA on July 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Degnan’s Kitchen

Grab a quick and delicious breakfast to fuel your day, open 7am-8pm.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Hike to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall

A moderate to challenging 5-7 mile hike with spectacular waterfall views, trail open all day.
Free, 5h

2:00pm

Lunch picnic in the park

Pack or purchase food to enjoy a scenic outdoor lunch.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Visit the ancient giant sequoia trees, shuttle service available. Open 8am-6pm.
Free with park entry, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court

Casual outdoor dining to relax after a long day, open until 7:30pm.
USD25, 1h
Find Hotels in Yosemite National Park

Day 9: Yosemite to Sequoia National Park

Yosemite to Sequoia National Park, USA on July 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Simple and convenient breakfast before departure, open 7am-10am.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Sequoia National Park

About 3.5-hour drive south; enjoy the changing landscapes.
Fuel approx USD30, 3.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Wuksachi Lodge Restaurant

Enjoy hearty mountain fare in the park's main lodge, open 12pm-8pm.
USD35, 1h

1:30pm

Giant Forest and General Sherman Tree

Visit the largest tree on earth, accessible year-round in Sequoia National Park.
Free with park entry, 3h

5:00pm

Check-in at Lodge or nearby accommodation

Rest before dinner in peaceful surroundings.
Varies, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Peaks Restaurant

Dine with stunning views and seasonal dishes, open 5pm-9pm.
USD45, 2h
Find Hotels in Yosemite to Sequoia National Park

Day 10: Sequoia to Los Angeles

Sequoia National Park to Los Angeles, USA on July 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Wuksachi Lodge

Start with a comforting breakfast in the park, open 7am-10am.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive back to Los Angeles

About 4.5-hour drive, plan for stops along the way to stretch and refuel.
Fuel approx USD40, 4.5h

1:00pm

Lunch in Los Angeles at The Original Farmers Market

Sampling a variety of foods from local vendors, open 10am-8pm.
USD25, 1.5h

3:00pm

Visit The Broad Museum

Contemporary art museum downtown LA, open 11am-5pm, free entry but reserve tickets ahead.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Osteria Mozza

Upscale Italian dining with fresh ingredients, open until 10pm.
USD60, 2h
Find Hotels in Sequoia National Park to Los Angeles

Day 11: Los Angeles Highlights

Los Angeles, USA on July 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Famous for oversized pancakes and creative breakfast dishes, open 8am-2pm.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit LACMA - Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Largest art museum in the western US, open 11am-7pm Sundays, check for time, tickets required.
USD25, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pink’s Hot Dogs

Iconic LA hot dog stand famous for creative toppings, open 10am-4am.
USD10, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Griffith Observatory and Park

Enjoy exhibits and panoramic views of the city, open 12pm-10pm weekdays, 10am-10pm weekends.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Nobu Los Angeles

High-end Japanese fusion cuisine, reservations recommended, open until 11pm.
USD75, 2h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 12: Day Trip to Disneyland

Anaheim, USA on July 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe

Fuel up early for a full day at Disney, choose a quick option near your accommodation.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Disneyland Park Entry

Spend the day enjoying rides, shows, and parades at the iconic park, open 8am-12am.
USD130, 10h

12:30pm

Lunch inside Disneyland

Several options from quick service to sit-down meals; try Plaza Inn for character dining.
USD25, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Disneyland

Enjoy dinner at Blue Bayou Restaurant for a unique ambiance inside Pirates of the Caribbean, reservations recommended.
USD50, 2h
Find Hotels in Anaheim

Day 13: Relax in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA on July 31, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Organic coffee and healthy breakfast options, open 7am-10pm.
USD15, 1h

10:30am

Santa Monica Pier and Beach

Relax and enjoy the beach, amusement park and local vibe, open all day.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Lobster

Seafood dining with ocean views near the pier, open until 9pm.
USD40, 1.5h

3:00pm

Shopping at Third Street Promenade

Outdoor shopping and entertainment area near the beach.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Catch LA

Trendy seafood and sushi spot with rooftop seating, open until 11pm.
USD60, 2h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 14: LA Cultural Day

Los Angeles, USA on August 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bourbon Street Bakery

Enjoy French pastries and breakfast fare, open 7am-2pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

World-class art collections and stunning gardens, open 10am-5pm.
USD30, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Café 1919 inside The Huntington

Casual dining with garden views, perfect for a relaxing afternoon meal.
USD25, 1h

4:00pm

Drive through Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

Famous upscale neighborhood and shopping district, enjoy window shopping and luxury boutiques.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Spago Beverly Hills

Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck's flagship restaurant offering Californian cuisine, reservation essential.
USD80, 2h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 15: Day Trip to Malibu

Malibu, USA on August 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

Healthy farm-to-table breakfast on Malibu Pier, open 9am-5pm but arrive early.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Explore Malibu Beaches

Visit El Matador Beach and Zuma Beach for stunning views and relaxation.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nobu Malibu (optional for splurge)

High-end Japanese dining on the beach, reservation needed, open 12pm-10pm.
USD70, 1.5h

2:00pm

Visit Malibu Wines

Wine tasting and scenic outdoor venue, open 12pm-6pm.
USD25, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Los Angeles

Drive back to LA (~1 hour).
Fuel USD10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gjelina in Venice

Trendy spot known for seasonal California cuisine, open until 10pm.
USD50, 2h
Find Hotels in Malibu

Day 16: Last Full Day LA

Los Angeles, USA on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blu Jam Café

Popular spot with innovative breakfast dishes, open from 7am.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Explore contemporary art collections, open 11am-5pm. Check for any special exhibits.
USD15, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Diverse food vendors offering local and international cuisine, open 8am-10pm.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore The Last Bookstore

Iconic bookstore with art installations and rare books, open 10am-8pm.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Relax or optional shopping

Use this free time to relax or visit local shops or cafes.
Variable, 3h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Providence

Michelin-star seafood restaurant for a memorable final night, reservations essential.
USD100, 2h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 17: Departure Day

Los Angeles, USA on August 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast close to your accommodation before departure.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Transfer to Los Angeles International Airport

Allow sufficient time for check-in and security, approximately 30-60 minutes drive depending on location.
Taxi or rideshare USD40, 1h
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed