22-Day Los Angeles to San Francisco & National Parks West Coast Road Trip (25 Nov – 16 Dec 2025) — LA Arrival, San Diego, Flagstaff, Page/Antelope, Grand Canyon, Vegas, Death Valley, Yosemite, Napa, SF, Alcatraz, Sacramento, Return on Highway 1
Classic Southern California beach scene and easy walking — good introduction to the city and short jet-lag activity; Pier generally open dawn–midnight.
Quick California favorite for burgers before the drive south; many locations open 10:30am–1:00am, but drive-throughs vary—confirm local hours or choose a local cafe.
Balboa Park museums and gardens open approx 10:00am–5:00pm; the world-class San Diego Zoo typically opens ~9:00am–6:00pm — reserve tickets if visiting the zoo.
Explore Mather Point, Yavapai Point and short sections of the Rim Trail; South Rim facilities typically open 24/7 though visitor centers have set hours (approx 8:00am–5:00pm).
Slot canyon tours are guided-only and typically run from mid-morning through late afternoon; reserve well in advance—tours commonly cost per person and last ~1–1.5 hours.
Public viewing areas open daily; guided powerplant tours run on set schedules (check ahead). Allow time for short walks and photos — visitor center often open 9:00am–5:00pm.
Options: stay at Furnace Creek or drive toward Ridgecrest/Bakersfield depending on next day's plan to reach Yosemite area; winter lodging in-park fills quickly — book in advance.
Early departure recommended; prepare for a long driving day across California's Central Valley/Sierras (~6–7 hours depending on stops and road conditions).
Choose additional short hikes if conditions permit, or photograph valley with late afternoon light; some roads (e.g., Glacier Point Road) often closed seasonally—verify at entrance.
Visit a notable estate (e.g., Domaine Carneros, Stags' Leap, or smaller boutique winery); tasting windows commonly 10:00am–4:00pm with reservations required.
Start early and head to Alcatraz ferry departure point at Pier 33; ferries to Alcatraz generally run morning through mid-afternoon and sell out—book well in advance.
Quick morning meal before visiting Hearst Castle (if open) or continuing south; Hearst Castle may have seasonal tours—check availability & book in advance.
Arrive in the afternoon to explore State Street, Stearns Wharf and the Mission; Santa Barbara has pleasant downtown walking areas and shops open through the afternoon.
Enjoy coastal views through Ventura and Thousand Oaks to Malibu; traffic near LA increases later in the day—plan for 2.5–3.5 hours driving time depending on stops.