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10-Day West Coast to Grand Canyon Road Trip: San Francisco → Yosemite → Sequoia → Los Angeles → Las Vegas → Grand Canyon (Oct 27–Nov 5, 2025)

Viewed by 257 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Wharf

San Francisco, USA on October 27, 2025

8:00am

Flight: Miami → San Francisco

Morning flight from Miami to San Francisco; allow time for check-in and security. Expect ~6‑7 hours flight time and a time-zone change (PDT).
USD0, 6h0m

2:15pm

Arrival & hotel check-in

Collect rental car or take BART/ride-share to your hotel, drop bags, and refresh before evening sightseeing. Factor in traffic and possible delays — allow at least 60–90 minutes.
USD0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Pier 39 & Fisherman's Wharf

Walk the lively waterfront at Pier 39 for shops, sea lions and waterfront views; it's open daily and lively in the evening. It's a good place for casual dinner options and people-watching.
USD0, 1h30m

6:15pm

Dinner — Boudin Bakery, Fisherman's Wharf

Try a classic clam chowder served in a sourdough bowl at Boudin for a quintessential San Francisco meal right on the Wharf. Open daily; popular at dinner so expect a short wait around peak times.
USD20, 45m

7:30pm

Golden Gate viewpoints (Crissy Field / Fort Point)

Drive or ride to a viewpoint for sunset or evening views of the Golden Gate Bridge; the bridge itself and many viewpoints are accessible 24/7 though some parking areas may close. Great for photos with city lights.
USD0, 1h0m

9:00pm

Evening stroll back to hotel

Return to your hotel, or enjoy a short walk around the Embarcadero if energy remains. Rest and prepare for a full sightseeing day tomorrow.
USD0, 1h0m
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Day 2: San Francisco Sightseeing

San Francisco, USA on October 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast — Mama's on Washington Square

Hearty, classic San Francisco breakfast and famous for its omelettes and French toast; arrive early (opens ~8:00am) to avoid long queues. Expect a cosy, popular spot in North Beach.
USD20, 45m

9:30am

Cable Car ride & Union Square

Take a Powell‑Hyde or Powell‑Mason cable car for a scenic, historic ride and hop off near Union Square to explore shops and plazas; cars run frequently from early morning to late evening (check schedules).
USD8, 1h0m

11:00am

Ferry Building Marketplace

Browse the Ferry Building's artisan stalls and local producers; best for tasting local cheeses, coffee and baked goods, and is typically open 10:00am–7:00pm. Great spot for mid-morning snacks.
USD10, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch — Hog Island Oyster Co. (Ferry Building)

Fresh oysters and seafood with views of the Bay Bridge; a relaxed place to sample Pacific seafood. Check opening times (usually midday onwards) and arrive slightly early at peak times.
USD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Palace of Fine Arts & Crissy Field

Stroll the elegant Palace of Fine Arts and walk along Crissy Field for sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge; grounds are open daily and ideal for photos and a relaxing promenade.
USD0, 1h15m

3:00pm

Lombard Street & Russian Hill

Drive or walk the famously crooked block of Lombard Street and enjoy the classic San Francisco hilltop views nearby; the public road is open daily though can be busy in the afternoon.
USD0, 45m

4:00pm

Optional Alcatraz cruise (book in advance)

If you pre-book, afternoon Alcatraz tours depart from Pier 33 — island tours typically operate into late afternoon and sell out, so check availability and times before you go. The experience covers prison history and island grounds.
USD45, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner — The Slanted Door (Ferry Building area)

Modern Vietnamese cuisine with bay views; reservations recommended for dinner service which typically starts around 5pm. A refined choice near the waterfront.
USD50, 1h15m

8:00pm

Evening: Night view / optional nightlife

Return to your hotel or enjoy a bar in North Beach or the Embarcadero; many places operate late into the evening. If tired, rest up for the coastal drive tomorrow.
USD0, 1h0m
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Day 3: Coastal Drive

Monterey, USA on October 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & depart San Francisco

Grab a takeaway breakfast and coffee near your hotel (many cafés open from 7–8am) and head south on US‑101/CA‑1 to enjoy the coastal drive. Allow extra time for scenic stops.
USD12, 30m

9:00am

Drive SF → Monterey via CA‑1 (Pacific Coast Highway)

A scenic coastal drive with potential stops in Santa Cruz and Capitola; CA‑1 between SF and Monterey offers ocean views and takes roughly 2.5–4 hours depending on stops and traffic. Watch for slow segments and one‑lane construction.
USD0, 2h0m

11:00am

Old Fisherman's Wharf & Cannery Row, Monterey

Explore Monterey's waterfront, shops and historic Cannery Row; the area is open daily and a pleasant place to walk after your drive. Good for seaside views and photo ops.
USD0, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch — The Sardine Factory or Flo's

For a classic, slightly upscale choice try The Sardine Factory on Cannery Row; for quicker seafood or chowder, try Wharf cafés. Both options are open for lunch, but The Sardine Factory benefits from reservations.
USD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

17‑Mile Drive (Pebble Beach)

Drive the famous 17‑Mile Drive for dramatic coastal vistas, Lone Cypress and scenic golf course views; the fee is charged per vehicle and the route is open daily but can close for events. Allow time for stops and photos.
USD11, 1h30m

3:00pm

Drive Monterey → Yosemite area (Oakhurst/El Portal)

Head east into the Sierra Nevada toward Oakhurst or El Portal as gateway towns for Yosemite; the drive is ~4–6 hours depending on route and traffic, and you’ll climb into higher elevations. Expect later arrival and check road conditions for Tioga Rd (seasonal closures).
USD0, 4h0m

8:30pm

Dinner — Local diner in Oakhurst (e.g., Yosemite Sierra Inn options)

Simple, hearty dinner in town after a long drive; many restaurants in Oakhurst serve until 8–9pm but check closing times. Rest early for tomorrow’s early Yosemite start.
USD20, 45m
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Day 4: Yosemite Valley

Yosemite National Park, USA on October 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Hotel / local café in Oakhurst

Sit-down breakfast in Oakhurst or a grab‑and‑go to eat en route to the park; stores typically open 7–8am. Fuel up for hiking and variable mountain weather.
USD12, 30m

8:30am

Drive into Yosemite Valley

Enter Yosemite National Park early to beat crowds; park entrance is normally open 24/7 but ranger stations have opening hours — anticipate some queueing at peak ingress. Display your park pass or pay entrance fee.
USD35, 45m

9:30am

Yosemite Valley sights (Tunnel View, El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls)

Start with iconic viewpoints such as Tunnel View and then move to valley floor attractions to get your bearings; many viewpoints and parking areas open all day, though parking fills early. Great for photography and short walks.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Hike: Mist Trail to Vernal Fall (and optional Nevada Fall)

A classic, steep hike that takes you close to Vernal (and optionally Nevada) Falls; trail access is open year-round, but parts can be wet and slippery — wear sturdy shoes and start early. Plan 2–4 hours round trip depending on endpoint.
USD0, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch — Yosemite Valley Lodge or picnic

Grab a casual lunch at Yosemite Valley Lodge food services or picnic near the Merced River; lodge food services are generally open through the afternoon. Picnicking is a scenic, flexible option.
USD18, 45m

3:30pm

Drive to Glacier Point (if open)

Drive up to Glacier Point for panoramic views over Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the High Sierra — Glacier Point Road is seasonal and can close for snow, so confirm current status before departure. If closed, consider Taft Point or other valley overlooks instead.
USD0, 1h30m

5:30pm

Return to gateway town (Oakhurst/El Portal)

Drive back to your lodging to rest after a full day; expect 30–60 minutes depending on where you stay. Use the evening to dry out gear and prepare for the Sequoia drive tomorrow.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner — Local restaurant in Oakhurst

Choose a relaxed dinner — many local spots close around 8–9pm, so plan to dine earlier. Enjoy local comfort food and rest up for the next day’s travel.
USD25, 1h0m
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Day 5: Sequoia & Drive LA

Sequoia National Park → Los Angeles, USA on October 31, 2025

8:00am

Drive: Yosemite area → Sequoia National Park

Drive south into the Sierra toward Sequoia NP (Giant Forest area); travel time is roughly 2–4 hours depending on your starting point and road conditions. Check for mountain road closures and daylight arrival.
USD0, 3h0m

11:00am

General Sherman Tree & Giant Forest

See the General Sherman—one of the largest trees on Earth—and walk among ancient giant sequoias; the Giant Forest area and trails are open daily but visitor centre hours may vary (commonly 9:00am–5:00pm).
USD35, 1h0m

12:15pm

Lunch — Wuksachi Lodge or picnic

Eat at the Wuksachi Lodge dining room if open (hours vary by season) or bring a picnic to enjoy near the Giant Forest. Food options in-park can close earlier in the season so plan accordingly.
USD20, 45m

1:30pm

Moro Rock & Crescent Meadow

Climb the stairway at Moro Rock for sweeping valley views (access may be limited in bad weather) and stroll Crescent Meadow to experience the sequoia groves. Trails and rock stairways are typically open during daylight hours but check on‑site notices.
USD0, 1h0m

3:00pm

Drive: Sequoia → Los Angeles

Begin the drive south to Los Angeles, roughly 4–5 hours depending on traffic; expect a longer travel time approaching the LA basin, particularly later in the afternoon. Aim to arrive by early evening.
USD0, 4h0m

8:00pm

Dinner — Los Angeles (arrival)

Dine near your LA hotel; options range from casual to high-end — consider In-N-Out for a quick bite or a nicer meal in Hollywood or Downtown LA depending on energy. LA restaurants often serve late into the evening.
USD25, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Sequoia National Park → Los Angeles

Day 6: Los Angeles Highlights

Los Angeles, USA on November 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast — Musso & Frank Grill (Hollywood)

Historic Hollywood breakfast spot with classic American dishes and a cinematic atmosphere; opens early and is ideal before sightseeing on Hollywood Boulevard. Expect a traditional, sit‑down meal.
USD25, 45m

9:30am

Walk Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre

Browse the Walk of Fame and see the handprints at TCL Chinese Theatre; public areas are open daily though attractions may have variable hours. Good for a quick photo tour and souvenir shopping.
USD0, 1h0m

11:00am

Griffith Observatory & Griffith Park

Drive up to Griffith Observatory for iconic views over LA and the Hollywood Sign; Griffith Observatory typically opens midday into the evening (check current hours) while park trails are open daylight hours. Great for panoramic city views and short hikes.
USD0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch — Grand Central Market or casual LA eatery

Choose from many vendors and cuisines at Grand Central Market (Downtown LA); it’s open daily with a lively food hall atmosphere. A good central lunch stop between neighbourhoods.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Santa Monica Pier & Third Street Promenade

Head to the coast to walk the pier, ride the Ferris wheel or shop along Third Street Promenade; the Pier is open daily and is busiest in the afternoon. Relax on the beach or enjoy seaside cafés.
USD0, 2h0m

5:30pm

Dinner — The Lobster (Santa Monica)

Seafood dining with ocean views right by the pier, a great spot for sunset dinners; reservations recommended as it’s popular at dusk. Offers a refined finish to a full LA day.
USD45, 1h15m

7:00pm

Evening: Sunset walk or rooftop bar

Enjoy a relaxed rooftop bar or a beachfront evening stroll to finish your LA experience. Many venues remain open late — check specific closing times.
USD15, 1h0m
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Day 7: Route 66 & Vegas

Calico Ghost Town → Las Vegas, USA on November 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — LA café or grab‑and‑go

Quick breakfast in LA before departing east on I‑15; many cafés open early along the route. Fuel up as the next few hours are mostly driving.
USD10, 30m

9:00am

Drive: Los Angeles → Calico Ghost Town (Route 66 stop)

Drive northeast to the historic Calico Ghost Town (approx 2–3 hours depending on start point), a restored 1880s silver mining town on old Route 66; site hours typically 9:00am–5:00pm but check seasonal times.
USD0, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Calico Ghost Town

Walk through the restored streets, visit the mining exhibits and take photos of the desert landscape; guided mine tours and attractions operate during daytime hours. Great short historical stop.
USD8, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — Peggy Sue's 50s Diner (near Baker) or Calico café

Retro diner experience at Peggy Sue’s or a simpler meal at Calico; both offer filling lunches and a nostalgic atmosphere. Good pit stop before the desert drive to Nevada.
USD18, 45m

1:30pm

Drive: Calico → Las Vegas

Continue northeast on I‑15 to Las Vegas; typical drive is ~2.5–3 hours from Calico depending on traffic. Expect to arrive mid-to-late afternoon and check into your hotel before evening activities.
USD0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Evening in Las Vegas — Strip & Fountains

Watch the Bellagio fountains and walk the Strip; fountains run often in the evening (every 15–30 minutes) and casinos stay open late. Save time for a show if you booked tickets — many evening shows start 7:00–9:00pm.
USD0, 2h0m

9:00pm

Dinner — Steakhouse or buffet on the Strip

Choose a classic Vegas steakhouse (reservations recommended) or try a hotel buffet for a broad selection; many restaurants stay open late into the night. Allocate time for travel between venues on the busy Strip.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 8: Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon South Rim, USA on November 3, 2025

7:00am

Drive: Las Vegas → Grand Canyon South Rim

Early drive to the South Rim via US‑93 and I‑40 (approx 4–5 hours depending on stops); leave early to maximise daylight at the canyon. Plan fuel and restroom stops along the route.
USD0, 4h30m

12:00pm

Arrival & Visitor Centre (Mather Point)

Start at the Grand Canyon Visitor Centre and Mather Point for an introduction and panoramic views; the South Rim is open 24/7 but visitor centre hours are commonly 8:00am–5:00pm. Rangers can advise on viewpoints and short hikes.
USD35, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch — Bright Angel Lodge or Canyon Village café

Eat at Bright Angel Lodge or nearby cafeterias in Grand Canyon Village; dining services operate daily but have fixed hours so check seasonal times. Enjoy canyon-edge views while you eat.
USD20, 45m

2:00pm

Walk Rim Trail to Yavapai Point / Grand Canyon viewpoints

Walk sections of the Rim Trail between Mather Point, Yavapai Museum and other overlooks for varied perspectives; trails along the rim are accessible and open year-round. Allow time for photography and short interpretive stops.
USD0, 2h0m

4:30pm

Drive to Desert View Watchtower

Drive east along Desert View Drive to the historic Watchtower for panoramic rim views and Navajo-inspired murals; the Desert View area is open daily though the tower hours can vary by season. It’s a great late-afternoon viewpoint.
USD0, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner — El Tovar Dining Room (reservation recommended)

If open and with a reservation, El Tovar offers classic dining on the rim; dinner service typically starts around 5pm and reservations are strongly advised. Dine with canyon views when possible.
USD45, 1h15m

8:00pm

Overnight near the South Rim or return toward Flagstaff (optional)

Stay overnight in Grand Canyon Village or nearby lodging to avoid a long evening drive; lodging fills fast so pre-book. Rest for tomorrow’s return to Vegas or additional canyon activities.
USD0, overnight
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Day 9: Return to Las Vegas

Las Vegas, USA on November 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast — Canyon lodge or village café

Light breakfast near your lodging before departing the South Rim; café hours often start early but check local schedules. Prepare for the drive back to Las Vegas.
USD12, 30m

9:00am

Drive: Grand Canyon → Las Vegas

Drive west back to Las Vegas, roughly 4–5 hours depending on route and traffic; plan a lunch stop en route. Expect to arrive early-mid afternoon.
USD0, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch — Route stop en route (Kingman area options)

Stop for a relaxed lunch in a roadside town such as Kingman or Boulder City depending on route; many restaurants are open midday. Good opportunity to stretch legs.
USD18, 45m

3:00pm

Check-in & Relax in Las Vegas

Return to your Las Vegas hotel to rest, use the pool or visit a spa — many hotel amenities operate into the late afternoon and evening. This is your buffer day before departure.
USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner — Nice restaurant on the Strip (e.g., Mon Ami Gabi or a hotel steakhouse)

Celebrate the trip with a nicer dinner on the Strip; book ahead for popular restaurants as they fill in the evening. Many fine-dining venues are open until late.
USD60, 1h30m

8:30pm

Evening: Final Vegas entertainment / show

Enjoy a final show or casino time; show start times vary (typically 7:00–9:00pm). If you have tickets, confirm show time and arrival/entry procedures.
USD100, 2h0m
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Day 10: Departure

Las Vegas → New York, USA on November 5, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast — Hotel or Las Vegas airport café

Quick breakfast at your hotel or at McCarran/Las Vegas airport; many airport cafés open early to serve departing travellers. Allow time for security and boarding.
USD12, 30m

8:00am

Flight: Las Vegas → New York

Morning flight back to New York; ensure you arrive at the airport 90 minutes before domestic flights to allow for check-in and security. Safe travels home.
USD0, 5h0m
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Book This Trip
Garden Safaris

Tour Operator Urban nature & discovery walking tours

Garden Safaris offers immersive, guided walking tours that reveal the hidden natural beauty of Santa Monica. We specialize in urban “safaris” that blend gardens, architecture, secret stairways, canyon paths, and ocean views into unforgettable local adventures. Led by knowledgeable guides, our tours go beyond typical sightseeing, inviting travelers to explore peaceful, lesser-known landscapes and discover the stories, design, and nature woven into the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing garden stroll or an active scenic hike, Garden Safaris turns the city into a living outdoor escape.

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