Leave Seattle after a quick coffee and breakfast to hit the road south, stopping first for a stroll and waterfront views at Alki Beach Park before crossing into Tacoma. Continue with a relaxed visit to Point Defiance Park - walk the Five Mile Drive or the Trials of the Rhododendron Garden, then pause at the Point Defiance Waterfront for tidepool watching and early coastal birdlife before lunch in Tacoma.
After lunch, continue south with a short scenic detour to Tacoma's Museum District for a quick visit to the outdoor sculptures and the waterfront-facing exhibits at the Museum of Glass, then stroll the adjacent Thea Foss Waterway boardwalk for boat-filled marina views. Finish the afternoon with a peaceful drive to Titlow Park to walk the bluff trails and watch the sun lower over Puget Sound-perfect for golden-hour photos before checking into your Tacoma lodging.
Wind down your first day with a relaxed waterfront dinner at Salty's on Alki Beach for seafood and sunset views across Elliott Bay, then head to Ruston Way Waterfront for an easy post-meal stroll along the promenade and public art installations. Finish with a cozy nightcap or live music at Blue Mouse Theatre in the Theater District, a historic venue that keeps the evening lively while keeping you centrally located and ready for the next day's coastal drive.
Start your morning with a sunrise stroll and tidepool exploration at Haystack Rock, then grab a hearty seaside breakfast at The Wayfarer Restaurant, enjoying views of the ocean and local seabirds. Afterward, drive a short stretch south to take the scenic loop and light hike through the spruce-lined trails at Ecola State Park, pausing at the scenic viewpoints for sweeping panoramas of the coastline before a relaxed mid-morning coffee in downtown Cannon Beach.
After a morning at Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park, spend the afternoon driving south along the scenic coastal road to explore tide-swept coves and hidden viewpoints, stopping for a clifftop walk at Indian Beach where surfers and seabirds share the surf. Continue to Arch Cape for a peaceful beachcombing session and then pause at Seaside's Promenade for a late-afternoon espresso, carousel stop or people-watching before returning to Cannon Beach for dinner.
As daylight softens, head to Ecola State Park's Indian Point for a short sunset viewpoint walk that often reveals migrating seabirds and dramatic silhouettes of offshore rocks. Afterward, savor a cozy coastal dinner at Public Coast Brewing Company & Public Coast Taproom with local brews and seafood, then finish the night with a peaceful stroll along the moonlit stretch of Cannon Beach's South Jetty listening to waves and watching for offshore lights.
Leave Cannon Beach's northern charm behind and head south to start the day with a brisk beachwalk and birdwatching at Sunset Bay State Park, then sip locally roasted coffee and grab pastries at Wildflower Coffee Roasters in nearby Charleston. Continue with a morning tidepool and dune exploration at Cape Arago State Park, where you can spot seals on the rocks below the lighthouse viewpoint and hike short coastal trails that open onto panoramic ocean vistas before a seafood-forward brunch in Coos Bay.
After a seafood brunch, follow the coast south with a scenic drive along Cape Arago Highway to reach the rugged viewpoints at Shore Acres State Park, where you can stroll manicured gardens that tumble toward dramatic cliffside waves and watch for migrating whales from the bluff. Continue a short drive to Simpson Reef Overlook to scan for elephant seals on the rocks, then detour onto US-101 for postcard stops at the windswept Coquille River Lighthouse and a late-afternoon coffee or clam chowder at The Boatyard Grill in Charleston before settling into Coos Bay for the evening.
As the light softens, drive a short way north to the peaceful bluffside picnic area at North Spit for birdwatching and sunset views across the bay, then stroll the dunes and watch kiteboarders launch from the sandy flats. Finish with a relaxed dinner at SharkBites Bistro in nearby North Bend for fresh local seafood, followed by a nightcap and local craft beer at Coos Bay Brewing Company to soak up small-town coastal vibes before turning in.
Wake to towering trunks with a sunrise walk through the old-growth cathedral of Redwood National and State Parks' Lady Bird Johnson Grove, then sip a to-go latte at Trillium Café in nearby Orick before continuing south. After warming up, take the scenic coastal spur to the seaside cliffs at Patrick's Point State Park for short coastal trails, bluff-top viewpoints and the chance to spot migrating whales from the headlands before a late-morning picnic among the spruce and shore pines.
After your morning among the giant trees, head south along the scenic coastal highway to explore tidepools and seaside bluffs at Glass Beach (Fort Bragg), picking through colorful sea glass and watching shorebirds. Continue the coastal descent with a windward picnic at Mendocino Headlands State Park, then drive the dramatic cliffside curves of State Route 1 toward a late-afternoon stop at Point Cabrillo Light Station for lighthouse tours, seal spotting from the bluff and golden-hour views before arriving in Eureka for the evening.
As twilight falls, stroll the historic waterfront and mariner murals at Old Town Eureka before dining on fresh Dungeness crab and local produce at Lost Coast Brewery & Cafe (or a waterfront alternative). After dinner, drive a short way to Sequoia Park Zoo's adjacent old-growth ravine for a quiet, lamp-lit walk among cypress groves, then finish with craft cocktails or a warm drink at the cozy, locally loved Eureka Inn Bar while planning tomorrow's Big Sur-bound coastal legs.
Begin with a brisk waterfront walk and sunrise photos along Crissy Field, watching windsurfers and the first light hit the bay, then grab a classic San Francisco coffee and sourdough breakfast at Biscuit Bender nearby. From there, rent bikes or join a guided ride across the Golden Gate to the scenic overlook at Battery Spencer for sweeping city and Alcatraz views, returning via the waterfront pathway to explore the historic piers and small museums around Fisherman's Wharf Plaza before lunch.
Cycle or take a rideshare over to Crissy Field East Beach for a relaxed picnic with views of the bay, then stroll the restored marsh boardwalk at Crissy Field Center to watch windsurfers and migrating birds. Mid-afternoon, head into the Marina for boutique shopping and a late-afternoon coffee at The Plant Café before walking the gentle, landscaped paths of Palace of Fine Arts to enjoy its lagoon and classical architecture as the light softens.
As the sun lowers, wander the lively Embarcadero night market near Ferry Building Marketplace for gourmet bites and local vendors, then catch golden-hour views from the Promenade at Pier 7 as lights begin to sparkle across the bay. Follow with a short rideshare to North Beach for classic Italian dinner options and lively sidewalk cafés, finishing at Coit Tower's Telegraph Hill plaza for a quiet, stargazing-friendly lookout and the final city lights before returning to your Marina or downtown lodgings.
Start with an early morning stroll through Monterey's Cannery Row to enjoy quiet ocean views and grab a fresh pastry and coffee at Loulou's Griddle In The Middle before heading south. Continue by driving the Pacific Coast Highway into Big Sur with a stop for dramatic coastal cliff photos and a short walk along the boardwalk at Garrapata State Park's seaside bluffs, then pull over at Bixby Creek Bridge for iconic shots and a nearby beachside snack while listening to crashing surf.
After a morning on Cannery Row and Garrapata, continue the coastal descent with a leisurely lunch stop at Nepenthe Restaurant overlooking the ocean, then hike the nearby cliffside trails through fragrant coastal scrub to the sweeping views at Pfeiffer Point. Mid-afternoon, pull off for a short exploratory walk to the purple sands and unique rock formations at Pfeiffer Beach, followed by a slow drive through the redwood-shaded valley to pause at the peaceful creekside picnic area of Andrew Molera State Park before heading toward evening in Big Sur.
As daylight cools, unwind with a relaxed seafood dinner at The Creek House at Big Sur River Inn, then wander the riverbank for firefly-like reflections and a fireside drink on the outdoor patio. After dinner, drive a short stretch south to the coastal overlook at Ragged Point for dramatic sunset panoramas and, if the tide is low, moonlit stargazing from the bluff before returning to your Big Sur lodging for a quiet night.
Wake to a calm L.A. morning with a walk and coffee at Grand Central Market, sampling local pastries and breakfast tacos, then head to the nearby historic Bradbury Building for its sunlit atrium and ornate ironwork. Continue with a relaxed stroll through the tree-lined streets of Silver Lake Reservoir-take the loop for light exercise, city views and neighborhood murals, and pause at Intelligentsia Coffee on Sunset Boulevard for a mid-morning espresso before your downtown-to-coast drive continues.
Head west to the breezy coastal neighborhood of Santa Monica for a stroll along the Santa Monica Pier-ride the vintage Ferris wheel, browse the small arcade and watch street performers-then rent a bike and pedal the scenic beachfront path toward Palisades Park for elevated ocean views and public art. Afterward, wander the boutique-lined streets of Montana Avenue in nearby Santa Monica for relaxed shopping and a late-afternoon coffee or light bite at a sunny café before slipping back into LA's evening rhythm.
As twilight falls, enjoy dinner with a skyline view at Perch LA-their rooftop French-inspired menu and live piano set a relaxed, elegant tone-then wander the nearby illuminated streets of Bunker Hill to admire public art and modern architecture. Afterward, head to Griffith Observatory for an evening planetarium show and sweeping city-light panoramas (parking and shuttles available), finishing the night with craft cocktails at the cozy, low-key Bar Marmont imitation spot or a late-night dessert in the nearby Los Feliz neighborhood.
Ease into San Diego with a sunrise walk along La Jolla Shores, where tidepools and sea lions make for lively wildlife viewing, then enjoy a seaside brunch at The Cottage La Jolla with fresh seafood and California-style eggs. Afterward, rent a kayak or join a guided tour from La Jolla Cove to paddle among sea caves and sea lions, finishing the morning with a casual stroll through the boutique-lined Girard Avenue for coffees and local artisan shopping before heading onward down the coast.
After your La Jolla morning, drive south to explore the coastal cliffs and tidepools at Point Loma Nazarene Beach and take in panoramic harbor views from the Cabrillo National Monument overlook, where short trails and the historic lighthouse offer easy exploration. Later, wander the colorful stalls and waterfront pathways of Seaport Village for a light lunch or ice cream, followed by a relaxing harbor cruise from Embarcadero Marina Park to spot sea birds, naval ships and skyline views as the afternoon light softens.
As the sun softens, head to Coronado Beach for a golden-sand stroll and the chance to catch a pastel sunset reflected off the historic Hotel del Coronado; linger on the strand while local musicians and families gather. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed seafood dinner at Point Loma Seafoods' casual market-side eatery or a waterfront table at Mister A's for skyline views, then finish the night with craft cocktails and live music at The Nolen rooftop bar overlooking the bay.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Alki Beach Park | Free |
| Point Defiance Park (Five Mile Drive / Rhododendron Garden) | Free |
| Point Defiance Waterfront (tidepool watching) | Free |
| Salty's on Alki Beach (waterfront dinner) | $35 |
| Ruston Way Waterfront (stroll & public art) | Free |
| Blue Mouse Theatre (live music / tickets) | $15 |
| Haystack Rock (tidepools, Cannon Beach) | Free |
| The Wayfarer Restaurant (breakfast, Cannon Beach) | $20 |
| Ecola State Park (entry / viewpoints) | Free |
| Indian Beach (clifftop walk, Ecola area) | Free |
| Arch Cape (beachcombing) | Free |
| Seaside Promenade (carousel / espresso) | $5 |
| Public Coast Brewing Company & Public Coast Taproom (dinner) | $30 |
| South Jetty (evening stroll, Cannon Beach) | Free |
| Sunset Bay State Park (beachwalk, tidepools) | Free |
| Wildflower Coffee Roasters (coffee, Charleston) | $6 |
| Cape Arago State Park (tidepools, seals) | Free |
| Brunch in Coos Bay (seafood brunch avg.) | $25 |
| Cape Arago Highway / Shore Acres State Park (gardens / whale watching) | $5 |
| Simpson Reef Overlook (elephant seal viewing) | Free |
| Coquille River Lighthouse (viewpoint) | Free |
| The Boatyard Grill (clam chowder / coffee) | $15 |
| North Spit (bluffside picnic / birdwatching) | Free |
| SharkBites Bistro (dinner, North Bend) | $30 |
| Coos Bay Brewing Company (craft beer / nightcap) | $8 |
| Lady Bird Johnson Grove (Redwood National and State Parks) | Free |
| Trillium Café (Orick coffee/to-go) | $6 |
| Patrick's Point State Park (coastal trails) | $10 |
| Glass Beach (Fort Bragg) | Free |
| Mendocino Headlands State Park (picnic / viewpoint) | Free |
| Point Cabrillo Light Station (tours) | $12 |
| Old Town Eureka (stroll / murals) | Free |
| Lost Coast Brewery & Cafe (dinner) | $30 |
| Sequoia Park Zoo adjacent ravine (evening walk) | Free |
| Eureka Inn Bar (cocktails) | $12 |
| Crissy Field (waterfront walk) | Free |
| Biscuit Bender (coffee & sourdough breakfast) | $12 |
| Bike rental / guided ride across Golden Gate (per person) | $30 |
| Battery Spencer (overlook) | Free |
| Fisherman's Wharf Plaza (piers & small museums) | Free |
| Crissy Field East Beach / Crissy Field Center (boardwalk) | Free |
| The Plant Café (Marina coffee / late-afternoon) | $10 |
| Palace of Fine Arts (grounds stroll) | Free |
| Ferry Building Marketplace / Embarcadero (night market / gourmet bites) | $20 |
| Pier 7 Promenade (views) | Free |
| North Beach (Italian dinner avg.) | $30 |
| Coit Tower plaza (viewpoint) | $10 |
| Cannery Row (Monterey stroll) | Free |
| Loulou's Griddle In The Middle (pastry & coffee) | $12 |
| Garrapata State Park (boardwalk / bluffs) | Free |
| Bixby Creek Bridge (viewpoint) | Free |
| Nepenthe Restaurant (lunch) | $35 |
| Pfeiffer Point / Pfeiffer Beach (entry / parking typical fee) | $10 |
| Andrew Molera State Park (creekside picnic) | Free |
| The Creek House at Big Sur River Inn (dinner) | $35 |
| Ragged Point (overlook / stargazing) | Free |
| Grand Central Market (breakfast tacos / coffee) | $12 |
| Bradbury Building (visit/view atrium) | Free |
| Silver Lake Reservoir (loop walk) | Free |
| Intelligentsia Coffee (espresso) | $5 |
| Santa Monica Pier (Ferris wheel ride / arcade) | $8 |
| Palisades Park (views & public art) | Free |
| Montana Avenue (shopping / cafe) | Free |
| Perch LA (dinner rooftop avg.) | $45 |
| Bunker Hill (evening stroll, public art) | Free |
| Griffith Observatory (planetarium show & parking) | $10 |
| Bar Marmont imitation spot / Los Feliz dessert (drinks/dessert) | $12 |
| La Jolla Shores (sunrise walk & tidepools) | Free |
| The Cottage La Jolla (seaside brunch) | $25 |
| La Jolla Cove kayak / guided tour | $60 |
| Girard Avenue (shopping / coffee) | Free |
| Point Loma Nazarene Beach (cliffs & tidepools) | Free |
| Cabrillo National Monument (entrance fee) | $10 |
| Seaport Village (lunch / ice cream) | $15 |
| Harbor cruise from Embarcadero Marina Park (per person) | $30 |
| Coronado Beach (sunset stroll) | Free |
| Hotel del Coronado (view / photo op) | Free |
| Point Loma Seafoods (casual seafood dinner) | $30 |
| Mister A's (waterfront table / dinner) | $45 |
| The Nolen (rooftop cocktails / live music) | $15 |
| Museum of Glass (Tacoma) | $18 |
| Thea Foss Waterway (boardwalk stroll) | Free |
| Titlow Park (bluff trails) | Free |
| Estimated Total (per person) | $971 |