Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 57 travelers

7-Day California Itinerary

Tuesday, August 29: Santa Monica

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic pier, enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views. In the afternoon, visit Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier, and ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic vistas. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Third Street Promenade, known for its shopping, dining, and street performers.

  • Santa Monica Pier: Cost estimate: $0, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Pacific Park: Cost estimate: $25-35, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Third Street Promenade: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, August 30: Hollywood

Embark on a journey through Hollywood's glamorous history. Start your day with a morning hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign for breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Walk of Fame, where you can find the stars honoring famous celebrities. End your day with a visit to the historic TCL Chinese Theatre, known for its famous handprints and footprints of Hollywood stars.

  • Hollywood Sign Hike: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Walk of Fame: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • TCL Chinese Theatre: Cost estimate: $15-25, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, August 31: San Francisco

Take a flight or drive up to San Francisco for a day of exploring this vibrant city. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy the stunning views. In the afternoon, explore the colorful neighborhoods of Chinatown and The Mission, known for their rich cultural heritage and delicious food. End your day with a visit to Alcatraz Island, where you can tour the infamous former prison.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Chinatown: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • The Mission: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Alcatraz Island: Cost estimate: $40-50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, September 1: Napa Valley

Escape to the picturesque vineyards of Napa Valley for a day of wine tasting and relaxation. Start your day with a visit to one of the renowned wineries, where you can indulge in wine tasting and learn about the winemaking process. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic picnic among the vineyards or take a hot air balloon ride for stunning aerial views. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Yountville, known for its Michelin-starred restaurants.

  • Wine Tasting: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours
  • Picnic or Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Yountville: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, September 2: Yosemite National Park

Embark on an adventure to Yosemite National Park, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Start your day with a hike to Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. In the afternoon, explore the scenic trails and take in the stunning views of granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and meadows. End your day with a relaxing picnic by the Merced River.

  • Yosemite Falls Hike: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 4-6 hours
  • Scenic Trails: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-4 hours
  • Picnic by the Merced River: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 3: Santa Barbara

Visit the charming coastal city of Santa Barbara, known for its beautiful beaches and Spanish architecture. Start your day with a visit to the Santa Barbara Mission, a historic landmark with stunning gardens. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of East Beach or explore the shops and cafes along State Street. End your day with a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, enjoying the breathtaking views.

  • Santa Barbara Mission: Cost estimate: $5-10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • East Beach: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • State Street: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Pacific Coast Highway: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday, September 4: San Diego

End your trip in the sunny city of San Diego, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. Start your day with a visit to Balboa Park, where you can explore the museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of Coronado Beach or take a harbor cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the city's skyline. End your day with a visit to the historic Gaslamp Quarter, filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

  • Balboa Park: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Coronado Beach: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Harbor Cruise: Cost estimate: $20-30, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gaslamp Quarter: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring California, make sure to venture off the beaten path to discover some hidden gems and local favorites. Take a road trip along the stunning Big Sur coastline, stopping at scenic viewpoints and enjoying the pristine beaches. Visit Joshua Tree National Park for unique desert landscapes and stargazing opportunities. Explore the charming town of Solvang, known for its Danish-inspired architecture and delicious pastries. Don't forget to indulge in the diverse culinary scene, trying out local favorites like In-N-Out Burger and Mexican street food.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version