How many days do you need in california?

This itinerary covers 7 days in california, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for california?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to california. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Fun-Filled Family Adventure in California

Day 1: Golden Gate Delights

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Golden Gate Bridge

Start your day with a picturesque stroll along the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, offering stunning views of the city and the bay.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Pier 39

Head to Pier 39 for some family fun, and make sure to catch a glimpse of the playful sea lions basking in the sun.

Varies, 3 hours

2:00PM

Exploratorium

Visit the Exploratorium for a hands-on interactive learning experience that's both educational and entertaining for all ages.

Adults $29.95, Children $24.95, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fisherman's Wharf

End the day with a delightful seafood dinner at Fisherman's Wharf, enjoying the lively atmosphere and street performances.

Varies, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: Beach Day Bliss

Santa Cruz, USA

9:00AM

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Spend the day at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy thrilling rides, classic arcade games, and the sandy beach.

All-day ride wristband $46.95, 5 hours

2:00PM

Santa Cruz Wharf

Take a leisurely stroll along Santa Cruz Wharf, and grab a casual seafood lunch with stunning ocean views.

Varies, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Natural Bridges State Beach

Explore the scenic Natural Bridges State Beach and its iconic natural rock bridge, perfect for a family photo op.

Parking $10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Family Dinner at The Picnic Basket

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Picnic Basket, known for its delectable sandwiches and locally-sourced ingredients.

Varies, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Santa Cruz

Day 3: Monterey Marvels

Monterey, USA

9:00AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Start your day with a visit to the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can explore fascinating marine exhibits and vibrant underwater habitats.

Adults $49.95, Children $29.95, 3 hours

1:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an adventurous whale-watching tour, and keep an eye out for magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Adults $55, Children $35, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Fisherman's Wharf

Indulge in a seafood dinner at Old Fisherman's Wharf, surrounded by charming shops and a lively waterfront atmosphere.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 4: Nature's Wonders

Big Sur, USA

9:00AM

Pfeiffer Beach

Discover the enchanting Pfeiffer Beach, known for its purple-hued sands and stunning rock formations, offering a unique beach experience.

Parking $12, 3 hours

1:00PM

Big Sur River Inn Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely riverside lunch at Big Sur River Inn Restaurant, where you can savor delicious comfort food and admire the breathtaking surroundings.

Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

McWay Falls

Admire the awe-inspiring McWay Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading onto a pristine beach, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Camping in Big Sur

Experience the natural beauty of Big Sur by spending the night camping under the starry sky, creating unforgettable family memories.

Camping fees vary, Evening and overnight

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Day 5: Sunny Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, USA

10:00AM

Santa Barbara Zoo

Start the day with a visit to Santa Barbara Zoo, where you can observe diverse animal species and enjoy beautiful ocean views from the hilltop.

Adults $20, Children $14, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Stearns Wharf

Have a delightful lunch at Stearns Wharf, delighting in fresh seafood and panoramic views of the harbor and coastline.

Varies, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Sunset Kayaking

Embark on a family-friendly kayaking adventure along the scenic coastline, taking in the golden hues of the setting sun.

Adults $40, Children $30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Lark

Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Lark, known for its innovative and locally-sourced California cuisine in a vibrant setting.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 6: LA Lively Energy

Los Angeles, USA

9:00AM

Universal Studios Hollywood

Embark on an exhilarating day at Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can experience thrilling rides and immerse yourself in movie magic.

Varies, 6 hours

4:00PM

Santa Monica Pier

Head to Santa Monica Pier for a fun-filled afternoon of carnival games, thrilling rides, and a leisurely stroll on the iconic pier.

Varies, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Grand Central Market

Savor a diverse culinary experience at Grand Central Market, offering an array of food stalls and global cuisine to please every family member's palate.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 7: Sensational San Diego

San Diego, USA

10:00AM

San Diego Zoo

Explore the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, home to a vast array of animal species and captivating exhibits that provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Adults $58, Children $48, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Little Italy Food Hall

Enjoy a diverse culinary adventure at Little Italy Food Hall, offering an array of gourmet food choices and a vibrant atmosphere.

Varies, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Beach Time at Coronado Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Coronado Beach, building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, or simply soaking up the California sunshine.

Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Old Town San Diego

Conclude your family adventure with a delightful dinner in Old Town San Diego, savoring Mexican cuisine and enjoying the vibrant historic ambiance.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Fun-Filled Family Adventure in California

Day 1: Golden Gate Delights

8:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Beach Day Bliss

9:00AM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Monterey Marvels

9:00AM

1:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Nature's Wonders

9:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Sunny Santa Barbara

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: LA Lively Energy

9:00AM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Sensational San Diego

10:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

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