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.

7-Day California Road Trip Exploring Nature

Day 1: Golden Gate Beauty

San Francisco, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at Tartine Bakery while enjoying views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

$20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Muir Woods National Monument

Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge to Muir Woods to hike among towering redwoods and experience the tranquility of nature.

$15, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pelican Inn

Enjoy a traditional English pub lunch at Pelican Inn in Muir Beach with hearty sandwiches and fish & chips.

$25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Big Sur

Embark on a scenic drive south along the Pacific Coast Highway to reach the breathtaking cliffs and landscapes of Big Sur.

Gasoline cost, 3-4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nepenthe

Savor a meal at Nepenthe restaurant overlooking the ocean and enjoy stunning sunset views from high atop the cliffs.

$50, 2 hours

Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: Coastal Charm

Cambria, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Linn's Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Linn's Restaurant featuring local produce and delicious baked goods.

$15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Hearst Castle

Explore the opulent Hearst Castle, a historic landmark with stunning architecture and gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

$25, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Robins Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at Robins Restaurant in Cambria for a relaxing meal with fresh seafood and ocean views.

$20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Moonstone Beach

Stroll along the scenic Moonstone Beach boardwalk, collect colorful stones, and enjoy the beauty of this coastal gem.

Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sea Chest Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at Sea Chest Restaurant known for its fresh catches and cozy atmosphere.

$40, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Cambria

Day 3: Spanish Influence

Santa Barbara, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Jeannine's featuring fresh pastries, omelets, and specialty coffees.

$20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Old Mission Santa Barbara

Visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, known as the 'Queen of the Missions,' for its beautiful architecture and gardens.

$10, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria

Satisfy your appetite with authentic Mexican cuisine at La Super-Rica Taqueria, a local favorite known for its delicious tacos.

$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Stearns Wharf

Walk along Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara's historic pier, to enjoy stunning ocean views, shops, and fresh sea air.

Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Lark

Experience modern Californian cuisine at The Lark, a popular restaurant in Santa Barbara known for its innovative dishes.

$50, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 4: Beach Vibes

Malibu, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Malibu Farm

Start your day with a healthy and refreshing breakfast at Malibu Farm, located on the pier with organic and locally sourced ingredients.

$20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Relax at Zuma Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores of Zuma Beach, known for its clean waters and picturesque setting.

Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

Enjoy a beachfront lunch at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, a scenic spot with delicious seafood and cocktails right by the ocean.

$30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Point Dume State Beach

Hike to the iconic Point Dume for panoramic views of the Malibu coastline and the chance to spot dolphins and whales in the distance.

Parking fee, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nobu Malibu

Indulge in a gourmet dining experience at Nobu Malibu, a renowned restaurant serving upscale Japanese cuisine with stunning ocean views.

$100, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Malibu

Day 5: Desert Exploration

Joshua Tree National Park, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Crossroads Cafe in Joshua Tree town before heading into the park for exploration.

$15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Hiking at Hidden Valley Trail

Embark on a hike at Hidden Valley Trail to discover hidden rock formations, Joshua trees, and enjoy the desert landscape.

Park entrance fee, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Barker Dam

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the scenic Barker Dam area amidst Joshua trees and wildlife before continuing your exploration.

Food cost, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Cholla Cactus Garden

Stroll through the unique Cholla Cactus Garden and marvel at the dense congregation of these famous cacti glowing in the sunlight.

Park entrance fee, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pappy & Harriet's

Dine at the iconic Pappy & Harriet's in Pioneertown for delicious BBQ, live music, and a taste of the local desert culture.

$30, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park

Day 6: Sunny SoCal

San Diego, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at The Cottage in La Jolla, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious morning fare.

$25, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore La Jolla Cove

Discover the marine wonders at La Jolla Cove by snorkeling, kayaking, or simply admiring the seals and sea lions basking in the sun.

Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at George's at the Cove

Enjoy a scenic lunch at George's at the Cove, a renowned restaurant with panoramic views of the ocean and delectable coastal cuisine.

$40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore the cultural oasis of Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in the heart of San Diego.

$20, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Little Italy

Dine at the vibrant Little Italy district of San Diego, known for its diverse eateries offering delicious Italian and global cuisine.

$50, 2 hours

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Day 7: Beach Bliss

San Diego, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caroline's Seaside Cafe

Enjoy breakfast at Caroline's Seaside Cafe with stunning ocean views and a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients in La Jolla.

$20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Relax at Mission Beach

Spend the morning at lively Mission Beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the classic boardwalk filled with shops and eateries.

Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at World Famous

Enjoy a casual beachfront lunch at World Famous restaurant in Pacific Beach with ocean views and fresh seafood dishes.

$30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Explore the rugged landscapes and coastal views at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, perfect for a hike or a leisurely walk.

$15, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at CUCINA urbana

Savor a farewell dinner at CUCINA urbana, an Italian kitchen and wine shop offering a contemporary dining experience in Bankers Hill.

$60, 2 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day California Road Trip Exploring Nature

Day 1: Golden Gate Beauty

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Coastal Charm

9:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Spanish Influence

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Beach Vibes

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Desert Exploration

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Sunny SoCal

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Beach Bliss

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

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