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Scenic 9-Day California Road Trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco via Big Sur and Yosemite

Viewed by 224 travelers

Day 1: Explore Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and take photos with the star-studded sidewalks.
Drive towards Griffith Park after visiting.
Free, 1-2 hours

10:00AM

Griffith Observatory

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
Head towards Santa Barbara after your visit.
Free, 1-1.5 hours

1:00PM

Santa Monica Pier

Spend some time on the iconic Santa Monica Pier for a bit of fun and sun.
Continue your drive to Santa Barbara.
Free, 2-3 hours
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Day 2: Santa Barbara Highlights

Santa Barbara, USA

9:00AM

Santa Barbara Mission

Visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission and the beautiful gardens surrounding it.
Drive to San Luis Obispo after your exploration.
USD10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stearns Wharf

Walk the pier at Stearns Wharf and enjoy the coastal views.
Proceed north to San Luis Obispo.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

San Luis Obispo Farmers Market

If it’s Thursday, don’t miss the vibrant farmers market for local produce and crafts.
Head towards your lunch destination.
Free entry, 2 hours
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Day 3: Big Sur Wonders

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:30AM

Morro Rock

Snap photos of Morro Rock before heading up the coast.
Drive along the scenic PCH to Big Sur.
Free, 30 mins

10:30AM

Pfeiffer Beach

Walk on the iconic purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach, a must-see spot in Big Sur.
Drive to your next sightseeing stop.
USD12, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

McWay Falls

Stop for breathtaking views of McWay Falls as it cascades into the ocean.
Continue exploring the Big Sur area.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in San Luis Obispo

Day 4: Magnificent San Francisco

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Golden Gate Bridge

Start your day with a walk or bike ride across the stunning Golden Gate Bridge.
Head to Fisherman’s Wharf next.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Pier 39 & Sea Lions

Watch the famous sea lions at Pier 39 and explore the unique shops.
Walk around the waterfront to Fisherman’s Wharf.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Chinatown

Visit the vibrant streets of Chinatown for an authentic cultural experience.
Head towards Lombard Street afterwards.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Lombard Street

See the famous crooked street and enjoy the quaint garden ambiance.
Catch a cable car to Union Square after visiting.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Monterey & Pacific Coast

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the best aquariums in the world, perfect for all ages.
Head to Cannery Row next.
USD50, 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Cannery Row

Wander the historical Cannery Row full of shops and galleries.
Drive along the scenic coast.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

17-Mile Drive

Drive the stunning 17-Mile Drive featuring golf courses, coastlines, and coastal homes.
Continue heading south on Highway 1.
USD11, 2 hours
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Day 6: Yosemite National Park Engagement

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Travel to Yosemite National Park

Enjoy a scenic drive through California’s stunning landscapes.
Route through CA-101 N and CA-120 E.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Yosemite Valley

Visit the iconic Yosemite Valley featuring El Capitan and Half Dome.
Explore the valley area.
USD35, 2-3 hours

5:00PM

Glacier Point

Drive to Glacier Point for stunning panoramic views of the valley below.
Return to your accommodation in the park.
Free, 1-2 hours
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Day 7: Yosemite Adventures

Yosemite, USA

8:00AM

Wawona Lake

Start your day early at Wawona Lake for a morning hike or relaxing time by the water.
Head back to Yosemite Valley after.
Free, 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Vernal Falls Hike

Hike to Vernal Falls for a rewarding view of the cascading water.
Return to your accommodation afterwards.
Free, 3-4 hours

3:00PM

Yosemite Village

Visit Yosemite Village for the visitor centre and excellent souvenirs.
Explore the area at leisure.
Free, 1-2 hours
Find Hotels in Yosemite

Day 8: Fresno Exploration

Fresno, USA

9:00AM

Drive to Fresno

Enjoy the scenic drive on your way to Fresno from Yosemite.
Continue along CA-41 S.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Forestiere Underground Gardens

Explore this unique underground creation filled with gardens and tunnels.
Take a short drive in Fresno for your visit.
USD15, 1-1.5 hours

1:00PM

Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Discover animals from around the world in this charming zoo.
Head towards your next destination.
USD15, 2-3 hours
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Day 9: Return to Los Angeles

Fresno, USA

8:00AM

Drive back to Los Angeles

Set off early for LA while reflecting on your remarkable adventure.
Follow CA-99 S.
Free, 3 hours

11:00AM

Los Angeles Arrival

Arrive back in Los Angeles, concluding your scenic journey.
Drive to your final destination.
Free, 30 mins
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