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14-Day Epic West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 247 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular spot, known for its French toast and crab omelette.
Walking distance from Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Golden Gate Bridge

Enjoy an iconic walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for stunning views of the bay and city skyline.
Driving to Golden Gate Bridge takes about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Savor fresh clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at the famous chowder stand.
15 minutes drive back to Fisherman's Wharf.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf to Alcatraz and delve into its intriguing history.
Ferry departs from Fisherman's Wharf.
USD39, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gary Danko

Indulge in a Michelin-star dining experience featuring a seasonal tasting menu.
15-minute taxi ride from the ferry terminal.
USD120, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Maple

Start your morning with their famous Millionaire’s Bacon and hearty breakfast options.
Driving to Sweet Maple takes around 10 minutes.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Stroll through beautiful gardens and visit the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences.
15-minute drive to Golden Gate Park.
USD15, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Park Chow

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at this casual restaurant overlooking the park.
10-minute walk from Golden Gate Park.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Haight-Ashbury

Discover the historical district famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement.
15-minute drive to Haight-Ashbury.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The House

Savor Asian-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a delightful evening.
10 minutes drive to The House.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 3: Monterey Awaits

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Cafe

Enjoy classic American breakfast accompanied by famous pancakes.
30-minute drive to Dottie's.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Monterey

Hit the road for stunning coastal views on your way to Monterey.
1.5-hour drive to Monterey via Highway 1.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the world’s best aquariums showcasing diverse marine life.
Near Cannery Row in Monterey.
USD50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Dine with a view of the bay and sample local seafood at Cannery Row's restaurants.
15-minute walk from the aquarium.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore 17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive to soak in breathtaking views along this famous route.
Access point is near Pacific Grove.
USD10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Fish Hopper

Conclude your day with dinner offering fresh seafood and beautiful ocean views.
Driving from 17-Mile Drive takes 20 minutes.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Big Sur Adventure

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Enjoy a rustic breakfast featuring local ingredients and fresh pastries.
30 minutes drive from Monterey.
USD25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Pfeiffer Beach

Relax on the iconic purple sand beach and see the famous rock formations.
15-minute drive from Big Sur Bakery.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Dine on the patio with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean at this iconic restaurant.
20-minute drive to Nepenthe.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Hike to the breathtaking McWay Falls and enjoy views of the rugged coastline.
20-minute drive from Nepenthe.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Sur House

Experience elevated coastal cuisine with stunning views of the sunset.
30-minute drive from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 5: San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Collective

Enjoy a cozy breakfast of pastries and coffee in this lovely café.
30-minute drive from Big Sur.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Luis Obispo

Travel south along Highway 1 to the charming town of San Luis Obispo.
1 hour drive to San Luis Obispo.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the San Luis Obispo Mission

Explore the historic mission and its beautiful gardens.
Walking distance from downtown.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at SLO Brew Rock

Taste local craft beers and delicious burgers at this vibrant brewery.
5-minute walk from the Mission.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Downtown SLO

Wander through boutiques and enjoy the artsy vibe of this charming town.
Walking distance around downtown.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Luna Red

Enjoy global tapas and a great selection of local wines in a lively setting.
15-minute walk from downtown.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 6: Santa Barbara Bliss

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery

Indulge in a delicious breakfast featuring fresh baked goods and hearty meals.
30-minute drive to Santa Barbara.
USD25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Santa Barbara Mission

Explore the beautiful mission with its gardens and historical significance.
10 minutes drive.
USD10, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shoreline Beach Cafe

Dine on the beach with a relaxed atmosphere and fresh options.
10-minute drive to Shoreline.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Stearns Wharf

Stroll along the historic pier with shops and restaurants, and enjoy views of the ocean.
5-minute drive to Stearns Wharf.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

Finish your day with dinner overlooking the ocean while enjoying fresh seafood.
15-minute drive from Stearns Wharf.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 7: Los Angeles City Life

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Experience large portions and unique pancake flavors at this famous eatery.
2-hour drive to LA.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Griffith Observatory

Explore the stars at this historic observatory with stunning views of the city.
30-minute drive to Griffith.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Savor California's iconic fast-food chain famous for its burgers and fries.
15-minute drive from Griffith.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the walk and check out the stars on this famous sidewalk.
15-minute drive from In-N-Out.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bestia

Indulge in inventive Italian cuisine at this trendy restaurant in the Arts District.
20-minute drive from Hollywood.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 8: Explore Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sqirl

Delight in the fresh and inventive breakfast dishes at a popular LA eatery.
15-minute drive to Sqirl.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit The Getty Center

Explore impressive art collections and stunning gardens at this iconic museum.
20-minute drive to The Getty Center.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Enjoy diverse food offerings from various vendors in this lively food hall.
30-minute drive to Grand Central Market.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Venice Beach

Relax by the beach and watch street performers along the famous boardwalk.
20-minute drive to Venice Beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles

Enjoy the unique Southern-style cuisine taste of chicken and waffles.
15-minute drive to Roscoe's.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: San Diego Vibes

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Indulge in modern American comfort food with signature maple bacon doughnuts.
2-hour drive to San Diego.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore gardens, museums, and the stunning architecture of this expansive city park.
15-minute drive to Balboa Park.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

Dine in a picturesque setting among beautiful gardens in Balboa Park.
5-minute walk from museum.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore San Diego Zoo

Visit the world-renowned zoo known for its diverse collection of animals.
10-minute drive from The Prado.
USD65, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ironside Fish & Oyster

Enjoy a seafood-centric dining experience in the heart of Little Italy.
15-minute drive from the zoo.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 10: San Diego Beaches

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Feast on hearty breakfast fare with a California twist in a lively atmosphere.
Driving to Breakfast Republic takes 15 minutes.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Admire the stunning ocean views and sea lions basking at this picturesque location.
20-minute drive to La Jolla Cove.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Kayaking in La Jolla

Experience the thrill of kayaking in beautiful waters and exploring sea caves.
Kayaking rental shops are nearby.
USD50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cottage La Jolla

Enjoy cozy dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients at this charming spot.
Short walk from the beach.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Mission Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores and enjoy the festivities at this iconic beach.
20-minute drive from La Jolla.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hodad's

Dig into famous burgers and milkshakes in this laid-back beachside restaurant.
Short drive to Hodad's.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Santa Monica Charm

Santa Monica, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Daisy Cafe

Start your day with breakfast classics in a bright and cheerful café.
30-minute drive from San Diego.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Santa Monica Pier

Enjoy a classic amusement park experience with rides and stunning ocean views.
Short drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cassia

Indulge in French and Southeast Asian inspired dishes at this popular beachside bistro.
10-minute walk from the pier.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Third Street Promenade

Stroll this lively shopping district filled with street performers and shops.
5-minute walk from Cassia.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Dine on upscale wood-fired cuisine in a chic setting.
10-minute walk from Third Street.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 12: Malibu Escape

Malibu, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Malibu Farm

Enjoy fresh, farm-to-table options overlooking the ocean.
30-minute drive from Santa Monica.
USD25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Zuma Beach

Relax on Malibu's famous beach known for its cleanliness and ample amenities.
15-minute drive to Zuma Beach.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

Dine at this beautiful beachfront café with a laid-back vibe.
15-minute drive to Paradise Cove.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Malibu Pier

Stroll along the historic pier and enjoy the local shops and views.
10-minute drive to Malibu Pier.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Nobu Malibu

Experience world-renowned sushi in an upscale setting with ocean views.
15-minute drive from Malibu Pier.
USD100, 2 hours
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Day 13: Return to San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring freshly baked pastries and coffee.
1-hour flight or 6.5-hour drive back to San Francisco.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Exploratorium

Discover fun and educational interactive exhibits at this renowned science museum.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Foreign Cinema

Dine in a unique atmosphere where classic films play in the background.
15-minute drive from Exploratorium.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Lombard Street

Walk down the famous crooked street lined with beautiful houses and gardens.
10-minute drive from Foreign Cinema.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cotogna

Savor Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients in a rustic setting.
15-minute drive from Lombard Street.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 14: Departure Day

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Plow

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with farm-fresh ingredients to fuel your departure.
15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Last-minute shopping at Union Square

Pick up souvenirs and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this shopping district.
10-minute drive to Union Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Rotunda

Indulge in an elegant lunch accompanied by hight ceilings and beautiful views.
15-minute drive from Union Square.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Check out of your hotel

Prepare to depart, reflecting on a memorable trip along the beautiful West Coast.
30 minutes to pack and check out.
Free, 0.5 hours

3:00PM

Departure to the Airport

Head to the airport for your flight home, cherishing the memories made.
30-minute drive to the airport.
Free, 1 hour
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