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Ultimate California Road Trip: Coastal Adventures and City Wonders

Viewed by 141 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

08:00

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast featuring their famous French toast and fresh fruit.
Next, walk to Fisherman's Wharf.
USD 20, 1 hour

09:30

Visit Fisherman's Wharf

Stroll around the lively pier, catch a glimpse of sea lions, and enjoy the waterfront views.
Head to Pier 33 for the Alcatraz ferry.
Free, 2 hours

11:30

Tour Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz and explore the historic prison with its audio-guide narrations.
Return by ferry.
USD 40, 2.5 hours

14:00

Lunch at Boudin Bakery

Enjoy a bowl of clam chowder served in a fresh sourdough bread bowl.
Walk to Lombard Street.
USD 15, 1 hour

15:00

Visit Lombard Street

Take photos on the famously crooked street and enjoy the beautiful flowerbeds.
Drive towards Golden Gate Park.
Free, 1 hour

16:30

Explore Golden Gate Park

Wander around the park's gardens, lakes, and trails, perhaps visit the de Young Museum.
End the day with dinner downtown.
USD 15, 2 hours

19:00

Dinner at The Fog Harbor Fish House

Savor fresh seafood with a view of the bay as you wind down your first day.
Return to your hotel for the night.
USD 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Monterey and Carmel

Monterey, USA

08:00

Breakfast at Toasties

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast burrito and local coffee to kickstart your road trip.
Drive towards Monterey (2 hours).
USD 15, 1 hour

10:00

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Discover fascinating marine life and exhibits at this renowned aquarium.
Stroll along Cannery Row next.
USD 50, 2.5 hours

12:30

Lunch at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Grab a bite to eat with a view of the water, famous for their burgers and local brews.
Take a scenic drive to 17-Mile Drive.
USD 25, 1 hour

13:30

Drive 17-Mile Drive

Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and iconic landmarks along this picturesque road.
Head to Carmel-by-the-Sea.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

15:00

Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea

Wander the charming streets and art galleries of this quaint coastal town.
Enjoy early dinner nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

16:30

Dinner at La Bicyclette

Dine on rustic cuisine inspired by the flavors of France, using local ingredients.
Drive to your overnight lodging in Monterey.
USD 40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, USA

08:00

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries and a traditional breakfast to fuel your day.
Drive to Santa Barbara (2 hours).
USD 20, 1 hour

09:30

Visit Stearns Wharf

Walk along the historic pier and enjoy views of the Santa Barbara coastline.
Spend some time at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.
Free, 1 hour

10:30

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Explore fascinating exhibits about California's natural history.
Head to lunch downtown.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

12:00

Lunch at The Habit Burger Grill

Dig into a delicious charbroiled burger at this local favorite.
Explore the Santa Barbara Mission afterwards.
USD 10, 1 hour

13:00

Visit the Santa Barbara Mission

Learn about the rich history of this landmark and enjoy its beautiful gardens.
Relax at the beach next.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

14:30

Santa Barbara Beach

Unwind on the sandy beaches, soaking up the sun and ocean breeze.
Freshen up for dinner afterwards.
Free, 2 hours

16:30

Dinner at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning ocean views at this beachfront restaurant.
Return to your accommodation.
USD 50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Los Angeles Highlights

Los Angeles, USA

08:00

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with oversized pancakes and a variety of toppings.
Drive to Hollywood (2 hours).
USD 20, 1 hour

10:00

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, spotting your favorite stars' names along the sidewalk.
Visit TCL Chinese Theatre next.
Free, 1 hour

11:00

TCL Chinese Theatre Tour

Explore the iconic theatre known for its celebrity handprints in the forecourt.
Head to lunch in Hollywood.
USD 15, 1 hour

12:00

Lunch at Musso & Frank Grill

Savor a meal at this historic restaurant famous for its classic Hollywood ambiance.
Visit the Griffith Observatory in the afternoon.
USD 30, 1 hour

13:00

Explore Griffith Observatory

Enjoy space and science exhibits while soaking in a remarkable view of the city.
Visit The Getty Center next.
Free, 2 hours

15:00

The Getty Center

Marvel at the art collections and stunning architecture during your visit to this cultural gem.
Dinner at Santa Monica Pier afterwards.
Free, 2 hours

17:30

Dinner at The Lobster

Dine on fresh seafood with breathtaking views of the sunset at Santa Monica Pier.
Take a leisurely stroll along the pier.
USD 70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Sunny San Diego

San Diego, USA

08:00

Breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House

Start your day with a variety of delicious pancakes in this popular spot.
Drive to San Diego (2 hours).
USD 20, 1 hour

10:00

Visit Balboa Park

Explore this expansive park with its beautiful gardens, museums, and the San Diego Zoo.
Take a break for lunch nearby.
Free, 2 hours

12:00

Lunch at The Prado at Balboa Park

Dine in a charming restaurant set within Balboa Park with a creative menu.
Visit the San Diego Zoo afterwards.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

13:30

Discover San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon exploring one of the most famous zoos in the world.
Relax at the beach in the late afternoon.
USD 60, 3 hours

16:30

Relax at La Jolla Cove

Enjoy stunning views and the chance to spot sea lions at this beautiful cove.
Enjoy your farewell dinner.
Free, 2 hours

18:30

Farewell Dinner at George's at the Cove

Conclude your trip with an exquisite dining experience featuring Mediterranean cuisine and spectacular ocean views.
Return to your accommodation.
USD 80, 2 hours
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