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Epic Road Trip Adventure: Seattle to California via Oregon with Big Sur and Santa Monica Pier Stop

Viewed by 115 travelers

Day 1: Nature & City Adventure

Seattle, WA (Mount Rainier National Park)

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tilikum Place Cafe

Start your day with their famous Dutch baby pancakes topped with fresh fruit and syrup.
From your hotel, it’s a quick walk to Tilikum Place Cafe.
USD20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Mount Rainier National Park

Head out to explore the stunning landscapes of Mount Rainier.
Take SR-410 E for about 2 hours (90 miles).
Fuel cost: USD20, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Mount Rainier National Park

Take a scenic drive or hike one of the many trails with breathtaking views.
Drive within the park to reach visitor centers and trails.
USD35 (Park entrance), 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Paradise Picnic Area

Have a packed lunch while surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Find a picnic area near the visitor center.
USD10 (packed lunch cost), 1 hour

2:30PM

Head Back to Seattle

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Seattle in the afternoon.
Return via SR-410 W.
Fuel cost: USD20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check into Hotel

Rest and freshen up before dinner.
Arrive at your Seattle hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Canlis

Enjoy fine dining with stunning views of Lake Union and world-class cuisine.
Drive or take a rideshare from the hotel (20 min).
USD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Seattle

Day 2: Travel to Portland

Seattle, WA to Portland, OR

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bakery Nouveau

Indulge in fresh pastries and a coffee to kickstart your day.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Portland

Head south towards Portland, ready for some exciting adventures.
Take I-5 South for about 3 hours.
Fuel cost: USD30, 3 hours

12:30PM

Check into Hotel in Portland

Rest and refresh before heading out for lunch.
Arrive at your hotel in Portland.
Varies, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Deschutes Brewery Portland Pub

Try local brews and hearty meals in a trendy setting.
Short drive or rideshare from your hotel.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Powell’s City of Books

Spend your afternoon meandering through the world's largest independent bookstore.
Short drive or a quick walk from the brewery.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Beaker & Flask

Enjoy creative dishes and cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.
A short drive from Powell's.
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Seattle

Day 3: Discovering Oregon

Portland, OR

8:00AM

Breakfast at Screen Door

Dive into delicious Southern-style biscuits and gravy.
Located in Northeast Portland.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Engage with interactive exhibits to learn about the wonders of science.
Drive 15 minutes from Screen Door.
USD20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ecliptic Brewing

Enjoy great brews and American fare in a hip atmosphere.
Just a 5-minute drive away.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Drive to Bend, OR

Hit the road towards Bend, known for its outdoor recreational activities.
I-5 to US-20 E, about 3.5 hours (160 miles).
Fuel cost: USD30, 3.5 hours

5:30PM

Check into Hotel

Rest and recharge for the evening.
Arrive in Bend and check into your hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at 10 Barrel Brewing

Taste delicious pizza and local craft beer.
Located nearby the hotel.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Portland

Day 4: Adventuring in Bend

Bend, OR

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sparrow Bakery

Delight in their famous ocean rolls and locally roasted coffee.
Short drive from the hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Smith Rock State Park

Explore stunning rock formations and picturesque hiking trails.
Drive 30 minutes from Bend.
USD5, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Deschutes Brewery

Sample a variety of delicious brews and seasonal dishes.
About 30 minutes’ drive back to Bend.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Downtown Bend

Browse local shops and enjoy the charming downtown atmosphere.
Walking distance from the brewery.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Deschutes River

Wind down at one of the parks along the river, soaking up the sun.
Short drive from downtown.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails

Enjoy Cajun-inspired dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Located in downtown Bend.
USD35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Bend

Day 5: Crater Lake Wonders

Crater Lake, OR

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick hotel breakfast before hitting the road.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Crater Lake National Park

Head to explore the breathtaking scenes of the deepest blue lake.
Drive is approximately 2 hours via OR-62 West (90 miles).
Fuel cost: USD20, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Crater Lake Rim

Discover stunning viewpoints and photography opportunities around the lake.
Drive within the national park.
USD30 (Park entrance), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Rim Village Cafe

Enjoy a delicious meal with views of the lake.
Located at the Rim Village.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Hiking Trails

Take a guided hike along the scenic trails around Crater Lake.
Access trails from the Rim;
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Ashland, OR

Travel to Ashland to experience its artsy vibe.
Drive is approximately 1 hour (70 miles).
Fuel cost: USD15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Lela’s Cafe

Savor some local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.
Located in downtown Ashland.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Crater Lake

Day 6: Charming Ashland

Ashland, OR

8:00AM

Breakfast at Morning Glory

Indulge in homemade pastries and a relaxing atmosphere.
Short walk from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Lithia Park

Enjoy a morning walk through this beautiful park with gardens and a pond.
Located adjacent to downtown Ashland.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Take a backstage tour or buy tickets for a show if time permits.
Located in downtown Ashland.
USD15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Quinque

Sample delicious seasonal dishes prepared from locally sourced ingredients.
Walk to the cafe from the theater.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Redding, CA

Set off on your next adventure, heading south to Redding.
I-5 South, about 1.5 hours (120 miles).
Fuel cost: USD20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Sundial Bridge

Witness the architectural beauty of this pedestrian bridge over the Sacramento River.
Drive 15 minutes from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Jack's Grill

Enjoy hearty American fare at this local favorite.
Located in downtown Redding.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ashland

Day 7: Redding to San Francisco

Redding, CA to San Francisco, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweetspot Bakery

Indulge in fresh baked goods and coffee before hitting the road.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to San Francisco

Travel south along I-5 and US-101, admiring California scenery.
About 3.5 hours drive (220 miles).
Fuel cost: USD35, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Dig into clam chowder in a sourdough bowl at this iconic spot.
Drive to Fisherman's Wharf area.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Exploring Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to this historic prison and experience a fascinating audio tour.
Ferry from Pier 33.
USD40, 3 hours

6:00PM

Check into Hotel

Relax and enjoy some downtime before dinner.
Hotel check-in nearby.
Varies, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Enjoy delicious modern Chinese cuisine at this popular restaurant.
Short walk or drive from your hotel.
USD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Redding

Day 8: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Enjoy a delectable selection of breakfast items in a quaint café setting.
Short drive or walk from your hotel.
USD25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Bridge

Take in the breathtaking views and explore the park surrounding the iconic bridge.
Drive to the bridge entrance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Ferry Building Marketplace

Eat gourmet street food from various vendors in this vibrant market.
Short drive from Golden Gate Park.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Haight-Ashbury District

Wander through the historic district known for its counterculture history and colorful shops.
Drive to Haight-Ashbury (15 min).
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Painted Ladies

Check out the famous row of Victorian houses, a classic photo-op.
A short drive from Haight-Ashbury.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The House

Indulge in Asian-inspired dishes in a trendy environment.
Drive 10 minutes from the Painted Ladies.
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 9: Big Sur Adventure

San Francisco, CA to Big Sur, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 101

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at this popular local café.
Drive to the café from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Big Sur

Take in the stunning coastal views as you drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Travel via US-101 S and CA-1 S, about 3 hours (120 miles).
Fuel cost: USD30, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy breathtaking views while dining on delicious Californian cuisine.
Located on the coast in Big Sur.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Embark on a scenic hike through beautiful forests and alongside the coastline.
Short drive to the park entrance.
USD10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit McWay Falls

Witness the stunning waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach; perfect for photos.
Drive 15 minutes down the road.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Check into Hotel in Big Sur

Relax and enjoy the evening in the tranquil setting of Big Sur.
Arrive at your chosen hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Sierra Mar

Savor exquisite cuisine with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Located within Post Ranch Inn.
USD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 10: Santa Monica Pier Finale

Big Sur, CA to Santa Monica, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view of the California coast.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Santa Monica

Journey south along the PCH, soaking in the beautiful seaside views.
About 5 hours drive (300 miles) via CA-1.
Fuel cost: USD40, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Santa Monica Pier

Grab a bite at one of the casual eateries overlooking the beach.
Enjoy lunch with ocean views at the pier.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Santa Monica Pier

Take a stroll along the iconic pier, enjoying the rides and arcade games.
Explore the attractions on foot.
Free to enter, rides & games vary., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Albright

Savor seafood dishes with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.
Located on the pier.
USD50, 2 hours

8:30PM

Sunset on the Beach

End your trip by watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.
Walk to the beach from the pier.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Big Sur
Book This Trip
Garden Safaris

Tour Operator Urban nature & discovery walking tours

Garden Safaris offers immersive, guided walking tours that reveal the hidden natural beauty of Santa Monica. We specialize in urban “safaris” that blend gardens, architecture, secret stairways, canyon paths, and ocean views into unforgettable local adventures. Led by knowledgeable guides, our tours go beyond typical sightseeing, inviting travelers to explore peaceful, lesser-known landscapes and discover the stories, design, and nature woven into the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing garden stroll or an active scenic hike, Garden Safaris turns the city into a living outdoor escape.

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