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Scenic Coastal Road Trip: California Dreamin’

Viewed by 70 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with a delicious meal at Mama's, renowned for their French toast and crab omelet.
Head towards North Beach; it's a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute drive.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Take a leisurely stroll through Golden Gate Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and visit gardens.
Drive to Golden Gate Park; it’s a 10-minute drive.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cliff House

Dine at The Cliff House, where you can savor fresh seafood with a stunning ocean view.
Drive to The Cliff House; it’s a 15-minute drive.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Fisherman’s Wharf

Wander around Fisherman’s Wharf, explore shops, and enjoy street performers.
Drive to Fisherman’s Wharf; it’s a 10-minute drive.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Monterey

Hit the road and enjoy the scenic coastal drive along Highway 1 to Monterey.
Approximately 2 hours drive to Monterey.
USD15 (gas), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Relax in a casual atmosphere at Cannery Row Brewing Company with local craft beer and tasty pub food.
Located in Monterey, just a short drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your accommodation for the night after a day filled with fun activities.
Head to your selected hotel in Monterey, around a 5-minute drive.
USD150, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: Monterey to Santa Cruz

Monterey, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at LouLou's Griddle in the Middle

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this local favorite spot famous for its pancakes and fresh ingredients.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Dive into the amazing underwater world at the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Just a 10-minute walk from your breakfast spot.
USD50 (adult ticket), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy fresh clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl while overlooking the harbor.
Return to Fisherman’s Wharf; it’s a short walk.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Drive to Santa Cruz

Savor the beautiful views as you drive along the coast to vibrant Santa Cruz.
Roughly a 45-minute drive from Monterey.
USD10 (gas), 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Enjoy classic beach fun with rides, games, and a beautiful beach atmosphere.
Drive to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk; it's a 10-minute drive.
USD5 (entrance fee), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Picnic Basket

Indulge in fresh, local ingredients at this sustainable eatery just a short walk from the boardwalk.
Take a 10-minute walk after leaving the boardwalk.
USD28, 1 hour

7:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and unwind at your chosen hotel in Santa Cruz after a busy day.
Just a quick 5-minute drive to your hotel.
USD150, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 3: Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara

Santa Cruz, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Harbor Cafe

Feast on a classic American breakfast by the harbor with ample portions and local favorites.
A short drive; about 10 minutes will put you there.
USD18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Natural Bridges State Beach

Breathe in the fresh ocean air while enjoying the stunning views and unique rock formations.
A 15-minute drive from your breakfast spot.
USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Drive to Santa Barbara

Enjoy another scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to Santa Barbara.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
USD15 (gas), 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Lark

Savor farm-to-table dishes at this trendy restaurant located in the vibrant Funk Zone.
In Santa Barbara, a short 10-minute drive from where you park.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Santa Barbara Mission

Visit this historic site for a glimpse into California's past and enjoy its beautiful gardens.
Just about a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at State Street

Stroll along State Street for shopping and chilling out in local cafes; soak up Santa Barbara’s charm.
A short 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the mission.
USD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Brophy Bros.

Enjoy the catch of the day with a stunning harbor view from this local seafood institution.
Just a 10-minute drive from State Street.
USD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Cruz
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