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Ultimate California Adventure: A 6-Day Itinerary

Viewed by 65 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with a delicious omelette or French toast in this beloved eatery known for its fresh ingredients and charming ambience.
Walk or drive to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take the iconic ferry to Alcatraz to explore the infamous former prison and learn about its intriguing history.
Board the ferry from Pier 33.
USD 40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Savour a clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery, a San Francisco staple boasting rich flavours.
Walk to Boudin Bakery located right at the wharf.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Golden Gate Park

Wander through the sprawling park, visiting the Japanese Tea Garden and the California Academy of Sciences.
Drive or take a rideshare service to the park.
USD 30, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff House

Enjoy dinner with a stunning ocean view, sampling seafood dishes that reflect the local flavours.
Drive to The Cliff House, located at Ocean Beach.
USD 50, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening stroll at Ocean Beach

End your day with a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the waves and enjoying the sunset.
Walk from The Cliff House to Ocean Beach.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Monterey Bay Wonders

Monterey, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at Peet's Coffee

Grab a hearty breakfast with artisanal coffee that has a local flavour before hitting the road.
Drive from San Francisco to Monterey (approx. 2 hours).
USD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

Dive into the wonders of marine life at one of the most renowned aquariums in the world.
Drive to the aquarium located on Cannery Row.
USD 50, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Savor fresh seafood tacos at Cannery Row Brewing Company, a lovely bistro that prides itself on local ingredients.
Walk from the aquarium to the restaurant.
USD 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive

Experience breathtaking coastal views while driving through one of California's most famous scenic routes.
Leave Cannery Row and start your drive.
USD 10 (toll fee), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Explore stunning coastal cliffs, trails, and diverse wildlife in this spectacular state park.
Drive to Point Lobos (approx. 15 minutes).
USD 10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Lobster Pot

Enjoy a seafood feast featuring freshly caught local fish while overlooking the beautiful bay.
Drive back to downtown Monterey (approx. 15 minutes).
USD 45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 3: Discover Big Sur

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn

Start your day with pancakes and bacon at this charming inn amidst nature.
Drive to Big Sur (approx. 30 minutes).
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bixby Creek Bridge

Stop at this iconic landmark for a photo opportunity with panoramic views of the coastline.
Continue driving along Highway 1.
Free, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Go hiking through scenic trails, discovering waterfalls, and enjoying the unique beauty of California's redwoods.
Drive to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (approx. 20 minutes).
USD 10, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Savour a delightful meal with spectacular views of the coastline, while choosing from a selection of Californian cuisine.
Drive to Nepenthe (approx. 5 minutes).
USD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit McWay Falls

Experience this picturesque waterfall pouring onto the beach and take in the striking views.
Drive to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (approx. 15 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Hike some trails for panoramic vistas of the Pacific coastline and the unique landscape around.
Continue in the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Big Sur Roadhouse

Enjoy comfort food in this casual yet delightful restaurant while soaking in the rustic vibe of Big Sur.
Travel back towards your accommodation (approx. 15 minutes).
USD 35, 2 hours
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Day 4: Santa Barbara Bliss

Santa Barbara, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Indulge in flavoursome pancakes and eggs with a stunning beach view before departing Big Sur.
Drive to Santa Barbara (approx. 1.5 hours).
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Santa Barbara Mission

Visit this historic mission for a glimpse into California’s Spanish history and stunning gardens.
Drive to the mission (approx. 10 minutes).
USD 15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Stearns Wharf

Walk along the wharf, enjoying shops and ocean views while soaking in the Santa Barbara vibe.
Drive to Stearns Wharf (approx. 10 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Blue Water Grill

Savour their famous fish tacos in a casual setting while enjoying the sun and marina views.
Walk to the restaurant on the wharf.
USD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Santa Barbara Zoo

Spend a few hours at this lovely zoo, known for its beautiful views and engaging animal exhibits.
Drive to the zoo (approx. 10 minutes).
USD 20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Butterfly Beach

Unwind on this picturesque beach, perfect for sunbathing or a leisurely walk along the shore.
Drive to Butterfly Beach (approx. 15 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Convivo Restaurant

Enjoy a flavourful meal featuring Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes with fresh local ingredients.
Drive to the restaurant (approx. 15 minutes).
USD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 5: Los Angeles Exploration

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eggslut

Start the day with a delectable egg sandwich at this popular breakfast spot in the Grand Central Market.
Drive to Los Angeles (approx. 90 minutes).
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Griffith Observatory

Enjoy the stunning views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign from this iconic observatory.
Drive to Griffith Park (approx. 20 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk of Fame

Stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, finding your favourite stars' stars on the famous Walk of Fame.
Drive to Hollywood Boulevard (approx. 30 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Musso & Frank Grill

Enjoy classic American fare at this historic establishment, a favourite among Hollywood's elite.
Walk to the restaurant nearby.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit The Getty Center

Spend the afternoon exploring world-class art, architecture, and gardens at this stunning museum.
Drive to The Getty Center (approx. 30 minutes).
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bestia

Indulge in Italian cuisine at this trendy restaurant, known for its handmade pasta and unique flavours.
Drive to the restaurant (approx. 30 minutes).
USD 55, 2 hours
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Day 6: San Diego Serenity

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Kickstart your final day with a modern take on classic breakfast fare in a vibrant setting.
Drive to San Diego (approx. 2 hours).
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore the sprawling park filled with stunning gardens, museums, and gorgeous architecture.
Drive to Balboa Park (approx. 15 minutes).
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

Dine at this restaurant located in Balboa Park, offering delicious and beautifully presented dishes.
Walk to The Prado.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon at one of the world’s most famous zoos, known for its engaging exhibits and diverse animal species.
Walk back into the park.
USD 65, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Wrap up your California journey with a fabulous dinner overlooking the ocean, serving seasonal and locally-sourced dishes.
Drive to La Jolla (approx. 20 minutes).
USD 70, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening stroll at La Jolla Cove

Enjoy the serene setting as you walk along the cove, watching sea lions and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Walk around La Jolla Cove.
Free, 1 hour
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