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Ultimate 14-Day San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 177 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Fuel your day with a delicious crab benedict and fresh orange juice at this iconic breakfast spot.
Head to Mama's on Washington Square located in North Beach.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Golden Gate Bridge

Take an iconic walk across the Golden Gate Bridge while enjoying stunning views of the bay.
Drive to the Golden Gate Bridge parking area, approximately 20 minutes from Mama's.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Savour a bowl of clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery.
Head towards Fisherman’s Wharf, around 20 minutes drive.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and discover the infamous former prison.
Ferry departs from Fisherman's Wharf.
USD40, 3 hours including ferry time

5:00PM

Dinner at Chinatown

Indulge in a authentic Chinese meal at the famous House of Nanking.
Drive to Chinatown, approximately 10 minutes drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk in Union Square

Stroll through Union Square, admiring the city's vibrant culture and nightlife.
Short 10-minute walk from Chinatown.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Discover Culture & Nature

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Enjoy a fresh pastry or breakfast sandwich at this beloved bakery.
Located in the Mission District, around 15 minutes drive.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Explore the vast greenery, gardens, and lakes filled with tranquil spots within Golden Gate Park.
Drive approximately 10 minutes from Tartine Bakery to the park.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Park Chalet

Enjoy lunch with stunning ocean views at Park Chalet located at Ocean Beach.
Located just a few minutes drive within the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Japanese Tea Garden

Experience tranquility in the beautiful Japanese Tea Garden, a classic in the park.
Short drive within Golden Gate Park.
USD15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Haight-Ashbury District

Discover the historic hippie heart of the city with murals, vintage shops, and lively culture.
Drive approximately 10 minutes from Japanese Tea Garden.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Zuni Café

Savour the famous brick oven roasted chicken at this renowned restaurant.
A short 10-minute drive from Haight-Ashbury.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Coast Drive

Half Moon Bay, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Ferry Building Marketplace

Grab a fresh bagel from one of the many artisan food stalls available.
Head to the Ferry Building, about 10 minutes drive.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Half Moon Bay

Hit the road and enjoy the scenic drive from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay along Highway 1.
Follow CA-1 S towards Half Moon Bay.
Free, 30 minutes drive

9:30AM

Visit Half Moon Bay State Beach

Stroll along the beach and take in the gorgeous ocean views.
Arrive at Half Moon Bay State Beach.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Sam's Chowder House

Savour their famous lobster roll with views of the ocean.
Located right near the beach.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore the Coastal Trail

Bike or walk along this scenic coastal trail to see beautiful landscapes.
Access the trail from the beach.
Free, 2 hours

3:15PM

Check-in at Hotel

Find your hotel and relax for a bit.
Check into your chosen hotel in Half Moon Bay.
Price varies., 1 hour
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Day 4: Beach Bliss

Santa Cruz, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast burrito at this oceanside café.
Drive 40 minutes to Santa Cruz for breakfast.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Experience the rides and beachside atmosphere at this famous boardwalk amusement park.
Just a short drive from breakfast.
Free entry, rides vary., 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Picnic Basket

Enjoy fresh local ingredients at this popular eatery near the beach.
Located near the boardwalk.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Natural Bridges State Beach

Walk along the beach and see the unique natural rock formations.
Just a quick 5 minute drive.
USD10 parking, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax for the evening.
Check in at your chosen hotel.
Price varies., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shadowbrook Restaurant

Indulge in an exquisite dining experience overlooking the creek.
Located 15 minutes from your hotel.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 5: Monterey's Marine Wonders

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy complimentary breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Within the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Monterey

Take a scenic 45-minute drive along the coast to Monterey.
Follow CA-1 S to Monterey.
Free, 45 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore some of the most vibrant marine life at this world-renowned aquarium.
Arrive at the aquarium, easily accessible.
USD50, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Dine on seafood at a casual restaurant on Cannery Row.
Casual walking distance from the aquarium.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore 17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive to see stunning coastal views and iconic landmarks.
Access from Cannery Row.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and rest at your hotel in Monterey.
Check into your chosen hotel.
Price varies., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Sardine Factory

Savour the exquisite dishes at this historic dining spot.
Located in Cannery Row, just a short drive.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 6: Breathtaking Big Sur

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Old Monterey Café

Get a hearty breakfast to fuel your drive to Big Sur.
Head to the café about 10 minutes from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Big Sur

Drive along one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world.
Follow CA-1 S towards Big Sur.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge

Take photos at this iconic bridge overlooking the picturesque coastline.
A quick vantage point stop along the drive.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Visit Pfeiffer Beach

Relax on this beautiful beach known for its purple sand.
Just a short drive from Bixby Creek Bridge.
USD12 parking, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with breathtaking views of the Big Sur coastline.
Located just a short drive from Pfeiffer Beach.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Explore the stunning waterfalls and hiking trails within the park.
A short drive from lunch.
USD10 parking, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and unwind at your chosen hotel in Big Sur.
Check into your accommodation.
Price varies., 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Big Sur River Inn

Enjoy a rustic dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.
Just a few minutes from your hotel.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 7: Charming San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur Roadhouse

Matt’s famous cinnamon roll is a must-try for breakfast here.
Drive about 15 minutes from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:15AM

Depart for San Luis Obispo

Drive down the coast along CA-1, enjoying the scenic views.
Continue on CA-1 S.
Free, 45 minutes

10:00AM

Stop at Hearst Castle

Take a guided tour of this historic estate filled with art and architecture.
Located near San Simeon, accessible via CA-1.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at SLO Brew Rock

Enjoy craft beer and a fresh meal at this vibrant local brewpub.
A short drive to San Luis Obispo.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Downtown SLO

Wander the charming streets filled with unique shops and local art.
Explore 5 minutes from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax.
Check into your chosen hotel in San Luis Obispo.
Price varies., 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Nova

Dine on fresh, locally sourced dishes at this popular restaurant.
Just a short drive from downtown.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Coastal Relaxation

Pismo Beach, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Black Horse Coffee

Start your day with a perfect cup of coffee and fresh pastries.
Located near your hotel.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Pismo Beach

Take a quick 20-minute drive to the coastal city.
Follow CA-101 S.
Free, 20 minutes

9:30AM

Relax at Pismo Beach

Spend the morning basking in the sun or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Arrive at the beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Splash Café

Enjoy clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at this local favourite.
Located steps from the beach.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Monarch Butterfly Grove

Witness the beautiful monarch butterflies during their seasonal migration.
Just a short drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and prepare for the evening.
Check into your hotel.
Price varies., 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Oyster Loft

Enjoy fine seafood dining with panoramic ocean views.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Pismo Beach

Day 9: Sun-Kissed Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Delight in a delicious breakfast including pancakes and a fresh fruit bowl.
Drive to Santa Barbara, about 1 hour.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Santa Barbara Mission

Explore the stunning architecture and gardens of this historic mission.
A short drive from your breakfast spot.
USD12, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Stearns Wharf

Stroll along the pier and admire the views of the ocean.
5-minute drive from the mission.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the marina.
Located at Stearns Wharf.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at East Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun at this popular beach.
Short drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and freshen up.
Check into your chosen accommodation.
Price varies., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

Enjoy fine dining with stunning ocean views and fresh coastal fare.
Located on Hendry's Beach.
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 10: Vibrant Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Dig into enormous pancakes and delicious brunch options at this famous eatery.
Drive 2 hours to LA.
USD20, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Hollywood Boulevard

Explore Walk of Fame and celebrity-studded streets.
Short drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pink’s Hot Dogs

Savour the famous hot dogs known for their juicy goodness.
A quick drive from Hollywood.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Griffith Observatory

Enjoy panoramic views of the city and chance to visit the museum.
Just a short drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle in and refresh at your hotel.
Check into your chosen LA hotel.
Price varies., 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Bestia

Savour innovative Italian dishes at this celebrated restaurant.
Located a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 11: Soak in San Diego

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Start your day with a creative and satisfying breakfast menu.
Drive to San Diego, about 2 hours.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore museums, gardens, and cultural heritage in this sprawling park.
Short drive from breakfast.
Free to enter, museum fees vary., 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood with harbour views.
Located near the gaslamp quarter.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax at Coronado Beach

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun on this family-friendly beach.
Short drive to Coronado Island.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax.
Check into your accommodation in San Diego.
Price varies., 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fishery

Indulge in fresh seafood with an upscale twist.
Located nearby your hotel.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 12: Return to Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Enjoy a delightful breakfast specializing in local ingredients.
Drive back to LA, taking about 2 hours.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Marvel at the sea lions basking in the sun at this picturesque cove.
A 30-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at George's at the Cove

Enjoy lunch with stunning ocean views at this acclaimed restaurant.
Short drive from La Jolla.
USD40, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore the Gaslamp Quarter

Wander through this vibrant district full of shops, cafes, and entertainment.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours to the Gaslamp Quarter.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Check into your hotel upon arrival in Los Angeles.
Located centrally in LA.
Price varies., 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles

Savor a Southern-style meal that’s famous for its chicken and waffles.
A short drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Back to the Bay

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Enjoy a simple and quick breakfast before heading out.
Located near your hotel.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for San Francisco

Drive back to San Francisco along I-5 N.
Follow good directions back to the city.
Free, 6 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Check into your hotel and relax after your drive.
Check-in upon arrival.
Price varies., 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Mission District Murals

Adventure through vibrant murals showcasing rich culture.
Head to the Mission District.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Foreign Cinema

Dine while watching classic films at this unique restaurant.
Located in the Mission District.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 14: Last Day in SF

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Mediterranee

Treat yourself to some Mediterranean breakfast options favorites.
Located in Berkeley, about 20 minutes drive.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Exploratorium

Experience hands-on science and art exhibits at this interactive museum.
Return to San Francisco, about 15 minutes drive.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Slanted Door

Enjoy modern Vietnamese cuisine with stunning views of the Bay.
Located at the Ferry Building Marketplace.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll along Embarcadero

Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and enjoy the city views.
Walk from the Ferry Building to the waterfront area.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Farewell Coffee at Blue Bottles Coffee

Enjoy a final cup of delicious coffee before wrapping up your trip.
Located in the Ferry Building.
USD5, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Departure Preparation

Prepare for departure, reflecting on your incredible journey.
Return your vehicle and get ready to head home.
Free, 1 hour
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