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5-Day California Road Trip: Coastal Escape & Desert Retreat

Viewed by 73 travelers

Day 1: Discover San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at this popular eatery famed for its heavenly French toast and egg dishes.
Head southeast on Stockton St toward Filbert St.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wander through Golden Gate Park

Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll in this expansive park, dotted with gardens and cultural institutions for an inspiring experience.
Drive 15 minutes via US-101 S to the park entrance.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Admire the Painted Ladies

Capture the quintessential California postcard moment at Alamo Square with the Painted Ladies against the backdrop of the city.
Drive 10 minutes to Alamo Square.
Free, 30 minutes

12:15PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery Café

Indulge in a famous clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at this historic restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf.
Drive 10 minutes towards Pier 39.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Embark on a ferry to Alcatraz Island to explore its intriguing history and haunting beauty.
Catch the ferry at the nearby docks.
USD40, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Delight in freshly prepared seafood with scenic views of the Bay, making for a memorable dining experience.
Take a 10-minute walk back to Pier 39.
USD50, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening Stroll at the Embarcadero

Conclude your vibrant day with a leisurely walk along the Embarcadero, soaking up the lively atmosphere and waterfront ambiance.
Walk along the water.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: Coastal Wonders of Monterey

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Enjoy hearty breakfasts with ingredients sourced from local farms, fueling you for your coastal journey.
Drive 2 hours to Monterey along Highway 101 S and CA-156 W.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Discover the wonders of marine life at one of the best aquariums in the world, featuring mesmerizing exhibits and interactive displays.
Walk 5 minutes from breakfast to the Aquarium.
USD50, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Savor delicious pub-style dishes alongside local brews in the heart of Cannery Row.
Walk 5 minutes along the waterfront.
USD30, 1 hour

1:15PM

Drive along 17-Mile Drive

Experience stunning coastal views and iconic landmarks along this scenic route, including the famous Lone Cypress.
Drive 15 minutes to the entrance of 17-Mile Drive.
USD11.25, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Carmel Beach

Unwind on the soft sands of Carmel Beach, perfect for an afternoon of sunbathing or a calm walk by the shoreline.
Drive 10 minutes to Carmel Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at L'Auberge Carmel

Relax and settle into this upscale hotel known for its luxurious amenities and serene atmosphere.
Drive 5 minutes to the hotel.
USD400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Casanova

Experience fine Italian cuisine in a romantic setting that's perfect for a relaxing evening.
Walk 10 minutes to the restaurant.
USD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 3: Charming Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Carmel Belle

Savor fresh breakfast bowls and locally roasted coffee at this casual eatery known for its homey vibe.
Walk 5 minutes from the hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Explore the breathtaking coastal scenery and diverse wildlife at this stunning natural reserve ideal for hiking.
Drive 15 minutes to the reserve.
USD10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Grasing's

Enjoy seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, perfectly reflecting the flavors of California.
Drive 15 minutes back to Carmel.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Carmel Mission Basilica

Discover one of California’s most beautiful missions, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Drive 5 minutes to the mission.
USD12, 1 hour

3:30PM

Stroll through Carmel Plaza

Spend some leisure time shopping and exploring the charming shops and art galleries in this quaint plaza.
Walk 10 minutes to the plaza.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Carmel Valley Ranch

Relax and immerse yourself in the surrounding nature at this beautiful resort offering exceptional amenities.
Drive 15 minutes to the resort.
USD350, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Corkscrew Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a menu showcasing locally sourced wines and crafted dishes.
Drive 10 minutes back to Carmel Mission.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Day 4: Day in Malibu

Malibu, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Malibu Farm Café

Start with a fresh, farm-to-table breakfast while enjoying ocean views at this iconic seaside café.
Drive 1 hour to Malibu.
USD25, 1 hour

9:15AM

Relax at Zuma Beach

Spend your morning soaking in the sun or taking long walks along this stunning sandy beach.
Drive 10 minutes to Zuma Beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:45AM

Visit the Getty Villa

Explore the impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman art housed in a beautiful villa overlooking the ocean.
Drive 15 minutes to the Getty Villa.
Free (reservation required), 2 hours

1:45PM

Lunch at Nobu Malibu

Indulge in world-renowned Japanese-Peruvian cuisine in a luxurious beachfront setting.
Drive 10 minutes to Nobu.
USD100, 1.5 hours

3:15PM

Explore Malibu Pier

Take an afternoon stroll along the historic Malibu Pier, offering beautiful ocean views and quaint shops.
Drive 10 minutes to the pier.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Malibu Beach Inn

Unwind at this upscale hotel that boasts luxurious amenities and captivating views of the Pacific Ocean.
Drive 5 minutes to the hotel.
USD400, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Mastro's Ocean Club

End your day with a fine dining experience featuring prime steaks and fresh seafood in a stunning oceanfront setting.
Drive 10 minutes to the restaurant.
USD150, 2 hours
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Day 5: Desert Relaxation in Palm Springs

Palm Springs, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cheeky's

Savor delicious breakfast dishes and fresh juices at this popular Palm Springs eatery before winding down your trip.
Drive about 1.5 hours to Palm Springs.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Experience breathtaking vistas as you ride the aerial tramway up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park for hiking and stunning views.
Drive 30 minutes to the tramway station.
USD28, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Farm

Enjoy farm-to-table dining at this chic restaurant known for its creative menu and relaxed atmosphere.
Drive 15 minutes into the town.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax by the pool at your resort

Spend your afternoon basking in the sun by the pool, savoring serenity and your surroundings.
Return to your hotel.
Free for hotel guests, 3 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum

Explore contemporary art and Native American artifacts in this vibrant museum showcasing regional creativity.
Drive 10 minutes to the museum.
USD14, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cork Tree

Conclude your journey with a delightful dinner at this upscale restaurant known for its innovative dishes and wine pairings.
Drive 5 minutes to the restaurant.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Palm Springs
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