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Epic California Adventure: 10 Days of Sun, Sands & Sights

Viewed by 99 travelers

Day 1: Exploring the City

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with the famous French toast at this cozy spot, beloved by locals.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry ride to explore the infamous former prison and learn its history through an audio tour.
Ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery

Enjoy clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at this iconic bakery.
Walk from Alcatraz ferry terminal to Boudin Bakery.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Chinatown

Wander through the vibrant streets of the oldest Chinatown in North America, lined with shops and markets.
Walk to Chinatown.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Savour garlic-infused Italian dishes at this unique restaurant famous for its garlic-themed menu.
Walk to Restaurant.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Landmarks

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast, known for its fluffy pancakes and seasonal specials.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Golden Gate Bridge

Bike across the iconic bridge, soaking in majestic views of the Bay.
Rent bikes nearby to the bridge.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The View Lounge

Indulge in lunch with panoramic views of the skyline at this stylish lounge.
Return by bike to the city center.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Exploratorium

Engage with hundreds of interactive science and art exhibits at this renowned museum.
Walk to The Embarcadero.
USD30, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Muir Woods National Monument

Take a short drive or group tour to witness the towering redwoods.
Drive or join a tour.
USD15, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Greens Restaurant

Enjoy gourmet vegetarian cuisine with stunning bay views.
Return from Muir Woods to the city.
USD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Coastal Wonders

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Have a delicious breakfast before departing, famous for its omelettes and pancakes.
Drive to Monterey for approximately 2.5 hours.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the best aquariums in the world, showcasing marine life of the Pacific.
Visit by walking from breakfast location.
USD50, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Savor fresh seafood at a restaurant along the historic waterfront.
Stroll over to Cannery Row.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

17-Mile Drive

Enjoy this scenic drive with breathtaking coastal views and famous golf courses.
Drive along the coastline.
USD10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Fandango Restaurant

Dine on Mediterranean specialties in a picturesque setting.
Return to Monterey town.
USD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Breathtaking Big Sur

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn

Feast on a hearty breakfast in this charming rustic inn surrounded by nature.
Drive the coastal route to Big Sur for about 1 hour.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Pfeiffer Beach

Discover the striking purple sand and unique rock formations at this hidden gem.
Drive 30 minutes south of the inn.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy beautiful canyon views while dining at this iconic restaurant offering delicious dishes.
Drive to Nepenthe, 10 minutes away.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit McWay Falls

Marvel at this stunning waterfall that cascades directly into the ocean.
Drive 15 minutes south to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Hike at Garrapata State Park

Embark on a scenic hike with coastal views and diverse flora.
Drive 15 minutes north back.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Big Sur River Inn

Relax with a laid-back dinner overlooking the river.
Short drive back to the inn.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Charming San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast with plenty of options.
Drive about 1.5 hours to San Luis Obispo.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hearst Castle

Tour this opulent mansion and learn about its fascinating history.
Drive 45 minutes to Hearst Castle.
USD35, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Natural Cafe

Savor fresh, healthy meals at this delightful café.
Drive back to San Luis Obispo downtown.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through San Luis Obispo Farmers Market

Explore local produce and crafts at this vibrant market held on Thursdays.
Walk to the market area.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the SLO Museum of Art

Discover contemporary art and exhibitions at this charming museum.
Walk to the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Novo Restaurant

Enjoy innovative cuisine with outdoor riverside seating.
Walk to the restaurant.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 6: Coastal Beauty

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast options.
Drive about 1.5 hours to Santa Barbara.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Santa Barbara Mission

Explore this beautiful historic site known as the 'Queen of the Missions'.
Drive to the Mission.
USD15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll through Stearns Wharf

Enjoy panoramic ocean views and local shops at this beautiful wharf.
Drive to Stearns Wharf.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Dine here for some of the freshest seafood on the coast.
Walk from Stearns Wharf.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo

Spend a relaxed afternoon with fascinating animal exhibits and beautiful gardens.
Drive to the zoo.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Lark

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes in the trendy Funk Zone area.
Drive to The Lark.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Hollywood Dreams

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sqirl

Treat yourself to inventive breakfast dishes at this popular café.
Drive about 2 hours to Los Angeles.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the stars and take photos in front of the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Drive to Hollywood Boulevard.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

Visit Griffith Observatory

Enjoy spectacular views of the city and explore the exhibits about space.
Drive to Griffith Park.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience California’s iconic fast food chain for a tasty burger.
Drive to In-N-Out.
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore The Getty Center

Admire art collections and beautifully designed gardens at this famous museum.
Drive to The Getty.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bestia

Indulge in artisanal Italian cuisine in LA’s Arts District.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: SoCal Vibes

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Delight in a fun breakfast with creative dishes and a buzzing atmosphere.
Drive about 2 hours to San Diego.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore the beautiful gardens and museums in this expansive city park.
Drive to Balboa Park.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Prado at Balboa Park

Enjoy a charming dining experience with views of the gardens.
Walk to the restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon at one of the world’s most famous zoos, home to thousands of animals.
Walk or take a shuttle to the zoo.
USD60, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Savor fresh seafood while dining with views of the bay.
Drive to The Fish Market.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Desert Escapes

Palm Springs, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cielo Restaurant

Pamper yourself with a luxurious breakfast featuring a stunning view of the mountains.
Drive about 2 hours to Palm Springs.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Joshua Tree National Park

Explore the unique desert landscapes and ancient Joshua trees in this stunning park.
Drive approximately 1 hour to the park.
USD30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe

Enjoy a hearty lunch with delicious sandwiches and salads.
Drive back to Palm Springs.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Ride this tram up to enjoy stunning views of the desert below.
Drive to the tram station.
USD30, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Workshop Kitchen + Bar

Dine at this award-winning restaurant known for its seasonal menu and great atmosphere.
Return to Palm Springs Downtown.
USD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Return to LA

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eggslut

End your trip with a decadent breakfast sandwich made with free-range eggs.
Drive approximately 2 hours back to Los Angeles.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Venice Beach

Stroll along the vibrant beach boardwalk and enjoy the eclectic street performers.
Drive to Venice Beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cow's End

Grab a relaxed lunch at this beach café, popular for its sandwiches and smoothies.
Walk a short distance to the café.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit The Getty Villa

Explore ancient art and sculptures at this stunning museum in Malibu.
Drive to The Getty Villa.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Giorgio Baldi

Indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine that’ll leave a lasting impression.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD90, 2 hours
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