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Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Luxury Road Trip: 14 Days of Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Viewed by 81 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Indulge in the delicious French toast and crab omelette, two local favorites.
Head to Mama's in North Beach area, just a short drive from most hotels.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Stroll through this extensive park and visit the Japanese Tea Garden for a peaceful atmosphere.
Drive to Golden Gate Park, parking available at Stanyan St.
USD15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy freshly caught clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl while taking in views of Alcatraz.
Head to the waterfront area.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry and delve into the history of this infamous former prison.
Catch the ferry from Pier 33.
USD40, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gary Danko

Savor an exquisite fine dining experience with innovative French cuisine.
Make reservations in advance and enjoy the ambiance in the Fisherman’s Wharf area.
USD200, 2 hours
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Day 2: From San Francisco to Monterey

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Workshop

Dig into fluffy pancakes made with fresh ingredients.
Head off toward Monterey after breakfast.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Monterey

Enjoy stunning coastal views along the Highway 1.
Drive approximately 2 hours down the Pacific Coast Highway.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the best aquariums in the world showcasing marine life native to California.
Just 5-minute drive from Cannery Row.
USD50, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Choose from various seafood restaurants with views of the ocean.
Walk along Cannery Row for lunch options.
USD30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll Lovers Point Park

Relax in this beautiful seaside park and take panoramic photos.
Drive to Lovers Point Park.
USD0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Sardine Factory

Enjoy fine dining with a focus on seafood and local produce.
Located on Ocean Avenue in Monterey.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 3: Big Sur Adventure

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your day of adventure.
Drive about 30 minutes to Big Sur.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hike the scenic trails and admire the stunning landscape of rugged cliffs and vibrant forest.
Just a short drive from the inn.
USD15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy farm-to-table dining with breathtaking ocean views from the terrace.
Located along Highway 1.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Take the short hike to McWay Falls and enjoy the dramatic waterfalls meeting the ocean.
Drive towards the park.
USD10, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend some time relaxing at the famous Pfeiffer Beach with its unique purple sand.
Drive to Pfeiffer Beach.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Big Sur Roadhouse

Taste the locally inspired menu featuring sustainable ingredients.
Just a short drive from your hotel.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: San Luis Obispo Bliss

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Deja Vu Café

Start the day with their famous breakfast burrito or a classic eggs Benedict.
Drive to San Luis Obispo, about 1.5 hours from Big Sur.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hearst Castle

Explore the opulent estate and its magnificent rooms and gardens.
Drive about 45 minutes from SLO.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Old San Luis BBQ Co.

Grab a delicious pit barbecue meal in a casual setting.
Head back to SLO for lunch.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Downtown SLO

Wander around the charming downtown area, and visit local shops and art galleries.
Walk around downtown.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the SLO Farmers Market

Experience local produce and crafts at this vibrant market, held on Thursday evenings.
Check the market schedule.
USD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Novo Restaurant

Enjoy beautiful riverfront dining with globally inspired dishes.
Located along the creek in downtown.
USD85, 2 hours
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Day 5: Santa Barbara Charm

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant

Delight in their famous French toast topped with seasonal fruit.
A quick drive to Santa Barbara, about 90 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Santa Barbara Mission

Tour the historic mission church known for its beautiful gardens.
Drive or take a local bus to the Mission.
USD12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Beach Time at East Beach

Relax on the sandy beach, take a walk along the waterfront pathway.
Short drive to East Beach.
USD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

Enjoy seafood with an ocean view at this popular beachfront eatery.
Just a quick drive from the beach.
USD40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through State Street

Peruse boutique shops and art galleries in downtown Santa Barbara.
Easily walkable from the restaurant.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Wine Tasting in Santa Ynez Valley

Spend the late afternoon at a nearby winery, tasting local vintages.
20-minute drive to the valley.
USD30, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Toma Restaurant

End the day with delicious Italian favorites and great ambiance.
Located near the waterfront in Santa Barbara.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 6: Los Angeles Fun

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with enormous portions of pancakes and omelets.
Drive to LA, about 2 hours from Santa Barbara.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Griffith Park & Observatory

Take a hike in the park and enjoy views of the Hollywood sign.
Drive to Griffith Park.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Enjoy a selection of food stalls offering local cuisine.
Head downtown to Grand Central Market.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Take a stroll along Hollywood Boulevard, spotting your favorite stars.
Walk from Grand Central Market.
USD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit TCL Chinese Theatre

See the iconic cinema with its famous handprints in the courtyard.
Nearby the Walk of Fame.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Sunset at Santa Monica Pier

Relax and take a ride on the Ferris wheel while watching the sunset.
Drive or take public transport to Santa Monica.
USD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cassia

Savor a blend of Asian and Californian flavors at this popular brunch eatery.
Located in Santa Monica.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 7: Malibu Relaxation

Malibu, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Malibu Country Mart

Kick off your day with a smoothie and acai bowl at this stylish area.
A short drive to Malibu from Santa Monica.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Wander the beautiful endless stretches of sand and charming lagoon.
Drive to Malibu Lagoon.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Geoffrey's Malibu

Experience oceanfront dining known for its seafood and spectacular views.
Just a 5-minute drive along the coast.
USD75, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore El Matador Beach

Enjoy the rocky coastline and secluded spots perfect for photography.
Drive to El Matador Beach.
USD0, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Wine Tasting at Malibu Wines

Sample local wines in a lovely outdoor setting.
Drive to Malibu Wines.
USD25, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Nobu Malibu

Indulge in world-renowned sushi and Japanese dishes with stunning ocean views.
Located directly on the beach.
USD200, 2 hours
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Day 8: Ventura Delights

Ventura, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Palermo

Try their amazing breakfast burritos in a beachy atmosphere.
A short drive from Malibu to Ventura.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ventura Pier

Stroll along the pier and enjoy the view of the coastline.
Drive to Ventura Pier.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Check out Ventura Botanical Gardens

Explore beautiful curated gardens showcasing California's native plants.
Drive to the gardens.
USD10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Jolly Oyster

Enjoy fresh oysters and other seafood in a fun outdoor setting.
Located just outside Ventura.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Surfer's Point Park

Unwind at the beach, watching surfers catch waves.
Drive to Surfer’s Point.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lure Fish House

Savor a menu featuring locally sourced seafood in a relaxed setting.
Just a short drive back to Ventura.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ventura

Day 9: Santa Monica Fun

Santa Monica, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Café

Enjoy wholesome breakfast baked goods and a cozy atmosphere.
Drive back to Santa Monica.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Santa Monica Beach

Spend time on the beach or rent bikes to ride along the coastal path.
Directly accessible from the café.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Lobster

Dine on fresh seafood and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific.
Located near the Santa Monica Pier.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Santa Monica Place

Shop at this open-air retail center offering a variety of stores and boutiques.
Just a short walk from the pier.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Walk the Third Street Promenade

Experience live entertainment and street performers at this iconic location.
Easily walkable from Santa Monica Place.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Indulge in their wood-fired dishes with fresh, local ingredients.
Located in Santa Monica.
USD85, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Monica

Day 10: Long Beach Vibes

Long Beach, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Bar

Enjoy classic breakfast options in a laid-back environment.
Make your way to Long Beach from Santa Monica.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit The Queen Mary

Explore the famous ocean liner turned hotel and museum.
Drive to the harbor where The Queen Mary is docked.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gladstone's Long Beach

Savor fresh seafood with beautiful views of the water.
On the waterfront, nearby The Queen Mary.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Shoreline Village

Walk around this vibrant waterfront marketplace filled with shops and dining.
Short walk from Gladstone's.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Long Beach Museum of Art

Discover contemporary art and photography, with an ocean view.
Drive a few minutes to the museum.
USD15, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Reef

Enjoy Pacific Rim cuisine with panoramic views of Long Beach.
Overlooking the harbor.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Long Beach

Day 11: San Diego Adventure

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Enjoy a lively breakfast spot known for their creative brunch dishes.
Drive to San Diego from Long Beach.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore this large urban park featuring gardens and museums.
Drive to Balboa Park.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cottage

Savor comfort food in a charming setting.
Drive to the nearby historic district.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon at one of the most famous zoos in the world.
Located within Balboa Park.
USD60, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Dine with an upscale view of the coastline and enjoy modern Californian cuisine.
Located in La Jolla.
USD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 12: Laguna Beach Relaxation

Laguna Beach, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Fuel your day with organic coffees and hearty breakfast options.
Drive to Laguna Beach, about 1 hour from San Diego.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Thousand Steps Beach

Enjoy a morning at this stunning local beach, famous for its picturesque views.
Short drive to Thousand Steps Beach.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Deck on Laguna Beach

Indulge in delicious seafood while overlooking the ocean.
Located right on the beach.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Hike picturesque trails surrounded by coastal canyons and wildlife.
Drive to the park.
USD10, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Main Beach

Spend some time unwinding at this popular beach area with shops nearby.
Drive back to the beach.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Studio Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining highlighting regional dishes in a gorgeous setting.
Located in the Montage Resort.
USD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Laguna Beach

Day 13: Newport Beach Adventures

Newport Beach, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Joan's on Third

Try their tasty pastries and artisanal sandwiches to kickstart the day.
A short drive to Newport Beach.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Balboa Island

Take a ferry to the beautiful island with charming shops and beaches.
Short ferry ride from Newport Harbor.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Crab Cooker

Savor award-winning clam chowder and fresh seafood here.
Walk or bike around Balboa Island for lunch.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Crystal Cove State Park

Spend the afternoon hiking or lounging on the beach at this pristine park.
Drive to Crystal Cove.
USD10, 3 hours

5:30PM

Enjoy Sunset at the Beach

Relax on the beach while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Stay at the beach area.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cannery

Indulge in seafood dining with a panoramic view of the harbor.
Located in Newport Beach.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 14: Magic of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe

A classic diner known for its hearty breakfast portions.
Drive back to LA from Newport Beach.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore The Getty Center

Spend the morning exploring art and stunning gardens at this famous museum.
Drive to the Getty Center.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cassia

Return for another visit to this renowned restaurant for a fabulous meal.
Easily accessible from The Getty on the way to Santa Monica.
USD75, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Venice Beach

Experience the vibrant atmosphere filled with art, performers, and beautiful people.
Short drive to Venice Beach.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at 3rd Street Promenade

Enjoy shopping at this famous promenade before departure.
Short drive from Venice Beach.
USD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bestia

Conclude your road trip with an unforgettable dining experience of Italian cuisine.
Head to the Arts District in LA.
USD125, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
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