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Ultimate 6-Day Road Trip Adventure Across California

Viewed by 94 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with their famous French toast and fresh fruit, a local favorite.
Walk or drive to Fisherman's Wharf.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz to explore the infamous prison and enjoy spectacular views of the city.
Ferry departure from Pier 33.
USD40, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Savor some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Boudin Bakery.
Walk around the wharf after Alcatraz.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Stroll through the park and see landmarks like the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers.
Drive to Golden Gate Park.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Haight-Ashbury

Dive into the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture and shop for unique vintage items.
Short drive from the park.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Indulge in their famous garlic dishes to finish off your San Francisco adventure.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Monterey

Monterey, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with creative omelets and pancakes.
Drive from San Francisco to Monterey (~2 hours).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Experience marine life up close with immersive exhibits.
Walk from the breakfast spot.
USD50, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Choose from various eateries along Cannery Row; try the seafood at Fisherman’s Grotto.
Short walk from the aquarium.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore 17 Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive along the coast showcasing breathtaking views and iconic landmarks.
Drive around the loop.
USD10, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Discover hiking trails with stunning ocean views and wildlife.
Short drive from the 17 Mile Drive.
USD10, 2.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Old Fisherman's Grotto

Finish the day with a delightful seafood dinner with waterfront views.
Drive back to Cannery Row.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 3: Big Sur Beauty

Big Sur, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn

Start with coffee and a breakfast burrito amidst the serene surroundings of Big Sur.
Drive from Monterey (~30 minutes).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hike to McWay Falls

Enjoy a short, scenic hike leading to the stunning McWay Falls.
Short drive to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Pfeiffer Beach

Relax on the famous purple sand beach, perfect for pictures and relaxation.
Drive from McWay Falls (~20 minutes).
USD10, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Dine at this iconic restaurant with stunning views of the Pacific.
Drive from the beach.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Point Sur Lighthouse

Take a guided tour of this historic lighthouse while enjoying coastal views.
Drive to Point Sur.
USD20, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Big Sur Roadhouse

Wind down with Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy setting.
Drive back toward the inn.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Santa Barbara Sundaze

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Savor a delicious breakfast with fresh pastries and local ingredients.
Drive from Big Sur (~4 hours).
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Santa Barbara Mission

Explore the historic mission known for its beautiful architecture and gardens.
Short drive from breakfast.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll Along Stearns Wharf

Take a leisurely walk along the wharf and spot sea lions basking in the sun.
Drive to Stearns Wharf.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Brophy Bros.

Enjoy fresh clam chowder and calamari right by the water.
Walk from Stearns Wharf.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Take in the stunning native flora and peaceful landscapes.
Short drive to the gardens.
USD15, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Dinner at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

Dine with a view of the ocean and enjoy fresh seafood selections.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 5: Los Angeles Lights

Los Angeles, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with oversized pancakes and creative breakfast options.
Drive from Santa Barbara (~2 hours).
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Hollywood Boulevard

Walk the Walk of Fame and check out the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre.
Drive to Hollywood.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit The Getty Center

Marvel at art collections and beautiful gardens at this stunning architectural site.
Drive to The Getty.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience California's favorite burger chain with a delicious burger and fries.
Drive from Getty.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Check out Griffith Observatory

Visit this iconic landmark for stunning views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
Drive to the Observatory.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Dinner at The Bazaar by José Andrés

Indulge in a Michelin-starred culinary experience in a trendy setting.
Drive to The Bazaar.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Chill in San Diego

San Diego, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Enjoy a delightful brunch with creative dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes.
Drive from Los Angeles (~2 hours).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore this cultural hub filled with museums, gardens, and historic architecture.
Short drive to Balboa Park.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Prado

Dine in a beautiful setting with great food options focused on seasonal ingredients.
Walk from the park.
USD40, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Relax at La Jolla Cove

Enjoy the beach and spot seals sunbathing on the rocks.
Drive to La Jolla Cove.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore USS Midway Museum

Take a tour of this historic aircraft carrier turned museum.
Short drive to the Midway.
USD26, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Born and Raised

Conclude your trip with a refined dining experience focusing on steak and gourmet sides.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD80, 2 hours
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