8-Day California Road Trip: Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights from Santa Monica

Day 1: Discover Santa Monica

Santa Monica, USA on December 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Start your day with organic coffees and delicious breakfast options at this beloved Santa Monica eatery.
Walk to Urth Caffé, located just a few blocks from the beach.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Santa Monica Pier

Spend a leisurely morning at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, exploring the amusement park and taking in stunning coastal views.
Take a short walk to the pier from the café.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Lobster

Indulge in fresh seafood with picturesque ocean views at The Lobster.
Head over to the restaurant near the pier, a short walk away.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bicycle Ride Along The Boardwalk

Rent a bike and cruise along the scenic beachfront boardwalk, taking in the ocean breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
Bicycle rentals are available near the pier.
USD15, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Palisades Park

Unwind in Palisades Park, where you enjoy views of the Pacific and lush greenery perfect for a leisurely stroll.
It's a short ride from the beach.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Savor wood-fired dishes and seasonal ingredients in a chic yet relaxed setting at Tar & Roses.
Drive just a few minutes away from the park.
USD70, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll on Third Street Promenade

End your day with a stroll through the lively Third Street Promenade, filled with shops, street performers, and lively atmosphere.
Easily accessible by walking from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Explore Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA on December 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast by Salt’s Cure

Recharge with a hearty breakfast in this cozy spot known for its farm-to-table offerings.
Drive approximately 20 minutes to the restaurant.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Spend the morning touring the Hollywood Walk of Fame, searching for your favorite stars embedded in the sidewalk.
Drive 15 minutes to Hollywood Boulevard.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Griffith Observatory

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign at this educational and cultural landmark.
Drive 10 minutes from Hollywood Boulevard to Griffith Park.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Experience an extensive menu with many delicious options at The Cheesecake Factory on the famous Sunset Strip.
Drive 15 minutes to the restaurant.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Dive into art and culture with remarkable exhibits and beautiful installations at America's largest art museum.
Drive about 10 minutes to LACMA.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bestia

Wrap up your day with dinner at this renowned Italian restaurant known for house-made pastas and rustic, vibrant dishes.
Drive about 15 minutes to Bestia in the Arts District.
USD80, 2 hours

8:00PM

Night Ride through Downtown LA

Take a leisurely motorcycle ride through the illuminated streets of Downtown LA, soaking in the dazzling city lights.
Depart from Bestia and ride through downtown towards Santa Monica.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 3: Coastal Escape to Malibu

Malibu, USA on December 24, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Malibu Farm

Indulge in fresh, organic breakfast items overlooking the ocean at this popular Malibu spot.
Drive 30 minutes from Santa Monica to Malibu.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Getty Villa

Explore ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art at the stunning Getty Villa, set in lush gardens with ocean views.
Take a short 10-minute drive from the café.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Geoffrey's Malibu

Enjoy upscale beachside dining with beautiful views at Geoffrey's, known for seafood and steak dishes.
A short drive from the Getty Villa.
USD75, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Zuma Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on Zuma Beach, soaking up the sun or taking a walk along the shore.
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Drive Along Pacific Coast Highway

Experience the scenic views along the Pacific Coast Highway as you head back to Santa Monica, with the ocean beside you.
Take PCH from Zuma Beach back to Santa Monica.
USD0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Caffe Delfini

Delight in Italian cuisine in an oceanfront setting at this charming restaurant.
Located along the Santa Monica coastline.
USD60, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Bonfire on the Beach

End your day with a fun bonfire on the beach, roasting s’mores and enjoying the coastal ambiance.
Head to a designated bonfire area on the beach.
USD20, 2 hours
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Day 4: San Diego Adventure

San Diego, USA on December 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 21

Start your day with a delicious breakfast in the Gaslamp Quarter, known for its farm-to-table fare.
Drive 2 hours to San Diego.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Balboa Park

Stroll through Balboa Park, marveling at its gardens, museums, and Spanish-style architecture.
Located nearby the café in downtown San Diego.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

Dine in the heart of Balboa Park with lovely outdoor seating and a menu featuring local flavors.
Dining available under the trees in Balboa Park.
USD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the San Diego Zoo

Explore the famous San Diego Zoo, home to thousands of animals and engaging exhibits.
Located within Balboa Park.
USD60, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Juniper & Ivy

Indulge in a creative, ever-changing menu driven by local ingredients at this acclaimed restaurant.
Drive approximately 15 minutes from the zoo.
USD90, 2 hours

7:30PM

Nighttime Harbor Cruise

End the night with a relaxing harbor cruise, taking in views of the San Diego skyline all lit up.
Drive to the harbor where the cruise departs.
USD40, 1.5 hours

9:30PM

Return to Hotel

After a full day of activities, head back to your accommodation for a restful night's sleep.
Drive back to your hotel.
USD0, 30 minutes
Book a Hotel

Day 5: Wine and Dine in Temecula

Temecula, USA on December 26, 2024

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Fuel up with classic American breakfast options in the heart of Temecula.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from San Diego to Temecula.
USD25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Wine Tasting at Wilson Creek Winery

Join a wine-tasting experience at one of Temecula’s renowned wineries known for its delicious varieties.
Drive 15 minutes to the winery.
USD15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Temecula Cork Fire Kitchen

Savor farm-fresh cuisine featuring local wines at this cozy restaurant.
Drive 10 minutes from Wilson Creek.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Old Town Temecula

Stroll through historic Old Town, known for its charming shops and local boutiques.
A short drive from the restaurant.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax with a Spa Treatment

Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment at a local spa, rejuvenating your spirit after a full day of exploration.
Drive to a nearby spa.
USD100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Vineyard Room

Feast on gourmet dishes with exquisite views of the vineyards at this upscale restaurant.
Drive back to the winery area.
USD85, 2 hours

9:00PM

Return to Hotel

After an exquisite day in Temecula, return for a comfortable night's sleep at your hotel.
Drive back to the hotel.
USD0, 30 minutes
Book a Hotel

Day 6: Santa Barbara Serenity

Santa Barbara, USA on December 27, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Treat yourself to breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee in a charming atmosphere.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours to Santa Barbara.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Santa Barbara Mission

Visit this historic mission, often called the 'Queen of the Missions,' for a glimpse into California's culture and history.
Drive about 10 minutes from the restaurant.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll on Stearns Wharf

Enjoy a relaxing walk on Stearns Wharf, lined with shops and views of the Pacific Ocean.
About 10 minutes from the mission.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Indulge in fresh seafood with ocean views at this casual seaside eatery.
Short walk from Stearns Wharf.
USD55, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Explore stunning native Californian plants and beautiful landscapes in this tranquil garden setting.
Drive from the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes.
USD20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Unwind on the sandy beaches of Santa Barbara, letting the warm sun and gentle waves wash over you.
Head towards the nearest beach after the garden.
USD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

Savor delicious coastal fare in a stunning oceanfront setting to close your day beautifully.
Drive to Hendry's Beach, roughly 15 minutes from the last activity.
USD70, 2 hours

9:00PM

Evening Stroll Along the Shore

Bask in the charm of Santa Barbara with a relaxing stroll along the shore under the stars.
Walk along the beach after dinner.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 7: Nature and Adventure in Big Sur

Big Sur, USA on December 28, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn

Start your day with a hearty breakfast surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Santa Barbara to Big Sur.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Embark on a picturesque hike through the rugged coastal terrain and lush forests of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Short drive to the state park.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy breathtaking views while dining at Nepenthe, known for its diverse menu and stunning ocean vistas.
A short drive from the state park.
USD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit McWay Falls

Witness the spectacular McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean.
Drive 30 minutes to McWay Falls.
USD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Take some time to unwind in one of the most beautiful parks in California, offering remarkable coastal views and trails.
Ride to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Post Ranch Inn

Treat yourself to a luxurious dinner at Post Ranch Inn, known for its fine dining and stunning views of the Pacific.
Short drive from Julia Pfeiffer Burns.
USD150, 2 hours

7:30PM

Stargazing

End the day with captivating stargazing, surrounded by the natural beauty of Big Sur.
Find a good spot after dinner.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 8: Return to Santa Monica

Santa Monica, USA on December 29, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Start your journey back with a warm breakfast at the local favorite Big Sur Bakery.
Drive back towards Santa Monica, stopping by the bakery.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive along Highway 1

Enjoy the scenic drive back along Highway 1, taking time to enjoy the coastline.
Proceed along Highway 1 towards Santa Monica.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Malibu Seafood

Savor fresh seafood at a casual seaside restaurant as you make your way back.
Stop for lunch approximately halfway on the route.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Venice Beach

Take a leisurely walk and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Venice Beach, known for its street performers and eclectic shops.
A short drive from Malibu Seafood.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Santa Monica

Wrap up your road trip as you return to Santa Monica, reflecting on a week of adventure and relaxation.
Just a few minutes drive back to Santa Monica.
USD0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Ivy

Celebrate the end of your journey with a dinner at The Ivy, known for its glamorous ambiance and delicious dishes.
Just a short drive back to West Hollywood.
USD90, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening at Santa Monica Beach

End your unforgettable trip with an evening walk along the beach, feeling grateful for the experiences had.
Walk to Santa Monica Beach from The Ivy.
USD0, 1 hour
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Book This Trip
Garden Safaris

Tour Operator Urban nature & discovery walking tours

Garden Safaris offers immersive, guided walking tours that reveal the hidden natural beauty of Santa Monica. We specialize in urban “safaris” that blend gardens, architecture, secret stairways, canyon paths, and ocean views into unforgettable local adventures. Led by knowledgeable guides, our tours go beyond typical sightseeing, inviting travelers to explore peaceful, lesser-known landscapes and discover the stories, design, and nature woven into the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing garden stroll or an active scenic hike, Garden Safaris turns the city into a living outdoor escape.

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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed