How many days do you need in california?

This itinerary covers 7 days in california, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for california?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to california. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Family Friendly Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in California

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Start the day with homemade pancakes and fresh crab benedict at this beloved local eatery.

USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Hop on a ferry to explore the famous Alcatraz prison, filled with history and engaging audio tours.

USD45, 3 hours including ferry ride

1:00PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery

Grab a hearty bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at this iconic bakery.

USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cable Car Ride

Experience the classic San Francisco cable car to Union Square for some shopping and sightseeing.

USD8, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Golden Gate Park

Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the park, visiting the California Academy of Sciences if time permits.

USD40 for California Academy ticket, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Dine in a garlic-themed restaurant known for its unique menu and family-friendly atmosphere.

USD70, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Nature at Muir Woods

Muir Woods, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Enjoy a classic American breakfast in Mill Valley with pancakes and eggs.

USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Muir Woods National Monument

Take a hike among ancient redwoods on well-maintained trails suitable for families.

USD15 parking fee, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Muir Woods Cafe

Refuel with sandwiches and salads at this café located right in the park.

USD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hiking and Nature Programs

Join a park ranger for an engaging nature program or hike on one of the less traveled trails.

Free with park entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Monterey

Travel along the scenic coastal roads to Monterey, enjoying the views.

USD50 for gas, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Savor delicious dishes while enjoying the local atmosphere with the family.

USD65, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Adventures in Monterey

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Fuel up on hearty breakfasts featuring fresh, local ingredients before a day of exploring.

USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Discover marine life through interactive exhibits perfect for engaging families.

USD50, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fish Hopper

Enjoy seafood with an ocean view, featuring local catch and a kid's menu.

USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive along the coast, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints like Pebble Beach.

USD10 for entry, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Lover's Point Park

A great spot for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying scenic views over the ocean.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Old Fisherman’s Grotto

Savor clam chowder with a spectacular view of Monterey Harbor from this iconic eatery.

USD70, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Scenic Big Sur

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn

Start the day with a delicious breakfast overlooking the river, with options for the whole family.

USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bixby Creek Bridge

Stop at this iconic bridge for breathtaking photo opportunities.

Free, 30 mins

10:30AM

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Explore trails leading to breathtaking views of McWay Falls - don’t forget your cameras!

USD10 for parking, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy a meal with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs.

USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Pfeiffer Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at this iconic beach with purple sand - great for exploring and beach activities.

USD10 for parking, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Yosemite National Park

Get ready for an adventure as you head to one of the most majestic parks in California.

USD50 for gas, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Wawona Dining Room

Dine inside the park itself with a family-friendly menu featuring various American classics.

USD60, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Yosemite National Park Adventures

Yosemite, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ahwahnee Hotel

Indulge in a lavish breakfast buffet at this historic hotel surrounded by stunning nature.

USD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Yosemite Valley Tour

Join a guided tour through picturesque landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome.

USD30 per person, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Enjoy views of Yosemite Falls while having a light lunch with family-friendly options.

USD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hiking to Bridalveil Falls

Take a scenic hike to see the majestic falls; a perfect family outing with breathtaking views.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Glacier Point

Drive up to Glacier Point for sunset views over Yosemite Valley - a heavenly way to end your day.

Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Base Camp Eatery

Have a relaxed family dinner featuring casual dining and great views of Yosemite.

USD50, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Relaxation by Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lakeview Commons

Enjoy breakfast featuring local eggs and fresh produce right by the lake.

USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax at Lake Tahoe Beach

Spend a leisurely morning swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles with the kids.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boathouse

Savor fresh seafood tacos and salads with stunning lake views at this charming eatery.

USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Rent kayaks or paddleboards for an afternoon of adventure on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.

USD70 for rentals, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Emerald Bay State Park

Enjoy hiking and exploring the beautiful views and trails around Emerald Bay - perfect for family photos.

USD10 for parking, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Edgewood Tahoe

End the day with a relaxing dinner featuring a diverse menu and breathtaking lake views.

USD75, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Return to San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Red Hut Cafe

Enjoy a classic breakfast meal, famous for their pancakes and fresh fruit.

USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Francisco

Head back to San Francisco, enjoying the scenic views along the way.

USD60 for gas, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Ferry Building Marketplace

Explore a myriad of food vendors at this vibrant waterfront market; perfect for a foodie family.

USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Walk along the Embarcadero

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, taking in the sights of the bay and the city.

Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Exploratorium

End your trip with an interactive science museum that engages visitors of all ages.

USD29 per person, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Cap off this memorable trip with dinner featuring an extensive menu and prime views of the Bay Bridge.

USD80, 2 hours

Find Hotels in San Francisco

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Family Friendly Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in California

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Nature at Muir Woods

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Adventures in Monterey

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Scenic Big Sur

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

8:30PM

Day 5: Yosemite National Park Adventures

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 6: Relaxation by Lake Tahoe

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 7: Return to San Francisco

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

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