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.
Walk to Fisherman’s Wharf from Mama’s (15 mins).
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.
Ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf (15 mins).
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.
Walk back to Fisherman’s Wharf (15 mins).
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cable Car Ride

Experience the classic San Francisco cable car to Union Square for some shopping and sightseeing.
Take the Powell-Hyde line cable car (30 mins).
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.
Drive or take an Uber (15 mins from Union Square).
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.
Short drive or Uber to North Beach (15 mins).
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.
Drive to Mill Valley (30 mins from San Francisco).
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Muir Woods National Monument

Take a hike among ancient redwoods on well-maintained trails suitable for families.
Drive to Muir Woods (15 mins).
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.
On-site at Muir Woods.
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.
Explore park trails post lunch.
Free with park entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Monterey

Travel along the scenic coastal roads to Monterey, enjoying the views.
Drive to Monterey (2 hours).
USD50 for gas, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Savor delicious dishes while enjoying the local atmosphere with the family.
Walk around Cannery Row area.
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.
Short drive to Cannery Row (10 mins).
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Discover marine life through interactive exhibits perfect for engaging families.
Walk to the aquarium (15 mins).
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.
Walk back along Cannery Row (15 mins).
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive along the coast, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints like Pebble Beach.
Drive the 17-Mile route (1 hour).
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.
Drive to Lover's Point (15 mins).
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.
Drive back to Cannery Row (10 mins).
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.
Drive to Big Sur (30 mins).
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bixby Creek Bridge

Stop at this iconic bridge for breathtaking photo opportunities.
Drive along Highway 1 (15 mins).
Free, 30 mins

10:30AM

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Explore trails leading to breathtaking views of McWay Falls - don’t forget your cameras!
Drive to the park (20 mins).
USD10 for parking, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy a meal with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs.
Drive to Nepenthe (15 mins).
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.
Drive to Pfeiffer Beach (30 mins).
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.
Drive to Yosemite (3 hours).
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.
At Wawona Campground (15 mins from Yosemite Valley).
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.
Short drive within the park (15 mins).
USD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Yosemite Valley Tour

Join a guided tour through picturesque landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome.
Start tour from Yosemite Visitor Center.
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.
Walk from the Visitor Center (15 mins).
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.
Drive to Bridalveil Fall parking (30 mins).
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.
Drive to Glacier Point (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Base Camp Eatery

Have a relaxed family dinner featuring casual dining and great views of Yosemite.
Return to the valley area (30 mins).
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.
Drive to Lake Tahoe (2 hours).
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax at Lake Tahoe Beach

Spend a leisurely morning swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles with the kids.
Walk to nearby beach (15 mins).
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boathouse

Savor fresh seafood tacos and salads with stunning lake views at this charming eatery.
Short walk (10 mins) from the beach.
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.
Drive to rental location (15 mins).
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.
Drive to Emerald Bay (30 mins).
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.
Drive to Edgewood (30 mins).
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.
Drive back to South Lake Tahoe (30 mins).
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Francisco

Head back to San Francisco, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Drive to San Francisco (3.5 hours).
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.
Drive to the Ferry Building (15 mins).
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.
Walk along the Embarcadero (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Exploratorium

End your trip with an interactive science museum that engages visitors of all ages.
Walk to Exploratorium (15 mins).
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.
Atop Macy's in Union Square (10 mins).
USD80, 2 hours
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