7-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in San Francisco

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring their famous French toast and crab omelet, perfect for providing energy for a busy day ahead.
Short walk or drive to Fisherman's Wharf.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Fisherman's Wharf & Pier 39

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf, seeing the sea lions at Pier 39, which will delight the kids.
Walking around the pier.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery

Enjoy a classic San Francisco clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl, a must-try for families!
Just a short walk back to the bakery.
USD 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Ride the Cable Car

Hop on a historic cable car and enjoy scenic views as you glide up and down the city’s hilly streets.
Walk to the nearest cable car stop on Powell Street.
USD 40 for family, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Stroll through the expansive Golden Gate Park, stopping by the playgrounds or the California Academy of Sciences for interactive exhibits.
Drive or take a bus to Golden Gate Park.
USD 40 (CA Academy of Sciences), 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Savor a unique dining experience at this famous garlic restaurant that your family will love.
15-minute drive from the park.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Pancake Place

Indulge in fluffy pancakes topped with fresh fruits, ensuring everyone starts off the day happily.
15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD 60, 1 hour

10:30AM

Exploratorium

This interactive science museum is perfect for families, with interactive exhibits that are fun and educational.
10-minute drive to Pier 15.
USD 80, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fogo de Chão

Experience a Brazilian steakhouse serving a variety of meats and a fresh salad bar, sure to please every palate.
Close walk from Exploratorium.
USD 120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to explore the intriguing Alcatraz Island and its historic prison, sparking curiosity for the entire family.
Ferry departs from Pier 33.
USD 100 for family, 2.5 hours for round trip

6:00PM

Dinner at Scoma's Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood dining right on the wharf, offering stunning views and an array of delicacies.
10-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
USD 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Day at Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tim's Coffee Shop

Fuel up with breakfast burritos or pancakes before your nature adventure.
Drive 5 hours to Redwood National Park.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking in Redwood National Park

Take a family-friendly hike among the towering redwoods on the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail.
Follow signs to the grove once entered the park.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch Picnic

Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, packed with your favorite sandwiches and snacks.
Bring food for your picnic or purchase nearby.
USD 30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tall Trees Grove Loop

Next, take a guided tour or hike the Tall Trees Grove, where you will see some of the world’s tallest trees.
Follow signs within the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Scenic Drive through the Avenue of the Giants

Finish your day with a breathtaking drive through the iconic Avenue of the Giants to see majestic redwoods.
Head back to the scenic route.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lost Coast Brewery

Enjoy hearty meals and great local brews at this family-friendly brewery after a day of adventure.
Drive towards Eureka for dinner.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Muir Woods

Muir Woods, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a lovely breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a full day of exploration.
Check out and drive to Muir Woods.
USD 40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Muir Woods National Monument

Spend the morning walking amongst old-growth coastal redwoods, enjoying tranquility in nature.
Follow Muir Woods signs.
USD 15 (per adult), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Muir Woods Café

Grab light bites wrapped sandwiches and salads at the on-site café to replenish your energy.
On-site café.
USD 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore More Trails

Continue your park adventure by exploring the more rugged trails suitable for families.
Choose a trail map available at the entrance.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Muir Woods Visitor Center

Learn about the ecology of the area, perfect for the kids to engage with educational displays.
Short walk to visitor center.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pelican Inn

Enjoy a cozy dinner at this charming inn with a traditional pub-style menu that suits families.
20-minute drive from Muir Woods.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Coastal Fun at Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Half Moon Bay Coffee Company

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with local favorites including bagels, sandwiches, and coffee, just steps from the beach.
Drive down to Half Moon Bay.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beach Day at Half Moon Bay State Park

Let the kids run free on the beach, building sandcastles or flying kites while enjoying the scenic coastal views.
Direct access from the café.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sam's Chowder House

Experience a lovely seaside lunch focusing on local seafood, perfect for the whole family.
10-minute drive to Sam's.
USD 90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Half Moon Bay History Museum

Discover the rich history of the area, showcasing artifacts easy to engage the kids.
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD 20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Pumpkin Picking at Arata's Pumpkin Farm

If visiting in fall, head to this delightful pumpkin patch for a family activity filled with hayrides and fun.
10-minute drive to the farm.
USD 30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Molehole

Savor delicious food at this family-friendly restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere.
15-minute drive from the farm.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Point Reyes Adventure

Point Reyes, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Load up on tasty breakfast options at your hotel before hitting the road for the day.
Check out and drive to Point Reyes.
USD 40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Point Reyes National Seashore

Wander the stunning coastal beauty of Point Reyes with trails and views you won't forget.
Follow routes to the designated trails.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Point Reyes

Pack a delicious picnic lunch and enjoy it with views of the ocean in the background.
Pack before you leave or buy nearby.
USD 30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Point Reyes Lighthouse

Climb down to the lighthouse for exploring and breathtaking ocean views, education about the historic light station.
Check signs for directions.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Bear Valley Visitor Center

Stop by to learn more about the unique wildlife native to Point Reyes and grab trail maps for more adventure.
Drive to the visitor center.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Station House Cafe

Enjoy a family-friendly meal focused on local ingredients and delicious dishes before heading back to San Francisco.
Drive towards the cafe.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Dottie's True Blue Cafe

Taste the unique specials that change daily for a memorable breakfast experience, which the kids will love.
Return drive to San Francisco.
USD 40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shopping at Westfield San Francisco Centre

Find some shopping fun at the bustling Westfield Centre, where kids can explore diverse shops.
Drive to the mall.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Indulge in a wide-variety menu and, of course, save room for cheesecake, a treat for everyone.
Inside the Westfield Centre.
USD 90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Exploratorium (2nd visit)

Return to the Exploratorium for any displays or exhibits you may have missed, ensuring a fun final activity.
Short walk from the Cheesecake Factory.
USD 80, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Crissy Field

Wind down your adventure with some beachside relaxation at Crissy Field, enjoying stunning views of the Golden Gate.
Drive or take a short taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tomales Bay Oyster Company

Conclude your San Francisco trip with a fresh seafood feast, toast your family journey before heading home.
Drive towards Point Reyes Station.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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