Want an itinerary like this for your trip?
Tell us where you're going and get a personalized plan in seconds — completely free.
Plan My Trip

Ultimate 14-Day San Diego to Seattle West Coast Road Trip

Viewed by 281 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Diego

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Cottage, renowned for its scrumptious French toast and fresh fruit.
Drive to La Jolla Shores after breakfast, about 15 minutes away.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

La Jolla Cove

Explore the stunning cliffs and picturesque beaches at La Jolla Cove while enjoying sea lions basking in the sun.
Parking is available nearby.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at George's at the Cove

Savor fresh seafood dishes with stunning ocean views at this iconic restaurant.
A quick drive back to George's takes about 10 minutes.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Balboa Park

Spend the afternoon wandering through Balboa Park's beautiful gardens and museums.
Head east for about 15 minutes.
Varies by museum, approx. USD 15, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Born and Raised

Treat yourself to a gourmet steak dinner in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Drive to the Gaslamp Quarter in 10 minutes.
USD 90, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening at Sunset Cliffs

End your day with a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
A scenic 20-minute drive to the cliffs.
Free, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 2: LA Experience

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Drive to LA and enjoy oversized pancakes at The Griddle Cafe.
Drive to Hollywood takes about 2 hours.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and snap photos with stars.
About a 10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Griffith Observatory

Marvel at the views of the LA skyline and Hollywood Sign from Griffith Observatory.
Just a 15-minute drive from the Walk of Fame.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Grab a famous burger and fries at the popular In-N-Out Burger.
10 minutes to the closest location.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Santa Monica Pier

Relax by the beach and enjoy the attractions at Santa Monica Pier.
30 minutes drive to Santa Monica.
Free to enter, activities vary, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Dine at Tar & Roses for a contemporary grill experience with seasonal ingredients.
30 minutes from the pier.
USD 80, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening at Venice Beach

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and street performers at Venice Beach.
A short 5-minute drive from Santa Monica.
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 3: Coastal Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's

Indulge in a lovely brunch at Jeannine's in Santa Barbara.
Drive from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara takes about 1.5 hours.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Santa Barbara Mission

Visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission, known for its beautiful architecture and gardens.
About a 15-minute drive.
USD 12, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stearns Wharf

Walk along Stearns Wharf for views of the Pacific Ocean and try some local seafood.
A 10-minute drive from the Mission.
Free to visit, food costs vary., 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Savor fresh, locally-caught seafood right on the wharf.
Same location as Stearns Wharf.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Funk Zone

Explore the vibrant Funk Zone filled with art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and unique shops.
Short drive to the Funk Zone about 5 minutes away.
Free to explore, tasting fees vary., 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Lark

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine in a vibrant setting at The Lark.
Drive to The Lark takes about 5 minutes.
USD 70, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening at East Beach

Wrap up your day watching the sunset at East Beach.
A quick 10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 4: Through San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sally Loo's Wholesome Cafe

Fuel your day with a healthy breakfast at Sally Loo's.
Leave Santa Barbara early, driving takes about 1.5 hours.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hearst Castle

Tour the opulent Hearst Castle, a stunning masterpiece atop hills overlooking the Pacific.
Drive 45 minutes to Hearst Castle.
USD 30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Old West Cinnamon Rolls

Enjoy a delightful lunch with their famous cinnamon rolls in San Luis Obispo.
Drive back to San Luis Obispo, 30 minutes.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore San Luis Obispo Farmers Market

Stroll through the Farmers Market for local produce, crafts, and more.
About a 5-minute drive.
Free to explore., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Madonna Inn

Check out the eclectic design and unique rooms at the iconic Madonna Inn.
A 5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Novo Restaurant

Dine at Novo, featuring international flavors with a beautiful creekside patio.
Drive 10 minutes.
USD 60, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening at SLO Mission Plaza

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at SLO Mission Plaza.
5 minutes drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in San Luis Obispo

Day 5: Scenic Big Sur

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Start your day with a homemade breakfast at the charming Big Sur Bakery.
Drive from San Luis Obispo to Big Sur takes about 1.5 hours.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Bixby Creek Bridge

Stop for stunning photos at one of the most photographed bridges in America.
About a 30-minute drive along Highway 1.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Pfeiffer Beach

Wander the stunning purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach and the unique rock formations.
A short 10-minute drive from Bixby.
USD 12, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy lunch with breathtaking views of the coastline at Nepenthe.
Drive to Nepenthe takes about 15 minutes.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike McWay Falls Trail

Take a picturesque hike to see the iconic McWay Falls cascading onto the beach.
10-minute drive to the parking area.
Free to access., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Spend your afternoon wandering and taking in the incredible vistas at this state park.
Drive 15 minutes to the park entrance.
USD 10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Sur House

Enjoy coastal cuisine at The Sur House while soaking up the ocean views.
A short drive from the park takes about 20 minutes.
USD 70, 2 hours

9:00PM

Evening at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Catch a stunning sunset at Point Lobos fenced by beautiful landscape.
Drive about 30 minutes north.
USD 10, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Big Sur

Day 6: Monterey Adventures

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Start your morning with hearty breakfast choices in Monterey.
Drive from Big Sur to Monterey is about 30 minutes.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore the fascinating marine life at the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
A quick 10-minute drive.
USD 50, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Eventually, enjoy a casual lunch at Cannery Row with plenty of options.
Walking distance from the aquarium.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore 17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive, boasting stunning ocean views and iconic stops.
Departure takes about 15 minutes.
USD 10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Wander through breathtaking landscapes and coastal trails.
A 20-minute drive from Monterey.
USD 10, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fish Hopper

Finish the day with fresh seafood at The Fish Hopper, overlooking the bay.
5-minute drive from Point Lobos.
USD 70, 2 hours

10:00PM

Evening stroll at Cannery Row

Enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the historic Cannery Row.
Return to Cannery Row is only 5 minutes.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 7: Santa Cruz Relaxation

Santa Cruz, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Picnic Basket

Enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast at The Picnic Basket in Santa Cruz.
Drive to Santa Cruz from Monterey takes about 45 minutes.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Explore the iconic boardwalk with its rides and arcade games.
10-minute drive to the boardwalk.
Free to enter, rides vary., 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Crows Nest

Enjoy lunch with ocean views at this popular seaside restaurant.
5-minute drive from the boardwalk.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Natural Bridges State Beach

Check out the natural rock formations and tidal pools at this beautiful beach.
Drive about 10 minutes.
USD 10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Hike in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Immerse yourself in towering redwood trees with a leisurely hike.
A short 20-minute drive.
USD 10, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Shadowbrook

Experience a unique dining experience at Shadowbrook with its enchanting atmosphere.
Drive takes about 15 minutes.
USD 70, 2 hours

10:00PM

Evening at Santa Cruz Wharf

Stroll along the wharf, enjoying the sounds of the ocean and the night market.
10 minutes from Shadowbrook.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Santa Cruz

Day 8: Discover San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your San Francisco experience with breakfast at Mama's, famous for its French toast.
Drive to San Francisco takes about 1.5 hours.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and tour the infamous former prison.
Pier 33 ferry terminal is a 10-minute drive.
USD 40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy a famous clam chowder in a bread bowl while overlooking the bay.
Walking distance from Alcatraz return.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Pier 39

Visit Pier 39 for shops, restaurants, and sea lion sightings.
Less than a 10-minute walk from Fisherman's Wharf.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Golden Gate Park

Spend the evening walking in the lush settings of Golden Gate Park.
10-minute drive from Pier 39.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Foreign Cinema

Dine at Foreign Cinema, where you can enjoy films while eating fantastic food.
A 15-minute drive from Golden Gate Park.
USD 80, 2 hours

10:00PM

Night Drive through the City

Take a scenic drive through the beautifully lit streets of San Francisco.
Just drive around for about an hour to appreciate the views.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 9: Wine Country in Napa Valley

Napa Valley, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bouchon Bakery

Start off in Napa Valley with pastries and coffee at Bouchon Bakery.
Drive from San Francisco to Napa takes about 1.5 hours.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wine Tasting at Domaine Chandon

Explore the beautiful vineyards and enjoy sparkling wine tasting.
Just a short drive, about 20 minutes.
USD 40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Don Giovanni

Savor authentic Italian cuisine with a great winery view.
About a 15-minute drive.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Oxbow Public Market

Explore local vendors offering gourmet food, wine, and artisan products.
5-minute drive from lunch.
Free to explore., 2 hours

4:00PM

Wine Tasting at Robert Mondavi Winery

Indulge in a guided wine tasting at one of Napa's most prestigious wineries.
A 15-minute drive takes you there.
USD 50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The French Laundry

Finish your day at the iconic The French Laundry for an unforgettable fine dining experience.
Drive takes about 20 minutes.
USD 300, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Napa Valley

Day 10: Sacramento Sightseeing

Sacramento, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Tower Cafe

Start your day with a diverse breakfast menu in the heart of Sacramento.
Drive from Napa to Sacramento takes about 1 hour.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore California State Capitol Museum

Discover California's rich history at the State Capitol Museum.
A short 10-minute drive to the Capitol.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Faria's

Savor Latin cuisine at the vibrant Faria's restaurant.
A 15-minute drive to the restaurant.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Old Sacramento Historic District

Step back in time at the Old Sacramento Historic District exploring the Gold Rush era.
5-minute drive from lunch.
Free to explore., 2 hours

4:00PM

California State Railroad Museum

Learn about California’s railroad history and see vintage locomotives.
A short walk from Old Sacramento.
USD 12, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Firehouse

Fine dining experience in a historic firehouse setting.
Drive 10 minutes.
USD 100, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening at Sacramento Riverfront

End your day with a stroll along the Sacramento Riverfront.
5-minute drive from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Sacramento

Day 11: Redwood Wonders

Redwood National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Palm Cafe

Begin your adventure with breakfast at The Palm Cafe in Eureka.
Drive from Sacramento to Redwood takes about 4.5 hours.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Redwood National Park

Discover the breathtaking old-growth redwood trees and stunning trails.
Head directly to the park from the cafe, about 30 minutes.
Free to access., 5 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Campfire Center in the Park

Pack some picnic or grab food available at the campfire center within the park.
On site.
USD 15, 1 hour

4:30PM

Hike the Tall Trees Grove

Take a breathtaking hike through Tall Trees Grove surrounded by giants.
Follow signs in the park.
Free to access., 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Restaurant at Cedar Creek Lodge

Enjoy a delightful dinner at a cozy restaurant nearby after a long day.
Drive back to the lodging area near the park.
USD 50, 2 hours

9:00PM

Evening in Crescent City

Stroll along the shoreline and enjoy the cool breeze at Crescent City.
About 30 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Redwood National Park

Day 12: Artistic Ashland

Ashland, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Morning Glory Cafe

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at the beloved Morning Glory Cafe in Ashland.
Drive from Redwood National Park to Ashland takes about 2 hours.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Experience a theatrical performance or attend a backstage tour during this vibrant festival.
A few minutes drive from your breakfast spot.
Varies based on performance., 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Ashland Food Co-op

Enjoy a local organic meal at this community-driven co-op.
About a 10-minute drive.
USD 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Lithia Park

Enjoy a peaceful walk in Lithia Park, filled with gardens and a duck pond.
A quick 5-minute drive.
Free to explore., 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Ashland's Historic District

Wander the charming streets filled with boutique shops and art galleries.
Walking distance from the park.
Free to explore., 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Larks

Savor fresh, farm-to-table cuisine offered at Larks after a wonderful day.
Drive takes about 5 minutes.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

If time allows, watch a performance or simply enjoy the town ambiance.
Same location as earlier.
Varies based on performance., Varies
Find Hotels in Ashland

Day 13: Portland Discoveries

Portland, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tasty n Alder

Start your morning at this popular brunch spot known for innovative dishes.
Drive to Portland from Ashland takes about 5 hours.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Washington Park

Enjoy a morning in Washington Park, featuring the Portland Japanese Garden.
A short drive from breakfast takes about 15 minutes.
USD 15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Powell's City of Books

Wander through the world’s largest independent bookstore, a bibliophile’s paradise.
Drive 15 minutes to Powell's.
Free to explore., 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nong's Khao Man Gai

Savor Thai chicken and rice at this beloved Portland eatery.
Just a short drive from Powell’s.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Pearl District

Browse the Pearl District's art galleries, boutiques, and coffee shops.
It’s walkable from lunch.
Free to explore., 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Le Pigeon

Experience French-inspired cuisine at this unique bistro.
A short drive of about 10 minutes.
USD 80, 2 hours

7:30PM

Sunset View at Pittock Mansion

End your day with incredible views of the city skyline from Pittock Mansion.
Drive takes 15 minutes.
USD 12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Portland

Day 14: Final Stop: Seattle

Seattle, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Bitch

Savor a hearty breakfast at this quirky and fun eatery in Seattle.
Drive from Portland to Seattle takes about 2.5 hours.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pike Place Market

Explore the vibrant Pike Place Market, full of local produce, shops, and iconic fish throwing.
Drive to Pike Place Market is about 10 minutes.
Free to explore., 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Pike Place Chowder

Indulge in the best clam chowder in Seattle at Pike Place Chowder.
Same location as the market.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Ride to the Space Needle

Take a trip to the top of the Space Needle for incredible views of the city.
A 15-minute walk from the market.
USD 35, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Chihuly Garden and Glass

Admire the incredible glass sculptures and vibrant colors at this stunning garden.
Just a few minutes' walk from the Space Needle.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Canlis

Conclude your epic road trip with an exquisite meal at this fine dining establishment.
A short 10-minute drive.
USD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Seattle
0
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your San Diego road trip along American West Coast to Seattle Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go