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4-Day California Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 102 travelers

Day 1: Exploring San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

10:00AM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive at your centrally located hotel in Union Square and get settled.
A short drive from the airport.
USD200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Golden Gate Bridge

Take a walk and capture stunning views at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
15-minute drive from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cliff House

Dine on fresh seafood overlooking the Pacific Ocean at this historic cliffside restaurant.
A short drive down to the coast.
USD40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Fisherman’s Wharf

Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling area filled with seafood stalls, shops, and scenic waterfront views.
Drive or take public transport from The Cliff House.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Indulge in fresh, sustainable seafood with views of the Bay at this local gem.
Located in Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: Monterey Adventure

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with their renowned French toast in a quaint setting.
10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Monterey

Take a scenic 2.5-hour drive along the coast to Monterey.
Follow US-101 S to CA-156 W.
Gas USD20, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant on Cannery Row, famous for its seafood.
A short drive from your hotel.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Visit the world-famous aquarium and marvel at the diverse marine life.
Located near Cannery Row.
USD50, 2 hours

4:30PM

17-Mile Drive

Explore this scenic drive known for its breathtaking coastline views and luxury golf courses.
Entrance from Pacific Grove.
USD10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Sardine Factory

Experience fine dining with an emphasis on fresh seafood in an elegant setting.
Cannery Row area.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 3: Big Sur Exploration

Big Sur, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your Monterey hotel before your adventure.
Hotel dining area.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Big Sur

Savor the stunning views along the Pacific Coast Highway on your journey to Big Sur (30 minutes).
Take CA-1 S.
Gas USD10, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Hiking at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Embark on hiking trails that lead to magnificent redwoods and scenic greenery.
Drive into the park area.
USD10, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy a meal with sweeping ocean views at this charming cliffside restaurant.
A short drive from Pfeiffer Big Sur.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

McWay Falls

Take in the breathtaking sight of this stunning waterfall flowing into the Pacific Ocean.
Short drive from Nepenthe.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Stroll along trails and witness dramatic coastal views and gorgeous landscapes.
Nearby McWay Falls.
USD10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Big Sur River Inn

Enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner by the riverside at this cozy inn.
Return drive toward Carmel.
USD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Big Sur

Day 4: San Luis Obispo Experience

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lucia Lodge

Savor breakfast with serene views of the coast on your last morning in Big Sur.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Luis Obispo

Travel along the beautiful coastline to San Luis Obispo, approximately 1.5 hours.
Follow CA-1 S and then US-101 S.
Gas USD15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the San Luis Obispo Mission

Explore the historic mission and its lush gardens, a touch of California's history.
Located downtown SLO.
USD10, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Firestone Grill

Dine on highly-rated tri-tip sandwiches in a casual setting.
A short walk from the mission.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Farmers Market

Visit the vibrant farmers market for local goods (only Thursdays), perfect for snacks.
Downtown area.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Final Day in San Luis Obispo

Spend some time exploring downtown shops and relaxing in this charming city.
Easy walking distance from the market.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Novo Restaurant

Enjoy your final dinner with farm-to-table dishes alongside the creek.
Centrally located within SLO.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Luis Obispo
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