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14-Day Ultimate West Coast USA Adventure Itinerary
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14-Day Ultimate West Coast USA Adventure Itinerary
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Day 1: Explore San Francisco
San Francisco, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Mama's
Start your culinary adventure with a delicious breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square, famous for its French toast and crab omelets.
Walk to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD 20, 1.5 hours
10:00AM
Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
Stroll along the vibrant waterfront, savoring the sea breeze while exploring local shops and street performers.
Walk to Pier 39.
Free, 2 hours
12:30PM
Lunch at Boudin Bakery
Indulge in a sourdough sandwich with clam chowder served in a bread bowl at this iconic San Francisco bakery.
Walk back to your car.
USD 25, 1 hour
2:00PM
Explore Alcatraz Island
Take a ferry to the infamous Alcatraz Island, learning its chilling history through an audio tour.
Take a ferry from Pier 33.
USD 40, 3 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at The Stinking Rose
End your day with a unique garlic-themed dining experience at The Stinking Rose in North Beach.
Drive back to your accommodation.
USD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco
Day 2: City Sights & Culinary Delights
San Francisco, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Plow
Savor a farm-fresh breakfast at Plow, renowned for its lemon ricotta pancakes and seasonal veggies.
Walk to the bus stop, take bus #30.
USD 20, 1.5 hours
10:00AM
Visit Golden Gate Park
Explore the expansive Golden Gate Park, where you can visit the de Young Museum and the Japanese Tea Garden.
Walk within the park.
USD 16 (de Young Museum), 3 hours
1:30PM
Lunch at Park Chalet
Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Park Chalet, with views of the ocean and delicious fresh seafood options.
Take a short walk.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Explore Haight-Ashbury
Immerse yourself in the colorful history of the counterculture movement while shopping at eclectic stores.
Take bus #71.
Free, 2 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at Zuni Café
Dine at Zuni Café, famous for its wood-fired roast chicken and other seasonal dishes.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco
Day 3: Scenic Drive to Monterey
Monterey, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Café
Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at Dottie’s, known for its egg skillets and homemade biscuits.
Drive to Monterey (about 2 hours).
USD 25, 1.5 hours
10:30AM
Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium
Explore the world-renowned aquarium and get up close with marine life native to the Pacific.
Walk to the aquarium.
USD 50, 2 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Cannery Row
Enjoy a seaside meal at a restaurant on Cannery Row, with a variety of options available.
Walk along Cannery Row.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Explore the Pacific Coast Highway
Take a scenic drive down the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
Drive to your next destination.
Free, 2 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at Sandbar & Grill
Conclude the day at Sandbar & Grill, famous for its fresh oyster menu and awesome bay views.
Drive to restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey
Day 4: Big Sur Adventure
Big Sur, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Grab breakfast at your lodge or a nearby café and fuel up before a day of hiking.
Drive to McWay Falls Trail.
Free, 1 hour
9:30AM
Hike to McWay Falls
Take an easy hike to the breathtaking McWay Falls, where you’ll witness a waterfall cascading onto the beach.
Hike the McWay Falls Trail.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Nepenthe
Enjoy lunch at Nepenthe, boasting phenomenal views of the coastline and delicious local cuisine.
Drive to Nepenthe.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Explore Pfeiffer Beach
Relax and unwind at Pfeiffer Beach, known for its unique purple sand and stunning scenery.
Drive to Pfeiffer Beach.
USD 15 (parking), 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at The Big Sur River Inn
Enjoy a hearty dinner at The Big Sur River Inn, relaxing by the river with great food.
Drive back to the Inn.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Big Sur
Day 5: Culinary Delights in San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Big Sky Café
Try the fresh, local ingredients at Big Sky Café with their famous breakfast burritos.
Drive to San Luis Obispo (50 minutes).
USD 20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit San Luis Obispo Farmer's Market
Experience the vibrant weekly farmer’s market, filled with local produce, crafts, and live music.
Walk to the farmer's market.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Firestone Grill
Delight in mouthwatering BBQ sandwiches and local craft beer at Firestone Grill.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Visit Hearst Castle
Take a short drive to San Simeon to tour the opulent Hearst Castle and its lovely gardens.
Drive to Hearst Castle.
USD 40, 3 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at Novo Restaurant
End your day with a delightful meal at Novo Restaurant overlooking the creek, featuring seasonal dishes.
Head back to SLO.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Luis Obispo
Day 6: Sunny Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant
Enjoy freshly baked pastries and omelets at this popular Santa Barbara spot.
Drive to Santa Barbara (about 1 hour).
USD 25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Relax at Santa Barbara Beach
Unwind by the beach or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
Head to the beach.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at TheLark
Discover farm-to-table cuisine served in a trendy setting at TheLark, packed with local flavors.
Drive to TheLark.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Visit Santa Barbara Mission
Explore the historical Santa Barbara Mission and its beautiful gardens.
Drive to the Mission.
USD 10, 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at Toma Restaurant
Savor incredible Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients at Toma Restaurant, right by the beach.
Short drive back.
USD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara
Day 7: Los Angeles Highlights
Los Angeles, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Eggslut
Satisfy your appetite with gourmet egg sandwiches at Eggslut located in Grand Central Market.
Drive to LA (about 2 hours).
USD 15, 1 hour
10:00AM
Visit Hollywood Walk of Fame
Walk among the stars and take pictures at the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Drive to Hollywood.
Free, 2 hours
12:30PM
Lunch at Musso & Frank Grill
Indulge in a classic Hollywood dining experience with American fare at Musso & Frank.
Walk to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Explore Griffith Observatory
Visit Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the LA skyline and access to fascinating space exhibits.
Drive to Griffith Observatory.
Free, 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at Bestia
Experience inventive Italian dining at Bestia, known for its handmade pasta and unique cocktails.
Drive to Bestia.
USD 100., 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
Day 8: More in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at The Griddle Café
Kickstart your day with enormous pancakes and breakfast sandwiches at The Griddle Café.
Short drive to the café.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
10:00AM
Visit Santa Monica Pier
Enjoy the vibrant rides and attractions at the Santa Monica Pier, with ocean views and beach fun.
Drive to Santa Monica.
Free, 2.5 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Cassia
Grab a bite at Cassia, featuring a combination of Southeast Asian and French cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Explore Venice Beach
Spend your afternoon people-watching and enjoying the bohemian vibe at Venice Beach.
Drive to Venice Beach.
Free, 2.5 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Guelaguetza
Taste authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Guelaguetza, famous for its mezcal selections.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
Day 9: Beach Bliss in San Diego
San Diego, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Great Maple
Savor a modern twist on classic breakfast with maple bacon doughnuts at Great Maple.
Drive to San Diego (about 2 hours).
USD 20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Balboa Park
Discover the beautiful gardens, museums, and attractions within the stunning Balboa Park.
Drive to Balboa Park.
Free, 3 hours
12:30PM
Lunch at The Cottage
Enjoy a cozy lunch at The Cottage, known for its charming atmosphere and fresh ingredients.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Relax at La Jolla Cove
Spend the afternoon relaxing at La Jolla Cove, famous for its sea lions and picturesque views.
Drive to La Jolla Cove.
Free, 3 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at George's at the Cove
Indulge in award-winning cuisine at George's, with stunning ocean views from the terrace.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego
Day 10: Adventure in Nature
San Diego, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Kettner Exchange
Relish a rooftop breakfast with incredible views and tasty dishes at Kettner Exchange.
Short drive to Kettner Exchange.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
10:00AM
Visit Torrey Pines State Reserve
Enjoy hiking trails with stunning coastal views at Torrey Pines State Reserve.
Drive to the reserve.
USD 15 (parking), 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at The Fish Market
Feast on fresh seafood with a view at The Fish Market, right by the harbor.
Drive to The Fish Market.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Explore Cabrillo National Monument
Discover scenic views and history at Cabrillo National Monument and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
Drive to the monument.
USD 20, 2.5 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Herb & Wood
Wrap your day with an upscale dining experience at Herb & Wood, known for wood-fired cooking.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego
Day 11: Santa Monica Vibes
Santa Monica, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Urth Caffé
Enjoy organic coffee and delicious breakfast options at Urth Caffé.
Drive to Santa Monica (about 30 minutes).
USD 20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Relax at Santa Monica Beach
Spend your morning lounging at Santa Monica Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Walk to the beach.
Free, 2.5 hours
12:30PM
Lunch at Blue Plate Taco
Savor Mexican dishes with a beachside view at Blue Plate Taco.
Short walk to the restaurant.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Visit Third Street Promenade
Explore the outdoor shopping and street performances at Third Street Promenade.
Walk to the promenade.
Free, 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at Tar & Roses
Conclude your day with a culinary feast at Tar & Roses, known for its open-fire cooking and vibrant atmosphere.
Walk to the restaurant.
USD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Monica
Day 12: Charming Malibu
Malibu, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Malibu Farm
Enjoy organic, locally-sourced meals at Malibu Farm, right on the pier.
Drive to Malibu (about 30 minutes).
USD 25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit El Matador State Beach
Explore the dramatic coastline and sea caves at El Matador State Beach—a perfect spot for taking photos.
Drive to El Matador.
USD 10 (parking), 2 hours
12:30PM
Lunch at Nobu Malibu
Indulge in upscale Japanese cuisine with stunning ocean views at Nobu.
Drive to Nobu.
USD 100, 2 hours
3:00PM
Relax at Zuma Beach
Spend your afternoon lounging at Zuma Beach, known for its soft sands and beautiful waves.
Drive to Zuma Beach.
Free, 3 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at The Sunset Restaurant
Wrap up your day with a stunning sunset view while dining at The Sunset Restaurant.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Malibu
Day 13: Return to San Francisco
San Francisco, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Rhea’s Cafe
Savor a classic diner breakfast at Rhea's Cafe before hitting the road.
Drive back to San Francisco (about 5 hours).
USD 20, 1.5 hours
9:30AM
Scenic Drive up the Pacific Coast Highway
Take the scenic route back up the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at picturesque viewpoints.
Drive along CA-1.
Free, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at The Cliff House
Enjoy a memorable lunch with ocean views at The Cliff House.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Visit Golden Gate Bridge
Walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for stunning views of the bay.
Drive to the parking lot near the bridge.
Free, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Foreign Cinema
End your trip with dinner at Foreign Cinema, where you can enjoy a movie while dining in a beautiful courtyard.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco
Day 14: Departure
San Francisco, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Tartine Bakery
Final breakfast at Tartine Bakery, known for its exquisite pastries and coffee.
Drive to Tartine Bakery.
USD 15, 1 hour
10:00AM
Last-minute shopping in Union Square
Spend your last hours in San Francisco shopping for souvenirs in Union Square.
Drive to Union Square.
Free, 2.5 hours
1:00PM
Check out and Departure
Head to the airport for your departure flight to end your magnificent West Coast adventure.
Drive to the airport.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in San Francisco
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More About West coast USA
Trip Packing List: USA West Coast, Miami, New York, Savannah, Tampa, Newark — July
Packing List
Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
January 21, 2025
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