4-Day Scenic Coastal Road Trip from San Francisco to Monterey

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA on April 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tartine Manufactory

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with delicious pastries and artisanal coffee in this popular San Francisco bakery open from 8am to 3pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Golden Gate Bridge

Walk or bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for stunning views of the bay and city skyline. Open 24 hours and free to access.
USD0, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Fisherman's Wharf

Stroll the lively waterfront area featuring shops, seafood vendors, and sea lions at Pier 39. Open generally from 10am-7pm.
USD0, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Boudin Bakery Cafe

Savor classic San Francisco sourdough bread bowls filled with clam chowder at this famous bakery open from 11am to 6pm.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and tour the historic former prison. Ferries run from 9am to 6pm; tickets cost $45 and should be booked in advance.
USD45, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Enjoy fresh seafood with bay views at this popular restaurant on Pier 39, open until 9pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Coastal Drive and Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, USA on April 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Half Moon Bay Coffee Co.

Start your day with local coffee and fresh pastries in a quaint café open from 7am to 5pm.
USD12, 1h

9:00am

Drive along Pacific Coast Highway to Half Moon Bay

Enjoy scenic coastal views on this 30-mile drive south from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay, taking approximately 45 minutes.
USD0, 45m

10:00am

Visit Half Moon Bay State Beach

Relax or walk along this beautiful sandy beach with ocean views, open sunrise to sunset, free entry.
USD0, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sam's Chowder House

Taste fresh seafood and famous lobster rolls at this popular seaside restaurant, open 11:30am to 8pm.
USD30, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

Take a peaceful hike amongst towering redwoods on well-marked trails. Preserve open 8am to sunset, free admission.
USD0, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Pasta Moon

Enjoy Italian cuisine featuring fresh local ingredients in a cozy setting, open 5pm to 9pm.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Santa Cruz Adventures

Santa Cruz, USA on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Buttery

Delight in freshly baked goods and coffee at this beloved bakery open from 7am to 3pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Spend the morning enjoying rides and beachside attractions at this classic oceanfront amusement park, open from 11am to 6pm but grounds open earlier for beach access.
USD20 for rides, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Stagnaro's

Savor fresh seafood with views of the harbor at this longtime local restaurant, open 11am to 9pm.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Roaring Camp Railroads

Take a scenic steam train ride through redwood forest, operating hours 10am to 4pm; tickets $25.
USD25, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Laili Restaurant

Relish Mediterranean and Afghan dishes in a warm ambiance, open 5pm to 10pm.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Monterey Highlights

Monterey, USA on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Enjoy hearty breakfast classics and local flavors at this popular spot from 7am to 2pm.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the world’s best aquariums, open 10am to 5pm. Discover stunning marine life and interactive exhibits. Tickets cost $50.
USD50, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Grab a casual lunch with craft beers along historic Cannery Row, open from 11:30am to 9pm.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Drive 17-Mile Drive

Experience stunning coastal and golf course views on this famous scenic drive with several lookout points. Open all day, $11.25 per vehicle.
USD11.25, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Sardine Factory

Dine at this classic Monterey seafood restaurant featuring fresh fish and elegant ambiance, open until 9pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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