Family-Friendly Road Trip from San Francisco to San Diego: June 13-19, 2025

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, CA on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Enjoy a kid-friendly breakfast with classic American dishes in a cozy, family-friendly setting. It's a popular spot so arriving early ensures a table.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Exploratorium

This hands-on science museum is perfect for kids to learn and explore interactively. Open 10am-5pm, ensure to check for timed entry tickets.
USD30, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Boudin Bakery & Cafe

Dine on San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread with kid-friendly soups and sandwiches located near Fisherman's Wharf.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Ride a Cable Car & Visit Pier 39

Take a fun cable car ride and explore Pier 39’s sea lions, shops, and attractions. Cable car lines run until 9pm in summer.
USD10, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Enjoy fresh seafood with a family-friendly atmosphere at Pier 39, offering excellent views and a kids menu.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Santa Cruz Beach Fun

Santa Cruz, CA on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Picnic Basket

A casual, family-friendly spot offering fresh sandwiches, pastries, and excellent coffee, located near the beach.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Enjoy classic amusement park rides, games, and beach activities on this iconic boardwalk. Open daily from 11am to 6pm.
USD40, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Crow's Nest

Beachfront dining with kid-friendly options including burgers and fish and chips, perfect for families.
USD30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Explore marine life exhibits and touch tanks, ideal for kids interested in ocean animals. Open 10am-5pm.
USD10, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Laili Restaurant

Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine with a kid’s menu and relaxing atmosphere close to downtown Santa Cruz.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Monterey & Carmel Adventure

Monterey, CA on June 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Highly rated for hearty and healthy breakfast options perfect for families, located in Monterey.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Monterey Bay Aquarium

One of the best aquariums in the world where kids can learn about sea creatures and enjoy interactive exhibits. Open 10am-6pm.
USD50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar

Offers ocean views and a kid-friendly menu right on the Old Fisherman's Wharf.
USD35, 1h

2:30pm

Scenic Drive and Beach Walk in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Explore the quaint town’s shops and spend time at Carmel Beach, known for its soft sand and gentle waves, perfect for kids.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at La Bicyclette

European-style bistro with kid-friendly selections, offering a cozy ambiance in Carmel.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Explore San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Big Sky Cafe

Farm-to-table fresh food with great organic options loved by families.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum

Engaging indoor and outdoor exhibits designed specifically to entertain and educate children of all ages. Open 10am-5pm.
USD8, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Splash Cafe

Famous for clam chowder and kid-friendly seafood selections, casual and fun atmosphere.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Bubblegum Alley and Downtown

A quirky local attraction the kids will find hilarious followed by browsing charming shops downtown.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Avila Beach

A kid-friendly beach with calm waters, perfect for a relaxing afternoon swim and sandcastle building.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Novo Restaurant & Lounge

Offers riverside dining with global dishes and a nice kids menu in a scenic setting.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Santa Barbara Relaxation

Santa Barbara, CA on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery

Well-loved family bakery and cafe serving fresh pastries and breakfast meals with kid-approved choices.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Santa Barbara Zoo

Small but charming zoo with many animal exhibits and play areas perfect for young children. Open 10am-5pm.
USD20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoreline Cafe

Casual beachfront dining with panoramic ocean views and a menu suitable for all ages.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

Hands-on marine discovery on Stearns Wharf with interactive tide pools and exhibits. Open 11am-5pm.
USD15, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Moby Dick Restaurant

A family-friendly seafood spot with casual dining near the waterfront perfect for an early dinner.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Los Angeles Family Fun

Los Angeles, CA on June 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe

Classic diner with huge portions and a welcoming atmosphere loved by families and locals alike.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Visit California Science Center

Explore interactive, kid-friendly exhibits and see the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Open 10am-5pm, admission is free.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Counter Santa Monica

Build-your-own burger restaurant with many options for kids and adults alike in a casual setting.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Griffith Park and Los Angeles Zoo

Enjoy the sprawling park with picnic areas, playgrounds, and the zoo open 10am-5pm, perfect for a family afternoon.
USD20, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Original Farmers Market

A variety of food stalls and casual dining choices catering to families with diverse tastes and quick service.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 7: San Diego Arrival

San Diego, CA on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Broken Yolk Cafe

Popular local breakfast spot with extensive kid-friendly menu and hearty portions to fuel the day.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit San Diego Zoo

World-renowned zoo featuring a wide variety of animals in naturalistic habitats, perfect for a fun and educational family day. Open 9am-6pm.
USD65, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Albert's Restaurant inside the zoo

Convenient dining option inside the zoo with a menu that includes kid-friendly favorites and healthy options.
USD30, 1h

3:30pm

Relax at Balboa Park

Explore playgrounds, gardens, and open spaces within the park, ideal for letting kids unwind after sightseeing.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Prado at Balboa Park

Upscale but welcoming restaurant offering a diverse menu with kid-friendly options right in the park.
USD45, 1h30m
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