Scenic California Coastal Road Trip from San Francisco to San Diego with Charming Stops

Day 1: San Francisco & Occidental

San Francisco & Occidental, CA, USA on June 13, 2025

2:00pm

Exploratorium

Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum on San Francisco’s Pier 15, perfect for a fascinating afternoon experience blending art and science.
USD39, 2h0m

4:30pm

Drive to Occidental

Drive approximately 70 miles north to Occidental, a charming town in Sonoma County known for its redwood groves and relaxed atmosphere. This scenic drive takes about 1.5 hours.
USD0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Union Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at this historic Occidental restaurant offering classic dishes and a cozy ambiance. It’s a great place to experience local flavors.
USD30-50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Occidental to Santa Cruz & Monterey

Occidental, Santa Cruz & Monterey, CA, USA on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Roots Cafe, Occidental

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Roots Café, featuring fresh organic coffee and artisan dishes made with local ingredients.
USD15-20, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Santa Cruz

Drive south along scenic Highway 1 for about 2 hours (approx. 95 miles). Enjoy the picturesque coastal views en route to Santa Cruz.
USD0, 2h0m

11:30am

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Explore the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest amusement park on the West Coast, perfect for strolls, rides, or just enjoying the beach atmosphere.
USD0 entry, rides extra, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Picnic Basket

Enjoy a casual lunch with locally sourced sandwiches, salads, and scrumptious ice cream near the Santa Cruz Wharf.
USD15-25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive to Monterey

A short and scenic 45-minute drive south to picturesque Monterey, along the iconic Highway 1 coastline.
USD0, 45m

3:15pm

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium featuring marine exhibits native to California’s coast, a must-see for its exceptional displays and conservation efforts.
USD50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar

Dine on fresh seafood with stunning views of Monterey Bay, offering a perfect end to your day along the California coast.
USD40-60, 1h30m
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Day 3: Monterey to Solvang

Monterey & Solvang, CA, USA on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Enjoy farmhouse-style breakfast favorites including omelets and pancakes at this cozy Monterey cafe open from 7am.
USD15-20, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Solvang

Start a scenic drive of approximately 4 hours (140 miles) south-east to Solvang, passing through the beautiful Central Coast vineyards and countryside.
USD0, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Paula’s Pancake House

Taste authentic Danish pancakes and other European specialties at this popular Solvang spot open daily by 7am.
USD15-25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Solvang Village

Stroll through the Danish-style village with charming shops, windmills, and bakeries. Visit the Elverhoj Museum to learn about Solvang’s Danish heritage.
USD5 admission for museum, 2h0m

5:00pm

Wine tasting at Sunstone Vineyards & Winery

Enjoy organic wines at this estate winery just outside Solvang, open for tastings from 11am to 6pm.
USD20, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mad & Vin

Experience farm-to-table dining with a contemporary California cuisine menu paired with local wines in a cozy atmosphere.
USD40-70, 1h30m
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Day 4: Solvang to San Diego

Solvang & San Diego, CA, USA on June 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Solvang Restaurant

Enjoy American and Danish breakfast classics, including kringle pastries, before heading out on your drive.
USD15-20, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to San Diego

Embark on a 4.5-hour drive (190 miles) south to San Diego, enjoying views of coastal and inland Southern California along the way.
USD0, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Liberty Public Market, San Diego

Sample a variety of local foods and craft beverages at Liberty Public Market, perfect for a vibrant and casual midday meal.
USD20-30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Check in and relax at your hotel

Take some time to settle into your accommodation and relax before evening activities.
USD0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset walk at La Jolla Cove

Explore the scenic La Jolla Cove, known for its sea lions and spectacular ocean views, an ideal location for a relaxing sunset stroll.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Savor California coastal cuisine with a rooftop view overlooking the ocean, featured in La Jolla’s vibrant dining scene.
USD50-80, 1h30m
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Day 5: Explore San Diego

San Diego, CA, USA on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Mission Cafe

Enjoy a fresh and health-conscious breakfast featuring Latin-inspired dishes in a laid-back setting.
USD15-20, 1h0m

9:30am

San Diego Zoo

Spend the morning at one of the world’s best zoos, home to thousands of animals and extensive naturalistic habitats (opens at 9am).
USD65, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Albert’s Restaurant inside the Zoo

Enjoy a convenient and tasty lunch without leaving the zoo, featuring American favorites and local ingredients.
USD20-30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Balboa Park Gardens and Museums

Explore the botanical gardens and several museums including the Museum of Man and the San Diego Natural History Museum, open until 5pm.
USD15 for museums, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Cucina Urbana

Dine in an urban-rustic Italian restaurant known for house-made pastas and a lively atmosphere in downtown San Diego.
USD40-60, 1h30m
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Day 6: San Diego Beach & Culture

San Diego, CA, USA on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Try inventive breakfast dishes with local ingredients, a popular spot known for great coffee and a creative menu.
USD15-20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit USS Midway Museum

Tour the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway and explore exhibits on naval aviation and military history (opens at 10am).
USD28, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Harbor House

Enjoy fresh seafood and bay views in the Seaport Village area, a short walk from the Midway Museum.
USD30-50, 1h0m

1:30pm

Relax at Coronado Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at the beautiful Coronado Beach, known for its soft sand and iconic Hotel del Coronado.
USD0, 3h0m

5:00pm

Explore Little Italy

Walk through lively Little Italy, with plenty of art galleries, shops, and people-watching opportunities.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bencotto Italian Kitchen

Savor classic Italian dishes with a modern twist in a sophisticated yet casual setting in Little Italy.
USD40-60, 1h30m
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Day 7: Last Day San Diego

San Diego, CA, USA on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla

Enjoy a fresh, delicious breakfast with a Californian flair, minutes from the beach with indoor/outdoor seating.
USD15-25, 1h0m

9:30am

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Hike scenic trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean, famous for rare Torrey pine trees and breathtaking coastal views (opens 7am-7pm).
USD15 parking, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cody’s La Jolla

Enjoy fresh and health-conscious Californian cuisine in a stylish environment before departing San Diego.
USD25-40, 1h0m
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