Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

3-Day Scenic Road Trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco with Parks and Chinatown Visit

Viewed by 52 travelers

Day 1: Coastal Drive & Views

Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, CA, USA on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day in Los Angeles with a hearty breakfast at The Griddle Cafe, famous for its oversized and delicious pancakes. It opens early to fuel your road trip adventure.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Santa Barbara via Pacific Coast Highway

Enjoy a scenic and leisurely drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, taking in beautiful ocean views and coastal cliffs as you head to Santa Barbara.
USD0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Brophy Bros. Clam Bar & Restaurant

Have lunch at this waterfront seafood spot in Santa Barbara, known for its fresh seafood and harbor views. Ideal for a relaxed midday meal.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Explore native California plants and scenic walking trails in this 78-acre natural setting. The garden is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
USD15, 1h30m

3:30pm

Check-in and Rest at Hotel in Santa Barbara

Relax and freshen up at your chosen accommodation to prepare for the next day’s drive.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Lark

Dine at this trendy Santa Barbara restaurant with farm-to-table American cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
USD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Day 2: Big Sur Adventure

Santa Barbara to Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, USA on June 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries and breakfast classics to start your day well in Santa Barbara. Opens at 7:00am.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Santa Barbara to Big Sur via Highway 1

Take a scenic drive north from Santa Barbara toward Big Sur, known for dramatic cliffs and ocean views. Allow for stops to enjoy the vistas.
USD0, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nepenthe Restaurant

Stop at Nepenthe for lunch with a spectacular view over the Big Sur coastline. The open deck is perfect for taking in the fresh sea air.
USD35, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hike the redwood forest trails in this serene state park. The park is open until dusk and offers beautiful nature experiences.
USD10, 2h

5:00pm

Drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea and check into hotel

Continue your journey to Carmel, known for its charming town and beaches. Check in and relax after a scenic day.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Bicyclette

Enjoy a cozy dinner with European-inspired dishes in Carmel’s quaint downtown. A perfect end to your day.
USD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara to Carmel-by-the-Sea

Day 3: City & Cultural Exploration

Carmel-by-the-Sea to San Francisco, CA, USA on June 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Carmel Belle

Enjoy a fresh and healthy breakfast at this popular Carmel spot, open from 7:00am, perfect to prepare for the drive.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Carmel to San Francisco

Head north on Highway 1 and US-101 towards San Francisco. Enjoy the beautiful coastal and forest scenery along the way.
USD0, 2h30m

11:00am

Park visit at Golden Gate Park

Explore Golden Gate Park’s gardens, lakes, and trails. The park is open from 5:00am to midnight and is a great urban nature escape.
USD0, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Yank Sing

Savor authentic dim sum in San Francisco’s Chinatown. Open from 11:00am to 3:00pm for lunch service.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Explore San Francisco Chinatown

Walk through one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns in the US. Discover shops, markets, and cultural landmarks.
USD0, 2h

4:30pm

Casual Coffee at Red Blossom Tea Company

Relax with a traditional tea or coffee in a cozy Chinatown tea house before concluding your trip.
USD10, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at House of Nanking

Conclude your day with flavorful Chinese cuisine at House of Nanking, a local favorite in Chinatown open until 9:00pm.
USD35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea to San Francisco
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Trip by car from Los Angeles to San Francisco over Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go