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10-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip from San Francisco to San Diego Along the California Coast

Viewed by 153 travelers

Day 1: San Francisco Highlights

San Francisco, USA on July 1, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Enjoy a hearty and family-friendly breakfast with pancakes and omelets at this popular spot. Arrive early to avoid wait times.
USD40, 1.5h

10:00AM

Explore the Exploratorium

Interactive science museum great for kids with hands-on exhibits that entertain and educate. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD100, 2.5h

12:30PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery, Fisherman’s Wharf

Sample San Francisco’s famous clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls at this historic bakery.
USD60, 1h

1:45PM

Pier 39 and Sea Lions

Stroll along Pier 39 to watch sea lions and visit family-friendly shops and attractions. Open all day.
Free, 1.5h

3:30PM

Cable Car Ride to Union Square

Ride the iconic cable cars for a unique city experience and explore Union Square's shops and green spaces.
USD30, 1h

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Family-friendly dining with extensive menu options and city views from the top of Macy’s.
USD70, 1.5h
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Day 2: San Jose Adventure

San Jose, USA on July 2, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bill’s Cafe

Start the day with a classic American breakfast featuring pancakes, eggs, and kid-friendly options.
USD35, 1h

9:30AM

The Tech Interactive

Engaging technology and science museum with exhibits tailored for kids and families. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD60, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Falafel’s Drive-In

Casual spot popular for fresh falafel sandwiches and kid-friendly meals.
USD30, 1h

2:00PM

Visit Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Outdoor amusement park and zoo perfect for kids with rides, animals, and play areas. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD45, 2.5h

5:00PM

Dinner at Original Joe’s

Family-style Italian-American restaurant with hearty portions and friendly atmosphere.
USD70, 1.5h
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Day 3: Santa Cruz Beach Fun

Santa Cruz, USA on July 3, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zachary’s Restaurant

Enjoy classic breakfast dishes with ocean views and a welcoming environment for families.
USD30, 1h

9:30AM

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Iconic seaside amusement park with rides, games, and beach access. Open 11:00AM-6:00PM.
USD50, 4h

1:30PM

Lunch at The Picnic Basket

Casual eatery with fresh sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly options near the beach.
USD40, 1h

3:00PM

Explore Natural Bridges State Beach

Famous for its natural rock arch and butterfly migration; perfect for a family hike and nature observation.
USD10 parking, 1.5h

5:00PM

Dinner at Laili Restaurant

Offer flavorful Mediterranean and Afghan cuisine offering vegetarian and kid-friendly meals.
USD60, 1.5h
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Day 4: Big Sur Scenic Drive & Park

Big Sur, USA on July 4, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant

Enjoy freshly baked pastries, hearty breakfast fare, and coffee before a day of exploring.
USD40, 1h

8:30AM

Drive along Pacific Coast Highway

Experience one of the most scenic coastal drives with stops for photos and observation points.
Free, 2h

10:30AM

Visit Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Family-friendly hiking trails, picnic areas, and purple sand beach access. Open 8:00AM-8:00PM.
USD15 parking, 3h

1:30PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Famous cliffside restaurant with stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere, offering kid-friendly meals.
USD70, 1h

3:00PM

Relax at Sand Dollar Beach

Sandy beach ideal for families to unwind and enjoy the Pacific Ocean.
Free, 2h

5:30PM

Dinner and Overnight Stay at Big Sur Lodge

Enjoy rustic dining options nearby and stay overnight in cozy family rooms.
USD120, Dinner + Overnight
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Day 5: Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA on July 5, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Katy’s Place

Cozy spot known for kids’ pancakes and classic breakfast fare.
USD35, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Carmel Beach

Beautiful white sand beach perfect for family play and short nature walks.
Free, 1.5h

11:00AM

Walk Through Downtown Carmel

Explore family-friendly shops, art galleries, and storybook architecture in a quaint town setting.
Free, 1.5h

12:30PM

Lunch at La Bicyclette

European-style bistro with wood-fired pizzas and kid-friendly dishes in a cozy ambiance.
USD60, 1h

2:00PM

Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Short family hikes with opportunities to see seals, sea otters, and birds. Open sunrise to sunset.
USD15 parking, 2h

5:00PM

Dinner at Mission Ranch Restaurant

Historic ranch restaurant with farm-to-table meals and views of the countryside and ocean.
USD75, 1.5h
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Day 6: Monterey Aquarium & More

Monterey, USA on July 6, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Family-friendly breakfast spot known for large portions and creative dishes.
USD35, 1h

9:30AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

World-renowned aquarium featuring touch pools, sea otters, and shark exhibits. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD120, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Casual dining with kid-friendly menu near the aquarium and scenic views.
USD50, 1h

2:00PM

Walk Along Cannery Row and Beach

Explore shops and stroll by the beach for a relaxing afternoon.
Free, 2h

5:30PM

Dinner at The Sardine Factory

Classic Monterey seafood restaurant with an extensive menu suitable for families.
USD80, 1.5h
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Day 7: San Luis Obispo Exploration

San Luis Obispo, USA on July 7, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sky Cafe

Farm-fresh, wholesome breakfast with many vegetarian options and kid favorites.
USD40, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Bubblegum Alley

Quirky and fun wall covered with chewed gum, a great quick stop for family photos.
Free, 0.5h

10:00AM

Explore Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Historic Spanish mission with beautiful grounds and kid-friendly exhibits. Open 9:00AM-5:00PM.
USD10, 1.5h

12:00PM

Lunch at Firestone Grill

Popular local spot known for sandwiches and casual meals that kids love.
USD35, 1h

1:30PM

Visit Dinosaur Caves Park, Pismo Beach

Scenic park with playgrounds and ocean views about 15 minutes away.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Dinner at Novo Restaurant & Lounge

Upscale but family-friendly with garden patio and diverse menu options including salads and pizzas.
USD70, 1.5h
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Day 8: Santa Barbara Discovery

Santa Barbara, USA on July 8, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery

Fresh pastries and classic breakfast dishes in a family-friendly setting.
USD35, 1h

9:30AM

Santa Barbara Zoo

Compact, well-maintained zoo with interactive exhibits perfect for children. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD50, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

Treat the family to world-class ice cream and light lunch items.
USD30, 1h

2:00PM

Explore Stearns Wharf

Historic pier with shops and aquarium; great for a family stroll.
Free, 1.5h

4:00PM

Visit Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

Hands-on aquarium and natural history center on the pier. Open until 5:00PM.
USD40, 1h

6:00PM

Dinner at The Habit Burger Grill

Casual spot with burgers and kid favorites perfect after a day of fun activities.
USD50, 1h
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Day 9: Los Angeles Family Fun

Los Angeles, USA on July 9, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe

Historic diner in downtown LA well-loved for large breakfast portions suitable for families.
USD40, 1h

9:00AM

Visit California Science Center

Free admission museum with space, science, and technology exhibits like the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
Free, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Food Court inside the Science Center

Convenient casual dining with various options to satisfy all ages.
USD40, 1h

1:30PM

Explore Exposition Park Rose Garden

Beautiful garden nearby perfect for family photos and relaxation.
Free, 1h

3:00PM

Visit Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Dinosaurs, gems, and family-friendly exhibits await. Open 9:30AM-5:00PM.
USD60, 2h

5:30PM

Dinner at California Family BBQ

Casual BBQ spot offering kid-friendly meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
USD70, 1.5h
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Day 10: Final Day in San Diego

San Diego, USA on July 10, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mission Café

Popular beachfront café serving hearty breakfast with a focus on fresh, healthy options for families.
USD40, 1h

9:30AM

San Diego Zoo

World-famous zoo with extensive animal exhibits and kid-friendly interactive programs. Open 9:00AM-6:00PM.
USD150, 4h

1:30PM

Lunch at Albert’s Restaurant inside the Zoo

Convenient dining with a variety of kid-pleasing options without leaving the zoo.
USD50, 1h

2:45PM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore gardens, museums, and play areas in this sprawling urban cultural park before departure.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Dinner at Corvette Diner

Fun 1950s-themed diner with arcade games that kids will love, perfect for a memorable final meal.
USD70, 1.5h
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