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Scenic Big Sur Road Trip from San Diego: July 4-7, 2025

Viewed by 139 travelers

Day 1: Drive & Explore Santa Barbara

San Diego to Santa Barbara, California, USA on July 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Cottage Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular spot known for fresh, hearty American breakfast dishes in Santa Barbara.
USD25, 1h

8:00am

Drive from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Embark on an approximately 3.5-hour coastal drive north on US-101, enjoying scenic ocean views and mild July weather.
USD0, 3h30m

11:30am

Explore Santa Barbara Downtown

Walk along State Street, browse local shops, and enjoy the architecture and garden areas near the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.
USD0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Brophy Bros.

Enjoy fresh seafood with harbor views at this family-friendly restaurant known for clam chowder and seafood platters.
USD30, 1h

2:15pm

Drive to Big Sur

Continue north on the scenic Highway 1 for about 3.5 hours, passing through picturesque coastal towns toward Big Sur.
USD0, 3h30m

6:00pm

Check-In at Big Sur Lodge

Settle into your accommodation strategically located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for quick access to nature trails.
USD200, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Big Sur Roadhouse

Enjoy a rustic meal featuring local ingredients and creative dishes in a relaxed, cozy setting.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Big Sur Highlights

Big Sur, California, USA on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Taste freshly baked pastries and artisanal coffee at this beloved local bakery, perfect for fueling your day of hiking.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Hike Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Explore the park’s iconic trails, including the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View Trail, offering stunning views and redwood groves.
USD10 parking, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nepenthe

Dine at this iconic cliffside restaurant with panoramic coastal views, offering casual American menu options.
USD35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit McWay Falls

Walk the easy 0.6-mile trail to view the stunning waterfall cascading onto the beach below, ideal for photos.
USD0, 1h

3:30pm

Relax at Pfeiffer Beach

Spend a couple of hours enjoying famous purple sand and unique rock formations along this secluded beach.
USD10 parking, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sierra Mar

Indulge in fine dining with a spectacular sunset view at the Post Ranch Inn, featuring a seasonal menu highlighting local produce.
USD70, 2h
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Day 3: More Big Sur Adventure

Big Sur, California, USA on July 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn

Enjoy a homey breakfast in a historic setting that transports you back in time with its charming atmosphere.
USD25, 1h

8:30am

Visit Limekiln State Park

Discover this lesser-known park featuring historic lime kilns, hiking trails, and beautiful waterfalls, open daily from 8am to sunset.
USD10 parking, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Big Sur Taphouse

Casual dining with a variety of beers and pub-style fare, perfect for refueling after a morning adventure.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Bixby Creek Bridge and Scenic Viewpoints

Stop at the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge for photos and enjoy several lookout points along Highway 1 in the afternoon light.
USD0, 1h30m

3:30pm

Optional Kayaking or Relaxation

Consider an afternoon kayaking tour if available or relax and soak in the coastal serenity at your lodge.
USD60, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Sur House

End your day with a refined dinner offering coastal views paired with Mediterranean cuisine.
USD65, 2h
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Day 4: Return Drive

Big Sur to San Diego, California, USA on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy a light breakfast onsite before packing up for your journey back south.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Big Sur to San Diego

Embark on a roughly 7-hour scenic drive down Highway 1 and US-101, with optional quick stops in scenic coastal towns like Carmel or Pismo Beach.
USD0, 7h

12:00pm

Lunch stop in Pismo Beach

Grab lunch at Splash Cafe, famous for its clam chowder, to break up your drive with local flavors.
USD25, 1h

6:00pm

Arrive in San Diego

Return to San Diego safely in the evening with memories of a spectacular coastal vacation.
USD0, N/A
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