Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip from San Francisco to San Diego September 14th-20th

Day 1: San Francisco Exploration

Morning: Start with a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and explore Crissy Field for stunning views.

Afternoon: Head to Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy lunch while exploring Pier 39.

Evening: Take a stroll through North Beach and dine at a local Italian restaurant.

Day 2: San Francisco to Monterey

Morning: Drive down to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, enjoy some classic amusement park fun.

Afternoon: Continue to Monterey Bay Aquarium and explore Cannery Row.

Evening: Relax with a sunset walk along Monterey Bay Coastal Trail.

Day 3: Monterey to Big Sur

Morning: Drive the scenic 17-Mile Drive, stopping at Pebble Beach.

Afternoon: Explore Big Sur’s McWay Falls and hike parts of the Big Sur Trail.

Evening: Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at a cozy lodge in Big Sur.

Day 4: Big Sur to Santa Barbara

Morning: Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, then start southbound along the coast.

Afternoon: Stop at San Simeon to tour the spectacular Hearst Castle.

Evening: Arrive in Santa Barbara, stroll along the Santa Barbara Pier and dine seaside.

Day 5: Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Morning: Explore the Santa Barbara Mission and the downtown area.

Afternoon: Drive to Malibu and enjoy the beach before heading to Los Angeles.

Evening: Discover Santa Monica Pier and have dinner nearby.

Day 6: Los Angeles Highlights

Morning: Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre.

Afternoon: Explore Griffith Observatory for great city views and hiking.

Evening: Experience nightlife and dining in Downtown LA or Venice Beach.

Day 7: Los Angeles to San Diego

Morning: Head south stopping at Laguna Beach for some art galleries and beach time.

Afternoon: Arrive in San Diego and visit Balboa Park and its museums.

Evening: Dine in the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter to wrap up your trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Golden Gate Bridge & Crissy Field - 2 hours, Free
• Monterey Bay Aquarium - 3 hours, $50
• Hearst Castle Tour - 2 hours, $30
• Santa Barbara Pier - 1.5 hours, Free
• Hollywood Walk of Fame - 1 hour, Free
• Griffith Observatory - 2 hours, Free
• Balboa Park Museums - 3 hours, $40 (multiple museums)
• Accommodation & Meals (7 days average) - Estimated $1,050
• Gas & Parking - Estimated $150

Total Estimated Cost: $1,320

Tips

To extend your trip, consider spending extra days in Big Sur for deeper hikes or in San Diego to explore its beaches and nearby Tijuana. For a shorter trip, focus on key stops like San Francisco, Big Sur, Los Angeles, and San Diego by skipping smaller towns and some sightseeing stops.