Driving along the California coast is one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States. The Pacific Ocean on one side and mountains, cliffs, and forests on the other make this journey unforgettable. With seven days, you can explore big cities, small towns, national parks, and quiet beaches. This itinerary will help you enjoy the best of the California coast at an easy pace.
Day 1: Start in San Francisco
Your road trip begins in San Francisco, a city full of energy and famous landmarks. Spend your first day exploring highlights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown. Walking along the waterfront gives you great views of the bay and Alcatraz Island.
Take time to ride a cable car, which is both fun and a classic San Francisco experience. If you enjoy parks, Golden Gate Park is a beautiful place to relax before you start your long drive south. In the evening, try a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 2: San Francisco to Monterey
On your second day, head south toward Monterey. The drive is only about two hours, so you will have plenty of time to explore once you arrive. Monterey is known for its coastline and marine life. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best in the country, and it’s a great stop for both adults and kids.
Cannery Row, once home to sardine canneries, is now filled with shops and restaurants where you can enjoy lunch with a view. If time allows, take the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic route that winds through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. The rocky coastline and golf courses here are world famous.
Day 3: Monterey to Big Sur
The drive from Monterey to Big Sur is one of the most famous parts of the California coast. This stretch of Highway 1 hugs cliffs with the ocean crashing below. Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots on the route. The view here is breathtaking.
Big Sur itself is full of natural beauty. You can hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, visit McWay Falls where a waterfall drops right onto the beach, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the area. Spend the night in Big Sur if possible, as staying here lets you enjoy the starry skies and calm atmosphere.
Day 4: Big Sur to San Simeon
Continue south toward San Simeon. Along the way, take time to stop at beaches and viewpoints. One highlight is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where you can find trails with ocean views. Farther south, stop at Elephant Seal Vista Point near Piedras Blancas. Here you can see hundreds of elephant seals resting on the sand.
In San Simeon, visit Hearst Castle, a grand estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The castle is filled with art, antiques, and beautiful gardens, and the guided tours are both fun and informative. After your visit, relax in the nearby town of Cambria, which has a charming downtown with restaurants and shops.
Day 5: San Simeon to Santa Barbara
On day five, drive to Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean-style architecture and coastal beauty. The city has wide beaches, palm trees, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Spend some time at Stearns Wharf or stroll along State Street, which is filled with shops, cafes, and galleries. If you enjoy history, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, often called the “Queen of the Missions.” The city is also a great place for wine tasting, as it sits near several well-known vineyards.
Day 6: Santa Barbara to Los Angeles
From Santa Barbara, continue south to Los Angeles. The drive takes only a couple of hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the city. In Los Angeles, there are endless options depending on your interests. Hollywood is famous for its Walk of Fame and the Chinese Theatre. Griffith Observatory offers sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
If you prefer the beach, head to Santa Monica or Venice Beach to soak up the sun and watch the lively boardwalk scenes. Los Angeles is also a great city for food, so take time to enjoy a mix of cuisines from different cultures.
Day 7: Los Angeles to San Diego
Your final day takes you further south to San Diego. Known for its warm weather and relaxed vibe, San Diego is a great place to end your trip. The city has beautiful beaches, such as La Jolla Shores, where you might spot seals and sea lions.
Balboa Park is another highlight, with gardens, museums, and the San Diego Zoo, which is one of the best in the world. In the evening, head to the Gaslamp Quarter, where restaurants and music venues give you plenty of choices for a lively last night of your road trip.
Conclusion
A road trip along the California coast is full of variety. In just seven days, you see big cities, small towns, cliffs, forests, and sunny beaches. You walk through history, explore nature, and enjoy local food along the way.
The best part of this trip is the drive itself. Highway 1 offers views that you will never forget, and every stop adds something new to your experience. By the end of the week, you will understand why the California coast is one of the most loved road trips in the world.
