Blur Effect
Trip mapMapShareShare
Bookmark TripSave
3 Day Trip
Photo of AI-LewisClark
AI-LewisClark
2023-10-25
ShareShare
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

San Francisco To Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary 3 Days

Trip Itinerary: San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey

Start your road trip by crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Take in the stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Head south towards Santa Cruz and visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for some fun and thrills. Continue your journey along the Pacific Coast Highway to reach Monterey. Explore the historic Cannery Row and don't miss the chance to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, known for its incredible marine life exhibits.

Day 2: Monterey to Pismo Beach

Continue your coastal drive down to Big Sur, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. Take your time to soak in the natural beauty and perhaps do some hiking or camping. Next, visit the majestic Hearst Castle, a grand mansion showcasing exquisite architecture and opulent interiors. End the day in Pismo Beach, a charming town known for its sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

Day 3: Pismo Beach to Los Angeles

As you head towards Los Angeles, make a stop in Solvang, a Danish-style village nestled in California wine country. Stroll through the streets, admire the unique architecture, and indulge in some Danish pastries. Continue your journey to Santa Barbara and enjoy the beautiful beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Lastly, make your way to Malibu, renowned for its celebrity residences and stunning coastal views. Finally, reach Los Angeles, the city of dreams, where you can explore its famous attractions and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

This road trip itinerary showcases the best of California's coast, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and iconic landmarks. Get ready to make unforgettable memories as you embark on this journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Plan your dream trip for Free with AI
Create a personalized itinerary effortlessly with our AI-powered planner.
Upgrade BackgroundUpgrade Picture

Recommended Explorations

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Golden Gate Bridge

    Bookmark Trip Point
    The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic landmark and engineering marvel. It offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, making it a must-visit attraction.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

    Bookmark Trip Point
    The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic seaside amusement park with a beautiful beach. It features thrilling rides, delicious food, and fun games, making it a great place for families and thrill-seekers.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Monterey Bay Aquarium

    Bookmark Trip Point
    The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the world's leading aquariums, known for its incredible variety of marine life and educational exhibits. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with fascinating ocean creatures.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Big Sur

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Big Sur is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. It offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Hearst Castle

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Hearst Castle is a magnificent historic mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. It showcases grand architecture, opulent interiors, and beautiful gardens. Visiting Hearst Castle allows you to step into the glamorous lifestyle of the early 20th century.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    Pismo Beach

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Pismo Beach is a charming coastal town with a relaxed vibe and stunning sandy beaches. It is a popular destination for surfing, fishing, and beachcombing. Pismo Beach also offers quaint shops, delicious seafood, and a serene atmosphere for a rejuvenating beach getaway.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin7

    Solvang

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Solvang is a charming Danish-style village in the heart of California wine country. It offers a unique cultural experience with its Danish architecture, bakeries, and shops. Visitors can explore vineyards, taste local wines, and enjoy the tranquil countryside.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin8

    Santa Barbara

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant arts scene. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, including picturesque coastline, botanical gardens, art galleries, and delicious dining options.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin9

    Malibu

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Malibu is a glamorous beachside town famous for its pristine beaches, stunning ocean views, and celebrity residences. It offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle, perfect for surfing, sunbathing, or enjoying a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Malibu also features upscale dining and shopping experiences.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin10

    Venice Beach

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Venice Beach is a vibrant and eclectic beachfront neighborhood known for its lively boardwalk, street performers, and artistic atmosphere. It offers a unique blend of beach activities, skate parks, colorful murals, and trendy shops, making it a must-visit destination for art and culture lovers.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin11

    Santa Monica Pier

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Santa Monica Pier is an iconic landmark on the California coastline. It offers a mix of classic seaside amusement park attractions, such as a ferris wheel and roller coaster, along with beautiful ocean views. The pier also features a variety of dining options and entertainment, making it a great place to soak up the beach-town vibe.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin12

    Los Angeles

    Bookmark Trip Point
    Los Angeles, often referred to as the 'City of Angels,' is a bustling metropolis filled with endless attractions. It offers world-famous destinations like Hollywood, Universal Studios, the Getty Center, and Griffith Observatory. The city is also renowned for its diverse dining scene, shopping, nightlife, and cultural landmarks.
    Open Google Maps Button

Local Events & Happenings

Music for Your Journey

    Tasty Picks

    Stay Recommendations