5 Day Trip

2023-10-25

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San Francisco To Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary 5 Days

Trip Itinerary: San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Day 1: San Francisco

Start your road trip in the vibrant city of San Francisco. Explore iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Visit museums, art galleries, and enjoy the culinary delights at Fisherman's Wharf and the Ferry Building Marketplace.

Day 2: Santa Cruz

Drive south to Santa Cruz, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and biking. Experience the town's arts and music scene, and savor delicious local cuisine.

Day 3: Monterey

Continue along the coast to Monterey, a picturesque city with breathtaking natural beauty. Visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore historic Cannery Row, and indulge in fresh seafood at Fisherman's Wharf. Take in the scenic beauty of the 17-Mile Drive and enjoy outdoor activities.

Day 4: Big Sur & San Luis Obispo

Drive through the stunning landscapes of Big Sur, known for its dramatic cliffs and coastal views. Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and enjoy outdoor activities like camping and hiking. Head to San Luis Obispo, a charming town with a vibrant downtown, historic mission, and beautiful botanical garden.

Day 5: Santa Barbara & Malibu

Visit Santa Barbara, a picturesque coastal city known for its Mediterranean-style architecture and stunning beaches. Explore State Street, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, and indulge in the city's wineries and restaurants. Drive to Malibu, enjoy the beautiful beaches, and experience the upscale beachside lifestyle.

Day 6: Los Angeles

Arrive in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world. Explore Hollywood, visit iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Griffith Observatory. Discover diverse neighborhoods, shop on Rodeo Drive, and experience the excitement of Universal Studios. Enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.

End your road trip in Los Angeles, filled with unforgettable experiences and memories of the stunning California coastline.

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Recommended Explorations

1
San Francisco
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San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. It offers a rich cultural experience with its museums, art galleries, and vibrant neighborhoods. The city is also renowned for its culinary scene, including the famous Fisherman's Wharf and the historic Ferry Building Marketplace.
2
Santa Cruz
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Santa Cruz is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, scenic coastline, and its iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It offers a laid-back beach town atmosphere with a range of outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and biking. The town also boasts a thriving arts and music scene, along with delicious local cuisine and vibrant farmers markets.
3
Monterey
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Monterey is a picturesque coastal city with breathtaking natural beauty and a rich history. It is famous for attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which showcases marine life from the surrounding Pacific Ocean. Visitors can also explore the historic Cannery Row, enjoy scenic drives along the 17-Mile Drive, and indulge in fresh seafood at the renowned Fisherman's Wharf.
4
Big Sur
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Big Sur is a breathtakingly beautiful coastal region renowned for its dramatic landscapes. It offers stunning cliffs, rugged coastline, and majestic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore the scenic Highway 1, hike through the picturesque Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and enjoy outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
5
San Luis Obispo
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San Luis Obispo is a charming town nestled in the heart of California's Central Coast. It offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere along with a vibrant downtown area. Visitors can explore the historic mission, wander through the beautiful San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, and enjoy the city's diverse culinary scene. The nearby wine region also offers opportunities for wine tasting and vineyard tours.
6
Santa Barbara
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Santa Barbara is a picturesque coastal city known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, beautiful beaches, and stunning mountain views. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the historic State Street, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, relax on the pristine beaches, and indulge in the city's world-class wineries and restaurants. The city also offers outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
7
Malibu
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Malibu is a stunning coastal city famous for its beautiful beaches, surf spots, and luxurious beachfront properties. It offers a relaxed and upscale atmosphere, perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing at popular beaches like Zuma Beach and Surfrider Beach. Malibu also boasts scenic hiking trails, coastal parks, and a vibrant food scene.
8
Los Angeles
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Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, offers a wide range of attractions and experiences. It is home to Hollywood, iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Griffith Observatory, and world-class museums like the Getty Center. Visitors can explore vibrant neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach, enjoy shopping on Rodeo Drive, and experience the excitement of Universal Studios. Los Angeles also offers a diverse culinary scene, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches.

Local Events & Happenings

Music for Your Journey

Tasty Picks

Stay Recommendations

The Fairmont San Francisco
The Fairmont San Francisco
A historic luxury hotel in San Francisco offering elegant accommodations and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
A beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz with vibrant retro-style rooms and direct access to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
A waterfront hotel located in Monterey, offering luxurious rooms and stunning views of Monterey Bay and Cannery Row.
Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn
Perched on cliffs in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn offers eco-friendly luxury accommodations with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Madonna Inn
Madonna Inn
Located in San Luis Obispo, the Madonna Inn offers uniquely themed rooms with vibrant decor and a whimsical atmosphere.
Bacara Resort & Spa
Bacara Resort & Spa
A luxurious resort in Santa Barbara, known for its beautiful beachfront location, premium amenities, and relaxing spa experiences.