road trip san diego

29 Epic Road Trips From San Diego (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for great ideas for road trips from San Diego? We’ll give you 29 of the best road trips from America’s Finest City.

If you’re looking to hit the road and embark on an adventure, you’ve come to the right place. We’re excited to share with you the top road trips from San Diego, California . From stunning coastal drives to desert escapes and mountain retreats, San Diego serves as the perfect starting point for unforgettable journeys.

Whether you have just a few hours to spare or are planning a relaxing weekend getaway, these road trips promise so much fun and endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Buckle up as we take you on a virtual tour through diverse landscapes, charming towns, and iconic landmarks that are just a road trip away from San Diego. We’ll guide you to breathtaking coastal drives along the Pacific Coast Highway , where you can soak up the sun, breathe in the ocean breeze, and discover the vibrant beach towns along the way.

If desert adventures are calling your name, we’ll show you the best routes to escape to otherworldly landscapes, where towering cacti, striking rock formations, and boundless desert beauty await.

And for those seeking a mountain retreat, we’ll unveil the scenic drives that lead to serene alpine getaways, where hiking trails, fresh mountain air, and stunning vistas await your arrival.

So, grab your maps and get ready for an incredible road trip experience from San Diego!

Table of Contents

Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)

Laguna beach, san clemente, oceanside and carlsbad, catalina island, los angeles, malibu beach and pasadena, santa monica, tijuana, mexico, anza-borrego desert state park, palm springs, temecula wine country, palomar mountain (palomar observatory), lake arrowhead, borrego springs, valle de guadalupe, baja california, mexico, joshua tree national park, death valley national park, yosemite national park, sequoia national park, channel islands national park, santa barbara, montecito and solvang, saguaro national park, zion national park, san francisco, wrapping up, the 29 best road trips from san diego.

These road trips offer a variety of landscapes, attractions, and experiences, allowing you to explore the diverse beauty of Southern California and beyond.

Remember to check for any travel advisories, road conditions, and border crossing requirements before embarking on your journey.

Shorter Road Trips Along the Coast

Road trips from San Diego don’t have to be long. Here are a few shorter road trips you can take and combine with other great San Diego day trips .

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) from San Diego is an exhilarating and picturesque adventure along one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world.

Starting in San Diego, you’ll embark on a journey that hugs the breathtaking coastline, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming beach towns, iconic landmarks, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

As you traverse the highway, make sure to stop by La Jolla, known for its stunning coastal cliffs and picturesque coves. Continue north and marvel at the impressive coastal vistas as you pass through seaside towns like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.

Further up the route, you’ll reach the iconic Big Sur, where rugged cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific. Don’t forget to stop at Bixby Creek Bridge, a famous photo spot and an architectural marvel.

Finally, the journey concludes in San Francisco , where you can explore the vibrant city, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, and embrace the unique charm of the Bay Area.

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway from San Diego is an unforgettable experience that allows you to soak in the beauty of the California coastline and create lasting memories.

Read Next: Plan your entire Pacific Coast Highway road trip with our ultimate guide!

• 80 miles / 1 hr 15 min

A drive from San Diego to Laguna Beach is a coastal escape that combines natural beauty, artistic flair, and a relaxed beach-town ambiance. The drive takes you on a scenic coastal route that unveils the beauty of Southern California’s coastline.

As you leave San Diego, the drive north offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and picturesque coastal towns along the way. When you approach Laguna Beach, you’ll be captivated by its enchanting blend of natural beauty and artistic charm.

Upon arrival in Laguna Beach, you’ll discover a vibrant seaside town known for its pristine beaches, art galleries, and laid-back atmosphere. Spend the day basking in the sun on the sandy shores, or take a leisurely stroll along the beachside boardwalk.

Explore the art galleries and boutique shops that showcase the local artistic talent, or venture into the charming village filled with cafes and unique dining experiences.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Laguna Beach offers breathtaking coastal trails and scenic coves, perfect for hiking, photography, or simply taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

60 miles / 1 hr

Travel to this charming beach town known for its excellent surfing spots, beautiful pier, Spanish-style architecture, and laid-back vibe.

A road trip to San Clemente from San Diego brings you to a charming beach town known for its fantastic surf spots and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches, take a leisurely stroll along the pier, and soak in the laid-back Southern California vibes.

With its picturesque setting, excellent surf conditions, and welcoming beach town ambiance, San Clemente offers a perfect getaway for beach lovers and those seeking a tranquil coastal escape.

• 40 miles / 45 min

Driving from San Diego to Oceanside and Carlsbad offers a delightful coastal road trip that takes you through charming beach towns and scenic coastal landscapes. As you leave San Diego, you’ll embark on a picturesque drive along the coast, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean accompanying you along the way.

Your first stop, Oceanside, welcomes you with its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant pier, and laid-back beach-town atmosphere. Continuing north, you’ll reach Carlsbad, another coastal gem known for its idyllic beaches, picturesque lagoons, and family-friendly attractions.

Explore the stunning Carlsbad State Beach , where you can soak up the sun, go for a swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Don’t miss the chance to visit LEGOLAND California, a beloved theme park that offers fun and entertainment for all ages.

In Carlsbad, you can also discover the colorful blooms at The Flower Fields during the spring season or explore the charming downtown area with its boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes.

A road trip from San Diego to Oceanside and Carlsbad is a delightful coastal adventure that showcases the beauty and allure of Southern California’s beach towns.

Embarking on a road trip from San Diego to Santa Catalina Island is a unique and enchanting adventure that takes you from the mainland to a picturesque island paradise.

Begin your journey by driving to the coastal city of Long Beach, where you’ll board a ferry or hop on a private boat to reach the captivating island. As you leave San Diego behind, you’ll be filled with anticipation for the island escape that awaits you.

Arriving at Santa Catalina Island, you’ll be mesmerized by its idyllic beauty and laid-back coastal atmosphere. Explore the charming town of Avalon, with its picturesque harbor, colorful buildings, and charming shops.

Indulge in water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy waterfront dining, or discover the island’s rich marine life on a boat tour.

Santa Catalina Island offers a tranquil retreat away from the mainland, where you can immerse yourself in the serene island vibes and create unforgettable memories in this captivating coastal paradise.

• 120 miles / 2 hrs

A visit to Los Angeles is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of entertainment, with renowned landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, and the Getty Center.

For a scenic coastal adventure, take a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to discover the enchanting beauty of Malibu Beach. Bask in the serenity of its pristine sandy shores, ride the waves, and embrace the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

In Pasadena, delve into the exquisite gardens of the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, explore the masterpieces at the Norton Simon Museum, and savor the vibrant culinary scene that complements the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Read Next: Be sure to check out this post on all the best things to do in Los Angeles .

• 134 miles / 2 hrs

Driving from San Diego to Santa Monica is a classic coastal road trip that showcases the beauty and vibrancy of Southern California’s coastline.

Leaving San Diego, you’ll embark on a scenic journey along the Pacific Coast Highway, passing through charming beach towns and enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean. The drive north offers a mix of coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and panoramic vistas that make the journey itself a visual delight.

Upon arrival in Santa Monica, you’ll be greeted by its iconic pier, sandy beaches, and bustling beachfront promenade. Take a leisurely stroll along the Santa Monica Pier, with its historic carousel and thrilling rides, or soak up the sun on the beautiful beach.

Explore the vibrant Third Street Promenade, filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers, offering a lively atmosphere and a variety of dining and entertainment options.

Don’t miss the chance to witness a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean, creating a magical ambiance that perfectly captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal charm.

A road trip from San Diego to Santa Monica is a quintessential California experience, allowing you to indulge in the laid-back beach culture and soak in the coastal beauty along the way.

Read Next: Check out this post on all the best things to do in Santa Monica .

• 20 miles / 45 min

Driving from San Diego to Tijuana, Mexico offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of our neighboring country.

As you cross the border, you’ll be greeted by the bustling streets, colorful markets, and the energetic atmosphere that defines Tijuana. The short drive from San Diego to Tijuana makes it an accessible and exciting destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

In Tijuana, explore the vibrant Avenida Revolución, known for its shops, street vendors, and lively nightlife. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine, from mouthwatering street tacos to traditional regional dishes.

Don’t miss the chance to visit cultural landmarks such as the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT), where you can explore art exhibitions and learn about the region’s history.

From shopping for local crafts and souvenirs to experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this border city, a road trip from San Diego to Tijuana provides an unforgettable cross-cultural adventure just a short drive away.

Shorter Inland Road Trips

If you’re looking for great inland trips from downtown San Diego, here are a few of the best road trips within a few short hours.

95 miles / 1.5 hrs

Driving to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park takes you on a scenic journey from San Diego into the heart of the desert, offering a captivating escape from the city. As you leave San Diego, you’ll gradually transition from the coastal landscapes to the arid beauty of the desert.

The drive takes you through stunning mountain passes and vast expanses of desert, providing a sense of serenity and a chance to immerse yourself in the unique desert environment.

Once you arrive at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of rugged canyons, colorful badlands, and blooming wildflowers in the spring. Explore the park’s extensive network of hiking trails, leading to hidden palm oases, stunning viewpoints, and intriguing rock formations.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the park’s renowned stargazing, as the clear desert skies reveal a magnificent display of stars. A road trip from San Diego to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a remarkable adventure that allows you to discover the captivating beauty and tranquility of the desert landscape.

• 140 miles / 2 hrs

From boutique shopping and art galleries in the Uptown Design District to vibrant dining options along Palm Canyon Drive, a road trip from San Diego to Palm Springs offers a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and retro allure.

The drive takes you on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of Southern California. Leaving San Diego, you’ll drive east through the picturesque mountains, offering scenic views as you gradually transition from coastal beauty to desert terrain.

As you approach Palm Springs, you’ll be welcomed by a desert oasis known for its retro charm, luxurious resorts, and world-class golf courses. Upon arrival in Palm Springs, immerse yourself in the iconic mid-century modern architecture that dots the city, showcasing its rich history.

Take advantage of the year-round sunshine by lounging by the pool or indulging in spa treatments at renowned resorts. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Joshua Tree National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the desert landscapes filled with iconic Joshua Trees and stunning rock formations.

Read Next: Check out our post on everything you need to know about visiting Palm Springs .

Heading off on a scenic drive from San Diego to Temecula Wine Country is a delightful journey that takes you through rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Just a short drive away, Temecula offers a perfect escape for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of California’s wine country.

As you make your way through the countryside, you’ll be greeted by rows of vineyards, charming wineries, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Once you arrive in Temecula Wine Country, prepare to indulge in a world of wine tasting and culinary delights. Explore the various wineries and tasting rooms , where you can sample a diverse selection of award-winning wines, from robust reds to crisp whites.

Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and savor the beauty of the wine country. With its tranquil ambiance, scenic beauty, and delectable wine offerings, a road trip from San Diego to Temecula Wine Country promises a delightful experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

120 miles / 2.5 hrs

A road trip from San Diego to the Salton Sea offers a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural wonders of this enigmatic desert lake. The Salton Sea offers a unique and captivating road trip experience through the diverse landscapes of Southern California.

As you leave San Diego, you’ll journey through scenic desert highways, witnessing the gradual transition from urban areas to the vast expanse of the desert.

As you approach the Salton Sea, you’ll be greeted by the surreal sight of the largest lake in California, nestled within the arid surroundings. Arriving at the Salton Sea, you’ll discover a destination that is both intriguing and beautiful in its own way.

Explore the shorelines and witness the contrast between the serene waters and the surrounding desert landscapes. The Salton Sea is a haven for birdwatchers, as it serves as a vital resting place for numerous migratory birds.

Take in the unique atmosphere, explore the remnants of abandoned structures along the shore, and delve into the intriguing history of this area.

60 miles / 1 hr 15 min

Driving to Julian from downtown San Diego takes you on a charming and scenic journey to a delightful mountain town known for its quaint charm and delicious apple pies. When you leave San Diego, you’ll gradually ascend into the Cuyamaca Mountains, where the landscapes transform into a lush and verdant paradise.

The drive itself is a treat, with winding mountain roads offering stunning views of forests, valleys, and distant peaks. Upon arrival in Julian, you’ll be greeted by a cozy mountain town that feels like a step back in time.

Stroll along the main street lined with historic buildings housing charming shops, boutiques, and local eateries. Indulge in a slice of Julian’s famous apple pie, made from the town’s abundant apple orchards.

Explore the surrounding nature trails, visit the nearby Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve for breathtaking vistas, or simply enjoy the serene mountain ambiance. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely day trip or a weekend escape, driving from San Diego to Julian provides a refreshing mountain getaway with a touch of nostalgia.

60 miles / 1.5 hrs

Escape the city and drive to Palomar Mountain, where you can enjoy hiking, camping, stargazing and visit the famous Palomar Observatory . Embarking on a road trip to Palomar Mountain from San Diego allows you to escape into a tranquil mountain paradise.

Explore the lush forests, hike scenic trails, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. The highlight of the journey is the renowned Palomar Observatory, where you can marvel at the impressive telescopes and gaze at the wonders of the night sky.

Located atop Palomar Mountain, the observatory boasts impressive telescopes and offers guided tours to learn about astronomical discoveries. Palomar Mountain offers a serene retreat and a chance to connect with nature and the cosmos.

110 miles / 2 hrs

Drive to the San Jacinto Mountains and explore this quaint mountain town with its charming shops, art galleries, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. A road trip to Idyllwild from San Diego takes you to a quaint mountain town nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains.

Explore the charming shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés that line the streets, offering a delightful small-town experience. With its breathtaking views, picturesque hiking trails, and serene mountain ambiance, Idyllwild is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat.

130 miles / 2.5 hrs

Whether you seek outdoor adventure or simply wish to unwind amidst nature’s beauty, Lake Arrowhead offers a serene mountain escape. Visit this picturesque mountain resort town, surrounded by forests and the stunning Lake Arrowhead, offering outdoor activities and a peaceful atmosphere.

A road trip to Lake Arrowhead from San Diego leads you to a picturesque mountain resort town surrounded by lush forests and the stunning Lake Arrowhead.

Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you take in the breathtaking views, go hiking or mountain biking along scenic trails, and indulge in water activities such as boating and fishing.

85 miles / 2 hrs

If you’re seeking outdoor adventures, serene solitude, or unique natural wonders, Borrego Springs offers a captivating desert experience that will leave you in awe.

Drive to this desert community located in the heart of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, offering stargazing, wildflower blooms, and outdoor adventures.

A road trip from San Diego introduces you to a hidden desert gem nestled within the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Marvel at the vast expanses of wild desert landscapes, witness stunning wildflower blooms in the spring and enjoy stargazing under the clear night sky.

90 miles / 2 hrs

Take a longer road trip to Baja California’s wine region, Valle de Guadalupe , where you can explore vineyards, sample local wines, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

Heading out on a road trip to Guadalupe Valley in Baja California, Mexico from San Diego unveils a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the picturesque vineyards, sample world-class wines , and indulge in exquisite culinary experiences.

With its scenic beauty, warm hospitality, and delectable wine offerings, Guadalupe Valley provides an unforgettable road trip destination that showcases the best of Mexican wine country.

The Big California National Parks

There are a handful of incredible National Parks to visit within a few hours drive from San Diego. Here are a few great options for road trips to take from San Diego.

• 160 miles / 3 hrs

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, quiet contemplation, or simply a chance to connect with nature’s wonders, a visit to Joshua Tree National Park from San Diego promises an unforgettable desert escape. The drive is an extraordinary journey into a captivating desert landscape.

Just a few hours’ drive east of San Diego, you’ll find yourself amidst the surreal beauty of this unique national park.

Explore the iconic Joshua Trees that dot the vast desert, their twisted branches creating a striking silhouette against the clear blue sky. Take in the breathtaking vistas from viewpoints like Keys View, offering panoramic views of the park and the surrounding mountains.

Hiking through the park’s diverse trails, you’ll encounter stunning rock formations, hidden oases, and vibrant wildflower blooms during the springtime. Be sure to explore the fascinating Cholla Cactus Garden and discover the intricate beauty of these spiky desert plants.

As the sun sets, Joshua Tree National Park transforms into a stargazer’s paradise, with its dark skies providing an opportunity to witness the mesmerizing celestial display above.

• 300 miles / 5 hrs

Whether you’re hiking through the vast wilderness, capturing breathtaking photographs, or simply marveling at the raw power of nature, a visit to Death Valley National Park is a humbling and extraordinary experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Visiting Death Valley National Park is an awe-inspiring journey into one of nature’s most extreme and captivating landscapes. With its vast desert expanses, towering sand dunes, and dramatic mountain ranges, Death Valley offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Explore the iconic sights like Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, where the salt flats stretch as far as the eye can see, or hike through the colorful canyons of Golden Canyon and Artist’s Palette, marveling at the stunning geological formations.

Be prepared to witness the incredible temperature variations, from the scorching heat during the day to cool nights, creating a surreal atmosphere, unlike any other place on Earth. Don’t forget to gaze at the night sky, as Death Valley is known for its exceptional stargazing opportunities due to its remote location and minimal light pollution.

Beyond its mesmerizing landscapes, Death Valley National Park also offers a fascinating history, with remnants of old mining towns and ghostly structures that provide glimpses into the area’s past. From the historic Furnace Creek Inn to the abandoned ruins of Rhyolite, exploring the park’s cultural heritage adds another layer of intrigue to the journey.

• 400 miles / 7 hrs

Driving from San Diego to Yosemite National Park is a remarkable adventure that takes you from the coastal landscapes of Southern California to the breathtaking beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Leaving behind the bustling city, you’ll journey through scenic highways, witnessing the landscape gradually shift as you approach the iconic national park.

The drive north offers stunning views, with the majestic mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop for your road trip.

Upon arrival at Yosemite National Park, you’ll be greeted by an awe-inspiring landscape of towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and lush valleys. Explore the iconic sights such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Valley, immersing yourself in the grandeur of nature’s masterpiece.

Take advantage of the park’s extensive trail system, offering opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife spotting. From the stunning vistas at Glacier Point to the tranquil beauty of Mariposa Grove, every corner of the park is a testament to the raw power and breathtaking beauty of the natural world.

A road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to witness the magnificence of one of America’s most beloved national parks.

• 350 miles – 5.5 hrs

Visiting Sequoia National Park is a humbling experience as you encounter some of the world’s largest and oldest trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree. Explore the breathtaking groves of giant sequoias, hike through lush forests, and witness the park’s stunning granite peaks.

With its majestic beauty and abundant wildlife, Sequoia National Park offers a serene escape into nature and a chance to connect with these awe-inspiring giants.

• 200 miles / 3.5 hrs

Visiting Channel Islands National Park is a unique opportunity to explore a remote and pristine coastal wilderness. Take a ferry or boat to the islands and immerse yourself in their untouched beauty, from rugged cliffs to secluded beaches.

Engage in activities like hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, while observing the diverse marine life and enjoying the tranquility of these remarkable islands.

Longer Road Trips from San Diego

If you’ve got the time and are looking to move on from San Diego, here are a few great options for longer road trips from San Diego.

• 220 miles / 3.5 hrs

Visiting Santa Barbara offers a delightful coastal escape with its beautiful beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant downtown area. Explore the charming town of Montecito, located just south of Santa Barbara, known for its upscale estates, lush gardens, and serene ambiance.

A trip to Solvang, a Danish-inspired village nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, transports you to a charming European enclave with its windmills, half-timbered buildings, and delightful bakeries, making it a unique and picturesque stop on your road trip.

Read Next: Plan your trip by reading our post on all the great things to do in Santa Barbara.

• 460 miles / 8 hrs

Visiting Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and vibrant culture. Explore the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, with its thrilling rides and lively atmosphere, or relax on the scenic beaches.

Discover the laid-back vibe of downtown Santa Cruz, filled with eclectic shops, local eateries, and a thriving arts scene, making it a delightful destination for beach lovers and those seeking a vibrant coastal experience.

Read More: Here’s our list of all of the best things to do in Santa Cruz !

• 250 miles / 8 hrs

Driving from San Diego to Saguaro National Park takes you on a scenic journey through the diverse landscapes of the American Southwest. As you leave San Diego, you’ll traverse the desert terrain of Southern California, witnessing the transition from coastal beauty to the arid landscapes of Arizona.

The drive eastward offers stunning vistas and wide-open desert expanses, immersing you in the rugged beauty of the Southwest.

Upon arrival at Saguaro National Park, you’ll be greeted by an awe-inspiring display of towering saguaro cacti, symbolizing the beauty and resilience of the desert. Explore the park’s hiking trails, which wind through saguaro-filled valleys and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Take in the serene beauty of the desert landscapes and keep an eye out for wildlife like coyotes, desert tortoises, and various bird species. The park’s unique blend of desert scenery, striking sunsets, and peaceful atmosphere provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.

• 350 miles / 5 hrs

Visiting Las Vegas from San Diego is a thrilling getaway to the vibrant and exhilarating entertainment capital of the world. Just a few hours’ drive through the scenic landscapes of Southern California and Nevada, you’ll find yourself immersed in the dazzling lights and iconic attractions of the Las Vegas Strip.

From world-class resorts and casinos to extravagant shows and gourmet dining experiences, Las Vegas offers a non-stop extravaganza of entertainment for all. Indulge in the excitement of gambling at renowned casinos, catch breathtaking performances by world-famous artists, or take a stroll through themed resorts that transport you to different parts of the world.

While the Strip is the main draw, Las Vegas also offers a diverse range of experiences beyond the casinos. Explore the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian-only promenade filled with live music, street performers, and vintage casinos.

For nature lovers, nearby attractions like the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and the Hoover Dam provide opportunities for outdoor adventures. With its unique blend of luxury, entertainment, and endless possibilities, a visit to Las Vegas from San Diego promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Las Vegas glitz and glamour.

Read Next: Plan your trip to Las Vegas with our ultimate Las Vegas itinerary !

• 500 miles / 8 hrs

Driving from San Diego to Zion National Park offers a stunning road trip that takes you through a diverse landscape of deserts, canyons, and majestic mountains. As you leave San Diego, you’ll traverse the expansive desert of southern California before reaching the dramatic red rock formations of Utah.

Along the way, you can make stops in iconic cities like Las Vegas, where you can enjoy the glitz and entertainment of the famous Strip. As you continue northward, you’ll enter the enchanting world of Zion National Park.

The park’s towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and verdant valleys create a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures. Explore the famous Zion Canyon, where you can hike the awe-inspiring trails of Angels Landing and The Narrows, or take a scenic drive through the park, marveling at the stunning vistas.

With its diverse ecosystems and natural wonders, a road trip from San Diego to Zion National Park offers a thrilling journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American Southwest.

Read Next: Consider visiting all of the Utah National Parks with our road trip itinerary.

• 600 miles / 12 hrs (via the Pacific Coast Highway)

Driving from San Diego to San Francisco is a breathtaking journey that takes you along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, offering stunning coastal views and memorable stops along the way.

As you leave San Diego, you’ll venture through charming beach towns, rugged cliffs, and picturesque seaside landscapes. The drive north treats you to incredible sights like Big Sur, where towering cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.

Continuing along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll pass through cities like Santa Barbara , with its Spanish colonial architecture, and Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its charming village atmosphere and beautiful white-sand beaches.

As you approach San Francisco, the landscape transforms into rolling hills and iconic bridges. Arriving in the “City by the Bay,” you’ll be captivated by its world-renowned landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Immerse yourself in the city’s unique culture, culinary scene, and artistic spirit. Driving from San Diego to San Francisco is an unforgettable road trip that offers a blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and urban excitement as you traverse the picturesque landscapes of California’s stunning coastline.

Read Next: Check out our ultimate guide to driving between San Diego and San Francisco.

As we conclude our journey through the top road trips from San Diego, we hope you’ve been inspired to hit the road and explore the wonders that lie just hours away from the city.

From the stunning coastal beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway to the enchanting desert landscapes of nearby national parks, there’s something for every type of traveler seeking adventure, relaxation, or a great weekend trip.

Don’t forget to venture into the vastness of big California national parks, such as Joshua Tree and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur. For those yearning for a resort destination, Palm Springs offers the perfect blend of retro charm, luxurious accommodations, and outdoor activities.

With each road trip providing its own unique experiences and sights, we hope you’ve discovered the perfect getaway that suits your travel preferences. So, fuel up, grab your camera, and embark on your next road trip adventure from San Diego. The open road awaits!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Valle de Guadalupe

Why We Love It: There’s a new crop of resorts and restaurants in Mexico’s wine country

Maybe you’ve been to Finca Altozano, Laja, and Deckman’s, and you’ve already stayed at La Villa del Valle and Encuentro. So let us introduce you to el Valle’s impressive freshman recruits. The Villas at El Cielo Winery Resort debuted in November with 95 suites and 33 villas, two restaurants, and a café adjacent to the five-year-old winery, all spanning 79 acres.

Vineyards at El Cielo Winery Resort, Valle de Guadalupe

In August, Hotel Partana opened its six-room steel-and-wood-heavy property on the same site as Finca (chef Javier Plascencia’s alfresco ode to wood-fire cooking), Lupe (his food truck serving tortas and ice cream), Animalón (his pop-up dinner series hosted beneath a 200-year-old oak tree), and Das Cortez (a trendy coffee kiosk).

This summer, look for glamping staple CuatroCuatros in nearby Ensenada to open new cabins, plus a spa and Japanese restaurant. And in the fall, the Valle Food & Wine Festival —which last year drew major chefs like Nancy Silverton and Dominique Crenn—is rumored to be returning for food, music, and oenophilic pleasures.

Just across the border in Tijuana, take in cocktails and food from the famed Tacos Kokopelli at the new Cereus Bar, located in the trendy live-work space Estacíon Federal.

Laguna Beach

Why We Love It: A new hotel is breathing fresh air into the quirky beach town

We’ve always appreciated the pristine beaches, electric sunsets, and funky art scene in Laguna Beach, but thanks to the somewhat uninspiring hotel scene, it’s usually a day trip rather than a multi-day excursion. That’s changed with Hotel Joaquin , a 22-room boutique property on the beach from the same team behind Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs. It’s understated sexy, best suited for adults and friend groups. Breakfast and gear like bodyboards and surfboards are free, and it’s a quick two-minute walk to the beach.

Hotel Joaquin

Around town, Trap Door Dining hosts seasonal pop-up dinners for 15–20 guests led by chef Kenny Seliger, who previously worked in the kitchen at Montage Laguna Beach. His next dinner takes place March 23 at Newport Beach’s Kit Coffee with a four-course meal of whipped burrata, spring peas with pork belly, and a vanilla shortcake with blueberry jelly.

Los Angeles

Why We Love It: City of Angels? Try City of Creatives.

Don’t let proximity stop you from enjoying LA’s current renaissance. Finally there’s a chic place to rest your head on the east side: The upcoming Silver Lake Pool & Inn , due next month, has a vintage California feel—wood facades, open layouts, greenery, and natural light aplenty.

Farther west, Culver City is now a destination in its own right thanks to the vibrant, two-month-old Palihotel Culver City , with 49 rooms outfitted in modern decor and art deco touches. They say nobody walks in LA, but from the Palihotel it’s no more than 20 minutes to BäcoShop for Middle Eastern eats, Destroyer for Scandinavian-style plates, and Arcana for coffee table books on fashion and photography.

Elsewhere in the city, clock in at least one meal at Fiona , the new all-day eatery near Melrose serving Asian-inspired dishes as well as can’t-miss desserts—owners Shawn Pham and Nicole Rucker previously worked at the Southeast Asian spot Simbal and carb temple Gjelina, respectively.

The Hollywood Roosevelt

Looking for a more classic stay? The Hollywood Roosevelt , site of the first Academy Awards 90 years ago, is a posh boutique option with The Spare Room , a hybrid cocktail bar and bowling alley within the hotel.

Leave the car at home!

Board the Pacific Surfliner train from downtown, Solana Beach, or Oceanside and get to LA in under 2.5 hours. You can use The Freehand as a home base—the 13-story downtown hotel has apartment-style lofts, traditional rooms, and coed or female-only shared accommodations with bunk beds, less than two miles from Union Station. And don’t miss yoga on their colorful rooftop.

^ Back to Top

Why We Love It: Post-wildfires, the ’bu needs your support

Last fall’s deadly fires wreaked havoc on the tony coastal enclave, obliterating at least 670 structures. Now it’s time to pour some money back into the community. The Surfrider Malibu  combines classic SoCal beach culture with high-end details. Beachfront rooms are decked in whites and blond woods, fitted with rain showers and outdoor terraces, and in the suites, hammocks.

The Surfrider Malibu

If you can pull yourself away from the property, the front desk can arrange “surf safaris” and hiking trips. It’s a similarly serene vibe at Nobu Ryokan . With only 16 rooms, the Japanese-style inn embraces its East Asian influences with teak soaking tubs, linen yukata robes, and tatami mats. Plus, it’s just a short walk to Nobu Malibu for their famous sushi, sashimi, and Japanese fusion dishes. To take in that fresh sea air, lace up for a hike to Mugu Peak , a five-mile trek past meadows and mountains that leads to a panoramic ocean view.

Why We Love It: The SoCal town specializes in next-level luxury

In the high-end beach community of Montecito, which counts Oprah among its residents, the weeks-old Rosewood Miramar Beach promises luxury and seclusion from the wineries, restaurants, and State Street hubbub in Santa Barbara just five miles away. The resort feels more like an estate, with 161 rooms over 16 acres, plus seven restaurants, a yacht-inspired beach bar, the farm-to-table eatery Malibu Farm , two pools, The Gatehouse (a concept store curated by James Perse), and a Goop boutique, selling Gwyneth Paltrow–approved skin care, clothing, and gifts.

Rosewood Miramar Beach

Want to really splash out? Book one of the eight seats in the restaurant-within-a-restaurant The Silver Bough at the Montecito Inn . For $550 per person (tax and gratuity included, phew!), each diner is treated to an 18-course meal with pairings—anything from bone-marrow-stuffed potato to dishes made with locally caught box crab—available Thursday through Sunday by reservation only (they’ll accommodate vegan and pescatarian menus upon request).

The Silver Bough

For a little more energy and walkability, head west to Santa Barbara for gourmet versions of Thai and Vietnamese street food at the new Tyger Tyger in the Funk Zone , a neighborhood of warehouses turned wineries and restaurants.

It’s about five hours via the Pacific Surfliner to Santa Barbara, with an ocean view most of the way. The station is conveniently located less than a mile from the Funk Zone, for wineries and restaurants and the Mediterranean-inspired Hotel California.

Joshua Tree

Why We Love It: Geek out beneath the night sky

Designated an International Dark Sky Park two years ago, Joshua Tree National Park is celebrating its fifth annual Night Sky Festival on September 21, pegged to the fall equinox. Tickets go on sale this summer for the event, which will have 20 telescopes, astronomy lectures, photo booths, music, nature walks, and crafts for kids. (The park website has some recommended night-sky etiquette, like using red flashlights instead of white.)

Find the eponymous trees in the northwestern section of Joshua Tree National Park.

When you’re not hiking, rock climbing, or observing the stars, check out the year-old boutique Shop on the Mesa , stocked with desert-chic decor, including many locally made pieces. And while options for food in town are limited to vegan eats at Natural Sisters Cafe and Pie for the People! pizza, make time for La Copine , a surprisingly polished restaurant in nearby Flamingo Heights started by a Philadelphia couple who honeymooned in Joshua Tree and fell in love with it, then took over an old diner. The menu has high-end fare like grilled flatbread with whipped ricotta and a lamb burger topped with harissa—a far cry from those campfire hot dogs.

Shop on the Mesa

Why We Love It: One tiny town packs a ton of eclectic festivals

Beyond its hippie ethos, famous “pink moment” sunsets, and the luxurious Ojai Valley Inn & Resort , the tiny town of Ojai (population 7,400) is also a hub for nearly a dozen annual festivals. Things kick off over Memorial Day Weekend with Art in the Park , a two-day celebration where nearly 100 fine artists sell their work in a show hosted by California’s oldest art nonprofit. On June 6, the 73rd annual Ojai Music Festival returns with four days of classical music at the Libbey Bowl amphitheater. This year’s event pays tribute to composers with ties to Ojai, including Igor Stravinsky. June 9 brings the Wine Festival , when more than 60 wineries and 30 breweries pour into town.

No room? No problem. Access two pools, the gym, and locker amenities with Ojai Valley Inn & Resort’s $75 day pass (ages 16 and up).

Want to enjoy Ojai Valley’s bounty? The Lavender Festival on June 29 has local farmers selling soaps, oils, and decor made from the versatile flower. And due in August and October, respectively, the Playwrights Conference gives audiences a seat to workshop performances from new writers, while the Storytelling Festival brings together storytellers from across the country to perform personal narratives, ghost stories, folktales, and more. When you need some mid-festival fuel, be sure to visit the recently reopened cafe Hip Vegan for wholesome salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and desserts.

Ojai’s “pink moment

Death Valley

Why We Love It: Views that are so out-of-this-world, they’ve stood in for Star Wars planets

It may be the “hottest, driest, lowest national park,” but you’ll forget that when you’re splashing around the spring-fed pool at the revamped Oasis at Death Valley (formerly Furnace Creek Resort), the 92-year-old resort composed of Inn at Death Valley (66 rooms plus 22 casitas) and Ranch at Death Valley (geared toward families, with 224 rooms). The property just unveiled a $100 million makeover that includes refreshed rooms, a spa, and a new restaurant and cocktail lounge, all surrounded by date palms and sweeping mountain views.

Oasis at Death Valley

You can book sunset and moonlight horseback riding excursions with Furnace Creek Stables or tee off at The Furnace Creek Golf Course . Within Death Valley National Park , see shooting locations from A New Hope and Return of the Jedi at Golden Canyon and Dante’s View terrace, or visit Badwater Basin to see otherworldly salt flats located at the lowest point in North America.

Why We Love It: The college town has grown up

Dated strip malls, fraternity life, and sugary margaritas no more—the affluent, history-rich hometown of the University of Arizona has recently gotten a fresh perspective thanks to an influx of young creatives. Shop for minimalist apparel and accessories at the MSA Annex (a collection of 13 shops housed in shipping containers), dine on Central Mexican cuisine at Penca Restaurante downtown, and grab a light meal at Exo Roast Co. , which uses local ingredients like barrel cactus jam and the cult favorite Barrio Bread. The award for most unique nightcap goes to The Owl’s Club , a hip, intimate cocktail bar located in a former funeral home.

Amid all the new and cool, there are still the staples worth visiting, like Saguaro National Park , home to 25 varieties of cacti, including the namesake, which ranks as the tallest in the country, and Sabino Canyon , with its hiking trails, freshwater pools, and mini waterfalls. The retro-cool Hotel McCoy opened last summer with a pool and local art.

Saguaro National Park

And side trip alert! It’s worth detouring two hours north to Phoenix for the all-day eatery Roland’s Cafe Market Bar , a joint venture between award-winning pizza pro Chris Bianco and the duo behind Tacos Chiwas. While there, stay at Arizona Biltmore , a favorite among US presidents that just commemorated its 90th year with a $35 million renovation. Take a happy hour history tour of the 39-acre property with your choice of two tipples—like a tequila sunrise (first created at the resort) and a Catalina Spritz (Marilyn Monroe’s favorite to sip poolside).

Eastern Sierra

Why We Love It: It’s an underappreciated playground for outdoor enthusiasts

Fancy a road trip within a road trip? Venture north near Sequoia National Park and begin your drive along the 395, a gateway to some of California’s most photogenic natural wonders. You’ll start in Lone Pine , an Old West town that’s home to the impressive rock formations of Alabama Hills , where movies like 2013’s The Lone Ranger were filmed, as well as Mount Whitney .

Iron Man, Django Unchained, and other movies have been filmed in Alabama Hills.

From there head an hour north to Bishop , known for its trout fishing and bouldering—there’s a women’s climbing event March 22–24. Great Basin Bakery is a homey, tasty option for bagels, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Making your way another hour north, bypass the tried-and-true Mammoth Lakes and opt for June Lake Loop . The landscape of the 15-mile drive looks straight out of the Swiss Alps, with plenty of cycling, fishing, and horseback riding to keep you busy. When you want to rest up, Double Eagle Resort & Spa is the winner, with comfortable cabins (pets allowed in some), a spa, and an indoor pool. If you want to trek even farther, head to Mono Lake , a serene, slightly spooky basin with boating and nature walks.

Sin City is more than just casinos, pulsating nightclubs, and restaurants that’ll shrink your wallet. Here’s a guide to the other side of Vegas—sparkly dresses and AmEx black cards not necessary.

Skip the Buffets—Dine Downtown

Located five miles from the flash of the Strip is a set of restaurants and cocktail bars that are much friendlier to your bank account. (And frankly, who needs a dozen types of pancakes before noon?) Try pies made by a 12-time pizza world champion at Pizza Rock or Asian-influenced chicken dishes at Flock & Fowl from James Beard–nominated, Joël Robuchon–trained chef Sheridan Su.

Fremont East

Forget Club Hopping—Go Cocktail Bar Hopping

Instead of succumbing to bottle service, try the numerous zero-fuss bars around town, beginning with Herbs & Rye , a locally loved steakhouse with great happy hour deals. Then head north to Frankie’s Tiki Room for potent tropical tipples. When you cross east into the Arts District, the dimly lit Velveteen Rabbit will please everyone from cheap beer drinkers to cocktail connoisseurs. Finish the night at Atomic Liquors , a staple spot known for beer cocktails.

Don’t Walk the Strip—Stroll the Museums

Vegas culture goes beyond Lady Gaga concerts and Cirque du Soleil performances. At the Neon Museum , visit the Neon Boneyard, an alfresco collection of iconic neon signs collected from casinos, restaurants, and elsewhere. This fall, director Tim Burton will bring his original fine art to the space. The Mob Museum traces the history of organized crime in Las Vegas and throughout the country with hands-on forensic exhibits, preserved artifacts, and a working speakeasy and distillery to better explain the seedy side of the Prohibition era—and serve thirsty museum-goers.

Neon Museum

Why We Love It: Newcomers are bucking the Napa traditions you used to know

You’ve ridden the wine train, dipped in the mud baths, and been denied a reservation at The French Laundry. Thanks to a crop of up-and-comers, Napa locales surrounded by old vines are finally keeping up with the times. On the northern tip of the region, Healdsburg’s Harmon Guest House , a boutique with 39 rooms, opened last fall; so did Vista Collina Resort on the southern end. The latter boasts “The Village,” a lawn next to a food and wine center with cooking classes and nine tasting rooms, where you can even support San Diegan Tim Bacino at Gen7 .

Vista Collina Resort

Indulge in buttermilk fried chicken at Yountville’s Addendum , a counter-service offshoot of Ad Hoc (itself known for chef Thomas Keller’s simple prix fixe dinner), before beginning your tasting. Robert Mondavi and Grgich Hills are a good place to start. Purchase a Wine Priority Pass online to help pare down the rest of your reservations with deals like two-for-one tastings at select wineries. Ashes & Diamonds ’ made-for-Instagram tasting room nails a midcentury-modern aesthetic as an homage to the era when wines really put the valley on the map.

And while most of wine country calls it quits around 5 p.m., there’s the updated Villagio Bar & Lounge in Yountville and Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar atop the Archer Hotel in downtown Napa, both of which stay up late for the die-hard oenophiles.

Why We Love It: It’s one of the country’s most famous R&R spots for a reason

This pine-forest oasis in the scorching Southwest is famous among New Age and alt-medicine circles for its four “vortexes,” said to be natural centers of earth energy and enlightenment. Start with a psychic reading and aura photo from Mystical Bazaar . At ChocolaTree , nourish your physical body with an organic, homemade, largely vegan menu with gluten-free and raw options. For affordable crystals and geodes, brave the tourist crowds downtown for Discount Gems & Minerals —and enjoy the public-use marimbas just outside.

Marg’s Draw makes for an easy afternoon hike; or for a steeper trek, Cathedral Rock Trail brings you to one of the fabled vortexes. Once you’ve hit peak serenity, lay your head in one of Sky Ranch Lodge Resort ’s private cabins with a back porch that opens up to stunning views of the red-rock-bluff valley.

San Francisco

Why We Love It: A new nonprofit restaurant is all the buzz

For 14 years, La Cocina has served as an incubator for food entrepreneurs in the saturated, uber-costly market of San Francisco. Their mission is to offer immigrant women and women of color affordable commercial kitchen space and technical assistance to build their businesses. So far, their efforts have helped launch several well-loved restaurants in the Bay Area: There’s the Lebanese-Syrian bakery  Reem’s California and Cambodian Nyum Bai in Oakland, Southern food translated into sandwiches at  Pinky & Red’s in Berkeley, and vegan tamales at  Alicia’s Tamales Los Mayas in Hayward.

Tilden Hotel

This summer, the incubator will debut  La Cocina Municipal Market  in San Francisco’s ever-changing Tenderloin neighborhood to showcase the many small businesses they’ve fostered. In the same neighborhood, the  Tilden Hotel ’s minimalist design and suave in-house speakeasy are a welcome respite from the city’s hubbub. Hotel Emblem  on the border between Nob Hill and Union Square just opened in January, paying tribute to the Beat Generation in decor and activities. They offer Meditation Hour every Saturday, a book butler program, and poetry slam nights, when guests are encouraged to take the stage.

Hotel Emblem

Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge, Big Sur’s crucial connection to the outside world, reopened after a mudslide closed it down for eight months in 2017. Many of the hotels—like Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Big Sur—used that time to execute multimillion-dollar renovations. (Hello, glamping tents!) To really take in the scene, sign up for the Big Sur Marathon, taking place April 28 along Highway 1. The highlight is the tuxedo-clad pianist playing on a baby grand along the Bixby Bridge.

Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge

National Treasures

There’s no time like the present to show some love for our national parks. Here are three road-trip-friendly excursions, plus one longer haul that’s worth every mile.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon celebrates its 100th year as a national park in 2019 with events all year long. Highlights include the Centennial Summerfest and Star Party June 22–29 and a music festival August 25–26. The South Rim, a little over eight hours by car, offers that classic postcard landscape, but is also notoriously crowded. Opt for the more secluded North Rim , which is open after the snow melts from May to October and boasts vibrant foliage in the fall.

Under Canvas

You can make a home away from home with Under Canvas , a company that sets up glamping tents with a shower, sink, and flush toilet from late April to mid-November just outside the park in Valle, Arizona. (Their other locations include Yellowstone, Glacier, and Zion national parks, as well as Tucson, Mount Rushmore, Moab, and the Smoky Mountains.) After the arid areas, quench your visual thirst with a two-hour trip north to Lake Powell , a reservoir in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area that straddles the Arizona-Utah border, where you can swim, kayak, and hike.

Lake Powell

Eight hours from San Diego, Yosemite is all about the granite peaks and cliffs, especially El Capitan and Half Dome , which is why it’s such a draw for rock climbers. If you’re new to the sport or need a brush-up, REI’s Kearny Mesa store is hosting a Preparing for Half Dome class on March 2 with tips on gear, routes, and training. Otherwise, Half Dome’s summit is reachable on foot—if you’ve had a couple days to adjust to the altitude and start the 17-mile hike at the crack of dawn, that is.

Yosemite National Park

For an easier trail, seeing the supersize sequoias in Mariposa Grove is a must, and the park also offers a five-hour tour bus option departing from Yosemite Valley Lodge May through September. The Majestic Yosemite Hotel , formerly the Ahwahnee, is the quintessential stay, but if you want to get a taste without the triple-digit commitment, lunch in their grand dining room will give you the flavor.

For fun and inexpensive lodging minutes outside the park, stay in a yurt (sleeps four to six) at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort , complete with bathroom, kitchen, gas grill, and even cable TV.

Zion National Park

About eight hours from San Diego, Zion was Utah’s first national park—now there are five—and it has some of the state’s most famous trails. Check out the waterfalls of Emerald Pools , and The Narrows , a gorge with walls reaching thousands of feet high that requires “hiking” through a river. Or let someone else do the trekking for you: Local operators like Zion Ponderosa offer horseback riding trips into the park.

When you want to rest those weary limbs, you can camp ( Lava Point and Watchman are popular sites) or stay at the only in-park accommodation, Zion Lodge , in a cabin, hotel room, or suite surrounded by towering trees and red rock mountains.

Redwood National & State Parks

What a trip to the Redwoods costs in 800 miles worth of gas, it makes up for with the staggering sight of the world’s largest trees. The national park, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, is unlike many others in that there’s no entrance station or fee, and portions of it overlap with the state park, for which daily use fees apply.

Redwood National & State Parks

One of the best places to see the trees is the moderately challenging 4.2-mile James Irvine Trail in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park , which ends at Fern Canyon , a lush area (albeit redwood-free) marked by a footbridge that’s open in summer months. Or hop back in the car and drive the steep 17 miles down Bald Hills Road to see old-growth redwoods, wildflowers in the spring, and if you’re lucky, Roosevelt elk.

Photography by Emily Kaszton and Jim David

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17 Amazing Road Trips That Are An Easy Drive From San Diego

We’ve been hunkered down for too long – it’s time to make some fun plans, and a road trip may be just the ticket! Lucky for us, there is no shortage of amazing road trips that are a short drive from San Diego.

So fill up your gas tank, load up your favorite playlists, grab that perfect road trip partner, and take a road trip to one of these destinations.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Andrew – The Experience Curator ⚜️ (@myinspireproject)

Travel time: 1 hour

The pie alone is worth the drive out to Julian, but when you throw in a gold mine tour, brewery visit at Julian Beer Co. , tarot readings and more, this historic mountain town is the perfect day escape.

The winding stretch of Highway 78 will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time and arriving in Julian will confirm it. This tiny town’s main road may only be four blocks long, but there’s no shortage of things to do and stores to wander in.

2. Anza-Borrego Desert and Borrego Springs

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dudley Yerby (@dudley_yerby)

Travel time: 2 hours

As the largest state park in California, there’s plenty to explore in Anza-Borrego no matter what time of year it is.

Sprinkled through the town of Borrego Springs are over 130 intricate metal sculptures of every creature you could imagine — from elephants to dragons. Each rust-colored sculpture is impressive on its own, but we recommend making a day wandering to find them all.

As an International Dark Sky Community, you’ll find no stoplights in this small town, but you will find plenty of places to stargaze when it gets dark.

3. Temecula

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Temecula (@visittemecula)

Temecula can be enjoyed with your feet on the ground or in a hot air balloon — a popular activity in this wine town.

With over 40 vineyards, there’s no shortage of wine you can sample, provided you aren’t driving. Don’t skip over Old Town or its wooden boardwalks, and for the more athletically inclined, Temecula is home to some great golf courses.

4. San Juan Capistrano

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In 1796, work began on a large stone church with the vision that it would be the most magnificent mission in all of California.

Today, Mission San Juan Capistrano is known as the “Jewel of the Missions” and the town itself is just as charming with its Spanish Architecture. Although the Great Stone Church was mostly destroyed in the great earthquake of 1812, the tour of the Mission still provides stunning garden views and a fascinating history.

Take time to explore the rest of the town — there’s even a traditional British tea house.

5. Idyllwild

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If you’re looking to unplug, this small town nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains is the place to do it. Removed from the SoCal bustle and filled with picturesque A-frame cabins, Idyllwild has over 50 trails for hikers of all different skill levels.

Spend the day among the pine trees taking in the sweet cedar smell or wander around town and check out the shops — you can even find a jerky store that sells everything from alligator to kangaroo jerky.

6. Mount Laguna

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You don’t have to get up at sunrise to take the Sunrise Highway to Mount Laguna, but you won’t be disappointed if you do. As San Diego’s only alpine forest, this is a popular area for camping and overnight adventures, but there are still plenty of day hikes available.

You’ll come across several viewpoints on your drive, our recommendation is to pull over at every single one.

7. Los Angeles

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For anyone who gets too overwhelmed by the commotion and traffic of LA, a day trip is an easy way to take in some gems of the city without too much sensory overload.

We recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid traffic and starting with brunch because what is LA without brunch? When your stomach is full, check out one of the many museums, peruse the local shops in Venice, or hike a trail in Griffith Park.

8. Joshua Tree National Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nick Keating (@nickkeating)

Travel time: 2. 5 hours

Named for the twisted, bristled Joshua trees, you can hike, rock climb, or simply drive and take in the scenery in this desert dream. At nearly 800,000 acres, this park straddles the Mojave Desert and the Colorado desert — two different landscapes and elevations, which create a unique, contrasting ecosystem.

If you’ve got time to spare, bring some blankets for when the sun goes down — Joshua Tree is perfect for stargazing.

9. Glamis and Imperial Sand Dunes

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The Imperial Sand Dunes are a whole other planet. Literally — it’s the filming location for Tatooine in Return of the Jedi. While you may not come face to face with the Sarlacc on your visit, you can rent a dune buggy, motorcycle, ATV, or even a horse to wander around these spectacular sand dunes.

10. Salvation Mountain and the Salton Sea

Travel time: 2.5-3 hours

A 28-year art installation in the making, Salvation Mountain is the creation of Leonard Knight and is now frequented by equal amounts of people and feral cats. What started as a small monument made of dirt and painted cement is now a sprawling, vibrant mountain complex complete with a yellow brick road.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bob Levesque (@salvationmountainofficial)

Nearby is Salton Sea, California’s largest lake, which was created entirely by accident. Situated 234 feet below sea level, the Salton Sea has a fascinating history and even though the white sand beach is actually dead fish bones, it’s still worth a visit — if only to see what an apocalyptic town looks like.

11. Tijuana

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Travel time: 30 minutes

Tijuana gets mixed reviews, but at There San Diego, we’re always ready to cross the border for a Tijuana adventure.

From Telefonica Gastro Park to street tacos to the plethora of mezcal tasting to Tijuana’s underrated craft beer scene, there is plenty to satisfy your taste buds. Known for their art and design, there’s no shortage of museums, galleries, and design shops to check out!

12. Ensenada

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Home of the fish taco — need we say more? Well, no, but we’re going to anyway.

This coastal city boasts plenty of delicious food to indulge in all day long. When you’ve had your fill of tacos and ceviche, relax at the beach, go sea kayaking, horseback riding, or get on one of the several outdoor excursions possible in Ensenada.

If you aren’t ready to leave after the sunset, you’re in luck — the nightlife here is not to be missed.

13. Valle De Guadalupe

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Known as the Napa Valley of Mexico, Valle de Guadalupe offers a low-key, authentic wine tasting experience. With over 100 wineries and counting, there are plenty of places to quench your thirst whether you opt for one spot or join a tour for some variety. While Valle is less commercial than its northern counterparts, the food scene is bustling — it’s not uncommon to enjoy a tasting while watching a Michelin-starred chef prepare your dinner.

14. The Central Coast!

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Travel time: 8 hours

The drive up the coast is easily one of the most beautiful drives in America. You get to witness SoCal turn into NorCal right before your eyes. We recommend making a few pit-stops along the way for views and food but even without stopping you will surely be able to capture the beauty of the central coast. Monterey is the top of the central coast and a must-visit when in the area, and they have great events planned for the summer !.

15. Yosemite

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If you live in California and haven’t been to Yosemite yet, a road trip is the best way to visit this popular national park. Take the coast for an even more exciting trip — it will take a few extra hours but the views and attractions are worth it. On the way you won’t want to miss these beautiful cities: Santa Barbara, Lompoc, and once you make it to Yosemite, you have even more ground to explore and make unforgettable memories in one of California’s most beautiful national parks.

16. Mammoth

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mammoth Lakes, California (@visitmammoth)

Travel time: 7 hours

If you live in SoCal, a trip to Mammoth is a typical winter getaway but what most people don’t realize is just how beautiful Mammoth is all year round. If you love spending time in the outdoors, you will love this little town because they have so much to offer no matter the season. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and all the outdoor activities available during the summertime. You can camp or find an Airbnb in the heart of Mammoth close to shops and restaurants. Plan to spend a day taking in the beautiful lakes. Whether you decide to spend the day hiking or you prefer a day lounging on a boat, Mammoth offers something for your entire crew!

17. Vegas baby!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Las Vegas (@vegas)

Travel time: 6 hours

Ditch the flight and experience the desert drive to Sin City. Make sure your AC is cranked up and plan your route beforehand. If you don’t mind the extra hour, add Joshua Tree to your route for beautiful desert landscapes and see the unique Joshua trees.  Once you arrive, drop your bags in your hotel room and make your way to the casino before you head to the pool for some well-deserved R&R.

See you out there, San Diego!

There San Diego

San Diego Road Trip: 3 Days of Phenomenal San Diego Itinerary

America’s Finest City, San Diego is famous for its year-long perfect sunny weather, pristine beaches, and naval bases. Located near the Mexican border and along the Pacific Ocean coast, this city has six long beaches perfect for a variety of activities including water sports such as kayaking, surfing, and sailing. When I think of a San Diego vacation, my mind fills with the color blue from the famous Bio-luminescence effect which turns the ocean tides blue at night. This is caused by micro-organisms found in the sea, which keeps the water red during the day and glows blue at night, and San Diego is one of the top locations to see Bioluminescence .  Many people talk about how swimming in this water is a magical experience, and I had always wanted to see this one day.

We arrived in San Diego from Los Angeles taking the California Amtrak, which was an exciting journey with great views throughout. During our visit, we explored the San Diego parks, coves, beaches, kayaking, and had a relaxing time with good food and the San Diego tourism vibes. Though we did not see the Bio-luminescence effect, my memory of San Diego remains very blue from the blue water, skies, and reflective skyscrapers I saw throughout my stay.

Top Things To Do During A San Diego Road Trip: Itinerary

La jolla cove, windansea beach, old point loma, old town san diego, live music joint in fifth avenue, coronado ferry landing, kayaking in coronado, leaving san diego and the usa, pin the san diego road trip for planning your trip.

San Diego is a destination for both tourists and locals alike, with some of the top things to do in California rightly available here. Visitors to San Diego will be able to take part in all sorts of activities that they would not likely find anywhere else- from world-famous zoos and aquariums, stunning beaches with some of the best surfing waves on Earth. Here are five top things visitors should do when visiting San Diego:

• La Jolla Cave
• Fifth Avenue

We visited La Jolla Cove on the first day after we freshened up and grabbed some lunch. La Jolla is a posh neighborhood with a very long beach famous for breath-taking sunset views and is a real tourism gem in the United States. It was so relaxing for us to walk around the beach enjoying the weather, especially after my long and hectic week of being on the road.  Considering the beauty of La Jolla, it is no surprise that it is one the top of Trip Advisor’s San Diego Itinerary recommendation lists.

The beach features majestic sea lions along with sea birds. I saw sea lions for the first time here, and they looked as relaxed as if they had just finished a feast and were sleeping it off on the rocks. Their roar sound is special and echoes on the beach.

We spent the entire evening here waiting for the sunset, watching folks enjoying kayaking and surfing as well as the sea lions.

Typically, while we were eagerly waiting for the sunset, clouds came from nowhere and filled the sky. This did not meet my expectations during my trip to San Diego but still was a nice treat for the eyes. Sunset is still a sunset (: wink 🙂

After watching the sunset, we left to meet my friends Surabhi and Aneesh for dinner. They were both my classmates during my undergraduate degree in India. I don’t recall the name of the restaurant but I do remember sharing their famous Mango Margarita on Surabhi’s recommendation and that it was situated in the old town.

We started the day by heading to the University of California, San Diego, where my friend Divya studied. I met her during an internship in 2013 and we had not seen each other for 5 years. She was aware of my San Diego vacation, so Divya joined us for this day and we started off by treating ourselves to a giant American Breakfast with pancakes, fruit, omelets, and french toast.

We first went to the Windansea beach near La Jolla and had a short walk along the shore, which was very quiet and calm.

We then headed to the Point Loma peninsula which has a park that features a lighthouse. We first saw the lighthouse and I found it interesting to see the mock-up of the old facilities arranged for sea travelers. The southern tip of Point Loma has the Cabrillo National monument, which is a spectacular view of the sea and also for the San Diego naval base.

Old Point Loma offers a cliff-top view of the sea and the heavy naval traffic. There is a big USA flag flying here and the brisk sea wind provided a very invigorating stroll.

While we were watching the sea and naval activities, we spotted a submarine approaching in the distance. This was an exciting experience as I had never seen a submarine before. We stayed a very long time watching it very closely. We even saw a whale-watching cruise ship.

After spending some more time here chit-chatting and taking pictures, we reached another cove in Point Loma Park, as part of our San Diego Road Trip.

We drove to the Old Town San Diego to spend our late afternoon there. The old town is a fantastic area for great Mexican food, music, and cute shops. It is worth paying a visit to see the charming specialty shops and enjoy the outdoor vibe at its cafes and restaurants.

After we finished eating here, we wandered around looking at the cute shops before leaving to spend the night in the city.

We spent the night on Fifth Avenue which has some really cool places for a night hang out. The famous Tiny Roof pub hosts ‘A Live Music Joint’ with some really cool live music performances that reminded me of a few English pubs. I really enjoyed my time here and was envious of my friends who live in this city.

Around midnight we called it a day as Andriani and I had to check out of the Airbnb early the next day as it was our last day and we had a booking for Kayaking at Coronado.

Coronado Island is a pretty amazing location which is a must-visit in San Diego, filled with many specialty shops, water sports activities, and restaurants. It has a backdrop of a spectacular view of the sea, the harbor, and the skyscrapers of San Diego. Coronado Island and San Diego city are connected by a bridge that is 200 feet high allowing for even large aircraft carriers to pass underneath. So, I started filling in my Coronado activities list and was so excited.

While we were walking around, we met with a group of girls who were singing and dancing. I approached them and requested to dance with them, much to the embarrassment of Andriani, and they were kind to agree. I at least thought those girls were really cool and definitely enjoyed the experience of joining them to dance.

We went to the tour company we booked Kayaking with. It was our first time and we were assigned a guide to instruct us. We started with our full energy chanting “Left”,  “Right” to helps us row the kayak in the right order, while listening to the guide explain the history of Coronado and San Diego. Things got real when we were in the middle of the sea, far away from Coronado beach. There were fierce waves demanding a heavy workout to come back. Our guide was a young guy who had traveled a lot in South America and shared his travel stories with us throughout our venture, which was very entertaining.

Once we made it back, we spend the rest of our time in Coronado visiting shops in the city and having a delicious Greek lunch in a cute downtown restaurant. Andriani, who has a Greek origin, did not approve of the Moussaka we ate, but I thought it was good 😉 Not a bad ending for our San Diego vacation. San Diego is perfect for a weekend getaway as well with many fun things to do such as camping at the beach.

A Silly Weed Giveaway Adventure

While we were chilling and we had just a few hours before we flew back to the UK, Andriani remembered that we were still carrying the weed we bought in Los Angeles ( Blog story here ). As we couldn’t fly with it, the obvious answer was to throw it in the bin. However, as we know weed is very precious for some people, it felt wasteful to throw it away (says someone who is constantly scolded for wasting food as I can never finish my meal), we came up with this brilliant idea of gifting it to our kayaking guide.

We went back to the shop and asked to speak with our guide who was away but was called upon our request. When he came, we proceeded to have the most awkward conversation ever. We asked him if he smoked to which he hesitantly responded yes and naturally asked why. We told him we had some weed but we couldn’t fly with it and wanted to give it to someone.  He blushed and agreed to take it but first I demanded that he show me his ID so that I could verify his age. He went back to the shop to find his ID, while Andriani tried to contain her laughter. At this point, we also had other shopkeepers from the nearby shops getting curious about our conversation watching us. When he returned, I verified his ID and handed over the goods. He was also laughing and stated it was one of the most awkward encounters he ever had too. Oh well, we hope he had a good time with it 😉

It was time for us to leave and end our amazing San Diego vacation and while driving to the airport, we captured the massive blue bridge that connects the city with Coronado.

The San Diego vibe was so good and it was the perfect end to my ten-day-long road trip. With the fine weather, amazing food, and ultimate beach experience, San Diego definitely qualifies to be “America’s Finest City”.

Other USA South West Road Trips

• USA South West Road Trip from Arizona to California covers the itinerary of a two week road trip in South West, USA.
• The Arizona Road Trip from Phoenix to Sedona & Grand Canyon covers the major attractions in Arizona around Sedona and Grand Canyon.
• The Nevada Road Trip to Las Vegas and Hoover Dam covers the most scenic routes in Nevada apart from Las Vegas.
• Los Angeles Road Trip part covers the journey from Las Vegas to Los Angeles vacation and its main attractions.
• San Diego Road Trip blog covers our adventures in San Diego for three days. 

Jumana is a travel writer and technologist living in the United Kingdom, born and brought up in India. While she is busy with her full time job as a computer technologist, she is an active explorer during her spare time. She has been exploring states of India since she was 15 and then around the world since she moved to the west in her 20s. Her favourite travel style is “On the Road” and she has perfected the art of road trip planning, covering multiple famous and undiscovered routes around Europe, UK and USA. She is on a mission to road trip the planet and learn more about the cultures around the world.

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12 comments

San Diego is one of those places I haven’t been to but know I would love…enjoyed reading your story!

It was my most relaxing vacation in America, I wish to live in San Diego one day.

I loved reading of your adventure in San Diego. Since I was born and raised here and take vacations to other locations, I enjoy hearing why people come here. Your colorful description and sincere pleasure for the time here made your article engaging. A nice reminder to have more of a “stay-cation” and enjoy the beauty around me.

So excited to read more of your work and see where your journey takes you. And perhaps I’ll visit a few of your locations that you share. Stay well.

Just an FYI…Your pic entitled “Discovered another point here: Point Loma Park, on our San Diego Road Trip!” Is actually east/north of La Jolla Cove…its Jim’s Cave. You can access a hand dug staircase from inside the LaJolla Cave Shop…pretty cool stop anyway.

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An Epic Yosemite from San Diego Road Trip

Looking to tackle a Yosemite from San Diego road trip? Perfect, I’ve got you covered.

I’ve been living in Southern California for about 15 years and have been to Yosemite many times. In fact, it’s my favorite destination in the state. If you’ve never been, you’re in for quite the surprise.

If you’re going to be driving to Yosemite from San Diego, you’ll want to break that drive up a bit to make things more interesting. You’re in luck though, because there’s tons of cool stuff to see along the way.

Let me show you what I mean.

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Table of Contents

San Diego to Yosemite Road Trip

Before we get to my itinerary, I just want to explain how I’m writing this post.

If you’re going to be driving from San Diego to Yosemite, then back again, it would be a lot more fun if you took a different route on the way back.

So I’m just going to assume you’re down for a good time, and I’m going to assemble this itinerary exactly how I would do it.

If you’re short on time or a particular stop doesn’t interest you, no problem. Just skip what you don’t like. This is your road trip, make it your own.

How long is the drive from San Diego to Yosemite?

The drive from San Diego to Yosemite is 7 hours. This is if you make the drive straight without stopping along the way.

However, if you’re already down for the adventure of a Yosemite National Park visit, you might as well make a fun road trip out of it.

I recommend completing this San Diego to Yosemite road trip in anywhere from four to seven days, depending on how long you plan to spend in the park.

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Stop 1: San Diego

So we’re starting off this Yosemite from San Diego road trip in none other than, sunny San Diego.

Having lived in Los Angeles for the past 15 years, I’ve grown to love frequent weekend trips down to San Diego.

If this will be your first time in San Diego, I recommend exploring any and all of the following destinations:

• The Gaslamp
• Barrio Logan
• Balboa Park

I could go on listing a hundred other things, but I think that list is a good start. My personal favorite is Old Town. I love to walk around the park in the evening and stop by the Whaley House and El Campo Santo Cemetery (they are both haunted!).

Then afterwards I like to go to dinner at Casa de Reyes. They have live music and an outdoor patio. It’s a really fun spot to be on the weekends.

Stop 2: Los Angeles

As I mentioned above, I’ve lived in Los Angeles for 15 years. I’ll be the first to admit, LA is a love it or hate it kind of town.

If you’ve never been to Los Angeles before, I recommend sticking to the classics. Here are my suggestions on what is worth seeing:

• Santa Monica Pier
• Sunset Strip (for cocktails)
• The Griffith Observatory
• Downtown Arts District

Those are my personal favorite spots in LA. If you’ve got just one night in Los Angeles, I would stay near the beaches and explore that side of town first.

Step 3: Sequoia National Park

If you’ve never been before, Sequoia National Park makes a perfect side trip on your way to Yosemite.

Sequoia’s biggest attraction is its General Sherman Tree, which is reported to be the largest living single stem tree on Earth. The General Sherman Tree is estimated to be over 52,000 cubic feet by volume and between 2,300 to 2,700 years old.

Getting a picture with the tree is a popular idea, so there’s usually a line for pictures. During my visit in 2017, the line was only about a 10 to 15 minute wait.

Besides the big tree, Sequoia is also a popular park for hiking. You’ll find hundreds of miles of trails around the park.

Sequoia is also right next to Kings Canyon National Park, so you can actually explore both parts simultaneously.

More information on the Sequoia hiking trails can be found on the park’s website.

Stop 4: Yosemite National Park

Like I said in the beginning, if you’ve never been to Yosemite before, you’re in for a beautiful surprise.

Yosemite is home to some of the most stunning landscape in the United States. You’ll get to see massive rock formations, waterfalls, and tons of wildlife.

As you enter the park, be sure to make a quick stop at the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias before heading towards Yosemite Valley. This is where you’ll see all the giant trees. They’re quite impressive to see in person and worth the extra stop.

After you’ve seen all the big trees you can handle, hop back into the car and head towards the Tunnel View Lookout. This is a perfect place to get photos so take your time and enjoy the view.

Once you find yourself into Yosemite Valley, get checked into your lodging before heading back out to explore the park. (Information on Yosemite hotels and lodging is located at the bottom of this post.)

Once you’re ready to get back to exploring, here are my favorite things to do in Yosemite:

• Swimming or tubing in the Merced River
• Taking a valley tour to Bridalveil Falls, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan
• Hiking the Mist Trail
• Hiking out to Mirror Lake
• Catching a Tunnel View sunrise
• Stargazing on a clear night
• Take Glacier Point Road up to Glacier Point

If you’re the kind of person who likes to do it all in one trip, you can see the majority of these places by completing my Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary. That post also features some extra tips for visiting the park.

No matter what you decide to do during your visit to Yosemite, I hope you enjoy this park as much as I do. I also hope you’ll decide to come back again one day to see some more. I promise, it never gets old.

Stop 5: San Francisco

Having lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for about five years during my college years, this town will always have a special place in my heart. In fact, if I could afford it, I’d probably live here.

But, if you’re just stopping by, you’ve got plenty of options. If you’re planning to spend the night in the city, then I recommend picking a fun neighborhood to stay in and explore, like the Mission or North Beach.

If you’re just stopping by for the day, pick one place you’ve never seen before (Golden Gate Bridge, Haigh-Ashbury, Golden Gate Park, etc.), then find a fun spot for lunch nearby.

There’s plenty of great food in San Francisco, so it won’t be hard to find.

Stop 6: Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is best known for its hippie vibe and famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I have yet to experience the boardwalk but hear its a fun place.

Santa Cruz is also a popular college town, so its got plenty of spots to keep you entertained in the evenings. Head to the city’s downtown area for record shops, thrift stores, local concert venues, and bars.

Stop 7: Monterey

Monterey is a beautiful beach side town known for its Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium .

If you have an hour or two to spare, you really should go inside the aquarium. It’s one of the best in the world. Plus, they have penguins. Lots of penguins.

Besides the aquarium and beaches, Monterey is also home to tons of great restaurants and wineries. If you like upscale Italian, I recommend Mezzaluna Pasteria and Mozzarella Bar.

Stop 8: Big Sur

In my opinion, Big Sur is home to the most beautiful stretch of coastline on the planet. It’s gorgeous.

As you’re driving south on the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll see dozens of turnouts on the side of the road. Take advantage of these and admire the views.

Some of the biggest attractions in Big Sur are Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park and Bixby Creek Bridge (pictured above). If you don’t have time for the park, at least stop for a photo and to admire the view at the Bixby Bridge.

9. San Simeon

San Simeon is home to the Elephant Seal Lookout and is an easy and fun stop on your Yosemite from San Diego road trip.

This is one of my own favorite stops since I’m such an animal lover.

There is a huge parking lot so you’ll have plenty of space for parking. Once you park your car walk over to the lookout (to the left when facing the ocean).

If you walk all the way to the end of the boardwalk, you’ll usually find a dozen or so Elephant Seals laying around in the sand.

Actually, you’ll usually hear them before you see them. Elephant Seals are loud.

If you stick around for a while, you might even get to see them fighting. This is a common and natural behavior of Elephant Seals, and it’s pretty cool to watch. This occurs mostly from November to January during mating season (go figure!).

10. Solvang

I recommend Solvang as the last stop on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip because it’s quirky, and a bit more interesting than having you stop at yet another beach.

Solvang is a Danish inpired town with Danish style architecture, shops, and restaurants.

Solvang makes an excellent late afternoon stop. I recommend walking around in the city center to check out the local shops and candy stores.

If you’re hungry, pop into one of the local Danish restaurants. For a quick, yet delicious option, I recommend Copenhagen Sausage Garden .

Solvang is also a popular location for wineries and tasting rooms. After lunch, head to one of the local winery tasting rooms and sample a flight. If you like what you find, pick up a bottle to bring back with you to San Diego.

Where to stay on your San Diego to Yosemite Road Trip

I’m including my personal recommendations for hotels in each destination as you make your way to Yosemite from San Diego.

These hotel recommendations are based on price, quality, and location. I try to book the nicest hotel I can find that’s as close to the action as I can afford.

Here’s my list:

Hotel in San Diego

• Hotel Indigo : This is a cute pet-friendly hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter. You’ll be in the center of the city and walking distance to great bars and restaurants.

Hotel in Los Angeles

• The Standard : This is a quirky hotel located on the Sunset Strip. This hotel is a total scene in and of itself, and you’ll be walking distance to all the best bars and restaurants.

Hotel near Sequoia/Fresno

If you’re going to visit Sequoia before Yosemite, I recommend driving back to Fresno for the night.

This way in the morning you can stock up on supplies and snacks before making the drive to the park’s south entrance.

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott : This hotel is right off the 41, which is the highway you’ll take up to Yosemite. It’s nice enough and you can collect Marriott points if you’re into that sort of thing like I am.

Hotels in Yosemite

I’ll be honest, lodging in Yosemite is very expensive.

If you’re not rich, stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge for about $250 per night. If you’re rich, stay at the Ahwahnee for about $500 per night.

I stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. It’s much nicer than you’d think, though still kind of expensive.

Hotels in San Francisco

If Yosemite wasn’t expensive enough for you, then you’re really going to love the hotel prices of San Francisco. While ridiculously expensive, there are still deals to be had.

For San Francisco, I recommend doing a hotel search in the San Francisco nighborhood you want to spend the most time in. Then pick the nicest hotel with the best deal.

Travel Tip: Since you’re doing a road trip and you will have a car on you, beware of the VERY HIGH prices San Francisco hotels charge for overnight parking. I’ve seen prices as high as $85 a night just for parking.

To save money, park in a local lot outside of the hotel instead. It’s worth the short walk, trust me.

Hotel in Santa Cruz

• Hyatt Place Santa Cruz: This hotel is affordable, located in the city center, and just a 15 minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk .

Hotels in Big Sur

The hotels and lodging options in Big Sur are a bit more rustic. But I recommend either Big Sur River Inn (the affordable option) or Ventana Big Sur (the not so affordable option).

Hotel in Solvang

In Solvang, I would look for a cute, yet affordable option near the city center. Since I typically visit Solvang just as a day trip I have not stayed overnight there. But if I were planning on staying overnight, I would likely stay at the Wine Valley Inn .

I hope you enjoyed this San Diego to Yosemite road trip and that I’ve inspired you to plan a trip of your own. If you’d like to support this blog please consider sharing this post. Thanks so much for reading.

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10 Best Road Trips from San Diego (with maps & tips)

Known for its beautiful weather, delicious cuisine, and laid-back culture, San Diego is one of the most popular destinations not only in California but the USA. There are numerous museums and monuments for you to visit during your stay, helping to ensure that you’ll never run out of things to see or do. However, during your stay in the city, you may decide that you would like to branch out and see some other destinations that are within driving distance. San Diego is a great starting point for many road trips, no matter where you plan on going. If you would like to have a trip that you’ll never forget, check out our list of the 10 best road trips from San Diego.

Book San Diego Car Rental

• Joshua Tree National Park
• Los Angeles
• Solvang, CA
• Phoenix, AZ
• San Luis Obispo, CA
• Zion National Park
• Sequoia National Park
• San Francisco

1. Joshua Tree National Park

A protected area in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its rugged rock formations, cacti and desert landscapes. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, it’s the perfect destination for a road trip, as it is filled with different trails to choose from.

SIXT Pro Tip:

While Joshua Tree National Park is typically open year-round, it is usually best to visit between the months of March-May and October-November, as this is when the temperatures are the most reasonable.

SIXT Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 165 miles; a 3-hour drive

TOLLS: This route typically does not have any tolls.

2. Los Angeles

Your time in California wouldn’t be complete without visiting Los Angeles , often referred to as the City of Angels. Whether you’re exploring Hollywood, hanging out in Venice Beach or going to one of the world-famous theme parks just outside the city, you’re sure to have a blast.

Los Angeles is known for having heavy traffic, so to prevent yourself from being caught in any congestion, try to avoid driving during peak hours, which are typically between 7 and 10 am and 4 and 7 pm.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 120 miles; a 2-hour 10-minute drive

3. Ojai, CA

A popular destination that is known for charming boutique hotels, recreational activities, including hiking, and local organic agriculture, Ojai is truly a city that has something for every type of traveler. It also has a variety of meditation retreats and spas, making it the perfect getaway if you want to get some rest and relaxation.

During your stay in the city, make sure to enjoy Ojai’s “pink moment”, which typically occurs for several minutes before sunset, and is when the Topa Mountains are washed with a scenic rosy glow.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 206 miles; a 3-hour 45-minute drive

4. Solvang, CA

A quaint city famous for being the Golden State’s historic Danish town, Solvang dates all the way to the early 1990s and has a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great place to walk around and enjoy the traditional Danish architecture, and you can also visit some of the many bakeries, museums and wine-tasting rooms.

Solvang is known for having over 150 different unique boutiques that are great places to do some shopping, whether it be for souvenirs for loved ones or simply because you would like to treat yourself to something nice.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 250 miles; a 4-hour 15-minute drive

5. Las Vegas

Who wouldn’t want to take a quick road trip to Sin City? Once here, you can spend your time enjoying the nightlife, testing your luck at a casino or two and seeing some of the best entertainment and shows in the world. Plus, driving to Las Vegas will allow you to see beyond the state of California and enjoy a new destination: Nevada.

As Las Vegas is in the desert, the sun can often be quite harsh. No matter what time of the year that you’ll be visiting, make sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat along with you, in order to avoid being burned.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 335 miles; a 5-hour 15-minute drive

6. Phoenix, AZ

With its year-round sunshine, it is no wonder that Phoenix is often nicknamed the Valley of the Sun. This city is a unique mixture of modern architecture, historical sites, cacti and sandstone, making it a particularly interesting place to visit and explore.

You may want to visit the Grand Canyon during your trip to Phoenix, as it is only a few hours away by car. However, keep in mind that this visit often needs to be planned months in advance, as tickets for certain parts of the park can be limited and in high demand.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 355 miles; a 5-hour 25-minute drive

7. San Luis Obispo, CA

With its historic Spanish mission, lively city center, art galleries and craft beer tasting venues, San Luis Obispo is a fun town that is certain to keep you busy. It’s considered to be the “happiest place in America”, making it no secret why visitors flock here.

Make sure to dedicate a few hours to visit Hearst Castle in San Simeon, an impressive mansion that receives over 1 million visitors each year and that is located on a hill, providing beautiful views of the surrounding region.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 315 miles; a 5-hour 15-minute drive

8. Zion National Park

Whether you would like to go on a hike or embark on a scenic drive, Zion National Park is worth the trip. The steep red cliffs are certainly a sight to behold, and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can always go on a guided horseback riding activity.

To help ensure that you are visiting during a time that has the best weather possible, head to the park in either late spring or early fall, as you can avoid both the extreme heat and cold, while still enjoying the area’s plants and wildlife.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 490 miles; a 7-hour 35-minute drive

9. Sequoia National Park

Seeing the massive, impressive trees in Sequoia National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you certainly will not want to miss out on. For a particularly scenic activity, head to the underground Crystal Cave, which has a few streams and striking rock formations.

There are several camping areas located in and around Sequoia National Park, which can be a good option for those that would like to visit the park for a few days. Make sure to book your camping spot in advance, however, as places can fill up quickly.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 330 miles; a 5-hour 35-minute drive

10. San Francisco

The Golden State City has everything you could ask for, including diverse cuisine options, fun music venues, famous landmarks and steep hills that provide visitors with beautiful views.

San Francisco often has chilly weather, so make sure to pack several layers of clothing, no matter what time of the year you will be visiting.

DISTANCE FROM SAN DIEGO: 408 miles; an 8-hour drive

TOLLS: You will likely encounter tolls in the San Francisco area, like on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge on I-80 W.

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San Diego's 59-Mile Scenic Drive

A truly beautiful way to spend a day.

Encompassing a good portion of the city's most outstanding attractions, taking San Diego's 59-mile scenic drive is a beautiful way to spend a day.

Hit the Road and Take in the Sights

San Diego's 59-mile scenic drive loops its way through the city's charming neighborhoods and reveals our unique attractions and natural wonders. Enjoy sweeping, panoramic views of the coastline, the shimmering yacht-dotted bay, downtown's skyline, Mexico and the surrounding mountains along the way. If you want to cover the entire trip in one adventure, carve out at least three hours, but we suggest doing parts of the tour on different days, so you can relax and make leisurely stops at various destinations. Blue and yellow signs bearing a white seagull mark the drive every quarter mile, but please note, some of the seagull signs may be missing or turned, so please follow the directions as they are written below. Enjoy the ride!

1. Embarcadero / Downtown

Get your bearings, maps, brochures and Visitor Guides at the San Diego Visitor Information Center , operated by Old Town Trolley Tours. Located at 996 North Harbor Drive (south of the Broadway Pier). Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving Day. Call 619-236-1242 for recorded information or to leave a voice message.

The start of your scenic drive celebrates San Diego as a seaport city as our massive bay is filled with aircraft carriers, cruise ships, historic sailboats and private yachts. Head north on Harbor Drive, past the Broadway Pier , where you can catch a ferry across to Coronado or explore the bay on a harbor excursion. Next is the Cruise Ship Terminal, where some of the world's finest ships call on San Diego. Further along the Embarcadero , the tall masts of beautiful historic ships designate Maritime Museum of San Diego , one of the world's top collections that includes the ferryboat Berkeley, built in 1898; the luxury yacht Medea, built in Scotland; the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, built in 1863, which has circled the globe 27 times; and, when she's in port, the San Salvador, a replica of explorer Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo's 1542 flagship that discovered San Diego Bay.

Across the street, kids will love the County Administration Center Waterfront Park, especially for cooling off on warm days under the arcing water jets and in the splash pond. The sprawling 12-acre grassy park is perfect for picnics and playtime as it hosts a creative playground with slides, climbing walls and modern recreational features for bayfront fun.

2. Harbor Island

From here, continue north along the harbor on Harbor Drive toward the San Diego International Airport , also known as Lindbergh Field, (named after Charles Lindbergh, whose famous flight began in San Diego). Take the exit marked "Harbor Island" and do a loop of the island, which affords spectacular views of San Diego Bay , Point Loma , the Coronado Bridge and Downtown .

3. Spanish Landing & Shelter Island

Return to Harbor Drive, bear left, and continue driving west along Harbor Drive past Spanish Landing Park, a nice spot for biking or a picnic. Ahead at Scott Street make a left, followed by another left onto Shelter Island Drive . Most of San Diego's sport fishing fleet is docked in this area. Take a loop around Shelter Island , home to hotels, restaurants and marinas. On the tip of the island you will find the "Yokohama Friendship Bell," representing Yokohama, Japan, one of San Diego's sister cities.

4. Point Loma

From Shelter Island Drive make a left turn back on Scott Street, then a right turn at Talbot Street and head up the hill. Turn left onto Canon Street, and then make a left at Catalina Boulevard , where the road eventually turns into Cabrillo Memorial Drive . The peninsula is home to a seaside residential community, military bases and a national cemetery. Striations of white gravestones of the Fort Rosecrans Cemetery line both sides of the street as you head out to the tip of Point Loma .

5. Cabrillo National Monument

Continue driving to the Cabrillo National Monument , named for Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. On September 28, 1542, he sailed into what is now known as San Diego Bay . Historians believe he docked on Point Loma's east shore, the first landing by a European in present-day California. Point Loma has been described as "where California began." The Old Point Loma Lighthouse began operating here in 1855; though it's no longer in use, it is open for viewing. (In 1891, another lighthouse was built at sea level and still operates today.) The tip of Point Loma is the most southwestern point of the continental U.S., and an excellent perch to watch the gray whales migrate south to Mexico during the winter months. You can also visit the tide pools, join in a ranger walk, explore the museum and drink in the panoramic views of the harbor, city and Mexico.

6. Ocean Beach

Return to Cabrillo Memorial Drive whose name eventually changes to Catalina Boulevard . Continue along Catalina and turn left at Hill Street . Follow Hill and then turn right at Cordova Street , which becomes Sunset Cliffs Boulevard . As you continue along Sunset Cliffs, you will enter the bohemian seaside community of Ocean Beach . Take a short side trip to the Ocean Beach Municipal Fishing Pier by making a left turn onto Newport Avenue . The pier is an excellent spot for fishing , bird watching or seeing surfers ride the waves . Stroll along Newport Avenue for  shopping or a bite to eat.

7. Mission Bay Aquatic Park

Return to and continue driving along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard for a visit to Mission Bay Aquatic Park , a 4600-acre aquatic playground with 27 miles of beaches. To reach the park area, follow Sunset Cliffs Boulevard to West Mission Bay Drive . Follow signs to West Mission Bay Drive ; it turns into Ingraham Street . You'll see the exit for SeaWorld San Diego here. Continue driving North on Ingraham Street , across two bridges. At the second bridge, which crosses over Fisherman's Channel, turn right onto Crown Point Drive . From here you can see wind surfers and catamarans zipping across the water. To explore the area further, take a walk or bike ride on the pathway around the bay, or glide across the water on a kayak or stand up paddleboard.

8. Soledad Mountain

Follow Crown Point Drive and turn left at Lamont Street , which traverses the residential areas of Crown Point and Pacific Beach. At the intersection of Beryl Street , the name will change to Soledad Road . Drive up the hill past Kate Sessions Park (which has a nice playground) and turn left onto Soledad Mountain Road . Travel .8 miles and turn right onto La Jolla Scenic Drive that weaves through one of the exclusive residential areas of La Jolla . Look for the turnoff to Mount Soledad Park . Climb up the Veterans Memorial to the Cross for one of San Diego's most soul-stirring views. From this lookout point, you can see San Diego County for miles in every direction. If timed right, it's a wonderful spot to watch the sun sink into the Pacific.

9. University of California, San Diego Campus

As you leave the park turn right on Via Capri , drive down the hill, and turn left on Hidden Valley Road . This hillside residential area of La Jolla offers spectacular ocean views. At La Jolla Parkway , go through the intersection and follow the signs to Torrey Pines Road . Follow it up the hill and through the canyon and then left on North Torrey Pines Road . On the right is the beautiful UCSD Campus , known for its spectacular architecture, several Nobel Prize-winning faculty members and contemporary art installations .

10. Birch Aquarium at Scripps and Salk Institute

While you are in the UCSD area, you can take two short side trips from the marked route. To visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps , turn left from North Torrey Pines Road onto Expedition Way and follow signs to the aquarium, home to marvelous kelp tanks, Pacific Ocean marine life habitats, sea dragons and more. When you leave the aquarium parking lot, turn left onto North Torrey Pines Road . Then continue north along North Torrey Pines Road , past the Salk Institute for Biological Studies , named after Dr. Jonas Salk, who developed the polio vaccine. Just beyond the institute is the Torrey Pines Glider Port (off Torrey Pines Scenic Drive) where hang gliders soar along the jagged cliffs and sea. When leaving, make a U-TURN and then turn right on North Torrey Pines Road and head south, down the hill, along La Jolla Shores Drive .

11. La Jolla Cove Park & La Jolla Cave

Continue along La Jolla Shores Drive and turn right onto Torrey Pines Road . Turn right at Prospect Street , an upscale boutique shopping street referred to as the "Rodeo Drive of San Diego." Turn right onto Coast Boulevard and head down to the La Jolla Cove , an enchanting spot for swimming, snorkeling with the orange Garibaldi fish and sea cave kayaking. Further south along the coast is the Children's Pool , a popular gathering place for snoozing harbor seals and swimming. From the Cove, you can walk up Cuvier Street to the elegant shopping and dining district around Prospect Street and Girard Avenue .

12. Pacific Beach

Follow Coast Boulevard, past the Museum of Contemporary Art, and then turn left onto La Jolla Boulevard. Keep going through the charming beach community of Bird Rock . As you reach the bottom of the hill, the street name will change to Mission Boulevard . As you proceed, on your right is Pacific Beach , a confluence of sunbathing, surfing and SoCal culture. For a taste of the San Diego beach scene, stroll, bike or rollerblade along Ocean Front Walk (stop and make a right at Diamond Street ). Watering holes and snack shops line this street that hosts a carnival of colorful characters who make for great people watching.

13. Mission Beach

Continue driving along Mission Boulevard into the seaside community of Mission Beach . Just past the roller coaster, turn right at the light, and park your car in the lot. Explore Belmont Park and enjoy an adrenaline-thumping ride on the Giant Dipper built in 1925. Play laser tag, take a dip in the ocean, or stop at one of the seaside restaurants or shops located along the boardwalk.

14. Old Town State Historic Park

Exit the parking lot and head east on West Mission Bay Drive , following the signs for Sports Arena Boulevard . Drive under the freeway overpass and turn left at the first stoplight to continue along Sports Arena Boulevard . Bear left onto Rosecrans Street and go under another freeway overpass. At the stoplight the street name will change to Taylor Street . For a walk back in time, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park awaits on the right with shopping bazaars, cantinas, adobes and museums. This historic park represents San Diego's Hispanic heritage and merging of cultures from 1821 to 1872, when this area was the center of San Diego. You can also visit charming Heritage Park Row, where a number of Victorian buildings scheduled for demolition were relocated.

15. Serra Museum/Presido Park

Continue driving along Taylor Street . Turn right on Presidio Drive , drive up the hill and turn left on Presidio Drive . Visit the Serra Museum , named for Father Junipero Serra, the Franciscan friar who established Alta California's first mission and presido in 1769. The Spanish Revival-style museum (built in 1928/29) displays artifacts and photographs depicting the early days of San Diego.

16. Hillcrest

After visiting the Serra Museum, continue up Presidio Drive and turn left at Arista Street . Turn right at Fort Stockton Drive . You are now driving through Mission Hills, one of San Diego's first suburbs, and a charming residential area with great Spanish-Revival architecture. Turn right at Goldfinch Street . Continue one block and turn left onto Washington Street . You are now in Hillcrest , which attracts a large LGBT community, as well as many others drawn by the rich selection of trendy boutiques, breweries, art galleries and excellent eateries.

17. Balboa Park

Turn right on First Avenue and then left onto Laurel Street , which becomes El Prado and delivers you into Balboa Park , the largest urban park with cultural institutions in North America. Named for the Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa, who discovered the Pacific Ocean in 1513, Balboa Park is cultural gem. Many of the park's lovely buildings are examples of ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, constructed for the Panama-California Exposition (1915-16), and also used for the California-Pacific International Exposition in 1935. The sprawling 1400-acre park, includes renowned museums, lush gardens, cafes and the internationally acclaimed The Old Globe Theatre , known for its Shakespeare Festival and Broadway-bound premieres.

Called the "Smithsonian of the West," Balboa Park has 17 museums devoted to art, history, space, sports, physical and natural sciences. Favorites include the San Diego Natural History Museum , the Fleet Science Center and the San Diego Air & Space Museum . Continuing along El Prado , turn right onto Pan American East Road , which leads to the Spreckels Organ Pavilion , an outdoor concert setting featuring the world's largest outdoor pipe organ. Enjoy free music here on Sunday afternoons. To the right is the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages , where each Sunday afternoon at 2:00 PM (between March and mid-November), one of the houses sponsors ethnic folk dances, music or entertainment.

18. San Diego Zoo

Head southwest on Pan American East Road and turn left on President's Way . Turn left on Park Boulevard and then take another left into Zoo Way. The world-famous San Diego Zoo encompasses 100 acres of Balboa Park and houses 4,000 animals of 800 exotic species. Wander through the natural habitats and discover Tasmanian Devils, playful polar bears, swimming Sumatran tigers and the largest colony of sleepy koalas outside of Australia. (For information about visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park , see our list of side trips below.)

19. Seaport Village / USS MIDWAY / The Headquarters

To exit Balboa Park, turn right onto Park Boulevard and follow it downtown. Take another right at B Street and then a left on Fourth Avenue . Next, take a right on Broadway and then a left on Pacific Highway toward the city's excellent waterfront dining. About one-half mile farther down, you will reach Seaport Village . Park in one of the lots and stroll through this bustling, waterfront shopping and dining destination. Kids will love the hand-carved carousel from 1895. A little further north, along Harbor Drive, between Seaport Village and the Visitor Center (where your tour began), sits the USS Midway Museum . Berthed along the Navy Pier and open daily, the museum pays tribute to the over 200,000 service men who served aboard the now decommissioned USS Midway . Next, walk over to The Headquarters (789 W. Harbor Drive), the former police station. At this stylish, open-air mall, you'll find art galleries, a toy store, boutique shops, gourmet chocolates and many family friendly dining options.

20. Convention Center & Embarcadero Marina Park

When you leave Seaport Village, turn right onto Harbor Drive and head east. On your right is the San Diego Convention Center ; across the street is the home of the San Diego Padres baseball team, PETCO Park . New to the city's skyline is the striking three-story dome of the San Diego Central Library . Just beyond the convention center, turn right on Park Boulevard and explore the Embarcadero Marina Park , home to bike paths, picnic tables, a gazebo, a fishing pier and great views of the Coronado Bridge.

21. Gaslamp Quarter

Return to Harbor Drive and turn left, and then turn right onto Fifth Avenue , which leads to the historic heart of San Diego and its vibrant Gaslamp Quarter . During the California Gold Rush, this raucous waterfront area was once known as the Stingaree District, home to saloons, gambling halls, brothels and opium dens. Today, the dynamic entertainment district boasts more than 100 restaurants, 35 nightclubs and 100 retail shops. Weekend guided walking tours of the area start at the Gaslamp Museum at the William Heath Davis House , which was built in 1859 in New England and said to be haunted. Aspiring ghost-hunters should take a late-night tour for a spine-tingling experience.

22.Headquarters at Seaport Village

Follow Market Street east towards Harbor Drive and you'll reach The Headquarters at Seaport Village . Through the restoration of San Diego's Old Police Headquarters, the city has reclaimed a majestic urban treasure by offering an extraordinary new experience; a delightful destination where restaurants on the order of Puesto & Eddie V's and specialty boutiques such as Urban Beach House and LOLO can make a lasting impression.

Suggested Side Trips Beyond the 59-Mile Scenic Drive

23. mission san diego de alcala.

To reach the Mission San Diego de Alcala , drive eastbound on Interstate 8 , exit Mission Gorge Road , and turn left onto Twain Street , which becomes San Diego Mission Road and leads to the Mission. The first of 21 in California, the Mission (built in 1769) was moved in 1774 from its original location in Presidio Park to the valley, where water and grazing land were plentiful. Today, it serves as a cultural center and active parish with services at 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM on weekdays, and several on Sundays. The public is welcome daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

24. Hotel del Coronado

From Interstate 5 drive across the San Diego-Coronado Bridge and turn left at the first traffic light onto Orange Avenue . You'll pass the charming village of Coronado before arriving at the iconic Hotel del Coronado , with its signature wedding cake trim and red turrets. Built in 1888, the seaside gem has hosted royalty, celebrities and presidents, and served as a Hollywood movie location for several films. Peddle along the bike path, gather seashells along one of "American's Finest Beaches" or take a dip in the sea. The Coronado Museum of History and Art (1100 Orange Avenue) tells the story of the enchanting island through memorabilia, historic black-and-white photos and great art.

25. San Diego Zoo Safari Park (35 miles north of downtown San Diego)

Drive north on Interstate 15 , exit Via Rancho Parkway , turn right and follow the signs to the Safari Park (formerly called Wild Animal Park) . Set on 2,200 acres, this amazing park and wildlife conservancy has more than 3,000 animals roaming freely in environments similar to their native African and Asian habits. Tour the park by tram; hike the scenic Kilimanjaro Trail; zip line over rhinos, feed a friendly giraffe, explore the exotic gardens, enjoy an aerial view from a hot air balloon or take the Tiger Trail into the Sumatran forest, home to the majestic big cats.

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Explore San Diego's epic roadways along with the best places for visitors to stop along the way and live out their SoCal road trip dreams.

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9 Best Stops on a San Diego to Grand Canyon Road Trip

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Planning a San Diego to Grand Canyon road trip has the chance to take you through some of the most interesting and beautiful desert scenery in the Southwestern United States. Winding from the beautiful pacific coast through the arid California desert and finally to the pine forests of Northern Arizona, the drive from San Diego to the Grand Canyon has a lot that is going for it.

If you want to make an adventure out of your road trip, then you’ve come to the right place. Though you could just drive this route in one go (and one long day), there is a fair amount to see along the way that you’re sure to get a lot out of the journey as well as the destination.

So if you’re planning to drive to the Grand Canyon from San Diego, make sure not to miss these incredible stops along the way.

Table of Contents

Planning a San Diego to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Though you could definitely do the San Diego to Grand Canyon drive in an entire (long) day, it’s worth breaking it up over at least a few days when you consider how many interesting places there are to stop along the way.

Plan to spend a night around Palm Springs or Joshua Tree National Park before continuing onto Arizona . Sedona makes for another fantastic place to rest your head before finishing your drive north to the Grand Canyon.

The route mapped out here is one of many that you could take, however, I chose it because it will take you by the most interesting stop-off points without adding too much time to your overall drive and I personally think it is the best route from San Diego to the Grand Canyon.

I suggest taking the I-15 North out of San Diego before joining the I-10 E just outside of Riverside. Once you read Arizona, you can reach the Grand Canyon by following state highways 71 N and 89 N.

The road quality is generally good but do keep in mind that once you pass the Indio/Palm Springs area of California, the population can get relatively sparse and it’s good to plan ahead if you need to fuel up.

If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which aggregates deals across a number of major car hire companies. Alternatively, you can rent an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy.

How Far is the Grand Canyon from San Diego?

Depending on the route you end up taking, the distance from San Diego to the Grand Canyon is about 550 miles and the drive, without stopping, would take about 8.5-9 hours depending on the traffic.

Keep in mind that the traffic leaving Southern California can be very heavy so that may add a significant amount of time to your overall San Diego to Grand Canyon drive time.

San Diego to Grand Canyon Road Trip Stops

And without further ado, here are some of the best stops to make on a road trip from San Diego to Grand Canyon.

Temecula, California

Located a bit north and a bit inland of the city of San Diego, Temecula is the heartland of San Diego County’s wine country. Though not nearly as well known as, say, Napa or Sonoma in Northern California, this region produces some excellent vintages and you’re sure to be able to sample some delicious and high-quality wines while here.

Even if you’re not interested in wine tasting, there is lots to see and do in Temecula that is sure to keep you entertained. There are plenty of cute shops to explore and browse and the Temecula Old Town is charming and very worth a visit.

Palm Springs, California

The second stop is the main draw of California’s Inland Empire, Palm Springs. Long hailed as a desert oasis, Palm Springs is a very popular weekend getaway spot for Southern Californians.

Known for its world-class golf courses, great restaurants and high-end shopping, Palm Springs makes for an excellent place to break up the drive to the Grand Canyon.

There is a lot to do in Palm Springs and it will be instantly evident why this is such a popular getaway for those who live near the area. It is also a fantastic jumping-off point to visit Joshua Tree National Park, which is located only a stone’s throw away.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you’re looking to visit another national park while en route to the Grand Canyon, then a stop at Joshua Tree makes for an excellent option. As one of America’s most iconic and most visited national parks, Joshua Tree is easily accessible from the I-10 and the entrance is located only about 35 miles from Palm Springs.

There are countless hikes, rock climbing opportunities and beautiful views to take in in this iconic national park.

Even if you’re not interested in scrambling over rocks, there are such beautiful desert vistas enjoy and fantastic photo opportunities with the eponymous Joshua tree cacti. This is truly a special spot and a great addition to any San Diego to Grand Canyon road trip.

Quartzsite, Arizona

Leaving California, the first town you will come across on the Arizona side is Quartzsite, which makes for a great quick stop on your drive to the Grand Canyon.

As soon as you cross the border into Arizona, you will begin to be surrounded by the iconic Saguaro cactus, native only to the Sonoran desert in southern Arizona and the Mexican state of Sonora.

Quartzsite is a small area well-known for its rock and mineral trade so it is an excellent place to visit if you’re at all interested in geology (or even crystals). It has also, in recent years, attracted a number of RV-ers and van lifers and houses a large community.

The town rose to fame recently for featuring prominently in the Best Picture-winning film Nomadland .

Prescott, Arizona

Moving off of the interstate and venturing into Northern Arizona, another fantastic stop on the San Diego to Grand Canyon drive is the city of Prescott. If you want to blend in with the locals when visiting, do make sure you’re pronouncing the name of this town correctly — it is Press-KITT, not Press-KOTT.

Prescott is known for the historic Whiskey Row, a line of old western saloons that once catered the likes of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The city was a hot spot during the Gold Rush in the early 20th century and still retains some of its Old West charm.

There are a number of museums to visit, should you be interested, and there are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore in the charming downtown area.

Sedona, Arizona

Heading steadily north on your drive to the Grand Canyon comes one of Arizona’s most popular towns – beautiful Sedona. Well known for its iconic red rocks and new-age vibes, no trip through Northern Arizona is complete without a stop in Sedona .

There are countless things to do in Sedona that you can easily fill a day or even more here. There are wonderful hikes, great restaurants and lovely shops. Sunsets in Sedona are a site to be seen in and of themselves, so it can be a great idea to plan to stop here for at least a night before heading onto your final destination the next day.

The drive from Sedona to the Grand Canyon is a short one, but there are still a number of fantastic stops to make along the way.

Slide Rock State Park, Arizona

Just outside of the city limits of Sedona lies Slide Rock State Park, one of the best places to visit when driving to the Grand Canyon – especially if it’s during the warmer months.

This area of Oak Creek is absolutely beautiful and defined by the slick rocks that are coated with algae, meaning that it forms a natural water slide.

Slide Rock can be very popular in the summer months, so it is imperative that you get here early if you want to guarantee entry. There is the main swimming area, but there are also plenty of walking trails and other, quieter areas of the park that are very much worth visiting and exploring if you make the stop here yourself.

Flagstaff, Arizona

There is no list of the best stops on a drive from San Diego to the Grand Canyon that is complete without including Flagstaff. As the largest city in Northern Arizona and home to Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff has a completely different vibe than Arizona’s other major cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale or Tucson.

Known for its more alpine character, Flagstaff is a popular summer escape for those who live in the southern part of the state and are looking to escape the incredibly high temperatures.

It is also well-known for its craft beer scene, boasting several microbreweries to explore should you fancy it. Flagstaff is also home to the Arizona Snowbowl, one of the state’s only ski resorts.

Because of the city’s close proximity to the Grand Canyon (the South Rim is only about an hour away), Flagstaff makes for a good overnight base when exploring the park if you’re looking for something a bit more affordable with a lot of dining and other options.

Sunset Crater National Monument, Arizona

The final stop on this road trip is at Sunset Crater National Monument. An extinct cinder cone volcano, this national monument lies just outside of the city of Flagstaff and it is absolutely fascinating to visit.

While at this National Monument, you can learn about the unique geologic history of this region, enjoy a number of picturesque hikes and take in the views of this beautiful volcano while en route to the Grand Canyon. Arizona has such a beautiful, diverse landscape and Sunset Crater only exemplifies this.

In fact, it is the perfect stop off to see just how much the terrain can change in just the short drive remaining up to the Grand Canyon itself.

Where to Stay on the San Diego to Grand Canyon Drive

While you certainly could leave San Diego in the morning and arrive at the Grand Canyon late at night, it is far preferable to stop in a place or two along the way, especially if you want to make any of the stops on this list. The town of Palm Springs near Joshua Tree National Park makes for an excellent option to rest your head, as does the town of Sedona, Arizona.

Palm Springs

Alcazar Palm Springs – If you’re looking for a fantastic, luxury experience in Palm Springs, then look no further than this hotel. There are countless modern rooms available, a lovely swimming pool and there are even two on-site restaurants where you can get all meals if needed. Click here to see their availability

Les Cactus – This mid-range hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking for someplace great to stay in Palm Springs or near Joshua Tree National Park. There are a number of great rooms available, there is a swimming pool, it’s centrally located and it’s also pet friendly if you happen to be travelling with a furry friend. Click here to see their availability

Private Rental – Private rentals such as this romantic cabin near Joshua Tree are incredibly popular both in Palm Springs and also near the National Park. There are countless properties to choose from that can suit all travel budgets and styles. Click here to browse more Palm Springs private rentals

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Palm Springs hotels!

A Sunset Chateau – This luxury bed and breakfast is a wonderful choice for you if you’re travelling on a bit of a higher budget and want to invest in some comfort while in Sedona. Centrally located close to everything you would want to see in Sedona, they have a number of beautiful rooms available and a great breakfast included every morning. Click here to see their availability

Sedona Village Lodge – If you’re looking for a solid, mid-range option in Sedona, then this hotel is a fantastic option. Located in the centre of Sedona close to all that the town has to offer, they have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available to suit your needs. Click here to see their availability

Private Vacation Rental – A private vacation rental is another very popular option in Sedona. There are a number of places to choose from such as this lovely private cottage near all the hiking trails that can suit all travel styles and budgets. Click here to browse the best private rentals in Sedona .

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Sedona

Grand Canyon

Little America Hotel Flagstaff   – This plush, luxury hotel is a fantastic base for exploring the Grand Canyon. They have countless wonderful, lodge-like rooms available, and even have a swimming pool and a restaurant on site. There are also a number of other amenities to ensure you have a great stay!  Click here to see their availability

Hotel Elev8   – A great option for mid-range travellers, this hotel is located just outside of Flagstaff and is the perfect base for exploring the Grand Canyon. They have a range of rooms on offer and a great swimming pool on-site!  Click here to see their availability

Private Rental – If you’re after a private rental near the Grand Canyon, then there are countless options to choose from — such as  this beautiful home near Williams  or  this cosy cabin in Flagstaff .  Click here to check availability.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels near the Grand Canyon

Planning a road trip from San Diego to the Grand Canyon is never a bad idea, especially when you consider all of the amazing places to stop off along the way!

Are you planning a San Diego to Grand Canyon road trip? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Yosemite vs Sequoia: Which National Park to Visit?

Sedona vs Flagstaff: Which Arizona Town to Visit?

8 Best Stops on a Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Loved your review and many explanations of the trip from San Diego, CA to the Grand Canyon. Will be researching this trip a little more as it is one of my daughter and myself bucket list trips!!

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The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner

Planning to go on the best road trip in the world? You have come to the right place.

Welcome to our ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner!

We are the #1 resource dedicated to planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

Pacific Coast Highway road trip ranks pretty high among bucket list travel experiences – in fact its one of the most scenic drives in the entire world!

Highway 1 is a gorgeous drive along sprawling cities, charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, majestic forests, and stunning landscapes.

Whether you are planning a trip to California, Oregon, or Washington….

….or planning the ultimate West Coast Road Trip from San Diego to Seattle;

We have multiple Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary recommendations that cover different areas of the West Coast!

That means you can use this as a Washington / Oregon Highway 101 road trip planner or California coastal road trip planner for Highway 1.

This Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner will help you plan your entire trip and cover the following:

• The Best Cities to begin your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
• Best PCH Itineraries for all types of travelers
• Best Stops / best attractions to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway
• Where to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
• Best places to eat along the Pacific Coast Highway
• Hidden Gems / Offbeat attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway

This Pacific Coast Highway road trip guide also covers other useful and important information including

• Best time to visit the Pacific Coast
• How much to drive each day along the PCH
• What to pack for Pacific Coast Highway road trip
• How much does a Pacific Coast Highway road trip cost aka Budgeting for your PCH trip

It is quite easy to plan a PCH road trip by yourself using our Highway 1 / Highway 101 trip planners and online booking sites to reserve your flights/rental car/hotels.

Awesome, right? Then let’s start planning your Pacific Highway road trip itinerary now.

Before you begin

As an American, you probably know what goes into planning an epic cross country road trip.

After all, we are pretty road-trip obsessed country!

However, what if you are traveling from abroad and are interested in the Pacific Coast Highway drive itinerary?

You’re in luck – we have many resources to help you plan your trip including information on visas, renting a car, and driving in America.

Our detailed PCH road trip planners will take you step by step through the process of planning your trip:

• The initial steps in planning the Pacific Coast Highway road trip involve: Deciding what part of the PCH will you drive How many days will you devote to the entire trip and When is the best time to visit. Information to help you in deciding these is covered in Step 1: PCH FAQs and Step 2: Best PCH Stops
• You also need to pick a PCH gateway city, decide how will you reach there, and whether you need to rent a car or drive your own. Find information on the best cities to start your PCH Road Trip in Step 3: PCH Gateway Cities
• If you want to see the highlights of central California, specifically Highway 1, then refer to the California coast road trip planner. If you want a Pacific coast trip through PNW, then focus on the Oregon coast and Olympic peninsula. Information on specific Itineraries is covered in Step 4: PCH Itineraries
• Finally, book your trip! Find our recommended hotels, car rental companies, and flight aggregators in Step 5: Book your PCH Road Trip .

Also, don’t forget to join our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Facebook Page where you can ask questions or share your photos or itinerary with fellow travelers.  Click here to join now . 

Ready to get started? Let’s start planning the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip together! 

Don’t believe us when we say that the PCH road trip is the most beautiful road trip in the world?

Then check out these beautiful photos from the USA West Coast!

Step 1: PCH FAQs

The Pacific Coast Highway is pretty large and rather confusing.

It is essential to understand the PCH before you plan a trip.

Here’s some basic information:

Where does the Pacific Coast Highway start and end?

Wondering where is the Pacific Coast Highway and how long it is? Also, where does the PCH start and end?

One of the things that creates confusion while planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip is that the road is simply huge.

Plus everybody seems to be talking about a different stretch of the road when they refer to the PCH.

We experienced this several times while planning our first trip to the region. 

The coastal route or the PCH starts at San Diego near the Mexican border and ends near Seattle in the city of Olympia in the Pacific Northwest.

It is not officially named the Pacific Coast Highway but has always been called so since it parallels the Pacific Coast.

The routes to follow for the road trip include Highway 1 in southern and central California and Highway 101 in northern California, Oregon, and Washington.

How long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

Since it goes the entire length of the West Coast, just how long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

The road beginning in San Diego to its end in Olympia, the capital of Washington State is roughly 1700 miles long!

And yes, it really does go parallel to the Pacific Ocean for the most part!

What is the PCH1?

The road officially called the PCH1 is located in California. Its other name is California State Route 1 (SR1) or Highway 1.

Where does Hwy 1 start and end?

The PCH1 drive extends from the I-5 intersection in Orange County, Southern California to Highway 101 intersection near Leggett in Northern California.

Also, the name PCH 1 is interchangeably used with Highway 1 (Hwy 1) or Route 1 or California 1 or SR 1. 

Add to that, certain parts of California PCH 1 near Pismo Beach on Central Coast are known as Cabrillo Highway while a section north of San Francisco is called the Shoreline Highway.

Many times Hwy 1 merges with Hwy 101, creating even more confusion.

This is most noticeable from Pismo Beach to San Luis Obispo and along the Golden Gate Bridge where the two roads merge.

The Hwy also simply disappears and takes street names in San Francisco (19th Avenue) and in Santa Monica (Lincoln Blvd).

If you are planning a trip along this route, then the Highway 1 trip planner will help you discover attractions between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

So how do you ensure you don’t get lost while planning a road trip up PCH?

The easiest way is to ensure that you are following the PCH1 between Monterey and San Luis Obispo in California.

This is the most spectacular stretch that passes through Big Sur and the road here is clearly marked, causing no confusion.

Our California Highway 1 road trip planner will guide you towards the best stops on Highway 1 California in Big Sur including McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

Which section of the Pacific Coast Highway should you drive?

For first-timers, we recommend driving the California Highway 1 or PCH 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles for multiple reasons.

This stretch of PCH1 passes through the beautiful Big Sur region.

For many people, Big Sur is the #1 attraction along the route.

Also, the gateway cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco are very well connected and easy to fly in or out after your trip.

One-way car rentals between the two cities are easily available or you also have the option of a loop road trip.

Our San Francisco road trip planner will help you plan your trip to SF, LA, as well as the attractions in between.

Have already been to this part of California Coast? Don’t want to begin in SF? You have many other options to customize the itinerary as you want!

After the PCH 1 ends, you can either drive south along the coast to San Diego or all the way up to Olympic National Park and the Canadian border in the north.

Alternatively, you can also begin the Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Diego and drive north.

The entire route is scenic and has plenty of attractions.

In northern California you will find beautiful redwood trees while in Oregon, you can see stunning capes and lighthouses as well as unique geological formations.

In Washington, you will find everything from deep blue lakes and dense rainforests to sea stacks and driftwood covered beaches.

And that’s why it is so important to decide which stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway you want to drive before you plan your trip.

Which direction to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?

All right, so you have decided which section of the Pacific Coast Highway you are going to be driving.

You know how much time you have in hand.

So which gateway city do you begin your PCH Road trip?

Is it better to drive north or south on the Pacific Coast Highway?

While many people recommend driving from south to north, our favorite is to drive south.

Yes, you will see the most gorgeous sites first and might end in the chaotic city of Los Angeles but you will be closer to the stunning views plus have easier access to parking lots and pull-outs.

That being said, if you have enough time to savor the trip then the direction won’t really matter much!

When to visit the Pacific Coast Highway?

The best part? You can drive the Pacific Coast Highway year round! 

There are, however, certain times of the year when the PCH road trip is more scenic than others.

Spring is our personal favorite.

You can see wildflowers along the Pacific Coast Highway plus spot wildlife including migrating whales.

The temperature is pleasant for hiking, during the daytime it is neither too hot nor too cold.

An added bonus, the crowds are fewer than in summer or winter holidays.

However, you should skip spring break week, if possible.

Remember: Spring can be too windy and cold but the gorgeous wildflowers tip the scales. 

Our second favorite time of the year for this road trip is from late summer to early fall, just after the schools are in session.

September and October on the coast are mild and sunny.

A pleasant breeze flows from the ocean making hikes more fun.

Wineries along the PCH in Napa, Sonoma, and along the Central Coast have beautiful fall colors and are ready for harvest.

Visitors can enjoy grape stomping at wineries if they time it right.

Winter and summer both have their pros and cons.

In winter, you can whale watch and enjoy the scenic beauty without the fog.

But temperatures, especially for northern California, can be quite chilly.

It can also rain, causing landslides and slippery trails.

The PCH may stay closed for days due to extended storm damage. 

The very end of winter – from mid to late February – is a good time with mild weather and low crowds.

The summer months of June, July, and August can be quite foggy.

Big Sur looks beautiful and dramatic in the fog but the roads can be treacherous for driving.

The fog usually prevails in the morning and evening so you should still have clear blue afternoons.

As you continue south, it can get too hot to hike or stay outdoors for longer times.

Peak tourist times are winter holiday season and summer vacations.

Expect accommodations to fill up faster, potential delays on the road, and full parking lots at major attractions like Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls.

To read more about the best time to visit and see photos in different seasons, read our post When to Drive the Pacific Coast Highway .

How to rent a car for a PCH road trip? Which car should you rent?

The best way to travel Pacific Coast Highway is by car!

Look for one way car rentals unless you plan to do a round trip.

However, one-way rentals can be expensive so factor that in while planning your itinerary.

If you have more time and want to do the Pacific Coast Highway road trip on a budget, then you can definitely return to the original destination to reduce costs.

An SUV is really useful while negotiating the twisting turns of the PCH however, it is also easy to break in into.

Because of that, we prefer a sedan if we are driving with kids and have a lot of luggage in the trunk.

A muscle car or a convertible is also a great option for driving the Pacific Coast Highway.

The coast has stunning views and a top down lets you feel the ocean breeze and enjoy the panorama.

A recently popular option is to rent an RV for the Pacific Coast Highway travel itinerary.

This allows you to enjoy the natural attractions along the coast to the maximum.

How much should you budget for Pacific Coast Highway road trip?

The famous question, how much does it cost to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?! Or what should be your Pacific Coast Highway road trip budget?

In general, we recommend budgeting $200 per person per day including hotel, car, and food for road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway.

That’s why the easiest way to do the trip on a budget is to choose a shorter Pacific Coast Highway trip itinerary.

The fewer number of days on your trip, the fewer the costs.

That said, California, in general, is expensive and we have never been able to go on an extended California trip under $1000 per person including airfare.

You can also consider road tripping the PCH 1 along Oregon or Washington to reduce costs as these states are somewhat cheaper than California.

More Pacific Coast Highway FAQs

To read more Pacific Coast Highway FAQs including the following common doubts, click here .

• Is the Pacific Coast Highway dangerous to drive?
• What should you not miss on the Pacific Coast Highway?
• Which part of California should you visit?
• How long does it take to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway?

Step 2: Best PCH Stops

If you have decided to visit the most popular part of coastal California:

Begin your Pacific Coast Highway road trip planning by exploring the major attractions and things to do along California’s Hwy 1.

Popular attractions including West Coast lighthouses , waterfalls, state parks, hiking trails, beaches, coastal towns await you on this marvelous drive – and off course the iconic Bixby Bridge!

You can find information about these and other essential attractions in our California Coast trip planner.

Also, explore other stops on Highway 101 in northern California if you have more time.

Here you will find majestic redwood trees and the Redwoods State and National parks.

Road trip the Redwoods Scenic Byway and explore cities like Eureka and Crescent City.

There are also plenty of stunning stops along the Pacific Coast Highway in both Oregon and Washington.

You can read more about the best stops along the PCH here.

This will give you an idea of the most important places to visit and help in planning the trip around your interests.

Step 3: PCH Gateway Cities

Once you have selected your itinerary, you need to select which West Coast cities you can fly into.

While there are many cities on the West Coast, the 5 major ones which make perfect places to begin your PCH road trip are these:

Begin a Pacific Highway trip around the Evergreen State in the Emerald City of Seattle.

Read our post on things to do in Seattle now to plan your trip.

To see Oregon’s dramatic coastline, redwood trees, rock formations, and sand dunes, start a Hwy 101 road trip in Portland.

Read our post on Things to do in Portland now.

San Francisco

San Francisco is our personal favorite to start an epic Pacific Coast road trip.

It also makes an excellent starting destination for California fly drive route planner.

Read our post on things to do in San Francisco now.

Los Angeles

Tinseltown is exciting and glamorous.

It also happens to be cheap to fly into and makes a perfect start to PCH drive.

You can plan a California coastal highway itinerary up or down the coast and have whale of a time.

Read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles now.

San Diego is the perfect destination to plan a trip using our SoCal trip planner.

Read our post on Best Things to do in San Diego now.

How to reach the PCH Gateway Cities?

The major airports for road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway 1 in California are San Francisco and Los Angeles.

San Francisco actually has three airports: San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.

You need to research airfares to all three to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Similarly, Los Angeles also has a couple of nearby airports including Long Beach, Burbank, Orange County, etc and is a great California PCH trip start point.

If you are extending your trip along the West Coast, then fly into San Diego, Portland, or Seattle to start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary.

Budget airlines that often have great deals to California or the Pacific Northwest include Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Alaska Air, and Southwest.

To get the best flight deals, we recommend booking using flight aggregators like Skyscanner or CheapOair.

Step 4: PCH Itineraries

This is our favorite part of trip planning!

This is also where we can help you the most as we have been planning road trips since the past 12 years.

We recommend that you go through our many itineraries, pick the one that is the best fit, and customize it to suit your needs.

Let’s plan the perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip ever!

Fly and Drive PCH Itineraries by number of days

Since you will already be driving a lot every day along the PCH we generally recommend fly and drive itineraries.

However, if you happen to live nearby or have enough time to travel, then you can definitely drive to California and then go on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip. 

You can spend anywhere from 4 days to 10 days on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Here are the highlights of our popular itineraries.

Click the link to read in-depth each itinerary for Pacific Coast Highway.

Pacific Coast Highway 4 day itinerary

The simplest California road trip planner.

If you have only 4 days, then spend one day in San Francisco and see the highlights including the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz.

Visit one of the beaches: Ocean Beach, Crissy Field Beach, or Baker Beach are the most popular ones!

The next day, leave early from San Francisco and explore Half Moon Bay and Monterey.

See the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, visit the sandy beaches of Half Moon Bay, and take some time to explore Santa Cruz or Pebble Beach.

Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur.

See Bixby Creek Bridge, hike McWay Falls, spend time at San Dollar Beach before reaching San Luis Obispo for the night.

Spend some time to see SLO attractions including Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, Historic Downtown, Bubblegum Alley, and the Madonna Inn – a famous hotel with eclectic decor!

Then stop at Santa Barbara. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez mountains, this coastal city feels very Mediterranean.

Santa Barbara has many attractions including the charming white colonial downtown, Mission Santa Barbara, museums, zoo, and more!

Enjoy shopping or dining at Stearns Wharf or take a whale watching cruise before heading for Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, visit the Walk of Fame, see Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign before calling it a day.

You can read this itinerary here for this Highway 1 trip planner. 

Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary

Looking for Pacific Coast Highway itinerary of 5 days?

We would recommend following our 4-day pacific highway 1 itinerary with just a few changes: you can spend the extra day exploring either San Francisco, Big Sur Coast, or Los Angeles.

In San Francisco, use your second day to see Muir Woods, Mission District, Chinatown, and Twin Peaks.

If you chose to stay in Big Sur, then stay at the romantic Ventana Resort or Post Ranch Inn.

Stop at each pull-out and look for wildlife.

Tour the Point Sur Lightstation, photograph the Bixby Bridge, and see the seals at Elephant Seal Rookery in Piedras Blancas.

Make the detour to explore Central Coast’s wine country.

If you chose Los Angeles then the sky is the limit.

You can explore the museums especially the Broad and LACMA or spend a day at Universal or Disney!

If you ask us, we would pick Big Sur over the cities, any day!

You can read about this itinerary in detail here for the 5 Day PCH trip planner. 

Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary

Our favorite! A week is a perfect time to drive this stunning route.

On your first day of California pacific coast highway itinerary 7 days, start at the northern end in Leggett and see those majestic coastal redwoods.

Drive your car through the Chandelier Tree tunnel.

Then eat oysters in Tomales Bay and visit Point Reyes Lighthouse before spending the night in San Francisco.

For the rest of your coast to coast road trip planner, spend 1 day each in San Francisco, Monterey, Big Sur, Solvang, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles.

With 7 days in hand, you have enough time to explore Big Sur’s hidden gems such as Henry Miller Memorial Library and Andrew Molera State Park.

View this itinerary now to read all the details of the 7 day Pacific Coast Highway trip planner.

Pacific Coast Highway 10 day itinerary

With 10 days in hand, you have so many options.

One way is to follow the 7- day itinerary but drive all the way down to San Diego to create the ultimate California driving trip planner.

Another is to start in Los Angeles, follow our 7-day itinerary heading north, and explore up to the Avenue of Giants in northern California.

If you love slow travel, then drive from Leggett to Los Angeles but spend time hiking in Point Reyes and Point Lobos, visiting the remote Channel Islands National Park, and touring the wineries of Santa Ynez Valley.

The epic 10 day California road trip for families and RVers.

The ultimate chilled-out California Pacific Coast Highway trip!

You can also do a Northern California road trip from San Francisco for the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary 10 days.

Or you can drive all the way up to Portland and see the Oregon coast attractions along the way.

You can also visit the Olympic Peninsula on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip in Washington.

To decide which itinerary to choose, click here now . 

If you have less than 4 days

If your Pacific Coast Highway drive time is too long, then you won’t have enough time to enjoy all the attractions on the way.

We would not recommend driving the entire length of the PCH or Highway 1 if you have less than 4 days.

For short weekend trips, consider the below trips in our California road trip route planner.

We also suggestions for PCH day trips in Oregon and Washington.

Best PCH road trips from San Francisco

If you have 3 days or under, then it is not feasible to drive the entire length of PCH.

You can make the drive but will miss out on a lot of attractions.

Instead, consider day trips and weekend getaways along the coast for Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary 3 days.

Our top 3 getaways for Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary 1 day from San Francisco are Point Reyes, Monterey, and Big Sur.

Carmel by the Sea, only a short drive from Monterey and Pebble Beach, is also a great weekend trip from San Fran.

Best PCH road trips from Los Angeles

For day trips and weekend getaways along Hwy 1 from Los Angeles, consider visiting La Jolla, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Pismo Beach, or San Luis Obispo.

Or drive south towards San Diego, Newport Beach, and La Jolla.

These destinations are just a few hours away from LA and great to visit.

Visiting Big Sur from Los Angeles is hectic if you have only 2 days but possible with 3 days in hand.

Best PCH road trips from San Diego

You can also road trip up the pacific coast highway from San Diego to Los Angeles or Anaheim.

Enjoy Hollywood or city life in Los Angeles or see Disney and other theme parks in Anaheim.

Relax at Huntington Beach. Or visit Coronado island for a different type of trip.

The San Diego trip planner has many ideas to enjoy the attractions of southern California.

Best PCH road trips from Portland

Combine a visit to Portland with an adventure down the PCH.

While you cannot use Portland to San Francisco road trip planner in just 4 days, you can visit Astoria or Cannon Beach.

Go hiking in Ecola State Park or drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop.

Best PCH road trips from Seattle

There are plenty of PCH trips from the Emerald City.

Drive the Highway 101 south to Tacoma or Olympia.

Or take the ferry to Port Angeles and Olympic peninsula and follow Highway 101 all around the peninsula.

If you have more than 10 days

If you have anywhere around two weeks, we would recommend driving either down to San Diego in the south or driving towards Portland or Seattle in the north from LA or SF.

You can also drive from San Diego to Seattle or vice versa using our west coast road trip planner.  

2 Week West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

2 weeks is the ideal time to go on an epic US West Coast Road trip.

From the Olympic peninsula in Washington to southern California, you can use our border to border coast trip planner to plan the most amazing, once in a lifetime, USA West Coast Road Trip Itinerary.

You can either start in San Diego and drive towards Portland or Seattle or start in the Pacific Northwest and drive south.

The entire drive is over 1700 miles and should be done only if you have 2 weeks or more in hand.

Point to Point PCH Itineraries

You can also plan PCH road trip itinerary depending on your start city and destination rather than days.

Pacific Coast Highway Itineraries by State

San diego to los angeles drive.

Wondering how to plan a trip to California coast between Los Angeles and San Diego?

This California Highway 1 road trip itinerary will take you through stunning beaches of La Jolla, Laguna Beach, and Oceanside.

You can see charming coastal towns and enjoys SoCal’s relaxed vibe.

California Coast Road Trip from LA to SF

This is the ultimate CA road trip planner.

Visit two of California’s biggest cities and visit the natural attractions on the coast including beautiful Big Sur, McWay Falls, and 17 Mile Drive.

This Pacific Highway 1 road trip is our favorite road trip along the West Coast! Read this itinerary now.

Northern California Coast Road Trip

This Highway 101 road trip itinerary in Northern California will take you through giant, majestic redwood trees and the most remote parts of the coast.

From attractions like Point Reyes and Muir Beach to charming cities like Mendocino and Eureka, this itinerary for driving Pacific Coast Highway will leave you spellbound.

See the glass beach at Fort Bragg, tour the famous Point Arena Lighthouse, enjoy hiking at Mendocino State Parks, and drive the Avenue of Giants on this epic PCH itinerary.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Planner

Plan a trip from Brookings in the south to Astoria in the north using our Oregon Highway 101 road trip planner.

Visit attractions such as Cannon Beach, Natural Bridges, and Devil’s Punchbowl on this amazing Oregon Coast Road trip .

Washington Olympic Peninsula Road Trip

Our Highway 101 trip planner in Washington follows the road around the Olympic peninsula.

It can be used to visit attractions such as Ruby Beach, Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, Port Angeles, and Seattle. Read this itinerary now .

We would recommend going through our list of Suggested PCH Itineraries and deciding upon an itinerary based on your interests before finalizing your trip.

Pacific Highway Road Trip Map

Looking for map of Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip?

Among our resources, we have plenty of Pacific Coast Highway road trip maps, depending on the section you want to drive.

If you are interested in Big Sur, use the California Highway 1 road trip map.

Use the Northern California road trip map planner to see the redwoods.

Follow Pacific Highway itinerary maps for Oregon or Washington to plan a Pacific Northwest trip.

Be sure to finalize your Pacific Coast Highway Map and print copies before you embark on your trip.

Step 5: Book your PCH Road Trip

And finally we come to the task of booking your PCH vacation.

When to book and plan your PCH trip

In general, we recommend booking your trip at least 6 months in advance, though ideally, earlier is better.

While you can always plan a last-minute PCH road trip, especially if staying nearby, it is not recommended.

This especially applies if you are traveling in peak periods and in the Golden State.

Every California trip planner suggests booking in advance.

As we have experienced, booking hotels closer to the trip can definitely make the trip twice as expensive.

Before booking your trip, we recommend researching destinations and finalizing your Pacific Coast Highway Road trip itinerary.

In some instances, we have booked first and then planned the trip but this can lead to more hectic trips.

Here’s what all you need to book for your trip.

Book flight tickets to the West Coast

For best deals, book your tickets to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, or Seattle by checking on Skyscanner or Google flights.

Book car rental

All major companies have their branches in California.

You can rent from a variety of companies including Hertz, Fox, Enterprise, Dollar, and Thrifty for your trip. 

Book hotel accommodations as per the itinerary

There are a variety of hotels, resorts, and motels for every budget along the PCH.

We have covered the best places to stay along the PCH in detail in this post.

Purchase travel insurance

We recommend getting travel insurance from World Nomads.

Purchase attraction tickets, if any

There are several attractions along the PCH for which you can purchase tickets in advance.

We recommend the advance purchase of tickets for attractions like the Monterey Aquarium, San Francisco museums, etc.

Purchase tours and cruises, if any

You can go on a variety of wildlife watching cruises along the PCH including whale watching, dolphin cruises, etc.

You can also reserve tickets for the Alcatraz cruise prior to your trip. 

Recommended group tours

There are no tour companies that take you the entire length of PCH.

This is very much a self-drive trip.

However, there are companies that will take you to Malibu from Los Angeles or to Monterey from San Francisco.

Also in Monterey, you can take whale watching tours.

Reserve a table at restaurants, if needed

You will find amazing restaurants serving a variety of cuisine along the PCH.

Our favorites are seafood restaurants in Monterey, oysters in Tomales Bay, Mexican food in Mission District of San Francisco, and a variety of cuisines in Los Angeles.

If you like to plan every detail or want to plan for a special meal for birthdays or anniversaries, then you can reserve a table at the hotel of your choice in advance.

Prepare, pack, and go on the best road trip ever!

What other preparations should you make.

If you are traveling internationally then check your passport validity and visa status.

Apply for visas, if necessary.

Also, check whether you need IDP (International Driving Permit).

Other preparation includes print and/or having virtual copies of all maps, itineraries, tickets, and bookings easily accessible on your phone.

Also, budget your trip and convert currency, if needed.

Read below for more detailed information.

Understand internet and phone coverage

You will find that there is extremely poor and at times zero cell coverage along many stretches of the PCH, especially in the Big Sur region.

That’s why we recommend carrying a GPS in addition to your phone as well as saving offline maps on your phone.

You can also get printed maps of PCH1 for the section you are planning to drive.

If you are traveling internationally

The three main areas to take care of if you are traveling internationally include taking care of passports and visas, renting a car and driving in USA, and converting money to USD. 

If you are traveling with kids

Pacific coast highway road trip with kids? Been there, done that!

Our final section of the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner.

Did you know that you can drive the Pacific Coast Highway with kids?

The first time we went with our kids was when our daughter was just a 6 months old baby and our son was 3 years old.

We started in San Francisco, cycled the Golden Gate Bridge with the kids, drove through Big Sur, watched the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas rookery near San Simeon, and ended our trip at Anaheim in Disney.

Both the kids loved every bit of it.

Also, most places and businesses in California, Oregon, and Washington and especially along the Pacific Coast Highway are kid-friendly.

When we road tripped, most hotels provided crib or baby cots, all the restaurants had high chairs, and even the wineries had kid-friendly areas.

Throughout our trip, we met friendly people who smiled and waved at our kids.

We always felt welcome wherever we went and felt quite at ease.

Read our post on Best Kid-friendly resorts along the Pacific Coast Highway to book your accommodations.

There are so many things to do along the Pacific Coast Highway road trip that are perfect for the kids.

They will love exploring nature: hike through redwood forests, discover tide pool creatures, play in the sand and on the beach, splash in the water, hike to see waterfalls, whale watch using binoculars, plus spend quality time with the parents.

There are also many kid-friendly attractions on the route including the Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Oceano Dunes Railroad museum, sand dune buggy rentals, whale watching tours, Santa Monica Pier, Disney theme parks, etc.

For more information, read our post on the Best Things to do on the West Coast with kids.

In fact, driving the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most fun family holiday vacations for families. 

Other things to consider

Stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway can get closed due to storms or landslides or wildfires, so we recommend keeping an eye on the news before your trip and getting travel insurance for just in case anything goes awry.

What should you pack for Pacific Coast Highway road trip?

It can get chilly along the PCH any time of the year, so we recommend packing in layers: long sleeve shirts, short sleeve t-shirts, and tank tops.

Pack long hiking pants for the northern and central coast and shorts for SoCal.

Pack a rain jacket and a sweater for the chilly days.

Take hiking shoes and socks and water shoes for beachcombing.

Pack some heels and a silk blouse for date nights in San Francisco, Monterey, and Los Angeles.

If you plan to drive north towards Portland and Seattle in the winter, then add thermal underwear and a packable jacket.

In summer, take sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen.

Do not forget to pack a camera and binoculars.

Read this before you leave

We have got many excellent resources on planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

We suggest that you browse around the site  – take a look at our PCH Road Trip itineraries , bookmark us for a later visit, sign up for our newsletter, or follow us on social media to know more about the Pacific Coast Highway. 

If you need to ask us questions about the trip, then join our Pacific Coast Highway Facebook Community now – it’s the perfect place to ask any itinerary related questions and plan your PCH road trip.

We hope that our Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner helps you in planning an awesome road trip.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

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The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (25 Stops + 3 Itineraries!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary + All The Stops Along The Way

The Pacific Coast Highway is easily considered to be one of the most iconic road trip routes in the world !

It’s not hard to believe either. From the moody beaches in Washington to the spectacular natural bridges in Southern Oregon to the winding roads of Big Sur, California , there is something new to see around every bend.

Berty and I drove the entire route back in 2017, and have returned to deeply explore sections every year since then!

Because we know this route so well, we wanted to create this comprehensive guide for iconic stops and places to see along the entire length of the Pacific Coast Highway, all 1,700-ish miles between Seattle, Washington and Orange County, California !

In this power, we’ll share the best PCH stops in Washington, Oregon, and California to make your Pacific Coast Highway road trip your most epic trip yet.

Let’s get planning!

Step By Step Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Directions (Download)

Where is the pacific coast highway how long is it.

The Pacific Coast Highway has many names.

You can also recognize it by its abbreviation (PCH), and referred to as the California Coast road trip , Pacific Coast Highway road trip, Route 1, Highway 101 (through Washington and Oregon), or even just Highway 1 (in California).

All names aside, they all lead you down the same road, which is the route that parallels the Pacific Ocean and the western border of the contiguous United States.

The traditional Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) is 655 miles long. The full Pacific Coast Highway (Orange County to Seattle) is just over 1,700 miles.

We’ll be talking about the entire Pacific Coast Highway itinerary in this blog post. (Seattle to Orange County)

Pacific Coast Highway Map, Directions, & Best Times

Which direction to drive the pacific coast highway.

Where should you begin your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary? Northbound or Southbound?

There are two directions to do a Pacific Coast Highway road trip – driving south or driving north! Honestly, both are great options but being from Washington, Berty and I began in Seattle and made our way south.

If you are searching for the best weather conditions, here are pros of each direction:

• Southbound (Seattle to Orange County): Driven during spring break, you can escape the Pacific Northwest rain and enjoy the warmth of Southern California.
• Nortbound (Orange County to Seattle): Driving north will help you escape California’s hot weather in late summer and fall.

Pacific Coast Highway Start and End Points

Traditionally, the Pacific Coast Highway is considered to be the entire Highway 1 of the California Coast. This spans between Capistrano Beach is Orange County to Legget in Nortoerhn California. Highway 1 is 655.84 miles.

However, we like to think of this drive spanning three Pacific Coast states: Washington, Oregon, and California.

The traditional starting point in Washington is Seattle (with a detour through the Olympic National Park). The traditional starting point in California is San Diego .

When To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway

We also began our trip in June, but this trip is good to take any time of year.

If you decided on making it a winter road trip route , that means you’ll have a lot fewer crowds to deal with! Driving along the coast, the weather is more temperate and usually doesn’t get cold enough for snow, so you won’t run into many driving issues.

However, if you’re looking for the “windows-down, sunsets every night” kind of trip, we recommend taking this drive any time between June-September for the best chance of good weather.

Pacific Coast Highway Map

Top Tips For Driving The Pacific Coast Highway

So, how can you plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip? Here are our suggestions of things to do before your trip:

Plan Your Stops Carefully: Carefully creating an itinerary will help make reserving hotels and activies a LOT easier. However, make sure to leave just a little wiggle room for surprises! Book Accommodations In Advance: The Pacific Coast Highway is a popular road trip route. Once you know your trip dates, plan to book hotels and campgrounds ASAP. We like to split accommodations between car camping and hotels for a good mix. On a budget? Here are 20 car camping hacks to consider. Check Road Closures: Check you route for any major road closures. This actually happens a lot more often than you might think Big Sur often has landslides. Rent a Great Car (or RV!): You can rent a car and book hotels, OR you can rent a campervan and book campgrounds for a budget-friendly trip. Outdoorsy has cool recreation vehicles vans to rent – it’s like Airbnb but for RVs! Decide When To Embark: Determine when to plan your PCH trip and how many days you have. Keep scrolling to the bottom of the post for PCH itinerary examples. Use a Good Navigation App : Good navigation apps make a huge difference. Read our favorite road trip planner apps here. Get a Convertible…or a Harley! If you are driving only a small section of the PCH, rent a fun vehicle! This isn’t mandatory, but it sure is iconic to drive on the highway in one of these cool rides. Ask Great Questions: You’re in the car for a long time. Make sure to have these road trip questions ready to brighten those dull moments. Download Podcasts + Playlists : Download these road trip podcasts and personalized playlists when you have wifi. You’ll thank me later. Pack Your Car With The Essentials: Here’s a list of road trip essentials you need to be packing. Prepare To Stop Frequently: The whole point of driving the Pacific Coast Highway is to take in the sights!

How To Choose a Car For The Pacific Coast Highway

Choosing the right vehicle for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip is probably THE most important decision you will make.

Option 1: Drive Your Own Car Make sure your car has had a tune-up, and its oil changed. It’s worth it to get checked out now, than risk something going wrong mid-way through your trip.

Option 2: Rent a Regular Car Renting a car is a great option for a reliable drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. Personally, we like Avis becuase they have a great rewards program. You can find cheap options

Option 3: Rent a Campervan or RV Renting a campervan is an awesome way to experience a little bit of vanlife. Search for the best campervans at Outdoorsy . Just note, it may be a little tricky to drive a campervan one-way. You may have to return it at your starting point via I-5!

Option 4: Take The Public us (Kind of possible, but not recommended) Yes, it’s possible to cobble together transportation on local transit. You’ll find that you can get around easiest in Southern California and the central Oregon Coast. However, there will be stretches of road with no transporation avaiable, or you may have to leave the coast and venture inland to find a route. It’s cheap yes, but takes quite a bit of pre-planning.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip On A Budget

Are you hoping to plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip route on a budget ? Here are some budgeting hacks we like to use to plan a budget PCH trip:

Use The Dyrt To Find Campgrounds: The Dyrt is the largest online campground database. We use the offline campground search feature to find spots on the go (no service needed!). The Dyrt gave us a code for you, our epic reader, to try the pro membership for 30 days free!   Click here to unlock your 30-day free trial . Find Free Campsites: Road tripping around the west coast for years, we’ve learned a thing or two about finding free campsites in the USA . Our guide includes campground searching hacks, backcountry packing guides, and tips on how to find the best camping spots on the PCH. Cook Your Own Meals: Save money on the road by making your own quick & easy camping meals . Manage Money On The Road: Learn how we travel on a budget in the Pacific Northwest .

What To Pack For A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

A good Pacific Coast Highway road trip will take you through the rainy gloom of Washington, as well as the sunny beaches of California. This makes packing slighly more challenging – you’ll have to account for tons of variable weather!

Rain Jacket: You’ll need one in Washington and Oregon, especially during winter and spring. Here are our favorite rain jackets to wear in the Pacific Northwest . Light Layers: Once you reach California, it’s nice to have light, packable layers to bring on your day adventures. We like this windbreaker and this colorful fleece for easy layering. Down Jacket: Down jackets are an excellent option for extra warmth, especially when paired with a rain jacket. Get this packable one to save space in your suitcase. Sunglasses: You’ll need some, since you’ll be watchin the sunset every night! Grab this pair of inexpensive but HIGHLY rated sunglasses to knock around on your adventures. Hiking Shoes: Hiking in the PNW for over a decade, we know a thing or two about boots! Read our list on the best hiking boots , to pick the right ones for you. Walking Sandals : From walking around Huntington Pier to strolling around your campsite, walking sandals are essential to your Pacific Coast Highway packing list. Portable Phone Charger: This Goal Zero 24 is the perfect companion to charge your phone on a day trip. Camera: Here’s our guide on how to take smartphone landscape photography, or you can check out the travel photography gear as media professionals. Hiking Clothes: You’ll want to bring these highly-coveted hiking shorts , a day pack , and the 10 hiking essentials .

Here are some posts we’ve written about what to pack for certain parts of the Pacific Coast Highway:

• 5 Essentials to Bring On The Washington Coast
• The Ultimate Packing List For San Francisco
• What To Pack For A Weekend in Los Angeles

The Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops (State By State)

If you’re planning to experience the entire Pacific Coast Highway (including extending it to Oregon and Washington), you probably know that there is an insane amount of beautiful stops to take.

We’re going to break locations down state by state, to give you bite-sized chunks of information for each place.

Each state provides something unique and exciting for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, so read below for location inspiration in Washington, Oregon, and California!

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In Washington

Washington is not all rain and gloom!

While the movies portray this evergreen state in a constant shroud of clouds and moodiness (Thanks, Twilight) , its nothing farther from the truth.

Here, you can find powerful waterfalls, secret coves, and lush green forest, and amazing hikes in every corner of this beautiful state.

Keep on reading to read about some highlights along the Pacific Coast Highway in Washington!

Seattle, Washington

This is where we suggest starting your Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Seattle is a great place to stock up on all the road trip essentials , grab rental cars, and arrive by plane to stay on your journey on the Pacific Coast Highway. If you’re flying in to begin your journey, you’ll fly into Sattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Have a little bit more time on your hands? Stick around for a few days and try these unique things to do in Seattle , or take these incredible day trips from Seattle .

Fun things to do in Seattle, Washington:

• Visit Pike Place Market
• Go to the first-ever Starbucks Coffee store
• Visit The Museum of Pop Culture
• Watch the sunset at Jose Rizal Park
• See the Space Needle up close at Kerry Park
• Have a bonfire with friends at Golden Gardens Park
• Go to A Husky Football game in the University District

Read More: What To Pack For The Pacific Northwest

Port Angeles

If you are starting in Seattle or Vancouver, chances are you’ll need to take a ferry across the Puget Sound to reach the Olympic Peninsula . It’s also possible to drive around through Olympia, if you don’t want to put your car on the ferry.

From here, you will pass the cities of Sequim and Port Angeles. Before hitting to Pacific Coast Highway, we recommend taking a stop by Lake Crescent for some classic PNW vibes and maybe a quick lunch break too.

If you want to see what the lake looks like from above, test your limits and hike Mount Storm King . The 4.7-mile round trip hike gains over 2,000 feet in elevation, including scrambling up the side of a cliff with the help of a few installed ropes.

This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but your attempts will be rewarded with experiencing one of the most spectacular places to see in the Olympic Peninsula .

Stay Overnight: Book a stay at The Olympic Lodge in Port Angeles . It’s right in town, and central to other adventures like Hurricane Ridge, Salt Creek, and Lake Crescent.

Sol Duc Falls

Sol Duc Falls is located in the Olympic National Park , and along Highway 101 on your way towards the coast.

It’s a small detour before heading to the ocean. However, the detour is worth every minute! The short trail to Sol Duc Falls leads to one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Washington state.

If you are wanting a unique place to stay in the Olympic National Park, consider staying at the Sol Duc Hot Springs, a natural pool resort in the park.

Doing this, you can wake up early to visit the falls and beat the crowds!

Cape Flattery

If you’re looking for the most northwest location in the lower 48 United States, you’ve found it at Cape Flattery !

This jaw-dropping piece of coastline is owned by the Makah Tribe. It includes beautiful sea stacks just offshore and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

If you are planning your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for epic photo spots, don’t miss this place! You’ll need an entry pass ($10 per vehicle) and you can pick it up at the gas station or grocery store at Neah Bay.

Forks, Washington

La Push Beaches (First, Second, and Third)

You may know these beaches from the movie Twilight but rest assured there are no vampires in sight. (Partly because it’s werewolf territory anyway, DUH) In fact, we’ve seen some of the most incredible sunsets right here on Second Beach.

When visiting, it’s important to note that there are three beaches to choose from. First Beach provides easy and instant beach access, so it’s a popular choice for families.

Second Beach requires a hike on a short trail to reach the beach, and you can also camp on this beach. Second Beach is also the most popular option for its beautiful rock formations and vast shoreline.

Third Beach requires a longer hike and is the least visited of all the beaches.

Any of these Washington beaches you choose, don’t forget to pack these 5 beach essentials!

Read More: La Push Beach + and Beach Camping Tips

Ocean Shores, Washington

Ocean Shores is a quaint little town on the Washington Coast, just north of Grays Harbor.

Here, you will find tons of vacation rental homes, small seafood restaurants, and tons of beach activities. Berty and I came with our friends last summer and opted to rent motorbikes on the beach, eat our weight in crab, and explore the jetty!

Restaurants to try in Ocean Shores:

• Murphy’s Candy & Ice Cream Shop
• Galway Bay Irish Pub
• Ocean Beach Roasters and Bistro
• Oyhut Bay Bistro

Want more beach fun on the Washington Coast? Check out Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach !

Read More: 7 Fun Things To Do In Ocean Shores, Washington

Pierce County Area (Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Puyallup)

If you’re looking to spend a little extra for a comfortable room and some great food, spend some time exploring Gig Harbor and boating around the South Puget Sound . You will be able to spot wildlife all around you, whether it’s jellyfish or a pod of orcas!

Some of our favorite cities in Pierce County to explore: Puyallup (Washington State Fair), Tacoma, and Gig Harbor!

Mount Rainier National Park

Take your journey slightly inland to explore Mount Rainier National Park. Here, you can test your limits and backpack up to the summit (training required!) or simply take a nice stroll at the base of the mountain like on Nisqually Loop Trail .

Mount Rainier is best explored if you spend 2-3 days in the park! There are so many different areas to cover (Paradise Area and Sunrise Area are the most popular), so give yourself time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors here in the Pacific Northwest.

Most Popular Activities To Do At Mount Rainier:

• Hike the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail
• See Silver Falls
• Hike the Skyline Divide Trail
• Visit the Longmire Museum

Cape Disappointment State Park

Cape Disappointment is located in the far southwestern corner of Washington State. Here, you can discover miles of trails, play on the beaches, and maybe even spot an orca offshore!

For a memorable photo opportunity on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, take the trail down to Deadman’s Cove and capture this hidden beach at sunset!

Read More: Cape Disappointment + Deadman’s Cove

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Stops In Oregon

The Oregon Coast itself is worthy of its own road trip but lucky you – you get to see it all and more!

We’re sharing all the best stops along this part of the Pacific Coast Highway and what you can expect in this beautiful state.

Not enough time for the whole thing? Take an Oregon Coast Road Trip instead!

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a family and dog-friendly beach located 1.5 hours west of Portland. Here, you can explore the many quaint seaside shops, take a walk on the beach, and explore the many tide pools.

There are many services available here, so it’s a great stop for camping, resting, or even getting a seaside Airbnb! (By the way, y ou can get $40 off your first reservation at this link! )

Read More: Spending The Day At Cannon Beach

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda  is a popular beach on the Oregon Coast. Here, you can walk along the beach and enjoy Pacific City’s own “Haystack Rock”, or climb the nearby sand dunes to discover incredible views, coves, and rock formations!

Too busy for you? Venture just a 5-minute drive south to Bob Straub State Park, where you can walk along the less-traveled and peaceful beachfront.

The area of Oregon can be rainy and cloudy year-round, but if you’re lucky you can experience one of its gorgeous sunsets (that is if the weather cooperates!). Make sure to pack a rain jacket!

Read More:  10 Epic Adventures To Take Aroun Cape Kiwanda

God’s Thumb Hike, Lincoln City

The hike to God’s Thumb is a moderately difficult hike along the Oregon Coast. A 4.6-mile round trip hike will bring you to a curved landscape on an oceanside cliff. 

It gets its name “God’s Thumb” because it slightly resembles a thumb… but we think it kind of looks like a soft-serve ice cream swirl!

Located in Lincoln City, Oregon , this is a perfect place to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and see a beautiful area of the Oregon Coast.

Read More: Hike To God’s Thumb in Lincoln City On The Oregon Coast

Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is a perfect stop on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Here, you can experience the power of the ocean slamming and swirling into a carved-out bowl.

From the top, you can see down inside the “punchbowl”. During high tide, the waves swirl and crash around inside, but during low tide, you can walk down on the beach and explore inside.

Stay a while for a roadside picnic, to explore tide pools, or climb around on the rocks on the shore.

Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well in another one of the Oregon Coast’s amazing natural phenomena. You can experience the most dramatic sights at high tide, but beware – it’s the most dangerous time to visit too.

Similar to the Spouting Horn in Kauai , this sinkhole looks like water is just draining into a huge abyss, but it’s actually a natural rock tube that sucks and shoots water our according to the adjacent waves.

Don’t get too close to it though, it pushes and pulls water with a powerful force , meaning if you get too close you risk being swept off your feet into the hole!

This area is located just south of the Cape Perpetua Visitor’s Cente r, with lots of wheelchair accessible walkways AND walk-at-your-own-risk paths too.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is an amazing spot on the Pacific Coast Highway, and probably home to one of the best photo spots on the PCH!

For a quick side trip, take the drive up to Cape Perpetua Lookout , where you can see the Oregon Coast meet the winding highway below. It’s an incredible view – make sure to bring your camera!

This is also a great stop for some camping on the Oregon Coast, as well as exploring the many ocean features and scenic trails in the area.

Read More: 10 Epic Things To Do In Cape Perpetua Area Of The Oregon Coast

(Bonus Side Trip!) Umpqua Hot Springs + Toketee Falls

Got an extra day to spare?

Since you’re already in Oregon, consider taking a side trip east to the Cascade Mountains. The Umpqua National Forest has a lot to see, but it’s shining stars have got to be Toketee Falls and the Umpqua Hot Springs.

Both of the trails to Toketee Falls and Umpqua Hot Springs are nearby one another, short, and easy to follow.

They can be accomplished in a morning or afternoon trip. If you haven’t visited a Pacific Northwest hot springs  yet, this is the perfect chance to do it!

We would suggest that you Visit Toketee Falls first, so you can save your soak for last!

Read More: 5 Essential Tips For Soaking at Upmqua Hot Springs

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Of all the stops on the Oregon Coast, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a MUST visit. Offshore rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves make this place a magical stop on the Pacific Coast Highway.

To fully experience this area, we suggest scheduling your visit for sunset. The sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day the skies light up with beautiful colors. Don’t forget to stop at other iconic spots in the park including Secret Beach, Natural Bridges, Arch Rock, and Indian Sands Trail!

Located on the Southern Oregon Coast , Samuel H Boardman spans around 10-miles of rugged, scenic coastline. There are many hikes to choose from around Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor . Take some time to explore a few (many trails are short) , and pick your favorite spots for sunset.

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In California

Congratulations! You’ve made it to California!

This is technically the beginning of the official Pacific Coast Highway (also called Highway 1) , but we all know you’ve put in too many miles on your car and see too much epic-ness for it to be just starting.

While you’ll be encountering a lot more sunshine in this section of the road trip, the Northern California coast can be a little temperamental! Don’t put away your rain coast just yet.

California road trip stops on the Pacific Coast Highway are some of the most breathtaking and beautiful areas of the whole trip. Read on to discover where to go and what to see below in the sunshine state.

Redwood National and State Parks

If your Pacific Coast Highway road rrip is taking you southbound, your first California stop will be at the Redwood National and State Parks.

The Redwoods are known for their spectacularly tall and beautiful trees. Furthermore, this area is home to some of the tallest trees on earth!

There are several scenic drives to take here, but the prettiest Northern California drives are through the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (the scenic route) and the Avenue of The Giants at Humbolt Redwoods State Park. For a lot of stops and viewpoints of the ocean, consider stopping at Patrick’s Point State Park !

Read More: 10 Things To Do In The Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon

Wait, did we just travel through time? You’re not far off if you felt like you just stepped foot into Jurassic Park. In fact, scenes from the movie were filmed right here in Fern Canyon!

Fern Canyon Trail in the Redwoods is a very short route – just 1.1-miles to revel in the 50-foot tall fern-covered walls and lush surrounding forest. The hike is easy, but getting there is a different story. The trip requires a few creek crossings and winding, narrow dirt roads to reach the trailhead. We’ve got everything you need to know about Fern Canyon right here !

Black Sand Beach

Have you been looking at thos e famous black sand beaches in Iceland ? Get a taste of the beauty (without the price of a plane ticket) and come visit a look-alike on the California Coast.

Shelter Cove is a little town located in the King Range National Conversation Area. Here, there are craggy coastlines, dramatic scenery, and a black sand beach. The waves are tall and powerful here.

Warning: The road is winding and treacherous, which can be dangerous in bad weather.

This is also an extremely out-of-the-way detour, with one route going in and out from the beach. Make sure to have a full tank of gas, and be prepared to drive on narrow roads and near tall cliff edges!

Read More:   How To Get To California’s Iconic Black Sands Beach

Point Reyes National Seashore

Love the California beach? Explore the Point Reyes National Seashore , a protected coastline of rolling pastures, historic landmarks, and even a secret docked ship!

Start your journey in the town of Inverness, where you can stock up on food, gas, and even camping gear if you choose to spend the night in one of their many campgrounds .

Some of the best things to do in Point Reyes National Seashore are visiting the historic lighthouse (make sure to pay attention to its hours of operation! ), driving down the canopy of Cypress trees , and even whale watching if you come at the right time of year!

Read More: Spending The Day At Point Reyes National Seashore

Bolinas Ridge

If you have a scheduled stop in San Francisco on your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary, make sure to make a sunset stop just north of the city , on Bolinas Ridge .

This area of golden, glimmering rolling hills is located on the edge of Mount Tamalpais State Park in Marin County, California.

Our favorite scenic road to drive is Ridgecrest Boulevard , which includes pullouts ever so often to quickly park your car and enjoy the beautiful and consistent sunsets on this piece of the California coast.

Read More: A Golden Sunset At Bolinas Ridge

Mount Tamalpais

Keep the spirit of adventure alive , even in a bustling city like San Francisco !

If you’ve got a pit stop in the Golden City, journey just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and experience Mount Tamalpais State Park for a quick break from city life.

Here, you can take many amazing trails with stunning views of big city buildings across the bay. Some of our favorite trails for city views are the East Peak Hike  (to a stone lookout tower) and the Verna Dunshee Trail. 

Going when it’s cold outside? Read our San Francisco Winter Packing List .

Read More: 10 Adventurous Things To Do Outside of San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

No trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is complete without seeing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge!

On either side of the bridge, there are several incredible viewpoints to check out. Some of the best places to view the Golden Gate Bridge are from Battery Spencer, Kirby Cove, and the North Vista Point.

Remember: The Golden Gate Bridge is a toll bridge . Motorcycles and regular cars will get through and be billed $8.00 to the address your car is registered at.

San Francisco, California

If you’ve been driving southbound on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, San Francisco will be the first large city you will encounter. 

Here, you can experience many iconic and famous landmarks. Here are some places to see while in San Francisco :

• See the sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
• Stop By The Painted Ladies
• Wander through the neighborhoods and see the beautiful Victorian-era houses

Need a place to stay in San Francisco? Click here and get $40 off your first booking on Airbnb!

Shark Fin Cove

Click here to see more amazing pictures from our visit to Shark Fin Cove.

Shark Fin Cove is a beautiful California coast beach located south of San Francisco – in Davenport, California. It’s named for its rock formation just off the shore that resembling a shark’s top fin. 

You aren’t able to see this cove from the road, which makes finding access a little difficult . There are no signs indicating the location, so you must rely on Google Maps to help guide to you the parking lot off the California Coast Highway 1.

This place provides absolutely stunning views from above AND below. Start your visit at the top and walk along the trails near the cliffs (but be careful!). Finally, climb down into the cove via a steep trail to find beach access.

On a weekday, it’s very likely you will get this beach all to yourself! 

Read More: What To Expect At California’s Shark Fin Cove

Big Sur State Park

When you think of driving down the California Coast , Big Sur is what Pacific Coast Highway dreams are made of. Sunny coastline, winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful bridges are scattered along 90 miles of this beautiful West Coast drive.

Some of the highlights on this part of the PCH include:

• Pfeiffer Beach
• McWay Falls
• Bixby Creek Bridge
• Pebble Beach
• 17-Mile Drive (Monterey/Pacific Grove)

Pro Tip: A day trip to Big Sur, California is absolutely the most quintessential activity  of any good Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Don’t miss this.

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

(Detour Off Highway 1) Yosemite National Park

While you’re in the area, might as well take a little detour to one of the greatest national parks in America!

Yosemite is home to the tallest waterfall in North America, home to giant Sequoia trees, and has more than 800 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy.

Only have 24 extra hours to spare for Yosemite? Click here for our 24-hour guide to Yosemite National Park.

Pro Tip: If you are hoping to spend a few days in the park, make camping reservations extremely early in advance.

Camping spots generally get full six months before the reservation date. A trip to Yosemite National Park requires a lot of pre-planning.

Los Angeles, California

Another major city on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip will be Los Angeles California. For many going northbound, this is a common starting point (as well as San Diego).

If you’re like us and coming to LA on a southbound Pacific Coast Highway trip, this is a fun pit stop to take a few days and recharge from all that driving.

Again, if you are looking to book a place on Airbnb, click here to get $40 off your first booking!

Here are some fun things to do in Los Angeles:

• Santa Monica Pier + the Amusement Park on the boardwalk.
• Venice Beach
• Griffith Observatory
• The Getty Museum
• Hollywood Boulevard
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Read More: How To Spend a Fun Weekend in West Hollywood, California

Orange County, California

Orange County California is just south of the city of Los Angeles. With a slower lifestyle, less traffic, and a lot more beach space, this place is a perfect getaway for sunshine lovers and surfers alike.

There are a few opportunities to camp on the coast, like RV sites in Huntington Beach and tent sites at Crystal Cove State Park. Either way, it’s definitely worth it to spend a few days in Orange County and experience all it has to offer!

Must-see spots to visit in Orange County:

• La Tour (Secret Oceanside Castle in the cliff)
• Huntington Beach (Sur City, USA)
• Newport Beach Harbor and Balboa Island
• Laguna Beach
• Here are our favorite restaurants in Orange County to try!

Looking to travel to the OC on a budget? Check out our list of free things to do in Orange County to have maximum fun, with money still left in your pocket!

Read More: 10 Amazing Outdoor Activities in Orange County, California

San Diego, California

You did it!

San Diego will be the likely the end (or the beginning!) to your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary.

However, it’s still worth visiting for a few days. There are so many amazing things to do in San Diego that this city is an excellent way to kick off or wrap up any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Don’t miss out of Torrey Pines State Reserve! This network of outdoor trails have some of the best views in the entire city. Spend some time exploring the trails during sunset for a magical stay in San Diego.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in one trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re sharing some example itineraries for a five-day trip , one-week trip , and two-week trip down the Pacific Coast Highway.

Read below to find your perfect one!

5 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Five days to drive down the Pacific Coast is absolutely doable! During these days, you have time to experience the highlights of the coast, and whet your appetite for another future trip!

• Day 1: Seattle, WA to Coos Bay, OR
• Day 2: Coos Bay OR, to Redwood National Park, CA
• Day 3: Redwood National Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 4: San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA
• Day 5: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

7 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

One week on the Pacific Coast Highway will allow you to see the most iconic locations. One week is great for travelers who want to fit in the entire trip during a school break, or only have so many days to take off of work.

A one-week Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary will allow you to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Here’s an example PCH itinerary:

• Day 1: Seattle WA, to Forks, WA
• Day 2: Forks, WA to Cape Kiwanda, OR
• Day 3: Cape Kiwanda, OR to Redwood State Park, CA
• Day 4: Redwood State Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 5: San Francisco CA, to Big Sur, CA
• Day 6: Big Sur, CA, to Orange County, CA
• Day 7: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

10 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Two-week pacific coast highway road trip itinerary.

If you have two weeks to spare, this is the ideal amount of time for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip!

Two weeks gives you ample time to see all the highlights, take some day hikes, and even some off-coast detours like Yosemite or Toketee Falls! You will be able to see everything you want and more, and not feel rushed in your process.

• Day 1: Seattle, WA to Port Angeles, WA
• Day 2: Port Angeles, to Forks, WA
• Day 3: Forks, WA to Astoria, OR
• Day 4: Astoria OR, to Cape Kiwanda, OR
• Day 5:  Cape Kiwanda OR , to Brookings, OR
• Day 6: Brooking OR, to Redwood State Park, CA
• Day 7:  Redwood State Park, CA to Mendocino, CA
• Day 8: Mendocino, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 9:  San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
• Day 10: Santa Cruz, CA to Big Sur, CA
• Day 11:  Big Sur, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
• Day 12: Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
• Day 13: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
• Day 14: End in San Diego

Some of our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Inspiration

Creating this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary was quite the workload! Lucky for us, this is the kind of work we live for, and it was fun, inspiring, and most of all helpful!

We hope this helps in your own Pacific Coast Highway road trip and makes planning a little bit easier for you.

Here are some of the pins we’ve created to share with our followers on Pinterest. Feel free to save some too for your own inspirational road trip!

Pinterest ( Find us at @themandagies )

Have you taken a pacific coast highway road trip what were some of your favorite stops, ready to plan your own pacific coast highway road trip read these helpful posts:.

8 Steps For Planning A Flawless Weekend Trip

2o Energizing Hikes In The PN W

The Essential 2017 PNW Bucket List

Want more Pacific Coast Highway road trip inspiration? Follow our curated board on Pinterest!

So excited for you guys! My hubby and I did a similar (but quicker, so we didn’t see everything) trip in the summer of 2010 (a LONG time ago!). It was amazing. There is an amazing hike in Redwood National Park (Gold Bluffs Beach Section) that leads down to this secret beach. Even in summer (August) there wasn’t anyone on the trail. We were pretty new to the “planning” travel business so didn’t really plan anything when we went, but this hike was a highlight of our trip. I’m dying to go to the Painted Hills and Hot springs so excited to see what you guys think. Have so much fun!!! We’re secretly living through both of your photographs and blogs dreaming of our move one day back to this beautiful region of the world. We love Ireland, but the PNW truly can’t be beat.

Hi Danielle! I’m so glad you like our photographs and blog! That means so much to us 🙂 I’m so intrigued about the Gold Bluffs Beach Hike in the Redwoods. Now we need to go back and do that one!!!

LA to San Diego Drive: 15 Great Stops to Make Along the Coast

Planning a trip to California soon and interested in driving from Los Angeles to San Diego? Well, that is an absolutely excellent decision, because this route is filled with dozens of beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and lots of incredible things to do! I’ve put together this LA to San Diego drive/road trip itinerary, and it’ll go over what I think are all the best places to stop along the way! 

Southern California is truly one of the most enchanting places in the U.S.A, and I guarantee that if you stop in all of these places between LA and San Diego, you’ll be looking up real estate, and will soon be planning a move to California! 

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, or on an extended road trip – grab yourself some In-N-Out, and fall in love with California every night while watching the sunset every night! This LA to San Diego drive has every place stop you should make for the ultimate California experience!

The Ultimate LA to San Diego Drive Road Trip

How Far is San Diego from Los Angeles?

There is only about 120 miles between San Diego and LA, and without traffic will take around two hours. With that being said, if you decide to drive straight from one city to the next, you’ll be missing out on SO many incredible destinations along the way.

There are also bus and train options to get from LA to San Diego, but I definitely think the best way to travel from one city to the next is to have a car and enjoy an incredible drive!

Unusual cloudy days on the La to San Diego Drive

Is it a nice drive from LA to San Diego?

Absolutely YES! While the most the direct path is taking “The 5” freeway, but I’d highly recommend taking an extra couple days and enjoy a scenic road trip along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

You’ll enjoy stunning coastal views, charming towns, and plenty of incredible things to do to keep you busy for days! 

LA to San Diego Road Trip Overview

Before we dive into each of these major cities, here’s a quick look at all the great stops on the LA to San Diego Drive:

• Santa Monica
• Venice Beach/ Marina Del Ray
• Manhattan Beach
• Huntington Beach
• Newport Beach
• Laguna Beach
• San Clemente State Beach
• Encinitas/ Cardiff By The Sea
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve & Golf Course
• Pacific Beach

15 Best Stops along the LA To San Diego Road Trip

Alright, let’s discuss in detail a bit more on each destination including things to do, where you should stay if you decide to spend some extra time there, and some other fun recommended travel tips! I’ve also included a few fun travel videos for some of the stops, so be sure to watch the YouTube clips for trip inspiration!

1. Santa Monica 

This journey begins in one of LA’s most famous and iconic cities, Santa Monica! It’s actually one of my favorite beachside destinations in California, and you could spend several days here enjoying all the world-class restaurants, rooftop bars, and unbeatable west coast sunsets. 

Make sure you take a walk through the Santa Monica pier, take a ride on the roller coaster at Pacific Park, relax on the soft sandy beach, get some exercise by renting a bike and riding along its miles of bike paths, and take a stroll along Ocean avenue.

I’d also recommend you experience the stunning view of the ocean and mountains from Palisades park, graze through the local Santa Monica Farmers Market (open on Saturday/Sunday only), and do some shopping through the Third Street promenade! Santa Monica is simply the perfect way to start your LA to San Diego road trip!

Where to Stay in Santa Monica:

The Garden Hide-Away | 5 Star Santa Monica FANTASTIC

This clean and bright Santa Monica bungalow has an incredible overall guest score from hundreds of happy guests. It’s just a short walk down to LA’s famous beach and its many attractions, and is one of the best value stays in the area!

Santa Monica is the best way to start the Los Angeles to San Diego drive

2. Venice Beach & Marina Del Ray 

Located just a few miles south of Santa Monica, you’ll find the colorful suburbs of Venice & Marina Del Ray. You could easily rent a bike in Santa Monica, and ride down along the well-paved path down here!  

Whether you’re looking for a funky souvenir, a fresh tattoo, or just want to watch the lively street performers, definitely make a stop through Venice beach! Take some photos of the muscle men at the iconic muscle beach, watch the talented skateboarders in the skate park, and enjoy a meal at one of the foodie hotspots in the area!

While you’re in the Venice area, make sure you take a stroll or bike ride through the beautiful canals and bridges found in Marina Del Ray!  It’s a completely charming coastal community, and in 1965,  became the largest man-made, small-craft harbor in the country. Enjoy its laidback atmosphere, colorful sunsets, and partake in one of the popular watersport activities. It’s another must-visit for California visitors, and would be a highlight of your Los Angeles to San Diego road trip!

Where to Stay in Venice Beach / Marina Del Ray:

Venice Canals Bungalow~Sexy Deck, Venice Beach, Pier & Boardwalk

This luxurious VRBO located in Venice Canals is just blocks from the famous beach and its many visitor-friendly attractions, and you’ll fall in love with with the peaceful views from this quaint vacation rental.

Image via @adamhahn

3. Manhattan Beach

I recently visited Manhattan Beach for the first time (after living in Southern California for 20+ years), and I completely fell in love with it! It’s got a fun pier to watch the surfers from, tons of volleyball courts to play a quick game, and beautiful beachfront properties to dream about owning one day.  

There’s also a really nice downtown district filled with many family-owned restaurants, boutique fashion shops, and well-maintained paths filled with colorful flowers.  

Photographers will love the long-exposure shots you can get under the Manhattan beach pier, families will love exploring the Sand Dunes or a stroll through Live Oak  Park, and art fans will be ecstatic about the various galleries in the area! If you’re looking for fun and unique places to stop on the way to San Diego, I’d highly recommend checking out Manhattan Beach if you got the time!

Where to Stay in Manhattan Beach:

Designer Beach Studio In Manhattan Beach, Amazing Location! Steps to Beach!

This pretty Manhattan Beach studio abode is fresh, unique and comfortable. Enjoy warm California days with beach towels and chairs provided!

4. Long Beach

“With so much drama in the L-B-C , It’s kinda hard bein Snoop D-O-double-G. But I, somehow, some way. Keep comin up with funky ass shit like every single day”  —  Snoop Dogg  

One of the main destinations you simply can’t miss along this Los Angeles to San Diego drive is Long Beach, California. 

“ Long Beach is one giant playground located right in the heart of Southern California. Here you can experience it all from a deep-sea adventure at the Aquarium of the Pacific right on the bay and a voyage in time aboard the historic Queen Mary to lively guided tours through downtown and the colorful East Village.”

I’d recommend taking a bike ride along the beach, taking a ferry over to Catalina Island for a day-trip, and taking a Whales & Dolphins watching cruise! You could easily spend 2-3 days soaking up everything Long Beach has to offer, as it’s as one the most popular and lively places on this Los Angeles to San Diego drive!

Where to Stay in Long Beach:

1st Floor Beachfront Apartment with Ocean Views & Walking Distance to Everything

This charming Long Beach apartment features stylish interiors and an unbeatable location. You’ll be just seconds on foot to the beach, downtown Long Beach, shops, restaurants and the buzzing local entertainment district. 

5. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is one of the best cities between LA and San Diego!

Just about twenty minutes down the Pacific Coast Highway from Long Beach, you’ll find the lively suburb of Huntington Beach! This is one of the two main beaches I grew up going to and an outstanding place to spend an afternoon or even a couple of days!

It’s home to one of the longest piers on the West Coast of California (measure 1,850 feet in length), has lots of beach parking across the street (or pay $10 to park in the lot), and a vibrant nightlife scene! 

I’d recommend doing some drinking in Huntington Beach, as it’s filled with awesome bars, breweries, distilleries, lounges, and nightclubs.  

Watch the sunset while you stroll along the Huntington Beach pier, do some shopping along the buzzing Main Street, and be sure to hit some waves, as HB is known as “Surf City”!

Where to Stay in Huntington Beach:

Classic & Affordable Beach Cottage! A Short & Easy Walk To The Sand!

This five-star Huntington Beach surf cottage is spacious, well-situated and stylish. You’ll just staying just minutes from Huntington Beach, Sunset Beach and many other leading local coastal hubs. 

6. Newport Beach

Ahh, Newport Beach, one of the shining stars in Orange County! It’s one of California’s most iconic beach cities and comes complete with a massive stretch of beautiful soft sand, two different piers, and lots of fun bars, restaurants, and events to keep just about anyone entertained.

You could stop into the mega-shopping mall, “ Fashion Island “, grab a shake on Ruby’s Diner on the Balboa pier, or take a bike around through the tiny alleyways along the Balboa peninsula. 

I’d also recommend a quick jaunt down through the Crystal Cove State Park along PCH, which is one of “Orange County’s largest remaining examples of open space and natural seashore. It features 3.2 miles of beach, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness and an offshore underwater area. The park also features the federally listed Historic District, an enclave of 46 vintage rustic coastal cottages originally built as a seaside colony in the 1930’s & 40’s and nestled around the mouth of Los Trancos Creek.” 

There’s also a buzzing nightlife scene in Newport, as well as its inland counterpart of Costa Mesa! It’d be a fantastic place to stop for a meal or sightseeing when you drive from LA to San Diego!

Where to Stay in Newport Beach:

Clean Cottage for 2, Great Location! Large Patio, AIR, WiFi, Grill

This top-rated Newport Beach VRBO boasts an incredible location just steps from the beach, beautiful interior, and comfortable bedding for a superb stay!

7. Laguna Beach

Continuing down through Orange County along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll arrive at the iconic Laguna Beach, which is home to some of the most stunning beaches, coastlines, and houses in the state! It might just be the most jaw-dropping stop on the scenic drive from San Diego to Los Angeles!

Now, there is A LOT to do in the Laguna beach area, but here are few of my recommendations!

• Take a stroll through Heisner Park
• Visit Main Beach
• Visit 1000 Steps Beach During Sunset 
• Explore the Tide Pools
• Ride the Free Trolley through town
• Check out Treasure Island 

If you find yourself with several days in Laguna, I’d recommend checking out this article for the TOP 100 THINGS TO DO IN LAGUNA BEACH “, as it’s filled with epic ideas, activities, and attractions!

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach:

In the heart of Laguna Beach! Walk Everywhere!! Location! 5 star

This stunning one bedroom beachfront apartment is light, fresh and oozes Laguna Beach vibes. Perfect for a cozy seaside getaway, the pad boasts views from its front patio, and is just minutes walk from the heart of downtown Laguna Beach and to Main Beach.

8. Dana Point 

So my cousins have been living down in Dana Point for nearly 15 years, and it’s definitely one of the better areas in Orange County!  You can soak up the sun at one of its many gorgeous beaches, experience marine life on one of the many ocean cruises, or go boat shopping through the wondrous Dana Point harbor.  

If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, stop in the Dana Point Farmer’s Market for some fresh produce and local healthy snacks, fruits, veggies, nuts, and freshly baked bread!  

If there’s one thing you gotta do while you’re in Dana Point, it’s the quick 0.2 mile Bluff Top walking trail, which provides an amazing panoramic view of the harbor! This could be a fun and easy stop when Driving from LA to San Diego  

Where to stay in Dana Point:

Newly Remodeled Dana Point Beach Getaway

Affordable, fun, and perfectly located in Dana Point – you’ll love this bedroom condo and exploring all the nearby attractions!

Check out this awesome Youtube Video for a bit more Dana point travel inspiration!

9. San Clemente State Beach

Are you interested in doing any beach camping? Well, this is exactly where you should go in Southern California! But even if you don’t, it’s still worth a visit 

San Clemente is a gorgeous mile-long beach that is popular for swimming, bodysurfing, skimboarding, and of course, surfing! 

Check out the San Clemente State Beach website  for more information, opening hours, and making a beach camping reservation!  

Where to Stay in San Clemente:

San Clemente’s Most Popular Vacation Rental – Check out our reviews!

The name speaks for itself! This stylish condo is just steps from the beach, restaurants, bars and shopping in the heart of San Clemente, California. 

10. Oceanside

Welcome to Oceanside, the northernmost city in San Diego County! Located right along the Pacific Ocean, you will find over six miles of stunning beaches, wonderful attractions, a lively boardwalk, and the longest wooden  pier  on the California coast, measuring at 1941 feet in length ( which 1/3 of a mile)!

I’d suggest checking out the most popular Harbor Beach, take a visit through the Beach House winery, and take a gander through the Oceanside Museum Of Art!  

If you’ve got a decent travel budget, than I’d look into chartering a boat, so you can sail up and down the California coast for a few hours!   

Where to stay in Oceanside:

1 Bedroom With 2 Queen Beds Beautiful New Remodel With Harbor View From Balcony

One of Oceanside’s most in-demand and highly-rated vacation rentals, this one bedroom beachfront condo is stylish and high-end. Its patio boasts views over Oceanside Harbor and the beach is right at your fingertips. 

11. Carlsbad

After a short drive down from Oceanside, you’ll quickly enter the small town of Carlsbad, but it’s list of attractions is quite massive! The one destination that tops any list is a visit to the epic LEGOLAND California Resort. If that doesn’t interest you, then instead book yourself a ticket to the Sea Life Aquarium.

Another important attraction in Carlsbad is the lovely Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch! It’a “fifty-acre dazzling rainbow of beautiful ranunculus flowers set on a hillside overlooking the striking Carlsbad, California coastline. The outdoor space is idyllic for planning weddings, events and corporate gatherings held among the lush gardens, or you may choose to nestle indoors in our 200-seat Paul Ecke Jr. Barn for special occasions!”

Where to Stay in Carlsbad:

Gorgeously Remodeled Carlsbad Beach Bungalow

This sylish one bedroom Carlsbad bungalow is just steps from beach and Carlsbad’s many restaurants, bars and of course – LEGOLAND! The stylish space is one of the best in town, and perfect for a Carlsbad getaway on your road trip!

12. Encinitas & Cardiff By The Sea

Continuing down the coast, you’ll find yourself in the charming city of Encinitas, which is Spanish for “hills of live oaks”. It’s another quirky beachside area, extremely popular for surfers, families, and beach fun! 

Make sure you take a stroll along the popular “Moonlight Beach”, explore the San Elijo Lagoon State Marine Conservation Area, and get lost among in San Diego Botanic Gardens!  

13. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve & Golf Course

While Torrey Pines might be located within San Diego city limits, it somehow remains one of the wildest area of land on the Southern California coastline! Visiting here is like taking a time machine back, and you’ll experience what it looked like centuries ago!  Complete with the maritime chaparral, the rare Torrey pine, miles of pristine beaches, and a lagoon that is a crucial element to migrating bird species! It’s truly a must-visit, with it’s coastline filled pine trees,, sandstone canyons, and a wide variety of dirt hiking trails overlooking the ocean!

Torrey Pines is also home to California’s most pristine and famous golf course, but any fan of golf is already aware of that little tidbit!  Head over to the Torres Pine Golf Course website for reservations, prices, and more info!

14. La Jolla Cove

If I ever move back to California, I’d personally love to find myself an apartment or house in the La Jolla  district in San Diego!  With its selection of the mesmerizing beaches, unbeatable coastline views, and charming city center, it’s such a fantastic place to spend a good amount of time!

La Jolla is a small beachfront city located only about twenty minutes north from downtown San Diego, and is truly a gem! Complete with so many awesome eateries (with rooftop terraces overlooking the beach & sunsets), nearly perfect weather year-round, and some of the best snorkeling and scuba-diving in Southern California!  

There’s a really fantastic walking trail filled with different viewpoints and photo opportunities, and you definitely have to experience La Jolla Cove for yourself!

15. Pacific Beach

Last, but certainly not least, Pacific Beach is the PLACE TO BE once you’ve arrived in San Diego. This suburb is basically the “epitome” of Southern California culture, and you will fall in love with everything this area has to offer! With a wide variety of bars and restaurants lining the beach, beautiful sunsets every night, and a welcoming atmosphere- you’ll find yourself wanting to stay in “PB” as long as possible!

Check out this awesome article by my fellow blogger titled “ 25 Things To Do In Pacific Beach San Diego ” for more inspiration and information!  

Do I need to anything to this LA to San Diego Drive Itinerary?

Being a so-cal native, I could probably add at least a dozen more places that I think would be worth a visit, but I wanted to keep it to 15. If you think I need to add any specific destination along the Pacific Coast Highway, please do let me know! I’d also love to hear of your favorite restaurants and bars in the area, as I plan on completing this drive a lot in the coming months, and would love some recommendations!

Planning a Trip To California?

As a native Californian, I make it a point to make sure I create a lot of top California content! From NoCal to SoCal and everywhere else in between, this is the most up-to-the-minute list of my California blogs, guides and lists!

• Top 20 San Diego Music Festivals
• THE 120+ BEST CALIFORNIA QUOTES THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO HEAD OUT WEST
• THE 15 BEST AIRBNB MONTEREY RENTALS FOR A CALIFORNIA SEASIDE ESCAPE
• EDM Festivals | The 20 Best Electronic Music Festivals in the USA
• 18 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNBS IN SANTA BARBARA FOR THE PERFECT CALIFORNIA GETAWAY
• 20 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNBS IN SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA | SAN DIEGO AIRBNB GUIDE
• 10 BEST DESTINATIONS FOR GLAMPING IN BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA | BIG SUR GLAMPING GUIDE
• 20 BEST AIRBNBS IN LOS ANGELES – THE HILLS, THE CITY & THE BEACH
• 14 JAW-DROPPING AIRBNB LA JOLLA VACATION RENTALS
• 37 CALIFORNIA MUSIC FESTIVALS THAT’LL KEEP YOU DANCING ALL YEAR LONG
• 29 GORGEOUS GLAMPING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PLACES YOU NEED TO EXPERIENCE
• 15 BEST AIRBNB SAN LUIS OBISPO RENTALS FOR A CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST RETREAT
• 18 BEST AIRBNBS IN BIG BEAR, CALIFORNIA | BIG BEAR AIRBNB CABINS ?⛰️
• 17 DREAMY GLAMPING BAY AREA & NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DESTINATIONS
• 14 BEST AIRBNB FRESNO VACATION RENTALS FOR A TASTE OF CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
• 95+ BEST LOS ANGELES QUOTES | FUNNY, MOVIES, LYRICS & BOOKS + MORE!
• 17 BEST AIRBNB YOSEMITE RENTALS FOR AN ESCAPE TO THE CALIFORNIA WILDERNESS
• 16 BEST AIRBNB LAGUNA BEACH RENTALS FOR A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GETAWAY

Thanks for reading my LA to San Diego Drive Itinerary!

Share this la to san diego guide with your travel squad.

Hi Dave. Thanks for the shoutout. As a SoCal native (grew up in HB, moved to La Jolla to go to UCSD originally) I completely agree that these are the stops to make. Cheers!

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LA to San Diego Drive: Best Stops for an Epic Road Trip

The LA to San Diego drive is one of the great American road trips, as this spectacular route takes you through the best sights that Southern California has to offer. 

Our favorite stops are highlighted in this classic itinerary that will give you the chance to explore the best beaches near Los Angeles, from Huntington Beach to Laguna Beach, visit old Spanish missions, and see the best of small-town, coastal California as you drive from place to place.

Along the way, you can surf in the Pacific, sit back and enjoy craft beers or excellent coffee with beautiful views, and of course, take in the breathtaking vistas along the coastal roads.

I’ve had many family and friends live in both Los Angeles and San Diego over the years and have had the pleasure of driving this route multiple times during my many visits! If you’re looking for advice from someone that has put in the leg work, then you came to the right place.

It’s a beautiful journey, and to help you to plan your road trip , here are some of the best stops on an LA to San Diego drive!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Coastal California (Travel Guide)

How Far is the Los Angeles to San Diego Drive?

Table of Contents

The LA to San Diego drive can be completed in two to three hours if you aren’t making any stops along the way. But who would do that? If you’re on this article, I am assuming you plan to spend some time seeing the great sites between Los Angeles and San Diego, or vice versa.

The shortest, most direct route simply takes you down Highway I-5, which is the same highway that leads all the way from Mexico to Canada. 

If you’re in a rush or want to get back quickly from San Diego to Los Angeles on the return leg of your road trip, then this is the easiest option.

The 120-mile route isn’t exactly interesting though once you leave the coast, as you mostly pass through residential and inland areas of Southern California.

A much more exciting LA to San Diego drive – and the one I want to share with you – will take you first along Route 1, the Pacific Coast Highway, and then onto I-5 on your way south.

This is the route you want to take because it’s beautiful.

Distance-wise, it’s not so much longer than the inland highway either, but there are so many potential stops on the way that you’ll want much more time.

Luckily, one of the reasons that this is a great road trip is that you can take as little or as long a time as you desire.

If you’ve just got the weekend, then great, or if you’ve got an entire week, take your time and go slow. 

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

LA to San Diego Drive: The Absolute Best Stops

Los angeles.

Your LA to San Diego drive starts in Los Angeles, one of the most iconic cities in the United States . Personally, it’s one of my favorite cities in the USA. It blends vintage and luxury in a way that you can’t see elsewhere.

If it’s your first time in California, then before your journey, you’ll want to spend a day or two exploring Los Angeles before driving down the coast toward San Diego.

In Los Angeles, you can visit Beverley Hills to see where the stars live, you can take a picture next to the giant Hollywood sign, or you can spend days riding the roller-coasters at the theme parks found all around the city. 

LA is also a great place to fly to, and you can easily pick up a rental car at the airport. You can even go for a classic, top-down convertible or a vintage Mustang if you’re looking to drive in style.  

Our Top Recommended Tours:

• Hollywood Hills Hike: Explore Griffith Park and Hollywood Sign
• The Ultimate Los Angeles Bike Tour
• Old and New Downtown Los Angeles Tour

On your LA to San Diego drive, the first port of call outside of the city will be the beach. Long Beach to be precise.

But while you can enjoy the soft sands and seaside views of Long Beach, the coastal city is actually as well known for its museums as it is for its beaches. 

If you have time for nothing else, be sure to pay a visit to the RMS Queen Mary. It is a 1930s passenger liner that has been turned into a floating museum. If you have more time then be sure to check out the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Museum of Latin American Art. 

Our Top Recommended Tours: Private Helicopter Tour over Long Beach and Los Angeles

Santa Catalina Island

If you have plenty of time for your LA to San Diego drive, then you can leave the car behind in Long Beach and catch a ferry across to Santa Catalina Island. One of our favorite things to do along this route!

It’s just an hour away from the mainland, and on the island, you’ll find a unique ecosystem.

There are hiking trails across Santa Catalina, plenty of snorkeling spots around the island, and you can enjoy the delights of the largest towns, Avalon and Two Harbors. 

You can either say on the island for the night or return to Long Beach and stay there before continuing along the route.

Our Top Recommended Tours: Catalina Island Avalon Scenic Tour

Huntington Beach

Next up, when you’re back on the mainland, carry on along the coast south and you’ll soon arrive at Huntington Beach. We love the vibe at this beach and never pass up a chance to stop here on this drive.

This is another classic Californian beach town, and you can stroll along the famous Huntington Beach Pier and enjoy excellent views over the Pacific.

If you’re a surfer, then Huntington Beach has some of the best surf beaches close to Los Angeles. 

Our Top Recommended Tours: Surf Lessons in Huntington Beach

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is arguably the most famous and well-known beach in the area, and no LA to San Diego drive is complete without a pit stop here.

This is the heart of Orange County, and you’ll find plenty to do here.

Laguna Beach has excellent beaches of course, but you can also explore Crystal Cove State Park, where you’ll find beautiful coastal scenery and colorful water.

The city is an artist’s haven too, and there are a large number of galleries, as well as regular art and music festivals that are held all through the year. 

• Laguna Beach Kayak Tour with Sea Lion Viewing
• Laguna Beach SUP Lesson and Tour

Dana Point 

From Laguna Beach, it’s another short drive south along the coast to Dana Point. This is one of our favorite stops along the route if you get a nice day and like to be on the water!

This small city boasts one of the best harbors and marinas in southern California, and it’s a great place to explore.

It’s a beautiful spot to visit, and you can watch the sunset over the harbor while you enjoy the great restaurants or cafes on the waterfront.

During the day you can head out on dedicated whale watching or dolphin spotting tours because the coast here is renowned for a large number of marine mammals that pass by through the year. 

• Whale Watching Excursion in Dana Point
• Dana Point Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Eco-Safari

San Juan Capistrano

Dana Point is where the South Coast Highway merges with I-5, and you can choose to carry on south on your LA to San Diego drive, or you can choose to take a quick inland detour to San Juan Capistrano, which is just a few miles down the road. 

San Juan Capistrano is one of the most historic destinations in southern California, and it makes for a nice change from the beaches and seaside towns you’ve been visiting so far. 

Here you can find the San Juan Capistrano Mission , which was founded by the Spanish in 1776. This is one of the oldest buildings in the state, and it’s well worth a stop on your way down to San Diego. 

Our Top Recommended Tour: Mission San Juan Capistrano & Old Town Tour

San Clemente

Another short drive south, this time along the I-5 Highway, will bring you to San Clemente.

The local beach, San Clemente State Beach, is one of the best strips of sand on your way to San Diego, and the wind and waves make it perfect for water sports. 

In fact, this is surf central, and you’ll find areas along the coast here that are suitable for absolute beginners, right up to professionals, making this one of the best surf destinations in southern California. 

You’re getting closer to San Diego now, as you carry on driving south along the coastal highway. This means the beaches are getting more dramatic and this is one of the reasons I love this drive so much!

The views are spectacular and the scenery is dramatic, and you’ll be pulling over to constantly take pictures or just admire the beauty.

Carlsbad is the next stop, and although it’s just half an hour from San Clemente, depending on how many times you’re wowed by the scenery, it could take much longer to actually get here.

Enjoy the coastal setting of Carlsbad and if you’re traveling with kids then the best place to take them is Carlsbad Legoland.

H ere you’ll find great Lego-themed rides and attractions to keep them busy for the day. 

Our Top Recommended Tours: Carlsbad Village Food and Walking Tour

Just 10 miles down the road from Carlsbad is Encinitas. I love Encinitas!

This small city is where you’ll find the wonderful San Diego Botanic Garden, where you can walk through a fabulous collection of plant species collected from around the world. 

Like everywhere else along the Pacific Coast, Encinitas also has some unbeatable seaside views.

I f you’re not overwhelmed or desensitized to the Pacific Ocean yet, it’s a great place to enjoy even more beaches before continuing on the final leg of your journey into San Diego itself. 

Just before you arrive in San Diego, you’ll want to stop off in the small town of La Jolla. Pronounce La Hoy-ya. If you love to browse local shops, like I do, this is a stop for you!

La Jolla is a world away from the big city, despite being so close, and you’ll find beautiful coastlines and gorgeous beaches waiting for you. 

Explore the local breweries, try out the numerous cafes and restaurants, and enjoy the laid-back , seaside lifestyle that La Jolla is famed for. 

• Full-Day Tour of San Diego, La Jolla, and the Beaches
• La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour
• Epic Snorkel Tour: La Jolla Cove
• Cali Dreaming Electric Bike Tour of La Jolla and Pacific Beach

Your LA to San Diego drive ends in downtown San Diego, and if you’ve never explored the city before, you’ll want to save some time during your trip to see the best sights and attractions in San Diego . 

After many visits, we are both very fond of San Diego. It is a city that blends culture, history, and nature in a way that is totally unique to the USA.

Start with Balboa Park, one of the largest public parks in California. This enormous public space is where you can find San Diego Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in the world, as well as the city’s best museums. 

You can also visit the Embarcadero, the San Diego waterfront, where you’ll find maritime museums and the USS Midway museum. 

It’s a vibrant, cultural place, and an excellent last stop on your road trip from Los Angeles. 

• San Diego Seal Tour
• Private Balboa Park Segway Tour
• San Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure

LA to San Diego Road Trip FAQs

Absolutely! Though it’s a relatively short drive, there are so many beautiful beaches, towns, and historical sites along the way. It’s definitely worth it, whether you have one day, a weekend, or even a week.

It is if you take the Pacific Coast Highway, as advised in this post! I-5 is not the prettiest drive but the PCH definitely is.

You’ll want to follow the Pacific Coast Highway for the prettiest Los Angeles to San Diego drive. You’ll still have to go on I-5 for the end of the trip but you’ll want to start along the coast for the views.

As long as you make it take! If you just drive straight through without stopping (and avoid rush hour) it should take 2 to 2 1/2 hours. But you can easily turn it into a full-day or even weekend trip if you make the stops listed above.

During the weekdays, you’ll want to avoid rush hour – aka the times everyone is driving to or from work. On the weekends, the afternoons tend to be busier with more traffic.

You might also like:

• Adventurous Things to do in Las Vegas for Couples
• Las Vegas to Grand Canyon: The Best Tour Options
• Is Horseshoe Bend in Arizona Worth Visiting?
• How to Visit Antelope Canyon: Essential Tips & Tricks
• Essential Monument Valley Guide: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly!
• 13 Best Cities to Visit in the USA

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip: A Complete Guide

A drive down the California coast is one of the most beautiful road trips you can take in the US. I’m a California native, and have lived in the Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles – so I know a thing or two about road tripping through the state!

Below, I’ll give you all the information you need to plan an incredible San Francisco to San Diego road trip, with a 7-day itinerary that features the must-see spots along the way (plus options for 3 and 5 day alternatives, if you have less time). 

You’ll see everything from wildlife like elephant seals and pelicans, to sandy beaches and picturesque coastal sunsets.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Start and End Your SF to San Diego Road Trip

For the one-week road trip itinerary below, you’ll be starting in San Francisco and ending in San Diego. 

If you want to truly commit to the full Pacific Coast Highway experience, you can add three to four extra days, starting further north in Leggett (where the PCH starts) and making your way south.

Leggett is about 200 miles north of San Francisco (about a 3.5-hour drive, if taking Highway 101), and Highway 1 primarily goes right along the coast before leading into San Francisco. 

If you decided to start your trip in San Francisco, you’d want to fly into either San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) , and then make the drive north. 

For the itineraries below, you’ll still fly into one of these airports. SFO has better routes, and it’s closer (and more convenient) to get to the city and the first stop on the road trip itinerary below.

However, OAK typically has less weather delays, and will be far less crowded than SFO. 

Since the first stop is just south of San Francisco, you won’t want to fly into San Jose International Airport (SJC) . It’s southeast of that stop, and will just add unnecessary driving time to your trip. Plus, traffic is awful around San Jose – you’ll want to avoid it at all costs if you can. 

At the end of your journey, you’ll want to fly out of San Diego International Airport (SAN) , which is just north of Downtown San Diego.  

The Road Trip Route

You’re going to spend this trip (mostly) driving on the PCH! Once you’re at the end of the Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point (Orange County), you’ll continue driving down the coast on I-5.

Something to be aware of is that the PCH sometimes merges and runs concurrently with Highway 101 (like around Ventura and Santa Barbara). Don’t let that confuse you – you’re still on the right path!

There will also be some moments where it’s more efficient to go off Highway 1 – I’ll mention where in the road trip itinerary below. 

How Many Days Do You Need to Drive from San Francisco to San Diego?

Driving from San Francisco to San Diego is completely doable in one day if you’re just trying to get from city to city.

Rather than driving the Pacific Coast Highway, most people who just need to get from point A to point B will take I-5 up the middle of California.

It’s a pretty boring drive, but you’ll only be in the car for about 8 hours (possibly a bit longer, depending on traffic). 

That said, this road trip is more about the journey than the destination – there’s a ton to see along the Pacific Coast Highway! – so I’ve included a Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary that spans 7 days below.

If you can’t commit to a whole week, you’ll also find 3 and 5-day itineraries after the 7-day option. 

A Complete 7-Day San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s your comprehensive guide on taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway! If you’re planning on spending some time in San Francisco before hitting the road, check out this post on what to do during a 3-day weekend in the city . 

Day 1: San Francisco to Santa Cruz

After arriving in San Francisco the day before and getting a good night’s rest, it’s time to hit the road!

Spend day 1 of your Pacific Coast Highway road trip checking out some gorgeous beaches along the coast and doing a couple easy hikes before making your way to Santa Cruz. 

Hike, Grab Coffee, and Enjoy the Beach in Pacifica

Start off the day with a bit of hiking around Mori Point via the Mori Point Loop Trail , which is 2.5-miles (with a 396-foot elevation gain). This moderate blufftop trail gives you gorgeous views of the rugged coastline.

If you’re not up for the full loop, you can easily hike out to Mori Point (labeled “The Point” on the AllTrails map linked above), and then head back on the same trail you hiked out on. 

For parking, park at the Mori Point Parking Lot , or along Mori Point Road or Bradford Way (be mindful of street parking signs in the area). There are a few trails in the area, so make sure you’re starting out on Upper Mori Trail.

The trailhead is just a short walk south of the parking lot, on Mori Point Road. 

After your hike, drive about two miles down the PCH to Soul Grind Coffee for a caffeine boost (if you need a bit more, they have breakfast items too). Grab your coffee and walk down to Pacifica State Beach to take in the view. 

Grab a Bite to Eat and Explore the Beach in Half Moon Bay

Now it’s time to continue down the coast for some food and drinks in Half Moon Bay. Make your way to Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. (about a 15-minute drive from Soul Grind Coffee) for some brunch/lunch. This casual spot has both indoor and outdoor seating with views of the water. 

A visit to Half Moon Bay isn’t complete without a stop at the beach. Make your way south to Redondo Beach ( park here ).

You can take in the view from atop the bluffs, or make your way down to the beach. There are a few paths down to the beach, including some right by the parking lot – but these ones are a bit steeper.

Make your way up the dirt path north of the parking lot to find some easier paths down the bluffs. You’ll definitely want to be wearing some good shoes for the descent (no flip flops!). 

Check Out Pigeon Point Lighthouse State Historic Park

Next on the itinerary is Pigeon Point Lighthouse in Pescadero, which is about a 30-minute drive from Redondo Beach in Half Moon Bay.

This lighthouse has been in operation since 1872, and is one of the tallest lighthouses in the US. While you can’t go in the lighthouse, you can admire it from the outside.

There’s also a short dirt path along the cliffs that you can follow that leads you down to a small beach. 

Hike at Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Get back in the car and continue driving down the PCH for about 10 minutes until you get to the trailhead for the Skyline to the Sea Trail Short Loop , which is a part of Big Basin Redwoods State Park .

This easy trail is 2.9-miles long, and has a 298-foot elevation gain. It’s a great hike to get up close to some of California’s famous redwood trees! 

Important note: this hike (and others in the park) is currently closed indefinitely due to the 2020 fires, so be sure to check the state park link for current park status.

If it’s still closed during your visit, stop by Año Nuevo State Park instead (about three miles north) to hike the Año Nuevo Point Trail , an easy 4.3-mile coastal trail. 

Watch the Sunset at Natural Bridges State Beach

Once you get back to your car, it’s time to make your way down to Santa Cruz, where you’ll be staying for the night. On the north side of Santa Cruz is Natural Bridges State Beach , which is about a 25-minute drive (17.5 miles) south. Stop by to enjoy the sunset before getting to your hotel for the night.

Note that there is a $10 fee to park in the lot. 

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Here are a few hotel options in Santa Cruz, as well as a campground if that’s more your style:

• Ocean Pacific Lodge : This hotel is in the heart of Santa Cruz, just a short walk away from the wharf. It has spacious rooms with queen and king beds, and there is also an outdoor pool on-site. 
• Hotel Paradox : This trendy, modern hotel is just a mile away from the beach, and has both rooms and suites available. It has an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, sundeck, gym, and restaurant on-site. 
• Ocean Echo Inn & Beach Cottages : If staying on the beach is important to you, this boutique inn is the accommodation for you. There are rooms available, as well as cottages, some of which have full kitchens. 
• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground : This campground is less than five miles away from the heart of Santa Cruz, but is tucked away in a quiet area amongst the redwoods. There are over 100 tent and RV sites, and reservations can be made online.  

Day 2: Santa Cruz to Carmel

On the second day of your road trip, you’re going to slowly make your way 45-miles down the coast to Carmel-by-the-Sea, enjoying Santa Cruz, Capitola, Monterey, and Pebble Beach along the way.

Get Your Caffeine Fix

First things first: grab some coffee. Two great options in the area are Cat & Cloud and Verve Coffee Roasters .

Both coffee shops have multiple locations sprinkled throughout Santa Cruz, so look on their location page to find an option close to where you’re staying. 

Spend the Morning in Santa Cruz

Before heading down the PCH, spend a bit of time exploring Santa Cruz. Walk or drive down to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an iconic spot with classic rides and amusement park vendors that has been in operation since 1907.

Unfortunately for thrill-seekers, the rides don’t open until the late morning, but you can still walk along the boardwalk before making your way to Santa Cruz Beach . If you’d like, you can continue walking up the coast to Santa Cruz Wharf to get an amazing look at the coast from the water. 

Walk Around Capitola

Hop in the car and head to Capitola, which is about five miles down the road. Park the car near Capitola Beach , and then start by walking around the village, which has plenty of local shops, restaurants, bars, galleries, and cafes.

Next, make your way to Capitola Beach, walking north to check out Venetian Court . These iconic, brightly-colored Mediterranean-style cottages are commonly photographed, and while you can’t go inside (it’s a private hotel), you can admire them from the sand. They’re located right on the beach – you won’t miss them!

As you’re coming or leaving, be sure to also drive over Soquel Creek (via Stockton Ave.) to get a view of Soquel Creek Railroad Bridge, a now out-of-service bridge from the late 1800s that towers over the creek. 

Eat Lunch and Enjoy the Afternoon in Monterey

Next, you’ll continue down the PCH for just under 40 miles (the longest stretch you’ll drive today) and make your way to Monterey. First stop: lunch. Check out Old Fisherman’s Grotto or First Awakenings (both sit-down service), or try Randy’s Sandwich Shop for something quicker. 

After lunch, make your way over to Cannery Row (and be prepared for some walking!).

Cannery Row was the site of sardine canneries through the 20th century, and now features plenty of fun shops and galleries to browse. Make your way down the street until you hit the next stop: Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

The oceanfront Monterey Bay Aquarium is often considered one of the best aquariums in the US. It features over 80,000 animals and plants and has more than 200 exhibits, including a sea otter exhibit and a giant kelp forest (which is one of the tallest aquarium exhibits in the world). 

Once you’re done at the aquarium, continue walking along the coast to make your way towards Lovers Point . Right outside of the aquarium, you’ll find the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail – follow this path. As you walk, be on the lookout for sea lions on the coast!

After you’ve made it to Lovers Point, turn back and head towards your car. Need a caffeine or sugar boost (or both?) before the next stop? Stop by Captain + Stoker for coffee or Revival Ice Cream . 

Drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea Via the 17 Mile Drive

For this portion of the road trip, you’re going to stay off the PCH for a bit to make your way to Carmel via the 17 Mile Drive in the Pebble Beach area.

This drive takes you along the picturesque rocky coast and through beautiful forested areas. Enter at the Pacific Grove Gate and pay the $10.75 fee, and then drive down the road just under a mile to turn right and start the official drive (you’ll see a sign). 

There are plenty of lookouts along the way, so stop as you’d like. I’d recommend the Restless Sea Lookout (the most turbulent section of the coastline in the area), the Cypress Point Lookout , and the Lone Cypress Tree Lookout (this one is an iconic spot – definitely stop here!).

Follow the road south, eventually making your way to the Carmel Gate to exit the drive and get to your hotel for the night. 

Where to Stay in Carmel

Here are a few great accommodations in Carmel:

• The Getaway Carmel : This boutique hotel is another great option in the middle of Carmel. It has both rooms and suites available, some of which have fireplaces.
• Carmel Mission Inn : Carmel Mission Inn is located just off the PCH, and is just a short drive away from the main dining and shopping area in Carmel. This modern hotel offers rooms and suites, and has a pool, fitness center, and restaurant. 
• Candle Light Inn : This modern elegant inn is located just steps away from the many amazing restaurants and shops in Carmel. Rooms are spacious, and upgraded rooms have fireplaces. 
• Saddle Mountain Ranch Campground : This campground is seven miles east of Carmel, and has RV and camping sites available, as well as gazebo and luxury tent sites. There are also cabins available for rent, and there is an outdoor pool on-site. Reservations for any of the campsites and cabins can be made online. 

Day 3: Big Sur

This day in the Pacific Coast Highway itinerary is dedicated to hiking in and exploring Big Sur .

If you want to make the most of the day, be sure to get out early – it’s a full day ahead! If you aren’t able to hit up every spot on this day, you can also circle back tomorrow and check out the sights that are on the southern side of Big Sur.

Just head into Cambria (where you’ll be staying) when you’re ready to call it a day, and make plans to drive back up the PCH in the morning.   

Two more important notes : first, you won’t find a ton of restaurants or shops in Big Sur, particularly outside of the Posts area. Plan accordingly and bring along food and plenty of water. Second, be sure to fill up on gas in Carmel before heading into Big Sur. Gas stations are few and far between in the region, and they are pricey. 

Hike at Point Lobos

Start the day hiking at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a beautiful coastal reserve just north of Big Sur. The full Point Lobos Loop Trail is 6.7 miles long, but you’re going to want to focus on the southern side of the point for today.

Make your way to Bird Island Lookout , and then hike north along the Bird Island Trail to walk by China Cove. Continue up the trail to connect to Point Lobos South Shore Trail , following it up to Sea Lion Point before heading back to your car. For parking, you can park in the lot ($10 fee), or park along the PCH and walk into the park (no charge).

Check Out Bixby Creek Bridge

Next, you’ll head down to PCH for 11 miles until you get to Castle Rock Viewpoint to get a look at Bixby Creek Bridge, an iconic concrete bridge (the tallest of its kind) that was built in the 1930s.

The parking area to the right can get a bit crowded so you might need to wait for a spot, but people cycle in and out fairly quickly. No hiking required – you’ll be able to see the bridge from right off the road!

Stop by Point Sur State Historic Park to See the Lighthouse

Drive 5.5 miles down the PCH and then turn right into Point Sur State Historic Park , where the Point Sur Lighthouse is located. This lighthouse was built in 1889, and is still operational today.

You can walk around the lighthouse, as well as get beautiful views of the coast to the north and south from the point.

Quick note: they do offer tours of the lighthouse , although they are three-hours long. If this interests you, be sure to check if they have tours the day you’re passing through, and just omit a few of the Big Sur stops to allow for ample time for the tour. 

Hike and Enjoy the Beach at Andrew Molera State Park

Drive about three miles down the PCH until you can turn right into Andrew Molera State Park for a hike and a bit of beach time. Pass through the park attendant kiosk and pay for a day use pass ($10) – this will give you access into all the other day use lots in the multiple state parks in the area (except for Pfeiffer Beach – more on that below).

Park, and then follow the signs in the parking lot for the Creamery Meadows Trail . This easy 2.4-mile out-and-back trail will take you right down to the beach.

Hang Out at Pfeiffer Beach

After your hike, you’ll head about 8.5 miles down Highway 1 and turn right onto Sycamore Canyon Road to make your way down to Pfeiffer Beach .

This iconic Big Sur spot is known for its purple sand and massive rock formations, and it’s a beautiful spot to hang out, take photos, or go for a beach walk. This beach is a part of Los Padres National Forest , rather than the state parks in Big Sur, so your day use pass won’t work to park here – you’ll have to pay $12.  

Check Out McWay Falls

McWay Falls – located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – is one of the must-see spots in Big Sur, and it’s located about 10 miles down the PCH from the entrance to Pfeiffer Beach. This gorgeous waterfall is located in a picturesque cove and falls right on the beach.

To see the falls, park at McWay Falls Parking (your day use pass from earlier will work here, but if you skipped the stop, be sure to follow the self registration instructions posted in the parking lot). Go through the tunnel under the highway, and then follow the path out to the viewpoint – the trail is 0.6 miles out-and-back. 

Hike at Limekiln State Park

Important note : at the time of writing this, the trails in Limekiln State Park are closed indefinitely due to fire damage from late 2020. Be sure to check out the Limekiln State Park website for trail status. If the trail is closed, continue down the PCH into Cambria. 

If the trail is open, from McWay Falls, you’ll drive about 15 miles down the PCH and turn left into Limekiln State Park, where you can park using your day use pass.

Follow the signs from the parking lot for the Hare Creek and Limekiln Trail , a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail that takes you along the creek through a dense forest and up to some lime kiln ruins that haven’t been in use since the late 1800s. The trail also leads you to the base of Limekiln Falls. 

Where to Stay in Cambria/the Surrounding Area

After your day in Big Sur, you’ll want to continue south to your accommodations for the night.

If you want to stay in a hotel, Ragged Point Inn is your best option, as it is only about 22 miles south of Limekiln State Park. 

For camping, Kirk Creek is a great option, as it is just a couple miles south of the park. The two other hotel options are in Cambria, about 43 miles south.  

• Ragged Point Inn and Resort : This rustic cliffside hotel offers beautiful views of the Big Sur coast. There are both rooms and deluxe rooms available, many of which have fireplaces and patios with ocean views. There is a restaurant on-site, as well as a coffee and wine bar and sandwich stand.  
• White Water : This small, luxury bohemian-style hotel (which is located right across from the beach) has both rooms and suites available, many of which have fireplaces and ocean views. They serve alcoholic drinks and small bites in the lounge, and the rooms come with complimentary coffee and pastries. 
• Moonstone Landing : Just down the street is the boutique and family-owned hotel Moonstone Landing. All rooms have fireplaces, patios or balconies, and full or partial views of the ocean. 
• Kirk Creek Campground : This campground is part of Los Padres National Forest, and sits on top of an ocean bluff. It has 40 tent and RV sites, and reservations can be made online (this is a popular spot, so reservations are essential). 

Day 4: Cambria to San Luis Obispo

On day 4, you’re going to backtrack just a bit up the PCH to check out Hearst Castle and San Simeon, and then make your way back through Cambria before heading to Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo. 

See the Piedras Blancas Light Station and Elephant Seals in San Simeon

Backtrack up the PCH just a bit  (about 15 miles) for a tour of Piedra Blancas Light Station in San Simeon, which was built in the 1870s and is still operational today.

Advanced reservations are required for self-guided tours (there are docents on-site who can give you additional information), and fees are currently $10 per person. Openings depend on the season, so check the website to see if the lighthouse is open during your visit. 

As you make your way back down the PCH for the next stop, be sure to stop by the Elephant Seal Viewing Point to see the largest seals in the northern hemisphere.

The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world, and you can admire them (for free!) from this viewpoint. 

Tour Hearst Castle in San Simeon

Next, head just a few miles down the road to the historic Hearst Castle (important note: at the time of writing this, Hearst Castle is closed for tours due to road repairs, and is expected to reopen in early 2022. Check the website for the most up-to-date information).

Construction of Hearst Castle started in 1919, and continued for nearly 30 years until it was transformed into what it is today: an opulent hilltop estate with 115 rooms, on a property with acres of gardens and beautiful pools.

The main house features William Randolph Hearst’s art collection, and you also get incredible views of the coast below. 

There are three 60-minute daytime tours available. The “ Grand Rooms Tour ” is a must for first-time visitors, and tickets start at $25 for adults.

After your tour, you’re allowed to continue walking around the gardens on your own – but keep in mind that you must reserve at least one tour in order to get access to the property. 

Advanced reservations are required, so be sure to schedule your tour online before visiting. When visiting, you’ll need to park at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center , and then take a shuttle up to the estate prior to your tour time. 

Grab Lunch in Cambria

After your visit to Hearst Castle, you’ll make your way back into Cambria for lunch.

Hidden Kitchen (known for savory and sweet variations of their blue corn waffles), Boni’s Tacos (a casual taqueria that also has a food truck), and Cafe on Bridge Street (sandwiches, burgers, and salads) are all great options. 

Check Out Morro Rock in Morro Bay

Once you’ve finished lunch, hop back in the car and drive 20 miles south to Morro Bay, and make your way to Morro Rock Beach .

Morro Rock is a massive rock formation (sometimes referred to as the “Gibraltar of the Pacific”), and is a historic landmark. This rock was formed around 23 million years ago from the plug of a volcano, and stands at 576-feet tall.

Admire the views of the rock, and enjoy a walk down the beach. Be sure to also keep an eye out for sea otters!

Enjoy Dinner and Drinks in San Luis Obispo

Hop back on the PCH and make your way down to San Luis Obispo, which is about 14.5-miles south of Morro Rock Beach. Grab some dinner at Old SLO BBQ in the downtown area (the location on Higuera Street).

After dinner, if you’re in the mood for a beer, head to Barrelhouse Brewing Co . If you’d prefer a cocktail, head over to the bar at Sidecar . Both of these spots are just down the street from Old SLO BBQ. 

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

Here are a few hotels to consider for your stay in SLO:

• Hotel San Luis Obispo : Located in the downtown area, this modern urban resort has both rooms and suites available. There are multiple dining and bar options on-site, as well as a pool, spa, and fitness studio. 
• Granada Hotel & Bistro : This historic upscale boutique hotel (which was built in 1922) is located downtown, and has 17 rooms. There is a restaurant and bar on-site, and the hotel has bikes available to borrow to explore SLO. 
• San Luis Creek Lodge : This bright and airy modern hotel is located just a mile away from downtown. There are queen and king rooms available, which come with complimentary local coffee and pastries. 

Day 5: San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara

On day 5, you’ll start off with some easy hiking and beach time, and then continue south towards Santa Barbara, enjoying some wine tasting and other treats along the way. 

Hike the Bluffs in Montaña de Oro State Park

Start the day with a bluff-side walk in Montaña de Oro State Park , a beautiful oceanside park.

For this stop, you’ll be going a bit off the PCH, which you might’ve noticed technically ended in Downtown SLO where it intersects with Highway 101. You’ll drive west via Los Osos Valley Road for about 30 minutes (just over 16 miles) from SLO to Montaña de Oro State Park.

When you’re done, you’ll head back towards SLO the same way you came to connect with Highway 101, and then make your way to the next stop (Avila Beach). 

In the state park, the Bluff Trail has an easy walking path that gives you incredible views of the coast. Park near the trailhead , and follow the signs for the trail. While the full path is 4.1-miles, you can easily go as far as you’d wish on this out-and-back trail and then turn back. 

Enjoy the Beach and Check Out a Farm in Avila Beach

After your hike, you’ll backtrack a bit, following Los Osos Valley Road to connect with Highway 101 just south of Downtown SLO, making your way to Avila Beach.

First stop is Pirate’s Cove. Park at the Pirate’s Cove parking lot , and then follow the Cave Landing Trail down to Smuggler’s Cave .

Backtrack up the trail just a bit to follow the off-shoot that goes down to Pirate’s Cove Beach for a beachside walk. 

After the beach, head over to Avila Valley Barn , which is just two miles away from Pirate’s Cove. The farm stand (which is big!) and sweet shop are both open daily, so pick up some goodies to take home or food for the road (or to enjoy on the property). 

They also have a smokehouse if you want a heartier lunch, and you can spend some time interacting with the animals, going on a hayride, or picking your own fruits and vegetables.

Check the website for up-to-date hours and information – besides the farm stand and sweet shop, these activities aren’t open daily, and some are seasonal. 

Grab a Treat and Walk Down the Pier in Pismo Beach

Once you’ve wrapped up at the farm, you’ll drive about five miles down Highway 101 into Pismo Beach. If you need a caffeine boost, stop by Scorpion Bay Coffee . If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, try Surfside Donuts or Old West Cinnamon Rolls .

From there, walk through town and down to the Pismo Beach Pier , where you can continue your stroll before making your way back to the car. 

Go Wine Tasting in Los Olivos

Next, you’ll continue down the coast to enjoy a bit of wine tasting, but first, a quick note about the PCH.

You’ll notice that the PCH starts up again in Pismo Beach, going straight through the downtown area. While you can continue down the PCH to the next stop if you want, it’s going to be more efficient to continue down Highway 101, so I’d recommend taking that route instead.

This portion of the PCH isn’t too exciting, and you’ll connect back up with Highway 1 before heading into Santa Barbara. 

Drive down Highway 101 to make your way to Koehler Winery , which is about 48 miles south of Pismo Beach. This winery in the Santa Ynez Valley has a large outdoor area with open seating, and an extensive tasting menu that allows you to build your own flight.

Another highlight: there are emus on the property! Koehler also does not require reservations (unless you’re with a larger group), so it’s the perfect road trip stop. 

Not into wine? Then head into the town of Los Olivos and stop by Tin City Cider’s taproom and do a cider tasting instead! 

Check Out Solvang

Once you’ve finished your tasting, head down to Solvang, which is about an 11-mile drive from Koehler Winery. Solvang – AKA the Danish capital of America – is a small town known for its picture-perfect Danish-style architecture and fun shops and restaurants. 

Stroll down Copenhagen Drive and the surrounding streets, and be sure to snap a photo of the Solvang Windmill . There are plenty of unique boutiques throughout town, as well as tasting rooms if you want to try a bit more wine ( McClain Cellars is a great choice).

You also can’t stop in Solvang without trying some aebleskivers, which are fluffy Danish pancake balls. Stop by Solvang Restaurant to order some – it has a walk-up window for to-go orders, so you don’t need to dine indoors. 

Enjoy Dinner and Drinks in Santa Barbara

After exploring Solvang, make your way into Santa Barbara (33 miles away) for dinner and drinks. For dinner, try Bluewater Grill (a seafood restaurant with views of the water), Loquita (a Spanish tapas restaurant), or Los Agaves (a traditional Mexican restaurant). 

Once you’re done eating, head into The Funk Zone for drinks. This is Santa Barbara’s arts and culture district, with plenty of wine tasting rooms and bars. Many of the tasting rooms close on the earlier side, but Paradise Springs Winery is a great spot that stays open a bit later.

Alternatively, for beer, try Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company , and for cocktails, try Test Pilot (a fun tiki bar). 

P.S. We have a whole guide dedicated to spending a day in Santa Barbara , which you can pull ideas from for your evening and morning.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Once you’re ready to call it a day, spend the night at one of these accommodations in Santa Barbara: 

• Agave Inn : This trendy, southwestern-style inn is a great budget-friendly option, and is located just a couple miles from the Downtown Santa Barbara area. There are both rooms and suites available, and the suites have kitchenettes.
• Hotel Indigo Santa Barbara : Hotel Indigo is located in Santa Barbara’s trendy Funk Zone, and is just a short walk from the beach. There are both rooms and suites available, and there is a fitness center and restaurant on-site. 
• The Waterman : This hotel is also in the Funk Zone, just a few blocks away from the beach. There are queen and king bed rooms available, and there is an outdoor pool on-site.
• Refugio State Beach Campground : This campground is 20 miles west of downtown Santa Barbara, and is perfect for those who want to camp on the beach. There are 63 sites, and reservations can be made online. 

Day 6: Santa Barbara to Santa Monica

Start the morning exploring Santa Barbara, and then make your way down the coast for some hiking before getting into Santa Monica. 

Caffeinate and Explore Santa Barbara

Kick off the morning with a cup of coffee from either Dune Coffee Roasters (two locations in the downtown area) or Dart Coffee Co .

Take your drink and walk over to Stearns Wharf for a morning stroll down the pier – you’ll get really nice views of the palm tree lined coast! 

Next, walk down State Street and make your way to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse . This Spanish-Colonial style historic landmark was built in 1929, and is far more ornate than your average courthouse, featuring large murals and impressive tilework.

After walking around the exterior gardens, be sure to climb the Clock Tower (located on the Anacapa Street side) for panoramic views of the city. 

Do an Easy Hike and Watch the Seals in Carpinteria

Once you’re done in Santa Barbara, drive about 13 miles down the PCH/Highway 101 (they’ve merged at this point) into Carpinteria. Park in the lot at the end of 4th Street , and then follow the Carpinteria Bluffs Trail through the Tar Pits Park , which features natural asphalt lakes.

Continue going south down the trail, and make your way to the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary , which is just past the pier. While this whole out-and-back trail is 2.7-miles, you can turn back at this point – you’ll get more hiking later in the day!

Grab Lunch at Ventura Harbor Village

Hop back on the road and drive for about 20 miles down to Ventura to get some food in Ventura Harbor Village.

This waterside village has shops and plenty of restaurants, and is also a fun place to walk around and admire the boats docked in the harbor. Grab some fish and chips (or other delicious casual seafood) at Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Market .

Hike in Malibu

Next, head 23 miles down the coast and make your way into Malibu to do a hike in the Santa Monica Mountains in Point Mugu State Park . Turn left onto Sycamore Canyon Road (you’ll see the Point Mugu State Park sign) and pay the day use fee at the kiosk ($3 per hour per car, or $12 for the day) before parking. 

Walk down Sycamore Canyon Road until you can turn left on Scenic Trail, starting the Point Mugu Scenic and Overlook Trails loop. This whole trail is 2.7 miles with a 413-feet elevation gain, and you’ll get incredible views of the mountainous coast from above. 

Hang Out at El Matador Beach

After your hike, you’ll spend a bit of time at one of Malibu’s most iconic beaches: El Matador Beach , which is about 8.5 miles down the PCH. El Matador is known for its large rock formations and caves.

This beach is part of the state parks system, and you’ll need to pay the $8 fee through one of the pay machines or on an app (or you can park on the road for free and walk down).

Watch the Sunset and Get Dinner and Drinks in Santa Monica

Get back in the car and drive about 25 miles down the highway to get to your final stop for the night: Santa Monica. Quick tip: traffic along Highway 1 in this area can get crazy (welcome to Los Angeles!), so mentally prepare yourself before you get back in the car!

Before dinner (or after, depending on your timing), be sure to catch the sunset. Palisades Park – the long park that parallels Ocean Avenue – is a great place to watch the sun go down.  

For dinner, stop by Birdie G’s , a trendy restaurant serving creative comfort food and great cocktails. If you want something closer to the downtown area, try TŪMBI Craft Indian Kitchen , a modern Indian restaurant and bar. For after dinner drinks, stop by The Bungalow , a popular bar with a gorgeous outdoor garden and game room. 

Where to Stay in Santa Monica/Venice

Here are a few hotels that you can check out in Santa Monica, as well as a more budget-friendly option in Venice Beach (just south of Santa Monica).

Psst ! We have an entire guide dedicated to helping you find the perfect place to stay in Los Angeles – check that out for more details.

• Santa Monica Proper : This luxury hotel is tucked away, but still within walking distance of the restaurants and bars in Santa Monica, as well as the beach. There are rooms and suites (many with terraces), and there is a rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center on-site. 
• Palihouse Santa Monica : This eclectic, Mediterranean-style boutique hotel has been in operation since 1927, and is just a couple blocks away from the beach. There are rooms, studios with kitchens, and multi-room “residences” available, and there is a restaurant open for breakfast and lunch on-site. 
• The Georgian : The Georgian is an art deco-style hotel dating back to 1933 that is right across the street from the beach, and a short walk from the Santa Monica Pier. There are both rooms and suites available, as well as a restaurant on-site. 
• The Kinney : This Venice hotel is a more budget-friendly option, and is located just a few steps away from the many shops and restaurants on trendy Abbot Kinney. This colorful hotel has both rooms and suites, and there is a breakfast restaurant on-site. 

Day 7: Santa Monica to San Diego

On your last day, you’ll explore Venice before checking out some of the beach towns in Orange County and San Diego, with a bit of light hiking along the way.

You’ll spend a bit more time in the car today, and will undoubtedly run into some traffic, so make sure you download some podcasts or good music!

Grab Coffee and Stroll Around Venice

Head about three miles south of Santa Monica to Venice, and pick up some coffee at Intelligentsia on Abbot Kinney. If you’re a donut-for-breakfast kind of person, I’d recommend also walking down the street to grab one (or a box) from Blue Star Donuts . 

Next, walk over to the Venice Canals . These man-made canals were constructed back in the early 1900s, bringing a bit of Venice, Italy to Los Angeles. There are walkways and bridges that allow you to explore the residential area. 

From there, walk down South Venice Boulevard towards Ocean Front Walk, following this oceanside path to Windward Plaza . You’ll pass by street vendors, and likely see some performers as well. You can also walk over to the Public Art Walls to check out the graffiti, and of course, walk down to the water. 

Do an Easy Coastal Hike in Palos Verdes

After Venice, drive about 20 miles down the PCH to the trailhead for Bluff Cove Trail in Palos Verdes. Park on the northern side of the trail on Paseo Del Mar , and then walk south along the trail.

The walking path is only about half a mile long, but it gives you beautiful views of the coast. Take in the view and walk as far as you’d like before turning back to your car. 

Eat Lunch in Huntington Beach

Next, head about 30 miles south to Huntington Beach to grab lunch.

Right on the PCH, you can try Burnt Crumbs (gourmet sandwiches and burgers) or Lemonade (a cafeteria-style restaurant with healthier options known for its variety of lemonade flavors).

A bit more inland, you can try Mama’s on 39 , a popular comfort food restaurant with an all-day breakfast menu.  

Enjoy the Coast in Laguna Beach

Continue down the PCH for about 15 miles to get to Laguna Beach. Here, you’ll head to Heisler Park , which sits above the water. This park features different art installations, and has multiple staircases that lead down to the small beaches in the area.

Explore the walking path, eventually making your way to the Heisler Beach Staircase to get down to the beach, where there are plenty of cool tide pools to check out.

Walk Through Encinitas

Next, drive about 48 miles down the coast to Encinitas, a laid back beach town in San Diego county.

Drive by the classic Encinitas sign , and grab an ice cream at Gelato 101 , or a coffee at Better Buzz .

Do a bit of window shopping in the cool vintage shops and local boutiques, and be sure to get a view of the beach from D Street Viewpoint Park . 

Get Dinner and Drinks in La Jolla Before Heading Home

If you have some time to spare before your flight home, stop in La Jolla to celebrate the end of your road trip with some dinner and drinks.

To enjoy some beautiful coastal views while you dine, I recommend getting dinner and drinks at George’s at the Cove , a multi-level restaurant that has both casual and more upscale dining rooms.

Alternative Road Trip Itineraries: 3 & 5 Days

If you don’t have a whole week to spare, here are some condensed itineraries that will get you down to San Diego a bit quicker.

3-Day Itinerary

On day 1, you’ll go from San Francisco to Monterey. Grab coffee at Soul Grind Coffee in Pacifica, and then drive south to do the Skyline to the Sea Trail Short Loop hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park. After your hike, you’ll stop by Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz before grabbing lunch in town.

Next, drive down to Monterey to enjoy the Monterey Bay Aquarium , followed by a walk out to Lovers Point. Enjoy dinner in Monterey before calling it a night. 

On day 2, you’ll drive from Monterey to Santa Barbara. Pick up snacks and lunch to-go to enjoy later in the day, and then drive into Big Sur. Stop by the viewpoint to see Bixby Creek Bridge, and then make your way down to Pfeiffer Beach.

Next, drive south and enjoy the short hike out to McWay Falls. Continue towards San Simeon for a tour of Hearst Castle . Make your way into Santa Barbara for dinner and drinks. 

On your final day, stop by the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Stearns Wharf before driving down to El Matador Beach. Grab lunch in Santa Monica, and then drive south to Heisler Park in Laguna Beach for a coastal walk. Finish your 3-day road trip with dinner and drinks in La Jolla. 

5-Day Itinerary

On day 1, you’ll go from San Francisco to Monterey, just like in the 3-day itinerary – so follow the day 1 itinerary above!

On day 2, you’ll drive down to San Luis Obispo. Pack up snacks and lunch for the day, and drive through Big Sur, stopping by the Bixby Creek Bridge Viewpoint, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. Hike the Hare Creek and Limekiln Trail in Limekiln State Park, and then head to San Simeon for a tour of Hearst Castle . Drive into SLO for dinner and drinks. 

On day 3, you’ll make your way down to Santa Barbara. Hike the Bluff Trail in Montaña de Oro State Park before driving to Avila Beach, where you’ll follow the Cave Landing Trail to Smuggler’s Cave and Pirate’s Cove Beach.

Stop by Avila Valley Barn to grab some food and check out the farm, and then do some wine tasting at Koehler Winery in Los Olivos. Make your way into Santa Barbara for dinner and drinks. 

On days 4 and 5, you’ll drive from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica, and then Santa Monica to San Diego. Days 6 and 7 in the 7-day itinerary above follow this timeline, so just use those guides for your final two days!

When to Plan a San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip

There’s no bad time to do this road trip, but some seasons are a bit more favorable over the others. If possible, I’d recommend doing this trip in the late summer or fall. The weather will be warm, skies should be clear, you likely won’t run into rain, and crowds won’t be as crazy in the popular stops. 

In the early summer, there’s a good chance you’ll deal with some classic “June gloom” – which means foggy (and sometimes windy) weather. 

You’re also more likely to run into rain in the winter and spring. 

Kyra is a freelance writer and a California native who has lived in the Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles. She loves spending her free time hiking, taking photos, and exploring Southern California and the rest of her home state.

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Lifestyle | Travel | Ultimate California

Why San Diego should be the start of your California road trip

Year-round-sunshine, 70 miles of beaches and plenty of quintessential laidback California vibes are just some of the standout reasons why you should head to San Diego.

Located just north of the Mexican border, this easy-going city blends the Californian love of the great outdoors with a rich history, unique CaliBaja culture and burgeoning craft beer scene to make the perfect base for an epic trip.

What’s more, it’s never been easier to get there, with British Airways operating two flights a day to San Diego, and many hotel and car hire options through British Airways Holidays. It makes sense for San Diego to be the launch pad for your road trip, driving the breathtakingly scenic Pacific Coast Highway north to discover the rest of the Golden State. But do allow plenty of time to soak up what has deservedly been described as America's Finest City.

San Diego itself is easy to drive around and, with more than 100 neighbourhoods, renting a car with British Airways Holidays and Avis will allow you to explore the city while making the most of the scenic drives. These are clearly signposted with areas to pull in for photos too, so all you have to do is decide which ones to follow.

Plenty to see and do at Waterfront Park

With an average of 266 sunny days a year, San Diego is an ideal city for walking around – and a good place to start is Waterfront Park. Hugging the bay, it boasts everything from museums and playgrounds to restaurants, and scenic spots to take in the spectacular views.

Booking with British Airways and British Airways Holidays

• British Airways is the only UK airline to serve all three gateway airports into California: Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. All flights depart from London Heathrow with a daily flight, or multiple flights per day
• All British Airways Holidays packages are ATOL protected, keeping you and your money safe
• All package bookings include flexible payment options, with deposits from just £75 per person with no balance due until seven weeks before travel for long-haul*
• All British Airways Holidays packages include 23kg baggage allowance included per person, along with a 24-hour dedicated support helpline during your trip
• British Airways Executive Club members can use their Avios for part-payment on holiday packages. For more details, visit ba.com/holidays
• British Airways Holidays offers a range of hotel options to suit all budgets. From budget friendly to 5* luxury, there’s something for everyone
• Partnering with Avis, British Airways Holidays offers fly-drive holidays across the state. When booking flights and car hire together, all mandatory charges are included, and you’ll benefit from roadside assistance and 24-hour customer support
• All hotels and car-hire are committed to British Airways’ high safety standards

*Based on two adults sharing. Full balance due seven weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply

Here you'll find one of the city's most-visited attractions: the USS Midway. The Midway is the United States’ longest-serving aircraft carrier, in service from 1945 to 1992. It's now a floating museum, and the deck alone covers four acres, and has many restored aircraft from various eras.

It’s also the perfect spot to book a whale-watching trip. During the summer months, up to 3,000 blue whales feed off of the California coast. Blue whales tend to be found further out to sea, so it’s worth booking a boat trip to get a closer look at this beautiful species in their natural habitat.

Beautiful beaches and an epic coastline

With those 70 miles of pristine coastline, San Diego has a beach to suit your mood.

Head to La Jolla for an upscale neighbourhood that’s home to chichi restaurants and designer stores, all set against a jaw-droppingly beautiful coastline. Make time to stroll down to La Jolla Cove, where you’ll be met by large colonies of sea lions lounging on the rocks, as the calming waters of the Pacific lap around them.

Head south to Pacific Beach and on to Mission Beach and Ocean Beach for the ultimate California oceanside vibe. At all three you’ll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out, riding a wave, or wandering on the boardwalk.

Being outdoor-active is part of the way of life, so expect to see impromptu beach volleyball matches, and skateboarders and rollerbladers whizz by. The mood is laidback, so grab a cold drink and some nachos in a beach bar and watch the world go by.

Cultural highlights and fun for all the family

It’s no accident that San Diego and cross-border neighbour Tijuana have been given the title World Design Capital San Diego Tijuana 2024, and it’s reflected in the former’s cultural attractions.

Top of your list to take in should be Balboa Park, which is bigger than New York's Central Park and contains 17 museums and 19 gardens, many of them free to visit. The San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum are also well worth a look around, while the butterfly-blessed Zoro Garden and hidden oasis of Palm Canyon are great photography spots. What’s more, with 14 restaurants to choose from, it’s easy to while away a day here.

For more energetic family fun, Legoland® California Resort is around a 40-minute drive away in Carlsbad. This mammoth theme park boasts cities built entirely from millions of Lego bricks together with a water park of slides and splash zones.

Keep the excitement levels high watching a game of major league baseball at Petco Park. Conveniently located in Downtown, it’s home to the San Diego Padres, and makes for a thrilling night out for all ages. With the average game lasting for three hours, it gives you the perfect excuse to fill up on chili cheese dogs.

Explore Mexican heritage and Little Italy

No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to Old Town. Located on the site of the first European settlement, it’s a vibrant blend of preserved buildings and museums, shops and markets, and a regular schedule of events celebrating the area’s Mexican heritage. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great place to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in one of the many open-air restaurants.

If you're hungry for nightlife, Downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter is a popular tourist spot, just inland from the waterfront. It covers around 16 blocks, and some of its buildings date from the 1860s. Back then it was known for its saloons and gambling dens, but today it’s bursting with restaurants, cafés, gastropubs, cocktail bars, art galleries and theatres.

Just to the north is Little Italy, a lively neighbourhood that boasts plenty of alfresco café and restaurant choices, urban wineries and craft beer specialists.

Indeed, ale aficionados are in luck: San Diego has one of the country’s best microbrewery scenes, so you’ll find plenty of venues offering well and lesser-known beers throughout the city.

More to see in San Diego

Where to stay: San Diego

Kona Kai San Diego Resort

This deluxe island retreat offers an escape from bustling San Diego, with a private beach to enjoy, the city within easy reach and no shortage of activities both in and out of the water.

San Diego Mission Bay Resort

This waterfront playground in the heart of San Diego is great for families, with inviting pools, sand and sea close at hand as well as fine dining by the ocean and luxurious spa treatments.

The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa, Destination by Hyatt

Opened in 2021 a short drive up the coast from downtown, this oceanfront escape offers a spacious pool deck on which to relax, a spa and beauty lounge for pampering and top-notch restaurants.

To book your holiday to San Diego, please visit  ba.com/sandiego

Road Trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe

If you're in the market for the ultimate California journey, you should consider doing the legendary road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe. On the way, you get to explore the finest cities, parks, and forests the beautiful Sunshine State has to offer.

The 530-mile road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe takes 9 hours of continuous driving. Notable stops include San Bernardino, Inyo, and Sierra National Forests, Yosemite, Death Valley, and Sequoia National Parks, as well as Bishop and Mammoth Lakes.

This is a road trip you won't want to miss out on, so be sure to continue reading to discover the best places to visit, the best places to stay, the best route to take, and the many attractions to enjoy along the way.

How far is Lake Tahoe from San Diego and how long will the road trip take?

The trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe covers 530 miles and takes about 9 hours of driving, without allowing for detours and stopping off to see the various attractions along the way.

This alternative route covers 770 miles and is one of the most popular routes in California and should take a little over 14 hours although you'll want to spread the journey over several days to see everything the route has to offer.

The Coastal Route adds a further 240 miles to the trip and a further 5 hours of driving. With each route offering its own unique experience, your route preference depends on the places you want to visit.

Best road trip route from San Diego to Lake Tahoe

There are two excellent route options available for the road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe. Our Direct Route takes you through the heartlands of California, through some of the best National Forests and Parks in the US.

Our alternative coastal route will take you up the incredible Pacific coastline through Long Beach, Malibu, and Santa Barbara up to San Jose and San Francisco before heading eastwards to Sacramento and Lake Tahoe.

Even if you did stop off a couple of times to stretch your legs, and take in some of the breath-taking scenery, you could leave San Diego at breakfast time and arrive in time for dinner at Lake Tahoe.

That said, you'll want to take it easy and explore as much as you can. The joy of a road trip is enjoying all the unique and interesting places along the way and it's important to take your time and embrace the journey.

If you have more time available, then you could decide to explore the beautiful Pacific Coast and drive to Lake Tahoe via San Francisco, taking in San Jose and Sacramento along the way.

How to drive from San Diego to Lake Tahoe

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between San Diego and Lake Tahoe. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Direct Route

From San Diego, you'll join Interstate 15 heading north passed the Pauma Valley before heading right as the road forks to join Interstate 215 N heading for Riverside and San Bernardino

Leaving San Bernardino, you'll re-join the I-215 N for a short while, before heading right onto Interstate 15 N and pick up the US-395 at exit 141.

Heading onwards through the Mojave Desert, you'll arrive at the Sequoia National Park, famous for its huge sequoia trees including General Sherman, and its underground Crystal Cave, which has to be seen to be believed.

Continuing north, you'll reach the Mammoth Lakes and the Inyo National Forest in the Sierra Mountains.

After passing Topaz, cross the border into Nevada, heading to Gardnerville before continuing north to Carson City before heading west on US-50 to arrive at Lake Tahoe.

The Coastal Route

This route takes you along the spectacular US Hwy 1 coastal drive, where you will see some of the most amazing scenery of sheer rugged cliffs on one side, and the magnificent waters of the Pacific Ocean on the other.

From San Diego, take Interstate 5 N along the north pacific coastline, with stunning views out to the Channel Islands of California before arriving at Long Beach.

You may also be tempted to take a trip to Los Angeles itself, and you can easily spend several days in the city of the Angels, before continuing the journey north.

Home to some of the finest beaches on earth, you'll head towards Malibu on CA-1 with glorious views all along the route, before continuing to enjoy the beauty of the coast along US-101 N to Santa Barbara.

Here the route heads inland a little, taking the CA-154 W, where you'll enjoy breath-taking views down the length of Lake Cachuma, and soon you'll merge with US-101 N taking you all the way to San Jose.

From San Jose, take the US-101 N and you'll arrive at San Francisco, an ideal place to take an overnight stop, and see the many sights this iconic city has to offer, including the golden gate bridge and Alcatraz

Leaving San Francisco, head northwards then join Interstate 80 E towards Sacramento, before continuing past the spectacular Tahoe National Forest before arriving at Tahoe City, on the glistening shores of Lake Tahoe.

Best places to stop between San Diego and Lake Tahoe

Whichever route you decide on, you will want to plan some overnight stopovers, and we have recommended a few of our favorites. These places are a great base to explore the area and make the most of your time during your adventure in the sun.

A mountain view in San Bernadino

San Bernadino is only 107 miles from San Diego on our Direct Route, and its location makes it an ideal stopover for either of our routes. As it lies along legendary Route 66, it would be a sin not to include this destination on your road trip itinerary.

Wigwam Motel is one of the most unique places to stay in San Bernardino, where you can sleep in an actual Wigwam! This motel is a great choice if you are looking for an unusual experience while also being located close to the sights.

This quirky motel is located a short distance from the historic Route 66 so it is very well connected to the main highways. However, you probably will want to take a break from driving upon arrival. We highly recommend relaxing by the beautiful outdoor pool as a treat after time spent on the road.

The city is rich in culture; you can explore ancient Egyptian relics that are on display at the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art. San Bernardino is also home to the McDonald's Museum too, as it is where the company's first restaurant was opened.

Just a short drive away from the hotel, nature lovers are spoilt for choice with Silverwood Lake and the San Bernardino National Forest right on their doorstep. Not too far away either is the Joshua Tree National Park, which makes for a great destination too.

Take a mountain stay in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes makes an excellent choice of stopover on the Direct Route, being almost two-thirds of the way into the road trip, nestled amongst some absolutely stunning scenery.

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, it is well known for the Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain ski areas, as well as several nearby trails.

Mammoth Lakes is blessed with some fabulous places to stay, and The Village Lodge is hard to beat , surrounded by mountain views, enjoy the wonderful outdoor heated pool or relax and unwind in one of the hot tubs.

The town also makes a great base to explore the Devils Postpile National Monument, a stunning formation of basalt columns, as well as the eye-catching cascade of Rainbow Falls.

Saltwater Mono Lake, with its gorgeous limestone towers and the world-famous Yosemite National Park, replete with granite cliffs and imperious sequoias, is also within a relatively short and easy drive.

Spend the night in San Francisco

The Golden Gate City, located a little over 3 hours from Lake Tahoe on the Coastal Route, is home to famous attractions and locations that makes it the perfect choice to spend a night. Make the stay even more memorable by choosing The Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel .

Famed bars, an awe-inspiring crystal chandelier restaurant, and a glass-domed indoor pool are just some of the features of this fantastic hotel, located in the Financial District, only a short walk from the vibrant Union Square.

Relax in luxury with leather tufted headboards, marble baths, and rain showers in rooms inspired by west-coast impressionism. The hotel is a 20-minute cable car ride away from shopping and dining at Fisherman's Wharf.

Take a trip to the rock and visit Alcatraz, the notorious former prison, which housed some of the most dangerous criminals in the US back in the 1960s before it closed, or simply take a cruise and see Alcatraz Island from the bay.

If you're feeling energetic, why not walk the Golden Gate Bridge, the most famous bridge in the world, before sampling some of the local delicacies in this foodie paradise, home to a host of Michelin-starred restaurants.

Things to see on a road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe

One of the best things about a road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe is that you are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning what to see and do.

Indeed, the route incorporates so many great sites, attractions, and interesting small towns along the way, you could easily spend a week or more exploring the region.

Our list of recommendations should provide you with a great highlights package.

• Joshua Tree National Park - Named for the region's iconic, twisted, bristled Joshua trees, this park also features rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes.
• San Bernadino, California – Vibrant city near the San Bernadino National Forest rich in culture, lovely places to eat, and interesting places to see.
• White Mountain Peak – Offers some incredible panoramic views from its 14,246-foot summit.
• Sequoia National Park – A sensational mix of massive mountain peaks, craggy foothills, deep eerie canyons, huge caverns, and some of the world's largest trees.
• Mammoth Lakes – Beautiful location in the Sierra Nevada mountains and a great base to explore the Rainbow Falls, Yosemite, and the Mammoth and June Mountain ski areas.
• Death Valley National Park - At 5,270 square miles, it is the largest national park in the Lower 48. It is also North America's driest and hottest spot with a record high temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Kings Canyon National Park - Huge sequoia trees, including the massive General Grant Tree which stands some 267 feet tall.
• Bishop, California – A great town to base yourself in and visit several lakes, forests, canyons, volcanic tablelands, and even a hot springs pool.
• Inyo National Forest - Home to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, one of the oldest living trees in the world.
• Sierra National Forest – Stunning, mountain scenery and beautiful lakes located within 1.3 million acres that vary in elevation between 900 and 13,986 feet.
• Yosemite National Park – Home to huge, ancient sequoia trees, the iconic view of Bridalveil Fall, and the sheer granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.
• Topaz Lake - A real desert gem, Lake Topaz is a reservoir located on the California-Nevada border. Framed by the Eastern Sierra it lies near the Toiyabe and Eldorado national forests.
• Long Beach, California – Experience a deep-sea adventure at the Aquarium of the Pacific, experience whale watching, take a tour of the coastal breweries, sunbathe at Peninsula Beach and try the local foodie scene.
• Universal Studios, Hollywood – Go behind the scenes of some of your favorite movie blockbusters and enjoy the thrill of the amazing theme park.
• LA Natural History Museum – Encounter dinosaurs, experience nature, and marvel at one of the most impressive gems and mineral collections in the world.
• Malibu, California – Famous for its celebrity homes and beaches, catch a wave at the renowned surfer's hotspot, Malibu Lagoon state beach, and learn more about the local history at the Malibu Lagoon Museum.
• Sacramento, California – Step back in time in Old Sacramento to the Gold Rush era, with wooden sidewalks and wagon rides, and a trip to the California State Railroad Museum.
• Solvang, California – Known for its Danish-style architecture and numerous wineries, discover more about this unique city at the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art.
• Tahoe City – Home to some of the best swimming, hiking, biking, and parks on the lake and the best waterside dining with wonderful lake and mountain views.

Best time to go on a road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe

If you have an adventurous spirit, then any time is a good time to undertake this magnificent road trip from San Diego to Lake Tahoe.

However, whilst Lake Tahoe welcomes visitors throughout the year, the best times to go there are spring and fall as it is extremely popular during the summer months and can get quite crowded. This can lead to higher accommodation prices.

Temperatures at Lake Tahoe in the summer months average a daily high of 73 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are thinking of taking the direct route, it gets significantly hotter around Death Valley where it has been known to reach an incredible 134 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you're making the trip in summer, Long Beach Waterfront in July is well worth a visit for its spectacular Independence Day firework display at the downtown waterfront, and the Big Bang on the Bay Party.

California is seen as a sun-lovers paradise all year round, but some of the mountainous areas can experience road closures due to snowy conditions during the winter so do bear this in mind.

If you are making the trip in the winter months, Lake Tahoe itself averages 142 inches of snow per year and boasts some of the world's best ski resorts, tucked away into the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range between California and Nevada.

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14 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

• Experience the unique beauty and wildlife of Santa Catalina Island on a road trip from LA to San Diego. Take a ferry to the island and explore Two Harbors and Avalon, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino.
• Enjoy the surf and vibrant beach town vibes at Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City." Take a surf lesson or explore lively Main Street with its bars, breweries, shops, and cafes.
• Explore the scenic beaches and artistic charm of Laguna Beach. From tide pools at Main Beach to hiking trails in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, this stop offers breathtaking coastal vistas and a chance to see a natural lake.

Driving the California coast is a quintessential American road trip and is something that everyone should experience at some point in their lifetime! Whether driving the whole coastline or just a section, there are so many beautiful places to stop along the way. California has great scenic road trip options with fantastic stops along the way , and the drive from LA to San Diego is no less.

The drive on a road trip from LA to San Diego is only about 120 miles (roughly 2 hours of driving point to point without traffic). But the best parts of any road trip are the stops along the way, and with multiple beaches and dozens of things to do between LA and San Diego, the California coast will not disappoint.

Although the quickest way between these two cities is to take the I-5, the most scenic option is to take the Pacific Coast Highway or Highway 1. This drive is one of the most beautiful in the US, and it becomes even more so if you genuinely know where to stop between San Diego and Los Angeles to enjoy this route.

UPDATE: 2023/11/13 16:42 EST BY SUNIL PURUSHE

Some More Unique Stops Along PCH In Los Angeles And San Diego, California

The route between LA and San Diego and the legendary Pacific Coast Highway has unlimited destinations and attractions that demand attention. There's only one Golden State for a reason, regardless of the time of year. Have fun!

Related: How To Spend 3 Days In LA

Escape To Santa Catalina Island

Two harbors and the city of avalon, with casinos, hiking trails, and wildlife..

For those with plenty of time to enjoy the California coastline, leaving the car behind in Long Beach and catching a ferry over to Santa Catalina Island is an excellent place to start. Among the many things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, visiting the Santa Catalina Islands is a unique but very fulfilling choice. Just one hour away via high-speed ferry, Santa Catalina is one of California's Channel Islands and lies southwest of LA. The resort town of Two Harbors is on the north of the island, and the city of Avalon is in the south, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino. There are hiking trails across the island, and it's known for its wildlife and amazing diving opportunities, making it the perfect first stop on any LA to San Diego road trip.

• Location: Santa Catalina Islands, California 90704
• Major Attractions: Catalina Island Casino , Two Harbors

Enjoy The Longest Pier At Huntington Beach

The best place to learn surfing.

On a drive from LA to San Diego, just 20 minutes further down the coast from Long Beach and about as far north as you can get in Orange Country, is beautiful Huntington Beach. With one of the longest piers on the California Coast, it is the perfect place to catch a West Coast sunset. Known locally as "Surf City," the beach is a perfect place to take a surf lesson, or lively Main Street has many bars, breweries, shops, and cafes to enjoy.

• Location: Huntington Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Huntington Beach Pier , Old World Village

The World Famous And Stunning Laguna Beach

Over 40 miles of trails, spectacular coastal vistas, canyons, and lake barbara..

With some of the most stunning beaches and coastlines along this coastline, Laguna Beach is a must-see beach on any San Diego to LA road trip or the opposite direction along the California Coast. Another significant aspect of Laguna Beach is that it falls in the middle of a route perfect for any California road trip . The town is an eclectic mix of a hippie beach town, boutique shopping, and art galleries. Main Beach has tide pools to explore and a beautiful boardwalk leading to the paths and gardens of nearby Heisler Park. The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park has over 40 miles of trails leading to rocky bluffs, coastal vistas, and canyons. Hiking to Barbara's Lake is a unique opportunity to see a natural lake along this coastal drive.

• Location: Laguna Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Heisler Park , Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Related: From Surf To Turf: A Culinary Adventure Through San Diego's Diverse Food Culture

Looking Out For Whales At Dana Point

A beautiful harbor and tours to watch the biggest mammal family on earth..

Dana Point is known as the "Whale Capital of the West," so watch for these majestic animals, whether watching from the harbor or heading further out to sea on a whale-watching tour. The 0.2-mile Bluff Top hiking trail gives visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the harbor, and the harbor itself has many boutique stores, restaurants, and cafés to enjoy a rest after whale-spotting!

• Location: Dana Point, California
• Major Attractions: Dana Point Harbor , Salt Creek Beach

Learning Some History In San Juan Capistrano

Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, along with seeing the oldest buildings in the state..

A visit to San Juan Capistrano involves a little inland detour, but it is one of the most historic destinations in the region, and it's a nice way to break up the beach stops along this coastal drive. Downtown is filled with Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, and one of the highlights is seeing the San Juan Capistrano Mission, one of the oldest buildings in the state. For those staying overnight here, there are plenty of taquerias and old-timey Western bars to enjoy.

• Location: San Juan Capistrano, California
• Major Attractions: Mission San Juan Capistrano , Zoomars at River Street Ranch

Visiting The Wine Country In Temecula

See beautiful hillside golf courses and vineyards..

Further inland still is the Southern California city of Temecula. It's famous for the nearby Temecula Valley Wine Country, with stunning hillside vineyards and abundant golf courses. Another beautiful historic town, Temecula, is filled with 1800s buildings and antique stores, making it a unique stop along the way between LA and San Diego.

• Location: Temecula, California
• Major Attractions: Old Town Temecula , Wilson Creek Winery

Related: Less Touristy (But Still Fun!) Things To Do In San Diego

Surfing At San Clemente State Beach

Windy, wavy, and perfect for water sports..

San Clemente is a quirky surf town and is the southernmost town in Orange County. It is often windy and wavy, making it the perfect place to try out some water sports, and there are surfing spots here suitable for beginners right up to professionals, making it one of the best surf spots along the California coast. Another unique thing about San Clemente Beach is that visitors can camp right on the mile-long beach !

• Location: San Clemente, CA 92672
• Major Attractions: San Clemente Pier , San Clemente Coastal Trail

Stop By The Beach At Oceanside and Visit LEGOLAND In Carlsbad

Home to the longest wooden pier and a chance to be a child again..

Oceanside has over 6 miles of breathtaking beaches, making it one of the best beach-side destinations along this coastline. It is also home to the longest wooden pier on the California coast - roughly 1/3 mile long! The views along the Oceanside coast are truly spectacular, and it is worth taking some time here to soak them up!

A short drive from Oceanside is the small town of Carlsbad, which is often top of tourist's to-see lists because of its many big attractions, including the LEGOLAND California Resort and the impressive Sea Life Aquarium.

• Location: Oceanside , Carlsbad
• Drive: Oceanside to Carlsbad (3.3 miles - 8 minutes)
• Major Attractions: Oceanside Pier , Mission San Luis Rey , LEGOLAND California , Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum (MECM)

Take In The Quaint Seaside Charm Of Encinitas

Enjoy a unique botanical garden and the small-town vibe..

Another stop with unbeatable coastal views is the beautiful Encinitas. This small city is just a little south of Carlsbad, and the streets are packed with quirky stores and relaxed restaurants. It is also home to the San Diego Botanical Garden, filled with various plant species from around the world. For visitors looking for a mellow town with seaside charm, this is the perfect place to stop.

• Location: Encinitas, California
• Major Attractions: Moonlight State Beach , Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens

The Calmness Of A Sanctuary At Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve

Witness the unique torrey pine and several migratory birds..

Although technically within San Diego city limits, the Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve is one of the wildest lands found along the Southern California coastline . Here, visitors will find the rare Torrey pine along with a beautiful lagoon, which is still used by several migrating bird species. With deep sandstone canyons and miles of pristine beaches, this is the perfect last stop before hitting San Diego!

• Location: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Major Attractions: Razor Point and Beach Trail Loop , La Jolla Cove

Summer Entertainment At Newport Beach

A beachside destination boasts entertainment, food, and history..

Newport Beach town will be reached on a road trip from LA to San Diego after driving along Highway 1 to the south from Huntington. This iconic town is known as an amazing summer destination and boasts various types of activities for everyone to enjoy. People visiting Newport Beach are recommended to see the Fun Zone and Balboa Pier, where they will witness an amazing seaside amusement park with arcade games, a small Ferris wheel, and traditional carnival food. Multi-million dollar homes and iconic boutiques can be spotted on Balboa Island. The latter can be reached from Balboa Pier in five minutes in a small car ferry.

• Location: Newport Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Balboa Island Ferry , Newport Beach

Finding Solitude At Table Rock Beach

Not the easiest to reach, but it's well worth the effort..

People who want to enjoy stunning seaside scenery with fewer tourist crowds will stop at Table Rock Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County. This spot can be located in South Laguna just off of the Pacific Coast Highway, north of Mission Hospital. Although people will have to walk down several stairs to reach the beach, it's still worth witnessing this unique area. The wonderful surf, beautiful rock formations, and solitude Table Rock Beach offers are all worth heading to this difficult-to-reach stop along the road trip from LA to San Diego.

• Location: 31561 Table Rock Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Major Attractions: Table Rock Beach , Laguna Beach Open Ocean Kayaking Tour with Sea Lion Sightings (Nearby)

Party At The Pacific Beach

Beachfront entertainment and the beautiful californian sunset..

The beachside neighborhood of Pacific Beach near San Diego is known as a party playground or P.B. (as the locals call it). P.B. comes alive at night with the glow of bonfires and the electricity of the region's many clubs. However, with endless stretches of coast, it's also the perfect downtime spot for families. P.B., or Pacific Beach, is also one of California's best beaches in and near San Diego . It has a 3.2-mile-long boardwalk lined with beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops, which is also a great vantage point to watch the beautiful Californian sunset every night. San Diego is known for its beaches and delicious cuisines , and it can all start here at Pacific Beach.

• Location: Pacific Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Mission Bay Park , San Diego Zoo

Lifeguard stands are staffed year-round from North Pacific Beach down to Mission Beach. The main lifeguard tower is located at the end of Grand Avenue.

Make A Stop At Santa Ana, The Face Of A New California.

Be surprised by the art, culture, and attractions found in historic santa ana..

The New York Times has characterized approximately four-fifths Latino, Santa Ana, as the "face of a new California , a state where Latinos have more influence in everyday life." Santa Ana is a cultural, entertainment, and culinary center of large and diverse Orange County, rich in authentic heritage and can't-miss gems. Art is everywhere in Santa Ana, from local galleries and studios to museums and alleyways. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the French Park neighborhood adjacent to downtown consists of 20 square blocks lined with stately homes from the 1880s.

• Location: Santa Ana, California
• Major Attractions: Lyon Air Museum , Blinking Owl Distillery

San Diego Padres

Cincinnati Reds

Andrew abbott handcuffs padres as reds rebound from disastrous road trip to win 2-0.

CINCINNATI -- — Andrew Abbott threw seven shutout innings, Elly De La Cruz doubled home a run and the Cincinnati Reds shook off a disastrous road trip to beat the San Diego Padres 2-0 on Tuesday night.

The Reds went 3-7 on their swing out West, losing series to the Giants, Diamondbacks and Dodgers. Back home, they did just enough offensively to win one behind another terrific outing by Abbott (3-4).

The 24-year-old lefty allowed four hits, striking out two and walking one. He allowed just one runner past first base. Fernando Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth. Alexis Díaz walked Jurickson Profar to start the ninth but struck out Manny Machado and got Jake Cronenworth to hit into a double play to pick up his eighth save.

“Defense played excellent today,” Abbott said. “They took some good swings, we had guys in the right spots. All that culminates in a good outing. You have to have a little bit of luck on your side.”

Abbott gave up just a run and four hits in seven innings in his last start Wednesday at Arizona, but the Reds lost 2-1.

“He has a good arsenal,” Padres manager Mike Schildt said. "I saw him when he first came up. You could see the ability for sure, and now he continues to hone his craft. He threw the ball really well, changed speeds. He kept us off balance.”

Padres starter Joe Musgrove (3-4), reinstated from the injured list before the game, went three innings, allowing two unearned runs and three hits. He struck out three and walked two in his first action since May 5 after being shut down with an inflamed elbow.

Musgrove loaded the bases with one out in the first inning but escaped by striking out Tyler Stephenson and getting Mike Ford on a ground ball.

The Reds got their runs in the second inning. Jonathan India tagged up on a flyout and scored when catcher Luis Campusano dropped the throw home and was charged with an error.

De La Cruz followed with a run-scoring double , the only extra-base hit for the Reds, who won despite going hitless the rest of the game.

Reds manager David Bell kicked and threw around a chair in the dugout after right fielder Jake Fraley was hit on the hand by a pitch in the first inning. The normally low-key Bell insisted the demonstration wasn't directed at any one in particular, just that he was frustrated that other Reds players have also been injured lately by pitches in on the hands.

“Enough's enough,” he said. “There's not a whole lot I can do.”

San Diego had won five of its last six series, taking three of four from the Braves before heading to Cincinnati.

TRAINER'S ROOM

Padres: INF Xander Bogaerts was out of the lineup with a shoulder ailment. MRI results will determine if he needs to go on the injured list.

Reds: After getting hit in the first inning, Fraley was replaced on defense. X-rays showed nothing is broken, and he'll be re-evaluated on Wednesday. ... INF/OF Spencer Steer missed his second start while nursing a sore ankle. ... India limped off but stayed in the game after Campusano stepped on his leg during the play at the plate in the second. Bell said he is OK.

The Padres send right-hander Michael King (3-4, 4.31 ERA) against Reds right-hander Nick Martinez (1-2, 4.23) as the series in Cincinnati continues Wednesday night.

This story has been changed to correct Cincinnati's record on its western road trip to 3-7 instead of 3-11.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP--Sports

SD wins 2-1

Game information.

• Home Plate Umpire - Hunter Wendelstedt
• First Base Umpire - John Tumpane
• Second Base Umpire - Marvin Hudson
• Third Base Umpire - Nick Mahrley

2024 National League West Standings

2024 national league central standings, blue jays take on the white sox after guerrero's 4-hit game, nationals take road losing streak into matchup against the braves, royals visit the twins to open 4-game series.

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5 things to watch as Yankees face Padres in three-game series in San Diego

Here are five things to watch as the Yankees and San Diego Padres play a three-game series at Petco Park starting on Friday...

Can Yanks start road trip off right?

The weekend series with the Padres starts a nine-game West Coast road trip for the Yankees. They went 5-2 on their most recent homestand. At 35-17 and just 3.0 games up on the Baltimore Orioles for first place in the AL East, the Yanks need to get off to a good start if they want to return to the Bronx still in first place.

After three with the Padres, the Yankees have three against the Los Angeles Angels (20-30), which shouldn't be too bad, but then they'll head out to San Francisco to take on the Giants (25-26). Picking up at least six wins in 10 days should be the goal for this trip.

Can starters keep it going?

Perhaps the biggest surprise of this young season has been how well the Yankees rotation has pitched without ace Gerrit Cole .

This week alone saw the starters go 23.2 innings while giving up just three runs on 11 hits over their four-game series against the Seattle Mariners . Those numbers go back even further, where they dominated the Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins last week.

But can they keep it going?

New York will have Carlos Rodon (3.27 ERA), Marcus Stroman (3.05 ERA) and Clarke Schmidt (2.59 ERA) on the bump this weekend. All three have been effective of late, so we'll see if they can continue that trend.

Going up against some tough pitching

While the Yankees starters have been tough, many of the Padres' rotation arms are as well. The Yanks will go up against Yu Darvish (2.08 ERA) on Friday, Dylan Cease (3.05 ERA) on Saturday and the recently-returned Joe Musgrove (5.93 ERA) on Sunday.

If the Yankees want to continue their winning ways, they'll have to hit like they have been in support of their pitching, but it may be tough. Here's how the top Yanks have done against the Padres' probable starters:

Aaron Judge : 5-for-15, 2 2B, 4 RBI

Juan Soto : 7-for-16, 1 HR, 1 2B, 2 RBI

Giancarlo Stanton : 5-for-16, 2 HR (both against Cease), 5 RBI

Alex Verdugo : 6-for-22, 1 HR, 1 2B, 2 RBI

All not bad, but the first series of a long road trip could catch the Yankees bats off their game.

Can Clarke Schmidt bounce back?

Schmidt was the one starter who didn't have his best stuff this week. In Tuesday's loss to the Mariners, Schmidt gave up two runs but had to grind through five innings. After the game, Schmidt felt he was tipping his pitches.

Before that start, Schmidt pitched 14.2 shutout innings in his previous two outings. He has taken a step forward in his second year as a part of the rotation, and he'll look to continue that trend in San Diego .

So far this season, Schmidt is actually pitching better on the road. He has a 1.47 ERA in five road starts, opposed to a 3.96 ERA in The Bronx.

Juan Soto returns to San Diego

This will be the first time Soto faces the Padres in San Diego after the Yankees acquired him in a trade this offseason.

In his two seasons with the Padres, Soto slashed .265/.405/.488 with 41 home runs and walked 176 times.

It'll be interesting to see the reception Soto gets in San Diego and how he plays coming back to Petco.

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Andrew Abbott handcuffs Padres as Reds rebound from disastrous road trip to win 2-0

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Andrew Abbott throws to a San Diego Padres batter during the second inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Andrew Abbott throws to a San Diego Padres batter during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds’ Jonathan India reacts as he collides with San Diego Padres catcher Luis Campusano during the second inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. India was safe and Campusano was charged with an error. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Joe Musgrove follows through during the first inning of the team’s baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Joe Musgrove throws to a Cincinnati Reds batter during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

San Diego Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. is greeted by first base coach David Macias after he singled against the Cincinnati Reds for his 500th career hit, during the top of the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

San Diego Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. singles to left field for his 500th career hit, against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson and home plate umpire Hunter Wendelstedt watch. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds outfielder Stuart Fairchild catches a ball hit by San Diego Padres’ Donovan Solano during the seventh inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Díaz throws to a San Diego Padres batter during the ninth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

San Diego Padres pitcher Adrian Morejon throws to a Cincinnati Reds batter during the fourth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

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CINCINNATI (AP) — Andrew Abbott threw seven shutout innings, Elly De La Cruz doubled home a run and the Cincinnati Reds shook off a disastrous road trip to beat the San Diego Padres 2-0 on Tuesday night.

The Reds went 3-7 on their swing out West, losing series to the Giants, Diamondbacks and Dodgers. Back home, they did just enough offensively to win one behind another terrific outing by Abbott (3-4).

The 24-year-old lefty allowed four hits, striking out two and walking one. He allowed just one runner past first base. Fernando Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth. Alexis Díaz walked Jurickson Profar to start the ninth but struck out Manny Machado and got Jake Cronenworth to hit into a double play to pick up his eighth save.

“Defense played excellent today,” Abbott said. “They took some good swings, we had guys in the right spots. All that culminates in a good outing. You have to have a little bit of luck on your side.”

Abbott gave up just a run and four hits in seven innings in his last start Wednesday at Arizona, but the Reds lost 2-1.

“He has a good arsenal,” Padres manager Mike Schildt said. “I saw him when he first came up. You could see the ability for sure, and now he continues to hone his craft. He threw the ball really well, changed speeds. He kept us off balance.”

Padres starter Joe Musgrove (3-4), reinstated from the injured list before the game, went three innings, allowing two unearned runs and three hits. He struck out three and walked two in his first action since May 5 after being shut down with an inflamed elbow.

Musgrove loaded the bases with one out in the first inning but escaped by striking out Tyler Stephenson and getting Mike Ford on a ground ball.

The Reds got their runs in the second inning. Jonathan India tagged up on a flyout and scored when catcher Luis Campusano dropped the throw home and was charged with an error.

De La Cruz followed with a run-scoring double , the only extra-base hit for the Reds, who won despite going hitless the rest of the game.

Reds manager David Bell kicked and threw around a chair in the dugout after right fielder Jake Fraley was hit on the hand by a pitch in the first inning. The normally low-key Bell insisted the demonstration wasn’t directed at any one in particular, just that he was frustrated that other Reds players have also been injured lately by pitches in on the hands.

“Enough’s enough,” he said. “There’s not a whole lot I can do.”

San Diego had won five of its last six series, taking three of four from the Braves before heading to Cincinnati.

TRAINER’S ROOM

Padres: INF Xander Bogaerts was out of the lineup with a shoulder ailment. MRI results will determine if he needs to go on the injured list.

Reds: After getting hit in the first inning, Fraley was replaced on defense. X-rays showed nothing is broken, and he’ll be re-evaluated on Wednesday. ... INF/OF Spencer Steer missed his second start while nursing a sore ankle. ... India limped off but stayed in the game after Campusano stepped on his leg during the play at the plate in the second. Bell said he is OK.

The Padres send right-hander Michael King (3-4, 4.31 ERA) against Reds right-hander Nick Martinez (1-2, 4.23) as the series in Cincinnati continues Wednesday night.

This story has been changed to correct Cincinnati’s record on its western road trip to 3-7 instead of 3-11.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Guardians ace Shane Bieber joins Cleveland during West road trip for first time since surgery

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Shane Bieber marked being six weeks removed from Tommy John surgery with a pair of milestones.

The Cleveland Guardians ace not only had the bulky brace from his right arm removed, he is back with his teammates for the first time since early April.

Bieber is on the Guardians’ six-game road trip out West that began Friday with a weekend set against the Los Angeles Angels. Cleveland goes to Colorado for a three-game series Monday before Bieber heads back to the team’s training facility in Goodyear, Arizona, to continue rehab.

Bieber has certainly rejoined his teammates at the right time. The AL Central-leading Guardians have won eight straight after Saturday night’s 4-3 win over the Angels . It is Cleveland’s longest winning streak since it ran off an AL-record 22 straight in 2017.

“It’s awesome to to be able to meet up with the guys, when they’re on such a heater. It’s been fun to watch, both in person and from afar,” Bieber said before Saturday’s game.

The 2020 AL Cy Young Award winner had reconstructive surgery on the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow on April 12 in Texas. Besides having the brace removed, Bieber has been going through the early rehab process of building back range of motion.

“It’s had its difficulties over the first six weeks, but hopefully the process continues to go smoothly,” he said. “I’m feeling good and staying positive.”

When Bieber took the mound in Seattle on April 2, he had a feeling during the first inning that it was going to be his last start for some time as the pain in his elbow became too overwhelming. Bieber was limited to 21 starts last season also due to elbow issues.

Despite that, Bieber threw 83 pitches (55 strikes) in six scoreless innings and struck out nine. That followed not allowing a run and striking out 11 in six innings in the March 28 opener at Oakland.

“I saw some people ask why I was going through that? That’s a natural question to ask, but with the context of what I dealt with last year and rehabbing it,” Bieber said. “I needed more feedback on what I was dealing with. I have no regrets and I’m happy to be moving forward.

“I knew what was going on and inevitably going to happen, that I was going to have to get surgery. Looking back, I’m thankful to have had that outing. Those first two outings going so well made it a little more difficult in a sense. It was an interesting experience in Seattle pitching and competing knowing it was going to be awhile.”

Besides discussing the next steps in rehab, the bigger question hanging over Bieber is his future in Cleveland. He is slated to be a free agent in the offseason since this is his final year under club control.

Bieber is 62-32 with a 3.22 ERA in 134 starts over seven seasons with Cleveland. The 28-year old said he would consider a short-term deal if it made sense.

“Honestly it’s too far down the road for me. It’s a little bit different than I expected, but my mindset is the same. I’m confident in myself and there’s always something to be done, but at the same time I think everybody’s kind of focused on what’s going on right now.”

Even with Bieber and Trevor Stephan out for the year due to Tommy John surgeries, the Guardians’ pitching staff has the fourth-lowest ERA in the majors.

Manager Stephen Vogt said having Bieber and Stephan back this weekend has provided another jolt of energy for a ballclub that has won seven straight.

“It’s a huge pick-me-up for them and us. Any time you have Shane Bieber sitting around talking baseball, everybody’s going to get better,” Vogt said.

Tanner Bibee, who allowed three runs in six innings en route to his first win in over a month, said it was reassuring seeing Bieber in the dugout between innings.

“Other than Cookie (Carlos Carrasco), Shane is our vet,” Bibee said. “He helped me out a lot last year during my rookie year so it’s been great having him here these past two days.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

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