11 Must-See Stops On Los Angeles To San Francisco Road Trip
Introduction
A road trip from “Los Angeles” to “San Francisco” along the stunning “Pacific Coast Highway” is an iconic “California” adventure. This scenic highway journey allows you to experience the best of the “Golden State” from sunny Southern California beaches to the misty cliffs of Big Sur to the hills of “San Francisco”. From major cities to small beach towns, this coastal route offers incredible “sights” and “attractions” for the perfect SoCal to NorCal “road trip”.
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide tips for planning your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip adventure. We then detail the 11 best stops to make along the famed “Highway 1” and the “Pacific Coast Highway” for an enriching and unforgettable “journey”. Whether you want to soak up the sun in “Santa Monica”, marvel at Hearst Castle’s opulence, or drive across the iconic “Golden Gate Bridge”, this “travel guide” offers everything you need to plan the ultimate LA to SF “scenic drive”.
Do read the People Also Ask (FAQs) about this topic.
Planning Your Trip
The most popular time to embark on this SoCal to NorCal “road trip” is between April and October when the weather is ideal. Summer promises sunny skies and warm temperatures, though lodging costs are higher and attractions more crowded. Spring and fall offer moderate weather and are less busy. If traveling in winter, be mindful of potential rainstorms.
Pack layers of clothing you can add or remove easily as the temperature fluctuates between the coast and inland areas. Bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well as comfortable walking shoes. Have essentials like a spare phone battery or camera batteries on hand. Prepare your vehicle with a tune-up, checked tire pressure, emergency kit, and full tank of gas.
Road Trip Time
The shortest driving route from Los Angeles to San Francisco along Interstate 5 is approximately 380 miles, taking 5.5 to 6 hours direct. Opting for the scenic “Highway 1” route adds extra time but provides stunning ocean views.
From LA to SF, Highway 1 stretches approximately 615 miles and would take 9-10 hours if driven nonstop. Realistically, you’ll want to allow 10-14 days for this trip to properly enjoy the top “destinations” and “attractions” along the coast.
The 11 Best Stops On Los Angeles To San Francisco
- Santa Monica Pier
- Malibu
- Santa Barbara
- Channel Islands National Park
- Hearst Castle
- Cambria
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Nepenthe Restaurant
- Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Golden Gate Bridge
1. Santa Monica Pier
Kicking off your road trip in Los Angeles, the bustling Santa Monica Pier is a classic. Ride the solar-powered Ferris wheel and other amusement park rides for fun photos with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.
Play carnival games as you explore the pier and watch street performers delight crowds. Walk the beach or rent a bicycle for a breezy cruise down the waterfront path. Enjoy plenty of dining options from snack stands to upscale seafood restaurants.
Official Website Link: https://www.santamonicapier.org/
2. Malibu
Further north along the coast, the famous beach town of Malibu attracts surfers and offers great hiking. Point Dume State Beach provides stunning cliff views, while El Matador State Beach’s rocky spires rise from the waves.
Hike to Inspiration Point in Will Rogers State Historic Park for panoramic views of Santa Monica Bay. Visit Malibu Lagoon State Beach to observe birds in the saltwater wetlands or tour the historical Adamson House and gardens.
Official Website Link: https://www.malibucity.org/
3. Santa Barbara
This charming city blends Spanish colonial architecture with laidback California cool. Visit the whitewashed Mission Santa Barbara built in 1786, then stroll down State Street through the red-roofed downtown packed with shops and restaurants.
At the historic Arlington Theatre, catch live music and shows in a stunning 1930s setting. Don’t miss grabbing breakfast, empanadas, or coffee in the trendy Funk Zone neighborhood. Top off your Santa Barbara stay with stunning sunset views from Stearns Wharf.
Official Website Link: https://santabarbaraca.com/
4. Channel Islands National Park
Accessible only by boat, the wild and remote Channel Islands offer plenty to entice nature lovers. Kayak sea caves or paddleboard to get up close with the dolphins, seals, and sea lions that frequent these Pacific islands.
Go hiking on over 150 miles of coastal trails and keep an eye out for unique wildlife like the island fox. Learn about the islands’ varying ecosystems with a naturalist guide and try to spot whales on the boat ride.
Official Website Link: https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm
5. Hearst Castle
This sprawling mansion perched on a hilltop in San Simeon provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Tour the grounds and grand rooms of the main house, like the two-story high Assembly Room and the plush Refectory.
The Neptune Pool sprawls next to the Mediterranean-style structures and offers sweeping views of the California coastline. With its priceless art collections and gold-accented architecture, Hearst Castle is sure to dazzle.
Official Website Link: https://hearstcastle.org/
6. Cambria
The sleepy seaside village of Cambria charms visitors looking to slow down. Stroll Moonstone Beach searching for the colorful stones it’s named for, or watch the sunset from the picturesque Fiscalini Ranch Preserve trails.
Browse the East Village’s artisan shops and eateries housed in traditional wooden buildings. In spring, fields of wildflowers bloom in abundance a few miles inland at Big Reds Ranch. With its tranquility and small-town vibe, Cambria is perfect for recharging.
Official Website Link: https://visitcambriaca.com/
7. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
This park protects miles of Big Sur coastline for hiking, backpacking, and nature watching. Follow the easy Valley View trail to Pfeiffer Falls, a gorgeous 60-foot waterfall flowing into a forested canyon.
For more challenge, the steep Wieslander Peak trail rewards with panoramic vistas atop 1,500-foot hills. Picnic in meadows blanketed with spring wildflowers or camp overnight to fully experience Big Sur’s dramatic landscapes.
Official Website Link: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=570
You can check out the Top 6 Best Landscape Places In The World in this link.
8. Nepenthe Restaurant
Perched 800 feet above the Pacific, the legendary Nepenthe is a true Big Sur highlight. Enjoy locally sourced California cuisine on the airy outdoor terrace, soaking up head-on views of the coast.
Try their renowned Ambrosia burger topped with a pineapple ring for a sweet-savory treat with a story dating back decades. Relax over craft cocktails and dinner while watching the sunset – just be sure to reserve a terrace table in advance.
Official Website Link: https://www.nepenthe.com/menu
9. Carmel-by-the-Sea
With its quaint European-style architecture, art galleries galore, and spectacular natural scenery, Carmel charms visitors. Meander hidden pathways to find secret gardens, fairytale cottages, and charming courtyards.
Browse the 100-plus art galleries and workshops before indulging in world-class dining on Mediterranean cuisine at Aubergine. Don’t miss visiting the iconic Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, one of California’s most beautiful Spanish missions.
Official Website Link: https://www.carmelcalifornia.com/
10. Monterey Bay Aquarium
On Monterey’s historic Cannery Row, this world-class aquarium showcases the diverse marine life of the nearby bay and Pacific Ocean. Get up close to playful sea otters, hypnotic jellyfish, a kelp forest, and schooling sardines.
The million-gallon Open Sea exhibit introduces you to tuna, sharks, and turtles through a floor-to-ceiling glass wall. With engaging exhibits and expert education programs, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-visit.
Official Website Link: https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/
11. Golden Gate Bridge
No road trip from LA to SF would be complete without driving over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge into the city of San Francisco. Stop at the bridge’s lookout points for awesome photo opportunities of the massive orange structure framed by white towers against a blue sky backdrop.
Walk or bike across the 1.7-mile bridge span to admire views of Alcatraz and the San Francisco skyline. As a symbol of California recognized around the world, it’s the perfect way to end an epic Pacific road trip.
Official Website Link: https://www.goldengate.org/
Detailed Itinerary For LA to SF Road Trip Adventure
With so many incredible places to explore between LA and SF, planning your stops is key. Here’s a recommended 10-day itinerary:
Day 1: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
- Leave Los Angeles in the morning and drive up the coast on Highway 1
- In Malibu, hike the 1.5-mile Inspiration Loop trail for ocean views then have lunch at Duke’s or Nobu Malibu
- Continue north to Santa Barbara, arriving late afternoon
- Check into the hotel and walk down State Street downtown browsing shops, wine-tasting rooms, and cafes
- Dinner and evening stroll on State Street in Santa Barbara
Day 2: Santa Barbara to Cambria
- Start with breakfast in Santa Barbara before driving up to Channel Islands National Park
- Take a morning boat tour of the islands to see wildlife and marine life like dolphins, whales, seals, foxes
- Picnic lunch on the islands then hike the nature loop trail before returning by boat
- Drive north to Cambria with stops at scenic overlooks along the way
- Check into Cambria Hotel and walk along the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk at sunset
- Dinner in Cambria – ocean view seating and fresh seafood
Day 3: Hearst Castle and Big Sur
- Tour Hearst Castle – the lavish main house and gardens with Neptune Pool
- Lunch in San Simeon at Sebastian’s Cafe or adjacent Hearst Castle restaurant
- Drive into Big Sur mid-afternoon, see Bixby Bridge, and stop at McWay Falls trailhead
- Hike to McWay Falls viewpoint to see the waterfall plunging into the Pacific
- Continue south to Carmel, arriving early evening
- Check into the hotel and have dinner downtown in Carmel
Day 4: Carmel and Monterey
- Stroll Carmel Beach and Ocean Avenue shops, browsing hidden courtyards and ice cream stops
- Visit the historic Carmel Mission and courtyard
- Drive to Monterey mid-day and visit Monterey Bay Aquarium to see otters, sardines, sharks
- Walk along Cannery Row and have seafood dinner in Monterey
- Return overnight to the hotel in Carmel
Day 5: Carmel to Santa Cruz
- Check out of Carmel Hotel and drive up the coast, stopping at Garrapata State Park
- Arrive in Santa Cruz around lunchtime and check into the hotel
- Visit Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and walk along scenic Cliff Drive
- Dinner at Crow’s Nest on the harbor then exploring downtown Santa Cruz
Day 6: Santa Cruz to San Francisco
- Morning shopping and cafes in downtown Santa Cruz
- Drive up to Half Moon Bay and have a seafood lunch at Sam’s Chowder House
- Arrive in San Francisco late afternoon and check into the hotel
- Walk to Fisherman’s Wharf, ride cable cars, enjoy chowder in sourdough bowl
- Dinner in San Francisco, then see sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge
Days 7-8: San Francisco sightseeing
- 2 full days exploring neighborhoods by cable car and walking
- Key sights like Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, Lombard Street, parks, museums
- Dinner at restaurants like Cliff House, Wayfare Tavern, Zuni Cafe
- Nightlife in the Mission District and Castro
- Optional day trip to Napa/Sonoma wineries
Day 9: San Francisco to Cambria
- Leave San Francisco with a coffee stop at Blue Bottle Coffee or Philz Coffee
- Longer drive back south making Big Sur stops like Pfeiffer Falls hike
- Arrive in Cambria late afternoon
- Dinner at a local Cambria restaurant
- An evening stroll on Moonstone Beach under the sunset
Day 10: Cambria to Los Angeles
- Visit Hearst Castle if you missed it and see the expansive property and Neptune Pool
- Continue driving south back to Los Angeles
- Picnic lunch stop in a beach town like Cayucos
- Browse beach town art galleries, shell shops and boutiques
- Arrive back in Los Angeles late afternoon/early evening
This itinerary allows time to see top sights while leaving wiggle room for spontaneous stops. Tweak the number of days based on your interests, travel pace, and schedule.
Travel Tips For Los Angeles To San Francisco Road Trip
- Plan out lodging in advance since accommodations can be booked up quickly, especially in summer—campgrounds and boutique hotels or motels along the coast offer scenic overnight options.
- Pack layers and dress in layers as the weather can shift rapidly when driving from the beach to inland areas.
- Give yourself ample time for driving as you’ll be stopping frequently for photo ops, short hikes, and attractions along the route. Don’t try to pack too much into one day.
- Fill your gas tank often since gas stations are sparse in remote areas like Big Sur. Carry food/snacks/water to avoid getting stranded and hungry.
- Make time for exercise like short hikes to offset all the driving and sitting. Bring along collapsible hiking poles if needed.
- Download helpful apps like Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip, Roadtrippers, and CA State Parks to assist with navigation, finding stops, and learning about the area. Offline maps are recommended for when cell service is spotty.
- Travel during the off-season in spring or fall to avoid peak crowds. Winter brings potential rain storms and road hazards.
- Build in buffer days in case you need to cut a day short due to fatigue or extend time at one of the locations. Go with the flow!
Conclusion
An epic road trip along Highway 1 from Los Angeles to San Francisco offers the quintessential California experience. The dazzling Pacific coastline views, diversity of landscapes, and wealth of attractions make this scenic route unforgettable. By stopping at these 11 top destinations, you’ll get a rich mix of natural wonders, fascinating history, charming towns, and exciting city vibes.
From sunny beach days to misty cliffs to the Golden Gate Bridge finale, it encompasses the very best of the California coast. Use the tips and sample itinerary in this guide to plan your own LA-to-SF coastal road trip and enjoy what is for many the drive of a lifetime. The open road awaits! Let the adventure begin.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Q) Is it worth driving from LA to San Francisco?
A) Absolutely! The scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway from LA to SF is considered one of the most iconic road trips in the world. You’ll get to experience so much natural beauty along the California coast, from sunny beaches to misty redwood forests, as well as great cities like Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and Carmel. It’s a bucket list trip that most travelers find extremely rewarding despite the long drive.
Q) How long is the road trip from LA to San Francisco?
A) The drive from LA to SF covers approximately 615 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. With minimal stops, the drive takes around 10 hours. However, most travelers take 3-5 days or longer to make stops at attractions along the way and fully experience all there is to see and do.
Q) Where do you stop between LA and San Francisco?
A) Some of the best stops between Los Angeles and San Francisco include Santa Barbara, Solvang, Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Half Moon Bay. These provide a mix of ocean vistas, quaint beach towns, natural wonders, and exciting cities to break up the drive.
Q) What is the best scenic route from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
A) The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is undoubtedly the most scenic route from San Francisco to Los Angeles. It follows the coastline closely and offers amazing ocean views throughout the entire drive. For the most scenic experience, drive south from SF to LA.
Q) What is there to see between Los Angeles and San Francisco?
A) From LA to SF, there are tons of attractions and sights including lovely beaches, state parks, historic sites like Hearst Castle, charming coastal towns, natural areas like Big Sur and redwood forests, and major cities like Santa Barbara and Monterey. The variety of landscapes and attractions make this drive incredible.
Q) Is there a scenic drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco?
A) Yes, the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) offers an extremely scenic drive from LA to SF. You’ll be able to enjoy ocean views, cliffs, hills, redwoods, beaches, and scenic stops the entire route. It’s considered one of the most scenic drives not just in California but the entire country.
