If you were to drive a San Francisco to San Diego road trip the whole way through without stops or traffic, it’d take about 7.5 hours. But there are so many awesome places to see between these California cities that you should definitely take it slow and soak up all this route has to offer.
Realistically, there are hundreds of worthwhile places along the California coast worth exploring. With 840 miles of coastline, over 400 public beaches, and one of the most scenic drives in the world, Highway 1, it’s hard to cram everything into one vacation.
To make it easier for you, here’s my list of spots worth checking out along your San Fran to San Diego road trip. It includes beaches, hiking, wine tasting, shopping, tourist attractions, and more to help you make the most of your drive along the California coast!
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San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip
Save this to Pinterest for later so you have it when you start trip planning. Or let me plan you a custom trip so you can enjoy the fun part — feeling the wind in your hair as you soak up the California sun!
Your route at a glance
This road trip to San Diego from San Francisco assumes you’ll book a rental car with pick up in San Francisco and drop off in San Diego (or vice versa) after visiting all these stops:
- San Francisco
- Santa Cruz
- Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Pinnacles National Park
- Big Sur
- San Luis Obispo
- Santa Barbara
- Los Angeles
- Palm Springs
- Temecula
- Oceanside, Carlsbad, & Encinitas
- San Diego
Here’s a map of this route, which includes about 13 hours of driving. Ideally you’ll have 3 weeks to take your time exploring all these stops, but you can modify your route to best fit the time you have available.
San Francisco
get directions | ideal length of stay: 3 days | best for: shopping & wine tasting
San Francisco is known for being a culturally diverse artist sanctuary, though it’s still a bustling city with all the typical big-town amenities. There are tons of neighborhoods to explore, like the Castro, a lively LGBTQ+ nightlife destination, or Lower Haight, a low-key neighborhood known for Victoria-era homes and tons of parks.
You can easily spend a week in SF eating, drinking, and shopping, but I’d suggest at least three days to make sure you enjoy the highlights. As for the weather, I always bring a coat, even in the summertime, since the ocean breeze tends to sneak up on you in the evenings.
Where to stay
The Hotel Castro
link to book | get directions | price: ~$385 per night | 1 bedroom | 1 bathroom
This stylish boutique hotel is located in The Castro, a popular neighborhood minutes from Dolores Park and The Mission District’s lively bars and restaurants. There’s no front desk, so it’s similar to an Airbnb in that you don’t have to talk to anyone to check in. But if you do want to mingle, there’s a cool bar in the lobby.
What to do
Walk the Lands End trail
website | get directions | price: free | best for: views of the Golden Gate Bridge
The Lands End Trail is one of my favorite hikes in SF since it offers pristine views with minimal effort. The hike is a 3.4-mile loop and takes about an hour and a half to complete. From the trail, you can even spot the Sutro Baths, once the largest indoor swimming pool in the world, now eerie ruins.
Pro tip: Want to get a view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the other side? Extend your walk from Lands End to Crissy Field for a ~4 mile urban hike through the famous Presidio Park.
Check out the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
website | get directions | price: free entry | best for: local produce & gifts
I’ll never say no to a good farmer’s market, and the Ferry Plaza Market has been referred to as one of the best in the world. It’s open year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It can get pretty hectic in the summertime, so I usually stroll the perimeter, then head to the other side of the building for oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co.
Visit Alcatraz
website | get directions | price: ~$45pp | best for: history & boat ride
If you love history, Alcatraz is a must visit. This penitentiary used to house some of the US’ most notorious criminals. There are many stories of attempted escapes and lots of spooky vibes that make for a fun day of exploring.
You’ll take a ~15-minute boat ride to the island and get to explore at your leisure with an audio tour. There are a lot of “Alcatraz tours” advertised, but many of them pair it some kind of other excursion and leave you at the dock to explore Alcatraz on your own. So keep your eye’s peeled for the fine print!
Explore Chinatown
website | get directions | price: free | best for: history & food
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest outside of Asia and the oldest in North America. Make sure to spend a few hours combing the streets to soak up the architecture, do some shopping, and eat your heart out. If you’re overwhelmed by the choices, here are some well-rated food tours:
- Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour
- Tea & Dim Sum Food Tour of Chinatown
- North Beach & Chinatown Secret Food Tour
Dine at Che Fico
website | get directions | cuisine: Italian | price point: $$$
Che Fico was rated the best new restaurant by Bon Appetit when it opened. Because of that, it can be a bit pricey, but it’s worth the splurge. Bon Appetit claims the lobster Pomodoro is the best item on their menu, but my heart belongs to the tuna conserva.
Spend a day wine tasting in Napa and Sonoma
Staying in SF puts you just over an hour away from Napa and Sonoma, California’s two premier wine regions. This makes it the perfect day trip if you’re into wine tasting or feeling flustered in the big city. If I could only pick one region, I’d prioritize the more casual Sonoma. But if you prefer luxury, don’t miss Napa.
Most wineries are by appointment only, so keep this in mind when planning your day. Here are some of my favorite wineries:
- Benovia Winery – Boutique single vineyard winery making excellent whites
- Quivira Vineyards – Biodynamic winery with beautiful grounds and pigs
- Preston Farm and Winery – Hand-harvested, small-batch wines, olive oils, and bread
- Truchard Vineyards – One of the more affordable wineries in Napa
- The Wine Thief – Wine collective showcasing multiple makers under one roof
Pro tip: If you can swing it, get a reservation at Single Thread in Healdsburg, CA in Sonoma County. It’s a 3-star Michelin restaurant and one of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to.
Santa Cruz
distance from San Francisco: ~73 miles (~1 hour 45 minutes) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 1-2 days | best for: beautiful beaches
Santa Cruz is a beautiful California beach town with gorgeous coastline views, fun shops, farmers markets, and tons of family-friendly activities. It’s not super big, but it’s surprisingly packed with a lot of highlights. Plus it’s near some amazing outdoor adventures and even its own wine region.
Santa Cruz is a great stop for a day trip, but if you can extend your San Francisco to San Diego road trip, 2 days here is even better.
Where to stay
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
link to book | get directions | price: ~$599+ per night
This upscale beachfront resort puts you minutes from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and other fun attractions like the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum or the Mystery Spot, a mysterious location in the woods where physics is turned on its head. The hotel has all the essentials: a poolside bar, lounge, and instant beach access.
What to do
Walk the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
website | get directions | price: free to enter + ~$40-70 for wristbands | best for: amusement park
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk isn’t your average boardwalk. It’s an amusement park with rides, carnival games, and a bunch of food spots ranging from sit-down restaurants to beer gardens and classic fair grub.
Check out Natural Bridges State Beach
website | get directions | price: ~$10 per vehicle | best for: breathtaking rock formations
Spend some time on the beach surrounded by beautiful natural rock bridged formed by the crashing waves over time. Then visit the Monarch Preserve right inside the park, which offers refuge for thousands of butterflies in late fall through winter.
Explore the redwoods
price: ~$10-$45pp | best for: experiencing California’s national tree
While Redwoods National Park is about 5.5 hours north of San Francisco, you can still experience these magnificent giant trees on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains is a ~40-acre grove perfect for exploring. Or check out the huge Big Basin Redwood State Park for even more hiking options. Just remember to book in advance because Big Basin was affected by forest fires and needs to limit visitors.
Pro tip: Another option is to take a steam train ride through the forest with Roaring Camp.
Grab dinner at Hula’s Island Grill
website | get directions | cuisine: Hawaiian | price point: $$
Hula’s is a tropical, tiki-inspired spot serving my Hawaiian faves, like ahi wontons, ceviche with coconut milk, and their Luau Pork Sandwich, self-proclaimed “heaven on a bun.” You can even pick your favorite type of fish and how you’d like it prepared.
Stop in Capitola
get directions | price: free | best for: colorful buildings
This seaport town is just outside Santa Cruz and will make you feel as if you’ve been whisked to the Caribbean. It’s best known for its bright buildings dotting the beach, but there’s also great shopping and cafes. If you go, don’t miss Gayle’s Bakery.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
distance from Santa Cruz: ~46 miles (~45 minutes) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 2 days | best for: low-key beach town
Carmel-by-the-Sea is an adorable beach town with tons of unique restaurants, boutique shops, and beautiful white sand beaches. It has a quaint downtown with fairy tale buildings. In fact, each is named rather than numbered. Talk about adorable!
Ideally you’d stay here 2 days so you can explore nearby Monterey, but this makes a great day trip too.
Where to stay
Tranquil Tuckaway
link to book | Carmel, CA | price: ~$425 per night | studio | 1 bathroom | pet friendly
This newly remodeled studio overlooks the green fields adjacent to the 18th-century Carmel Mission, an impeccably maintained church/museum pivotal in California’s history. Beautifully landscaped gardens surround the studio, and it has a brick patio with ocean views, a fire pit, and teak lounge chairs for maximum relaxation.
What to do
Explore the quaint Downtown
website | get directions | price: free | best for: shopping
Yellowcard fans unite: Carmel-by-the-Sea has a street called Ocean Avenue. That’s where you’ll find a concentration of adorable buildings filled with boutique shops, cafes, and wine tasting rooms. Spend a few hours combing the streets to find souvenirs commemorating your San Francisco to San Diego road trip.
Check out Carmel Beach
get directions | price: free | best for: views
Carmel Beach is a large, stunning beach with soft sand perfect for lounging. There are also plenty of nearby hikes if you want to take in the views from a bit higher on the coastline. For example, the Carmel Meadows Trail is both short and easy at ~0.6 miles and offers pretty picture opportunities.
Pro tip: Carmel River State Beach is another beach that’s less crowded. It’s at the mouth of a river that feeds into the ocean, so you still get great coastline views, but a bit south of the main beach.
Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
website | get directions | price: ~$10 per vehicle | best for: natural wildlife & sightseeing
Point Lobos is the perfect spot if you’re looking to catch a glimpse of California’s natural coastal wildlife. It’s super popular among photographers and painters, so there’s no denying it’s a beautiful spot. If you visit during April and May, you can expect to find seal pups chilling on the beach. Point Lobos is also considered one of the best spots in California for whale watching!
dine at La Bicyclette Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: European | price point: $$
La Bicyclette is a well-established bistro serving up classic French-Italian fare with a weekly rotating menu. The kitchen is tiny, and all food comes from just a six-burner stove and their wood-fired oven. I suggest the Parisian gnocchi if it’s on the menu. It’s made in-house with spinach and simmered in a creamy parmesan sauce I can’t get out of my head.
Do the 17-mile Drive
website | get directions | price: $12 per vehicle, reimbursed with purchase of $35 or more at all Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants, excluding Pebble Beach Market | best for: scenic drive
Golf fans may recognize Pebble Beach, as it’s one of the premier golf courses in California. However, even if you don’t like golf it’s worth a visit for 17-mile drive. It runs right through the golf course’s property and offers plenty of viewpoints worth exploring.
Spend a day in Monterey
website | get directions | price: free | best for: local shops & eateries
Just over 10 minutes from Carmel is Monterey, an equally quaint beach town that was once the center of sardine packaging on the coast. Today its main drag, Cannery Row, is a popular spot for shops, restaurants, and bars in converted factories. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also one of the most famous in the US.
Go Wine Tasting in Carmel Valley
website | get directions | price: free | best for: wineries
Another California city, another wine region. It’s no wonder California is the US’ largest wine producer! Carmel Valley is a short drive east of Carmel-by-the-Sea and has a bunch of tasting rooms. One that lives up to its magical name is Folktale Winery & Vineyards. It’s the perfect stop if you love fairy tale ambiance!
Pinnacles National Park
distance from Carmel-by-the-Sea: ~56 miles (~1 hr 30 minutes) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 1 day | best for: hiking trails & wildlife
You’ll have to head inland if you want to visit Pinnacles National Park, but it’s totally worth it if you’re craving more than just big cities and beach towns. It’s named after the eroded remains of an ancient lava field. The park is known for rich wildlife, hiking trails, endangered condor birds, and wildflower blooms if you’re visiting from January to June.
The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, but I suggest getting the American the Beautiful Pass for $79 since that gets you into all the national parks for one year. You can buy the pass at the entrance to most national parks.
Where to stay
Pinnacles Ranch
link to book | Paicines, CA | price: ~$282 per night | 2 bedrooms | 1 bathroom
This hillside single-story home overlooks the Pinnacles and surrounding ranch land. Staying here puts you just two miles from the park’s east entrance, which makes it one of the closest accommodations. Just keep in mind there’s no cell service, but there is a landline and wifi.
What to do
Hike Bear Gulch Cave Trail
website | get directions | price: ~$30 per vehicle park pass | best for: easy hike
The Bear Gulch Cave Trail is a beautiful, easily doable ~2.5-mile loop trail that takes you through a labyrinth of passages, with narrow canyons leading into a cave that looks like it came out of a fairytale.
Check out the Balconies Cave
website | get directions | price: ~$30 per vehicle park pass | best for: moderate hike through a cave
The Balconies Cave is located off the Chaparral Trailhead parking lot. It’s a pretty straightforward ~2.6-mile out-and-back trail with some elevation gain after the caves. Plan on bringing a headlamp since the caves can get pretty dark.
SEek Out Condors on High Peaks Trail
website | get directions | price: ~$30 per vehicle park pass | best for: bird sightings & epic views
There are plenty of hiking trails at Pinnacles National Park, but the most famous is High Peaks. It’s a strenuous ~7-mile hike that takes you to some of the most stunning views of rock formations. If you’re on the trail in the early morning or evening, you may see the endangered condor birds.
Pro tip: Don’t want to do the full loop? Just do the shorter ~2-mile leg of Condor Gulch Trail to the overlook that may also offer condor sightings.
Get Mexican at Cocuyo’s Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Mexican | price point: $
You’ll probably be verging on hangry by the time you check out all the caves and rock formations in the park, so plan on heading to Cocuyo’s once you’re on the road. It’s a chill Mexican food joint serving tacos on housemade tortillas and chili rellenos that people on Yelp rave about.
Big Sur
distance from Pinnacles National Park: ~80 miles (~1 hr 45 min) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 1 day | best for: amazing views
If I had to pick one bucket list spot on my SF to SD road trip, I think it would be Big Sur. It’s a narrow stretch of highway from Carmel to San Simeon known for winding turns, seaside cliffs, and a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Pacific coastline.
Make sure to double-check conditions before heading here. Highway 1 road closures due to rock slides are common because of the road’s position on the coast.
Where to stay
South Coast Big Sur Home
link to book | Big Sur, CA | price: ~$550 per night | 2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | pet friendly
This beautiful retreat is located on the south end of Big Sur near Sand Dollar Beach amidst redwood forests. Each room has breathtaking mountain and ocean views, and the walk-around deck makes the perfect spot for coffee sipping before you start the day.
You can walk to the beach from the property or take a short 15-minute drive to a bunch of hiking trails in the Silver Peak Wilderness. You’ll also be near two resorts with general stores and restaurants.
What to do
Visit Pfeiffer Beach
website | get directions | price: ~$15 per vehicle | best for: purple sand beach
Pfeiffer Beach is widely considered to be one of the most stunning beaches on the coast. It’s known for having patches of purple sand thanks to the manganese garnet washing down the mountainside after rainfall. It also has a massive rock formation called Keyhole Rock.
Take a snapshot of Bixby Creek Bridge
website | get directions | price: free | best for: classic Big Sur selfie spot
Bixby Creek Bridge is the first major stopping point along Big Sur, so it gets a ton of traffic. Mostly, people stopping for selfies. If the parking lot is full (which it usually is), you can park in the dirt lot, but it might take some maneuvering to get out.
Pro tip: If the crowds are too much for you, I’d suggest stopping at Hurricane Point just 1 mile north. You’re not as up close and personal with the bridge, but the view is incredible, and the traffic moves much quicker.
Explore the many hiking trails
price: $10 day use fee for state parks | best for: views and exercise
Big Sur has a ton of hiking options for all skill levels. Many of the best hikes are in state parks. These require a fee, but you can hop between parks if you visit within the same day.
Garrapata State Park is one popular option. It has 2 miles of coastline and a bunch of hiking options weaving along the coast and inland. Your furry friends are allowed on certain sections if the park, so this is a good stop if you’re traveling with your dog.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting Garrapata State Park from mid-February through early April, seek out wildflowers on the Calla Lily Trail!
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is another popular choice for hiking. It’s about 30-40 minutes south of Pfeiffer Beach and is worth a stop for one or more of the many hiking options, the most popular of which is the McWay Falls overlook.
Andrew Molera State Park and Limekiln State Park are two of the other popular hiking areas. Andrew Molera has a few more hiking trails, but many Limekiln hikes take you to ruins of the historic limekiln operations.
Brunch in style at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: American brunch & dinner | price point: $$
Deetjen’s is a casual, family-friendly spot with knickknacks lining the walls and a very homey diner vibe. They offer classic American dishes like roasted chicken, filet mignon, and Dungeness crab cakes, and they do brunch if you’re craving eggs benny or stuffed French toast.
Pro tip: Need somewhere to eat for dinner? Check out the vibey Nepenthe for stunning views.
San Luis Obispo
distance from Big Sur: ~169 miles (~3 hrs) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 2 days | best for: local restaurants & outdoor activities
San Luis Obispo has been at the top of my list to re-visit for a while now. I love it because it’s close enough to the ocean for day trips to the beach while still being a short drive from dozens of vineyards and mountain hikes. That means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for wine tasting, shopping, eating, outdoor adventures, or relaxing by the beach.
Downtown SLO is pedestrian-friendly, with cute shops, breweries, tasting rooms, bars, and restaurants lining Higuera’s main street. You could easily spend a week in SLO, but even two jam-packed days can be enough if you don’t mind a little hustle.
Check out my complete list of things to do in San Luis Obispo if you’re hunting for all the can’t-miss gems.
Where to stay
The Quailhouse
link to book | San Luis Obispo County, CA | price: ~$249/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1
This modern ranch getaway is located on a working ranch in Avila Valley. Large windows flood the home with natural light, all while providing maximum privacy. You wouldn’t even be able to tell you’re a 5-minute drive from downtown SLO and nearby Avila Beach.
What to do
Explore downtown SLO
website | get directions | price: free | best for: eating and shopping
Downtown SLO has an adorable main drag perfect for a lazy day of shopping. Wander Higuera Street and the surrounding side streets, popping into shops of interest. As you do, keep an eye out for my favorites:
- Len Collective – Fine jewelry shop featuring over 150 artists
- Humankind Fair Trade – Ethically sourced and often locally-made gifts
- Buen Dia – Cool shop with colorful art prints
When you’re ready for a break from shopping, walk to the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. It’s a historic Spanish mission founded in 1772 that offers free tours of the mission and the surrounding gardens.
Grab Pizza at Bear & Wren
website | get directions | cuisine: wood-fired pizza | price point: $$
The Bear & Wren is housed in the Creamery Marketplace, a dairyhouse-turned-open-air public market featuring eateries, shops, and cafes. The Bear specializes in wood-fired pizzas, small wood-fired bites, and an extensive local beer and wine list. I’m obsessed with both their Neapolitan and Detroit-style pizzas. Get one of both to compare!
Visit Pismo Beach
website | get directions | price: free | best for: surfing
Pismo Beach is a fun coastal town just 15 minutes south of SLO. It’s a lot bigger than Avila Beach and has more attractions, like the expansive, well-preserved sand dunes and picture-worthy sign on the Pismo Beach Pier.
Go wine tasting in Paso Robles
website | get directions | price: varies | best for: wine tasting
Paso Robles is just 40 minutes from SLO and features dozens of wineries and tasting rooms. The climate is warmer than SLO and is known for making delicious reds like cabernet and zinfandel.
I wouldn’t dedicate much time to exploring downtown Paso since it’s a lot smaller than SLO’s. Instead, I’d just head straight to the wineries. Here are some of my favorite ones:
- Adelaida – Organic winery making classic reds along with more niche varietals.
- Tablas Creek – The world’s first organic regenerative winery known for Rhone blends.
- Hubba Wines – Stylish women-owned winery in Tin City, a dope complex with a ton of tasting rooms and restaurants. Get lunch at Etto Pasta Bar if you visit Hubba!
Be Mesmerized by Sensori0
website | get directions | price: $45+ per adult, $22 per kid | best for: interactive art exhibit
Near all the Paso Robles wineries is a cool art installation called Sensorio. It lights up the night with thousands of colorful exhibits that pulse in rhythm to music. Since it starts after dark, it’s the perfect way to end a day of wine tasting.
Relax and stay a while in Cambria
website | get directions | price: free | best for: nature walks
Cambria is a small oceanside village known for quaint cottage homes, antique shops, and a small but artsy downtown with galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, and wine tasting rooms. If you’re up for a hike, the Bluff Trail in the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is an easy 1.9-mile hike that starts downtown and casually weaves you along oceanside cliffs.
Santa Barbara
distance from San Luis Obispo: ~94 miles (~1 hr 45 min) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 2 days | best for: scenic views
I had a blast coming up with my Santa Barbara itinerary. I mean, it’s kind of impossible not to love a place with 300 days of sunshine, tons of local shops and restaurants, and picturesque Portuguese-influenced architecture.
Just like SLO, Santa Barbara is a small town nestled between mountains and the ocean. However, Santa Barbara has the benefit of being right on the coast. This means you have a balance of activities, like sunbathing with shopping, wine tasting, and hiking.
I suggest at least 2 days in Santa Barbara so you have time to explore. However, you can make it a day trip stop if that’s all the time you have on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip itinerary.
Where to stay
Drift Santa Barbara
link to book | get directions | price: ~$300+ per night
Drift is located on the pedestrian-only part of State Street minutes from the beach, but there’s cheap overnight parking nearby. This self check-in hotel has a daytime cafe, Dawn, and a fun nighttime bar, Dusk. The rooms are tiny and best suited for 1-2 people, but they’re impossibly posh.
What to do
Bike along the Beach
get directions | price: ~$15+/hour for bike rentals | best for: exercise and views
There’s nothing I love more than joy riding in the sun. Santa Barbara has a flat paved path hugging the beach, so it’s perfect for covering more ground. You can also take your bike to Stearns Wharf to check out the views from the pier.
Wheel Fun Rentals is a great choice for rentals because they have e-bikes and are close to the beach.
Catch views at the courthouse
website | get directions | price: free | best for: birds-eye views of the city
I don’t often visit courthouses when I travel, but Santa Barbara’s is worth a stop because it has the most gorgeous Spanish-style architecture and grounds. In fact, they have free self-guided tours you can take to explore all its nooks and crannies.
The best part, though, is the rooftop viewpoint that gives you uninterrupted views of Santa Barbara Country from the mountains to the ocean. It has an elevator, so no climbing up hundreds of steps here!
Meander State Street & The Funk Zone
get directions | price: free | best for: shopping
One of the things that makes Santa Barbara such a vibe is State Street. This road runs all the way from inner Santa Barbara to the beach, but the area from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art toward the water is full of shops, restaurants, and bars. Part of it doesn’t allow cars, so it’s perfect for exploring by foot or bike.
Closer to the water you’ll find The Funk Zone neighborhood. It’s super artsy and has a ton of murals, independent shops, breweries, and wine tasting rooms. Plan to spend a few hours getting lost because this area is super cool.
Get dinner at Bettina
website | get directions | cuisine: pizza | price point: $$
This Michelin-recognized pizzeria has been a foodie hot spot for years. They specialize in 48-hour-fermented crusts, which come out perfectly crisp yet fluffy on the inside with an unmistakable sourdough tang.
Their pizzas change seasonally and based on what they find at their local farmer’s markets. If it’s available, the white pie with pistachio, lemon, and sausage is a game changer.
Wine taste in Ynez Valley
website | get directions | price: varies | best for: wine tasting
Santa Ynez Valley is a popular wine region on the Central Coast. It’s part of the larger Santa Barbara AVA and has over 150 wineries. The region is known for making California classics like chardonnay, pinot noir, and Rhône varietals like syrah and grenache.
Don’t have time to visit the vineyards? Check out the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail, which has more than 20 tasting rooms around downtown Santa Barbara. If you only have a day, The Funk Zone neighborhood has around 10 alone.
Visit the Channel Islands
website | get directions | price: free to visit + ~$65-115 per person for boat transport | best for: unique island experience
Who knew there is a national park in the middle of the ocean? The Channel Islands consist of a five-island cluster off the coast of SB. Because it’s been isolated for thousands of years, there are unique plants and animals you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.
There are mainland visitor centers in SB and Ventura, but the islands are only accessible by park concessionaire or private boats. There’s no transportation on the islands, so you’ll have to discover everything by foot, kayak, or private boat.
Island Packers Cruises offers year-round transportation to all of the islands, so check them out and book in advance if possible. The cost of travel will depend on the island, but it ranges from $65-115 roundtrip per person.
Los Angeles
distance from Santa Barbara: ~95 miles (~2 hrs 5 min) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 3-4 days | best for: city life and amusement parks
Visiting Los Angeles is kind of a given, considering it’s probably the most “California” town in California. It’s mostly known for sunshine, celebrity sightings, luxury shopping, and $15 lattes. That’s not really my scene, so I created a slightly less touristy 4-day LA itinerary centered around good food, fresh air, and more easygoing shopping activities.
There is so much to see and do in LA, but if you have less than 4 days use this as your pocket guide for exploring the city on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip.
Where to stay
Kimpton Everly Hotel
link to book | get directions | price: ~$250+ per night | pet friendly
I like staying at the Kimpton since it’s located on the quieter side of Hollywood off the highway. In addition to posh rooms, the bar is lively and there’s a good restaurant downstairs with free coffee in the mornings.
What to do
Check out Santa Monica & Venice Beach
website | get directions | price: free | best for: beaches & hiking
No trip to LA is complete without checking out the beaches. The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic destination that offers epic views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s also home to one of my favorite hiking spots in LA, Will Rogers State Park, located in a residential area with minimal foot traffic.
You’ll probably recognize Venice Beach from movies because of the famous paved path lining the sand. There are often fitness competitions, skateboarders, and plenty of opportunities for people watching.
After you get your fill of the beach crowds, head to the Venice Canals for a peaceful, people-free walk. Then head to Abbott Kinney Blvd for some great shopping at independent boutiques.
Check out the Broad Museum & Downtown LA
website | get directions | price: free | best for: modern art & architecture
The Broad (pronounced “brode”) is one of LA’s best museums. It focuses on modern art and has some really famous names like Andy Warhol and Roy Liechtenstein.
Tickets are free, but you need to reserve in advance because they get snapped up quickly. I recommend getting a reservation to Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors Room as part of your ticket. It’s a tiny, but magical exhibit where you step into a dark room lit up by thousands of flickering lights reflecting off mirrors.
Once you’re done at The Broad, spend some time combing downtown LA. There’s a ton of famous architecture, such as The Bradbury Building. You can also visit MOCA, another free art museum across from The Broad.
When you’re hungry, head to Grand Central Market. This food hall has a ton of great places to eat and is always buzzing with people.
Head to Disneyland and/or Universal studios
Disneyland’s website (get directions) & Universal Studios’ website (get directions) | price: ~$200-$300 per person | best for: amusement parks
Staying in LA means you’re close to two famous amusement parks: Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland. Universal is right in LA about 10 minutes from Hollywood. Disneyland is about 40 minutes away in Anaheim.
Both websites will tell you tickets start at about $100 a day. This is incredibly misleading for many reasons. First, ticket prices vary by day and I’ve rarely seen prices that low on days I want to visit.
Second, you really need to pay more to ensure you don’t have a miserable experience. For Universal, that means purchasing the Express ticket so you can skip the lines. For Disney, at a minimum that means getting the park hopper so you can visit California Adventure next door. However, you should also pay the extra ~$30 for their “Genie Service” that lets you reserve the lightning lane entrances on rides and an extra ~$35 for parking.
The moral of the story is visiting either park will be expensive. However, they are iconic for a reason and a must visit on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip. You’ll get to experience a ton of fun rides, eat yummy food, and bask in child-like wonder for a day.
You need at least one day in each park. Two days in Disneyland will let you take your time in both parks, but since the parks stay open late you can squeeze both into one if needed.
Eat at Saffy’s
website | get directions | cuisine: Middle Eastern | price point: $$
There are so many unique restaurants in LA, but Saffy’s is a trendy Mediterranean spot that should be on your short list. It’s owned by the same people behind Bestia and Bavel, two LA restaurant staples. They specialize in Middle Eastern dishes with traditional flavors but modern techniques.
In addition to an exceptional dinner, they have a tiny coffee shop next door that offers daily coffee, tea, and pastries and a full Arabic breakfast on the weekends. They serve excellent food no matter the time of day, and celebrity sightings aren’t uncommon, so carve out at least one meal here!
Palm Springs
distance from Los Angeles: ~168 miles (~3 hrs) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 2-3 days | best for: mid century architecture & shopping
After LA, you’re more than welcome to continue driving along the coast, but I prefer heading inland for a change of scenery. Instead of beaches and coastal towns, you can enjoy the desert, quirky shops, and historic architecture in Palm Springs.
If you plan to do the desert on your SF to SD road trip, make sure to pack appropriately. Obviously the desert gets super hot in the mornings, especially during summer, but the nights can be cold. So in addition to sun protection, bring layers. And don’t forget plenty of water and hiking boots so you don’t get your everyday shoes dusty!
Where to stay
Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows
link to book | get directions | price: ~$335+ per night | pet friendly
This adults-only hotel is a 15-minute walk from the Palm Springs Art Museum and multiple hiking trails, including Indian Canyon. The rooms are vibrantly decorated and emanate the classic Palm Springs desert vibe. There’s also a spa that offers couples massages, a poolside bar, and bicycle rentals on site.
What to do
Explore Palm Spring’s architecture & Shops
website | get directions | price: free | best for: shopping & inspo
One of my favorite things to do in Palm Springs is walk along Palm Canyon Drive, the city’s main drag that’s lined with a bunch of boutiques, restaurants, and bars. If you’re visiting on a Thursday night, check out Village Fest when almost 200 vendors line the street and make it even more of a shopping destination. If you start feeling peckish as you shop, pop into Rooster and the Pig, a Vietnamese spot with a modern twist and delicious cocktails.
After you get your fill shopping, go into the neighborhoods to check out the stunning mid century modern homes. If you thrive off getting the history behind what you’re seeing, take a guided architecture tour.
Grab a drink at Bar Cecil
website | get directions | cuisine: American | price point: $$
Bar Cecil is a hip and lively Golden Girls-esque spot. The wicker chairs, coral-colored walls, and palm tree wallpaper are offset by a youthful cocktail list and eclectic food menu. They offer everything from oysters on the half-shell to steak and frites and red Thai curry mussels. It’s a popular restaurant, so you’ll want to make a reservation. If you can’t, arrive right at opening to get one of their walk-in tables.
Visit Joshua Tree National Park
website | get directions | price: $30 park entrance fee | best for: stargazing & nature walks
Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit if you’re in Palm Springs. It’s about an hour north of the city and offers stunning martian-like landscapes perfect for hiking and photography.
I have a whole guide on how to spend one day in Joshua Tree. Make sure to start early to beat the heat, especially if it’s the spring or summer. If you’re able to get there for sunrise, you can end your day by around lunch and still see all the main attractions. Plus you’ll be able to leave the park in time for lunch at La Copine, one of the best restaurants in the area.
On your way back from visiting Joshua, make sure to stop in Pioneertown for some funky shopping and drinks at Pappy & Harriet’s. The place is a whole vibe because the town was made by Hollywood for filming western movies!
Take a Day trip to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
website | get directions | price: free | best for: hiking & stargazing
Smack in the middle of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park lies the town of Borrego Springs. It’s California’s only town wholly housed in a state park. It’s also Cali’s only town dedicated to eliminating light pollution, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.
The town itself has tons of nature trails along with shops and restaurants. However, some of the most breathtaking sights are in the state park itself. Two popular hikes include The Slot and Palm Canyon Loop. If you’re looking for an easier hike to a palm tree oasis randomly situated in an arid rock landscape, Palm Canyon is for you. The Slot is a tougher hike best for people who don’t mind tight spaces, as you’ll be weaving between slim slots.
Whichever hike you choose, save time to visit Galleta Meadows. It’s a funky and random art installation featuring huge metal sculptures of animals.
Enjoy the view at the Salton Sea
website | get directions | price: free | best for: birding, fishing & boating
The Salton Sea is one of the world’s largest inland seas. It rests 227 feet below sea level, making it one of the lowest spots on Earth. The sea gets fed from the Colorado River, though it’s been slowly drying up year after year. Swimming isn’t recommended, but it’s still a popular destination for birders, hikers, and kayakers looking for picture-worthy views.
Temecula
distance from Palm Springs: ~83 miles (~1 hr 25 min) | get directions |ideal length of stay: 1-2 days | best for: wine tasting
Temecula is Southern California’s quickly-budding wine region that’s been voted a “Top 10 Wine Destination” by Wine Enthusiast. There are over 50 wineries spread out across the valley, ranging from small-batch tasting downtown tasting rooms.
Where to stay
Hilltop Hideaway
link to book | Riverside County, CA | price: ~$249/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | dog friendly
This adorable tiny home is about 15 minutes outside downtown Temecula, amidst the vineyards of nearby Cougar Winery. The home is fully equipped with all the amenities, though you’ll probably spend most of your time outside bouncing between the soaking tubs, fire pit, and outdoor game station.
What to do
Go wine tasting
website | price: varies | best for: exploring the local wineries
Temecula is the largest viticultural area in southern California. The area’s warmer climate makes it an ideal spot for heat-thriving varietals like cabernet, syrah, and zinfandel. Here are some of my favorite wineries:
- Akash Winery – Stunning father-son winery with a modern tasting room
- Palumbo Family Vineyards – Intimate tasting room with sustainable wines
- Vindemia Winery – Great wine and grounds that transport you to Europe
- Doffo Wines – Funky motorcycle-themed winery with bold reds
You can also take a cable car wine tour that guides you through local vineyards in a fully-resorted 1914 cable car (featured on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills).
Explore Old Town
website | get directions | price: free | best for: shopping
Temecula has an adorable downtown area called Old Town. It’s full of great shops, local restaurants, and bars. Carve out a few hours to comb the streets and grab food when you’re hungry. Don’t miss The Painted Garden for a fairy tale experience perusing plants and garden sculptures.
Oceanside / Carlsbad / Encinitas coastline
distance from Temecula: ~30 miles (~45 min) | Oceanside (get directions) | Carlsbad (get directions) | Encinitas (get directions) | ideal length of stay: 1-2 days | best for: beaches
Just north of San Diego are a chain of beach towns perfect for exploring before you get to the final destination on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip.
Oceanside and Carlsbad are neighboring towns known for having a relaxed beach town vibe with wide beaches, shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. Oceanside is a bit more lively and has the Oceanside Pier, the longest wooden pier on the west coast. Carlsbad is more lowkey, and it’s where more of the families stay.
Encinitas is about 20 minutes south of the two. There’s more bustling nightlife, and the proximity to San Diego means more people and more upscale restaurants.
Where to stay
Stylish Beach House
link to book | Carlsbad, CA | price: ~$249/night | bedrooms: 2 | bathrooms: 1
This beachy apartment is minutes from Carlsbad Beach and Carlsbad Village, a hub of local restaurants, shops, bars, and galleries. When you’re done for the day, the apartment features a private patio overlooking the water.
What to do
The joy of the coastal towns north of San Diego is to just lounge on the beach, peruse the shops or breweries, and maybe bike around town. But if you want some more activities to fill in your San Francisco to San Diego road trip, here are some ideas.
Take a surfing lesson
website | price: ~$100+ per person | best for: catching some waves
You made it this far on your road trip to San Diego from San Francisco, so why not end it on a high note and take a surfing lesson? California is known for surfing, and it’s especially good in the stretch off beach running from Oceanside to Encinitas.
Visit the San Diego Botanical Garden
website | get directions | price: ~$18 per person | best for: gardens & walking trails
Less than 10 minutes from Moonlight Beach is the San Diego Botanical Garden, a 37-acre urban oasis with four miles of meandering trails, 29 uniquely themed gardens, and 5,300 plant species from regions all over the world.
Grab dinner at Campfire
website | get directions | cuisine: American | price point: $$$
Campfire is Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie‘s casual sister restaurant. Everything is cooked over open flame, but in more of an elevated way than, say, you and I can achieve camping. The menu changes seasonally, but if it’s on the menu don’t miss the octopus and chicken.
San Diego
distance from Oceanside: ~39 miles (~48 min) | get directions | ideal length of stay: 3 days | best for: beaches, beer, and food
You’ve made it, the last stop on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip itinerary! I gotta say, you saved the best for last.
I’ve been going to San Diego once a year for over a decade, ever since I first fell in love at a conference. I couldn’t understand how a town so huge could feel so spacious and relaxing, but the sprawl of beaches, restaurants, and boardwalks makes it easy to avoid the crowds while still soaking in the full experience.
I have a lot of articles about San Diego, but if you can only read one I recommend the 3-day San Diego itinerary so you can really pack in the last few days of your road trip. To give you an idea of all the fun things to do in SD, here are some highlights you can’t miss on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip.
Where to stay
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
link to book | get directions | price: ~$329+ per night | pet friendly
This swanky hotel is less than 10 minutes from La Jolla Beach, one of the four main beaches in San Deigo proper. The rooms are impeccably styled and offer either a pool view or a garden view from the veranda. There’s also an on-site spa, four restaurants, and two cocktail lounges.
What to do
Relax on San Diego’s Fabulous Beaches
get directions | price: free | best for: beach & boardwalk
San Diego has great beaches because it’s right on the southern coast of California. There are four main ones to visit, starting at Ocean Beach furthest south and then going north from there to Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla Beach.
Mission Beach is my favorite of the four main beaches in SD since it tends to be less crowded, and there are fewer seals than at La Jolla (cute, but they smell!). It bleeds into Pacific Beach, so I try to stay in the middle where it’s the least crowded.
Just off the Mission Beach Boardwalk is Belmont Park, an amusement park full of classic roller coasters and arcade games. Or if you want something a bit more low-key, don’t miss hiking along the coast at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to the north of La Jolla.
Explore Balboa Park
website | get directions | price: varies | best for: museums & nature trails
Balboa Park is a massive 1,200-acre urban park best known for the famous San Diego Zoo, but there’s so much more to see. Even if you just spend an hour or so walking around, you’ll be amazed by the mix of natural and gorgeous historical buildings.
Some of my favorite spots include the Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego Natural History Museum, and Palm Canyon Trail, a short hike around hundreds of palm trees and cacti. If you’re a big museum person, you can even buy a Balboa Park Pass and check out all the museums for the week.
One area not to miss, though, is the Spanish Village. This plaza houses a bunch of independent artist studios and is an amazing spot for picking up local gifts.
Go on a Beer & Taco Crawl
There’s no better way to end your San Francisco to San Diego road trip than with two quintessential SD delights: beer and tacos. Every year I spend the majority of my trip making my way through all of the cities taco stands or trucks and microbreweries. So it’s the perfect way to end your San Francisco to San Diego road trip!
When it comes to breweries, the North Park neighborhood is a good option because it has a bunch of beer spots within walking distance of each other. The Original 40 and Mike Hess are two good options.
For tacos, you can find all styles in SD, but they do Baja-style fried fish tacos best. I find that the hole-in-the-wall food trucks tend to do them best, but there are a ton of options all over the city. Some of my favorites include Kiko’s, Marisco’s German, and Las Cuatra Milpas. They’re some of the best hidden gem restaurants in San Diego, so you’re bound to find a favorite!
More ideas for your San Francisco to San Diego itinerary
Have more time on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip? Here are more ideas to fill your itinerary.
