A 7-day California coast road trip is the ultimate West Coast adventure—think rugged cliffs, iconic beaches, seaside towns, and jaw-dropping sunsets all along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Whether you’re a local craving a new adventure or a weekend warrior with vacation days to burn, this itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable escape. We’ll cover the must-see spots from San Francisco to San Diego, complete with scenic stops, foodie gems, and epic hikes.
Highlights:
- Drive the full scenic stretch of California’s coast
- Discover hidden gems and classic destinations
- Enjoy insider travel tips and Google Maps links
- Find answers to the top FAQs about this iconic route
Day 1: San Francisco to Santa Cruz
Distance: ~75 miles
Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Explore the City by the Bay Before You Hit the Road
Start your journey in San Francisco, where iconic landmarks meet coastal charm.
Must-See Stops:
- Golden Gate Bridge Overlook – Snap photos from Battery Spencer
- Ocean Beach – A less crowded SF beach with a local vibe
- Lands End Trail – Easy coastal hike with ruins and views
Best Eats:
- The Mill SF – Coffee and toast done right
- Swan Oyster Depot – A classic seafood spot
Then head south toward Santa Cruz, an old-school beach town with surf vibes and boardwalk fun.
What to Do in Santa Cruz:
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Classic rides and games
- West Cliff Drive – Scenic oceanside walk
- Natural Bridges State Beach – Famous for its rock formations
Where to Eat:
- The Picnic Basket – Local ingredients and beach views
- Lúpulo Craft Beer House – For casual bites and beer flights
Day 2: Santa Cruz to Big Sur
Distance: ~70 miles
Drive Time: 2 hours
One of the Most Scenic Drives in the World
Drive through Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and into Big Sur—some of the most photographed stretches of Highway 1.
Stop in Monterey:
- Cannery Row – Walk along the waterfront
- Monterey Bay Aquarium – One of the best in the country
Don’t Miss in Carmel:
- Carmel Beach – Gorgeous and great for a quick dip
- Downtown Carmel – Quaint shops and fairy-tale cottages
Big Sur Highlights:
- Bixby Creek Bridge – An absolute must for photos
- McWay Falls – An 80-foot waterfall onto the beach
- Pfeiffer Beach – Known for purple sand and rock archways
Where to Stay:
- Big Sur River Inn or Ventana Big Sur (luxury glamping)
Top Keywords to Target:
- Big Sur itinerary
- McWay Falls
- Pacific Coast Highway photography spots
Day 3: Big Sur to San Luis Obispo
Distance: ~95 miles
Drive Time: 2.5 hours
Remote Views, Elephant Seals & Coastal Wineries
This stretch includes Ragged Point, Hearst Castle, and some of the best hidden beaches.
Quick Stops:
- Elephant Seal Vista Point (Piedras Blancas) – Massive seals lounging near San Simeon
- Hearst Castle – A jaw-dropping estate with coastal views
Cambria Detour (Highly Recommended):
- Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – A peaceful place for a seaside stroll
- Linn’s Restaurant – Known for its olallieberry pie
Arrive in San Luis Obispo (SLO):
- Downtown SLO – Lively college-town energy
- Bubblegum Alley – Weird but iconic
- Hike Bishop Peak – Best panoramic view of the city
Where to Stay:
- Hotel San Luis Obispo or Madonna Inn for something quirky and pink
FAQs Answered:
- How long should I spend at Hearst Castle?
At least 2–3 hours for a tour and wandering the grounds.
Day 4–5: San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara
Distance: ~95 miles
Drive Time: 2 hours
Beach Towns, Wine, and Spanish Vibes
Slow down in the Central Coast’s sunny, Mediterranean-style towns.
Stop in Pismo Beach:
- Pismo Pier – Great for sunset and fish tacos
- Dinosaur Caves Park – Ideal for families and dogs
Top Activities in Santa Barbara:
- Santa Barbara Mission – Historic and beautifully preserved
- Funk Zone – Trendy art and wine tasting neighborhood
- Stearns Wharf – Waterfront dining and shops
Best Restaurants:
- The Lark – Elevated local fare in the Funk Zone
- Brophy Bros. – Classic seafood with a harbor view
Pro Tip:
Book a wine tour in nearby Santa Ynez Valley for day 5 if you love reds and scenic vineyards.
Day 6–7: Santa Barbara to San Diego (with a Stop in LA)
Distance: ~215 miles
Drive Time: 5–6 hours with stops
From the Glamour of LA to the Relaxed Vibe of San Diego
Wrap up your road trip with SoCal sunshine and iconic coastal stops.
Los Angeles Detour:
- Malibu – Stop at El Matador Beach for stunning sea stacks
- Santa Monica – Walk the pier or rent bikes on the boardwalk
- Venice Beach – Street performers and muscle beach culture
Arriving in San Diego:
- La Jolla Cove – Watch sea lions sunbathe
- Torrey Pines State Reserve – Coastal hiking with ocean views
- Gaslamp Quarter – Nightlife, rooftop bars, and food galore
Best Eats:
- George’s at the Cove (La Jolla) – Coastal fine dining
- Hodad’s (Ocean Beach) – Local-favorite burgers
- Phil’s BBQ – Famous for a reason
Where to Stay in San Diego:
- Hotel del Coronado – Historic and beachfront
- Pendry San Diego – Modern and central
FAQs About the California Coast Road Trip
Is 7 days enough to drive the California coast?
Yes! While you won’t cover every single town, 7 days gives you a fantastic overview with time to explore key highlights.
What’s the best time to do a California coast road trip?
Late spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October) offer the best mix of weather and fewer crowds.
Should I drive north to south or south to north?
North to south is ideal—you’ll be driving on the ocean side of the highway, with easier access to scenic pullouts.
How much should I budget for the trip?
Budget at least $150–$250 per day, depending on accommodations, meals, and activities.
Related Posts from Wandering California
- San Diego Sunset Restaurants: Where to Eat With a View
- San Diego to La Jolla: A Coastal Road Trip Adventure You’ll Love
- Best Hidden Beaches in Southern California for a Quiet Escape
- San Diego Sunset Restaurants: Where to Eat With a View
Final Thoughts: Ready to Hit the Road?
A 7-day California coast road trip offers the perfect blend of ocean views, coastal towns, and outdoor adventures. From San Francisco’s bridges to San Diego’s surf, this journey is one for the books.
Ready to plan your next stop?
Check out our guide to Ultimate Weekend Getaway to La Jolla: 2-Day Itinerary for California Explorers to capture your final road trip memories.
