Contemplating the ultimate California Coast road trip? If you’re not, you should be. From the sunny, seal-strewn shores of La Jolla to the redwood flecked trails of Big Sur, all the way up to the over-caffeinated shores of the Bay Area, California has long existed as a land of beauty and infinite possibility. Although you probably wont have much luck panning for gold anymore, “The Golden State” has a luster all its own.

So now that you’re interested in planning your next road trip, where do you start? Follow me up the best coast for some of the California coast’s highlights in a 17 day itinerary.

DAY 1 – SAN DIEGO

San Diego is known for its beaches and surf culture, but it has much more to offer, if you know where to look. Spend the day riding vintage fair rides at Belmont Park, head out on a whale watching trip, or hike to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse on Point Loma. End the day watching the sun set over Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

Don’t forget to stop by one or two of San Diego’s many top notch restaurants. Consider Herb and Eatery, Lionfish in the Pendry San Diego, Pisco Rotisserie if you’re in the mood for Peruvian, or Maestoso for some Italian comfort food. If you’re more of a carnivore, test out the chops at Born & Raised for steak. Interested in the catch of the day? Ironside Fish & Oyster knows a thing or two about tasteful nautical decor and seafood towers and The Grass Skirt makes a mean poke bowl and tiki cocktails set in a 50’s era tiki bar.

If you still have the energy, hit the town in the Gaslamp Quarter. Stop by Bang, Bang to get a up close glimpse of the Ryan Gosling bathroom. Sorry, boys – this one’s for the ladies only.

Consider resting at the 1800s beachside Victorian (with a modernized interior), Hotel del Coronado, or the Versailles-reminiscent Westgate Hotel. Want the sparkle without the stuffiness? Try out The US Grant. For something a bit more modern and millennial friendly, the Pendry San Diego is the spot.

DAY 2 – LA JOLLA (30 MIN DRIVE)

Enjoy a lazy day in La Jolla, just north of San Diego, by taking a seaside stroll at La Jolla Cove and getting up close and personal with some sea lions and harbor seals, or take a paddle board, kayak, or surf board out for a spin. For land-lovers, nearby Torrey Pines State Reserve offers gorgeous seaside hiking views without the dip in the Pacific.

 

For more adventurous types, SD Expeditions offers half day cage-less shark encounters. Depart from the La Jolla marina for a several hour sail out to open waters. After a bit of chumming, everyone suits up in snorkel gear and hops in the water with blue sharks, mako sharks, and sometimes hammerheads! I was gifted this as a Christmas present and was both terrified and thrilled with the experience, even though conditions meant we could only be in the water with the makos for about 10 min. This is definitely swim at your own risk, but an unbeatable thrill nonetheless.

Hit up the beach between Wipeout and Hospitals Beach around low tide and sunset for great tide pooling and nature watching.

Don’t forget to sample some of the laidback local fair at Whisknladle, Galaxy Taco (for you guessed it – Mexican food), or El Pescador Fish Market. For something a bit more upscale, try George’s At The Cove, which offers everything from an open terrace to interior fine dining, all in one seaside establishment.

Book a boutique stay at one of the many estancia-style hotels in the area, including Estancia La Jolla, the pink La Valencia Hotel, or Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, located about 30 min north of La Jolla proper.

DAY 3 – LAGUNA BEACH & NEWPORT BEACH (1 HR 20 MIN DRIVE) OR ANAHEIM 

ANAHEIM

Day 3 is the “choose your own adventure” of road trip days. For those who’ve always wanted to visit Disneyland, head on up to Anaheim and let all your Walt-centric dreams come true with a day pass. Ride musts include (but are not limited to):

• The Haunted Mansion
• Thunder Mountain
• Splash Mountain
• Indiana Jones Adventure
• Space Mountain (all the mountains…)
• It’s A Small World
• Pirates Of The Caribbean
• Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
• Mad Tea Party (colloquially known as Tea Cups)

Don’t forget to grab a churro and turkey leg while you’re there and grab all the fast passes you can to skip to the front of the line.

LAGUNA BEACH

For those who prefer a little more relaxing day (or just shutter at the thought of fraternizing with a million people at once), consider heading to Laguna Beach for stunning seaside views, quaint beachy restaurants, and a quintessential Route 66 vibe. You can grab a burger and milkshake at the vintage diners, like the cliffside Ruby’s, also called Crystal Cove Shake Shack or go tide pooling at Shaw’s Cove or Crystal Cove Park. (Can you tell I dig tide pools?) Check for low tide before heading out to creep the critters and bring some water shoes! The rocks can be seriously sharp for pruned toes.

 

Pro tip: Consider downloading the “Tides” app if you find yourself checking tides often to explore beaches worldwide. I use this internationally to plan TV shoots that are tide dependent and it is spot on.

Post tide-pooling, don’t forget to wander and take in the views, especially in Crystal Cove State Park. Consider making your way to the famed Victoria Beach to see the old stone light house and the salt water pool made famous by Instagram drone photos. It’s not uncommon to catch a proposal or photoshoot happening on this beach, but be warned that it pretty much disappears at high tide. If catching waves (or watching others catch waves) is more your speed, you’ll want to make your way to The Wedge or for a less tide dependent beach, try Thousand Steps Beach, but be prepared to walk the steps in (and more importantly) out. Note to self – do not eat before attempting to make the arduous journey out.

When hunger strikes, grab breakfast burritos or banana pancakes at Coyote Grill and try out Nick’s Laguna Beach for a steak dinner.

DAY 4 – SANTA MONICA & VENICE (1 HR DRIVE) 

No road trip up the California coastline is complete without a stop in Venice and Santa Monica. There are few adjacent beach cities that are so completely disparate. Start in Venice with breakfast at The Butcher’s Daughter (avocado toast or their grain bowls), Great White (their blue açaí bowl), or Gjelina (pretty much anything on the menu) before making your way to the famous Venice Sign! Wait for the crosswalk to allow crossing in all directions to snap the perfect photo without getting hit by public transit. Learned this one the hard way.

Make your way to the beach from there and walk along the boardwalk to check out Muscle Beach, the rainbow lifeguard tower, countless vendors, and all the skateboarders. Afterwards, hop in a car to drive to the Venice Canals for a leisurely stroll before making your way back.

Rent a bike nearby and bike the coast up to Santa Monica if you are taking it easy. If you’re in a hurry, it’s a quick car ride north. Once you arrive to Santa Monica, be sure to dip your toes in the water and hang out by the Santa Monica Pier for sunset over the water. The pier has plenty of treats, rides, and subpar restaurants, but take the party to a nearby rooftop, such as the Hotel Shangri-La’s rooftop bar to enjoy the sunset sans hustle, bustle, and fanny packs (I have nothing against fanny packs and wear them quite often because – “look ma, no hands”). If you’re in the mood for a casual, healthy meal, try Flower Child or my personal favorite, Bondi Harvest. Bondi is a bit out of the way, but the grilled halloumi is to die for. For those of you who haven’t been graced by its presence, halloumi is a white cheese with a consistency similar to mozzarella and a flavor all its own.

DAY 5 – LOS ANGELES (HOLLYWOOD & DOWNTOWN) (30-60 MIN DRIVE) 

Since Los Angeles is my home and quite the sprawl, it’s difficult to narrow down just a few things to see, do, and consume, but I’ll do my best to hit the highlights for out-of-towners. Start your day with the fuel you need at the Grand Central Market. Try some delicious coffee from G&B and an egg breakfast sandwich from Egg Slut. Go early to avoid long lines and be sure to peruse all the other food vendors while you’re there.

Now that you’re fed, it’s time to start exploring the city. The number one attraction is undoubtedly, the Hollywood sign, and the best way to see it is to get out and hike! Try the Hollyhock trail head for a leisurely climb through the mountains with views of the sign. If you’re looking for something more rigorous, the route past The Wisdom Tree will get you huffing and puffing and offer equally stunning views, even ending in the same place. When you arrive at the top, you will be behind it with views of the whole city below. I’d recommend going early to avoid the crowds. And if hikes aren’t your thing, pack a picnic and head to the Lake Hollywood Park for views sans incline.

After your hike, take a short drive to the Walk Of Fame to catch the handprints of your favorite actor or actress. Maybe consider not touching them because, well, it’s a sidewalk. While you’re there, you can catch a movie at the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Schedules are available online. Post movie, take a late afternoon cruise down Mulholland, weaving your way in and out of the mountains and mansions Hollywood is known for. There are several turnouts to stop at and enjoy the view and some of them were even used in the filming of La La Land. If you plan in advance, you can also book tickets online to the architectural wonder, The Stahl House (Case Study #22) for sunset to get all the Hollywood nostalgia you can muster. Start looking into these tickets more than a month in advance to secure them and Uber to the house to avoid the parking nightmare.

 

Stay at the famous Roosevelt Hotel or try out The Ace Downtown, The Freehand, or The Tuck, if you’re looking for a modern experience. Consider The Biltmore, The NoMad, or Chateau Marmont, if lux is more your style. Dine at The Exchange at The Freehand for delicious mediterranean, 71Above for 360 downtown views, Preux and Proper for southern fair, or Bar Ama for elevated Tex-Mex. If you’re staying closer to Hollywood, sample old school Italian at Dan Tana’s, rocker themed Thai at Toi On Sunset, or a martini (and Hollywood glam eats) at Musso and Frank’s.

 

DAY 6 – LOS ANGELES (EAST LA & BEVERLY HILLS)

If you’re not too tuckered out from yesterday’s hike, grab breakfast at Little Dom’s and head to the Fern Dell Park (near Trails Cafe) to start your hike to the Griffith Observatory. Take the leisurely hour walk up to stunning views of the city below and the free planetarium! Head out early to avoid crowds. Post hike, it’s time to rewards yourself with some arts, culture, food, and shopping.

 

Hop in a car and head to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, which regularly features fantastic interactive exhibits from the likes of James Turrell. If there is a popular exhibit you’re looking to see (such as the Rain Room), check online a few months in advance to purchase tickets. Plan on a few hours at the museum before grabbing lunch. If you’re looking for fancy fair, try Cecconi’s for Italian and all the decor. A quick bite? Try Potato Chips for sandwiches, Mainland Poke for poke, Backyard Bowls for acai bowls.  Want something cute, but still sit down? Joan’s On Third, Croft Alley, Republique, or Gracias Madre (vegan friendly) are all safe bets.

 

After lunch, it’s time to do what Angelenos do best – drink coffee and shop. Hit up Melrose if you’re interested in vintage or eclectic styles. Rodeo Drive is the spot if designer is what you’re after. Last, but certainly not least, The Grove and The Beverly Center are more traditional malls if you’re looking for a store you know that wont break the bank. If it’s a Sunday, pay $3 cash to check out the Melrose Trading Post for everything from vintage furniture and succulents to records and handmade jewelry.

Caffeine is readily available in the area, but some of my favorites include Verve Coffee Roasters, Coffee For Sasquatch, Smith & Tait, Coffee Commissary, and King’s Road Cafe. Want coffee with a fun twist? It may not be the best espresso in the city, but Carrera Cafe‘s lattes with Ryan Gosling’s face carved into the foam are pretty fabulous.

 

DAY 7 – MALIBU (1 HR – 1 HR 30 MIN DRIVE) 

It’s time to get out of the city and back to the beach. Head up the coast to Malibu and make your way to the stunning and well-known, El Matador Beach. If it’s too crowded for your taste, Zuma is also quite beautiful and slightly less popular. Lunch time is all about enjoying the breeze and the eats at the nearby Malibu Pier Cafe.

 

If you’re up for some fun and some wine drinking, purchase tickets several weeks in advance online (especially if there’s more than 1 person in your group) for the Malibu Wine Safari giraffe tour. You’ll spend the afternoon feeding and viewing exotic animals, including a giraffe named Stanley, and sipping wine in some of the most picturesque spots in Malibu wine country.

 

Grab an AirBnB (there is one that is a decked out airstream with killer views!) for the night or stay at the newly opened boutique property, The Surfrider Malibu for all the California vibes you can handle.

DAY 8 – OJAI (1 HR 30 MIN DRIVE)

While Ojai is about 20 min inland from Ventura, I consider it close enough to warrant a stop on your coastal road trip. Ojai is known for its pastel pink sunsets, hiking, wellness spas, and most importantly…wine tasting. The Ojai Valley is a small, but mighty wine region with quaint vineyards you’ve probably never heard of, but should definitely give a chance.

Majestic Oak Vineyard’s patio tastings are a must for ambiance and Topa Mountain Winery, Old Creek Ranch Winery, and End Of The Road Winery are crowd favorites. Pack a picnic and hit up The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room midday to get just enough sustenance to keep tasting! If wine isn’t your calling or you’re tasted out from your time in Malibu, Ojai also has fabulous hikes and one of the cutest outdoor bookstores I’ve ever seen – Bart’s Books, which has patio seating for leafing through your latest find with a coffee in hand. They also allow purchasing outside of opening hours on the honor system.

Breakfast at the Knead Bakery Company and get the blueberry cornbread (off menu) or the breakfast sandwich. Bring cash! If you didn’t pack a picnic lunch, test out Ojai Deer Lodge or Farmer and the Cook. For a lux dinner, head to Nocciola.

Stay at The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa or Ojai Rancho Inn for a splurge and The Lavender Inn, if you’re on a budget. Looking for something a little more funky? Rent an airstream at Caravan Outpost or seek out an artist’s retreat on AirBnB.

DAY 9 – SANTA BARBARA (1 HR 30 MIN DRIVE)

Santa Barbara is one of those quintessentially beautiful California coast cities that always warrants a stop. It’s the perfect combination of sleepy beachtown and the active outdoorsy types that California is known for. Start your day off right with breakfast at Scarlett Begonia or Jeannine’s (order the banana Kahlua french toast at Jeannine’s).

Afterwards, check out the waterfront at Stearn’s wharf. You can walk along the shore and the pier or rent bikes for a leisurely cruise and then relax in the sand with a book in hand. After you’ve had your fill of the beach, head inland to see the Old Mission and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Both are historic buildings and the views of the city from the courthouse’s clock tower, “El Mirador,”  are worth the stop.

Hungry for lunch? Grab delicious and cheap tacos from La Super-Rica Taqueria.

Spend the rest of the day strolling and shopping in downtown Santa Barbara or relax at your hotel. This place is all about relaxation and soaking in the sun. That evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at San Ysidro Ranch, seasonal local favorites at The Lark, or delectable french at Bouchon.

Now that you know where to play, it’s time to figure out where to stay. For something more affordable and funky, try the Simpson House Inn, which boasts Victorian-era decor, the Santa Barbara Auto Camp, where you can rent an airstream, or one of the many adorable AirBnBs in the area. For something a little more lux, try the Spanish Garden Inn. If you’re ready to splurge, this is your playground. Consider The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, The Canary Hotel, The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore, or The Belmond El Encanto Hotel.

DAY 10 – SOLVANG, LOS OLIVOS, LOS ALAMOS & PISMO BEACH (2 HR DRIVE)

SOLVANG

Head out from Santa Barbara to northern Pismo Beach and Paso Robles, but don’t forget to make a stop at Solvang on the way to stretch your legs. Solvang is a kitschy little Danish town with delicious Danish pastries, tons of Christmas decor shopping year round, and all the windmills your heart could desire. Get your caffeine fix at the beautifully minimalist Good Seed Coffee and grab a Danish at Birkholm’s Bakery before hitting the road.

 

LOS OLIVOS 

If you’re feeling like a little early afternoon wine, you’re only about 10 minutes from Los Olivos, one of the famous wine regions of California. Stop off at Rusack Winery to try some delicious California varietals on their shaded outdoor patio with views of the rolling hills and vineyards. We loved every single wine we sampled here and the relaxing tasting atmosphere simply cannot be beat.

 

LOS ALAMOS 

About 15 minutes north, you’ll run into the highly underrated town of Los Alamos. With about 2 main streets, you can miss the whole place in a blink, but for feeling so off-the-beaten-path, this town has meals that cannot be missed. Full Of Life Flatbread has killer pizzas, PICO Restaurant serves up lux small plates, and Bob’s Well Bread turns out delicious breads, pastries, coffees, and American meals.

While you’re there, don’t miss the incredible thrift shopping at The Depot Mall, The Gentleman Farmer, and Sister’s Gift and Home. If you have a chance to stay the night, take it. Between the renovated Alamo Motel (Restoration Hardware meets intimate motel), The 1880 Union (stage coach era luxury with a killer saloon), and the Skyview Los Alamos (retro 60s), this little town has some of my favorite unique lodging in California.

 

PISMO BEACH

Hop back in the car with your designated driver and your wine purchases and head back out to the coast and to Pismo Beach. Stroll the beach and the pier or consider hiking, biking or horseback riding in the Pismo Preserve. Craving some adrenaline? You can also ride dune buggies and sand surf at the Oceano Dunes or kayak the coast and explore sea caves!

Once you’ve worked up an appetite again, stop off at Sandy’s Deli, The Spoon Trade, or Splash Cafe, which is famous for its delicious clam chowder. If you’re ready for another caffeine fix, hit up 8575 Perfetto Caffee. Wanting something a little more luxurious? The Ventana Grill is the perfect spot for sunset ocean views and The Oyster Loft is the spot for oysters and cocktails afterwards.

If you’re staying in Pismo, try The Dolphin Bay or Cottage Inn By The Sea.

DAY 11 – PASO ROBLES & SAN LUIS OBISPO (1 HR 15 MIN DRIVE)

A new day, a new vineyard. In case you can’t tell, I like wine. Head on out to wine country and sample some of the best that Paso Robles has to offer. Denner Vineyards, with its stunning oak trees, has lovely Zinfandels, Herman Story Wines is known for its full-bodied Grenache. JUSTIN is a must-sample if you love bold California Cabs and if you’re more of a white drinker, Derby Estate Wines, is the place for you. After all that sampling, grab some sustenance at La Cosecha.

Once you’re tipsy and happy, hit up SLO’s bubblegum alley for your photo op. Don’t forget to bring some fresh bubblegum of your own to make for the perfect shot.

If relaxation is the name of the game, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa lets you soak without the stay for around $15/hr.

More of an outdoorsy type? Hike the beautiful Madonna Mountain for unparalleled views. Or drive a few minutes to Elephant Seal Vista Point for elephant seals and sea views galore without all the exercise. I know I keep suggesting hiking, but I really wont force physical activity upon you.

History buffs should simply not miss Hearst Castle. This National Historic Landmark was designed by Julia Morgan for newspaper mogul, William Hearst, in the early 20th century, and has housed many a coveted formal dinner or star-studded weekend.

The obvious choice for your stay is SLO’s crowning jewel (and where I’ll be staying for my wedding), The Madonna Inn. The Madonna is a super quirky hotel whose 110 unique rooms have been open since 1958. Hop on the website to take your pick between all the fun and individually styled rooms – pink, sparkly, rock-built, and every other adjective imaginable. It’s also worth having dinner in their steakhouse or a drink at the bar just to peep to floral and pink decor, though the food is nothing to write home about. Once you’re ready for a glass of vino, head to The Station, a retro, converted gas station turned event space and wine bar (where I’ll be having my rehearsal dinner because I love it so much).

In the AM, hit up Scout Coffee Shop for coffee and Old West Cinnamon Rolls for a hearty breakfast. If you’re looking for some comfort food of the savory variety, head to Slo Brew Co. for duck nachos and braised pork belly.

DAY 12 – BIG SUR (3 HR 30 MIN DRIVE)

Big Sur is known for its majestic coastline and captivating redwoods, so its no SURprise that my number one recommendation is to drive Highway 1 and get an eyeful of all of it on the way in. You’ll also cross the famous Bixby Creek Bridge, which is definitely worth stopping at for that iconic Big Sur photo op.

Since it is still early, drive through the forest to the nearby McWay Waterfall. You definitely want to try to beat the crowds (sensing a theme?) to this one to catch the view from above without a million people in your way (shot). While you can’t get down onto the beach (legally), watching a waterfall splash out onto the sand and into the ocean is pretty spectacular, no matter where you view it from.

After exploring for a bit, take some time to enjoy the comfort food Big Sur has to offer. Grab some lunch at the Big Sur Roadhouse or Big Sur Bakery. If you prefer lunch with a view, the Nepenthe Restaurant‘s front patio looks out onto sprawling trees, ocean, and coastline. They only have potted coffee, but I’ll make an exception for views like these and you should too.

After some sustenance, if you haven’t tired of all the outdoorsy activities, put on some comfortable footwear and head out to one of the most accessible, but still stunning, trails in the area, the Ewoldsen Trail. This also starts from the parking area for McWay Falls, so if you’re able to power through before lunch, give it a go!

To start out, look for the Ewoldsen/Canyon trail sign at the eastern end of the parking lot. Head straight into the tree line on the north side of McWay Creek, following the trail and you’ll begin to cross a series of bridges. After the first bridge, head right at the fork and continue up to the loop. There will be some steep switchbacks and the whole loop is about 4.5 miles with an elevation gain of over 1,500 ft, so this whole thing isn’t for the faint of heart (or joints). Anywho, for those of you continuing…

The switchbacks begin after the right at the fork, but once you’ve covered them, you’ll cross another bridge, pass above the creek, and join up with the beginning of the loop trail, which is about 2 miles long. For the best views, head to your right on the loop, moving counter-clockwise along the path. About halfway through the loop, take the short detour to a gorgeous viewpoint of the coast. This might also be the spot for a snack if you’re starving by now!

After you’ve gotten your fill of the view, head back down the incline and rejoin the rest of the loop. On this stretch, you’ll see everything from the canyon to the creek to redwood groves and a ridge above Highway 1, so keep your eyes peeled! The aforementioned ridge is also the most narrow part of the trail, so tread carefully and check reports for slides, erosion, and rain before heading up here. It’s never worth the risk!

At the end of the loop, turn right to rejoin the path back to the parking lot. Post hike, you may want to refresh, if there’s time, before your last daylight journey.

As golden hour starts to set in, make your way down to Pfeiffer State Beach and stay until sunset. You pay to enter the park and to leave once the sunlight is gone, but watching it set through the keyhole in the rock formation and fizzle out over the water is absolutely stunning.

That evening, make reservations in advance and enjoy dinner at The Restaurant at Ventana Inn or Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn, if you’re there in time to watch the sunset through the spectacular bay windows. Both are pricey though, so consider Big Sur Bakery or Big Sur Roadhouse for dinner, if you’re looking to save.

Stay at Glen Oaks Big Sur, a renovated motel, in one of their cabins. My personal favorite is the Big Sur Cabin, which boasts twin outdoor baths in a  private, enclosed patio complete with a fire pit. Nothing says relaxation like al fresco bathing, wine, and a roaring little fire. If you don’t stay there, hit up the newly renovated Ventana Inn. They’re known for their Onsen Japanese hot baths, glamping tents, and gorgeous hotel rooms. Really looking to splurge? The Post Ranch Inn has absolutely incredible, unique accommodations that maximize the views with floor to ceiling glass windows, but they’ll set you back a pretty penny (or a trillion pretty pennies).

DAY 13 – CARMEL, CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA & PEBBLE BEACH (1 HR DRIVE)

Make the quick jaunt north to Carmel-By-The-Sea, Carmel, and Pebble Beach. Drive 17 mile drive, a scenic drive along the coast with tons of turnouts and viewpoints, and make sure to stop at Scenic Overlook #34. It costs a few bucks to enter the drive, but it is a hauntingly beautiful stretch of coast, composed of rolling fog, Cypress trees, and the most scenic stretch of golf course I’ve ever seen. Leave ample time for photo stops!

If you have any interest in California’s history or religious iconography, seeing the Carmel Mission is a necessity. Constructed in the late 1700s, it has essentially been converted into a garden and religious museum, regaling the foundation of Catholic missions in the state.  Afterwards, made your way to La Bicyclette for a delicious lunch. I’m a fan of their soups and salads on a foggy day.

Take the rest of the day to relax before heading out to 1833 for a dark, cozy dinner with an emphasis on spirits and comfortable lounge furniture. Make a reservation in advance. Another fan favorite is Aubergine.

Spend the night at the Carmel Valley Ranch, L’Auberge Carmel, for 1920s interiors, or Mission Ranch, Clint Eastwood’s favorite haunt.

DAY 14 – MONTEREY & PACIFIC GROVE (30 MIN DRIVE)

A mere 30 minute jaunt away are Monterey and Pacific Grove. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is the shining star of Monterey, and has been opened since the 1980s. When it first opened, it was the first aquarium to exhibit a “living kelp forest.” Today, it still has incredible seal, sea lion, and jellyfish exhibits. From the aquarium, you can walk the sea wall past a harbor full of harbor seals and sea lions sunning themselves on the sand.

Continue on and you’ll make your way in about 15 minutes to Lovers’ Point in Pacific Grove. This beautiful outcropping and beach is frequented by swimmers and sunbathers in the summer and is a chilly, grey cove in the wintertime. The walk continues on all the way to a small lighthouse, if you’re looking to really stretch your legs. If you’re looking for a more active day, hike the 4 mile loop at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which takes about 2 hours.

For some casual, local fare, this evening, enjoy seafood in downtown Pacific Grove at Passionfish.

To enjoy the Victorian flare the neighborhood is known for, check into the Seven Gables Inn for unique, antique rooms in a B&B-style building. If you’re looking for more modern-looking accommodations, try The Lodge At Pebble Beach or The Inn At Spanish Bay, both in Pebble Beach, or the Intercontinental The Clement in Monterey.

 

DAY 15 – SAN FRANCISCO (2 HR 30 MIN DRIVE)

A mere 2 and a half hours from Pacific Grove is the jewel of Northern California, San Francisco or “the Golden City,” named after its most iconic site, the Golden Gate Bridge. You should at least drive across, but if you have time, definitely bike across. Equally as well known are “The Painted Ladies,” the pretty pastel Victorian homes on the hill all on an incline. Stroll through the neighborhood and sit on the lawn across from them to enjoy the view.

Afterwards, head to Union Square and stroll around, popping into the stores lining the square. Once you’re done shopping, ditch the car and hop on the SF Cable Car System. Grab a cable car in the city and ride it up and down its famous hills, hopping off at your desired stop.

One of those stops should be Chinatown. San Francisco’s is one of the oldest and most established Chinatowns in the U.S. and is crowned by its intricate Dragon Gate. Shop for trinkets, sample dim sum, and take in the colorful sights and smells of the neighborhood. Since you’re on a touristy streak, make your way down Lombard Street, famous for how steep it is, and head to Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. Don’t forget to grab some chowder.

After lunch, walk to Buena Vista, which is known for its Irish Coffees, and warm your belly with a midday drink in the dimly-lit bar. Take a break from the tourist areas of SF and enjoy some art at the San Francisco Museum Of Modern Art, which is open until 5pm every day except Wednesdays.

If there’s daylight left, make the drive to Twin Peak’s viewpoint to watch golden hour take over the skyline. Once the sun has set, take some time to freshen up before heading to one of the many incredible restaurants the city has to offer. If Michelin star sustenance is your game, there’s Frances,  known for its innovative cuisine courtesy of a female chef, Lazy Bear, or Californios. But a Michelin star isn’t everything. “The Golden City” has a number of other treasures to try – Flour + Water for Italian or Nopalito for Mexican (from the people who brought you Nopa), just to name a few.

After dinner, make your way to the Fairmont Hotel and into their Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, a fancifully executed version of Disney’s Tiki Room for adults only. Sip all the Mai Tais your heart desires and enjoy the Polynesian decor and colorful garnishes.

For extreme luxury, check into The Fairmont San Francisco, Kimpton Sir Francis Drake, or The Palace Hotel. If chic decor and ambiance are of the utmost importance, Hotel Kabuki in Japantown or the new Proper Hotel San Francisco are your properties of choice. Wanting to save without scrimping? Hang your hat at the Stanford Court or the Tilden Hotel.

DAY 16 – SAN FRANCISCO

Start the morning the way every day should begin – with some delicious coffee at Four Barrel or Sightglass Coffee. Both are as wonderfully decorated as they are delectable. For breakfast, try a favorite of locals and tourists alike, the thick-cut, slices of toast from The Mill. Primarily a bakery, The Mill regularly sells combos such as pesto and cream cheese, jam, chocolate hazelnut, almond butter, and cinnamon sugar, as well as their seasonal toast. They also serve coffee if you’re looking to consolidate stops.

If it’s a weekend, partake in some of the best brunch around. Nopa has all your American food needs and Petit Marlow is your go-to for bougie French cuisine. If you’re craving something more casual, make a reservation at Plow and order the pancakes.

As a true crime fanatic, Alcatraz Island is a must-do for me when I have time in San Francisco. Some of the most notorious criminals in the States, including Al Capone and “Mickey” Cohen, once resided at this island penitentiary just over a nautical mile from San Francisco. Plan at least a half day for travel to and from the island and a time to tour the prison. If you’d prefer to skip the travel time and the crime, consider afternoon tea at The Palace Hotel. It’s San Francisco’s answer to Versailles with its ornate, gilded decor.

Head back to the mainland before sunset and make you’re way up Coit Tower for 360 degree views of San Francisco during Golden Hour. Hang out to watch the sun drop below the impressive skyline. If cocktails and a view are more your speed, try The Top Of The Mark on the 19th floor of the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel. Post sunset grab no frills, classic seafood with a side of vintage decor at the Swan Oyster Depot. If you’re opposed to seafood, consider Cala, from the infamous chef of Contramar in Mexico City. For my kind of a night cap, sample some artisan ice creams from Bi-Rite Creamery.

DAY 17 – FLY HOME

Sadly, your trip up the coast has come to an end, but there’s always more to explore! Check out the Local’s Guide To Los Angeles tab, if you’re looking for more adventures in the Golden State.

Looking for a shorter itinerary for your ultimate California Coast road trip? Pick and choose from the days above and adjust drive times accordingly to create a custom road trip that suits your time and needs.

Want to see which of the recommended hotels above has one of my favorite tubs in the world? Read The Best Bath Tubs In The World to find out!

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