5-Day Scenic Road Trip on Highway 1 and Napa Valley Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz. Witness the stunning rock formations and tide pools teeming with marine life. Enjoy breakfast at The Buttery, a beloved bakery known for its pastries and hearty breakfast options.

Drive further south to Monterey Bay. Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best aquariums in the world, showcasing marine life from the Pacific Ocean. Have lunch at Fish Hopper, offering fresh seafood dishes with panoramic ocean views.

End your day in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal town known for its art galleries and fairy-tale cottages. Stroll through downtown Carmel and have dinner at Casanova Restaurant, renowned for its romantic ambiance and Mediterranean cuisine.

Begin your day with a scenic drive along the famous Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges on Highway 1. The stunning views of the rugged coastline and the turquoise waters below are simply breathtaking. Stop by Big Sur Bakery for a hearty breakfast featuring freshly baked goods and locally sourced ingredients.

Continue your journey south to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Here, you can visit McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's scenic spots, taking in the natural beauty around you.

End your day in San Simeon with a visit to Hearst Castle, an opulent mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Take a guided tour to explore its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens. For dinner, head to Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill, offering delicious seafood dishes with ocean views.

Leave Highway 1 behind as you head inland towards Napa Valley. Start your wine tasting adventure at Castello di Amorosa, a stunning medieval-style castle winery offering tours and tastings. Enjoy breakfast beforehand at Bouchon Bakery in Yountville, famous for its French pastries.

Continue exploring Napa Valley's renowned wineries by visiting Robert Mondavi Winery for a tour and tasting session that delves into the history of winemaking in the region. Have lunch at Oxbow Public Market, where you can sample various local delicacies from different vendors.

Conclude your day with a visit to Domaine Carneros, known for its sparkling wines and picturesque estate resembling a French chateau. For dinner, dine at The French Laundry, an iconic Michelin-starred restaurant offering an unforgettable culinary experience.

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Napa Valley is a must-do experience. Soar above the vineyards and enjoy panoramic views of the valley as the sun rises. After your flight, enjoy a champagne breakfast at Model Bakery, known for its scrumptious pastries and breakfast sandwiches.

Wine Tasting at V. Sattui Winery offers an exceptional experience with its beautiful picnic grounds and extensive selection of wines. Have lunch at their on-site deli, which offers gourmet sandwiches and salads made from fresh local ingredients.

Wine Train Dinner is a perfect way to conclude your Napa Valley adventure. Board the vintage train for a scenic ride through the vineyards while enjoying a gourmet multi-course dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients.