California Coast Road Trip: Santa Barbara to Napa Valley Itinerary

Enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast at Cadiz Restaurant & Lounge. Then, embark on a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley (SYV), experiencing the region's renowned wineries and vineyards.

Have a gourmet picnic lunch at one of the wineries. Afterward, visit the charming town of Solvang, known for its Danish architecture and bakeries.

Return to Santa Barbara for a delightful dinner at Olio e Limone Ristorante, offering authentic Italian cuisine. Take a leisurely evening walk along State Street, enjoying the local shops and ambiance.

Start your day with a scenic hike at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden (SBBG), followed by a picnic lunch in the peaceful surroundings of the garden.

In the afternoon, head to Shoreline Park for stunning ocean views and a relaxing time. For dinner, indulge in the creative dishes at Finch & Fork.

After dinner, take a sunset cruise from the Santa Barbara Harbor to end the day on a magical note.

Begin your day with a visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) to admire its diverse collection. For a late breakfast, try the innovative dishes at Jane Restaurant.

Explore the rich history of the region at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the Santa Barbara Mission. For a late lunch, enjoy the Mexican flavors at Los Agaves.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Santa Barbara Waterfront and have a relaxed dinner at Bouchon Santa Barbara.

Check out from your Santa Barbara accommodation and have a quick breakfast at a local cafe. Begin your road trip to San Luis Obispo, enjoying the beautiful coastal views along Highway 101.

Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the scenic overlooks. Upon reaching San Luis Obispo, take a walk around the charming downtown area and visit the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

For dinner, try the eclectic menu at November Project, known for its innovative dishes. Spend the evening relaxing at your San Luis Obispo accommodation.

Enjoy breakfast at a local cafe in San Luis Obispo before continuing your journey north. Visit the Hearst Castle in San Simeon for a guided tour of this historic landmark.

Have a picnic lunch at the nearby beach. Afterward, drive through the scenic Big Sur coastline, making stops at key viewpoints like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.

Arrive in Monterey in the evening and have a seafood dinner at Old Fisherman's Grotto on the wharf. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a visit to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium to explore the marine life of the region. Enjoy a seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant.

After lunch, drive through the picturesque vineyards of the Santa Cruz Mountains on your way to Napa Valley. Make a stop at a winery for a tasting experience.

Arrive in Napa Valley in the evening and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at The French Laundry, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at your Napa Valley accommodation. Spend the morning visiting a variety of wineries in the region, each offering unique vintages and stunning views.

Have a gourmet picnic lunch at one of the wineries. In the afternoon, take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards for a truly unforgettable experience.

For dinner, enjoy the farm-to-table cuisine at The Restaurant at Meadowood, known for its Michelin-starred menu. End the day with a leisurely stroll through the vineyards.

Start your day with a cooking class at the CIA at Copia, where you can learn to prepare a gourmet meal using local ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch.

After lunch, pamper yourself with a spa treatment at one of the local resorts. Relax and rejuvenate in the peaceful surroundings of Napa Valley.

For your final dinner in Napa Valley, dine at Bouchon Bistro for a taste of classic French cuisine. Raise a glass of sparkling wine to toast to the end of a wonderful trip.

On your last day in Napa Valley, take a leisurely bike ride through the vineyards, stopping at different wineries along the way for tastings. Enjoy a casual brunch at Model Bakery in St. Helena.

Visit the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval-style castle winery, for a tour and tasting. Pick up some last-minute souvenirs at the local shops.

As the sun sets on your Napa Valley adventure, have a farewell dinner at Press Restaurant, known for its seasonal menu and extensive wine list. Reflect on the memories of your trip as you enjoy a final glass of Napa Valley wine.