14-Day Roadtrip from Houston to Big Sur Itinerary

Depart from El Paso early in the morning after grabbing breakfast at Salt + Honey Bakery Cafe. Drive through New Mexico's scenic landscapes towards Tucson, Arizona.

Stop in Tucson for lunch at El Charro Cafe, one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in the US. After lunch, visit the Saguaro National Park to see the iconic saguaro cacti before continuing your journey.

Arrive in Phoenix by evening. Check into your hotel and relax. For dinner, visit The Arrogant Butcher for some modern American cuisine. Get a good night's sleep before hitting the road again.

Leave Phoenix early after having breakfast at Matt's Big Breakfast. Drive towards Los Angeles while enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.

Stop in Palm Springs for lunch at Cheeky's, known for its fresh and seasonal dishes. Take a short break to explore this desert oasis before resuming your drive.

Arrive in Los Angeles by evening. Check into your hotel and unwind. Head to Perch for dinner with stunning rooftop views of downtown LA. Rest up as you prepare to reach Big Sur tomorrow.

Start your day with a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs as you make your way to Big Sur. Stop for breakfast at Nepenthe, a famous spot with stunning views and delicious food.

In the afternoon, embark on Big Sur California: Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour. This self-guided tour will take you through some of the most iconic spots along the highway, including Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls. Take your time to explore and take plenty of photos.

As evening approaches, check into your accommodation in Big Sur. For dinner, visit Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn for an unforgettable dining experience with panoramic ocean views. Relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Big Sur.

Big Sur awaits you this morning. Start your day with a hike through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you'll be surrounded by towering redwoods and lush greenery. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this natural wonder.

Big Sur Highway 1: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour is perfect for exploring more of Big Sur's hidden gems in the afternoon. This self-guided audio tour will lead you to lesser-known spots like Partington Cove and Limekiln State Park.

For dinner, head to Big Sur Roadhouse, a cozy restaurant offering locally-sourced dishes in a rustic setting. After dinner, unwind at your accommodation and reflect on the day's adventures.

Big Sur continues to amaze as you start your day with a visit to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Enjoy breakfast at Cafe Kevah before heading out to explore the park's trails and waterfalls.

Big Sur Highway 1: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour can be revisited if you missed any spots or want to explore more areas along Highway 1. Take your time driving along this scenic route and stop at any points of interest that catch your eye.

For dinner, dine at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant, known for its charming ambiance and delicious cuisine. Afterward, relax by a fire pit or take a leisurely stroll under the stars before retiring for the night.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Big Sur to Monterey. Enjoy breakfast at The Cottage Restaurant, a cozy spot known for its hearty morning meals. After breakfast, head to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can marvel at the diverse marine life and interactive exhibits.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along Cannery Row, a historic waterfront district filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Stop for lunch at The Fish Hopper, which offers stunning views of the bay and delicious seafood dishes. After lunch, visit the nearby Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History to learn more about the region's natural wonders.

For dinner, head to Restaurant 1833, located in a historic adobe building and known for its innovative cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the beach or explore more of Monterey's charming streets before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day with a short drive from Monterey to Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy breakfast at Katy's Place, a popular spot known for its extensive menu and cozy atmosphere. After breakfast, explore the charming streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea, filled with unique boutiques and art galleries.

In the afternoon, visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for some breathtaking coastal views and scenic hiking trails. Pack a picnic lunch or grab something to-go from Stationæry before heading out to explore this beautiful area.

For dinner, dine at Casanova Restaurant, often referred to as 'Carmel's most romantic restaurant.' Enjoy their Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an intimate setting. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through town or relax by your accommodation.

Leave Carmel-by-the-Sea early after having breakfast at Lafayette Bakery & Cafe. Drive towards Santa Cruz while enjoying the coastal scenery along Highway 1.

Arrive in Santa Cruz by midday and have lunch at The Picnic Basket, known for its fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk or visiting Natural Bridges State Beach.

For dinner, head to Shadowbrook Restaurant in nearby Capitola for an unforgettable dining experience with stunning views of Soquel Creek. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along Capitola Beach before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Santa Cruz Diner, known for its extensive menu and retro vibe. After breakfast, head to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Spend your morning hiking among the towering redwoods and exploring the park's scenic trails.

For lunch, visit The Crepe Place, a local favorite offering a variety of delicious crepes. After lunch, continue your exploration of Santa Cruz by visiting the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in an old lighthouse overlooking Steamer Lane. Learn about the history of surfing in Santa Cruz and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

For dinner, head to Laili Restaurant, which offers a unique blend of Mediterranean and Afghan cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf or enjoy some live music at one of the local venues before heading back to your accommodation.

Big Sur Highway 1: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour can be enjoyed once more as you drive from Santa Cruz to Napa Valley. Start your day with breakfast at The Boon Fly Cafe in Napa Valley, known for its delicious farm-to-table dishes.

Big Sur is perfect for exploring more natural beauty as you spend your afternoon wine tasting at some of Napa Valley's renowned wineries. Visit places like Domaine Carneros or V. Sattui Winery for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the wineries while taking in the beautiful vineyard views.

Big Sur California: Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour can be revisited if you want to explore more scenic routes on your way back to Big Sur. For dinner, dine at The French Laundry, one of Napa Valley's most famous restaurants offering an exquisite fine dining experience. After dinner, relax at your accommodation and reflect on the day's adventures.

Big Sur continues as you drive from Napa Valley to San Francisco. Start your day with breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square, known for its delicious brunch options and cozy atmosphere.

Big Sur Highway 1: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour is perfect for exploring more scenic routes as you spend your afternoon visiting iconic landmarks like Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Have lunch at Tartine Bakery & Cafe, famous for its artisanal bread and pastries.

Big Sur California: Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour can be revisited if you want to explore more scenic routes on your way back to Big Sur. For dinner, head to Gary Danko, an award-winning restaurant offering contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along Fisherman's Wharf before heading back to your accommodation.

Big Sur awaits you this morning as you start your day with a visit to the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge. Enjoy breakfast at Big Sur Bakery, known for its delicious pastries and cozy atmosphere. After breakfast, take a leisurely drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at various viewpoints to capture the stunning coastal scenery.

Big Sur Highway 1: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour is perfect for exploring more of Big Sur's hidden gems in the afternoon. Visit places like McWay Falls and Partington Cove, where you can enjoy short hikes and breathtaking views. For lunch, stop at River Inn, a charming spot with outdoor seating by the river.

Big Sur California: Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour can be revisited if you want to explore more scenic routes on your way back to your accommodation. For dinner, dine at The Sur House, offering farm-to-table cuisine with panoramic ocean views. After dinner, relax by a fire pit or take a leisurely stroll under the stars before retiring for the night.

Big Sur continues as you start your final day with breakfast at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant, known for its charming ambiance and delicious cuisine. After breakfast, visit Pfeiffer Beach to see its famous purple sand and unique rock formations.

Big Sur Highway 1: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour is perfect for one last exploration of Big Sur's scenic beauty. Drive along Highway 1 and stop at any points of interest that catch your eye. For lunch, visit Nepenthe once more to enjoy their stunning views and tasty dishes.

Big Sur California: Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour can be revisited if you want to explore more scenic routes on your way back home. For dinner, head to Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn for an unforgettable dining experience with panoramic ocean views. Reflect on your amazing road trip adventure as you enjoy your final evening in Big Sur.