5.5-Day Coastal Road Trip Adventure Itinerary

Begin your journey north with a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Stop by Malibu for breakfast at Malibu Farm Restaurant, which offers farm-to-table dishes with stunning ocean views.

Continue your drive and arrive in Santa Barbara by early afternoon. Visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission and explore its beautiful gardens and architecture. For lunch, dine at The Lark, known for its creative American cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

Spend your evening strolling along Stearns Wharf, enjoying the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Have dinner at Toma Restaurant & Bar, which offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes and an extensive wine list.

Depart from Santa Barbara early in the morning and drive towards Big Sur. Stop at McWay Falls for breathtaking views of this iconic waterfall cascading into the ocean. Enjoy breakfast at Nepenthe, a cliffside restaurant offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Continue your journey north through Monterey, where you can visit Cannery Row and explore its shops and attractions. Have lunch at The Sardine Factory, renowned for its seafood dishes and historic ambiance.

Arrive in San Francisco by evening. Check into your hotel and unwind before heading out for dinner at Gary Danko, one of San Francisco's top-rated restaurants known for its elegant dining experience.

Start your day with a visit to Golden Gate Bridge. This iconic landmark is a must-see and offers stunning views of the bay. After taking in the sights, head over to Mama's on Washington Square for a hearty breakfast.

In the afternoon, embark on San Francisco City Tour. This comprehensive tour will take you through some of San Francisco's most famous neighborhoods and landmarks. For lunch, stop by Tartine Bakery, known for its delicious pastries and sandwiches.

As evening approaches, visit Fisherman's Wharf to explore its shops and attractions. End your day with dinner at Scoma's, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the bay.

San Francisco Chinatown Walking Food Tour is a perfect way to start your day. This tour will take you through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, offering tastings of delicious local foods. For breakfast, try some dim sum at Great Eastern Restaurant.

Alcatraz is next on your list. Take a ferry to this historic island prison and explore its fascinating history. For lunch, dine at The Slanted Door, which offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with waterfront views.

Painted Ladies are a great spot to visit in the evening. These colorful Victorian houses are an iconic part of San Francisco's landscape. Have dinner at Nopa, known for its organic Californian cuisine.