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California Coast 12-Day Adventure: San Francisco to San Diego

California Coast 12-Day Adventure: San Francisco to San Diego Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Iconic Landmarks and Bay Views

Morning
Start your journey with a classic San Francisco breakfast at Boudin Bakery, famous for its sourdough bread. Afterward, take a self-guided walk or bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to enjoy the stunning views of the bay and the city skyline.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Slanted Door, located in the Ferry Building with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a modern Vietnamese menu. Afterward, explore the historic Alcatraz with the San Francisco Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise to learn about the infamous prison and its history.
Evening
Enjoy a relaxed evening at Pier 39, where you can watch the sea lions, explore the shops, and have dinner at Hog Island Oyster Co. for some of the best oysters in the city.
Bedtime
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City Highlights and Culinary Delights

Morning
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at House of Prime Rib, known for its classic prime rib and old-school ambiance. After breakfast, take a ride on the San Francisco Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour to get an overview of the city's top attractions.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to NOPA Kitchen + Bar in the Western Addition neighborhood, where you can enjoy a menu focused on organic wood-fired cuisine. Afterward, continue your bus tour or hop off at Union Square for some shopping and people-watching.
Evening
Experience the vibrant food scene of San Francisco's North Beach and Little Italy on a San Francisco North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour. Sample local favorites and learn about the history of the neighborhood. End the evening with a drink at Vesuvio Cafe, a historic Beat Generation hangout.
Bedtime
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Golden Gate Park and Cultural Gems

Morning
Start your day with a visit to Golden Gate Park. Grab a coffee and pastry at Blue Bottle Coffee and explore the park's attractions, including the Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, and the de Young Museum (check for special exhibitions).
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Rich Table in Hayes Valley, known for its creative and seasonal dishes. Afterward, visit the California Academy of Sciences in the park, where you can explore the aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all in one.
Evening
Enjoy a performance at the San Francisco Symphony or the San Francisco Opera at the War Memorial Opera House. For dinner, indulge in the tasting menu at Gary Danko, a culinary institution known for its impeccable service and exquisite food.
Bedtime
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Day Trip to Sausalito and Muir Woods

Morning
Take a break from the city and enjoy a scenic Golden Gate Bridge 3-Hour Sausalito Cycle Tour. Stop in Sausalito for lunch at Scoma's Restaurant, where you can dine on fresh seafood with a view of the bay.
Afternoon
After lunch, continue to Muir Woods for a peaceful walk among the majestic redwoods. Explore the trails and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this ancient forest. For dinner, return to the city and savor the flavors of Thailand at Kin Khao in Union Square.
Evening
End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Embarcadero and enjoy the beautiful waterfront views, including the sparkling lights of the Bay Bridge. If you're in the mood for a nightcap, head to The View Lounge for cocktails with a panoramic cityscape.
Bedtime
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Local Flavors and Hidden Gems

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Ferry Building, where you can explore the marketplace and grab breakfast at one of the artisanal vendors. Try the breakfast sandwich at Eggslut or the pastries at Miette Patisserie.
Afternoon
Join a small-group San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise for a unique perspective of the city's iconic bridges and skyline. After the cruise, have lunch at Tartine Bakery in the Mission District, known for its outstanding breads and pastries.
Evening
Explore the vibrant street art and murals of the Mission District on a self-guided walking tour. For dinner, enjoy the lively atmosphere and innovative Californian cuisine at Foreign Cinema, where you can watch a film projected in the outdoor courtyard.
Bedtime
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Sausalito Serenity and Artistic Inspirations

Morning
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Lighthouse Cafe, a local favorite with a charming waterfront setting. Enjoy the morning breeze and the view of the bay as you sip your coffee.
Afternoon
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Sausalito, exploring the art galleries and boutique shops. Visit the Heath Ceramics showroom to admire the handcrafted pottery and learn about the company's history.
Evening
As the sun starts to set, head to Sausalito (Beach and Pier) for a peaceful walk along the shore. For dinner, indulge in the fresh seafood at The Spinnaker, where you can dine with a panoramic view of the bay and the San Francisco skyline.
Bedtime
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Napa Valley Wine Country Excursion

Morning
Embark on a full-day wine country adventure with a visit to Napa Valley. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Model Bakery in Napa, known for its English muffins. After breakfast, explore the charming town of Napa and visit the Oxbow Public Market to sample local artisanal foods.
Afternoon
Join a guided Napa Valley Wine Train with Gourmet Lunch, Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour for a luxurious journey through the scenic vineyards. Enjoy a multi-course gourmet lunch on board and hop off to visit select wineries for tastings.
Evening
After returning to Napa, unwind with a casual dinner at Gott's Roadside, a popular spot for burgers, shakes, and local wines. Take a leisurely stroll along the Napa River before heading back to your accommodation.
Bedtime
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Cultural Exploration and Evening Entertainment

Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Asian Art Museum, where you can explore one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world. For breakfast, enjoy the innovative pastries and coffee at Mr. Holmes Bakehouse in the Tenderloin neighborhood.
Afternoon
After the museum, take a short walk to Civic Center and visit the impressive San Francisco City Hall. For lunch, head to ABV, a stylish spot known for its creative cocktails and elevated bar food.
Evening
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at SF Jazz Center, where you can enjoy world-class jazz performances in a modern and acoustically excellent space. Before the show, have dinner at 54 Mint Forno Italiano, a refined Italian restaurant with a focus on Roman cuisine.
Bedtime
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Day of Relaxation and Recreation

Morning
Start your day with a yoga session at Golden Gate Park, surrounded by the serene beauty of the park. Afterward, enjoy a healthy breakfast at Jane on Fillmore, known for its fresh and organic offerings.
Afternoon
Spend a leisurely afternoon at Ocean Beach, where you can take a long walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and soak in the sun. For lunch, grab a sandwich from The Italian Homemade Company and enjoy it with a view of the Pacific.
Evening
As the day winds down, head to Lands End for a scenic hike along the coastal trails. Catch the sunset and then have a delightful dinner at The House, a charming spot with a menu that blends Asian and American flavors.
Bedtime
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Urban Exploration and Evening Elegance

Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Palace of Fine Arts, an architectural gem in the Marina District. After taking in the beauty of the palace, have breakfast at La Taqueria in the Mission, a local favorite known for its authentic Mexican fare.
Afternoon
Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury, famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement. Grab lunch at 4505 Burgers & BBQ, where you can enjoy delicious barbecue in a casual setting.
Evening
Dress up for a sophisticated evening at the San Francisco Ballet, one of the oldest ballet companies in the United States. Before the performance, indulge in a pre-theater dinner at Jardinière, a fine dining establishment with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Bedtime
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Day of Architecture and Culinary Delights

Morning
Embark on a self-guided tour of the city's architectural wonders, starting with the iconic Transamerica Pyramid. For breakfast, enjoy the pastries and coffee at B. Patisserie in Pacific Heights.
Afternoon
Visit the historic Fillmore District, once known as the "Harlem of the West," and explore its jazz and cultural heritage. Have lunch at SPQR, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Italian cuisine.
Evening
Take a guided San Francisco Movie Filming Locations Bus Tour to see the city's famous film spots. After the tour, enjoy a memorable dinner at State Bird Provisions, known for its inventive small plates and lively atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Farewell to San Francisco

Morning
Enjoy a final breakfast at In-N-Out Burger, a California classic. Spend your morning at Jackson Square, exploring the boutiques and art galleries in this historic neighborhood.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in the famous pastrami sandwich at Katz's Delicatessen, a new addition to the San Francisco food scene. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the financial district and enjoy the architecture and public art.
Evening
End your San Francisco journey with a memorable dinner at Quince, a three-Michelin-star restaurant offering a seasonal tasting menu. Raise a glass to the city at Coit Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the skyline and the bay lights.
Bedtime
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