California Coastal Drive: San Francisco to Los Angeles Itinerary

Enjoy breakfast with a view at The Willows, offering a selection of morning cocktails and delicious dishes. Then, catch the early ferry to Alcatraz for a fascinating tour of the infamous island prison.

After returning from Alcatraz, have lunch at Street Restaurant and Bar in the vibrant SoMa district. Then, hop on the San Francisco Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour to explore the city's major attractions at your own pace.

Dine at TRACE, known for its sustainable and locally sourced menu. After dinner, take a twilight boat cruise, such as the San Francisco California Sunset/Twilight Boat Cruise, and enjoy the city lights reflecting on the bay.

Start your day with a breakfast at Pineapple Bistro & Bar, offering a tropical ambiance. Then, take a guided tour to the majestic Muir Woods with the From San Francisco Muir Woods Guided Bus Tour and immerse yourself in the serene redwood forest.

After returning from Muir Woods, have a delightful lunch at Flying Pig Bistro Pub in the Union Square area. Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant shops and art galleries of Union Square and the nearby Palace of Fine Arts.

For dinner, experience the innovative cuisine at Bar Agricole, located in a beautifully designed space. Cap off the evening with an enlightening visit to the San Francisco Exploratorium After Dark Entry Ticket (18+), where you can enjoy interactive exhibits with a cocktail in hand.

Take the morning to enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Harlequin, known for its European-inspired dishes. Then, catch the ferry to the charming waterfront town of Sausalito and explore its boutiques and art galleries.

Have a delightful lunch with a view at ROH Bar & Restaurant in Sausalito. Afterward, continue your culinary journey with a San Francisco Wine Country Tastings Tour with Muir Woods, visiting the renowned wineries of Napa and Sonoma Valleys.

Return to the city and dine at Absinthe Brasserie & Bar, offering a Parisian brasserie experience. Conclude your day with a relaxed walk along the Embarcadero, enjoying the bay breeze and the glittering lights of the city.

Start your day with a breakfast at MKT Restaurant and Bar, located in the Four Seasons Hotel with a sophisticated ambiance. Then, visit the San Francisco California Academy of Sciences Entry Ticket in Golden Gate Park, where you can explore the aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum.

Enjoy a lunch at Jasper's Corner Tap and Kitchen, known for its extensive beer selection and gourmet pub fare. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens of Golden Gate Park and visit the iconic Painted Ladies Victorian houses.

Dine at Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen, a neighborhood spot with a laid-back atmosphere and a menu of comfort food. Then, experience the vibrant nightlife of the Mission District, known for its diverse bars, live music venues, and street art.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Soma Restaurant & Bar, preparing you for a day of exploration. Then, hit the road and enjoy the scenic drive along the California coast, making your way to the beautiful town of Monterey.

For lunch, savor the fresh seafood at Tide Pools, where you can enjoy ocean views along with your meal. Afterward, immerse yourself in the fascinating marine world at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, spending the afternoon among colorful fish, playful otters, and mesmerizing jellyfish.

As the day winds down, relax with a dinner at Last Drop Tavern, a local favorite with a welcoming atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along Cannery Row, soaking in the coastal ambiance and perhaps stopping for a drink at one of the waterfront bars.

Wake up to the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur and enjoy a breakfast at Big Sur River Inn Restaurant, nestled in the redwoods. Fuel up for a day of exploring the rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs.

Spend your day driving along the iconic Big Sur Coastline, stopping at key viewpoints like Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls. For lunch, indulge in the farm-to-table cuisine at Nepenthe, perched on a cliff with panoramic ocean views.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at Ragged Point Inn Dining Room, where you can enjoy a meal with a side of the Pacific Ocean. Reflect on your coastal journey and savor the flavors of the region before retiring for the night.

Begin your day with a breakfast at El Chorro Lodge, offering a rustic setting with mountain views. Then, make your way to the opulent Hearst Castle for a guided tour of this historic estate, filled with art, antiques, and stunning architecture.

After the castle, have a picnic lunch at San Simeon State Park, where you can relax by the beach and watch the waves. Then, visit the nearby Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to observe these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Dine at The Restaurant at Ragged Point Inn, enjoying a meal with a view of the rugged coastline. Take a walk around the inn's grounds, breathing in the fresh ocean air and reflecting on the diverse experiences of your California coastal drive.