Scenic Coastal Drive from San Francisco to Santa Barbara Itinerary

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Dutch Garden Restaurant. Then, visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium to witness the fascinating marine life of the bay, including the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibit.

Enjoy a leisurely drive along the stunning 17-Mile Drive with its famous landmarks such as the Lone Cypress and the Del Monte Forest. Stop for a relaxing lunch at Mesa Cafe & Bar in Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere.

As the sun sets, take a walk at Carmel Beach and then have a sophisticated dinner at The Lark Santa Barbara, known for its inventive, farm-to-table cuisine. End the evening with a glass of wine at a local wine bar.

Drive south to Big Sur and enjoy breakfast with a view at Nepenthe Restaurant. Afterward, take a short hike at McWay Falls to witness the iconic waterfall cascading onto the beach.

Continue your drive through the rugged coastline and make a stop at the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in California. For lunch, savor the fresh, local ingredients at Finch & Fork in downtown Santa Barbara.

Arrive in San Simeon and visit the majestic Hearst Castle for a guided tour of the grand estate. After the tour, enjoy a relaxing dinner at The Cruisery and reflect on the opulence of the Gilded Age.

Start your day with a visit to the serene Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, one of the 21 California missions. After exploring the mission, have a delightful breakfast at Dawn Patrol, known for its fresh, locally sourced menu.

Spend your afternoon exploring the unique shops and boutiques in the charming downtown area. For lunch, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food at Lab Social, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll through the San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market (if it's a Thursday evening) and indulge in the local produce, live music, and street performers. For dinner, head to Crocodile Restaurant & Bar for a memorable dining experience.

Begin your day with a scenic Santa Barbara City & Sand Electric Bike Tour to get a feel for the city's beautiful coastline and charming neighborhoods. After the tour, enjoy a delightful breakfast at Pizza Mizza Parlor & Arcade, a local favorite.

Explore the vibrant Funk Zone on foot, visiting eclectic art galleries, boutique wineries, and hip shops. For lunch, take a Santa Barbara Funk Zone Food & Photo Tour to sample the area's best bites and capture some Instagram-worthy moments.

Wind down with a relaxing Santa Barbara Sunset Kayak Tour along the coast, taking in the golden hues of the setting sun. Afterward, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Toma Restaurant & Bar, known for its fresh seafood and panoramic views of the harbor.

Embark on a Santa Barbara Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle to explore the picturesque vineyards and taste a variety of local wines. Pair your wine with a gourmet picnic lunch provided by the shuttle service, enjoying the serene countryside.

Visit the charming town of Solvang, known for its Danish architecture and bakeries. Take a self-guided walk with the Santa Barbara Self-Guided Walk with App-Based Audio Guide to learn about the town's history and enjoy some pastries.

Return to Santa Barbara and have dinner at Reunion Kitchen + Drink Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring a variety of dishes to satisfy any craving.

Start your day with a visit to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden (SBBG), where you can immerse yourself in the diverse native plant life. Afterward, enjoy a healthy breakfast at Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara, known for its fresh and innovative dishes.

Spend the afternoon at Leadbetter Beach, soaking up the sun and perhaps trying your hand at Santa Barbara Stand-up Paddle Board Rental. For lunch, have a casual meal at The Pickle Room, a local spot with a laid-back vibe and delicious sandwiches.

As the day winds down, take a relaxing Santa Barbara Guided Sea Lion Kayaking Tour to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. After the tour, enjoy a fine dining experience at Jill's Place Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and excellent cuisine.

Begin with a visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA), where you can admire a diverse collection of works from various periods and styles. After exploring the art, have a delightful breakfast at Santo Mezcal, offering a fusion of Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting.

Take a trip to the nearby Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center to learn about the region's rich natural and marine history. For lunch, enjoy the casual and friendly atmosphere at Pizza Mizza Parlor & Arcade.

Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Opal, a Santa Barbara classic known for its creative Californian cuisine and extensive wine list. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along State Street to enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife and cap off your journey.