Ultimate 8-Day California Road Trip from Monterey to San Diego Itinerary

Grab a quick breakfast at Bulldog Sports Pub before embarking on a self-guided driving tour of Big Sur. Marvel at the rugged coastline, and make stops at Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the redwood groves at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Afterward, take a guided Big Sur Sightseeing Tour with 4 to 5 Stops to explore the hidden gems and learn about the history of the area.

As the sun sets, savor a fine dining experience at The Sur House in the Ventana Big Sur resort, offering panoramic ocean views and a menu featuring local ingredients and flavors.

Begin your day with breakfast at Melville Tavern before heading to the majestic Hearst Castle. Take a guided tour of the grand estate and its grounds, immersing yourself in the opulence and history of the Hearst family.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, where you can observe these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat. Afterward, take a self-guided driving tour of the area, keeping an eye out for zebras that still roam the hills from Hearst's private zoo.

Dine at Bon Ton L'Roy's Lighthouse Smokehouse, known for its BBQ and seafood, and relax with a drink as you reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy breakfast at Duffy's Tavern & Family Restaurant before visiting the serene Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Take a self-guided tour of the mission and its gardens, learning about the history of the area.

Have lunch at Sandbar & Grill, offering a beachy atmosphere and fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming boutiques and galleries of Downtown San Luis Obispo, known for its Spanish architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

Dine at Turn 12 Bar & Grill, a local favorite with a diverse menu and a welcoming ambiance. After dinner, take a stroll through the historic streets and enjoy the live music that often fills the air.

Start your day with a Danish pastry and coffee at The Birkholm Bakery & Cafe in the heart of Solvang. Explore the unique architecture and shops of this Danish village, and visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to learn about the famous author.

Have lunch at Bacon & Brine, a farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the local produce. Then, indulge in wine tasting at the numerous tasting rooms in Solvang and the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley, known for its excellent wines.

Dine at First & Oak, a fine dining establishment with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely evening walk through the village, enjoying the ambiance and perhaps catching a live performance.

Enjoy breakfast at Lalla Grill Del Monte before taking a self-guided driving tour of the Santa Barbara Scenic Drive. Admire the Spanish architecture, the Santa Ynez Mountains, and the beautiful coastline.

Have lunch at The Lark, a popular spot known for its innovative, farm-to-table cuisine. Afterward, visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art to explore its impressive collection, or take a stroll through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for a more natural experience.

Dine at Barbareño, where you can enjoy a modern take on traditional California cuisine. End the evening with a performance at the historic Arlington Theatre or a walk along Stearns Wharf to take in the sunset.

Start your day with breakfast at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, a beachfront restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. Afterward, take a self-guided driving tour of the Malibu Celebrity Homes, keeping an eye out for the residences of the rich and famous.

Have lunch at Nobu Malibu, a high-end Japanese restaurant with stunning ocean views. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the beautiful Malibu Beaches, or if you're feeling adventurous, take a surfing lesson at one of the local surf schools.

Dine at Geoffrey's Malibu, known for its elegant ambiance and coastal cuisine. Enjoy a romantic dinner with panoramic views of the Pacific, and perhaps spot a celebrity or two as you dine.

Begin your final day with breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla, a charming spot with a menu featuring local and seasonal ingredients. Afterward, take a self-guided driving tour of San Diego's Beaches, from the iconic La Jolla Cove to the wide shores of Coronado Beach.

Have lunch at Ironside Fish & Oyster, a stylish seafood eatery in the heart of Little Italy. Spend the afternoon exploring the attractions of Balboa Park, including the world-class San Diego Zoo and the many museums and gardens.

Dine at George's at the Cove, a renowned restaurant with breathtaking ocean views and a menu that highlights the best of California cuisine. After dinner, take a sunset cruise on the bay or enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Gaslamp Quarter to cap off your California road trip in style.