West Coast Road Trip: An 8-Day Itinerary

Going on a road trip isn’t just about hitting the road and arriving at your destination—it’s about the journey, the discoveries, and the memories you’ll create along the way. A West Coast road trip offers the most diverse and breathtaking adventure across California’s most iconic landscapes.

Families, solo travelers, and adventure-seekers alike can find something special along the Pacific Coast Highway, making it the trip of a lifetime. Whether you want to relax and connect with nature or see several cosmopolitan cities in one go, we’ve detailed the best 8-day West Coast road trip itinerary for you.

Know Before You Go

• Best Time to Visit: May through October (though any time of year promises something special)
• Route Flexibility: The itinerary detailed below can be done in reverse and customized
• Road Conditions: This route takes you along the portions of Highway 1 that are currently open. Be sure to check for up-to-date traffic conditions before you go.
• Insurance: Safety first! Adventure is out there, but travel worry-free with our travel insurance
• Data Connection: Never miss an update, even behind the wheel, with an eSIM card for your journey

Southern California

Day 1: Exploring the Glamour of Los Angeles

Our trip starts in Los Angeles, the famous “City of Stars.” From beach towns to the famous Hollywood lifestyle there’s plenty to see and do here. Start the day off with breakfast at the Original Farmer’s Market downtown and explore over 100 vendors offering a diverse selection of fresh, local eats.

After, pay a visit to the iconic Hollywood sign, a legendary landmark that symbolizes the Golden Age of American cinema. One of the best ways to experience it is with a Hollywood Sign Hiking Tour. Join us for sweeping panoramic views of the city with the bright morning sun.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the city with a free walking tour of downtown LA. Explore main attractions like the Grand Central Market and Angels Flight Railway as you uncover the city’s fascinating past.

Another must-see in LA is the Griffith Observatory, an iconic institution that inspires everyone to observe the skies above us. Join a tour of the Griffith Observatory, to explore the expertly curated exhibits and take in another breathtaking view of LA at sunset, this time with the Hollywood sign included.

Check out all of the activities we offer in LA if you’d like to extend your stay in the star-studded town.

Day 2: Malibu Highlights

Drive time: 2.5 hours

Embrace California’s golden coastline and laid-back beach culture in one of its most iconic seaside destinations—Santa Barbara.

As you make your way along the California coast, you’ll reach another famous beach town: Malibu. This scenic West Coast stop is perfect for a short break to enjoy the views from the Malibu Pier and walk along Malibu Beach.

Check out the historic Adamson House, a 10-minute walk from the pier, with ties back to the 1920s. Admission is free and you can stroll through the gardens for a taste of classic California culture. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, check out this paragliding experience over Malibu. Without a doubt, one of the best ways to experience the California coast.

Before saying goodbye to Malibu, check out the Point Dume Cove Trail. This short 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hike promises stunning coastal views, a preview of what’s to come in the days ahead. After exploring Malibu, hop back in the car for the final 1 to 1.5-hour stretch to Santa Barbara.

Day 3: Santa Barbara, The American Riviera

Waking up in sunny Santa Barbara, you’ll quickly see why this region is often referred to as the “American Riviera!” With its adobe houses and Spanish Colonial architecture, the charm is undeniable. Start your day with a free tour of the Santa Barbara Courthouse to experience it firsthand.

The town’s Spanish-Colonial influence really comes to life via the archway-lined courtyard, Clock Tower, and Mural Room. Free tours run Monday through Friday at 10:30 am and 2 pm. Alternatively, check out a private tour of Santa Barbara, where you’ll get an exclusive guide to the Courthouse and more.

While Sonoma County and Napa Valley have long been synonymous with California wine country, Santa Barbara is quickly making a name for itself. Check out this guided tour through Santa Barbara’s picturesque vineyards, and spend the afternoon in the nearby hills learning about the region’s winemaking process.

End the day with a stroll along Butterfly Beach for a magical sunset. To make the most of your time in the charming Spanish colonial town, check out all the activities we have to offer in sunny Santa Barbara.

Central California

Day 4: Discovering San Simeon’s Coastal Treasures

Drive time: 3 hours

Leaving Santa Barbara, a scenic coastal drive awaits that’s just as picturesque as today’s destination: Hearst Castle in San Simeon.

Cruising along Highway 1, you’ll pass through San Luis Obispo, a must-stop on any West Coast road trip. Known to locals as SLO, this college town is full of classic quirky roadside attractions. Make a quick stop and check out Bubblegum Alley. Maybe even leave your mark (or bubble)!

Arriving by mid-morning gives you plenty of time to explore Hearst Castle, a National Historic Landmark completed in 1947. Commissioned by publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst, the castle sits atop “La Cuesta Encantada” (The Enchanted Hill) offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into California’s glamorous past.

Book a tour in advance so you can explore areas like the Grand Rooms, Neptune Pool, and the gardens, full of statues collected by Hearst during his travels.

End the day back in town with a stroll along Moonstone Beach, for another stunning sunset. Any rock collectors out there are sure to delight in the colorful stones dotting the shoreline.

Day 5: Big Sur, Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Drive time: 3-4 hours

Start your morning at the Elephant Seal Vista Point near San Simeon and marvel at these marine mammals (some reaching up to 5,000 lbs!) from a safe distance.

Highway 1 Road Trip Tips: Keep in mind potential road closures when leaving San Simeon. Continuing north, sections have been prone to landslides as you get closer to Big Sur. Before heading out, check current road conditions with CalTrans or local tourism boards.

If Highway 1 is completely closed, you can take an alternative route via Highway 101. This route will take you up and around Big Sur, allowing you to reconnect with Highway 1 near Monterey or Carmel and explore the region heading southbound.

This particular stretch of coastline, with its rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean views, is well worth the detour. Northbound or southbound, you’ll be treated to the most spectacular California coastal drive. Stop at key points like:

• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to witness the stunning McWay Falls
• Bixby Bridge, specifically the northern pull-off point for the most dramatic views
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park where you can walk among towering Redwoods forests

If Highway 1 is open, end the day in Big Sur Village, full of local shops and cozy inns. If road conditions are uncertain, Ragged Point makes for an ideal overnight stay, offering a stress-free stop along your journey.

Day 6: Carmel and Monterey’s Coastal Charm

Drive Time: 2-3 hours

Spend the morning exploring Big Sur’s natural wonders. Set out early to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise over the crown jewel of the California coastline.

Pro tip: Download Google Maps and take screenshots of important route info as cell service is minimal further into Big Sur. If all else fails, along Highway 1 you’ll find plenty of rest stops with maps of the area for you to stock up on.

Head to Garrapata State Park Vista Point and soak up the incredible landscapes. If you’re visiting between January and April, don’t miss the bloom-filled Calla Lily Valley Trail at Garrapata Beach! Then check out Soberanes Point Trail (1.6-mile loop) for clifftop ocean views.

By early afternoon, begin heading up to Monterey. Check out the famous Fisherman’s Wharf or Cannery Row, made famous by American author John Steinbeck.

In the late afternoon, make your way to Carmel-By-The-Sea, right next to Monterey. End the day with a stroll up the town’s main street, Ocean Avenue, and check out local boutiques and art galleries that showcase Carmel’s creative spirit.

Northern California

Day 7: Santa Cruz and Rollercoasters By the Sea

Drive time: 2-3 hours

Today’s scenic drive is full of California coastal beauty, set to take your breath away. Drive along Highway 1, next to rugged cliffs and sprawling seascapes. Then, after about an hour, take a break in Santa Cruz to check out the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California’s oldest seaside amusement park dating back to 1907. It’s completely free to stroll and offers views of the Pacific Ocean mixed with the smell of classic hot dogs and cotton candy.

As you continue making your way to San Francisco, hop onto Highway 101 to avoid any potential road closures. For the perfect welcome, plan to arrive around sunset (5 pm) and cross the Golden Gate Bridge bathed in golden hour.

If you’re feeling antsy and would prefer to put the car in park to start exploring, plan to arrive by early afternoon and check out this Golden Gate Bay sunset cruise.

Day 8: San Francisco’s Iconic Sites

Rise and shine in the “City by the Bay!” Start the day at Fisherman’s Wharf with a cup of locally roasted coffee and take in the views of Alcatraz Island in the distance.

Continue the morning with our complete San Francisco tour and stroll through the incredible Golden Gate Park. This 1,000+ acre urban oasis rivals NYC’s Central Park boasting hidden treasures like a windmill surrounded by tulips, two world-class museums, a Japanese tea garden, and even a herd of buffalo!

After lunch, see the famous “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses at Alamo Square. Then head to San Francisco’s Little Italy neighborhood on a tour of North Beach. As you stroll Lombard Street, you’ll be captivated by its steep and winding curves. It’s also just a hop, skip, and jump away from the oldest Chinatown neighborhood in North America!

In the evening, opt for an open-top bus tour and watch the city light up with the final rays of sunlight.

Check out all of the activities we have to offer in San Francisco.

And there you have it folks! As your trip comes to an end, the sound of ocean waves crashing against dramatic cliffsides and sun-drenched landscapes is sure to become lifelong memories. One thing’s for sure, a West Coast road trip is more than a vacation—it’s a journey through some of America’s most stunning landscapes.

Whether you follow our itinerary exactly or use it as inspiration to create your own adventure, the Golden State’s 840 miles of coastline offers endless possibilities for exploration. Pack your bags, download your playlists, and hit the road—the California coast is calling, and this iconic American journey promises to be one you’ll never forget.

Extend Your Trip

While 8 days covers a beautiful part of the California coast, there’s always more to discover. If you’re looking to extend your West Coast road trip adventure, consider these additional destinations and activities:

California

• Yosemite National Park: Check out this day trip from San Francisco to the world-famous national park and marvel at granite cliffs and waterfalls.

• Napa and Sonoma Valley: Venture into California wine country on an authentic wine-tasting experience.

Oregon

• Mount Hood and Multnomah Falls: Head out on a day trip from Portland to check out Oregon’s tallest peak and see one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States. Easily two of the most photographed spots in the country.

Washington

• Space Needle: Climb up to the top of the needle and discover secret passageways built underneath the city with this sightseeing tour in Seattle.

Whatever direction you choose, the West Coast offers endless possibilities for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories. Experience it for yourself and let’s hit the road together!