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Plan a 5-day Pacific C… 5d

This 5-day cruise down Highway 1 hits every iconic cliffside view and quirky beach town between SF and LA. It's the ultimate slow-burn road trip.

5days
20stops
DAY01

San Francisco → Monterey

Overnight in Monterey
  1. 09:00
    San Francisco· start
  3. 10:30
    Half Moon Bay
  5. 13:30
    Santa Cruz Boardwalk
  7. 17:00
    Monterey· overnight
Food
  • Sam's Chowder House · Get the lobster roll—it's legendary and the ocean view is a total bonus.
  • Old Fisherman's Grotto · Classic Monterey clam chowder in a bread bowl. Don't overthink it, just eat.
Costs
Gas
$40
Monterey Hotel
$220
DAY02

17-Mile Drive → Elephant Seal Vista

Overnight in Elephant Seal Vista
  1. 09:00
    17-Mile Drive· start
  3. 11:00
    Bixby Creek Bridge
  5. 14:00
    McWay Falls
  7. 16:30
    Elephant Seal Vista· overnight
Food
  • Nepenthe · The 'Ambrosia Burger' with a view that will actually blow your mind.
  • Sebastian's General Store · Perfect spot for a sandwich before hitting Hearst Castle.
Costs
17-Mile Drive Fee
$11
San Simeon Lodge
$180
DAY03

Hearst Castle → Solvang

Overnight in Solvang
  1. 09:00
    Hearst Castle· start
  3. 12:30
    Morro Rock
  5. 14:30
    Bubblegum Alley
  7. 17:00
    Solvang· overnight
Food
  • Firestone Grill · The Tri-Tip sandwich in SLO is a game-changer. Trust me.
  • Solvang Restaurant · You have to try the Aebleskiver (Danish pancake balls).
Costs
Hearst Castle Tour
$30
Solvang Inn
$160
DAY04

Santa Barbara → Santa Monica Pier

Overnight in Santa Monica Pier
  1. 10:30
    Santa Barbara· start
  3. 14:00
    El Matador Beach
  5. 16:00
    Malibu Pier
  7. 18:30
    Santa Monica Pier· overnight
Food
  • La Super-Rica Taqueria · Julia Child's favorite taco spot. The lines are worth it.
  • Neptune's Net · Classic biker/surfer hangout in Malibu for fresh seafood.
Costs
Parking
$25
Santa Monica Hotel
$280
DAY05

Venice Canals → LAX Airport

  1. 09:00
    Venice Canals· start
  3. 12:00
    Griffith Observatory
  5. 15:00
    The Getty
  7. 18:00
    LAX Airport
Food
  • Eggslut · The 'Fairfax' sandwich at Grand Central Market is a must.
  • Guelaguetza · Incredible Oaxacan mole to end your trip on a high note.
Costs
Gas Refill
$45
Misc Snacks
$30
Heads Up
  • Book Hearst Castle early
  • Expect zero cell service in Big Sur
  • Pack layers for northern fog