SF to LA Coastal Cruise
The ultimate California road trip: 6 days of rugged cliffs, sea lions, and sun-drenched piers.
San Francisco → Santa Cruz → Monterey → Big Sur → San Simeon → Solvang → Santa Barbara → Malibu → Los Angeles
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- McWay Falls
- Hearst Castle
- Santa Monica Pier
Day 1 · Fog City to Santa Cruz
Easy cruise down Highway 1 with plenty of ocean air and redwoods.
San Francisco
Grab a coffee and hit the road early to beat the city fog.
Gray Whale Cove
Quick leg stretch at this hidden beach. The cliff views are killer.
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Classic Americana. Ride the Giant Dipper if you're feeling brave.
Day 2 · Monterey Bay Magic
Deep dive into the bay's wildlife and the famous 17-Mile Drive.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The jellyfish exhibit is a total game-changer. Book ahead!
17-Mile Drive
Pure luxury driving. Stop at the Lone Cypress for the iconic shot.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Super cute fairy-tale cottages and no street lights. Pure vibes.
Day 3 · Big Sur Bucket List
This is THE photo day. High cliffs, blue water, and zero cell service.
Bixby Creek Bridge
The most Instagrammed bridge in CA. Pull over early for a spot.
Pfeiffer Beach
Look for the purple sand and the massive Keyhole Arch rock.
McWay Falls
A waterfall that drops right onto the beach. Unreal scenery.
Day 4 · Castles & Colonies
Transitioning from rugged cliffs to rolling hills and elephant seals.
Elephant Seal Vista
Hundreds of massive seals lounging. Smelly but fascinating!
Hearst Castle
Opulence at its peak. The Neptune Pool is a masterpiece.
Morro Bay
Watch the sunset behind the massive volcanic 'Gibraltar of the Pacific'.
Day 5 · Danish Charm & Wine
A weirdly perfect slice of Denmark in the middle of California.
Pismo Beach
Classic pier walk and maybe some famous clam chowder.
Solvang
Windmills, danish pastries, and wine tasting rooms everywhere.
Santa Barbara
The American Riviera. Palm trees and white stucco buildings.
Day 6 · Malibu to LA
Cruising past celebrity mansions and ending at the iconic pier.
El Matador State Beach
The most beautiful beach in Malibu. Sea caves and rock arches.
Malibu Pier
Watch the surfers at First Point. Very chill, very chic.
Santa Monica Pier
The official end of Route 66 and our coastal journey. You made it!
- Check for Highway 1 closures near Big Sur
- Book Hearst Castle and Aquarium in advance
- Pack layers for the coastal fog