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la - big sur 8d

We're starting in the heart of SoCal. This trip is all about the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), winding from the glitz of LA to the rugged cliffs of Big Sur. Expect epic views, hidden coves, and some of the best seafood you've ever had.

8days
23stops
DAY01

Venice Canals → Santa Monica Pier

Overnight in Santa Monica Pier
  1. 14:00
    Venice Canals· start
  3. 17:30
    Santa Monica Pier· overnight
Food
  • Gjelina · Trendy Venice spot. The mushroom toast is a total game-changer.
  • Bay Cities Italian Deli · Grab a 'Godmother' sandwich for a beach picnic. Trust me.
Costs
Santa Monica Hotel
$250
DAY02

El Matador State Beach → Stearns Wharf

Overnight in Stearns Wharf
  1. 10:00
    El Matador State Beach· start
  3. 15:00
    SB County Courthouse
  5. 18:00
    Stearns Wharf· overnight
Food
  • Neptune's Net · Biker hangout with killer fried shrimp and ocean views.
  • Santa Barbara Public Market · Tons of local vendors. The tacos at Corazon are legit.
Costs
Gas
$40
SB Boutique Hotel
$220
DAY03

Solvang Village → Pismo Beach Pier

Overnight in Pismo Beach Pier
  1. 10:00
    Solvang Village· start
  3. 14:30
    Oceano Dunes
  5. 17:30
    Pismo Beach Pier· overnight
Food
  • Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery · Get the butter cookies. You'll thank me later.
  • Splash Café · The clam chowder in a bread bowl is non-negotiable.
Costs
Dune Buggy Rental
$120
Pismo Beach Hotel
$180
DAY04

Morro Rock → Elephant Seal Vista Point

Overnight in Elephant Seal Vista Point
  1. 09:30
    Morro Rock· start
  3. 13:00
    Hearst Castle
  5. 16:00
    Elephant Seal Vista Point· overnight
Food
  • Hidden Kitchen · Blue corn waffles in Cayucos. Best breakfast on the coast.
  • Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill · Oceanfront dining. The seafood pasta is solid.
Costs
Hearst Castle Tour
$30
Cambria Lodge
$200
DAY05

Ragged Point → McWay Falls

Overnight in McWay Falls
  1. 10:00
    Ragged Point· start
  3. 11:30
    Salmon Creek Falls
  5. 14:00
    McWay Falls· overnight
Food
  • Ragged Point Inn · Grab a burger and eat it on the cliff's edge.
  • Nepenthe · The view is the main course. Get the Ambrosia burger.
Costs
Gas (Expensive here!)
$70
Big Sur Camping/Inn
$280
DAY06

Pfeiffer Beach → Point Lobos

Overnight in Point Lobos
  1. 10:00
    Pfeiffer Beach· start
  3. 14:00
    Bixby Creek Bridge
  5. 16:30
    Point Lobos· overnight
Food
  • Big Sur Bakery · Rustic vibes and incredible wood-fired pizzas.
  • Coast Big Sur · Soft serve and local art in a converted water tank.
Costs
Park Entry Fees
$20
Carmel Hotel
$300
DAY07

Monterey Bay Aquarium → Carmel-by-the-Sea

Overnight in Carmel-by-the-Sea
  1. 10:00
    Monterey Bay Aquarium· start
  3. 14:30
    17-Mile Drive
  5. 17:30
    Carmel-by-the-Sea· overnight
Food
  • Old Fisherman's Grotto · Classic Monterey. The clam chowder samples are a trap—you'll want a bowl.
  • Stationæry · Hidden Carmel spot for a killer brunch.
Costs
Aquarium Tickets
$60
17-Mile Drive Toll
$12
DAY08

Santa Cruz Boardwalk → Golden Gate Bridge

  1. 10:00
    Santa Cruz Boardwalk· start
  3. 13:00
    Shark Fin Cove
  5. 17:00
    Golden Gate Bridge
Food
  • The Picnic Basket · Local Santa Cruz ingredients. Great for a quick bite.
  • Sotto Mare · Best Cioppino in SF. Perfect end to a coastal trip.
Costs
Gas
$50
SF Hotel
$250