7 Californian Cities That Will Blow Your Mind: Embark on the ultimate Californian road trip, where stunning landscapes meet vibrant cities. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the sun-soaked beaches of San Diego, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and, let’s be honest, a bit of a hit to your wallet. But trust us, it’s worth every penny. Get ready to explore seven incredible cities that will blow your mind (and your budget)!
Key Takeaways
- San Francisco offers iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
- Santa Barbara is known for its Mediterranean-style architecture and beautiful beaches.
- Los Angeles is the entertainment capital, home to Hollywood and countless attractions.
- San Diego boasts a perfect climate, stunning coastline, and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Monterey is famous for its world-class aquarium and scenic 17-Mile Drive.
San Francisco
San Francisco, or SF as locals call it, is a city that never fails to amaze. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Alcatraz Island, there’s always something to see and do. Make sure to make a reservation before visiting Alcatraz, as it has limited capacity.
Iconic Landmarks
Get some great views at either Twin Peaks or the top of Coit Tower. Don’t miss the Painted Ladies, commonly known as the “Full House” houses. For a taste of local cuisine, try some sourdough bread, fresh pasta in North Beach, and a burrito in the Mission District.
Cultural Vibes
San Francisco has a great vibe with a great many cultures coming together. I personally love poking around Haight and Ashbury or lounging in one of the parks. If you want to catch some nature and coastal views, go for a walk along the Presidio.
Accommodation Suggestions
Blow your budget and stay the night at the Fairmont San Francisco, one of the nicest hotels in town. This gorgeous building mostly survived the 1906 earthquake and captures Victorian glory with modern amenities. Rooms start from $179/night. Browse other San Francisco hotels and vacation rentals.
San Francisco is a city where nearly all of my best friends live now. Every time I go back, I’m reminded who my family away from my family is, and it’s a beautiful feeling.
Santa Barbara
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
Santa Barbara is known for its wide, sandy beaches, making it a great place to soak up the California sunshine. East Beach is a popular spot for beach-lovers, while Stearns Wharf, California’s oldest working pier, offers stunning pelican views. Don’t miss out on taking a surf lesson; it’s a must-do activity here.
Downtown and Architecture
Downtown Santa Barbara features Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, reflecting the city’s Spanish colonial heritage. State Street is bustling with shops and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Historic Landmarks
Old Mission Santa Barbara is a historic church known for its beauty. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Clock Tower observation deck of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Stearns Wharf is another iconic landmark you shouldn’t miss.
Accommodation
Plan an overnight stay to fully experience Santa Barbara’s charm. Consider staying at a small hotel like the Eagle Inn, where rooms start from $115/night. For a romantic stay, try the Inn by the Harbor, located just two blocks from the waterfront.
Tours and Activities
Santa Barbara offers a variety of tours to enhance your visit. Recommended options include the El Paseo Wine and Photo Tour, the Santa Barbara Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure, and the Santa Barbara Funk Zone: Food and Photo Tour.
Santa Barbara, often dubbed the American Riviera, offers a truly relaxed atmosphere with its widespread beaches and vibrant downtown. It’s a must-stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.
Travel Tips
- Fastest Route: 4 hours via US-101 and I-5
- Most Coastal Route: 5 hours, 30 minutes via US-101, CA-1, and I-5
Food and Drink
Satisfy your sweet tooth at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, a local favorite that’s worth the wait. The Santa Barbara Public Market is another great spot to explore for diverse culinary options.
Los Angeles
Hollywood Glamour
Los Angeles is the epitome of Hollywood glamour. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the Walk of Fame, the city is a playground for movie buffs and celebrity spotters. Don’t miss a Warner Brothers Hollywood Studio Tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at your favorite films and TV shows.
Cultural Hotspots
In Downtown LA (DTLA), immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene. Visit the Broad Museum, which is free but usually has a long wait time. Don’t forget to grab an egg sandwich at Eggslut or explore The Last Bookstore. Little Tokyo offers a mix of culture and snacks that you won’t want to miss.
Beach Vibes
For a more relaxed vibe, head to Santa Monica. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, and the pier offers a variety of entertainment options. If you’re a solo traveler, consider staying at the HI Hostel, which is just around the block from the beach.
Traffic Tips
Los Angeles is a mega-city composed of hundreds of smaller towns. It takes hours to drive from one side of the city to another, and the entire time you’ll be sitting in traffic. For that reason, we recommend picking one section of the city to explore and staying within that area.
Ready? Let’s go: START IN LOS ANGELES. Kissing LA’s skyline from Runyon Canyon – a local favorite.
Where to Stay
- The Orlando Hotel: Located in the middle of West Hollywood with lots of great Mexican food nearby.
- HI Hostel: Perfect for solo travelers and just around the block from the beach.
Nearby Attractions
Don’t forget to visit Anaheim for Disneyland, which is just 45 minutes from LA. It’s a must-see for families and Disney fans alike.
San Diego
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is the hip neighborhood of San Diego, often compared to Venice Beach in Los Angeles. It’s a place where you can soak in the unique atmosphere and enjoy the local vibe. San Diego should be on everyone’s bucket list. Don’t miss out on exploring the Sunset Cliffs or Cabrillo National Monument, both of which are excellent spots to watch the sunset.
La Jolla
For a more upscale experience, head to La Jolla. This area is known for its beautiful beaches and high-end dining options. If you’re planning a day here, follow the suggestions given on my first itinerary. La Jolla offers a mix of natural beauty and luxury that is hard to beat.
Dining Options
San Diego has a plethora of dining options to refuel before you continue your road trip. Some quick bites include Board & Brew, Raglan Public House, and OB Noodle House. If you find yourself in Solana Beach, you can visit the Solana Beach Fish House, Pamplemousse Grille, and The Fish Market. The entire town seems to hang out at Pizza Port, which is a great place to sample San Diego’s craft beer scene.
San Diego is a city that offers something for everyone, from its hip neighborhoods to its upscale dining and natural beauty. It’s a must-visit on any ultimate travel guide to San Diego: a local’s perspective.
Monterey
Cannery Row
Monterey was made famous by the local darling, literary giant, and one of my favorite authors, John Steinbeck, in his novel Cannery Row. This historic waterfront district is now a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone traveling through Monterey.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is hands-down the best thing to do in Monterey, and one of the best aquariums in the world. Note: Tickets for the Monterey Aquarium must be purchased in advance online. You cannot purchase tickets in person. Open 10:00am-5:00pm daily.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Located near Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf offers stunning harbor views and a variety of dining and shopping options. It’s the perfect place to soak in the maritime atmosphere.
17-Mile Drive
Between Pebble Beach and Big Sur, be sure to plan lots of time for impromptu photo stops on today’s itinerary! This scenic drive offers breathtaking views and is a highlight of any trip to Monterey.
Monterey is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it an essential stop on your Californian road trip.
Santa Cruz
Quirky Vibes and Unique Attractions
Santa Cruz is weird, y’all – and proud of it. If you’ve ever heard something that sounds really granola and you’ve rolled your eyes and thought “Pssh, California,” you’re probably thinking of Santa Cruz without realizing it. Honestly, though, it’s adorable. The town stretches from the redwoods to the beach and has a lovely mix of both – including a cute little steam train to take you in between!
Must-Visit Spots
Drive a bit further on Highway 1 and you’ll reach Santa Cruz, where I suggest stopping for a few hours. Walk on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, ride the Giant Dipper and/or the Ferris Wheel right on the beach, and stop for a snack or two (churros and funnel cake are my favorites). You can also head to Shark Fin Cove if you’re looking for a unique beach!
Where to Stay
Santa Cruz is super quirky, so it’s no surprise the accommodations are as well. One of our favorite places to stay in Santa Cruz is at this quirky redwood treehouse next door to the Mystery Spot!
Local Delicacies
Also, don’t miss the Mystery Spot, which I won’t give away for obvious reasons, and make sure you try Marianne’s before heading out (the absolute BEST ice cream in the area).
Roadside Attractions
After about 30 minutes, you’ll start to see fruit stands pop up along the highway. The answer to the question on your mind is, “Yes you should stop for a snack.” Continue on for another 20 minutes and you will reach the very quirky and unique city of Santa Cruz.
Big Sur
Bixby Bridge
The winding highway is dotted with areas to pull over to soak in the view and listen to the crash of the surf and the bark of the sea lions. After the Bixby Bridge, don’t miss Point Sur State Historic Park, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls.
Morning Magic
There’s something truly magical about waking up in Big Sur. Maybe it’s the coastal fog, or the smell of salt and redwoods. It could be the quiet stillness of the surrounding forest. Wait, actually it’s the fact that you get to go to Big Sur Bakery! This wonderful bakery and restaurant fills up quickly and sells their baked goods out before noon, so if redwoods and salty air wasn’t enough to get you out of bed early, their almond croissants should.
Whale Watching
Big Sur’s famous spot for whale watching is just north of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. On soft Spring nights I’ll stand in the yard under the stars – Something good will come out of all things yet – And it will be golden and eternal just like that – There’s no need to say another word.
Where to Stay
- A Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy
- Post Ranch Inn (cliff-top hotel with a gorgeous spa)
- Ventana Inn (luxe wilderness resort, with lots of privacy)
- Hyatt Carmel Highlands (overlooking Big Sur)
On soft Spring nights I’ll stand in the yard under the stars – Something good will come out of all things yet – And it will be golden and eternal just like that – There’s no need to say another word.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip through California’s most mesmerizing cities is an adventure that promises both awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable experiences. From the bustling streets of San Francisco to the serene beaches of San Diego, each city offers its own unique charm and attractions. While this journey may stretch your budget, the memories and experiences you’ll gain are truly priceless. Don’t forget to check out our other road trip guides for more inspiration and tips to make your travels even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time explorer, California’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities are sure to leave you spellbound. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an epic adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to take a road trip through California?
The best time to take a road trip through California is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller.
How many days should I plan for a California road trip?
A California road trip can range from a weekend getaway to a two-week adventure. For a comprehensive experience covering the major cities, plan for at least 7-10 days.
Is it better to drive north to south or south to north on the Pacific Coast Highway?
Driving from north to south on the Pacific Coast Highway is generally recommended for better coastal views and easier access to scenic pullouts.
What are some must-have items to pack for a California road trip?
Essential items include sunglasses, a floppy hat, headphones, a camera, a cocktail kit, a maxi skirt, a Kindle, a fun backpack, a mini hair brush, sunscreen, a beach tote, and a backup battery charger.
Are there any toll roads on the California coast?
There are a few toll roads in Southern California, particularly in Orange County. Be sure to carry some cash or a credit card for toll payments.
What are some budget-friendly tips for a California road trip?
To keep costs down, opt for camping or budget accommodations, prepare your own meals, and take advantage of free attractions like beaches, parks, and scenic viewpoints.
Is it safe to drive the Pacific Coast Highway at night?
While it is generally safe, driving the Pacific Coast Highway at night can be challenging due to winding roads and limited visibility. It’s best to drive during daylight hours to fully enjoy the scenery.
Can I take a rental car on a California road trip?
Yes, rental cars are a popular option for California road trips. Be sure to check the rental agreement for any restrictions and ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage.