northern california coast trip

The Perfect 5 to 7-Day Northern California Coast Road Trip

Published on September 26, 2023

by Audrey Webster

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Most visitors to California’s coastline head for the southern half of the state. Yet, if you set out for a northern California coast road trip, you’re met with rugged coastlines, historic lighthouses, and tasty food—as well as some stops that are a little more off the beaten path.

You could spend weeks exploring all the ins and outs of this pristine coastline, but 5 to 7 days in northern California is usually plenty for a first trip to the area. 

This article takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about driving the northern California coast. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern California?

The sweet spot is 5 to 7 days in northern California. With this amount of time, you can cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed or switching accommodations every night.

With 5 days in northern California, you’ll have plenty of time to drive from the Bay Area to Redwoods National and State Parks. You could opt to turn around sooner and spend more time at each stop. You’ll have time to spend a day or so exploring the towns, overlooks, and beaches you visit without feeling terribly rushed. 

Should you have 7 days in the northern part of California, you have two options for how to spend your trip. First, you can go beyond Redwoods National and State Parks to explore the coastline closest to the California-Oregon border.

Our itinerary below offers a few suggestions for places to stop for the extra two nights. Your second option is to simply spend more time at each stop between SF and the Redwoods. 

No matter how much time you spend in northern California, set aside time to check out the highlights as well as wander off the beaten path. Here is where you’ll find the hidden gems!

Getting To & Around Northern California

You’ll want a car for a northern California road trip—there’s really no way to make the trip without your own vehicle.

If you’re flying in from out of state, you can rent a car from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and return it to the same place when your trip concludes.

There are no places to rent cars along the drive outside of SF, nor are there any options for guided tours to get you between cities. Renting a car or having your own is absolutely needed. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices or alternatively have a look at Outdoorsy if you prefer to rent an RV or campervan.

For most of the drive, you’re heading along Highway 101 or Highway 1 – also known as the Pacific Coast Highway or the PCH. This highway is well-known for its stunning views and curvy roads though it most popular when driving between LA and San Francisco . It’s important that you drive slowly.

If you’re easily carsick, have some remedies on hand to help ease it. While the road is curvy and narrow in places, you get incredible views of the coastline as you drive, so you’ll want to take your time. Stop anywhere there’s a safe pullout or parking lot to pause and admire the view. 

5 to 7 Day Northern California Coast Itinerary

Our itinerary starts in San Francisco. If you’re flying into the state, you’ll most likely begin here. However, if you’re driving in, feel free to mix and match the itinerary stops in the way that makes the most sense for you. Plan for one long travel day at the end to return to San Francisco. 

Day 1 – San Francisco

Plan to spend a day exploring San Francisco upon arrival. If you’ve flown in from a different time zone, spend some time readjusting to Pacific time and resting before kicking off your northern California coastal road trip. 

If you’ve never visited the Bay Area before, now is a great time to check out the city. Walk along the Golden Gate Bridge, stroll through Golden Gate Park, visit Chinatown, or ride the famous cable cars. With enough time, you can even visit Alcatraz Island and wander Pier 39. 

You could easily spend several days getting to know San Francisco, but for this itinerary, budget one or two days, depending on how much total time you have. Tonight, you can either spend another night in the city or head out to the coast in the evening. The drive from SF to Point Reyes Station is just shy of two hours. 

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Orchard Hotel – Located in downtown San Francisco, this cute boutique hotel is a great base in the city. They have a great location within walking distance of all of San Francisco’s top attractions and there is also breakfast available in the mornings.  Click here to check availability

Axiom Hotel – Those after a luxury option to kick start their Northern California road trip will love this hip hotel right off Union Square. They have an array of lovely rooms to choose from and plenty of amenities available to guests. Click here to check availability

Green Tortoise Hostel – Budget and solo travellers looking to save a bit of cash or meet some other people will love this centrally located hostel. They have a number of dorms and privates along with good common areas and free breakfast. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in San Francisco!

Day 2 – Point Reyes Station

Point Reyes is the jump-off point to visit Point Reyes National Seashore and Tomales Bay State Park.

This charming small town is home to some lovely boutique hotels and rentals where you can decompress after enjoying a day on the coastline. Oysters are a must-try here, and there are several places where you can taste local seafood. 

In terms of how you spend your time in Point Reyes, the short answer is to head out to the seashore! Visit Point Reyes Lighthouse, hike to Chimney Rock, and relax on Drakes Beach. One of the most picturesque spots is the Cypress Tree Tunnel. You can also seek out the elephant seals, visit local creameries, rent kayaks if the weather is on your side, and shop at local stores in town. 

Tonight you can stay again in Point Reyes or head to Timber Cove in the evening. The drive is about an hour and a half. 

Where to Stay Near Timber Cove

Jenner Inn – This quaint inn in the town of Jenner makes for an excellent base for this part of your Northern California road trip itinerary. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from and plenty of good amenities for guests to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Timber Cove Resort – Located in a dramatic cliffside setting, this is a great choice for those after a luxury option while visiting Northern California. They have a range of gorgeous rooms on offer along with countless plush amenities on offer to guests. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – A private vacation rental is another great option on your road trip. There are countless properties – like this dramatic oceanfront house – available to choose from across a variety of booking platforms. Click here to browse more Timber Cove private rentals!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Timber Cove hotels!

Day 3 – Salt Point State Park & Timber Cove

Day three brings you to Timber Cove and Salt Point State Park. Located in Sonoma County (the wine regions of Napa and Sonoma are located just inland!), the state park covers over six miles of rugged coastline.

There are over 20 miles of hiking trails, but the area is well known for its diving. However, if you’d rather stick to dry land, Salt Point Trail, North Trail Loop, and Pygmy Forest Trail are all great options for easy-to-moderate hikes. 

Tonight, head into Timber Cove. This quaint and secluded town is perfect for a quiet evening. There are several accommodations—all with incredible views of the rocky coastline. This area is known for its craggy sharp cliffs that drop down into pockets of sandy beaches.

Pay a visit to Goat Rock Beach, Fort Ross, and Gualala’s Sand Dunes. If you’re a wine lover, there are five coastal AVAs here for you to explore. Spend tonight in Timber Cover before heading to Mendocino early in the morning. 

Day 4 – Mendocino

The drive from Timber Cove to Mendocino is just under two hours. It’s one of the longer stretches of coastline you’ll drive on this northern California road trip.

The town of Mendocino is charming, so set aside some time to walk around. There are plenty of delicious seafood restaurants and local bakeries to explore. 

Mendocino is unique in that you have access to coastal landscapes and lush forested state parks. Russian Gulch State Park features the historic Russian Gulch Bridge and moderately difficult trails like the Falls Loop Trail that takes you to a 36-foot waterfall.

Along the coast, Big River Beach, Mendocino Bay, and Jug Handle State Natural Reserve are all worth a visit. At Jug Handle, hike the Ecological Staircase Trail takes you along the cliff, through a redwood forest, and to the pygmy forest filled with stunted and ancient trees. 

Where to Stay in Mendocino

Headlands Inn Bed and Breakfast – This cosy bed and breakfast is a great, mid-range option in Mendocino. They have a number of cute and quaint rooms to choose from and makes for an excellent base for this part your your road trip in Northern California. Click here to check availability

Agate Cove Inn – Boasting incredible coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, this inn is a great base in Mendocino for those looking for a bit of an upscale stay. They have a number of bright and comfortable rooms to choose from, free parking and an excellent breakfast. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – There are also plenty of private vacation rentals – like this cute cottage in Mendocino village – to choose from in this area along the Pacific coast if that suits your travel style more. Click here to browse Mendocino private rentals!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Mendocino hotels!

Day 5 – Humboldt Redwoods State Park

No visit to northern California is complete without hiking amongst the impressive redwoods. There are pockets of protected national and state redwood parks throughout northern California.

If you only have a 5-day itinerary, make a stop at Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Here, you can drive the Avenue of the Giants.

The 31-mile route should be at the top of your to-do list if your time in the park is limited. Founders Grove, Rockefeller Forest, and the Lost Coast Drive are all great ways to spend your time. 

Now, if day five is the last day of your trip, here is where you’ll turn around and head back down to San Francisco. In total, the drive back to the city is 5 to 6 hours. 

Day 6 – Trinidad

If you have 7 days to devote to exploring northern California’s coast, continue driving until you reach Trinidad.

This tiny coastal town features some of the best beaches along the route and several that are reminiscent of the Oregon coast.

Trinidad State Beach and College Cover are two iconic stops. Sue-Meg State Park with its rim trail and Wedding Rock climbs are well worth the visit.

For your overnight accommodation, there are several cabins or vacation rental homes that provide a comfortable stay. 

Where to Stay in Trinidad

View Crest Lodge – This lodge located close to Agate Beach is an excellent place to stay in Trinidad. They have a number of rustic rooms and cottages to choose from along with free parking and a good breakfast available each morning. Click here to check availability

Trinidad Bay Bed and Breakfast Hotel – This is another great option right on the coast in Trinidad. They have a number of quint rooms on offer to guests, an excellent breakfast and a perfect location directly on the beautiful beach. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – If you’re looking for your own space in the Trinidad area, there are plenty of properties to choose from – like this romantic cottage near the beach . There is something to suit everyone across a range of platforms. Click here to browse Trinidad private rentals

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Trinidad hotels!

Day 7 – Redwoods National & State Parks

First thing first—there are actually four redwood parks throughout the state of California. They include Redwood National Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

All the parks are clustered in northern California, so you can visit all four parks if time allows. Within the parks, you’ll find some of the world’s most pristine old-growth redwood forests. 

During your visit to Redwood National Park , make a stop at the Kuchel Visitor Center to learn about the park and get the latest updates about its trails.

Ladybird Johnson Trail, Redwood Creek Overlook, and Tall Trees Grove Trail are the three most popular routes. Within the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, head over to the wildly famous fern canyon for a truly unique hike. 

Each park has its own unique trails, scenery, and hikes. If you’re pressed for time, pick just a couple to visit. The national park tends to see bigger crowds, so if you want to get away from other visitors, head for one of the lesser-trafficked state parks.

Have More Time?

If you have a little more time on your California north coast road trip, stop at Anderson Valley. It sits between Highway 101 and the coast. It’s a beautiful stretch of land filled with giant oak trees and sprawling vineyards.

There are two towns: Philo and Boonville. Anderson Valley is a wine lovers’ paradise. It’s one of the lesser-known wine regions in California, which makes it great if you want to enjoy the state’s iconic wine without fighting the crowds you’ll find in Napa or Sonoma . Hendy Woods State Park is full of great hiking trails. You could easily spend a day or two exploring this area. 

It’s also worth your time to linger in San Francisco at the start or end of your trip. There is so much to do in this city that you could spend an entire week here and never run out of ways to fill your time. Relax in Dolores Park, visit the Painted Ladies, take iconic photos at Lombard Street, or visit any of the city’s amazing art museums. 

Should you have more than two weeks in your itinerary, head inland to visit places like Lassen National Park, Yosemite National Lake, and Lake Tahoe . The area around Mount Shasta is also amazing for camping, hiking, and overlooks. 

Finally, if you have more than 7 days to dedicate to the northern California coast, we recommend spending even more time in each destination. Ideally, a minimum of two days allows ample time to admire the location and relax. The redwood forests in particular warrant an entire trip on their own. You’ll be able to catch the highlights on this road trip. 

Of course, you could continue north from your final destination in California and venture along the Oregon Coast and terminate in lively and eccentric Portland. Otherwise, you could even go for an entire San Francisco to Seattle road trip and see a good part of the coastal Pacific Northwest !

The northern California coastline is full of stunning landscapes and hidden gems. There’s so much to do and see that the trick is narrowing down exactly how to spend your time. No matter how long you visit or where you stop, your itinerary will be jam-packed with unforgettable sights. 

Are you visiting northern California? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Day Trip to Monterey from San Francisco

8 Best Stops on a Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip

20 Best Stops on a San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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How To Plan an Unforgettable Northern California Road Trip

We have been lucky to call Northern California home for over a decade at this point (update for 2024: we now live in Oregon, but still make the journey down to Northern California to visit family regularly!). At the time of writing, Alysha had spent her whole life here, minus four years in college, and Matt was a relative newcomer with just under 10 years.

There is such an incredible amount of things to do, see, and explore in Northern California that we’re STILL discovering new places despite having been all over the northern half of the state over the time we’ve lived here together.

Northern California is a very special place for us. We met in San Francisco in 2014, and lived there for almost a decade together, including three years living together and getting married. Over the course of that time, we took as many weekend trips as we could to explore the wealth of natural beauty that Northern California has to offer. 

Since we moved out of San Francisco, we’ve actually found ourselves doing more exploring on the Northern California coast, since we do an annual San Francisco to Seattle road trip to visit Matt’s family and often take the coastal route up through California. 

That stretch of coast between Point Reyes and the Oregon border is now at the top of the list of our favorite places in California because it has it all. Spectacular coastal beauty, wide sandy beaches, and towering coastal redwoods steps away from said beaches.

And we love it, which is why it’s featured so prominently in this Northern California itinerary. 

In this guide, we’re going to give you all of our local knowledge – and we do mean all of it, this is a long one! – in an effort to help you plan an amazing Northern California road trip.

We have opinions. Lots of them! And you’ll find them all below. From the best hikes, to which redwood groves to explore, and some cool places to stay, you’ll find it all in the guide below. 

Grab a coffee (and maybe some Bailey’s?) and let’s get planning!

P.S. We even have a longer road trip recommendation that takes you over to Lassen National Park and Lake Tahoe if you have some extra time on your hands – but we’d recommend having at least three weeks to do all of that.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need For This Road Trip?

We think you need a minimum of 7 days to do the entire stretch of coast from San Francisco to the redwoods near the Oregon border. 10 days would be even better. 

With 3-5 days, we’d recommend staying in and around San Francisco and exploring the city doing a couple of day trips from San Francisco to places like Point Reyes, the Marin Headlands, and Muir Woods. 

At the bottom of this guide, we have itinerary examples for 7 and 10 days to give you a starting point for planning your own trip. 

The Road Trip Route

Let’s talk about the route we’re recommending.

We’d strongly recommend that you stay relatively close to the coast , and we think the most unique part of Northern California is the stretch from San Francisco north to the Oregon border. 

You’ll experience towering coastal redwoods, never-ending sandy beaches, wine country, and more. It’s our favorite part of Northern California, and the best part is that it’s basically accessible year round. 

There are more than a few places in Northern California that are inland that are worth a visit, sure, but it’s a LONG way from the coast to areas like Lassen, Yosemite, or Lake Tahoe. 

With anything less than 14 days, we’d focus on the stretch between San Francisco and Redwood National and State Parks (basically the Oregon border) . It’s going to take you 4-6 hours to drive from the coast to Yosemite or Tahoe, and it’s not worth the time and effort unless you have three weeks or more. 

If you’re lucky enough to have three weeks, we’d add on a weeklong trip to Tahoe and Yosemite, but that’s almost a completely different Northern California trip than the one we’re talking about here. We have details on how to add those two spots at the very end of this guide.

We’d start by heading north up the coast along Highway 1, stopping along the way at places near San Francisco like the Marin Headlands, Mount Tamalpais, and Muir Woods. 

Continue north along Highway 1 allllll the way to the Oregon border, where you’ll find some of the best redwoods in the state, and then make your way back south to Mendocino. 

From there, end your trip with some well-earned wine country relaxation. Cut inland from Mendocino through the Anderson Valley – our favorite wine country in California, sorry Napa – and hop on 101 to Healdsburg, which is a super charming little town in Sonoma for even more wine. 

Drop off the car (if you’re renting one) and end with a day or two in San Francisco before heading home. 

Here’s what that route looks like in map form .

As you can see, that’s 16 hours of driving (and with stops, it’s going to be longer). 

For that reason, if you only have 5-10 days, we’d focus on the stretch from SF to Mendocino , and save the northern redwoods for later, which cuts out about 8-9 of those hours. There are plenty of redwoods to be explored in and around Mendocino, don’t worry!

Do You Need a Car for This Road Trip?

Yes. 100% yes. There is really no way to do this road trip without a car. Public transportation is basically nonexistent. 

However, we do have an important consideration for you to think about. 

Parking a car in San Francisco is a nightmare . We like to say that you’re going to be paying for parking one way or another, whether it’s through a garage or parking tickets for the various restrictions and street sweeping around the city. 

If you’re renting a car, we’d strongly, strongly recommend that you either pick it up after staying in San Francisco, or drop it off before your time in the city.

If you can’t do that, our next recommendation is to park it in a garage and leave it there. You won’t need it when you’re in the city, and it will often end up being more of a hindrance than a help. Use public transportation or rideshares like Lyft to get around within the city. 

Trust us – we lived there for nearly ten years and both of us decided to get rid of our cars because parking was such a nightmare. 

11 Amazing Stops for Your Northern California Road Trip Itinerary

Now, let’s get into our top recommendations for stops to make on your trip. 

One thing we do want to make super duper clear is that there are absolutely stops in between the ones in this guide that you’re going to love. Think of this as our top picks, and be sure to leave time to discover a favorite or two that we don’t have listed here!

A great example is the stretch along Highway 1 between Bodega Bay and Mendocino. Along the way, you’ll pass Jenner, Timber Cove, Gulala, and more. And they’re all amazing! But if we included literally ever stop, this guide would be five times as long. 

Some places – like the Marin Headlands – are best as stops on your way to your next overnight stay. For those, you’ll find a section with background on the place and our favorite things to do and see nearby. 

Some places – like Mendocino – are worth an overnight (or two), and for those you’ll find a deeper dive into things to do and see and a section on places to stay. 

You’ll find some information on San Francisco – like what to do and where to stay – as the last stop on this itinerary, mostly because we prefer the relaxing city time to be at the end of a road trip, rather than the beginning. 

Important Note: These stops are roughly in the order you’d encounter them on a 7-10 day road trip that loops from San Francisco to Trinidad and back again. You might need to rearrange them depending on what your particular trip will look like.

The Marin Headlands

Drive time from San Francisco International Airport: 40 minutes / 22 miles

The Marin Headlands are the area just across the Golden Gate Bridge, known for rolling hills and coastal bluffs which result in fantastic views of the bridge and the ocean.

It’s worth a half day or so spent exploring (though there’s plenty to do and see to occupy an entire day trip from San Francisco ) before heading north along the coast to kick off your road trip in earnest. 

Here are a few of our favorite stops. 

Battery Spencer and Battery Wagner : Possibly the two best views of the Golden Gate Bridge in the headlands (though the top of Hawk Hill is a close second), they’re close enough for you to walk between them. Be prepared for a parking nightmare though. 

Kirby Cove : From Battery Wagner, walk down the trail to Kirby Cove , which is another excellent view of the bridge, this time from the water-level. There’s also a great campground down here that is EXTREMELY competitive (like, books up six months in advance competitive – the kind you find at nearly every California campground these days), but is worth looking into. 

Point Bonita Lighthouse : The southwestern-most point in the headlands is Point Bonita, where you’ll find a cool lighthouse that you have to cross a narrow hanging suspension bridge to access. The hike from the parking lot to the lighthouse is about a mile round trip, and is mostly flat.  

The Coastal Trail / Miwok Loop : If you’re in the mood for a great, longer hike, head to Rodeo Beach (which is worth a stop in its own right) and do this hike up to the top of the bluffs overlooking the ocean, then down around the backside with a stop at an old radio (?) tower with great views. For a shorter version that just focuses on the coastal views, this shorter trail would be a good alternative. 

What about Muir Woods? As we were putting this guide together, we decided that we don’t think Muir Woods is worth a stop for a couple of reasons. One, the permitting system (you need an advance reservation these days) makes things more complicated and time consuming. Two, it’s the busiest redwood grove in California, so you’re not going to get the serenity and tranquility we associate with the redwoods. Last, you’re going to multiple MUCH COOLER redwood groves further north on the coast. So, with all that in mind, we’d skip it here. It’s a great, easily accessible option for people not going up further north on the coast, but if you’re following this road trip, that’s not you!

Mount Tamalpais

Drive time from the Marin Headlands: 30 minutes / 18 miles

Looking for a stop on the way to Point Reyes from San Francisco? We recommend a stop in Mt. Tamalpais State Park! Grab some coffee and take a quick hike to stretch your legs before continuing on your drive.

We love to stop at Equator Coffee for a quick coffee before a morning hike. There are actually a couple of locations near Mt. Tamalpais – one along Highway 1, and one in the heart of Mill Valley – we love the surf shack along Highway 1, and it’s a beautiful drive from there up to Mt. Tam. 

We wouldn’t stay overnight here, but it’s a good stop on your way out of the city up the coast, and there are two hikes here worth doing. 

• Hike to the East Peak : There are two ways to do this hike. The short version is a quick 0.6 mile hike from the parking lot that’s perfect for getting out of the car, getting some fresh air, and stretching your legs for a few minutes. You’ll be rewarded with gorgeous city and bay views! The second way to do it is to park at the Mountain Home Inn along the Panoramic Highway and hike up to the East Peak from there, which is more like a four mile hike.
• Cataract Falls : The Cataract Falls Trail is a more moderate hike that is about 3.3 miles long. Because of the beautiful waterfall at the end, it can get a bit busy, so be ready for crowds during peak times or on weekends.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Drive time from Mt. Tamalpais to the Lighthouse: 1 hour 15 minutes / 39 miles

About 30 miles north of San Francisco, Point Reyes is a gorgeous cape that brings together forested ridges and rolling hills. It’s a natural sanctuary with miles of gorgeous drives and hikes to be explored.

Things to Do at Point Reyes

Hikes in Point Reyes : Here are three hikes in Point Reyes to tackle while you’re in the area. If you’re looking for incredible coastal views, do the hike out to Tomales Point (it’s out and back, so you can just stop and turn around when you’re ready to head back). 

• Alamere Falls (13 miles): Deep in the Phillip Burton Wilderness, you’ll find a stunning 40-ft tall waterfall that spills right on the beach before flowing into the Pacific Ocean.
• Tomales Point (9.7 miles): For a chance to see Tule Elk and sweeping coastal views.
• Summit of Mt. Wittenberg (4.1 miles): Moderate hike with a decent elevation gain (1,299 ft.) and plenty of shade.

Cheese at Cowgirl Creamery : We’ve managed to go this far without mentioning cheese, but it’s time! If you’re a fan of artisan organic cheese do not miss Cowgirl Creamery . When you stop in, you’ll find more types of cheese than you knew existed, and each one is more delicious than the next. Try their Mt. Tam – it’s a fan favorite for a reason. Locals and tourists alike love it.

Try Some Mead at Heidrun Meadery : Don’t know much about mead? It’s wine made from honey instead of grapes. Delicious, right? Heidrun Meadery is a former dairy farm that has been turned into a bee forage oasis with beautiful pastures, gardens, and a greenhouse. Heidrun Meadery produces unique Champagne-style mead that is light, dry, delicate, and refreshing.

Bovine Bakery : Bovine Bakery is a perfect post-hike stop to, you know, refuel. Or something. Make a stop in here to try the pastries – like their bear claws. They are Alysha’s favorite and we think they’ll be yours too (NOT GLUTEN FREE!).

Shuck Your Own Oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co : Looking for a unique experience? At Hog Island Oyster Co. , you can purchase oysters to shuck yourself! Even better, bring some wine (or mead!) and make a picnic of it.

Explore Limantour and Drakes Beaches : Point Reyes has multiple nice sandy beaches for you to explore – plan for fog by wearing some warm layers and you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of this coastline. Limantour Beach is a narrow beach where you can view wildlife while walking along the sand. Harbor seals often hang out just offshore and shorebirds feed along the beaches in the fall. Drakes Beach is located up against white sandstone cliffs and has a Visitors Center and a bookstore on site.

Cypress Tree Tunnel : The Cypress Tree Tunnel features Monterey cypress trees that were planted in 1930 and now create a tunnel that you can drive through. It’s a quick stop to take a few pictures on the way to or from another activity.

Visit the Lighthouse : Built in 1870, the Point Reyes Lighthouse was used to warn mariners of the Point Reyes cape as they navigated the waters at night. It’s been retired since 1975 but is a scenic destination for visitors. It can get windy and chilly out by the lighthouse, so make sure you bring extra layers.

Learn More: What to Do in Point Reyes

Where to Stay in Point Reyes

Our top choice here is going to be the Olema Inn (though a nice vacation rental in the woods would be amazing too, like this rustic gem in the woods ). 

We have a whole guide to help you find a perfect place to stay in Point Reyes – which is just a half hour away from where Alysha grew up. 

Mendocino & Fort Bragg

Drive time from Point Reyes Station: 2 hours 50 minutes / 136 miles

Mendocino, on the Northern California coast, is peak California coastal beauty. Highway 1 passes right through the center of town, and on one side of the highway you’ll find the towering redwood groves of Russian Gulch State Park, and on the other, a series of coastal bluffs with impressive coastal vistas. 

In other words, it’s magical. 

The towns of Mendocino and Fort Bragg themselves are also fun. 

Mendocino is at least 72% bed and breakfasts, but there are some nice places to eat and drink in town, a bunch of fun shops from plants to local art and home goods, and there’s a beautiful headlands trail that leaves right from the edge of town. 

Fort Bragg is significantly less charming, but don’t let that fact dampen your resolve to visit. It has plenty to offer in its own right, and is arguably more fun than Mendocino thanks to breweries and coffee shops and a much more down-to-earth vibe. 

What to Do In and Around Mendocino and Fort Bragg

There’s a diverse range of things to do and see in Mendocino, from wine tasting to coastal hiking, so you’ll need to carefully pick and choose from the list below depending on your interests. 

Russian Gulch State Park : There are essentially two halves of this state park – the coastal half, where you’ll find an excellent trail that takes you around the point out on the headlands, and the redwood section, which is on the other side of the highway. We like the short four mile hike to the waterfall, where you’ll find an impressive 36-foot waterfall. This hike descends steeply down into a canyon with many varieties of ferns surrounding the trail and towering redwoods overhead. There’s also a nice beach – Russian Gulch Beach – right under the bridge that is worth a stop. If you’re looking for a longer hike, the Fern Canyon Trail takes you on a loop through the redwoods, to the aforementioned waterfall, and back along a different fern-laden trail. 

Point Cabrillo : You’ll have to walk about a half mile or so to get to the lighthouse with a red roof that watches over this stretch of coast, but it’s worth it. There’s a funny series of informational signs along the way that were pretty clearly made to keep kids busy and interested along the walk. The lighthouse itself was built in 1909, and today it’s automatic, which means that you can actually stay in the keepers quarters , which is a fun twist. There’s a gift shop on the ground floor of the lighthouse where you can find things like postcards and souvenirs. In the spring and fall, this is a great place to spot gray whales from the shore (in the summer, the coastal fog makes it a little bit tricky on most days). 

Ten Mile Beach : It’s not just another Northern California beach! Ten Mile Beach is a rugged wildlife preserve that is home to over 90 species of birds, seals, and river otters. It’s 10-15 minutes north of Fort Bragg, but it’s worth the journey. 

Walk the Mendocino Headlands : Mendocino Headlands State Park is a 7,400-acre wildlife corridor of unreal seaside bluffs, ocean views, and beaches. Big River Beach is a popular spot for picnicking and surfing, but there are also many trails to walk and explore. Here’s the main one , which we’ve done and enjoyed. 

North Coast Brewing Co : Beer lovers, we haven’t forgotten about you! North Coast Brewing Co serves barrel-aged beer, a menu of delicious food with huge portions, and even has live Jazz during peak times. 

Breakfast at the Good Life Cafe : Looking for a place to stop in for breakfast? Good Life Cafe serves fair-trade coffee, juice, and organic bites to eat with plenty of gluten free and vegetarian options. You can enjoy your breakfast on the outdoor patio or take it to go for a morning picnic on the beach.

Glass Beach : While you’re in Fort Bragg, make sure you check out Glass Beach , a beach covered in beautiful sea glass. Keep in mind it’s illegal to take any sea glass home with you, but it’s still worth a visit to this unique beach that was actually created due to years of dumping garbage near the coastline.

Where to Stay in Mendocino

The first thing to know here is that staying in Mendocino is expensive. Like, really expensive. 

Which leads me to the second thing you should know. Staying south of Mendocino along the coast near the town of Little River is both equally beautiful and usually cheaper. 

Here are some good options both in and around Mendocino and down near Little River. 

If you’re looking to stay right in the middle of Mendocino , we’d opt for the Blue Door Inns , a modern hotel (most of the B&Bs in Mendocino are going for the “lived-in, old timey” charm, and this place is decidedly more modern) with 19 rooms spread across three properties in Mendocino.

Included in your stay are breakfast delivered to your room and an afternoon wine and cheese picnic. Of the three properties, we’re most drawn to the JD House and the Packard House, which feel a little more casual and laid back. 

If you’re okay with staying just outside of town , we’ve got two great options for you. 

First is Mendocino Grove , which is glamping at its finest (and has been on our list for years, but we’re always passing through in the winter on our annual Seattle to San Francisco road trip , which means they’re closed for the season).

They have a bunch of platform tents (most sleep 2, some sleep 4-6) clustered in “neighborhoods” with outdoor common spaces to share between them.

Some tents are dog-friendly, and all come with their own fire pit for roasting marshmallows. In common areas, you’ll find things like bocce ball and hammocks for the down time when you’re not out exploring. 

There’s a bathhouse too for hot showers, in case you like the idea of camping, but not the part where you’re greasy. 

As two people who spent most of 2020 and 2021 on a never ending road trip around the Western US, we came to appreciate shower availability as a key amenity after several two week periods with no showers. 

Second is the Brewery Gulch Inn , which is just south of town perched atop a bluff with great coastal views.

It’s a little different than most places, with more communal spaces like a dining room and living room (with a sweet four-sided fireplace!) with ten rooms built around those areas. Rooms are spacious and comfy, with seating areas and fireplaces. It’s expensive (like, really expensive), but it’s a cool take on a coastal inn. 

If you’re on a budget, consider staying further south around the town of Little River . 

We’ve stayed in the area, and it’s a perfect blend of close to Mendocino, but dead silent at night (unless you count the roosters in the morning).

Our two picks here are the Seafoam Lodge , which was recently renovated and has both hotel-style rooms and standalone bungalows waiting for you, and the Andiron Seaside Inn and Cabins , which is a similar idea, but make it on a farm. 

Another good option in Little River would be a vacation rental , though some will have a two night minimum which could be problematic for shorter road trips. 

• For couples , we like this rustic forest suite with its lovely deck overlooking the forest, and this cool tower that has everything two people will need for a quick stay . 
• For families and groups , look at this two bedroom house with a fantastic view from the Adirondack chairs on the deck. 

Drive time from Mendocino: 3 hours / 145 miles

On your way up to Trinidad, which we think should be your next overnight stop, you will pass through the town of Eureka, which is peak Humboldt County in our minds. 

This is your last chance for most amenities – there’s a Costco (and a Costco Gas, which is the cheapest gas in town), a Safeway, and other things of that nature. 

Plus, when you’re in Eureka, there are a few places that you definitely shouldn’t miss. 

Humboldt Cider Company : Excellent – and we really, really mean that – hard cider. We’d argue it’s some of the best in California. We make sure to stop here every time we drive through the area. They have a taproom in downtown Eureka, which we stopped at on our last trip and has an incredible selection of their ciders on tap (along with some local beers that are hard to find elsewhere), and a cider garden up the hill outside of town, which is weekends only at the time of writing and has a great outdoor space. 

Lost Coast Brewing : For the beer lovers, this is a famous California brewery up on the northern coast. They do brewery tours (see their website for details, which are ever changing at this point in time). 

Dick Taylor Craft Chocolate : A discovery on our latest foray into Eureka, this place is magical. It’s an oasis for chocolate lovers, with a great selection of different chocolates from around the world alongside their own chocolate, which you can watch being made through the window to the production facility right there in the tasting room. They also have hot chocolate and sipping chocolate at the bar, though the chocolate chai was the clear winner for us (the sipping chocolate was great too, but that chocolate chai…YUM). Plus, free samples! 

Incredible Murals : Eureka is known as a haven for artists, and when you walk around town that fact becomes pretty apparent. There’s a great collection of street art in Eureka, mostly on the sides of buildings, and if you’re up for a little walk to stretch your legs, we’d recommend this self-guided tour of Eureka’s murals . 

Drive time from Eureka: 25 minutes / 20 miles

Although Trinidad is a tiny little seaside town about 25 minutes from Eureka, there is plenty to do, including some of the best beaches on the Northern California coast.

We think it’s a better home base for the Northern California coast than Eureka, too, because it’s about 30 minutes closer to the parks that make up the complex that is Redwood National and State Parks.

Here are some of our recommendations:

Trinidad State Beach : A good stop to combine with the above trail, this is walkable from that same trailhead and is a nice sandy beach with Oregon Coast vibes thanks to the many towering sea stacks jutting out of the ocean just off the coast. Pewetole Island is the biggest and most impressive.

College Cove : This is a secluded stretch of beach just north of Trinidad State Beach with views of tree-covered Pewetole Island. You have to do a quick and easy little hike to get there, which dramatically cuts the crowds when compared with other nearby beaches. Dog friendly.

Sue-Meg State Park (Formerly Patrick’s Point State Park) : This is a very small park (1 square mile) with tidepools and plenty of beautiful plant life with a chance to see seals, sea lions, and whales. It’s definitely worth hiking the rim trail , which takes you around the exterior of the head where you’ll find several stunning views. Don’t miss the climb to the top of Wedding Rock , which was probably our favorite view in the park.

Moonstone Beach County Park : This is a popular spot for surfers and families because kids can safely play in the slow river current. 

Trinidad Head Trail : This is an easy 1.7 mile loop trail with breathtaking views of the coast from its many spurs that take you out to points where you’re overlooking the ocean and Trinidad State Beach. 

Where to Stay in Trinidad

We stayed at the View Crest Lodge in Trinidad, which is close to the redwoods and the beach and has cute cozy cabins for rent (we loved it, by the way).

Rooms are spacious, some have full kitchens, which we appreciate because we’re usually cooking for ourselves, and our room had a deck with an ocean view.

Plus, we could hear the barking sea lions from our bed!

We also looked at the Emerald Forest Cabins , which are just north of the city of Trinidad and were our second choice. 

Prefer a vacation rental , so you have more space?

• Couples should look at this gorgeous house on a bluff with spectacular ocean views from the living room.
• Families and Groups have a few great options – this beautiful cottage with ocean views looks amazing, as does this dog-friendly top floor flat . 

Click here to see all of your vacation rental options in Trinidad.

Redwood National & State Parks

Drive time from Trinidad to Crescent City (northernmost point): 1 hour 20 minutes / 60 miles

This part of the California coast is pretty special. On our last trip, where we were coming from a road trip on the Oregon Coast back to San Francisco, we were driving along a stretch of 101 just south of the Oregon border, winding our way through the towering trees.

We came around a bend at the bottom of a long hill and BOOM. There was the ocean. 

In this less-visited (mostly because it’s kind of hard to get to) part of Northern California, you’ll find towering redwoods that are several thousand years old that are tucked away just off the beautiful California coastline.

It’s incredibly unique, and is well worth an overnight stay.

So what exactly is covered under “Redwood National and State Parks? ”

It’s a complex that falls under the National Park Service, but includes a couple of different California State Parks, including Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, among others. 

These parks were brought under the NPS after activism by the Save the Redwoods League, who fought to preserve the best example of coastal redwoods in the state against the desire of logging companies. 

It’s worth remembering that these lands belonged to Native Americans in the past.

For thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers, several tribes in Northwest California called this area home, and the Yurok and Tolowa both have ancestral lands within the boundaries of the parks. 

The British explorer Jedidiah Smith, for whom one of the state parks is named, was the first European to explore the northern coast. A subsequent gold rush in the 1850’s brought conflict to the Native American tribes in the area, and led to the removal (and murder) of thousands of people so that the newcomers could peacefully search for gold. 

Not a great look, America. 

Remember that as you are exploring the incredible natural beauty here. 

With all that said, here are some worthwhile stops in Redwood National and State Parks.

Things to Do at Redwood National and State Parks

The truth is, you could probably spend a full two weeks exploring the Redwoods. But since we’re working through a full itinerary, we’ve compiled the best destinations below, at least according to our experience. 

We just spent a couple of days exploring the redwoods in this neck of the woods (see what we did there?) for basically the first time, and it was breathtaking despite the fact that it was pouring the entire time.

UPDATE 2022 : We just spent another few days up here, and we can confirm that it’s still spectacular!

Fern Canyon : One of the most unique, picturesque locations in the redwoods, Fern Canyon is exactly what it sounds like: a mini-canyon covered with ferns. Note: 4WD / high clearance vehicles are best here – there’s a few spots in the road that are going to be a bit of a stretch for a sedan. You can park at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground and hike around, connecting to the Fern Canyon Trail via the Miner’s Ridge trail , which is roughly a 7 mile hike.

Big Lagoon : Great for sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, swimming, and camping. 

Trillium Falls : 2.6 mile long trail that circles through old-growth redwoods with a waterfall.

Howland Hill Road : 10 mile long dirt road where you can drive through the redwoods. Allow about one hour to take this scenic drive.

Stout Memorial Grove : A short but spectacular 0.9 mile loop along Howland Hill Road. Return of the Jedi and Jurassic Park: A Lost World had parts filmed nearby – look out for ewoks!

Where to Stay at Redwood National and State Parks

There are also some incredible campgrounds here – like Gold Bluffs Beach Campground , a small campground on the beach, and Elk Prairie Campground , which is adjacent to an open field that elk tend to congregate in. These spots take reservations, but you’ll need to book in advance because they fill up QUICK. 

If you’re not camping, you’ll want to stay in Trinidad as a home base for exploring this area, because it has the best selection of hotels and other amenities.

We loved the View Crest Lodge , where we stayed on our latest trip. A nice vacation rental in Trinidad is another good option. 

Avenue of the Giants

Drive time from Trinidad to the northern end of Avenue of the Giants: 1 hour / 55 miles

The Avenue of the Giants is a 31 mile scenic stretch of highway that will take you through Humboldt Redwoods State Park along old Highway 101. It is the most magnificent display of the massive redwood groves in Northern California.

After you’ve tackled Avenue of the Giants, it’s worth taking a little time to explore the rest of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. 

In particular, we enjoyed the Bull Creek Westside Loop , which is a relatively easy three mile hike through fern-covered forest floor, passing under towering redwoods.

It’s a nice break from the drive, and gives you a chance to stretch your legs, see some gorgeous trees, and have a snack break (or lunch, which is what we did here). 

The Anderson Valley (Philo & Boonville)

Drive time from the southern end of the Avenue of the Giants: 2 hours 20 minutes / 124 miles

We’ve been to the Anderson Valley a few times now, and every single time we come away discussing between the two of us whether this is the best wine region in California.

It’s a valley between Highway 101 and the coast, and as soon as you leave 101 and hop on the winding road into the valley, you’ll start to see why. 

Giant oak trees smack dab in the middle of vineyards. Rolling green (for at least three weeks a year these days) hills in the background with wineries scattered across the valley floor. 

There are two “towns” – and I use that term loosely because they’re more just a collection of buildings along the road – Philo and Boonville . Boonville has more going on, and would be a nice place to stay, but the area around Philo is without a doubt in our minds the best part of the Anderson Valley .  

If you can swing it, we’d highly recommend a night in the valley. 

What to Do in the Anderson Valley

Here are some of our favorite things to do and see in this relatively hidden gem in Northern California. 

Wine Tasting in the Anderson Valley : If you’re up for some wine tasting, you know there’s plenty of vineyards around to do just that!

• One of our favorites is Navarro Vineyards near Philo, a family-run vineyard that has been making wines and grape juices since 1974. Their gewurztraminer and dry riesling are staples in our household, and we always bring back a bottle or six for Penny, a family friend who loves both of those wines.
• We also love Roederer Estate and Scharfenberger because bubbles are the best. Both are known for sparkling wines, and Scharffenberger is better for people on a budget (which is where we gravitate towards). Get a flight to try five different bubbly wines, and don’t miss the rose!

Hendy Woods State Park : There’s a lovely redwood grove right in the middle of the Anderson Valley, near the town of Philo. Big Hendy Grove is the real highlight here, and you can do a nice little hike (P.S. – I really love that website and have it bookmarked for all of my future redwood hikes) through the grove. There’s also Little Hendy Grove, which is accessible via a longer trail but is much less interesting than the bigger version. There’s a nice day use area right at the trailhead for Big Hendy, where we spent some time soaking up the warm sun. The campground here is particularly nice, shaded by redwoods, and would be a perfect place to stay if you’re up for camping. It’s a California State Park, so entry is $8 for the day. 

Boonville : At the eastern edge of the valley in and around Boonville, don’t miss three spots. Beer lovers should hit Anderson Valley Brewing , who have a nice taproom in town that is currently being transformed into a “beer park” complete with outdoor seating, an 18 hole disc golf course, and a small music venue. Pretty cool! Second is Pennyroyal Farm , which serves wine but is really a stop for the goat cheeses and farm tour . It’s a real life farm, which means there’s tons of outdoor space and farm animals. Last, but not least, is Disco Ranch , a hip wine bar in the heart of Boonville known for bringing in a wide array of local and international wines for you to enjoy. They’re served alongside snacks like canned fish and cheese plates, which is fun! We heard about this place from a friendly tasting room associate, and she highly, highly recommended stopping by if you love wine. 

Apples and Cider : We’re big cider fans – much more so than wine – and the Anderson Valley is home to one of the oldest apple operations in California, Gowan’s . They have a roadside stand that is chock full of all kinds of apples in the fall, and they also make their own apple-forward ciders that we really enjoy (“one of each!” is what my mother-in-law requested on our last visit). It’s $15 to try six different ciders, or you can get them by the glass. Their “tasting room” is nothing more than some adirondack chairs set in a field populated by apple trees that are more than a century old. Which is…perfect. The Apple Farm also has a little farm stand out on the way to Hendy Woods where you can find homemade jams and farm-fresh apple juice. 

The Bewildered Pig : There’s not much in terms of bars and restaurants around here, but the Bewildered Pig is our favorite – we went there for my birthday several years ago, and it was fantastic. It’s fancy with a tasting menu and all that jazz, but it’s really not that fancy (and the food doesn’t feel overly fancy, if you know what I mean). It’s 10-15 minutes west of Philo, towards the coast. 

Where to Stay in the Anderson Valley

Unfortunately, there aren’t a whole lot of places to stay in the Anderson Valley. It’s pastoral, which means no big chain hotels (which to be honest, is not a bad thing at all). There are three places that stand out in our minds. 

The Apple Farm : Want to stay in the middle of an apple orchard? This is the place to do it! It’s a little expensive, but it’s going to be an unforgettable experience. They have a collection of cottages – some cozy, some a bit bigger – right in the middle of their apple orchard. Reserve well in advance, if you can. They also do a fun “stay & cook” experience, but it’s currently on hold. 

The Indian Creek Inn : Relatively new and in a fantastic location in the valley, this is a nice place to spend a night. They have 15 rooms, each with access to a shared kitchen (which we appreciate, because we often cook for ourselves on the road). It’s set back from the road, so you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the peace and quiet that comes with the valley. No TVs in the rooms, which we think is a good thing, but some might disagree. 

The Madrones : This place is like an estate straight out of Italy in terms of architecture and general vibe. The location is fantastic – walking distance to a couple of places (including Scharffenberger, if you’re up for a little bit of a walk along the road). It’s half hotel-style rooms, part standalone cabins (they call those “the Brambles”), and it would be a lovely home base (though they do require a two night stay, in some cases). 

Healdsburg & Sonoma Wine Country

Drive time from the Anderson Valley: 1 hour / 50 miles

Look, everyone who comes to San Francisco wants to go to Napa because “it’s the best wine around!” 

While technically that might be true – Napa is known for its big, bold reds and oak-tastic Chardonnay – it’s also the most expensive and complicated, with reservations required almost everywhere and tastings that cost $40 for three small tastes. And that’s before you even get to the $400 a night hotel room you’ll need to book!

We’ve done Napa several times, but we’d recommend Sonoma – specifically the Dry Creek Valley around Healdsburg – instead . 

Healdsburg itself is a charming little town with good food and tasting rooms around the main square. Just outside of Healdsburg, you’ll find a plethora of smaller wineries who are serving some of the less famous varietals – pinot noir and sauvignon blanc, for example – at a much more affordable price. 

The point is, Healdsburg is, by far, our favorite wine country stop in California.

Things to Do in Healdsburg

Wine Tasting : Let’s put it this way – while you’re in Healdsburg, you probably won’t run out of tasting rooms in town, or in the Dry Creek Valley nearby. There’s a nearly unlimited number of spots to choose from. Here are some of our favorites. Wine tastings are less than half the price of the ones just a few miles east in the most famous wine region in the United States, Napa Valley. Plan on paying $15-$20 to taste 5-6 wines, and don’t be afraid to split tastings between two people (that’s what we usually do). 

• Banshee is our favorite tasting room in town. We served their rose at our wedding!
• Bella Wine Cave is a unique, underground wine tasting experience. Their vineyard specializes in small-batch Zinfandel and Rhone. We met two women here who had just been to Tanzania, and they inspired us to take our moms on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Tanzania to do a safari, which we still reminisce about to this day.
• Truett Hurst has an excellent Gewurztraminer and a lovely patio. We’ve been there multiple times, including once with my mom, and she still talks about it.

Here are some other stops to make in Healdsburg that are not tasting rooms for various wineries.

Grab Some Picnic Supplies : Can you tell we love a good picnic? Stop by Oakville Grocery or Dry Creek General Store to pick up some supplies and find a nice place to stop for a picnic in between wineries (or at one of the wineries you stop at – most allow it). 

Noble Folk for Ice Cream : Craving ice cream? You can’t go wrong at Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar . It’s not just ice cream and pie (although that’s more than enough), but also cookie sandwiches, cupcakes, and French macarons. (Not GF).

Flying Goat for Coffee : Our favorite coffee shop in Healdsburg is Flying Goat for a great cup of coffee. 

Tilted Shed Ciderworks : Need a break from wine tasting? We absolutely love Tilted Shed Ciderworks . Their focus is on vintage ciders and use fresh-picked apples for their small-batch ciders. When we stop in we always grab a couple extra bottles to take with us.

Where to Stay in Healdsburg

In general, staying in wine country is expensive. Healdsburg is notably less expensive than Napa, which is partially why we have you stopping here instead. 

Here are three options for you that are right downtown and in the perfect spot for exploring town for an afternoon.

• Hotel Healdsburg : A charming hotel right in the heart of all the action in Healdsburg. Right outside your front door, you’ll find tasting rooms, restaurants, and more. It’s a great place to stay, especially on a short trip.
• Cottages at Healdsburg : Enjoy your own private cottage in Healdsburg, complete with a small terrace to enjoy your morning cup of coffee or afternoon glass of wine (why not both?).
• H2 Hotel : Modern hotel with all the amenities you could dream of. It’s just a block or two south of the main square. We’ve gotten drinks at the bar in the lobby, and dreamed about staying here next time we’re in Healdsburg. 

San Francisco, CA

Drive time from Healdsburg to Downtown San Francisco: 1 hour 30 minutes / 70 miles

The first stop to pencil in on any Northern California itinerary has got to be San Francisco, which is where you’re going to be flying in (and likely out of). With its dining, architecture, and general “San Francisco vibe,” everyone needs to visit this city at least once.

We have it at the end of the itinerary, because we’ve found that we like to have a day or two at the end of a road trip to relax in the city before heading home, but it’s easy enough to flip it around and have this as your first stop after landing. 

We lived in San Francisco for a decade, and have strong opinions on what to do and see in the city. And more importantly, what not to do and see. 

Here are some other San Francisco travel guides for you to use to go deeper on one of our favorite cities in the world, and plan an incredible trip to the city by the bay.

• Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Areas
• A Complete San Francisco Itinerary: Everything You Need to Know
• How to Spend One Day In San Francisco: A Complete Guide
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Travel Guide for Celiacs

What to Do in San Francisco

Explore the Ferry Building : The Ferry Building is a terminal for ferries and is an iconic San Francisco landmark. Inside the Ferry Building Marketplace, you’ll find a farmers market (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), food, and small local shops to browse. Heath Ceramics is one of our favorite shops featuring simple, timeless ceramic pieces. If you’re craving something sweet, we love Dandelion Chocolate or Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream . Of course, we can’t forget the coffee! Stop by Blue Bottle Coffee to grab a cup of the OG specialty coffee to sip on as you wander.

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge : You can’t visit San Francisco without checking out the iconic Golden Gate Bridge! As great as it is to see it from a distance, it’s even better to walk it. It’s about 1.7 miles across each way, which should take you about an hour to make the round trip. Check the weather and bring plenty of layers, because it’s going to be foggy, cold, and windy roughly 50% of the time. 

Eat and Drink your way through the Mission District : The Mission District should be a destination when you’re ready to grab something to eat or drink. Want to grab a beer? Check out Zeitgeist , a well-known beer garden with a backyard patio to hang out at as you enjoy your beer, cider, or wine. Looking for something to eat? Head over to Burma Love to dip your toes in the world of Burmese cuisine (lots of gluten free options), or head to Little Star Pizza for some of the best pizza in San Francisco instead (not gluten free. Not even a little bit).  

Hike the Lands End Trail : This 3.4 mile hike features coastal terrain, beautiful views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, and gets you out of the city for a bit of fresh air. It can get a bit busy on weekends, though, just as a heads up. More info here . 

Explore Golden Gate Park : On the western end of San Francisco, you’ll find Golden Gate Park which spans over 1,000 acres and essentially runs all the way out to the coast. We recommend the California Academy of Sciences Museum , which is one of the largest museums of natural history in the world. The De Young Museum is perfect for art lovers and you can’t forget to visit the Buffalo Paddock which has been home to small herds of bison since 1899. 

Picnic at Dolores Park : Pack up a blanket, some food, and head to Dolores Park for a picnic. You’ll enjoy the San Francisco skyline while relaxing and enjoying some fresh air. Don’t miss Bi-Rite Ice Cream , which is right across the street!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Since you’re only going to be in San Francisco for a night (maybe two), we’d recommend staying as centrally as you can. For most people, that means Nob Hill (more charming) or Union Square (more central and well connected, but much less charming). 

We’ve stayed at Petite Auberge in Nob Hill, which is a little French-themed B&B in a great location with a nice complimentary breakfast and happy hour (also look at their sister hotel the White Swan Inn a few doors down, which we’re itching to stay at soon!). 

We also have a love affair with the CitizenM Hotel in Union Square , which is a brand new hotel from our favorite hotel chain in the world (you can read about our stay in their Seattle hotel to understand why we say that). The rooms are about as comfortable as any hotel room we’ve stayed in, and are perfectly designed for a good night’s sleep. 

The rooms are small, but they’ve made a choice to have common areas in the hotel like the ground floor living room that are better places to hang out than alone in your room. 

One caveat : All rooms come with one king bed (no two-bed options), so this might not be the best option for families with small children who want to be in the same room.  

Whatever you do, don’t stay in Fisherman’s Wharf! It’s the least interesting part of the city, and it’s constantly packed with tourists. It has none of the charm that the rest of the city has, and we’d barely even recommend visiting, let alone staying there. 

Putting it Together: Sample Northern California Coast Itineraries

Now that we’ve covered our top stops, let’s talk about how to put it all together. We’re going to give you a 7 and 10 day version of an itinerary that you can use as a base for planning your own trip. 

A note on San Francisco : Our preference is having San Francisco as a place to end your trip just because we like having a relaxing city break at the end after a lot of driving. You might prefer to start your trip with a day or two in San Francisco, but it comes down to personal preference. 

7 Days in Northern California

With seven days in Northern California, we’d do the stretch of coast from San Francisco to Mendocino, and spend a couple of nights in wine country on the back end before ending with a day in San Francisco before you fly home. 

In this version, we’re essentially choosing wine tasting over Redwood National and State Parks.

• Day 1 : Leave San Francisco, Marin Headlands, and drive to Point Reyes
• Day 2 : Point Reyes and drive to Mendocino
• Day 3 : Mendocino 
• Day 4 : Drive through Anderson Valley to Healdsburg
• Day 5 : Wine Tasting in Healdsburg
• Day 6 : Healdsburg to San Francisco
• Day 7 : San Francisco and Fly Home

10 Days in Northern California

With 10 days, you can comfortably do both the redwoods AND wine country. In this version, you’ll have a long drive from Trinidad back down to Healdsburg, but we think the drive is worth it. 

• Day 3 : Mendocino & Fort Bragg
• Day 4 : Day Trip to the Anderson Valley from Mendocino
• Day 5 : Drive Mendocino to Trinidad (stop in Eureka)
• Day 6 : Trinidad & Redwood National and State Parks
• Day 7 : Drive to Healdsburg
• Day 8 : Wine Tasting in Healdsburg
• Day 9 : Healdsburg to San Francisco
• Day 10 : Explore San Francisco and Fly Home

Adding Lassen and Lake Tahoe (3 Weeks or More!)

If you’re lucky enough to have three weeks, we’d add on a weeklong trip to Lassen National Park and Lake Tahoe. 

It’s a long drive, but spending a couple days in Lassen and 3-4 days in Tahoe would be a lovely end to the trip with a completely different set of Northern California scenery.

The benefit of this version of the itinerary is that you don’t have to make your way back to San Francisco to fly home. We’d fly out of Reno if you’re ending your trip in Tahoe. That means you’ll have to spend a day or two in San Francisco (if you want to see it) on the front end of your trip. 

The other thing to know here is that this route is really only doable from late spring to fall. Otherwise, you’re going to run into road closures and snow and ice on mountain passes. 

Here’s what a 3 week itinerary with Lassen and Tahoe could look like. 

• Days 1-3: San Francisco & Day Trip to Marin Headlands
• Days 4-5: Point Reyes
• Days 6-7: Healdsburg and Sonoma Wine Country
• Days 8-10: Mendocino & Anderson Valley
• Days 11-13: Trinidad + Redwood National + State Parks
• Day 14-16: Lassen National Park (includes a driving day)
• Days 17-21: Lake Tahoe

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Drive time from Trinidad: 3 hours 45 minutes / 197 miles

If you ask us, Lassen National Park is highly underrated! But that might be because of the incredible National Parks in California, like Yosemite and Death Valley.

Don’t overlook Lassen with its steaming fumaroles (openings near a volcano where hot sulfurous gasses escape) and crystal clear lakes. Bumpass Hell is the largest hydrothermal area in Lassen, with foul-smelling pools of mud pots, boiling springs, and bright turquoise pools. It’s a short hike along a boardwalk that is suitable for all ages. 

Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Lassen.

Hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park: There are plenty of trails to choose from in Lassen National Park, but our favorites are:

• Cinder Cone (4 miles): Challenging trail up Cinder Cone Volcano that rewards you with breathtaking views in all directions. Every step up through the ash is roughly half a step back, which makes this hike more difficult than it seems like it should be.
• Lassen Peak (5 miles): This trail takes you to the top of Lassen Peak and starts at the parking area around 8,500 ft in elevation and ending at about 10,500 ft with spectacular views at the top. 
• Kings Creek Falls Trail (2.7 miles): Moderate, mostly forested trail with a gorgeous waterfall at the end.

Take a Dip in One of Lassen’s Lakes: Find a place to cool off with a swim or set up a lunchtime picnic at one of the nearby lakes.

• Lake Helen : Sparkling blue glacial lake located at about 8,200 ft in elevation just south of Lassen Peak for a great view while you relax by the water. 
• Summit Lake : Smaller lake perfect for swimming with two campgrounds for those looking to camp.
• Manzanita Lake : Tons of activities available like swimming and kayaking. You can even camp or rent a cabin for those who want to stay.

Where to Stay in Lassen National Park

Camping is going to be your best bet for staying inside the park. Here’s a helpful resource for finding the perfect campsite. We stayed at Manzanita Lake, and it was a gorgeous campground set around a picturesque lake. 

If camping isn’t your thing (or you don’t have the equipment with you), then stay in Mill Creek, which is about half an hour south of the national park. Highlands Ranch Resort is your best bet, with their comfortable rooms and spacious family suites that can accommodate just about any group size. 

Drive time from Lassen: 3 hours 20 minutes / 185 miles

We MUCH prefer the lake’s western side (the California side) to the eastern side, the Nevada side. The stretch between Truckee and Emerald Bay State Park is our favorite and is where we got engaged! 

That’s where we recommend you spend your time.

Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe

There are plenty of hikes to choose from in Lake Tahoe, but we wanted to share a few of our favorites.

Echo Lakes (5.3 miles): Sunny trail in South Lake Tahoe with beautiful views as you hike up to Echo Lakes.

Eagle Lake (2.4 miles): Nice, relatively short hike rated as moderate, best hiked from May to September due to snow and ice. 

Rubicon Trail (9 miles): Longer, but it’s a relatively easy hike along the shore of Lake Tahoe with amazing views of the lake. The best way to do it is to hike from Emerald Bay to D.L. Bliss State Park and back to avoid the parking nightmare that is D.L. Bliss (though the parking situation at Emerald Bay isn’t that much better). 

Mount Tallac (10.9 miles): More challenging hike with a 3,300 ft elevation gain and a pretty consistent uphill climb. The views are spectacular!

Other Things to Do in Tahoe

Aside from hiking, Lake Tahoe is full of activities for adventure lovers. 

Emerald Bay State Park: With many hiking trails and vistas, Emerald Bay State Park is a must when you’re in Tahoe. Even if you head here just for the gorgeous sunrise views over the lake, it’s totally worth it.

Ziplining at Tahoe Treetops Adventure Park: Are you looking for a bit more adventure and an adrenaline rush? Head over to the Tahoe Treetops Adventure Park where there are a total of 10 courses for beginners through advanced. If you prefer not to work too hard, you can also just do a zip line tour and skip the obstacles.

Rent a kayak: Explore Lake Tahoe in a kayak! There are plenty of places to rent a kayak and even a few companies that will take you on a guided kayak tour. We recommend either Tahoe Adventure Company or Clearly Tahoe .

Explore Truckee: Truckee is a small, historic town just north of the California side of Tahoe. It’s a great place to stop on your way in or out of Tahoe. Here are our recommended stops if you want to spend an hour or two getting a coffee or a beer and exploring.

• Coffeebar : Described as a “radically inclusive Italian cafe experience,” how can you go wrong grabbing a coffee here?
• Alibi Ale Works : Craft brewery with a creative food menu and live music.
• Word After Word Bookstore : Great little local bookstore with a cool downstairs reading area worth stopping by.

Enjoy the Beaches: We can’t forget the beaches! Tahoe has some pretty epic beaches, below are our recommendations with most of them being on the north shore.

D.L. Bliss State Park : Located on the west (California) side of Tahoe this beach is gorgeous and often full by mid-morning in the busy summer months. It also features the Rubicon Point Light, the highest-elevation lighthouse in the US.

King’s Beach : Large sandy beach with picnic tables and pine trees. 

Secret Cove : Easy to miss from the road and a bit of a scramble to get to, but totally worth it with a small cove of bright emerald waters.

Sand Harbor : Nice beach with rock formations and an easy walking trail. 

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

If you didn’t already know, Lake Tahoe is gigantic, so choosing where to stay is going to be an important decision that will shape your trip. 

In general, there are three major areas. First is the West Shore , which is where we usually stay because it’s a convenient spot between South Lake and North Lake Tahoe. There are a ton of amazing cabins on Airbnb on the West Shore (like this one ). If you prefer a hotel, look at Basecamp Ta h oe City , which is modern, affordable, and a great home base for exploring Tahoe. 

Next is South Lake Tahoe , which is the most commercially developed area. It’s close to Heavenly Ski Resort and the casinos on the Nevada side. Find the perfect Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe here, or consider Basecamp Tahoe South , the sister hotel to the one in Tahoe City. 

The North side of Lake Tahoe includes both Incline Village and Truckee. We’d recommend staying near Incline Village and Kings Beach rather than Truckee, which is a little bit further from the lake. This is the closest part of the lake to Reno, which is where you’ll be flying out of. Airbnb is going to be your best bet in this area.

Where to Start and End Your Road Trip

The best place to start and end your road trip in Northern California is going to be San Francisco. If you have more time and decide to venture out to Lake Tahoe, you can fly out of Reno to save yourself several hours of driving. 

Flying Into Northern California

If you’re flying in to start your road trip, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the easiest place to fly in and out of for your road trip.

You’ll make one big loop up the coast and back down through wine country, starting and ending at SFO. 

You could also fly into Oakland International Airport (OAK), but there are fewer flight routes. Check both to compare options and prices – they’re roughly equidistant from San Francisco (slight edge goes to SFO).

We will say that Oakland is a much less stressful option, with less fog (meaning fewer delays) and fewer people. 

Make sure to book the earliest flight into SFO, and the latest flight out on the way home to give yourself as much time as possible on your road trip. 

Whatever you do, don’t fly into San Jose (SJC) , which is about two hours south of San Francisco, and will add a bunch of unnecessary driving time. 

If you only have a short amount of time, like 7-14 days, it doesn’t really make sense to go as far east as Tahoe. 

Instead, we’d recommend a Northern California Coast road trip, making a big loop up the coast, then returning back down through wine country. In that scenario, you’d want to fly out of the same airport you flew into (book a roundtrip flight). 

If you have more than two weeks and you’re including Lake Tahoe, the easiest place to fly out of is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) .

It’s about an hour away from both South Lake and the West Shore, slightly closer to Truckee and Incline Village on the north end of the lake. 

To do that, you’ll have to book a one-way rental car , which will be more expensive but totally worth it to avoid the 4-6 hour trip from Tahoe to SFO. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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15 Best Northern California Coastal Towns and Beaches

While all of California’s shoreline is stunning, exploring the Northern California coast offers a breathtaking experience. It boasts impressive beaches and scenic views like you’ve never seen before. In this guide, we’ll go on an adventure to the 15 best coastal towns and beaches in Northwestern California.

Northern California beach towns and beaches run from the San Francisco Bay area to the Oregon border. Cuisine, landscapes, weather, and attractions make Northern and Southern California their own places. In the north, you can expect diverse cuisine, cool weather, mountain-backed beaches, and exciting adventures.

Below, you’ll find coastal cities and beach towns that offer memorable activities and scenic stretches of the Pacific coast. From award-winning wines and fresh seafood to fun beaches and unique experiences, there’s something for everyone!

1. Bodega Bay 

Bodega Bay lies on the northern California coast about one hour outside San Francisco, along the Sonoma County stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway.

This quaint coastal town is known for its picturesque beach, art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants.

Things to do and see:

• whale watching
• boogie boarding
• dine at Spud Point Crab Company

Accommodation Recommendations:

• Lodge at Bodega Bay : a waterfront hotel with a spa and fine dining.
• Bodega Harbor Inn : a conveniently located cozy hotel.
• Westside Regional Park and Campground : a coastal park with a campground.

2. Crescent City 

Crescent City is a small northern California beach town that’s close to Canada’s border. Not only does it offer a gorgeous shoreline, but it’s also home to Redwood National Park and the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. It’s a nature lover’s paradise!

The city is named for its crescent-shaped beachfront, where you can enjoy scenic views, one of the best California coast sunsets, and beach activities like surfing, swimming, and seacombing.

• explore the Redwood forests
• visit the Battery Point Lighthouse
• hike and enjoy water activities at the state park
• hang out on the beach
• visit the oldest family-owned cheese production company in CA: Rumiano Cheese Company
• get adventurous in Six Rivers National Forest
• Ramblin’ Redwoods : campground and RV park in the Redwood Forest.
• The Lighthouse Inn : a budget-friendly hotel near the beach.

Eureka is a postcard-worthy town in the heart of the Redwood Coast. It’s filled with picture-perfect beaches, redwood forests, and historic architecture. It’s one of those destinations that anyone can enjoy!

We highly recommend checking out Eureka if you’re looking for an experience unlike any other. It’s the largest beach town between Portland, Oregon and San Francisco. It’s known for towering redwood trees, Victorian-style mansions, and a jaw-dropping rugged coastline.

Fun fact: During the 1850s, the California Gold Rush brought settlers to Eureka who struck gold here. The name Eureka is the Greek word for ‘I have found it.’

• explore unique architecture
• photography
• visit the Sequoia Park Zoo
• shop, dine, and experience water activities in Old Town Eureka and Waterfront
• take a harbor cruise
• Inn at 2nd & C : a charming inn in a luxurious Victorian building.
• Big Bay Cabin : pet-friendly cabin close to the bay area and beach.

4. Fort Bragg

Enjoy the ultimate northern California coast experience in Fort Bragg. Not only does Fort Bragg offer a magical experience in nature, but this port city also has one of the most impressive northern California beaches, Glass Beach.

Glass Beach is filled with vibrant, colorful pieces of sea glass. It’s a sight well worth seeing, and the beach spans 38 acres of picturesque coastline.

Fort Bragg is also one of the largest military institutions and is considered an epicenter for US military personnel.

If you’re interested in spending the night in Fort Bragg, there are several chain hotels in the area and vacation rentals.

• hang out at Glass Beach
• bike or hike the Fort Bragg Coastal Trail 
• wander around the historic downtown area
• visit the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
• go to Noyo Headlands Park

Gualala is a small seaside town that’s full of charm, rugged coastal trails, and bluffs. It’s easy to spend a day or a few here if you’re looking to relax, explore nature, or a bit of both.

Scenic trails give incredible hiking opportunities, and its driftwood-filled beaches offer a tranquil atmosphere. If you enjoy art, you’ll love the local art scene, which offers art galleries and shops where you can find artisan goods, handmade crafts, and paintings. 

Gualala is an excellent place for camping on the northern California coast. Set up your tent at the  Gualala Point Regional Park  campground and sleep under the stars for an unforgettable experience.

• whale watch and appreciate the scenery from the Bluff Top Coastal Access Trail
• hike and explore at Salt Point State Park
• spend time at Gualala Point Regional Park for beaching, camping, hiking, and bird watching

6. Half Moon Bay 

Half Moon Bay is an amazing destination on the coast of California, just below San Francisco area. While many road trippers enjoy stopping in this small beach town to bird watch, surf, or camp by the water, there’s a lot packed into Half Moon Bay.

The city is known for gorgeous beaches, fun state parks, and historical attractions. Various coastal villages along Half Moon Bay’s shore offer unique vibes.

Half Moon Bay has a stretch of beach that is curved like a half-full moon. There are various beaches along the shore to experience different beach experiences. From surfing and swimming to sunbathing and taking pictures, there’s something for everyone.

• beach hop to fish, swim, surf, sunbathe, and more
• bird watching at Pescadero Marsh or Pillar Point Marsh
• visit the famous Mavericks Beach for surfing
• hike or bike the Carolina Coastal Trail
• explore Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park
• enjoy local wine tasting at Barterra Winery
• Francis Beach Campground : a campground with beachfront tent and RV sites.
• Half Moon Bay RV Park: a pet-friendly campground close to the ocean and hiking trails.
• Oceano Hotel & Spa Half Moon Bay Harbor : a relaxed hotel on the harbor with a spa and restaurant.
• Mill Rose Inn : an upscale bed & breakfast.

7. Mendocino

Spend a long weekend in Mendocino County for a memorable vacation experience! This storybook-like town is filled with hidden gems, salty ocean air, and California’s Redwood Forest.

California locals and travelers from all over enjoy visiting this scenic slice of California shoreline, especially for romantic getaways. It’s known for its world-class wine, cliffside trails, and breathtaking ocean views.

• explore nature and history at Mendocino Headlands State Park
• hike to the sinking hole
• stroll through the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
• museum hop: Ford House Museum, Kelley House Museum, & Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum
• Mendocino Seaside Cottage : a romantic Victorian-style inn on the ocean.
• Sea Rock Bed & Breakfast Inn : elegant seaside cottages and suites.
• Mendocino Grove : unique glamping in the woods and close to the beach.

Note: Mendocino also offers tons of other accommodations close to the ocean.

8. Monterey

Monterey, CA is home to a fascinating mix of landscapes unlike any other central California destination. From its rugged shoreline and mountain peaks to countless valleys and lush golf courses, there’s something for everyone.

Other Monterey attractions include some of the world’s most delicious oysters, diverse marine life, outdoor adventures, and a rich history.

• hang out on Del Monte Beach: picnicking, surf fishing, shelling, and swimming
• see marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
• explore history at Monterey State Historic Park
• shop, dine, and whale watch at the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf
• Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay : a centrally located spa hotel.
• Cannery Row Inn : a casual hotel with ocean views.
• Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa : an upscale hotel, a close drive from the beach.

9. Morro Bay 

Morro Bay is another must-visit city on the Northern California coast. This charming fishing village is known for an ancient volcanic mound, called Morro Rock, that’s found at the end of Morro Rock Beach. This beach is in Morro Rock State Park surrounded by nature trails, lagoons, and a saltwater marsh.

As you can see, Morro Bay is a great escape for nature enthusiasts. The landscape is stunning and the hikes are unmatched.

While Morro Bay is best known for its impressive views and outdoor adventures, this enchanting village has a few hidden gems also worth discovering.

• Fish, windsurf, sunbathe, fly kites, and camp at Morro Strand State Beach
• hike to Black Hill
• visit the Museum of Natural History 
• Morro Strand State Beach Campground : RV and tent camping on the beach.
• The Landing at Morro Bay : a centrally located, laid-back hotel.
• Inn at Rose’s Landing : an oceanfront boutique hotel.

10. Pacifica

The forested canyons and scenic ocean views of Pacifica, a small beach town a part of the San Francisco Bay area, make for some of the most gorgeous backdrops. Whether you’re looking to relax, get adventurous, or a bit of both, this is the perfect destination for it.

Even though this northern California coastal town is just outside of San Francisco, it feels like an entirely different world. Pacifica is known for its natural beauty and makes for the perfect day or weekend trip from San Francisco. It’s a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and exploring a vibrant culture. 

• surf, sunbathe, and hike at Pacifica State Beach
• hike and enjoy scenic views at Mori Point
• bike, hike, or run at Devil’s Slide Trail
• play golf at Sharp Park Golf Course
• drink beer at Pacifica Brewery

While most accommodations are in San Francisco proper, Pacifica has a few hotels. We recommend checking out  Pacifica Lighthouse , a simple beachfront hotel.

11. San Simeon

San Simeon is an unforgettable beach destination about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. While the beach is its top attraction, there’s so much more to enjoy.

This beach village on the Northern California coast boasts pristine beaches, where you can even see baby seals. It’s also home to impressive architecture, historical landmarks, and noteworthy state parks. Whether you visit for a day or a week, there are countless activities to enjoy.

• explore the rocky coast at San Simeon State Park
• visit the historic Hearst Castle
• view elephant seals at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
• go fishing on the San Simeon Pier
• enjoy a wine tasting at Hearst Ranch Winery

While you won’t find many accommodations in San Simeon proper, there are plenty of places to spend the night a few minutes away in Cambria. We recommend checking these out:

• The Morgan Hotel : a conveniently located stylish hotel (San Simeon).
• Sea Otter Inn : a quaint bed & breakfast with cozy rooms (Cambria).
• Cavalier Oceanfront Resort : a simple oceanfront hotel with a pool (Cambria).

12. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is one of the most impressive Northern California beach towns for water sports and other fun activities. From surfing and body boarding to hiking and museums, there are so many exciting things to enjoy.

This laid-back city is known for its friendly surfer culture. It’s a top spot for bodyboarding, surfing, and boogie-boarding. 

Santa Cruz’s fun-filled boardwalk also welcomes family, while its lively downtown area attracts a younger crowd.

• explore the best Santa Cruz beaches
• visit tide pools, watch wildlife, and picnic at Natural Bridges State Beach 
• enjoy rides, shopping, dining, and live entertainment on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 
• check out the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum 
• Dream Inn : a trendy, retro-style hotel close to the ocean.
• Mission Inn & Suites : a simple Spanish Colonial hotel.
• Sea & Sand Inn : a quaint hotel overlooking Monterey Bay.

13. Shelter Cove

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, look no further than Shelter Cove. With a population of less than a thousand, you’ll feel like you’re in a magical place almost all to yourself.

This northern California coast town is a remote destination with incredible beaches and excellent hiking trails. Shelter Cove is best known for its access to the Lost Coast Trail and its secluded, magical black sand beach.

• experience a coastal wilderness hiking experience on the Lost Coast Trail
• explore remote coves and secret beaches
• enjoy beer at Gyppo Ale Mill
• The Shelter Cove Oceanfront Inn : a bright minimal hotel on the water.
• Inn of the Lost Coast : a cliff-perched hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
• Spyglass Inn at Shelter Cove : a beachfront vacation rental.

14. Stinson Beach 

Few Northern California coastal towns offer pristine white sand beaches like Stinson Beach. Along with a beautiful shoreline that’s great for swimming and other water activities, this remarkable destination offers scenic forested trails and rugged red cliffs.

We love Stinson Beach because it’s the ideal place to kick back and relax while also exploring nature. It’s also conveniently located just north of San Francisco.

• hike down to the scenic Rock Beach
• relax at Stinson State Beach
• visit Martin Griffin Preserve
• explore hiking trails: Matt Davis Trail, Steep Ravine Trail, and Whitegate Trailhead

While you won’t find too many accommodations right along Stinson Beach, there are a couple of options. We recommend  Sandpiper Lodging at the Beach , a cozy hotel within walking distance from the beach. You can find more hotels and several campgrounds further inland towards Fairfax.

15. Trinidad

Whether you’re looking to make a quick stop on a Northern California coast drive or you’re looking for a unique vacation destination, Trinidad is a must-visit. Trinidad is known for its excellent public beaches, delicious seafood, and breathtaking scenery.

Fun fact: Although Trinidad is one of the oldest California coastal cities, it’s a Golden State hidden gem with a population of only a few hundred people.

• explore the unique coastal habitat at the California Coastal National Monument
• visit the Trinidad Headland Lighthouse
• hike the Trinidad Headland Trail
• hang out at Trinidad State Beach
• enjoy wine at Moonstone Crossing Winery
• Trinidad Bay Bed & Breakfast Hotel : a homey Cape-Cod style b&b overlooking Trinidad Bay.
• Trinidad Inn : a pet-friendly, budget hotel with rustic vibes.
• Emerald Forest Cabins & RV : a simple cabin resort in the redwoods.

Have a few questions about visiting Northern California coastal towns? We’ve got the answers!

What is considered North Coast California?

Northern California begins in Del Norte County at the Oregon border and runs about 400 miles to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. This area consists of some of the country’s most impressive landscapes, including a rugged shoreline and redwood forests.

Which destination is best for families?

The best family-friendly destination on the Northern California coast is Santa Cruz. It’s one of the largest cities on our list and offers something for everyone. Santa Cruz has expansive beaches, a lively boardwalk, and many accommodations and restaurants, offering something for the whole family.

Which North Coast destination is best for a romantic getaway?

Mendocino County makes for the perfect romantic getaway. It’s ideal for adventurous couples and those looking to explore a story-book-like destination. In Mendocino, you can find beaches, a state park, museums, and hiking trails.

Where can I go to get off the beaten path?

Shelter Cove and Trinidad, CA are a couple of the best hidden gems in Northern California. Although these quiet coastal towns have a population of only several hundred people, there’s plenty to see and do. Shelter Cove boasts hiking trails and hidden beaches, while Trinidad’s scenery is unlike any other place.

Enjoy the Northern California Coast

Whether you’re taking a Northern California coast road trip or you’re a Golden State local planning a vacation, you’re in luck! These incredible seaside towns offer one-of-a-kind beauty and adventure.

For the ultimate adventure, take a road trip! The entire Northern California coastline runs for about 400 miles. Many of these destinations are very close to one another, like Eureka and Trinidad. Fort Bragg and Mendocino are also next to one another.

We hope you’ve found your dream destination (or a few) on this list. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore hidden gems, or get adventurous, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy!

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• Jan 15, 2021

12+ Scenic Stops off HWY 1 in Northern California

Plan the ultimate northern california road trip - take one of california's most scenic drives along the coast and through the redwood forest. check out these must see road trip destinations from san francisco to humboldt county..

If you are planning to take a road trip in California, you must check out this epic Northern California Coast Road Trip Itinerary. We'll show you must see scenic stops along Highway 1, and share our favorite beaches and hikes to explore as you make your way up the coast of California. Depart from the city of San Francisco and take the coastal route all the way up to Humboldt County.

Getting There

You can drive from San Francisco to Humboldt County in about 5 hours without making any stops along the way, but what's the fun in that?! Taking the scenic route via Highway 1 is the best way to make the most of your California adventure, and truly embrace the beauty of the Golden State.

If you plan on following this full itinerary, it is very much doable to take this California coastal road trip in 5 days but I would recommend dedicating a full 7 days if you have the time to explore at a slower pace.

Whether you are making the roadtrip as a local California resident or tourist, a good starting point is from San Francisco.

HWY 1 Road Trip Stop - Point Reyes National Seashore

The Point Reyes National Seashore is a 71,000 acre park about 40 miles North of San Francisco. The rugged coastline is absolutely incredible to see in person, and there is an abundance of Wildlife in the area. There are over 1,500 plant and animal species in this biodiverse wonderland including Tule Elk (Tomales Point), Elephant Seals (Drakes Beach), and over 490 bird species.

Don't forget to check out these scenic spots loved by photographers and tourists who come to visit Point Reyes National Seashore.

Point Reyes Lighthouse

The Lighthouse is jutting right out to the ocean and is a spectacular location with history dating back to 1870. Be prepared to get some steps in, as the staircase is about 300 steps down to the building. You feel like you are at the edge of the world at this picturesque location right on the coast.

Cypress Tree Tunnel

The Cypress Tree Tunnel is loved by many photographers, and golden hour may draw crowds. Be sure to look out for the sign that says "North District Operations Center" as it'll be a turn off on the same road as if you were heading to the Lighthouse. The tunnel of cypress trees has quite the mystique to it and would make for a great location for a proposal! There is a chance the gate leading to the tunnel could be closed so be prepared to park on the street.

Please note that traveling restrictions may be in place due to COVID and facilities and trails could be closed, so please check directly with the parks before visiting. Click here for more info.

HWY 1 Road Trip Stop- Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is a great location to stop and grab some local seaside grub on your coastal road trip up North. You might recognize this small town on the Sonoma Coast from movies like "The Birds" (1963) or "The Goonies" (1985). There are amazing local restaurant options serving your sea faring favorites, like clam chowder bowls and fish and chips.

Some local grub favorites in Bodega Bay include:

Fishetarian Fish Market - Check Yelp Page

Spud Point Crab Company - Check Yelp Page

Fisherman's Cove - Check Yelp Page

Lodging near Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is a good lunch spot before making your way up the Sonoma Coast on Highway 1. The drive is simply gorgeous, with the drastic coastlines and cliffs. Some other pit stop recommendations I have are are Duncan's Landing Overlook, and Cafe Aquatica in Jenner, CA.

HWY 1 Road Trip Stop - Mendocino + Fort Bragg

Mendocino county points of interest.

Some of the most infamous beaches in Northern California are located in Mendocino and Fort Bragg. Luckily these two coastal cities are only 15 minutes away from each other. The Mendocino County Points of Interest are ordered from South to North to help you plan your stops as you make your way north to Humboldt County. See my Mendocino weekend guide here for where to stay, eat and more points of interest!

Russian Gulch State Park

This state park has it all for hikers, families and adventure seekers - explore the 15 mile forested canyons and rugged coastline. The park boasts a 36 foot waterfall, sinkhole called Devils Punchbowl, and the picturesque 100ft tall Panhorst Bridge.

Whether you plan on just passing through or staying for a few days in town, you can find an abundance of outdoor activities to do such as kayaking, camping, biking, horseback riding, fishing and hiking.

Find out further details on Russian Gulch State Park here .

Lodging near Mendocino

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

If you are looking for a peaceful walk through nature, then you might consider making a stop to see the largely diverse grounds of the Botanical Gardens. With over 47 acres to explore, you'll be delighted with various plants, flowers, and species to admire. They are most famous for their Rhododendrons that bloom in the spring and color the ground with their colorful petals by March-April. They also have a wonderful Dahlia garden, which is a popular time to visit in late Summer to see them in full bloom. Make sure to make a reservation ahead of time due to COVID, which can easily by purchased online for $15 here.

Glass Beach

While we can't guarantee that you'll find a beach full of glass, the fun is in the hunt! What used to be a locals dumping grounds for glass bottles, turned into a location for tourists looking to get their hands on some of the gorgeous beach glass. Keep in mind, even though it's prohibited to take the glass home with you, you may be surprised to see little amounts still left there.

The Mendocino area is also very well known for their wines. If you don't want to stray too far off-course from the coast, you may consider checking out Pacific Star Winery which is directly on the coast with the most gorgeous views. Note: they are only open Thurs-Sun.

When we visited the Mendocino area, we glamped on the beach, which was an experience I will never forget and highly recommend as something to do once in your life. You can read about our 2 night glamping experience here.

HWY 1 Road Trip Stop - Humboldt County

Humboldt county points of interest.

Avenue of the Giants

The Avenue of Giants is a right of passage when you visit Humboldt County, and easily one of the worlds most scenic drives. The two lane road twists and curves for more than 30 miles as you are engulfed by the various giant redwood groves. There are many stoping points along the way for you to stretch your legs and soak in the largest remaining virgin redwood trees left in the world. If being a tourist excites you, then you may want to check out the Shrine Drive Thru Tree to take a picture! And don't worry, the Avenue parallels the highway so you won't have to stray off course to take advantage of this mandatory detour.

Check out these unique Redwood trees along your way! Visit the Ten Must See Redwood Trees according to visitredwoods.com.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

There is no shortage of Redwoods in Humboldt County, as you have various National and State parks to choose from. Many visitors love coming to this park in particular for the infamous Fern Canyon, which you may recognize from Steven Spielberg's movie Jurrasic Park. The 50 ft. walled canyons are covered in ferns, making this a luscious tropical place to come find some peace and take photos.

You can easily do the 1.1 mile Fern Canyon Loop trail - but prepare to walk on logs, and cross small creeks depending on the time of year.

The drive in is like a mini adventure in itself, and although you can get by with a 2WD just prepare yourself for a bumpy ride. We even spotted some Roosevelt Elk on our drive out, and a few years ago encountered an Elk on the trail! It's a common area for Elk to gather so keep your eyes peeled at all times, and remember to keep your distance.

Trinidad Points of Interest

Trinidad, CA, is a coastal town about 15 miles north of Arcata, and has some of the most dramatic and serene coastlines on the Northern California coast. Patricks Point Drive to the north of town and Scenic Drive to the south hug the rugged coastline and provide access to and views of the ocean, sea stacks, and cliffs. You really can't go wrong visiting any part of the coast up in this territory, but here are some of my favorites. If you plan on spending the weekend in Trinidad, CA see my full travel guide here .

See Lodging Near Trinidad

College Cove

A beautiful and quiet beach with views of Pewetole Island and Trinidad Head, this hidden gem is loved by locals, dogs, and the occasional nudists! Although we didn't experience any nudists here, it is something that is accepted so keep in mind before you visit. It is a nice little steep walk up from the cove, but definitely worth while!

Patricks Point

A gorgeous coastal park along the Pacific Ocean with hiking trails, camping, surfing, and a great place to have a picnic. Don't forget to check out Wedding Rock, a large rock formation jutting into the ocean.

Moonstone Beach

Great family friendly beach and spot to catch the sunset. As you take a walk along the beach you can explore small caves, tide pools, and rock formations.

Luffenholtz Beach

If you are looking to stop off somewhere just for the view and not get sandy then this is your spot! When you arrive to the very small parking lot you'll see a trail which leads out to a point with stunning views of the coastline. It has an epic view of Camel Rock and various other sea stacks. 10/10 recommend coming to this hidden little gem! Here is the location on the map

That concludes the Northern California Coast Road Trip Itinerary for now! If you want to add another scenic stop on your way back, you can take the long way home and check out the volcanic legend of Mount Shasta. I have a weekend guide for Mt.Shasta here for you to read .

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2 Kommentare

We visited Mendocino Botanical Gardens as part of our honeymoon road trip and had such an awesome time! This post includes some beautiful places to visit, thank you!

All of these stops along the coast look incredible! And the views of the water are truly breathtaking.

@Brittsbellavita

Welcome to the brittsbellavita blog, a california based travel and adventure community geared towards inspiring others to find their "bella vita." i am a licensed drone pilot and content creator with a passion for exploring the outdoors, finding hidden gems, and getting off the beaten path. i live in northern california, and love showcasing the golden state, west coast, and beyond.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a small commission. Thanks you for the support.

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Northern California Coast Road Trip: Driving the Pacific Coast Highway

I’ve always been intrigued with the Pacific Coast Highway. Hugging the shoreline from Los Angeles to Leggett, Highway 1 is famous for spectacular views as well as legendary twists and turns. Driving at least part of the route has long been a dream of mine, and last month my husband Daniel and I decided to make that dream a reality. After a journey across the southwest, we headed to San Francisco for a Northern California coast road trip.

For this adventure, we spent 3 days driving from Muir Woods to the Avenue of the Giants in our 2000 VW Rialta motorhome named Appa. Built on a Eurovan chassis with a Winnebago interior, Appa is a 21-foot long gutless wonder with fabulous gas mileage and a touchy transmission. She doesn’t do well on hills and we have to constantly watch our gauges to ensure she doesn’t overheat.

We were both curious to see how she’d handle Highway 1’s famous curves and hills on a Northern California road trip. As it turns out, not so well.

Table of Contents

Northern California Coast Road Trip Itinerary At-A-Glance

Here’s a snapshot of our Northern California coast road trip itinerary from Muir Woods to Garberville, which is at the southern entrance to the Avenue of the Giants. We gave ourselves three days to drive 230 miles so we had plenty of time for sightseeing and because our RV isn’t particularly fast.

• 12:30 pm – Explore Muir Woods (arrival time dependent on parking reservation)
• 3:00 pm – Visit Muir Beach Overlook
• Optional – Drive to Point Reyes Lighthouse which adds at least 1.5 hours to the driving time
• Optional – Stop in the town of Bodega which is 10 minutes inland from Bodega Bay along Highway 1
• 10:30 am – Explore Bodega Head
• 11:30 am – Eat Lunch at Fisherman’s Cove
• 1:00 pm – Visit Carmel Beach
• 2:30 pm – Hike Vista Trail
• 5:00 pm – Take photos at Point Arena Lighthouse
• 6:30 pm – Stop in Mendocino
• 10:30 am – Visit Mendocino Headlands State Park
• 12:00 pm – Eat lunch in Mendocino and explore the town
• 3:00 pm – Arrive at Leggett, the official end to the Pacific Coast Highway (we arrived later due to car troubles)
• 3:30 pm – Visit Redwoods attractions such as Legend of BigFoot
• 5:00 pm – Arrive in Garberville

Northern California Coast Road Trip Day 1: Muir Woods to Bodega Bay

On the first day of our Northern California Coast road trip, Daniel and I drove 57 miles from Muir Woods National Monument to Bodega Bay. Wanting to avoid the big city in our RV, we had camped the previous evening at the KOA Campground in Petaluma . The drive to Muir Woods took us over some big hills in Mill Valley that we hadn’t anticipated. We almost had stop and let the transmission cool down before we even made it to Muir Woods.

The rest of the day’s driving was equally difficult. I knew that Highway 1 was a curvy road, but I hadn’t anticipated the number of hills along the route as well. We’ve never driven this kind of terrain in our RV before and it was rough. Driving around all the twists and turns felt like a whole body workout. Our RV had a hard time making it up the hills and we had to pull over more than once to let the transmission cool off.

Fortunately, the views were incredible so it was a great excuse to stop for awhile and take photos.

The Pacific Coast Highway

Entrance Fee: $15 (Children 15 and under are free) Parking Fee: $8.50 for standard vehicles

One of the last stands of old growth coastal redwoods in the San Francisco Bay Area, Muir Woods National Monument encompasses 554 acres of towering trees and dripping green moss. Established as a National Monument in 1908 by Theodore Roosevelt, Muir Woods is named for legendary naturalist John Muir. I’m a big fan of John Muir, so Daniel and I thought that Muir Woods would be a great place to start our Northern California coast road trip.

While not technically on Highway 1, Muir Woods is located off of the Panoramic Highway near the junction of Highway 1 and Highway 101. Due to its proximity to San Francisco, Muir Woods is a popular place. Permits are required to park at Muir Woods which can be purchased in advance online. The National Park Service also usually offers a shuttle service to the park, but this was not running during our visit due to the Coronavirus. I learned about the parking situation on the morning of our visit and luckily was able to reserve a spot for later that same afternoon.

I recommend visiting on a weekday if possible to avoid the crowds. Even with the parking enforcement, the crowds are a bit overwhelming on the weekends.

Daniel is dwarfed by Redwood Trees

A nice spot to take a break

Muir Beach Overlook

After concluding our visit to Muir Woods, Daniel and I headed west and rejoined the Pacific Coast Highway at Muir Beach. Tucked away in a sheltered cove with gorgeous sandy beaches, Muir Beach is a popular swimming and sunbathing destination. The Muir Beach Overlook is just up the road and provides amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Unfortunately, we weren’t able to stop at Muir Beach or the Muir Overlook because our vehicle is too big. Since it was a Sunday, the parking lots were packed and hard to maneuver. We were able to find a pull-out just up the road from Muir Beach Overlook, however, where we finally got to see our first views of the incredible Northern California Coast.

Owl Trail near the Muir Beach Overlook

There are lots of places to stop and take photos along the Pacific Coast Highway. Here you can almost see all the way south to San Francisco.

Point Reyes National Seashore

The next stop on our Northern California coast road trip was Point Reyes National Seashore. Or at least, that was the original plan anyway. The park is supposed to have amazing hiking trails and incredible ocean views, along with a historic lighthouse. What I was really excited about, though, was the drive to the lighthouse. The road is lined with gnarled and twisty Monterey cypress trees, creating a picturesque tunnel.

We ultimately skipped this stop when we learned that the roads near the lighthouse were closed on weekends to prevent overcrowding. This is now firmly on my bucket list for the next time we are in the area. In the meantime, I found this photo online to give you an idea of what the cypress tree tunnel looks like.

I really wish I could’ve seen this amazing Cypress Tunnel at Point Reyes National Seashore (Photo is not mine).

Photo by Casey Horner on Unsplash

Daniel and I ended the first day of our Northern California coast road trip at beautiful Bodega Bay. There are several campgrounds in the area at various county and regional parks, although most did not have availability. We chose Westside Regional Park Campground because it is located right on the bay (and because it was one of the few places that had any openings and took online reservations).

I was surprised at how tired I felt. We had planned to visit the nearby town of Bodega to see shooting locations from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds , but had to strike that off our list too. We hadn’t driven *that* many miles, but we weren’t used to driving such winding and hilly roads. It was exhausting.

Bodega Bay is lovely, however, and we enjoyed staying at our campsite and walking along the beach.

We are happy to be done with traveling for the day!

Northern California Coast Road Trip Day 2: Bodega Bay to Mendocino

On the second day of our Northern California Coast road trip, Daniel and I drove from Bodega Bay to Mendocino for a total of 97 miles. After our experience the previous day, we had a better idea of what to expect and found the drive easier to manage. We started earlier and drove slower and paced ourselves along the way.

This time, we weren’t surprised when we had to pull over and let the transmission cool down.

Sonoma Coast State Park – Bodega Head

The rugged point at the end of Bodega Harbor, Bodega Head is a rocky promontory with stunning views of both the Pacific Ocean and Bodega Bay. About four miles long and one mile wide, this narrow strip of land shelters the harbor from strong ocean winds. Part of Sonoma Coast State Park, Bodega Head has several parking areas with vault toilets next to beaches and hiking trails.

If we had more time during our visit, I would have hiked the 1.7-mile Bodega Bay Trail which loops around the end of the peninsula. We contented ourselves with walking down some steps the beach, however, and marveling at the granite rock formations. As previously mentioned, it was *very* windy. I had to leave my hat in the car so it wouldn’t blow off my head.

View from one of the parking areas at Bodega Head towards the Pacific Ocean

Rugged rocks line the beach along Bodega Head

Lunch at Fisherman’s Cove

Before leaving Bodega Bay, Daniel and I stopped at Fisherman’s Cove for some lunch. We had passed multiple seafood shacks the previous day on our drive along the coast and kept meaning to stop at one. Well, now was the time. We had worked up quite an appetite after exploring Bodega Head and were ready for some food.

Fisherman’s Cove is a seafood restaurant and bait shop on Bodega Bay specializing in local fresh oysters. Their indoor seating area was closed during our visit, but they have outdoor seating and were doing a brisk business at the walk-up window when we arrived. We each ordered an oyster po boy ate them in our RV away from the wind.

It was one of the best oyster po boys that I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating, hands down. Yum!

Fisherman’s Cove Restaurant on Bodega Bay

One of the most delicious oyster po boy sandwiches that I have ever eaten

Sonoma Coast State Park – Carmet Beach

Daniel and I continued our exploration of Sonoma Coast State Park with a stop at Carmet Beach. This is just one of many great pullouts and coastal stops in the area that are all managed by Sonoma Coast State Park. Honestly, all of the pullouts looked pretty amazing and I’m pretty sure you can’t go wrong no matter where you stop.

Carmet Beach features a steep set of stairs down a bluff to small sandy beach lined with rugged rocks. There were some particularly nice sea stacks in the beach which we enjoyed photographing.

Welcome to Carmet Beach!

Sea stack at Carmet Beach

Sonoma Coast State Beach – Vista Trail

After driving into a particularly steep ravine and up the other side, we pulled over to let the car cool off at the Vista Trail parking area. Also, the name implied that a vista was involved so we were eager to check it out. While there were no views to speak of near the parking area, we did find some great views once we started walking.

Vista Trail is a one-mile wheelchair accessible loop to an observation point with views of the Pacific Ocean and Sonoma Coast. The trail was in good shape when we hiked it and should be accessible to most wheelchairs and strollers. There are also some wheelchair-accessible picnic tables near the vista point as well.

Wheelchair-accessible path along Vista Trail

Point Arena Lighthouse

We ended the second day of our Northern California coast road trip with a visit to Point Arena Lighthouse. Standing alone at the end of rocky Point Arena, the lighthouse is only a 3-mile drive from Highway 1 and easily accessible by car. The lighthouse and grounds were completely closed off during our visit due to the pandemic so we parked outside the gates.

According to the Point Arena Lighthouse web site the station and museum are open again but the lighthouse tower is still closed to visitors. However, a virtual tour of the tower is now available.

Even from outside the gates, the views of the lighthouse are incredible. It’s a great place to explore and a fun way to end the second day of our road trip before arriving in Mendocino where we spent the night.

Northern California Coast Road Trip Day 3: Mendocino to Garberville

On the third day of our Northern California Coast road trip, Daniel and I drove from Mendocino to Garberville for a total of 76 miles. We expected it to be an easier drive than on previous days because only the first half is along the coast. After that, the road turns inland and rejoins Highway 101 at Leggett. That is the official ending point of the Pacific Coast Highway and the beginning of the Redwoods Highway.

Well, we couldn’t have been more wrong. As it it turns out, the road crosses small mountain range as it heads inland towards Highway 101. This road is steep and curvy and we had a difficult time driving it in our RV. We had to pull over not once but twice and let the transmission cool down.

The road was much easier to drive once we made it to Highway 101 at Leggett. From there on out, it was smooth sailing as we drove through the rest of Northern California.

Appa takes a break in the shade along Highway 1

I hadn’t known that to expect when we arrived in Mendocino, but it ended up being one of my favorite stops on our entire trip. Mendocino is a cute little seaside town located along Big River where it empties into Mendocino Bay. The town is famous for its wooden towers which are seemingly everywhere. Built in the late 1800, the towers were designed to supply Mendocino with water because the city has no central water supply (and some are still in use today!).

During our visit, we booked a room at the Hill House Inn. It’s an old-fashioned bed and breakfast type of a place and reasonably affordable. It was nice to stretch out and take a break from the RV for the night.

Mendocino Volunteer Fire Department

One of the shops along Main Street with a water tower in the background

Mendocino Headlands State Park

No visit to Mendocino is complete without exploring Mendocino Headlands State Park. In fact, the park is rather hard to miss. The city is located on a little peninsula and Mendocino Headlands State Park follows the entire coastline, surrounding the city on three sides. Several hiking trails ramble along the bluffs for those wanting a closer look at the rugged shoreline.

Since we were in a hurry, Daniel and I drove around the peninsula on Hesser Drive to access some of the further viewpoints. There are several small parking areas with access to bluffs along the Mendocino coastline.

Watching the waves crash at Mendocino Headlands State Park

A little promontory off the coast at Mendocino Headlands State Park

Welcome to the Redwoods

After leaving Mendocino, Highway 1 follows the coast for another 30 miles before heading east. Here the road crosses a small mountain range and enters Redwoods country. Leggett also marks the official end of the Pacific Coast Highway and Highway 1. From here, the road joins with Highway 101, which is also called Redwood Highway in this area.

While we had seen some Redwoods prior to this, it wasn’t until we reached Leggett that we really began seeing these magnificent trees everywhere. This is also where we encountered our first drive-thru tree (apparently there are more than one) and other tourist attractions. My favorite stop in this area is Legend of Big Foot, a kitschy shop filled with all kinds of random gifts and quirky things you don’t need (but are compelled to buy anyway).

We ended our Northern California coast road trip at Garberville, where we planned to start the next leg of our adventure… the Avenue of the Giants auto tour !

Welcome to Legend of BigFoot!

Avenue of Giants Map

Planning a Northern California Coast Road Trip

There are lots of cute seaside towns along this 230-mile route with facilities for camping and eating as well as comfortable hotels. While you could just get in your car and wing it, here are a few tips to keep in mind if you’re more of a planny type (like me):

• Advance reservations are recommended at campgrounds near San Francisco. The further we got away from the city, the easier it was to find accommodation. The same goes for the Redwoods.
• While there are plenty of gas stations, they can sometimes be few and far between. Don’t let your gas gauge get too low and know how far the next station is.
• Advance parking reservation (or shuttle reservation) is required for visiting Muir Woods National Monument. Try to visit on the weekday to avoid the crowds.
• The road leading to Point Reyes Lighthouse is sometimes closed on the weekends to prevent overcrowding. Check online before visiting (and go on the weekday if possible).
• Plan for extra driving time on this road trip. Highway 1’s famous twists and turns take longer to drive than you think.
• This is not a great route for anyone prone to car sickness.
• I wouldn’t recommend driving this road in a large RV or for an older vehicle that is prone to overheating. Our RV is only 21 feet long and it had a hard time making the drive (but then again it is rather gutless)

We spotted this handsome fellow among a herd of Highland Cattle off the Pacific Coast Highway as it winds through farm country

Further Reading

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out some of my other posts about traveling in California!

Avenue of the Giants Auto Tour: A Scenic Drive among the Redwoods

• Best Hikes in Joshua Tree: The Ultimate Hiking Guide
• Joshua Tree Day Trip: The Ultimate One-Day Joshua Tree Itinerary
• 10 Fun and Quirky Things to Do Near Joshua Tree

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Hi, i'm unicorn.

I am an avid hiker, traveler, and adventurer who is on the mission to explore hiking trails around the world.  I’m also obsessed with National Parks, long-distance trails and other outdoorsy things.

I hope to share this knowledge with you and inspire you to explore new hiking trails too!

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21 comments.

Your poor RV! I mean, I guess it worked out for the best as you had to make lots of extra stops to stop it from overheating…it looks like this coastal road trip has spectacular scenery whenever you stopped! I already wanted to visit the redwoods, but it looks like the entire coastline is stunning!

p.s. I had to google oyster po boys as I’ve never had one. It sounds incredible!

Oyster po boys are incredible! The first time I ate one was on New Orleans. I highly recommend if you get a chance someday 🙂

I love kaki fry in Japan, it sounds similar to that, but in a sandwich. Om nom nom. I will totally try it if I can!

The Northern Cali Coast is definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for sharing your awesome experiences! I’d actually never heard of the Avenue of Giants before!

The Avenue of the Giants is incredible! I hope you get to see it someday. I’ll be doing a whole separate post about just that someday ☺️

The road trip must be amazing. So many great places to see. I would love to visit.

It’s an incredible drive. I highly recommend!

The road trip must have been amazingly good. All the photos are incredible.

This is such a great road trip itinerary! I am actually planning on revisiting California this June for my birthday and I cannot wait to see some of these spots. I’ve been to the Redwoods and it’s such a cool area with the tall trees. I really hope to see Point Reyes National Seashore when I go back. 🙂

I hope to see Point Reyes National Seashore on my next visit too. It looks incredible!

I’d love to go on a road trip in California someday, so I loved your post! I’ve only ever been to southern California. It’s such a big state!

It is such a big state isn’t it! I’ve explored all over the state but I still feel like I have only scratched the surface.

Your post reminded me of my visit to these incredible places. Thanks for sharing a great road trip itinerary.

You’re welcome Chirasree!

Omg you are brave souls to take on the roads around Muir Woods in an RV! I’ve been up there twice in a compact car and even that was terrifying. Looks like a gorgeous trip though!

Ha! We had no idea what we were in for or we may have reconsidered LOL! It all worked out ok though.

Perfect timing for reading this post – we’re planning a northern California RV trip this summer and I was just looking for more info on the Mendocino area. Your pics are fantastic!

Awesome! I’m glad you find it helpful! 😊

Looks like such a lovely road trip. I get what you mean about having to strike stuff off your list due to driving fatigue. Roads trips are such fun, but can be tiring too! All in moderation. : )

I always plan way too much when we travel and then reality sets in LOL. Ah well. Such is life.

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The Best North Coast California Road Trip with Kids

Looking for an epic family-friendly North Coast California road trip itinerary? We headed up north from San Francisco to the Redwood National & State Parks and stopped at our favorite Northern California coast towns.

This road trip to the Northern California coast was worth the long driving hours with the little ones. We had the expected tears from our 4 month old and tantrums from our toddler. But, overall, we had an amazing and memorable experience adventuring along California’s northern coast!

D isclaimer : This blog post features some affiliate links. This means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). You can also learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

Northern California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: drive from san francisco to mendocino.

One our favorite northern California coast towns is Mendocino. The fastest route from San Francisco to Mendocino is more inland (~3.5 hours) where you go through the Sonoma region and Anderson Valley, which are both great places to make stops. We like to stop in Boonville along the way for some ice cream and treats at Paysanne (when they are open for the season). There are also some fun shops and restaurants nearby. You can also go along the coast (~5 hours) and stop at Point Reyes , Bodega Bay, Sea Ranch and Point Arena, which are all beautiful for exploring or staying for a night or two.

Mendocino is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Northern California and a bit of a hidden gem. Make sure to end your day with a sunset at Mendocino Headlands or the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg. You will feel so energized and inspired after the long drive.

Once you’re in Mendocino, there is so much to do. You can check out our kid-friendly guide to Mendocino with our favorite things to do as a family. When we aren’t road tripping, we like to stay and camp in Mendocino Groves for a few nights and we always have a good time. On this particular trip, we stayed 2 nights at the Beach House Inn in Fort Bragg (a short drive away from Mendocino).

There are so many other Mendocino and Fort Bragg accommodation options from budget to boutique so book something that works for you.

Day 2: Explore Mendocino

Spend day 2 in Mendocino walking around MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg (10-15 min drive from Mendocino) and exploring Mendocino Headlands State Park, which both have super kid-friendly, flat trails. We also spent a few hours playing in the water at Big River Beach which is a favorite spot of ours. You can find more things to do in Mendocino here .

Day 3: Drive from Mendocino to the Avenue of Giants up to Eureka

Head out early in the morning for the Avenue of Giants, one of the most scenic drives among the redwoods. Imagine large redwood tress lining a 31-mile Avenue (that parallels Highway 101) as you pass by tree groves, hiking trails, picnic areas and the Eel River. It’s truly magical and we loved exploring this gorgeous road! It’s also free to visit!

We stopped at Woodrose Cafe in Garbersville for an early lunch before we headed to the south entrance of the Avenue of Giants. Our favorite quick stops along the Avenue of Giants:

• Boiling Grove (one of the first groves you will pass as you go north and a nice stop to start off the journey)
• Shrine Drive-Thru Tree (I would skip but if you really want to drive through a tree, it’s a fun spot, $10 fee)
• Williams Grove (great stop for a picnic)
• Founder’s Grove (short half mile loop and our favorite stop!)
• Make sure to take a pic in the middle of the Avenue of Giants road for a memorable snap (just be careful of any oncoming traffic)
• Go for a picnic or a dip in the South Fork Eel River . There are different “bars” along the way that offer easy access to the river. We recommend Leatherwood bar and Dyverille bar, which are both very close to Founder’s Grove.

We made Eureka our home base to explore the Redwood National and State Parks but it still took us about 45 minutes to an hour to get to the trails since there are only a few lodging options that are right near park.

We stayed at the Best Western Plus Humboldt Bay and it worked well for our family of four. They have an awesome hot tub and pool which our kids absolutely loved. It’s also walking distance to restaurants and shopping in the downtown area. Arcata , Trinidad and McKinleyville also have good accommodation options.

Next time, if we plan to stay longer, we’ll probably rent a home near the Redwood National & State Parks so that we can cook more of our meals. We found that the restaurants in this area are less diverse and were starting to get tired with the same food options.

Day 4: Hike and explore Fern Canyon & Gold Bluffs Beach

Fern canyon.

Fern Canyon is one of our favorite trails to explore. The trail is an easy 1 mile loop through lush forest, a canyon covered in fern and a trickling stream. Getting to the parking lot can be a bit bumpy but still doable in a standard sedan vehicle. There is a $12 fee and now reservations are required during high season. Make sure to check weather conditions which may impact roads and trails.

Also, there is a herd of wild elk that frequent the area, which is so fun but make sure to observe from a distance.

GOLD BLUFFS BEACH

After you finish exploring Fern Canyon, spend some time picnicking at Gold Bluffs Beach, which is near the parking area. There’s a campground there so you can definitely spend a couple of nights here to explore all of the nearby trails.

NEWTON B. DRURY SCENIC PARKWAY

On the way back, drive the 10 mile scenic drive through the redwoods on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway (an alternative to Hwy 101 which only adds on a few more minutes). It takes you through the old-growth redwood forest in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. There are trailheads along the way if you want stop, including Big Tree. You also might find some elk along the road.

Day 5: Hike Lady Bird Johnson Trail and Trillium Falls Loop

Head back to the Redwood National Park early in the morning to walk the Lady Bird Johnson Trail. It is a stunning and easy 1.5 mile loop that’s perfect if you are hiking with small children.

Then explore Trillium Falls, another family friendly trail and came highly recommended by the park rangers. Because the trailhead is located at Elk Meadow, there’s a good chance to see an elk herd. You can hike to the falls which is 0.5 miles from the trailhead and then turn around. We opted to go a bit longer and did a full loop which was a little less than 3 miles.

We easily did both of these trails with a baby in a soft carrier and our toddler in and out of his soft toddler carrier . We highly recommend for families visiting!

Day 6: Trinidad & Eureka

For day 6, visit Trinidad (~20 min drive from Eureka), a small town along the coast. Spend some time hanging out at Moonstone Beach and walking around the little downtown. We grabbed lunch at Beachcomber Cafe , which was a great spot with outdoor seating and delicious sandwiches, soups and salads.

HISTORICAL TOWN OF EUREKA

In the afternoon, wander the historical downtown of Eureka. Explore the Old Town district which has beautiful Victorian era architecture and fun restaurants and local shops. We passed by the historical Carson house and walked along the Eureka Boardwalk. We also saw kayak rentals and cruises / boat tours along the water front.

Day 7: Check out a Swimming Hole

Swimmer’s delight.

As you head back home, stop by a swimming hole (especially during the warmer months). One of our favorites is Swimmer’s Delight in Van Duzen State Park, a hidden gem in Humboldt county. There’s a day use of $5 and there are various river access points, all generally family friendly and beautiful (you can also borrow a child’s life jacket at the entrance). Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy the refreshing swim!

A road trip to the Northern California coast should be on everyone’s travel bucket list! There’s such a diverse coastline in this region and the redwood trees were definitely a highlight. This was such an epic Northern California Coast family road trip and we can’t wait to come back!

Other Nearby Road Trip Destinations

If you’re feeling ambitious or have more time, there are so many beautiful places to explore in Northern California that are along the way or just a detour away. Here are our family favorites:

• Point Reyes
• Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur

Happy exploring!

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Bucket-List Northern California Road Trip Itinerary

February 13, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   25 Comments

If you are on the hunt for the perfect Northern California road trip itinerary, I have you covered!

Road-tripping along Highway 101 and then down through the Cascades is the perfect way to see some of the best landscapes California has to offer.

Some of the best spots while driving through Northern California include:

• Mount Tamalpais
• Point Reyes National Seashore
• Avenue Of The Giants
• Fern Canyon
• Mount Shasta
• McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
• Lassen Volcanic National Park

I had an amazing time on my North California trip with my boyfriend and want to share all the cool places we visited plus some tips.

For this California road trip itinerary, I am not specifying an amount of time so you can make the drive as time allows for you. Also, feel free to modify it to focus on your top interests.

Don’t forget to check out my road trip packing list before heading out!

Let’s dive into the best places to visit in Northern California!

Table of Contents

Northern California Road Trip Map

If you want to see exactly what this Northern California road trip looks like on paper, check out the map of my itinerary below!

You may have to modify your road trip in California based on weather, road closures, and time!

Stop 1: Start Your Northern California Road Trip in San Francisco

Start your road trip in the quintessential Northern California city: San Francisco !

I suggest flying in here and then exploring either on foot or by utilizing the city’s public transportation. Rent your vehicle when you are ready to leave so you do not have to drive in the traffic-filled city.

Spend anywhere from an afternoon to a few days exploring San Francisco depending on what interests you. There are so many things to see in San Francisco !

Of course, you need to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and explore some of the many overlook points.

I love the view from Marin Headlands as you get a view of the bridge and the city. The waterfront near the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center makes for wonderful views as well!

While you are in San Francisco, head to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 to see hundreds of cute sea lions barking and sunbathing on the docks. This is truly a highlight of visiting San Francisco!

You can also eat at one of the many yummy restaurants at Fisherman’s Wharf or take the boat to Alcatraz .

You must take time for a retro cable car ride up and down the steep streets of San Francisco. Make sure to buy a ticket and start at either end if you want to hang from the outside of the cable car.

Finally, make sure to pop over to Chinatown , one of the best in the world, to experience authentic Chinese cuisine and shopping.

Book Here: San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Book Here: San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Where to Stay in San Francisco :

As a major city, there are a ton of places to stay in San Francisco . Whether you are on a budget or want to enjoy a luxury hotel, there is something for you.

Mid-Range in a Great Location: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Fisherman’s Wharf . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury With Many Amenities: Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Hike Mount Tamalpais

On your way out of San Francisco, be sure to stop at Mount Tamalpais State Park . It is located on Highway 1 just north of the Bay Area.

You can drive almost to the top of Mount Tamalpais and we found easy driving directions her e .

Once you drive as far as you can, you will have a half-mile hike to the top which, all things considered, is pretty short to get to the top of a mountain!

At the top, you will be rewarded with epic vistas and, if you are lucky, a ton of fog below you!

Mount Tamalpais is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers because you are actually above the clouds that blanket the San Francisco Bay Area.

The view from above makes you feel like you are in another world and it is a magical place to capture a sunrise or sunset!

Where to Stay Near Mount Tamalpais:

Mount Tamalpais is remote and there are not many hotels close by. There are also some campgrounds in the area if you want to try camping.

Rustic Inn With Great Views: Mountain Home Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 3: Point Reyes National Seashore

Located less than an hour and a half north of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore is an absolute must-see in Northern California!

You can make it a quick stop, but I highly recommend spending 1 to 2 days exploring the area. There are so many things to do in Point Reyes !

A great starting point is the S.S. Point Reyes Shipwreck . It is easily visible from the road behind a shop in the small town of Inverness. You can also walk to the shipwreck to see it up close and personal.

Next, head to the spooky Cypress Tree Tunnel . This is a popular Instagram spot on a road leading to the historic Point Reyes Receiving Station.

No matter what time of day you visit, you will be amazed at the beauty of these trees. Park your car in the parking lot at the RCA building and walk to each end of the driveway.

From the tree tunnel, drive south to the end of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Here you will find some of the best overlooks on this Northern California coast drive.

Enjoy epic views of wildlife, crashing waves, and stretches of sand from the Sea Lion Overlook and South Beach Overlook . You will also want to pause to snap a photo of the famous Leaning Tree .

At the end of the peninsula is the Point Reyes Lighthouse which offers a scenic coastal walk. There is also a visitor’s center open on the weekend.

There are also many hikes in Point Reyes which is why I recommend making it a multi-day stop when planning a trip to the northern California coast.

Exploring this slice of nature is one of the best things to do in the USA !

Where to Stay Near Point Reyes National Seashore :

There are plenty of hotels and vacation homes dotted along the outskirts of Point Reyes.

Beautiful Property With Two Restaurants: Olema House at Point Reyes . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Wineries in Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa and the entirety of Sonoma County are famous for wineries and the production of wine. If you have never been to a vineyard, now is your time to make the stop!

The area surrounding Santa Rosa is stunning and the vineyards are picturesque. The wine drinking is a bonus too!

Some of the top wineries in Sonoma County are:

• Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery
• St. Francis Winery & Vineyards
• Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
• Iron Horse Vineyards

Santa Rosa is the urban center of Sonoma County and offers many delicious places to eat featuring locally sourced ingredients and, of course, wine!

If you are a Charlie Brown or Snoopy fan, visit the  Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa. It is the largest collection of original Peanuts comics in the world and pays homage to Charles M. Schulz.

When you road trip from San Francisco, Santa Rosa is a must before moving onto the wilderness that dominates the northern half of the state.

Book Here: San Francisco: Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour

Where to Stay in Santa Rosa :

As one of the biggest cities on this North California trip, you have many options for places to stay in Santa Rosa.

Affordable Hotel With Pool and Restaurant: Best Western Garden Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury in the Heart of the City: Hotel E . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Drive Avenue Of The Giants

Officially called State Road 254, the Avenue Of The Giants is a 31-mile stretch of road running adjacent to Highway 101 in Northern California. The drive from San Francisco to the Redwoods is so pretty.

During your California road trip, you won’t miss the Avenue Of The Giants as many signs will point you in the direction of where to start the drive.

Although it is 31 miles long, you don’t have to do the whole thing if you are on a time restriction. There are plenty of options to just drive 5 miles or so and then get back on Highway 101.

I chose to drive the whole thing because the route is spectacular! The towering trees are a sight to behold!

The Avenue Of The Giants is located in and around Humboldt Redwoods State Park . It winds through the park and on both sides of Highway 101.

In addition to driving Avenue Of The Giants, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is a wonderful stop for hiking or camping.

There are so many trails to wander, backroads to drive, and even a tree you can drive through! This is one of the best stops on a Northern California road trip for nature lovers!

Stop 6: Fern Canyon and Redwoods National Park

Fern Canyon will easily be one of the best places to visit in Northern California. It is magical!

Located in Redwoods National and State Parks on the coast of California, the entire canyon is dripping with dreamy ferns. Interestingly, it was a Jurassic Park filming location!

Please note that the drive from Highway 101 to Fern Canyon is quite difficult and I do not recommend doing it with a large vehicle!

There are rivers to drive through, massive potholes, and very narrow and winding mountain roads.

After the crazy drive, the hike to Fern Canyon is just 0.1 miles long. You will be transported from a dusty parking lot to a fern-covered wonderland in just moments!

I highly recommend wearing waterproof shoes or boots to avoid getting your feet wet.

Part of the fun of visiting Fern Canyon is forging the shallow rivers about ankle deep and spending time among the ferns and fallen logs.

This might turn out to be your favorite stop on this itinerary!

Where to Stay Near Redwoods National and State Parks :

There are a handful of campgrounds, hotels, and vacation homes to the north and south of Redwoods National and State Parks.

Mid-Range With a Pool: Holiday Inn Express Redwood National Park . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: Pacific Coast In Northern California

During your Nothern California road trip, make sure to drive up through Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park and through Crescent City to visit the far North California coast .

The coast will be a good change from all the green forests and wineries you have been seeing. Plus, the sea stacks are beyond impressive.

Make sure to take some time to walk around the sea stacks and rocks, especially when the tide is low. This will allow you to find tidepools where a variety of marine animals live.

This is a serene activity, but make sure to never touch or step in tide pools to protect the wildlife.

This is also the perfect time in your California road trip itinerary to stop and take a breather and enjoy the ocean breezes and the stunning Pacific sunsets before continuing.

As you road trip the North California coast, you will love your time on the water since it is just a gorgeous area!

Where to Stay in Crescent City:

Crescent City is one of the bigger towns you’ll come to after leaving the Santa Rosa area. There are a good amount of hotels and vacation homes to pick from.

Simple Motel Right on the Beach: Crescent Beach Motel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 8: Mount Shasta

For the next stop on your road trip in North California, head inland to Mount Shasta .

First drive up through Grant’s Pass, Oregon, and then down I5 to Mount Shasta. This volcano, surrounded by multiple mini volcanoes, is located in the southern Cascade Mountain range.

When I arrived at Mount Shasta, I was blown away by how massive and impressive it is! While seen from many miles away, it only gets more majestic as you get closer!

Take the hike up to Heart Lake for stunning alpine views! Drive your car to Castle Lake and then follow the Heart Lake Trail which loops clockwise around Castle Lake from the parking lot.

The hike is roughly 1 mile and uphill the whole time, so make sure to rest along the way. Take is slow and it is very doable.

The view from Heart Lake showcases the lake itself and also provides a view of Castle Lake below and Mount Shasta in the background.

The two towns to stay in to best explore Mount Shasta are either Weed or the town of Mount Shasta. There are also plenty of campgrounds in the area and camping is popular when exploring here.

Where to Stay in Mount Shasta :

Mount Shasta is a cute small town with lots of great hotel options for your road trip.

Mid-Range Modern Hotel: Summit Lofts Boutique Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 9: Burney Falls

McArthur-Burney Falls, or more commonly just Burney Falls, will be one of the most spectacular waterfalls you ever visit! I have seen epic waterfalls around the country, and I was still impressed!

Burney Falls is located about 1.5 hours east of Mount Shasta.

When visiting  McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park , you will feel like you are on an island in the South Pacific instead of a remote part of Northern California!

The water is so super clear and blue. The waterfall cascade is a style that isn’t normally found in North America with multiple streams on a mossy cliff.

Photos do not do Burney Falls justice! You have to visit to see how massive this waterfall is!

Burney Falls can be viewed from above, but I recommend taking the 0.3-mile paved walk down to the base of the falls. From here, you can appreciate the size and scale of the falls.

I did Burney Falls as a day trip and did not spend the night. However, I spent almost four hours hanging out around the waterfall so budget plenty of time here.

Whatever you do, don’t skip this waterfall on your driving itinerary for Northern California!

Where to Stay Near Burney Falls:

If you want to stay the night a McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, there is a massive campground. There are not many hotel options nearby.

Affordable Basic Motel: Shasta Pines Motel & Suites . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 10: Lassen Volcanic National Park

The last stop along this Northern California road trip itinerary is  Lassen Volcanic National Park . It is just under an hour’s drive south of Burney Falls.

This is one of the lesser-known national parks in the United States but quite impressive to visit. If you want to see volcanoes, crystal clear pools, mud pots, and boiling water, then this national park is for you!

There are over 150 miles of trails in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Explore steam vents and pretty meadows.

The official national park drive is quite a good way to experience Lassen Volcanic National Park as well if you don’t want to hike. Exploring by car is one of my favorite ways to experience national parks.

Luckily, there are plenty of pullouts and easy hikes and walks to experience the beauty of this remote wilderness.

If you want to tick off all the U.S. national parks, this is one of the best things to do in Northern California!

Where to Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park :

You have the option to stay in a lodge, tent, or cabin if you want to stay on-site in the national park. The nearest hotels are south of the park in Mill Creek.

Basic Hotel With a Restaurant: Village at Childs Meadow . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 11: Fly Out Of San Francisco

From Lassen Volcanic National Park, it is a four-hour drive back to San Francisco, completing the loop of this California itinerary.

You can fly home right away or spend more time exploring the city.

With so many things to do in California, you can do a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip next time!

How Long to Spend on This Northern California Coast Road Trip

I suggest a minimum of 7 to 10 days for Northern California road trips.

However, I am an advocate of slow travel so if you have the chance to add more time, you should. If you can schedule more than 10 days, you will not be rushed and have time to explore each location fully.

This is one of the top West Coast road trips so you do not want to miss anything!

If you prefer to stick to nature, you can also easily skip over San Francisco and hit the road right away to save a day as well.

Best Time to Visit Northern California

Personally, I suggest you road trip Northern California in either spring or fall. As the shoulder season, this time of the year has fewer crowds than summer as well as great weather for outdoor adventures.

Spring means wildflowers while fall is beautiful with fiery foliage. The temperature during both seasons reaches highs in the 80s F.

Summer is the busiest time with tourists flocking to the national parks and other popular spots. Expect more traffic and higher prices for car rentals and accommodations. Temps average in the 90s F.

Winter in Northern California is cold, rainy, and snowy sometimes leading to poor road conditions. It is not the best time for hiking or visiting vineyards, but winter sports are popular.

There are so many things to do and see during a Northern California road trip! I hope you have as much fun as we did!

If you love your coastal California road trip, you should check out my Oregon road trip itinerary next!

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Reader Interactions

May 18, 2018 at 9:39 pm

Your photos are always so enchanting! The Avenue of the Giants looks straight out of a fairytale – what an epic roadtrip! The S.S. Point Reyes Shipwreck looked amazing, would love to photograph it one day – even more interesting that it was near a town called Inverness as there is an Inverness very near me in Scotland!

May 18, 2018 at 9:46 pm

This is a perfect trip idea! You guys seem to have had an amazing time. The cypress tunnel is so mysterious…I’ve seen it a couple of times on Instagram but didn’t know it was in California.

May 18, 2018 at 11:26 pm

I was born and raised in the Bay Area but haven’t seen half of this. Thanks for the AMAZINGLY thorough guide – can’t wait to use this guide to better enjoy my home state my next time back!!

http://sundayspritz.com

June 20, 2018 at 2:32 pm

So many great suggestions! I love that you focused on a part of California that isn’t as well known, but is definitely worth traveling to!

June 20, 2018 at 3:14 pm

Thank you for stopping by! It was real cool to visit lesser-known parts of California that were truly stunning

July 31, 2018 at 11:13 pm

Hi, this is a perfect trip we were planning to take in late August. However, there are several Forrest fires in northern California at the moment. I wonder if and or how much of this trip is affected by the current fires.

October 31, 2018 at 2:45 am

Do you think it’s appropriate to do the road trip in mid Feb. ? How’s temperature..weather wise. I’m planning to do 7-9 days trip (flying into from nyc)

Thanks, Andy

October 31, 2018 at 2:19 pm

Yes! You can totally do it! It may be a bit difficult to go to Mount Shasta if it is super buried in snow so just make sure to check the weather!!

February 17, 2019 at 5:48 pm

We will come from Mallorca (Spain) to visit this area! I think your route is great and it will help us plan the visit!

February 18, 2019 at 2:11 pm

Thank you so much! That should be so fun!

May 20, 2019 at 4:55 am

Thanks for the great trip itinerary and the amazing ideas. Do you advise doing this trip in July – August? How’s the temperature?

May 20, 2019 at 2:51 pm

Yes!! You totally can do it in July and August! The weather will vary depending on where you are. Sometimes hotter sometimes cooler such as at Mount Shasta! Have fun!

June 13, 2019 at 4:46 pm

This is super awesome! Could I get a link to your google map?

July 14, 2019 at 2:18 am

Just a note, It’s the BART train no DART.

September 14, 2019 at 9:20 pm

Hoping for good weather to do this Oct 12 for a week. Will we hit snow in Oct at Mt Shasta? From MN. Any suggestions on great places to stay without breaking the bank. I would take google map link. Thanks.

November 26, 2019 at 10:54 am

My boyfriend and I came across your blog in May this year when planning our Northern American leg of our round the world trip. To be honest it was all a bit last minute so we were grateful for such detailed advice. We left San Francisco in late June and hired a van for 11 days. We followed your itinerary word for word. I cannot explain to you how amazing our trip was. We will have memories of it for ever. Thank you so much. We especially loved exploring point Reyes, the view from Mount Tamelpeis and hiking around mount Shasta. I have been to Yosemite, and considered going there again but so glad we did your trip instead. Everywhere we visited was peaceful and quiet, we felt like we had the beautiful views to ourselves.

Amazing blog and thanks again! X

November 27, 2019 at 2:01 pm

Omg I Love this so much!!! Thank you so so much for your review and I am glad that you had a fantastic trip!!

December 1, 2019 at 5:36 pm

Hi Driving from Seattle to San Francisco 26 – 31 December Completed Highway 1 via big sur last year loved it loved the drive not the cities. Any must see suggestions

December 1, 2019 at 11:06 pm

Have such a fantastic time!!! 100% stop at Samuel H Boardman Corridor along the southern Oregon coast ! It is truly fab [we discuss it in our Oregon road trip itinerary] also make sure to stop at Fern Canyon and redwood national park on this itinerary for sure! Have fun!

February 27, 2021 at 2:06 am

Hi! We are doing this exact itinerary at the end of March and doing my research I just came across this post. Thank you!!! This will be incredibly helpful! We are a family of four (Dad+Mom+ 2 teenage daughters) traveling from Miami, fist time in California. Our idea is doing the trip in an RV (Covid ?). Could you share what campsites you used overnight? We would rather stay at secluded spaces, even though they are more rustic and don’t have hookups. Nature and views would be more important than amenities to us. Any recommendation you could share would be awesome. Thank you so much!

February 27, 2021 at 2:47 pm

I don’t even remember the campsites we did here! So sorry! I suggest the iOverlander app which I just used on an RV trip last month! It tells you where “wild camping” is allowed so you can be more secluded and you can sort by the type of campsite! It is a great and free app!!! Enjoy!

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Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip — Northern California Itinerary

Texas Road Trip — Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66

From the dazzling and rocky seascapes of the Northern Coast to the sun-drenched beaches of Southern California, this road trip is filled with scenic vistas, sandy beaches, majestic cliffs, and ancient forests. Pacific Coast Highway, California State Route 1, runs north to south along the coast through (sometimes unnerving) twists and turns that curve through seascapes, mountain roads, and redwoods. SR 1 starts near Interstate 5 (I-5) near Dana Point, California up to its northernmost part near Leggett as its intersections with US Highway 101.

This road trip is broken up into three parts— Northern California , Central California , and Southern California . I recommend heading north to south as you get closer and better views of the water. Feel free to mix it up! The endpoint is Dana Point, where Highway 1 ends.

This portion of the Pacific Coast Highway focuses on northern California and works its way down to the Marian Headlands and San Francisco.

How long? 200 miles, around 5 hours without stops. If you plan on stopping for camping or trails, make it a two-day trip.

When to go? Without much winter weather, it’s popular all year long. Winter, spring, and fall are optimal as summer can bring in fire season. Summers are also really foggy going down the coast.

MacKerricher State Park

24100 Mackerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Jug Handle State Reserve

CA-1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Russian Gulch State Park

CA-1, Mendocino, CA 95460

Little River

Van damme state park.

8001 CA-1, Little River, CA 95456

If you only have an hour at this stop, the state park suggests taking Airport Road out to the pygmy forest. A 5-mile walk through the redwoods and ferns is another amazing trail with beautiful views.

Point Arena

Point arena light station.

45500 Lighthouse Rd, Point Arena, CA 95468

Gualala Point Regional Park

42401 CA-1, Gualala, CA 95445

Gualala Point Regional Park is where the Gualala River meets the sea. You can stop and walk the 2.9 miles of trails that connect the beach to the coastal bluffs and estuary. Rarely ever crowded, this beach is popular for whale watching, beachcombers, and day hikers.

Salt Point State Park

25050 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450

Salt Point State Park is a 6,000-acre state park with over 20 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of rocky coastline. It’s a beautiful place to stop on the ride for a (stony) walk along the shore. Stump Beach is a great little beach with lots of driftwood and mountains on both sides. You will also have limited cell service, so be sure to print out directions when going in. It’s also close to the next stop, Fort Ross State Historic Park.

Fort Ross State Historic Park

19005 Coast Hwy, Jenner, CA 95450

This 3,400-acre park offers unspoiled natural landscapes in addition to a reconstruction of an Imperial Russian-era fur trading outpost. Surrounded by redwood forests and sandy beaches, the park was established in 1090. Fort Ross itself was active from 1812 to 1841, built by representatives of the Russian-American Fur Company. The park includes the 1836 Rotchev House, the Kuskov House, a weathered redwood blockade, a commander’s headquarters, and a Russian Orthodox chapel, crowned by two towers.

Guerneville

Armstrong redwoods state natural reserve.

17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446

One of the first virgin redwood preserves, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve preserves 805 acres of coastal redwoods. Twenty miles of trails with varying difficulty lead you dense forests of pine and oak into the slopes of McCray Mountain, and fields of wildflowers. The tallest tree in the park is the Parson Jones Tree, which is more than 310 feet in height and is less than a mile from the park’s entrance. Also, less than 0.5-mile from the park entrance is the Colonel Armstrong Tree, estimated to be over 1400 years old. One of the easiest one-mile is the Pioneer Nature Trail that leads from the park entrance to the Armstrong Tree and Forest Theater.

Sonoma Coast State Park, Bodega Head Trail Beach

3799 Westshore Rd, Bodega Bay, CA 94923

Tomales Bay State Park, Heart’s Desire Beach

Protected by winds by Inverness Ridge, this park covers the 13-mile inlet that separates Point Reyes from the mainland. The park is divided into three distinct park areas, with Heart’s Desire Beach which offers a gently sloping, surf-free relaxing seashore that is the heart of the state park. Hiking trails lead to Indian Beach, Pebble Beach, and Shell Beach. In addition to the beaches, you will also find forests, grassy meadows, and marshes with a variety of trees, wildflowers, and wildlife.

Point Reyes National Seashore

1 Point Reyes-Petaluma Rd, Inverness, CA 94937

The Point Reyes National Seashore extends around the Point Reyes Peninsula, a craggy stretch of shoreline that extends for some 70 miles. Expansive sandy beaches, open grasslands, grassy hillside, and forests cover this park. You can also walk a short paved loop that explores the San Andreas Fault Zone. Take a leisurely drive through Inverness Ridge to the beaches and wildlife viewing areas. Whale watching is a popular activity as you can watch gray whale migrations from the Chimney Rock and Lighthouse areas. It is a huge park, so stop by the Bear Valley Visitor Center to get different itineraries for your stay.

Mill Valley

Muir woods national monument.

1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941

After visiting Muir Woods, you’ll head south on SR 1 to where it merges with 101 down into Sausalito.

Marin Headlands

Fort Barry, Building 948, Sausalito, CA 94965

• Vista Point (Us-101, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, CA 94965) or Battery Spencer (Conzelman Road, Sausalito, CA 94965). With magnificent views of the bridge, these are two of the places to get a fantastic view of San Francisco. It does get very crowded at the Vista Point so Battery Spencer may be the better bet.
• Sausalito Boardwalk (Sausalito Yacht Harbor, Sausalito, CA 94965). Walk along the harbor and enjoy the beautiful boats along with restaurants, shops, parks, and cafes.
• Sausalito Ferry (Anchor St & Humboldt Ave, Sausalito, CA 94965). Wanting to venture into San Francisco (without the drive)? The Sausalito Ferry drops you off at the end of Market street within walking distance of Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square.

Ready to keep going? Here are the two other itineraries for following the Pacific Coast Highway.

How long does the full route take? From MacKerricher State Park in Northern California to the southern point in Dana Point, the drive takes just a little over 12 hours without stopping. I highly recommend breaking this up into three portions and taking your time. The dramatic sweeping views of the ocean to the West and the mountains to the east are meant to be traveled slowly. This portion covers the Northern California part from Fort Bragg down to San Francisco.

What time of year? Summers are the busiest time of year, and you can honestly spend half of the day on the road going between Malibu and Santa Monica as everyone heads to the beaches. Spring and the Fall are the best time of years, especially with the weather. Winter is the rainy season and is more likely to have mudslides and other issues along the route.

Finally, What to Pack?

Disclosure: The links below contain affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Ready to hit the road? Be sure to pack along some must needed items for your trip.

Road Trip Essentials - Cooler Weather

Looking for national and state parks in California? Click here

Going hiking (or during the rainy season)? Check out some ideas for rain gear

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Where to Visit Along the Northern California Coast

With summer on its way, there has never been a better time to visit the Northern California Coast. There is almost a reversed effect with the weather, as the valley gets hot and the coast cools off. Growing up in Northern California, when the sun would be in full force, we made our way to the coastline.

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Over the past years, I’ve worked my way up from San Francisco, popping into each of the towns all the way up the Highway 1 to Fort Bragg. There is so much to love — each town and city is unique in its own way and of course that wild coastline is hard to beat. There is always a ton to do in the summer in the Bay Area ( see this post for things to do in Northern California ) and can’t wait for the adventures to begin.

Read this ultimate Northern California Coast road trip itinerary  to help plan your trip.

Here’s a look at where to visit along the Northern California Coast

Northern california coast weather.

I will be honest that the weather on the coast is always hit or miss. If you’re looking for guaranteed sunny days, then I would say it’s not here. The weather in the summer months can often be the coldest, especially in San Francisco. So I would be sure to pack a few layers and prepare for some variant temperatures. On Highway One, the weather can be clear and then suddenly foggy.

Personally, I enjoy the colder days as it’s a reprieve from the hot sun. When you get up north, closer to Sonoma County, the summer months are often in the mid-sixties to seventies for temperature. The light breeze often will cool off as well at night.

For more information on the best time to visit Northern California, read this full guide .

Northern California Map & Overview

The areas I will be talking about will be from San Francisco up to Mendocino County. There is so much more to see past Mendocino, however, I have not been yet so I will add those areas into the guide once I do!

Destinations along the Northern California Coast (all north from San Francisco)

Point Reyes & Marshall

If you’re looking to discover one of the best gems on the coast’s highway, start with a trip to Point Reyes. There is so much love here like the Point Reyes National Seashore area. The town of Point Reyes Station is incredibly quaint and has a few local restaurants and a market to check out on the weekend.

In this area, you’ll find Tomales Bay which is really popular for hiking and grabbing fresh oysters for lunch at places like Nick’s Cove or Hog Island.

For more outdoor adventures, you can also rent some kayaks in Marshall and explore the area that way.

As you make your way up the coast, the next biggest town is Bodega Bay on the coast. Known for its beaches, it makes for a great family-friendly destination. You can make your way to Bodega Head and try your luck with whale watching here or head into Doran Regional Park for their public beach.

This is also another great spot to go sea kayaking, be sure to visit Bodega Bay Kayak to get your rentals this summer. There is a ton of fresh seafood here, so if you want to try the local catch, my favorite spots are Spud Point Crab Company and Terrapin Creek Cafe.

Jenner, Timber Cove, & Sea Ranch

One of the most iconic and scenic parts of the Northern California Coast is the section between Jenner and Sea Ranch. It’s wildly beautiful, with curvy roads that hug the cliff’s edge. Along the way, there is not a whole lot but an open landscape that is amazing for outdoor adventure.

Jenner is one of the smaller towns and near it is Goat Rock Beach, Fort Ross State Historic Park, and a lot of wildlife. You’ll often spot seals and sea lions basking in the sun off the coast. Nearby is Fort Ross Vineyard, which you could pop in for a wine tasting.

Further north up the coast, you will make your way to Timber Cove which is anchored by the stunning Timber Cove Hotel. I’d make this a destination for lunch or dinner and even consider staying overnight here.

The final spot is Sea Ranch, famous for its sprawling headlands and architecture. Take a look at Pebble Beach, the iconic Sea Ranch Chapel, hike the Gualala Point Regional Park, and walk on Stengel Beach.

Mendocino & Fort Bragg

The final destination up the Northern California Coast is the town of Mendocino. It’s one of my favorites to visit because of its outdoor beauty, charming town, and incredible food scene. We always go for at least two nights and make our way around our favorites. One of my top activities to do there is to rent an outrigger with Catch-A-Canoe to explore up the river, where you can see river otters and harbor seals.

We often grab a few picnic items and eat out on the outrigger. Russian State Gulch Park is also a beautiful area to explore and has a great walk along the cliff’s edge and its own beach. Some restaurants to check out in the area include Little River Inn, Trillium Cafe, Wild Fish, and Patterson’s Pub. ( here’s my full guide )

The last spot just a bit more north of Mendocino is Fort Bragg. We grew up going here for soccer tournaments and always loved taking the Skunk Train for a scenic ride and then heading down to Glass Beach.

Head here for my recommended one-week itinerary for Northern California. 

Northern California Beaches

We do have some incredible beaches in Northern California. Most are destined for surfers or those willing to brave the cold Pacific Ocean waters. On the clear and sunny days, they make for a great afternoon excursion or part of a road trip north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Here are a few of the top ones I personally love:

• Stinson Beach (45 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Rodeo Beach in Marin County (30 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Bodega Bay (1 hour 30 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Russian Gulch State Park in Mendocino (3 hours 15 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Glass Beach in Fort Bragg (3 hours 30 minutes north of San Francisco)

Where to Stay on the Northern California Coastline

As an Airbnb Associate, I may earn a small commission when you book through these links.  Your support helps me to continue creating content like this.

Where you want to stay is completely up to the experience you’d like to have. I’d recommend staying somewhere in the middle like Bodega or Jenner. Here are my top picks of hotels on the Northern California Coastline or read my full list of best hotels on the Northern coast of California :

Nick’s Cove

Manka’s Inverness Lodge

Bodega Bay Lodge

Timber Cove Resort  

Harbor House Inn

Brewery Gulch Inn

Mendocino Grove Glamping

There are also some incredible Airbnbs in the area:

+ Check out this post for incredible Airbnbs in Sonoma County.

+ Check out this post for some great Airbnbs in Northern California.

Search For Northern California Airbnbs here:

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

I use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

I use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

I use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Rental Car

Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

I use Priority Pass to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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So many reasons to love California. Absolutely great article! Love the footage! You’re so good writer! Very well researched blog…Redwood Forest is Incredibly Awesome!

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The Ultimate Northern California Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for the perfect Northern California road trip? This ultimate road trip itinerary takes you through the top destinations in Northern California!

As one of the biggest and most diverse states in the USA, California is packed with natural beauty, history, and culture.

One of the best ways to fully experience the wonders of the Golden State is on a road trip! This article will focus on an incredible Northern California road trip itinerary that will help you see the best of the area.

Northern California is incredibly special, and it varies slightly from the warm and sunny Southern California . From the bustling cities of San Francisco and Sacramento to the quaint beach towns along the rugged coast, Northern California has so much to offer travelers.

From touring world-renown wine countries to exploring the wide range of national and state parks, lovers of nature, cuisine, art, and culture will have a blast on this Northern California road trip.

See unique natural landmarks like Burney Falls, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and the iconic Redwoods National Park. Soak in hot springs, hike to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, or go camping and backpacking in one of the many beautiful California state parks.

This Northern California road trip itinerary encompasses all the highlights of the area, and organizes them into a convenient driving route so you can explore the state with ease!

Read Next: Check out our post on all of the other top things to do in Northern California !

Table of Contents

How To Get Around Northern California

Where to stay on your northern california road trip, how long do you need for a northern california road trip, stop 1: san francisco, stop 2: napa valley, stop 3: sonoma wine country, stop 4: sacramento, stop 5: yosemite national park, stop 6: lake tahoe, stop 7: lassen volcanic national park, stop 8: macarthur burney falls memorial state park, stop 9: lava beds national monument, stop 10: shasta trinity national forest, stop 11: redwood national park, stop 12: trinidad state beach, stop 13: humboldt redwoods state park, stop 14: fort bragg, stop 15: point reyes national seashore, stop 16: muir woods national monument, return to san francisco.

The easiest way to complete this Northern California road trip itinerary is by renting a car. If you don’t already have a car, your best bet is renting one in San Francisco.

This road trip will start and end in San Francisco, so you can easily explore the city and then rent a car when you’re ready to hit the road.

This Northern California itinerary visits some remote places that don’t have direct public transport, so a car is definitely the best way to explore. You can easily return your rental car back to its original location in San Francisco when the road trip is finished!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Throughout your Northern California trip, there are lots of accommodation options. Even in the national and state parks, lodgings are plentiful.

Because this road trip itinerary is quite flexible, you can choose where you want to spend the night and for how long. Booking.com or Airbnb are great options for finding accommodation in each location.

You can also camp in many places, or try the road trip with a campervan so you can sleep in your vehicle. Be sure to check any national and state parks websites for a full list of campgrounds and regulations on this road trip!

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay in the area, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before, sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

We recommend about two weeks for this Northern California road trip. You could probably visit all the destinations listed in about one week if you wanted to, but it’s better to take your time and really soak it all in.

Some destinations require more time to explore, such as Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe , and San Francisco . You could easily spend 3-7 days in each of these locations and stretch your Northern California road trip into 3 weeks or more.

But the time frame of this Northern California road trip is flexible, so feel free to modify or change it however you want. To give you an idea of the time and distance of the road trip, here are some approximate stats about the route we’ve mapped out:

• Total Driving Distance: 1,520 miles or 2,460 kilometers
• Total Driving Time: 32 hours

These stats are just for driving from destination to destination. Each traveler’s actual Northern California road trip may differ depending on any side trips or modifications you make. But use this as a rough guide and feel free to create your own Northern California road trip itinerary that suits you!

Find more things to do in the Golden State with our complete list of the best things to do in California !

The Ultimate Northern California Road Trip Itinerary

Let’s dive into this ultimate Northern California road trip itinerary! Beginning in San Francisco, spend some time admiring the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and other highlights of this iconic city.

Then grab your rental car and continue on towards the area’s top wine countries, national parks, and lakes. You’ll head east towards the Nevada border, then loop up towards the Oregon border before returning to the West Coast and driving back down to San Francisco.

You’ll begin your Northern California road trip in the mighty city of San Francisco . This vibrant and iconic metropolis is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and technological innovation.

Before you set off on your road trip, be sure to spend at least a few days enjoying all that San Francisco has to offer. Make sure you see the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, which spans the entrance to San Francisco Bay and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Other attractions in addition to the Golden Gate Bridge include the former prison, Alcatraz Island , and the windy and scenic Lombard Street.

For art enthusiasts, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art, while the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park offers a blend of American art and international exhibits.

The city’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own unique character and attractions. The vibrant Mission District is a hub of culinary delights, boasting an array of international cuisines, colorful murals, and trendy boutiques.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling waterfront area known for its fresh seafood, lively street performers, and iconic attractions like Pier 39 and the historic cable cars.

With its captivating blend of coastal charm, cultural richness, and technological innovation, San Francisco is the perfect place to begin any Northern California road trip.

Plan your stay with our 3 Days In San Francisco Itinerary !

• Driving time from San Francisco: 1.5 hours

After experiencing the best of San Francisco, head to what is arguably the top wine region in the USA: Napa Valley . Renowned for its picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and Mediterranean-like climate, Napa Valley is a true gem of Northern California.

With over 400 wineries and many miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the lush landscapes, you’ll have a blast soaking in the luxury and tranquility of Napa.

Wine tasting is, of course, the top activity to try here. Book a guided wine tour so you can learn about the local delicacies and boutique wineries from a local!

In addition to wine tasting, you can also enjoy food and culture while visiting Napa Valley. The region is home to renowned culinary institutions, attracting top chefs from around the world.

Visitors can treat their taste buds to exceptional farm-to-table cuisine, sample artisanal cheeses and olive oils, or attend culinary events and food festivals that showcase the region’s gastronomic delights.

Napa Valley also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances. For those seeking relaxation, the valley’s natural hot springs and world-class spas provide the perfect retreat to unwind and rejuvenate.

• Driving time from Napa Valley: 50 minutes

Right next to Napa is another iconic wine country in Northern California, Sonoma Valley. These two locations are so close that you can choose to just visit one or the other. But if you’re a real wine lover, you may want to spend at least one full day in both places!

With its rolling vineyards, historic villages, and cultural landmarks, Sonoma Valley offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike. The region is home to hundreds of wineries, ranging from boutique family-owned estates to renowned producers.

The valley’s natural beauty is also a major draw, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and hot air balloon rides, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the scenic splendor of the region.

Sonoma Valley’s rich history and cultural heritage further enhance its appeal. Sonoma County is dotted with charming towns and historic sites where visitors can explore adobe buildings, mission churches, and museums that showcase the region’s past.

Sonoma State Historic Park is the center of the area’s history, so this is a great place to learn about the culture, architecture, and traditions of Sonoma County.

• Driving time from Sonoma Valley: 1 hour and 25 minutes

Once you’ve had your fill of wine tasting, head to the dynamic city of Sacramento . As the capital city of California, Sacramento blends a rich history with modern amenities.

Sacramento’s historical significance is evident in its well-preserved Old Sacramento district, which showcases the city’s Gold Rush heritage through its charming wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and museums. Hop on a Gold Rush River Cruise to learn more about the history as you sightsee down the Sacramento River!

The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and performance venues that host a variety of events, including art exhibitions, live music, and theater productions.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sacramento offers ample opportunities for recreational activities. The American River Parkway provides miles of trails for hiking, biking, and jogging, while the rivers offer options for boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Travelers can easily spend up to 3 days in Sacramento, but there is much more to explore on this Northern California road trip. One or two days in the city is sufficient because next you’re heading out to some of the most stunning national parks and lakes in Northern California!

Find more things to do in Sacramento here !

• Driving time from Sacramento: 3.5 hours

The next stop on your Northern California road trip itinerary is one of the country’s most beloved national parks.

Yosemite National Park , located in the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, is a natural wonderland that captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring landscapes and untouched wilderness.

Spanning over 750,000 acres, Yosemite is famous for its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, ancient sequoia groves, and abundant wildlife.

The park’s crown jewel is the iconic Yosemite Valley, a glacially-carved valley that boasts breathtaking vistas such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Hiking trails crisscross the park, offering opportunities for both casual strolls and challenging treks. From the misty meadows of Tuolumne Meadows to the serene beauty of Glacier Point, Yosemite’s diverse ecosystems and geological formations provide endless exploration.

Whether it’s rock climbing, camping, wildlife spotting, or simply basking in the tranquility of nature, Yosemite National Park offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

No Northern California road trip is complete without a visit to Yosemite National Park!

• Driving time from Yosemite National Park: 5 hours

After exploring Yosemite Valley, set aside a full day to travel from there to Lake Tahoe . It’s a 5-hour drive, but after all the hiking and adventuring you may need a bit of R&R.

Enjoy a leisurely drive through the western side of Northern California, then get ready to explore another natural wonder!

Lake Tahoe is a pristine alpine lake that enchants visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain scenery. Spanning over 190 square miles, Lake Tahoe is not only the largest alpine lake in North America but also one of the most beautiful.

The lake’s azure blue waters are surrounded by jagged mountain peaks, lush forests, and sandy beaches, creating a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

Whether it’s kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake’s calm waters, hiking through the scenic trails that line the shoreline, or simply lounging on the beach, Lake Tahoe offers an array of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Lake Tahoe is Emerald Bay State Park, a natural gem with stunning emerald-green waters. Book a boat cruise of Emerald Bay and South Lake Tahoe to cover more ground while sightseeing in this beautiful place.

Tahoe City is the urban hub of the area. If you’re looking for places to stay, dine, or buy supplies, Tahoe City is a great place to base yourself for your explorations of Lake Tahoe.

In the winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its world-class ski resorts, such as Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar, where they can carve through fresh powder and take in panoramic views of the frozen lake.

• Driving time from Lake Tahoe: 3.5 hours

Next on your epic Northern California road trip itinerary is Lassen Volcanic National Park. This geologically diverse and visually striking national park showcases the remnants of volcanic activity in Northern California.

The park is home to Lassen Peak, an active volcano and the southernmost peak in the Cascade Range, which offers breathtaking views from its summit.

Visitors can explore a range of volcanic features, including steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and colorful hot springs, all within the park’s hydrothermal areas.

Lassen Volcanic National Park also boasts beautiful mountain lakes, meadows filled with wildflowers, and dense forests that provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

From the dramatic landscapes to the unique geological formations, Lassen Volcanic National Park is definitely worth a stop on any Northern California road trip itinerary!

Read Next: Have extra time on the West Coast? Take the ultimate road trip from San Francisco to Seattle !

• Driving time from Lassen Volcanic National Park: 1 hour

The natural wonders just keep coming on this Northern California road trip! From Lassen Volcanic National Park, head north to one of the state’s best state parks: MacArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park.

Surrounded by towering evergreen forests, MacArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Burney Falls is undoubtedly the highlight of this beautiful state park. The magnificent 129-foot waterfall never fails to amaze visitors with its cascading beauty and crystal-clear waters.

Fed by underground springs, Burney Falls is surrounded by lush greenery and moss-covered cliffs, offering a serene and picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers to enjoy.

Once you’ve admired Burney Falls and the surrounding nature of one of the top state parks in Northern California, hit the road again and continue your road trip!

• Driving time from Burney Falls: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Your Northern California itinerary continues as you head north toward the Oregon border. Stop for the day at Lava Beds National Monument , a fascinating destination that showcases more of the region’s volcanic history.

The monument is home to a vast network of lava tube caves formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, offering visitors an opportunity to explore these otherworldly underground formations.

As visitors navigate through the labyrinthine passages, they can marvel at the intricate lava formations, ice formations, and diverse geological features.

Additionally, Lava Beds National Monument boasts an abundance of cultural and historical significance, with numerous Native American rock art sites and the presence of the Modoc War battlefields, providing a rich tapestry of human history.

With its captivating geological wonders and cultural heritage, Lava Beds National Monument offers an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to delve into the region’s volcanic past and connect with nature and history here.

• Driving time from Lava Beds National Monument: 1 hour

It’s time to take your Northern California road trip back south toward the magical Shasta Trinity National Forest. Encompassing over 2.2 million acres of stunning natural beauty in Northern California, Shasta Trinity National Forest has mountains, valleys, trails, hot springs, and more.

Hikers and backpackers are spoiled for choice with an abundance of spectacular trails to explore. The Pacific Crest Trail winds through the forest, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

For a more challenging adventure, the Mount Shasta Summit Trail provides an opportunity to conquer the majestic peak.

Lake Shasta is a magnificent reservoir renowned for its beauty and recreational opportunities. With over 365 miles of scenic shoreline, Lake Shasta offers abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming.

There are some great lodges and hotels near Lake Shasta, or you can stay at one of the many popular campgrounds in the forest including McBride Springs Campground, Fowlers Campground, and Panther Meadows Campground.

• Driving time from Shasta Trinity National Forest: 3 hours

Continue your exploration of California’s majestic forests by heading toward the coastal redwoods. Located near the Northern California coast, Redwood National Park is a sanctuary of ancient giants and awe-inspiring beauty.

Renowned for its towering coastal redwood trees, the tallest trees on Earth, Redwood National Park offers a majestic and serene atmosphere. It’s definitely a highlight of any Northern California road trip.

Hiking trails like the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail and Tall Trees Grove Trail lead visitors through lush forests of towering redwoods, providing an up-close experience with these magnificent giants.

For breathtaking viewpoints, the overlooks along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and the Klamath River Overlook offer stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and the convergence of the forest and the sea.

With its enchanting trails and mesmerizing viewpoints, Redwoods National Park is an unparalleled destination for nature lovers exploring California.

• Driving time from Redwood National Park: 25 minutes

After hiking amongst the redwoods, get ready to soak in more of that salty Pacific Ocean air on the Northern California coast. The next stop on your road trip itinerary is Trinidad State Beach , known for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful sandy shores, and crystal-clear waters.

Visitors can stroll along the shoreline and search for seashells, watch seabirds soar overhead, or simply bask in the tranquility of the coastal scenery.

This beach is a hidden gem that invites visitors to relax, connect with nature, and immerse themselves in the serene landscape of the Northern California coast.

You only need to spend a short time here as there isn’t much to do besides relax by the beach. But it makes a nice break from driving on your Northern California road trip!

• Driving time from Trinidad State Beach: 1 hour and 20 minutes

After enjoying the beach, you can explore even more magnificent redwood trees if you want! Humboldt Redwoods State Park is a bit further south than the famous Redwoods National Park, but it offers a similar experience.

If you’re short on time or you’re not that interested in redwoods, you can choose one of the two parks to explore. But if you do have time, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is absolutely worth it!

Spanning over 53,000 acres, the park is home to more of California’s iconic Redwoods, including the famous “Avenue of the Giants” where towering redwoods line the scenic drive.

The park offers a variety of hiking trails, such as the Founders Grove Trail and the Rockefeller Loop, which wind through towering groves, fern-filled canyons, and meandering rivers.

Visitors can marvel at the sheer grandeur of the redwoods, take in the peacefulness of the forest, and witness the intricate interplay of light and shadows filtering through the dense canopy.

• Driving time from Humboldt Redwoods State Park: 2 hours

Continue south down California’s west coast as you make your way back toward San Francisco. Your next stop is Fort Bragg , a charming coastal city located in Mendocino County. With its dramatic coastal scenery, Fort Bragg offers a tranquil retreat for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The city’s iconic Glass Beach, known for its shimmering sea glass scattered along the shore, is a popular attraction that showcases the beauty of nature’s transformation.

Visitors can also explore the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, wander along the scenic Noyo Headlands Park trail, or embark on a scenic coastal drive along the Pacific Coast Highway .

Fort Bragg is a coastal gem that invites visitors to relax, connect with nature, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and it’s a convenient stop on your Northern California road trip itinerary.

• Driving time from Fort Bragg: 3 hours and 45 minutes

From Fort Bragg, you’ll continue south along the route of the Pacific Coast Highway until you reach Point Reyes National Seashore. This protected nature preserve is one of the final stops on your Northern California road trip itinerary!

Point Reyes National Seashore is known for its rugged cliffs, idyllic beaches, and expansive grasslands. The Point Reyes Lighthouse is an iconic landmark here, as is the scenic Cypress Tree Tunnel.

Visitors can explore the wide variety of hiking trails that wind through the park, such as the famous Tomales Point Trail, which offers lovely views of the ocean and the chance to spot tule elk.

The Chimney Rock Trail also offers lovely views of Drakes Bay and the Northern California coastline.

Hiking, biking, kayaking, whale watching, and birdwatching are all common ways to pass the time in the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore.

• Driving time from Point Reyes National Seashore: 1 hour and 15 minutes

After soaking in the views at the seashore, there is one more stop on your Northern California road trip before you return to San Francisco.

Located just north of the city, Muir Woods National Monument offers travelers the chance to connect with nature and witness the grandeur of more giant trees.

Named after renowned naturalist John Muir, the monument is home to a pristine coastal redwood forest, where towering trees reach heights of over 250 feet and create an enchanting atmosphere.

As visitors stroll along the well-maintained trails, they are surrounded by the quiet serenity of the towering redwoods, with rays of sunlight filtering through the dense canopy above.

Once you’ve seen the best of the Muir Woods National Monument, it’s time to head back to San Francisco and return your rental car.

You’ve probably gathered that this Northern California road trip itinerary can be modified or completed in reverse. There is no right or wrong way to explore the beautiful Golden State, and this road trip itinerary certainly doesn’t cover all of the state’s wonders.

But we’ve tried to create a good starting point for exploring Northern California! There is so much beauty here, and there are plenty of amenities along this driving route that make any road trip convenient and fun.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

last Updated: May 24, 2024 big sur california central coast half moon bay highway 1 Los Angeles monterey orange county pismo beach road trip san francisco santa barbara santa cruz santa monica

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Planning a California coast road trip?! Taking a drive down the PCH?! You’re in the right place!  I’ve got loads of info for you!

A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer. 

From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on the California Coast. 

Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel, you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. Let’s get this Pacific Coast Highway road trip under way!

Being one of the most scenic drives in the world (and rightfully so), I advise you to take your sweet time to really savor all the charming beauty of this west coast road trip down California.

And before we go into it, if you’ve got even more time in California and you’d like to visit a few spots off the coast, check out my latest post: 45 (Extremely) Beautiful Places in California   (opens in new tab, don’t worry!) << lots more itinerary inspiration for your California road trip!

Recommended Route down the California Coast

• Stop 1:  San Francisco, California
• Stop 2:  Half Moon Bay
• Stop 3:  Santa Cruz
• Stop 4:  Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Stop 5:  Big Sur
• Stop 6:  San Simeon
• Stop 7:  San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach
• Stop 8:  Solvang
• Stop 9:  Santa Barbara
• Stop 10:  Ventura  → Channel Islands
• Stop 11:  Malibu
• Stop 12:  Los Angeles/Santa Monica
• Stop 13:  Anaheim
• Stop 14:  Orange County
• Stop 15:  San Diego

ALL 75 of my favorite PCH stops RIGHT over here ! There’s tons of ideas in this California coast road trip itinerary, but those are my absolute favorites.

Note that the number of stops you’ll be able to make highly depends on how much time you have allotted for this California road trip.

Suggested One-Week Itinerary: If you have a week or so for this drive down the California Coast, I recommend a day in SF (depending on whether you’ve been or not), a day in Carmel/Monterey, a day in Big Sur , stopping at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, dune-bashing (if that’s your thing) in Pismo Beach, a day in Santa Barbara, stopping in Malibu en route of LA, checking out the main sights of LA/Santa Monica , then some beach time in Orange County .

Yes , it’ll be pretty jam-packed , but highly doable if you plan your drives correctly. You can really spend an infinite amount of time on the California Coast, so it’s hard to say exactly how long this road trip will take. It highly depends on your interest, how much time you wanna spend in the cities, and how much driving per day you wanna do.

Note that you can drive directly from San Francisco to LA in roughly 6 hours, but this route (via Highway 101 and Highway 5) will take you inland, meaning you’ll miss out on so much of the Central Coast. 

If you’re planning to drive round trip, I highly recommend that you drive South down the coast via Highway 1 – the Pacific Coast Highway , and then venture back up North via Highway 5 and Highway 101. 

You can drive either way (from SF to LA/San Diego -or- LA/San Diego to SF), but I prefer driving South, starting in the SF Bay Area and making my way down to LA/SD.  Pssst: the views are better this way as the car will be closer to the water. 😉

Renting a Car: Since this is in fact a  road trip , you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this California coast road trip itinerary!

I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (it may be worth the extra 6 hour drive back to your original starting point to avoid this pesky fee).

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here !

WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA:

First things first, if you’re not a resident of San Francisco (or LA), you’ll of course need to get yourself there. Since SFO is a major international airport, and a hub for many airlines, you can easily find cheap airfare within the states. 

I swear by  Skyscanner  and  Google Flights , and always always  always  use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two. 

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas of the US with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found  here .

If you’ll be following this  itinerary and heading south (without driving the direct 6+ hours back to  San Francisco ), you’ll want to book two one-way tickets. 1) HOME → SFO, 2) LAX→ HOME. Make sure to search for one-way flights when booking tickets.

Totally your call, but I suggest flying round trip from the same airport so you can avoid one-way drop off rental car fees.

When to Drive Down the California Coast

Keep in mind that the summer months (June, July, and August) are usually rather foggy in San Francisco and down the California coast.  Because of this, some mornings will be pretty damp and misty.  For best weather and best chance of sunshine, plan for a road trip in either late September or October. 

If summer is your only option, you may get lucky with clear skies, but don’t count on it.  However, with this in mind, the fog usually clears up by mid-morning/afternoon.  Normal summer temps are in the low-60’s to mid-70’s, so bring a jacket and reconsider that convertible!  “May Grey, June Gloom” is a real thing out here.

*All drive times are approximations.  Traffic can be heavy at some points along the drive, and you’ll likely be getting out of your car occasionally to take photos along the way.

Stumped on what to pack for a California road trip itinerary? Check out this ultimate road trip essentials packing guide (opens in new tab)!

What to Pack for your Pacific coast highway road trip (rotate sideways on Mobile)

Now let’s get this California coast road trip planning on it’s way!

California Coast Road Trip Itinerary:

1) start in san francisco.

Ahhh, SF, my favorite city; although technically I’m biased because I chose to move to the city by the bay from NYC a few years ago. 😉

A few San Francisco must do’s include either walking or driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, wandering around Fisherman’s Wharf (and stuffing your face with an ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli’s), getting spooked at Alcatraz Island (go on the night tour!), relaxing with some coffee in Union Square, walking down twisty Lombard Street, and riding a cable car. 

Get some great views at either Twin Peaks or the top of Coit Tower, check out the Painted Ladies, commonly known as the “Full House” houses, and nosh on some sourdough bread, fresh pasta in North Beach, and a burrito in the Mission District.

Other things to do in San Francisco include taking a panoramic night tour of city , cruise around the bay in a catamaran (champagne included!), see the Golden Gate Bridge from above  on a seaplane tour , and taking a day trip to Napa Valley (not to be missed on any PCH road trip !)

Visiting San Francisco for the first time? Read THIS  and THIS .  🙂 And make sure to check out this perfect 3-day SF itinerary !

Beware, parking is not the greatest (and garages are expensive), and public transportation is somewhat lacking.  I’ve lived here for 4 years now and still don’t love touring the city via car.

I recommend playing tourist and taking a full tour of the city  instead of trying to do everything on your own.  Or rent bikes , electric bikes (!!!), or even a really fun (and kind of cheesy) goCar  if you’d prefer to fly solo. Uber is always a good suggestion, and with my discount code  (jessicak148), you can get a few bucks off your first ride!

Read More about San Francisco:

• A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco
• The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List
• Hiking in San Francisco: A Coastal Walk through Lands’ End
• 25 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco
• Best Places to Photograph the Golden Gate Bridge
• Best Desserts in SF (All my Favorite Spots)

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Intercontinental San Francisco (up-scale luxury and fantastic restaurant)
• Hotel Carlton (travel themed and around the block from Mr. Holmes Bakehouse)

2) Half Moon Bay (45 minutes from SF)

Your first official stop on your California coast road trip (unless you wanna make a few stops in Pacifica /Pescadero – I’ve got a whole road trip guide from San Francisco to Santa Cruz here )!  Say goodbye to the city and venture on over to Half Moon Bay, a cozy little seaside village right on the coast. 

You could easily plan a full day’s worth of activities here, but I suggest spending either a morning or afternoon, unless you want to take the plunge and stay at the ever-so-beautiful Ritz Carlton . 

A few must do’s: go for a stroll on one of the many beaches that dot this area of the coastline (my favorites: Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar), wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street, walk the coastal trail, and indulge in a lobster roll from Sam’s Chowder House.

Read More about Half Moon Bay:

• The Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay
• 12 Reasons to Love the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
• All My Favorite Beaches in Half Moon Bay

3) Santa Cruz (1 hour from Half Moon Bay)

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!

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).

Read More about Santa Cruz:

15+ Things to do in Santa Cruz

4) Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea (45 minutes from Santa Cruz)

Next up on our Pacific Coast Highway road trip – Monterey and Carmel! California is just full of sweet little seaside towns, and this area, despite being rather touristy, is definitely one to stop at. 

Monterey and Carmel are only a few miles apart, and I highly suggest spending the night in either of these towns (Monterey being the more affordable option) while on your California coast road trip.

A few recommended activities and bites: bundle up on a whale watching tour , indulge in clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s wharf, walk around Cannery Row, and spend a few hours at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (included in the San Francisco CityPASS if you’ve gotten it previously).

Don’t miss a walk around the charming little town of Carmel, cruising around the area in a Sea Car , watching the sunset at Carmel Beach Park, and stopping at the viewpoints along the 17 Mile Drive. 

On our most recent visit, I couldn’t stop raving about the food, with my favorites being the Monterey Crepe Company, Red’s Donuts, and The Poke Lab.  I really should make an-depth guide to Monterey soon!

Read More about Monterey/Carmel:

• Why I Want to Move to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
• Monterey and the 17 Mile Drive

Where to Stay in Monterey:

• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa (located on a golf course!)
• Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row (wonderful location)
• The Monterey Tides Hotel (right on the beach!)

5) Big Sur (50 minutes from Monterey)

Next up: Big Sur , famous for a reason and many people’s favorite stop on this California coast road trip itinerary. Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. 

It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the coast. 

With this being said, plan to drive down the coast and consider setting up camp/hotel in another location, unless you want to fork over some big bucks for a luxury hotel.  I recommend everyone spend a bit of time in Big Sur on a California coast road trip (at least half a day)– it’s too remarkable to miss!

You’ll be stopping on the side of the highway so many times you’ll lose count – the coast line is just that spectacular!  It’s known for its winding turns, seaside cliffs, and breathtaking views of the often misty coastline. 

A few must-do’s here in Big Sur : see McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, wiggle your toes in purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach (yes, parts of it really are purple, I was surprised too…), marvel at the Bixby Creek Bridge, and check out all the views from Point Lobos. OH, and if you’re visiting between February and April, definitely find the hidden blooms at Calla Lily Valley !

Read More on Big Sur

• A Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Big Sur (Super Duper Beautiful Luxury Spots)

• 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)

6) San Simeon (2 – 4 hours drive, depending on how many stops you make in Big Sur)

Did you think you’d be stopping at a castle on your California coast road trip?  When I first learned about Hearst Castle, I was mesmerized.  Being a historic landmark on the coast, tours do fill up in advance, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time . 

First time visiting?  Sign up for the Grand Rooms Tour – and that’s exactly what you’ll see – plenty of spectacularly ornate rooms, plus lots of time to explore the absolutely stunning grounds. 

Non-negotiable on any California Coast road trip, in my opinion.  Be sure to look out for the zebra on the side of the highway as you enter/leave.  Bizarre, opulent, and oddly satisfying.

And while you’re in the area, make sure to stop at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, a popular spot to observe elephant seals with its own boardwalk and viewing areas. 

The best times to visit the rookery are in late January, late April, and late October, but visits are encouraged year round.  Have you seen an elephant seal use their large, inflatable noses to make noise?  It’s pretty wild!

7) San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach/Morro Bay/Paso Robles (45 minutes from San Simeon)

So there’s kinda a lot to do in this little area – so best to pick and choose your favorites (if not, you can easily spend a whole week here!). 

In SLO (what locals refer to as San Luis Obispo), sip pink drinks at the Madonna Inn , stuff your face with bbq are Firestone Grill, blow bubbles at the Bubble Gum Wall in downtown, and grab donuts at SLO Donut Company (SloDoCo). All my favorites, and I can’t image an afternoon not doing any of these.

Looking to stretch your legs?  Opt for the Bluff Trail at Montaña de Oro State Park, a 3.4 mile round trip relatively flat path with (better-than-okay) ocean views.

Thought Napa/Sonoma were the only wine countries in California? Winos – you’re in luck.  This part of your California coast road trip (in Paso Robles ) features over 100 wineries, and deciding which to visit is the hardest part! 

The DAOU Vineyards gets constant praise, and with it’s wonderful wine, olive oil, and views, it’s hard to beat!

Want someone else to take you around? Probably a good idea if you’ll be drinking lots of wine! Hop on a full-day hop-on, hop-off wine tasting tour (yes, they exist!) and you can choose your own itinerary in Paso Robles Wine Country.

Or take the easy way out and let someone else decide for you on this  Ultimate Wine Experience in San Luis Obispo (foodie lunch and 3-5 wineries included!).

You need to include a dune buggy ride on Pismo Beach on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip ! One of the most epic things to do in this area! More info on that here . Nowhere else in California can you drive a vehicle on a public beach!

Before getting to SLO, you may as well make a pit stop in Moro Bay. If the weather cooperates (always a gamble over here), you’ll be rewarded with views of the giant monolith. Be sure to walk around the nearby beach to find sand dollars, and grab a cinnamon bun from one of the local bakeries.

If you’re thinking of stopping here for the night (or have had too much to drink…), consider staying at no other than the wildly famous Madonna Inn (we LOVED our quirky stay here !).  But be sure to save your breakfast appetite for SLO’s legendary Big Sky Café.  Oh, and there’s always beach time as well if the weather cooperates.

8) Solvang (1 hour from San Luis Obispo)

A bit in-land, but well worth the few miles off the highway.  This cute little area will feel as if you’ve been transplanted to a Danish village, with authentic Dutch bakeries and international cuisine.  Worth a quick pit stop, for the pastries alone (try the aebleskiver – pancake puffs). 🙂  

Stroll the village to spot Danish icons including the Little Mermaid Fountain, a handful of historic windmills, the giant red clog, and Round Tower.  There’s also two historic churches to check out, Old Mission Santa Ines and Bethania Lutheran.

Looking for something a bit more active? See the unique architecture of the only Danish city in The West via segway tour ! They are so much fun and an easy way to get around!

9) Santa Barbara (45 minutes from Solvang)

An absolute must-stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip !  Here in Santa Barbara – dubbed the American Riviera – you’ll find widespread beaches and a truly relaxed atmosphere. 

Downtown you’ll find Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, which accurately reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage.

And the food! Oh, the food here! Consider joining a historic Santa Barbara Food Tasting Tour  to get a true feel for what the locals love here (hint hint: includes Northern Italian dishes, gourmet cheese, local wine and handcrafted chocolates… yum).

Rather take a beer tour? Sign up for the  Self-Guided Santa Barbara Lagoon Loop Craft Beer Trail  (yes, it’s a thing down here).

Don’t miss Old Mission Santa Barbara, a historic church known for its beauty, a panoramic view of the city from the Clock Tower observation deck of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and the Santa Barbara Public Market. 

Save some time for Stearn’s Wharf and then beach it up, you deserve it!  If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m all about that ice cream – satisfy your sweet tooth at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams (worth the wait and then some).

And whatever you do, don’t leave Santa Barbara without taking a surf lesson  (<– reserve your spot now, as they can fill up pretty quickly during the warmer months).

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara:

• Inn by the Harbor (romantic and Mediterranean two blocks from the waterfront)

Recommended Tours in Santa Barbara:

• El Paseo Wine and Photo Tour
• Santa Barbara Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• Santa Barbara Funk Zone: Food and Photo Tour

10) Ventura for Channel Islands National Park (40 minutes from Santa Barbara)

Usually not very common on a ‘traditional’ California coast road trip, but I couldn’t leave this destination off the list.  In Ventura, be sure to check out Mission San Buenaventura, Olivas Adoble, and Oxnard Beach Part. 

This vibrant town is the unexpected spot to make your way to Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast via ferry, plane, or private boat.

Take a break from the crazy urban life and go for a hike on the Channel Islands, literally!  The park is comprised of 5 islands and their surrounding mile of ocean, so it’s best to decide beforehand where and what to go/do. 

Head to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island for some of the best views of the National Park, and/or you can snorkel/dive/kayak in Landing Cove (Anacapa Island) or at Scorpion Anchorage (Santa Cruz Island).  If you’re on Santa Cruz Island, be sure to check out Cavern Point, which provides a spectacular view after a short hike.  You can even go whale watching around here!

FYI – there is NO transportation available on the islands – you have to either walk, kayak, or cruise around via private boat.  Bicycles are not allowed.  Plan a day trip here from Ventura to get your nature fix.

Recommended Channel Islands Tours

• Channel Islands Full-Day Private Sailing Trip

11) Malibu (50 minutes from Ventura)

Just the name “Malibu” sounds exotic and beachy to me.  Here on your California coast road trip you’ll find wide stretches of beaches, celebrity homes, and The Getty Villa (which is said to be absolutely stunning). 

But Malibu is more than just that, including stunning canyons, horse ranches, waterfront restaurants, acres of land, and lots and lots of hiking trails. You can also take a private surf lesson if you missed out in Santa Barbara!

A few spots not to miss: Paradise Cove (the only restaurant you can actually drink on the beach), Geoffrey’s Malibu for a wonderful lunch view (get some fresh seafood here!), Point Dume Beach (you’ll always see dolphins!), Malibu Pier, a tour of celebrity homes , and wide and sandy Zuma Beach, known for its excellent surf. 

Don’t leave without some gelato from Grom Gelateria, the absolute best of the best! And if you’re a sucker for fantastic views like me, don’t miss out on a Malibu scenic airplane tour ! Your pictures will be epic, I promise!

12) Los Angeles/ Santa Monica (50 minutes from Malibu)

I highly suggest you spend at least 2-3 days here as there is just SO much to do .  You’ll want to divide your time between Downtown LA (DTLA) and Santa Monica/Venice Beach, with possible other stops to make as well.  

After checking out all the necessary tourist hot spots , you’ll have more time to envelope yourself in the “true” feeling of Los Angeles. Promise me you won’t miss a Warner Brothers Hollywood Studio Tour !

In DTLA , I highly suggest the Broad Museum (FREE, but usually a long wait time), getting an egg sandwich at Eggslut, The Last Bookstore, macaroons at Bouttega Louie, and culture and snacks in Little Tokyo.

Don’t feel like walking? Take a segway tour of DTLA ! Don’t feel like figuring out public transportation? A hop-on, hop-off bus of the LA area is always the way to go!

In Santa Monica and Venice , be sure to check out the Santa Monica Boardwalk (ride the ferris wheel and/or the coaster during sunset), Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice Canals, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

In addition, you can’t miss the Urban Lights exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)!  You’ll find pretty cool murals all around the area as well if that’s your type of thing (it most definitely is mine)!

Hike in the Hollywood Hills , take an airplane tour of Santa Monica and the coastline , go on a tour of some movie stars’ homes ,

Read More about Los Angeles/Santa Monica:

• The Ultimate SoCal Guide: 25 “Very LA” Things to do in Los Angeles, California
• The Perfect Way to Spend A Day (or Two) in LA
• The Cool Girl’s Guide to LA: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Los Angeles/Santa Monica

• The Orlando Hotel (middle of West Hollywood and lots of great Mexican nearby!)
• HI Hostel (perfect for solo travelers, and around the block from the beach)

13) Anaheim for Disneyland (45 minutes from LA)

Disney lovers will enjoy this spot for sure, but just for the record, Disneyland is not as large and/or “wow!!!!” as Disney World.  I had a Disney-fanatic-friend visit Disneyland a few months back and she was not impressed to say the least. 

Save this stop if you’ve never been to the location in Florida, or if you can’t stand not to check it out for yourself.  Regardless, you’ll have a grand ol’ time on the rollercoasters and indulging in all things Mickey.

A few parks to check out (click to buy tickets): Universal Studios Hollywood , Disneyland Park , Adventure City, and Disney California Adventure Park.

I highly recommend getting these theme park tickets in advance to by-pass any super-long lines and spend more time in the parks. You’ll save yourself lots of time, that’s for sure!

• Universal Studios Hollywood 1-Day Ticket with Options
• Anaheim: Disneyland Resort 1-Day Entrance Ticket

14) Orange County: Huntington Beach/Newport Beach/Laguna Beach (35 minutes from Anaheim)

This stretch of coast is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and should not be missed if your itinerary has you driving down to San Diego (or even as an extra stop from the LA/Ahaheim area). 

Here you’ll find manicured beach towns, a hell of a lot of beautiful people, and even more beautiful stretches of sand with mesmerizing sunsets. 

The beaches are plentiful, but my favorites include Huntington Beach , Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach, all within a few miles of each other.  We recently spent a bit of time in San Clemente , and fell in love with the town! Don’t miss gelato at Gelato Paradiso and the views from Heisler Park and Dana Point.

You won’t want to skip “The OC” on your California coast road trip – I can promise you that!

Read More about Orange County/Southern California

• My Birthday in Sunny Southern California
• 4 Days in Huntington Beach: Everything You Need to Know
• The Complete Guide to San Clemente

Want to extend your PCH road trip?!

1) GO FURTHER SOUTH! You could choose to venture even further south to San Diego, as there’s lots and lots to do! Watch this space for updates and more information on California, including best things to do in San Diego as well!

2) START UP NORTH! Interested in starting this Pacific Coast Highway road trip a bit north of San Francisco? Check out the drive from San Francisco to Mendocino , highly recommended in my opinion if you’ve got a few more days to explore! A weekend in Mendocino is the perfect way to start your trip! And if you’re looking for some redwoods, you’ll find lots around here !

3) HEAD ALL THE WAY TO SEATTLE! Yes, it’s possible! If you have ample extra time, say another week (or more), check all these stops on a San Francisco to Seattle road trip ! Crater Lake and donuts, anyone?!

Have you ever take a California coast road trip?!  Is taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway on your bucket list?!

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July 30, 2020 at 5:32 pm

Totally agree! I added Santa Barbara last minute to my road trip and you are so right – you don’t want to miss out on this city. The weather was as close to perfect as you can get. It really makes you want to spend as much time outside as possible.

If you are looking for bike rentals I would suggest Cal Coast Adventures as they offer tons of biking options. Beach cruisers to mountain bikes – they really have it all!

Another bucket list item I was able to check off was learning to surf with Santa Barbara Surf School. The instructors were so knowledgeable about ocean life and safety and I stood up on my first wave.

It was an experience I’ll never forget. Can’t wait to make my way back to Santa Barbara!

October 20, 2020 at 8:22 am

I wanted to thank you for all your great advice and suggestions. My husband and I decided to take a spontaneous 4-day weekend road trip down the PCH. We flew in to San Francisco from Minneapolis and, thanks to your posts, were able to experience some amazing sights. We flew in later in the day, so we stayed in Pacifica for the night. We were right on the beach and saw our first California sunset there! I rolled my eyes at your Taco Bell suggestion (in a another post), but we decided to try it (as my husband is a Mt. Dew lover!). What a fun experience … a Mt. Dew margarita, a Grande Burrito and an awesome ocean view!!

The next day we started our journey down 1 and made it from Half Moon Bay down to Santa Barbara and then back up to San Francisco. We had a fabulous experience, thanks to both beautifully sunny, warm October weather and your insight and suggestions (on this post and several others). We packed in a lot, but it was a trip of a lifetime and made more special with your help!

November 15, 2020 at 7:04 pm

Hi Alison – so glad you had such a special trip! I absolutely LOVE the PCH and California in general so I'm so happy my posts were helpful! Hope you get back to CA sooner than later! And yes – we love that Mountain Dew marg, haha!

December 22, 2020 at 12:11 am

Great itinerary and very nice hotel recommendations. I really enjoyed reading this. On stop #10, Ventura, consider stopping by the Hollywood Beach Salon – Spa – Boutique for some relaxation overlooking the beautiful Channel Islands Harbor!

January 18, 2021 at 1:05 pm

I also want to golf at Pebble

January 19, 2021 at 10:23 am

That would be such an experience! It's on my husband's bucket list for sure!

January 22, 2021 at 7:15 am

Hi, I live in Westminster near Anaheim and am going to visit my daughter in Monterey from 2/5-2/7. This is a short trip. I am thinking take the fastest route there and on the way back make short stops at some of the places you recommended. I will have my 3 kids with me in their 20s and possibly my Australian Shepherd. I was wondering what you recommend? The trip back has to be done in one day. I'm a little nervous about driving to since I tend to get lost lol. Thank you

January 22, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Hi Mary! I recommend stopping in Paso Robles, Morro Bay, and San Luis Obispo. These 3 spots are all so different from each other and aren't too far apart. Morro Bay is on the coast (look out for adorable sea otters), Paso has delicious wines (just make sure they aren't take out only right now), and SLO is a fun town to walk around (don't miss the bubble gum wall!).

Also, I'd opt to take the 101 (and NOT highway 1) driving down from Monterey to Paso since the drive from Monterey through Big Sur to Cambria is literally on the side of a cliff and takes forever.

Have fun!!!

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The Best Northern California Road Trip Itinerary (1 Week Route)

Post Summary: The Complete Northern California Road Trip With All The Best Stops

Giant Redwood trees, an insanely beautiful coastline, and several hidden waterfalls… Can you really see all of this in one single trip?

You can, and it’s all in Northern California . This part of the state is unlike the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. It’s wild, raw, and untamed, which is exactly the kind of Northern California Road trip we’re all about!

In this post, we’re sharing the best Northern California Road Trip Itinerary! We’re including everything from our favorite hikes, photo stops, camping tips, and so much more. Let’s get started!

The Best Northern California Road Trip Itinerary

How To Get Around Northern California

The best way to take a Northern California road trip is, naturally, by car . More specifically though, with a campervan or a car that’s geared up to go car camping!

A lot of these Northern California road trip stops are hours away from one another, so it’s in your best interest to rent a car or campervan to get around this part of the state.

You can even go in style, and rent a cool vintage VW Westfalia van from Outdoorsy ! Outdoorsy is like Airbnb but for cars, so you can choose your desired recreational vehicle , fully insured, and ready to go have an adventure!

Read More: 15 Road Trip Tools and Planners To Help Start Your Epic Drive

Where To Stay On A Road Trip In Northern California

There are many kinds of places to stay on your North California road trip, and it all depends on your preferences! You can make this trip as bougie or as dirt-baggy as you want, and that’s the beauty of it!

Here are some Northern California accommodations we recommend along your route:

Camping In Northern California

For the majority of our latest road trip in Northern California, we went camping!

We decided on a mix of California State Parks and free campsites. To find free camping spots , we use an app called The Dyrt , which helps us find nearby BLM land to camp overnight on (but only the pro members are able to get this feature!) Try their pro membership free for 30-days when using our code MANDAGIES !

For places that didn’t have a lot of BLM or national forest to use for camping, we reserved campsites in designated campgrounds. Here were some of our favorites:

• Sue-Meg State Park (Formerly Patrick’s Point State Park)
• Mcarthur-Burney Falls State Park
• Jedidiah Smith Redwood State Park

Recommended Airbnbs

Airbnbs are great accommodations for your Northern California road trip if you crave some creature comforts! There are so many cute mountain cabins, desert dwellings, and simple places with close access to adventure. If it’s your first time booking with Airbnb, make sure to click here and get $40 off your first stay!

We booked a few Northern California Airbnbs throughout our road trip for shower breaks, a good night’s sleep, and easy access to wifi. One of our hosts also let us use their washer and dryer for laundry.

Northern California Lodges

Sometimes, a swanky lodge is a perfect way to treat yourself and unwind!

If you want to splurge on a one-of-a-kind stay, consider places like the Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Stanford Inn by the Sea, Timber Cove Resort, and the Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite.

What To Pack For A Northern California Road Trip

Good Hiking Boots: Northern California hiking trails are rugged and fun! It’s important to bring shoes that are comfortable, broken-in, and ideally waterproof. We choose ones with ankle support, to keep us stable on uneven surfaces (like climbing over rocks and tree stumps).

A Good Offline Map: Most of the time on your Northern California road trip, expect to find little cell service. Make sure to download these road trip planning apps to help you navigate gracefully on AND offline.

Road Trip Essentials: Any good road trip needs these essential items on their road trip packing list. Don’t forget to build your own DIY roadside emergency tool kit as well!

Light Rain Jacket: Between the marine layer in the mornings to the unpredictable coastal weather, a rain jacket is a must-have. Choose a lightweight one that can easily be stuffed in your daypack!

Day Pack: A good day pack is comfortable for long-term wear, and ideally waterproof to withstand all types of weather! Look for ones with lots of outside pockets (to store snacks!) and hip straps for extra weight support.

First Stop On Your Northern California Road Trip: San Francisco

San Francisco (or Oakland) is a natural starting point for your Northern California road trip for their abundance of resources to begin your journey. This is where you can easily rent a car, stock up on groceries, and make any last-minute errands before you take off. This is the perfect place to begin your journey, as all good west coast road trips should have the chance to drive across this iconic bridge.

If you want to spend some time in the city, try to spend a quick day doing the touristy things like visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, hike Land’s End, and the Mission District for a quick overview of the city.

For your final exit heading out on your Northern California road trip, finish it off by driving across the Golden Gate Bridge to Mount Tamalpais State Park and the Muir Woods!

Read More: 10+ Adventures To Take Near San Francisco, California

Mount Tamalpais State Park

Mount Tamalpais State Park is one of the most instagrammable places on your Northern California road trip!

Some of the most iconic places to see in Mount Tamalpais State Park are the East Peak Hike for epic views of the city, Van Wyck Meadows , and Oberman’s Rock / Leaning Tower .

If you want to venture out a little further to see giant Sequoia trees, you can go explore the Muir Woods National Monument, located nearby in Mill Valley, CA.

For an iconic Northern California road trip experience, make sure to photograph the sunset from Bolinas Ridge – bonus if you catch a car winding down those roads!

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is a protected area north of San Francisco for its elk population, shorebirds, and a huge variety of incredible marshland, rangeland, and ocean headlands!

Come visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse for an opportunity to spot whales offshore, and chat with a park ranger about recent sightings and best times to see them. One of the most popular stops in this area includes visiting the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse that sits on the westernmost tip of the park. You can walk down the 300+ stairs to witness this 1870 structure up close!

Other iconic Northern California road trip stops here include the Cypress Tree tunnel , the shipwrecks in Inverness, and the leaning tree by the coast.

Read More: 12 Epic Outdoor Things To Do In San Francisco

Shelter Cove

Northern California isn’t exactly known for its golden sandy beaches – that’s more reserved for sunny Orange County ! However, the lack of sandy beaches doesn’t mean the coast isn’t worth a spot on your North California road trip itinerary – just the opposite, in fact!

One of the most incredible Northern California beaches we’ve experienced was Black Sand Beach in Shelter Cove , an hour’s drive west from Highway 101. This section of the California coastline is under King Range National Conservation Area , which was designated as protected land in the 1970s.

Here the mountains seem to dramatically dive straight into the ocean. This was an unforgiving landscape for road construction, thus why this area is commonly referred to as California’s “Lost Coast” and the Highway 101 was diverted an hour east. Lucky for visitors like you though, this means you can visit this widely untouched, special part of the coast for a unique stop on your Northern California road trip itinerary.

For those who are brave enough to take the journey on the winding roads to the small community of Shelter Cove (it’s really a serious detour), you’ll likely be greeted with an empty beach all to yourself.

Read More: Black Sand Beach at Shelter Cove, California

Patrick’s Point and The Coastal Redwoods

The Coastal Redwoods are probably the wildest and most unpredictable stop on your Northern California road trip! From the giant redwood trees to the cliffside ocean views, there are many beautiful places to experience in this part of the northern California coast.

Spend the day exploring Patrick’s Point – a 640-acre park with a dense forest of hemlock, pine & fir, all neighboring the dramatic cliffside along the ocean’s edge. We visited Rocky Point for sunset and Wedding Rock and Mussels Beach for sunrise. Both were excellent options for short and beautiful coastal hiking trails.

Camp at Patrick’s Point State Park campground, which is a really great central location for all sorts of activities nearby. From there, you can take the short drive south to the California coastal towns of Eureka, Arcata, and Trinidad . There are several small beaches to explore around there, so pop into anyone that looks interesting to you!

Read More: 25 Epic Stops On A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

Redwood National Park and State Parks

One of the most iconic stops on any Northern California itinerary is taking in all the views of the Redwood National Park, and State Parks!

Drive through some of the most scenic drives on the West Coast lined with Redwood giants of HUGE magnitude! The most famous route is through the Avenue of Giants (located in Humboldt Redwoods State Park), a 31-mile Redwood-lined drive with tons of history and interpretive signs along the way.

For a more rugged experience, try taking dirt road scenic drives through ancient North California forests – our favorites are through Cal-Barrel Road and Howland Hill Road near Crescent City. Note that RV’s and trailers are not allowed on these roads!

Another amazing Northern California road trip stop to check out is a magical swing that overlooks the cliffs and the Pacific Ocean! To find the iconic swing at Patrick’s Point , park at Trinidad State Beach and follow signs to College Cove to the cliffs.

Trip Tip: Personally, we think you should save your money when it comes to driving “through” those large Redwood trees. They are generally privately owned, over-priced, and a lot more underwhelming than you’d expect!

Read More: What To Expect When You Drive Through Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon

To finish off your road trip on the Northern California coast (after this you’ll be heading inland!), spend the morning in a magical fern-covered corridor deep in the woods. That’s right, Fern Canyon looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale! Wander down the canyon with 100+ foot tall fern-covered walls and experience the best solitude nature can provide.

Located in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park , this is an essential Northern California itinerary stop for any photography lovers and hikers.

It takes a bit of work to get here, though. You’ll need to drive the unpaved, gravel Davison Road for 10 miles until you reach the trailhead. The road is quite narrow and windy, so RV’s and cars towing something behind are not recommended.

Don’t forget to wear water safe shoes! During periods of heavy rainfall or in the springtime, you’ll find yourself crossing many streams. In the summertime, they will place boards across streams to help visitors cross, but they aren’t always reliable. The trail is easy and suitable for all ages, just a simple 1.1 mile lollipop loop trail.

Not ready to leave the coast? Explore our Oregon Coast road trip route and continue north instead!

Lake Shasta

Mount Shasta, located in the Southern Cascade Range, is one of those unique locations where you feel so far away from civilization, yet it remains extremely accessible along the I-5 corridor.

Hike Yellow Butte for the most incredible but underrated views of Mount Shasta, take the Heart Lake trail for stunning alpine views, or explore the longer trek to the incredible Castle Crags Dome views. There are plenty of places to camp here on your Northern California itinerary so you don’t have to worry about rushing out of here.

Have a few extra days in your Northern California itinerary? Rent a houseboat and float around on Lake Shasta!

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park probably hosts one of the most beautiful stops on your Northern California road trip – Burney Falls!

This 129-foot tall waterfall feels MASSIVE in real life, with the powerful force of the water and mist totally engulfing you at the base. The falls are part of a really well-maintained area , hosting a campground, day-use area, and even a general store with great ice cream cones!

Access to the falls is $10 per day for parking a vehicle, so come prepared with cash or a California state park pass. Here, you can view the falls from the upper viewing area , or hike the short 0.3-mile paved walkway down to the base . We recommend stopping by both, because they each have their own magic to them!

Note: This is an extremely popular Northern California road trip stop, so expect crowds, or plan your visit early or later in the day!

Want to see more cool waterfalls on your Northern California road trip? Consider adding stops to McCloud Falls (there is an Upper Middle and Lower falls!), Mossbrae Falls, Whiskeytown Falls, and Lion Slide Falls.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is located a 1.5-hour drive from Redding, California.

Only have one day in the park? Take a scenic drive through the main highway, stopping at pullouts that look interesting to you! Driving one-way (30 miles) will take you about an hour, so allot for at least 4 hours to drive and see some sights along the way.

If you only have time for one hike, make it to the Bumpas Hell trail , where you can see a complex hydrothermal system, where molten rock heats up with water above and creates beautiful steaming pools at the surface.

Other popular geothermal pools in the area include Sulphur Works (walkable, near the parking lot) or longer hikes to Devil’s Kitchen , Boiling Springs Lake , and Terminal Geyser .

For a picnic stop, grab lunch at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitors Center located at the south end of the park. Additionally, you can pack a lunch and eat it lakeside, where we recommend North Summit Lake or Manzanita Lake . This way, you can jump in and cool off after lunch on a hot day!

Bonus Northern California Road Trip Stops

Have a few more days to spare on your road trip to Northern California? Here are a few more stops to consider along your route!

For a few more days on your Northern California getaway, extend your trip out to Lake Tahoe – the nation’s largest alpine lake!

Make sure to stop at Sand Harbor and paddleboard to Bonsai Rock. It’s one of the most popular places to reach by boat in the park! Parking at Sand Harbor is $10 for the day, with access to bathrooms and other amenities. You can also park alongside the road (on a narrow pullout) and hike down for access to Bonsai Rock, but the trail is steep!

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic places to visit in California! It’s home to Yosemite Falls, Taft Point, the Half Dome Trail, and Glacier Peak, but that’s not all! You can also explore Yosemite’s backcountry on their backpacking trails and longer hikes, too.

Currently, the park is open for visitors on a reservation-only basis . Reservations are free, but require some extra steps for planning a trip. Click here to learn more about Yosemite’s reservation system. (Current as of Autumn 2020)

Mammoth Lakes

Are you interested in driving down Highway 395 toward Los Angeles and San Diego? Mammoth Lakes is a beautiful destination along the way, with natural hot springs, alpine lakes, and tons of mountain adventures!

Stop by Mono Lake to see the incredible tufas (calcium carbonate rock), and the nearby Bodie State Historic Park to explore a cool ghost town.

If you love hot springs, make sure to stop by Travertine Hot Springs and Wild Willy’s. These are two of the most popular hot springs around, but there are quite a few more if you are willing to search for them! Both have access to BLM land nearby for camping, so you can plan a beautiful sunrise soak!

Other beautiful stops in the Mammoth Lake area include Convict Lake, Rainbow Falls, Devil’s Postpile, and Hot Creek.

Southern Oregon Coast

Are you more interested in planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest ? You can venture north and explore Oregon, California’s neighboring state. Almost immediately, there are several amazing stops along the Oregon coast , enough to add a few extra days to your trip!

Some of the best stops on the Southern Oregon coast include Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor , Gold Beach, Face Rock in Bandon , and Coos Bay . Come with a camera in hand and water shoes at the ready, and prepare to witness some magical sunsets on the coast!

Do you have any more Northern California road trip ideas? Leave them in the comments below to inspire others too!

Northern California Road Trip Itinerary

Below, we’re sharing an example Northern California Road Trip itinerary – covering all the stops we’ve covered above!

• Day 1: Fly into San Francisco, Stay overnight
• Day 2: San Francisco to Mount Tamalpais
• Day 3: Mount Tamalpais to Point Reyes National Seashore
• Day 4: Point Reyes National Seashore to Shelter Cove
• Day 5: Shelter Cove to Redwoods State and National Park
• Day 6: Redwoods National Park to Shasta Lake (Day Trip To Fern Canyon)
• Day 7: Shasta Lake to Lassen Volcanic National Park (Day Trip To McArthur-Burney Falls)
• Day 8: Lassen Volcanic National Park back to San Francisco

Northern California Road Trip Map

Below, we’ve created a Northern California Road Trip Map to help you plan out all your stops. This is our suggested route, but feel free to modify it to fit your own personal preferences and stops.

Psst: Download this map of our California road trip to help guide your own itinerary and planning! Click on the image to save it on your own Google Maps app for easy referencing!

Have you ever planned your own Northern California road trip itinerary? Did we miss any of your favorite stops? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

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Beautiful photos and informative article as usual. I have been following your guys photos/website for long before we arrived in the PNW. I actually took a solo trip out in 2018 and drove the entire Oregon Coast and much of Washington also. Now I am living in Seattle with my wife – We lived in Portland for 6 months too. We are travel nurses. I’m also an avid photographer (landscape and couples). Thanks for sharing your tips and travels. I remember we drove from San Francisco to Portland but because our cars were so loaded up we missed out on a lot of scenery in Northern California which is so beautiful.

Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > California Road Trip Itineraries > Northern California Road Trip Itineraries: Map, Routes and Ideas

Northern California Road Trip Itineraries: Map, Routes and Ideas

When you go on a road trip in Northern California , you will face a vast territory, which extends from Inyo County (where Death Valley is located) and Tulare County (where Sequoia National Park is located) to the Oregon border. It is a very diverse region where there are deserts, mountain parks ( Yosemite National Park , Sierra Nevada , and the Upstate California region ), coastal attractions (e.g. Redwood Parks ), incredible geological wonders ( Lassen Volcanic National Park ), Gold Rush historical sites, and most of the rural agricultural region known as the Central Valley.

The most important city is inevitably San Francisco , which is a beautiful city, and from there, you can take interesting excursions in the surrounding area. North of San Francisco, you can explore the wine region in the Napa and Sonoma Valley and admire more spectacular views on the northern stretch of the California coast . Here are all our itineraries to help you plan a Northern California road trip .

Central Valley and Gold Country

From monterey to yosemite: travel through the golden hills of california, california gold country tour: follow in the footsteps of the gold rush, sacramento: best things to do in california’s capital, fresno: a strategic point for visiting yosemite and sequoia, from sequoia to death valley: best routes and accommodations, best route from san francisco to yosemite by car, los angeles to sequoia: recommended itinerary with stops along the way, bakersfield: an ideal stop on the way from los angeles to sequoia or death valley, pinnacles national park in california: visit caves and pinnacles made of volcanic rock, san francisco bay and the surrounding area, napa valley and sonoma valley wineries: best places to visit on a wine tour, silicon valley in california: tour of the headquarters of major high-tech companies, best things to do in oakland and how to get to san francisco, best places to visit in san jose, the gateway to silicon valley, northern california coast, pigeon point light station state park, a fascinating lighthouse on the california coast, how to plan a visit to the historic point arena lighthouse in mendocino, california, bowling ball beach: discover the beach in california covered with “bowling balls”, point reyes national seashore and lighthouse: breathtaking views on the california coast, visit mendocino: jessica fletcher’s cabot cove in… california, star wars in california: visit the locations where the star wars saga was filmed, redwood parks in california: the tallest trees in the world, sierra nevada region, alabama hills in california: surreal arches and rock formations at the foot of the sierra nevada, the best places to visit in california’s sierra nevada, eastern sierra: an amazing road trip from yosemite to death valley on hwy 395, mammoth lakes: magnificent scenery in the sierra nevada, lake tahoe: an incredible emerald lake on the border between california and nevada, mono lake: tufa castles in a lunar landscape, bodie ghost town: unveiling an old west’s hidden gem, death valley national park: travel guide and road trip tips, yosemite national park travel guide: how to plan a trip, planning a kings canyon adventure: best things to do and hiking trails, sequoia national park: why you should go and how to plan your visit, where to stay in sequoia national park/kings canyon: hotels and accommodations near the park, upstate california, adventure in lassen volcanic national park, california’s own little “yellowstone”, discovering burney falls, the spectacular waterfalls of the shasta region, hiking mccloud falls, the stunning waterfalls near mount shasta, northern california road trip map, northern california road trip itineraries.

Here are all the itineraries divided by region:

Perhaps a few of you have heard of Pinnacles National Park. In fact, this small park in the mountains is not as famous as Yosemite, Sequoia and other national parks in California, but for this very reason it is perfect for those who want to dive into a hidden corner of the Golden State without risking finding the “busy” nature …

When talking about Redwood National Park it would be more correct to say “parks”, because in northern California, a few miles from the Oregon border, the Redwood National and State Parks system includes four national and state parks that make giant redwood forests their undoubted strength. Organizing an on the road trip to this part of California is not for …

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The Ultimate California Road Trip

Explore the Golden State on a journey from San Francisco to Kings Canyon

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California is huge. But it’s the diverse landscapes, not just size, that make California so attractive to anyone who loves the outdoors. The short list: nine national parks (more than any other state); 840 miles of coastline with more than 1,150 public access points; and 12 distinct regions, each with its own flavor. From desert terrain to coastal mountains that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, from fertile valleys to the alpine wonderland of the Sierra Nevada, California is really one giant playground. I’m all about playing outside, so naturally I was super excited for a midsummer road trip from San Francisco, down the Central Coast, through the Central Valley, and into Kings Canyon.

Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you, “Meg has a lot of hobbies.” No argument here. I like to play. Hiking, biking, paddling, diving, aerial arts—if it’s outside and I’m moving my body, then I’m in. California, specifically the eastern Sierra, has been my personal playground for more than seven years. I can do everything I love here. All of my mountain hobbies are accessible from my front door—literally. And the activities I enjoy that aren’t mountain related? I’m just a road trip away from California’s coast, big cities, the west side of the Sierra Nevada and all the fun that comes with exploring new places. Wherever you’re from, California might just be the perfect playground for you too . For the ultimate mix of coast, mountain, cities big and small, creative culture, and local food and drink, try this itinerary. I just did it, and here’s what I found.

Stop 1: San Francisco

San Francisco will make a city person out of anyone. It has all the perks of a world-class city, plus world-class access to the outdoors. That’s why I have a soft spot for this city—and why I started my road trip there. Here’s what I recommend.

Paddle the San Francisco Bay.

Views of the bay from the shore are stunning, but to truly experience San Francisco Bay, you have to get out on the water. My trusty paddleboard made the trip, so I decided to put her seaworthiness to the test with a morning SUP sesh in the bay. Launch from McCovey Cove, near Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, for views of downtown San Francisco and Treasure Island. This launch area is known for having calm waters, but you can tip the scales in your favor by getting out in the morning before afternoon winds pick up. I wasn’t the only one enjoying the great weather and calm morning waters—I enjoyed a visit from a curious harbor seal while I was out and about. If you don’t bring your board with you everywhere in summer like I do, you can rent a kayak instead. Or, if you’re visiting Friday to Monday, opt for a 1.5-hour guided paddle with City Kayak.

Explore nature art around the city.

To see just how intertwined San Francisco is with nature, head to Wood Line in the Presidio to check out the nature art constructed by Andy Goldsworthy, whose work is featured around the city. Want to get your hands dirty with your own nature art experience? Sign up for a wild clay class at Artillery Ceramics. This local pottery studio offers clay foraging workshops at local nature reserves. Learn about gathering clay and then shape it into your own masterpiece right on the beach.

Bike the Golden Gate Bridge.

Touristy? Yes, and totally worth doing. Rent a bike and pedal all or part of the bridge. From the Presidio to the Marin County line and back is about 3.5 miles. Weekdays before 3 p.m., the pedestrian path is open to both bikes and foot traffic. After 3 p.m. and on weekends, the west side pedestrian path becomes bikes only, which makes navigating easier if you’re like me and not used to biking in cities.

Catch classic San Francisco sunset views.

Every San Francisco local has their favorite sunset spot. Lucky for me (and you), a local friend was willing to share hers. For prime sunset views of the Golden Gate Bridge, hike the Batteries to Bluffs Trail on the west side of the Presidio. This short but steep 2.3-mile hike runs along the cliff and offers multiple lookout points to see the bay, bridge, and Point Bonita Lighthouse across the water. On your way back to the trailhead, keep an eye out for banana slugs. These bright yellow slugs like to hang out on the stairs that lead down to the water at dusk.

Travel Tip: Book a room at the Lodge at the Presidio . This boutique hotel is the closest lodging to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, so you’ll be right in the heart of the action with lots of walkable access to nearby restaurants. Venturing beyond walking distance? Park your car and cruise the city using Waymo —the all-electric self-driving cabs recently piloted in the city.

Stop 2: Monterey

Take the scenic route along Highway 1 from San Francisco to explore more of the Central Coast . About three hours south of the Bay Area by car, Monterey gives a more relaxed city vibe, complete with easy beach access, delicious seaside eats, and a rad diving community.

Dive at the Breakwater.

Monterey is famous for its kelp forests and the unique marine life that thrives in that ecosystem, like sea otters, spider crabs, nudibranchs, massive sea stars, and sea lions. As a longtime diver, I’ve had this area on my list for ages, so I was stoked to spend the morning underwater with divemaster Phil from Aquarius Dive Shop . Conditions were right for a dive at the iconic Breakwater site off San Carlos Beach, where we got an up-close look at the kelp forests and a visit from a curious sea lion. Drifting through the towering kelp—which can grow to heights of 175 feet—truly felt like another world. As a diver who prides herself on maintaining good trim (horizontal orientation underwater that’s considered good form in diving), I rarely find myself looking up underwater. Thankfully, my divemaster didn’t let me miss the chance to look up and see the sunlight streaming down between the swaying kelp above me—a truly unique perspective of an already awe-inspiring ecosystem. Not a diver? The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a massive two-story kelp forest exhibit that gives visitors an underwater experience without actually going underwater.

Hang at Dust Bowl Brewing in the Wharf.

When your divemaster tells you to go to a local watering hole for fish tacos and a beer, you go. Grab dinner at Wedo’s Tacos food truck , which is parked at the Dust Bowl Brewing Company Tap Depot . The recommended fish tacos with a Taco Truck Lager (a Dust Bowl classic) did not disappoint. If you’re up for a second beer, Phil says the Therapist Imperial IPA is his dessert of choice.

Visit a local climbing gym, but make it aerial arts.

California’s sunshine makes it easy to spend all your time outdoors. But whenever I need a break from the sun, I love checking out local aerial arts classes. Sanctuary Climbing & Fitness , on the north end of the Monterey Peninsula, offers lyra and silks classes right in the climbing gym, creating a great atmosphere and community feel. Of course, climbing is also an option here if that’s more your vibe.

Travel Tip: In a place like Monterey, beachfront accommodations are the way to go. Book a room at Monterey Tides (soon to debut as Monterey Beach Hotel later this year after some exciting renovations) for a low-key spot with great beach access to relax post-adventure.

Stop 3: Big Sur

With dramatic oceanside bluffs, redwood-filled canyons, and scenic views in every direction, Big Sur has been on my list for ages, and this classic coastal drive definitely lived up to the hype. 

Drive scenic Highway 1.

This iconic stretch of highway on the California coast just north of Big Sur recently reopened, which means visitors could access most of Big Sur again while I was in the area. (As of July 2024, repairs are still in progress on the southern stretch of the highway through Big Sur 2.1 miles north of Lucia to 16.8 miles south of Dolan Point.) Take your time driving this unbelievably scenic stretch of coastline. Trust me, you’ll want to have plenty of time for stops to take pictures and marvel at the landscape.

Go on a guided hike.

As someone who hikes often and feels comfortable in the outdoors, I don’t typically have guided hikes on my radar. But if you have limited time to explore, going out with a guide can help maximize your day. Depending on the time of year, a local guide can help you fully experience Big Sur by showing you all the seasonal magic, like mushroom foraging in winter, monarch butterflies migrating through the area in fall, and wildflowers blooming in spring. For summertime, my guide Patrice had California condors and ladybugs on his mind. A Big Sur local since 1985, Patrice knows every canyon along the coast and has a lifetime of stories to share. As we drove Highway 1 toward Tan Bark Trail , he pulled over to point out a rocky crag where he’s often spotted condors. The population has grown over the years thanks to a local breeding and reintroduction program. On the trail, we plucked and ate thimbleberries right off the bushes, tasted tender wood sorrel growing on the forest floor, and peeked under logs and brush to find thousands of ladybugs that stop over in Big Sur on their annual migration. After a magical hike, grab drinks with a view at the outdoor terrace at Ventana Big Sur , followed by a bite at one of Big Sur’s newest restaurants, The Village .

Travel Tip: California’s wild spaces can be fragile and at risk of damage from human activity. That fact is especially apparent in Big Sur. When you visit, tread lightly to help protect this delicate coastal ecosystem.

Stop 4: Fresno and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

I always have a hard time saying goodbye to the California coast, but hitting the road is easier when exciting adventures await just three hours inland. With access to three national parks—Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia—all within a 90-minute drive, Fresno might just be one of the greatest gateway cities of all time. Set up base camp in the Fresno area for access to adventures in town and outdoors.

Head underground to escape the heat.

Summertime in the Central Valley is all about sunshine. When temperatures soar, escape the heat at one of Fresno’s most unique spots: Forestiere Underground Gardens . This subterranean fruit garden was a labor of love by one of Fresno’s early farmers, who tunneled below the hardpan soil to find respite from the heat for both himself and his beloved citrus trees. As a hobby gardener currently contending with high desert heat in my own garden, I can appreciate the ingenuity. The tour of the underground garden was filled with fun tidbits about this creative farming solution and the history of this region as a hub for farming in California.

Grab snacks at local fruit stands.

The California sun is exactly why Fresno and the Central Valley are known for their abundance of produce. More than half of the country’s fruit and the majority of tree nuts are grown in this region. Visiting during summer means access to the freshest fruit you can find. Stop along the Fresno County Fruit Trail or hit the Old Town Clovis Farmers Market to stock up on fresh produce to take along on the day’s outdoor adventures.

Day trip to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI).

I’ve spent a ton of time in Yosemite but only ever hiked into Sequoia & Kings Canyon from the east side of the Sierra, so I couldn’t miss the opportunity to check out the west side.

🥾 Visit the largest trees in the world. I’ve seen giant sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park, but nothing compares to the massive sequoia groves in SEKI. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180 into the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon) reopened in June 2024, so driving this 50-mile scenic route was the first order of business. Stop in Grant Grove to see the General Grant Tree , the second largest tree in the world by trunk volume at 46,608 cubic feet. (I got a chance to see the largest—the General Sherman Tree , measuring 52,508 cubic feet—when I drove south toward Giant Forest later in the day.) I am decidedly not a math person, so the stats didn’t really compute until I saw these towering trees in person. Continue on a choose-your-own-adventure drive, stopping at waterfalls, impressive rock formations, and overlooks with views of Kings Canyon and the Kings River.

🥾 Go for a hike. When you’re ready to explore on foot, hike the scenic 1.3-mile Crescent Meadow Loop . The trail takes you through a vibrant green meadow filled with wildflowers and surrounded by giant sequoia trees on all sides. This area is a hub to access lots of trails in the SEKI wilderness, including the famous High Sierra Trail , which spans nearly 70 miles one way and connects SEKI to Whitney Portal on the east side of the Sierra. If you have more time, consider a longer hike to explore more of the area, or plan ahead to get backpacking permits for a multiday trip.

Travel Tip: Time your day to make it back to the Fresno area for dinner at Trelio Food & Wine in Old Town Clovis. This local eatery serves a five-course prix fixe menu featuring all of the local food the Central Valley is famous for. The menu changes daily based on the ingredients available from local markets, farms, and foragers.

Visit California is a nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs in partnership with the state’s travel industry that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. For more information about Visit California and for a free California Official State Visitor’s Guide, go to visitcalifornia.com.

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