Yes, Southwest flies nonstop from San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego 3 times per day on Saturdays and 4 times per day on Sundays. Theres more than enough to keep you occupied in this sunny Southern California spot. But for most vehicles, youll find the turn for Pfeiffer Beach at mile marker 45.64. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-15949022', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco by 250 miles in either direction. Enjoy the galleries, the shopping, and definitely the food! We are going to drive on a SATURDAY from San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 5 (our destination is really Carson - the Office Depot Center for an LA Galaxy game). . But even the more challenging hike is pretty easy. What is halfway between LA and San Diego? Visit the art galleries, golfing, shopping, relaxing spas and more! , A very thorough guide, so glad I stumbled upon it, Im headed to San Diego in the summer and would love to check out some of these places. There is also the Lompoc Museum which has 2 floors of exhibits about the area. Theres also plenty of historic spots to check out along your visit in Ventura such as San Buenaventura Mission and The City Hall. California, the Golden State, is one of the best places in the country to go for a road trip. You will have the final verdict once you complete all the stops on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip. Switch over to US 101 in Ventura, and stay on US 101 until San Luis Obispo. Pfeiffer Beach isnt a good beach for swimming. Make your drive unforgettable by adding in some of these amazing stops. It would be incredibly exhausting to do it all in one day! Its easy to get caught up in this romantic coastal town (I know I could have stayed for at least a week!) Santa Barbara is one of the more famous beach towns in California and is an especially popular stop along the San Francisco to San Diego drive. The city is home to more than 20,000 beautiful acres of protected wilderness, making it ideal for hiking, biking and adventurous exploration. Theres also a world-famous golf course here if youre into golfing! To reach the midway point from San Francisco to San Diego, you would drive for about 4 hours, 3 minutes or roughly 251 miles from San Diego to the halfway stop. Hiking is a great way to catch the diversity of land animals and birds that call Point Lobos home hummingbirds, snowy egrets, great blue herons, gray foxes, badgers and many others. I know you dont want the adventure to end. The walks are easy and family-friendly. Stop for pictures, do a little beach combing or enjoy a picnic by the ocean. The entire region is great for wineries, but the Urban Wine Trail is a great way to experience the best and most unique wineries in the area. There are a number of fun things to do along the Santa Monica Pier starting with Heal the Bay Aquarium at the base of the pier. You will want to start in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small one-square mile town that features many quaint and unique eateries and gift shops. Aside from watching for various sea life, there are approximately 12 hiking trails ranging from just under a mile that meander cliffs to 3 miles that will take you through the gorgeous meadows and forests. The quickest way from San Diego is flying to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which takes about 1.5 hours at a cost of $93 and up. Pismo Beach has much to offer, like many of the other central beach towns weve covered. Planning an amazing adventure by doing the San Francisco to San Diego drive or San Diego to San Francisco road trip? Your next stop will be Point Lobos Natural Reserve, where you can enjoy hiking, a rocky coastline perfect for exploring, and youll have a good chance of spotting some seals or sea lions hanging out on the coast. Its jam-packed with tons of boutiques, restaurants, antique & thrift shops, and one of the best spots for this is on Main Street. Looking for ways to pass the time? Are you going to go to Hearst Castle? This beach city is also located in Orange County, California and is overflowing with experiences by the oceanside. Santa Barbara is one of the places you'll want to spend time in when driving from San Diego to San Francisco. Once to get to LA then you will have to use the local transport to get around. Be sure to check out the Pacific Coast Highway itinerary 7 days if youve got a week in the area. Whether you want to get your hiking workout on or stroll around leisurely, Muir Woods offers different trails for you. Many travel insurance plans also coverCollision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage up to $35,000. Its one of the nicest beaches on the coast since it has a lot to offer to adventure travelers. http://www.cambriachamber.org/. Distance on the Interstate between the two cities is 635 miles and the trip . Its located in the downtown area where there is easy access to the beach to sunbathe or swim. You will spend the day in Santa Cruz and . A road trip of this magnitude definitely requires a stop or five along the way. Getting from Yosemite Valley back to Merced will be easy. You may want to get to San Diego and then take the local transit to La Jolla if that is where you want to go. In addition to these two shops, there are many boutiques, souvenir shops, and more to check out! The OCairns Inn and Suites is a very affordable option that comes with a delicious breakfast and happy hour. I did most of this journey, and especially loved Point Lobos that you mentionedand I completely visited it on a whim. With a total length of 1942 feet, this wooden pier is the longest over-water pier on the West Coast. Pro tip: I always search for discounts on rental cars, and often times save 10-30% using Discover Cars. Before venturing out for a visit to Californias Big Sur, be prepared. Gas stations are also few and far between along Big Sur, so be sure to fill up before visiting. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46642389', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Barbara was one of the strategically easier options for a lay over, it cost an extra $50US to do but it was worth it, Santa B is really pretty. Nearby, you can find Montana de Pro State Park, one of Californias largest state parks that is a postcard perfect destination with gorgeous beaches and blooming flowers during spring. San Diego International Airport (SAN) features two terminals lying side-by-side. Rosenthal, Malibus first winery, even has a tasting room right on the PCH, across the street from the ocean. Check off everything that Santa Barbara has to offer or just kick your feet up and relax on the gorgeous beaches! Or any unique places also. Once you have had a chance to browse the stores, keep heading south to Hermosa Beach Pier, where you can find additional shops and restaurants. Thanks, Get answers to your questions about San Francisco. Big Sur has been claimed to be one of the most, if not the most beautiful state parks in all of California. San Francisco. The possibilities are endless on the island in and out of the water. (Be sure to book tour tickets in advance.). Hikers will love Laguna Coast Wilderness Park with mountain and ocean views. I live in the coastal town of Morro Bay (15 miles north of SLO) where you can get smoked oysters fresh cooked at the Embarcadero, rent kayaks to paddle around in the protected inner harbor, go out whale watching, hike Montana de Oro state park or watch the surfers and walk on the beach. After all, its how the beach got its name. This beautiful beach town is the perfect spot for an action-packed visit. Since Pismo Beach is a small city, its best to visit on a weekday to have fewer crowds. This town is located in the heart of one of the top wine producing region in Central California and is famous for its vineyards along the green rolling hills. Once at the beach, during low tide the beach is wide and expansive. This is a great opportunity to experience the outdoors with your family! Yay! Some of the best things to do in Dana Point can be done while soaking up the sun, like laying on the sand, surfing, boating/fishing, or taking a whale watching tour! Definitely worth a stop on your PCH road trip! San Jose. Should I book Alcatraz tickets and Muir Woods parking permits in advance? San Diego is one of my favorite cities - so much to see and do. Pismo Beach is a small coastal city located south of San Luis Obispo. Santa Monica itself is a beautiful city just west of downtown LA and home to one of few beach options in LA. [Privacy] But in Southern California, theres a phenomenon called June Gloom where theres daily cloudy and overcast skies as well as cooler than normal temperatures. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46624666', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite via public transit: tripadvisor.com/Travel-g61000-c151758. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I've done this trip once before, I loved stopping in Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Santa Barbara! Enjoy the variety of rides and rollercoasters as well as mini-golf, laser tag, bowling, arcades, and more! Whatever you do, don't stay on US 101 all the way to SF! Although its currently closed pending potential restoration, visitors can still get up close to the ship at the cruise port. These stops are all amazing! In downtown Lompoc, you can go on a mural walk as the area has over 40 murals. Or, simply admire its sparkling lights across the harbor in the evening. These flights take off throughout both the day and evening and last about an hour and a half. Hey! About Bobo and Chichi Bixby Bridge is one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world and is one of the most photographed bridges on the Pacific Coast, right after that other . if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'inspiredroutes_com-square-3','ezslot_24',187,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-inspiredroutes_com-square-3-0');Recommended by Carrie Ann of Should Be Cruising follow on Instagram. It is an operating church with services, so be sure to check their schedule for visitations here. Pier 39 is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Visitors today can experience some of the grandeur of the house and see many of these sites described above. Youll find great cliff views and fewer crowds on this hike. Located in the Los Padres National Forest, Sand Dollar Beach requires a parking fee (#worthit). We personally love heading to Pacific City for some of the great dining options there where you can sit outside and enjoy the view or from inside a restaurant with an epic beach view. Enjoy a beautiful hike overlooking the clear blue waters of San Diego. One of the must-see attractions in the town is the windmills. The last stop between San Diego and San Francisco. Visit this historic California State Park and museum to the art displayed from all over the world. Theres also a statue of a seal harbor the kids will like to see. Also plenty of nice hotels with weekday special rates, and good restaurants for all price ranges. This is the one-stop-shop for everything you and your family need. They take place every Tuesday on Main St. from 5-9 PM. Oh, and youve gotta try the hula pie! Pinos Way . Transform your photos with just one click. . Anaheim is the most popular city on the route it's less than an hour from Los Angeles and 2 hours from San Diego. Hanging out at Carmel Beach can be an all-day event! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46643036', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Monica, Hermosa Beach have done Cali before when I went around World on gap year! In addition to the zip lining, visitors have the opportunity to take boat and food tours, go golfing, hiking, fishing, scuba diving, paddle boarding, and much more all on this incredible island paradise. One of the best spots in Monterey is easily Cannery Row. Unless you have a wetsuit, this far up on the coast isnt super comfortable for swimming. Any suggestions as to where we might spend 2 nights on our way to San Fran? Santa Barbara is one of the most iconic stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip. Since its completion in 1932, travelers have been stopping to see the iconic bridge. You can rent a surfboard from a local company on the beach, like Jacks Beach Concession, or a surf shop in Downtown Huntington Beach, like Huntington Surf & Sport. It's such a gorgeous drive. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. There are also plenty of restaurant and cafe options. This beach town is one of the little gems of Southern California along your San Francisco to San Diego drive. Newport Beach is an amazing beach spot with an endless supply of amazing things to do which will nicely complement your San Francisco to San Diego road trip. Explore the city full of activities and great food: Dinner and overnight in San Diego to catch a flight home in the morning. These are the best stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip! You know you havent seen the beach enough yet, right? Ventura. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in this gorgeous green space along the San Gabriel River. Is San Diego north or south of LA? I recommend I-5 out of San Diego, then cross over to State Route (SR) 1 in San Clemente. Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise follow on Pinterest. However, this depends on the date you are flying so please check with the full flight schedule above . It has the cutest town center inspired by Scandinavian heritage. San Luis Obispo is a nice college town. Youll descend down to the Lands End Labyrinth, which is a really gorgeous spot on top of a cliff with views of the ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. Carmel Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that draws tourists in. The city of Oceansidehas gone through a extreme makeover in the past 2 decades from seedy military town to beach town gem. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-15946836', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California beach town, while Cambria is a hamlet nestled in pine trees next to the sea. a very cute town on the coast. Laguna Beach is known for being one of the most beautiful California coastal towns with much to do and so much to see. For a lighter hike try the Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop. When you hike the trail, make sure to take the little detour that goes down to Mile Rock Beach. Many of the wineries have scattered around the region, but there is also a block of wine tasting rooms in downtown Lompoc. For just a little effort, youll see one of the most beautiful spots along the coast. While youre visiting Torrey Pines, keep in mind that is only open during the day time, there is nowhere to purchase food or drink, no pets are allowed, and there are guided tours available! Walk along the boardwalk, visit the outlets, and check out the wine scene! http://www.amtrak.com is a great resource to help you and decide where you want to stop and see. There are a wide variety ofthings to do in the South Bay. The top cities between Seattle and San Diego are San Francisco, Los Angeles, Anaheim, Portland, Monterey, Greater Palm Springs, Yosemite National Park, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, and Carlsbad. Enjoyed this post on the best stops along the San Francisco to San Diego road trip or San Diego to San Francisco road trip? Therefore, the best time for a San Francisco to San Diego road trip is November through April. The wildlife is incredible and Id highly recommend it! We realize it's about a. Great stop on your San Francisco to San Diego drive for: beach, dining, shopping, entertainment, spas, overnight stay, ~ 425 miles from San Francisco & ~ 84 miles from San Diego. ~ 431 miles from San Francisco & ~ 79 miles from San Diego. For a more relaxing visit, check out the shopping or the spa scene! There are many beautiful hotels in San Luis Obispo like the famous Madonna Inn or the gorgeous Lomita Ranch in the rustic setting where you can spend a few nights before continuing your trip. Try the fresh seafood and clams. Pro tip: if tacos is your thing, be sure to eat at La Super-Rica Taqueria. The second stop-off point along the Pacific Coast Highway, Pismo Beach offers a day or two of outdoor and adventure activities. This is hands down one of thebest things to do in Big Sur. This is one of the best stops on your San Francisco to San Diego drive or San Diego to San Francisco drive if you have a love for nature and history! There are three different trails that range from easy to difficult! Newport each definitely exemplifies the luxurious beach lifestyle. Something to keep in mind is June Gloom. One of the most iconic structures the city is the famous Oceanside Pier. Its actually illegal to be on the beach at McWay Falls. The best viewpoint is from the Overlook Trail to McWay Falls. Id definitely recommend going at low tide to walk the beach. And not only is the work fantastic, but the estate itself is absolutely breathtaking. This lesser-known wine region, called the Santa Rita Hills contains over 60 wineries. Oh, and if youre looking for the best shots for the Gram or TikTok, be sure to hit the Chromatic Gate. Find yourself biking the beautiful beachfront, or checking out all the shops and dining on Orange Ave and Coronados Ferry Landing. Parkers Lighthouse in the colorful Shoreline Village is a favorite, with fresh seafood and stunning views of the harbor and the nearby Lion Lighthouse. Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door follow on Instagramif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'inspiredroutes_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_1',182,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-inspiredroutes_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); The little seaside village of Cambria makes for a delightful stop on a California Coast drive. You feel as though youve also transported back in time here, this is a must for an overnight if you can plan accordingly on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip or San Diego to San Francisco road trip! This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Also, make sure you have a good Pacific Coast Highway map, whether it is on your phone, or on good ol' fashioned paper! Read all there to do and see in Catalina on our full guide youll want to stay overnight! What an iconic sight in the USA the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge! Afterward, visitors can walk around to go shopping at the souvenirs and boutique shops. Great stop on your San Francisco to San Diego drive for: beach trip, sightseeing, wine tasting, and overnight stay, ~ 241 miles from San Francisco & ~ 304 miles from San Diego. You will see grapevines on the hills, and at the intersection of Mulholland Highway, Cielo Winery will be on your right. Surfers can rent boards in North Manhattan Beach at Players (above the liquor store) or downtown Manhattan Beach from Spyder Surfboards or Nikau Kai. While youre in San Francisco, there are a few more awesome sights you can check out: San Francisco also has a variety of places to grab amazing food and drinks, as well as places for shopping, all while exploring one of Californias best cities! It might be a good idea to plan ahead before driving into Los Angeles. Big Sur. Find this post helpful? In addition to their beautiful white sand beaches, visitors can take advantage of riding ATVs in the sand dunes, surfing, fishing, golfing, and much more! 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