15-day Road Trip in California (map + photos)

Whether you're planning a California road trip with family or as a couple, this 2-week itinerary will allow you to see the best that the Golden State has to offer.

Roll down your windows and get ready to fall in love with the Californian dream!
 

15-day California road trip map

California road trip summary

Days 1-2: San Francisco

Day 1

Morning

Welcome to San Francisco, the most open city in the West! Start your day by exploring the vibrant Chinatown, the oldest Chinese district in North America. Enter through the beautiful Chinatown Gate and walk along Grant Avenue. Admire the colorful shops selling souvenirs and lucky charms.

Then take a moment to explore Washington Street and Waverly Place, where the brightly painted balconies and the unique blend of architectural styles will surely charm you. Visit Portsmouth Square, the historic heart of Chinatown, to watch locals practicing Tai Chi and discover the statues and commemorative plaques revealing the history of San Francisco's Chinese community.

End your Chinatown visit with a must-stop at Golden Gate Fortune Cookies at 56 Ross Alley, where you can see the famous Chinese cookies being made.
 

Afternoon and evening

Next, head to Union Square, the shopping heart of San Francisco. Stroll through luxury shops and department stores, admire public art, and enjoy the lively ambiance of the square.

If you're hungry, head to the Italian district of North Beach. Walk along Columbus Avenue, lined with lively cafes, bars, and restaurants, and discover the history of the "Beat Generation" who resided here in the 50s. Treat yourself to an authentic meal in one of the many Italian restaurants around Washington Square.

End your first day with a 360-degree view of the city from Telegraph Hill where you must visit the Coit Tower, a monument dedicated to San Francisco firefighters, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the city.

Take the time to admire the murals at the base of the tower, depicting scenes of life in California during the Great Depression. On the way out, take the Filbert Steps, a charming series of stairs surrounded by lush gardens and quaint houses. At the bottom, stop at Fog City Diner for a gourmet break before heading back to your lodging for a well-deserved night's sleep!

Day 2

Morning

Start your second day with a must-do, a cable car tour! Arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds, and don't forget your camera!

To stay classic, visit Fisherman's Wharf, a lively area with several piers. Stroll along the docks, visit the many shops and museums, and watch the sea lions relaxing at Pier 39.

For lunch, head to one of the Wharf's restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood with stunning views of the bay. Next, I recommend the Exploratorium at Pier 15, an interactive museum of science and art that will delight young and old alike.
 

Afternoon and evening

In the afternoon, embark on a bay cruise. This excursion will allow you to admire the hills of San Francisco from a unique angle, get a close view of the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and pass near Alcatraz Island.

While you're in the area, treat yourself to a guided tour of the former Alcatraz prison. Explore the cells, discover the stories of famous inmates, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the island. Reserve your tickets in advance to guarantee your place. If you dare, there is also a night tour!

For dinner, head to House of Nanking, a well-known Chinese restaurant for its authentic cuisine and affordable prices. Taste the local specialties and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this popular establishment, both among locals and tourists.

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Days 3-4: Yosemite (260 km)

Day 1

Morning

It's finally time to hit the road for your California itinerary! Today's destination is Yosemite.

Start at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center for maps, trail information, and ranger advice. Then head to Tunnel View, one of the park's most famous viewpoints. From there, you can admire the majestic mountains, Bridalveil Falls, and the imposing monoliths such as El Capitan and Half Dome. Take the time to capture photos of these breathtaking landscapes.

Continue your exploration by heading to the Yosemite Falls. It will only take you 30 minutes on an easy trail to reach the Lower Falls. For the more adventurous, the hike to the Upper Falls offers an incredible view but requires about 6 to 8 hours round trip.

If you're feeling peckish, stop at the Mountain Room Restaurant at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, where you can enjoy local dishes while admiring the view of the falls.
 

Afternoon and evening

Once you’re full, hit the road to Glacier Point. Accessible by car or shuttle (from late May to October), this viewpoint offers a spectacular view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. If you prefer hiking, the Four Mile Trail (difficult) or the Panorama Trail (less steep) will lead you to Glacier Point. Arrive at the viewpoint for sunset and admire the valley bathed in shades of red and pink.

For dinner, head to the Big Trees Lodge Dining Room. Enjoy seasonal specialties and traditional dishes in a historic ambiance. If you're there on a summer Saturday night, don't miss the weekly outdoor barbecue. 

Day 2
 

:arrow: Morning

On the second day, set out early to take the Tioga Road, California's highest trans-sierra route. Stop at Olmsted Point for a panoramic view of Tenaya Canyon and a unique perspective on Half Dome.

Continue to Tuolumne Meadows, a large subalpine meadow surrounded by majestic peaks and domes. Stroll along the winding Tuolumne River and admire the local flora. For lunch, prepare a picnic and enjoy it outdoors, surrounded by the natural beauty of this area.

:arrow: Afternoon and Evening 

If you have the time and energy, exit the park via the Tioga Pass and visit Mono Lake, an ancient saline lake with unique limestone formations called tufas. Visit the Mono Basin Visitor Center to learn more about the lake’s history and ecosystem. Then head to the ghost town of Bodie, an old mining village now preserved as a historic park. Explore the well-preserved buildings and imagine life in the late 19th century.

Return to Yosemite in the evening for a memorable dinner at the Majestic Yosemite Hotel Dining Room (formerly Ahwahnee Hotel). Enjoy award-winning cuisine in a spectacular dining room with exceptional views of Half Dome and Glacier Point. End your day by gazing at the stars in the clear Sierra Nevada sky.

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Days 5-6: Sequoia (315 km)  

Day 1

:arrow: Morning

Today, your 15-day California road trip takes you to a land of giants, Sequoia National Park. Start your day with a visit to the General Sherman Tree, the park's main attraction. Standing 84 meters tall with a circumference of 31 meters, this tree is over 2,200 years old and is the largest living organism on Earth. The trail to reach it is short and easy, measuring only 0.8 kilometers round trip. Be prepared to be awed by its grandeur and majesty.

After admiring the General Sherman Tree, continue your exploration with the Congress Trail, a 3.2-kilometer easy loop that starts at the General Sherman Tree. This hour-long hike takes you into the heart of the giant sequoia forest, offering a complete immersion in this spectacular nature. You'll be surrounded by these majestic trees, and it’s here that you’ll truly feel your smallness in the face of these giants.

Then head to the Giant Forest Museum. This museum and information center is perfect for deepening your knowledge about sequoias and getting helpful information about the park. Take this break to have lunch, with a picnic you can enjoy in the rest areas around the museum.
 

:arrow: Afternoon and Evening 

After your break, take the Big Trees Trail, a 2.4-kilometer easy loop that starts directly from the Giant Forest Museum. This trail is dotted with interpretive panels that will teach you more about the sequoia ecosystem. The hike is pleasant and accessible, ideal for a leisurely walk after lunch.

Go on an adventure by climbing the 400 steps of Moro Rock. This 0.9-kilometer ascent rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sierra Nevada and its 4,000-meter peaks. It’s best to climb early in the morning or on cool days for better visibility and to avoid the crowds.

Next, head to the Tunnel Log, a giant sequoia that fell on the road and was hollowed out to allow cars to pass through. It’s a perfect spot for fun photos that illustrate the immense size of these trees. Note that the road is not accessible to RVs over 22 feet long.

End your day at Crescent Meadow, one of the largest alpine meadows surrounded by sequoias. Enjoy a 3.2-kilometer hike to discover Tharp's Log, an old cabin built into a fallen sequoia trunk, and the Chimney Tree, a tree in which you can literally sit. It’s the perfect place to relax and contemplate generous nature before returning to your accommodation for the night.
 

Day 2
 

:arrow: Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the General Grant Tree, located in Kings Canyon National Park. This easy 0.8-kilometer round-trip trail takes you to one of the largest trees in the world. With impressive height and massive circumference, this tree is often called the "Nation's Christmas Tree." Along the way, you’ll also pass the Fallen Monarch Tree, a sequoia lying down inside which you can walk.

After exploring the General Grant Tree, take the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, an 80-kilometer panoramic route that winds through the dizzying canyon and along the Kings River. This road offers spectacular views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains. Make frequent stops to admire the scenery and take photos. Allow about 3 hours to travel the entire route, including stops to admire the views.
 

:arrow: Afternoon and Evening

In the afternoon, head to Crystal Cave, a magnificent marble cave accessible by guided tours. Tickets for these tours can be purchased at the Lodgepole Visitor Center or the Foothills Visitor Center. The cave tour lasts about 45 minutes and is suitable for families with young children. For the more adventurous, guided excursions will take you even further into the depths of the cave. Don’t forget to bring a jacket, as the temperature inside the cave never exceeds 10 degrees Celsius.

End your day with dinner at the Peaks Restaurant at the Wuksachi Lodge. This restaurant offers a variety of dishes ranging from soups and salads to steaks and fish, all in a comfortable and relaxed setting. Enjoy the splendid view and the wood fire in the fireplace for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.

Days 7-8: Disney (372 km)  

Day 1
 

Morning

The next destination is not just for kids! Disney knows how to charm both young and old. Focus your first day on Disneyland Park California. Start with a walk down Main Street U.S.A., a nostalgic return to early 20th century America. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, charming shops, and street performances. Have breakfast at Plaza Inn, where you can meet Minnie and her friends while enjoying a buffet of kids' favorites like Mickey waffles.

Next, head to Adventureland for exotic adventures. Don't miss Indiana Jones Adventure and Jungle Cruise, where you can sail through lush jungle. For lunch, stop at Bengal Barbecue for skewered grilled meat and vegetables served with rice.
 

Afternoon and evening

In the afternoon, explore New Orleans Square, inspired by the French Quarter of New Orleans. Board the famous Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion. For lunch, head to Blue Bayou Restaurant, located inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, where you can enjoy Cajun and Creole dishes in a unique bayou ambiance.

Then, head to Critter Country for family attractions like The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Splash Mountain. Take the time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and beloved Disney characters.

After exploring Critter Country, head to Frontierland for an adventure in the heart of the Wild West. Board the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a fast-paced and thrilling mine train. Then, head to Mickey's Toontown, Mickey and his friends' village. Visit Mickey's and Minnie's houses, and enjoy attractions like Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin.

In the evening, explore Fantasyland, where you'll find the famous Sleeping Beauty Castle. Enjoy classic attractions like Peter Pan's Flight, It's a Small World, and Mad Tea Party. For dinner, try the French Market Restaurant for popular Southern U.S. dishes like Po Boys and jambalaya.

End your day at Tomorrowland, where you can experience a surreal projection into the future. Don't miss Space Mountain, Star Tours, and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. Make sure to secure your Fastpasses for these popular attractions as early as possible in the day.
 

Day 2
 

Morning

Your second day will focus on Disney California Adventure Park. Head to Buena Vista Street, a reconstruction of Los Angeles during the era of Walt Disney. Have a light breakfast before heading to Grizzly Peak, inspired by the great national parks. Enjoy Soarin' Around the World, a flight simulator experience that takes you over iconic landscapes around the world.

Next, explore Grizzly River Run, a thrilling raft adventure through rapids. For lunch, head to Smokejumpers Grill for delicious burgers and sandwiches.

After lunch, head to Pixar Pier and enjoy attractions inspired by Pixar films, such as the Incredicoaster and Toy Story Midway Mania. Take a break and enjoy snacks on the pier.

Then, explore Paradise Gardens Park, where you can enjoy The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Undersea Adventure and Golden Zephyr. For lunch, try the Pacific Wharf Café, where you can enjoy soups, salads, and sandwiches inspired by San Francisco.
 

Afternoon and evening

In the afternoon, head to Cars Land, inspired by the Disney-Pixar film "Cars". Don’t miss Radiator Springs Racers, an exciting race through Radiator Springs. For an immersive experience, have lunch at Flo’s V8 Café, an authentic American diner inspired by Route 66.

Then, explore Hollywood Land, where you can walk along Hollywood Boulevard and discover attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: BREAKOUT! and Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!. Take the time to explore the Animation Academy to learn to draw your favorite Disney characters.

In the evening, visit the brand new Avengers Campus, where you can meet your favorite superheroes and enjoy attractions like WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. End your day with dinner at Carthay Circle, where you can enjoy exceptional modern cuisine in a setting inspired by Hollywood film premieres.

To conclude your trip in style, attend the nightly World of Color show at Paradise Bay. This water and light show features memorable scenes from Disney and Pixar films, offering a magical ending to your adventure at Disneyland Resort.

Days 9-10: San Diego (161 km)

Day 1

Morning

Continue southward in California to reach San Diego. A visit here should start with Gaslamp Quarter, a historic section of San Diego renowned for its 19th-century buildings. Walk along 5th Avenue, explore the shops, antique stores, and enjoy the café and restaurant terraces. The atmosphere is particularly lively and offers a vibrant glimpse of urban life in San Diego.

Next, head to Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in the United States. This 486-hectare park is home to 15 major museums, performance venues, magnificent gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Stroll through the vast green lawns, ideal for a picnic. Among the must-see museums are the Museum of Man, the Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Art, and the Fleet Science Center.

For lunch, you can choose from the options available in Balboa Park, such as Panama 66 at the Museum of Art, which offers sandwiches, salads, and craft beverages in a relaxed setting.

After lunch, visit the San Diego Zoo, globally recognized for its 50 hectares of wooded and hilly terrain and its 800 species of animals. Don’t miss the Children’s Zoo if you are traveling with children and the Skyfari Ride, an aerial tram offering a panoramic view of the zoo.
 

Afternoon and Evening

In the afternoon, head to Seaport Village, a charming waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of San Diego Bay. Take your time to stroll along the promenade, do some shopping, and enjoy an ice cream.

Next, explore the USS Midway Museum, a museum located on a historic aircraft carrier. It’s a great opportunity to learn about naval history and explore the decks of the carrier.

End your first day with dinner at Mister A’s, a restaurant perched atop a skyscraper offering a panoramic view of the city. Enjoy modern American cuisine with high-quality meat and fish dishes. Arrive in time to watch the sunset over San Diego from the terrace.
 

Day 2
 

Morning

This morning, head to La Jolla, a charming coastal community known for its scenic beaches, shops, and restaurants. Stroll along La Jolla Cove and watch the seals and sea lions basking on the rocks.

For lunch, try George’s at the Cove, a restaurant offering stunning ocean views and delicious Californian cuisine. After lunch, explore the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a natural reserve with hiking trails providing spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of this coastal region.
 

Afternoon and Evening

In the afternoon, take the bridge to Coronado Island. Visit the famous Hotel del Coronado, a historic and iconic hotel. Stroll along Coronado Beach, known for its fine sand and clear waters. Explore the charming shops and cafes of Orange Avenue.

For dinner, head back to the city and visit Puesto, a popular restaurant known for its tacos and traditional Mexican dishes. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors.

Days 11-12: Los Angeles (251 km)

Day 1

Morning

Continue your 15-day California road trip to the City of Angels! Start your day with a visit to Broadway, once the heart of entertainment in Los Angeles. Stroll along this historic avenue and admire the facades of early 20th-century theaters and cinemas, like the Million Dollar Theater. Next, head to Grand Central Market, open since 1917, for a varied and tasty breakfast. You will find numerous stalls offering local and international dishes.

After your breakfast, take a moment to visit Union Station, the iconic train station of Los Angeles. Enjoy its sumptuous architecture with marble mosaics and majestic chandeliers. Nearby, explore Olvera Street, known as the birthplace of Los Angeles in 1781. This Mexican market recreates the ambiance of the old town with its cafes, street vendors, and souvenir shops.

For lunch, visit La Luz del Dia on Olvera Street for an authentic Mexican culinary experience. Try the carnitas with handmade tortillas.
 

Afternoon and Evening

After lunch, stroll through California Plaza and relax in the amphitheater. Admire the statue of the wide-winged angel and the twin glass and steel towers around the plaza. If the timing is right, you might catch a concert or show.

In the afternoon, drive towards Hollywood. Start with the Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard and look for the stars of your favorite celebrities between La Brea Avenue and Vine Street. Next, explore the Chinese Theater and the Hollywood & Highland Center, which houses shops, restaurants, and the theater where the Oscars ceremony is held.

End your day with dinner at the Musso & Frank Grill, one of Hollywood’s oldest restaurants. This historic place has been frequented by famous writers like Faulkner and Hemingway. Savor grilled meats and seafood in a retro ambiance.
 

Day 2
 

Morning

Start your second day at Universal Studios Hollywood. Join the "World Famous Studio Tour" to see behind the scenes of movie sets and special effects. Then, explore the theme park with rides like Fast and Furious - Supercharged, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and The Simpsons Ride. Don’t miss the shopping street Universal CityWalk for souvenirs and culinary delights.

For lunch, stay at Universal CityWalk and try one of the many available restaurants. You can choose between various options like burgers, pizzas, and Asian dishes.
 

Afternoon and Evening 

After Universal Studios, head to the Warner Bros Studios for a guided tour. Choose the Studio Tour for a 3-hour experience through sets, costume and editing departments, and even filming scenes. If you’re a fan of superheroes or Harry Potter, you’ll be delighted by the dedicated exhibits.

Then, end the afternoon with a visit to the Griffith Park Observatory. Enjoy the current exhibits, the planetarium, and look through the telescopes. Admire the breathtaking view of Los Angeles and the famous "Hollywood" sign located on the southern slope of Mount Lee.

In the evening, head to Santa Monica. Start with a walk on the famous Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy rides, games, and spectacular ocean views. For dinner, try Cassia, a restaurant offering vibrant and fresh flavors of Southeast Asia. End your evening with a walk on the beach and watch the sunset over the Pacific.

Day 13: California Coast (241 km)

Morning

Start your day early in the morning by leaving Los Angeles towards the beautiful California coast on Highway 1. Enjoy the lack of traffic as you drive through the Malibu hills and along the coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Your first stop will be Santa Barbara, a charming town with Spanish-style architecture, picturesque beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Take the time to stroll down State Street, the main street filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries.

Visit the Santa Barbara Courthouse, famous for its Spanish colonial architecture and picturesque gardens. Climb to the tower for a panoramic view of the city and the coast.

For breakfast, stop by Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery to enjoy fresh pastries, eggs benedict, or a smoothie bowl, a Californian classic!

Continue your journey north and take a break in San Luis Obispo, a lively college town known for its friendly atmosphere and bohemian charm. Wander through the historic downtown and explore Bubblegum Alley, an alley covered in chewing gum that has become a local curiosity.

For lunch, stop at Firestone Grill, known for its sandwiches and fresh salads.
 

Afternoon and Evening

After lunch, head to San Simeon to visit the famous Hearst Castle. Perched atop a hill, this spectacular castle offers incredible views of the ocean and surrounding hills. Explore the lush gardens, opulent pools, and richly decorated rooms on a guided tour. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure a slot at your desired time.

After your castle visit, continue north on Highway 1 to visit the Elephant Seal Vista Point. Watch these impressive marine mammals lounging on the beach, especially between December and March when their presence is most numerous.

Continue your journey north through Big Sur, a region famous for its breathtaking coastal landscapes and rugged cliffs. Stop by Pfeiffer Beach, known for its unique purple sand and impressive rock formations. Take the time to stroll along the beach and enjoy the wild beauty of the area.

End your day at Pismo Beach, a charming seaside resort known for its golden sandy beaches and bustling pier. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Pismo Beach Pier and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

For dinner, head to Ventana Grill, which offers stunning ocean views and features a fusion of Californian coastal cuisine with South American and Mexican influences. Try the chimichurri steak or the pork chop with fresh pineapple salsa.

Day 14: Monterey (247 km)

Morning

Your California road trip continues today towards Monterey. Start your exploration at Fisherman's Wharf, a former fishing pier turned into a vibrant tourist attraction. Stroll along the fresh fish stalls, souvenir shops, and seafood restaurants. You can also book a boat tour to go whale watching or take a kayak tour to discover Monterey Bay up close.

Next, head to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, located on Cannery Row, just a few minutes' walk from Fisherman's Wharf. This world-renowned aquarium houses over 35,000 marine plants and animals, including rehabilitating sea otters, sharks, and jellyfish. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

After exploring the aquarium, take the time to stroll down Cannery Row, once the heart of Monterey's sardine industry. This historic street is now filled with shops, art galleries, and charming cafes. You will also find many information panels about the region's industrial history.

For lunch, visit Monterey’s Fish House, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and fish dishes. Try the plump oysters or local salmon, prepared with high-quality ingredients. Reserve a table in advance, as this restaurant is very popular.
 

Afternoon and Evening

After lunch, take the scenic 17-Mile Drive, which offers some of the most beautiful panoramas of the California coast. This private road winds through the cypress forest and along the coastline, with must-see stops such as Seal Rock, where you can observe sea lions, Cypress Point, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, and the famous Lone Cypress, a 250-year-old tree alone on its rock.

Continue your day by visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea, less than 7 km from Monterey. This small coastal town is known for its white sandy beaches and artistic ambiance. Stroll along Ocean Avenue, lined with upscale shops, art galleries, and charming cafes. Don't miss a visit to Carmel Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean.

Return to Monterey for dinner at Montrio Bistro, a restaurant that offers modern American cuisine inspired by Europe. Enjoy creative dishes prepared with local ingredients, such as crispy crab cakes or artichoke risotto. Chef Tony Baker is committed to using organic products and sustainable seafood.
 

Day 15: San Francisco (177 km)

Your 15-day road trip in California is coming to an end! If time permits, treat yourself to a relaxing walk along the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail.

This coastal trail offers stunning views of Monterey Bay and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the sunrise over the ocean and the fresh sea air to conclude your time in Monterey.

Then, hit the road towards San Francisco to board your return flight!

There you go! You're ready to explore California, wind in your hair, listening to California Dreamin'.

If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to express them in the comments section below!