The best 7-day California road trip

If you're looking for the perfect one-week California road trip, look no further!

This 7-day tour is the perfect way to discover the California coast in all its splendour. 
 

Map of 7-day California road trip

Summary of 7-day California road trip

Days 1-2 : San Francisco

Welcome to San Francisco, the iconic California city known for its openness, rolling hills and Victorian homes!

Why not begin your stay with the famous Golden Gate Bridge, a marvel of modern engineering offering unforgettable views of the bay. And be sure to visit Chinatown, the oldest and largest Chinese neighbourhood outside Asia. You'll have a wide selection of restaurants to tempt you.

Alcatraz Prison, where you can hear epic tales of daring escapes, is also well worth a visit. I recommend the evening tour... if you dare!  

For your second day, get up early to take a cable car ride. It'll give you a unique perspective on this bustling city, without the crowds.

Then head to Fisherman's Wharf to sample the finest seafood, do some shopping and see the famous sea lions. Don't forget your camera! In the evening, stop off at Ghirardelli Square to experience San Francisco as the locals do, and take in the atmosphere one last time!

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Day 3 : Monterey

Pick up your cheap car rental in San Francisco, then head down the coast to Monterey. This charming coastal town will set the stage for the scenic seaside views you'll be enjoying throughout your road trip.

While you're here, be sure to visit the famous Monterey Aquarium, home to a wide variety of marine life. Made famous in pop culture by John Steinbeck and his novel of the same name, Cannery Row is now a picturesque street full of stores and restaurants. Take the time to stroll along it and get a feel for the soul of the town.

Nature lovers won't want to miss Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. This nature reserve boasts hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. And coastal towns mean seafood a-plenty... Visit one of the many restaurants on the waterfront, where you can enjoy fresh local dishes.
 

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Day 4 : Pismo Beach

I recommend an early start, as today's the day you'll see the legendary landmarks of the famous Highway 1. Be sure to plan a stop at Carmel-By-The-Sea, a picturesque little town, home to a number of great artists, and then, of course, Big Sur! To stretch your legs, make a short stop at the beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Then head south to Pismo Beach. This small seaside town is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Enjoy a lazy day on the golden sandy beach, or go hiking in the nearby dunes for a more active adventure.

Here too, nothing beats a fresh seafood dinner while admiring the sunset over the ocean. The Pier is a great place to do just that!

Day 5 : Santa Barbara

Today you head for Santa Barbara, often called the "American Riviera" for its seaside resort atmosphere.

The city is famous for its Spanish-style architecture, which can be seen in the magnificent Botanical Gardens and the Santa Barbara Mission. State Street, with its chic boutiques and gourmet restaurants, is the heart of the city's commercial scene.

For wine lovers, a tasting at one of the region's many vineyards is a must.

But I can't deny that the activity par excellence here is simply relaxing! By the pool or on the white sandy beach, just enjoy soaking up the sun in a lush setting. After all, you're on vacation...

Days 6-7 : Los Angeles

You're already on your way to the final destination of your California itinerary, Los Angeles!

Hollywood is the heart of the movie industry, with guided tours of film studios and the Walk of Fame, where you can see the stars dedicated to celebrities of the cinema. In my opinion, it's a good introduction to the City of Angels.

I'd then recommend a visit to its neighboring districts, Silver Lake and Echo Park, to get a feel for local life. They're also great places to eat in a local restaurant. In the evening, take a walk in Echo Park, or venture out onto its lake on a swan-shaped pedal boat. 

For your last day, discover the neighborhoods of Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Take one last look at California's beaches, shop for souvenirs on the Venice boardwalk and experience the magic of the Santa Monica Pier.

Finish it all off with an excellent meal on Abbot Kinney, a favourite street of Venice Beach locals!

That's it! You're ready to hit the coastal roads of California.

Do you have any favorites on this itinerary you'd like to share with us? Let us know in the comments below!