Growing up, I always dreamed about road trips in California: cruising through quaint seaside towns and watching the waves crash against the cliffs.
When I finally ended up doing it, I realized that no amount of daydreaming could compare to the real thing. Maybe you’re chasing adventure, relaxation or a taste of nostalgia; either way, there’s a perfect route waiting to be explored.
So grab a map, load up your playlist and get ready to experience the best of the Golden State on four wheels.
These California road trips promise to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the state’s natural and cultural wonders.
Best Road Trips in California
- San Francisco to Los Angeles: My all-time favorite coastal drive
- Surf Safari through Orange County: Where the surf culture comes alive
- Lake Tahoe to Yosemite: Perfect for a scenic mountain escape
- Route 66: Perfect for a family-friendly retro adventure
- Napa Valley: Road-tripping through California’s wine country
San Francisco to Los Angeles: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip in California
Why This Road Trip is a Must
The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles via Highway 1 is the quintessential California road trip. Known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), this iconic route hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs and charming coastal towns.
There’s no better way to experience California’s rugged beauty than cruising down this legendary highway with the windows down and your favorite playlist on repeat.
I remember my first time driving this route in the middle of summer.
The sun cast golden hues across the ocean, and every twist and turn of the road revealed another postcard-worthy view. It was a reminder of how memorable this road trip is – it’s not just about the drive but about the unforgettable moments along the way.
Must-See Stops Along the Pacific Coast Highway
- San Francisco: Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz Island, ride a cable car or wander through Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Big Sur: Stop for a photo at Bixby Bridge, explore the area’s stunning hiking trails or soak in the tranquility of the coastline.
- Monterey: Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, stroll down Cannery Row and watch sea otters play in the bay.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea: Experience the town’s European-style charm, boutique shops and stunning ocean views.
- Santa Barbara: Explore the historic Old Mission, walk along Stearns Wharf or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach.
- Los Angeles: What else is there to say? From Hollywood to some of the best city beaches in the world, it’s on everybody’s list.
Personal Highlight: One summer, I took this drive with a close friend, stopping at nearly every roadside viewpoint. We spent an entire afternoon in Big Sur, mesmerized by how the fog rolled over the cliffs, blending the sky and sea into one breathtaking landscape.
Surf Safari Through Orange County
Why This Road Trip is a Must
Orange County is the perfect road trip destination for those who love the ocean, filled with sun, sand and surfing. With its world-famous beaches and laid-back coastal vibe, this route is ideal for beach hopping, catching waves or simply basking in California’s sunshine.
I once spent a weekend driving this route with my friend; we began in Huntington Beach, renting surfboards and giving the waves a go. After some wipeouts, we relaxed at a beachside café, watching skilled surfers carve through the water like artists at work.
The coast was dotted with stops for fresh fish tacos and incredible sunset views. Our impromptu bonfire at Crystal Cove capped off the day perfectly. This road trip is a blend of adventure, relaxation and unbeatable coastal beauty – a true celebration of California’s iconic surf culture.
Must-See Stops in Orange County
- Huntington Beach: Experience ‘Surf City, USA’ with its famous pier and vibrant surf culture.
- Laguna Beach: Relax in picturesque coves and explore tide pools teeming with marine life.
- Newport Beach: Take a ferry to Balboa Island or visit the Wedge for some of California’s biggest waves.
- Dana Point: Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and take a whale-watching tour.
- Crystal Cove State Park: Hike scenic trails and enjoy pristine, undeveloped beaches.
- Bonus Side Trip: Spend a day at Disneyland or Universal Studios for a fun theme park experience.
Personal Highlight: I once spent a week in Laguna Beach, hopping daily between different beaches, grabbing fish tacos from local shacks and watching the sun set over the ocean. It was the most relaxed I had felt in years.
Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park: A Nature Lover’s Dream Road Trip in California
Why This Road Trip is a Must
If you’re craving stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes and breathtaking national parks, the drive from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park is a must-visit. This scenic route takes you through the Sierra Nevada Mountains, with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking or simply soaking in the views, this journey offers a perfect escape into nature. I’ll never forget one summer when I packed up my car with camping gear and set off on this unforgettable road trip.
I started at Lake Tahoe, where I kayaked across its glassy waters at sunrise, taking in the peaceful surroundings. The next day, I drove to Yosemite and was awestruck by El Capitan’s towering presence.
Hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls was humbling, with the powerful waterfalls cascading down the rocks, leaving me in awe of nature’s sheer beauty. It’s truly an experience to remember!
Must-See Stops in These California Parks
- Northstar California Resort: A winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding, and a relaxing mountain retreat in the summer.
- Heavenly Gondola: Ride upward for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and explore hiking trails at the summit.
- Glacier Point: A must-visit viewpoint in Yosemite, offering breathtaking vistas of Half Dome and the valley below.
- Badger Pass Ski Area: Great for winter sports enthusiasts looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Mist Trail: Hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls for an unforgettable waterfall experience.
- Bonus Side Trip: Venture into Nevada for a different perspective of the Sierra Nevada landscape.
Personal Highlight: Driving through Yosemite in late spring, I rolled down the windows to take in the scent of pine trees and fresh mountain air, a welcome stark contrast against the smog of city life to which I have become accustomed. Stopping at Glacier Point at sunrise, I watched the first light illuminate Half Dome; this is a sight I’ll never forget.
Route 66: California’s Historic Highway Adventure
Why This Road Trip is a Must
Driving the historic Route 66 through California feels like stepping back in time. This legendary highway, stretching from the arid Mojave Desert to the sparkling Pacific Ocean, is a nostalgic journey packed with charm, history and adventure.
Along the way, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, neon-lit motels and classic diners serving up burgers and milkshakes just like they did in the highway’s heyday.
Some stops offer a unique glimpse into roadside Americana, while towns like Barstow and Santa Monica showcase the evolution of this iconic route.
Whether you’re admiring vintage cars, exploring Route 66 museums or simply soaking in the desert scenery, every mile tells a story.
For any road trip enthusiast, Route 66 is more than a drive – it’s an unforgettable experience.
Must-See Stops Along Route 66
- Mojave Desert: Experience the stark beauty of the desert landscape and visit the Mojave Preserve.
- Calico Ghost Town: Step back in time in this well-preserved Old West mining town.
- Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch: A unique roadside attraction featuring hundreds of colorful glass bottle sculptures.
- Wigwam Motel: Stay overnight in a quirky teepee-shaped motel for an authentic Route 66 experience.
- Santa Monica Pier: The official endpoint of Route 66, offering classic boardwalk entertainment and ocean views.
- Bonus Side Trip: Extend your Route 66 adventure beyond California all the way to Chicago.
Personal Highlight: Driving Route 66 in California felt like a trip through time. I stopped at quirky spots like the Bottle Tree Ranch and an old-school diner in Barstow. Ending at the Santa Monica Pier, watching the sunset over the Pacific, was the perfect finale to this legendary journey.
Napa Valley: Beyond Just the Silverado Trail
Why This Road Trip is a Must
For wine lovers, Napa Valley is the ultimate road trip destination, offering scenic drives, world-class wineries and breathtaking vineyard views.
While the Silverado Trail is a popular route, there’s something special about taking the road less traveled, uncovering charming family-run wineries, rolling vineyards and picturesque picnic spots along the way.
The beauty of a road trip here isn’t just about the wine – it’s about the experience.
Stopping at intimate tasting rooms, chatting with winemakers and discovering new varieties makes every moment memorable. Beyond the vineyards, Napa Valley’s countryside offers stunning landscapes, inviting travelers to slow down and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely wine tasting, enjoying a gourmet meal with a view or simply driving through the valley at sunset, this journey is all about savoring the moment.
A road trip through Napa Valley is an unforgettable blend of relaxation, discovery and indulgence.
Must-See Stops in Napa Valley
- Chimney Rock Winery: A South African-inspired estate with stunning vineyard views.
- Paloma Vineyard: Perched on Spring Mountain, offering breathtaking landscapes and world-class wines.
- Keenan Winery: A picturesque vineyard near Paloma, known for its bold reds.
- Oxbow Public Market: A foodie paradise featuring local produce, gourmet treats and artisanal goods.
- Castello di Amoroso: A 14th-century Tuscan-style castle winery offering tours and tastings is one of the must-see wonders of California.
- Bonus Side Trip: Take a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley for an unforgettable aerial perspective.
Personal Highlight: A weekend in Napa Valley was unforgettable. I sipped Pinot Noir while watching the sun set over the vineyards. A sunrise hot air balloon ride above the lush valley made this peaceful escape even more magical.
Why You Need to Explore All the California Road Trips
California is a road-tripper’s paradise, offering routes catering to every traveler. Whether you’re seeking coastal beauty, mountain adventures, historic highways or world-class wine country, road trips in California deliver unforgettable experiences.
The ever-changing landscapes, the thrill of discovery and the freedom of the open road make these trips magical.
If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect California adventure, there’s no better time than now.
Road trips in California aren’t just about the destinations – they’re about the journey, the memories made along the way and the stories you’ll tell for years to come.
Pack your bags, fuel up the car and hit the road – because the best stories are the ones you find along the way.
