A Sunlit Journey along the California Coast

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~ 1052 km , 10 days
San Diego
Your first day will be dedicated to exploring the gems of San Diego, starting with the La Jolla area La Jolla. Located along a rugged coastline, this area is known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, secluded coves, and rich marine life. You can walk along scenic trails, watch sea lions basking in the sun, or dive into the underwater world with snorkeling or scuba diving.

Next, head to Mission Beach — the heart of San Diego's beach scene. This area stretches for miles along the coast and draws active travelers with its wide sandy beaches, bike paths, and the Belmont Park amusement park, where you can ride the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster.

After a day by the sea, dive into history by visiting Old Town San Diego, the birthplace of the modern city. Stroll along cobbled streets, admire historic Spanish colonial buildings, and explore museums showcasing early settler life.
Then head to Balboa Park, a green oasis in the city center filled with museums, gardens, theaters, and the San Diego Zoo. The park stuns with its Spanish Renaissance architecture and wide variety of attractions.

End your day at Coronado Beach, known for its expansive sandy beach, gentle ocean entry, and the iconic Victorian-style Hotel del Coronado.

If time allows, visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, perched on coastal cliffs with panoramic views of the ocean. The park is famous for its rare Torrey pine trees, which grow only in this region.
Points of interest
La Jolla, whose name means "the jewel" in Spanish, is a scenic coastal area of San Diego known for its charming coves, upscale boutiques, and vibrant marine life. Visit the famous La Jolla Cove, where you can watch sea lions bask on the rocks, snorkel through kelp forests, or kayak past sea caves. The area is filled with art galleries, oceanfront trails, and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
A lively beach neighborhood stretching several miles along the Pacific Ocean. Mission Beach is a hotspot for outdoor fun: ride bikes or rollerblades along the boardwalk, surf the waves, play beach volleyball, or sunbathe on the wide sandy shore. The main attraction is Belmont Park, a historic amusement park featuring the wooden Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, thrill rides, arcades, and eateries.
Often called the birthplace of California, Old Town is a historic district where Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets recreate the atmosphere of the 1800s. Stroll past preserved buildings, traditional shops, and old churches while enjoying live mariachi music and local Mexican cuisine at colorful restaurants and cantinas.
The largest urban cultural park in the U.S., Balboa Park covers 1,200 acres and houses 17 museums, performing arts venues, lush gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Known for its Spanish-Renaissance architecture, the park is also home to the Museum of Us, the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Art, and the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Located on Coronado Island, just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Beach is one of the best beaches in the U.S. thanks to its wide shore, soft white sand, and gentle waves. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, surf, or enjoy seaside walks with postcard-perfect views. The iconic Hotel del Coronado, opened in 1888, offers Victorian elegance just steps from the beach.
A dramatic coastal nature reserve located north of San Diego, Torrey Pines is named after the rare Torrey pine trees that grow only here. The park features hiking trails along cliffs with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. It's also home to diverse wildlife, from seabirds and foxes to migrating whales visible from the bluffs in winter.
Laguna Beach & Newport Beach
On day two, explore the Orange County coastline, starting with the town of Laguna Beach. Known for its art galleries, secluded coves, and turquoise waters, this charming town is perfect for relaxed walks and beach lounging.

Begin your day at Heisler Park, perched atop a bluff with panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. Then head to Crystal Cove State Park — a paradise for nature lovers, with scenic hiking trails, quiet beaches, and excellent snorkeling.

In the afternoon, continue to Newport Beach, where you can stroll along the famous Balboa Pier, enjoying ocean views and watching fishermen and pelicans. End your day on Balboa Island, a small man-made island connected to the mainland by bridge and ferry. The atmosphere here is peaceful and cozy, with charming cottages, boutiques, and cafes lining narrow streets.
Points of interest
A picturesque park perched atop a bluff in Laguna Beach, offering stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rocky shoreline, and secluded coves. Scenic trails lined with succulents and local art installations wind through the park. Heisler Park is a favorite spot for sunset picnics, as the sky lights up in gold and pink over the ocean. You’ll also find benches, tide pools, and access to nearby beaches.
A vast state park stretching for 3.2 miles along the coast, Crystal Cove State Park features a variety of landscapes — from sandy beaches and cliffs to hills covered in California sage scrub. Hike scenic trails, explore tide pools, or relax in one of the park’s quiet coves. The historic Crystal Cove Historic District, with its 1930s–40s beach cottages, offers a glimpse into coastal life of the past. Offshore, a marine conservation area protects kelp forests and underwater life, making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.
The Balboa Pier, located in Newport Beach, is one of the city’s icons. From the pier, enjoy scenic ocean views, Catalina Island in the distance, and the cool breeze. It’s a great place to fish, watch pelicans, or take a walk. Nearby is the Balboa Fun Zone, home to a Ferris wheel, arcade, and snack stands.
A small man-made island connected to the mainland by bridge and the Balboa Island Ferry, Balboa Island is known for its charming cottages, boutique-lined streets, and peaceful atmosphere. Stroll the waterfront promenade, browse art galleries, and try the famous frozen treats like the Balboa Bar or frozen banana.
A luxury coastal city in Orange County, Newport Beach is known for its upscale homes, yachts, and high-end shops. It also boasts some of the area’s most beautiful beaches, including Corona del Mar State Beach and The Wedge, famous for its massive waves that attract expert surfers. Newport is home to one of the largest recreational harbors in the U.S. — Newport Harbor — where you can take boat tours, sunset cruises, or even rent a yacht. The city is also a culinary destination, known for fresh seafood, creative cuisine, and waterfront dining.
Malibu
Day three takes you to Malibu, a city that has become a symbol of the California dream. Stretching for 27 miles along the coast, Malibu is famous for its luxurious villas owned by Hollywood stars, secluded beaches, upscale restaurants, and boutiques. The city is surrounded by the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, or simply taking in the stunning coastal views.

You’ll follow the iconic Pacific Coast Highway — a scenic route that’s a destination in itself — enjoying spectacular ocean views, cliffs, and endless beaches.

Start your day at El Matador State Beach, one of Malibu’s most photographed beaches, known for its dramatic rock formations and intimate coves. Next, head to Malibu Creek State Park, a wilderness oasis where you can stroll shady trails, swim in a cool mountain lake, and enjoy nature’s peace. End the day at The Getty Villa, a museum housed in a replica of an ancient Roman villa with an exceptional collection of classical art.
Points of interest
One of Malibu’s most scenic beaches, known for its dramatic rock formations, natural arches, and sea caves sculpted by the elements. The beach is divided into several secluded coves, accessible via steep stairs carved into the cliffs. El Matador is a perfect location for photo shoots, especially at sunset, when the rocks glow with golden and pink hues. It’s also a great place to explore caves, swim in the ocean, and watch seabirds.
A natural park located in the Santa Monica Mountains, just a few miles from the coast. The park features a variety of landscapes — from oak groves and meadows to canyons and waterfalls. It offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, leading to scenic overlooks and peaceful picnic spots. One of the park’s main attractions is Malibu Creek Rock Pools, formed by a dam on Malibu Creek. Visitors can swim in the pools, and the surrounding cliffs are popular with rock climbers. The park is also known as a filming location for many movies and TV series, including Planet of the Apes and MASH*.
A museum dedicated to the art and culture of Ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. It’s housed in a building modeled after the Villa of the Papyri in Herculaneum — a Roman villa buried under volcanic ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. The museum’s collection includes sculptures, vases, mosaics, frescoes, and other artifacts from 650 BCE to 400 CE. The Getty Villa is surrounded by gardens designed in the Roman style, with fountains, statues, and Mediterranean plants. Visiting the Getty Villa offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of antiquity — without leaving California.
Santa Barbara
On day four, visit the charming city of Santa Barbara, often called the “American Riviera.” It’s known for its mild climate, beaches, Spanish colonial-style architecture, and top-tier wineries.

Begin with a visit to the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786. Then walk through the scenic Shoreline Park, which offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. Next, head to Stearns Wharf to enjoy the sea breeze and fresh seafood. Finish your day in The Funk Zone, a lively neighborhood known for its art galleries, tasting rooms, and trendy restaurants.
Points of interest
A historic landmark founded by Spanish Franciscans in 1786. Known as the “Queen of the Missions,” it is one of the best-preserved missions in California and still operates as a parish church. The building, constructed in a neoclassical style with elements of Spanish colonial architecture, impresses with its massive walls, two bell towers, and elegant portico. Inside is a museum displaying artifacts related to the mission's history and the lives of Indigenous people, as well as a church featuring an ornate altar and old religious paintings. The mission is surrounded by a beautiful garden, where visitors can see an ancient aqueduct, cemetery, and a collection of plants native to California.
A spacious park located on a bluff offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and the city of Santa Barbara. The park is perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and whale watching (from December to April). A coastal walking trail runs along the bluff and leads down to Leadbetter Beach. There’s also a playground, barbecue areas, and picnic tables.
A historic wooden pier built in 1872 and one of Santa Barbara’s top attractions. The pier houses souvenir shops, restaurants serving fresh seafood, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, where visitors can learn about marine life in the region. From the pier, you get a magnificent view of the city, mountains, and ocean. You can rent a fishing rod, try your hand at fishing, or take a boat tour or whale-watching excursion.
A former industrial area that has transformed into a vibrant hub of contemporary art, winemaking, and gastronomy. It’s home to numerous art galleries, studios, and tasting rooms where you can sample wines from local vineyards, as well as trendy restaurants and cafés. The Funk Zone draws visitors with its creative vibe and variety of entertainment options. You can stroll through the streets admiring graffiti and installations, visit contemporary art exhibits, taste wines from the Santa Ynez Valley, and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering something for every palate.
San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach
On the fifth day of your journey, you'll explore San Luis Obispo and the coastal gem of Pismo Beach. San Luis Obispo, one of California’s oldest towns (founded in 1772), is known for its rich history, beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture, relaxed vibe, and friendly locals. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and more.

Start your day with a visit to one of the city’s quirkiest attractions — Gum Alley — before heading to the coast to enjoy the serenity of Pismo Beach. Then explore some hidden coastal corners by visiting the sea caves at Pirates Cove Beach near Avila Beach.
Points of interest
A narrow alley in downtown San Luis Obispo, where the walls are completely covered with used chewing gum. This unusual landmark, which emerged in the 1970s, has become a symbol of the city and a popular spot for photo ops. The alley walls, about 4.5 meters high and 21 meters long, represent a bright and sticky piece of art created by both locals and tourists.
A wide sandy beach stretching several miles along the Pacific Ocean. It’s known for its dunes, where you can ride ATVs and quad bikes. Pismo State Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, fishing, birdwatching, and relaxing by the water. You can also see migrating monarch butterflies that winter in the nearby eucalyptus grove.
These sea caves carved into cliffs can be explored from both land and sea. Paddle a kayak or boat along the coast to discover hidden coves and grottoes. This spot is perfect for nature lovers, as sea lions, seals, and various seabirds are often seen here. The peaceful, quiet surroundings create an atmosphere of seclusion and relaxation. Sandy beaches and crystal-clear water make it an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling.
Big Sur
Day six will be devoted to exploring Big Sur — a 90-mile stretch along Highway 1 famous for its dramatic ocean views, rugged cliffs, dense forests, and secluded beaches. This is where nature shows its raw power and untouched beauty.

Start your day at the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge for panoramic views of the coastline. Then visit McWay Falls, a rare waterfall that flows directly onto the beach. End the day at Pfeiffer Beach, known for its unusual rock formations and purple-tinted sand.
Points of interest
One of the most recognizable symbols of Big Sur and one of the most photographed bridges in the world. This elegant arched bridge, built in 1932, spans a deep canyon through which the Bixby Creek flows. The bridge is about 79 meters high and 218 meters long. From the bridge and the nearby scenic viewpoints, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and forested hills.
A waterfall about 24 meters high that flows directly onto a sandy beach washed by the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the few waterfalls in the world that drops directly into the ocean. Surrounded by scenic cliffs covered in lush vegetation, the waterfall is incredibly photogenic. You can view it from an overlook located at the top of the cliff.
A secluded beach known for its unique rock formations, including the Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach, a natural arch carved by the ocean that resembles a keyhole. In some areas, the sand has a purplish hue due to the presence of manganese particles. Pfeiffer Beach is a popular spot for photographers, especially at sunset, when the sun’s rays shine through the keyhole and create stunning light effects.
Carmel & Monterey
On the seventh day, you'll visit the charming towns of Carmel-By-The-Sea and Monterey. Carmel, with its bohemian spirit, once banned ice cream sales on the streets, and Clint Eastwood served as mayor in 1986. There are no streetlights or house numbers here, adding to its fairytale charm. Nearby Monterey — once the capital of California — is home to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can see sea otters, sharks, and thousands of marine species. Monterey also inspired John Steinbeck’s famous novel Cannery Row, based on the local fishing industry, which was once among the largest in the world. Driving along the scenic 17-Mile Drive, you’ll spot the iconic Lone Cypress — a 250-year-old tree symbolizing the strength and beauty of the California coast.

Start with a visit to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to enjoy wild nature and marine life. Then cruise along 17-Mile Drive, admiring luxurious mansions and stunning ocean views. End your day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium for an immersive experience of the Pacific’s underwater world.
Points of interest
Located south of Carmel, this reserve is often called the "jewel" of California's state park system. It’s renowned for its breathtaking scenery: rugged coastlines, secluded coves, meadows covered with wildflowers, and cypress groves. The park offers many hiking trails with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can spot sea otters, seals, migrating whales (seasonal), and numerous bird species.
This scenic road passes through the private property of Pebble Beach, famous for its luxurious mansions, golf courses, and stunning coastal views. Along the way, you’ll encounter highlights like the Lone Cypress — a solitary tree perched on a rock above the ocean that has become a symbol of the area — Spanish Bay Vista Point, and the Del Monte Forest. Numerous viewpoints along the route allow you to stop, take photos, and admire the beauty of the landscape.
One of the largest and most renowned aquariums in the world, located on the shores of Monterey Bay. The aquarium is known for its vast exhibits showcasing marine life from the Pacific Ocean. You can see giant octopuses, sharks, jellyfish, sea otters, penguins, and many other underwater creatures. A major highlight is the massive “Open Sea” tank, where you can observe marine life in conditions close to their natural habitat. The aquarium is also heavily involved in research and conservation efforts.
The Lone Cypress, perched on a granite cliff along the 17-Mile Drive, is more than just a tree — it’s a true symbol of California and one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Estimated to be around 250 years old, this iconic tree clings to the rock, surviving in harsh conditions, enduring strong winds and the salty spray of the Pacific Ocean. It belongs to the rare Monterey Cypress species, which grows only in two places on Earth: Pebble Beach and Point Lobos. The tree is so iconic that its image is a registered trademark of the Pebble Beach Company, and it is supported by cables to prevent it from falling.
Santa Cruz & Henry W. Coe State Park
Begin day eight in the lively coastal city of Santa Cruz, known for its surf culture, scenic beaches, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park. Here, you can surf, kayak, bike, or hike through nearby hills and forests. The town is also home to many art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Ride the historic roller coasters at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum housed in a lighthouse, and then head to Henry W. Coe State Park — Northern California’s largest state park — to enjoy the serenity of mountain trails and unspoiled nature.
Points of interest
A historic amusement park located right on the beach. Opened in 1907, it has been delighting visitors ever since with a variety of attractions, from classic to modern. The park’s crown jewel is the Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster built in 1924 and designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark. The boardwalk also features arcades, shooting galleries, cafés, and restaurants.
A small museum located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse at Steamer Lane, dedicated to the history of surfing in Santa Cruz. The museum showcases photographs, documents, vintage surfboards, and other exhibits about the development of surfing in the area. Santa Cruz is considered one of the birthplaces of surfing in mainland USA, and the museum tells the story of how Hawaiian princes first demonstrated their wave-riding skills here in 1885.
The largest state park in Northern California, covering more than 87,000 acres. The park offers visitors a wide variety of landscapes: from gentle oak-covered hills to steep canyons and rugged mountain ridges. There are over 250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Wildlife in the park includes deer, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, and numerous bird species.
San Jose & Palo Alto
Day nine is dedicated to the heart of Silicon Valley — the cities of San Jose and Palo Alto.

San Jose, often called the “Capital of Silicon Valley,” boasts not only tech giants but also a rich history. Founded in 1777, it was the first civilian settlement in Spanish colonial California and served as the first state capital from 1849 to 1851. A replica of the original Capitol building now houses a museum devoted to California’s early history.

Palo Alto, in the heart of Silicon Valley, is home to major tech companies like Hewlett-Packard, Tesla, VMware, and many startups and venture funds. The city is known for its high quality of life, top-ranked schools, and scenic parks. It’s a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship that draws ambitious minds from around the world.

You’ll visit The Tech Interactive, an interactive tech museum offering a glimpse into the future, explore contemporary works at the San Jose Museum of Art, walk through Stanford University, and finish your day in Palo Alto, surrounded by innovation and greenery.
Points of interest
An interactive science and technology museum located in downtown San Jose, and one of the city’s main attractions. The museum offers visitors hands-on experiences with innovation and high-tech. You can explore robots, climate change exhibits, virtual reality, space missions, and other cutting-edge topics. The Tech Interactive is focused on education and inspires visitors to touch, test, and explore science in action.
The leading center of contemporary art in Silicon Valley, the San Jose Museum of Art showcases a large collection of artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art, and installations. The museum is known for its exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists working in diverse directions of contemporary art.
One of the most prestigious and well-known universities in the world. Founded in 1885 by Leland Stanford, a railroad tycoon and former governor of California, and his wife Jane in memory of their only son. Stanford is famous for its architectural beauty, academic excellence, and innovation. The campus is home to museums, historic buildings, and cutting-edge research centers.
Located on the Stanford University campus, the Cantor Arts Center houses one of the world’s largest collections of bronze sculptures by Auguste Rodin outside of Paris. With over 200 Rodin pieces, visitors can see famous works like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. The museum also features art from ancient Egypt, Asia, and the Americas, offering a rich exploration of creativity, intellect, and cultural heritage.
Spanning 1,940 acres of protected wetlands, this preserve is one of the largest untouched marshland areas left in the San Francisco Bay. It’s a vital stopover for millions of migratory birds who rest and feed here during their journey along the Pacific Flyway. Interestingly, parts of the preserve once served as salt evaporation ponds, which are still visible in the landscape. Some of them have been transformed into ideal habitats for birds and other wildlife.
San Francisco
Your tenth and final day will be spent exploring the iconic city of San Francisco. Founded in 1776 by Spanish colonists, the city became a major port on the U.S. West Coast. The Gold Rush of 1849 brought rapid growth and transformed it into a financial and cultural hub. Today, San Francisco is known for its liberal spirit, cultural diversity, and culinary richness.

Begin with the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge, walking across its spans as you take in bay views and fresh ocean air. Then hop on a ferry to Alcatraz Island, where you’ll explore the notorious former prison and learn about its history and escape attempts.
After lunch, head to the lively Fisherman’s Wharf district, filled with seafood aromas, street performers, and sea lions lounging at Pier 39. End your day with a zigzag drive down Lombard Street, then climb Coit Tower for a panoramic sunset view of the city bathed in golden light — the perfect farewell to your California adventure.
Points of interest
The iconic symbol of San Francisco. Built in 1937, this bridge still amazes visitors with its grandeur and architectural perfection. Its red-orange arches span the San Francisco Bay, creating a striking contrast with the blue sky and deep waters below. You can walk across the bridge, enjoying the fresh ocean breeze and breathtaking views, or rent a bike and ride along its entire length.
Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz was known as a maximum-security prison operating from 1934 to 1963. It housed some of the most notorious criminals in U.S. history, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud. During a tour of Alcatraz, you can visit the inmates’ cells and exercise yards, and learn about the infamous escape attempts that gave this place its notorious reputation.
One of the most vibrant tourist areas in San Francisco. Known for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and street performers, this area offers a lively coastal experience. Try the famous clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl, watch sea lions lounging at Pier 39, or take a boat tour around the bay.
Often called "the most crooked street in the world," it consists of eight sharp turns. These curves were designed in 1922 not for fun, but out of necessity: the 27% grade of the hill was too steep for most cars at the time, and the winding road made it possible to navigate the slope safely.
Rising atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is not just a viewpoint but also a monument dedicated to San Francisco's firefighters. It was built in 1933 with funds donated by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, an eccentric heiress who admired the bravery of firemen and left a third of her fortune to beautify the city. While many believe the tower was designed to resemble a fire hose, this is merely an urban legend. In reality, architects Arthur Brown Jr. and Henry Howard aimed to create an elegant Art Deco column. Inside the tower, visitors can see frescoes created during the Great Depression as part of the Federal Art Project. These murals depict scenes of 1930s California life and serve as both artistic and historical treasures.
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