Around California State in 14 days
Ultimate California Road Trip
Hit all major spots in 14 days (33 hours / 1,813 miles of driving)
California has everything your adventurous soul might want: pristine beaches, palm tree alleys, desert vibe, giant mountains, giant trees, waterfalls, and breathtaking views - check, check, check...Oh you better believe it!
That’s why I highly recommend California if you want to go on an eclectic road trip through just one state. It won’t disappoint your thirst for exploring.
I've done many variations of the Cali road trip. I love this state so much that my husband and I even chose it for part of our honeymoon adventure. Here I've prepared an ultimate road trip guide to help you plan for the most famous and diverse sights Cali has to offer. This itinerary is totally adaptable: you can change your starting point depending where you begin and take out certain locations if you're short on time. If you have questions or need my recommendations, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Start: San Diego
Relaxing San Diego is a great place to start.
After you've enjoyed their world renowned zoos and snorkeled among La Jolla's vibrant sea life, it’s time to wave goodbye to the seals and head on over to your first destination.
Joshua Tree National Park
First off, Joshua Tree cactuses are the coolest! Being around these prickly giants gives you the feeling that you're on a whole different planet. Stop by Scull Rock and the Arch - my two favorite spots here.
Extra: If you've got time, check out Palm Springs. It is a cute little town known as "The Playground of the Stars."
Death Valley National Park
How can you miss the hottest place on earth? This is an ultimate desert experience. Note, it'll be pretty challenging to visit in the summer due to the heat, however, if you wake up for sunrise the temperatures is more than bearable, plus, it’s a great time to photograph the incredible landscapes this dry land has to offer.
Sequoia National Park
Enormous trees in Sequoia National Park will make you feel like a Hobbit in a fairytale forest. What could be better than a hike through these majestic trees that have been here long before you, I, and our forefathers forefathers came into to this world. Like whispering giants, these behemoths will be here long after we're gone.
Yosemite National Park
In my opinion this is the best National Park in California (and I must confess, this is my favorite National Park in all the U.S.). The reason is it has so much to offer: waterfalls, mountains, lakes, forests - you get the idea. So many sights and not enough time to see them all.
I highly recommend Vernal Falls and Mirror Lake. Also, Olmsted Point (it's an easy hike, and so rewarding).
Lake Tahoe
I say it's a must to see the largest alpine lake in Northern America. Take a dip or just paddle board through its fresh crystal clear water. Perfect stop on your road trip from Spring to Fall, and for all you snow-buffs, it turns into a heavenly ski resort in the winter.
Napa Valley
This region of California is famous for wines. If I have to say more, then you probably haven't heard of this place. It's the best place to relax, and experience varietals that rivals, and in my opinion, triumphs over may of the wines our old world cousins have to offer. That said, rent a driver for a day or two and do a wine tasting tour (Far Niente, Opus and Jarvis are a few of my favorite wineries to frequent).
San Francisco
Let’s just say - everyone knows about San Fan, so you must stop here and check out the Golden Gate bridge, pier 39 and the Lombard street, right? Schedule an Alcatraz tour while you're at it - very cool!
Extra: If you got the time, check out Point Reyes Park. This is my favorite park around San Fran, and it's a one hour drive North with epic scenery along the way to boot.
Big Sur
The best stretch of PCH will take you right to the McWay Falls and the Bixby bridge. Don’t forget about the Pfeiffer beach, it is oh so stunning!
Extra: Stop by Monterey and check out their world renowned aquarium. The array of sea creatures house here is...let's just say mind-blowing (especially the translucent jellyfish).
Carmel-by-the-Sea is just too cute, to pass. If you got time, do the 17-mile drive, it’s worth it!
And finally, the infamous Hertz Castle on the way back to your last destination. Note, there are 4 castle tours, so plan accordingly.
Finish: Los Angeles
Hi, Hollywood, and all your goodness that comes with it.
Time to put on my favorite dress, or your most stylish duds for all you gents, and explore Beverly Hills. Shopping, dining and palm tree filled street view are the things to experience here. If you're lucky you may see a star or two, and some fast cars that like to line up Canon Dr.
Other trip ideas: start your journey of L.A. with my blog about 10 unique spots you don't want to miss. First stop is 90210.
Enjoy your adventure!
