The West Coast is a dream for road trippers because of its breathtaking landscapes and legendary routes. From the sunny beaches of Southern California to the rugged cliffs and iconic filming locations of Oregon, every mile reveals a fresh adventure. The Pacific Coast Highway is a must for any West Coast road trip, as it hugs dramatic shorelines and offers iconic stops along the way.
This curated 8-day west coast road trip runs from the South to the North, starting in San Diego and ending in Seattle. In total, you’ll cover about 1,590 miles, weaving through coastal highways, national parks and vibrant urban centers. Spring and fall are the best seasons for the long drive filled with unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: San Diego – Sun, Surf And Tacos
San Diego To Los Angeles | 120 miles | ≈2 hours
Start your journey in sunny San Diego, where beaches stretch for miles and surfers ride the waves. Travelers can spend their morning at La Jolla Cove spotting sea lions or walk through Balboa Park’s gardens and museums. If history buffs want to explore, tour the USS Midway Museum near the waterfront. For lunch, grab fish tacos from Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, which is a local favorite. Overnight, stay at Hotel Indigo Gaslamp Quarter for rooftop views and easy access to nightlife. San Diego sets a perfect tone for your West Coast road trip, mixing laid-back vibes with endless energy, so it is the perfect place to start a West Coast road trip.
Day 2: Los Angeles – Culture, Coast And City Lights
Los Angeles To Santa Barbara To Big Sur | 300 miles | ≈6–7 hours
Then, travelers should drive two hours north to Los Angeles, which is where culture and creativity collide. Stroll Venice Beach or hike up to the Griffith Observatory for sweeping city views. For the classic tourist experience, Hollywood Boulevard delivers classic movie magic, while Santa Monica Pier offers seaside fun. For lunch, hit In-N-Out Burger for a California classic meal. At night, book into The Line LA hotel in Koreatown, where modern design meets urban cool. Los Angeles is sprawling, but every corner has something different to offer, making it an essential stop on your West Coast road trip itinerary.
Day 3: Central Coast – Santa Barbara To Big Sur
Big Sur To San Francisco | 150 miles | ≈3–4 hours
After the exciting sites of Los Angeles, travelers will be heading north. This is where the coastline shifts into rugged cliffs and wine country charm. Pause in Santa Barbara for Spanish-style architecture and ocean views. Grab a bite at Brophy Bros. in the harbor, where fresh seafood is the star. Then you can continue up Highway 1 through Pismo Beach into the dramatic beauty of Big Sur. The twisting roads here hug cliffs above crashing waves. Overnight at Big Sur River Inn, you can relax by the river and really unwind surrounded by gorgeous views. This stretch captures the raw beauty of California and defines the Pacific Coast Highway experience.
Day 4: San Francisco – Bridges And Bay Views
San Francisco To Yosemite National Park | 170 miles | ≈4 hours
Next, cruise into San Francisco, the iconic city by the bay. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge for iconic photos or ride a cable car through hilly streets. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and grab clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Boudin Bakery. If time allows, visit Alcatraz Island for a history-packed tour of the notorious former prison. Then, for a stylish overnight stay, check into the Hotel Zephyr back at Fisherman’s Wharf, which has become a very popular accommodation. San Francisco balances old-world charm with modern vibrance, making it a must-see stop on your West Coast road trip adventure.
Day 5: Yosemite National Park – Granite Giants And Waterfalls
Yosemite To Redwood National Park (via Redding And 101) | 370 miles | ≈7–8 hours
Travelers can take a detour inland to Yosemite National Park, about four hours from San Francisco. There they can take in the sights and explore towering granite cliffs, like El Capitan and Half Dome. Waterfalls tumble in spring, fed by snowmelt and wildlife roaming freely. Hike short trails, like Bridalveil Fall, or simply soak in the panoramic scene at Tunnel View for a nature immersion experience. Dine at the historic Ahwahnee Dining Room, then stay overnight at Yosemite Valley Lodge, which is cozy and scenic. Yosemite adds wild grandeur to your West Coast road trip, proving the journey isn’t only about the coastline.
Day 6: Northern California – Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park To Oregon Coast (Cannon Beach area) | 300 miles | ≈6–7 hours
Back on the coast, travelers can follow Highway 101 into the land of giants. Redwood National and State Parks are home to trees that soar more than 300 feet high. Walk the Lady Bird Johnson Grove trail for a peaceful stroll through these ancient forests, where there are plenty of opportunities for striking photos or just a peaceful connection to nature. For lunch, stop in Crescent City at Good Harvest Café for hearty comfort food. Overnight, book into the Redwood Riverwalk Hotel in Fortuna. This stretch feels timeless, with misty forests and quiet trails that make every traveler pause. Redwood country is unforgettable.
Day 7: Oregon Coast – Coves And Coastal Towns
Cannon Beach To Seattle | 180 miles | ≈3.5 hours
Travelers can then cross into Oregon, where rugged cliffs and windswept beaches dominate the landscape. Visit Cannon Beach, famous for Haystack Rock rising from the surf. Stop for a meal at Pelican Brewing Company in Pacific City, where ocean views pair with craft beer. Continue north along Highway 101 through charming seaside towns. Visitors can stay overnight in Astoria at the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, which sits on the river and offers incredible views of passing ships. Oregon’s coast is wild, beautiful and perfect for slowing down. This day highlights the diverse character of the West Coast road trip.
Day 8: Seattle – The Emerald City
Travelers final stop for this comprehensive West Coast road trip is Seattle, Washington’s bustling urban hub. For an exciting start, visit Pike Place Market to see flying fish and taste local coffee. Ride to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier in the distance. For a memorable meal, try fresh oysters at Elliott’s Oyster House on the waterfront. Then travelers can rest at the Kimpton Palladian Hotel, known for chic style and a central location. Ending the West Coast road trip in Seattle combines big-city buzz with natural beauty at every turn.
Best Time to Travel
Spring and fall are the best times for a west coast road trip. Spring brings fields of wildflowers and active wildlife, while fall offers cooler days and fewer crowds. Summer is beautiful but busy, with traffic and booked-up hotels. Winter can be wet and stormy, especially in Oregon and Washington, but the dramatic surf is spectacular. Choosing the right season makes the drive even more rewarding.
Travelers who plan around low travel seasons also enjoy better deals on accommodations with more flexibility for spontaneous stops. The picturesque coastal fog that is well known by the West Coast is more common in early summer, while late fall often delivers clearer skies and glowing sunsets.
No matter the season, checking weather conditions and road closures before embarking on a West Coast road trip helps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey along the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a west coast road trip take?
Most travelers spend five to eight days driving from San Diego to Seattle. More time allows for deeper exploration of parks and cities.
How many miles is the drive from San Diego to Seattle?
The trip covers around 1,590 miles if you follow the coastal highways and make detours into Yosemite and Redwood National Park.
What’s the best season for a west coast road trip?
Spring and fall are ideal. Spring offers wildflowers and wildlife, while fall is cooler and less crowded. Winter is rainy, and summer can be crowded. Ultimately, the best season for a West Coast road trip depends on travelers themselves.
Do I need to book hotels in advance?
Yes, especially during the summer or near national parks. Coastal lodges and city hotels often sell out months ahead.
