9 day itinerary for West Coast Of United States

Itinerary

Day 1: San Francisco

Start your trip by exploring the iconic sights of San Francisco. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, take a stroll through Fisherman's Wharf, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Pier 39. Don't miss a visit to Alcatraz Island for a fascinating tour of the former prison.

Day 2: San Francisco to Monterey

Hit the road towards Monterey, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful scenery and marine life. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive, and enjoy a relaxing evening by the waterfront.

Day 3: Monterey to Big Sur

Drive along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, a rugged stretch of coastline with breathtaking views. Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Beach for some unforgettable photo opportunities. Spend the night camping or glamping in the redwoods.

Day 4: Big Sur to Santa Barbara

Continue your journey south to Santa Barbara, a picturesque beach town with Spanish architecture and a laid-back vibe. Explore the historic downtown area, visit the Santa Barbara Zoo, and relax on the beautiful beaches.

Day 5: Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Head to the bustling city of Los Angeles, where you can visit iconic attractions like Hollywood Boulevard, the Griffith Observatory, and the Santa Monica Pier. Don't forget to indulge in some delicious tacos or food truck treats for dinner.

Day 6: Los Angeles

Spend the day exploring the diverse neighborhoods of LA. Visit Universal Studios for a fun-filled day of movie magic, stroll along Venice Beach for some people-watching, and catch a sunset at the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city.

Day 7: Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Drive to Santa Monica and spend the day relaxing on the beach, biking along the boardwalk, and exploring the famous Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy a seafood dinner with ocean views before heading back to your hotel.

Day 8: Santa Monica to Napa Valley

Make your way back north to Napa Valley, a world-renowned wine region known for its vineyards and wineries. Take a wine tasting tour, enjoy a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant, and unwind in the picturesque countryside.

Day 9: Napa Valley to San Francisco

On your final day, drive back to San Francisco, stopping at charming towns like Sonoma along the way. Once back in the city, take a leisurely walk through Golden Gate Park, visit the de Young Museum, and enjoy a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the bay.

This itinerary offers a perfect mix of city exploration, coastal drives, outdoor adventures, and relaxation, making it an ideal family-friendly road trip along the West Coast of the United States.