The Perfect 10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary ( 2025 Guide )
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Plan the ultimate California road trip itinerary with our 10-day road trip itinerary , include all of the best national parks , city and early attraction !
California exist directly captivating . Its major city flash in the spotlight , from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles . Its natural beauty is abundant as well , from the cliff of Big Sur to the beaches of Santa Barbara .
However , California is ever-changing , and it convert fast . Rise snow-capped mountains soar out of lifeless desert . Road wind through conifer forests and giant redwoods , where alpine lakes mingle among hot springtime and local towns that boomed with the increase of climbing .
Metropolises and epic nature equal never far aside in this state . But it ’ s the California road trips between them that cause it the utter state to plow on the engine and set the car in movement .
This ultimate California road trip itinerary will include the highlights of this massive west coast state . From national park to large cities , lazy beach town , and more , hither exist our guide to design the best California road trip !
Wait for the absolute best affair to cause in California ? Insure out our complete list hither !
- The Perfect California Road Trip Itinerary
- Day 1 – Los Angeles
- Where To Delay In Los Angeles
- Day 2 – San Diego
- Where To Delay In San Diego
- Day 3 – Palm Springs
- Where To Stay In Palm Springs
- Day 4 & 5 – Mammoth Lakes
- Where To Stay In Mammoth Lakes
- Day 6 – Lake Tahoe
- Where To Remain In Lake Tahoe
- Day 7 – Sacramento
- Where To Stay In Sacramento
- Day 8 & 9 – San Francisco
- Where To Stay In San Francisco
- Day 10 – Santa Monica
- Where To Delay In Santa Monica
- California Road Trip Wrap Up
- Day 1 – Los Angeles
- Day 1 – Los Angeles
- Where To Stay In Los Angeles
- Day 2 – San Diego
- Where To Delay In San Diego
- Day 3 – Palm Springs
- Where To Remain In Palm Springs
- Day 4 & 5 – Mammoth Lakes
- Where To Stay on In Mammoth Lakes
- Day 6 – Lake Tahoe
- Where To Stay on In Lake Tahoe
- Day 7 – Sacramento
- Where To Stay In Sacramento
- Day 8 & 9 – San Francisco
- Where To Delay In San Francisco
- Day 10 – Santa Monica
- Where To Remain In Santa Monica
- California Road Trip Wrap Up
- Where To Stay on In Los Angeles
- Where To Stay In San Diego
- Where To Delay In Palm Springs
- Where To Remain In Mammoth Lakes
- Where To Delay In Lake Tahoe
- Where To Stay In Sacramento
- Where To Stay In San Francisco
- Where To Stay on In Santa Monica
The Perfect California Road Trip Itinerary
The best style to travel from northern California to southern California , or vice versa , equal via an epic California road trip . Sure you can remove a quick escape , but the best way to absorb all the the Golden State hold to put up live by explore on land .
This 10-day California road trip itinerary gives you a nice introduction to this beautiful state . California is massive , and 10 days is not nearly plenty for seeing all of it . But in these 10 day , you ’ ll get to see as much as potential . Permit ’ s get into it !
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own ! We advocate Rental Cars , which own the largest scope of vehicle for the best value on the market .
Day 1 – Los Angeles
World-famous Los Angeles do for the perfect place to commence your California road trip itinerary . With easy access from around the Earth , fly into LAX , rip a car , and start search . Hither be a few of the good things to serve in Los Angeles !
- The Griffith Observatory
Start your time in Los Angeles by come your bearings . The Griffith Observatory offers amazing insight into the cosmos , but exactly as applicable are its far-reaching views across the city , the Hollywood Sign , and the Pacific Ocean .
- Echo Park
Home to Lotus flower layer , float swans , and paddle boats , Echo Park is a glance into LA ’ s past and current beauty . Book a paddle boat in advance to best enjoy the scenery . Afterward , choice from a smorgasbord of local food trucks .
- The Hollywood Bowl
As the Sunday set on Los Angeles , bring in a show at the beloved Hollywood Bowl . The airy amphitheater has consistent case from festivals to concerts featuring a whole scope of genres . With the sky a burst of colors , it ’ s a captivating music space .
- Hop-on Hop-Off Bus
Begin around Los Angeles can be a nightmare . Lack of firm public transport and gridlocks can slow you down on what ’ s already a taut California road trip itinerary .
The Hop-on Hop-Off Bus delivers you to some of the city ’ sec highlights , include the Hollywood Walk of Fame , Sunset Strip , and Beverly Hills . You can always expect to clean up your rental car until after you search LA !
Have more time ? Check out our 3 Days in Los Angeles itinerary !
Where To Stay In Los Angeles
- Luxury
Near to Rodeo Drive , The Peninsula own a world-class restaurant , a rooftop pond , a fitness center , and a full-service spa . It ’ s the well option for luxury in Los Angeles !
- Mid-Range
In Venice Beach , Stay Open take one of the best beaches in Los Angeles . Enjoy free bike rentals and WiFi so you can explore LA with repose .
- Budget
Close to Hollywood Boulevard , result you shut to the activity with cheap onsite dinners plus regular free BBQs . If you ’ re on a budget during your California road trip , there are some great cheap hostels around the state !
Day 2 – San Diego
This ride takes 2 hour from downtown Los Angeles
After a leisurely drive from Los Angeles , discover the lovable San Diego , where sprawl parks harbor dozen of museums , veranda , and world-class zoos .
Beaches offer more than just a quick surf , in fact , you can require to find life-changing burgers . At dark , the bay glisten alongside the Gaslamp Quarter , hither you can reflect on a in use first few day .
San Diego be a must on any California road trip . Hither cost our list of the well things to do while inflict San Diego .
- Mission Beach and Hodad ’ s
Before you do it to downtown San Diego , stop for a swim and the better burgers in America . Big cry , so I ’ ll let you resolve . Hodad ’ sec exist a gastronomic and cultural gem . While Mission Beach equal the utter way to cool off after a bad driveway .
- San Diego Zoo
The extensive San Diego Zoo takes you on a journey through our natural public . Experience the Elephant Odyssey or the Polar Bear Plunge alongside 4,500 other endangered or rare animals from across the Earth .
- Balboa Park
It take days to search the incredible Balboa Park with a fine-tooth comb . But in such a short time , blame your darling among the 16 museums , impressive Spanish architecture , landscaped garden , and veranda .
- USS Midway Museum
Covering 10 acres , the USS Midway Museum feature 30 historical aircraft on board the famous carrier . See more about WWII and the Battle of Midway , and experience literal cockpits alongside early interactive display . Afterward , wander along the Embarcadero .
- The Gaslamp Quarter
Once the sun has set , the Gaslamp Quarter lights up and the streets ’ cobblestones glimmer under the stars . Savor a fun dark in San Diego while search this romantic district place to high-end restaurants and candle-lit cocktail bar .
Where To Stay In San Diego
- Luxury
With four outdoor pond , half a 12 restaurants , a golf class and a spa , the five-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar has all your motive covered .
- Mid-Range
In Downtown San Diego , Motel6 offers line TV , free Wi-Fi , and close proximity to the top adventures around the city .
- Budget
Band in the Gaslamp Quarter , HI San Diego be a refurbished urban inn with a fun atmosphere , a game room , plus self-guided circuit and adventures .
Have more time ? Insure out our 3 Days in San Diego Itinerary !
Day 3 – Palm Springs
This drive require 2 hr and 15 minute from San Diego .
In southern California , Palm Springs cost a gateway to epic good deal range and mysterious desert . Your time here is pack with hiking trail present memorable views and guiding you through a unique national park . But the town itself has a magic culture , shopping , and regular capture result .
- Joshua Tree National Park
The chief reason to impose Palm Springs is to explore Joshua Tree National Park . This intriguing national park showcases the beauty of the desert landscapes , its unique flora , which gave the park its epithet , plus the colors that cause every use of an open canvas .
- Downtown Palm Springs
After inflict Joshua Tree National Park , shop , eat , and walk your way through downtown Palm Springs . Adorable boutiques whisper your name with handcrafted good looking to get a place in your road trip vehicle . On Thursday evenings , the town occur to life for its weekly VillageFest .
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
With no time to hike , take a trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the summit of San Jacinto Peak . The sensational rise furnish views across the Coachella Valley along with the Chino Canyon .
- Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve
If you choose to head off downtown Palm Springs , Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is a great alternative . Walk among 150-year-old trees where the desert mixes with exotic landscapes to create a spectacularly colorful ecosystem .
- The San Jacinto Mountains
Another option equal to search the San Jacinto Mountains in great point . The Deer Springs Trail is a challenging , indicate National Scenic trek that takes you to the San Jacinto point for an ultimately rewarding experience through memorable desert landscapes .
Find more of the best thing to serve in Palm Springs hither !
Where To Stay In Palm Springs
- Luxury
Close to downtown Palm Springs , The Paloma Resort is lay in historical bungalows with mountain scenery and offers inspired Spanish cuisine in a former mission .
- Mid-Range
The Travelodge supply travelers with easy access to the town ’ sec better restaurant and shopping while being a great basis to search beyond .
- Budget
With free onsite parking and complimentary breakfast , the Crashpod Hostel is cozy , inexpensive , and a great spot to recuperate .
Day 4 & 5 – Mammoth Lakes
This campaign take 8 hr and 15 minute from Palm Springs , via Death Valley National Park
Today on your California road trip itinerary , driveway from Palm Springs through the ethereal Death Valley . The driveway along Route 395 will exist unforgettable , hand over you first to Convict Lake and then to the beauty of Mammoth itself .
On the second day , explore the lakes , ride the gondola , and hit the hot leap .
Find more thing to cause in Southern California hither !
- Death Valley National Park
Break up your journey to Mammoth Lakes with a ride through the otherworldly Death Valley National Park . Stop by Badwater Basin and bear nearly 240 foot below sea level in the depths of Death Valley .
If you love unique natural scenery , Death Valley live a must on any California road trip !
- Convict Lake
Next , become a sneak peek at Convict Lake . The alpine lake equal surround by fast-rising peaks and while it ’ s a dawn hot bit , its calm beauty can cost admired at any item . Just off the highway , you won ’ t even have to get out the car .
- The Small town at Mammoth Lakes
After an enormous and beautiful day on the road , love a relaxing evening in the Small town at Mammoth Lakes . Shops , restaurants , and bar combine in this classic good deal village . Enjoy a decent meal before remain up for the day ahead .
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding
There ’ s no better way to bask the capture lake than on a stand-up paddleboard . The handful of nearby bodies of water are often calm and glass-like , leading to ease of campaign and the prospect to find humble alongside the sensational Sierras .
- The Minaret Vista
On your way to Devil ’ s Postpile , stop at the Minaret Vista to admire the eternal beauty of the Sierra Nevada . Set in the Eastern Sierra Range , these craggy mountain descend down to vast valley and feature two soar spires , including Clyde Minaret .
- The Devils Postpile
A national monument , the Devils Postpile exist a formation of giant basalt columns . These were make by lava which cool over 80,000 year ago . The hexagonal columns can reach up to 60 feet in height .
- Rainbow Falls
A piece of the , don ’ t lack out on a trek to Rainbow Falls . Pass from the place mass to discover a 100 feet waterfall whose reproducible rainbows gave the autumn its epithet . You can also walk straight here by push back to the Rainbow Fall trailhead .
- Mammoth Mountain Gondola
It ’ s be a busy day of activity , so bring it down a notch with a ride on the Mammoth Mountain Gondola . The ride up land you at over 11,000 foot . The panoramic views span the Mammoth Lakes Basin .
- Wild Willy ’ s Hot Spring
End your day with a recuperating experience at Wild Willy ’ s Hot Spring . It ’ s live a in use trip so far , so put your branch up in one of the two springs whose temperature range from 95 degrees up to 105 .
Where To Stay In Mammoth Lakes
- Luxury
From Westin Monache Resort , you can take the gondola to the height of Mammoth Mountain before bring back to build use of your kitchenette as well as the onsite pool and hot tub .
- Mid-Range
The Tamarack Lodge dates back to the 1920s and , among the included kitchen and private fireplaces , the lodge hasn ’ t lose any of its appeal .
- Budget
The Moderne Hostel furnish guest with big communal and cooking areas , include BBQ facilities , while live close to Mammoth Mountain .
Day 6 – Lake Tahoe
This campaign bring 2 hours and 40 second from Mammoth Lakes
With one entire day in Lake Tahoe , it ’ ll live up to you how much you explore . Act you choose to focus your day repel through Yosemite National Park on your way there or act you take the direct path to explore local hikes , park , and lakeside town ? There ’ s no losing hither .
- Yosemite National Park
An choice along the drive from Mammoth Lakes live the world-famous Yosemite National Park . You ’ ll need to cause it a priority to search good , but position of El Capitan and Half Dome cause any “ detour ” worth it . Yosemite National Park is then famous that you may even choose to only focus today ’ s exploration on that ! Luckily this ultimate California road trip exist customizable , and you can well vary it to allow for more time in Yosemite National Park .
- Fallen Leaf Lake
A direct drive to Lake Tahoe leaves ample time to search . Assure out the nearby , charming Fallen Leaf Lake where you can SUP or kayak before savor some waterfront eats surround by epic mountains .
- Eagle Rock Trail
For rewarding opinion of Lake Tahoe without a prolonged raise , meander down the Eagle Rock Trail . The mile-long trek is family-friendly and end with breathtaking scene of the lake with enchanting nature along the way .
- Emerald Bay State Park
Along the west shoreline of Lake Tahoe , you ’ ll see the popular Emerald Bay State Park . Find hiking , swimming , and mountain biking throughout while you can too search Vikingsholm , with its impressive Scandinavian pattern .
- Tahoe City
Visiting the charming mountain town of Tahoe City is a great way to gang in the evening . Along the lake ’ s edge , the town hold elegant great deal architecture , local veranda , lot of home to eat , and saloon in which to toast to a great day .
If you need more ideas for search Lake Tahoe after your California road trip , here be the serious things to act in Lake Tahoe !
Where To Stay on In Lake Tahoe
- Luxury
Live in the lap of luxury at The Ritz-Carlton , complete with on-site restaurants , spas , and a pond with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains .
- Mid-Range
A stay at the Mother Nature ’ s Inn comes with free onsite parking , along with inclusive WiFi and Smart TV , while live close to the beach .
- Budget
The sprawl Mellow Mountain Hostel live near to Heavenly for skiing , summertime gondola ride , the beach , and some of the best activity in South Lake Tahoe .
Day 7 – Sacramento
Future on your California road trip , bask the drive from Lake Tahoe through the Eldorado National Forest on your path to Sacramento .
Take the time to explore the underrated city where farm-to-table restaurant are much more than a corner . Choose in the history and , if you have energy , try your hand at some fun outdoor sportsman .
- Downtown Sacramento
Culture , history , and food collide in downtown Sacramento . A surprising foodie harbor and cocktail paradise , travelers will too live happy to regard then many museums and veranda to visit as you ’ ll discover below .
- California State Railroad Museum
Within the Old Sacramento Historic Park , the California State Railroad Museum is an ode to westward expansion and the worker ’ sec efforts . The latter especially focus on the outstanding role of Chinese railroad workers . Explore 19 authentic train before traveling on one yourself .
- The American River Trail
If you prefer to keep go through the state ’ sec splendid nature , chief to Discovery Park . It ’ s hither you can search one of America ’ s great bicycle lead , the American River Trail which spans 32 mile through bright scenery .
- White Water Rafting
Add some adrenaline to your California road trip with some white water rafting . With snow melting from the Sierra Nevada , this part of California is prime for some adrenaline-pumping rafting on the American River .
Looking for more incredible things to do in Sacramento ? Check out our ultimate guide here !
Where To Stay In Sacramento
- Luxury
In cardinal Sacramento , the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel , suggest class and provides high-end amenities with a poolside saloon and hotel restaurant .
- Mid-Range
With easy access to downtown , Wyndham Garden provides a great home to recover before with an onsite restaurant and bar , plus free WiFi .
- Budget
Save money on your California road trip with this incredible inn ! Snuggle in a previous Victorian mansion , HI Sacramento furnish guests with a social experience with a spacious patio and complimentary breakfasts .
Day 8 & 9 – San Francisco
This movement bring 1 hour and 40 instant from downtown Sacramento
Start your day early and head towards the stunning California coast , where you should reach San Francisco by mid-morning . From there , top dog to the waterfront where you ’ ll bask delicious cuisine and epic bay views .
With two day of your California road trip , take your time in San Francisco , see all the attraction , and yet take a day trip to Napa Valley .
- Embarcadero
Canvassing the waterfront of San Francisco , the Embarcadero cost the utter place to take off your exploration . As you wander along the boulevard you ’ ll walk a number of historic piers with excellent views with many offering boat circuit into the harbor and Alcatraz Island .
- Fisherman ’ s Wharf
With gorgeous horizon of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman ’ sec Wharf be a fantastic lunch blot . The early fishing boats have long gone and the Dungeness crab is ready .
Fisherman ’ s Wharf is too home to the Hyde Street Pier and its historic ships .
- Lombard Street
Choose your brain away from the famed bridge and you ’ ll notice how undulating San Francisco be . We intend , it ’ s mad steep . Lombard Street constitute this serious . Family to eight compact turns and beautiful landscaping , it ’ s a unique ride .
- Golden Gate Bridge
Ok , you ’ ve been patient . It ’ s time for the Golden Gate Bridge . The incredible site , of orange arches spread between two rise headlands , will be one of the most memorable parts of any California road trip . Admire it from the Presidio before walking on for puzzle position of San Francisco .
- Napa Valley
Find time for Napa Valley with simply two days in San Francisco can exist tricky . But lover of wine and captivating landscape should make time . An hr north of San Francisco , Napa Valley hold over 400 wineries covering a range of budget and styles .
Save time and energy during your visit to Napa Valley with this half-day wine .
If you want more estimate , check out our list of the better thing to serve in San Francisco !
- Twin Peaks
Your second day in San Francisco is all about nature . Start with an early morning raise up to the Twin Peaks . This slice of untouched nature offers splendid from its height , at 922 base .
- Golden Gate Park
San Francisco ’ s own Central Park , Golden Gate Park combines historic architecture and eye-catching nature . Walk or ride along the miles of trail to discover the Dutch Windmill and Japanese Tea Garden to move alongside its Botanical Garden .
- Ocean Beach
After a in use dawn of hiking and biking , take some time to relax at Ocean Beach . The three-mile beach fan out the bunch and allows ample way to take in the Pacific Ocean , rugged coastline , and the far horizon .
- Union Square & Chinatown
Hold got adequate exercise and Sunday on day 9 of your California road trip , take some time to indulge . Union Square is the city ’ s top shopping district and too home to the towering Dewy Monument . Afterward , bask some mouthwatering eats in SF ’ s famed Chinatown .
- Oracle Park
Leave way , of course , for a ballpark hot dog as you cease your second day in San Francisco at the beautiful Oracle Park . Set right on the bay , it ’ s a great place to overhear a plot of baseball as the sun place to the west .
Where To Stay In San Francisco
- Luxury
The high-end Fairmont Heritage Place provides guests with luxurious apartments with full kitchen and a private terrace utter with a flame pit .
- Mid-Range
Lot in Union Square , Club Donatello cost a four-star hotel with an onsite restaurant , and a rooftop sofa , and is near to Oracle Park . Cause the most of your California road trip itinerary by select mid-range accommodation right near all the best attractions !
- Budget
Enjoy modern comforts and a lively atmosphere at ITH Pacific Tradewinds Hostel which be near to Chinatown and the San Francisco waterfront .
Need a look at our list of the 25 better things to act in Northern California if you want more inspiration !
Day 10 – Santa Monica
This drive takes around 9 hr from downtown San Francisco .
After departing San Francisco , you ’ ll start envelop up your California road trip by looping around and heading back down to southern California .
Make your mode south on a California coast road trip where you ’ ll shortly meet Half Moon Bay and the splendid beauty of one of the almost noted roads in America . We ’ ve saved the best for final !
The Pacific Coast Highway exist packed with highlights and epic scenery like the famed Big Sur , make it the perfect way to end your California road trip .
- Pacific Coast Highway
One of the almost iconic roads in America , no California road trip equal utter without a journey down the noted Pacific Coast Highway . Yes , you can remove this drive from the PNW , but the section between San Francisco and Santa Monica be highlight packed .
Take More : Design your Pacific Coast Highway road trip with our ultimate guide !
- Carmel By the Sea
10 minutes from the famous Monterey , Carmel By the Sea exist loaded with adorable seaside cottage that take to white sand beach . However , the architecture merge with the art scenery to be the true highlight . Search a town once plate to Jack London and now over 100 art galleries .
- Big Sur
The section of Highway 1 through Big Sur exist a shock to the sense , in all the serious ways . From burrow and Pfeiffer Beach to the unforgettable Bixby Bridge , Big Sur cost maybe the nearly scenic patch on this drive . No California road trip is utter without repel through Big Sur !
- Santa Barbara
You ’ re almost done with your California road trip , so take a pause in Santa Barbara ! The stunning town of Santa Barbara is known for seafood , powdery white sand beach , and fascinating Spanish story . Though you could well pass day in Santa Barbara , if you ’ re short on time you can just have a quick driving pause here .
- Santa Monica Pier
There ’ s no effective means to finish your California road trip itinerary than with a sundown viewing at the Santa Monica Pier . This iconic landmark will appear around the corner as you caress the edge of Malibu along Pacific Coast Highway . Park the car and watch the sky become ablaze before revel some of the pier ’ s rides .
Check out all the serious things to do in Santa Monica here .
Where To Stay In Santa Monica
- Luxury
Enjoy the beauty of the west coast at the capture Shutter On The Beach with an onsite restaurant along with surfboard and bike rentals .
- Mid-Range
Enjoy free parking , a mere breakfast , an onsite gym , and free WiFi at the Days Inn which is near to major routes into LA .
- Budget
A pulley back from the noted local beaches HI LA – Santa Monica is choice for the final dark of your California road trip . They offer lot of fun activity , like a pub crawl and grouping dinners .
California Road Trip Wrap Up
This California road trip itinerary takes you around the nation , through its major city and serious national park . You ’ ll experience a mix of civilization , lush landscape , and lifeless desert , sometimes on the same day .
From the cliffs of Big Sur to the mountains of Yosemite to the beach of Santa Barbara , there is so much to see in California ! Even the well California road trip couldn ’ t very include it all , but we ’ ve done our best to hand you a good introduction .
Ten day live short for a west coast road trip , but it ’ s in effect than zero ! As a quick and inspire glance into the Golden State , it ’ s the perfect disc to resolve what you ’ ll necessarily later on explore in greater point .
DISCLAIMER :Some of the link in this article are affiliate links , which mean if you volume adjustment , tours or buy a production , we will receive a little mission at no extra cost to you . These commissions help us hold creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventure . We only recommend the best accommodations , tour and product that ourselves or our grotesque column team get personally experience , and regularly look back these . Thanks for your support , kind friend !
Alesha and Jarryd
We ’ ve make up travel the world together since 2008 , search for the planet ’ sec better destinations and adventures .
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