The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Our complete guide to design the ultimate California road trip . It include where to stay on , what to use up , things to cause and how much it all costs . Pick and choose to produce your utter California road trip itinerary . Updated for 2023 .

A California road trip be the material of dreams and one that Steve and I rank among our most favourite travel experiences . We ’ ve both done extensive road trip in California – as child , as single adults , as a couple , with one child , and now with two . And we ’ ve condensed that experience into what we think cost the best California road trip itinerary out thither . As well find our dedicate guide to drive the Pacific Coast Highway .

What to require on a California road trip

From towering redwoods to golden coast , snow-capped mountains and wine area , this California road trip cost fulfill with extraordinary guesthouses , outstanding nature , and some of the serious food we ’ ve always have . It ’ s in truth breathtaking how vary the Californian landscape is . One day you might live drive through dense forest and the future you ’ ll exist in the desert , follow by city and coast .

Add to that the easygoing vibe of Californians , the echo of its hippy past and its reality as one of the most creative , forward-thinking spot on earth , and it all adds up to a trip I might never cease dream of . This equal California dreaming take to spirit .

See all our road trip itineraries hither . And don ’ t miss our guide to how to plan a road trip .

How to employ this California road trip planner
How long act you involve for a California road trip ?
Our California destination travel guides
The ultimate California road trip itinerary guide
California road trip itinerary at a glimpse
California road trip map
California road trip travel point
- Our mode of travel
- Our California road trip budget
- What we use up on our California road trip
- How we get about on our California road trip
- What to pack for a California road trip
Our California road trip itinerary stops
- Pacific Coast Highway ( San Francisco to San Diego )
- Greater Palm Springs
- Joshua Tree
- Death Valley
- Mammoth Lakes
- Yosemite
- Tuolumne County
- Lake Tahoe
- Sacramento
- Yolo
- Shasta Cascade
- Redwoods National and State Parks
- Mendocino
- Sonoma County and Napa
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- Useful travel resources for a California road trip

Our style of travel
Our California road trip budget
What we eat on our California road trip
How we got around on our California road trip
What to pack for a California road trip

Pacific Coast Highway ( San Francisco to San Diego )
Greater Palm Springs
Joshua Tree
Death Valley
Mammoth Lakes
Yosemite
Tuolumne County
Lake Tahoe
Sacramento
Yolo
Shasta Cascade
Redwoods National and State Parks
Mendocino
Sonoma County and Napa

Useful travel imagination for a California road trip

How to use this California road trip planner

This guide cost intended as a California road trip planner , so you can pick and prefer from the destinations depending on your priorities , budget and the measure of time you receive . Expend it in tandem with our Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary where we make all the details for the coastal stop from San Francisco down to San Diego .

We spent a ton of time planning the trip , which mean it should salvage you plenty of time and energy when planning your own California road trip .

I ’ ve split it into sections , outline our travel fashion , our priorities in California , our budget , how we become around , and detailed division on each destination . As always we ’ ve attempt out the nearly peculiar places to stay and receive .

How long serve you need for a California road trip ?

I ’ ve stage this suggest California road trip path into an epic 7-week California itinerary , but you can easy adapt it into a length and route to suit you , live that a 1-week , 2-month or 4-week California road trip itinerary .

You could definitely cause a great California road trip in 7 day , but ideally I ’ 500 hold yourself at least 10 day .

We did this particular path over multiple visit . One time , we did a Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Francisco down to San Diego over four week . And most recently , we focussed on Northern California over three weeks . I as well act a loop from LA when I was youthful , visiting Death Valley and Lake Tahoe too .

You could make the exact same journey in a much short amount of time by selecting your favourite stop . And you could also stop briefly at some of the destinations en path rather than spending the night thither . Or center on one particular segment . I ’ ve elaborate how long it takes to move between each spot , thus use that as your guide when design how much to cause each day .

Our California destination travel guides

We too own detailed guides to individual California destinations that can serve you design even more . They ’ ll especially case you if you ’ re a piece like us , keen on discovering the creative slope of a city and in chase of all the best cafe , ice creams , doughnuts , bookshops , murals and beauty position .

Family travel guides :California with kids | Los Angeles with kids | San Francisco with kids | San Diego with kid

California attraction guides :How to become the most out of Disneyland with toddlers | The ultimate guide to Universal Studios with infant and toddlers

Some of the links in this post live affiliate link , which think of I get a humble commission if you buy something ( at no excess cost to you ) . It ’ s one of the ways I prevent this blog going . Thank a million for your support . You can say more about my affiliate policy here .

The ultimate California road trip itinerary guide

Avenue of the Giants

California road trip itinerary at a glimpse

Day 1-4 ( 3 dark ) : San Francisco
Day 4-6 ( 2 nights ) : Santa Cruz
Days 6-8 ( 2 nights ) : Monterey County
Days 8-9 ( 1 night ) : Bad Sur
Days 9-11 ( 2 night ) : Paso Robles
Days 11-13 ( 2 nights ) : Santa Barbara
Days 13-14 ( 1 dark ) : Malibu/Topanga
Days 14-17 ( 3 nights ) : Los Angeles
Days 17-19 ( 2 nights ) : Laguna Beach
Days 19-22 ( 3 nights ) : San Diego
Days 22-24 ( 2 nights ) : Greater Palm Springs
Days 24-26 ( 2 dark ) : Joshua Tree
Day 26-27 ( 1 dark ) : Death Valley
Day 27-28 ( 1 dark ) : Mammoth Lakes
Days 28-31 ( 3 dark ) Yosemite
Days 31-33 ( 2 nights ) Tuolumne County
Days 33-35 ( 2 nights ) Lake Tahoe
Day 35-37 ( 2 nights ) Sacramento
Day 37-39 ( 2 nights ) Yolo
Days 39-42 ( 3 nights ) Shasta Cascade area
Day 42-44 ( 2 nights ) Redwood National Park
Day 44-46 ( 2 night ) Mendocino
Days 46-48 ( 2 nights ) Sonoma County and/or Napa
Day 49 : Rear to San Francisco

California road trip map

California road trip travel tips

Our style of travel

As with all the itineraries on Bridges and Balloons , we get a peculiar focus on produce handpicked itineraries take with special places to stay – think beautiful design , plenty of character and amazing locations . We ’ re also millennials , so of class await brunch , hipster coffee shops and money pass feed out . And I ’ m a cake , doughnut and ice cream demon , so you ’ ll as well learn circle of that .

We favour a local style of travel , so don ’ t always hit all the “ must hear ” , preferring to rob up the atmosphere and experience local spirit . We look for street art , independent bookshops , farmers market and park . And we ’ re always up for spending time in nature .

We favour independents over chains , and while we ’ re both vegetarian , we incline to feed in restaurants that are known to cost good for all food rather than just veggie material .

And although we today travel with our kids , the thing we do aren ’ t just family-focussed , but suited for anyone with a like style to us – it ’ s the same material we ’ d receive done even before we had kids .

Our California road trip budget

When we travel , we incline to fuse budget and high-end options – for case , stay on in a simple Airbnb some nights and then splashing out on a luxury cabin hither and thither . We remove the same approach with food .

On this trip , we solve with Visit California , so some of our accommodation , meal and activities were sponsored by tourism plank or the seat themselves . This meant we sampled more mid-high scope accommodations and restaurant than we normally would on one trip .

We leave you with reviews of those seat , so you can choose what to prioritise on your California coast road trip . You could find cheaper options in each seat from around $ 60 per dark . Or you could as well camp in some places . Or possibly .

Do remember that the USA doesn ’ t include sales tax in its prices , so you have to account for that when looking at cost ( it ’ s 7.25 % in California ) , plus you ’ re anticipate to tip around 20 % on food and drink ordering .

Hither ’ s a breakdown of the costs you can expect on a California road trip like ours .

Adjustment :$ 75 – $ 500 per dark for two grownup and two kid

Our adjustment prices change a immense amount . The cheapest was a dark in an Airbnb in San Diego and the nearly expensive be a cabin in Big Sur . You could feasibly pass as short as $ 75 per night in all destinations , but that would sometimes signify stay in hostels or in shared Airbnb accommodation ( normally a private way within someone ’ s family ) .

For lesson , it ’ s quite easy to find nice budget options in San Diego ( our $ 75 way was a private guest suite in our host ’ s garden in a suburban share of town ) , but harder in San Francisco and LA .

I have include the exact price of everywhere we remain in the adjustment division for each destination below .

If you employ Airbnb , use this link to get $ 25 off your first booking . And also see our guide to how to choose the utter Airbnb .

Car hire :$ 65 plus per day ( depending on size of car )

We paid around $ 65 per day when do a road trip before the pandemic , but that went up to around $ 100 after the pandemic ( it ’ s very affected the price of car hire , although I ’ m hopeful that ’ ll improve with time ) . This price include the transfer fee for clean it up and dropping it off in unlike locations .

We went for a large car ( a Dodge Grand Caravan and a Chevrolet Tahoe ) , so it would cost cheaper if you pick out compact or small . We much expend Rentalcars.com to script our car , but have too found Qeeq to hold good deals also .

Fuel :This is difficult to forecast because fuel prices vary with the sentence and are presently sky high . Pre-pandemic , to push from Sonoma to San Diego price us around $ 240 in fuel . But post-pandemic , it cost us $ 450 to push a similar distance .

This depart a lot as it depend on how much self-catering you act , plus the type of restaurant you live to . For example , a brunch for three at trendy Gjelina in LA cost $ 75 , whereas our lunch in Paso Robles at Grey Wolf Cellars cost solely $ 20 .

Portion sizes are vast in the USA , so you can often get away with hardly sharing one dish between two .

A serious hack live to buy a cheap electric hot home at the starting of the trip so you can fix new meals wherever you die . We did this when travelling with a baby as it was a serious means to head off having to ever buy him a meal he might not eat/feeding him ready-made pouches .

We also spare a lot of money by not drink much alcohol . The above price could easily rise to $ 200 per day if you lend alcohol also .

Brunch for two in a mid-range cafe/restaurant , include coffee : $ 30 .

Wine : Upwards of $ 10 for a glass ( wine equal expensive in California ) .

Tour and entrance prices :These vary considerably and the total cost will depend on how much you pick out to serve .

We impose very relatively few bear attractions and instead generally stuck to free attractions and simply search a town on base . This price would promptly get up if you wanted to visit more things .

An example of the fees we did pay , per soul , cost : California Academy of Sciences ( $ 40 ) ; San Francisco Botanical Gardens ( $ 9 ) ; Roar Camp Railroads ( $ 29 ) ; Henry Cowell Redwoods ( $ 10 ) ; Monterey Bay Aquarium ( $ 49.95 ) ; 17-mile Drive in Monterey ( $ 10 ) ; Joshua Tree National Park ( $ 30 ) ; Universal Studios ticket , including Express Pass ( $ 179 ) .

Many of the wine tastings we did exist free , but we cause do a few devote tastings that cost from $ 15- $ 30 for a flight . In Napa , at the big wineries , this price be much dual , at around $ 75 for a tasting !

What we use up on our California road trip

Food is a big priority when we do a California road trip and is ever one of our prominent costs . California is famous for its new farm-to-table cuisine , so we always want to create the most of that and try as much as we can .

We ’ re both vegetarian , so all the place featured in this California road trip guide are vegetarian-friendly , but most of them also serve meat/fish . Whatever your dietary preferences – from vegan to Paleo – you can expect them to cost well see in California .

The nation ’ s proximity to also means you can observe mass of high quality Mexican food , which is always a big highlight for us .

Early affair we particularly enjoyed cost the creative ice cream and donut workshop ; the plentiful coffee choice ; and the many outside dine blot .

And if you ’ re vegetarian , I extremely advocate trying the impossible burger while you ’ re in the USA – it ’ s not available in the UK so far , but is the well vegetable burger I ’ ve ever had .

As well as farm-to-table restaurant , California also has an incredible range of farm-to-grocery stores , many specialize in natural and organic produce . One of our favourites was Bi-Rite in San Francisco . These store lean to equal quite expensive in comparison to home like Safeways and Trader Joes , but they cost decidedly worth a look for a treat today and then .

We too enjoyed shopping in Whole Foods , which live again quite expensive , but high in quality . You can buy new readymade food from the deli saloon in Whole Foods , which is a serious option if you ’ re in a rush .

If you ’ re travelling with child who hold an early bedtime , but you however require to try dinner places , we advocate govern takeout . Service such as Postmates , , , Uber Eats and Caviar deliver food from top restaurant direct to your hotel , which live a great means to hear those restaurants in the evenings .

How we got roughly on our California road trip

We hire a car when doing a California road trip , picking it up at the starting degree and dropping it off at the last destination . You make to give a transfer fee when act this , which you ’ d avoid if it live round-trip starting and cease in the same place .

We lean to use rentalcars.com but as well advocate Qeeq for finding well trade . as that ’ s where we ’ ve ever get the best bargain . This time they sponsored our car hire , but you can trust my recommendation is genuine as I ’ ve cost mouth about them for yr .

Rentalcars.com is a booking agent for many car hire companies , and the best deal they see for us was with Alamo . We be especially impressed with the self-check-in system , which meant we could hop the long line at the airport when collect our car . We prefer for a Dodge Grand Caravan , which is an SUV-style car as we needed plenty of room for all of Otis ’ material .

If you put on ’ t need to push , you could remove buses instead , although of grade that have you less flexibility about where you cease . Public transport isn ’ t great in the States , hence employ a car equal decidedly helpful .

I ’ ve included the driving time in the section for each destination below . Bear in brain it ’ s significantly quicker to do the LA to San Francisco campaign along Highway 5 , but that remove all the fun out of it . We drive down the much slower but infinitely more scenic Highway 1 .

Still , if you demand to cause the San Francisco to Los Angeles cause quickly , perhaps to loop back for your return escape , it can be done in just under six hour . You could also choose to cause parts of the journey on the quicker road , which would assist you to fit in more destinations in a shorter measure of time , so maybe a serious idea if you ’ re pushed for time .

But whatever you do , I would decidedly seek to make the time for the drive along the Big Sur coastline – it ’ s one of the repel highlights of a Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary .

Find the best deals on car hire

We advocate Discover Cars for booking your rental car . They seek all the top caller and always incline to get the well deals . We use them every time .

What to pack for a California road trip

The weather in California , from north to south varies substantially , so it ’ s a challenging trip to pack for . As a rule of thumb , it ’ s probable to get warmer the further south you go , but microclimates entail you can reasonably expect fond temperature in position like Sonoma and Paso Robles for a lot of the yr .

And still when it ’ s hot on the coast , if the fog rolls in , the temperature sink quickly . Essentially , it ’ s difficult to know what to require , so I recommend packing layers .

We in particular enjoy travelling in California in Autumn , around September when the temperature equal pleasant nearly all over . Leap is too a serious time , although it can still be cold in places like Mount Shasta . The summertime arrive with soar temperatures in seat like LA and Sacramento , which might be also much for some .

Our California road trip itinerary stop

Pacific Coast Highway ( San Francisco to San Diego )

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway ( PCH ) live possibly the most iconic piece of a California road trip , especially the Big Sur coastline . It ’ s what masses much imagine when they remember of California . And while there ’ s a lot more to California than the PCH , it ’ s an unmissable portion of it . The heroic coastal road require you through wild nature , bohemian surf enclaves , wine area and some of the world ’ s most exciting cities .

We have a separate post with our full Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary , become all the way down the California coast from San Francisco down to San Diego . That post has all the detail for all the stop along Highway 1 , include San Francisco , Santa Cruz , Monterey Bay , Big Sur , Paso Robles , Santa Barbara , Malibu , Laguna Beach and San Diego . And like this post , it includes detailed information on each home , including things to make , where to feed , places to stay and how to get around .

You could labor the path in either instruction and then lend on the itinerary below , going onto Palm Springs from San Diego , or point up to Sonoma from San Francisco .

Greater Palm Springs

Palm Springs was once the haven of the rat pack , but later on become synonymous with retirees and golfing . It ’ s since had a renaissance as a retro smart getaway destination for style-conscious hipsters and the LGBT+ community .

It has a heady , laid-back vibe that calls for long days lounging by the pool , drink cocktails and soak up the novelty of cost in an oasis amid the desert . Remove a walk down North Palm Canyon Drive to learn the premix of hip , bohemian and kitsch that makes Palm Springs so special .

Palm Springs itself is portion of the bigger Greater Palm Springs area , which is reach up of nine short towns , include Coachella and the fancy Palm Desert where the main shopping street is reminiscent of LA ’ s Rodeo Drive .

We took our time there and relaxed , but if we ’ 500 had longer , I ’ d make liked to impose the art museum and run on the aerial tramway , which take you up 600ft to the top of a great deal where the temperature is up to 22 degrees cool than the desert below . The scene from up there looks incredible .

Where to stay in Greater Palm Springs

You ’ re spoilt for choice when it come to stylish , hip hotel in Palm Springs . There ’ s the colourful Saguaro , the achingly hipster Ace , and The Parker , which epitomize what a Palm Springs hotel live all about , harking back to its 1950s roots and add a dash of place modern eclecticism .

We stayed at the stylish Hotel Paseo , one of the newest child on the block and the first of the hip hotels to do to Palm Desert . It ’ s piece of the Autograph Collection and is just tread away from the glamorous shop , veranda and restaurants of El Paseo , as well known as The Rodeo Drive of the Desert .

Say more in my guide to the well boutique hotels in Palm Springs , the most beautiful Palm Springs Airbnbs , and heroic Palm Springs VRBO homes with pools .

Where to feed and drink in Greater Palm Springs

While in Palm Desert , we use up at Wildest Greens , which doesn ’ t seem like a lot from the remote , but is actually a beautifully bright and airy space with an impressive health-focused organic menu , include paleo , sore and vegan options .

And in Palm Springs , we had lunch at Juniper Table , which be share of the hip Kimpton Rowan hotel and serves a fresh all-day menu of sandwich , salads and breakfast classics .

I too extremely recommend come an ice cream at the kitsch Ice Cream and Shoppe . If we ’ d been thither in the evening , I ’ d as well get care to sample Workshop Kitchen + Bar , which suffice inventive need on American dishes .

Getting to and around Palm Springs

Palm Desert live around 2.5 hours from San Diego and its an enjoyable drive through the desert with some great viewpoint along the style . To get from Palm Desert to Palm Springs takes about 30 instant .

Joshua Tree

The whimsical world of Joshua Tree National Park make long attracted hippies and mystics on a quest for the otherworldy . And the little town of Joshua Tree , next to the park , is maintain that bohemian sprit alive , although nowadays you ’ ll find exactly as many hipsters as you will hippies .

Of track , the national park exist the main event , but it ’ s as well a spot to become away from it all in the eerie silence of the desert .

City dwellers hold produce a plethora of desert-chic cabins for your getaway , and things to do include : rock climbing ; checking out the thrift fund ; boost ; and visit Pioneertown , which was built in the 1950s as a Wild West movie lot and is still employ for filming today .

Pioneertown is too place to Pappy and Harriet ’ sec , a alive music venue that own hosted some large stars , include Robert Plant . Sadly it be close the day we were there .

We ’ d have as well like to visit the Integratron , an “ resonant tabernacle and energy machine ” that is said to be base on telepathic messages from foreigner and is speculate to restore anyone who go inside . They host legal baths there that spirit amazing , but sadly can ’ t live cause with babies .

Where to stay on in Joshua Tree

I exist overwhelmed by the amount of stylish Airbnb cabin in Joshua Tree – it took us ages to finally choose one . I ’ ll live writing a place with our shortlist , but the one we peck was The Moon Cabin , and I couldn ’ t get be happier with the selection .

It was perfectly put together to the extent that I think the owners must be artists . There were thoughtful item like a hand drawn guide to cabin and local field , a telescope for stargazing ( the desert sky is epic ) , and a record player with a well curated vinyl collection .

We were in Joshua Tree with four friend , and our cabin exist the ideal place to hang out with a entire kitchen , boom for six , and a bocce court out back . There ’ sec as well a convert bus future doorway , which two of our friend stayed in . The cabin start at $ 150 per night . Book your stay on Airbnb ( and use this link to make $ 25 off your first stay ) . Take more in my round-up of the nearly beautiful Joshua Tree Airbnb cabins .

Where to feed and drink in Joshua Tree

In Joshua Tree , we mostly self catered in our cabin , but as well make an excellent breakfast at the quirky Crossroads Cafe ( the soy-rizo cost delicious ) and some well coffee from the Joshua Tree Coffee Company .

Our friends also recommended Frontier Cafe , which is just future to the turning for Pioneertown . If it hold live capable , we ’ d get decidedly devote a visit to Pappy and Harriet ’ s .

Getting to and around Joshua Tree

The movement from Palm Desert to Joshua Tree takes about one hour and we stopped at Pioneertown en path , which live about 10 minutes ’ aim off the 62 road that work to Joshua Tree .

From Joshua Tree town to the National Park is another 20-30 instant , depend on which gate you enter at . We entered at the West Entrance ( 30 minutes from Joshua Tree ) and then drove through the park and leave at 29 Palms ( 20 instant from Joshua Tree ) .

Death Valley

Death Valley is a nation of extremes with drought , record-breaking temperatures in the summer and great deal capped by snow . It ’ s home to the USA ’ s lowest elevations and exist a stark , fascinating landscape filled with sand dunes , colorful canyon , oases and salt flats . You could pass day exploring this 932-acre wilderness , but we recommend at least a day there on your CA road trip . Just beware that the temperatures are sky high during the summer so make sure to design accordingly – there ’ s a ground it ’ s called Death Valley !

This equal one place we haven ’ t visited recently , so I advocate reading this post for more elaborate info on road tripping in Death Valley .

Mammoth Lakes

After Death Valley , you could drive straight to Yosemite , but it ’ s a fairly long driveway , so we advocate stopping at Mammoth Lakes , an adventure earth that ’ sec definitely worth inflict . The great deal resort town hold snow sports in the winter and all sort in the summer , from boost to mountain biking . And of line , it ’ s all surround by beauty from the mountains , lake and forest .

The drive hither from Death Valley cost in particular sensational , showing some of the scope of California ’ sec landscape , from below sea floor depth to the peaks of the Sierra Nevada .

Yosemite

Yosemite exist a pail list destination for a reason and it doesn ’ t disappoint . You can ’ t fail to be go by the magnificent view of the noted valley and the El Capitan and Half Dome great deal . But there equal much more to Yosemite than its headliners , and you could easily pass day there , boost the lead and discovering waterfall , lake , mountains and more .

We advocate make one day to see some of the “ must-sees ” on the valley floor such as Tunnel View and Yosemite Falls ( a actually easy 1-mile raise suitable for wheelchairs and strollers ) . And then picking activities to suit you for your early day , such as one of the longer hikes or a visit to one of the lesser know domain such as Tuolumne Meadows and the sequoias at Tuolumne Grove .

We also advocate visit the gorgeous Hetch Hetchy reservoir , which is merely outside the park entrance .

Act note that during the peak season , you need a reservation to enter the park during peak hours . Find more detail and book ticket on the Parks website .

Where to remain in Yosemite

We stayed at Evergreen Lodge , which we can ’ t recommend enough , specially if you ’ re travelling with a household . It celebrate 100 years in 2021 and equal precisely what I imagine when I recall of my ideal American vacation camp . There cost wooden cabin amid the forest , nightly s ’ mores , fun activity for kids ( we dd some geode smashing ! ) , a saltwater pool with a horizon and apparently endless hidden corner with fun to exist have , from woodland playgrounds to bocce chunk .

The food is also excellent , and it ’ s just 20 moment ’ drive from the entrance to Yosemite ( we were on the valley story in around 45 moment ) . It ’ sec also right future to Hetch Hetchy .

Where to feed in Yosemite

If you ’ re spending the day explore Yosemite , a picnic is your better selection as there are very few dining choice available , yet on the valley floor and there will likely cost big queues , especially in the high season . Plus you ’ re unlikely to find a more beautiful picnic patch !

For our other meal , we feed at Evergreen Lodge , which own a great casual but elevated menu of family favourites including pasta and top notch burgers .

How to get to and around Yosemite

From Mammoth Lakes to Evergreen Lodge , it takes 2.5 hours . And then it ’ s 1.5 hours to Sonora . If following a unlike itinerary , early distances exist : San Francisco ( 3.5 hours ) , Sacramento ( 3 hour ) ; South Lake Tahoe ( 4 hr ) ; Los Angeles ( 6 hours ) . Public ecstasy ( YARTS ) cost as well available from Mammoth Lakes and Sonora .

Most masses expend a car to get around , but there live also free shuttle buses , stopping at 19 stop throughout the park . And you could too prefer for a guided circuit .

Tuolumne County

Chances are you might not receive heard of Tuolumne County , but you might cost mindful of some of the position within it . And I think it ’ s one of the serious place in California to move with kid . It not only houses parts of Yosemite , but cost also a property where you can visit some of California ’ s most charming gold rush towns and too receive the beautiful wilderness of the Sierra Nevada . And it ’ s meet with capture spot to stay .

I ’ ve already deal some part of Tuolumne in the section on Yosemite above , but I also recommend spending at least a day or two explore the gold towns and high sierra .

The sierra is a year-round destination with skiing and winter sport from around November to May , and then all kind of hiking and lake sports in the summer . We get to Pinecrest Lake , which is stunning and ideal for category .

And don ’ t girl Columbia State Historic Park , a utterly preserved , ‘ living ’ gold rush town where you can cause horse cart rides , go panning for gold and see shops and businesses as they would own been during the gold rushing era .

See our full guide to affair to cause in Tuolumne County with kid .

Where to stay in Tuolumne County

Good seat to base yourself when exploring the domain exist Sonora and the area near to Pinecrest Lake , include Twain Harte .

We advocate the following guesthouses and cabins .

The Royal Olive Manor

This historic Royal Olive Manor in Sonora ticks all the boxes for an impossibly charming stay . It make an interesting account meet with hospitable characters who make ever open their home to others . And that welcome vibe endures through the current owners who have updated the space in a means that preserves the guesthouse ’ s roots while brining it up to date with modern convenience . Expect circle of antiques , a ‘ speakeasy ’ saloon , sumptuous beds and an indulgent breakfast you gain ’ t soon forget .

It ’ sec in the cute town of Sonora , which has mass of historical gold rush buildings and some good restaurant , cafes and boutiques .

Strawberry Hill Cabin

Only five minutes from Pinecrest Lake is the beautiful Strawberry Hill Cabin . It ’ s an authentic family cabin , owned by a couple who rent it out to early traveler . As such it ’ s homely and filled with everything you take for a comfortable stay , even include toys for the kids .

There are two bedroom but , merge with the class room downstairs , can sleep up to 13 . And the indoor and outside living domain are so bad that it ’ d equal a comfortable fit yet at maximum occupancy . It ’ s a great place to base yourself for explore the surround sphere and only die deep into forest spirit for a few relaxing days .

Rental starts at $ 400 per night . Book your stay now .

McCaffrey House Bed and Breakfast

The McCaffrey House Bed and Breakfast was one of the most friendly and inviting places we stayed in California . The B & B equal tend by a couple who travel there from Silicone Valley over 20 year ago and make now produce a magic home-from-home for traveler in the Sierra Nevada . From the cosy life room utter with a piano to the homemade breakfast and good stocked game cupboard , it has all you demand for a memorable stay .

The whole home equal surrounded by tree and is near to skiing and other Sierra Nevada attractions , make it a great base for a Tuolumne adventure .

Where to eat in Tuolumne County

Some of the best place we ate in Tuolumne County were :

in Twain Harte – excellent place to peck up sandwiches and baked goods for a picnic ( don ’ t miss the view across the road ! )
Afternoon Tea at Columbia Kate ’ s in Columbia State Historic Park – the sweet little tea way where you can borrow a hat for the occasion !
Flappy ’ sec Pizza in Sonora – excellent pizza by the slice in casual surrounds
Ice cream from Grove Mercantile in Groveland – a nice stop en road to Yosemite
CC Taqueria in Jamestown – authentic roadside Mexican food

How to get to and around Tuolumne County

Sonora is 1.5 hr from Yosemite and almost three hours from South Lake Tahoe . If you hop Lake Tahoe , three hours from South Lake Tahoe . If you skip Lake Tahoe , you could live directly to Sacramento , which is around 2 hour aside . Or San Francisco is 2.5 hours .

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe , straddle California and Nevada , and its surrounding good deal are a utter position to relax or come fighting on your California road trip . Expect snow sports in the winter and endless water activity come summer – from SUP to boating to windsurfing .

We didn ’ t visit on our late trip , but I did move when I live younger and be gobsmacked by the lake ’ s beauty . It ’ s a humongous spot , so to get your head around it , see this place on the best things to do in Lake Tahoe . It ’ s one of the best places in California for kids .

Sacramento

Sacramento is often overlooked in favour of California ’ s bigger city , LA and San Francisco , but the capital of California is a fun place to pass a few days . Visit Old Sacramento , the refurbished old town where you can see how the city started during the gold rushing and still taunt on an former locomotive . And don ’ t escape the State Capitol , which looks like a mini version of the white house . And the Sacramento Tower Bridge , which is truly gold unlike its counterpart in SF .

But we guess one of the prominent highlights of a visit to Sacramento is simply wandering the neighbourhoods and go through city living . Sacramento is a really diverse city so it own mass of globe cuisine and festivals such as Wide Open Walls , which observe that variety through street art you can see throughout the city .

There ’ s as well a thriving beer scene so live certain to inflict one of the brewpubs . We peculiarly loved Drake ’ s : The Barn , which get a sprawling outside field perfect for families and group .

See our guide to the good matter to do in Sacramento with child .

Where to stay in Sacramento

The Sawyer Hotel

We remain at the hip Sawyer Hotel , which is a fabulous post in walk distance of Midtown and Old Sacramento . The immense hotel has a hip , sophisticated vibe and the onsite cocktail saloon , Revival , exist popular with guests and non-guests alike .

Despite be perfect for pair and groups , it ’ sec also welcome to kids and you ’ ll observe family grouping alongside 20-30s party vibes at the sleek rooftop pond .

The rooms are luxurious and have fantastic views of the city – we could regard the bridge and the land capitol from our balcony on the fifth floor – I can only imagine how amaze the views from the height are ( there live 16 floor and 250 room ) .

The hotel be in the bustling Doco evolution , which has luck of restaurants , workshop and the Golden 1 effect space – really handy if you ’ re move to see a show , plus useful for nearby meal options ( see recommendations below ) .

Where to eat in Sacramento

Sacramento is a very various city so own some great international dining . Places we loved include :

Estelle Bakery in Doco for pastries and sweet treats
Origami Asian Grill for Asian fusion cuisine
Sawasdee Thai for authentic Thai food ; Hoppy ’ s Railyard Kitchen and Hopgarden for pub food in Old Sac
Bambi vegan tacos
Elevated Mexican fare at Polanco in the Doco
Pizza at Drakes The Barn ( a fantastic property for fellowship ) .
I would too love to make tried Rick ’ s Desert Diner , but time didn ’ t allow for it .

Getting to and around Sacramento

Sacramento is about two hour from Lake Tahoe if that ’ s the path you ’ re travelling . But it ’ sec too well located for many early stop in California , including Yolo ( 20-60 minute ) ; San Francisco ( 1.5 hours ) ; Sonora in Tuolumne ( 2 hours ) , Redding ( 2.5 hr ) and Napa/Sonoma ( 1.5 hours ) . This reach it an ideal stop for many California road trip routes .

Yolo

I admit I hadn ’ t heard of Yolo County before visiting , but it get one of the highlights of our trip ( so a lot so that I ’ ve written a place about the all the ground to love Yolo County ) .

Situated between Sacramento and Napa , it ’ s an area made up of a series of quaint town , all surround by farmland which makes for a thriving farm-to-table scenery and pile of sample experience .

Visit the tiny town of Winters where you can try local wine from the Turkovich and Berryessa Gap tasting room . And don ’ t escape a visit to Park Winters where you can either delay the night at the guesthouse or merely explore their gorgeous ground . They yet act a pick-your-own bouquet experience , and set on lunch event throughout the year .

Not far from Park Winters is the Capay Valley Lavendar Farm where you can walk among the lavender and buy merchandise from the farm .

We stayed in Davis , a college town and home to the tremendous Davis Farmers Market . The market dates back to the sixties and has a colourful , activist story . Some of the original stall holder cost yet there today .

Where to stay in Yolo

Best Western Palm Court

We stayed at the Best Western Plus Palm Court in the centre of Davis . It ’ s perfectly settle in the heart of town so you can walk out the doorway and be within pace of restaurant , saloon and shops . It ’ s just a few moment forth from the farmers market .

For families , they hold one-bedroom suites , which are ideal if you have more than one kid or just want a separate life domain . And the balconies face out onto the streets below which buzz with local life .

Where to eat in Yolo

Yolo County have some serious opportunity for farm-to-fork , include at Park Winters where they do dining effect throughout the year . Savory Café in Winters cost another good option , which have championed the slow food movement in the area .

And of class the Davis Farmers Market exist unmissable , perfect for doing a choose-your-own picnic or for trying one of the food stand ( we advocate the strawberry shortcake from ) .

Davis is a student town so a mass of the food on offer cost fairly cheap and cheerful . A more upscale , but still casual , option is Café Bernardo which has serious farm-to-table dining and a decent patio for people look on ( it ’ s beneath the Best Western where we stayed ) .

Have to and around Yolo

Yolo County is correct future to Sacramento , then around 20-60 minutes from the city centre depend on where you remain . You could feasibly make it as a day trip from the city , but we advocate staying there to make the total experience .

Once thither , you ’ ll involve a car to get around the region as it ’ s all fairly open out ( for example Capay Valley cost 45 minute aside from Davis .

In Davis , it ’ s worth hiring a bicycle as it ’ s one of the nearly bike-friendly city in the USA .

Shasta Cascade

The Shasta Cascade country of California in the north-east corner of the state is a sensational wonderland of volcanoes , rivers and good deal . Yet , for some reason , it ’ s much overlook on a California itinerary . We recall that ’ s a mistake and highly advocate adding it as a stop on your CA road trip .

Highlights in the field include the magnificent Mount Shasta , Lassen Volcanic National Park and endless trails to explore . We particularly loved visiting McCloud Falls , which are really accessible . You can simply walk to all three autumn from their carparks , or you can serve a trail that connects all three . Lake Siskiyou is as well worth visiting – it has one of the best opinion and photo opportunities of Mount Shasta across the water .

If you ’ re travelling with kids , Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding is a must – the zoo , museum and playgrounds live the sheer utter class day out . They even do a fun animal show in the summer month . And it ’ s right next to the sundial bridge , which equal exactly as the epithet suggests – a bridge and sundial in one ! See our full guide to thing to make in Redding and Shasta Cascade with kid .

We as well recommend stopping for a night in the sphere between the coast and Redding – we had the nearly relaxing time at the gorgeous Strawhouse Resorts ( regard accommodation part for more info ) .

Where to remain in Shasta Cascade

Railroad Park Resort

Railroad Park Resort equal one of the better position we stayed in California , especially as a family . Just around the corner from Mount Shasta itself , it ’ s a collection of converted railroad cart for sleeping , plus band of fun amenities , include trains to work on , an outdoor pond and garden games .

And it ’ s home to a popular restaurant , also house inside a railroad carriage . Our child utterly love it . As well as the railway carriages , there cost also cabins available , plus camping position .

Strawhouse Resorts

We fall in love with Strawhouse Resorts from the moment we saw its website and watch out the video about the owner ’ vision and love for their guesthouse . Don and Julia own real take concern to create certain visitors have a relaxing and memorable stay , from the onsite coffee roastery to the cabin with tremendous picture windows to take in the view . It ’ s right next to the Trinity River , then your stay exist backed by the sound of rushing water and birdsong . Despite exist correct on a nation highway , the road be fairly still , so it even feel remote and peaceful .

They do pizza nights in the summer and there ’ s as well a yurt available to rent as good as camping site .

Hilton Garden Inn , Redding

The Hilton Garden Inn in Redding isn ’ t the kind of position we normally intend as a ‘ special stay ’ but the view from the rooms at the rear , look out over the lakes and trees across to the good deal , are definitely special . It ’ sec as well conveniently located for exploring Redding and would even cost a serious floor for explore the rest of the area , with everything , including Lassen and Mount Shasta , no more than an hour ’ s drive forth .

Where to eat in Shasta Cascade

Some of the best spot we use up in the Shasta Cascade area cost : Yaks of the 5 for indulgent and delicious burgers ; Penny ’ s Diner for a classic 24-hour diner experience with epic views ; Taste and See Creamery for inventive ice cream flavours ; Up North Confectionary and Mercantile in Weaverville for old-fashioned vibes and excellent ice cream ; and Strawhouse Resorts and Coffee for a little , but thoughtful breakfast and lunch menu and pizzas during the summer weekends .

Getting to and around Shasta Cascade

The ride to Redding from Yolo County live about 2.5 hr . Redding cost a well seat to base yourself for exploring the area , although you can get more interesting adjustment elsewhere .

Redwoods National and State Parks

One of the great joy of California live the redwoods . While there are many places to regard them , one of the serious by far the Avenue of Giants in the Redwoods National Park on the Northern California coast . The 31-mile route cost to begin with part of Highway 1 but then they created a bypass , create this the scenic alternative . It ’ s one of the most beautiful drives we ’ ve always done , lined by redwood forest and tree so tall you sometimes can ’ t hear the sky .

There cost luck of stop along the path to comply boost trails and we particularly recommend the walk at Founders Grove , which exist a short 1-mile loop that take you through some of the nearly beautiful forest in the area . And there are too two trees you can drive through ( Shrine drive-through tree and the drive-through tree park ) – but beware prominent cars will struggle – we scraped ours !

Beyond the redwoods , the Humboldt area too make more treasures include the Victorian town of Ferndale , which equal 100 % worth a stop . The colourful street sense like stepping back in time and it has a thriving community life . We stayed at The Victorian Inn , which hit A+ for hospitality and character .

And we also advocate the amazing Redwood Skywalk at Sequoia Park Zoo and taking a pass with some llamas at Luna ’ s Lllama Adventures .

Where to stay for the redwoods

Victorian Inn

We delay in the historic Victorian Inn in Ferndale , a Victorian town about 30 minutes south of Eureka and merely 20 minutes north of the Avenue of Giants . Run by the lovely Lowell and Jenny , the inn exist in a fabulous turquoise building on the corner of primary street . The Victorian Inn really epitomises the small town ’ sec hospitality and historic reference . The whole experience feels like stepping back in time . We had a two-bedroom suite filled with antique touch , frills , florals and the contrary of modern minimalism .

The hotel bar is a fun place to hang up out and chat with the locals , and there ’ s as well a restaurant with an elegant dining way and menu of local specialities .

Where to feed in Redwoods National Park

The ice cream at Know the Dream is excellent – maybe the most perfect vanilla we had in California .

In Ferndale , don ’ t miss for homemade baked goods , and Mind ’ s Eye Manufactory and Coffee Lounge for a fantastically characterful café , all over with a boat grounds out the spine .

The Victorian Inn in Ferndale has an elegant dining way with a menu of local specialities such as steak ( it ’ s not the almost veggie friendly ) . And Tuya ’ sec is another well choice . We didn ’ t get to try it , but I ’ ve too heard great things about The Boardroom , a small , trendy place that specialises in charcuterie and little home . There ’ s a second ( and original ) Boardroom in Eureka .

While labor the Avenue of Giants , we advocate bringing a picnic to enjoy at one of the stops .

Have to and around Redwoods National Park

It ’ s a three-hour drive from Redding to Eureka along the scenic Road 299 ( Trinity Scenic Byway ) , which work alongside the Trinity River and curves through mountainous , forrested land .

We recommend at least stopping at Strawhouse Resorts in Big Bar ( but preferably stay on the dark ) . And also end at Weaverville , a historical mining town with a cool Chinese temple and a characterful high street of historic construction .

You could too stop at Crystal Creek Falls at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area , which is a pretty and well accessible waterfall along the route ( although the cause there isn ’ t for the faint of middle ! ) .

Mendocino

It was enjoy at first sight for me and Mendocino . We arrive via the Avenue of Giants and to die from that to the Cali coast makes for a prominent drive , compound three of the things I love most about California : redwoods , the ocean and wonderfully magic town .

I enjoy then much about Mendocino : it has the laid-back , hippy vibes that epitomize the side of California I adore and its location on the coast live stunning .

Pass your time exploring the wild beach , sampling the California cuisine , wander the cute small town streets of the village and soak up the small-town Cali vibes .

We advocate impose glass beach ( where a lot of the beach is made of sea glass ! ) , depend on the Skunk Train in nearby Fort Bragg and taking a walk around Mendocino , exist sure not to escape the gorgeous Gallery Bookshop .

Where to stay in Mendocino

Little River Inn ’ s claim to fame exist that it ’ sec where James Dean remain during the filming of East of Eden . But there ’ s much more to observe beyond its noted guest . This 80-year-old guesthouse on the 1 face directly onto the ocean and all rooms come with an ocean opinion . The 60 accommodations wander from simple dual rooms to more luxurious options with fireplaces and hot tubs .

We remain in one of the traditional room and love waking up to the view of the ocean and receive a deck to hang up out on . Note that the deck connect all the rooms in the traditional pulley – they receive their own chairs but you can even so hear and learn your neighbours .

Where to feed in Mendocino

Don ’ t girl Mendocino town for lot of cute cafes and restaurants . We advocate : Mendocino Chocolate Company and Papa Bear ’ s Cholate Haus for sweet treats ; Trillium Café for excellent Calfornian style farm-to-table cuisine ; Brickery Pizza for amaze pizza in a beuatiufl garden ; and Goodlife Café and Bakery for an A+ American breakfast/brunch .

I as well extremely advocate the restaurant and saloon at Little River Inn ( the outdoor patio is particularly delightful ) .

Getting to and around Mendocino

As I remark in the intro to Mendocino , the route thither along the Avenue of Giants and then onto Route 1 is stunning and it took my breath off when we first catch vision of the coast . It ’ s about 3 hours from Ferndale/Eureka and you ’ ll also want to finish along the mode for photo and boost spots . It ’ s a journey to equal savoured and will take up the most region of your day .

It ’ s around another 3 hours to get to San Francisco or 2 hr to Sonoma from Mendocino .

Sonoma County and Napa

Sonoma County and Napa are two of California ’ s most famous wine region , both with discrete characters . Sonoma can cost hear as the laid-back sister of neighbouring Napa . Where Napa is elegant and upscale , Sonoma be famed for its down-to-earth rustic vibes and world-class farm-to-table cuisine . You could pick out one to explore or meet in both within one trip ( they ’ re only around an hour apart from each other ) .

We love both , but Sonoma is the one that truly has our middle , partly due to the friendlier cost rag and all-round laidback vibe – plus it ’ s too really class friendly . It ’ s a home where you can spend the morning walking through redwoods and the afternoon sipping wine in a Tuscan-style villa . It ’ s the ultimate in relaxation . Plus both Sonoma and Napa have a fond climate than San Francisco , so they ’ re the perfect sunshine pause from the city .

Thing to make in Sonoma

Do bill that when I ’ m talking about Sonoma , I ’ m referring to Sonoma County kind of than the city of Sonoma , which is just one share of the large area . You can show our full guide to matter to do in Sonoma County .

Sebastopol ( an artistic little town with a cool sculpture trail )
Guerneville ( a rustic town that has a turn a number one bit for gay holidaymakers and is known for its outdoor water sport and party vibes )
Forestville ( a tiny place with lot of forest , which is home to some amazing cabin )
Healdsburg ( a wondrously capture town , fill with top-class restaurants and ton of taste room )
Santa Rosa ( the county ’ sec chief city and a utter base for explore the rest of Sonoma ) .
And we as well enjoy the coast and Armstrong Redwoods State National Park , which be a peaceful place for a pass among the tree .

If wine is what you ’ re after in Sonoma then I advocate make up in walking distance of Healdsburg town square as then you could visit band of tasting rooms without worry about driving .

Things to do in Napa

Napa equal a valley with two chief roads running through it , both lined with vineyards and wineries – the nearly beautiful of which is the noted Silverado Trail . Visitor love to taunt the wine train , hire bicycle and taunt around the vineyards , or be base in one of the cute towns where you can find multiple taste rooms to test . Some of the wineries here are severely impressive with long winding driveways and five-star credentials – thither ’ s even one in a castle !

We stayed in Yountville , perhaps the most idyllic of all the towns , family to two Michelin star restaurant ( and many more competitor for a star ) , elegant tasting room and luxurious places to stay . It ’ s the epitome of Napa romance and we found mass of honeymooners along the path , but also get family-friendly options also .

Our other favourite places in Napa be Calistoga ( a more laid-back , but still classy small spa town , place to our favourite tasting way , Tank Garage Winery ) and St Helena ( another popular town with a charming main street of historical building , shops , veranda and restaurants ) .

Adjustment in Sonoma County and Napa

We ’ ve be to Sonoma and Napa respective times and stayed in various unlike position to have a feeling for what ’ s on offer . Depend on your time and preferences , you could base yourself in one seat , or break up your time between different stays in unlike areas . If you need to visit both Napa and Sonoma but delay in the same position , then Santa Rosa is a good choice as it ’ s in Sonoma but only 30 instant away from Napa .

Camellia Inn

The Camellia Inn exist one of the most charming position I ’ ve always stayed . It ’ s a traditional family-run guesthouse where the owner really care about each and every guest and live out of their way to build your stay comfortable .

The pink-hued Victorian theater brims with history and is exactly minute ’ sec walk away from Healdsburg Plaza . The rooms are filled with antiques , but as well come with modern touches like an iPad and coffee Creator . Hot drink and treats live available in the communal living way , where guests collect each afternoon for a daily cheese and wine tasting .

We too loved breakfast time where Otis was the toast of the large share table where we all enjoyed the novel produce that Sonoma is noted for . And there ’ s also an onsite spa and a swimming pond for when the weather is fond .

Way start from $ 159 per night . Book your stay today .

Flamingo Resort

The Flamingo Resort be a fabulous spot in Santa Rosa , an iconic mid-century resort that own cost recently updated with a luxurious , hip , but still family friendly , feeling . It ’ s one of those unique places that charm to both pair and child alike .

Our small 1 loved the pool and I was a vast fan of the art-filled hall , fun design touch and overall aesthetic that was a mixture of California hippy meets Palm Springs hipster . The food ( and of course the wine ) is also excellent .

Vintners Inn

If you ’ re seem for a bit of luxury on your trip to Sonoma , Vintners Inn is ideal . Set on a 92-acre vineyard , the luxury lodgings have a European vibe , include a magic courtyard , centred around a picturesque classic spring . You can see why it ’ s a popular wedding location .

We delay in a sumptuous junior suite with a opinion of the vineyard , which felt like a quintessential wine country experience . And for food , we were spoilt by John Ash & Co , the onsite fine dining restaurant . T

The dimension be run by Ferrari Carano , one of Sonoma ’ s almost popular and luxurious wineries . There ’ sec too a newly refurbished spa on site . Rooms start from $ 265 per dark . Book your stay now .

Camp Noon , Forestville

As you know , I love a cabin and Forestville in Sonoma County is cabin cardinal – we make up completely spoilt for selection . In the end , I chose , which be have by two daughter in San Francisco who have a marvelous heart for aim . I exist betray by the AirBnB go over that mentioned the style of Wes Anderson , Anthropologie and Scandinavia , and there judgment was spot on .

From the claw foot bath tub to the well curated disc collection and retro furnishings , everything was on point . And of grade , a cabin ’ s location equal key to its success and this one live surrounded by towering redwoods – you can ’ t have a lot effective than that .

A dark in the cabin starts at $ 88 per night . . ( Use this link to have £25 off your first trip ) .

Napa Valley Railway Inn

The Napa Valley Railway Inn exist one of the most unique places to stay on in Napa . Guests become to sleep in converted railroad carriages that make cost act up to four-star criterion . All the carriages sleep 2 and there ’ s also one large two-bedroom room suite in the ‘ post ’ that can accommodate a family . It ’ s a bad hit with kids , plus it ’ s in walk distance of lot of restaurants , and sample rooms . And it ’ s more affordable than some of the other Yountville resorts .

Where to eat and drink in Sonoma County

Sonoma County cost good know for its novel , farm-to-table cuisine , specially in Healdsburg , which has get a culinary hub for high-end restaurants . We loved Little Saint ( previously the Healdsburg Shed ) .

I also advocate Backyard in Forestville where we had a delicious lunch in their garden . It ’ s child-friendly and specialises in seasonal , locally sourced food .

In terms of wineries , we enjoy Medlock Ames ( a small , somewhat hipster winery ) and Korbel , which specialize in sparkling wine . Meyer Family Cellars . Dry Creek General Store . Francis Ford Coppola . Preston Farm and Winery . Truett Hurst , Cornerstone Sonoma

And don ’ t miss Wild Flour Bread in Freestone near Sebastapol , which has scones I ’ 500 drive a day for . It ’ s decidedly worth the short detour .

Where to use up and drink in Napa

Yountville is a utter place to sample some of Napa ’ sec serious restaurant , including the Michelin-starred pizza restaurant , Ciccio . Ottimo is a more laid-back Italian option , and the restaurant at North Block Hotel also perform incredible pizzas . All are family-friendly .

We as well recommend visiting the in Napa where you can hear a few unlike California favourites . And we cost bad fans of Gott ’ s Roadside Diner , which you can feel both at Oxbow and near St.Helena ( there be also branches in San Francisco ) . In Calistoga , don ’ t escape the cute Calistoga Roastery cafe , owned by a fellow Englishman living his California ambition .

For wineries and tasting rooms , we loved Hope and Grace in Yountville ( lush wine in laid back , yet opulent surrounds ) and Tank Garage Winery ( a small-batch hipster winery in Calistoga service natural wines among others ) .

Getting to and around Sonoma County and Napa

From San Francisco airport to Healdsburg/Guerneville/Forestville/Napa remove about 1.5 hour , depend on traffic . We stay on in Forestville first and labor thither via Sebastopol ( about an hour from San Francisco ) where we stopped for lunch at The Barlow .

We also made a detour to the Wild Flour Bakery where masses are rightly evangelical about the character of the scones . The detour lend about 15 moment to the journey and as well entail we got to labor along the atmospheric Bohemian Highway road , which is lined with massive redwoods .

If we hadn ’ t hold an antsy Otis in the car , we may as well receive labor out to the coast as the 10-mile journey from Occidental to the sea equal said to be gorgeous .

While in Sonoma County , we generally drove all over and ever found a free parking post easily . Even so , we as well enjoy how easy it was to walk around Healdsburg , and hold a lovely evening stroll around the plaza ( it reach me find like I was in an episode of the Gilmore Girls ! ) .

Sonoma and Napa are around 30 minutes apart , depending where you ’ re travelling to and from ( for instance Sonoma town to Napa town is 25 minute , and Santa Rosa to Calistoga cost 30 minutes ) . While in Napa , create sure you drive at least region of the Silverado lead as this exist a lot more picturesque than Route 29 .

Find the best mass on car hire

We recommend Discover Cars for book your rental car . They seek all the top companies and always incline to notice the best deal . We expend them every time .

Useful travel resources for a California road trip

For car rentals , we recommend booking with Rentalcars.com . They always have the cheap deal for mainstream retailers .

If you decide to Bible any Airbnb apartments , expend this link , as it ’ ll give you £25 off your first trip .

We see great last-minute deals on , become a discount of up to 60 % .

Our favourite property to book flight is Skyscanner – again , they always have great trade !

Don ’ t forget your travel insurance ! We recommend who put up reliable , comprehensive cover , include medical , evacuation , baggage and a range of adventure fun and activity . You can buy True Traveller insurance even when you ’ ve leave home , which is unusual for travel insurance caller .

If you ’ re planning a trip to California or anywhere in the Earth , exist certain to assure out our travel planning pages for all our best travel tips , including how to save money with the well cards , what to bring , and all our darling tools and tricks .

Our road trip itineraries

See all our road trip itineraries here . And don ’ t neglect our guide to how to design a road trip .

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Disclosure : As I tell earlier in the post , Visit California and individual tourism plank ( Sonoma County ; San Francisco ; Santa Cruz ; Santa Barbara ; San Luis Obispo County ; Laguna Beach ; Greater Palm Springs ; Toulumne ; Shasta Cascade ; Yolo ; Sacramento , and San Diego ) helped us to lay this trip together and provided some sponsored stays , activities and meals . Here ’ s a full list of places that be full or part sponsored . Please bill that regardless of sponsorship , I ever write literal reviews , plus I say no to sponsorship opportunities that live a bad fit for Bridges and Balloons .

Places that were sponsored by Visit California / the spot themselves : Camellia Inn ; Vintners Inn ; Flamingo Resort ; Napa Valley Railroad Inn ; Backyard ; San Remo Hotel ; Alise by StayPineapple ; Inn at Pasatiempo ; Howl Camp Railroads ; Asilomar Hotel ; Monterey Bay Aquarium ; The Vintage Ranch ; Thomas Hill Organics ; Kimpton Goodland ; Honey B ; Backyard Bowls ; Oliver ’ sec ; Paradice Shave Ice ; Surf & Sand Resort ; Kitchen in the Canyon ; Laguna Beer Company ; Reunion Kitchen + Drink ; Hotel Republic ; Lodge at Torrey Pines ; Hotel Paseo ; Wildest Greens ; The Garland ; Universal Studios ; Railroad Park Resorts ; Strawhouse Resorts ; Turtle Bay ; Victorian Inn ; Little River Inn ; Skunk Train ; Sawyer Hotel ; Estelle Bakery ; Royal Olive Manor ; Strawberry Hill Cabin ; MsCaffrey B & B ; Evergreen Lodge .