The Open Road Travel

Best Places To Stop On A Los Angeles To San Francisco Road Trip

Scenic Route - Big Sur Village

Big Sur Village is a charming small community spanning a mile in the heart of the Big Sur Valley. Encircled by majestic redwood forests rich in wildlife, stunning beaches, and dramatic cliffs are within easy walking distance, making it one of the most picturesque towns in the United States. It also has the largest and finest assortment of dining, drinking, shopping, and educational opportunities you will encounter in any direction for over 70 miles.

This makes Big Sur Village an ideal stop on a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip for those wishing to appreciate the natural aspect of their travels, while still having ample amenities and comforts nearby.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Big Sur Village – Big Sur River Inn

Big Sur River Inn is a charming hotel, set along the banks of the Big Sur River, in the centre of Big Sur Village. Its wooden architecture and features like a brick fireplace make it an ideal embodiment of Big Sur Village itself. Each room is adorned with wooden accents and nature-inspired artwork, offers breathtaking views of the nearby forest and river, and boasts amenities including Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries, and high-quality white linens.

An outdoor swimming pool, bar, and restaurant offer ample opportunities for relaxation, while on-site shops, an ATM, and complimentary parking ensure maximum convenience throughout your stay. A beach and various bars, restaurants, shops, and hiking trails are all within a 10-minute walk.

Short Route – Fresno, California

Fresno is the 5th most populous city in California and sits at the geographical heart of the state. With a wealth of museums, theatres, and historical structures, along with a constantly changing array of musical and artistic events and performances, it is a delightful city offering numerous entertainment options.

When you consider its location, assortment of attractions, and the fact that it is roughly at the midpoint of our journey, it becomes the perfect destination to stop during a road trip like this.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Fresno, California – DoubleTree By Hilton Fresno Convention Centre

DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Centre offers all the quality and comfort you would expect from such a reputable brand. All rooms feature a stylish, modern décor, amenities including a flat-screen cable TV, desk, and toiletries, and access to free parking and Wi-Fi.



In the communal areas, you will find luxuries like a pool, hot tub, fitness and business centres, and multiple bars and restaurants. The property is also ideally situated, both for sightseeing and continuing your journey.

Top Attractions On A Los Angeles To San Francisco Road Trip

Angeles National Forest (Short Route)

Angeles National Forest is a picturesque 700,000-acre reserve in the San Gabriel Mountains just north of Los Angeles. Its impressive peaks, verdant woodlands, and deep canyons are a popular choice for those seeking to escape from the city and engage in activities like hiking, camping, mountain biking, swimming, and rock climbing, particularly on Mount Baldy, the tallest peak in Los Angeles County.

Those seeking relaxation or family-friendly activities can take scenic drives along the Angeles Crest Highway, which offers expansive views of Southern California. They will also find picnic spots, fishing lakes, and campgrounds nestled among pine trees and beauty spots, including Sturtevant and Eaton Falls. During the winter, snow sports are offered at resorts like Mount Waterman.

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (Scenic Route)

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) is the largest urban national park in the world, spanning nearly 157,000 acres on the northern periphery of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. Filled with mountains, geological formations, wildlife, and breathtaking views, visitors can travel from various locations to partake in hiking, camping, and climbing, or unwind in its stunning surroundings.

Castaic Lake State Recreation Area (Short Route)

Castaic Lake State Recreation Area is situated in the Sierra Pelona Mountains. Established in 1965, it was created for the local community of Castaic and focuses on Castaic Lake, a 320,000-acre reservoir formed by Castaic Creek following the construction of the Castaic Dam in 1973. The entire lake is renowned for its bass fishing and hiking trails, while the lower section features a scenic beach along with activities such as tubing.

The park offers a wonderful environment to enjoy the water, pleasant weather, fresh air, and breathtaking views. Nearby, you will also find a second lake, Pyramid Lake, and the historic Slide Mountain Fire Lookout Tower. These provide additional options if Castaic Lake is crowded or if you wish to incorporate a more cultural attraction into your visit.

Malibu, California (Scenic Route)

Malibu, California, is an upscale beach town endearingly referred to as "The Bu," and internationally recognised as a hub for celebrities and the wealthy.  It is rich in iconic seaside properties and establishments, along with one of the longest and most picturesque stretches of golden sand in the United States, known as the "21 miles of scenic beauty."

Malibu is an ideal location for anyone looking to spend a leisurely day by the sea and sand, away from the much more crowded beaches in the Los Angeles area. It is also a globally renowned spot among surfers, as strong currents and substantial waves surround several of its beaches. Surfrider Beach in Malibu was even the first beach in the world to be established as a World Surfing Reserve back in 2010.



For anyone seeking a more in-depth review of what to do in Malibu, we have an article dedicated to the topic, which can be read here.

Fort Tejon State Historic Park (Short Route)

Fort Tejon State Historic Park is a 5-acre park founded in 1940 to safeguard the historical Fort Tejon. Constructed in 1854, the fort operated for a decade and was used to combat cattle theft during the settlement of California, before its statehood. Having been transformed into a living museum, its restored, reconstructed, and preserved buildings house artefacts and displays illustrating the establishment and history of the fort.

These are further complemented by landmarks such as graves, historical markers, and trees that are 400 years old. Added to the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and recognised as a California Historical Landmark since 1954, it serves as an excellent venue to explore the early history of the state. The park also frequently features lively Civil War re-enactments.

Channel Islands National Park (Scenic Route)

Channel Islands National Park contains five of the eight Channel Islands located just off the coast of Southern California. Despite its proximity to the second-largest city in the United States, it is often overlooked and remains unknown to many travellers. Reached via daily ferries from the harbours of Oxnard and Ventura, visitors can embark on both one-day and overnight trips.

The group of islands boasts secluded landscapes, stunning ocean vistas, and unique attractions, including kelp forests that rise from 100 feet below the ocean surface. Its inhabitants include sea lions, whales, dolphins, seals, spiny lobsters, the island fox, and nearly 400 bird species. With activities like camping, trekking the Anacapa Island Loop, snorkelling or scuba diving in the kelp forest, and more, it is a truly unique experience.



People seeking a comprehensive analysis of Channel Islands National Park will find the article we published on it here.

Los Padres National Forest (Scenic Route)

Los Padres National Forest stretches along central California’s coastline, encompassing nearly two million acres of rugged mountains, oak forests, and stunning shoreline. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it provides opportunities for hiking, camping, horseback riding, and scenic drives through some of the state’s most spectacular landscapes, including parts of the renowned Big Sur coastline, where cliffs steeply drop into the Pacific Ocean.

Its inland regions feature redwoods, waterfalls, hills adorned with wildflowers, varied ecosystems, rich wildlife, and well-known paths like the Pine Ridge Trail and the Sespe Wilderness routes. Hot springs, hidden beaches, and expansive viewpoints provide numerous options for relaxation and exploration, whether you enjoy hiking through remote wilderness regions or enjoying a picnic by a mountain stream.

Bakersfield, California (Short Route)

Bakersfield is California’s ninth most populous and fifth largest city. A location celebrated for its art, energy, agriculture, and music sectors, it’s the birthplace of the Bakersfield Sound country subgenre, with strong connections to classical, doo-wop, heavy metal, jazz, and rock music. Live music venues throughout the city offer opportunities to witness these musical forms in real time.

Numerous theatres, including California’s oldest community theatre, Bakersfield Community Theatre, offer the chance to enjoy a range of artistic performances. Add a collection of buildings on the United States National Register of Historic Places, California Historical Landmarks, fairs, festivals, live events, and museums, and Bakersfield emerges as one of the most dynamic yet underappreciated destinations in the state.

San Simeon, California (Scenic Route)

San Simeon is a quaint village often visited by nature enthusiasts eager to glimpse the distinctive wildlife in the Piedras Blancas Rookery, a nesting area for northern elephant seals situated along its coast. Its main draw, though, is Hearst Castle, a 20th-century estate built by William Randolph Hearst using a blend of 19th and 20th-century revival architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean!

Perched in the hills above the village, the interior of this California and United States National Historic Landmark is adorned with remarkable furnishings, artistic works, and Hearst’s personal assortment of art and antiques. The grounds of Hearst Castle feature stunning elements, such as pergolas, swimming pools, and its most famous attribute, the notorious zebra herd.



Originally brought in for a zoo that was never completed, its zebras have roamed the estate for decades and multiplied in number. Listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places and as a California State Park, complete with a museum, visitors can explore its rich history and experience the breathtaking sights first-hand.

Big Sur, California (Scenic Route)

Big Sur is a segment of California’s coastline regarded by many as the most stunning part of “the lower 48”. With sweeping ocean views, legendary mountains, and a plethora of beaches, forests, hiking paths, and wildlife, it is brimming with attractions for nature enthusiasts to appreciate. This includes Big Sur State Park, which spans over 1,000 acres and provides campgrounds and a lodge, where guests can unwind after a long day of adventure.

Whether you opt for a picturesque drive or a more challenging hike, you will not be let down by the sights you come across. The area is so popular that it draws nearly as many visitors each year as nearby Yosemite National Park, which is famous worldwide for its natural beauty. If you fancy making a detour there, you’ll find our Yosemite National Park guide here.

Carmel-By-The-Sea, California (Scenic Route)

Carmel-By-The-Sea is a renowned town known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. It was developed following the establishment of one of the earliest Spanish missions in the United States, the Mission San Carlos Borromeo De Carmelo. Erected by settlers in 1770, it is one of the oldest, most traditional Roman Catholic missions in the U.S.

Designated a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mission has been impeccably maintained and is the last remaining one in California that retains its original bell and tower. It operates as both an active parish church and a museum housing exhibits that detail the history of the structure and its surrounding area.

Pinnacles National Park (Both Routes)

Pinnacles National Park is an attraction that is not on either route, but which can be easily reached from both and is more than worth the detour. As one of the most recent national parks in the United States, established in January 2013, its 26,686-acre expanse and 166,000 yearly visitors also categorise it as one of the smallest and least frequented national parks in the country.

Recognised for its distinctive volcanic terrain and a variety of ruggedly stunning geographic features, Pinnacles NP has caves, spires, pinnacles, and other rock structures. A highly popular location among cavers and rock climbers, it also attracts hikers eager to traverse its numerous trails, and nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers interested in its wildflowers, bats, bobcats, deer, foxes, and over 180 bird species, including the California condor.



You can find our comprehensive Pinnacles National Park guide here.

San Jose, California (Scenic Route)

San Jose is the third most populous city in California, behind San Diego and Los Angeles, and the 10th most populous in the U.S. It is widely recognised as the largest urban centre in a region, known as "Silicon Valley," which serves as the core of the U.S. technology sector and one of the primary technology hubs globally. This has contributed to its reputation as a city consistently at the forefront of innovation.

Rich in modern architecture and attractions, along with some of the finest art and dining venues in the country, San Jose serves as an excellent location to complement our natural, picturesque journey with a more sophisticated, contemporary urban experience.

Oakland, California (Short Route)

Oakland ranks as the eighth most populous city in California and is located right across the San Francisco Bay from San Francisco. This understated city boasts a wonderful, yet frequently overlooked variety of attractions, including clubs, galleries, museums, theatres, and art, culture, and music venues. Significantly more affordable than San Francisco, it’s an excellent location to enjoy yourself without overspending before you reach your final destination.

Final Thoughts On A Los Angeles To San Francisco Road Trip

That concludes our guide to planning the perfect Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip itinerary. You should now have all the information you need to make the journey yourself, including the best route and time to travel, the duration, and where to stay and what to see along the way.



We also have separate guides on where to stay and what to see in San Francisco, where to stay in Los Angeles before you begin, and even a guide to travelling from San Francisco to Seattle, for anyone who wants to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway.

All that’s left is to decide what to take with you, and then you can start booking and budgeting everything, so you can look forward to enjoying it all for yourself as soon as possible.