🌴OUR CALIFORNIA ROAD DIARY; 14-DAY ROUTE AND EXPERIENCES

berfinozelsel
Jul 4
14 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Departing from Los Angeles – Vegas – San Francisco – Pacific Coast Highway return

14 Day California Travel Itinerary

It has been our dream for a long time to explore California, one of the most fascinating states in America. With its endless roads, palm trees along the coast, and cities that look like a different movie scene in every corner, this state is truly a whole different world.

In this article, I will share our 14-day journey from Türkiye to California, day by day. Our route was a little different from the classic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) plans. We did the route in reverse: we started from Los Angeles, stopped in Las Vegas, then reached San Francisco, and returned to LA using the PCH on the way back.

In this guide, I will not only include details about where we went, but also where we stayed, where we took a break, etc. Maybe one day when you decide to go to California, this article will be a useful source of inspiration 🌞

🛫 Where to Start: Los Angeles or San Francisco?

When planning your Western America route, the first question you will ask yourself is: “Which city should I start in?” We thought long and hard about the answer to this question and eventually decided to start in Los Angeles, go through Las Vegas (Nevada), San Francisco and finally finish in Los Angeles .

📆How Many Days Are Required for the CALIFORNIA Route? What Should the Route Be?

If you ask how many days should I allocate for Western America, my answer is clear: minimum 10 days. But these 10 days are not like a vacation, let me tell you in advance. It is a “road trip” where you hit the road early in the morning and have difficulty getting yourself to the hotel in the evening, with plenty of breaks but a lot of rushing.

The route below was the one where we got almost maximum efficiency during this time.

Our Route Was Like This 👇

Day 1-2: Los Angeles

Day 3: Las Vegas Trip

Day 4: San Francisco Journey

Day 5-6: San Francisco

Day 7-10: Return via Pacific Coast Highway

Monterey / Big Sur / Carmel by the sea / Santa Barbara stops

Days 11-14: Return to Los Angeles and Farewells

Of course, this route can be shaped according to everyone's interests. Google Maps was our guide when planning this route. We had already determined how many kilometers we would travel on which day, where we would stop, and made all hotel reservations before we set off.

A quick note: If you want to include San Diego, you need to add at least 2 more days. Otherwise, you will either be very tired or have to rush through some places.

🛣️ 14 Day California Route Diary

We wanted this route to be an example of a route that we planned by targeting the points we particularly wanted to see, so that you can shape it according to your wishes. Each stop will give you a different experience: desert landscapes, coastal towns, big cities and vineyards… 🚗

🗓️ Day by Day Plan

🗓️ Day 1 – 2: Hello to Los Angeles

The first stop of our American journey: Los Angeles!

We were tired but excited when we stepped into LAX Airport after a long flight from Türkiye. Our first morning overseas was accompanied by huge palm trees and a vibrant sky 🌴☀️

We took a more relaxed and enjoyable pace on our first two days to both get over jetlag and explore the city. We had chosen our hotel in an easily accessible part of the city; this way we could easily reach both the beach and the city center by car.

🚗 What Did We Do?

Santa Monica Pier : One of the first places that comes to mind when you think of LA. We walked along the seaside and took our classic beach photos 📸
Venice Beach : We walked on the beach and reminisced about GTA. The graffiti, skateboarders and beach atmosphere were completely different here.
Melrose Avenue : We took lots of photo breaks and visited boutique shops on this street famous for its colorful walls.
Hollywood Sign & Walk of Fame : Cliché but a must. Even looking for the names of famous stars on the ground was fun!
Griffith Observatory : It was a perfect place to watch the city view. It was especially enjoyable to watch the sunset!

🗓️ Day 3: Road Trip from LA to Las Vegas🌵

We got in our car early in the morning and set off for Las Vegas. During this journey that lasted about 4-5 hours, we experienced the true American road trip spirit with desert landscapes, long straight roads and unusual gas stations we came across on the road.

When we arrived in Las Vegas, it was almost sunset and the city lights were already starting to come on. It was a scene that truly felt like “just like in the movies.” Skyscraper hotels, glowing signs, limousines… all of it was right there in front of us.

🎰 What Did We Do?

We walked along The Strip : watched the water show in front of the Bellagio, saw the Eiffel Tower in front of the Paris hotel, stopped by Caesars Palace and took a look inside.
Fremont Street : Known as Old Vegas, this area is filled with music, light shows, and street performers. Definitely worth a visit.
We met slot machines but we did some fun experiments without exaggerating :)

🗓️ Day 4: Long Drive to San Francisco

We arrived in SF after about a 7-8 hour drive. The grandeur of the Golden Gate Bridge as we entered the city was truly breathtaking. In the evening we rewarded ourselves at a famous seafood restaurant.

When we arrived in San Francisco, the sun was about to set. The moment we entered the city was truly magical: the Golden Gate Bridge slowly rising from the fog, colorful houses, hilly roads…

What Did We Do?

Pier 39 & Fisherman's Wharf : We walked along the beach towards sunset and watched the sea lions.
We said hello to Alcatraz Island from afar because we were short on time, but we couldn't pass it by without seeing it.
Chocolate break at Ghirardelli Square : Drinking hot chocolate here is a San Francisco classic!
We stopped by the Painted Ladies house and reminisced about that classic “Full House” scene.

🗓️ Day 5 – 6: Enjoying San Francisco

We had a great two days. We watched the sea lions at Pier 39, took a boat ride to Alcatraz, walked the zig-zag paths on Lombard Street, and of course, took pictures at the Painted Ladies.

We spent this day doing more sightseeing, taking photos, and preparing for the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway).

🗓️ Day 7: Return begins via Pacific Coast Highway

On our way back from San Francisco to Los Angeles, we took the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), California’s most iconic driving route, stopping at dreamy coastal towns like Monterey, Carmel by the Sea, Big Sur, Morro Bay, and Santa Barbara to enjoy the scenery.

Our Stop Along the Way: McWay Falls — just like a postcard!

We set off from San Francisco early in the morning and arrived in Monterey after about a 2-hour drive. During this journey, the views of Highway 1 slowly began to reveal themselves. Along the way, we frequently came across views that made us say, “Should we stop here?”

📍 What We Did in Monterey?

We hiked along Pebble Beach's 17-Mile Drive.
Monterey Bay Aquarium : This world-famous aquarium was incredible, especially the jellyfish section!
Beach walk and photo breaks : Walking along the ocean shore as the sun slowly set was one of the most peaceful moments of the trip.

📍 On the road suggestion: If you have time, you can stop by the beaches of Santa Cruz for a short break before Monterey.

We stayed one night in Monterey. Falling asleep to the sound of the ocean was priceless!

When you set off from San Francisco towards Big Sur, if you follow the US 101 south route, it will take you about 3 hours. (A quick note: US 101 is an iconic highway that runs along the west coast of America, starting in California and continuing through the states of Oregon and Washington. This road, which runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean, is exactly 2,400 km long!)

As we set off from San Francisco and headed toward Big Sur, we felt like we had one of the most enjoyable parts of our California trip! Of course, you don't have to get to Big Sur right away—there are so many beautiful stops along the way, each one like a scene from a movie!

📍 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk On the first part of the road, we stop by Santa Cruz, which stretches along Monterey Bay. You can't pass by this colorful beach town without riding the Giant Dipper roller coaster, walking along the beach, and checking out the carousel! It's both nostalgic and fun.

📍 Carmel-by-the-Sea After Monterey, our route is the charming town of Carmel. This small settlement, which inspires artists with its fairytale architecture; is the definition of peace with its boutique galleries, stone streets and pastel-colored houses. Grabbing your hot coffee and heading down to the beach is the best way to enjoy this place.

📍 17-Mile Drive After Carmel, we go to 17-Mile Drive, one of the most impressive coastal roads in the world. Every kilometer of this special road offers a different view: Ocean waves, golf courses, magnificent mansions and giant cypress trees... Especially stops like the “Lone Cypress” tree will be places where you will take lots of photos.

🚗 Don't forget to spend this day slowly and enjoy it, because this route will fascinate you not only with the destination but also with every minute spent on the road.

Big Sur – Alone with Spectacular Pacific Views

As you head south from San Francisco, one of the most fascinating parts of the journey begins: Big Sur ! After about an hour, the views you will encounter are truly breathtaking. If you have time, stop frequently along the way and just enjoy the view. Every corner offers a postcard-worthy shot that will make you say, “I have to take a photo of this place too!”

One of the stops you should definitely make on the way: Bixby Creek Bridge . This is like the symbol of Big Sur. Don't pass by without standing in front of the bridge and taking that famous shot with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop. This is the star of Instagram shots!

Don't forget to stop by Big Sur Bakery to recharge your batteries along the way. Small, rustic but delicious! Especially the wood-fired pizza, soft banana cake and beef brisket are legendary.

If you want to have an experience that is one with nature, Big Sur is perfect for glamping. Setting up your tent in the camping areas by the beach and being alone with the stars in the sky... That's when you'll feel like you've truly gotten away from the city.

Note: Keep your eyes open as you drive along Hwy 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) because there is hidden beauty waiting for you around every bend on this route.

🏄♂️Santa Barbara – California's Riviera

Santa Barbara, to me, is like California’s answer to the “French Riviera.” With the elegant silhouette of the Santa Ynez Mountains in the background, stylish Spanish colonial-style buildings, elegant boutique stores, and palm-lined streets in the foreground… It has a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe.

Considered the heart of the city, State Street is a place you should definitely make time for. This street is full of red-tiled roofs, white-washed adobe houses, a cafe on every corner, art galleries and small but unique boutiques; it is ideal for a day that starts with a morning coffee and ends with a glass of wine at sunset.

Walking here, getting lost in the backstreets, taking tiny photos to capture the moment... It's all part of enjoying this beautiful coastal town. Santa Barbara is one of the few places that offers both mountain and sea views at the same time. 💛

Malibu

It’s a great place to be in every way: Malibu ! Even though it’s just a short drive from Los Angeles, it still has a small, laid-back feel. But this small town is home to world-class restaurants, famous beaches, and prestigious Pepperdine University. (Yes, that’s where Michael graduated from!)

There is a young and energetic atmosphere in Malibu; the student population plays a big role in this. It is a getaway for those who want to escape to nature without leaving the city. The waves are ready for those who want to surf, and long beaches are waiting for those who want to take a walk on the beach. You can laze around in the sun and watch a sunset that is worth saying Malibuuuu! 😍

Also, walking on the pier, sipping a coffee by the sea or eating the fresh fish of the day at a stylish restaurant with an ocean view... Malibu fascinates not only with its view but also with the lifestyle it offers.

🐚 Day 10: Los Angeles

Since we returned from San Francisco along the PCH, we reached Los Angeles in the evening and started staying at a hotel again. I can summarize this part as the “city part of the vacation”. The beach, entertainment, and lots of food and drink!

Los Angeles is one of the world’s great cities, and you’ll want to spend at least two days exploring its many facets. Of course, for first-timers, classic destinations like Malibu, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Venice Beach are a must.

Things to do:

Biking along the Santa Monica Pier
Visiting Venice Beach
Shopping on Montana Street
Going to Universal Studios
Walking to the Hollywood Sign
Visiting The Grove shopping centre
Going to a concert at the Hollywood Bowl
Attending movie night at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Visiting LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
Ordering a double-decker, animal-style burger at In-n-Out!

We slowly made our way towards LA along the way. We stopped in a different town every day; sometimes we just had coffee, sometimes we waited for the sunset. Stops like Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Malibu added a different beauty to our journey.

We returned to LA in the last few days and ended our trip with a last walk on Venice Beach. The suitcases were full, the memories were filled with beauties… 💫

❓ California Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it necessary to rent a car in California?

Absolutely! Especially in a huge state like California, a car is essential for transportation between cities and along the coast. It is possible to travel by public transportation, but it is much more practical to rent a car so that you can stop and explore wherever you want without wasting your time. In fact, it will be one of the most freeing moments of the trip!

2. When is the best time to go to CALIFORNIA?

My favorite is definitely fall, late September to early November. The weather is still warm, the crowds are thin, and prices are relatively reasonable. Spring is also wonderful; flowers are in bloom, the weather is warm. Of course, summer is perfect for beaches, but it is crowded and a bit more expensive. Winter comes and the ski season begins; if you plan on skiing or snowboarding, check out Mammoth or Tahoe.

3. What is the weather like on the coast of California?

This is a Mediterranean climate, meaning the temperature is nice during the day but the coolness is definitely felt in the morning and evening. Especially in places like San Francisco, a light jacket is a must even in the summer! So definitely bring comfortable clothes that you can wear in layers.

4. How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)?

It takes about 10-12 hours without direct stops, but the real pleasure is of course stopping along the way to watch the scenery and have a coffee break in small towns. You need to set aside at least 3-4 days to enjoy it.

5. How long should one stay in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Las Vegas?

I think each one deserves at least 2 nights. If possible, 3-4 nights would be much more comfortable, because these cities are huge and there are many places to explore.

🌟 Alternative Stops and Suggestions for Your California Route

Joshua Tree National Park: If you like hiking in the stunning silence of the desert, this is the place for you. It’s full of giant rock formations and those famous round cacti. It’s hot during the day, but the nights are different, and the stars are a bonus!
Santa Barbara: A great stop for wine tasting and beach fun with a calmer, bohemian vibe. Cozy cafes and boutique shops await you in the city.
Lake Tahoe: Ideal for skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and enjoying the lake. Nature lovers love it here.
Napa Valley: If you're a wine lover, Napa's vineyards and stylish restaurants will be your favorite. Enjoy the beautiful scenery while tasting fine wines.
Big Bear Lake: A great place for winter sports or just nature. Lesser known but very cute.
Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea: Must-see stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, where you can soothe your soul with sea views and sweet towns.

📌 Recommendation:

This program is intensive; if you have time, it would be great to stay 3 nights in some areas or add an extra national park (Yosemite, Sequoia, etc.).

You can also start this route from San Francisco and go south . You can start from whichever city you find the most suitable flight from.

🎬 Closing: After a California Trip…

This 14-day California journey brought together the magic of nature, the dynamism of city life, the peace of coastal towns and the mystery of the desert breeze. A different view every day, a different story at every stop...

📌 Keep this in mind when planning your route:

The distances are long, but the views are so beautiful that the journey itself is an experience.
Keep your route flexible, because at every turn there is a place that will make you say, “Should we stop there too?”
Dress in layers and be sure to take sunscreen!
Applications such as Google Maps + Roadtrippers make planning much easier.
If you're going during peak season, arrange accommodations in advance (especially around Big Sur and San Francisco).

❣️ I hope our route inspires you too. While writing this article, I felt like I was on that path again.

See you on our next trip! ✈️🌅🚘

BONUS

📸 Must-Take Photos in California

California is one of those rare places where every corner is “postcard-like.” There are some landscapes that you can’t just look at—your phone is in your hand, and you reflexively press the shutter! Here are those special places on my list where you should definitely take photos :

🌉 Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco

Just seeing the bridge through the fog is an experience in itself. For the best angles, consider Battery Spencer, Crissy Field, or the Marin Headlands.

🏞️ McWay Falls – Big Sur

Imagine a waterfall cascading off a cliff into the ocean! Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, this landscape is one of California's most iconic nature images.

🌲 Redwood Forests – Northern California

A photo among those giant trees where you can't see the sky without lifting your neck up: this might be the frame that best describes the grandeur of nature and the smallness of man.

🎡 Santa Monica Pier – Los Angeles

Palm trees, a Ferris wheel, neon lights and the ocean... This is truly a snapshot of the California spirit!

🏖️ El Matador State Beach – Malibu

Giant cliffs, golden sands and the ocean sparkling in the sunset light… A background that is both romantic and dramatic!

🚗 17-Mile Drive – Carmel to Monterey

There are many stops along the way, but don't miss the Lone Cypress tree and the shores of Spanish Bay. Pull over, take in the views, and take in plenty of shots.

🎨 Mission District Murals – San Francisco

These walls, filled with colorful street art and social messages, are a great stop not only for photography but also for thinking and getting inspired.

🌅 Joshua Tree Sunset

A sky turning reddish orange, accompanied by cacti and rocks in the middle of the desert… That calmness that is integrated with nature also transfers to the photograph.

📍 Palm Springs Gates

Yes, you heard right! The famous “colorful doors” in Palm Springs are now a must-have in Instagram culture.

🧀 Neon Museum – Bonus for return to Los Angeles or Vegas

If your return route is via Las Vegas, I recommend you don't return without capturing nostalgic shots among the old signs at the Neon Museum.

Stop at the places on this list a lot, take photos, but also put your phone in your pocket every once in a while and really enjoy the view. Because sometimes the best memories are too big to fit in the frame 💛