Family-Friendly Spring Break: LA to San Francisco Road Trip
Looking for an adventure-packed spring break? This family-friendly road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco along California’s iconic coast combines city attractions, stunning nature, and a touch of magic. Here's a guide to help you plan your journey!
Trip Overview
Day One & Two: Los Angeles
Day Three: Disneyland in Anaheim
Day Four & Five: Monterey via the Pacific Coast Highway
Day Six & Seven: San Francisco
Day Eight: Travel home
Day One: Arrive in Los Angeles
Morning Arrival: After landing in LA, start with a visit to Chinatown. Stop for hand-pulled noodles and explore local shops and bakeries. A perfect way to kick off the trip and ease into the city vibe.
Lunch Recommendation: Daikokuya Ramen
Afternoon: Check into your accommodations and run errands like stocking up on groceries or picking up essentials.
Evening: Head up to Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city at night.
Day Two: Hollywood Highlights and Santa Monica
Morning: Spend time in Santa Monica enjoying the beach, iconic pier, and lively promenade. It's a great spot for a laid-back start to the day.
Afternoon: Take a Hollywood City Tour, starting at 4:00 PM. The tour includes stops at the Walk of Fame, celebrity homes, and famous landmarks.
Evening: Dine at the themed Beetle House LA, a quirky and fun spot perfect for families. Dinner reservation at 7:00 PM.
Day Three: Disneyland in Anaheim
All Day: Immerse yourself in the magic of Disneyland. Plan ahead with FastPass options to skip the lines and maximize your experience.
Dining Highlight: Check out Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar for unique food and drinks.
Day Four: Drive the Pacific Coast Highway to Monterey
Morning: Hit the road toward Monterey. Weather may affect the route, so keep an eye on road conditions. Along the way, stop at Morro Bay to watch otters and enjoy lunch with a view. My sister told me there would be otters here with their cubs and they were there! It’s a safe area for mother otters to hunt and babies to be safe in the bay. Such a cute spectacle to see.
Afternoon: Continue your journey along the scenic coastline. Take your time to explore small coastal towns for dinner before arriving at your accommodations in Monterey.
Day Five: Explore Monterey Bay
Morning: Start the day with a hike at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for stunning views of the ocean and wildlife. This place is one of the most beautiful places in the USA in my opinion.
Afternoon: Join a whale-watching tour at 1:30 PM, meeting at Fisherman’s Wharf by 1:00 PM. This unforgettable experience brings you up close to the majestic marine life of the bay.
Evening: Stroll through Monterey’s downtown area for dinner and shopping.
Day Six: Drive to San Francisco
Morning: Depart for San Francisco. Plan to leave around 9:00 AM to make the most of the day.
Afternoon: Explore the city while waiting for Airbnb check-in at 4:00 PM. Consider booking an Alcatraz night tour for a unique way to experience San Francisco’s history.
Day Seven: San Francisco Sightseeing
Morning and Afternoon: Discover some of San Francisco’s top attractions, such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Japantown, and the Mission District.
Evening: Enjoy a flavorful dinner at a popular Burmese restaurant in the Mission District.
Day Eight: Head Home
Pack up and head home after an unforgettable week of exploration, fun, and family memories.
Packing Essentials
To make the trip comfortable and stress-free, here are some key items to bring:
Sunscreen for sunny days at the beach and parks.
Motion sickness remedies for winding roads along the PCH.
Travel pillows and earplugs for long car rides and plane trips.
Light luggage, since you'll be moving often.
Entertainment for the kids, such as tablets, books, or games.
Car Rental Tips
Rent a spacious and reliable vehicle to accommodate your family and luggage. Book early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and options.
This road trip offers a perfect mix of city attractions, coastal beauty, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re exploring the Hollywood hills, watching whales in Monterey, or soaking in the sights of San Francisco, this itinerary ensures a memorable spring break adventure.
Ready to plan your trip? Let the road inspire you!