Carpool To Los Angeles From San Francisco? The 88 Latest Answer

3. Why carpool with Waze?

Looking at the main benefits of carpooling, we have to say that it helps to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. On the other hand, members have the opportunity to contribute to the cost of the trip.

One of Waze’s founding goals is to reduce traffic congestion.

Since 2008, the Google subsidiary has created a real community.

Today there are over 140 million drivers and passengers on the platform. All these people contribute to making traveling around the city easier with their reports or simply by using the app.

The Waze community also includes 360,000 map editors who update Waze maps daily in real-time based on user feedback. Finally, there are 700 translators from over 50 countries who voluntarily write the street signs and translate them into their native language.

Let’s take a look at the key benefits of participating in Waze Carpool for drivers and passengers.

Faster Ride

Who likes to be stuck in traffic for hours? There’s no denying that using freeways can improve our lives.

Many cities have “HOV” (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes. During rush hour, these carpool lanes are for multiple-passenger cars only. The minimum number of people required varies but is generally a minimum of 2 or 3. These lanes also exist on bridges and often offer reduced tolls.

Waze makes it really easy to find carpool partners, and carpooling is one of the ways to solve the minimum passenger requirement issue.

Shared travel expenses

Owning a car is very expensive. Car insurance, fuel, car maintenance and tools, all of these expenses can weigh on your wallet.

At Bestreferraldriver we know it very well and we love to share with our readers all the tips to save fuel money with cash back apps, find cheap gas and even drive with fuel saving techniques.

Additionally, as mentioned, full cars can be rewarded. In fact, you often get half price tolls.

The comfort of a car

Any time one wants to travel, choosing the mode of transportation can be a dilemma.

People with environmental concerns typically refrain from using public transport, while motorists prefer the convenience of a car journey.

If you’re as concerned about our planet as the whole team at Bestreferraldriver, you should know that car sharing is an easy way to reduce our carbon footprint.

company

Driving alone is no fun. Carpooling can help you overcome this fear.

When you were a kid, your parents told you never to get in the car with strangers. Today? Getting into cars with strangers is a popular business model that is projected to reach a market value of $218 billion by 2025.

The world is changing fast and techies found a solution to the challenges commuters faced when dealing with expensive taxi fares, rude drivers and congestion where city governments artificially reduced competition by restricting taxi licenses.

Are you a startup thinking about building your ride hailing service to compete with the big guys? That may seem impossible, but small competitors have made a splash in the mobile app development space by focusing on specific markets and tailoring their features to a specific customer base.

Ultimately, if you’re thinking about competing with the big ride-hailing services like Uber, you should study both the Davids and the Goliaths of this industry. Before developing your own ride hailing apps, make a note of exactly what they did that made them successful.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, Net Solutions can help make your ridesharing app a reality. For now, here are the 10 best ridesharing apps of 2022 and what they have to teach us from a business perspective.

1. Uber: The ride-sharing giant

Android rating: 4.2

4.2 iOS rating: 4.7

4.7 Popular for: Multiple tiers of service

Uber is a very popular app headquartered in San Francisco alongside some of the biggest tech companies in the world. They have an estimated 110 million users worldwide, and it’s the ride-sharing company that has led the charge in radically disrupting the transportation industry.

Many refer to their business model as “Uberization,” which describes the commercialization of existing service models using mobile technology. For example, companies are now offering meal delivery, grocery shopping, housekeeping, and a million other services right through one app — take Uber, for example, when it ventured into the food delivery app segment with Uber Eats Change.

Uber continued its innovation trend by offering UberPOOL, which allows users in some areas to get cheaper rides by sharing their ride with other passengers, allowing the system to match passengers on a similar route. Not only did this prove popular as a cost-saving technique, but it also allowed drivers to reduce their carbon footprint.

Driver-oriented features:

A passenger rating system to identify difficult drivers (and remove them from the platform if necessary)

Special accommodation for hearing-impaired drivers

Bonuses in specific cities based on the number of trips given

Drivers can opt out of UberPool, which can lead to a better earning strategy for drivers who aren’t trying to earn a bonus by offering more rides

Driver-oriented features:

Plan trips in advance

Ability to pay cash in certain parts of the world where credit cards are not as common (ideal for international expansion)

Ability to split a fare between friends sharing a ride

Multiple drop off points for groups of riders

2. LYFT: Your friend with a car

Android rating: 4.2

4.2 iOS rating: 4.9

4.9 Popular for: Affordable prices

Lyft, also based in San Francisco, is a carsharing app that operates in hundreds of cities across North America. The company promises to provide an affordable, memorable and welcoming driver experience.

Lyft branded itself differently than Uber. Uber calls itself “your personal driver,” while Lyft calls itself “your friend with a car.” And while that difference might seem minor, they actually resulted in a different experience for riders and riders. In short, it created a different “culture” among its users.

Lyft passengers and drivers tend to chat more, and in pre-pandemic times it was common for Lyft passengers to sit in the front seat. Uber passengers always tended to climb into the back seat, and conversations weren’t that common.

Apps like Lyft are worth studying because they took a different approach than Uber, and it’s paying off. They appear to have a loyal customer base, and some believe they will eventually surpass Uber in the US market.

Driver-oriented features:

A separate app for drivers that includes driver-specific features

Ability to mark the current ride as the last ride of the day so drivers don’t get an unexpected request that they have to accept

Ability to receive tips from riders (Uber does this too, but Lyft pioneered it)

Driver-oriented features:

Shared saver rides for discounts

“One tap to ride” option for quick inquiries and pickups

Drivers must go through background checks to ensure safety

The “Lyft Amp” device – a glowing Lyft sign – helps drivers find their drivers at night

3. GoJek: Going beyond ridesharing

Android rating: 4.5

4.5 iOS rating: 4.2

4.2 Popular for: A variety of services from rides to delivery to hauling heavy items

GoJek is a ride sharing app, but not just a ride sharing app. GoJek is active in 4 countries and uses its platform (which consists of 20 different apps) for:

Connect drivers with passengers

Allow people to ride on the backs of motorcycles

Deliver groceries and other goods from local vendors

Help customers move heavy objects

Perform a variety of additional tasks

Driver-oriented features:

Medical coverage for all drivers (Uber and Lyft employees are independent contractors, meaning they have limited access to employer-based health plans in the US)

Special offers including discounts on groceries, fuel and more

Free training to learn English, business and other life-changing skills

Driver-oriented features:

Easy payment options

A variety of transportation options (who doesn’t love riding on the back of a motorbike?)

Help with shopping and many other daily tasks

4. Careem: Dominance in Middle East and North African market

Android rating: 4.1

4.1 iOS rating: 4.6

4.6 Popular With: Users who want rides, deliveries and more

Careem is a Dubai-based service that offers ridesharing, meal delivery and more. The company currently operates in more than 100 cities and has done a great job in conquering the Middle East and North Africa market.

Careem is a great example of an app that has grown through understanding the regions and cultures it served, making it a case study for anyone wanting to take on Uber in their part of the world. They are proud to create jobs in these countries and help raise money to support over 700,000 refugees through the Careem Rewards fundraising program.

Driver-oriented features:

Full flexibility to work when you want to work

Thorough driver training

Very user-friendly app with integrated navigation

Driver-oriented features:

Optimized payment options

Ability to order food or have errands run for you

Excellent rewards program

5. Ola: Carpooling and car rental

Android rating: 4.4

4.4 iOS rating: 4.7

4.7 Popular With: People who want different options when traveling (rideshare, luxury, rental car)

Ola is an India-based taxi app/ridesharing company that spans the globe with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and more. Ola offers ridesharing services for every budget, from cheaper rides with drivers who share a route to luxury services. It also includes the possibility of renting a car, hiring a driver for long journeys and even traveling outside the city.

Driver-oriented features:

Drivers are paid daily

24/7 live support

Possibility to lease a car for drivers who do not own one

Driver-oriented features:

A variety of options for travelers

Comprehensive insurance and roadside assistance for renters

In-cabin entertainment options (e.g. music, videos)

6. Via: The smaller alternative

Android rating: 4.2

4.2 iOS rating: 4.2

4.2 Popular for: Dedicated ridesharing services

Headquartered in New York, Via has offices in 20 countries worldwide. It is operated under its own brand in only six countries and in the remaining operating countries it is operated in partnership with the local companies.

The moment a user books a ride, they are instantly connected to the drivers who are traveling on the same route. This ridesharing app prides itself on helping customers share rides to reduce their carbon footprint while saving money.

Driver-oriented features:

Up to $400 Driver Signup Bonus

The “Rent a car” scheme is available for drivers who cannot afford a car but still want to earn money

Flexibility whenever it suits you

Via only takes 10% commission from drivers (compared to Uber’s 25% fee for each ride)

Driver-oriented features:

affordability

Corner-to-corner pickups for faster commuting

Availability of real-time customer support

Refer friends and get free ride credits

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7. BlaBla Car: Share your commute

Android rating: 4.4

4.4 iOS rating: 4.5

4.5 Popular for: Shared rides on the same route

BlaBla Car has a unique business model. Instead of focusing on full-time drivers, anyone with a car can list their vehicle on the app and figure out their route. If a passenger wants to join them, they can request a ride and share the cost.

BlaBla earns 12% commission for each successful booking. It’s a great app for saving time and money, and it’s great for the environment.

Driver-oriented features:

A rating scale for motorists: “Blah” for the calm ones, “blah blah” for chatty drivers and “blah blah blah” for those who just can’t shut up

Easily post a ride in seconds

Drivers have the power to decide who rides with them

Driver-oriented features:

Book a ride that is affordable and safe

Possibility to book last minute seats if available

Female riders can travel with the “Women Only” option for their safety and comfort

8. Bridj: Move large groups

Android rating: 3.4

3.4 iOS rating: 3.6

3.6 Popular for: On-demand public transport

Are you trying to move a large group of people for a large event, field trip or other purpose?

Bridj is an Australian ridesharing service that decided to make it big. You plan buses and vans to transport groups of people – and everything is managed through the app.

Driver-oriented features:

Tablet access to track passenger bookings

Training by the Bridj team

Drivers have access to a special app

Easy routing with turn-by-turn navigation

Driver-oriented features:

Possibility to make payments via credit cards

Provides directions to pickup points

Availability of facilities such as free Wi-Fi and USB charging

Special access for disabled drivers

9. GoKid: Where children can also carpool

Android rating: 4.1

4.1 iOS rating: 4.2

4.2 Popular for: Kid carpooling

Headquartered in New York City, GoKid operates in approximately 25 countries. It’s a great example of a ridesharing app that has filled a gap in the market, as Uber and Lyft (due to liability issues) have some restrictions on underage rides. It’s a great endeavor that makes life easier for busy parents.

How does it work? Parents take turns driving each other’s children. The digital platform works safely by connecting parents with families they know to reduce risk.

Driver-oriented features:

Optimal route provision for pickups and returns

In-app messaging for updates on the trip

Possibility to invite friends from your contact list

Driver-oriented features:

Parents can follow the ride in real time

Opportunity to unwind on hectic workdays

Works on mutual favors – no payments required

10. Hitch: Journeys between two cities

Android rating: 2.8

2.8 iOS rating: 4.2

4.2 Popular for: City-to-city hopping

Hitch offers ridesharing services that operate between Austin and Houston, two major cities in the great state of Texas that are about a 2.5 to 3 hour drive from each other. Riders and drivers going to the same city are matched for ridesharing. With rides starting at $25, Hitch quickly became popular in both cities.

Passengers can book a ride between 7am and 7pm and rides will be confirmed within two hours. No pre-booking is required for your next long trip, so same-day bookings are possible.

Driver-oriented features:

Can earn up to $120 for a round trip

Possibility to publish the itinerary in advance

Convenient pickup and drop-off

Optional coffee breaks en route

Driver-oriented features:

Cheaper and more comfortable than a bus ride

Riders can book within an hour of riding

The middle seat is always free for more space

Find your ridesharing niche

The world loves ridesharing, and even some taxi companies have adapted by offering taxi apps. If you’re interested in learning how to create a taxi or ridesharing app for your startup, you can start speaking to an expert here at Net Solutions. We have designed and built thousands of apps. We provide our clients with successful mobile app development services to help them advance their ventures.

The key is finding your niche in this growing market. You can’t expect to just build apps like Uber and Lyft and hope to take on well-funded, multi-billion dollar companies without offering anything else.

Do you see a segment in the large demographic of ridesharing users that you could serve? This is what GoKid did for parents and their children. That’s what Bridj did with transporting groups. And that’s exactly what BlaBla Car did for commuters.

If you find an innovative approach that serves a specific community, you could transform the transportation industry. If you are successful, you will be richly rewarded.

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium, sometimes referred to by the metonym Chavez Ravine, is a baseball park in the Elysian Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, home of the Los Angeles Dodgers, the city’s Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise. It opened on April 10, 1962 and was built in less than three years at a cost of $23 million funded from private sources.

Staples Center Staples Center, officially referred to as STAPLES Center, is a multi-purpose sports arena in downtown Los Angeles. It is adjacent to the L.A. Live development and is adjacent to the Los Angeles Convention Center complex along Figueroa Street. Opened on October 17, 1999, it is one of the premier athletic facilities in the Los Angeles area.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Located at 111 South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles, California, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is the fourth hall of the Los Angeles Music Center and was designed by Frank Gehry. It opened on October 24, 2003. Bounded by Hope Street, Grand Avenue, and 1st and 2nd Streets, it seats 2,265 people and serves as the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, among others. The hall is a compromise between arena seating like Hans Sharon’s Berlin Philharmonie and classic shoebox design like the Wiener Musikverein or the Boston Symphony Hall.

California is our home and we wouldn’t trade it for the world. Except for the sky-high cost of living. We would like to exchange that please. But there’s a reason California is expensive to live in – it’s a pretty amazing place with unbeatable weather. Our recent road trip through California reminded us how amazing this state is.

We made our way from San Francisco to Los Angeles, meandering our way through California for four weeks and exploring our home state in a way we’d never done before. California is known worldwide for its beauty. From stunning beaches to rolling hills lined with vineyards and groves of towering redwoods, the California coast has it all.

You’ll encounter all of these things and more on a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles. It’s a scenic, exhilarating drive with breathtaking scenery, world-class wine tasting, and more hikes than you could ever do in a lifetime. Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles via Highway 1 is a road trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best stops along the way and share some of our top tips on what to see, eat and drink at each location.

Note: You can absolutely reverse this itinerary for a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip.

Before we get to the top stops on your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, there are a few more things you need to know to plan the perfect road trip.

Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one and buy something, I’ll make a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you. It goes without saying that I would never recommend anything that I would not use or make myself.

Where can you fly in and out?

If you’re not already near San Francisco, consider flying into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) and renting a car for easy driving to Los Angeles.

Plan to depart from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is your best bet when it comes to finding flights to most cities. There are two smaller airports, Burbank (BUR) and John Wayne (SNA), which are less inconvenient than very busy (and heavily congested) LAX, but may not offer as many flight options.

How many days is it possible to drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The quickest route from San Francisco to Los Angeles is directly via Interstate 5 (I-5), which only takes about six hours, but is an incredibly boring drive and you miss out on the best sights along the California coast. Definitely don’t do this, unless you’re in the mood for barren landscapes, lots of big trucks, and the occasional hint of cattle ranches. We made it and it’s no fun.

When we made the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles, we did it in about 10 days, with many stops along the way along the beautiful California coast.

Our number one tip is to take it slow.

We recommend spending at least three to five days driving the coast (sample itineraries below!) so you can take in all the beautiful views of the California coast. This route only takes about nine hours to drive, so you can make plenty of stops for sightseeing, hiking, and beach picnics.

The route for driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Basically, you drive Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Follow Highway 1 from San Francisco along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines. Upon reaching Santa Barbara, take Hwy 101 a short distance and then rejoin Hwy 1 to drive through glittering Malibu to Los Angeles.

Recommended itineraries for driving from SF to LA

Wondering exactly how to spend your time on your trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles? Here are some itinerary ideas based on our own personal experiences. Below, in the Best Stops section, we’ve got a little more detail on each location to help you plan your time.

Note: We do not count the day you fly into San Francisco into the number of days.

In 3 days

If you only have three days, here’s what we recommend.

Day 1: Depart San Francisco early, head to Monterey and walk around Cannery Row, stop at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve before driving through Big Sur, stop at Pfeiffer Beach and McWay Falls and miss Don’t see the elephant seals in San Simeone. Spend the night beachfront at White Water in Cambria, a sleepy seaside town.

Day 2: Get coffee in San Luis Obispo (we like Scout Coffee A LOT) before heading to Morro Bay and Montana de Oro. Hike along the coastal bluffs – this is one of our favorite hikes on the California coast. Continue the journey south to Avila Beach (stop at Avila Barn) and Pismo Beach. Both are worth getting off and walking around to stretch your legs. Drive through the Santa Ynez Valley, Southern California’s premier wine region, and taste wine at either Foxen Vineyard & Winery or Babcock Winery & Vineyards. Head to Santa Barbara for the evening – stay at either the Hotel Indigo or the Wayfarer, two of the best places to stay in Santa Barbara. Visit the Funk Zone for an evening of urban wine tasting and enjoy dinner at Loquita, a Spanish restaurant right in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Day 3: Grab a coffee at Dart Coffee or Dune Coffee Roasters and spend the morning exploring the coast around Santa Barbara. End your road trip by driving down the coast to Malibu, disembarking at Zuma Beach and Point Dume before descending Highway 1 and hitting the western edge of Santa Monica. You’ve arrived in LA!

In 5 days

If you have a little more time, you can make a few more stops along the way.

Day 1: Spend a full day exploring San Francisco. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and hike down to Baker Beach for the best view of the bridge. Visit Lombard Street, the city’s crookedest street, which offers stunning views of the bay. Browse the shops and food stalls in the Ferry Building, a collection of San Francisco’s finest artisans like Blue Bottle Coffee, Heath Ceramics and Dandelion Chocolate. Eat and drink at Mission, San Francisco’s premier foodie neighborhood. Stay at either Beck’s Motor Lodge or the Kabuki, two of the best places to stay in San Francisco.

Day 2: Head south out of the city, stopping at Pacifica and Half Moon Bay before arriving in Santa Cruz. Stroll Westcliff Drive and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and don’t miss coffee at Verve and ice cream at Penny. Rejoin Hwy 1 and head south to Monterey and Carmel, your stop for the evening. Spend the night at Hotel Abrego in Monterey, which is a solid value and puts you in a great position to tackle Big Sur early the next day.

Day 3: Set off early today with a coffee in hand from Captain + Stoker in Monterey and begin what we consider to be the best day of the trip. Head first to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and hike the short and easy trail along the coastal bluffs. Then on to Big Sur. The stops to make here, in order, are Bixby Bridge, Andrew Molera State Park (a great place for a coastal hike!), Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Limekiln State Park. This should take you a full day, so spend the night at Cambria at White Water, a lovely boutique hotel literally across the street from the beach.

Day 4: Continue the coastal drive down to Morro Bay where you should stop to admire Morro Rock from Morro Rock Beach (and catch a glimpse of the resident sea otters). Then drive to Montana de Oro State Park and hike the Bluffs Trail (below are other options for a more strenuous hike). Drive to San Luis Obispo for lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co and cider at SLO Cider Co before making the journey to Santa Barbara through the Santa Ynez Valley and stopping in Los Olivos for cider at Tin City Cider and a wine tasting enjoy. In Santa Barbara, stay at the Hotel Indigo or the Wayfarer and explore the Funk Zone for the evening.

Day 5: Grab a morning coffee at Dart Coffee or Dune Coffee Roasters in Santa Barbara and spend the first half of the day exploring the coast around Santa Barbara. End your road trip by driving down the coast to Malibu, disembarking at Zuma Beach and Point Dume before descending Highway 1 and hitting the western edge of Santa Monica. You’ve arrived in LA!

If you have a few extra days I would spend them in San Francisco or LA. Two days in each would be perfect, making this an 8 day adventure.

This is a very, very high quality look at what a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles looks like. Read on for an in-depth look at the best stops when driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The best stops on a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Here are our favorite stops along California’s Pacific Coast that you should definitely add to your itinerary.

san francisco

San Francisco is so much more than a starting point for your road trip or a place to pick up your rental car. It’s a vibrant city, packed with some of the best food and drink on the west coast. And hills. Lots of hills.

We’ve called San Francisco home for almost a decade, and we still love the city, even if it’s gotten a bit too expensive for our “jobs” (read: exploring the world on our own).

If you’re looking to spend a day or two exploring San Francisco, we have some travel guides to help you find the best spots. We recommend picking up your rental car at the END of your time in San Francisco as parking is a real nightmare in the city. If you have a car, plan to pay for parking at your hotel, or at least pay for one parking ticket during the course of your San Francisco itinerary.

If you want to stay in San Francisco, we recommend that you opt for a hotel. Most San Francisco hotels are located around Union Square, but it really isn’t a great place to stay. We think you should stay at either Beck’s Motor Lodge or the Kabuki.

Here are some San Francisco travel guides to help you plan your time.

Santa Cruz

Whether you love the beach or prefer to explore the mountains, you’re in luck. Santa Cruz has both!

Known for its beautiful beaches, Santa Cruz has a small-town surfer-beach vibe despite not being that small.

In the mountains above Santa Cruz you’ll find some of the tallest redwood trees in the world. You literally can’t go wrong stopping here and you might find it hard to leave!

Take surfing lessons

If learning to surf was your dream, then Santa Cruz is the place to be. Santa Cruz Surf School has five-star reviews on Yelp and even offers private surfing lessons for two if you have someone with you who wants to join in.

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Who doesn’t love a good boardwalk? The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk won’t disappoint. It’s like stepping back in time, taking you back to the 1950s with a wooden roller coaster, arcade games, and other rides like bumper cars.

Take a few hours to walk around, get something to eat and maybe even play a few games or take a few rides. There are rides for daredevils and little kids, so fun for the whole family and such a healthy, nostalgic way to spend the day!

PS Do you like taking cool photos to share on social networks? Here is a list of the 9 most Instagrammable spots on the boardwalk.

Walk or bike to Westcliff Drive

If you’re in the mood for some fresh air and exercise with stunning ocean views, then head to Westcliff Drive.

It’s a scenic three-mile biking and hiking trail along the Pacific Ocean with beautiful views of Monterey Bay. Lighthouse Point has a lawn to relax and play Frisbee overlooking Steamer Lane, where you can watch surfers lapping some of the best waves in the United States.

See the redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Nature lovers should not miss this stop. This 40-acre grove of ancient redwood trees is over 1,500 years old, with the tallest tree standing at 277 feet. These trees are strikingly massive and take your breath away. Pictures just don’t do this state park justice. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see wildlife, including the famous banana snail, the mascot of UC Santa Cruz, the city’s university.

Hike the Old Landing Cove Trail

Hop out of the car, put on your walking shoes (or just your sneakers), and set off for the Old Landing Cove Trail. The trail is a 2.3-mile loop that takes you to clifftop views along the Pacific Ocean. We’re pretty sure there’s literally no better place to stop and take an easy hike to stretch your legs on a road trip.

Monterey

Continuing along the coast, you’ll encounter Monterey next. Monterey is home to beautiful uncrowded beaches, all the seafood you could ask for and the best places to explore the Pacific Ocean. Known for its marine life, including the adorable sea otter, it’s also home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay aquatic life can be seen up close at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. With over 20,000 marine animals ranging from sharks to jellyfish to otters, this aquarium is one of the best in the world and a must see if you are interested in marine life.

whale watching

Have you ever watched whales? It really is a unique experience! The best time to go whale watching depends on what you want to see.

Orcas and gray whales? December to May. If you are more interested in seeing humpback whales, you have better chances from May to November.

Would you like to see the blue whale (the largest animal on earth)? Your best bet is from July to October.

Luckily, this means that whatever your visit, you can join a whale watching tour and have a good chance of seeing some of these massive, majestic creatures.

Get out on the water

A popular activity for those who are a little more adventurous and want to get out is renting a kayak or paddleboard. Rent one from Monterey Bay Kayaks. Take a few hours to explore this beautiful stretch of coast from a new perspective.

Drive to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a protected coastal area where you can hike and explore Monterey’s wildlife. Check out the bluffs and bluffs unique to the California coast and hike the trails to explore things on foot. If you are lucky you will see some sea lions playing in the ocean below.

It’s a unique place to see all kinds of wildlife – last time we were there we saw hundreds of giant white pelicans perched on the trees and cliffs all over the place.

BigSur

Big Sur is known for its rugged coastal cliffs and awe-inspiring views. It’s a popular spot for camping and even driving through because you can see so much of it from a car.

Stop for the Amazing Sights (North to South)

Bixby Bridge: Although you may not know its name, chances are you have seen this iconic bridge as it is one of the most photographed bridges in California.

Andrew Molera State Park: This state park with its undeveloped, rugged beauty has hiking trails along the coast and a beach where you can rest and enjoy the scenery.

Pfeiffer Beach: The striking rock formations here are perfect for exploring and stopping for a quick photo opportunity.

Mcway Falls: Have you ever seen a waterfall right on the beach? Featuring an 80 foot year-round waterfall that changes from emptying on the beach straight into the ocean depending on the tide.

Ragged Point: The perfect pit stop! A nature trail leads down to the Pacific Ocean and elephant seals can often be seen along the beaches.

Go hiking

Andrew Molera State Park Loop: Located just off Highway 1, this trail is an 8-mile loop featuring scenic ocean cliffs and a river crossing.

Buzzards Roost: For a shorter hike, Buzzards Roost is only 2.6 miles away and features the beautiful California wildflowers. The best time to hike is from March to October.

Treat yourself

If you want a day of self-catering and pampering, a spa day at Ventana Big Sur offers luxurious spa services. If you want to make this one of your overnight stops, they even have the option of glamping at their 20-acre Redwood Canyon campground. For a more rustic, budget-friendly self-catering day, visit Esalen Hot Springs for a soak in the relaxing, healing waters.

Morro Bay and Cayucos

This is the peak of the Central Coast of California. These little beach towns are pretty sleepy but full of cute local shops and nature trails. We spent a full four days in the area and loved every second of it.

Stop in San Simeone to see the elephant seals

This is a quick stop that won’t disappoint! Located 7 miles north of San Simeon, you’ll know you’re in the right place when you open your car door and immediately hear their calls. It’s a popular spot for spotting elephant seals, who stay here year-round. However, the best time of year to see them is from October to May.

Eat on the beach at Hidden Kitchen on Cayucos

We’re obsessed with the 100% Gluten Free Blue Corn Cakes at Hidden Kitchen! Whether savory or sweet, there are options for all taste buds and they are all gluten-free. Don’t feel like waffles? They also have great tacos. Get the crazy one, a combination of peanut butter, maple syrup, banana, and bacon.

Hike around the base of Morro Rock

Morro Rock stands 576 feet above the surrounding ocean, but that’s not even the most impressive part. Morro Rock is actually a volcanic plug estimated to have formed around 23 million years ago.

While you can no longer climb it, you can hike around the base, and if you can stay until sunset, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views.

Be sure to keep an eye out for sea otters in the calm waters that flow from Morro Bay into the open ocean – it’s a favorite haunt for the furry little creatures! You are Alysha’s favorite.

Explore Montana de Oro State Park

The best way to enjoy this beautiful state park is to hike one of the many great hiking trails.

The Bluffs Trail is a 4.1 loop trail rated as easy and is located near Los Osos. It features wildflowers and if you’re looking for a place to start your morning run before hitting the road, it’s also good for a quick trail run.

Valencia Peak is 4.2 miles long and rated as moderate. It allows you to gain altitude to view the scenic Central California coastline from above.

Hazard Peak is a tougher trail but totally worth the climb! At 18.2 miles, it’s a bit longer for those looking for a more rigorous hike with 1,800 feet of elevation gain.

San Luis Obispo

Welcome to Central California! Once you reach San Luis Obispo, you are about halfway through your journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Sip cider at SLO Cider Co

If you stop in SLO (San Luis Obispo) you must enjoy some cider! SLO Cider Co has dry cider that is made in California and is gluten free.

Another great option to try some cider is at Cider Bar, San Luis Obispo’s premier cider bar. If you’d rather avoid the hard stuff (because you’re driving), head to Whalebird Kombucha for a pick me up with a refreshingly bubbly probiotic.

Visit The Creamery Marketplace

Would you like to stop and take a walk, maybe to have something to eat or go to a bar? Be sure to visit The Creamery Marketplace, a collection of bars, restaurants and shops in downtown SLO. This open-air public market offers a close-knit community of local businesses to support.

Grab Lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co (Gluten Free Options!)

With a walk-in window and craft beers on tap, stop by Old SLO BBQ Co for an authentic barbecue. Many of their recipes date back almost a century, and while it doesn’t say so on the menu, most of their dishes are gluten-free and they have gluten-free preparation methods if you let them know your needs.

Make a stop or three for coffee

Field Day Coffee has this friendly, plant-filled, outdoor cafe vibe with amazing coffee—and they make their own almond milk.

Scout Coffee Co has two locations in SLO where they offer pastries from their in-house bakery and craft roasted coffee.

Kreuzberg California is a low-key, art-filled coffeehouse with good food and space to linger and enjoy.

Drive to the nearby Avila Beach

A short drive from San Luis Obsipo is Avila Beach, a smaller beach town with a few fun sights. The quick hike down to Pirates Cove is one of our favorite stops on this stretch of coast – just note that this is a clothing-optional beach, so whether you want to avert your eyes or join in is up to you.

Another fun stop is the Avila Barn, which has just the farm vibe you would expect! With tons of produce and baked goods, you can grab some snacks on the go after feeding some goats and visiting all the other farm animals.

The Santa Ynez Valley: Solvang and Los Olivos

wine tasting

Are you a fan of wine tasting? This is your chance and here are our top picks in the Santa Ynez Valley. Babcock Vineyards is located in Lompoc with beautiful views and many recommendations from locals in the area. Rancho Sisquoc Winery is part of a 37,000-acre cattle station and has been making small batches of quality wines for over 40 years. Foxen Vineyard is a solar-powered winery in nearby Santa Maria that prides itself on minimalist winemaking and sustainable viticulture.

Los Olivos

A city full of tasting rooms! Wine tasting is basically all there is to do here and we’re not complaining. There are dozens of tasting rooms to choose from, but be sure to stop by Tin City Cider to try their amazing dry cider.

Solvang

Known for its Danish-style architecture, Solvang is a bit touristy but still a fun stop en route along the coast.

We recommend visiting The Book Loft, Solvang Spice Merchant and Solvang Windmill.

Santa Barbara

One of our favourites! There’s a reason many celebrities in Santa Barbara have homes away from the congestion of Los Angeles. It has been dubbed the “American Riviera” with its dramatic mountain backdrop and expansive ocean views.

Explore the radio zone

Spanning the area between the ocean and Highway 101, the Funk Zone is a downtown Santa Barbara neighborhood that has grown in popularity in recent years as tasting rooms, shops, galleries, and cafes have popped up. We love the Valley Project which focuses on unique wines from the nearby wine regions and has a beautiful map of the area behind the bar.

Tackle the Urban Wine Trail

Within the Funk Zone is the Urban Wine Trail, a self-guided route featuring over 20 tasting rooms representing Santa Barbara County wines.

Hike to Inspiration Point

A 3.5 mile trail that gives you the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Santa Barbara mountains with breathtaking ocean views. It’s open year-round and has a decent amount of shade if you’re there in the summer and looking for a trail that offers some relief from the California sun.

go to the beach

Leadbetter Beach gets a bit crowded in the summer, but if you’re there during the weekday or off-season, it’s not too bad. You can grab a blanket, have a picnic, and watch the sailboats sail from the nearby Santa Barbara Harbor.

It’s a bit crowded in the summer, but if you’re there during the week or off-season, it’s not too bad. You can grab a blanket, have a picnic, and watch the sailboats sail from the nearby Santa Barbara Harbor. Butterfly Beach in elegant Montecito south of Santa Barbara is a long, narrow stretch of beach perfect for strolling or relaxing.

, located in posh Montecito just south of Santa Barbara, is a long, narrow stretch of beach perfect for strolling or relaxing. Considered a hidden gem by locals, Arroyo Burro Beach is a dog-friendly beach and has a few restaurants to eat at if you get hungry.

Where to eat and drink in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is packed with great food and drink, including a number of gluten-free restaurants. Here are our favourites.

For coffee, head to Dune Coffee Roasters, Santa Barbara’s best coffee, or Dart Coffee, whose outdoor patio (“coffee garden”) is a lovely place to enjoy your morning coffee on one of Santa Barbara’s seemingly never-ending days.

For incredible Spanish food head to Loquita and order the paella.

For a 100% gluten-free brunch with amazing French toast and as many baked goods as you can imagine, Lilac Patisserie is your place.

Lily’s tacos are some of the most authentic tacos I’ve had in the US, and it’s all gluten-free. And super affordable – for $15 you can easily feed a couple.

oh yeah

If boho chic was a city, it would be Ojai. If that’s your mood, then you’ll definitely want to drive through on your trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Lunch at Food Harmonics

Healthy foodies, there are many great restaurants in Ojai, but this is one to check out. They focus on delicious healing, balanced eating and their menu is 100% organic, gluten, sugar, soy and non-GMO. What more do you want?

Browse new and used books at Barts Books

Have you ever visited an outdoor bookstore? Barts Books is a quirky bookstore in the middle of a pretty quirky town. If you love being surrounded by books then you must stop by as it is a book lover’s paradise.

Treat yourself to a treat at the Revel Kombucha Bar

Known for its fresh kombucha on tap, you can also get decadent acai bowls as well as probiotic matcha and coffee.

Refuel at Beacon Coffee

Looking for the best coffee in town? If you need a quick caffeine fix and want to support a local business that works with family farmers around the world, Beacon Coffee is the place to go. As a bonus, they have several gluten-free baked goods for you to snack on – but get there early for these treats, they sell out fast!

Ventura and Channel Islands

If you drive down the coast a bit you will find Ventura and offshore in the Pacific Ocean nearby are the Channel Islands. Wenn Sie einen ganztägigen Ausflug unternehmen möchten, um den Channel Islands National Park zu erkunden, buchen Sie eine Kreuzfahrt mit Island Packers, die Fahrten zu den Inseln Santa Cruz (am beliebtesten) und zu den Anacapa-Inseln anbietet.

Malibu

Die letzte Station Ihres Roadtrips muss Malibu sein. Um dorthin zu gelangen, steigen Sie wieder auf den Highway 1 (die Einheimischen nennen diesen Abschnitt Pacific Coast Highway oder kurz PCH) und fahren Sie die Küstenstraße an Malibu vorbei nach Santa Monica, dem westlichen Rand von Los Angeles.

Genießen Sie die Sonne am Zuma Beach

Zuma ist einer der größten und beliebtesten Strände im Landkreis Los Angeles. Außerdem ist es ein großartiger Ort zum Surfen, wenn das dein Ding ist. Auch wenn es jede Menge Parkplätze gibt, kann das Parken in den Sommermonaten schwierig werden, also bringen Sie ein paar Schuhe mit, um zum Strand zu gehen, falls Sie weiter weg parken müssen.

Beobachten Sie Surfer in der Lagune von Malibu

Wo der Malibu Creek auf den Pazifischen Ozean trifft, liegt die Lagune von Malibu. Auf der Ostseite können Sie den Malibu Pier besuchen und gleich nebenan finden Sie Surfrider Beach, einer der besten Orte in Kalifornien, um abzuhängen und die Surfer zu beobachten.

Wandern Sie auf dem Los Liones Trail

Aufgrund der Lage dieser Wanderung kann es am Wochenende etwas voll werden, aber es lohnt sich auf jeden Fall, sie sich anzusehen! Stellen Sie sicher, dass Sie es ganz nach oben schaffen, um die herrliche Aussicht auf das Meer und die nahe gelegenen Pacific Palisades zu genießen. Es ist eine 4,5-Meilen-Wanderung mit 1.200 Fuß Höhenunterschied, was bedeutet, dass sie in Bezug auf die Schwierigkeit in der mittleren Kategorie liegt.

los Angeles

Herzliche Glückwünsche! You did it!

Los Angeles ist eine ziemlich unglaubliche Stadt, und keiner von uns hatte viel Zeit dort verbracht, bis wir vor kurzem über eine Woche damit verbracht haben, die Stadt zu erkunden.

Ob Sie essen und trinken, am Strand entspannen oder die Themenparks besuchen möchten, in Los Angeles ist für jeden etwas dabei.

Hier sind einige unserer Reiseführer für Los Angeles, die Ihnen bei der Planung Ihrer Zeit helfen, wenn Sie am Ende Ihres Roadtrips noch ein paar zusätzliche Tage haben.

Kalifornien hat so viele abwechslungsreiche Landschaften, die alle für sich wunderschön sind. Aber wenn wir einen Roadtrip empfehlen würden, würde San Francisco nach Los Angeles definitiv ganz oben auf unserer Liste stehen. Es ist eine der schönsten Fahrten der Welt… wenn man die Küstenroute statt der Inlandsroute nimmt.

Wir hoffen, Sie genießen Ihren Roadtrip von San Francisco nach Los Angeles! Haben Sie einen neuen Spot entdeckt, den wir nicht abgedeckt haben? Lassen Sie es uns wissen, damit wir es zu unserer Liste der Orte hinzufügen können, die es in Kalifornien zu entdecken gilt!

Located in the heart of Northern California’s Bay Area, San Francisco is a geographically small but culturally massive city known for its historic cable cars, lively waterfront and eclectic mix of hippies and techies who call it home. Although it may be one of the most expensive US cities to live in, San Fran can actually be very cheap to visit, and there’s no shortage of unique attractions.

When the city’s pervasive fog (dubbed “Karl the Fog” by locals) takes a break, Golden Gate Park offers the best views and Instagram photo opportunities of the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. Stroll through North America’s oldest Chinatown to find the perfect dim sum, or if you and your sweetheart prefer a little full house moment, try a romantic picnic in Alamo Square Park in front of the Victorian Painted Ladies. Finally, San Francisco is one of the best vacation spots for couples.

With the city compressed into a small peninsula, exploring by bike is an efficient and scenic way to get around. When you’re ready to venture beyond the city limits, San Francisco is a convenient jumping-off point for travel throughout Northern California. It’s actually the first stop on Wanderu’s West Coast Wine Tour, with the next stop in Napa Valley, of course. Whether you’re traveling by bus, train or via one of the two nearby airports, San Francisco is a destination not to be missed.

Editor’s note: We strive to provide you with the most up-to-date information. However, there are widespread closures in place to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19. We do our best to keep all of our stories and calendars up to date. Take care!

There are so many reasons to head south to L.A. – Disneyland, beaches or just a change of scenery, and we’ve got all the tips to make your trip south as painless as possible. Whether you take the scenic 101 or head inland on the 5 for the quick (but boring) route, we’ve got all the details on pit stops, restaurants and tips to make the trip go by in a snap.

Kate Loweth prepares for her trip: With a little planning, make your family outing more of a ‘vacation’ and less of a ‘trip’! Download a range of podcasts like Story Pirates and Wow in the World. Boost learning and keep the brain interested! More shots here and here.

like Story Pirates and Wow in the World. Boost learning and keep the brain interested! More recs and pack a personal cooler for each child. You can pick up these retro coolers at flea markets for super cheap, and kids will love being able to eat what they want, when they want.

You can pick up these retro coolers at flea markets for super cheap, and kids will love being able to eat what they want, when they want. Contain the trash. Make sure each person has easy access to a garbage bag so the floor doesn’t get contaminated with loose packaging.

Make sure each person has easy access to a garbage bag so the floor doesn’t get contaminated with loose packaging. Contain the toys. A car seat knee tray can keep small toys like LEGO bricks in one place for the duration of the trip. We love to carry small gear in ZizzyBee Bags. They are perfect for LEGO bricks, Matchbox cars, Brainflakes and more.

A car seat knee tray can keep small toys like LEGO bricks in one place for the duration of the trip. We love to bring small gear. They are perfect for LEGO bricks, Matchbox cars, Brainflakes and more. Keep them busy with drawing paper clipped to an old clipboard, old-fashioned travel games like I Spy, movies on a portable DVD player, or educational and entertaining iPad or smartphone apps. Wiki sticks are fun to take with you, too (and bonus, they don’t make a big mess in the car like Playdoh).

with drawing paper attached to an old clipboard, old-fashioned travel games like I Spy, movies on a portable DVD player, or educational and entertaining iPad or smartphone apps. Wiki sticks are fun to take with you, too (and bonus, they don’t make a big mess in the car like Playdoh). Let them DJ. Connect your phone’s playlist to the car radio and let your child choose the songs. You can find more road trip hacks here.

iStockChoose your route: However you split it up, it’s a long drive. The drive on I-5 is both incredibly boring and long. So one suggestion is to take the 101 on the way down and the I-5 on the way home (or vice versa). This way you can plan to be on the flattest, straightest and stinkiest part of the ride (Harris Cattle Ranch).

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Kate Loweth If You Take 101: When to Go: A tried-and-true way to make the 101 ride is to get there early—no later than 5am. If you’re leaving on a weekday, you’ll get out before rush hour. Throw the kids in their pajamas in the car and hit the road. The non-driver can catch a few Zs on the way down, or stock up on coffee and take the rare opportunity to strike up a adult conversation and take in the early morning scenery. After a few hours the sun starts to rise and the children may or may not start to move. If you’re lucky you might be able to almost make it to Pismo Beach before this begins. Recommended stops for toilet breaks: Soledad, King City or Atascadero stops (including McDonald’s with playground).

Kate Loweth Where to Eat: If you can make it there, Pismo Beach is an ideal stop. Stop in front of Old West Cinnamon Rolls for more coffee and a sweet breakfast. The rolls with walnuts or pecans are satisfyingly crunchy, and the cream cheese frosting is a sweet treat. Just make sure you take some napkins with you if you plan on eating them in the car! The Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is another family-friendly restaurant, especially for the pink lovers in your crew! A little further down the road in the Santa Ynez Valley, stop by Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company’s Taproom in Buelton to relax on the patio and enjoy a good meal. There are cornhole and giant jenga games for the kids and it’s totally family friendly. (Bonus: it’s just down the road from the ostrich farm mentioned below!).

Kate Loweth Activities and Attractions Along the Way: There are many stops along the 101, and since you’re along the coast, the beach towns are a great excuse to get the kids out of the car and run around in the sand to tire them out . Dinosaur Caves Park in Pismo Beach is a scenic spot to have a picnic and let the kids climb a little. Not only does Solvang have a delightful, Danish-inspired downtown, but it’s also home to Ostrichland USA. This place is just off the 101 and the kids will have fun feeding these giant birds. The Central Coast Veterans Museum is a fun San Luis Obispo stop for all military fans. In addition to their huge collection of military memorabilia, the museum is marked by a real tank in front of the front lines! Best of all, entry is free (and they have bathrooms). Explore the Mulholland Highway’s “Magic Three Miles” where you can hike at the beautiful Peter Strauss Ranch, fish in the Trout Dale, shop for antiques at Charme D’Antan, eat at local eatery Old Place, and even attend a wine tasting, all within walking distance of each other. If you need additional stops during your trip, there are numerous options in Santa Barbara, Ventura and beyond. There’s a cute outlet mall in Camarillo (Las Posas exit) where you can stock up on essentials that you might accidentally forget at home.

If you take I-5: There isn’t much to do or see other than trucks and cows if you take I-5. As for those cows, you might want to roll up the windows when you see Harris Ranch signs, the smell can get pretty strong as you drive by the cattle property. Departure Time: If driving on a weekend, it is best to take I-5 before 11:00 am. On weekends, traffic gets progressively worse as the day progresses. During the week, the best time is actually lunchtime (11am-4pm). Suggested Restroom Stops: For the family that packs a cooler full of snacks and just needs a place to potty, there are about a half-dozen rest areas on I-5 between the Bay Area and L.A., including a decent rest area at Grapevine (Tejon pass) with vending machines etc.

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Where to Eat: There are viable restaurant groups in Los Banos, Kettleman City, and Fort Tejon. If you fancy a fast food outing with a difference, don’t miss the burgers and shakes at In-n-Out Burger in Santa Nella or Kettleman Station. If the weather is too rainy for kids to roam outside, you could visit the McDonald’s with a PlayPlace in Santa Nella. The Harris Ranch Inn and Restaurant is located about halfway between the Bay Area and Los Angeles. If you fancy a steak this is a great place to stop and eat while the kids frolic around the fountains. Activities and attractions along the way: Fort Tejon was built in 1854 and abandoned 10 years later. They offer interesting Frontier Army Days demonstrations on the first Saturday of the month, a fun diversion during a leg extension stop. Bravo Farms in Kettleman City is a fun old west town with a restaurant and ice cream shop.

– Kate Loweth

Featured photo: iStock

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Road Trip: Morro Bay

Road trip to California’s Central Coast

Car games and toys perfect for your next road trip

The Pacific Coast Highway is a road trip song dream. Windows down, feeling the salty sea breeze blowing right into the passenger seat, every angle a picture-perfect panorama of the majestic Pacific Ocean. Those who stop stop for wine and endless hikes through trails of redwood forests, beaches and rocky cliffs. They stop because they follow a quest through important touchstones of American culture, not least of which include Big Sur, Cannery Row and Hearst Castle. It’s a beautiful ride; You could do it all from San Francisco to Los Angeles in a day, but it’s best to tread gently into this one: With all the incredible wine stops and California-breezy lounge and hiking spots, riders will want to book a few days to a week – or forever.

Beachy and elegant Santa Barbara

The city of Santa Barbara is an inviting cocktail of year-round summer temperatures, domed colonial facades, European whitewashed facades, and quaint town squares. It’s hailed as the American Riviera for its long stretches of sandy beaches and gorgeous Pacific Ocean views, but this enclave of Europeanism has an added outdoor dimension, as the steep rises of the Santa Ynez Mountains encircle the city to the north. Santa Barbara has long been a popular stop on the well-worn Highway 1 road trip circuit on the California coast, but there are so many things to see and do here that it’s definitely worth an extra few days. Whether you want to stroll the sun-soaked streets or catch some action out at sea while whale watching, activity and energy abound in this Southern California gem.

Wine all the time at Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is the second stop along the Pacific Coast Highway and offers a day or two of outdoor and adventure activities. There are countless opportunities for golfing, cycling, tennis, hiking, horseback riding and diving. The area offers miles of beautiful, clean beaches with pools, coves and caves for visitors to explore. There’s also Pismo Pier, a 12,200-foot pier that’s a popular spot for sightseeing, hiking, fishing, and watching the sunset. Best of all, visitors to Pismo Beach are in a prime position to visit some of the other amazing destinations on San Luis Obispo County’s Wine Coast.

Live like a California king in San Simeon

Most people associate San Simeon with the famous Hearst Castle, 90,000 square feet of Mediterranean Revival architecture, exquisite gardens, and Romanesque pools on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, but beyond its majestic reach there are acres and acres of rolling vineyards it too explore fresh seafood restaurants and local California cuisine. Nature lovers, meanwhile, flock to San Simeon for its beaches, rolling hills, rugged mountains for hiking, and wildlife like elephant seals and birds.

There are many natural wonders in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Good food and drink plays a big part in the culture of Carmel-by-the-Sea (commonly referred to simply as Carmel) thanks to the local wineries, gourmet markets and diverse dining choices. Carmel’s shining jewel is the 400-acre Point Lobos State Reserve, a vast expanse of unspoiled natural beauty with rocky shores, sandy beaches and blue lagoons, all of which are home to 200 different species of animals and 300 species of plants. Many artists use this inspiring place as a workplace, so you can see the work of painters, sculptors, writers and photographers scattered throughout the city.

Steinbeck and Jazz in Monterey

Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, California, Monterey – Photo by Amanda Hardesty

This waterfront community has everything you need for a fun family day out: warm weather, the ocean and plenty of water sports. As well as all the usual kayaking, scuba diving and surfing, there is also an abundance of wildlife in the area and whale watching in Monterey Bay is an unforgettable experience. On land, travelers can play golf, check out the exhibits at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, or simply cruise along the scenic shores to take it all in. Monterey culture blossoms at the Monterey Jazz Festival in full bloom, held in late September or every weekend on Cannery Row, a festive venue that turns daytime shopping into nighttime nightclubbing.

Called one of America’s most scenic roads, California’s State Highway 1 or Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip is well worth the hype. After years of dreaming about this ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles, I finally ticked it off my bucket list. And in this itinerary blog post, I share all the must-see places along Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA.

This trip can easily be reversed using the same stops on your LA to San Francisco journey. Either way, you need to add America’s most romantic road trip to your bucket list. I, on the other hand, did it differently. I decided to ride this route on a girls weekend getaway. My friends and I started in Half Moon Bay near San Francisco and ended up in LA.

Also Read: How to Save Money on Your First Visit to the US

Not only did we experience a variety of coastal scenery, we also explored several small towns, surfer’s paradises, wine countries, and delicious food as we headed south on the Pacific Coast Highway. Next time I ride this route with Gaurav, I might pick the LA to San Francisco road trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links

How many days is this road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway?

If you’re looking for how far it is from San Francisco to LA, the short answer is about 6 hours if you take the main highway ie the I5. But if you want to make this road trip epic, then take Highway 1 along the coast the entire way. I would recommend taking at least 2-3 days to do this route if you intend to make a lot of stops. A weekend or long weekend would be perfect for this ride. TIP: If coming from the North, fly into San Francisco or San Jose airports and out of LAX (or vice versa).

Don’t forget to check the weather and when to go to California when planning this trip.

Car rental in California

We rented the car in San Jose and returned it at LAX airport as we flew in and out of those respective airports. For more information on cheap car rental resources, click here.

Places to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway (between San Francisco and LA)

Depending on how many locations you stop at, your total duration may need to be adjusted, so plan accordingly. Last spring was one of the best times to travel in California as it marked a record year for wildflower blooms. Wildflowers in California have even been seen from satellite-tracked space.

Below are the 12 beautiful stops we made during our road trip on Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA.

1. Crescent Bay

A quick stop in Half Moon Bay for a coffee but wasn’t busy on the beach. Only other people there were surfers and campers. This definitely had to be the surfer’s paradise up north.

2. Monterey

I can never get enough of Monterey. Although I’ve ridden the 17 mile loop three times in the past, we cycled through the shingle beach again to revive memories. A must see if this is your first time in Monterey!

Ghost tree surrounded by spring wildflowers on 17 mile street in Monterey

Having fun on the pristine pebble beach on the 17 mile loop Lone Cypress Tree on the 17 mile loop in Monterey

3. Carmel by the Sea

We spent our first night in Carmel by the Sea as I hadn’t explored this town much. Carmel has some cute restaurants downtown. After an evening stroll and visiting a few restaurants, we ended up eating at the restaurant that accepted us without a reservation. The food was great and the wine was even better. For all my animal loving friends here is a must check out dog friendly guide to Carmel.

From Carmel by the Sea, take Highway 1 toward Big Sur. Photo credit: MyTicklefeet

Accommodation (End of Day 1)

We ended up staying the first night at Hofsas House Hotel in the beautiful little tourist town of Carmel by the Sea. Another perfect stopover for the first night on this road trip would be Monterey.

4. Bixby Bridge and Big Sur

The next morning, ideally, we should have headed south to Big Sur. I had dreamed of seeing the postcard views of Big Sur for many years. But unfortunately we could only drive to Bixby Bridge because the main highway through Big Sur was closed due to landslides. We missed McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

This highway remained closed for most of last year as well as this year. But the good news is that Big Sur is open to the public again. Which means I have to drag my husband on a romantic road trip to finally see my wish list, right? 😉 TIP: Mudslides are very common in this area, so be sure to check the condition of the roads before heading out.

Bixby Creek Bridge

It’s funny that the bridge is just before Bixby, i.e. H. Rocky Creek Bridge, looks exactly like this, i. H. If you are heading south. We stopped at the Rocky Bridge thinking it was Bixby and skipped stopping at the real bridge as there is no sign in Bixby. Google Maps wasn’t exactly helpful, so it’s a good thing we’re turning back anyway.

5. Morro Bay

As I mentioned above, Big Sur has been road closed for most of the last year, we had no choice but to exit Hwy 1 and jump onto Hwy 101 to bypass that stretch. We drove on I-101 to Morro Bay, where we got back on Highway 1.

I highly recommend stopping here to catch a glimpse of this volcanic Morro Rock that gives this town its name. TIP: Sunset is a great time to photograph Morro Bay and Morro Rock.

Morro Rock at sunset on Highway 1 Road Trip. Photo credit: MyTicklefeet

Related Read: How to see the best of Arizona on a long weekend road trip

6.San Luis Obispo

To fill the vacuum Big Sur created on our Pacific Coast Highway 1 road trip, we decided to add two new stopovers – San Luis Obispo (SLO) and Solvang in Central California. More on Solvang later, but SLO was our choice for the second night.

SLO is a big college town and if you want to see the nightlife go to Higuera Street. We had dinner at this restaurant with beautiful open seating in the back called the Novo Restaurant and Lounge. A popular attraction here seemed to be Bubblegum Alley (just outside Novo) and no I wasn’t disgusted to stop by.

Bubblegum Alley is a narrow passageway off Higuera Street in SLO. She leaves a trail on Bubblegum Alley in San Louise Obispo

If you’re into weird stuff like this, then by all means leave your mark… I mean your chewing gum on these walls. If not, visit Mission San Luis Obispo, an 18th-century Spanish mission. We went there the next morning. The mission’s gardens were neatly tended and there was a baptism ceremony at the mission so we didn’t disturb them much.

San Louise Obispo Mission Garden

Accommodation (End of Day 2)

We chose San Luis Obispo (SLO) for the second night after gauging how far we’d come in the early afternoon. Since Day 2 includes driving through scenic Big Sur and you may make many stops, SLO is the perfect overnight stay. Morro Bay and Pismo Beach are other alternatives for day two accommodation as they are only 20 minutes from SLO in either direction.

7. Pismo Beach

As we continued south on Highway 1 on this road trip, we stopped at Pismo Beach, which was packed with people enjoying their weekend. Pismo Beach was a stark contrast to NorCal Beaches, a more relaxed and warmer version. TIP: Next to the beach are the sand dunes in Pismo, check them out and maybe hop on an ATV ride there. Who knew there was a desert right next to a beach, only in California!

A short walk down Pismo beach but we didn’t have time to check out the sand dunes

8. Solvang

Solvang was my favorite part of the trip. Especially since it was such an unplanned addition that turned out to be a gem. I had a faint idea of ​​what this trip would be like, but I never expected to explore a Danish city on a California road trip. TIP: We highly recommend adding Solvang to your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary. Getting to Solvang was an easy detour on Highway 1 as we drove south from Pismo Beach.

USA or Denmark?

The city of Solvang is located in central California’s Santa Ynez Valley, which is famous for wine country after Napa and Sonoma to the north. Solvang has deep-rooted Danish ancestry and nothing explains that better than the food and drink here. Glad we starved because the Danish brunch we had at Paula’s Pancake House that morning was outstanding. Brunch was quickly followed by Danish biscuits as we all decided to wrap up some to take home as souvenirs. Speaking of priorities! And during my time in Solvang I forgot for a moment that I was in America.

Danish City in the Heart of Central California in Solvang Danish Brunch in Solvang

9. Santa Ynez Valley Vineyard

The town of Solvang may have several breweries and wine tasting rooms, but we wanted to hit a vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley. Sunstone Winery came closest to our Google search and didn’t disappoint.

Wine Capital of Central California – Santa Ynez Valley

If I dreamed of Denmark in Solvang, then I was definitely transferred to Italy at Sunstone Vineyards. What a fabulous setting for this place. It goes without saying that we indulged in wine tasting, all but one who had volunteered to be the designated driver by that point. Never drink and drive, my friends!

Wine tasting at Sunstone Winery

10.Santa Barbara

Since we were already in Solvang we had two options for getting to Santa Barbara, i.e. either back onto the Pacific Coast Highway or take Highway 154 and drive through the mountains. To change things up a bit, we chose I-154 through the mountain route. This added some unplanned pit stops like below.

Take the mountain road from Solvang to Santa Barbara

We’ve been to Santa Barbara before and haven’t spent much time here. Grabbed a cup of coffee and walked the streets for a few minutes before hitting the streets again to capture the LA sunset.

11. Point Sand Dune, PCH

The section of Highway 1 between Santa Barbara and LA is more commonly known locally as the PCH, or Pacific Coast Highway. As you drive the PCH you will immediately notice the change in scenery from the Northern California coast southwards. And I have to say, last spring had a magical spell here. While the mountains of Southern California can usually be a bit barren and brown, last spring they were completely cloaked in green. What a stunning transformation!

Did I mention that some of the best sunsets in the world take place in Southern California? We were lucky to be in the right place at the right time. TIP: Point Sand Dune is the perfect spot to see a sunset on the Pacific Coast Highway. As the name suggests, there is a small sand dune across from the beach that offers a higher vantage point.

12.Los Angeles

This ultimate San Francisco to LA road trip ended on Santa Monica beach with a nice dinner at the pier followed by a visit to LA nightlife. For my gay friends here is a list of some of the best gay bars in Hollywood to choose from.

A large part of our next morning and final day in LA was spent relaxing from a long drive at the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe in Malibu. We earned this day for doing nothing but eating, drinking and lounging on the beach. Although it took a long time to be seated, I wouldn’t have gone anywhere else in LA.

We were all scheduled to fly back to our respective homes later that evening. However, if you have more time to spare, check out these Southern California weekend getaway ideas.

Play with the ocean while waiting for our table at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe in Malibu

Where to stay on Pacific Coast Highway Drive?

If you’re doing this drive between LA and San Francisco over a long weekend, ie. H. 3 days, then we recommend the following:

There you go, these were our favorite pit stops on the road trip up the Pacific Coast Highway in California. Don’t forget to pack some basic road trip essentials.

Drive from LA to Santa Barbara via the Pacific Coast Highway. Photo credit: MyTicklefeet

Have you driven this route before? I’d love to hear where else you left off. If not, then this should give you inspiration for the next adventure.

Continue reading: America’s Most Beautiful Backroad – Road Trip to the Blue Ridge Parkway

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Happy travelling!

Driving home in a gray Honda Pilot the other day, I couldn’t help but glance at my phone, trying to follow the route my driver was taking.

But that wasn’t an Uber or Lyft ride; It was Waze Carpool, a ridesharing service from Google’s own traffic navigation app, which has been available for a year wherever Waze works in the US and three other countries (Brazil, Israel and Mexico). In the last month alone, the carpooling option reached 550,000 trips worldwide. Speaking at the company’s San Francisco offices, Josh Fried, head of Waze Carpool, said the app aims to provide rides to 1 million people a month by early 2020. There were already 25 million carpool miles in the US last year.

The separate carpooling app for passengers and drivers is a digital version of the traditional carpooling experience. You go to predetermined pickup locations to fill your car with enough bodies to commute through the carpool or High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. It also works if you’re trying to find co-workers or classmates who live near or on your commute to work or school and can throw down a dollar or two for a toll road or gas bill. Waze carpool drivers, on average, only put in an effort of 3 to 4 minutes to pick up more people, which would normally be a solo ride, Fried said.

You can book a carpool up to seven days in advance, but most people plan two days in advance. Photo credit: Waze

The ride-hailing apps we’re used to offering ride-hailing-sounding options — Uber Pool and Lyft shared rides, and the app Via that bills as a ride-sharing service — but they’re structured around a ride-hailing service where an independent contractor earns fares for trips.

It’s different with Waze. Carpooling isn’t a way of making a living like driving an Uber and Lyft, but a way to make some gas money or save time driving home, Fried stressed. “It won’t be a full-time job,” he says. After driving to work one morning and one evening, you’re done and can’t offer any more rides in the app for the day. Again, it’s nothing like ride-hailing.

Carpooling Home in the Waze App Credit: sasha lekach/mashable

Based on my experience with Uber and Lyft, when I looked at the app during a demo ride with Fried, I expected to see a real-time location and route, as well as any other riders we picked up. Waze is a much cooler, almost naked experience. Once in the car, you simply see a route summary and estimated time of arrival to a destination that may be close to your endpoint, if not always right there. The same goes for pickups; You may need to go to a nearby driver heading your way.

Or maybe you’re lucky and someone from your office building offers a seat. Waze is working with companies like Samsung, Old Navy and Amazon to encourage employees to carpool together. Drivers can even invite someone right into their car, which is so Uber-esque.

Waze Carpool isn’t free, but in some rare situations it can be. For drivers, it’s usually just a few dollars (depending on commute length) to hop in a car and commute. If a driver just wants to meet HOV requirements, they can offer a ride for nothing or a $1 nominal fee. The most popular days for ridesharing are Wednesdays, and 8am is the best pick-up time.

Waze has added some ride-hailing features like profile descriptions and preferences. If a driver allows smoking or pets (similar to the recently announced Uber Pet), they can flag that. (Fried said nearly 50 percent of drivers are okay with pets in the car.) Drivers can also post optional details about their car, like make and model, and they can use any car they have legal access to, regardless of whether they’re borrowing it from a friend’s ride or renting something while their regular car is at the mechanic. It’s not like Lyft, where a driver is linked to a specific vehicle.

Drivers can also note preferences, such as B. the degree of talkativeness. Almost 40 percent of drivers select “chatty” in their profiles; only 14 percent say they prefer a smooth ride. Of course you carpool – so much for Uber’s “quiet mode”. As with the popularity of Uber and Lyft in major cities, Waze is most commonly used in the San Francisco Bay Area, Southern California, Dallas, Seattle and the Washington DC area. used, all large commuter centers.

So while we’ve grown accustomed to using our phones to request an on-demand ride, we can toggle them to find a car and commute to work or home in a real, honest carpool — for a fraction the fare.

A year ago, navigation app Waze made a risky bet on carpooling, a style of commuting that has declined since its heyday in the 1970s. It launched Waze Carpool, a special app that allows non-professional drivers to offer rides to people traveling on a similar route for a small fee. So how did it go? It seems pretty good, according to some stats the company released on Oct. 10 to celebrate its first year in the ride-sharing business.

According to Waze, carpoolers made more than 550,000 trips worldwide last September. (Waze Carpool is available in the US, Mexico, Brazil and Israel.) The company projects it will surpass 1 million monthly trips by early 2020. Carpool customers in the US drove a total of 25 million miles last year, which the company estimates helped reduce £20 million in carbon emissions thanks to combined trips. But Waze wouldn’t comment on the total number of people using the app, nor retention and turnover rates.

550,000 trips in one month

“We have what we think is a magic number,” said Josh Fried, head of Waze Carpool, in an interview. “And that’s four rides… If we carpool you and you end up completing four carpools, you stay [with the service].”

Waze defines a carpool as one driver plus one driver, although the company updated the app earlier this summer to allow drivers to pick up more than one passenger at a time for a maximum of four drivers. Drivers are paired with passengers with near-identical commutes based on home and work addresses. And drivers and passengers are limited to two trips per day. This is not a money-making service; Rather, it’s an attempt by Waze to test the growing rideshare market.

Certainly, convincing Americans to carpool is extraordinarily difficult, especially in an age of cheap gas and more convenient services like Uber and Lyft. CityLab recently reported that Waze sent teams of employees to WeWork locations with tacos and other free treats to encourage young professionals to download the app.

“We want to be an important means of commuting in these cities.”

Carpooling has been on the decline in recent decades. In the 1970s, in the midst of a gas crisis, about 20 percent of Americans commuted to work; now that number is around 7 percent. Both Uber and Lyft have tried to get their respective customers to share rides, with varying degrees of success.

Fried said Waze Carpool is having great success in markets like the Bay Area, Seattle, Washington, DC and Dallas. “But this progress is not enough,” he added. “We want to be an important means of commuting in these cities. [So that means] building a service that reaches many, many more people and finding a way to make those ridesharing more sustainable.”

That’s going to be difficult because Waze doesn’t make any money from carpooling. Drivers are charged a maximum rate of 58 cents per mile, which is the current IRS reimbursement rate for business travel by car (up from 54 cents last year). The idea is to reimburse drivers for costs associated with driving such as gas and nothing more. A driver can get paid as much as $19 depending on the distance and number of drivers in the car, while most drivers end up paying less than $5 per trip.

To get around this profit issue (or lack thereof), Waze is working with major employers to encourage carpooling for their employees, like the WeWork/Taco event mentioned above. These companies “invest” undisclosed amounts in Waze Carpool, and Waze, in turn, grants limited free rides to its employees. In the meantime, Alphabet gets a revenue stream, which helps justify Waze Carpool’s operations. The company says it also works with Amazon, AMD, Santa Monica Proper Hotel, Old Navy, and Samsung.

Ridepooling is just one mode of transportation, and there’s an increasingly fierce race among big tech companies to transform their respective apps into one-stop shops for all modes of transportation. Uber just embarked on a major redesign with the goal of becoming an “operating system” for cities. Lyft just ended the feature that allows other apps like Transit to access its bike-sharing systems.

Fried said that Waze Carpool is “laser focused” on drivers and optimizing its shared ride service. However, he hopes carpooling can become a mode on par with other popular transportation services. “If we can get people to leave their cars at home, then they can take a multimodal journey that includes public transit, a Waze carpool, and a scooter at the other end for a seamless door-to-door experience.” creating that doesn’t involve you driving a car,” he said. “And that would be great.”

Waze is rolling out a new feature called Carpool, which allows drivers to give people a ride for money.

Drivers can filter drivers based on a number of criteria, including gender, star rating, or whether they are a colleague.

Waze Carpool charges riders 54 cents per mile.

Google-owned Waze announced Wednesday that it plans to expand its ridesharing service to all 50 states, directly competing with ridesharing services like Lyft and Uber.

Starting Wednesday, the Waze Carpool app will allow users to find rides from Waze drivers traveling in the same direction, similar to Lyft Line and Uber Pool, the startups’ respective carpooling features.

The payment for the ride is made in the app. For the rest of October, rides are $2. After that, the cost per mile will be set at 54 cents per mile, Waze said.

A key difference from Uber or Lyft is that Waze Carpool drivers are regular people with day jobs, not professional drivers. Motorists, for example, can only carpool two times a day. Waze will verify people’s jobs through their email, Waze said.

Waze has already partnered with a number of schools and workplaces, including Amazon, to get people to use the feature. Waze Carpool will be available in 50 Amazon warehouses “to make it even easier for Amazon employees to save time and money by carpooling to work together,” according to a press release issued Wednesday.

“We’ve worked with Amazon fulfillment centers across the US,” Waze CEO Noam Bardin said at a news conference in New York. “They say one of the main reasons people stop working is because they can’t come to work.”

Drivers can select drivers based on a range of criteria within the app, including profiles, star ratings, gender, whether you have mutual friends or if it’s a colleague.

Waze Carpool was previously available in the San Francisco Bay Area and Israel, where Waze is based.

This is how the function works: