One-Week California Road Trip Starting in San Francisco

Hit the Golden State in style—discover scenic coastal drives, must-see cities, and hand-picked hotels to make your California road trip smooth, scenic, and packed with adventure.

Where to Stay on Your California Road Trip

For a week-long California road trip, start in San Francisco and plan stops along the Pacific Coast, Big Sur, Los Angeles, and San Diego.
Pick hotels near main attractions or scenic routes to save travel time and maximize sightseeing. Consider comfort, parking, and flexible booking for a stress-free trip.

Stay near city centers or landmarks

Choose scenic coastal stops

Compare hotels, motels, or boutique stays

Book early to lock in rates

Flexible cancellation

Kick Off Your California Road Trip: Fan-Approved Stays

Enjoy each stop with handpicked hotels on Expedia that balance comfort, location, and style—so you can relax, recharge, and explore without missing a mile of California magic.

Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Offers modern rooms with free WiFi, desks, and city views. Options include Standard, Deluxe, and Suite rooms.
In downtown San Francisco, steps from Union Square, Chinatown, and cable cars. Perfect for sightseeing and city vibes.
Guests enjoy indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, and concierge. Hotel Nikko blends style, comfort, and central convenience.

Carmel Valley Ranch, Big Sur Area

Features rooms with terraces, free WiFi, desks, and garden views. Options include Standard, Executive, and Suite rooms.
Nestled in Carmel Valley near Big Sur and coastal trails. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Guests enjoy golf, spa, hiking trails, and multiple dining options. Carmel Valley Ranch ensures a luxurious nature retreat.

Ventana Big Sur

Offers rooms with ocean views, terraces, free WiFi, and modern décor. Options include Rooms, Suites, and Glamping tents.
Overlooking the Pacific Coast, near iconic Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls. Perfect for coastal sightseeing.
Guests enjoy spa, infinity pool, restaurants, and guided outdoor activities. Ventana Big Sur blends adventure with luxury.

Hotel Casa Del Mar, Santa Monica

Offers rooms with ocean or city views, free WiFi, and plush bedding. Options include Standard, Deluxe, and Suite rooms
On the beachfront, steps from Santa Monica Pier, shopping, and LA highlights. Perfect for ocean and city access.
Guests enjoy pool, spa, multiple dining options, and concierge. Hotel Casa Del Mar combines luxury and prime location.

The Garland, Los Angeles

Offers rooms with modern décor, desks, free WiFi, and comfortable bedding. Options include Standard, Deluxe, and Suite rooms.
Near Universal Studios, Hollywood, and West Hollywood. Ideal for sightseeing and city life.

Guests enjoy pool, on-site dining, fitness center, and helpful staff. The Garland balances comfort and entertainment access

California Road Trip Highlights: What to See & Do

Golden Gate & San Francisco

Explore Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Los Angeles Landmarks

Visit Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, and Griffith Observatory.

Big Sur & Coastal Drives

Enjoy the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, Bixby Bridge, and McWay Falls.

San Diego Adventures

Check out Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and Coronado Beach.