Sequoias, Wine, And More: A California Road Trip Itinerary
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There’s so much to see and do in California — from dynamic cities to nine national parks — that it’s sometimes hard to know where to start.
This approachable California itinerary will take you to the state’s famous giant sequoia trees, wine tastings in Paso Robles, antique shopping in Cambria, and sailing in Santa Barbara without any crazy long drive times.
Los Angeles
Start your journey by flying into LAX. You may want to spend as much spare time as you have to spare in this iconic city: taking a surf lesson, enjoying the perfect weather with some rooftop dining, and hiking to the Hollywood Sign.
Once you’re ready to set off, knock out the itinerary’s longest drive to Sequoia National Park — it’ll be 3.5-4 hours depending on traffic.
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is home to the world’s largest living things: giant sequoia trees. These trees grow to an average of 150 to 279 feet tall and live for thousands of years. Walking through the ancient sequoia groves inspires an unparalleled sense of peace and awe.
Explore the park on a hike or two before coming back to your stay in the quaint, little town of Three Rivers just outside the park’s entrance.
Paso Robles
Next up is one of California’s most underrated wine regions. You’ve probably heard of Napa and Sonoma in Northern California, but Paso Robles offers many of the same wines at an overall lower cost– although many would argue with the same high quality! There are many reasons to visit Paso Robles, but its proximity to Los Angeles is not the least of its charms. Enjoy your days here with plenty of wine tastings.
Cambria
Head back to the coast with your next stop in Cambria. This charming town is another rather underrated destination in California.
Cambria is known for its antique shopping, beautiful bluff trails, and elephant seal rookery. Plus, it’s really close to Hearst Castle. Wander in and out of antique shops along the main street, keeping an eye out for hidden gems. Don’t miss out on a slice of olallieberry pie from Linn’s.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is your last stop before heading back to Los Angeles. This coastal city is home to one of the country’s most beautiful botanical gardens at Lotusland and, in my opinion, the best caesar salad in the world at Bettina (I dream about it constantly). If you don’t do anything else, enjoy a nice sail or paddle board from the docks of Santa Barbara Sailing.
