Road trips from San Francisco are great if you’re looking for an adventure and want to explore some of California’s most stunning landscapes. A four-day RV road trip from San Francisco is the perfect way to pack all this in. You’ll get the chance to see some of the state’s most iconic sights, from the towering redwoods to the rugged coastline of Big Sur. Here’s an ultimate four-day RV road trip itinerary that will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of California’s most beautiful destinations.
P.S. If you find yourself in The Golen State’s capital instead, many of these trips double as some of the best road trips from Sacramento.
And be sure to stock up on these road trip essentials before you roll!
RVs For Rent Near San Francisco
Day 1: San Francisco to Santa Cruz
Start your road trip from San Francisco by heading south on Highway 1 towards Santa Cruz. Along the way, you’ll pass through Half Moon Bay, a charming coastal town with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Stop by the Half Moon Bay State Beach for a picnic lunch, and take in the stunning scenery.
Continue south on Highway 1 until you reach Santa Cruz, a vibrant beach town known for its surfing culture and laid-back vibes. Spend the afternoon exploring the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park with thrilling rides and attractions. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard and hit the waves at one of the local beaches.
Day 2: Santa Cruz to Monterey
On day two, continue south on Highway 1 towards Monterey. Along the way, stop at the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a breathtaking wilderness area with towering redwood trees and scenic hiking trails. Take a hike through the forest, and keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, coyotes, and even mountain lions.
Once you arrive in Monterey, head straight to Cannery Row, a historic district that’s home to shops, restaurants, and a world-famous aquarium. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets, and be sure to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to see the fascinating marine life that lives off the California coast.
Day 3: Monterey to San Luis Obispo
On day three, continue south on Highway 1 towards San Luis Obispo. Along the way, stop at the famous Bixby Bridge, an iconic landmark that spans a deep canyon along the coast. Take a photo of the bridge and the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Once you arrive in San Luis Obispo, check out the charming downtown area, which is home to unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, head to the nearby Montana de Oro State Park, a stunning wilderness area with scenic hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
Day 4: San Luis Obispo to San Francisco
On the final day of your San Francisco road trip, head back north on Highway 1 towards The Bay Area. Along the way, stop at the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a scenic park that’s home to a diverse array of wildlife and stunning ocean views. Take a hike along the coast, and keep an eye out for sea lions, seals, and even whales.
Once you arrive back in San Francisco, take some time to explore the city’s many attractions. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, walk along the Embarcadero, or head to the top of Twin Peaks for panoramic views of the city.
BONUS: San Francisco to Yosemite National Park
The San Francisco to Yosemite National Park drive is one of the best road trips from San Francisco you can take. This relatively short drive takes you to an iconic national park that took over 10 million years to form. The park is packed with majestic hiking trails, cozy campsites, and some of the best mountain viewing in the Western Hemisphere.
You can also park your RV for full hookup enjoyment at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort – an Outdoorsy owned property that’ll get you all the amenities at the doorstep of the national park.
Oh and as with many of these itineraries, Sacramento is a good jumping-off point for this spot too.
These road trips from San Francisco create an unforgettable adventure that will take you through some of California’s most stunning landscapes. From the towering redwoods of Big Sur to the vibrant beach town of Santa Cruz, this itinerary has something for everyone. So pack up your RV, hit the road, and get ready to explore all that the Golden State has to offer!
