If you’re dreaming of the open road, California delivers in a big way. Whether you’re winding along the coast, climbing into the Sierra Nevada, or cruising through wine country, there’s no shortage of unforgettable drives. We’ve mapped out 15 of the best California road trips—from classic coastlines to off-the-grid adventures—to help you plan (or just daydream about) your next escape.
Pacific Coast Highway: Los Angeles to San Francisco (524 miles)
This classic California road trip along Highway 1 delivers endless ocean views, charming seaside towns, and iconic landmarks around nearly every turn. Starting in Los Angeles, you’ll cruise through Santa Barbara’s Spanish-style streets, the wine-country charm of San Luis Obispo, and the dramatic cliffs and redwoods of Big Sur. Spend time exploring Monterey’s Cannery Row, and end your journey with a scenic drive across the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco.
Highway 395 Road Trip: Los Angeles to Mammoth Lakes
Climbing out of LA and into the rugged Eastern Sierra, this route showcases one of California’s most diverse landscapes. You’ll pass Lone Pine and the cinematic Alabama Hills, the ancient bristlecone pine forest, and numerous natural hot springs perfect for a scenic soak. Finish your journey in Mammoth Lakes, a year-round destination for hiking, skiing, and alpine relaxation.
Santa Barbara to Paso Robles
A quick escape into Central Coast wine country, this short road trip is perfect for a relaxing weekend. Starting in beachy Santa Barbara, you’ll pass through the rolling vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley and charming towns like Los Olivos and Solvang. Paso Robles welcomes you with hundreds of wineries, a buzzing food scene, and natural hot springs to unwind.
San Luis Obispo to Monterey
This stretch of coastline between San Luis Obispo and Monterey is one of California’s most photogenic drives. Wind through artsy Morro Bay, spot elephant seals near San Simeon, and tour the opulent Hearst Castle perched above the sea. Continue along Big Sur’s rugged cliffs and redwood groves before reaching Monterey and its famed aquarium and oceanfront dining.
San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
Trade the city streets of San Francisco for the alpine air of Lake Tahoe on this scenic Sierra Nevada drive. Along the way, you can stop in Gold Country towns like Placerville or Auburn for a taste of California history. Once at Tahoe, enjoy crystal-clear waters, ski resorts, hiking trails, and panoramic mountain views any time of year.
San Francisco to Mendocino
This North Coast road trip is all about rugged beauty and small-town charm. From the foggy bluffs of Point Reyes to the windswept beaches of Bodega Bay, you’ll follow winding roads through redwood forests and coastal cliffs. Mendocino is your reward at the end—a quaint seaside village known for its art galleries, dramatic vistas, and peaceful vibe
Mendocino to Redwoods National Park
Continue north from Mendocino through some of the most majestic redwood groves in the world. Drive the Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park and walk beneath trees that are thousands of years old. Redwoods National Park offers misty trails, elk sightings, and a true sense of nature’s grandeur.
San Francisco to Yosemite National Park
A must-do road trip for outdoor lovers, this route takes you from the city to the iconic wilderness of Yosemite. Drive through the fertile Central Valley and historic Gold Rush towns before climbing into the Sierra Nevada. Once inside the park, marvel at Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, and the valley’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Yosemite National Park to Lassen Volcanic National Park
This longer road trip connects two incredible national parks and shows off the best of Northern California’s mountain terrain. Stop in historic towns like Nevada City, take in views of Mount Shasta, and explore alpine lakes along the way. At Lassen, you’ll find bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and hiking trails with hardly a crowd.
Lassen Volcanic National Park to Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Journey into the remote wilderness of Northern California on this peaceful road trip through forests and mountains. You’ll pass through high-elevation lakes, serene campgrounds, and some of the best stargazing spots in the state. The towering presence of Mount Shasta looms large throughout, offering countless hiking and photography opportunities.
Yosemite National Park to Death Valley National Park
Few road trips show off California’s extremes like this one, spanning granite peaks to desert basins. You’ll pass ghost towns, mountain passes, and perhaps even snow before descending into the arid landscape of Death Valley. Stop to see Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and the surreal colors of Artist’s Palette.
Death Valley National Park to Joshua Tree National Park
A rugged, remote route through California’s desert interior, this drive connects two of the most unique national parks in the country. The wide-open terrain is dotted with old mining towns and endless sky. Finish in Joshua Tree’s strange, rocky landscape, where you can hike, climb, and stargaze under pristine skies.
The Lost Coast: Mattole Road Loop
This wild, off-the-grid drive is for those who want to leave the crowds behind and embrace California’s remote beauty. Mattole Road winds through untouched coastline, rolling hills, and thick forests, with no cell service and few signs of civilization. It’s a rough ride, but the solitude and scenery are unforgettable.
Bohemian Highway: Occidental to Freestone
A short drive packed with personality, the Bohemian Highway winds through redwoods, rolling hills, and quirky small towns. Stop in Occidental for artisan shops, grab fresh bread in Freestone, and sip wine at roadside tasting rooms. It’s a peaceful, slow-paced journey through one of Sonoma’s hidden gems.
Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway: Lone Pine to Bridgeport
Following Highway 395 through the Eastern Sierra, this drive is a deep dive into California’s mountain magic. Explore the film-famous Alabama Hills, the ghost town of Bodie, and high-altitude lakes near Bishop and Mammoth. Fall brings dazzling foliage, but this trip is breathtaking in every season.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.