California Road Trip Inspiration
From majestic peaks to sandy beaches to world-class cities, California truly has it all. There’s more to see than you could accomplish in a lifetime, but you can try!
Whether you want a day or a week on the road, you can experience some of the Golden State’s best sights when you take a California road trip. Check out the itineraries below that branch from major California cities.
Northern California Road Trips
Natural Wonders Beyond San Francisco
The beautiful stops on this Northern California road trip will take your breath away more than once. Highlights include Moonstone Beach, Yosemite National Park, and the Redwoods. Throw a tent and sleeping bags in the back of an SUV and hit the road!
- Recommended Duration: 7-10 days
- Total Distance: About 1500 miles round trip
Silicon Valley to the Central Coast
A quick road trip along the PCH is always a good idea. Start in San Jose and hug the coastline all the way to San Simeon. Be prepared for some spectacular vistas in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a gorgeous area where services (including cell service) are limited thanks to restrictions on development that preserve the area’s natural beauty.
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 days
- Total Distance: About 175 miles one way
Sacramento to Lake Tahoe
After some quick sightseeing in the California capital, leave the Central Valley for the Sierra Nevada. After all, Lake Tahoe is less than 3 hours away! No matter what time of year you’ll be traveling, this resort destination welcomes anyone who wants a vacation with outdoor activities and indoor fun.
- Recommended Duration: 3-5 days
- Total Distance: About 250 miles one way
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Southern California Road Trips
Hollywood Hotspots: Burbank to Santa Monica
Get a taste of Tinsel Town with this day trip that begins in Burbank, where you can find Walt Disney Studios and the Warner Brothers lot. Head to the Griffith Park Observatory, past the Hollywood sign, and down to The Getty. From there, drive to Santa Monica in time to catch the sunset from the pier.
- Recommended Duration: 1 day
- Total Distance: About 35 miles one way
Los Angeles to Santa Cruz
Say goodbye to Hollywood and hello to the Pacific Coast Highway with this road trip that is all about beach life. Pass through Malibu, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Big Sur on your way to the boardwalk in Santa Cruz.
Recommended Duration: 3-5 days
Total Distance: About 375 miles one way
San Diego to Orange County and Catalina Island
This trip is the perfect weekend road trip for a family with young kids. There’s a limited amount of car time and a stop in LEGOLAND. Children will also enjoy the brief ferry ride out to Catalina Island.
- Recommended Duration: 3 days
- Total Distance: About 80 miles one way
Book a Car Rental for Your California Road Trip
Avis has locations throughout California where you can pick up or drop off a rental car. Book a ride for your road trip today.
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