Foodie Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
Driving to San Diego from San Francisco can be one of the best U.S. road trips ever. A gorgeous coastline and stunning mountains interspersed with incredible beach cities—what more could you need? Fabulous food, of course!
Famous California foods range from Pacific Oysters to fortune cookies, and a road trip from San Francisco to San Diego is a great way to try them!
Want to know how to turn your drive to San Diego into one of the best California road trips of all time? Then this Foodie Road Trip from San Francisco to San Diego article is for you!
Foodie Road Trip: From San Francisco to San Diego
If you’re a foodie like me, the key to an epic San Francisco–San Diego road trip is all about where to eat along the way. Of course, you’ll want to see the gorgeous scenery too, but that’s the easy part—especially if you take the coastal route along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH, aka Highway 1 or Route 1) and the 101 Freeway.
The natural wonders on a road trip from San Francisco to San Diego, like the redwood forests, Big Sur, Morro Rock, and even a thriving elephant seal colony can all be easily spotted and enjoyed.
Redwood forest on California road trip from San Francisco to San Diego
But finding the best salmon bisque, avocado toast, and butter cookies is another story. Luckily, I have quite a fantastic list of places at which to eat and stay from start to finish on your road trip from San Francisco to San Diego! I’ve lived in the Bay Area and in many parts of Los Angeles, and I currently live in San Diego. In addition, I have been to each of the suggested road trip cities many, many times. So, if there was such a thing as a local’s road trip, this would be mine!
In case you’re wondering if you can turn the start and finish upside-down and drive to San Francisco from San Diego, you can. But, if you have a choice, or are flying to California for your road trip adventure, I prefer the San Francisco to San Diego drive. The Pacific Ocean will be on your right and the views while driving will be better. If you drive San Diego to San Francisco, your stops will be the same; you just may need to use the vista points a few extra times, which simply means you’ll be on the wrong side of the road for easiest access.
The spectacular Big Sur coast on the drive from San Francisco to San Diego
How Far Is it From San Francisco to San Diego?
The distance from San Francisco to San Diego can be as short as 500 miles, which can be driven in 7 to 8 hours without stops. This relatively quick route takes Interstate 5 through the middle of the state. This is a route of necessity, not for sightseeing or stopping at the best foodie destinations in California.
My preferred road trip from San Francisco is 575 miles and can be done in 11 hours without stops. But unless you’re competing in a road rally, who would drive 11 hours without stopping? So, if you’re going to drive San Francisco to San Diego via 101 and PCH, you should take your time and enjoy the trip.
Sea lions in La Jolla at the end of your San Francisco–San Diego road trip
7-Day Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego Itinerary
Once you figure out how many days you want to take, you can divide your San Francisco to San Diego drive time based on where you’d like to stay. For example, the itinerary below is for a 7-day road trip to San Diego from San Francisco, but it can be easily cut down to fewer days by eliminating stops. Or you can extend it based on the suggestions at the end of each day below.
Drive times given are without stops or traffic.
Day 1. Arrive in San Francisco
Day 2. San Francisco to Carmel—Drive Time: 2 hr 45 min
Day 3. Carmel to Cambria—Drive Time: 2 hr 30 min
Day 4. Cambria to Santa Barbara—Drive Time: 2 hr 15 min
Day 5. Santa Barbara to Santa Monica—Drive Time: 1 hr 40 min
Day 6. Santa Monica to Laguna Beach—Drive Time: 1 hr
Day 7. Laguna Beach to San Diego—Drive Time: 1 hr 15 min
Day 1: Arrive in San Francisco
Starting the road trip to San Diego from San Francisco
To embark on your San Francisco to San Diego road trip, you must first be in the City by the Bay. San Francisco’s food scene is one of the best in the U.S., so, if you’re not from the city, think about spending a couple of days here before you start your road trip.
If you are taking a road trip to San Francisco to make this happen, see my post on the best foodie itinerary for SF to help you plan. The article has all you need to know to see the best sights, eat the best meals, and have an awesome stay. For more information on the signature flavors of the City by the Bay, check out my article on famous San Francisco foods.
Or take a San Francisco food tour! And definitely check out the State Bird Provisions menu, you’ll want to have dinner there if you can.
Day 2: San Francisco to Carmel
Drive Time: 2 hr 45 minutes
Breakfast in San Francisco
If you followed my San Francisco itinerary recommendation and stayed at either the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins in Nob Hill, or the steps to Union Square Sonesta Clift Hotel, eat breakfast at your hotel. Both hotels serve worthwhile breakfasts, and you’ll be able to start your road trip to San Diego faster than if you venture out into the city for your morning meal.
Route to Carmel
The view of 17-Mile Drive’s Pebble Beach from The Bench
The scenic coastal drive out of San Francisco on Route 1 is about the same distance as taking either the 101 or 280 Freeways, but in ideal conditions, takes a half hour longer. If you want to maximize your California coast experience, it’s absolutely worth it to take Highway 1. And depending on traffic, it could wind up being the same or even less time.
Highway 1 hugs the coast for a good stretch from Pacifica (just south of SF) to Santa Cruz. You’ll also pass through Half Moon Bay, Pescadero, and Big Basin Redwoods State Park. It’s the perfect way to start your California Coast road trip!
Lunch at Pebble Beach
The Bench: Day 2 is all about getting to The Bench at Pebble Beach for lunch. Make a reservation so that when you get to the gates of 17-Mile Drive, you can give them your name and enter for free. Address: 1700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
Linger over a delectable lunch while soaking in the breathtaking view that overlooks the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links and the jagged cliffs along the Pacific Ocean. You can’t go wrong with the Korean-Style Brisket Sandwich, Wood Grilled Broccolini, Bread Balloon, or the BLT Salad.
Highway 1 road trip lunch at The Bench, Pebble Beach Golf Links
Things To Do in Carmel by the Sea
It will be tempting to spend the whole day at The Bench (BTDT), but since you are already within the gates of 17-Mile Drive, you should get back in the car and at least see the iconic Lone Cypress. Keep your restaurant receipt as you may need it at another gate.
Strolling through charming downtown Carmel by the Sea is a must-do to see the fairytale cottages that house art galleries, boutiques, gourmet food shops, and eateries. Consider purchasing a picnic lunch for tomorrow (see Day 3 lunch) at Nielsen Market, or you can grab some cheese and charcuterie from The Cheese Shop Carmel.
Nearby, the Carmel Mission Basilica is one of the prettiest California missions.
Dinner in Carmel by the Sea
A good portion of Carmel by the Sea doesn’t use numbers in its street addresses, so don’t think they’re missing below.
Casanova: Delightful French and Italian fare in one of the most darling little cottages. It also holds some nostalgia for me—this is the first restaurant in Carmel that my husband Mike and I dined in way back before we were married. Address: 5th Avenue between Mission and San Carlos.
Flying Fish Grill: One of the best Carmel seafood restaurants. Stick to the main menu rather than the Clay Pots. Address: Mission St. between Ocean & 7th Ave.
Hog’s Breath Inn: American food for fans of the restaurant’s former owner, Clint Eastwood. Address: San Carlos Ave. between Fifth and Sixth.
Shearwater Tavern: Terrific food focusing on local ingredients at an affordable price. Address: 3665 Rio Rd. Inside our Carmel hotel pick, Carmel Mission Inn (below).
For a full list of excellent places to dine in this picturesque town, read our article on the 17 Best Restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Parker House Rolls at Shearwater Tavern in Carmel
Where To Stay in Carmel—Carmel Mission Inn
As a tourist town, Carmel can be more than a little pricey. But at the newly renovated Carmel Mission Inn, you will find reasonably priced rooms and eats. I found the delicious food at their in-house restaurant, Shearwater Tavern, about 30% less than similar meals in town.
Since this is a foodie road trip, the excellent food value at Carmel Mission Inn’s restaurant definitely influenced my decision to choose it for my San Francisco to San Diego road trip.
Chef Wayne Brooks won me over big time from the start, with his Parker House Rolls. The salmon, flat iron steak, and ribs are all standout dishes. And don’t skip the whiskey bread pudding for dessert. Our meal was wonderful and the atmosphere convivial, with enough locals in the mix to let you know that it’s a spot sought out by those who live in town, not just enjoyed by the hotel’s guests.
The hotel itself has spacious rooms, some with balconies or outdoor patios. There’s a cozy outdoor seating area with fire pit and a large pool to cool off in.
While not in the immediate downtown area, it is just a few minutes away, and it’s located near enough to the Carmel Mission that we walked there. The location is also very conveniently located close to Highway 1, which will help you get a jump on your drive in the morning.
The Carmel Mission, one of our stops driving from San Francisco to San Diego
Add a Day to Your Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
Carmel’s neighbor, Monterey, is less than 15 minutes to the north. Visit the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Or, if you prefer hiking and beach activities, less than 15 minutes to the south, you can discover hidden crystal blue coves, wildlife like otters and deer, and serene nature trails at Point Lobos State National Reserve.
Day 3: Carmel to Cambria
Drive time: 2 hr 30 min; budget at least 4 hr
Breakfast in Carmel
Shearwater Tavern: There are lots of great breakfast places in Carmel, and Shearwater Tavern is one of them. The Avocado Toast with hot smoked salmon was out of this world!
If you stayed at the Carmel Mission Inn, this is a no-brainer. You’ll want to make a quick getaway this morning so you can spend more time admiring the scenic star of this PCH road trip, Big Sur.
The best Avocado Toast on our San Francisco to San Diego road trip, at Shearwater Tavern in the Carmel Mission Inn
Route to Cambria
Before leaving Carmel, decide on your lunch plan. If you need to pick up provisions, and missed getting them in town, there’s a grocery store next to the Carmel Mission Inn. Also, fuel up. The gas options are limited on this leg and very expensive.
Today you are on Highway 1 the entire day, and as I just hinted, the highlight of Day 3 is the PCH drive itself, or more accurately, the views of Big Sur. You’ll want to take your time winding through the spectacular Big Sur coastline, making frequent stops.
Pull out at the designated vista points to see Soberanes Canyon Trail, Rocky Creek Bridge, Bixby Bridge, Calla Lilly Valley (in bloom February–May), and McWay Falls. There are many Big Sur vista points that don’t have names that are just as jaw-droppingly worthy, so don’t be afraid to stop at any or every.
The Big Sur drive is why it’s best not to do this road trip from San Diego to San Francisco. Driving from north to south puts you on the right side of the road for the ultimate views of the steep cliffs and jagged coastline. And it makes it easier to pull into the vista turnouts. A road trip to San Fransisco from San Diego means you’d be making left-hand turns every time you wanted to stop.
About a half hour before Cambria, thousands of funny-faced elephant seals line the beach of Point Piedras Blancas Light House, otherwise known as Elephant Seal Vista Point. The world has only one elephant seal rookery and this is it—and there’s no admission fee!
Big Sur's Bixby Bridge, one of the must-see sights on a California PCH road trip
Lunch in Big Sur or Cambria
Lunch in Big Sur: Big Sur River Inn: You can obviously spend a full day or more visiting the parks and beaches on this route. If you do any of the hikes at Point Lobos State National Reserve, Garrapata State Park, or Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, you’ll probably need lunch before you get to Cambria. In this case, lunch at the Big Sur River Inn is a good choice, or bring your own picnic. Address: 46800 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Lunch in Cambria: Robin’s Restaurant: My go-to lunch in Cambria is at Robin’s Restaurant, right in the middle of downtown. I’ve been swooning over their Salmon Bisque for more than 20 years and can’t go to Cambria without getting at least a cup. They have lots of creative yummy vegan and vegetarian options too. The beets and the brussels sprouts are two of my favorites. Address: 4095 Burton Dr., Cambria, CA 93428
Things To Do in Cambria
Cambria’s Moonstone Beach ranked #4 on TripAdvisor’s list of 25 Best Beaches in the U.S., so you need to check it out. There’s an easy 1.4 mile boardwalk trail along the cliffs, or get down to the sand and search the tide pools for critters.
Downtown Cambria is the other big attraction. Cambria is a small artsy town. If Mendocino got together with Ojai, California and had a baby, it would be Cambria. Quaint shops, galleries, wine tasting rooms, and eateries line the main streets, and steps away lies a picture-perfect rocky coast.
Robin’s Restaurant, our best lunch in Cambria on our San Diego road trip
Dinner in Cambria
Especially if you had lunch in town, I recommend dining near the beach.
Sea Chest Oyster Bar: Known as the best seafood restaurant in Cambria. Please note, this cash-only restaurant does not take reservations and is closed on Tuesdays. Address: 6216 Moonstone Beach Dr.
Moonstone Beach Bar and Grill: Great seafood, salads, pastas, and sandwiches served on an ocean-view patio. Address: 6550 Moonstone Beach Dr.
Where To Stay in Cambria—The Pelican Inn
Pelican Inn and Suites is the way to go to maximize your Moonstone Beach time. And you can walk to both dinner options above. Address: 6316 Moonstone Beach Dr.
Add a Day to Your Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
If you’d like to spend another night in Cambria, you may want to visit the Hearst Castle, the tiny town of Harmony, or the nearby wineries.
You’ll find dozens of wineries on Route 46 from Cambria to Paso Robles. Although this California wine region has exploded with wineries in the last 20 years, it’s closer to an Anderson Valley wine tasting experience than the craziness of Napa Valley.
If you have the time, another option is to spend a day and overnight in San Luis Obispo. This vibrant college town is still a largely undiscovered gem. Among other things, it boasts a historic mission, a charming downtown, and the San Luis Obispo dining scene is deliciously diverse.
Popular Route 1 road trip highlight, Moonstone Beach in Cambria
Day 4: Cambria to Santa Barbara
Drive time: 2 hr 15 min
Breakfast in Cambria
Linn’s Restaurant: A Cambria institution since 1989, Linn’s will treat you right, whether you choose a classic country breakfast or a breakfast salad. Don’t leave without a jar of their Olallieberry jam! Address: 2277 Main St.
Route to Santa Barbara
You’ll start out on the Pacific Coast Highway South. You’ll pass through the sleepy seaside town of Cayucos, where you should pick up some Brown Butter Sea Salt Cookies from the Brown Butter Cookie Company located at 98 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos, CA 93430
From Cayucos on, you’ll notice the humongous haystack-shaped Morro Rock in the ocean. Formed over 23 million years ago from volcanic plugs, the island/park is now a State Historic Landmark that you can visit.
There are a couple of places on this San Fran to San Diego drive where Highway 1 stops, or it doesn’t make sense to take it, and this is one of them. About 18 miles after Cayucos, in San Luis Obispo, hop on the U.S. 101 South. SLO is a nice place to stretch your legs, and if you’re kicking yourself for not getting the brown butter cookies in Cayucos, you’ll have another opportunity here.
Take the 101 towards Pismo Beach and you’ll be inland for about 50 miles, at which point you’ll have to make a choice. If you’re jonesing for more coast, continue on the 101. If you’re up for a rural windy road, a lake, a cute town, and vineyards, take Route 154 towards Los Olivos.
Morro Rock, as seen from Cayucos, just off the Pacific Coast Highway
Lunch, Day 4
Depending on your stops and the route you choose, here are 4 lunch options.
Lunch in Pismo Beach: Splash Café: Their famous clam chowder bread bowl is a great excuse to stop in Pismo Beach. I used to camp in Pismo every year just for this clam chowder. Address: 197 Pomeroy Ave., Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Lunch in Los Olivos: Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café: Specializing in Mediterranean fare, this restaurant in the center of town also has its own winery. It’s always a treat! Address: 2879 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, CA 93441
Lunch in Santa Barbara: SB Biergarten: Beer, pretzels, sausages, and parking in the heart of the Funk Zone. 11 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 OR La Super Rica Taqueria: This budget-friendly whole-in-the-wall taco shop was made famous by Julia Child. I don’t love it as much as she did, but I’d feel remiss not mentioning it. Address: 622 N. Milpas St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Wine tasting in the Funk Zone at the Santa Barbara Wine Collective
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is one of California’s most popular tourist destinations. There is truly something for everyone: pristine beaches, shopping on State Street, miles of hiking trails, the pier at Sterns Wharf, the Santa Barbara Mission, and a thriving food and wine scene in the Funk Zone!
Yup, when I visit Santa Barbara, I tend to spend most of my time grazing and sipping in the lively Funk Zone. This is a great way to go wine tasting without worrying about driving!
Dinner in Santa Barbara
The Lark: Creative presentations of seasonal local ingredients. One of my kitchen employees turned me onto this Funk Zone restaurant years ago, and it remains my favorite dinner restaurant in Santa Barbara. Reserve in advance or try to find a seat at the bar. Address: 131 Anacapa St.
Toma Restaurant & Bar: Highly regarded for the best Italian cuisine in Santa Barbara. Address: 324 W. Cabrillo Blvd.
Shrimp at The Lark, one of our favorite dinners on our San Francisco–San Diego road trip
Where to Stay in Santa Barbara—The Eagle Inn
The building housing this bed and breakfast is an example of classic Santa Barbara architecture.
The best part: You can walk to most of the attractions on our “Things To Do in Santa Barbara” list from The Eagle Inn.
Add a Day to Your Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
Stay an extra night and see more of the city. You’ll find all kinds of picturesque nooks and crannies. Or visit nearby Montecito or the Santa Ynez wine country.
One of the many picturesque nooks and crannies in Santa Barbara, temporarily guarded by Bruno
Day 5: Santa Barbara to Santa Monica
Drive time: 1 hr 40 min
Breakfast in Santa Barbara
Cajun Kitchen: If you stay at The Eagle Inn, your breakfast is included, so, obviously, eat there. Otherwise, try the Cajun Kitchen. Another longtime favorite that will not disappoint. Mike reliably orders the Jambalaya and Eggs every single time, but I’ll throw in the Huevos Rancheros once in a while. 901 Chapala St.
Route to Santa Monica
When driving from San Francisco to San Diego, you’re bound to hit some traffic at some point, and may need to alter your route. Besides reliable holiday and rush-hour traffic, there is no fool-proof way to predict delays.
So, I suggest you look at a GPS on this leg of your journey. The 101 Freeway is pretty much the only option at the start, but double-check the route before you get to Ventura.
To get back to the coast in Oxnard, take the Rice Ave. exit, which will turn into CA-1 South. Take the Pacific Coast Highway through Malibu to Santa Monica.
If you’re not going all the way to San Diego and are doing the road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you’ll just take the 10 Freeway east from Santa Monica to downtown LA.
Malibu Pier on our PCH road trip to San Diego
Lunch in Santa Monica
Library Ale House: This restaurant has a special place in my heart because it is where I was introduced to my favorite beer, Weihenstephaner Vitus. Sandwiches, salads, burgers, bar food. Lunching here will give you a chance to check out Main Street, which you may otherwise miss. Address: 2911 Main St.
Father’s Office: Their burger with blue cheese, caramelized onion, bacon, arugula, and Gruyére graces many “Best Burger in LA” lists. A little away from Santa Monica’s main tourist area, this stretch of Montana Ave. is worth a gander. Must be 21 or over as this really is a beer (and wine) bar. Address: 1018 Montana Ave.
Things To Do in Santa Monica
Undoubtedly you’ve seen many Santa Monica landmarks in the movies or on TV, and most of them are within walking distance of each other. Don’t be surprised if you spot one while you stroll the Palisades Park on the cliffs of Ocean Ave. and gaze at the gorgeous Pacific.
Your walk will lead you to the Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find an amusement park. A few blocks away, the Third Street Promenade bustles with street performers. And if you take that to its southern end, you’ll be at Santa Monica Place. In addition to high-end shopping, Santa Monica Place offers terrific ocean and city views from the top level.
If you have time, Venice Beach borders Santa Monica and can be quite entertaining. Walk the Strand and Abbot Kinney Boulevard and then peak at the canals. Yup, that’s why it’s called Venice!
Catching the sunset is a must! You can get great photos just south of the pier on the Strand, right in front of Shutters Hotel.
Enjoying a sunset in Santa Monica, a must-do experience on a drive to San Diego from San Francisco
Dinner in Santa Monica
Tar & Roses: My top pick for dinner in Santa Monica has consistently been Tar & Roses since the first time I dined there. With a menu that changes seasonally, Chef Andrew Kirschner delivers drool-worthy, globally inspired dishes. Two of my must-haves when they’re on the menu—Oxtail Dumplings and the Shellfish Pot. Reserve ahead, or try to walk in for seating at the bar. Address: 602 Santa Monica Blvd.
Cassia: California meets France meets East Asia with dishes like Vietnamese Pot Au Feu and Charcuterie Fried Rice. 1314 7th St.
Melisse: In case you just won the lottery . . . Prix-fixed ($295/person) 7-course fine dining extravaganza at a two-Michelin-star restaurant. 1104 Wilshire Blvd.
One of my favorite famous foods from France, Foie Gras, at Tar & Roses, in Santa Monica
Where To Stay in Santa Monica—Le Meridien Delfina
When I stay in Santa Monica, I usually stay at Le Meridien Delfina. It’s much more affordable than the ocean front hotels, and the convenient location puts you in walking distance to the top sights to see, as well as my #1 and #2 dinner picks. If you can snag a room with an ocean view balcony, you’ll really love it!
Add a Day to Your Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
There’s so much to see and do in Santa Monica (and Venice), and we haven’t even talked about the rest of Los Angeles. LA County is huge and offers such a plethora of diverse activities.
You can go wine tasting in Malibu, hike to the Hollywood sign, do the Walk of Fame, peruse The Getty Museum (or any number of other area museums), shop Rodeo Drive, tour the movie studios, and so much more.
Malibu vineyards on Mulholland Highway, in Malibu Wine Country
Day 6: Santa Monica to Laguna Beach
Drive time: 1 hr
Breakfast in Santa Monica
The Penthouse: Take a glass elevator to the top floor of the Huntley Hotel, where this appropriately named restaurant affords one of the best views in Santa Monica. And their breakfast and brunch dishes are top notch. 1111 2nd St.
Venice Beach Breakfast Options: If you want to hit Venice Beach before you continue on (it’s on the way), The Rose, Egg Slut, and Gjelina are all excellent choices. This is a good excuse to see some of Venice if you haven’t already and are not in a hurry to get to Laguna Beach.
Route to Laguna Beach
If you are pressed for time, you can easily make this the last driving day of your road trip to San Diego and go all the way. But if you’re up for one of California’s prettiest foodie beach towns, Laguna Beach is worth spending the night in.
As I said, on your drive from San Francisco to San Diego, sometimes it doesn’t make sense to stay on Route 1, and in Santa Monica we’re ditching it for a while. Basically, Highway 1 turns into Lincoln Blvd. here and becomes a stop-and-go city street. So, take the 10 Freeway to the 405 South, to the 73, and then the 133 back to the Pacific Coast Highway.
Heisler Park in Laguna Beach, one of our favorite cities between San Francisco and San Diego
Lunch in Laguna Beach
The Deck: It’s as close to lunch on the beach as you can get without being in the sand. Order slowly as you won’t want to leave this beach party. The Steamed Clams and Mussels are a must. This is also a wonderful place to watch the sunset—though I don’t suggest you stretch out your lunch that long. The only downside is they don’t accept reservations. 627 Sleepy Hollow Ln.
Las Brisas: At the base of Heisler Park, Las Brisas serves upscale Mexican cuisine with a view. 361 Cliff Drive
Drinks at The Deck in Laguna Beach on our California Coast road trip
Things To Do in Laguna Beach
Known for its summertime Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters, the entire city of Laguna Beach truly exudes artsiness. Roam around town searching for creative displays like the unexpected red octopus phone booth and the bus stop in front of the library.
This artsy town meanders through 7 miles of glorious coastline. On the north end of the city, walking the paved path of Heisler Park provides magnificent views of Laguna’s cliffs and coves. For more rugged trails, wander Crystal Cove State Park and take the steps down to the beach. Watch for migrating whales December through April.
Dinner in Laguna Beach
Broadway Restaurant: You know you're in a foodie town when it attracts a Top Chef finalist like Chef Amar Santana. You will want to order everything on his menu. The Sherry Glazed Smoked Pork Chop was our hands-down winner the night we last went, but we’re eager to return and taste more of the creative options we just couldn’t get to. The restaurant is so good there’s no ocean view and doesn’t need one to stay busy all night. Reservations recommended. 328 Glenneyre St.
Rooftop Lounge: Another option for great food with a splendid view, the Rooftop Lounge offers the same menu for lunch and dinner. Try their Hamachi Crudo and/or Fish and Chips. Reservations recommended but they do take walk-ins. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., 4th floor.
Raviolo at Broadway in Laguna Beach, one of our favorite restaurants on our foodie road trip
Where to Stay in Laguna Beach—Casa del Camino
This is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in California, so unfortunately, hotel prices reflect the high demand. The historical Casa del Camino hotel is more economical that most. It offers simple, clean rooms, conveniently located, and some rooms have ocean views.
The Rooftop Lounge is, of course, on the top floor. Even if you choose not to eat at this restaurant, go up and have a drink at the bar, or just gawk at the 180° view.
The hotel has an additional restaurant on the first floor, Comedor. It serves California-Spanish style tapas and tasty sangria.
Add a Day to Your Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
I am all for slow travel and if you want to stick around Laguna Beach another day, it’s nice to just relax and enjoy Orange County’s best beaches.
For a foodie excursion, travel to Corona del Mar (25 mins) and lunch at Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens, a restaurant inside an upscale plant nursery. An inviting outdoor space filled with fresh flowers provides a lovely ambiance for a long lunch (with wine). The Grilled Asian Beef Short Ribs; Panko, Curry, & Coconut Iceland Cod; and Sea Scallops, Shrimp, and Mussels Pasta are all scrumptious!
Coconut Curry Cod at Farmhouse at Roger's Garden
Day 7: Laguna Beach to San Diego
Drive time: 1 hr 15 min
Breakfast in Laguna Beach
Driftwood Kitchen: If you stayed at the Casa del Camino, take advantage of the complimentary self-serve muffins and coffee just off the lobby. If you need to fend for yourself, there’s Driftwood Kitchen just half a mile down the beach with creative twists on breakfast classics, and a superb view of the Pacific Ocean. 619 Sleepy Hollow Ln.
Route to San Diego
Follow CA-1 South to the 5 South to San Diego for the last day of your San Francisco to San Diego road trip.
The area around Oceanside tends to get backed up during rush hours and almost any time on the weekends. You can exit the 5 almost anywhere and take the parallel route on 101 as an alternative. It is a more coastal road, but it is not like the 101 Freeway you were on earlier in your San Fran to San Diego road trip. Lots of lights make it pretty slow, but the scenery is nice and it still beats inching your way along the freeway around Oceanside.
After driving San Francisco to San Diego, you may be a tad tired of your car. But San Diego is composed of many different neighborhoods with distinct personalities, so driving is really the best way to see them.
I think the town and coast of La Jolla stand out as the top destination. Use it as a base to see the sights that are spread throughout San Diego.
Final stop on the San Francisco to San Diego road trip, the La Jolla coast
Lunch in San Diego
Sugar and Scribe: Chef Maeve appeared on many Food Network baking shows. She is most acclaimed for her baked goods and pancakes, but her savory creations rival the sweets—especially when homemade breads and English muffins are involved! 7660 Fay Ave., Suite I, La Jolla, 92037
Cafe Coyote: San Diego has some of the best Mexican food in the U.S. If you’re looking for tortillas and tamales made from scratch daily, Cafe Coyote in historic Old Town San Diego is where to go. 2461 San Diego Ave., San Diego, CA 92110
Raglan Public House: Visiting the Ocean Beach neighborhood? It may be worth going just for the Blazin’ Ahi Sandwich at Raglan Public House! The Lambalicious burger with three cheeses comes in a close second. 1851 Bacon Street, San Diego, CA 92107
Lamb Burger and Blazin’ Ahi Sandwich at Raglan Public House
Things To Do in San Diego
La Jolla village charms the most discerning shopper, but it’s the coast that captures my fancy. The coastal walk starts at the Cave Shop and traverses Ellen Browning Scripps Park to the La Jolla Cove and Children’s Pool (a beach, not a pool, that is now more for seals than children.) Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate seeing the seals, sea lions, cormorants, and pelicans in their natural habitat.
Other top attractions in San Diego include Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego, Little Italy, Coronado Island, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Mission Beach.
Balboa Park, one of the top things to do in San Diego
Dinner in San Diego
Nine-Ten Restaurant: Awarded Michelin’s Plate distinction, this fine dining restaurant is located in our La Jolla Hotel pick. Everything I have ever ordered at this restaurant has been impeccably prepared. Reservations recommended. 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037
The Shores Restaurant: With a table on the grass just steps from the sand, you’ll really feel like you’re on vacation at this restaurant in the La Jolla Shores Hotel. The view from inside is almost as good. 8110 Camino De Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037
Isola Pizza Bar: With a restaurant in Little Italy and one in La Jolla, you’re bound to be close to San Diego’s best real Italian-style pizza. The fresh house-made pastas are also extraordinary! 1526 India St. San Diego, CA 92101, and 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037
Where To Stay in San Diego—Grande Colonial Hotel
The Grande Colonial La Jolla Hotel offers well-appointed rooms with ocean views and gourmet fare. Read more about why you should stay at this boutique hotel in La Jolla.
Add a Day to Your Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego
You can stay a week in San Diego and still not see everything. So, decide how long you can stay and what’s most important to you, and do your best. If you can’t see everything you’re interested in, don’t worry: We’ll always be happy to welcome you back!
The cliffs of La Jolla, the last city on our California road trip
The Road Trip From San Francisco to San Diego Finale
What’s next? Will you now be driving from San Diego to San Fransisco? Will you fly home?
As we said, the drive from San Diego to San Francisco can be done in a long day if you go through the middle of the state on the 5 Freeway. The scenery can be a little monotonous, but it’s not too tough.
But if you want to turn back around and take a foodie road trip from San Diego to San Francisco, you should have enough options to choose from for a unique trip north. Decide on what to repeat and what unexplored choices from your way down to pick this time to enjoy another fun-filled week!
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