San Francisco Itinerary

Overview

This two week California travel itinerary begins in San Francisco, an iconic city celebrated for its rolling hills, the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and eclectic neighborhoods. Known for its rich cultural history and vibrant food scene, it offers something for every traveler. From Alcatraz to Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco is the perfect starting point for your California adventure.

How long to stay in San Francisco

3 days

How to get there

Fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

Best hotels to stay in San Francisco

1. HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here
2. Beck’s Motor Lodge (Budget option) – Great value with free parking. Book here
3. The Fairmont San Francisco (Boutique hotel) – Luxurious and historic. Book here

What to do in San Francisco

• Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge (Free).
• Explore Alcatraz Island ($42 for ferry and tour).
• Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 (Free).
• Take a cable car ride ($8).
• Stroll through Chinatown and enjoy local food.

Where to eat in San Francisco

• Tartine Bakery ($) – Famous pastries. Google Review: 4.7
• Fog Harbor Fish House ($$) – Seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf. Google Review: 4.6
• Gary Danko ($$$) – Fine dining experience. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in San Francisco

• Public transport (Muni buses, BART trains, cable cars), ride-shares, or walking.

San Francisco digital nomad rating:

4.5/5 Nomad San Francisco

• Pros: Vibrant tech scene, great coworking spaces.
• Cons: High cost of living.

Yosemite Itinerary

Overview

Yosemite National Park, a must-see on this two week California travel itinerary, is a breathtaking wilderness renowned for its towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoia trees. This iconic park is a haven for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Its unparalleled beauty and diverse landscapes make it a cornerstone of any California adventure.

How long to stay in Yosemite

2 days

How to get to Yosemite from San Francisco

Take a bus to Yosemite Valley (5-6 hours; $30-$40). Alternatively, drive (4 hours; $20 park entry fee).

Best hotels to stay in Yosemite

1. Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and near the park. Book here
2. Wawona Hotel (Budget option) – Historic and scenic. Book here
3. Yosemite Valley Lodge (Boutique hotel) – Convenient location near Yosemite Falls. Book here

What to do in Yosemite

• Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (Free).
• Visit Glacier Point for panoramic views (Free).
• Walk among giant trees at Mariposa Grove (Free).
• Photograph the iconic El Capitan and Half Dome (Free).

Where to eat in Yosemite

• Degnan’s Kitchen ($) – Casual meals. Google Review: 4.2
• The Mountain Room ($$) – Views of Yosemite Falls. Google Review: 4.5
• Majestic Yosemite Dining Room ($$$) – Elegant dining. Google Review: 4.7

Modes of transport in Yosemite

• Shuttle buses within the park; private car for remote areas.

Yosemite digital nomad rating:

3.5/5

• Pros: Incredible natural setting.
• Cons: Limited internet and cell coverage.

Monterey Itinerary

Overview

Monterey, a highlight of this two week California travel itinerary, is a picturesque coastal town celebrated for its historic Cannery Row, renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, and breathtaking Pacific Ocean vistas. Its rich maritime heritage and charming atmosphere make it a favorite for visitors. From coastal walks to wildlife spotting, Monterey offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

How long to stay in Monterey

1 day

How to get to Monterey from Yosemite:

Drive to Monterey via Fresno (4.5-5 hours; $20 park exit fee). Alternatively, book a shuttle or bus combo via Merced (6-7 hours; $50-$70).

Best hotels to stay in Monterey

1. HI Monterey Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and near the aquarium. Book here
2. Lone Oak Lodge (Budget option) – Comfortable and family-friendly. Book here
3. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (Boutique hotel) – Luxury with oceanfront views. Book here

What to do in Monterey

• Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium ($50).
• Walk along Cannery Row and explore its shops and restaurants (Free).
• Drive the scenic 17-Mile Drive ($11.25 toll).
• Spot wildlife at Lovers Point Park (Free).

Where to eat in Monterey

• Old Fisherman’s Grotto ($) – Famous clam chowder. Google Review: 4.5
• The Fish Hopper ($$) – Oceanfront seafood. Google Review: 4.6
• Pebble Beach The Bench ($$$) – Upscale with golf course views. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Monterey

• Walking for central areas; car for 17-Mile Drive and nearby spots.

Monterey digital nomad rating:

4/5 Nomad Monterey

• Pros: Beautiful scenery, peaceful vibe.
• Cons: Limited coworking spaces.

Big Sur Itinerary

Overview

The two week California travel itinerary continues in Big Sur, a rugged coastal region offering breathtaking ocean views, towering redwoods, and iconic stops like Bixby Creek Bridge.

How long to stay in Big Sur

1 day

How to get to Big Sur from Monterey

Drive along Highway 1 to Big Sur (1-1.5 hours; Free). No public transport is available, so renting a car is essential.

Best hotels to stay in Big Sur

1. Big Sur River Inn (Budget option) – Historic lodge along the river. Book here
2. Ripplewood Resort (Boutique option) – Cozy cabins surrounded by nature. Book here
3. Post Ranch Inn (Luxury option) – High-end eco-resort with incredible views. Book here

What to do in Big Sur

• Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge for iconic photos (Free).
• Hike at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park ($10 parking fee).
• Visit McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (Free with parking fee).
• Relax at Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its purple sand ($12 parking fee).

Where to eat in Big Sur

• Big Sur Bakery ($$) – Rustic bakery and café. Google Review: 4.6
• Nepenthe ($$$) – Stunning cliffside views and American fare. Google Review: 4.7

Modes of transport in Big Sur

• Driving is the only option; roads are narrow but scenic.

Big Sur digital nomad rating:

3/5

• Pros: Gorgeous views and tranquility.
• Cons: No internet or coworking options.

Santa Barbara Itinerary

Overview

Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera,” offers a mix of Mediterranean-style architecture, pristine beaches, and upscale dining.

How long to stay in Santa Barbara

1 day

How to get to Santa Barbara from Big Sur

Drive along Highway 1 through San Luis Obispo (4-5 hours; Free). Alternatively, take an Amtrak train from San Luis Obispo (3 hours; $25).

Best hotels to stay in Santa Barbara

1. Moxy Santa Barbara (Highly rated hostel) – Trendy with a social vibe. Book here
2. Lemon Tree Inn (Budget option) – Simple with a pool. Book here
3. Simpson House Inn (Boutique hotel) – Luxurious and serene. Book here

What to do in Santa Barbara

• Visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara ($15 for guided tour).
• Walk along Stearns Wharf and enjoy beach views (Free).
• Explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden ($15 entry).
• Relax on East Beach (Free).

Where to eat in Santa Barbara

• La Super-Rica Taqueria ($) – Authentic Mexican tacos. Google Review: 4.5
• The Lark ($$) – Farm-to-table dining. Google Review: 4.7
• Bouchon ($$$) – Upscale Californian-French cuisine. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Santa Barbara

• Walking, cycling, or short drives.

Santa Barbara digital nomad rating:

4.5/5 Nomad Santa Barbara

• Pros: Stunning scenery, upscale vibe, good internet.
• Cons: Higher costs.

Los Angeles Itinerary

Overview

Los Angeles, a key stop on this two week California travel itinerary, is a sprawling metropolis renowned as the heart of the entertainment industry. With its diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks like Hollywood and Griffith Observatory, and sunny beaches, it offers endless opportunities for exploration. From vibrant nightlife to cultural attractions, Los Angeles captures the essence of Southern California.

How long to stay in Los Angeles

3 days

How to get to Los Angeles from Santa Barbara:

Take a train via Amtrak Pacific Surfliner (2.5 hours; $30). Alternatively, drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (2 hours; Free).

Best hotels to stay in Los Angeles

1. Samesun Venice Beach (Highly rated hostel) – Vibrant atmosphere near the beach. Book here
2. The LINE Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Modern design in Koreatown. Book here

What to do in Los Angeles

• Visit the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre (Free).
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign for panoramic views (Free).
• Explore the Getty Center and its art collections (Free, parking $20).
• Stroll along Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier (Free).

Where to eat in Los Angeles

• Pink’s Hot Dogs ($) – Famous LA street food. Google Review: 4.3
• Guelaguetza ($$) – Authentic Oaxacan cuisine. Google Review: 4.6
• Republique ($$$) – Upscale bakery and brasserie. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in Los Angeles

• Rent a car for flexibility; Metro and rideshare apps are also popular.

Los Angeles digital nomad rating:

4/5 Nomad Los Angeles

• Pros: Plenty of coworking spaces, vibrant culture.
• Cons: Traffic congestion and high costs.

Joshua Tree Itinerary

Overview

The two week California travel itinerary continues with Joshua Tree National Park, a desert wonderland known for its unique Joshua trees, dramatic rock formations, and clear night skies for stargazing.

How long to stay in Joshua Tree

1 day

How to get to Joshua Tree from Los Angeles:

Drive to Joshua Tree (2.5 hours; $30 for park entry). Alternatively, take a bus to Palm Springs and book a transfer (4 hours; $50).

Best hotels to stay near Joshua Tree

1. Crashpod Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and social. Book here
2. Pioneertown Motel (Budget option) – Quirky desert lodge. Book here
3. Sacred Sands (Boutique hotel) – Peaceful luxury near the park. Book here

What to do in Joshua Tree

• Hike the Hidden Valley Trail (Free with entry fee).
• Visit the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise or sunset (Free).
• Climb Skull Rock and explore nearby trails (Free).
• Stargaze at the Joshua Tree Night Sky (Free).

Where to eat near Joshua Tree

• Crossroads Café ($) – Breakfast and casual fare. Google Review: 4.5
• La Copine ($$) – Farm-to-table dining. Google Review: 4.7
• Pappy & Harriet’s ($$$) – Iconic roadhouse with live music. Google Review: 4.6

Modes of transport in Joshua Tree

• A car is essential for exploring the park.

Joshua Tree digital nomad rating:

3.5/5

• Pros: Unique setting, peaceful.
• Cons: Minimal internet and coworking options.

San Diego Itinerary

Overview

The two week California travel itinerary concludes in San Diego, a mix of sunny beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural attractions, making it the perfect final stop on a California trip.

How long to stay in San Diego

2 days

How to get to San Diego from Joshua Tree

Drive to San Diego via Palm Springs (3 hours; Free). Alternatively, book a bus transfer via Riverside (5 hours; $40).

Best hotels to stay in San Diego

1. HI San Diego Downtown Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Social vibe in the Gaslamp Quarter. Book here
2. The Pearl Hotel (Budget option) – Stylish and affordable near the beach. Book here
3. La Valencia Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Luxury with oceanfront views in La Jolla. Book here

What to do in San Diego

• Relax on Coronado Beach or La Jolla Shores (Free).
• Visit the historic Balboa Park and its museums (Free, museum fees vary).
• Explore the USS Midway Museum ($26).
• Stroll through the lively Gaslamp Quarter for dining and nightlife (Free).

Where to eat in San Diego

• Oscar’s Mexican Seafood ($) – Famous fish tacos. Google Review: 4.6
• The Crack Shack ($$) – Casual gourmet chicken. Google Review: 4.7
• George’s at the Cove ($$$) – Fine dining with ocean views. Google Review: 4.8

Modes of transport in San Diego

• Public transport, bikes, and ride-shares work well; a car is useful for day trips.

San Diego digital nomad rating:

4.5/5 Nomad San Diego

• Pros: Great climate, good coworking spaces, relaxed vibe.
• Cons: High costs in tourist areas.