How do you feel about my California trip ? Itinerary check
California Dreamin’: A 15-Day West Coast Itinerary Check and Feedback Request
Hello, readers!
I’m gearing up for a 15-day adventure along the California coast and beyond, with Las Vegas on the map as well. My previous visit to California left a lasting impression, and the recent trip I took to New York didn’t measure up in the same way. California felt like home, even more so than my time in New York, which was pleasant but not as immersive or inspiring.
I’ve handled the essentials—flights, accommodations, and a rental car are all booked. I love exploring urban neighborhoods, soaking up local vibes, and discovering coffee shops along the way. Having already done the classic tourist highlights on a prior trip, I’m now focusing on a deeper, more local experience and a broader route that includes Nevada.
I’d really value your feedback on my plan. Here’s the proposed itinerary:
Day 1
– Arrive at SFO around 1:30 p.m.
– Check into a hotel near Fisherman’s Wharf
– Explore the neighborhood and Pier 39
Day 2
– Brunch at Fisherman’s Wharf
– Alcatraz tour
– Chinatown and Union District
Day 3
– Alamo Square and the Painted Ladies
– Haight-Ashbury
– Golden Gate Park and Palace of Fine Arts
– Sunset at Crissy Field
Day 4
– Pick up rental car mid-morning
– Sausalito visit
– Return to San Francisco with Golden Gate Bridge views
– Afternoon at Santa Cruz Pier
– Begin Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) drive toward Monterey
– Sunset in Pacific Grove
Day 5
– Early departure along the PCH to Carmel-by-the-Sea
– 17-Mile Drive, Point Lobos, Bixby Creek Bridge, Garrapata
– Optional: San Luis Obispo if time allows
– Late afternoon in Morro Bay
Day 6
– Santa Barbara day trip
– Arrive in Santa Monica
Day 7
– Griffith Park at sunrise
– Hollywood for shopping and brunch (not focused on the Walk of Fame)
– Beverly Hills in the afternoon
– Sunset at the Palisades
Day 8
– Santa Monica Pier arcade morning
– Downtown Los Angeles
– Optional outlet mall visit in the late afternoon
Day 9
– Venice Beach and Malibu
– Sunset at Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade
Day 10
– Morning departure to San Diego
– La Jolla
Day 11
– Balboa Park morning
– Old Town and Gaslamp Quarter in the afternoon
– Ocean Beach in the evening
Day 12
– Early departure for Joshua Tree (full day exploration)
– Sunset at Keys View
Day 13
– Sunrise in Joshua Tree, then Pioneer Town and Alien Fresh Jerky
– Afternoon arrival in Las Vegas
– The Strip tour, including Bellagio interiors and fountains
– Evening Cirque du Soleil show
Day 14
– Very early departure for Death Valley and touring until 1:00 p.m.
– Optional outlet mall stop if energy allows
Day 15
– Morning at Red Rock Canyon
– Las Vegas Sign photo op
– Forum Shops and a Strip tour
– Fremont Street in the evening
Day 16
– Flight home at 4:30 p.m.
– Free morning
A few planning notes:
– I’ve kept daily pacing realistic, aiming to avoid overpacking each day while still capturing key experiences.
– The Big Sur wildfire risk is a concern; I’ve built flexibility into that portion of the route to adapt as needed.
– Hotels on the itinerary include Fisherman’s Wharf (San Francisco), Monterey, Morro Bay, Santa Monica, La Jolla (San Diego), a night near Joshua Tree, and a Las Vegas stay at the Sahara.
– Rental car arrangements are with Enterprise, and I hope for the option to choose the vehicle.
What I’d love from you:
– Practical feedback on the route, pacing, and any must-see additions or comfortable detours.
– Suggestions for standout coffee spots, neighborhoods, and hidden gems in each area.
– Tips for navigating peak tourist times, traffic patterns, and cost-saving strategies for fuel and meals (beyond simple fast food).
– Any overlooked precautions or improvements, especially around wildfire season and regional weather could adjust plans.
Cost expectations: I anticipate gas around six dollars per gallon and higher meal prices, with the caveat that casual dining and coffee spots can help manage expenses.
I’ve put a lot of thought into this trip, and I’m hoping for a well-rounded, efficient, and enjoyable experience. If you have any ideas I haven’t considered, I’d love to hear them. Thanks for reading and for any advice you can offer!