California: Ultimate 10 Day Road TripA special California road trip along the Pacific coast with all the must-visit spots that I didn't manage to see on my 3-week West Coast road trip a year earlier (guide on my profile). However, I recommend making at least a two-week trip out of it. AuthorsTworoamtheworld
DestinationsCaliforniaItinerary

Day 1: Arrival in San Francisco

The Painted Ladies
I arrived at the airport and quickly checked out two photo spots that I had missed on my last visit. One of them was the Painted Ladies.
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Golden Gate Bridge
How to get the iconic „Bridge Between Two Trees“ shot: Take one of the short paths off the parking lot to access. To frame the shot, while looking north from Golden Gate Overlook, you'll see a small flight of stairs parallel to the trees. Place yourself and your camera at the top or bottom of those stairs to perfectly frame the bridge between those looming trees.
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Day 2: Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sulphur Works
Sulphur Works in Lassen Volcanic National Park is a geothermal area showcasing bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and vibrant mineral deposits. Easily accessible, it offers a glimpse into the park's volcanic activity, with sulfur-rich steam and unique landscapes hinting at Earth's dynamic forces.
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Lake Helen
Lake Helen, located in Lassen Volcanic National Park, is a stunning alpine lake at 8,200 feet. Its vibrant turquoise waters are fed by snowmelt, often surrounded by snow even in summer. Nestled below Lassen Peak, it offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for photography and picnicking.
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Bumpass Hell
Bumpass Hell is Lassen Volcanic National Park’s largest hydrothermal area, featuring steaming vents, boiling pools, and vibrant mineral hues. Accessible via a scenic 3-mile trail, it offers a surreal glimpse into volcanic activity. Named after Kendall Bumpass, who discovered the site in the 1860s.
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Kings Creek Falls
Kings Creek Falls, in Lassen Volcanic National Park, is a picturesque 30-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Reached via a scenic trail through meadows and forests, the falls cascade into a rocky gorge, offering a serene spot for hikers to enjoy nature's beauty and the sound of rushing water.
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Manzanita Lake
Manzanita Lake, in Lassen Volcanic National Park, is a serene spot known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of Lassen Peak. Popular for kayaking, fishing, and photography, it’s surrounded by lush forests and offers easy access via nearby trails, making it a favorite for visitors.
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Reflection Lake
Reflection Lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers tranquil beauty, with calm waters that mirror Lassen Peak and the surrounding forest. Accessible via short trails, it’s a peaceful spot for photography and birdwatching, showcasing the park’s serene alpine charm in every season.
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Chaos Crags
Chaos Crags in Lassen Volcanic National Park are rugged volcanic domes formed by eruptions over 1,000 years ago. These towering crags, a mix of jagged rock and forest, dominate the landscape and are a testament to the park's dynamic geology. Nearby trails offer stunning views of this dramatic feature.
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Burney Falls
Now we head out of Lassen Volcanic National Park: Burney Falls, located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, is a stunning 129-foot waterfall fed by underground springs. Its cascading, misty waters create a mesmerizing display, earning it the nickname "Eighth Wonder of the World." The surrounding trails offer breathtaking views year-round.
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McCloud River - Middle Falls, swim hole
Middle McCloud Falls, near Mount Shasta in California, is a picturesque 50-foot waterfall on the McCloud River. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush forest, it’s a favorite for hikers, photographers, and swimmers. The falls’ powerful flow and tranquil pool create a serene yet dynamic natural setting.
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Hedge Creek Falls
Hedge Creek Falls, near Dunsmuir, California, is a charming 30-foot waterfall flowing over a basalt cliff. A short trail leads to the falls, where visitors can walk behind the curtain of water into a shallow cave. This hidden gem offers peaceful surroundings and views of the Sacramento River.
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Lake Siskiyou
Lake Siskiyou, located near Mount Shasta, California, is a picturesque reservoir offering activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. Surrounded by scenic forests and with views of Mount Shasta, it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation and adventure in a serene alpine setting.
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Castle Lake
Castle Lake, located in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, is a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. Known for its crystal-clear waters, it’s a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The lake offers breathtaking views, especially with snow-capped Mount Shasta nearby.
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Day 3: Redwood National & State Parks

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Next stop is the amazing Trail „Grove of Titans“ in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
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Grove Of Titans Trail
The Grove of Titans Trail, located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California, offers a serene walk among some of the world's tallest trees. This 1.2-mile trail leads visitors through a mystical grove of ancient coast redwoods, with towering giants, ferns, and lush greenery surrounding the path.
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Trees of Mystery
Optional, if you have more time. Admission required. I have not visited the inside. Trees of Mystery, located in Klamath, California, is a unique roadside attraction featuring a stunning collection of ancient coast redwoods. Visitors can explore the forest on a guided tour, walk along elevated boardwalks, and admire the famous "Giant Tree" and "The Cathedral" formations.
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Tall Trees Grove
Tall Trees Grove, located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California, is home to some of the world’s tallest trees. Accessible via a scenic, 4-mile hike, visitors can marvel at the ancient coast redwoods and enjoy the peaceful, moss-covered forest, with the tallest tree reaching over 360 feet.
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Founders Grove
Founders Grove, located in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California, is a beautiful area featuring some of the tallest and oldest coast redwoods. The easy, half-mile trail takes visitors through a serene forest, showcasing giant trees like the "Founders Tree," a towering symbol of the park's natural heritage.
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Avenue of the Giants
Avenue of the Giants, located in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California, is a scenic 31-mile drive through a majestic corridor of ancient coast redwoods. Visitors can experience towering trees, lush forests, and tranquil spots for picnicking, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of this iconic route.
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Shrine Drive Thru Tree
Optional, entrance fee required. The Shrine Drive-Thru, located in Myers Flat, California, offers a unique experience where visitors can drive through a hollowed-out coast redwood tree. Part of the Humboldt Redwoods, it’s a fun and memorable way to appreciate these towering trees, blending nature with a quirky roadside attraction.
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Mendocino National Forest
After the Redwood State Parks, I continued along Route 1 to Mendocino and Jenner.
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Jenner
See above.
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Day 4: Carmel-by-the-Sea & Big Sur

Shark Fin Cove
Shark Fin Cove, located near Davenport, California, is a stunning coastal spot known for its distinctive rock formation resembling a shark's fin. The cove features dramatic cliffs, a sandy beach, and vibrant tidal pools, making it a popular destination for photographers, beachgoers, and nature lovers.
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17 Mile Drive
17-Mile Drive, located along the Monterey Peninsula, California, is a scenic route offering breathtaking views of the coastline, iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress, and luxurious golf courses. The drive winds through picturesque forests, cliffs, and beaches, making it a must-see for visitors and photographers.
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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, near Carmel, California, is a coastal haven known for its dramatic cliffs, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails. Visitors can explore tide pools, watch sea otters, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime spot for hiking, photography, and nature exploration.
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Castle Rock Viewpoint
Castle Rock Viewpoint, located along Highway 1 in Big Sur, California, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs. Nearby, the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge stands as one of the most photographed landmarks on the California coast, with its stunning architecture and scenic backdrop.
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Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach, located in Big Sur, California, is known for its unique rock formations, including the iconic rock arch. The beach features striking purple sand, created by manganese garnet, and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a popular spot for photography, sunsets, and nature walks.
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Partington Cove Trail
Partington Grove Trail, located in Big Sur, California, is a scenic hike that leads through a lush coastal redwood forest. The short trail offers a peaceful walk surrounded by towering trees, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline, making it a serene escape for nature lovers.
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McWay Falls
McWay Falls, located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur, California, is a breathtaking 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly into the Pacific Ocean. Visible from an overlook, this iconic waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning coastal views, making it a popular photography spot.
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Day 5: Route 1 until Morro Bay

Ragged Point Inn & Resort
Ragged Point, located along California's Pacific Coast Highway, offers dramatic cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. Known for its stunning vistas and picturesque landscape, it’s a popular stop for travelers, with a scenic viewpoint, a cafe, and access to nearby hiking trails.
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Friends Of The Elephant Seal Visitor Center
Piedras Blancas Rookery, located near San Simeon, California, is a vital breeding site for elephant seals. Visitors can observe these massive creatures lounging on the beach, especially during the winter and spring seasons when they come to haul out and give birth, providing an incredible wildlife viewing experience.
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William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach
William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach, located near San Simeon, California, is a scenic coastal spot offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its serene atmosphere, it features soft sand, a historical pier, and easy access to nearby Hearst Castle, making it a peaceful destination for visitors.
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VYANA Wellness Collective
Placeholder for Cambria: Cambria, located on California's Central Coast, is a charming seaside village known for its scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, forests, and the Pacific Ocean, it offers art galleries, boutique shops, and nearby attractions like Moonstone Beach and Hearst Castle.
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Morro Bay State Park
Morro Bay, located on California's Central Coast, is a picturesque coastal town famous for the iconic Morro Rock. The bay is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, and birdwatching, while the nearby waterfront offers restaurants, shops, and stunning views of the ocean, making it a relaxing getaway destination.
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Day 6: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park

Sequoia National Park Sign
Make a short stop for a souvenir photo.
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Parker Group Sequoias
The Parker Group Sequoias, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, is a collection of massive coast redwood trees in Sequoia National Park. Known for their towering heights and impressive girth, these ancient giants provide a spectacular example of the beauty and scale of the park’s sequoia groves.
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Moro Rock Trail
Moro Rock Trail, located in Sequoia National Park, California, is a short but steep hike that leads to a granite summit with panoramic views of the park, including the Great Western Divide. The trail features a series of staircases, making the climb challenging but rewarding with breathtaking vistas.
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Big Trees Trail
The second best Trail in the Park: Big Trees Trail in Sequoia National Park, California, is a 1.2-mile loop through a beautiful grove of giant sequoias. This easy, accessible trail offers visitors a chance to walk among some of the world’s largest trees, with informative signs detailing the ecology and history of these ancient giants.
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General Sherman Tree
The General Sherman Tree, located in Sequoia National Park, California, is the largest tree on Earth by volume. Standing 275 feet tall and over 36 feet in diameter, this massive sequoia is over 2,200 years old. A popular attraction, it draws visitors eager to witness its awe-inspiring size and grandeur.
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The Congress Trail
The best Trail in Sequoia National Park: The Congress Trail in Sequoia National Park, California, is a 2-mile loop through a magnificent grove of giant sequoias. This relatively easy hike takes visitors past some of the park’s most famous trees, including the President and Senate, offering stunning views of these towering giants and their ancient ecosystem.
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The President Tree
The President Tree, located in Sequoia National Park, California, is one of the largest and oldest trees in the world. Standing over 240 feet tall and estimated to be over 3,200 years old, it is part of the park's Giant Forest, offering visitors a chance to marvel at its incredible size and grandeur.
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The Senate (Trees)
The Senate Trees, located in Sequoia National Park, California, are a group of massive sequoias known for their impressive size and beauty. The twin trunks of the "Senate" trees stand side by side, towering over visitors as they stroll through the park's Giant Forest, showcasing the grandeur of these ancient giants.
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Tokopah Falls
Tokopah Falls, located in Sequoia National Park, California, is a stunning 1,200-foot waterfall. The falls are reached via a 1.7-mile hike through a scenic canyon, offering views of towering cliffs and lush forests. The trail provides a serene journey to one of the park's most impressive natural landmarks.
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The Big Stump Grove
Big Stump Grove, located in Sequoia National Park, California, is a peaceful area showcasing the remains of ancient sequoias, some of which were felled in the 1800s. The short, accessible trail offers visitors a chance to explore these towering trees' stumps and learn about the park's natural history.
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General Grant Tree
The General Grant Tree, located in Kings Canyon National Park, California, is the second-largest tree on Earth by volume. Standing over 267 feet tall, this giant sequoia is over 3,000 years old. It is part of the General Grant Grove, a popular spot for visitors to admire these ancient giants.
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Hume Lake
Hume Lake, located in Sequoia National Park, California, is a serene, picturesque lake surrounded by forested mountains. Popular for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking, it offers stunning views and peaceful surroundings, making it a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation in nature’s beauty.
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Grizzly Falls Picnic Area
Grizzly Falls, located in Kings Canyon National Park, California, is a stunning 75-foot waterfall. Easily accessible from the highway, it cascades dramatically over rocky cliffs into a lush, shaded canyon. The falls are a popular stop for visitors seeking a picturesque and peaceful natural setting.
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Zumwalt Meadows
Zumwalt Meadows, located in Kings Canyon National Park, California, offers a scenic, serene meadow surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forests. A popular spot for hiking and wildlife watching, it provides stunning views of the Kings River and the majestic canyon, making it a peaceful natural retreat.
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Day 7: San Luis Obispo to LA

SLO County Airport
San Luis Obispo, located on California's Central Coast, is a charming city known for its historic architecture, vibrant downtown, and nearby natural beauty. Popular attractions include the Mission San Luis Obispo, hiking trails, and nearby beaches, making it a welcoming destination for visitors seeking culture and outdoor activities.
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Avila Beach
Avila Beach, located on California's Central Coast, is a beautiful seaside town known for its sandy shores and calm waters. Popular for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing, it also offers local shops, restaurants, and stunning views, making it a relaxed destination for beachgoers and nature lovers.
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Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach, located on California’s Central Coast, is a popular destination known for its wide sandy shores and ideal surfing conditions. Visitors enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, and beachcombing, along with local attractions like the Pismo Beach Pier and nearby Monarch Butterfly Grove.
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Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
Oceano Dunes, located near Pismo Beach, California, is a unique coastal area known for its vast sand dunes, where visitors can drive off-road vehicles, go horseback riding, or explore on foot. The dunes offer stunning ocean views and are a popular spot for outdoor adventure and beach recreation.
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Solvang Theaterfest
Placeholder for Solvang: Solvang, located in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, is a charming Danish-inspired village known for its picturesque streets, windmills, and authentic architecture. Visitors can enjoy Danish pastries, wine tasting, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for those seeking a European flair in California.
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Pier Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara + Montecito: Santa Barbara, located on California's Central Coast, is known for its Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore its historic Spanish architecture, visit world-class wineries, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and surfing. Just to the east, Montecito is an upscale, picturesque town known for its luxurious estates, lush gardens, and celebrity residents. Together, these two coastal communities offer a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and refined living.
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Malibu Beach
Malibu Beach, located along California’s iconic Pacific Coast, is famous for its stunning coastline, pristine sands, and luxurious atmosphere. Known for its celebrity homes and world-class surf spots, it offers scenic beauty, beach activities, and a laid-back vibe, making it a popular destination for visitors.
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Day 8: Los Angeles

Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive, located in Beverly Hills, California, is a world-famous shopping destination known for its luxury boutiques, designer brands, and glamorous atmosphere. Visitors stroll its palm-lined streets to experience high-end fashion, fine dining, and a taste of Hollywood's elite lifestyle.
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Oldest McDonald's Restaurant & Museum
The oldest McDonald's in the world, located in Downey, California, opened in 1953 and is still operational. This iconic fast-food landmark features retro architecture, a vintage Speedee sign, and a small museum, offering visitors a nostalgic glimpse into the early days of McDonald's history.
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In-N-Out Burger
The famous In-N-Out Burger near LAX in Los Angeles, California, is a hotspot for travelers and aviation enthusiasts. Located under the airport’s flight path, it offers classic burgers, fries, and shakes alongside a prime spot to watch planes take off and land, making it a unique dining experience.
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The Original In-N-Out Burger Museum
The In-N-Out Replica, located in Baldwin Park, California, is a recreation of the original 1948 stand, the first In-N-Out Burger location. This small museum showcases vintage equipment, signage, and a glimpse into the chain’s humble beginnings, offering fans a nostalgic look at its history.
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Bob's Market
Bob's Market, located in Los Angeles, California, is a historic corner store famously featured in movies like The Fast and the Furious. Built in 1913, this family-owned market retains its vintage charm and serves as a beloved neighborhood landmark and popular stop for film fans.
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North Grand Avenue
Main street in downtown LA along the skyscrapers. Perfect for road trip shots.
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Vista Hermosa Natural Park, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority
Good spot for drone shots of the LA skyline.
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Dodger Stadium
Also a nice spot for drone shots.
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Figueroa Terrace
The best spot for drone shots of the skyline. Especially beautiful at sunset.
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Terraza Drive
Scenic views, perfect for shots from the car.
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Vista del Mar Park
Iconic Street, so instaworthy! My favorite! Scenic views, perfect for shots from the car.
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Punta Alta Drive
Iconic Street, so instaworthy! My second favorite! Scenic views, perfect for shots from the car.
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Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory, located in Los Angeles, California, is an iconic landmark offering stunning views of the city and Hollywood Sign. Featuring exhibits, telescopes, and a planetarium, it’s a hub for astronomy enthusiasts and visitors seeking breathtaking sunsets and a cultural experience.
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Venice Boardwalk
Venice Beach in Los Angeles, California, is a lively destination known for its sandy shores, iconic boardwalk, and creative energy. The Venice Skatepark, a highlight, draws skaters from around the world with its bowls, ramps, and ocean views. Visitors can explore street art, eclectic shops, and the famous Muscle Beach gym, making it a hub for culture, sports, and seaside fun.
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Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier, located in Santa Monica, California, is an iconic landmark featuring an amusement park, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. Highlights include the historic carousel, Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel, and an aquarium. It’s a lively spot for fun, sunsets, and a classic beachside experience.
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Crypto.com Arena
The stadium from above and the surrounding skyscrapers are an impressive backdrop for drone shots.
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Day 9: Death Valley National Park

Dante's View
Dante’s View, in Death Valley National Park, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. Perched at 5,475 feet, it overlooks Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. This easily accessible viewpoint is perfect for sunrise or sunset, showcasing the park’s dramatic landscapes.
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Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Point, located in Death Valley National Park, offers stunning views of the park's unique landscape, including colorful badlands and the Panamint Range. This popular viewpoint is known for its dramatic, otherworldly scenery, especially at sunrise and sunset, making it a must-see destination for photographers.
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Artists Palette
Artist's Palette, located in Death Valley National Park, is a vibrant display of multicolored rock formations created by the oxidation of minerals. The array of reds, purples, greens, and yellows is best seen in the late afternoon light, making it a striking stop for photographers and nature lovers.
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Badwater Basin
Badwater Basin, located in Death Valley National Park, is the lowest point in North America, sitting 282 feet below sea level. This vast salt flat stretches out in a surreal, otherworldly landscape, offering visitors a unique and starkly beautiful experience in one of the hottest places on Earth.
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Devils Golf Course
Devil's Golf Course, located in Death Valley National Park, is a vast expanse of salt formations that create a jagged, surreal landscape. The name comes from the rough, uneven terrain, which early explorers claimed was so treacherous only the devil's golf game could be played there, adding to its mystique.
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Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, located in Death Valley National Park, are a stunning desert landscape of sweeping sand dunes. The dunes, easily accessible from the road, offer a serene spot for photography, hiking, and stargazing, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light transforms the dunes into a magical scene.
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Day 10: Drive to San Diego

The Queen Mary
The Queen Mary, docked in Long Beach, California, is a historic ocean liner turned hotel, museum, and attraction. Famous for its elegant art deco design and maritime history, it offers guided tours, dining, and events. Known for its ghostly legends, it’s a popular destination for history buffs and thrill-seekers.
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Book
Newport Beach
Newport Beach, located in Orange County, California, is a beautiful coastal city known for its upscale atmosphere, pristine beaches, and scenic harbor. Popular for surfing, sailing, and shopping, it offers a blend of luxury resorts, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back beach vibes, making it a prime destination.
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Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach, located in Orange County, California, is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches, art galleries, and vibrant culture. Popular for hiking, tide pools, and its artistic community, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a thriving arts scene.
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Dana Point Harbor
Dana Point, located in Orange County, California, is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque harbor, whale watching, and outdoor activities. Visitors enjoy boating, surfing, and exploring nearby beaches, along with scenic views, making it a relaxing destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Carlsbad Premium Outlets
Carlsbad, located in San Diego County, California, is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and charming village atmosphere. Popular for visiting LEGOLAND, the Carlsbad Flower Fields, and the scenic coastline, it offers a mix of outdoor activities and relaxation.
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Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
Alila Marea Beach Resort, located in Encinitas, California, is a luxurious oceanfront retreat offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its modern design, world-class spa, and upscale dining, the resort provides a peaceful escape with a focus on wellness, relaxation, and natural beauty.
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VAGA Restaurant & Bar
Vaga Restaurant, located in Napa, California, offers a modern dining experience with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its creative cuisine and exceptional wine pairings, Vaga provides a refined atmosphere, making it a popular destination for food enthusiasts and wine lovers.
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Torrey Pines State Beach
Torrey Pines State Beach, located in San Diego, California, is a stunning coastal destination known for its dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and serene Pacific views. It offers hiking trails, like those in the adjacent Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and is ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.
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La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove, in San Diego, California, is a picturesque coastal spot renowned for its clear waters, rocky cliffs, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife watching, it’s home to sea lions and tide pools. The area also boasts stunning sunsets and scenic walking paths.
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Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach in San Diego is a stunning coastal destination known for its wide sandy shoreline, sparkling mineral mica, and gentle surf, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Iconic landmarks include the historic Hotel del Coronado and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
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San Diego International Airport
San Diego, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, year-round perfect weather, and diverse attractions. Visitors can explore Balboa Park, visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, enjoy the lively Gaslamp Quarter, or relax on the shores, making it a top travel destination.
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Detour 1: Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles Visitor Center
The Pinnacles Visitor Center, located on the park's east side near the campground, is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM (closed 12–1 PM). It offers maps, park information, and a bookstore operated by the Western National Parks Association. The center is accessible and serves as a starting point for exploring the park's trails and natural features.
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High Peaks Trail
The High Peaks Trail in Pinnacles National Park offers a challenging 5.3-mile loop with 1,628 feet of elevation gain. Hikers navigate narrow rock staircases carved into volcanic formations, aided by handrails. The trail provides panoramic views and opportunities to spot California condors. It's best hiked in cooler months due to limited shade.
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Bear Gulch Cave Trail
The Bear Gulch Cave Trail in Pinnacles National Park offers a 2.5-mile loop through talus caves and up to Bear Gulch Reservoir. The trail features narrow passages, stone steps, and seasonal waterfalls, making it a moderate hike. Flashlights are essential due to dark cave sections. Note: Upper cave closures protect bat habitats.
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Condor Gulch Trail
The Condor Gulch Trail in Pinnacles National Park is a 1.7-mile (2.7 km) one-way hike with an elevation gain of approximately 1,100 feet (335 meters), offering panoramic views of the High Peaks and opportunities to spot California condors. The trail is considered moderate to strenuous, with the Condor Gulch Overlook located about one mile in. Hikers can extend their journey by connecting to the High Peaks Trail for a more challenging loop. Due to minimal shade, it's advisable to hike during cooler parts of the day and carry sufficient water.
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Bear Gulch Reservoir
Bear Gulch Reservoir in Pinnacles National Park is a serene pool framed by volcanic cliffs, created in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Accessible via the Moses Spring Trail, it offers scenic views and is a habitat for the threatened California red-legged frog. Ideal for photography and picnicking, the reservoir is a tranquil spot to relax after exploring the nearby Bear Gulch Cave.
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Balconies Cliffs Trail
The Balconies Cliffs Trail in Pinnacles National Park is a 2.4-mile loop offering dramatic rock formations and a thrilling cave experience. Hikers traverse narrow canyons and scramble through Balconies Cave, a talus cave formed by massive boulders. A flashlight is essential for the dark passages. The trail is rated easy to moderate, with an elevation gain of 100 feet, making it accessible for most hikers. It's a popular route showcasing the park's unique geology.
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Balconies Cave
Balconies Cave in Pinnacles National Park is a talus cave formed by massive boulders wedged into narrow canyons. Accessible via a 2.4-mile loop from the west side, the cave offers a dark, twisting passage—flashlights are essential. Seasonal closures may occur to protect bat habitats.
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Prewett Point Trail
The Prewett Point Trail in Pinnacles National Park is a 0.9-mile (1.4 km) easy loop starting at the West Visitor Contact Station. Gently climbing 70 feet (21 meters), the trail offers panoramic views of the High Peaks and Hain Wilderness. It's wheelchair-accessible, with benches and interpretive signs along the path. Due to limited shade, hikers should bring sun protection and water. The trail connects to the Jawbone Trail for extended hikes.
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Detour 2: Channel Islands National Park

Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island, the second-largest in Channel Islands National Park, offers pristine beaches, rare Torrey pines, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike scenic trails like Lobo Canyon, camp under starry skies, and explore secluded shores. Accessible via boat or plane from Ventura.
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Painted Cave
Painted Cave, located on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park, is one of the world's largest sea caves. Stretching 1,227 feet in length, it features an entrance nearly 100 feet wide and 160 feet high, allowing boats to enter its first chamber . The cave's name derives from the vibrant colors of its walls, created by various rock types, lichens, and algae. Accessible only by boat, visitors can explore Painted Cave through guided tours, offering a unique opportunity to witness its natural beauty and rich marine life.
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Pelican Bay Trail
The Pelican Bay Trail on Santa Cruz Island offers a 4-mile round-trip hike from Prisoners Harbor, traversing rugged terrain with steep hillsides and ravines. This moderate to strenuous trail provides access to The Nature Conservancy's coastal property, requiring a valid landing permit for private boaters. Hikers can witness diverse habitats, including the rare Catalina ironwood tree and the endemic Santa Cruz Island jay. The trail culminates at a secluded cove, ideal for a peaceful rest before returning. Note that there are no amenities at Prisoners Harbor; visitors should come prepared with water and supplies.
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Scorpion Ranch
Scorpion Ranch, located on Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park, is a historic ranch dating back to the late 1800s. Constructed between 1886 and 1887, the ranch house was rehabilitated in 2004–2005 and opened as a visitor center in 2008, featuring exhibits and interpretive information. Visitors can explore the ranch's history through various exhibits and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. The area also offers a campground, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sightings of the endemic island fox.
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Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island, the largest in Channel Islands National Park, boasts diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to lush valleys. It's a haven for wildlife, including the island fox. Visitors can hike, kayak, and explore its rich history, including ancient Chumash sites and remnants of past ranching activities.
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Santa Barbara Island
Santa Barbara Island is one of the Channel Islands National Park's most remote and scenic islands, located off the coast of Southern California. Known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged terrain, and diverse wildlife, it offers a sanctuary for seabirds, marine life, and rare plants, making it a haven for nature lovers.
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San Miguel Island
San Miguel Island, part of Channel Islands National Park, is known for its rugged beauty and rich wildlife. It features dramatic cliffs, expansive grasslands, and abundant marine life. Home to unique species like the island fox, it's a prime spot for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring coastal ecosystems.
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Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island, part of Channel Islands National Park, is renowned for its striking sea cliffs, rocky arches, and vibrant marine life. Accessible by boat, it’s a popular destination for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. The island is also home to a historic lighthouse and diverse seabird populations.
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East Anacapa Island - Inspiration Point
Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island offers one of the most breathtaking vistas in Channel Islands National Park. A 1.5-mile round-trip hike from the visitor center leads to this scenic overlook, providing panoramic views of the rugged coastline and neighboring islands. The trail is considered easy, making it accessible to most visitors. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the island's unique flora, including vibrant wildflowers that bloom after winter rains. The point is also a prime spot for observing seabirds like California brown pelicans and western gulls soaring above the waves. Whether under a clear sky or enveloped in mist, Inspiration Point remains a must-visit for its unparalleled natural beauty.
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