18 days from Carmel Valley to Mendocino — wine, whales, redwoods & Pacific sunsets
About This Guide
This itinerary traces the California coast in all its variety: the pastoral calm of Carmel Valley Ranch, the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur and Cambria, the maritime wonder of Monterey, the rolling fog of Half Moon Bay, the wine caves of Calistoga and Napa, the wild headlands of Mendocino, and finally San Francisco to close the loop.
Eighteen days is enough to slow down and actually feel each place — not just drive through it. Every region on this route deserves at least two nights, and the pacing here reflects that. The rental car is essential; the coast is meant to be driven on your own schedule.
Before You Leave Home
An intermediate SUV from Alamo (booked via Costco) is your vehicle for the entire 18 days. This trip is highway-centric — Route 1 along the coast and 101 inland. Good storage space matters; you're moving hotels frequently.
Days 1–2 · July 24–25
Your introduction to California begins at Carmel Valley Ranch — a luxury resort tucked into the Santa Lucia mountains with a working organic garden, lavender fields, infinity hot tub, and vineyard views. Two nights here set the perfect tone before the coastal drive begins.
Thursday · July 24
Flight departs Newark at 9 AM, arriving SFO at 12:15 PM (PST). Allow time for baggage claim — then head to the Alamo counter for your rental SUV.
Alamo is at the consolidated rental car facility accessible via the AirTrain from the terminals. The intermediate SUV reservation was made through Costco — payment happens at pickup.
Stop near the Millbrae/Burlingame area for lunch and supplies — water, snacks, and anything you need for the drive south. The Safeway on El Camino Real is easy and well-stocked.
About 2 hours south on US-101. Free parking on property. Check in, get your room, and take a first walk around the grounds — the views over the valley and vineyards are immediate and impressive. Check the front desk for a schedule of ranch activities and events during your stay.
The resort's signature restaurant — farm-to-table cooking with produce from the organic garden on property. A relaxed and excellent dinner to kick off the trip without having to drive anywhere.
Head back to your room and enjoy the balcony. The Carmel Valley air in the evening is soft and warm with a slight hill breeze — a very different experience from the foggy coast you'll see later in the trip.
Friday · July 25
Free coffee in the lobby — pick up a pastry at The Market & Creamery on the ranch grounds or use something you brought from the previous day's supply stop.
Three good options depending on your energy and the weather. The Corral Hike is gentle with shady sections and ranch overlooks — ideal for a relaxed morning. The Huff 'N' Puff + Horseshoe Trail Loop is a moderate 3-mile circuit with panoramic vineyard views. Or visit the organic garden and lavender field for a more leisurely morning with excellent photography opportunities.
The ranch has several pools — ask which is currently the warmest or most scenic. The infinity hot tub overlooking the valley is one of the genuine highlights of this property. A long afternoon here is not a waste of time.
Complimentary ranch activity at the Lodge Lobby — meet the farm animals, a charming and genuinely fun 20-minute experience that's part of the ranch's character.
A short drive from the ranch. Dinner in the wine garden with live music until 7 PM — a lovely outdoor California evening. Folktale is known for its estate wines, light bites, and laid-back atmosphere. Can be cancelled if you'd prefer to stay on the ranch property and find dinner there.
Days 3–4 · July 26–27
Saturday moves from the ranch to the coast — a morning in the storybook village of Carmel-by-the-Sea before driving south to Cambria Beach Lodge for two nights. Sunday brings Hearst Castle, elephant seals, a pier lunch, and a winery tasting.
Saturday · July 26
Have coffee at Carmel Valley Ranch and a light snack before checking out at 11 AM. Leave luggage with the concierge — they'll hold it while you explore Carmel-by-the-Sea. Pick it up on your return drive south.
About 20–25 minutes via Carmel Valley Road to Ocean Avenue. Park near Ocean Ave & Lincoln Street — this puts you close to the shops, beach access, and lunch spots.
Café Carmel is a local classic with sandwiches, paninis, quiche, pastries, and espresso — great for a quick sit-down or grab-and-go. Alternatively, explore Ocean Avenue first and eat when hunger strikes — there are good options throughout the village.
Walk Ocean Avenue from top to bottom — unique art galleries, local boutiques, and artisan food shops line the route. Carmel Plaza has a mix of local and familiar brands including Anthropologie. At the bottom of Ocean Avenue: Carmel Beach, with white sand and sweeping views of the rocky headlands. Walk the Scenic Bluff Path for breathtaking coastline views along the cliffs above the beach.
Return to Carmel Valley Ranch to pick up luggage, then drive approximately 2 hours south on Route 1 (some sections closed — use back roads as needed). Check in to Cambria Beach Lodge — ideally located just steps from the Moonstone Beach boardwalk.
Steps from the hotel, the 1-mile wooden boardwalk runs along clifftops with panoramic Pacific views — perfect for a sunset stroll. Look for sea otters, pelicans, and harbor seals. Walk down to the beach itself to look for smooth moonstones, jade, and driftwood. Bring a light jacket — it gets breezy in the evening.
A Cambria institution with a diverse menu and lovely garden setting. Requires a short drive. Alternatively, Sea Chest Oyster Bar is directly across from the hotel — no reservations, cash only, but excellent for fresh seafood. If Sea Chest has seating, it may be the better choice given the location.
Sunday · July 27
Start early — Hearst Castle tours begin at 9:20 AM and it's a 30-minute drive north on Route 1.
Bring your printed confirmation letter and photo ID to the Visitor Center ticket window. A bus takes you from the visitors center up the hill to the castle. The Grand Rooms Tour is the classic first-time visit — the Neptune Pool, Casa Grande, and Celestial Suite are among the highlights. Truly one of the most extraordinary private residences ever built in the United States.
4 miles north of Hearst Castle. A colony of hundreds of northern elephant seals hauls out on this beach year-round — in summer you'll see juveniles and sub-adult males. Walk the Boucher Trail from the parking lot north toward the lighthouse (about 1.9 miles one way). An extraordinary and completely free wildlife experience.
Drive south to San Simeon Pier. Walk the pier until your lunch order is ready. Food is ordered online in advance for 1 PM pickup — the pier partners with Seaside Foods, located inside Sebastian's General Store, a historic building adjacent to the pier. A classic California coastal lunch experience.
The $35 Legacy Tasting fee is waived with the purchase of 2 bottles. The wines are estate-grown on the Hearst Ranch and the tasting room has views of the coast. A unique tasting experience given the historic property it's connected to. Allow about 90 minutes.
Drive into Cambria and find parking near Robin's Restaurant — it marks the beginning of the shopping area. Both the West and East Villages offer a mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Worth a browse if you still have energy.
A warmly regarded Cambria bistro with an interesting menu of seasonal California cuisine. Requires a short drive into town. A fitting finale to a very full day.
Days 5–7 · July 28–30
Three nights at the Intercontinental The Clement Monterey put you at the epicenter of one of California's most beautiful coastal cities. Whale watching on Monterey Bay, the world-renowned aquarium, Cannery Row, and miles of coastal trail all within walking distance.
Monday · July 28
Continental breakfast at the hotel, then check out and head north on Route 1 toward Monterey. The drive takes about 90 minutes and is scenic the entire way.
Check in early if possible. If the room isn't ready, leave bags with the concierge and head straight out to Cannery Row — the hotel is right on it. Stroll the historic waterfront, browse the boutique shops and galleries, and get your bearings for the next three days.
After settling in, relax by the pool if it's a warm afternoon, or walk the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. The trail runs directly past the hotel — go southwest toward Lovers Point Park for harbor seals, otters, tide pools, and rocky coves. Or head northeast toward Fisherman's Wharf and the Coast Guard Pier (excellent for sea lions). No dinner plans tonight — explore the area and find something that looks good.
Tuesday · July 29
Walk to the Starbucks on Cannery Row — very close to the hotel. Order ahead online if possible to avoid waiting. You need to be checked in for the whale watch by 8:30 AM.
Check in at 8:30 AM for the 9 AM departure. Dress in warm layers regardless of the weather — it's always colder on the ocean. Long pants, a jacket, and closed shoes. Bring snacks, water, binoculars, camera, and sunscreen. Monterey Bay is one of the best whale watching locations in the world — humpbacks, blue whales, orcas, dolphins, and sea birds are all possible. The tour runs approximately 3–4 hours.
After the tour, grab lunch near the wharf and walk back to the hotel. You'll likely be tired and slightly wind-blown — a relaxed lunch is the right call.
A few hours in the room or by the pool before the afternoon walk. An early whale watch morning earns a proper rest.
Walk southwest toward Lovers Point Park in Pacific Grove — a flat, gorgeous 2-mile stretch with harbor seals, otters, tide pools, art benches, small beaches and coves. Or head northeast toward Fisherman's Wharf past the Monterey Bay Aquarium, McAbee Beach, and the Coast Guard Pier (sea lions are reliably present here).
Wednesday · July 30
Tidal Coffee is a well-regarded local coffee shop with food. If time is short, Starbucks on Cannery Row is the backup option. Check out of the hotel and have them hold your bags.
One of the finest aquariums in the world — and walking distance from the hotel. The Kelp Forest tank (three stories tall, the first of its kind), the Open Sea exhibit with sharks and tuna, the sea otters, and the jellyfish galleries are the standouts. Allow 2.5–3 hours. Don't skip the tide pool touch tanks.
Grab a snack if hungry, collect bags from the hotel, and head north on Route 1. The drive takes about 2 hours and follows the coast the entire way — pull over at any turnout that looks interesting. Half Moon Bay's fog-draped headlands are a striking contrast to sunny Monterey.
Marriott property with free parking and free continental breakfast. Relax after the drive. The Coastside Trail runs right past the property — a short walk gives you the feel of the Half Moon Bay headlands.
Barbara's Fishtrap is a 15-minute walk — cash only, no reservations, arrive by 6 PM for a chance at a table. Half Moon Bay Brewing Company is also a 15-minute walk — call ahead to check wait times. Both are excellent for fresh coastal seafood in a casual setting.
Days 8–9 · July 31 – August 1
Two relaxed days on the San Mateo coast with easy access to walking trails, kayaking, the harbor, and one of the Bay Area's best casual seafood restaurants just steps from the hotel.
Thursday · July 31
Free continental breakfast at the Beach House Hotel. A relaxed morning before choosing your day activity.
The Coastside Trail runs 3 miles each way along the cliffs — walk or rent bikes for the full out-and-back. Pillar Point Harbor is reachable from the trail and is home to Half Moon Bay Kayak Co. — kayaks and bikes available to rent online in advance. If the weather is good, the pool at the hotel is another option. Main Street is about 5 miles away if shopping interests you.
Right next to the hotel — a 2-minute walk. Sam's is one of the Bay Area's most celebrated seafood restaurants with stunning headland views, a lobster bisque that people drive hours for, and an excellent clam chowder. The outdoor deck is spectacular on a clear evening.
Friday · August 1
Enjoy the hotel's free breakfast and take a morning walk on the Coastside Trail or along the beach before checking out. A relaxed morning before transitioning to the next accommodation.
Address provided 4 days before check-in. Use the day to fill time between Half Moon Bay and the Vrbo check-in — explore the area, run any errands, or find a spot for lunch.
Days 10–11 · August 2–3
An early morning start for Muir Woods — one of the most awe-inspiring old-growth redwood groves in Northern California. Then an afternoon transition to Calistoga for wine country.
Saturday · August 2
Leave by 7:45 AM to arrive for your parking window. Bring your parking reservation, National Park Pass, and layers — the redwood grove stays cool and shaded even in August. The Cathedral Grove trail is the iconic walk through the tallest trees. Arrive early to enjoy the quiet before the crowds build.
The Main Trail loop (2 miles) takes about 90 minutes at a comfortable pace through old-growth coast redwoods, some over 1,000 years old and 250 feet tall. The Bohemian and Cathedral Groves are the quieter sections with the most towering trees. Follow it with a side trail up the hillside for perspective and filtered light through the canopy.
Use the afternoon based on what's nearby your Vrbo location and what interests the group. The Marin Headlands, Sausalito waterfront, and Point Reyes area are all nearby and scenic.
Sunday · August 3
Check out by 10 AM and load the car. You're transitioning to the Inn on Pine in Calistoga — about a 90-minute drive north through the wine country.
Pick up any stored luggage at the Fairfield Inn & Suites (250 El Camino Real, Millbrae) by noon if needed, before heading north to Calistoga.
It's a roughly 2-hour drive from the Bay Area to Calistoga. Call ahead to let them know you'll arrive after 6 PM — the lobby is open until 10 PM. Settle in, then take a walk to Calistoga Creamery for ice cream (open until 9:30 PM).
Day 12 · August 4
A full day of tastings in Napa Valley's northernmost wine town. Bennett Lane in the morning, lunch in Calistoga, and Tamber Bey in the afternoon — with ice cream to close the evening.
Monday · August 4
Continental breakfast at the Inn on Pine. A relaxed morning before the first winery tasting.
A well-regarded Calistoga winery known for its Maximus red blend and Cabernet Sauvignon. The tasting experience is relaxed and unpretentious — a good introduction to the northern Napa style. Scenic property with vineyard views from the tasting room.
Calistoga's main street has several good lunch options. Brannan's Grill and Sam's Social Club at Indian Springs are both reliable choices. Take a walk through the town's boutiques and geothermal spa storefronts after eating.
A unique Calistoga winery located on a working equestrian estate — horses roam the grounds while you taste. The estate Cabernets and Bordeaux blends are excellent. Booked online in advance. One of the more memorable tasting experiences in Napa.
Return to the inn and relax. Dinner in town or at a nearby spot depending on appetite. Close the night at Calistoga Creamery — open until 9:30 PM and completely worth two visits.
Days 13–15 · August 5–7
Two nights at the acclaimed Brewery Gulch Inn puts you in one of California's most atmospheric coastal towns. Mendocino is rugged, quiet, and genuinely beautiful — cliff-top state parks, fern-lined canyon hikes, kayaking on Big River, and a complimentary wine hour each evening at the inn.
Tuesday · August 5
Continental breakfast at the hotel. Check out at 11 AM and head north. Download offline maps before you leave — cell service along the Mendocino coast and Hwy 128 can be unreliable.
Boonville is a small town in the Anderson Valley wine region about halfway to Mendocino — a perfect lunch stop on Hwy 128. The Boonville Hotel Restaurant is a local favorite. Grab something before the final hour of driving to the coast.
Check in or leave bags if the room isn't ready. The inn is on the south edge of Mendocino — step outside and you're immediately in the headlands. Explore the town if there's time before the evening wine hour.
Complimentary wine hour in the lobby from 5:30–6:30 PM — local Mendocino coast wines, light snacks, and excellent conversation with the inn staff about what to do in the area. Don't skip this; the innkeepers are a genuine resource.
Wednesday · August 6
Full breakfast is included — one of the best included hotel breakfasts on the California coast. Take your time and plan the day's activities over the meal.
Four excellent options depending on energy and preference. Van Damme State Park (2 miles south): lush Fern Canyon Trail to a pygmy forest — one of the most unusual hikes in California. Mendocino Headlands State Park (walkable from town): dramatic bluff-top walks with sea cave views and whale watching in season. Russian Gulch State Park (7 min north): 3-mile round-trip hike to a 36-foot waterfall via forest trail. Big River Kayaking: rent from Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too and paddle the calm estuary through redwoods and wildlife habitat — absolutely serene.
Walk into Mendocino village for lunch and a browse of the galleries and shops. The town sits on a headland surrounded on three sides by the Pacific — the light here in the afternoon is extraordinary for photography.
Second evening of the complimentary wine hour. A ritual worth honoring both nights.
Days 15–16 · August 7–8
Check out of Mendocino and drive southeast into Napa Valley for one night at Alila Napa Valley — a resort-style property with a pool, infinity hot tub, and exceptional outdoor dining at Salva Terrace & Bar.
Thursday · August 7
Final breakfast at the inn. Check out at 11 AM and say goodbye to the coast. The drive southeast to Napa Valley takes about 2.5 hours via Hwy 128 through the Anderson Valley.
If there are sights still on the list, use the morning before departure. Or drive straight to Napa with a lunch stop somewhere scenic along Hwy 128.
Leave bags if the room isn't ready and head to the pool or explore the property. The welcome wine is waiting in your room. Poolside dining is available 11 AM–2 PM — you may be arriving just within that window.
A proper resort afternoon after 15 days of movement. The pool and infinity hot tub at Alila are exceptional. Let the Napa Valley sun do its work.
Outside seating has been requested and confirmed. A sophisticated outdoor dining experience at one of Napa Valley's most beautifully designed resort restaurants. After dinner, open the welcome wine on your balcony — a fitting end to the wine country chapter of the trip.
Days 16–18 · August 8–10
Three nights at the legendary Palace Hotel — one of San Francisco's grand historic properties with a free breakfast and $100 hotel credit. Explore the city, dine out, and close a remarkable California adventure.
Friday · August 8
Breakfast at Alila (not included — use the dining credit or pay separately), then check out at 11 AM. Drive about 2 hours south to San Francisco.
The Palace is one of San Francisco's iconic grand hotels — opened in 1875, with the magnificent Garden Court restaurant at its center. Free breakfast and a $100 hotel credit are included with the booking. Explore Union Square, SoMa, and the surrounding neighborhood on foot.
San Francisco has extraordinary dining options at every price point. The Ferry Building Marketplace (15-minute walk) is excellent for casual, high-quality bites. Bix, Zuni Café, and Foreign Cinema are excellent full-service restaurant options nearby. No plan needed tonight — walk and find something that looks good.
Saturday–Sunday · August 9–10
Breakfast at the hotel, then a full day to explore. The Palace is well-positioned for SoMa, the Embarcadero, the Ferry Building, and Union Square. Chinatown, North Beach, and the waterfront are all reachable on foot or by cable car. No plans required — San Francisco rewards wandering.
Breakfast at the hotel. Check out at 11 AM. Use the morning for any last sights or errands. Leave for SFO by 1 PM to return the rental car and check in for your flight.
United flight 2626 departs from Terminal 3 at 4:20 PM, arriving EWR at 1:05 AM. Return the rental car at the Alamo counter before checking in. Allow at least 2.5–3 hours at the airport for car return and security.
My Life Happens Travel · Dining Guide
Farm-to-table cooking using produce from the resort's organic garden. The most convenient dinner option of the trip — no driving required on arrival night.
Tock ReservationWine garden dining with live music until 7 PM on Friday evenings. Estate wines, light bites, and a laid-back California outdoor vibe. Short drive from the ranch.
Tock ReservationA local classic on Ocean Avenue — sandwiches, paninis, quiche, pastries, and excellent espresso. Good for a quick lunch before walking the town and beach.
Walk InA Cambria institution with a diverse, globally inspired menu and a lovely garden setting. An alternative to Sea Chest if you want a seated dinner experience.
ReservationSteps from the hotel, fresh Pacific seafood, cash only, and no reservations. Arrive early for the best chance at a table. If it's available, it may be the best dinner of the Cambria stay.
Cash Only · Walk InA warmly regarded Cambria restaurant with seasonal California cuisine. A more refined option for Sunday night after the full day of Hearst Castle and wine tasting.
OpenTableOrder online ahead of time for 1 PM pickup at the pier. Partnered with Sebastian's General Store — a historic building with great views of San Simeon Cove.
Order Online in AdvanceOne of the Bay Area's most celebrated seafood restaurants. The Maine Lobster Roll and New England clam chowder are award-winning. The outdoor deck has sweeping headland views.
7:30 PM ReservationA Half Moon Bay institution for fresh fried seafood. Cash only, no reservations — arrive by 5:30–6 PM. Unpretentious and delicious with harbor views.
Cash Only · No ReservationsOutdoor terrace dining at one of Napa's most beautiful resort properties. Outside seating requested and confirmed. Pair with the welcome wine on your balcony afterward.
OpenTable · 7:30 PMOpen until 9:30 PM — the perfect low-key evening close for both Calistoga nights. Local, excellent ice cream in a charming wine country town setting.
Walk InA natural stopping point on the drive from Calistoga to Mendocino. The Anderson Valley is Pinot Noir country — a glass with lunch is entirely appropriate.
Walk In