Sacramento to Lost Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Sacramento to the Lost Coast of California! This 437km road trip takes 3 days and is best done in the summertime when the weather is pleasant and the days are long. Along the way, you will pass through the charming towns of Davis and Clearlake, where you can take a break and explore the local attractions. The road conditions are excellent, and the scenery is breathtaking. From rolling hills to towering redwood forests, you will be amazed by the beauty of the landscape.
This road trip is perfect for anyone looking for a memorable experience. Enjoy a moderate budget and a high level of comfort on this journey. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a first-timer, you’ll be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the Lost Coast of California!
3
number of days
437 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Sacramento
Distance 437 km
Driving time 7.0 h
Pace: modest
113.7 kWh
Airports
SMF
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Sacramento, the capital of California, is a great starting point for your road trip. Located in the heart of the Central Valley, Sacramento is the sixth-largest city in the state and is known for its diverse neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.
The city is home to a variety of attractions and sights, from the iconic Tower Bridge to the Crocker Art Museum and the State Capitol. Take a stroll down the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront, and explore the old buildings and cobblestone streets of the area. In the summer, don’t miss the summer concerts and festivals that take place in the city.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Car rentals are available at the airport.
From Sacramento, you can begin your road trip to the Lost Coast. Along the way, you can explore the majestic Redwood forests, the rugged coastline, and the charming small towns.
Whether you are looking for a fun day trip or an extended road trip, Sacramento is the perfect starting point. Start your journey today and explore the beauty of Sacramento and the Lost Coast.
1
Sacramento
- Davis
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
10.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers to the Sacramento to Davis stage of your tour! This stage of your journey is 22 miles long and can be completed in less than an hour. As you drive, be sure to take in the historical sites along the way.
In Sacramento, you'll want to visit the California State Capitol, the Governor's Mansion, and the Old Sacramento State Historic Park. Then, as you drive to Davis, you can explore the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve, and the UC Davis Dairy.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey from Sacramento to Davis!
Davis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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2
Davis
- Winters
Distance 22 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
5.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Davis to Winters Road Trip stage! This 14-mile journey will take you less than an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places in these two cities.
In Davis, you'll find the UC Davis Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden with over 4,000 species of plants and trees. You can also visit the John Natsoulas Center for the Arts, an art gallery with a wide range of contemporary artwork.
When you arrive in Winters, you'll want to check out the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve. This nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, and you can take a leisurely walk along the creek. There's also the Putah Creek Cafe, which serves delicious farm-to-table dishes.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Winters - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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3
Winters
- Clearlake
Distance 126 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
32.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Winters-Clearlake road trip! This stage of your journey is a 78-mile drive that will take you fewer than 3 hours.
Your first stop is in Winters, a charming small city that is home to the historic Putah Creek Lodge, a great place for lunch. After your meal, explore the nearby Putah Creek Riparian Reserve, a beautiful area of wetlands and woodlands.
Continuing on your journey, you will find yourself in the city of Clearlake. Here, you can visit the Clear Lake State Park, which offers swimming, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Be sure to also check out the Clearlake Historical Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the area's past.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Clearlake - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Clearlake
- Avenue of the Giants
- Leggett
Distance 178 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
53.4 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Start your journey in Clearlake, United States and drive through the Avenue of the Giants. This 111 mi (179 km) stretch of road will take you less than 3 hours to drive and is a must-see for any road-tripper. You will be surrounded by the majestic redwoods of California, and you will have the opportunity to explore the famous Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Along the way, make sure to stop at the Avenue of the Giants Visitor Center and the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree. Finally, you will arrive in Leggett, the end of your journey. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready for your road trip and explore the Avenue of the Giants!
Leggett - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Leggett
- Shelter Cove
Distance 75 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
22.6 kWh
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Are you ready for the next stage of your road trip? This time you will be travelling from Leggett to Shelter Cove, a 47mi journey that will take you less than 2 hours.
You will be starting in Leggett, where you can visit the Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area and enjoy the best of nature. This area offers a variety of activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking.
As you continue your journey, you will be passing through the picturesque towns of Piercy and Redway. Make sure to take a break and explore these towns, where you can find interesting shops and eateries.
Your final destination is Shelter Cove, a small town on the Pacific Coast. Here you can enjoy the stunning views of the beach and the ocean. Don't forget to visit the Black Sands Beach and the Lost Coast Trail, where you can go for a hike and admire the beauty of nature.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Shelter Cove - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Shelter Cove
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The final destination of the Sacramento to Lost Coast Road Trip is Shelter Cove, a small fishing town located on the Lost Coast of Northern California. It is a beautiful coastal town with a population of just over 600 people, located on the rugged and picturesque coastline.
The area is known for its incredible scenery, with the Black Sand Beach, King Range National Conservation Area, and Sinkyone Wilderness State Park all nearby. Visitors can also explore the many trails, coves and beaches that the area has to offer.
The town has a number of restaurants, bars and stores, making it the perfect place for a relaxed break from the road. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Shelter Cove also has a unique whale watching location, which has become a popular activity for visitors.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is in San Francisco, IATA code SFO. From there, it is about a 4-hour drive to Shelter Cove.
The Sacramento to Lost Coast Road Trip ends in the beautiful town of Shelter Cove. With its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and quaint shops and restaurants, it is the perfect ending to a memorable road trip.
Sacramento to Lost Coast Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Sacramento
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End:
Shelter Cove
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Distance:
437 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating Road Trip from Sacramento to the Lost Coast of California, an enchanting stretch of shoreline that remains one of the state's most pristine and untouched natural areas. Covering a distance of approximately 437 kilometers (271 miles), this journey can take around 3 days to complete, allowing for leisurely exploration and ample time to soak in the breathtaking vistas. Ideal for summer travel, the Trip promises ideal weather conditions and extended daylight hours for a more fulfilling adventure.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
Beginning in the state capital, Sacramento, Roadtrippers will traverse through the vibrant university town of Davis, where the blend of academic culture and agricultural landscapes sets the scene. As the journey continues towards Clearlake, travelers are treated to Scenic Drives along California's largest natural freshwater lake, offering opportunities for water sports and relaxation. The route is punctuated by dramatic shifts in scenery—from rolling hills to the towering majesty of ancient redwood forests—before arriving at the remote beauty of the Lost Coast. This untouched coastal gem is home to rugged beaches, secluded coves, and the iconic King Range, where the mountains meet the sea.
Best Time to Go:
The summer months provide the optimal conditions for this coastal excursion. Not only is the weather generally warmer and sunnier, but the longer days allow for more sightseeing and exploration between stops.
Potential Risks:
Despite well-maintained Roads, the remoteness of the Lost Coast can present challenges, such as limited cellular reception and scarce amenities. It's wise for travelers to plan ahead, carry emergency supplies, and ensure their vehicle is in excellent condition for the journey.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
The Lost Coast is less developed due to the steepness and related geotechnical challenges of the coastal mountains, making it a unique destination for those seeking solitude and unspoiled nature. The Road Trip is suitable for a range of budgets and comfort levels, accessible to both novice and seasoned Roadtrippers. The area's isolation adds to its allure, promising a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
A good choice for:
A Road Trip to the Lost Coast of California offers an unforgettable experience characterized by awe-inspiring landscapes and quaint towns. This hidden coastal treasure invites travelers to create lasting memories amidst its natural splendor, offering a journey as rewarding as the destination itself.
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