San Luis Obispo Drive Itinerary
Take a drive down the beautiful San Luis Obispo Drive, a 376km route from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo in the United States. The best time of the year to take this road trip is between late spring and early fall. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Santa Monica, Ventura and Pismo Beach, each with their own unique attractions and experiences.
Santa Monica offers a wide range of attractions, from its pier and beach to its many restaurants and shops. Ventura is a great place to stop and explore its many parks and beaches. Pismo Beach is a great place for beachgoers, with its many beach activities and stunning views.
The entire route offers excellent road conditions with plenty of stunning scenery, from mountains to forests to beaches. This road trip is sure to provide a high level of experience and memories, and is suitable for every driver. However, it is recommended that you plan your trip with a high budget to make the most of the experience.
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376 km
route length
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START
Los Angeles
Distance 376 km
Driving time 7.6 h
Pace: modest
97.9 kWh
Airports
LAX
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Los Angeles is a major city in the United States and the perfect starting point for the San Luis Obispo Drive road trip. The city abounds with attractions, cultural and historic sights and entertainment options. Tourists can visit the Getty Center, the Griffith Observatory, or the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Universal Studios Hollywood, the Museum of Tolerance, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art are some of the city's most visited attractions. The Los Angeles Zoo and the Autry Museum of the American West are also worth visiting. Los Angeles International Airport (IATA: LAX) is the closest international airport to the city. Car rental services are available at the airport for those who wish to travel by car. The San Luis Obispo drive is a great way to explore the beauty of the California Coast, from the stunning beaches of Santa Barbara to the stunning views of San Luis Obispo.
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Los Angeles
- Santa Monica
Distance 27 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
6.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip from Los Angeles to Santa Monica? This 17-mile journey will take you less than an hour, so you can just sit back and enjoy the ride. As you drive, you will be able to admire the historical sites and picturesque landscapes. Make sure to keep an eye out for the famous Hollywood sign, the Griffith Observatory, and the Pacific Coast Highway. Once you reach Santa Monica, you will be able to explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!
Santa Monica - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pxhere.com
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2
Santa Monica
- Malibu
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
5.3 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Ready for an amazing journey? Let’s get started! Our first stop is Santa Monica, one of the most popular destinations in the United States. Here, you can experience the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade, and Muscle Beach Venice. After that, we’ll head to Malibu, a stunning beach town filled with beautiful beaches, stunning vistas, and plenty of outdoor activities. We’ll travel 13mi and it will take us fewer than 1 hour. Along the way, you can visit the Getty Villa, Zuma Beach, and the Malibu Lagoon State Beach. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road!
Malibu - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Malibu
- Ventura
Distance 73 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
21.9 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for a fun and exciting journey from Malibu to Ventura. This 45mi drive should take you an hour or less, and you’ll be passing some of the most beautiful places in California.
Start your trip in Malibu and make sure to visit the famous Malibu Pier. Here you can take a stroll, explore the area, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Continue your journey to Ventura and don’t forget to stop at the Ventura Pier. This pier is the longest one in California, and it offers a unique experience with its shops, restaurants, and the stunning views of the city.
Finally, end your trip at the Ventura Harbor Village. Here you can find a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a beautiful marina.
This is just one of the stages of your journey, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, get ready and start your road trip from Malibu to Ventura. Enjoy the views, explore the area, and have a great time!
Ventura - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Ventura
- Santa Barbara
Distance 48 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
14.3 kWh
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Welcome to the Ventura-Santa Barbara road trip stage! This 30mi drive takes less than an hour, and it is an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of the California coast.
Start your journey in Ventura, where you can visit the San Buenaventura Mission, a historic landmark built in 1782. Afterward, head to the Ventura Harbor Village, a quaint waterfront area with plenty of restaurants and shops.
Continue your journey to Santa Barbara, where you can explore the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, an iconic building with a unique Spanish-Moorish architecture. You can also visit the Santa Barbara Mission, a Spanish mission founded in 1786.
Make sure to take a break and admire the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Don't forget to take some photos of the amazing sunsets!
This is only one stage of your journey, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a great time!
Santa Barbara - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Max Pixel
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5
Santa Barbara
- Pismo Beach
Distance 180 km
Driving time 4.8 h
Pace: slow
41.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in Santa Barbara and ending in Pismo Beach? This 112mi journey will take you less than 5 hours. During your drive, you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in California.
In Santa Barbara, you should not miss the chance to visit the beautiful Mission Santa Barbara, the oldest of the California missions, founded in 1786. Take a walk along Stearns Wharf and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Once you leave Santa Barbara, you will be able to explore the beautiful scenery of the Santa Ynez Valley. Make sure to stop at the Danish-style village of Solvang, where you can find many bakeries, restaurants, and boutiques.
Continue your journey and explore the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean at the Hearst Castle in San Simeon. After that, it is time to drive to Pismo Beach, where you can go for a walk on the beach or enjoy the views of the famous Pismo Pier.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Pismo Beach - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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6
Pismo Beach
- Avila Beach
Distance 12 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: modest
3.1 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip starting in Pismo Beach and ending in Avila Beach, a journey of only 7 miles that will take you less than an hour to complete. On your way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Pismo Beach, you can take a stroll along the pier and enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Or you can take a tour of the Monarch Butterfly Grove and admire the thousands of butterflies that live there.
When you get to Avila Beach, you can take a boat tour to explore the nearby natural reserves. You can also visit the Avila Valley Barn, a family-owned farm that offers fresh produce and a petting zoo.
This is just one of the stages of an unforgettable road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Avila Beach - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Avila Beach
- San Luis Obispo
Distance 17 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
5.1 kWh
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip adventure? Starting in Avila Beach, you will be driving 11 miles to reach San Luis Obispo in less than an hour. On your way, you will be able to admire the beauty of the California Central Coast. Make sure to stop at Avila Beach Pier and see the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Then, you can explore the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, the fifth mission founded in California. After that, you can take a walk in the Mission Plaza and take in the beauty of the area. You can also visit the charming downtown area and take a look at the unique shops and restaurants. And don’t forget to visit the Bubblegum Alley, one of the most unique attractions in the city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
San Luis Obispo - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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San Luis Obispo
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San Luis Obispo is a charming and vibrant city located in the heart of California's Central Coast. Home to excellent restaurants, galleries and boutiques, the city is a perfect end to an epic road trip. The "San Luis Obispo Drive" winds through the city, taking travelers to some of the most interesting places in town.
The historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, constructed in 1772, offers visitors a glimpse into the city's past. Take a stroll along the nearby Creek Trail, which winds through a lush greenbelt. Or, for those looking for a more thrilling experience, try the famous Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, a 19th century adobe house and garden complex.
For a unique experience, explore the vibrant art scene in San Luis Obispo. Browse the works of local and international artists at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, or check out the galleries and street art in Downtown San Luis Obispo.
For those traveling by air, the nearest international airport is the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), located just a few miles away. From there, it's just a short drive to the center of San Luis Obispo, making it the perfect final destination for the "San Luis Obispo Drive"!
San Luis Obispo Drive at a glance
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Start:
Los Angeles
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End:
San Luis Obispo
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Distance:
376 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
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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.
Enhanced and Informative Overview:
Embark on the captivating San Luis Obispo Drive, a 376km (234 miles) picturesque journey from the bustling city of Los Angeles to the serene town of San Luis Obispo. This Road Trip is celebrated for its diverse offering of landscapes, including the urban vibes of LA, the rolling surf of the Pacific, and the pastoral beauty of California's coastline. Along the way, you'll pass through a string of coastal gems, each with its own unique flavor and attractions.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Santa Monica: Beyond the iconic Santa Monica Pier, this vibrant city is a blend of laid-back beach culture and upscale living. It's home to the original Muscle Beach and the end of the historic Route 66. The Third Street Promenade offers shopping, dining, and street performers.
- Ventura: Known for its preserved historic buildings and cultural heritage, Ventura is a charming coastal town. Explore the Mission San Buenaventura, stroll along the Ventura Pier, and take in the views from the hillside at Grant Park.
- Pismo Beach: This classic beach town is famous for its stunning cliffs and the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies migrate each year. Enjoy activities like surfing, ATV rides at the nearby Oceano Dunes, and savor some of the freshest seafood.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring through early fall (May to September) is ideal for this coastal Road Trip, as you'll enjoy mild temperatures, less fog, and the full swing of tourist attractions. Summer offers the warmest beach days, while autumn brings vibrant sunsets and fewer crowds.
Potential Risks:
Be prepared for the unpredictable coastal weather, which can include sudden fog or wind, and occasional wildfires affecting air quality and visibility. Traffic congestion can occur, particularly in summer months and holiday weekends, so plan your itinerary with potential delays in mind.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), which is part of this route, is one of the most Scenic Drives in the United States.
- En route to San Luis Obispo, you’ll pass by the world-famous Hearst Castle in San Simeon, an opulent mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
- San Luis Obispo itself is known for its relaxed atmosphere, historic Spanish mission, and a unique attraction - Bubblegum Alley.
A good choice for:
The San Luis Obispo Drive is an unforgettable experience that offers a blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation. The route's rich history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly coastal towns make for a Road Trip that is not only scenic but also deeply enriching. Whether you're seeking solitude on a quiet beach, a stroll through a bustling promenade, or a journey into California's past, this Road Trip caters to all desires, promising lasting memories.
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