Treasure Hunt Road Trip Itinerary
Start your adventure with the Treasure Hunt Road Trip in San Diego, United States. This 5-day journey takes you on a 467 km route through the towns of La Jolla, Santa Monica and Ontario Mills.
In La Jolla, you can explore the stunning beaches and the La Jolla Cove, a popular spot for snorkeling. Santa Monica is known for its iconic pier and the Third Street Promenade, a popular shopping and entertainment district. Ontario Mills is a great place to pick up souvenirs for the whole family.
The best time to take this road trip is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are beautiful. The roads are in excellent condition, so the drive should be smooth and enjoyable. The trip is suitable for any driver, though it can be managed on a high budget only.
If you're looking for a fun and adventurous road trip, the Treasure Hunt Road Trip is the perfect choice.
5
number of days
467 km
route length
high
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
San Diego
Distance 467 km
Driving time 6.3 h
Pace: fast
140.2 kWh
Airports
SAN
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San Diego is a wonderful destination to kick off your "Treasure Hunt Road Trip". Located in the southwestern corner of the United States, San Diego is known for its Mediterranean climate and beautiful beaches. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, and La Jolla.
Travelers can get to San Diego by air or car. The closest international airport is San Diego International Airport (IATA: SAN). At the airport, there are car rental services available to get you to your starting point.
Once in San Diego, make sure to visit some of its most popular attractions. Nature lovers will appreciate Balboa Park, where they can explore lush gardens, take a hike, or visit the San Diego Zoo. Those looking for a unique experience should head to Sea World, where they can get up close and personal with a variety of marine life. History buffs should check out the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and La Jolla, where they can explore the city’s past.
San Diego is a perfect starting point for your “Treasure Hunt Road Trip”. With its variety of attractions, there is something for everyone. So get your car and start exploring the city and all it has to offer.
1
San Diego
- La Jolla
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
6.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 14mi road trip from San Diego to La Jolla and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Californian coast. Spend less than an hour driving and marvel at the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visit the San Diego Zoo to admire the diverse wildlife, then head to La Jolla Cove to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Stop at the Birch Aquarium to observe the colorful marine life, then take a stroll through La Jolla Shores to admire the breathtaking sunsets. Finally, explore the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and admire the stunning views of the cliffs and the sea. With its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and diverse wildlife, this road trip will be an unforgettable experience. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
La Jolla - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
La Jolla
- Newport Beach
Distance 127 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: fast
38.2 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from La Jolla to Newport Beach! This 79mi drive will take you less than two hours and is a great way to explore the beautiful California coast.
Starting in La Jolla, make sure to take time to explore the La Jolla Cove, a stunning beach with crystal clear waters and plenty of sea life. You can also visit the Birch Aquarium, a public aquarium with over 60 habitats of marine life from the Pacific Northwest.
Continue your journey to Newport Beach, where you can visit the Balboa Pier, a popular spot for surfing and fishing. You can also explore the Balboa Fun Zone, a family-friendly amusement park with carnival games and rides.
Along the route, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, such as the Mission San Juan Capistrano and the San Diego Mission.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Newport Beach - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Newport Beach
- Santa Monica
Distance 86 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
25.8 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Newport Beach to Santa Monica! This 53-mile drive will take you less than an hour, but you’ll want to take your time to explore the fascinating attractions along the way.
Start your journey in Newport Beach, where you can take a stroll along the iconic Balboa Pier or visit the luxurious Balboa Bay Resort. You’ll also want to check out the historic Balboa Fun Zone, a classic amusement park that’s been entertaining visitors since 1936.
Continue your journey along the coastal highway and make sure to take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. As you approach Santa Monica, you’ll want to stop at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which features an amusement park, an aquarium, and plenty of shops and restaurants. You’ll also want to visit the Santa Monica Museum of Art, which showcases the works of some of the world’s most celebrated artists.
Finally, be sure to take a stroll along the Santa Monica Promenade, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Santa Monica - United States - North America - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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4
Santa Monica
- Beverly Hills
Distance 13 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: slow
3.0 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Santa Monica to Beverly Hills! This 8-mile drive can be completed in less than one hour, taking you through some of the most iconic places in the world.
Santa Monica is the perfect starting point for your tour. Here you can visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier, take a stroll along the beach, and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean.
As you travel to Beverly Hills, you will pass through some of the most glamorous neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Make sure to take a picture of the iconic Hollywood sign and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Once you arrive in Beverly Hills, you can visit the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, the Rodeo Drive, and the Greystone Mansion.
This is just one of the stages of your tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Beverly Hills - United States - North America - Road Trip - Vikipedija
Beverly Hills - United States - North America - Road Trip - Flickr
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5
Beverly Hills
- Ontario Mills
Distance 88 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: fast
26.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Beverly Hills to Ontario Mills? This 55 mi drive will take you less than 2 hours and you will have the chance to visit some of the most interesting places in the area.
You will start your journey in Beverly Hills, the place of the stars, where you can find many attractions such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the iconic Hollywood Sign and the Griffith Observatory.
When you reach Ontario Mills, you will find the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in California. Here you can find many stores, restaurants and entertainment venues.
This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don't wait any longer, start your road trip from Beverly Hills to Ontario Mills today!
Ontario Mills - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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6
Ontario Mills
- Palm Springs
Distance 108 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
32.4 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip? Start your journey in Ontario Mills, United States, and travel 67 miles to the beautiful Palm Springs. Along the way, you'll see some of the most amazing sights and attractions. In Ontario Mills, you can visit the Ontario Mills Mall, where you can find a variety of stores and restaurants. As you drive, you'll pass by the San Bernardino National Forest, a great spot for outdoor activities. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the San Jacinto Mountains, a perfect place for hiking and camping. Once you arrive in Palm Springs, take some time to explore the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. You can also take a stroll down Palm Canyon Drive and visit the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium. This short journey will take you fewer than 2 hours, and you'll be sure to have an amazing time. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Palm Springs - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pixabay
Palm Springs - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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7
Palm Springs
- Palm Desert
Distance 22 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
5.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Palm Springs to Palm Desert road trip stage! This stunning route is only 14 miles and can be completed in less than an hour. As you drive, you'll be able to take in the beautiful views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the Coachella Valley.
Begin your trip in Palm Springs and make sure to visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where you can take a ride up to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains. Don't forget to check out the Palm Springs Art Museum, the Palm Springs Air Museum, and the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
As you make your way to Palm Desert, make sure to stop at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Here you can learn about desert plants and animals, as well as take a ride on the Wilderness Express Train. Don't forget to check out the McCallum Theatre for the Performing Arts for a unique cultural experience.
The journey from Palm Springs to Palm Desert is filled with adventure and beauty. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Palm Desert - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Palm Desert
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Welcome to Palm Desert, the end point of the Treasure Hunt Road Trip! Located in the beautiful Coachella Valley in California, USA, this city is a great destination to end your road trip.
When you’re in Palm Desert, you can’t miss the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, a great place to explore the wildlife of the area. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, like the Bump and Grind Trail and the Cactus to Clouds Trail. If you’re looking for a relaxing day, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is the perfect place to do some shopping and catch a match.
Palm Desert is also known for its unique dining and nightlife. From craft cocktail bars to local restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out the El Paseo shopping district for a taste of luxury.
The closest international airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) located just outside of Palm Desert.
No matter what your interests are, Palm Desert is the perfect destination to end your Treasure Hunt Road Trip. With its unique attractions, dining, and nightlife, Palm Desert is sure to make your road trip an unforgettable experience.
Treasure Hunt Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
San Diego
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End:
Palm Desert
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Distance:
467 km
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Stay:
5 days
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Getting there:
San Diego International Airport (SAN)
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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 the Treasure Hunt Road Trip, a 5-day excursion that begins in the vibrant city of San Diego and covers a scenic 467 km route along the California coast. This captivating excursion promises a rich tapestry of experiences, guiding travelers through the charming beach community of La Jolla, the iconic coastal city of Santa Monica, and the shopper's paradise of Ontario Mills. Participants can expect a delightful blend of picturesque coastal vistas, world-class shopping, and diverse entertainment options.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- La Jolla: This coastal gem is renowned for its picturesque coastline, with La Jolla Cove being a jewel in its crown. Here, visitors can go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, observing an abundance of marine life. Don't miss the chance to see the local seals and sea lions that bask on the rocks.
- Santa Monica: A cultural hotspot, Santa Monica is celebrated for its historic Santa Monica Pier, complete with an amusement park that offers rides with panoramic ocean views. The area also boasts the vibrant Third Street Promenade, known for street performers, trendy shops, and restaurants.
- Ontario Mills: Located inland, Ontario Mills is one of the largest shopping and outlet malls in California, featuring over 200 stores. It's a perfect spot to hunt for discounts on brand-name goods and pick up unique Californian souvenirs.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal months for undertaking this Road Trip are from March to June and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the coastal landscapes are at their most stunning. The spring brings blooming wildflowers, while the fall offers comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
Potential Risks:
The route is known for its safety and well-maintained Roads. Nonetheless, travelers should be aware that the Trip can be costly, with expenses for accommodation, dining, and attractions along this popular tourist route.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The California Coastal Commission has designated parts of this route as the Pacific Coast Highway, making it a recognized Scenic Drive.
- La Jolla plays host to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, offering insights into the local marine life and conservation efforts.
- Santa Monica is a leader in sustainability, with various green initiatives and the Santa Monica Farmers Market, which is a favorite among local chefs for its organic produce.
- The route is manageable for drivers of all levels, and the variety of landscapes—ranging from sun-kissed beaches to urban centers—ensures a dynamic driving experience.
A good choice for:
The Treasure Hunt Road Trip offers an idyllic combination of cultural vibrancy, retail therapy, and serene beachside indulgence. It's an exemplary itinerary for those longing to soak up the diverse flavors of the Golden State, ranging from the laid-back coastal lifestyle to the buzz of city life. Prepare to create a collage of unforgettable memories as you journey through the heart of Southern California's most beloved attractions.
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