In mid-September, my husband and I had planned to take another trip to Vegas, one of our favorite places but currently, with lots of construction taking place for the upcoming F1 race we decided we wanted to do something a bit different. We ended up deciding on using Vegas as a home base and taking off on a road trip exploring Southern California! Over the span of seven days, we'd witness the breathtaking desert landscapes, iconic landmarks, and captivating coastal scenes that define the essence of California.
Below I outlined our itinerary, packed with lots of unforgettable experiences, restaurant and hotel recommendations, and tips that will inspire you to plan your own road trip and uncover the marvels of this dynamic region.
Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas, NV
Fly into Las Vegas from your home airport
Pick up rental car
Relaxed and had dinner before calling it an early night
Hotel Recommendation: Waldorf Astoria - Quiet and relaxing, best for getting ready for the trip!
Day 2-4: Las Vegas, NV to San Juan Capistrano, CA (285 miles)
Stop at EddieWorld during the drive for some ice cream and snacks
Explore the downtown area (very cute!)
Bike/walk to Doheny State Beach, there is a wonderful bike path that leads you all the way
Restaurant Recommendations:
FKN Bread (breakfast/lunch)
Trevor's at the Tracks (lunch/dinner)
Ysidora (dinner)
Crivello's Italian Bistro (dinner)
Hotel Recommendation: Inn at the Mission
Day 4-6: San Juan Capistrano, CA to Oceanside, CA (30 miles)
Enjoy the beach and hotel pool
Visit one of the many breweries
Restaurant Recommendations:
Parlor Doughnuts (breakfast)
Masters Kitchen and Cocktail (dinner)
Blade 1936 (dinner)
Hotel Recommendation: The Seabird Resort
Day 6-8: Oceanside, CA to Coronado, CA (45 miles)
Spend the day exploring the San Diego Zoo
Shop the boutiques
Restaurant Recommendations:
Clayton's Bakery & Bistro (breakfast)- Best cupcakes I’ve ever had!!!
The Henry (lunch/dinner)
Stake Chophouse & Bar (dinner)
Hotel Recommendation: Hotel del Coronado
Day 8-9: Coronado, CA to Las Vegas, NV (285 miles)
Visit Joshua Tree National Park
Drive through Mojave National Preserve
Restaurant Recommendations:
Bring road trip snacks, food options minimal on the drive
Hotel Recommendation: Mandalay Bay
Day 9: Fly Home
Head back to reality and plan your next trip 🙂
Our Southern California road trip was a whirlwind of discovery and delight, a departure from the usual Vegas retreat. From the charming allure of San Juan Capistrano to the lively shores of Oceanside and the timeless elegance of Coronado, each stop offered unique experiences. From walking on beaches, exploring local boutiques, relished delightful meals at recommended eateries, and the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.
We invite you to plan your own road trip, embracing the allure of discovery and the promise of adventure on the open road. Until the next adventure, may your travels be filled with joy and new horizons!
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