- How to Plan a Road Trip in Santa Cruz? This Guide Has the Answer!

🌊 Want to experience the stunning California coast on a road trip? Santa Cruz is the perfect choice. Here's a guide to help you get started! 🚗 Route Planning Starting from San Francisco: - Day 1: San Francisco - Half Moon Bay - Santa Cruz Drive along California Highway 1 from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay to enjoy the beautiful beaches. Arrive in Santa Cruz and visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 🎠 - Day 2: Santa Cruz - 17 Mile Drive - Carmel-by-the-Sea Head to 17 Mile Drive to see the mansions and ocean views along the way. Arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea in the evening to experience the artistic atmosphere. - Day 3: Carmel-by-the-Sea - Big Sur - Cambria Stop by Bixby Creek Bridge for a photo op, then take a walk in Big Sur. Spend the night in Cambria. - Day 4: Cambria - Santa Barbara - Los Angeles Experience the Spanish charm of Santa Barbara, then head to Los Angeles in the afternoon to end your trip. Attractions - Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: A vintage seaside amusement park with thrilling wooden roller coasters and stunning ocean views 🌊 - Santa Cruz Wharf: Take a stroll along the wharf with seagulls and sea lions for company. The sunset is super romantic 🌅 - Big Sur: Where mountains meet the sea, with secluded hiking trails and breathtaking natural beauty. Local Cuisine - Clam Chowder: A rich and flavorful soup made with a variety of seafood, perfect with bread 🥣 - Fish and Chips: Tender fish with a crispy coating and golden fries, a classic dish. - Acai Bowl: A healthy and delicious treat with fresh fruit and acai puree, full of energy. Accommodation - Santa Cruz: For a beachfront stay, choose Dream Inn Santa Cruz. For a budget-friendly option, try a local B&B. - Carmel-by-the-Sea: Carmel Mission Inn offers an elegant environment with an artistic vibe. - Cambria: Coastal cottages are a local specialty, and Coast Inn Cambria offers good value for money. Budget - Transportation: Car rental for 4 days costs around $400 - $800, with gas and tolls around $150. - Accommodation: $150 - $400 per night, totaling $600 - $1600 for 4 days. - Dining: $50 - $100 per day, totaling $200 - $400 for 4 days. - Tickets and Entertainment: Around $100 - $200. Total: Around $1350 - $3000, depending on your preferences.