Epic California Road Trip: Family of 5 and Dog Explore San Francisco (Part 4)
San Francisco (2 Nights)
The 300-mile drive from Santa Barbara to San Francisco ranks among America's most scenic routes, offering sweeping ocean vistas and stunning natural beauty. I've completed it in 5-6 hours straight many times, but it could easily span a week with stops in charming towns like Paso Robles and Monterey. Aiming to arrive in San Francisco for dinner, we made our favorite pit stops along the way.
Just an hour north of Santa Barbara, Los Alamos has emerged as a foodie haven along Highway 101 in the past five years, blending culinary excellence with cowboy charm. Bob’s Well Bread is essential for brunch: their fresh breads and pastries are state-class. We savored fire-grilled chicken sandwiches and canelés—custardy centers with caramelized, rum-vanilla crusts—and grabbed a signature baguette for the road.
After San Luis Obispo, detour from Highway 101 onto historic State Route 1 for Central California's rugged coastline. In Morro Bay, we stretched our legs, grabbed snacks, and watched fishing boats at the docks. Morro Rock, a massive volcanic plug, dominates the skyline. Nearby Cayucos offers a whale-watching pier (no luck for us). Refreshed, we merged back onto the 101 for the home stretch. Dinner in San Francisco: mission accomplished.
- Tip: State Route 1 leads to the Piedras Blancas elephant seal colony, Hearst Castle in San Simeon, and the legendary Big Sur and Monterey Bay coastal drive.
The Sir Francis Drake, a landmark Kimpton hotel on Powell Street's cable car line, is steps from Chinatown. Iconic Beefeater doormen like Tom Sweeney (on staff since 1976) greet guests. Enjoy the vibrant lobby bar and the glamorous Starlight Room on the 21st floor. Our room overlooked Union Square—a rare green space for dog owners in this urban jungle.
- Tip: Leaving your dog in the room? Use the “Do Not Disturb” sign and provide your cell number at the front desk for any barking issues.
We explored on foot, walking 1.5 miles to Pier 39 via Chinatown (knick-knack shopping) and Little Italy (oversized slices at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana). Pedestrian views reveal architecture and street art missed by car. Comfy shoes are key for those steep hills; we rotated pushing the stroller.
- Tip: San Francisco hotel parking runs $50-$80/night—plan your budget.
Pier 39, celebrating 39 years, buzzes with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. The Aquarium of the Bay features an underwater shark tunnel and interactive exhibits. My boys conquered zombies twice on the 7D Experience. Bay boat tours depart here, and dining shines from wine bars to premium seafood.
Back at the Sir Francis Drake, Scala's Bistro delivered: fresh burrata with tomatoes and grilled bread, juicy sage-roasted chicken with spinach and smashed potatoes, and exceptional king salmon with polenta, blistered tomatoes, and grilled corn.
- Tip: Keep your gas tank above a quarter for worry-free road trips.
Checking out, we reflected on our seven-day adventure with three kids and a dog. Sleepless nights, barking episodes, and “no dessert” threats aside, it demanded patience and flexibility. The rewards—deeper family bonds, lasting memories, new discoveries—are invaluable. Can't wait for the next one!
See more from our California road trip on #saglieadventures. Follow for travel tips on Instagram and Twitter. Join Travelzoo for deals to simplify your next road trip!
