8 days in Big Sur, Monterey & San Francisco Itinerary

A sparsely populated area with stunning views, Big Sur attracts artists and tourists traveling California’s scenic Highway 1.

Kick off your visit on the 23rd (Sat): take in the dramatic scenery at McWay Falls and then tour the pleasant surroundings at Pfeiffer State Beach. On the 24th (Sun), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: immerse yourself in nature at Andrew Molera State Park, snap pictures at Bixby Bridge, and then immerse yourself in nature at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

For photos, maps, more things to do, and more tourist information, refer to the Big Sur journey maker tool.

If you are flying in from Canada, the closest major aiports are San Francisco International Airport, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport and Metropolitan Oakland International Airport. In July in Big Sur, expect temperatures between 24°C during the day and 15°C at night. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 25th (Mon) so you can go by car to Monterey.

Monterey is a city in the U.S. state of California, on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on California's Central Coast. Kick off your visit on the 25th (Mon): observe the fascinating underwater world at Monterey Bay Aquarium and then appreciate the extensive heritage of Pacific Grove Oceanview Boulevard. On the 26th (Tue), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: admire the majestic nature at Point Lobos, then see majestic marine mammals with a dolphin and whale watching tour, and then enjoy the sand and surf at Moss Landing State Beach.

To see reviews, photos, ratings, and more tourist information, read Monterey online trip maker.

Traveling by car from Big Sur to Monterey takes an hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus. In July, plan for daily highs up to 24°C, and evening lows to 15°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 27th (Wed) early enough to go by car to San Francisco.

San Francisco is a top holiday destination featuring scenic beauty and great ethnic and cultural diversity.

You'll visit kid-friendly attractions like Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park. And it doesn't end there: step off the mainland to explore Alcatraz Island, browse the different shops at Ferry Building Marketplace, take in nature's colorful creations at Japanese Tea Garden, and wander the streets of Fisherman's Wharf.

To see photos, ratings, traveler tips, and other tourist information, go to the San Francisco trip planner.

Traveling by car from Monterey to San Francisco takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or take a bus. July in San Francisco sees daily highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C at night.