A few years ago, we took this amazing road trip from San Francisco to Crescent City via Highway 1 and it was one the best Bay Area road trips we had ever taken. We took our time, stopping at many coastal cities and charming towns we could see. It was a beautiful drive on highway 1 that took us 6 days. This 6-day itinerary crafts a perfect escape from the city, taking you on a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and inland through redwood havens, culminating in the charming town of Crescent City
How long does it take to drive from San Francisco to Crescent City
The total distance from San Francisco to Crescent City is approximately 420 miles. Taking the scenic route will extend your travel time, but the breathtaking views are absolutely worth it. Plan on at least 8-10 hours of driving time, with plenty of stops for exploring and soaking up the scenery.
When to take Road Trip from San Francisco to Crescent City
The California coast enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The best time for this road trip is between April and October. Spring brings wildflowers and comfortable temperatures, while summer offers sunshine and warm ocean breezes. September and October provide a shoulder season with fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Road Trip from San Francisco to Crescent City
Day 1: San Francisco to Jenner
Distance: 80 miles, 2-3 hours
Highlights: Iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Point Reyes National Seashore, Bodega Bay, Jenner
Start your adventure in the vibrant city of San Francisco. Take in the iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge before heading north on US-101.
Places to Stop between San Francisco and Jenner
In the early morning, you will start your adventure in vibrant San Francisco. Fuel up with breakfast at a local cafe and soak in the city’s energy before hitting the road toward US-101.
Stop 1: Battery Spencer Overlook Area
As you leave San Francisco, take a moment to marvel at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Consider stopping at a viewpoint like Battery Spencer for a breathtaking photo opportunity and chance to soak in the views. This was our first stop, on our road trip from San Francisco to Crescent City on Highway 1.
Stop 2: Muir Beach Overlook
Make a quick stop at the Muir Beach Overlook for a panoramic vista of the rugged coastline and Muir Beach below.I love being able to make a quick stop with my car, and just being able to pull over to stunning scenery with little to no effort.
Stop 3: Point Reyes National Seashore
Head north on US-101 for a short while before taking a detour west towards Point Reyes National Seashore. This magnificent park offers stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities. Spend a few hours exploring some of these options:
- Limantour Beach: Hike or bike along this scenic coastal trail and enjoy panoramic ocean views.
- Drakes Beach: Spot elephant seals basking on the beach or explore tide pools during low tide.
- Point Reyes Lighthouse: Take a guided tour of this historic lighthouse and climb to the top for stunning coastal views.
- Tomales Point: Explore the tule elk reserve and witness these majestic animals roaming freely.
Tip: Purchase a National Park Pass for entry to Point Reyes National Seashore and other national parks along the way. Gain access to all National Parks and Federal Lands for $80 for one year, instead of having to pay an entrance fee ($30) every time you enter a park.
Stop 4: Bodega Bay
After soaking up the beauty of Point Reyes, continue north on CA-1, officially designated as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).
The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as you wind your way along the coastline and head towards the charming town of Bodega Bay. Nestled along a sheltered bay, this village offers a taste of coastal life with fresh seafood restaurants, kayaking excursions, and stunning views. If you stop in Bodega Bay , here are some things to do:
- Explore the Harbor: Spend some time strolling along the harbor, browsing the shops for unique souvenirs, and enjoying the fresh sea air.
- Seafood Feast: Savor a delicious lunch at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in the bounty of the Pacific Ocean. Fishterian Market is a must stop!
- Bodega Head: Hike or bike along the trails at Bodega Head for panoramic views of the coastline and a chance to spot migrating whales during the season (December to May).
- Sonoma Coast Park: Here, you can explore the rugged coastline on foot or by kayak, or simply relax on the beach and watch the waves roll in.
While in Bodega Bay, be sure to visit the breathtaking Bodega Head. Park the car and take a bit under a 2 mile trail loop (easy) with views that will amaze you. After the walk, stop for crab sandwiches / oysters at Fishetarian Fish Market.
Or grab your crab sandwiches and have a picnic on one of my many benches the Sonoma Coast Park has to offer. It offers miles of beach and plenty of access points.
The coast can be cold during the summer, so be sure to bring long pants and sweatshirts. And wear your sunscreen.
Stop 5: Jenner
The coastal city of Jenner in Sonoma County is the perfect haven for a restful night. This charming town exudes tranquility, making it an ideal spot to unwind and witness breathtaking sunsets.
Your final stop for the day is the picturesque town of Jenner. Nestled on the banks of the Russian River, this charming town offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to rustic cabins.
Places to Stay in Jenner
- Best Overall: Jenner Inn & Cottages: Oceanfront location, comfortable accommodations, and stunning views.
- Best Budget: Jenner AirBnBs: Coastal cabins along the Russian River for a rustic and affordable stay.
- Best Glamping: AutoCamp Russian River: Eco-conscious glamping tents with modern amenities and a unique outdoor experience (located near Jenner in Duncans Mills).
- Best Oceanfront: River’s End Restaurant & Inn: Woodsy cabins with private decks and stunning oceanfront views.
The California coastline truly delivers at every turn. We were captivated by our walks along the beach, marveling at the jagged cliffs and spotting occasional marine life, including seals! Binoculars are definitely recommended to enhance your wildlife viewing. Cell phone service can be limited to non-existent in the area, so plan accordingly and download offline maps and download(or screenshot) any reservations or tickets in advance.
Day 2: Jenner to Mendocino
Distance: 90 miles, 2-3 hours
Highlights: endless PCH views, Sea Ranch, Gualala
If you have time, you can easily split day 2 of this road trip into 2 days, so that you can really explore all the towns the coast has to offer. On day two of this road trip from San Francisco to Crescent City, continue north on Highway 1.
Disclaimer: Hwy. 1 is a 2 lane road almost the whole way – curvy, cliffside, and inevitably behind someone who’s going 35 mph.
Places to Stop between Jenner and Mendocino
Stop 1: Breakfast in Jenner
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view in Jenner before continuing your journey north on the PCH. Check one of these many yummy coffee shops.
Head north on the PCH (officially CA-1), taking in the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, and other marine life during the journey.
Stop 2: Sea Ranch
Consider a stop to explore the unique Sea Ranch community. This community is known for its mid-century modern architecture and stunning oceanfront setting.
- Sea Ranch Architecture: Take a self-guided driving tour to admire the unique architectural styles of the homes in Sea Ranch.
- Hike or Bike: Explore the scenic trails along the bluffs, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Bluff Trail: Park at the Bluff Trailhead at Gualala Point here and walk along the Bluff Trail. The Pacific Ocean will be on your right and the beautiful mid century house will be on your left. The capes and the waves are stunning.
Stop 3: Gualala
Oh how I have missed Gualala. As soon as we drove through the city, I was entranced! Stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and a unique secret – a pygmy forest, one of the world’s wonders!
This charming town nestled between the ocean and redwood forests offers art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Spend some time exploring the following:
- Salt Point State Park: Explore designated trails to witness these fascinating miniature redwoods, Bishop pines, and the Pygmy Forest
- If you would love to see some sea lions, take an easy hike along the Coastal Bluff Trail in Gualala Point Regional Park. It is a beautiful, calm coastal trail that has many views.
- Have a picnic at Portuguese Beach, a scenic spot with tide pools perfect for exploring during low tide.
- Climb to the top of this Point Arena Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Visit Bowling Ball Beach,a unique beach with perfectly round boulders scattered across the sand.
Stop 4: Mendocino
About 1 hour north of Gualala, you will reach Mendocino, a small city with the biggest coastline views.
As you enter Mendocino County, the landscape changes dramatically, with towering redwoods and rugged cliffs replacing the rolling hills of Sonoma.
This Victorian-era village boasts a walkable downtown lined with colorful clapboard buildings, antique shops, and art galleries and so much to see:
- Explore the shops on Main Street and discover unique treasures.
- Mendocinos collectibles shops are a great browse – selling everything from glass otter artwork to beard creams. My favorites included Mendocino Country Store, as well as Gallery Bookshop, with their fantastically unimpressed store cat Catsby.
- Visit the Kelley House Museum to learn about Mendocino’s logging history.
- Hike the trails at Mendocino Headlands State Park and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, both offering incredible coastal views and diverse flora.
- Take a kayaking tour in Big River to explore the estuary and spot wildlife.
- Immerse yourself in the redwood majesty at Russian Gulch State Park. Hike along scenic trails through towering redwoods, marvel at the collapsed sea cave known as the Devil’s Punchbowl, or
- Visit the Fern Canyon for a lush and verdant experience.
- If you have time, definitely pick up a warm beverage at one of Mendocino’s cafes (I liked the Good Life Cafe) and take a stroll along one of the Headlands paths. It’s a favorite at sunset.
Best Places to Stay in Mendocino
- Best Overall: Little River Inn -variety of rooms some with ocean views, fireplaces, and balconies. Great location close to shops and restaurants.
- Best Budget: Alegria Oceanfront Inn & Cottages
- Best Luxurious: MacCallum House -mansion with chic rooms, ocean views (Think clawfoot tubs, fireplaces, and afternoon tea)
- Best Oceanfront: Little River Inn -Oceanside Victorian with a spa, restaurant, 9-hole golf course, and some rooms with fireplaces and ocean views.
- Best Glamping Vibe: Mendocino Grove– furnished safari-style tents or airstreams, located close to town.
Day 3: Mendocino to Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Distance: 100 miles, 2-3 hours
Highlights: Fort Bragg, Avenue of the Giants, Redwood Tree Heaven
Leaving Mendocino, the landscape transforms into towering redwood forests. Your destination for the afternoon is Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth.
Stop 1: Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg will be a great place to grab your coffee and breakfast, and do some exploring if time permits. Do some exploring at:
- Noyo Headlands Park: home to the famous Glass Beach. As the name entails, it is indeed filled with glass.
- Mendocino Botanical Garden : is huge with 47 acres of land and 4 miles of trails. It is a half mile trail to the ocean one way, with many different gardens to see on the way.
Read More: Ultimate California Road Trip from San Francisco to Fort Bragg
Stop 2: Avenue of the Giants
Most of Day 3 of this road trip to Crescent City, will be spent exploring Avenue of the Giants, a free 31 mile scenic drive (bypass off 101) that takes you through the most impressive groves of Redwoods and Eel River.
Some of the old growth Redwood trees can take up to 20-30 people holding hands to reach around the trunk!
The loops around so don’t worry about getting lost and there are plenty of places to stop and have lunch or a snack with a giant view. This Avenue of the Giants travel map came in super handy.
Stop 3: Humboldt Redwoods State Park
There is a lot to do and see at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, after taking the scenic drive. Here are some ideas to add to your itinerary:
- Explore the towering titans on the Founders Grove Loop or Lady Bird Johnson Grove Loop. Take a more adventurous route on the Fern Canyon Trail, a hidden gem with lush greenery.
- Keep your eyes peeled for Roosevelt elk, which are often spotted near meadows and forest edges.
- Take a refreshing dip in the Eel River at swimming holes.
- Rent kayaks or paddle boards and explore the calm waters of the river.
- Visit Myer’s Flat city with a population of just 50, but has an awesome little characterful saloon to check out
- Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a scenic meal amidst the redwoods. Many trails have designated picnic areas with tables and restrooms.
Places to Stay in Humboldt
Day 4: Humboldt to Crescent City
Distance: 120 miles, 2-3 hours
Highlights: PCH,Crescent City, see small towns of less than 1000
Places to Stop Between Humboldt and Crescent City
This day can be divided into two days, as there is so much to see along the way. As you continue north, the landscape transitions back to the coast.
Stop 1: Eureka
- Immerse yourself in Eureka’s Victorian charm
- Grab a coffee and chocolates at Old Town Coffee & Chocolates
- Explore the historic Old Town with its beautifully preserved buildings, and admire the iconic Carson Mansion
Read More: Road Trip from San Francisco to Eureka
Stop 2: Arcata
This “funky little hippie town” proudly boasts a strong aversion to chain stores, with only one Safeway in sight. It’s also the lively college town for Humboldt State. In Arcata:
- Stroll through the historic Jacoby’s Storehouse State Marine Park and learn about the area’s maritime history
- Explore the Arcata Community Forest. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this redwood wonderland, a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Stop 3: Trinidad
Trinidad has beautiful beaches, a vibrant art scene, and stunning ocean views. This charming coastal town is home to College Cove, a breathtaking beach nestled beside a majestic redwood forest. You will see Douglas firs draped in emerald lichen, framing a view of the endless Pacific Ocean. While visiting Trinidad:
- Explore the tide pools at Trinidad State Beach, a haven for marine life enthusiasts
- Visit the Trinidad Art Center to see local artwork and immerse yourself in the town’s creative spirit.
- Explore the lush forests at Sue Meg State Park, stroll along the scenic trails leading to sandy beaches, and admire the dramatic ocean cliffs. Learn about the area’s Yurok heritage at the reconstructed village site.
- Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean
Stop 4: Orick
Orick is one of the last places you can really get away from people (if you know you know). Orick has a great elk burger stand, and if you’re lucky, they have a farmer on the side of the road selling fresh duck eggs. Other things to do while in Orick:
- Visit Fern Canyon, a hidden gem with lush greenery and a unique ecosystem. Explore this otherworldly landscape along the Fern Canyon Trail.
- Take a drive on Bald Hills Road, a scenic drive that winds its way from the California coast up to Weitchpec, a reservation nestled atop a mountain. Home to one of the largest herd of Roosevelt Elk! It was beautiful to see them running in the pasture with mountains and oceans in the background
- Take a gondola ride through Trees of Mystery quirky charm of Trees of Mystery. The gondola ride offers stunning views of the surrounding redwood forests, along with elaborately carved redwood statues and display
Stop 5: Crescent City
Arrive in Crescent City and go straight to your hotel, by this time it’s pretty late.
Places to Stay in Crescent City
- Best Budget: Anchor Beach Inn Crescent City Low-key hotel set opposite a beach offering breakfast & Wi-Fi, plus a hot tub
- Best Overall: The Lighthouse Inn Relaxed rooms & suites with minifridges & microwaves, plus free Wi-Fi, breakfast & snacks
- Best Oceanfront: Ocean View Inn Casual hotel offering ocean-view rooms, plus free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast & parking
- Best AirBnB: Cozy Cottage
Day 5: Exploring Crescent City
Crescent City is filled with so much charm and natural beauty you can’t look away. Fill your day in Crescent City with some of the activities:
- Go on a whale watching tour
- Embark on a guided kayak tour through the Crescent City harbor. Keep your eyes peeled for playful sea lions and harbor seals basking in the sun or swimming alongside you.
- Explore the rich biodiversity of Crescent City’s tide pools at low tide. Look for colorful sea stars, shy hermit crabs, and fascinating tide pool anemones. Remember to be respectful of the delicate ecosystem and leave everything as you found it.
- Indulge in a fresh seafood feast at a waterfront restaurant. While enjoying breathtaking ocean vistas, savor local catches like Dungeness crab, salmon, or rockfish.
- Take a walk along the scenic Crescent City Harbor Trail and observe the diverse marine life.
- Spend an afternoon on one of the plenty of beaches to walk and enjoy the sand and water between your toes.
- Hike to see more Redwoods in Jedediah Redwoods Park during the morning and day and walk the beaches at evening time to catch the sunset. Later summer and fall make for some amazing sunsets especially on the beach.
- Head to Battery Point Lighthouse at night. The lack of light pollution makes it an ideal spot for stargazing.
- Enderts beach has some awesome coastal trails and viewpoints you can park at. Plus there’s usually elk along the trail, which is super cool
- Paddle through a clear turquoise river through enormous Redwoods along Smith River
Day 6: Crescent City to San Francisco
Return to San Francisco feeling fresh and rejuvenated, at least that is how I felt. We made the drive back to San Francisco in one day and took us about 7 hours. All in all it was one of the best Bay Area road trips we took and will definitely do it again.
