The Best Seattle to San Diego Road Trip
San Diego is known for its laid-back beach vibes and unbeatable weather, making it one of the best destinations in California. The road trip from Seattle to San Diego is a scenic journey through lush forests and rugged coastlines to sun-drenched deserts and bustling cities on the Pacific Coast.
[/strong]You can do this 1,520-mile road trip from Seattle to San Diego in 29 hours. On the way, you can visit Cannon Beach, Redwood National and State Parks, Bodega Bay, San Francisco, Monterey, Big Sur, Solvang, Santa Barbara, Malibu and Los Angeles.[/strong]
This is the ultimate drive for anyone wanting to explore this world-famous region on the stunning West Coast. Read on below to learn more about our recommended routes, where to stop overnight, the best time to travel, and the best things to see and do along the way.
Where is San Diego and how far is a road trip from Seattle?
This epic road trip takes you from the bustling tech hub of Seattle to the sun-soaked shores of San Diego. You have two distinct routes to choose from: the Sacramento Route, taking you through the heart of California, or the scenic Pacific Coast Highway Route, which offers unparalleled ocean views and coastal charm.
This journey is perfect for those who appreciate the blend of urban exploration, majestic natural wonders, and the serene beauty of the Pacific coastline. Along the way, you can enjoy detours to national parks, vineyards, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Hollywood.
The Sacramento Route takes you through the heart of the Pacific Northwest and California. You'll travel 1,340 miles with around 21 hours of driving.
The scenic Pacific Coast Highway Route covers 1,520 miles with 29 hours on the road. On the way, you'll drive along the beautiful coasts of Oregon and California.
To fully enjoy the scenic beauty and attractions along the way, allow at least 5 days for the Sacramento Route and 8 days for the Pacific Coast Highway Route. This way, you'll have time to enjoy all the wonders and attractions along the way.
How long is the road trip from Seattle to San Diego, and how many days will it take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Recommended Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Sacramento Route | 1,340 miles | 21 hours | 5 Days |
| The Pacific Coast Highway Route | 1,520 miles miles | 29 hours | 8 Days |
What is the best road trip route from Seattle to San Diego?
There is no best route for an amazing road trip to San Diego from Seattle. That being said, this is how our two routes stack up against each other, looking at some factors that might influence your decision.
| The Sacramento Route | The Pacific Coast Highway Route | |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Driving | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Scenery | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Facilities | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Things to do | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Traffic Flow | ⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Driving from Seattle to San Diego via Sacramento
The Sacramento Route from Seattle to San Diego will take you from the lush landscapes of Washington State and California through cities, forests, mountains, and iconic landmarks.
You'll travel along Interstate 5 (I-5), a straightforward and well-maintained interstate. Aside from traffic and the occasional fog near San Francisco, you'll have largely stress-free driving conditions.
From the majestic vistas of the Columbia River Gorge near Portland to the awe-inspiring sights of Mount Shasta and the Golden Gate Bridge in Northern California, each segment of the journey is beautiful.
You'll have plenty of facilities along the way, like gas stations and restaurants. On top of that, you'll enjoy an array of activities and attractions, including historic destinations, theme parks, and charming cities and towns.
Driving from Seattle to San Diego via The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway Route is a scenic drive that stretches along the American West Coast. You'll enjoy an incredible blend of ocean vistas, coastal towns, and natural wonders along the way.
The driving experience on the Pacific Coast Highway is both challenging and rewarding. You'll drive through diverse terrains, from the rugged cliffs of the Oregon Coast to the serene beauty of California's Big Sur.
The scenery along this route is truly majestic. Each turn reveals another breathtaking view and a continuous stream of picturesque beaches, dense redwood forests, and coastal bluffs.
While bustling cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles have many luxurious accommodations and culinary delights, smaller towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Barbara offer cozy inns and local seafood spots.
However, some stretches might have fewer amenities, particularly in more secluded areas like Big Sur. Traffic on the Pacific Coast Highway can vary, with some sections experiencing plenty of congestion.
If you are traveling on the Pacific Coast Highway, keep in mind that this highway can be prone to landslides, especially in the Big Sur area, and check for road closures before you travel.
Driving Route from Seattle to San Diego
To help you prepare for your ultimate drive from Seattle to San Diego, we've included a summary of each route below. It is always a good idea to consult GPS for step-by-step instructions.
Driving the Sacramento Route
From Seattle, set out on I-5 South, guiding you south through the evergreen beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Your journey quickly brings you past Tacoma. Continuing on I-5, you'll enter Portland, Oregon. Here, don't miss the Portland Japanese Garden and the Portland Saturday Market.
As you proceed, you'll pass the Willamette Valley wine region. Eugene is your next major stop, famous for the University of Oregon's campus and its historic downtown. Venturing into Southern Oregon, consider a side trip to Crater Lake National Park by taking OR-138 east from Roseburg.
Crossing into California, you'll drive near Mount Shasta and the surrounding Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Further south, I-5 leads you directly into Sacramento, California's capital.
From Sacramento, continue on I-5 south to San Francisco, with a potential scenic detour along US-101 to cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Leaving San Francisco, rejoin I-5 through San Jose and continue into the agricultural heartland of California's Central Valley, heading towards Bakersfield.
As you approach Southern California, I-5 takes you through the diverse landscapes and bustling cities of Los Angeles County. For a coastal approach to San Diego, you will merge onto Pacific Coast Highway and make your way to your destination.
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway Route
From Seattle, head south on I-5 towards Olympia. Here, a quick merge onto US-101 steers you towards the Pacific coastline. Continue on US-101 as it winds along the Washington and Oregon coastlines, providing stunning ocean views and access to quaint coastal towns.
Further south, US-101 will take you through iconic Cannon Beach, where Haystack Rock stands off shore. As you venture deeper into Oregon, the route passes through Tillamook, home to the famous Tillamook Creamery.
Crossing into California, US-101 transitions into the Redwood Highway, winding through the awe-inspiring Redwood National and State Parks. Here, a side trip on Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway offers the ultimate redwood experience.
Approaching San Francisco, the route takes you across the Golden Gate Bridge and into the beautiful city of San Francisco. Leaving San Francisco, continue on the Pacific Coast Highway as it hugs the coastline, unveiling the rugged beauty of California's coast.
Further south, PCH meanders through the artsy town of Carmel-by-the-Sea and past the kelp-rich waters of Monterey Bay. Taking a detour on 17-Mile Drive, you'll see Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress.
Further south, you'll drive along Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur, one of the most striking destinations in California. Here, you'll drive along cliffs and redwood forests, looking down at the glimmering Pacific Ocean.
As Pacific Coast Highway continues, you'll drive through Morro Bay and then San Luis Obispo. From here, continue south to Santa Barbara and Ventura.
From here, hug the shore and drive through Malibu, Los Angeles and then Huntington Beach to reach San Diego.
Where to stop overnight on a road trip between Seattle and San Diego
While it's possible to drive straight from Seattle to San Diego in a matter of days, doing so would mean bypassing the wonderful sights along the way. To make the most out of your journey, we've included our top stops below.
Stunning views in Shasta Lake
In the heart of Northern California, Shasta Lake is an idyllic stopover on the Sacramento Route 9 hours and 30 minutes into the journey. Known as the jewel of Northern California, it's known for crystal-clear waters, scenic vistas, and abundant recreational activities.
The first must-visit place nearby is the Shasta Dam, one of the largest dams in the United States. This engineering marvel offers guided tours and spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Another noteworthy spot is the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, which surrounds the lake, offering endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.
For your accommodation, the Inn at Shasta Lake is an exceptional choice. You can look forward to unwinding by the fireplace or enjoying the tranquil beauty of the deck for a peaceful retreat after your long drive.
The hotel offers a complimentary hot breakfast, with the option of dining in the privacy of your suite, the dining room, or on the deck if the weather is just right.
Each suite has a secluded outdoor patio, perfect for relaxing while watching butterflies and hummingbirds in the gardens. You'll also love the hotel's wonderful amenities and modern comforts.
Near the Inn, you'll find the Lake Shasta Caverns, a geological wonder filled with intricate limestone formations and breathtaking underground chambers. Also nearby, the Bailey Cove Trail offers stunning views of Shasta Lake, along with a peaceful hike through the forest.
An oceanside retreat in Monterey
Monterey, California, is famous for its marine life, stunning ocean views, and, of course, its mouth-watering fresh seafood. Nestled close to Pacific Grove, Carmel-By-the-Sea and Big Sur, Monterey is a great stopover on the Pacific Coast Highway Route.
Monterey is a paradise for nature lovers, offering some of the best whale watching in the world and housing the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Another must-do is the 17-Mile Drive, where you can soak in breathtaking coastal landscapes and perhaps even squeeze in a round of golf at one of the Peninsula's world-famous courses.
In the heart of Cannery Row, the luxurious Spindrift Inn is your serene beachfront escape in Monterey. Its beautiful guest rooms blend coastal elegance with a hint of romance.
You'll love the hotel's continental breakfast to start your day. The Inn's floor-to-ceiling windows offer unparalleled views of McAbee Beach and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
In the evenings, venture downstairs to Angel's Share lounge, where you can indulge in unique barrel-aged bottled cocktails and more.
Just a short stroll or drive from the Spindrift Inn, you'll find the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, just 1.2 miles away. Further, at 2.1 miles, don't miss the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
Our favorite place to stay in San Diego
In San Diego, we recommend staying at the spectacular Inn at Sunset Cliffs. Nestled directly on the Pacific Ocean's edge, this beachfront hotel is a stone's throw from the laid-back vibes of Ocean Beach and Sunset Cliffs Beach.
Imagine starting your day with yoga on a sun-drenched terrace, diving into a seasonal outdoor pool with ocean views, or exploring the nearby iconic natural rock formations, The Arch, and Kahuna Reef tide pools.
You can enjoy surfing, boating, sailing, and swimming near the inn right at your doorstep. And when the day winds down, SeaWorld San Diego is close by for an evening of marine life exploration.
Every element of your stay, from the cozy rooms to the fitness classes and the proximity to San Diego's top spots, like Ocean Beach's vast sands and Sunset Cliffs' dramatic views, is designed to enhance your beachfront getaway.
Best time to travel from Seattle to San Diego on a road trip
Traveling the Sacramento Route and the Pacific Coast Highway Route on this Seattle to San Diego road trip will be beautiful no matter when you drive. However, each season has its challenges and highlights.
Traveling to San Diego from Seattle in summer
The inland Sacramento Route will be hot the entire way in summer. The similar applies to the Pacific Coast Highway Route, but the fresh ocean breeze will make the heat of the summer much more pleasant. However, the coastal fog can bring cooler, gray skies, though it typically clears by afternoon.
Summer also marks the peak tourist season, leading to crowds and higher prices. Key events include the California State Fair in Sacramento in July and the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach in July and August.
Traveling to San Diego from Seattle in winter
Winter introduces rainier conditions in the north and mild, occasionally rainy weather in Southern California. Despite the less crowded roads, snow in higher elevations like the Siskiyou Mountains can affect travel.
Events like the Palm Springs International Film Festival and peak whale-watching season make winter a fun time to drive.
Along the Pacific Coast Highway Route, winter maintains mild coastal conditions, though rain is more common, particularly in Northern California and Big Sur.
Traveling to San Diego from Seattle in the shoulder seasons
Spring and fall present the best travel conditions for both routes, featuring mild weather, reduced fog, and minimal rain. These seasons showcase the west's natural beauty, from the wildflower blooms in spring to the vivid fall colors.
Spring brings the Big Sur International Marathon in April, while fall is harvest season in Napa Valley and Sonoma. Also in the fall is the Monterey Jazz Festival in September.
The best things to see and do on a road trip from Seattle to San Diego
To help you plan your ultimate drive from Seattle to San Diego, we've included our top destinations we highly recommend that you visit below.
On the Sacramento Route
Tumwater Falls: A picturesque park in Tumwater featuring cascading waterfalls, walking trails, and picnic areas alongside the Deschutes River.
Olympia, Washington: The state capital's downtown area, highlighted by the grand Capitol Building offering tours and panoramic views.
Mount Saint Helens (National Monument and Visitor Center at Castle Rock): Offers educational exhibits and stunning views of the volcano known for its 1980 eruption.
Portland, Oregon: Known for its arts scene, the Rose Test Garden, and the eclectic weekend market.
Salem, Oregon: The state capital featuring historic sites and the Hallie Ford Museum, showcasing regional and Native American art.
Pottsville Historical Museum: Near Grants Pass, this museum displays Oregon's pioneering and logging history, with vintage machinery and artifacts.
Ashland, Oregon: A cultural hub famous for its annual Shakespeare Festival and charming downtown area.
Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument: An ecologically diverse area at the crossroads of the Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges, offering hiking and wildlife viewing.
Jelly Belly Factory Tour: Located in Fairfield, this factory tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Jelly Belly candies are made, complete with tastings.
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Vallejo: An animal theme park offering thrilling rides, animal exhibits, and shows for family entertainment.
Sacramento: The capital city of California is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and as a hub for politics and farm-to-fork dining.
San Francisco: Known for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and its historic cable cars.
Bakersfield: This city features country music venues, historic theaters, and museums chronicling local history.
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area: A reservoir in the Sierra Pelona Mountains, popular for fishing, boating, and camping.
Los Angeles: Offers attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and the Getty Center.
Newport Beach: Known for its luxurious coastal lifestyle, surfing spots, and the scenic Balboa Peninsula.
Carlsbad: A coastal city offering beautiful beaches, the Flower Fields, and family-friendly attractions.
LEGOLAND California: A theme park in Carlsbad designed especially for children, with interactive LEGO-themed rides and shows.
On the Pacific Coast Highway Route
Cannon Beach: Famous for its iconic Haystack Rock, this stunning coastal town offers wide, sandy beaches and picturesque ocean views.
Tillamook and Tillamook Creamery: A dairy farming hub known for its visitor-friendly creamery, offering tours, tastings, and dairy products.
Newport Historic Bayfront: A vibrant waterfront district with shops, seafood restaurants, and attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Coos Bay: The largest city on the Oregon Coast, known for its maritime history and the informative museum detailing the region's past.
Redwood National and State Parks: Home to the tallest trees on earth, offering expansive trails, camping, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Eureka: A coastal city with cultural attractions like the art museum and the iconic Victorian Carson Mansion.
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens: A 47-acre property with beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
San Francisco: Known for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and its historic cable cars, offering a rich cultural and sightseeing experience.
Half Moon Bay: A coastal city with a charming downtown, beautiful beaches, and the famous Maverick's surf spot.
Santa Cruz Museum of History and Art: Showcases the rich history and artistic heritage of the Santa Cruz region.
Monterey: Renowned for the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and its historic waterfront district.
Carmel-by-the-Sea: A picturesque small town known for its fairy-tale cottages, art galleries, and stunning beaches.
Bixby Creek Bridge and Big Sur: An iconic bridge offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Big Sur coastline.
Pismo Beach: A classic beach town with wide beaches, a pier, and the opportunity for clams digging.
Solvang: A unique Danish village in California, offering European-inspired architecture, bakeries, and cultural attractions.
