An RV trip through the West Coast is an iconic American road trip. When else do you have the freedom to surf in Cortes Bank and photograph the striking Golden Gate Bridge in one single trip? Visit California in an RV to keep costs affordable and maintain a flexible itinerary.

The options below take you through San Simeon all the way to Venice Beach and you can't make this drive in any old RV. A Cruise America rental or purchase comes with the best equipment, and the process couldn't be easier. What are you waiting for? Embark on your dream California Coast road trip in a Cruise America RV.

1. Pacific Coast Highway

Duration: 7-10 days | Distance: 1,650 miles

Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway from north to south ensures you stay in the lane closest to the ocean. Starting at the northwest tip of the U.S. near Port Townsend, Washington, this breathtaking route follows U.S. Highway 101 through Washington and Oregon before transitioning into Highway 1 in Northern California.

Marvel at the towering redwoods along the Avenue of the Giants, experience the rugged coastline of Big Sur, explore downtown San Francisco, and take in the Los Angeles city skyline. The wilds of the PCH are nothing to snuff at. Relax on gorgeous beaches and visit historic landmarks like San Luis Obispo County's Hearst Castle.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Olympic National Park and Astoria, Oregon

• Day 3-4: Northern California Redwood Forests and Avenue of the Giants

• Day 5-6: San Francisco and Monterey

• Day 7-8: Big Sur and Central Coast

• Day 9-10: Santa Barbara and Los Angeles to San Diego

2. Yosemite National Park: Tioga Road

Duration: 2–4 hours | Distance: 60 miles

Tioga Road is one of California's most spectacular drives, crossing Yosemite National Park from Crane Flat to Mono Lake. As the highest highway pass in the state, it reaches an elevation of 9,945 feet and winds through the Sierra Nevada, which is essentially only breathtaking views and iconic natural landmarks.

Travelers will pass through Tuolumne Grove, home to towering sequoias, and ascend through alpine forests with views of Tenaya Canyon and the back side of Half Dome. The shimmering waters of Tenaya Lake invite visitors to take a refreshing dip, while nearby Cloud's Rest Trail rewards hikers with panoramic vistas. Tuolumne Meadows bursts with wildflowers in spring (it literally looks like an explosion of color), and the Lembert Dome hike offers a short but rewarding climb to the summit of a granite dome.

At its highest point, Tioga Road passes beneath Mt. Dana before leading to high-altitude lakes and the surreal tufa formations of Mono Lake. This unforgettable journey through Yosemite is only accessible in the summer and fall since winter snowfall closes the pass.

Itinerary

• Crane Flat to Tuolumne Grove – See giant sequoias

• Tenaya Lake and Cloud's Rest Trail – Scenic lake and epic viewpoints

• Tuolumne Meadows and Lembert Dome – Alpine meadows and a short summit hike

• Tioga Pass and Mt. Dana – Highest point of the road with dramatic landscapes

• Mono Lake – Otherworldly tufa formations on the eastern side of the Sierras

3. Theme Park Road Trip

Duration: 6-8 days | Distance: 165 miles

This thrilling road trip takes you through Southern California's most iconic theme parks, packed with heart-pounding roller coasters and immersive attractions you can't see elsewhere. You'll delight at marine life encounters in San Diego and high-speed coasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Start at SeaWorld San Diego, where marine conservation meets exhilarating rides. Head north to LEGOLAND California for creative, brick-built fun before experiencing the magic of Disneyland Resort. Continue to Knott's Berry Farm, home to classic coasters and Old West charm, then explore the cinematic world of Universal Studios Hollywood. Cap off the trip at Six Flags Magic Mountain, the ultimate destination for adrenaline junkies.

Itinerary

• Day 1: SeaWorld San Diego – Marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, and conservation efforts

• Day 2: LEGOLAND California – Interactive LEGO-themed attractions and rides in Carlsbad

• Day 3-4: Disneyland Resort – Iconic Disney magic in Anaheim, from classic rides to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

• Day 5: Knott's Berry Farm – Old West charm, roller coasters, and boysenberry treats in Buena Park

• Day 6: Universal Studios Hollywood – Movie magic meets theme park thrills, from Harry Potter to Jurassic World

• Day 7-8: Six Flags Magic Mountain – High-speed coasters and extreme thrills in Santa Clarita

4. Monterey Peninsula Road Trip

Duration: 2-3 days | Distance: 30 miles

The Monterey Peninsula is one of California's most scenic coastal regions with a neat blend of natural beauty, history, and quaint seaside charm. This short (but spectacular) road trip takes you through pristine beaches and by old wharves, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way.

From the rugged coastline of Moss Landing to the artistic haven of Carmel-by-the-Sea, each stop showcases the best of the peninsula. Walk along the sands of Monterey State Beach, enjoy world-famous clam chowder at Old Fisherman's Wharf, and explore the breathtaking trails of Point Lobos State Reserve, known as the "crown jewel" of California's state parks.

Itinerary

• Day 1: Moss Landing State Beach – Picnic by the ocean and spot sea lions, otters, and coastal birds

• Day 2: Monterey State Beach and Old Fisherman's Wharf – Surf, kayak, or search for sea glass, then enjoy fresh seafood and historic sites

• Day 3: Carmel-by-the-Sea and Point Lobos State Reserve – Browse art galleries, taste local wine, and hike scenic coastal trails

5. California Wine Country Road Trip

Duration: 6-8 days | Distance: 450 miles

California's wine country is one of the most diverse and breathtaking wine-growing regions in the entire world. This road trip takes you on a journey through some of the state's most celebrated vineyards and coastal dining destinations, so there's a mix of food, wine, and scenic beauty.

Starting in Los Angeles, you'll travel north along the coast, stopping in Ojai, Santa Barbara, and Sonoma before reaching the legendary Napa Valley. Along the way, experience boutique wineries, Michelin-starred restaurants, charming farm-to-table eateries, and the relaxed elegance of California's wine culture. Seasoned wine enthusiasts or those simply looking for a beautiful drive with great food and wine will enjoy this itinerary.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Ojai – Explore the bohemian enclave of Ojai, visit Bart's Books, and dine at Rory's Place

• Day 3: Santa Barbara – Stay at Rosewood Miramar Beach and enjoy local wines at the elegant Manor Bar

• Day 4: Sonoma – Visit Scribe Winery, stroll through Sonoma Plaza, and dine at Valley Bar and Bottle

• Day 5-6: Napa Valley – Experience Stanly Ranch, enjoy farm-to-table dining at Bear, and tour boutique wineries

• Day 7-8: Santa Cruz – Discover the surf town's natural wine scene at Apéro Club and unwind at Dream Inn

6. Northern California Redwoods and Coast Trip

Duration: 5-7 days | Distance: 500 miles

Experience the untamed beauty of Northern California's redwood forests, rugged coastline, and charming small towns. This road trip winds through towering ancient trees and pristine coastal vistas.

Begin in Mendocino, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean, before heading into the Avenue of the Giants and Redwood National Park. Explore quiet coves, spot Roosevelt elk in Prairie Creek Redwoods, and drive along the Lost Coast, one of California's most secluded coastal regions. Finish the trip in Crescent City, where wild beaches and historic lighthouses mark the end of this breathtaking journey.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Mendocino – Coastal cliffs, Glass Beach, and historic Victorian charm

• Day 3: Avenue of the Giants – Drive through towering redwoods and visit Humboldt Redwoods State Park

• Day 4: Redwood National Park – Hike in Fern Canyon and spot Roosevelt elk in Prairie Creek Redwoods

• Day 5: Lost Coast – Take the rugged, remote drive along California's least-visited coastline

• Day 6-7: Crescent City – Explore Battery Point Lighthouse and enjoy coastal hikes in Jedediah Smith Redwoods

7. California Desert Adventure Road Trip

Duration: 6-8 days | Distance: 700 miles

Discover the stark beauty and surreal landscapes of California's deserts on this epic road trip. From the otherworldly rock formations of Joshua Tree to the alien-like salt flats of Death Valley, this journey showcases the unique landscapes of the Golden State's arid regions.

Starting in Palm Springs, this trip takes you through Joshua Tree National Park, past abandoned ghost towns, and into the mesmerizing expanses of Death Valley. End the adventure at Red Rock Canyon and the Mojave National Preserve, where stunning rock formations and desert wildlife create an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Palm Springs – Mid-century modern charm, aerial tramway, and hot springs

• Day 3: Joshua Tree National Park – Explore Skull Rock, Hidden Valley, and Cholla Cactus Garden

• Day 4: Route 66 and Ghost Towns – Visit Amboy Crater and the historic Route 66 town of Oatman

• Day 5-6: Death Valley National Park – See Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

• Day 7-8: Red Rock Canyon and Mojave National Preserve – Hike among dramatic cliffs and lava fields

Note: Cruise America RVs, and pretty much every other RV rental on the market, cannot go in Death Valley. The name of this valley is not an exaggeration and should be traversed with an expert.

8. Southern California Coastal Road Trip

Duration: 5-7 days | Distance: 350 miles

This may not be a classic California road trip but sometimes you just need a sun-soaked coastal escape. This road trip follows Southern California's stunning coastline from San Diego to Santa Barbara. With endless ocean views and adorable beach towns, this trip is perfect for those who want to soak up the uber-laid-back SoCal vibe.

Start in sunny San Diego, then head north through iconic Orange County beaches before reaching the glitz of Malibu and the charm of Santa Barbara. Along the way, explore historic piers, hidden coves, and some of the best seafood spots in the state.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: San Diego – Explore La Jolla, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Balboa Park

• Day 3: Laguna Beach and Newport Beach – Scenic cliffside beaches, surfing, and art galleries

• Day 4: Santa Monica and Malibu – Relax on the famous pier and explore Zuma Beach

• Day 5-6: Santa Barbara – Visit historic missions, taste wine, and stroll through the Funk Zone

• Day 7: Ventura and Channel Islands – Take a boat tour to see wildlife and remote islands

9. California's Gold Country

Duration: 5-7 days | Distance: 400 miles

Step back in time on a journey through California's historic Gold Rush towns. This road trip follows Highway 49, winding through charming towns, historic sites, and breathtaking Sierra Nevada foothills.

Begin in Nevada City, one of the best-preserved Gold Rush towns, then head south through Grass Valley, Columbia, and Jamestown. Explore gold mines, historic saloons, and rolling vineyards before ending in Yosemite National Park, where you can start the 2nd itinerary in this list.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Nevada City and Grass Valley – Explore historic downtowns and the Empire Mine

• Day 3: Columbia State Historic Park – Live like a gold miner in this preserved 1850s town

• Day 4: Jamestown and Railtown 1897 – Ride historic steam trains in the Sierra foothills

• Day 5-6: Murphys and Calaveras Big Trees – Visit boutique wineries and see giant sequoias

• Day 7: Yosemite National Park – Finish the trip with breathtaking granite cliffs and waterfalls

10. High Sierra Scenic Road Trip

Duration: 7-9 days | Distance: 600 miles

This road trip takes you through California's most stunning alpine landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Eastern Sierra to the pristine lakes of the High Sierra. With breathtaking mountain vistas and hiking trails that have you working up a sweat, this trip is perfect for outdoor adventurers.

Start in Lake Tahoe, then head south along Highway 395, stopping at Mammoth Lakes, the ghost town of Bodie, and the granite spires of Alabama Hills. Finish the journey with a scenic drive through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Lake Tahoe – Crystal-clear waters, hiking trails, and lakeside relaxation

• Day 3: Mono Lake and Bodie Ghost Town – Explore eerie tufa towers and an abandoned mining town

• Day 4-5: Mammoth Lakes – Enjoy hot springs, Devils Postpile, and alpine hiking trails

• Day 6: Alabama Hills – See dramatic rock formations and old Hollywood film locations

Day 7-9: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks – Stand beneath giant sequoias and explore deep canyons