The Perfect 6-Day Road Trip in Northern California: Nature, Food, and Epic Experiences
A road trip through Northern California should be on everyone’s bucket list. I mean… you’ve got Redwoods National Park, home to some of the tallest trees in the world!!
That alone is enough reason to go, but it gets even better—this area is full of charm, enchantment, good eats, and the kind of dreamy scenery that makes you feel like you’re in a fairytale. It totally mesmerized us.
I’ve been wanting to slow-travel this stretch—from the northern coast of California to the southern edge of Oregon—ever since I rushed through it back in 2018.
Back then, I had no idea what I was doing. But now? I’ve been in my travel-planning era long enough that there was no way I was letting this road trip happen without a solid plan.
And now, I’m a proud over-planner. Lucky for you, I’m spilling all the details so you can recreate this epic trip—complete with adventure, awe, and yep… some seriously yummy food.
Start in San Francisco
Let’s talk transportation real quick—because this trip is super convenient if you can fly into San Francisco.
- The San Francisco International Airport makes it easily accessible for most travelers
- Hello, you start in San Francisco! If you’ve never been to San Fran, it’s absolutely worth spending a day or two exploring the city before or after your road trip.
- There are plenty of rental options in the area, but I’m gonna be honest with you: Renting a campervan is the way to go for this one. It gives you total freedom to move around without being tied to a hotel schedule, and truthfully, there just aren’t many hotel options along this route. Unless you’re fully committed to booking in advance and backtracking to the nearest town every night, staying at campgrounds is going to be way more fun and way less stressful.
Campervan Rental Sugguestion
We rented our campervan through Roadsurfer, and I’d recommend them 1000%. They have a bunch of different van options and sizes, and their pickup location is right in downtown SF.
We went with the Couple’s Condo model, which was perfect for us. It came with a full kitchen, a bathroom with a hot shower (!!), a full electric setup, a comfy bed, and a chill seating area. Plus, they made everything so user-friendly—before the trip, they sent over walkthrough guides and a really helpful YouTube video so we knew exactly how to use everything. Roadsurfer is legit a legendary company, and I’d use them again in a heartbeat.
There’s even a secured parking lot next door where you can leave your personal vehicle for around $35/day—which is a huge win because if you’ve ever been to San Francisco, you know parking is a nightmare, and car break-ins are unfortunately super common. We felt really safe leaving our car there, though (and just a reminder: don’t leave anything visible in your car that you wouldn’t want stolen).
Day 1:
Let the Road Trip Begin – From San Francisco to Point Reyes
You’re kicking things off in San Francisco, which basically means the world is your oyster. There’s so much to see and do here, it would be silly for me to even start listing things – because once I do, I won’t stop. But! If you’re looking for recommendations like where to eat, my favorite Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints, scenic piers, and photo spots, I’ve already mapped out all my go-to places on my California Google Map. It’s super helpful not just for exploring San Francisco, but for the entire trip – especially if you’re into easy outdoor stops, good food, and those “wait, where is that?” kind of photo ops.
Once we hit the road, here’s how we spent the first day:
Follow this itinerary, or change it up and make it your own.
It’s up to us to take care of nature. Please be respectful and remember to leave no trace. My goal is to educate my community on incredible destinations and encourage people to go outside and explore. Don’t forget to stock up on food and supplies before you leave the city!
Mount Tamalpais State Park
The drive up to Mount Tam alone is worth the stop – think dreamy coastal curves, towering trees, and peekaboo views of the Pacific. You can totally treat this as a quick photo op at Trojan Point (a seriously photogenic viewpoint), or stretch it into a longer stop with a picnic and a little hike.
If you’re up for getting your legs moving, check out:
- Verna Dunshee Trail – .8 miles, super easy, paved path with panoramic views
- East Peak Fire Lookout via Stagecoach Fire Road – short walk with a big reward—killer views on clear days
- Dipsea Trail, Steep Ravine, and Matt Davis Loop – longer option if you’re wanting something more adventurous and have extra time
Hike to Alamere Falls (via Coast Trail from Palomarin Trailhead)
Okay, real talk—only consider doing this hike if you’ve got the time and the experience. It’s a 14-mile round trip (or about 8 miles if you turn around at the falls), and if you’re aiming for sunset, you’ll want to plan your timing carefully.
We originally planned to do the Alamere Falls via the Coast Trail from Palomarin Trailhead, which is the most popular route. It’s one of those iconic coastal hikes where the reward is a rare waterfall that literally drops onto the beach. Sounds like a dream, right?
Well… we were majorly lagging. By the time we got to the trailhead, we realized we’d be racing the sun and possibly hiking out in the dark—not ideal. So, we made the call to skip it and head straight to our campground. No regrets, but also, kind of a regret?
If you’re a solid time manager and ready for a longer trek, this is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. Just pack layers, bring snacks, and be mindful of your timing so you don’t miss that golden hour magic.
Where to Stay near Point Reyes
Point Reyes National Seashore is beautiful and remote – so heads up, lodging options are limited. If you’re into tent camping, there are hike-in campgrounds available on recreation.gov, but keep in mind, you’ll have to carry your gear in.
There are a few small hotels near the entrance of the park or in Point Reyes Station, which is a tiny but charming town.
If you’re traveling in a campervan, like we were, you’ve got a bit more flexibility. Check out spots on iOverlander, FreeCampsites, or Harvest Hosts. We stayed at Samuel P. Taylor State Park on our way up and really enjoyed it—super peaceful and easy to access.
Day 2:
Exploring Point Reyes National Seashore
Today’s all about Point Reyes, and honestly, it feels like stepping into another world. Between the dramatic coastline, rolling hills, and the amount of wildlife you’ll see, it’s wild in the best way possible. We spent most of our day exploring the park and were constantly in awe—every turn has a new view or animal surprise (I’m talking coyotes, elk, sea lions, and even whales if you’re lucky).
Most of the highlights here are super accessible with short walks, so you can pack a lot into one day without it feeling rushed. Here’s what I’d recommend:
- Point Reyes Lighthouse – Double check if it’s open when you go. Even if it’s closed, the walk up is still worth it and the coastal views are chef’s kiss.
- South Beach Lookout – One of my absolute favorite views in all of California. Don’t miss it.
- Cypress Tree Tunnel – A quick and dreamy stop. Great for photos or just a peaceful moment.
- Drake’s Beach – A stunning beach with epic bluffs. You might spot elephant seals lounging around.
- Chimney Rock Trail – A short and scenic trail that ends in jaw-dropping ocean views (and more seals if you’re lucky).
Seafood Stop in Marshall, CA – Don’t Skip the Oysters
Now, if you’re driving through Marshall and thinking about skipping the seafood – don’t. This tiny town is an oyster lover’s dream, and honestly, even if you’re not big on oysters, it’s still worth the stop just for the experience. A lot of the restaurants here are mom-and-pop style and actually farm their oysters on-site, which means you’re getting the freshest of the fresh. Like, they were probably in the ocean that morning.
My absolute favorite? Hog Island Oyster Co. Yep, same one as in San Francisco, but this location is the real deal—it’s their actual oyster farm. And let me tell you, their Whole Hog Experience on Tuesdays is one of the coolest food experiences I’ve ever done.
Here’s what went down:
- Oyster shucking class (and yes, they give you your own tools to take home)
- A full tasting- raw, BBQ’d, baked – you name it
- A fancy little cheese board, because balance
- And the most unreal oyster feast at The Boat Oyster Bar
Pro tip: If you can’t go on a Tuesday, they offer farm tours on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 9:30 AM, which are also really fun and a great way to see the magic in action.
Or, just go – sit on their patio, drink some wine and eat!
Beer + Bites Stop: Russian River Brewing Company
On your way up to Mendocino, you’ll cruise through Santa Rosa, which just so happens to be home to the original Russian River Brewing Company. If you’re into beer—or have a beer snob in the car—this is a must-stop. They’re famous for their Pliny the Elder (yep, that Pliny), and they’ve racked up a ton of awards for their IPAs.
Even if you’re not big on beer, the food here is solid. Think: wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and all the good road trip comfort food. It’s the kind of place where you can fuel up, relax for a bit, and then keep cruising north with full bellies and maybe a growler or two for the campsite.
Where to Camp: Heartwood Mendocino
You’ll want to stay at Heartwood Mendocino – seriously, how much more can I rave about this place? It’s absolute paradise. Whether you’re glamping, cozying up in a small cabin, pitching a tent, or parking your campervan, they’ve got space for you. And the amenities? Chef’s kiss.
You get access to community kitchens, hot showers (including the most magical redwood outdoor shower you’ve ever seen), and just a super peaceful, tucked-into-nature vibe. Plus, it’s the perfect launch pad for exploring both Mendocino and Fort Bragg. Trust me, this is one of those places you’ll never want to leave.
Day 3:
Fort Bragg + Magical Redwood Adventures
Start your morning with one of the most unique and fun experiences of the whole trip – a railbike ride through the redwoods with Skunk Train in Fort Bragg. Skunk Train’s electric Railbikes take you on a breezy ride through an enchanted redwood forest. No steering needed—just pedal, vibe out, and soak up the views of towering trees, wooden bridges, and maybe a river otter or two.
Halfway through the ride, you’ll stop at Glen Blair Junction where you can snack, stretch your legs, and take a peaceful walk through the redwoods before coasting back, fully recharged and grinning ear to ear.
And if you’re more of a nighttime adventurer, Skunk Train also offers weekend night rides – you can take the railbikes or hop on their train for a cozy trip into the forest featuring live music, games, a fire pit, and a full bar.
Exploring Fort Bragg, Glass Beach and Enjoy
After your morning ride through the redwoods, take some time to explore the charming coastal town of Fort Bragg. One of the must-sees? Glass Beach – one of the only beaches in California where you can still find sea glass in bigger amounts. It’s super unique and just a fun little stop to walk around, beachcomb, and take in the salty air.
Where to Sleep:
If you’re looking to camp near the Avenue of the Giants, Richardson Grove State Park is a solid choice. Located just south of the Avenue, this park offers over 170 campsites nestled among towering redwoods.
Staying here positions you perfectly for an early start exploring the Avenue of the Giants the next morning.
Day 4:
Enjoying the Redwoods State and National Park
Today, you’re diving into one of the most awe-inspiring forests on earth. Whether you’re cruising the Avenue of the Giants or hiking among towering trees, you’ll be surrounded by nature’s giants.
Avenue of the Giants – A scenic drive through some of the tallest trees you’ll ever see. The road winds through this majestic forest, giving you a front-row seat to the wonders of nature.
Redwood Sky Walk (Eureka) – Located in Eureka, this canopy walk takes you 100 feet above the forest floor, offering an entirely new perspective of these incredible trees. It’s a great opportunity to stop into town to restock on anything you need (yes, even Costco is nearby!).
The Sky Walk is located at Sequoia Park Zoo, so not only will you get to walk among the giants, but you’ll also see some adorable animals—like the playful river otters!
Where to Hike in the Redwoods State and National Park
Top Trails in Redwoods National Park
- Tall Trees Grove – A must-see, but be aware you’ll need a permit for this one! You can pick it up at the visitor center on the same day, and it’s worth the effort.
- Lady Bird Johnson Grove – A short and easy trail, but don’t let that fool you—this one boasts some of the biggest trees in the park.
- Fern Canyon – Straight out of Jurassic Park! This iconic spot was used for filming and is perfect for a stunning, lush canyon walk.
Where to Camp:
I highly recommend experiencing Fern Canyon, and while you’re down there, be sure to check out Gold Bluff Beach Campground. It’s one of my absolute favorite campgrounds in California! Located directly on the Pacific coastline, this spot offers incredible views and a serene, coastal atmosphere. You can book your stay directly through Recreation.gov, or if you’re feeling spontaneous, you can try your luck at getting a spot when you arrive (space permitting). It’s the perfect place to camp, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the area!
Day 5:
Welcome to Oregon!
This stretch of coast is pure coastal beauty—dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and hidden coves around every turn. Take your time soaking it all in, and make sure to stop at:
- Natural Bridges – This spot was on my bucket list for years, and it didn’t disappoint! It’s one of those places where nature’s artistry takes center stage, and you’ll find yourself mesmerized by the natural rock formations and sweeping ocean views.
- Secret Beach – This beach is a hidden gem! It’s a little more secluded and has that untouched, magical feel with stunning cliffs surrounding it and views of sea stacks jutting out from the waves. You might have to work a bit to get down to it, but it’s totally worth it.
- Arch Rock – Another must-see with its iconic rock arch framing the Pacific. It’s the perfect spot to snap some photos and just stand in awe of how nature works.
- Indian Dunes – If you’ve got a bit of extra time, check out these dunes tucked away along the coastline. They’re a beautiful mix of sandy stretches and grasslands, creating an interesting landscape to explore.
This part of Oregon has a fresh, laid-back vibe with no sales tax and cheaper gas, making it the perfect place to chill out. Head to Brookings, OR, and spend some time at their lovely beach—totally worth the visit.
Where to Stay:
Brookings Campground – A great option if you’re looking for a cozy place to rest after a day of exploration.
If you’re ready to keep moving, you can head back up the coast towards San Francisco. And if you didn’t get enough Redwoods NP sightseeing, consider adding a few extra stops:
- Grove of Titans – A stunning collection of massive ancient trees that’ll make you feel tiny in the best way.
- Stout Memorial Grove – Another beautiful grove with towering trees, perfect for a peaceful walk through nature.
Day 6:
The Final Stretch
By now, you’ve experienced some of the most breathtaking views and hidden gems along the coast. On Day 6, it’s all about how you want to wrap up the trip:
- Take Your Time Traveling Back to San Francisco – If you’re ready to head home, today is all about the journey back to the city. Take it slow, stop where you want, and let the scenic drive be as much a part of your adventure as the destinations themselves. Maybe revisit some spots that captured your heart or explore a new place you missed earlier. It’s a perfect day to enjoy the final moments of your coastal journey.
- Hit Up Some Stops You Missed on the Way Up – If you didn’t get a chance to check out some spots earlier on, now’s your chance to go back and explore them. Whether it’s a specific trail you missed, a town you wanted to check out, or just taking in the sights one last time, this is your day to fill in the gaps.
This final stretch gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re ready to dive back into city life or prolong your adventure a little longer, enjoy every mile of it—because the road home can be just as magical as the journey itself.
Final Tips for Your Trip:
Final Tips to Make the Most of Your Adventure:
- Stock Up on Groceries Early – Some of these spots are truly off the beaten path, so plan ahead to avoid scrambling for supplies when you’re deep in the wilderness.
- Layer Up – The coast and redwoods are known for their quick mood swings in weather. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s foggy and chilly, so packing layers is key to staying comfy all day.
- Reserve Campsites in Advance – Especially in state parks, campsites can fill up fast. Book ahead if you want to secure a spot in the best locations—trust me, you’ll thank me later.
- Download Offline Maps & AllTrails Routes – Service can be spotty in some of the most scenic (and remote!) areas, so make sure you have your routes downloaded and ready to go.
Let me know if you need a Google Maps route or packing list—I’m always happy to help! Until next time, keep chasing those wild views.
Your travel bestie,
<3 Faith (@prettyliltraveler)