LA - Loop recommendations please.

Question

Hi, we're looking for recommendations starting and finishing in LA - 12 nights in August. Family of four (kids are 7 and 12), travelling by car.

Some definite musts on our list:

Yosemite.

Half Moon Bay (family visit), an evening is ideal.

San Francisco.

Some beach time.

Big Sur.

Universal Studios - 1 day only.

Any recommendations for a loop type route to fill in the gaps?

Thanks.

Answer

For a family road trip with 12 nights in August, starting and finishing in LA, you have an amazing selection of must-see destinations! Given your interests, here’s a suggested loop route that covers all the highlights you mentioned, with some additional stops to fill in the gaps and maximize your time.

Day 1: Los Angeles
Start your trip by exploring LA. You can spend a day at Universal Studios for some family fun, or explore other LA landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, or Santa Monica Pier.

Day 2: LA to Santa Barbara (2 hours)
Drive up the coast to Santa Barbara. This beautiful coastal town offers family-friendly beaches and attractions like the Santa Barbara Zoo and Stearns Wharf.

Day 3: Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo (2.5 hours)
Continue up the coast to San Luis Obispo, a charming town with great food and outdoor activities. You can explore the nearby Pismo Beach, or visit the famous Hearst Castle in San Simeon if your family enjoys history and stunning views.

Day 4: San Luis Obispo to Big Sur (2 hours)
Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, one of the most scenic spots on the West Coast. Stop at McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, and enjoy the rugged coastline. Spend the night in Big Sur, or if accommodations are limited, you can also stay in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Day 5: Big Sur to Half Moon Bay (2.5 hours)
Head north towards Half Moon Bay for a family visit. Spend the evening exploring the town, maybe grab dinner by the beach, and enjoy a relaxing evening with your family. You can also check out the Half Moon Bay State Beach.

Day 6: Half Moon Bay to San Francisco (1 hour)
After a leisurely breakfast, drive into San Francisco. You can spend a full day exploring famous spots like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, or take a ride on the iconic cable cars. Be sure to visit the Exploratorium for some hands-on science fun, which is great for kids.

Day 7: San Francisco
Take another full day in San Francisco to explore the city more, maybe check out Golden Gate Park or the California Academy of Sciences.

Day 8: San Francisco to Yosemite (4 hours)
Head east towards Yosemite National Park. Depending on your kids’ interests, Yosemite offers a variety of activities, from easy hikes (like the Lower Falls Trail) to scenic spots like Glacier Point or Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Day 9-10: Yosemite
Spend two days exploring Yosemite. There’s plenty to do, such as ranger-led programs, swimming in Tenaya Lake, or relaxing in Yosemite Valley. Don’t miss a visit to the Yosemite Falls or Mirror Lake for some incredible family photos.

Day 11: Yosemite to LA (5-6 hours)
Head back to LA, but consider a stop at Sequoia National Park if time permits, to see the famous General Sherman Tree. Alternatively, you can make it a scenic stop along the way to break up the drive.

Day 12: LA
Spend your final day in LA relaxing, or visit other attractions you missed at the start of your trip, such as the California Science Center, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), or Griffith Park.

This loop takes you from LA up the coast to Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and San Francisco, then heads inland to explore Yosemite before returning to LA. It covers your must-visit spots and offers plenty of family-friendly stops along the way.

Additional recommendations:

For beach time, consider stopping at Carmel-by-the-Sea or Pismo Beach for beautiful coastal views and family-friendly activities.
If you're into outdoor activities, you can also add stops at Big Sur’s Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for some hiking or beachcombing.
Don’t forget to pack for varying climates, as Yosemite and Big Sur can be cooler, while the coast and LA will be warmer.

Enjoy your trip, and make sure to plan for some rest time to make the most of the adventure!