Week-Long Trips
Las Vegas to California Road Trip
Your 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary
Ready to hit the road? This California road trip from Las Vegas takes you on a 10-day adventure through sun-soaked deserts, buzzing cities, and breezy coastal hideaways. From Red Rock Canyon to the golden hills of San Francisco, every stop offers its own rhythm—whether you’re hiking beneath starlit skies or wandering through palm-lined streets. This is freedom, the roadsurfer way.
Route:Las Vegas ➤ Ridgecrest ➤ Los Angeles ➤ San Diego ➤ Palm Springs ➤ Joshua Tree ➤ San Francisco
Distance: 1,095 miles
Duration: 10 Days
Landmarks & Scenic Spots: Red Rock Canyon State Park, Hollywood, Venice Beach, Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove, Joshua Tree National Park, Sequoia National Park, Golden Gate Bridge
Best Travel Time: April to June / September to October
Tolls & Fees: Some roads, tunnels, and bridges—especially near cities like Los Angeles and San Diego—charge tolls. Entrance to national parks such as Joshua Tree and Sequoia typically costs $30–$35 per vehicle and is valid for 7 days. For more details, check the Joshua Tree National Park entrance fee information and the Sequoia National Park fee details.
Stop 1 – Las Vegas, Nevada
Our recommendation: 1 day
Just across the California border, Las Vegas is a strategic and high-energy starting point for a California road trip. Pick up your RV at our Las Vegas station, stock up, and hit the road after a single night in the city. Desert landscapes, bold architecture, and iconic entertainment make this a fast-paced kickoff before the route shifts toward California’s national parks, coastlines, and open-road scenery.
Things to Do
- Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive: A 13-mile loop just outside the city, where rust-colored cliffs and desert trails offer a quiet contrast to the buzz of the Strip.
- Seven Magic Mountains: Stacks of neon-painted boulders rise from the desert floor—a colorful, surreal landmark just south of the city.
- Fremont Street Experience: Downtown Vegas in full sensory mode: overhead LED shows, street performers, and a faster pulse than the Strip.
- Neon Museum: This open-air museum showcases the city’s vintage neon signs up close, offering a glowing look at the bold, nostalgic design that shaped Las Vegas.
- Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: Tucked inside a resort on the Strip, this indoor garden shifts with the seasons—unexpectedly calm and full of color.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Tacos El Gordo: Tijuana-style tacos with bold flavors (limited vegetarian options)
- Mothership Coffee Roasters: Trendy café with house-roasted coffee and baked goods (vegan and gluten-free options available)
- Springs Cafe at Springs Preserve: Bright, garden-view café with seasonal menus (vegan & vegetarian options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Sparrow + Wolf: Seasonal American small plates with global influences (vegan options available; allergy-friendly upon request)
- Top of the World at The STRAT: Sky-high dining with 360° views (vegetarian options; limited gluten-free)
- Esther’s Kitchen: Rustic Italian with handmade pasta and modern twists (vegan & gluten-free options available)
Stop 2 – Ridgecrest, California
Our recommendation: 1 day
Set between the Sierra Nevada and the Mojave Desert, Ridgecrest is a deliberate pause on a California road trip itinerary. This one-night stop suits RV travelers who want stark desert landscapes, red rock canyons, and clear night skies—without crowds or detours. Hiking by day and stargazing after dark make Ridgecrest a calm reset before the route continues toward California’s busier highlights.
Things to Do
- Maturango Museum: A quiet, locally run museum that brings the Mojave Desert into focus—through desert minerals, native wildlife, and the stories of the region’s first inhabitants.
- Fossil Falls: Once shaped by lava and rushing water, this rocky canyon now stretches quiet and dry—an unexpected volcanic landscape tucked between desert highways.
- Petroglyph Park: Low boulders etched with ancient symbols offer a glimpse into the area’s long human history, preserved in stone and sunlight.
- China Lake Museum: Tucked near the naval base, this small museum links life in the Mojave to Cold War-era innovation, with aircraft models and desert survival gear on display.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Albertacos: No-frills Mexican joint serving burritos, tacos, and loaded fries (vegetarian options available)
- Pita Fresh: Mediterranean spot offering wraps, rice bowls, and falafel (vegetarian & gluten-free options available)
- Desert Brew: Cozy café with espresso drinks and light breakfast fare (vegan & vegetarian options available)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Lugo’s Grill: Casual spot for American and Mexican fusion fare (gluten-free options available)
- Xin Bowl Asian Bistro: Modern eatery offering pan-Asian dishes with a contemporary twist (vegetarian & gluten-free options available)
- Mon Reve: French-inspired café with savory crepes, sandwiches, and espresso (vegetarian & gluten-free options available)
Stop 3 – Los Angeles, California
Our recommendation: 2 days
Los Angeles earns a two-day stop for the simple reason that it rewards contrast. One day lets you cover the coast, neighborhoods, and city energy; the second gives you time for viewpoints, markets, or studio-era landmarks without rushing. For RV travelers, this balance makes LA feel manageable rather than overwhelming. To plan overnight stays, see our guide to camping in Los Angeles for RV-friendly options around the city.
Things to Do
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: A stretch of sidewalk lined with stars, where classic Hollywood history collides with the city’s everyday buzz.
- Griffith Observatory: Sitting high above the city, this landmark pairs skyline views with hands-on science exhibits and some of the best sunset spots in LA.
- Santa Monica Pier: An old-school boardwalk where carnival rides, ocean air, and wide-open Pacific views come together.
- The Getty Center: A hilltop museum complex known for its striking architecture, sculpture gardens, and calm spaces overlooking the city.
- Venice Beach Boardwalk: A nonstop stream of street performers, murals, and local vendors that captures LA’s creative energy at full volume.
If you’re deciding which landmarks fit best into your time in the city, our guide to Top 10 Iconic Things to Do in Los Angeles breaks down what’s worth prioritizing and how to group classic stops into an easy, realistic itinerary.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Grand Central Market: Historic food hall featuring a variety of vendors offering global cuisines (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Alchemist Coffee Project: Trendy café known for specialty coffees and light bites (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Angel’s Tijuana Tacos: No-frills taco stand known for its bold Tijuana-style flavors (limited vegetarian & gluten-free options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Girl & the Goat: Innovative dishes with global influences in a chic setting (vegan & gluten-free menus available)
- Reel Inn: Casual seafood shack near the coast with fresh catches and picnic table vibes (limited vegetarian options)
- Park’s BBQ: Iconic Korean BBQ spot serving premium cuts and traditional sides (gluten-free options available; limited vegetarian options)
Stop 4 – San Diego, California
Our recommendation: 2 days
San Diego works best as a two-day coastal stop that slows the pace before the route turns inland. One day covers beaches and waterfront neighborhoods; the second leaves room for food, culture, or a relaxed reset by the ocean. For a California road trip itinerary, this balance makes San Diego feel restorative rather than rushed.
Things to Do
- Balboa Park: A blend of gardens, museums, and Spanish Revival architecture creates a calm, expansive space in the middle of the city.
- Old Town San Diego: Historic adobe buildings and open-air markets keep the spirit of early California alive in this colorful, walkable district.
- La Jolla Cove: Turquoise water, sunbathing sea lions, and dramatic cliffs give this coastal nook a quiet, cinematic quality.
- USS Midway Museum: Docked along the waterfront, this retired aircraft carrier offers an unexpected look into naval history against a Pacific backdrop.
- Gaslamp Quarter: As the sun sets, this downtown stretch lights up with live music, rooftop bars, and the glow of historic facades.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- El Tianguis Rolled Taquitos: Local favorite for rolled tacos with hearty fillings (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Plant Power Fast Food: 100% plant-based take on burgers, fries, and shakes (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Nomad Donuts: Craft donuts, bagels, and burritos with bold flavors (vegan options available)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Donna Jean: Cozy spot serving wood-fired plant-based comfort food (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Cesarina: Italian trattoria offering handmade pasta and romantic atmosphere (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
- True Food Kitchen: Health-conscious eatery with globally inspired dishes for all diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free & meat options available)
Stop 5 – Palm Springs, California
Our recommendation: 1 day
Palm Springs is a focused one-day stop that adds contrast to a California road trip itinerary. The appeal is concentrated: desert scenery, mid-century design, and a quick shift in pace before moving on. Ride the aerial tramway, drive through the city’s iconic neighborhoods, and call it done. If you’re traveling in April, this is also the closest base for the Coachella festival.
Things to Do
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: From the desert floor to alpine heights, this rotating tramcar rises into cooler air and wide mountain views that shift with every turn.
- Indian Canyons: Shaded by palm trees and shaped by flowing water, these canyons offer a softer side of the desert—quiet, green, and full of contrast.
- Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour: Wander through the city’s iconic homes, where sleek lines and retro charm define Palm Springs’ unique style.
- The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Part wildlife park, part botanical garden—this open-air space is home to desert animals and native plants from around the world, set against a backdrop of sand and mountain.
- VillageFest: A weekly street fair held every Thursday evening, where downtown Palm Springs fills with local artists, food vendors, and live music under the desert sky.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Palm Greens Cafe: Healthy café with bowls, salads, and smoothies (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Chef Tanya’s Kitchen: Plant-based deli known for bold sandwiches (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Nature’s Health Food & Cafe: Casual stop for wraps, juices, and warm plates (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge: Modern American dining in a vibrant space (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Lulu California Bistro: Downtown favorite with a wide-ranging menu (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
- El Patron: Mexican restaurant with customizable plates (vegan & gluten-free options available)
Stop 6 – Joshua Tree, California
Our recommendation: 1 day
Joshua Tree is a one-day stop built around atmosphere rather than mileage. Short hikes, boulder-strewn landscapes, and wide-open desert skies make it ideal for slowing down without committing extra time. For RV travelers, it’s a reset point between cities rather than a place to linger. To see how it fits into a broader California route, our guide to all of California’s national parks, with a closer look at Joshua Tree puts this stop into context.
Things to Do
- Hidden Valley: A quiet spot tucked into the desert, where towering boulders and wide-open skies offer a serene space to pause and take in the landscape.
- Keys View: From here, the valley stretches out below, offering a sweeping perspective of the desert and mountains that feels both expansive and intimate.
- Cholla Cactus Garden: A patch of desert where golden cacti glow in the soft light of sunrise and sunset, creating an almost dreamlike scene.
- Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum: This outdoor installation of large-scale sculptures blends bold desert art with the rawness of the natural landscape, creating an unexpected and striking experience.
- Stargazing: The desert sky offers a breathtaking view of the stars, with a vast canvas overhead that invites quiet reflection and awe.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Natural Sisters Cafe: Vegetarian café with smoothies, sandwiches, and baked goods (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Sky High Pie: Casual pizza joint offering customizable pies (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Sam’s Indian Food & Pizza: Local fusion spot serving curries, pizzas, and wraps (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Crossroads Cafe: Cozy diner with classic American dishes and flexible menu options (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
- The Yucca Tree Eatery: Bright café with a focus on fresh, healthy meals (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Pappy & Harriet’s: Legendary desert roadhouse with live music and hearty fare (vegetarian options available)
Stop 7 – San Francisco, California
Our recommendation: 2 days
San Francisco works best as a two-day finale that brings the trip full circle. One day covers the city’s landmarks and neighborhoods; the second gives you space to slow down before returning your RV. This pacing lets the shift from desert and coast to urban California feel intentional rather than abrupt. If you’re staying overnight before drop-off, plan ahead near our San Francisco station or use our guide to camping near San Francisco to find RV-friendly options around the city.
Optional detour: If you want to break up the drive before reaching San Francisco, Sequoia National Park adds a single, high-impact nature stop. Massive sequoia groves create a quiet transition between desert terrain and the coast without reshaping the overall route.
Things to Do
- Golden Gate Bridge: Wrapped in fog or glowing in the sun, this iconic span connects more than land—it ties together the city’s dramatic contrasts, from nature to skyline.
- Alcatraz Island: A short ferry ride takes you to this haunting landmark, where stories of escape, isolation, and resilience unfold against sweeping bay views.
- Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39: Wooden docks and salty air set the stage for street performers, while the calls of sea lions drift from the waves below.
- Chinatown: A vibrant maze of bustling alleys, lanterns overhead, and a mix of history and flavor—from tea shops to temples—capturing the essence of old San Francisco.
- Haight-Ashbury: The birthplace of counterculture, where murals decorate old Victorians and vintage shops pulse with the rebellious spirit of the 60s.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Golden Boy Pizza: Iconic square slices with focaccia crust (vegetarian options available)
- Souvla: Greek-style wraps and bowls, fast and flavorful (vegetarian & gluten-free options available)
- Boudin Bakery Café: Grab a sourdough sandwich or clam chowder in a bread bowl (vegetarian options available)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar: Inventive plant-based sushi that tastes as good as it looks (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Tartine Manufactory: Stylish spot with wood-fired eats and artisan pastries (vegetarian options available)
- Foreign Cinema: Dine beneath string lights while old films flicker on the wall (vegan & gluten-free options available)
Useful Tips for your Las Vegas to California Road Trip
- Know the Road Rules: In California, right turns on red are allowed after a full stop—unless posted otherwise. Four-way stops follow “first come, first go” etiquette. In Nevada, some rural stretches require headlights even during the day.
- Wildlife Awareness: Coyotes, deer, and even hawks can appear suddenly—especially at dawn or dusk along desert roads and canyon routes.
- Speed Limits: Expect 15 mph near railroad crossings, 25 mph in neighborhoods, 55 mph on two-lane highways, and up to 70 mph on freeways. Always check local signage.
- Toll Roads: You’ll encounter tolls near big cities and major bridges (like the Golden Gate). Some require prepayment or a toll pass—check with your rental provider.
- Permits & Campground Reservations: Popular spots in Yosemite, Big Sur, or Death Valley may require permits or advance bookings. A quick online check can save a headache later.
- Pack for Desert Heat & Coastal Chill: You’ll need layers for wild temperature swings—think tank tops by day, warm jackets at night. Don’t forget your swimsuit for hot springs or ocean dips, and a lightweight towel for quick drying.
- Regional Must-Haves: Binoculars for sweeping desert vistas, a sunhat, SPF lip balm, insect repellent for dusk hikes, and a daypack for spontaneous stops and farmers’ markets.
- Essential RV Gear: Leveling blocks, water pressure regulator, power adapters, and a first-aid kit should all make the cut. For a full road trip checklist, check out our RV camping packing list.
- Navigation: Not everywhere has cell service—especially in Death Valley, Yosemite, or the Mojave. Download offline maps ahead of time or bring a backup GPS device.
- Water & Fire Safety: Bring refillable jugs or a water filter—remote campgrounds often have no potable water. Always check for fire bans, use designated rings, and fully extinguish your fire before leaving.
- Campsite Etiquette: Keep your space clean, observe quiet hours (usually 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.), and respect your neighbors’ space—especially in tightly packed coastal sites or high-desert campgrounds.
- Wildlife & Bear Safety: In areas like the Sierra Nevada or Sequoia National Forest, use bear-proof lockers and store all scented items properly. Temptation isn’t just a human trait.
- Pets: Most parks allow pets—but leashes are a must, and cleanup is non-negotiable. Some trails or beaches may have pet restrictions, so check local rules before heading out.
- Parking Paint Code: Red means no stopping. Yellow is for loading zones. Blue is for disability parking only. Always check signs before walking away from your vehicle.
- Leave No Trace: From Red Rock Canyon to Joshua Tree and the Pacific coast, pack out your trash, stay on designated trails, and help keep wild spaces wild.
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