San Franscisco to LA via Car

Question

Hi,

We are staying 3x nights in SF in June and then driving to LA, 2 adults and 2 kids (10 &13)

Best place to stay in SF x 3 Nights budget around 180USD per night?

We want to drive all the way via Highway 1 (the scenic route). Can you drive all the way?

Where should we stop over for 1 night on the drive from SF to LA (to break it up) ?

Best place to stay in LA for x3 Nights, budget 180USD per night ?

Many thanks guys

Answer

Planning a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles along Highway 1 is a fantastic way to experience California’s coastline, especially with kids aged 10 and 13. Here’s a detailed breakdown for your trip:

San Francisco Accommodation:

For a 3-night stay in San Francisco with a budget around $180 per night, consider hotels that balance comfort, safety, and convenient access to popular areas like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, or the Embarcadero. Budget-friendly options include:

Hotel Zephyr (Fisherman’s Wharf) – fun, family-friendly, modern décor, close to attractions.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott (Union Square area) – suite-style rooms, small kitchenette for families.
Handlery Union Square Hotel – central location, reasonable rates, family-friendly rooms.

Driving SF to LA via Highway 1:

Yes, you can drive all the way via Highway 1, but it’s a winding coastal road with some narrow sections. The drive is scenic but slower than the I-5 inland route. Plan for multiple stops and an overnight stay to break up the journey.

Recommended stopover for 1 night:

Monterey/Carmel: Charming coastal towns with plenty to see – Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Carmel Beach. Family-friendly hotels and motels are available, such as Spindrift Inn (Carmel) or Best Western Plus (Monterey).
Cambria/San Simeon: A quieter option with access to Hearst Castle and beach areas. Hotels like Cambria Shores Inn or Sea Otter Inn are good choices.

Los Angeles Accommodation:

For 3 nights in LA with a $180 per night budget, consider staying near central tourist areas while keeping in mind parking costs. Options include:

Holiday Inn Express LAX or nearby – convenient if flying in/out, family rooms available.
Best Western Plus Sunset Plaza – near Hollywood, offers easy access to Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and more.
Staybridge Suites, Santa Monica – suite-style rooms, kitchenettes, and beach access; can be slightly above $180 depending on dates, but deals are often available.

Tips:

Book hotels early, especially in June, as California’s coastal areas are busy in summer.
Check parking availability, as San Francisco and LA hotels may charge extra.
Allow extra driving time along Highway 1, especially around Big Sur, as there are scenic viewpoints and slow-moving traffic.

With this plan, your family will enjoy scenic coastal drives, kid-friendly stops, and convenient hotel locations without overextending driving days.