A five-day drive from Seattle to San Francisco is ambitious but totally doable if you balance scenic detours with realistic daily distances. This itinerary favors the Pacific Coast Highway and coastal highlights where possible, mixing world-class viewpoints, short hikes, seafood stops, and comfortable towns to spend the night. For one example of travel planning inspiration beyond the West Coast, see this roundup of 15 best places to visit in Maryland this summer, which demonstrates how compact trip guides can help you prioritize stops and activities.
Day 1 — Seattle to Astoria (approx. 190–220 miles, 4.5–5.5 hours)
- Morning: Depart Seattle early and cruise south on I-5; consider a short ferry from Edmonds to Kingston to break the routine and enjoy water views.
- Afternoon: Reach the Oregon coast and head toward Astoria. Stop at Cannon Beach for Haystack Rock photos and a quick beach walk.
- Evening: Explore Astoria’s waterfront, climb the Astoria Column at sunset for panoramic views, and dine on fresh Pacific seafood. Overnight in Astoria.
Day 2 — Astoria to Newport (approx. 175–200 miles, 4.5–5.5 hours)
- Morning: Drive along US-101 with scenic coastal pullouts. Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center near Fort Clatsop if you enjoy history.
- Midday: Stop in Tillamook for a cheese factory tour and samples.
- Afternoon: Continue to Newport. Visit the Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the Oregon Coast Aquarium if time allows.
- Evening: Stroll Newport’s historic bayfront and try local clam chowder. Overnight in Newport.
Day 3 — Newport to Bandon (approx. 145 miles, 3.5–4.5 hours)
- Morning: Head south through the picturesque central Oregon coast—short hikes at Cape Perpetua and Devil’s Punchbowl are highly rewarding.
- Midday: Explore Florence’s Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area if you want dune rides or scenic viewpoints.
- Afternoon: Continue to Bandon, one of the coast’s gems—famous for rock formations, blown sand beaches, and a charming old town.
- Evening: Catch the sunset at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. Overnight in Bandon.
Day 4 — Bandon to Redwood Country to Mendocino (approx. 240–300 miles, 6–8 hours)
- Morning: Cross into California and make time for Redwood National and State Parks—take short walks among towering redwoods (Trillium Falls, Lady Bird Johnson Grove).
- Midday: Drive the Highway 101 Redwood corridor, stopping in Crescent City for a quick harbor lunch or a tidepool walk.
- Afternoon: As you head farther south, consider the Avenue of the Giants detour for an unforgettable old-growth redwood drive.
- Evening: Stay in the coastal village of Mendocino or nearby Fort Bragg for charming galleries, cliffs, and dinner. Overnight in Mendocino/Fort Bragg.
Day 5 — Mendocino to San Francisco (approx. 150–170 miles, 3.5–5 hours)
- Morning: Drive the scenic coastal route (where accessible) through Sonoma County—time permitting, stop at Point Arena Lighthouse or a coastal overlook.
- Midday: If you enjoy wine, a brief tasting in Russian River Valley or Sonoma is possible before the final leg.
- Afternoon: Arrive in San Francisco via Highway 1 or US-101. Plan a late-afternoon visit to the Golden Gate viewpoint or a walk along Fisherman’s Wharf to celebrate the end of the trip.
Practical Tips
- Pace: Average daily drive times above include short stops; keep long hikes optional so you can enjoy views without feeling rushed.
- Reservations: Summer and holiday weekends book up—reserve hotels in coastal towns in advance.
- Fuel & Services: Some stretches of the Oregon and Northern California coasts have sparse services—top off your tank when you can.
- Weather: Coastal fog is common—layers, windproof jackets, and waterproof shoes will make outdoor stops more enjoyable.
- Car considerations: Choose a comfortable car for long driving days and bring a phone mount, power bank, and offline maps for stretches with spotty service.
- Food: Try local fish markets and family-run bakeries in small coastal towns—these are often the most memorable meals.
Short detours worth the time
- Cape Perpetua Scenic Area (Oregon) — impressive viewpoints with short accessible trails.
- Avenue of the Giants (California) — a tranquil and awe-inspiring redwood driving alternative to US-101.
- Mendocino Headlands State Park — quick coastal cliff walks that are perfect for stretching legs before the final drive.
Packing checklist (brief)
- Layers and waterproof outerwear
- Comfortable walking shoes and a small daypack
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle
- Driver essentials: phone mount, charger, printed reservation info
- Snacks and a cooler for fresh seafood or picnic lunches
Conclusion
If you want a step-by-step planning guide with maps, suggested daily mileage, and extra route options for a Seattle-to-San-Francisco road trip, check out this practical resource on How To Plan An Amazing Seattle To San Francisco Road Trip.