North Coast Itinerary Seattle to San Francisco

Pacific Northwest Itinerary:  Seattle to San Francisco

Welcome to the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway.  Relax and unwind on this bucket list vacation, flowing from Washington State to San Francisco, California. 
   With 30+ International Airlines and Partners at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, getting here has
   never been easier.

Day 1-3:  Arrive in Seattle

Seattle, a very culturally sophisticated city is the perfect beginning to this evergreen vacation.  Armed with a Seattle City Pass, over the next two days you can see the very best of this fascinating city.  Begin at the Seattle Aquarium or Argosy Harbor Cruise, then choose more attractions from the exciting options Seattle City Pass offers.

You will want to plan a visit to Pike Place Market and watch fish being pitched and of course snap a photo or even dine atop the Seattle Space Needle. 

Day 3-4:  Portland, Oregon

Set against the backdrop of majestic Mount Hood, Portland combines a sophisticated, cosmopolitan atmosphere with a refreshingly friendly, small-town warmth that makes it a natural for tours of all types.

Portland is compact, but it packs a punch, with lots of great attractions, shops and restaurants clustered in and around the central city. Stroll from the world’s largest independent bookstore to a classical Chinese garden, and stop to smell the roses — and do a little tax-free shopping — along the way!

Add a Day:  Crater Lake National Park

Day 5:  Crescent City, California

Arrive back at the Pacific Ocean, this time get some sand in your toes at less crowded beaches.  Or visit Battery Point Lighthouse, Ocean World or one of the four local craft breweries - a perk of the North Coast.

Day 6: Redwood National Park, Paul Bunyan & Pacific Ocean Sunset

Nearly half of the remaining old growth redwoods are in Redwood National and State Parks, including giants five stories taller than the Statue of Liberty. They can live to be 2,000 years old and grow to more than 375 feet tall. Trees of Mystery is a perfect stop to get a glimpse of how varied Coastal Redwoods can grow, as well as learn some Coastal Redwood History.  A self-guided walking tour is lined with the mythical story of Paul Bunyan, and a world-class museum of local and foreign native tribes items and  regalia create a fulfilling day in the Redwoods. 

The Pacific Northwest is prime for epic Sunsets.  Tonight bundle up and relax at the beach to watch the beautiful colors show off in the clouds.

Day 7-8:  EUREKA!  You found historical victorians, and old timey fun!

Settle in for a few days and kick back like a local. 

Explore in town Redwood Groves, go beachcombing, or kayak the waterways.  Enjoy farm fresh dining and treats, and perhaps even forage them yourself, if that suits your fancy. 

Eureka, a California Cultural District for Art, is a sight to behold.  More than 30 public murals and art pieces share the creative style of the area.  Set time to visit with the Artisans and Makers as they invite you to visit their shops to see how things are made, perhaps try your knack at it or when it's proper, take a taste of the craftsman work in Humboldt County.

Arcata, the college town of almost 18,000, on the state’s far north coast, settled by pioneers in the mid 1800's and home to The Arcata Plaza, and The Hotel Arcata dating back to 1915; it once played host to those to those who traveled by rail or steamer.

Just off the plaza is the Minor Theatre; opened in 1914, it’s one of the oldest structures in the U.S. built for the sole purpose of showing movies.

Shop the around the Arcata Plaza, dine at one of the local fresh restaurants, or visit a local city Redwood Park, Beach or local event.

Southern Humboldt is a gem all of to itself.  Unwind as you explore Ave of the Giants, endless Redwood Groves, many with access right off Highway 101/Redwood Highway.

Stop in Redway, Garberville or Shelter Cove (FIT only) for fresh, local dining or for gathering provisions.

Southern Humboldt is known for hosting fun events that paired with the natural outdoors become a welcomed addition to any road trip through the Redwoods.

Day 9:  Mendocino, the best place for Wine, Waves & Whale Watching

Today's the day for your classic Drive Thru Tree photo!  And of course keep your eyes open for Bigfoot! 

You can opt to stop in Andersen Valley for a lovely day of wine tasting, or head directly to Mendocino for an excursion to see the whale migration, or take a ride on the Skunk Train.  Whichever you choose, by the end of today you'll feel more relaxed and ready for another epic sunset. 

Day 10-11:  San Francisco, California

Finishing off the Pacific North Coast is California favorites in San Francisco.  Start before you arrive and pull over at the Golden Gate Bridge lookout for more Instaworthy photos.  Check into your hotel and start adventuring the city!  City transit can often be easier than driving, so be sure to check out all transportation options prior to arriving. 

With the San Francisco City Pass you can explore the SF Academy of Sciences, ride the Cable Cars, or take a tour of San Francisco Bay on the Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise Adventure.  Leave time to visit Pier 39 and have some clam chowder!