Expert: Jason Curodeau - 9/12/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi there I am travelling from the UK and land in San Fran in November. I want to spend three nights there and then have 6 days to drive to La Jolla in San Diego. I am thinking of spending one night along the Big Sur (looking for budget accom) then two nights in Santa Barbara as its my birthday. Where else would you recommend staying along the way. Kind regards Tracy

ANSWER: Tracy,
Sounds like a great trip. I would spend some extra time around Big Sur, there are so many places around this area that are spectacular. I would recomend taking a few side roads off Hwy 1 and explore some of the crazy houses and roads. Also, make sure you fill the tank in Monterey, gas in Big Sur is ridiculous. You won't find budget accomodations in Big Sur but if you continue to San Simeon there are about 5 little hotels with decently priced rooms (59.99-79.99). They are right across the Hwy from the ocean.
I hope I have been some help and Have A Happy Birthday.
Jason Curodeau

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi there, thanks for the speedy response. Sorry one more question, we are not overly keen on staying LA so we have a night or two to spare is there anywhere else you would recommend before we get to San Diego? Kind regards Tracy

Answer
Tracey,
If you have a night or two to spare, I would suggest crossing the Golden gate and heading North toward Point Reyes. It is not too far from San Fransisco and the drive is breathtaking. In Point Reyes there is a national seashore/park. It would make a great day or overnight trip. The town itself is one of my favorites, I love pulling in and seein all the small shops and friendly people. In my opinion, with the exeption of Big Sur the coast north of San Fancisco is the best. Actually all the way up to B.C. it is the best.
You might want to jut north a bit and just enjoy a taste of it. Once you get to Santa Barbara there really isn't anywhere south that is worth staying at until you get closer to San Diego, but if your staying there anyway it wouldn't be worth it. Kind of like driving all night and stopping at a friends who is only 5 miles from your house, just to take a nap.
I have driven from Los Angeles to San Francisco taking hwy 1 and made it in 15 hours. So you should have plenty of time to explore and enjoy as much of our coastline as possible without feeling exhausted in the end.
Hope this helps.
Jason Curodeau