Best USA West Tours from San Francisco

How Many Days for a US West Coast Tour

West Coast tours typically take 7 to 14 days or longer, depending on how many destinations you want to visit.

For example, a 7- to 14-day itinerary can cover major cities like Seattle or Los Angeles, along with several national parks. A more comprehensive West Coast USA tour, however, requires 3 to 4 weeks to explore additional cities in Southern California and Washington State.

Best Months to Visit the West Coast

Spring, from March to May, is an ideal time for Western US tours, featuring cool weather with average temperatures ranging from 50 to 72°F (10 to 22°C). Crowds are smaller than in summer, and lodging prices are more affordable. However, the West Coast is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique appeal.

Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season. The weather is warm, with average temperatures ranging between 59–82°F (15–28°C). These months are ideal for visiting national parks, but expect larger crowds and higher prices during this period.

From September to November, temperatures in southern regions remain relatively warm, averaging between 46 and 79°F (8 to 26°C). This period of Indian Summer brings clear skies.

Winter, December through February, brings snowfall to some areas with cold weather averaging 37–68°F (3–20°C). Visitors can ski at Mount Hood or head to the California coast to witness gray whale migration.

Main Cities and Attractions on the West Coast

Major cities along the West Coast offer unique scenery, cultural vibes, and entertainment experiences. Major cities include:

• Los Angeles, California: The global entertainment hub, home to numerous film studios, diverse restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Popular attractions in Los Angeles include the Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, and Venice Beach. Of course, Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland Park are a must-visit. The Getty Center offers art, architecture, and cityscapes. Griffith Observatory stands as a Los Angeles landmark.

• San Francisco, California: A center for technology and art, featuring steep hills and distinctive architecture.

The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is a world-renowned landmark. Adjacent Alcatraz Island, once a prison, now serves as a museum accessible only by boat. Also worth visiting are Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39, where you can savor fresh seafood.

• Portland, Oregon: Boasting expansive urban parks and diverse breweries, it thrives with a vibrant arts and theater scene. Washington Park in Portland is home to the International Rose Test Garden and the Oregon Zoo. It also houses Powell's City of Books, one of the world's largest independent bookstores, along with several wineries. If you enjoy hiking, you can also visit the Columbia River Gorge.

• Seattle, Washington: Home to a special coffee culture, it features a robust tech industry and stunning scenery surrounding the city. Seattle's Pike Place Market is a historic marketplace that also houses the world's first Starbucks. The iconic Space Needle tower offers panoramic city views. Chihuly Garden and Glass presents a stunning exhibition of glass art. Gas Works Park is a great place to relax in the city.

• San Diego, California: Its hallmarks are a warm, comfortable climate and endless stretches of sandy beaches, complemented by a rich Mexican flavor. Old Town San Diego is a historic Spanish-style district, while Balboa Park offers beautiful gardens, museums, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. The USS Midway Museum, converted from an aircraft carrier, holds significant historical value. Nature enthusiasts can choose La Jolla Cove, a beach ideal for snorkeling.

National Parks in the Western US

Western national parks are truly spectacular, featuring terrain that leans more toward mountains, plateaus, and canyons compared to the eastern national parks. Among them are many renowned national parks:

• Yosemite National Park: Located in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, it features towering granite cliffs where visitors can explore scenic attractions like Bridalveil Falls and Half Dome. Hiking and biking are popular activities here.

• Zion National Park: Located in Utah, this national park is characterized by massive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and the Virgin River winding through its center.

• Bryce Canyon National Park: Also located in Utah, it is relatively close to Zion National Park. The park features red and pink cliffs along with natural rock arches, offering the most stunning views at sunset.

• Death Valley National Park: Located in California, Zabriskie Point and Artist's Palette are frequently visited sites here.

• Grand Canyon National Park: Located in Arizona, it features immense rock formations, with Mather Point offering the best vantage point for viewing the cliffs.

• Redwood National and State Parks: Located along the coast of Northern California, this is home to the world's tallest trees, the redwoods.

West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

Depending on your schedule, if you have ample time, you can depart from Seattle for a comprehensive tour of the West Coast. For a 10-day itinerary, we recommend starting from Portland or San Francisco. With less than 7 days, focus your trip on Southern California and the California coastline.

When you're ready for a West Coast driving tour, we will use a 10-day road trip as an example. That will take you through the most stunning coastlines and iconic landmarks.

Day 1: Begins in Portland with a stroll downtown to experience the local coffee culture, followed by a visit to Washington Park.

Day 2: After exploring the Portland Japanese Garden, head out along Highway 101 and stop at Cannon Beach, known for its stunning coastline and Haystack Rock.

Day 3: Drive along the coastline to Redwood National and State Parks to admire the world's tallest redwood trees. Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the park.

Day 4: Head to San Francisco to visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at Fisherman's Wharf in the evening.

Day 5: Continue exploring San Francisco's Union Square or head to Napa Valley for wine tasting—autumn is the best season for wine tasting.

Day 6: Depart from San Francisco and travel along the famous Highway 1 to Big Sur, taking time to admire the coastal cliffs and shoreline views. Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls are popular stops along the way.

Day 7: Arrive in Los Angeles, visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory. In the evening, head to Santa Monica Beach to watch the waves crash against the shore.

Day 8: Spend a magical and wonderful day at either Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood.

Day 9: Depart Los Angeles and head south on I-5 to San Diego. Explore Old Town San Diego for a different flavor. In the afternoon, visit Balboa Park to see wildlife and plants.

Day 10: Relax at La Jolla Cove. You can end your trip to San Diego or return to Los Angeles.