A West Coast road trip is the ultimate American travel experience. From dramatic coastal highways and legendary national parks to iconic cities and desert landscapes, the western United States delivers variety like nowhere else.
This 14-day USA West Coast itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore California, Nevada, and Arizona at a relaxed pace—without missing the highlights.
Overview: 14-Day USA West Coast Road Trip
States Covered: California, Nevada, Arizona
Best For: First-time visitors, couples, photographers, road-trip lovers
Travel Style: Self-drive + cities + national parks
Total Distance: ~1,800 miles
Main Stops:
- San Francisco
- Yosemite National Park
- Los Angeles
- Las Vegas
- Grand Canyon
- Antelope Canyon
- Bryce Canyon
- Zion National Park
- Pacific Coast Highway
Day 1: Arrive in San Francisco
Start your journey in one of America’s most scenic cities.
Things to Do:
- Walk across Golden Gate Bridge
- Ride a historic cable car
- Explore Fisherman’s Wharf
- Visit Alcatraz Island
Overnight: San Francisco
Day 2: San Francisco Sightseeing
Spend another day soaking in the city’s charm.
Highlights:
- Lombard Street
- Chinatown
- Twin Peaks
- Mission District food scene
Overnight: San Francisco
Day 3: San Francisco → Yosemite National Park
4
Drive Time: ~4 hours
What to See:
- Yosemite Valley
- El Capitan
- Bridalveil Fall
- Glacier Point
Overnight: Near Yosemite
Day 4: Yosemite National Park
Enjoy a full day surrounded by nature.
Activities:
- Short hikes
- Wildlife spotting
- Photography at iconic viewpoints
Overnight: Near Yosemite
Day 5: Yosemite → Los Angeles
Drive Time: ~6 hours
Evening:
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Sunset at Santa Monica Beach
Overnight: Los Angeles
Day 6: Los Angeles Exploration
Discover the entertainment capital of the world.
Must-See Spots:
- Hollywood Sign
- Beverly Hills
- Venice Beach
- Griffith Observatory
Overnight: Los Angeles
Day 7: Los Angeles → Las Vegas
4
Drive Time: ~4–5 hours
Evening:
- Las Vegas Strip walk
- Bellagio fountain show
- Casino hopping
Overnight: Las Vegas
Day 8: Las Vegas → Grand Canyon
4
Drive Time: ~4.5 hours
Highlights:
- South Rim viewpoints
- Scenic hikes
- Sunset photography
Overnight: Grand Canyon area
Day 9: Grand Canyon → Antelope Canyon → Page
Attractions:
- Guided Antelope Canyon tour
- Horseshoe Bend
- Lake Powell views
Overnight: Page, Arizona
Day 10: Page → Bryce Canyon National Park
Drive Time: ~3 hours
Experience:
- Hoodoo formations
- Sunrise and sunset viewpoints
Overnight: Near Bryce Canyon
Day 11: Bryce Canyon → Zion National Park
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Activities:
- Scenic drives
- Riverside Walk
- Short hikes
Overnight: Near Zion
Day 12: Zion → Las Vegas
Return to Las Vegas for relaxation.
Options:
- Pool day
- Shopping outlets
- Night shows
Overnight: Las Vegas
Day 13: Las Vegas → Pacific Coast Highway
4
Fly or drive back to California and begin the iconic coastal route.
Overnight: Central Coast area
Day 14: Pacific Coast Highway → San Francisco & Departure
End your journey with dramatic ocean views and cliffside roads before returning to San Francisco.
Estimated Budget for 14 Days (Per Person)
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Car Rental & Fuel | $800 – $1,200 |
| Food | $600 – $900 |
| Attractions & Parks | $400 – $700 |
| Total | $3,800 – $5,800 |
Best Time for a West Coast Road Trip
- May–June: Ideal weather, fewer crowds
- September–October: Perfect temperatures and clear skies
- Avoid: Winter for mountain routes
Travel Tips for West Coast USA
- Book national park entry early
- Carry offline maps for remote areas
- Start drives early to avoid traffic
- Buy an America the Beautiful Pass
- Pack layers for changing climates
FAQs – 14-Day USA West Coast Road Trip
Q1: Is 14 days enough for a West Coast road trip?
Yes, 14 days is ideal for covering major highlights without rushing.
Q2: Do I need a car?
Yes, a car is essential for this itinerary.
Q3: Is this itinerary beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. Roads are well maintained and signage is excellent.
Q4: Can I shorten this trip?
Yes, you can skip Utah parks or the Pacific Coast Highway.
Q5: Is this trip expensive?
Costs are moderate and flexible depending on accommodation and travel style.
Final Thoughts
This 14-day USA West Coast road trip itinerary delivers the very best of America—iconic cities, legendary national parks, deserts, mountains, and coastlines. It’s the perfect introduction for first-time visitors who want to experience the true freedom of the open road.