Central Coast California 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Pismo Beach

Begin your journey from Bakersfield towards the coast.

Enjoy the scenic drive to Pismo Beach, the first stop on your coastal adventure.

Pismo Beach Pier & Play

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historic Pismo Beach Pier, watch surfers, and let the toddlers play safely on the sandy beach.

Look for the famous Pismo Beach clams!

Bundle up as it can be breezy and cool in January. Bring sand toys for the toddlers. Restrooms available near the pier.

Lunch in Pismo Beach

Grab a casual, family-friendly lunch at one of the local eateries in Pismo Beach.

Many offer options suitable for young children.

Consider Splash Cafe for their famous clam chowder, or another casual spot with outdoor seating if weather permits.

Drive to Santa Barbara

Continue your scenic drive south along the coast to Santa Barbara, your base for the next few nights.

Enjoy views along a portion of the Pacific Coast Highway (US-101).

Hotel Check-in & Settle

Check into your hotel in Santa Barbara and allow the family to settle in and relax after the day's travel.

Dinner in Santa Barbara

Enjoy an early, relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Santa Barbara.

Many restaurants on State Street or near the wharf offer kid-friendly menus.

Santa Barbara Zoo Visit

Spend the morning at the Santa Barbara Zoo, known for its beautiful ocean views and manageable size, perfect for toddlers.

They have a train ride, playgrounds, and animal encounters.

Book tickets online in advance. Bring snacks and drinks. Stroller-friendly paths throughout.

Lunch Near East Beach

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or deli near East Beach, close to the zoo.

East Beach Afternoon

Relax and play at East Beach, a wide sandy beach perfect for families.

The waves are usually gentle, and there's plenty of space for toddlers to run around and play in the sand.

Bring towels, sunscreen, and beach toys. There are playgrounds nearby.

Hotel Rest & Recharge

Head back to the hotel for some downtime, naps for the toddlers, or just a quiet break before evening activities.

Dinner on State Street

Explore the vibrant State Street for dinner, which often has street performers and a lively atmosphere.

Choose a restaurant with outdoor seating if preferred.

State Street is partially pedestrianized, making it pleasant for strolling with a stroller.

Hotel Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe.

Stearns Wharf Exploration

Visit Stearns Wharf, California's oldest working wharf.

Enjoy the ocean views, watch fishing boats, and consider visiting the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center (optional, but toddler-friendly).

The Sea Center has interactive exhibits ideal for young children. Parking is available on the wharf or nearby.

Lunch on the Wharf

Dine at one of the restaurants on Stearns Wharf, offering fresh seafood and casual options with ocean views.

MOXI: The Wolf Museum

Engage in hands-on learning and play at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

This children's museum is perfect for toddlers with its interactive exhibits and playful environment.

Highly recommended for families with young children. Check opening hours and book tickets online if possible.

Stroll Alice Keck Park Garden

Enjoy a gentle stroll through the beautiful Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, known for its pond with ducks and turtles – a simple, calming activity for toddlers.

Free entry. A nice place for a relaxed walk before dinner.

Casual Family Dinner

Have a relaxed dinner at a local family-friendly restaurant.

Consider a spot with outdoor seating or a take-out picnic if preferred.

Cafe Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at a charming local cafe in Santa Barbara.

Montecito Coast & Parks

Take a short drive to the beautiful neighboring town of Montecito.

Enjoy a gentle walk on Butterfly Beach or explore the open spaces of Manning Park, which has playgrounds for toddlers.

Butterfly Beach is a picturesque spot, often quieter than Santa Barbara's main beaches.

Picnic Lunch at a Park

Grab some sandwiches or snacks from a local deli and enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch at Manning Park or another scenic spot.

Old Mission Santa Barbara Grounds

Visit the grounds and gardens of the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara.

While the interior might be less engaging for toddlers, the expansive lawns and peaceful gardens are lovely for a family stroll.

Free to walk the exterior grounds. Small fee for museum and church access (optional).

Leisure Time / Pool

Enjoy some free time back at the hotel, perhaps a swim in the pool, or just unwind and let the toddlers play.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Santa Barbara, perhaps trying a different cuisine or a restaurant you particularly enjoyed.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a final breakfast in Santa Barbara and check out from your hotel.

Santa Barbara Waterfront Park

Take a last gentle stroll or playtime at Chase Palm Park or another waterfront park.

There are playgrounds and open grassy areas for toddlers to burn off some energy before the drive.

Free entry. Conveniently located near the main roads for departure.

Drive back to Bakersfield

Begin your return journey from Santa Barbara back to Bakersfield.

Late Lunch Stop

Stop for a late lunch or snack on your way back, perhaps in a town like Santa Maria or along the I-5.