California Coast RV Road Trip Itinerary: A 4-Day Adventure in Winter
Winter and early spring might not be the first seasons that come to mind for a California road trip, but this is the perfect time to explore the Central Coast by RV. The cooler weather means fewer crowds, incredible wildlife sightings, and serene coastal views that you’ll practically have all to yourself. This 4-day RV itinerary is packed with dog-friendly beaches, scenic stops, and unique activities, making it ideal for a getaway anytime, but especially between January and March.
Why January–March is the Best Time for This Trip
Monarch Butterflies in Full Swing: January is peak season to witness the magical clustering of monarch butterflies at Pismo Beach’s Monarch Butterfly Grove.
Wildlife Encounters: Elephant seals are most active during these months, making the vista points in San Simeon a must-visit.
Mild Weather: Enjoy cool, crisp days perfect for hiking, exploring, and cozy evenings in your RV.
Off-Season Peace: Avoid the summer crowds and experience the Central Coast at its most peaceful.
Day 1: Los Angeles to Avila Beach
Drive Time: ~3 hours (without stops)
Overnight Stay: Flying Flags Avila Beach RV Resort
Address: 6450 Babe Ln, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Things to see and do on the way there:
1. Explore Solvang
(~2 hours from Los Angeles) Discover the Danish-inspired charm of Solvang with its boutique shops, windmills, and cozy cafes. Wander through the picturesque village street and feel like you're not in California anymore.
Address: 1637 Copenhagen Drive Solvang, CA 93463
Website: Solvang Visitor Center
Our favorite Snack or Lunch Option:
Paula’s Pancake House: Famous for its Danish pancakes.
Address: 1531 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
2. Feed Ostriches & Emus
(~10 minutes from Solvang) Visit OstrichLand USA to feed ostriches and emus for a fun and quirky experience. You can buy the feed there in the store, along with authentic feathers, eggs and other goodies.
Address: 610 E Highway 246, Solvang, CA 93463
Website: OstrichLand USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm
Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo Beach
(~1 hour from Solvang) Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove during peak season in January-February to witness thousands of butterflies clustering in eucalyptus trees. Pro Tip: bring binoculars!
Address: 400 S Dolliver St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Website: Monarch Butterfly
Stroll through Avila Beach Promenade
(~1 hour from Pismo Beach) Stroll through the charming Avila Beach Promenade and browse boutique shops before dining seaside.
Address: 404 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Website: Avila Beach Promenade
Our Favorite Lunch/Dinner Option:
Blue Moon Over Avila: French-inspired cuisine with stunning ocean views.
Address: 460 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Arrive at the Campground for the Evening (reservations required).
(~10 minutes from Avila Beach Promenade) Relax and catch the sunset from one of our favorite campgrounds, Flying Flags Avila Beach RV Resort.
Address: 6450 Babe Ln, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Website: Flying Flags Avila Beach RV Resort
Day 2: Avila Beach to Ragged Point
Drive Time: ~2.5–3 hours (without stops)
Overnight Stay: Morro Dunes RV Park
Avila Beach to Morro Bay is actually pretty close. But all of our favorite things to see are past Morro Bay, so for this part of the roadtrip, you will cruise on past Morro Bay and spend the day exploring a historic cute little village called Harmony with a populatin of 18 people, then head on over to our favorite place on the whole Californian Coast, the Elephant Seal Vista Point, tour Hearst Castle, explore the stunning views at Ragged Point Inn and then head back down to Morro Bay Dunes for the evening.
Things to see and do on day 2:
Explore Harmony
(~30 minutes from Avila Beach) Stop in this charming town (population: 18) and visit Harmony Glassworks to watch glassblowing, shop for handmade art or have homemade icecream.
Address: 2180 Harmony Valley Rd, Harmony, CA 93435
Website: Harmony Town
2. Visit the Elephant Seal Vista Point:
(~20 minutes north of Harmony) Check out elephant seals and sea lions in their natural habitat. From January to March, the elephant seals are at their most active as they gather for birthing and mating season. You can observe newborn pups and witness dramatic battles between male seals vying for dominance. It’s a rare and unforgettable wildlife experience.
Address: 200 Piedras Blancas Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452
Website: Elephant Seal
3. Take a Tour of the Historic Hearst Castle
(~35 minutes south of Ragged Point) Step into the opulence of California's past with a guided tour of Hearst Castle. This historic hilltop estate, built by publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, showcases breathtaking architecture, lavish interiors, and stunning pools and gardens. Visitors can marvel at priceless art collections and experience the grandeur of a bygone era, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Central Coast. Be sure to make reservations online before going! Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Zebras along the Hearst property! There are 126 zebras that roam the area and they can often be seen near the highway. 🦓🦓🦓
Address: 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452
Website: Hearst Castle
(Optional) Enjoy the drammatic views at Ragged Point Inn
(~25 minutes north of Elephant Seals) If you still want more things to do and see on day 2, take a short drive up to Ragged Point Inn to enjoy stunning coastal views, have a cup of coffee or take a short hike. Note, there is absolutely no cell service there.
Address: 19019 CA-1, Ragged Point, CA 93452
Website: Ragged Point Inn
Arrive at the Campground for the Evening (reservations required).
(~30 minutes south of Hearst Castle) Stay overnight at Morro Dunes RV Park, just steps from the beach.
Address: 1700 Embarcadero Morro Bay CA 93442
Website: Morro Dunes RV Park
Recommended Dinner Options:
Tognazzini’s Dockside Too: Casual eats with live music.
Address: 1235 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Day 3: Explore Morro Bay and Montaña de Oro State Park
Drive Time: 30 minutes
Overnight Stay: Morro Dunes RV Park
Day 3 is special because it blends tranquil coastal exploration with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Start your morning in Morro Bay, where you can sip coffee by the harbor and watch sea otters play. The afternoon takes you to Montaña de Oro State Park, offering breathtaking ocean views from the Bluff Trail or the chance to relax on the serene Spooner’s Cove beach. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, surrounded by California’s natural beauty.
Things to see and do on day 3:
Morning in Morro Bay
Explore Morro Bay: Walk along the Embarcadero, browse shops, and watch playful sea otters in the harbor.
Our Favorite Breakfast Options:
Frankie & Lola’s Front Street Café: A local favorite for hearty breakfasts.
Address: 1154 Front St, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Afternoon Adventure: Montaña de Oro State Park
(~15 minutes south of Morro Bay) Hike the Bluff Trail for stunning ocean views or relax at Spooner’s Cove.
Address: 3550 Pecho Valley Rd, Los Osos, CA 93402
Website: Montana De Oro
Evening:
Return to Morro Bay for dinner and another cozy night at Morro Dunes RV Park. Don't forget your firewood to enjoy a campfire and S'mores!
Dinner Options:
Blue Sky Bistro: Casual dining with local ingredients.
Address: 699 Embarcadero #6, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Day 4: Morro Bay to Los Angeles
Drive Time: ~4–5 hours (without stops)
This is the last day of this amazing road trip, but there are still a few things left to see!
Things to see and do on day 4:
Have Breakfast at Madonna Inn for Breakfast
(~17 minutes south of Morro Bay Dunes RV Park) Start your day with a unique and colorful breakfast at the iconic Madonna Inn, a destination famous for its over-the-top decor, and delicious dining. Each space at the inn is uniquely designed, making it a favorite for travelers and Instagram enthusiasts alike. Enjoy hearty portions and vibrant surroundings that set the Madonna Inn apart as a true California icon.
Address: 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Website: Madonna Inn
Visit the Santa Barbara Bird Sanctuary
(~1.5 hours south of Pismo Beach) Stop at this sanctuary for rescued exotic birds, say hello to the birds and hear them say it back! A lot of the birds here know many phrases like, "I love you", "peekabo" and others. If they like you, they may even dance with you! It's one of our favorite things to do in Santa Barbara.
Address: 2430 Lillie Ave, Summerland, CA 93067
Website: Santa Barbara Bird
Optional Stop: Santa Barbara Waterfront
(~10 minutes south of Summerland) Take a leisurely stroll or visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission.
Address: 2201 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Website: Santa Barbara Mission
Evening:
Arrive back in Los Angeles, concluding your unforgettable RV road trip.
We’re pleased to offer complimentary 20-minute road trip planning consultations exclusively for our RV rental guests. Whether you’re planning your first RV adventure or looking for inspiration, we’re here to help! Share your preferences, and we’ll help by recommending scenic routes, must-see attractions, and great campgrounds to enhance your journey. Let us make your RV road trip planning easy and enjoyable!
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