| Important Information about San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip | |
|---|---|
| Duration of Trip | 7 Days |
| Best Time to visit | Aug-Nov |
| Distance | 1299 KM |
| What is Famous for | Nature, Beach, & Food |
San Francisco to Seattle: A Drive through the Pacific Northwest
Plan a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle that includes some of the greatest hits like the wineries of Napa Valley, California’s giant redwoods, Oregon coastlines, and the hippie vibes of Portland. There are so many places to stop on a road trip between these two great cities that are very much worth exploring. Since most of the drive passes through the Pacific Coast Highway, the views from the road alone will be serene.
Though the distance from San Francisco to Seattle is about 1299.8 km, which can prolong your trip, one can easily complete this road trip itinerary with a rental car. Also, you can do some epic sightseeing along the way. Because of this, we’ve shared a comprehensive list of the best stops on the Seattle to San Francisco self-drive.
The Ultimate San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Guide
Start in San Francisco
Start your road trip from San Francisco, also known as the city by the bay nestled on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. It is an unusual American metropolis known for plenty of hippie things. Spend a few days exploring the city before heading to follow your road trip itinerary. Some of the must-see spots in the city include Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, North Beach, Pier 39, and Alcatraz Island.
Napa Valley
Located a little over an hour outside of San Francisco in Napa Valley- an excellent place to visit. Most know Napa for the wine and its world-class cuisine. Visit Domaine Chandon, where you can taste some of the best sparkling wines, or you can do a cave tasting at Hall Rutherford.
Also, a great and affordable spot is La Luna Market and Taqueria, where you will find the best burritos in the Napa Valley. There are also several world-class Michelin-starred restaurants in the Napa Valley. One of the most famous is The French Laundry, which operates by the world-famous chef- Thomas Keller.
And if you are looking for something more casual and budget-friendly, then downtown Napa is a great place. With many wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and lounges, there is plenty to do.
Have Breakfast in Mendocino
A great stop on the San Francisco to Seattle drive is in the rustic coastal town of Mendocino. It is also an ideal stop if you’re driving up Highway 1 and 101. The town seems to be built of weather-worn greyed wood, perhaps because much of it was built of redwood in the 1800s when it was a center for redwood mills.
The town is inhabited by many artists and holds plenty of galleries — one is actually in a vintage water tower along with plenty of unique shops. Here, you can go beachcombing, explore Headlands State Park, and enjoy whale watching. Visit the Mendocino Art Center, and you can even participate in a workshop. Goodlife Cafe & Bakery is the best place in town for breakfast.
Explore Redwood National Park
The small town of Crescent is the perfect base to visit Redwood National and State Parks that protect half of the remaining coastal redwoods. Redwood National Park is a series of a few stunning National and 4 State parks of protected forests, beaches, and grasslands along the rugged Northern California coast. Each park will give you those towering redwoods you’re so looking forward to. It is also an excellent stop on the San Francisco to Portland drive or a San Francisco to Seattle road trip.
Enjoy the Beauty of Portland
Portland is another must-see destination for nature lovers, hikers, and foodies. It is also a heaven for cyclists. Portland is considered as a jewel of the Pacific Northwest with a huge Mount Hood providing a scenic backdrop to the city and several waterfalls galore in the nearby Columbia Gorge.
The city’s open-air Saturday Market celebrates all things local from inspired ethnic food and music to handmade soap and jewelry. You can also visit Powell’s City of Books, which is the world’s largest independent bookstore with several floors and many rooms filled with rare books to best-sellers.
Also, for a truly local experience, head to Goose Hollow Inn for a drink or a quick bite. This cozy location is owned by Portland’s beloved former mayor, Bud Clark. It’s a tavern that will take you back in time.
Go Surfing and Relax at Cannon Beach
Located west of Portland in Oregon, Cannon Beach is the perfect stop on a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle. This small town is also a perfect destination to visit during the summer vacation. Cannon Beach has gorgeous views of a stunning sea stack called Haystack Rock. This formation has been photographed countless times, and it is a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset. Visitors here can go surfing, enjoy bonfires at night, check out the tide pools, and also create sandcastles. The waters are cold even in the middle of the summer, but that doesn’t stop most people from enjoying their day.
Cannon Beach also has few great places to dine. Lazy Susan Cafe is one of the best places in the city for breakfast. For a nice dinner, The Irish Table is a great choice. The warm, homey feel with the yummy food makes this a perfect spot to enjoy the night.
Seattle
The final destination on this road trip is the Emerald City of Seattle, which is surrounded by mountains, forests, and water. From sculpture parks and waterfront activities to bacon brie Belgian waffles and homemade mac and cheese, Seattle has a lot to offer. While the futuristic Space Needle is an obvious choice, the observation deck just can’t be beaten. From almost 600 feet up, you get serene views of the city’s skyline. Right near the Space Needle are the Chihuly Garden and Glass, another not-to-miss spot in Seattle.
Where to Stay
The distance from Seattle to San Francisco is approximately 1300 km, and the shortest drive along the Interstate-5 can also take more than 13 hours. So, you can check out the following list if you are looking for options for a night stay.
- Lighthouse Inn, Crescent City
- The Society Hotel, Portland
- Travelers House, Portland
- The Mediterranean Inn, Seattle