My California road trip diary

Recently, we took a road trip up north toward San Francisco—a little family getaway with my brother-in-law and his girlfriend, who were visiting from France. It was the perfect excuse to spend quality time together, and explore more of the Golden State.

California is such an expansive and diverse place, filled with charming towns and cities, each offering something unique. I feel lucky to call this state home, but I’ve come to realize just how much of it I’ve yet to discover. So, we packed our bags and hit the road—because what better way to take in California than from the car, windows down, snacks packed?

First stop, Santa Barbara. Though I’ve been to Santa Barbara several times, it’s always a welcome stop. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly relaxing—perfect for grabbing a bite, doing a little window shopping, or taking a walk by the beach. If you’re planning a visit, I recommend checking out the historic Santa Barbara Mission, grabbing a coffee and heading to the water, or stopping by a nearby winery for a tasting.

Since we were already in Santa Barbara County, we made a short detour to Montecito. Technically part of SB, but with a personality all its own—quieter, a little more upscale, and incredibly scenic. Think fine dining, boutique shopping, and lush green surroundings. We visited the Montecito Country Mart, a charming outdoor shopping center with a small-village feel. It’s filled with curated home goods shops, organic eateries, and market-style carts that reminded me of corners of Europe—overflowing with fresh produce, flowers, and local finds. It’s a gem I’d love to revisit.

After a few more stops, we made it to Santa Cruz. I’d never been before, but I was instantly drawn to its laid-back vibe, scenic beaches, and colorful beachfront homes. We wandered through the lively downtown, and eventually made our way to the beach. It was misty but beautiful—we sat and listened to the waves crash, as the sun dipped behind the horizon. One of those magical sunsets that stays with you.

Our final stop was San Francisco, a city I’ve visited many times but always find inspiring. There’s so much to do—from snapping photos at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to visiting the Painted Ladies, exploring Chinatown for amazing food, or spending a day at Fisherman’s Wharf. There, you can enjoy restaurants, shops, tours around the bay, and some pretty impressive street performances. Major tip: layer up—San Francisco gets chilly, even in summer.

xx Jules

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, scenic adventure, I highly recommend heading up the California coast. Whether you’re chasing coastal views or just want to enjoy time with loved ones, a trip like this is perfect. My son had the best time, and so did we. Already dreaming of our next one.