need help with drive from LA/SF via Carmel
 

Planning a drive from LA to San Francisco along US 1,including a brief stop in at San Simeon along the way. Never been to Carmel,need a hotel suggestion, something quaint but not outrageously expensive. Also would love a suggestion For a "boutique" type hotel in SF. Somewhere around the Marina district or Fishermans Wharf. Lastly,how long a drive is it including a stay over in Carmel?

i fly into sf frequently and go to carmel---there are a number of smaller hotel/motels in town that aren't that expensive--in fact, i looked at a coupon book that you can get at any denny's and a carmel place advertised for $79, i think--middle of the week would be cheaper--the drive from sf to carmel is about 3 hours depending on traffic and which way you go and how fast you drive

I believe that you can get those same coupons that are in that "Dennys" book at www.roomsavers.com. Most coupons are for walk-ins only.

It's a long drive up Hwy 1 but worth it. From LAX I'd recommend you take the 405 north and exit onto Sunset Blvd., take that to the coast and drive north through Malibu. In Ventura you'll leave the coast for a bit and end up on 101N. Hwy 101 will flirt with the coastline all the way up to San Luis Obispo where Hwy 1 will head back to the coast. That day of driving will probably take you 6 hours, esp. if you stop and enjoy the scenery on the way. <BR> <BR>The next day you are in for a treat driving up Hwy 1 through Big Sur. In Watsonville you can opt for the coastal route through Santa Cruz or go inland and take 101N through the SF bay area. If you have the time, I'd recommend the coastal route again all the way to SF. It takes much longer but is a beautiful, relaxing drive. This will probably take you another six hours, or so. <BR> <BR>I'd highly recommend staying in the Marina at the Hotel Del Sol. You are walking distance to many great restaurants, bars and shops, walking distance to Crissy Field where you will have a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and close to the Palace of Fine Arts and the Presidio. What a great trip!

Thanks for the help.