Hello, I have read all of the helpful advice posted and need some advice.

Sept 17 Santa Barbara
Sept 18 Cambria
Sept 19 Help?!
Sept 20/21 San Francisco

Sept 19 Need advice

Should we stay at:
Ventana in Big Sur (350?)
Monterey or some place near (200)
Half Moon Bay, CA Ritz Carlton? (275)

I was concerned with the coastal drive from Big Sur to SFO in one day.

Thank you for your assistance,
Chris

Stay September 19th in Carmel or Pacific Grove (or if on a strict budget, Monterey itself) From there it will be about 2 hours to SF after the rush hour. So, have breakfast and then start out. Take hwy 1 to 156 east to 101 north to 85 north to 280 north to SF. It's the quickest way to SF from Monterey and after you've driven Big Sur, the rest of hwy 1 is rather boring. Have a great time.

Please note that SFO refers to the airport, not to the city of San Francisco. Not meaning to be nasty, just to clarify.

I agree with Kam

Pacific Grove is lovely! (Monterey is cheaper.)