I'm in California for a couple of weeks (come every summer with lots of visiting of family etc). We're on a small side trip with just my immediate family (hubby, and 3 kids - 13-10 and 7).

Tuesday we drive from Santa Cruz (where we will have been for a few days) to Big Sur. Reservations at Big Sur Lodge. Plans to enjoy views from Nepenthe, Hike Julia Pfiefer, enjoy redwoods. Wednesday - plan was to in later afternoon - drive to Cambria. Stop at Elaphant Seal Rookery, Stay night at Pelican Inn (ocean view room). Thursday -Next morning head to hearst Castle (10:30am reservation) then drive back to SF (perhaps via 101 with stop at mission).

I know I know, all too short. I had double the time planned but am juggling some family needs, changes of plans etc. Other parts of our trip have 4-5 nights in each location and not too much driving at all.

Now I'm wondering if I should stay 2 nights at Big Sur (I have reservation) and just drive down to Hearst and Elephant Seal on Thursday morning. Thursday would be epic day. Drive down to Hearst, do tour and then drive up to SF..... But it would mean 2 nights in one spot.

I could also try to reschedule Hearst to Wednesday and drive down to Hearst Wednesday and then back up to Stay at Big Sur Lodge Wednesday night. Head back to SF Thursday from Big Sur.

We're already planning to arrive Late into SF. We will be fine arriving at 9pm etc at our spot in SF.

The reasons I would stay 1 night in different places (assume all reservations are fine) is to enjoy ocean views from hotel for one of the nights, Not have to back track on driving.

The reasons I'd change to stay only 1 place is less loading and unloading of car, one full day in Big Sur.

II have never been to Hearst - I know it's not the end all be all but I want to see it.

Would love any input.....

We drove from Monterey to Hearst for a tour and back, but it made for a very long day. It was fun, but it's more fun to drive less and enjoy yourself more.

Be sure to take a tour that includes the outdoor pool. That was my favorite part.

Personally, I'd stay in Cambria - maybe Moonstone Beach - and use that drive time to visit one of the central coast wineries in Paso Robles. Slow down and enjoy the day!

I'd stick to your original plan, long drive from Big Sur to Cambria and you are passing thru some of the most beautiful sites, so you need to take your time.

Oh thanks for feedback - it seems right now that I hear your thoughts - I think the one night, one night will be easy enough especially if we pack with that in mind and will give us chance to feel more relaxed in other ways. Plus I think having some time staying right on moonstone beach will be nice for us.

Any ideas for a spot for a late lunch in Paso Robles (maybe it would be 2:30 by the time we got their after Hearst?). Would love a lovely patio, nice California meal.

I think they have drained all the pools at Hearst Castle due to the drought. The used the water on the gardens.

Agree, stick with your original plan. A number of missions to choose from. San Miguel is handy, right on 101. San Juan Bautista is just a bit off 101 and has a lot to offer the kids.

Thomas Hill Organics has a great patio area but they stop serving lunch at 3:00.

Personally, I would walk around the park area and choose a restaurant that suits you and your kids. They post the menus outside and most of the ones around the park have patio areas. Or, you can Google the menus before you go. Here are the ones I remember that are around the park:

Artisan, Estrella, La Cosecha, Bistro Laurent, Berry Hill Bistro, Second Press, Basil, Odyssey, Pappy McGregor's.

Downtown Paso is tiny and very walkable. Do keep in mind though that it gets really hot in Paso during the day.

Margie's Diner, near the fairgrounds, 101& Hwy 46 east. You kids will like it.

Have lunch a half hour earlier in Cambria then turn on the A/C and blow through Paso Robles.

Main Street Grill in Cambria is kid friendly and has a patio.

About 20 minutes north of Paso Robles is the Camp Roberts Rest Stop that is well-attended and actually pretty nice. It’s a quick in and out off the freeway.

If by chance you see ‘In-n-Out’ you’re going the wrong way.

Stop near Campbell for the kids to grouse. You’re now an hour away from the City.