A Romantic Summer Road Trip Itinerary: From Annie’s Canyon to A Coastal Evening in OC
Cover Image Courtesy of Rodrigo Kammer
If your idea of the perfect summer day includes hiking a hidden canyon, sharing brunch with a view, chasing coastal light for couples portraits, and winding down with rooftop drinks by the ocean—this is the road trip itinerary you’ve been waiting for.
We’re Son and Stephanie, a husband-and-wife photography team from Southern California, and this is exactly the kind of day we dream about (and now, get to live). As we prepare to hit the road full-time later this year—traveling the coast with our 3 pups, camping from our car, and photographing love stories wherever we go—we’re blogging the best stops along the way to help others plan beautiful, memory-making adventures.
This one-day itinerary is perfect for couples who want to experience the SoCal coastline beyond just freeways and fast food. It’s a mix of hidden gems, incredible views, good food, and photo-worthy stops from San Diego to Orange County.
We totally get it—sometimes you just want to talk it out first. If you’re hoping to connect while we’re traveling, want to go over the details together, or even want to tell us what you'd love to see more of on our blog—we’d love to connect.
👉 Fill Out Our Form to Connect
Start Early: Hike Annie’s Canyon in Solana Beach
Kick off the morning with a short, rewarding hike through one of North County’s coolest natural features: Annie’s Canyon Trail. It’s a narrow slot canyon that feels like a mini Utah adventure—but it’s just minutes from the beach.
Trail Info: 2.2-mile loop, moderate, dogs welcome on leash
When to go: Get there by 7–8 AM to beat the sun and crowds
Parking: Free lot at San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center
Photo tip: Use a wide lens in the slot canyons and get golden morning light filtering between the canyon walls
📍 2710 Manchester Ave, Cardiff, CA 92007
🔗 Annie’s Canyon Trail Info
Brunch with a View: Claire’s on Cedros – Solana Beach
After your hike, head 5 minutes down the road to Claire’s on Cedros, a charming, eco-friendly café with a coastal-modern feel and a killer brunch menu.
Menu faves: Crab cake benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, mango mimosas
Vibe: Cozy patio, dog-friendly, rustic-chic interiors
Drinks: Full espresso bar, wine, local beer, and bubbly
Photo tip: Snap a few café shots in their outdoor garden area—it’s Instagram gold.
📍 246 N Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075
🔗 clairesoncedros.com
Hit the Road: Coastal Drive Stops Worth Pulling Over For
Hop in the car and start heading north. Skip the freeway—take Highway 101 for views, beach breezes, and plenty of scenic detours. Here are a few quick stops to break up the drive and get some gorgeous content:
Swami’s Beach Overlook (Encinitas)
Peaceful gardens above the surf with sweeping views. Perfect for a quiet moment or a few portraits.
📍 1298 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
🔗 SRF Meditation Gardens
Carlsbad Seawall Walk
Pull over and walk the path for a half mile or so. You’ll catch beach bikers, surfers, and beautiful light bouncing off the cliffs.
📍 3000 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008
🔗 Visit Carlsbad Info
Oceanside Pier
The wooden pier stretches out into the Pacific, and underneath it makes for great dramatic photo framing.
📍 928 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
🔗 Visit Oceanside – Pier Info
Dana Point Headlands Trail
Before you arrive in OC, stop for a clifftop walk overlooking the harbor and bluffs. Wildflowers, ocean spray, and easy-to-access views.
📍 34558 Scenic Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
🔗 Dana Point Headlands Info
Check into a Coastal Airbnb or Hotel in Orange County
There are plenty of amazing places to stay depending on your vibe—here are three different options for couples:
Chill & Affordable: The Salty Cottage – San Clemente Airbnb
Walkable to the beach, modern decor, affordable nightly rates. Cozy and private.
📍 Near Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, CA
🔗 Search Airbnb San Clemente
Ocean View: The Tides – Laguna Beach
A boutique hotel with mid-century flair and a location that can’t be beat. Great for waking up to sea air.
📍 460 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
🔗 thetideslaguna.com
Luxury Stay: Surf & Sand Resort – Laguna Beach
If you want a splurge night, this beachfront resort delivers with oceanfront rooms and spa-worthy amenities.
📍 1555 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
🔗 surfandsandresort.com
Evening Drinks with a View: Rooftop Bars in OC
End your day with a sunset cocktail and a view. These rooftop spots offer elevated vibes and great lighting for one last round of portraits.
Skyloft – Laguna Beach
Live music, Pacific views, and a great happy hour.
📍 422 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
🔗 skyloftoc.com
Rooftop Lounge at La Casa Del Camino – Laguna Beach
Iconic rooftop setting with ocean views and classic OC style.
📍 1289 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
🔗 rooftoplagunabeach.com
The Fifth – Anaheim
If you’re venturing inland for Disneyland or city vibes, The Fifth offers skyline views, firepits, and a modern rooftop experience.
📍 1650 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802
🔗 thefifthoc.com
Want to Be Part of Our Road Trip Story?
We’re documenting our travels, capturing the beauty of the road, and booking a few mini sessions along the way to help fund this journey. If you're planning to be in any of these cities—or live nearby—and want updated couples portraits, we'd love to meet you.
→ Fill out our booking form here and we’ll reach out when we’re passing through your area.
Every session you book supports our story—and we can’t wait to help tell yours.
We totally get it—sometimes you just want to talk it out first. If you’re hoping to connect while we’re traveling, want to go over the details together, or even want to tell us what you'd love to see more of on our blog—we’d love to connect.
👉 Fill Out Our Form to Connect
