My 2-Week San Diego to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

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The San Diego to Las Vegas road trip is one of my all-time favorites. I’ve driven this route several times — most recently just last year — and every time, it feels like a whole new adventure. What I love most is the contrast: starting with coastal breezes in San Diego, winding through desert towns and national parks, and finishing with the neon glow of Vegas. It’s a journey that packs in so much variety in just a couple of weeks.

On this itinerary, you’ll explore beaches, mountains, quirky roadside stops, and iconic landmarks that most people miss when they just hop on a direct flight. For me, that mix of big-name sights and hidden gems is what makes this drive truly incredible.

• Read also: My Favorite Southern California Attractions

Making the Most Incredible San Diego to Las Vegas Road Trip

If you’re wondering how much time you need, two weeks is the sweet spot. That gave me enough space to explore San Diego, Joshua Tree, Lake Havasu, and the Grand Canyon without feeling rushed. That said, the beauty of this route is its flexibility…you can squeeze it into a long weekend or stretch it out as much as you want.

Driving straight from San Diego to Vegas only takes about 5–6 hours, but you’d miss the best part: all the stops in between. I learned early on that it’s worth slowing down for side trips, whether that’s hiking a desert slot canyon, detouring through quirky Route 66 towns, or stargazing in Anza-Borrego.

The key is to plan your route around your interests. Into outdoor adventure? Spend more time in Joshua Tree or the Mojave Preserve. Love quirky Americana? Make Route 66 and Oatman a priority. Big on food and nightlife? Linger in San Diego and, of course, Vegas. However you shape it, this road trip delivers a mix of landscapes and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Road Trip Itinerary Map for San Diego to Las Vegas

Check out my map that pinpoints all the awesome stops along your road trip from San Diego to Las Vegas. I’ll go into detail about each spot and give you tips to make your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Days 1-2: San Diego, California

Starting this road trip in San Diego is always a highlight for me. I’ve been to the city many times, and each trip still feels fresh. There’s something about the mix of beachy laid-back vibes and cultural depth that makes it one of my favorite starting points for any Southwest adventure.

On one trip, I spent the morning biking along Mission Beach’s boardwalk and the afternoon wandering museums in Balboa Park…two totally different experiences that capture San Diego’s personality perfectly. Whether you’re into surf, food, or history, you’ll find it here.

My Favorite Places to Explore in San Diego

• Balboa Park: I could spend a whole day here…between the gardens, Spanish-style architecture, and museums, there’s always something new to discover.
• San Diego Zoo: I’ll be honest, I’m not always a “zoo person,” but this one is different. The habitats are huge, the variety of animals is incredible, and it feels like a must-do if you’re visiting for the first time.
• Gaslamp Quarter: At night in San Diego, this neighborhood comes alive. I’ve had some of my best meals here — everything from Mexican street tacos to upscale fusion restaurants.
• La Jolla Cove: Watching sea lions sprawled on the rocks never gets old. I usually bring a coffee and just sit by the water for a while.
• Old Town San Diego: I love the contrast here — adobe buildings, historic reenactments, and some of the best Mexican food you’ll find in the city.

Other Spots I Recommend

• Coronado Island: The first time I saw the Hotel del Coronado lit up at sunset, I understood why it’s iconic. The beach here is one of the prettiest in California.
• Pacific Beach: This is the heart of San Diego’s surf culture. I’ve rented a bike here a few times to ride the boardwalk, and it’s always a fun, easy way to soak up the vibe. It’s one of my favorite places to stay in San Diego.
• Point Loma & Cabrillo National Monument: The views of the city and ocean are worth the trip alone. If you’re there in winter, you might even spot whales.
• Little Italy: I love strolling this neighborhood in the evenings — the restaurants spill out onto the sidewalks, and the Mercato Farmers’ Market on Saturdays is fantastic.

Quick Tip: Parking can be tough around the beaches, so I usually go early in the morning or later in the evening.

• Read next: The Most Livable Cities in Southern California

Day 3: Anza Borrego State Park

Leaving the coast behind, I love heading inland to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park. It feels like stepping into another world compared to San Diego’s beaches — wide desert landscapes, rugged slot canyons, and skies that light up with stars at night. It’s definitely one of the best places to go camping near San Diego

The first time I came here, I was blown away by how quiet it was. Just two hours from the city, and yet you feel completely off the grid. If you’re lucky enough to visit in spring after a wet winter, the wildflower bloom is absolutely unreal…carpets of purple, yellow, and orange stretching across the desert floor.

My Favorite Things to Do in Anza-Borrego

• Palm Canyon Trail: This is my go-to hike in the park. It winds through the desert before suddenly dropping you into an oasis of native palms and, if you’re here at the right time, even a small waterfall.
• The Slot Canyon: Walking through the narrow sandstone walls here made me feel like I was in a miniature version of Antelope Canyon. It’s short but really fun.
• Galleta Meadows Sculptures: Scattered across the desert are these enormous metal sculptures — dragons, mammoths, camels — just rising out of nowhere. The first time I stumbled on one, it felt like a mirage.
• Borrego Springs: This little town is a great place to grab lunch and check out some local art. I stopped into the Borrego Art Institute once and found some incredible desert-inspired pieces.

My Pro Tip: Stay overnight if you can. I booked a room at La Casa del Zorro Resort on one trip, and being able to stargaze right from the property was unforgettable. Borrego Springs Resort is also a fantastic option. Anza-Borrego is an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. Consider spending the evening under the stars before continuing your journey.

• Read also: My Favorite Nature Spots in SoCal

Days 4-5: Palm Springs, California

Every time I stop in Palm Springs, I end up staying longer than planned. There’s something about the mix of desert landscapes, retro architecture, and easy-going resort vibe that pulls me in. It’s less than a two-hour drive from Anza-Borrego, but it feels like you’ve landed in a totally different world — one with palm-lined streets, mid-century modern homes, luxurious resorts, and mountain views in every direction.

On one trip, I took the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in the morning and ended up hiking through snow at the top, then spent the afternoon sipping cocktails by a pool in the desert sun. Only in Palm Springs.

My Favorite Things to Do in Palm Springs

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Riding the world’s largest rotating tram car up to Mount San Jacinto is always a thrill. I love escaping the desert heat at the top and exploring the trails.
• Palm Springs Art Museum: I ducked in one afternoon to escape the sun and ended up staying for hours. The mix of contemporary art, Native American works, and a sculpture garden was impressive.
• Downtown Palm Springs: Palm Canyon Drive is where I always wander — boutique shops, galleries, great cafés, and if you’re here on a Thursday, the VillageFest street fair. The nightlife scene in Palm Springs is also amazing.
• Indian Canyons: Hiking here is a must. Palm groves, flowing streams, and desert cliffs all in one. My favorite was Palm Canyon — an oasis tucked into the desert.
• Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour: I geek out on architecture, so I love exploring these iconic homes. Even a self-guided drive through the neighborhoods is fascinating.

More Places I’ve Enjoyed

• Moorten Botanical Garden: A quirky stop packed with desert plants and cacti. I picked up a small succulent here once that I still have.
• Coachella Valley Preserve: The Thousand Palms Oasis is a hidden gem — quiet trails lined with palm trees and plenty of birdlife.
• Sunnylands Center & Gardens: Touring this historic estate (nicknamed “Camp David of the West”) was a highlight. The gardens alone are worth it.

Fall and spring are my favorite times here with warm days, cooler nights, and fewer crowds than peak winter. Bring layers if you’re taking the tram. I once went up in a t-shirt and wished I had a jacket…it’s that much cooler at the top!

• Read also: My Favorite Hidden Gems in Southern California

Alternative Itinerary Idea: Big Bear Lake

If you want a break from the desert heat, Big Bear Lake is one of my favorite detours on the San Diego to Vegas route. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, it feels like a completely different world with pine forests, crisp mountain air, and a laid-back lakeside vibe. For me, it’s one of the most unique destinations in California. I love doing cold immersions in that lake!

The first time I came here, I was amazed at how quickly the scenery shifted. One moment I was driving through dry desert hills, and the next I was surrounded by alpine lakes and cozy cabins. It’s an easy add-on, and it gives your trip a nice balance between desert and mountain landscapes.

Things I Love Doing in Big Bear

• Hiking the Castle Rock Trail: This short but steep trail rewards you with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. I hiked it at sunset once, and the light over the water was spectacular.
• Boating on the Lake: Renting a kayak or pontoon boat is such a fun way to spend an afternoon. I’ve even jumped in for a swim during the summer — refreshing but chilly!
• Skiing & Snowboarding: If you’re doing this road trip in winter, Big Bear Mountain Resort is a fantastic place to hit the slopes. I came here one January and loved combining a ski day with desert road-tripping.
• Village Walks: The small downtown has a classic mountain-town feel, with coffee shops, gear rentals, and cozy restaurants.

I always recommend packing layers….mornings can be chilly, even in summer.

• For further reading: The Most Beautiful Photo Spots in Southern California

Days 6-7: Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree is one of those places that never feels the same twice. I’ve camped under its star-filled skies, hiked through boulder-strewn valleys, and watched sunsets paint the desert gold. No matter how many times I visit, it always feels otherworldly…like stepping onto another planet.

The contrast here is wild: twisted Joshua trees standing tall against piles of massive rock formations. During the day, the landscape feels stark and dramatic, but at night, the skies open up with some of the clearest stargazing I’ve ever experienced.

My Favorite Things to Do in Joshua Tree

• Hidden Valley: This easy loop trail is often my first stop. It’s short, scenic, and a great intro to the park’s landscape. The rock formations make it feel like a natural amphitheater.
• Keys View: I’ve watched the sun set here more than once, and it’s always unforgettable. From the lookout, you can see across the Coachella Valley, and on really clear days, even down to Mexico.
• Skull Rock: A fun roadside stop that never fails to get me to pull over. The “skull” shape is uncanny, and there are short trails nearby to wander.
• Barker Dam: I loved the mix of history and nature here…a reservoir built by early cattle ranchers, framed by desert cliffs and dotted with petroglyphs. It’s a short one with a high ROI!

More Trails & Stops I Recommend

• Cholla Cactus Garden: Walking through this dense field of spiky cacti at sunrise was surreal. The light makes them glow.
• Ryan Mountain: One of my favorite hikes in the park. It’s a steady climb, but the 360-degree views from the top are incredible.
• Arch Rock: A short and easy trail that leads to a natural stone arch. It’s especially photogenic at sunset.

If you’re visiting between October and May, expect crowds. I’ve had to circle for parking more than once, so get to popular trailheads early. For stargazing, I like setting up near Hidden Valley or Cottonwood Campground. Both spots have great visibility.

Additional Itinerary Idea: Mojave National Preserve

If you’re up for something more off-the-beaten-path, the Mojave National Preserve is one of my favorite detours between Joshua Tree and Las Vegas. I remember the first time I drove in…no crowds, barely any cell service, and a feeling of raw desert wilderness all around. It’s the kind of place that makes you realize just how vast and wild the Southwest really is.

My Favorite Stops in the Mojave Preserve

• Kelso Dunes: Hiking up these massive sand dunes was a workout, but the view from the top was worth every step. On a windy day, you can actually hear the dunes “sing” as the sand shifts — it’s surreal.
• Cinder Cone Lava Beds: Walking across ancient volcanic rock made me feel like I’d landed on another planet. The jagged black landscape against the desert backdrop is striking.
• Kelso Depot Visitor Center: This restored 1920s train station was a cool surprise. It’s now a visitor center with exhibits on the history of the area. Plus, it’s one of the few places in the preserve with shade and restrooms.
• Hole-in-the-Wall: I loved this hike with its narrow rock passages, quirky formations, and even metal rings bolted into the rock to help you climb.

Camping here is incredible. I stayed at Hole-in-the-Wall Campground once and the night sky was jaw-dropping.

• Read also: My Absolute Favorite Spots in the American Southwest

Days 8-9: Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Driving into Lake Havasu City for the first time felt almost surreal. One moment I was in the middle of desert landscapes, and the next, I was staring at bright blue water and the historic London Bridge arching across it. Yes, the actual London Bridge, relocated here brick by brick in the 1960s. It’s a quirky mix of history and desert lake life that makes this stop really unique.

I spent two days here and loved how relaxed it felt. Lots of sunshine, plenty of time by the water, and a few fun surprises along the way.

My Favorite Things to Do in Lake Havasu City

• London Bridge: Walking across it for the first time felt almost bizarre, knowing it had come all the way from England. The visitor center does a great job telling the story of how it ended up here.
• Lake Havasu: On one trip, I rented a kayak and paddled out into the lake. The water was so clear and refreshing – perfect after hours of driving through the desert. For me, it’s one of the best lakes in Arizona.
• Bridgewater Channel: This stretch is always buzzing with boats, swimmers, and people just hanging out along the water. I loved grabbing lunch at a nearby café and watching all the activity.
• Havasu National Wildlife Refuge: I took a short hike here in the late afternoon and saw tons of birdlife. It felt worlds away from the busy lakefront.
• Rotary Community Park: A low-key spot where I ended up relaxing with a picnic. Great if you just want to slow down for a bit.

Other Attractions I Enjoyed

• Sara Park: I hiked the Sara Crack Trail – a slot canyon that ends with amazing views over the lake.
• Lake Havasu State Park: A great spot if you’re camping. Wide beaches, good swimming, and easy access to trails.
• Cattail Cove State Park: A bit quieter than the main lakefront, which made it feel more peaceful.
• Lake Havasu Museum of History: Small but worth a stop if you want to dive deeper into the story of the bridge and the city.

My Pro Tips for Lake Havasu: Summers get brutally hot…I went once in July and learned quickly to plan anything active in the morning. This is a party spot during spring break, so if you want a quieter vibe, aim for fall or winter. If you time your visit with the Lake Havasu Balloon Festival, you’re in for a treat. Watching colorful balloons float above the desert was a highlight of one of my trips.

Day 10: Route 66 and Kingman, Arizona

Day 10 is all about nostalgia. Driving along Route 66 here feels like stepping straight into mid-20th century Americana. Old diners, neon signs, and quirky roadside stops make it one of the most fun stretches of the whole road trip.

I started my morning in Oatman, and within minutes, wild burros were wandering right up to me on the street. They’re descendants of the pack animals left behind by miners, and now they basically run the town. Between the donkeys, the wooden boardwalks, and the staged gunfights, Oatman feels like a living Old West movie set.

From there, I cruised along the winding road through the Black Mountains to reach Kingman, known as the “Heart of Historic Route 66.” The drive itself is gorgeous with desert hills, open sky, and stretches of road that seem to go on forever.

My Favorite Stops on Route 66

• Oatman: Burros, gunfight reenactments, and a Wild West feel you can’t fake.
• Route 66 Museum in Kingman: This museum gave me a deeper appreciation for the history of the Mother Road and the travelers who drove it in its heyday.
• Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner: I sat in a booth here with a milkshake and a burger, and it honestly felt like stepping back into the 1950s. Neon lights, chrome details, and retro tunes set the vibe.
• Kingman Locomotive Park: If you’re into trains, this stop has a massive steam locomotive you can walk right up to.

Bring cash…some of the smaller shops in Oatman don’t take cards. This is one of the cheapest stretches of the road trip. Museums are inexpensive, and even a diner meal won’t set you back much.

Days 11-12: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing prepares you for the first time you walk up to the edge of The Grand Canyon. I remember standing at Mather Point and just staring in silence — the scale is so massive it almost doesn’t feel real. Every layer of rock tells a story millions of years old, and when the sun shifts, the colors change right before your eyes.

Even though it’s a bit of a detour from the most direct San Diego–Vegas route, I’ve always thought the Grand Canyon is 100% worth the time. If you haven’t been before, this is your chance.

My Favorite Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

• South Rim: This is where I always recommend first-timers go. The viewpoints — Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point — are jaw-dropping. Walking sections of the Rim Trail at sunrise or sunset is magical.
• Bright Angel Trail: I hiked partway down this trail and was stunned by how different the canyon feels once you’re below the rim. Just remember that the climb back up is steep — I always plan twice as much time for the return.
• Desert View Drive: On one trip, I drove this scenic stretch and stopped at nearly every pullout. The Desert View Watchtower is my favorite stop — the 360-degree view from the top is unforgettable.
• Grand Canyon Village: I loved wandering through this historic hub. The old lodges, railway station, and little shops all add to the sense of history.

More Spots Worth Checking Out

• Hopi Point: If you can only catch one sunset in the park, this is the place. The view stretches endlessly across the canyon.
• Hermit Road: Accessible by shuttle during the busy season, this road has some of the most photogenic stops in the park.
• Visitor Centers: I like starting at the main Visitor Center to pick up maps and trail updates before heading out.

I recommend starting your hikes early…the heat builds quickly, and I’ve seen too many people underestimate the climb back up. Don’t skip sunrise. Waking up early for it is tough, but the way the light spills over the canyon is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.

• Read also: My Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

Day 13: Hoover Dam and Boulder City, Nevada

After leaving the Grand Canyon, I made my way toward Nevada and stopped at Hoover Dam. And honestly, it blew me away. Seeing it in photos is one thing, but standing on top of it, with the Colorado River rushing far below, really gives you a sense of how massive this engineering feat is. Built in the 1930s, it’s not just a dam — it’s a piece of history that shaped the entire Southwest.

Right nearby is Boulder City, a town originally built to house dam workers. It still has that small-town charm, and I loved how different it felt compared to the chaos of Vegas waiting just down the road.

Highlights at Hoover Dam

• Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge: Walking across the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge was a highlight for me. The views of the dam and the river canyon are unreal.
• Hoover Dam Tours: I did the guided tour once, and it was worth every penny. Walking through the tunnels and seeing the inner workings made me appreciate the scale of it all even more.
• Lake Mead: Just behind the dam, this massive reservoir offers boating, kayaking, and scenic pullouts. On a hot day, dipping your feet in the water feels amazing.
• Visitor Center: I recommend starting here to get the background story — the exhibits helped me understand just how revolutionary the dam was when it was built.

My Favorite Things in Boulder City

• Historic Downtown: Strolling past antique shops and Art Deco buildings made me feel like I’d stepped back into the 1930s. I grabbed coffee at a local café and just soaked up the slower pace.
• Hemenway Park: I stopped here on a whim and ended up watching a herd of bighorn sheep grazing on the grass. Definitely not something you see every day.
• Boulder City–Hoover Dam Museum: Tucked inside the historic Boulder Dam Hotel, this museum gave me a deeper look at what life was like for workers who built the dam. Free and well worth the stop.
• Rail Explorers: Pedaling a rail bike along old train tracks through the desert was one of the quirkiest (and most fun) experiences I had in the region.

I always recommend going early. By midday, the dam can get crowded, and the desert heat is no joke. If you’re short on time, you can still walk the top of the dam and the bypass bridge in less than an hour and get an incredible experience.

• Read also: The Prettiest Locations in Nevada

Day 14: Las Vegas, Nevada

Ending this road trip in Las Vegas always feels like stepping into another universe. After days of desert hikes, small towns, and quiet lakes, suddenly you’re surrounded by neon lights, world-class restaurants, and nonstop energy. I’ve been to Vegas a handful of times, and every trip feels different — one night I’ll be watching the Bellagio Fountains with a cocktail in hand, and the next I’m hiking just outside the city at Red Rock Canyon. That’s the beauty of Vegas: you can go as big or as chill as you want.

My Favorite Things to Do in Las Vegas

• The Strip: Walking down Las Vegas Boulevard is always a sensory overload, but in the best way. The Bellagio Fountains never get old, and each hotel has its own mini world to explore.
• Fremont Street Experience: The first time I saw the Viva Vision light show overhead, I just stood there grinning. The mix of music, lights, and old-school casinos is a fun contrast to the Strip.
• High Roller Observation Wheel: I did this at sunset once, and watching the city light up from above was unforgettable.
• Neon Museum: Touring the “boneyard” of old Vegas signs gave me a whole new appreciation for the city’s history.
• Red Rock Canyon: Just 20 minutes outside the city, this is where I go when I need a break from the chaos. The red sandstone cliffs are stunning, and the loop drive is an easy way to see it even if you don’t have time to hike.

More Vegas Favorites

• Cirque du Soleil Shows: I’ve seen a couple of these, and they’re worth the hype. Each one has its own vibe, but they’re all spectacular.
• The Mob Museum: I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it ended up being one of my favorite museums in Vegas — interactive, fascinating, and tucked away downtown.
• Vegas Food Scene: From all-you-can-eat buffets to Michelin-starred restaurants, the food here is on another level. One night I splurged on a celebrity chef spot, and the next day I grabbed a $2 slice of pizza that was just as satisfying.

My Tips: Parking on the Strip can be pricey…I usually use rideshares if I’m hopping between casinos. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the Strip. Some of my favorite experiences were in local neighborhoods with amazing food and more laid-back vibes.

The Ride Back to San Diego

After the neon glow of Las Vegas, the drive back to San Diego feels like a cool-down lap. But it doesn’t have to be boring. I’ve done this return a couple of different ways: once taking the direct route just to get home, and another time stretching it out with quirky stops that made the ride feel like a bonus adventure.

Route 1: I-15 South (Direct Route)

If you’re ready to get home, this is the fastest way — about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic. It’s mostly desert, but I always like to break it up with a few fun roadside stops:

• Baker, California: Home to the world’s tallest thermometer. Silly? Sure. But it’s a classic photo stop and a good excuse to stretch your legs.
• Barstow: I’ve stopped here a few times to check out the Route 66 “Mother Road” Museum. It’s small but packed with nostalgia.

Route 2: I-40 West to I-15 South (Scenic Detour)

One trip, I looped west through I-40 before reconnecting with I-15, and it added about an hour but gave me some fun detours:

• Route 66 towns: Driving through old stops like Ludlow and Amboy gave me one last hit of classic Americana.
• Amboy Crater: I hiked partway up this extinct volcanic cinder cone and was rewarded with incredible desert views.

If you’re not in a rush, take the longer route…those little side stops often end up being some of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Things to Consider When Planning Your San Diego to Las Vegas Road Trip

After driving this route a few times, I’ve learned that a little planning makes a huge difference. Here are the key things I always keep in mind before hitting the road:

Best Time of Year for Your Road Trip

I’ve done this drive in every season, and each has its perks (and challenges):

• Spring (March–May): My favorite time. The desert is alive with wildflowers, temps are mild, and you can hike comfortably all day.
• Summer (June–August): Long days and lots of energy, but wow, the heat is intense. I once hiked Joshua Tree in July and had to stop by 10 a.m. — it was that hot. If you go in summer, plan everything early in the morning or evening.
• Fall (September–November): Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous desert sunsets. This is a great balance of comfort and scenery.
• Winter (December–February): Mild in San Diego and Vegas, but nights in the desert can be chilly. I’ve camped in Joshua Tree in January, and it dipped into the 30s at night.

Number of Days for a San Diego to Las Vegas Road Trip

The trip is flexible — I’ve done it as a quick long weekend and also stretched it into two weeks.

• 3–4 Days: Enough for a sampler — San Diego, a day in Joshua Tree, then straight on to Vegas.
• 7–10 Days: My favorite pace. You can explore San Diego, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and Lake Havasu without feeling rushed.
• 14 Days: The ultimate trip. I had time for side adventures to places like the Grand Canyon, Route 66, and Mojave — and still had downtime built in.

Other Destinations Worth Considering

A couple of times, I’ve added these stops and they made the trip even better:

• Julian, CA: A cozy mountain town famous for its apple pies. I stopped here one fall and the whole town smelled like cinnamon.
• Salton Sea & Salvation Mountain: Weird, colorful, and unforgettable. Walking through the art installation at Salvation Mountain felt like stepping into another world.
• Sedona, AZ: If you can spare the detour, the red rocks here are stunning, and the hiking is world-class.
• Williams, AZ: Classic Route 66 town and gateway to the Grand Canyon. I loved riding the Grand Canyon Railway from here.
• Death Valley National Park: On one trip, I did a sunrise stop at Zabriskie Point — the colors in the badlands were unreal.

FAQs About Your San Diego to Las Vegas Road Trip

Planning your road trip from San Diego to Las Vegas is super exciting, but you might have some questions. Here are answers to common FAQs to help you plan your adventure.

What does a 5-day road trip from San Diego to Las Vegas look like?

If you’re short on time but want to experience the highlights, here’s a condensed 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: San Diego: Hit the beaches, visit Balboa Park, and explore the Gaslamp Quarter.
• Day 2: Joshua Tree National Park: Hike Hidden Valley and catch the sunset at Keys View.
• Day 3: Lake Havasu City: See the London Bridge and relax by the lake.
• Day 4: Hoover Dam: Take a tour of the dam and explore Lake Mead.
• Day 5: Las Vegas: Walk the Strip, see a show, and visit Fremont Street.

What is the best route to take for a San Diego to Las Vegas road trip?

Start your journey in San Diego, head northeast to Joshua Tree National Park, then continue to Lake Havasu City. From there, make your way to Hoover Dam before reaching your final destination in Las Vegas. This route is efficient and hits all the key spots.

How long does it take to drive from San Diego to Las Vegas?

The total driving time depends on your route, but you can expect around 7-8 hours of driving spread out over your trip. For example, San Diego to Joshua Tree is about 2.5 hours, Joshua Tree to Lake Havasu City is around 3 hours, and Lake Havasu City to Las Vegas is roughly 2.5 hours.

Can you take a San Diego to Las Vegas road trip in 7 days?

Absolutely! Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary:

• Day 1: San Diego: Enjoy the top attractions and beaches.
• Day 2: San Diego: Spend an extra day to explore more of the city or nearby La Jolla.
• Day 3: Joshua Tree National Park: Explore the park and hike its iconic trails.
• Day 4: Lake Havasu City: Relax by the lake and explore the town.
• Day 5: Kingman and Route 66: Discover the charm of Route 66 and historic Kingman.
• Day 6: Hoover Dam and Boulder City: Tour the dam and enjoy Boulder City.
• Day 7: Las Vegas: Experience the highlights of Las Vegas.

What kind of car is best for this trip?

A comfortable, fuel-efficient car is ideal for this trip. Given the mix of highway and desert driving, a compact or midsize car works perfectly. If you plan to bring more gear or want a bit more comfort, consider renting an SUV.

Are there any tolls on the way?

There aren’t any major toll roads between San Diego and Las Vegas. However, always check for updates or any regional tolls if you take alternative routes.

Is it possible to explore this route without a car?

Exploring this route without a car is possible but less convenient. Major cities like San Diego and Las Vegas have good public transportation, but getting to places like Joshua Tree and Lake Havasu City will be tricky. Renting a car is the best way to see all the stops on this itinerary and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.