Snow over the Sierra Nevada. The Golden Gate glowing red beneath the plane. And a cappuccino with almond milk overlooking the Pacific. This is how our California road trip begins.
In this first part of our journey, we explore the quieter side of the Golden State. From Santa Cruz and its surf culture roots to the rugged beauty of Pinnacles National Park, where condors circle above volcanic rock formations. We drive through rolling green hills that feel almost unreal, cross the vast Central Valley, taste wine in Santa Maria, and experience country music nights in Bakersfield — discovering a side of California far beyond the postcard clichés.
Along the way, we test a sustainable twist on the classic American road trip: long distances through California in an electric car. Charging stations in supermarket parking lots, coastal drives in near silence, and a new rhythm of travel.
This is California beyond expectations. And we’re only getting started.
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This episode is an AI-assisted English translation of our original German recording. It has been carefully adapted, refined, and reviewed with great attention to detail to fully reflect the tone, depth, and spirit of Reisen Reisen – der Podcast, the largest German-language travel podcast hosted by Jochen Schliemann and Michael Dietz.
You can listen to more episodes of Reisen Reisen in the original German podcast feed, or follow us on Instagram for further travel inspiration.
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San Francisco & Bay Area
Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco
The iconic red landmark that defines the city skyline. Best experienced from above, from the shoreline, or during golden hour.
https://www.instagram.com/goldengatebridge/
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Beach & Wharf
Classic California surf town atmosphere with long piers, surfers, beach cafés, and relaxed coastal energy.
https://www.instagram.com/visitsantacruz/
Picnic Basket – Santa Cruz
Casual beachside café known for breakfast burritos, fresh juices, and relaxed Pacific views.
https://www.instagram.com/picnicbasketsc/
West Cliff Drive – Santa Cruz
Scenic coastal route with dramatic cliffs, world-famous surf breaks, and sunset walking paths.
https://www.instagram.com/visitsantacruz/
Nature & National Parks
Pinnacles National Park – California
Volcanic rock formations, hiking trails, and one of the few places to spot the rare California condor in the wild.
https://www.instagram.com/pinnaclesnps/
Sequoia National Park – California
Home to giant sequoia trees, including General Sherman, the largest tree on Earth by volume.
https://www.instagram.com/sequoianps/
Central Valley & Inland California
Component Coffee Lab – Visalia
Modern café known for excellent avocado toast and specialty coffee before heading into Sequoia.
https://www.instagram.com/componentcoffeelab/
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace – Bakersfield
Live country music venue blending classic Americana culture with a lively dance floor.
https://www.instagram.com/buckowenscrystalpalace/
Wine & Coastal Country
Cambria Winery – Santa Maria Valley
Award-winning winery in a lesser-known California wine region with a strong female-led team.
https://www.instagram.com/cambriawines/
Hitching Post – Santa Maria Area
Authentic California country barbecue restaurant with excellent grilled artichokes and regional wines.
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