Hello.

We're planning on flying into LA and out of SF (or vice-versa), for a week in early July. We plan on spending a few days in LA, a couple of days in SF (been there before), and a few days driving in between. Also considering driving LA to San Diego instead, and dropping SF.

Considering we have young kids (5 & 3) with us, we'd like to keep driving for max 4 hours per day. At the same time, we love beautiful scenery, and want to take our time making what I hear is a beautiful drive.

Does it make more/less sense to drive north vs. south? Opinions on LA->SF vs. LA->San Diego?

Any major things to check out in LA in the few days there?

Any suggestions on how to split the drive - where to stop, etc.? I'm not averse to taking 2-3 days to do the drive and spend time at certain stops along the way.

I have lots of Hilton and Marriott points I'd also like to use up before the pending devaluations, so suggestions of good places to stay in LA, in between, and in SF would be very welcome as well.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!