The drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco offers many options of scenery. Last year it was the 395 on the eastern side of the state. Of course the 1 along the coast. and the 101 ( camino real) which is relatively easy and scenic as well, finally the 5 which is the quickest.
We tend to prefer the 101, which takes us near some of the missions, the most beautiful and original being San Miguel.
A stop at Morro Bay to see the town, the rock and the sea lions, which if you don’t have to live with them are hilarious.