[QUOTE=meshcarver;23422556]
I'm trying to factor in a side trip to and around Yosemite National Park - /QUOTE]

When are you planning on doing this trip?

Almost by definition, if you veer off for Yosemite (which is certainly worth it)
you will miss the section of the Pacific coast from Monterrey to San Simeon.
That is the most spectacular stretch, but is currently closed due to major washouts.
And, if this winter has big storms, there may be more washouts.
No telling when Hwy 1 will reopen in 2025.

But ...

California's climate is like books on a bookshelf.
In the summer the coast is cool and foggy, the coast ranges can be quite wet and muddy after a wet winter.
The Central Valley is dry and scorching hot, then the Sierra foothills go from gorgeous in spring to brown in summer.
Finally, the Sierras can have snow and road closures well into May - - even June for the passes.

So, it's a challenge heading from the coast to Yosemite and back. Especially back in southern California.

One nice route is from San Juan Bautista over Panoche Pass via Mercey Hot Springs.
Most people don't care for the Central Valley - I kinda like it. Via Firebaugh and Chowchilla.
White Rock road is a sweet climb, zero traffic, unpaved stretch, possible small bridge out.
Then Hwy 140 from Mariposa largely follows the Merced River into the park.
With one 15-year detour around a rock slide. (California takes its time).

This route lets you ride the Pacific Hwy. from Half Moon Bay to Capitola - another great stretch.
Another route if from San Fran via the Vallejo ferry and thru the Delta region.

Let me know if you are interested.

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There is camping in the park but it is used reserved far in advance.
Little know secret - people who enter the park on bicycles
can camp one night at the backpackers campground. (Not Camp 4)
Additional nights require getting into line for a spot at Camp 4.

If you are interested I can give you more detailed info on routes and the park.

Jama

Sierra Foothills in Late May