Hey,
Ive just discovered this site and through searching I have found great ideas. Me and 6 guys from Ireland are renting an SUV and travelling the southwest. I am just looking for route and car rental tips. So far the route plan in San Francisco, then head south down the coast through Santa Cruz and Big Sur to Santa Barbara, then East to Palm Springs, Lake Havasu, Grand Canyon, Byrce etc and then to Vegas and then possibly to Death Valley and Yosemeti on the way back to San Francisco. I am just looking for ideas on key places to see and routes. Also advice on how long to stay at each place would be nice.

Thanks!
Dave