Work is going to force me into option 2.
This will mean missing out on a few things, but i do prefer the direction.

I am somewhat tempted to take the extra distance hit and go via Phoenix instead of Vegas. I have zero interest in Vegas, and Phoenix would probably give me more photographic opportunities (i did the Vegas drive by on my last road trip). Does anyone have thoughts on this?

Also, i am still looking for somewhere around LA/SD to stay at the end of the trip. San Clemente was the option if there is May as i'd have gone to watch the Lowers Pro. I've been to Santa Barbara before i liked that. So somewhere similar to that, but not there... :) Ideally good restaurants, and some fun driving roads nearby. Also a beach (but it will probably not be beach weather... but i'd like to at least walk on it!).