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Best Highway 1 Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

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Big Sur cloud inversion along highway 1 in california

Highway 1 is arguably one of the most beautiful stretches of coastal roads in the United States, perhaps even in the world. Our first road trip together was actually this very itinerary! If you’re looking for jaw dropping views of never ending coast, beautiful blue water beaches, and gorgeous overlooks, this is Highway 1 Road Trip for you.

Disclaimer : The Lovers Passport is reader-supported. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free! Since this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for all of our readers. This has absolutely no effect on our recommendations or evaluations and all opinions are our own. Thanks for supporting our adventures!

ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Living in California for all of our lives, both Stephen and I have done this road trip several times. In fact, we’ve probably done this itinerary at least 4 or 5 times in the past year. So this blog post is all based on our own personal experiences down the coast, as well as some recommendations from fellow adventurers we’ve met along the way.

WHERE TO START & END YOUR HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

Since LAX is one of the most popular starting spots for this trip, we’ll be starting off on a route from LA up the coast and back, as well as a route for those that would rather make a loop around after completing the stretch of Highway 1. In saying that, you could jump on either of these itineraries at any stage of your Highway 1 road trip and you may choose to start/finish in different spots. Or, if you start from San Francisco, you can drive down the route in reverse and just complete it in a different order. This itinerary is more geared toward those driving the whole way, whether it’s in your own car, a rental, or a campervan , rather than flying in between major cities.

If you decide to go the camper van route, we loved doing this itinerary in our Kuga Rental from Traveller’s Autobarn . We picked it up in Los Angeles and drove all the way up to Point Reyes and Back using this itinerary. The van was so convenient in terms of spaciousness, comfortability, and transportability. We usually car camp, so this was our first van life experience, and the rental worked out super well for us in terms of getting us from Point A to B in a super easy and hassle free way!

If you’re interested in booking a camper van for your Highway 1 Road Trip, make sure to use the code “LoversPassport ” at checkout with Travellers Autobarn to receive a $50 discount on a Kuga camper van rental. The coupon will work on a 5 day minimum rental for a Kuga Campervan model for the rest of 2021!

HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP TIPS:

Best time of year to visit highway 1.

California generically has fantastic weather year round. However, when it comes to the coast, expect several mornings to be socked in with low hanging clouds or fog. Usually it will burn off by the afternoon, but we’ve encountered the Big Sur Coast to be cloudy and moody like 7/10 times we’ve gone so just be prepared.

Honestly, the summer months of June, July and August are the most foggy. The best weather is usually in September or October with still moderately warm temperatures, less crowds, and less likelihood of clouds. Mid-to-late February through April is also pretty nice, just with mildly colder temperatures.

WHERE TO RENT A VEHICLE FOR YOUR HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

Choosing a Highway 1 rental car will depend on the type of trip you plan to take and whether you would prefer to stay in Air BnBs, hotels, tents, or stay in a camper van. If you plan to stay in hotels or guest houses then you can opt for a regular rental car and we would recommend picking it up after you fly into Los Angeles International Airport.

We personally love to either travel via a SUV with a camper build or rooftop tent or a camper van when traveling around the coast of California. That way we have more flexibility in terms of where we want to go each day and what we want to do, as well as where we want to stay the night. Other perks of renting a car camper or camper van is that you can adjust your plans on the go without having to worry about a spot to sleep. Click here to book your Highway 1 campervan rental (we highly recommend using Travellers Autobarn if flying into Los Angeles or San Francisco ). If you plan to tent camp then you’re probably best to opt for a small rental car as that will be your most budget-friendly option.

WHERE TO STAY ALONG THE CALIFORNIA COAST

The biggest piece of advice when it comes to finding accommodations is to plan in advance! Campground reservations along the latter part of Highway 1 up closer to Big Sur book out several months in advance. If you want to stay in established campgrounds, make sure to set reminders on your calendar of when campground permits are released.

However, there are several other options. If you don’t mind dispersed camping in which you are completely self sustained, then make sure to check out freecampsites.net or iOverlander to find campsites along the route that you’d like to stay at.

If you are going along the hotel route, some of the most popular hotels along this route tend to run on the more pricey side. That being said, we’d still recommend some popular favorites like the Ritz Carlton Bacara or Rosewood Miramar Hotel in Santa Barbara, The Cliffs Hotel in Pismo Beach, the Madonna Inn in SLO, Ragged Point Inn near San Simeon and Big Sur, and Ventana in Big Sur.

LOGISTICS OF A HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

Gas in California has gotten quite expensive recently. Mapping out your route ahead of time can give you a good idea of how much you’re going to need to budget for gas since this road trip does cover quite a bit of miles! We always like to use Gas Buddy to find the best gas prices along our route.

Theft is also quite prominent in major cities. Always make sure to be wary of your surroundings and keep your valuables with you and out of sight when exiting your car along Highway 1 Road Trip stops.

CAR SICKNESS

Also, it should be noted that there are a lot of curvy roads along the way. If you get carsick, make sure to take proper precautions!

CLEANLINESS ON THE ROAD

While road tripping for a week, you are likely going to want to shower. We love bringing our Rinsekit on road trips like this where we are typically car camping. It’s a portable shower that is so easy to just pack in the car so you can basically shower anywhere you want! We lay down a tarp we bought from Walmart and hang a towel across the back of the car with magnets for privacy, but you can also invest in a pop up shower tent to go along with your Rinsekit.

LENGTH OF YOUR HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

If you are dedicated and don’t mind driving a ton with less time at each stop, you could totally do this itinerary in 3 days. However, if you want to fully experience Highway 1, I’d recommend allotting 5-7 days to really experience each town along the way. Since the total drive is quite a bit of miles, it will be nice to pace your itinerary out a bit rather than rushing through the whole thing.

That being said, Stephen and I both work full time office jobs during the week and are able to do this road trip with modifications on a Friday Night-Sunday Night. If you have less time, I would cut out 3-4 of the stops listed below so that way you can still enjoy your Highway 1 Road Trip without feeling rushed. You’ll also have an excuse to come back and see the beauty of the California Coast again in the future!

EPIC HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Any Highway 1 Road Trip is going to be jam packed with lots of beautiful spots and lots of driving. BUT, it’ll totally be worth it! Thankfully, the California Coast has some of the most scenic coastal viewpoints where your mind will be blown for the majority of the ride,

SANTA MONICA

Whether you love relaxing at the beach or hiking in the mountains, Santa Monica has a variety of things to do. Make sure to stop by the Santa Monica Pier and shop around the Third Street Promenade. If you are a history or fine arts lover, the Getty Villa is also close to Highway 1 and is a great little stop to enjoy beautiful views of the Santa Monica coastline.

For our avid hikers, check out Tuna Canyon for beginners, or one of our favorites in the Santa Monica recreation area called Sandstone Peak. If you head up to hike Sandstone Peak for sunrise or sunset, you may just get treated to a cloud inversion depending on the cloud elevation!

The Malibu coastline boasts some of the best beaches in all of California. My home beach of Zuma Beach is a classic one to visit to enjoy a summer day or learn how to surf. Leo Carrillo State Beach is another gorgeous option for a beautiful beach day.

For some classic brunch spots along the Malibu coast, check out Duke’s Malibu and try to get an early reservation for brunch outside for a view or Malibu Farm along the pier for a trendy (but expensive) brunch or cocktail with a gorgeous beach in front of you! If you are a wine lover, make sure to check out Malibu Wine Safari and Rosenthal Winery right along Highway 1.

For our outdoorsy lovers, check out Point Dume. If you love outdoor rock climbing, you can actually climb here! As previously mentioned, the surfing in the area is fantastic, or you can enjoy a variety of coastal hikes found here on All Trails. Finish up your time in Malibu with a sunset at El Matador State Beach.

OXNARD & VENTURA

This is our stomping ground, so if you’re ever in the area make sure to reach out and say hi! Check out the Oxnard or Ventura Harbor and even rent a kayak or paddleboard if you want to get out on the water. Enjoy a beautiful view of the beach towns up at Serra Cross, grab a delicious brew from Madewest Brewery on the Ventura Pier, and check out the surfers at Surfers Point before heading on up the coast further. If you want a more in- depth guide on just Ventura, check out this video on a day in the life of the gorgeous coastal city.

OPTIONAL HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP ADD ON: CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK

While at either city harbor, you can check out Island Packers, where you can book a day trip or overnight trip to one of the Channel Islands in Channel Islands National Park! We recently did an overnight trip to Anacapa Island and it was beautiful, but you could definitely do it as a mini day trip! Santa Cruz is by far the most popular island and offers a lot more diversity on the island! Make sure if you decide to camp out there that you book your sites in coordination with your f erry tickets out to the islands.

Check out our Youtube video of our experience camping on Anacapa to see the full experience!

SANTA BARBARA

Just around 40 minutes north from Ventura, you’ll find a beautiful paradise in Santa Barbara. This city is a MUST stop along the way! Stephen and I both lived here for 4 years and it’s honestly our favorite city in all of California. There’s a little something for everyone.

For the adventure lovers, make a little detour from Highway 1 up the Santa Barbara Mountains via the 154 and check out Lizards Mouth or La Cumbre Peak for sunrise or sunset. If you are into hiking, check out Inspiration Point or 7 Falls Trail for beautiful views of the Santa Barbara Coast and the Channel Islands in the distance on a clear day. For more on Santa Barbara, check out our Couple’s Guide to Santa Barbara or our Santa Barbara videos on Youtube.

Make a stop at East Beach and set up your hammock or slackline among the palm trees. Swing by East Beach Tacos or La Superiqua for some amazing Mexican food for lunch. Some of our other favorite beaches in the area are Hendry’s Beach (dog-friendly, too, and has a great restaurant called Hendry’s Boat House there), as well as Butterfly Beach and Santa Claus Beach. There’s also the beach that is next to the Santa Barbara Pier which is often nice, and you can also rent kayaks or paddle boards here.

For the city lovers, check out the Funk Zone in downtown Santa Barbara for some of the finest wine, beer, and food. We always love checking out The Lark, Loquita, Helena Avenue Bakery, the Lucky Penny, Finneys, and there are so many more options for amazing restaurants in the area. Once you’re done exploring there, you can cruise on up to State Street and check out the amazing outdoor shopping and other dining opportunities. Lastly, make sure to get some ice cream from McConnell’s Ice Cream on State Street before heading to your next road trip stop!

North of Santa Barbara, you’ll encounter Gaviota, which is a quaint little area with beautiful, quieter beaches than Santa Barbara. We always love checking out Gaviota State Park! Our favorites are the Gaviota Hot Springs Hike as well as the Gaviota Wind Caves hike, which is a great one for kids as well. Please make sure to leave no trace and keep the trails better than you found them when recreating in these areas since they are more fragile and less maintained.

OCEANO & PISMO

We always love making a pit stop at the Oceano Sand Dunes right near Pismo Beach. If you’ve ever checked out the Sand Dunes in Death Valley, you probably won’t be as impressed. However, these dunes are still super fun to walk around. We love coming here for sunrise photography since there’s usually no one else around. Beware, walking on the sand is much more strenuous than you think though! Allot yourself more time than you think you’ll need when visiting here.

We love stopping at Brooks Burgers here for lunch before we keep heading up Highway 1.

AVILA BEACH

One of our favorite hidden gems along the coast is Avila Beach. Right after Pismo and right before you get to San Luis Obispo, check out Avila Beach. It is tucked away off the side of Highway 1 and is the cutest little beach town! We love parking in the beachfront area and ordering a pizza from Mission Pizza (their Maui Wowie pizza and Cheese Sticks are awesome) and having a beach side picnic. There’s also a cool mini hike down to Pirate’s Cove. This requires descending down a cliffside rope, so make sure to be wearing the right shoes and don’t do anything you aren’t comfortable with. Beware, you might see some nude people hanging around since there’s a neighboring nude beach right there as well!

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Stephen’s all time favorite donut place in California is SLO Donut Company and it’s right off of Highway 1. If you’re driving late, it’s open from 5am-12am (*check Yelp as hours may change with pandemic restrictions), and it has the best donuts and fantastic coffee.

We always love heading into downtown SLO as well for other restaurants, fun nightlife, and nice shopping. If you are a Spanish food lover, we cannot recommend the Paella from Luna Red enough.

SLO is also an adventure lovers playground. Bishop Peak offers several amazing outdoor climbing routes and an amazing view of the city when hiking the peak itself. Madonna Mountain, also known as Cerro San Luis, also offers some nice hikes. Another stop to include would be Terrace Hill for a beautiful view of the ocean.

Morro Bay State Park and Morro Strand State Park are amazing parks to check out if you have time. They both offer stunning views of Morro Rock and are great areas to sit and enjoy the sunset. If you have extra time, also add the nearby Montana De Oro State Park to the list. Monta De Oro State Park features rugged cliffs, quiet sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, and more.

Unless you are into surfing, the only pitstop in Cayucos you really need to make is visiting the Brown Butter Cookie Company. You will thank us later. They have some of the best homemade cookies you will ever try.

San Simeon is home to the famous Elephant Seal Lookout and is pretty close to Hearst Castle as well. If you have kids, this is a great stop along your Highway 1 Road Trip! Due to the pandemic, Hearst Castle hasn’t been open recently; however, it’s definitely worth checking out when it reopens!

RAGGED POINT

Ragged Point is known as the “Portal to Big Sur.” It truly is the first amazing look at the Big Sur coast line on your way up from LA. We like to stop here for a coffee and we’ll take it around the property so we can look at all the beautiful viewpoints around the inn. If you are in need of some food, too, they usually have a cafe as well!

For more information on Big Sur specifically, make sure to check out our ultimate guide to Big Sur . This blog covers all information from campsites, hikes to do, and beaches to see across the Big Sur stretch of Highway 1.

We highly recommend checking out all of the following stops along the Big Sur Coast!

Sand Dollar Beach
Limekiln State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Mcway Falls
Hike Partington Cove
Andrew Molera State Park
Bixby Bridge: Make sure to not park illegally here or you will get a ticket. People drive quite crazily trying to pull off here, so just be aware.
Notley’s Landing: if you blink, you might miss it! This is just a tiny little pullout for a few cars with a gorgeous look at Bixby Bridge from a far.
Garrapata State Park: One of the few dog friendly beach areas in Big Sur!

The Big Sur area, in particular, is especially known for limited accommodations. Make sure to know exactly where you will be camping or staying before since you can get in trouble for staying overnight on certain parts of Highway 1, and campgrounds fill up incredibly quickly.

Before you get to San Francisco, also try hitting Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Davenport along the way for beautiful views of beaches! Shark Fin Cove is also along the way if you happen to be driving by it for sunset.

Monterey is a beautiful coastal city right along Highway 1 after Big Sur. There are so many family friendly activities in Monterey. For a more in depth guide to exploring this beautiful area, check out our weekend recommendations for visiting Monterey .

SAN FRANCISCO

A note before visiting San Francisco, this city, especially now, has been experiencing more theft and break ins ever than before. Please remember when visiting to take all of your valuables with you and leave nothing in sight in your car or van to prevent theft. If you can’t find a reputable campground, there are a variety of hotel options as well.

As more outdoorsy people, we hardly ever venture into the city because of the insane amount of traffic and trash. HOWEVER, we try to make a point to hit the following spots in San Francisco when doing our typical Highway 1 Road Trip.

Battery Spencer
Bunker Hill Hike
Golden Gate Overlook
Baker Beach
Marshall’s Beach
Muir Woods National Monument (Make sure to make a parking reservation ahead of time!)
Muir Beach Overlook
Mt. Tamalpais State park
Stinson Beach

Food wise, Aristicault’s Bakery is a MUST for pastry lovers. Their croissants are seriously next level. When we take people with us to visit SF, we will also do the touristy clam chowder bowls down in Fisherman’s Wharf or take them to the Ferry Building to look around.

POINT REYES NATIONAL MONUMENT

Point Reyes was one of those spots that we had little expectations for, but it absolutely blew us away! That’s why we chose to end the road trip itinerary here! Make sure to hit the Cypress Tree Tunnel and the Lighthouse area to take in mind blowing views of the California Coast line that almost compare to those of Iceland’s Black Sand Beach.

If you are lucky enough to have more time in this area, definitely check out the hikes in the monument. The coastal bluffs are ridiculously beautiful.

And that’s it for this itinerary! If you continue on heading up North via Highway 1, you’ll get some amazing chances to visit the Redwoods. But we’ll save that for a specific Northern California Road Trip itinerary! If you decide to do a more Northern CA road trip, we would recommend picking up your campervan in San Francisco and doing a loop from there.

Have you ever taken a road trip up Highway 1? If so, which spot was your favorite?

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Travelspirations

The Ultimate Guide to California’s Highway 1 Road Trip

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Last updated 9 months ago

Hello, fellow explorers! You know, they say life isn’t about the destination, it’s about the journey , right?

Well, they must’ve had California’s Highway 1 in mind when they came up with that pearl of wisdom. I’ve been fortunate enough to journey down this mesmerizing stretch of road myself, and I’m here to share the magic of it with you.

Imagine this: You’ve got your favorite tunes playing, the sun is warming your skin through the open window, and there’s nothing but miles of shimmering coastline , towering cliffs , and infinite ocean blues in your view. Sound like a dream?

Table of Contents

Understanding the Basics of California’s Highway 1 Road Trip

Best time to go, essential tips for planning, best stops along highway 1, san francisco, monterey and carmel-by-the-sea, san luis obispo, santa barbara, los angeles, essential packing list for highway 1 road trip, enjoying the california cuisine along the route.

That’s Highway 1 for you!

Winding its way along the heart-stoppingly beautiful California coastline , this iconic route is quite literally the road trip of a lifetime.

It’s the embodiment of freedom, a concrete ribbon of possibility stretching from the historic heart of San Francisco to the glamour of Los Angeles.

Whether you’re an adventurous solo traveler or embarking on a memory-filled family vacation, the Highway 1 experience is nothing short of transformative.

From discovering hidden beach towns to feasting on fresh-off-the-boat seafood and marveling at panoramic ocean views , it’s an experience that truly ingrains itself into your soul.

Stay with me as I guide you through the twists and turns of this iconic route. Ready to buckle up and join me for the ultimate California’s Highway 1 road trip ?

Let’s hit the road!

Basics of California's Highway 1 Road Trip

Before we start revving our engines, it’s important to grasp the fundamentals of this epic adventure. Officially known as State Route 1, and affectionately referred to as the Pacific Coast Highway, Highway 1 is a major north-south state highway that runs along most of the Pacific coastline of the U.S. state of California.

What sets it apart from your average highway is its stunning views and distinctive locations. Every mile brings a new vista, a different beach, a unique town, making it a prime candidate for one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

Stretching roughly 656 miles from end to end, Highway 1 snakes its way from Leggett in Mendocino County, all the way down to Dana Point in Orange County. But the real meat of the journey – and the portion most folks are familiar with – starts in San Francisco and ends in Los Angeles.

Along this route, the highway clings to the coast, treating travelers to cliff-hugging turns, heart-stopping seaside views, and access to some of California’s most iconic cities and attractions. And remember, folks, don’t rush it – Highway 1 is all about taking your sweet time.

Choosing the right time for your road trip down Highway 1 can make a huge difference. If you ask me, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are the most comfortable times to travel.

You’ll dodge the summer crowd, encounter less fog than in winter, and still enjoy some delightful weather. Not to mention, the scenery during these times is particularly enchanting, with spring’s wildflowers and fall’s radiant sunsets offering a feast for your eyes.

Planning is key for a successful road trip. Start by deciding how many days you want to allocate to the journey – I’d recommend at least 5 to 7 days to savor the experience fully. Be sure to check your vehicle thoroughly before leaving – that includes oil levels, tire pressure, brakes, and such.

Have a rough itinerary but don’t make it too rigid, flexibility is key when you’re on the road – who knows what hidden gem you might stumble upon! Lastly, always keep your tank at least half full, fuel stations can be few and far between in some stretches. Happy planning!

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Road tripping down Highway 1 is not about racing from point A to point B, it’s about savoring every moment and immersing yourself in the journey. Along the route, there’s a treasure trove of must-see sights and experiences waiting for you.

From vibrant cities to quaint coastal towns, these stops are what make the journey so unforgettable.

Let’s start our journey in the City by the Bay, San Francisco. This city offers an eclectic mix of attractions.

Don’t miss out on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the vibrant Pier 39, and the historic Alcatraz Island. Head to Twin Peaks for panoramic views of the city, or unwind at Golden Gate Park, an urban oasis filled with gardens, museums, and even bison!

Next up is the laid-back city of Santa Cruz, home to a charming boardwalk, quirky downtown, and beautiful beaches. Make sure to check out the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for some old-fashioned fun, or head to Natural Bridges State Beach to enjoy the idyllic coastal scenery.

Want to reconnect with nature? The redwood-filled Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park awaits.

Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea - Highway 1

Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are neighboring gems that you simply can’t skip. Monterey’s premier attraction is its world-class aquarium, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which offers a peek into the rich marine life of the region.

And don’t miss the scenic 17-Mile Drive, a beautiful road that weaves through a stunning stretch of coastline and iconic golf courses. In Carmel-by-the-Sea, enjoy a stroll through its charming downtown filled with unique shops, art galleries, and top-notch eateries.

Prepare to be awestruck as you reach Big Sur, a rugged stretch of California’s central coast renowned for its breathtaking views. This is the place for hiking and exploring natural wonders like McWay Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades straight onto a pristine beach.

The iconic Bixby Bridge is another must-see, an architectural masterpiece overlooking the ocean.

San Luis Obispo, or “SLO”, is a charming college town nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. A wander through its friendly downtown is a must, as is a visit to the eccentric Madonna Inn.

Nearby, you have the seaside town of Pismo Beach, the dramatic Morro Bay, and the wine lover’s paradise – Paso Robles.

Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara will wow you with its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, enveloped by stunning mountains and sparkling ocean.

Head to East Beach for some sun, take in the city view from the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and savor the local wine at the numerous downtown tasting rooms.

And finally, we reach Los Angeles, the City of Angels. With a diversity of attractions ranging from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the historic Griffith Observatory, and the tranquil Getty Center, Los Angeles is a city that truly has something for everyone.

And let’s not forget the sun-soaked beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, the perfect places to end your Highway 1 adventure.

With each stop offering its unique charm, these destinations collectively paint the diverse and enchanting picture that is California’s Highway 1.

Buckle up and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime!

As the saying goes, “Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.” Packing the right gear can make or break your road trip, ensuring you’re ready for whatever the open road throws your way.

From clothing to car essentials, here’s a list of items you won’t want to leave behind on your Highway 1 adventure.

Clothing : California weather can be a bit of a mixed bag. Packing layers is a smart move – think T-shirts, a sweatshirt or sweater, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable pants or shorts. Don’t forget your swimsuit for beach days and comfy shoes for those hikes!
Snacks and Drinks : Long stretches of road mean you may not always have immediate access to food or drinks. Pack a cooler with plenty of water and your favorite snacks. Remember, staying hydrated and fueled is key!
First Aid Kit : Safety first, adventurers. A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary medication is a must-have.
Sun Protection : California is known for its sunshine, so don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Car Essentials : Make sure you have a spare tire, jumper cables, and tools for a basic tire change. Also, keep a flashlight and a multipurpose utility tool handy.
Camping Gear : If you plan to camp along the way, pack your tent, sleeping bags, and camping stove. Remember, some areas require camping reservations in advance.
Reusable Water Bottles and Coffee Cups : Stay hydrated and caffeinated while reducing your environmental footprint.
Camera and Binoculars : You’ll want to capture the stunning views and wildlife you’ll encounter along the way.
Entertainment : Road trip playlists, audiobooks, or podcasts can make long drives more enjoyable.
Cash and Cards : While most places accept cards, it’s always smart to have some cash on hand for small vendors or in case of emergencies.

By packing wisely, you’ll be prepared for just about anything, leaving you free to enjoy the magnificent views and experiences on your Highway 1 road trip. Safe travels!

What’s a road trip without tantalizing your taste buds with the local cuisine? From roadside diners to gourmet dining experiences, California’s Highway 1 offers a culinary journey as diverse and exciting as the journey itself.

Let’s check out some must-try food and drink spots along the route.

Start your culinary adventure in San Francisco with a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf for some fresh seafood – don’t skip the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.

For an upscale dining experience, check out Michelin-starred restaurants like Quince or Atelier Crenn.

In Santa Cruz, stop by the iconic Beach Street Café for a hearty American-style breakfast.

For a more casual and unique experience, head to The Picnic Basket for fresh, local, and delicious sandwiches.

Indulge in mouth-watering seafood at Monterey’s Fish House, and be sure to sample clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, enjoy an unforgettable farm-to-table dining experience at Earthbound Farm Stand.

Big Sur is home to the famous Nepenthe Restaurant, offering hearty American cuisine coupled with breath-taking views of the coast.

For a more intimate setting, visit the Big Sur Bakery, a true hidden gem with gourmet offerings.

For a taste of the local vibe in San Luis Obispo, check out Firestone Grill, known for their delectable BBQ.

For wine lovers, don’t miss a wine tasting experience at one of the many local vineyards in nearby Paso Robles.

In Santa Barbara, enjoy fresh seafood at the bustling Santa Barbara Shellfish Company.

If you fancy a gourmet meal, The Lark, located in the vibrant Funk Zone neighborhood, is a must-visit.

Finally, Los Angeles offers a smorgasbord of culinary delights. For a legendary LA dining experience, visit The Ivy.

For something more laid back, swing by Gjelina in Venice Beach for their much-loved pizzas.

Remember, food isn’t just about satiating hunger, it’s about experiencing local cultures and flavors. So, make the most of it and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Bon appétit!

There you have it, adventurers, the ultimate guide to California’s Highway 1 road trip.

As we come to the end of our virtual journey together, let’s remember what makes this trip truly extraordinary.

Highway 1 is more than just a road; it’s a journey through diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and quaint towns, all backed by the continuous symphony of crashing waves. It’s about the majestic sights, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the rugged cliffs of Big Sur.

It’s about the unique experiences that await at each bend, from exploring world-class aquariums to hiking through redwood forests.

And let’s not forget the flavors!

Whether it’s fresh seafood by the wharf in San Francisco, an intimate farm-to-table meal in Carmel, or gourmet pizza in Los Angeles, the culinary journey is just as exciting and diverse as the road trip itself.

Every mile of California’s Highway 1 presents a new adventure, a fresh perspective, a moment that begs to be savored.

It’s a place where memories are made, where every bend of the road, every wave of the ocean, every ray of golden California sunshine becomes a part of your story.

So, here’s my final piece of advice: Don’t rush it. Take your time. Stop often. Wander.

Explore. Taste. And most importantly, experience the journey – because in the end, it’s the journey that makes the destination worthwhile.

Ready to turn the key and hit the road? Trust me, California’s Highway 1 is ready for you, and it’s a road trip you’ll never forget.

Safe travels, friends, and here’s to the journey ahead!

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The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Where to stay, eat, and sightsee on the drive between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

California’s Pacific Coast Highway is one of America’s most scenic drives, with stunning bluffs and designated vista points featuring sparkling ocean views. While Highway 1 extends more than 600 miles, the most photogenic stretch can be found along California’s Central Coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. In addition to picturesque panoramas, this classic road trip offers plenty of restaurants (Korean barbecue!), beaches (Santa Barbara!), and attractions (the Henry Miller Memorial Library!) along the way.

I hit the road with the mission of plotting out the best itinerary for a weekend trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Here's my play-by-play guide, complete with stops for photos in Big Sur, antique shopping in Solvang, and craft cocktails at one of L.A.'s coolest bars.

Looking to finally take that perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip? Read on.

Breakfast at the Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco.

If you're departing from San Francisco, it's a good idea to kick-start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip with a hearty breakfast. Welcome to the Ferry Building Marketplace on the Embarcadero, an 1898 transit hub that's something of an icon thanks to its handsome white clock tower. Inside, you'll find artisanal bakeries, cheese shops, cafes, and a mushroom shop. Grab a cup of joe from the Oakland-born Blue Bottle Coffee and a pastry at the Acme Bread Company .

Stop for photos at Bixby Bridge in Big Sur.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

It'll take you about three hours to reach Big Sur from San Francisco, and by then you'll be ready to stretch your legs. As soon as you hit the section of the Pacific Coast Highway connecting Carmel-by-the-Sea to Big Sur, you'll start seeing vista points where you can pull off the road and take photos. Be sure not to miss the one approaching Bixby Bridge. Sure, there will be plenty of other tourists getting out of their cars to take selfies, but with a stunning view like that, how can you blame them? Join in and snap away — you'll want to remember this landscape forever.

Lunch in Big Sur with breathtaking views.

After you've filled your camera roll, it's time to fill your stomach. If you feel like splurging, the Post Ranch Inn's restaurant Sierra Mar offers a $75 prix fixe lunch menu and a chance to dine at a clifftop restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. For more casual fare with equally fantastic ocean views, stop at Nepenthe , which serves sandwiches and salads in a rustic lodge dating back to the 1940s.

Visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library.

Big Sur has inspired many famous writers, and seeing the natural beauty of the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, it's easy to understand why. Walt Whitman wrote about its charms, and the Beats were drawn to the enchanting landscape and bohemian way of life. Henry Miller lived in Big Sur from 1944 to 1962, and his experiences informed his book "Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymous Bosch." After Miller died in 1980, his good friend, the painter and writer Emil White, founded the Henry Miller Memorial Library within his own home — now an art-filled reading room, bookstore, and performance venue in the heart of the woods.

Spend a night in Big Sur.

If you want to stay overnight in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn is an excellent choice. There's also Alila Ventana Big Sur , which landed a spot on the T+L 500 best hotels of 2023 list and boasts villas and glamping tents spread out over 160 acres of redwood forest, a restaurant overlooking the ocean, and a spa that uses organic and locally made skin care products. As you sip your morning coffee with views of the Pacific, you might never want to leave.

Stop to see the elephant seals in San Simeon.

As you continue south on the Pacific Coast Highway, you won't want to miss the Elephant Seal Rookery at San Piedras Beach in San Simeon. Over 15,000 elephant seals migrate here every year. From the viewing platform, you can watch them sunbathe and flop around on the sand.

Get your retail fix in Solvang.

Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley is the charmingly anomalous town of Solvang , which was settled in the early 20th century by Danish pioneers. Take a quick detour off the Pacific Coast Highway to explore quaint streets full of Danish architecture, antique shops, restaurants, and more. The town square features a bust of Hans Christian Andersen and a replica of Copenhagen's famous Little Mermaid statue. Pop into the family-owned Mortensen's Danish Bakery for strudel, butter cookies, and other treats.

Rest and refuel near Santa Barbara.

You'll be ready for a good meal and some R&R at one of the best hotels in Santa Barbara after a full day of driving. Just outside of Santa Barbara, The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers both — plus cocktails and SoCal vibes. The easygoing hotel centers on the pool, where bands perform some evenings, and people gather around fire pits with margaritas and beers. Grab a table at the restaurant and order fish tacos, ahi poke nachos, and cauliflower tempura for an eclectic feast. After dinner, unwind with a nightcap at the bar or head up to your room, with its plush bed, coastal furnishings, and turntable.

Breakfast at Renaud's Patisserie in Santa Barbara.

In the morning, head over to Renaud's Patisserie , a Santa Barbara institution just a short drive from the Leta. Sample their excellent pastries, or order organic eggs prepared any style for a heartier meal.

Enjoy the art and views at the Getty Center.

Before heading into the heart of Los Angeles, stop at the Getty Center to get your culture fix. Oil tycoon and art collector J. Paul Getty originally built the Getty Villa in Malibu to house his collection of European art. His foundation continues to fund the museum and the Getty Center, designed by Richard Meier. Ride the tram up to the top of the hill and spend a few hours exploring the galleries and grounds — they have excellent views thanks to their elevated vantage point.

Explore Los Angeles' most dynamic neighborhood.

The Line LA is not only a great base for exploring the city's hip Koreatown neighborhood, but it's also a destination in and of itself. The hotel's revamped midcentury building features a raw but polished aesthetic (think exposed concrete custom furnishings and original art), a great restaurant by renowned chef Josiah Citrin, a cafe, an outdoor pool, and multiple bars including the '80s-themed Break Room 86 (complete with private karaoke chambers). Be sure to request a room with a view of the Hollywood Hills — the beds face the windows. so you can wake up to a stunning vista.

Feast on Korean barbecue at Park's BBQ.

While you could easily stay within the bounds of the Line and dine at Openaire , you'd be remiss not to venture out and see what else the neighborhood has to offer. Beeline to Park's BBQ , a no-frills restaurant in a strip mall, for authentic Korean barbecue that draws locals and celebrities alike. Feast on shrimp or Wagyu beef grilled tableside and a smorgasbord of sides, including veggies and savory kimchi pancakes.

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The Essential Road Trip Itinerary for California’s Highway 1

Highway 1 is regarded as not only one of the best road trips in the United States, but also the world. The coastal cruise promises dramatic bluffs, panoramic ocean vistas, and many designated viewpoints to capture it all. Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to explore some of California’s greatest treasures, like popular Big Sur and quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The key to getting the best out of this stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway is to start up north in a destination like San Francisco and drive down to Los Angeles . Not only do these two major cities provide convenient flight options, but you’ll also be riding along the water, which will also in turn make it easier to pull over and take those FOMO-inducing photos. To help you embark on this adventure we’ve put together a comprehensive, seven-day itinerary on where to stop along the way as well as mini guides to the towns you’ll be passing through.

If you can, nab a flight that’ll get you to San Francisco by noon to make the most of your first day. Head straight from the airport to The Battery , a chic member’s club that also doubles as a hotel. With only 14 accommodations, it’s intimate and, thankfully, quiet. Once you’ve dropped off your bags, go down the street to Hog Island Oyster Co. and pick up some fresh (and sustainable) mollusks for lunch. For dessert, venture over to their neighbor Humphry Slocombe for a scoop of Blue Bottle Vietnamese coffee ice cream or Golden Gate Bakery in nearby Chinatown for egg tarts that rival those of Hong Kong (just make sure they’re open; the owners have a very sporadic vacation schedule) before you make a beeline to Alcatraz .

After you’ve toured the famed former federal penitentiary, wander over to Fisherman’s Wharf where you’ll see hundreds of sea lions at Pier 39, but skip the touristy shops and head back to your room to recharge and freshen up before dinner. There are certainly plenty of dining options in the city, but if you can manage to nab a reservation, Atelier Crenn should be at the top of your list. A three-Michelin-starred restaurant by the inimitable chef Dominique Crenn , the creative French chef delivers an ocean-forward menu with a focus on local produce. But if you weren’t able to secure a booking, try your luck with neighboring Bar Crenn , a listening bar with elevated bites along with an intimate tasting experience at the counter. And if you’ve still got some energy before you call it a night, enjoy The Battery’s cozy courtyard with a tipple from the bar.

Kick off the day with some delicious dim sum at Lai Hong Lounge , a better and much more authentic option than another glitzier establishment in the city. Then, if you’ve never been, make your way over to San Fran’s famous winding Lombard Street to snap a few photos before venturing over to the famous Golden Gate Bridge, followed by a stroll around Golden Gate Park , the California Academy of Sciences , and a visit to the row of pastel-color Victorian and Edwardian homes known as the Painted Ladies.

Otherwise, fill your time with a little shopping (yes, there’s more to this techie city than hoodies and jeans). The Mission District is where you’ll find most of the city’s best stores, such as Le Point , a well-curated women’s clothing boutique; Taylor Stitch for quality men’s shirts and basics; and Gravel & Gold , a female-owned design collective that sells everything from garments to ceramics. And while you’re in the area, pop into Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley to admire the murals. But if you have the time, head up to the town of Larkspur, just across the Golden Gate Bridge, and pop into Hero Shop . The brainchild of former Vogue editor Emily Holt, it’s undoubtedly the Bay Area’s coolest store.

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By now it’s time for lunch and if you have a hankering for Mexican food you won’t want to miss out on La Taqueria , a no-frills eatery serving up some of the best burritos and tacos in San Francisco. Otherwise, head over to Japantown and grab a seat at Udon Mugizo for freshly made noodles, pick up a coffee crunch cake at Yasukochi’s Sweet Shop for dessert, and walk around one of the city’s most cherished enclaves. And if you decided to go for the latter, stick around until dinner. The area has a lot of fantastic restaurants such as State Bird Provisions , where small plates of modern Californian fare with an Asian influence are carted around the dining room; Copra , a modern Indian restaurant with fantastic cocktails to boot; and Nari , a contemporary Thai spot that’s not afraid of bold flavors. (Note: if these excellent dining options have you considering staying in the area, the perfectly located Kimpton Hotel Enso opened in 2022 with updated rooms.)

Pick up your rental car early in the morning and drive over to Tartine Manufactory , where bread is made in-house daily and a breakfast sandwich is the perfect way to start your day, before you hit the road for Monterey (preferably by 8 a.m. at the very latest). Your GPS will tell you to take 280 or 101 for the fastest route, but don’t forget you’re here for a reason, and that’s to take the longer, much more scenic Highway 1. It’ll take you anywhere between two to three hours before you hit the seaside town that has been made even more famous on the HBO hit Big Little Lies . Take in harbor views at Fisherman’s Wharf and, if you want to check out marine life on land, take a spin around the Monterey Bay Aquarium . And while the 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach (where the Lone Cypress resides) passes through an exclusive neighborhood with gorgeous homes and offers great views of the coast, it doesn’t quite warrant the admission fee given what you have in store ahead. Instead, scoot on down to Carmel-by-the-Sea , where the idyllic beach town has recently undergone quite the renaissance with a host of new hotels and restaurants.

Enjoy lunch at Stationaery , a seasonal, farm-to-table restaurant. Then check in at the hotel of your choosing. If you head inland, the sprawling Carmel Valley Ranch spread over 500 acres has all the bells and whistles—eight tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, multiple pools, fitness classes, and a laundry list of activities like beekeeping—to keep you busy. It’s very family-friendly, too, and kids will love visits to the goat pen. Otherwise, stay in town where you’ll find several recently opened hotels like Villa Mara , Carmel Beach Hotel , and Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave and Ocean Ave . Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling around or down by the beach followed by dinner at Chez Noir , a European-inspired bistro with a menu that draws influence from France and northern Spain.

Now it’s onto the good stuff: You’re going to Big Sur today! The route from Carmel to California’s forest gem is perhaps the best stretch of the drive, warranting multiple stops along the way, so make sure you head out early . Grab a bite at the hotel before you check out or head back into town to favored bistro La Bicyclette for a croissant and coffee before pulling into Point Lobos State Natural Reserve . With several trails to hike and panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, you don’t want to rush your time here too much. Take in the limestone rock formations, rugged bluffs, and coves dotted with seals and sea lions while peering out into deep blue waters, keeping an eye out for spouting whales.

Continue on, and you’ll find that there are a number of pull-over spots along the highway for you to step out and take photos of the undisturbed coastline. One in particular is right before Bixby Bridge, an architectural marvel (one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world) that acts as a gateway to Big Sur. Shortly after you’ll come across Point Sur State Historic Park , home to the still-functioning Point Sur Lighthouse. But before you step into Big Sur Bakery for a quick bite, make sure to drive down to Pfeiffer Beach, where tide pools and a natural arch known as Keyhole Rock await. (Note: You might lose cell service along the way, so make sure you have directions saved elsewhere just in case.)

By now it’ll be late afternoon and you’ll probably be ready to retire. Post Ranch Inn has been Big Sur’s longtime icon, situated right on the bluffs with uninterrupted views of the water. There’s also Alila Ventana Big Sur , where you’ll have the option of glamping tents in a redwood forest in addition to traditional hotel rooms. But if you have more time and are looking for a holistic retreat center, Esalen is one of the best in the world.

Wake up early and try to hit the road by 8:00 a.m. Your first stop will be a short 20-minute drive down to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , where you’ll hike a short distance to the McWay Falls overlook and set your eyes on 80 feet of cascading water. If you want to stretch your legs some more, check to see if the other trails are open, otherwise enjoy the rest of the coastal drive ahead to Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo. The former is home to a number of vineyards and distilleries, but the one to visit is Re:Find , where handcrafted spirits are made from saignée (free run juice from wine grapes). Sit down for a quick tasting and definitely give the refreshing cucumber vodka or tangy kumquat liqueur a try. To assuage a rumbling stomach, drive 40 minutes to SLO and dine at Thomas Hill Organics for dishes centered around local, organic produce and grass-fed meats. Alternatively, you could take a slight detour over to Avila and indulge in some of the best fried chicken sandwiches and homemade mac and cheese at Avila Valley Barn’s Chicken Shack & Smoke House . Don’t forget to pick up some honey sticks for the road while you’re at it.

After you’ve had your fill, jump back in the car and head straight to Los Angeles . It’ll take you between three to four and a half hours depending on traffic, but you should arrive by late afternoon. Given that L.A. is a sprawling metropolis, where you choose to stay will largely depend on which neighborhood is calling your name. For glitz and glam, Beverly Hills has some of the city’s finest luxury hotels, like the Maybourne , Beverly Wilshire (hello, Pretty Woman ), and Viceroy L’Ermitage . West Hollywood is characterized by a youthful energy—Sunset Boulevard, live music venues, comedy clubs—that’s matched by its hotel scene with chains like the Edition , Pendry , and 1 Hotel . But if you still haven’t gotten enough of those ocean views, there’s no place like the Georgian , an Art Deco beauty right by the Santa Monica Pier.

If you’re keen to get some shopping in, first-timers will inevitably want to visit Rodeo Drive, but don’t skip out on the Way We Wore for vintage or the Webster for a well-curated selection of designers in a building designed by Sir David Adjaye . Once dinnertime comes around you’ll have to make a tough decision on where to eat. Whether it’s tacos at Sonoratown , Korean-American fare at Yangban , Roman dishes at Mother Wolf , or a butcher shop-meets-restaurant at Gwen , you’re spoilt for choice.

Sleep in. No, really, it’s okay. After a packed several days, it’s well deserved. Once you’re ready to get out of bed, head to A.O.C. , a staple for great wine and seasonal small plates since 2002. If you’re here on the weekend, the WeHo location serves brunch and its ivy-lined, exposed brick patio is a dreamy setting. Otherwise, the newer Brentwood outpost is also open Wednesday through Sunday for lunch. Whatever you order, just make sure you start off with a cheese plate, which will sometimes feature gems like Pantaleo from Sardinia. Then drive up to the Hollywood Hills and drop by Jerome C. Daniel Overlook for sweeping vistas of the City of Angels before stopping by the Griffith Observatory for even more exceptional views.

Once you’re done with your jaunt in the hills, make your way downtown and stop by The Broad , where you’ll find Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors alongside other contemporary pieces. Continue your exploration of the arts at the MOCA or Art Share L.A. to check out the works by emerging local artists. Stick around downtown and go to dinner at Bestia , where its multiregional Italian cuisine has received accolades year after year, or Kato , a fine-dining establishment that showcases chef Jonathan Yao’s Taiwanese background. End the night back west to check out Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation at LACMA.

If you can swing it, book a flight that doesn’t leave until early evening so that you’ll still have plenty of time to explore on your final day. Start off with breakfast or brunch at République , a French eatery that makes all of its bread and pastries on-site with a great juice and smoothie menu to boot. Afterwards, drive over to Santa Monica to walk around the carnivalesque pier and savor your final moments at Venice Beach , paying a visit to the skate park and ogling at all of the amazing tricks. For your last meal consider a trip to In-N-Out: the burger chain certainly needs no introduction, and there’s one conveniently stationed right by the airport.

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Highway 1 Road Trip / A Surfer’s Guide to the California Coast

The Highway 1 road trip along California’s scenic coastline is at the top of many a’ road trip lists for good reason. This famous stretch of road, aptly named The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH for short), winds along the California coast from Capistrano Beach in Orange County in the south to Leggett in northern Mendocino in the north.

The whole highway totals about 750 miles (1200 kilometers), but many travelers opt for the stretch between Los Angeles and San Francisco because they are convenient start/end points. Whether you want to sample a portion of the coast, take a one-way trip, or round trip, you really can’t go wrong with this gem of a drive.

There are so many spectacular spots along Highway 1 that your biggest challenge will be figuring out how and where you want to spend your time. From gorgeous hikes among towering Redwoods in Big Sur and wine tasting in Paso Robles, to surfing in Malibu and gorging on delicious Mexican food, there’s a seemingly never-ending list of amazing things to do on a Highway 1 road trip.

Then there’s the surf. Don’t tell anyone, but there’s a lot of really fun surf in California 😉 . You can also find fantastic campsites close to surf breaks , which of course makes for a lovely combination.

One of the best ways to experience the California coast at its finest is to rent a campervan and camp and drive up the coast. Campervans are a great middle ground between tent camping or driving a big ‘ol RV.

You have the flexibility of a car with the added comforts of a little home on wheels, and it’s a great opportunity to get a taste of that #vanlife everyone is wild about.

Escape Campervans has five locations along the west coast so you have ultimate flexibility with your route. You can rent a campervan in Los Angeles, enjoy the coast to your heart’s desire, and drop off the campervan in San Francisco, Portland, or even Seattle.

Escape Campervans are hand painted by local artists and equipped with a comfy bed and a kitchen with a stove, sink, fridge, and they have extras available like kitchen supplies, bedding, and other camping goodies so you’ll have everything you need for your road tripping adventure. Find out more about what’s included here .

In this guide to a Highway 1 road trip, we’ll take you through some of the best things to do and see on your California coastal journey. Starting in LA and heading north, we cover stops in Malibu , Ventura, Ojai, San Luis Obispo County, Big Sur , Santa Cruz, and a few not-to-be missed pit stops along the way!

Without further ado, here are our top recommendations on where to surf, eat, camp, and play between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

• a surfer’s guide •.

Malibu has a reputation for being a glitzy surf town, but just under the surface, you’ll find a nature lover’s paradise with awesome camping, miles of hiking trails, empty beaches, and really fun surf.

MALIBU SURFRIDER BEACH is a classic rolling longboarder wave where you’ll find loads of stylish nose-riding surfers strutting their stuff as they walk on water. But if longboarding isn’t your thing, not to worry, just grab a retro fish or your wave weapon of choice and head out back to the furthest peak where it’s a much faster higher performance ride.

COUNTY LINE is another easy to spot and park surf break that’s always worth a check. The main attraction is a rocky right-hand point which tends to stay cleaner than other spots since there’s a kelp bed out back. There are a few peaks in the vicinity so have a look around and go for a paddle if you see something you like.

EAT & DRINK

MALIBU FARM CAFE • Take a stroll to the end of the Malibu Pier and park yourself at an outside table at this picturesque cafe for a tasty breakfast burrito with a view of the surf.

MALIBU BURGER CO serves up tasty grass-fed beef, bison, fish & vegan burgers in a beachy cool setting at the Malibu Country Mart.

NEPTUNE’S NET is an iconic seafood restaurant and biker bar serving up grilled seafood, beer-battered fish-and-chips, chowder, and all the fixins. Located right on Highway 1 at County Line, go for a surf and then fuel up at Neptune’s before continuing north.

DO & SEE

GET YOUR HIKE ON • Malibu offers heaps of hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains that line the east side of the PCH. For a mellow canyon trail, check out Solstice Canyon . The trail takes hikers along a creek through the ruins of a burned mansion and a small waterfall. A couple of other great hikes are Escondido Falls and Malibu Creek State Park .

EXPLORE the secluded beaches and surf breaks between Zuma Beach and County Line.

WINDOW SHOP • If you want to check out a few Malibu boutiques, visit Malibu Country Mart (for the ladies, stop by Planet Blue and Wildfox).

LEO CARRILLO STATE BEACH has awesome campsites nestled into a small canyon right across from the beach. Set up camp under some Sycamore trees and then walk to the beach for an afternoon/sunset lounge fest or surf session if conditions allow.

VENTURA & OJAI

Ventura is a small no-frills beach town Between Malibu and Santa Barbara. Ventura made our list because there are some pretty special surf breaks in this area, and a nice little primitive campsite right on the water that’s hard to beat for location’s sake. Take an afternoon or a day trip to Ojai, a very cool artsy mountain town a 20-minute drive away.

VENTURA POINT is home to a series of right-hand points directly off of California Street . Sounds like a very appropriate place to stop for a surf on a California surfing road trip, if you ask me. It’s a popular break with a mixed crew of locals and out-of-towners but if you’re patient and respectful you can potentially score some really good waves.

EMMA WOOD could be a fun, peaky, punchy wave good for a few turns, a head dip, or an air if you’re at that level. Also, it’s directly in front of the campsite which makes for quick and easy access in the morning or at sunset if you’re staying a few nights.

RINCON is basically on the border of Ventura and Santa Barbara County. So it’s only an eight-minute drive up the coast from Emma Wood. With a nickname of The Queen of the Coast and a reputation for being California’s best point break, you can always count on finding crowds of rippers from near and far on any given peak. If you’re lucky enough to catch it when it’s good, you can line up some very long and dreamy rides.

BEACH HOUSE TACOS slings tasty tacos and local brew directly on the Ventura Pier. With outdoor seating, ocean views, and good prices, this is a great pit stop in town.

TIPPLE AND RAMBLE in Ojai is a picnic shop and wine bar with a fantastic patio perfect for lounging a sunny day away over a bottle of local wine.

OJAI HARVEST is a beautifully-styled bohemian bar and restaurant focused on locally-sourced organic fare and crafty cocktails.

BOCCALI’S is a casual family-owned Italian restaurant in Ojai serving up huge portions of homestyle Italian deliciousness in a California country setting. A favorite with locals and visitors alike, try their pizzas, lasagnas, tomato salad (when in season), and their famous you-can’t-not-order-it fresh strawberry shortcake. Mmmm.

GO BEER TASTING at a few of Ventura’s many local craft breweries. And yes, “beer tasting” is just a fancy way of saying go drink some beer . You can find some serious craft brew all over California, and Ventura County has their share of great places to get your brewski on. Try Surf Brewery , Made West , Topa Topa Brewing Company and Leashless Brewing to start.

THE SPA AT OJAI VALLEY INN is rated one of the best in the country, so if you have a hankering for a massage in a Spanish-style gorgeous spa and some extra time, indulge in spending the day reveling in spa perfection.

EMMA WOOD STATE BEACH is an awesome campsite located right at the beach (and Emma Wood surf break). It’s primitive so there aren’t any facilities besides a few portable bathrooms, but what it lacks in amenities it makes up for in location, location, location. There’s no tent camping allowed here so you have to have a self-contained vehicle. Campervans with a grey water system can pass. Make sure to book ahead because the campsite is reservation only from mid-May through Labor Day.

SAN LUIS OBISPO AREA

Nestled between the Coast Range and the Pacific on California’s Central Coast, San Luis Obispo County has a series of quaint beach towns with rugged coastline, rolling hills, and remote beaches. The mountains and coast here offer great hiking and plenty of surf breaks, while the inland valleys around Paso Robles offer superb vineyards for the oenophiles.

PISMO BEACH Pier and the surrounding area offers up lots of options for beach breaks scattered along the coast all year long. While it’s often pretty walled and nothing to write home about, if the elements come together you can definitely score some quality surf.

MORRO BAY is a fun sand bottom beach break with a variety of peaks to choose from along this couple mile stretch of beach, which allows the crowds to spread out a bit at times. It tends to get busier the closer you are to Morro Rock where you’ll find a mix of left and rights.

GRANADA BISTRO in San Luis Obispo serves modern Californian-meets-Mediterranean fare in a charming space with a lovely patio complete with string lights and a fireplace.

FLOUR HOUSE PIZZA BAR + PASTARIA in San Luis Obispo dishes up Southern Italian favorites complete with house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy modern space.

BLISS CAFE is a creekside cafe with creative and fresh plant-based and gluten-free dishes in San Luis Obispo.

TOP DOG COFFEE BAR makes fresh micro-roasted coffee, delicious chai, and tasty basic eats in a casual sunny space in Morro Bay.

THE SPOON TRADE is a restaurant in Grover Beach (close to Oceano Campgrounds) with foodie-approved farm-to-table brunch, lunch, and dinner. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

THE MADONNA INN is a kitschy hotel that has become a bit of a landmark in San Luis Obispo. Complete with themed rooms, pink tennis courts, and plenty of gaudy fabulousness, stop by for breakfast at Copper Cafe or a drink at the ornate Silver Bar Cocktail Lounge.

TAKE A HIKE along the coast on one of the many picturesque trails like Bluff Trail in Montaña de Oro State Park , or an inland incline like Bishop Peak Trai l.

RENT AN ATV or Dune Buggy and zip around the Pismo Beach sand dunes .

GO WINE TASTING at a few of the 200 wineries in Paso Robles. Yep, you read that right.

girl with surfboard on oceanview balcony

Epic surf trips made easy.

Explore luxury done-for-you surf vacations with Lush Palm Private Retreats.

SYCAMORE SPRINGS is a resort and spa with mineral spring-fed hot tubs you can rent by the hour. Perfect for an evening warm up after a long surf session.

PADDLEBOARD or Kayak around Morro Bay and spot wildlife. Look out for adorable otters sleeping in the kelp.

OCEANO DUNES CAMPGROUND is located on Oceano Beach, which is the only place in California where you can drive and camp on the beach. Oceano Dunes State Park has 42 campsites situated directly between the dunes and the ocean so you can fall asleep to the sweet sound of the Pacific. Tip: Don’t confuse this campground with the similarly-named Oceano Campground at Pismo Beach.

MORRO BAY STATE PARK is a nice campsite with good facilities and only a quick 5-minute drive to the famous Morro Bay Rock and surf break.

Pit Stop: Hearst Castle

Built by American media tycoon William Randolph Hearst, the Hearst Castle is a beautiful and quirky 165-room castle with epic views of rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean. The only way to tour the grounds is with a tour guide, so book ahead to reserve a spot.

Tips: Keep your eyes open for the zebras around the property, and stop by Sebastian’s across from the museum for a post-tour wine tasting and delish sando.

Pit Stop: Elephant Seals

Ten minutes north of the Hearst Castle is a little wildlife pit stop that you might smell before you see. The Elephant Seal Vista Point is a spot where hundreds of Elephant Seals congregate at various times throughout the year to breed and rest. This stop off has a viewing area where you can watch the seals, well, being seals.

This place barely needs an introduction, it’s the most famous stretch of Highway 1. With mountains covered in redwood forests on one side and dramatic cliffs-meet-turquoise Pacific on the other, Big Sur attracts visitors from around the world. Plan for at least a couple days here so you can settle into the beauty of this special piece of coastline.

Surf in these parts is fickle at best, so don’t count on the surf cooperating, but rest assured the stunning views and pure beauty of the area will keep you happy.

WILLOW CREEK is the very first surfable set up when heading north on Hwy 1 into the iconic PCH drive along the California coast of Big Sur. You can get a glimpse of the conditions and crowd factor before descending down to the beach access parking lot. Willow Creek is primarily a right-hander with a bouldery bottom.

SAND DOLLAR BEACH is an absolutely stunning stretch of rugged coast in Big Sur. This rocky cove is surrounded by massive submerged boulders and picturesque cliffs. As for the surf, you’ll find a variety of decent peaks with lefts and rights on offer up and down the beach. The water gets cold in these parts and the area is known to be sharky. So beware.

DEETJEN’S BIG SUR INN is a rustic charming-as-charming-can-be institution that has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. On the National Register of Historic Places, the hand-crafted quality and old-world ambiance of the hotel take you back to Big Sur’s early days. Their restaurant is the epitome of cozy and serves incredible food. This is seriously one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had–try the chorizo and eggs and blueberry pancakes. Dinner is also very popular but quite pricey. If you opt for dinner make sure you have a reservation.

BIG SUR BAKERY has a serious reputation for just about everything they make, but especially their bacon-and-egg-topped breakfast pizza. Come hungry and grab some delish pastries for the road.

NEPENTHE is an awesome restaurant perched 800 feet above the Pacific with some of the best views in Big Sur. Stop by for a cocktail or enjoy dinner on their patio at sunset for a special evening.

JULIA PFEIFFER BURNS is the spot with McWay Falls, the famously beautiful waterfall cascading into a perfectly turquoise cove. The falls are a quick walk from the parking lot, so definitely check them out and then opt for a longer hike like Ewoldsen Trail, a 5-mile loop that winds through creeks, redwood forests, and offers impressive viewpoints of the coast.

HIKE, HIKE, AND HIKE SOME MORE. When you’re not ogling the insane views whilst driving along the coast, you’ll be ogling the trails and viewpoints along one of many hikes in Big Sur. Andrew Molera State Park has some great bluff hikes with coastal views (the Andrew Molera Loop), Pfeiffer Falls hike at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a fav, as well as Limekiln Trails . Talk about some serious hike decisions.

GO NAKED HOT TUBBING with a view at the famous Esalen Institute . If you aren’t staying at Esalen as part of one of their workshops, you’ll have to book a massage to use the property’s hot tubs during the day. Otherwise, the mineral baths are open to the public only between 1 and 3 am, with a reservation and a $20 fee.

PLASKETT CREEK CAMPGROUND is a really nice campground surrounded by a lush redwood forest and located a leisurely 5-minute stroll away to Sand Dollar Beach, the largest beach in Big Sur, complete with incredible views. Campsites are spaced out quite a bit for privacy, and for the most space and privacy book a site on the outside perimeter of the camp.

KIRK CREEK CAMPGROUND sits on an open bluff 100 feet above the Pacific. This has got to be one of the most beautiful campsites in California . Reservations at least 3 days in advance are necessary and book far in advance if you’re planning on traveling in the busy months. Tip: Raccoons abound at this site so lock up all your food and goodies.

LIMEKILN CAMPGROUND has two loops–one surrounded by towering redwoods and a creek, and the other perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific with direct access to a small beach. You really can’t go wrong here. With only 29 campsites, reserve a spot way in advance if you’re planning on visiting in the summer months.

Pit Stop: Monterey Bay Aquarium

highway 1 road trip monterey bay aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the top aquariums in the United States and a must-visit for ocean lovers. Located right on the water on Monterey Bay, the aquarium has impressive exhibits and is a leader in ocean conservation and marine science.

Santa Cruz is a gem of a laid-back beach town full of students, surfers, counterculture lifestyles, and a whole lot of natural beauty. As goes with a lot of the California coast, nature in all its glory steals the show. Explore hiking/biking trails, beach-hop, and let your hair down.

Santa Cruz is known for localized breaks, heavy waves, and raw open ocean power. It’s also known for its rugged and enchanting beauty.

STEAMER LANE is another iconic California surf scene like Malibu, but completely different. Steamer Lane is not for the timid and can get seriously large and dangerous for inexperienced surfers. On average days a quality right peels along the cliffs with the occasional A-frame peak breaking a little away from the cliffs. But when it gets bigger a heaving A-frame barrel emerges from the pits of hell and the bluff turns into the Coliseum of surfing.

FOUR MILE is just a few miles outside of the downtown Santa Cruz area. It’s a beautiful cove with a lovely beach and fun rocky right-hand point setup. It’s known to be a target for petty theft, however, loads of traveling surfers passing through have no other options but to leave their belongings in their campervans and are fine. Just know there may be a higher risk of theft and do your best to hide valuables and lock up.

BANTAM ‘s menu features perfectly charred Neapolitan pizzas and a rotating menu of Italian-inspired dishes with a Californian twist.

VERVE COFFEE ROASTERS whips up delicious coffee and decadent pastries in three modern unlimited-wifi shops around town.

LUPOLU CRAFT BEER HOUSE serves up crafty beer alongside tasty Latin and Mediterranean eats. Get in on their stellar lunch specials Monday – Friday before 3pm.

JALAPEÑOS TAQUERIA is a no-frills hole-in-the-wall taco joint with delish tacos and burritos. The chicken mole and al pastor are winners and they even have a vegetarian burrito that’s a hit.

THE PENNY ICE CREAMERY makes insanely delicious ice cream from scratch. With rotating seasonal flavors that use locally-farmed organic ingredients, this place is kinda a big deal. Case in point: Mascarpone Bourbon Cake, Cardamom Coconut Blackberry, Whisky Custard.

TAKE A BREW CRUZ • Hop on the super sweet refurbished school bus Betty Jane and be escorted from brewery to brewery for four hours while learning all about local brewery history. So yes, basically a form of heaven.

SHOP AROUND • There’s a lot of creativity in Santa Cruz and therefore some really cool independent local shops around town. Check out Sawyer Land + Sea Supply for a great selection of boards and surf gear, Stripe and Stripe Men for clothing, gifts and such, Home/Work and Hive & Hum for home decor, and Berdel’s for skate, surf, and dude style.

MYSTERY SPOT is a tourist magnet, we’ll admit, but really fun anyway and worth a visit.

WALK IT OUT • Take a lovely stroll along East Cliff Drive to Pleasure Point. Start out on 41st Avenue and walk around the entire loop complete with ocean views, beautiful homes, surf, hidden beaches, and plenty of spots to just relax and enjoy the view.

NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH has a beautiful lush forested campground only a mile or so out of Capitola. The campsites can be a bit tight, but some sites make up for it with ocean views. You might want to snag one of the nine premium sites sitting on the bluff overlooking the ocean for a special treat. Book way in advance to ensure your spot.

SUNSET BEACH STATE CAMPGROUND is a little walk from the beach, but not to worry, you’ll be happily set up in your green and spacious campsite amongst the Monterey pines. And if it’s head high or smaller with light or offshore winds, you just might score some quality surf along this stretch of beach.

So there you have it! There are so many awesome spots along the Pacific Coast Highway you really can’t go wrong. Just hug the coast, explore your heart out and have an amazing Highway 1 road trip!

If you’re interested in renting a campervan for your trip, check out Escape Campervans to reserve a fully-equipped road trippin’ machine.

We hope this guide will help you plan your dream trip, and please feel free to comment below with any questions! We would be happy to help in any way that we can.

Happy travels!

* This post was created in partnership with Escape Campervans and all words and opinions are my own. We only partner with companies we genuinely like and are a fit for Lush Palm. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Lush Palm going with fresh content and helpful guides.

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17 thoughts on “Highway 1 Road Trip / A Surfer’s Guide to the California Coast”

This article was so helpful! Do any of the surf spots listed have board rentals nearby? I’ll be renting a van to do this trip 🙂

Hi Belinda,

Thanks for your feedback — so glad you found the article helpful! Most of the locations listed have surf shops where you can rent surfboards. Malibu, Ventura, and Santa Cruz definitely have board rentals available. Big Sur is very small and likely doesn’t have board rentals, and it’s a fickle place for surf anyway, so I wouldn’t count on waves there. In the other spots, just google ‘surfboard rentals’ and I’m sure you’ll find plenty of options!

Hope you have a wonderful trip! Cheers

Hey what’s happening due to Covid 19 . Will beaches , rentals and restaurants still be operating in July or august?

Hi Paula – Over the past couple of months, the COVID 19 situation in California has been changing on a regular basis, so it would be difficult to confirm what will be open in July and August. But currently, restaurants, beaches, and most businesses have officially opened back up in most counties in California, so hopefully, they continue to stay open throughout the summer! Fingers crossed!

I loved to see this! I’ve never been to California and it’s really lovely to see all this. Thank you for sharing!

Thanks for your feedback, our pleasure!

Hey!!! I really need help planning a trip to California for surfing! You guys have so much information I’d really appreciate your help.

Hello, Thank you for your article, so helpful! I’m planning a road trip in a campervan along the Highway 1, end of September, to discover California and to surf. With your precious information, I know where to go to have nice surf sessions. I’m a beginner/intermediate level surfer, I have got my own surf board at home but I don’t think to take it with me (I’m afraid to break it during the flight). I’m thinking to rent a surfboard each time I want to surf but don’t know if it’s a good idea. Does there is surf rental shops everywhere? What are you recommendations? Thank you in advance for your reply

Hi Pauline, happy to help and stoked you like the article! While there are plenty of surf shops to rent surfboards from southern California to northern California, there are also a lot of areas to explore in between towns where you’ll want a surfboard on hand. You’ll also most likely want to go in the same direction and not have to backtrack too often. A surfboard rental will easily cost you from $20-$40 dollars per day. So if you’re exploring and surfing for at least 10 days, that could add up to be $200-300+. Plus you might have to put down deposits, etc, in case you ding it. So I’d recommend you browse Craigslist as soon as you arrive in town. You can easily find a used surfboard on Craigslist for the $200-300 you’d be spending to rent one. At the end of your trip, you could either try to sell it really quick for a super good deal to make back some money or just give it away. Hope that helps! Cheers

Great updates, any recommends along Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park? Not seeing any surf lanes between Sand Dollar and Rivermouth…

Hey, thanks Ross, not that I’m knowledgeable about. But there is a lot of coastline to explore if you’re keen. You might want to check WannaSurf for additional insights. Cheers and happy travels man!

Hi. I met Tara this morning at Black’s. I am living in my van and surfing. Have been at Black’s since November. I like your website a lot and will follow you. Take care, Danny

Hi Danny, nice to meet you and thanks for the kind words! Cheers!

What about Pacifica State Beach? The now number 1 surfed beach in Northern CA. Pacifica is only 15 min south of SF and SFO. NorCal Surf Shop right at the beach to rent surf & paddle boards, wet suits and more. Check out their retail items which includes skateboards, ukuleles, sunglasses, apparel and much more.

Thanks, Carol! Yes, Pacifica is a beautiful spot!

Wow! This article was so helpful and well-detailed 🙂 I’m planning a roadtrip in an Escape Campervan from San Francisco down to San Diego along the coast in order to catch some waves! I wanted to know if there is any possibility to sleep in the Van next to the road for free or if you would advise to always sleep in campgrounds. Furthermore I couldn’t find anywhere if a special driving license was requiered to drive the Van. I’m 22 and have a regular car driving license.

Thank you so much in advance for your reply and thanks again for this amazing article!

Hi Tania, Thanks for your kind words! So happy we can help you plan your trip!

There’s so much to do and see along the coast, you’re going to have an awesome time 🙂 As far as sleeping next to the road goes, we wouldn’t really recommend it, and in some counties in California it’s actually illegal to sleep in a vehicle (along a roadside or in a parking lot). I know some travelers will ‘free camp’ or ‘wild camp’ in different places in California, but it’s more in off-the-grid locations, rather than near cities or along the road. Also, there are more and more people traveling the coast, so there are many signs that say it’s illegal to sleep/camp alongside the road. So we definitely recommend playing it safe and sticking to campgrounds.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best beach campgrounds in California for surfing: https://lushpalm.com/beach-camping-in-california/

For the license, no, you don’t need any special license to drive the van! Your regular license is all you need so you’re good to go! Have a wonderful trip and let us know if you have any other questions!

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Taking a roadtrip up the California coast using Highway 1 is a great summer adventure.

The Perfect Highway 1 Road Trip Through California

Don't travel this iconic route without hitting up great camping, hiking, surfing, and more along the way

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California’s Highway 1 is a perennial favorite for adventurous road-trippers—and for good reason. You can visit the sunny beaches of San Diego, the wine country of the central coast, the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, and the towering redwoods of Mendocino without ever leaving the road. Sections of the iconic highway were closed due to wildfire and mudslides for over a year, but these reopened in July 2018 and the route is eager for visitors. Along the way, score dreamy campsites overlooking the Pacific Ocean or post up at the many revamped retro hotels that dot the route. Tackle the whole thing, or take it on piecemeal by planning a trip for one of the sections below.

San Diego to Santa Barbara

Start from the southern end of Highway 1 in San Diego, where you’ll find a thriving craft-beer scene, friendly surf breaks, and 65 miles of trails in the city’s 1,200-acre Balboa Park . Stay in Hotel del Coronado (from $323), a historic guesthouse on Coronado Island in the heart of San Diego Bay, and don’t miss the ever changing collection of small plates, like pork shoulder with bacon-braised lentils and black trumpet mushrooms, at the award-winning restaurant Juniper and Ivy in the city’s Harbor View neighborhood.

Crystal Cove , near Newport Beach (south of Los Angeles), has oceanfront cottages and private rooms for rent starting at just $37 a night, or continue north and hit Sandy’s Beach Shack in Huntington Beach for mahi-mahi tacos, beer, and a surf session before checking into Malibu’s Surfrider Hotel (from $369), a revamped 1950s-era motel with wetsuits and surfboards for rent and a rooftop deck. Near Santa Barbara, Skyview Los Alamos (from $179) is another renovated motel, this one with outdoor showers overlooking wine country and loaner mountain bikes for exploring the area’s miles of quality singletrack.

The Central Coast

Camp, sandboard, or drive ATVs on more than five miles of sand dunes in Oceano Dunes State Park , and check out the history of skateboarding at the Morro Bay Skateboard Museum . Then be sure to grab a scoop of Harmony Valley Creamery ice cream at the legendary Thursday-night farmers’ market in San Luis Obispo. The Hotel San Luis Obispo (from $445) opens in June, or check out the town’s eccentric Madonna Inn (from $109), where you can stay in a rock-lined room designed to mimic the granite walls of Yosemite.

Instead of continuing north on Highway 1, make a short detour inland to visit the wineries that surround Paso Robles in addition to a new multi-acre installation from artist Bruce Munro called Field of Light , where you can wander among 58,800 solar-powered spheres that light up the night. Back on route, spot elephant seals on the beach in the seaside village of Cambria, and book a tour of Hearst Castle in San Simeon to take in the art, gardens, and free-roaming zebras that were once part of William Randolph Hearst’s private zoo.

Big Sur to San Francisco

Stop off in Limekiln State Park and you’ll find a secluded beach and views of the Big Sur coast. Then hike the trails and pitch a tent in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , which should reopen sometime this summer after a storm damaged it in early February. From there, it’s just an hour north to Big Sur proper and the surf breaks at Sand Dollar Beach. If you’re in search of some luxe accommodations, opt for a safari-style tent nestled in a redwood forest at Ventana Big Sur (from $450), which overlooks the ocean and has Japanese-inspired hot baths and a gallery featuring the works of local artists. Can’t-miss eats in the area include the cookies at Big Sur Bakery and the Ambrosia burger on the outdoor patio at Nepenthe .

On your way north toward San Francisco, Carmel Coffee , in the charming one-square-mile town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, has espresso and surprisingly good ramen bowls, and there’s quality mountain biking in Santa Cruz’s Demo Forest , just south of San Francisco. Don’t miss the freshly baked artichoke bread at Norm’s Market in the old fishing town of Pescadero, just off Highway 1, and the sunset from San Gregorio State Beach .

Mill Valley to Mendocino

Once Highway 1 crosses the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll be treated to vast stretches of empty, jagged coastline and little towns worth long pit stops. Start with a mountain-bike ride or a trail run with ocean views in Mount Tamalpais State Park , north of Muir Beach, where mountain biking first got its start. There’s a well-loved surf break in Bolinas—and good beta and gear at the town’s 2 Mile Surf Shop , which rents boards and offers lessons—if you can find the turnoff for this unmarked beach town . Fuel up with tasty tacos in an old lifeguard tower at Siren Canteen in Stinson Beach.

In Guerneville, AutoCamp (from $190) rents decked-out Airstreams for a night along the Russian River and provides canoes for a mellow paddle. Or book yourself into the Bodega Bay Lodge (from $189), which has recently renovated rooms on a rocky bluff above the sea. In Mendocino, Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too rents paddleboards and bikes and offers guided boat tours on outrigger canoes up the Big River, which flows into Mendocino Bay. From there the highway continues along the coast for a few dozen miles before turning inland to join Highway 101.

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Highway 1 between Los Angeles and San Francisco: The complete guide

The California Coast has all the stuff of dreams.

Between the Pacific Ocean as far as the eye can see and rugged mountain ranges, the drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco is a real feast for the eyes.

Here is my complete guide to Highway 1 between the City of Angels and Fog City .

What should you know before you leave?

To get from Los Angeles to San Francisco, or vice versa, you have several options.

The fastest route is Interstate 5, which will take you between 5.5 and 6 hours.

However, if you really want to live the ultimate California road trip experience, Highway 1 is the most spectacular way to travel between these 2 cities .

Although it will add about 100 miles (160 km) to your trip, it's one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world.

So plan to spend 2 to 3 days in order to fully enjoy all the wonders it has to offer.

A rental RV is also a great way to enjoy this drive.

Here are the stops you won't want to miss during your adventure!

California Coast

#1. santa monica .

Santa Monica is the closest place on Highway 1 to downtown Los Angeles .

Start your trip here. A short stop at this legendary beach is a must!

The most popular spot in Santa Monica is the pier at the end of Colorado Avenue .

On this lively wooden pier you'll find restaurants, gift shops, street artists, a Ferris wheel, and even a roller coaster!

And the adventure begins! Your first stop should be Malibu.

Located some thirty kilometres from Los Angeles, the City of Malibu is known for two main reasons.

The first is its long stretch of pristine beach , home to tide pools, caves and strange rocky formations.

The second is the many Hollywood celebrities who live there, looking to get away from the big city.

Be sure to visit Point Dune, one of the loveliest beaches in southern California, or explore the city to see beautiful homes and sample some typical California cuisine.

#3. Ventura

As you drive along Highway 1, you'll pass right by the Ventura Pier.

If you're into surfing , this is a spot you won't want to miss!

Otherwise, check out the historic downtown area and enjoy some shopping in the vintage and thrift stores.

#4. Santa Barbara

Your next stop is the lovely city of Santa Barbara, known for its beaches, wine, red tile roofs and beautiful gardens.

If you're looking for a place to spend the night along the way, there's enough to see and do here to warrant an extended stop!

Take a walk along Stearns Wharf , the longest deep-water wharf between Los Angeles and San Francisco, or pay a visit to East Beach .

If you're a fan of architecture, visit the courthouse and its clock tower and the Old Santa Barbara Mission .

If you prefer a cultural activity, check out the Lobero Theater , the Arlington Theater or the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.

To stretch your legs, don't miss the Santa Barbara Zoo , the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden and Lotusland .

#5. Solvang

When you think of the California coast, you probably don't think of European architecture.

You'll feel quite disoriented in Solvang : you have to see it to believe it!

Solvang was founded by Danish immigrants who wanted to make the United States feel like home.

Today, this Danish village is a popular tourist destination with its European-style windmills, flower-lined streets and half-timbered buildings.

In fact, it's at the top of our list of the 5 most beautiful towns in California!

During your visit, you'll want to browse the northern European-style boutiques and see the many replicas of famous landmarks found in Denmark .

If time permits, head to the Hans Christian Anderson Museum and keep an eye out for the Little Mermaid statue!

#6. Pismo Beach

The Pismo Beach area is known for its beaches and sand dunes .

It's also a popular option for an overnight stay during your road trip.

If this is your case and you have a little extra time to spare, head to the Oceano Dunes State Recreation Area for an off-road ride in the sand dunes.

Otherwise, focus on its downtown area, where you can enjoy a good meal at one of the many restaurants.

If you're there at the end of the day, the sunsets over the Pismo Beach Pier are spectacular!

#7. Morro Bay

The next stop along your route between Los Angeles and San Francisco is a small fishing village.

Morro Bay is home to a magnificent state park and several estuaries teeming with birds and wildlife .

But the star attraction is at the end of Morro Beach.

I'm talking about Morro Rock , an ancient volcanic plug 175 meters high.

In addition to being imposing, it's surrounded by a beautiful lagoon where seals and sea lions can be seen throughout the day.

It's possible to kayak to the edge of the rock if you feel like it, but I recommend a short stop here to enjoy a picnic on the beach .

#8. San Simeon

The town of San Simeon is known for the extravagant home of William Randolph Hearst , a businessman who made his fortune in publishing.

While California is no stranger to great affluence and huge mansions, Hearst Castle is in a class of its own .

Perched atop a hill known as The Enchanted Hill , this eccentric castle contains marble statues, tapestries and oil paintings, Tiffany lamps, exotic carpets, and all the other collectibles accumulated by William during his somewhat marginal life.

In addition to the million visitors it receives each year, Lady Gaga used the castle in her music video for GUY.

Besides the castle, you should also visit Moonstone Beach , the stores of Cambria Village and, above all, Piedras Blancas Beach.

The latter is home to an enormous colony of elephant seals.

Fun fact: in 1990, there were only 24 elephant seals in this colony, and then in 1991, more than 400 showed up on the beach just south of the Piedras Blancas lighthouse.

Nobody knows why!

#9. Big Sur

Be prepared to stop often near Big Sur on the famous Highway 1.

The route winds along high cliffs with drop-offs that are both exhilarating and terrifying.

An icon of the scenic highway can be found here: the Bixby Bridge .

While in the area, don't miss Point Sur State Historic Park , Ragged Point , and especially the famous Julia Pfeiffer State Park .

This park's main attraction is McWay Falls , which spills from a high cliff directly into the Pacific Ocean.

It's one of the most beautiful beaches in California.

The trail to the falls is well indicated in the park.

You will have to pay the $10 park entry fee.

If you have the time, explore the rest of the park, which is home to sequoias that are over 2,500 years old.

#10. Point Lobos Natural Reserve

Point Lobos Nature Reserve is one of the most beautiful parks in the State of California.

Coming from Los Angeles, Point Lobos will be on your left, just before you reach Carmel .

The park entrance can't be seen from the road, so watch out for the signs.

Point Lobos is a real paradise for lovers of nature and wildlife .

Explore the park's coves and beautiful trails.

On its shores, you'll have the chance to see seals, sea lions, sea otters and orcas.

On the wooded trails, keep an eye out for gray foxes, raccoons, opossums, deer, rabbits, bobcats and coyotes.

#11. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a romantic little town with a European coastal charm .

Many musicians, writers and painters have made Carmel their home for many years.

One of the town's mayors was none other than famous Hollywood actor Clint Eastwood.

Main Street is definitely the heart of the action.

The street is lined with art galleries, boutiques, and upscale shops and restaurants.

The city's architecture is a mix of charming little beach houses, rustic cottages, log cabins, and breathtaking modern glass houses.

Nearby, the Carmel Mission with its courtyard and gardens is a peaceful place to meditate or enjoy a rest.

A museum presents the history of the Monterey Peninsula and all the California missions.

#12. Monterey

Near Monterey you will find what is probably one of the most beautiful stops along Highway 1.

17-Mile Drive is definitely the most beautiful stretch of coastline on the Monterey Peninsula.

It stretches from the majestic Pacific coast to the Del Monte forest.

You will drive through Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach.

This road is private and has an access fee , but thousands of people drive it each year to see the magnificent Lone Cypress , one of California's most famous natural treasures, as well as Bird Rock and Spanish Bay .

The coastline is heavily populated with sea lions. For several miles you can see baby seals and their mothers on the beaches.

At the end of the road, you will reach the city of Monterey.

Its famous Cannery Row was once the hub of the sardine packing industry.

Today, the factories have been transformed into gift shops, bars and seafood restaurants.

Don't miss the Monterey Bay Aquarium , the sixth-largest aquarium in the world.

It is home to sea otters, penguins, sharks, stingrays, jellyfish and many other native marine species.

#13. Santa Cruz

In Santa Cruz, prepare to be nostalgic!

The 1960s are alive and well here, especially along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with its Americana vibe.

Visit the beach to see the beautiful lighthouse and the Giant Dipper on the boardwalk.

The Santa Cruz wharf is an excellent starting point for exploring the area.

You can also take a whale-watching tour or a fishing trip, if you have the time.

If you're interested in the supernatural, check out The Mystery Spot, a collection of strange phenomena from the last 70 years.

Along the iconic Pacific Avenue , you will find all kinds of vintage goodies.

If you need to stretch your legs one last time, pay a visit to Wilder Ranch State Park for some hiking.

If you're staying overnight, head for the Rio Theatre for a local music concert.

#14. San Francisco

And that's it!

Your final destination is San Francisco , the most European and most tolerant city in the American West.

Don't miss the city's main attractions, like Fisherman's Wharf to enjoy a meal with sea lions, Telegraph Hill , or the Painted Ladies , a famous row of colored houses.

I suggest you book a tour of Alcatraz .

If you're not easily spooked, opt for the evening tour and discover the haunted remains of the old prison from which no one could escape.

And don't forget your picture of the Golden Gate Bridge .

Locate the stops on Highway 1 between L.A. and San Francisco

Now you're ready to discover the wonders of this famous California coastal road .

Do you have any other suggestions of places to stop? Feel free to share them in the comments below !

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Things to do on Highway 1
Things To Do

Looking for things to do and on Highway 1? With serene beaches and historic piers, farm-fresh dining and ocean views, this iconic scenic route offers an array of unforgettable coastal experiences. Explore sun-drenched dunes, hidden waterfalls and cultural gems on this iconic stretch of California roadway. With boundless things to see on Highway 1, expect the unexpected: From whale watching to wine tasting, horseback riding to kayaking, there’s always more to discover around the bend. Your ultimate Highway 1 road trip awaits. Simply delve into this curated list of essential Highway 1 attractions sure to kick start the imagination.

Explore highway 1.

Things to do in Ragged Point

Ragged point.

Ragged Point earns its title as “The Gateway to Big Sur.” Along this stretch of Highway 1, find towering forested mountains cascading into the blue ocean horizon. Here, the journey into miles of pristine and untouched terrain begins, offering a view that substantiates its reputation. In fact, Ragged Point boasts one of the finest vistas along Highway 1, making it an ideal stop for a memorable selfie. Don’t miss “The Million Dollar View,” a circular sculpture strategically positioned to overlook the shoreline. Through its central aperture, you’ll discover a perfect frame for capturing the sheer magnificence of Big Sur’s untouched natural splendor. Anchoring this must-stop landmark is Ragged Point Inn, providing an inviting space to relish the experience. The inn’s expansive lawn area offers seating, beverages and food, creating an idyllic setting for a picturesque picnic.

Waterfalls of Ragged Point

Black swift falls.

Nestled just below the Million Dollar View sculpture in San Simeon, uncover Black Swift Falls. This seasonal waterfall cascades 300 feet down to the ocean—well worth the trek. You can find the trailhead for a short, steep hike to the beach right by the Million Dollar View on Highway 1. Once you pull over, equip yourself with sturdy hiking shoes (note: avoid sandals), and embark on the quick descent to the water. The hike is under a mile round-trip, but be prepared for challenging terrain. Upon reaching the bottom, notice the beach’s distinctive black sand, a result of ancient volcanic activity. Thanks to its composition, this sand retains heat from the sun and provides warmth even on cooler days. Relax on the beach, feel the sand underfoot, observe the rolling ocean waves, and let the waterfall’s soothing sound envelop you.

Salmon Creek Falls

A mere 3 miles north of Ragged Point, Salmon Creek Falls offers another captivating spot to witness the beauty of a classic Big Sur waterfall. Though not towering like Black Swift Falls, Salmon Creek waterfall stands impressive at 120 feet. Convenient to access, the waterfall is a quick quarter-mile stroll from the trailhead off Highway 1. The path winds through an oak forest to a stream, providing fishing opportunities for licensed anglers. After viewing the waterfall, hikers can venture deeper into the Silver Peak Wilderness. Following the Salmon Creek Trail for an additional 2 miles leads to Spruce Camp, with Estrella Camp another 1.25 miles ahead. For the ambitious hiker, the entire Salmon Creek Trail spans 6.5 miles round-trip, featuring challenging terrain and a 1,300-foot elevation gain. Alternatively, savor the remote tranquility of Big Sur’s wilderness by simply unwinding by the waterfall and soaking in the sights and sounds.

More Ragged Point Adventure

Looking for more things to do in Ragged Point ? The Gateway to Big Sur is the best place to take in an epic sunset along Highway 1. Stop at Ragged Point Inn’s grassy outlook, where lounge chairs are available for all to enjoy. Hungry? Tuck into a cliffside meal at the inn and even take in a spa service. After hiking to a hidden waterfall, relax with an afternoon of live music. Surrounded by food vendors and small shops, the inn’s sun-dappled plaza serves as a concert hall and meeting place for visitors.

Local Dining Favorite

Ragged point restaurant.

Savor dinner accompanied by stunning Pacific ocean vistas at Ragged Point Restaurant . For those seeking a classic seated meal, secure a coveted cliffside table. Indulge in a range of local wine choices and seasonal dishes prepared with regional ingredients. The menu presents a blend of fresh seafood, regional produce and steaks, bringing together the best elements of land and sea.

Things to do in San Simeon

Elephant seal rookery.

Don’t miss the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery , a free wildlife habitat located near San Simeon on the west side of Highway 1. Here, visitors have the rare opportunity to witness majestic Northern Elephant Seals up close, just a few feet from the viewing area. Spanning 8 miles of coastline, the rookery is a bustling beach where elephant seals congregate. The colony, now around 25,000 strong, can be observed from a privileged viewpoint. Conveniently situated right off Highway 1, this stop is accessible to all. The optimal viewing time spans from early winter through late fall when visitors can watch seals arrive ashore to give birth and mate. Marvel at the intense battles among the dominant bull seals competing for breeding rights and listen to the adorable sounds of the newborn pups. The experience is made even better by an elevated viewing deck and dedicated parking lot. For deeper insights, visit the new visitor center of the Friends of the Elephant Seals, located near the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort in San Simeon.

Zebra Spotting

While driving along scenic Highway 1 in San Simeon, keep an eye out for an unexpected sight: zebras . The historic Hearst Ranch along this route is home to a mysterious population of free-roaming zebras, descendants of the private zoo once owned by William Randolph Hearst. Be sure to have your camera ready for an unforgettable glimpse of these exotic animals set against the stunning backdrop of Highway 1.

Grand Engineering in San Simeon

Piedras blancas light station.

Perched along Highway 1, the historic Piedras Blancas Light Station in San Simeon casts its light every 10 seconds. Replacing the original 1872 French-made Fresnel lens, the Vega VRB-25 lens now takes center stage, while the Fresnel lens can be admired at the Lions Club in Cambria. Despite the change in lenses, the mechanics of this significant 1875 lighthouse remain unaltered. While contemporary mariners may not rely on its guidance along this coastline, its historical importance endures. Today, visitors can explore the lower level of the lighthouse and the iconic Fog Signal Building. Guided by docents from the Piedras Blancas Motel, owned by the State Park system, visitors are led to the lighthouse while absorbing captivating stories and insights. While reservations are necessary, select seasons offer the opportunity to journey to the lighthouse from the nearby Boucher Trail on foot.

Hearst Castle

San Simeon’s Hearst Castle is known worldwide for its grand architecture, rare collection of antiques and larger-than-life history. Famously owned by late newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, this opulent estate is open to the public, allowing anyone to catch a glimpse of Hearst’s lavish lifestyle. Born in 1863 to a prosperous miner, landowner, and politician, Hearst grew up with an eye for worldly design. His ambitious hilltop residence in San Simeon was designed with distinctive flair by famed architect Julia Morgan, who collaborated with Hearst from 1919 to 1947. Since the 1950s, Hearst Castle has been owned by the state of California, offering year-round tours. The sprawling 90,000-square-foot castle, including guest cottages, pools and manicured gardens, warrants multiple visits. Regular and seasonal tours are available, providing a comprehensive exploration of Hearst’s museum-like estate.

More San Simeon Adventure

Looking for things to do in San Simeon ? View seabirds and whales while strolling the San Simeon Pier Walk or take in the view from San Simeon Point, a photogenic viewing area located nearby. Stroll through the historic Village of San Simeon, visitors can wine taste at Hearst Ranch Winery. Here, ocean views come together with outdoor tasting tables and an onsite gourmet food truck. Looking to unwind? Partake in a game of billiards at San Simeon Beach Bar and Grill or simply relax with a rejuvenating massage at one of many area spas.

San Simeon’s Cavalier restaurant is an upscale dining destination with impressive ocean views only rivaled by Hearst Castle. In fact, this epic Highway 1 restaurant literally touches the sand. Serving up juicy Hearst Ranch Beef as well as plant-based options, find fresh seafood and decadent desserts, too. Paired with world class wines and craft cocktails, Cavalier is a cut above. Hungry visitors should also check out our full overview of the best San Simeon dining experiences and restaurants .

Things to do in Cambria

Moonstone beach.

Moonstone Beach stands out as a one-of-a-kind destination, offering an abundance of unique experiences. A paradise for beachcombers, discover an assortment of stones, sea glass and driftwood along the scenic shoreline. The variety of stones found along the sand—including “moonstone,” or translucent microcrystalline quartz—sets Moonstone Beach apart. Visitors may also come across jade and agate stones smoothed by the ocean’s currents. If collecting rocks isn’t on the agenda, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk runs along the beach, providing excellent ocean views with seating areas. Covering about 2 miles roundtrip, this wheelchair and stroller-accessible boardwalk offers a serene oceanfront stroll suitable for everyone.

The Heart of Cambria

The village.

Located where pines meet the sea, Cambria is a natural wonder worthy of a daytrip. This beach community’s appeal is concentrated in its quaint village epicenter: Stroll the downtown area for an enchanting blend of history, art and flavor. Walkable and full of boutique shopping , intimate dining, wine tasting and antiques. The village boasts two sides—the East Village and the West Village. While each side has their own advantages, both showcase great independent and family owned businesses. Indulge in tea houses, candy stores, garden shops and art galleries . Visitors looking to delve deeper into Cambria history can take a historic walking tour of downtown provided by the Cambria Historical Museum .

Linn’s Restaurant

A meal at Linn’s in Cambria is a local tradition not to be passed up. For more than four decades, Linn’s has served up comfort food inspired by the abundant flavors of the Central Coast. From sandwiches and pasta dishes to roast chicken and fresh salads, the restaurant’s offerings encapsulate the essence of the Cambria coast for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Be sure to try Linn’s renowned olallieberry pie—a must-eat treat. Additionally, Linn’s gift shop presents an array of kitchenware, jams, and finds, so visitors can bring home a culinary piece of the coast. Hungry visitors should also check out our full overview of the best Cambria dining experiences and restaurants .

Farm to Table dining at Linn's Bakery in Cambria, CA

Things to do in Cayucos

Estero bluffs.

Discover the unspoiled beauty of Cayucos’ Estero Bluffs along Highway 1. This untamed coastal stretch offers seaside trails, wildlife viewing and serene beaches . Conveniently located off the highway, various parking areas provide easy access for travelers. Take a short stroll to the ocean bluffs for breathtaking views. As you walk along the coast, find hidden micro-beaches just steps below. This protected state park also showcases sea stacks, tide pools , wetlands, coastal terraces and unpopulated beaches. The Villa Creek parking lot offers prime access to tucked away beach areas, while the southern end boasts an iconic beached fishing boat, accessible via the North Ocean Parking Area—ideal for a memorable photo opportunity.

Beach Town Vibes

Downtown cayucos & the cass house.

Cayucos captivates visitors with its rich history and quiet charm. Experience great walkability and historical significance dating back to the native Salinan people and naval captain James Cass. The heart of the town is the Cayucos Pier , surrounded by eateries, a skate park and a children’s play area . Soak up the town vibes while exploring surf shops, cafes, antique shops and historic sites. The Cass House , originally built by Captain Cass in 1875, is now a boutique inn and bakery. Also downtown , find authentic French pastries at Bijou Bakery and famous shortbread desserts at Brown Butter Cookie Company. Before you go, be sure to admire Cayucos’ public murals , showcasing local heritage.

More Cayucos Adventure

Looking for more things to do in Cayucos ? Check out a real life shipwreck at the Estero Bluffs, cast a line off the Cayucos Pier, or walk the mural tour. Downtown, antique stores offer up bygone treasures. For even more history, the Cayucos Historical Society Exhibit showcases artifacts, photographs and information for anyone looking to learn more or embark on a self-guided walking tour. A trip to Cayucos is incomplete without lunch at Lunada Garden Bistro, where burgers, sandwiches and steaks are enjoyed in a vibrant and historic garden area.

Hidden Kitchen

Eat a nourishing breakfast at Cayucos’ Hidden Kitchen , where the menu highlights gluten-free, organic and responsibly sourced fare. Famous for sweet and savory blue corn waffles, also find free-range egg omelets, superfood smoothies and freshly brewed coffee. Folks can relax in a cozy indoor or patio area—or opt for a beachside meal by taking the order to go. Hungry visitors should also check out our full overview of the best Cayucos dining experiences and restaurants .

Things to do in Los Osos-Baywood Park

Montaña de oro state park.

Montaña de Oro State park offers a landscape of extremes, from lofty Valencia Peak to shoreline tidepools worthy of a day’s exploration. Tidepoolers are likely to find anemones, urchins, sea stars, crabs, limpets and more along the rugged landscape. Shells, rocks, and intriguing driftwood embellish the shoreline. Spanning several miles of coastline, Montaña de Oro offers a captivating tidepooling experience for all, from casual visitors to avid adventurers. Accessible Spooner’s Cove boasts tidepools just steps from convenient parking on Pecho Valley Road. Similarly, Corallina Cove presents easy access, requiring a brief sandy corridor stroll to reach the water’s edge. Other tidepools demand hiking along the park’s cliff trails. Regardless of your preference, these glimpses into underwater life astound with their color and diversity.

Other places to explore in Los Osos-Baywood Park

The elfin el moro forest.

Situated on the northeastern fringe of the back bay, The Elfin Forest is home to a grove of ancient pygmy oak trees. Unlike their towering counterparts, these oaks grow to a modest 4 to 20 feet due to the sandy soil. This location holds deep significance for the indigenous Chumash people, as evidenced by the prevalent remains of ancient disposal sites (middens). Traverse the one-mile boardwalk through The Elfin Forest leading to the wetlands of Morro Bay National Estuary. There, Bush Lupine Point and Sienna’s View decks offer prime vantage points for observing the abundant wildlife, especially birds, who benefit from the estuary’s resources. Bring binoculars or a sketchbook to fully embrace the vibrant ambiance, enriched by views of Morro Rock in the distance.

The Estuary

Established in 1996 as a federally-protected wetland, the Morro Bay National Estuary delights environmentalists and Highway 1 travelers alike. Encompassing 2,300 acres between Morro Bay and Los Osos, this cherished preserve boasts 800 acres of wetlands, including mudflats and salt marshes, providing a haven for over 250 bird species. Needless to say, this sanctuary proves a refuge for birdwatching enthusiasts, too. Wander along the Elfin Forest boardwalk to a dedicated viewing deck for a reliable vantage point or explore various hiking trails around the estuary. To experience the estuary’s wildlife up close, consider kayaking or Stand Up Paddle Boarding along the water. From the southern side near Los Osos, kayak around the estuary all the way to Morro Rock. Alternatively, enjoy the adventure of paddling within the estuary itself. Borrow kayaks and SUP boards from A Kayak Shack on the Los Osos side, ideally situated near wetland habitats and away from boat traffic. Guided kayak tours of the estuary are also readily available.

Morro Rock is an ever-present and celebrated part of Morro Bay’s coastal landscape. This towering natural landmark is cherished by both local indigenous communities and mariners, capturing the attention of visitors to Morro Bay National Estuary and beyond. This geological marvel originates from the remains of prehistoric volcanoes. Named “El Morro” in 1542 by Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the rock’s crown-like form earned it this title. It concludes the sequence of peaks known as the Nine Sisters, stretching from San Luis Obispo to the coastline. Spend a day at the beach beneath this State Historic Landmark and keep an eye out for sea otters and protected peregrine falcons. Explore the south side by navigating the jetty’s rocks or relish swimming on the northside. As Morro Rock garners significant attention, consider Cayucos State Beach to the north or Spooner’s Cove to the south for more serene alternatives.

Bayside Exploring

Looking for more things to do in Los Osos and Baywood ? Stop for coffee at Nautical Bean In Los Osos, home of the signature Nutty Bean java, then hit not one—but two—nearby Monarch Butterfly groves. A kayak tour of the Morro Bay Estuary is a great way to get an up-close look at local scenery and wildlife, but visitors can just as easily spend the day playing disc or foot golf at Sea Pines Golf Resort. Grab lunch at local hangout La Casita Mexican restaurant, where burritos are legendary. Visitors will also find locally-distilled spirits at Foggy Bottom Distillery.

Savor an Asian inspired dinner at Kuma , Los Osos’ premiere purveyor of ramen noodles in savory pork broth. Top yours with a soft boiled egg, seaweed or other fixings. That said, the teriyaki rice bowls and creative sushi rolls are also popular, especially with a side of spicy mayo. With indoor and outdoor seating, belly up to the sushi bar or invite a group of friends to enjoy a meal on the patio. Hungry visitors should also check out our full overview of the best Los Osos dining experiences and restaurants .

Things to do in Avila Beach

The mineral springs of avila beach.

A premier spa experience along Highway 1, Sycamore Mineral Springs offers soothing natural indulgence. The area’s natural artesian hot springs have drawn folks to Avila Beach for over a century, including celebrities en route to Hearst Castle. Just as in the past, visitors retreat under the branches of hillside sycamore trees to soak away stress and find newfound rejuvenation. Explore signature massages, including hot stone, deep tissue, Swedish and prenatal options for individuals or couples. Facials and scrubs are also offered in a serene environment. Unwind before or after your treatment in private outdoor hot spring tubs nestled among trees. Soaks are included with every treatment and available for separate hourly rental. Each resort room also features its own hot tub, ensuring that everyone dips a toe in relaxing waters.

Hidden Spots in Avila Valley

Bob jones bike trail & avila valley barn.

Trek from forest to sea on The Bob Jones Bike Trail in Avila Beach. This lovely route runs parallel to Avila Beach Drive, accommodating walkers, bicycles and non-engine vehicles. Extending about 3 miles roundtrip, this flat, paved path begins at Ontario Road and culminates at Avila Beach. A bridge connects the trail directly to Sycamore Mineral Springs, making it convenient to rent resort bikes and pedal to the beach. For an added adventure, visit Avila Valley Barn at Avila Beach Drive and Ontario. This operational farm offers seasonal “U-Pick” options including pumpkins, apples, blackberries, apricots and more. Delight in hayrides to the fields, pick your produce and explore the barn’s treasures, from pies to preserves. The barn also offers an extensive range of produce, canned goods, smoked meats and nearby hot barbecue offerings. An old-fashioned candy shop and an impressive selection of children’s toys and books make this a family-favorite stop.

Whale Watching

Avila Beach offers prime opportunities for whale sightings, allowing visitors to witness the grace of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The optimal time for whale watching in Avila Beach is during the migration seasons: Gray whales can often be spotted from December to April as they travel along the California coast during their annual migration. Humpback whales and blue whales are frequently seen from June to September, adding to the excitement of the whale watching experience. To ensure the best chances of sightings, consider planning your visit during these migration windows. Visitors will also want to check out the Whale Trail for even more whale watching tips and stops all along Highway 1.

More Avila Beach Adventures

Looking for more things to do in Avila Beach ? Hike from the caves to the ridge when you embark on a hike through Avila Beach’s coastal trail offerings. Hit the water and Stand Up Paddle Board along this beach community’s three historic piers, stopping to grab lunch from Mersea’s on Harford Pier, home of great seafood and cocktails. Visitors can also enjoy a romantic sunset dinner at Ocean Grill, where classic Italian cuisine is crafted with farm-fresh local ingredients. Plus, a morning pick-me-up can always be found at Avila Promenade, where Kraken Coffee Company offers espresso drinks and pastries.

Blue Moon Over Avila

Indulge in exquisite French flavors and breathtaking oceanfront views at Blue Moon Over Avila in Avila Beach. Inspired by European eateries, this oceanfront wine Bar and French-style bistro offers up a sophisticated dinner menu paired with wines from around the world. Sample expertly prepared French dishes—including fine cheeses, escargot and ratatouille—for a memorable gastronomic journey on the Pacific.

Things to do in Edna Valley

The wine trail of edna valley.

Bask in Edna Valley’s scenic landscape, where sea meets vine. A few miles from the Pacific Ocean, find over two dozen family-owned wine tasting rooms , conveniently situated along Highway 227 and Orcutt Road. Sample the region’s famous pinot noir and chardonnay offerings, among other cool-climate wine varietals. The longest growing season in the state coupled with a sunny valley capturing coastal fog and marine air makes for supremely balanced wines. Unlike the warmer climes of Paso Robles, Edna Valley’s coastal weather provides an ideal environment for laid back tasting.

Our Top Tasting Room Picks

An integral part of the Edna Valley wine scene since the 1970s, Baileyana winery is a must-visit wine tasting room. Visitors can sample four distinct brands at this relaxed locale: True Myth, Zocker, Tangent, and Baileyana itself. These labels are a testament to the Niven family’s multi-generational dedication to refining their farming and winemaking expertise. Baileyana excels in showcasing Edna Valley’s finest, with an emphasis on chardonnay, pinot noir and cool climate syrah. True Myth delivers cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, and red blends from nearby Paso Robles. Tangent is renowned for cool-climate white varietals like sauvignon blanc, albariño, and pinot gris. Zocker, meaning “gambler” in German, produces grüner veltliner cultivated in Edna Valley. The tasting experience unfolds within the old Independence Schoolhouse, built in 1909. Here, tasters can enjoy picnic areas, bocce ball court and panoramic views of the Santa Lucia Mountains.

Edna Valley Vineyard

Situated along the historic Biddle Ranch Road in Edna Valley, Edna Valley Vineyard stands as a pioneering winery in the region. Originally established by the Niven Family and later acquired by Gallo Wines, the legacy of Edna Valley Vineyard’s exceptional chardonnay endures today. The charming tasting room continues to offer picturesque vistas, allowing visitors to enjoy wines crafted from the very vines visible through its windows. Select from a range of well-balanced, food-friendly wines boasting the distinctive Edna Valley acidity. The winery provides various tasting experiences, including the 18 Barrel Flight featuring five limited release wines. The Heritage Flight offers a seated tasting of five limited release wines artfully paired with fine cheeses. During summer, partake in “Happier Hours” on Fridays accompanied by live entertainment.

Tolosa Winery

Decades ago, a young rancher acquired land in Edna Valley for cattle grazing. Captivated by the cool climate, he transformed the land into vineyards and a winery. Today, Tolosa Winery is known for producing exceptional chardonnay and pinot noir. The tasting experience at Tolosa is an opulent affair, offering seated tastings both indoors and outdoors. A standout is the Barrel Tasting, allowing guests to preview wines pre-bottling. The 1772 tasting showcases five signature Tolosa wines, while the Perinet Experience introduces wines from Tolosa’s sister winery in Spain, Perinet. This unique experience delves into the terroir, culture, and traditions of the Priorat region. Guests can also indulge in Spanish cheese and charcuterie pairings during the Perinet tasting.

Edna Valley Adventures

Looking for more things to do in Edna Valley ? Head to nearby Lopez Lake in Arroyo Grande for lakeside action, including boating, camping and water park play. Along the way, stop for farm stands and historic stops. In the heart of downtown Arroyo Grande, find the ancient Swinging Footbridge and time-honored one-room schoolhouse.

Things to do in Arroyo Grande

The adventure park of arroyo grande.

Elevate any Highway 1 adventure at Vista Lago Adventure Park in Arroyo Grande . Situated within Lopez Lake State Recreation Area, this park promises an exhilarating test of wits, stamina and reflexes. Engage in multiple rope challenge courses, including the Squirrel Zone, Quail Trail, Deer Run and Black Bear course—each one progressively more demanding. For younger participants, the Cub Course offers a ground-level exploration with added safety measures. Dive deeper into the experience with the All-Access Guided Tour or Agility Guided Tour, unveiling the full spectrum of Vista Lago’s challenges. Alongside the rope courses, an exhilarating zipline park boasts three lines spanning 1,800 feet. Thrill-seekers won’t want to miss The Ledge, a heart-pounding 45-foot freefall. Before or after your adventure, unwind on the viewing deck, enjoy games and relish on-site food and beverages.

Lopez Lake & Mustang Water Park

Nearby Vista Lago Adventure Park, find endless lakeside fun. Discover the expansive Lopez Lake State Recreation Area , spanning 4,200 acres of open space and trail networks. This natural playground is highlighted by the picturesque Lopez Lake, boasting a 22-mile shoreline and encompassing 450 acres. Renowned for boating and fishing, the lake is a winter haven for stocked rainbow trout, while catches of largemouth bass, bluegill, and red-eared sunfish prove popular year-round. Whether you choose to fish from the dock, along the shore, or venture into the heart of the lake with a rented boat, the options are as diverse as the catches themselves. For a dynamic experience, explore wave runners, jet skis or even a canoe, all available to rent. Visitors can also delve into aquatic thrills at Mustang Water Park , nestled within the state recreation area. This park boasts two exhilarating 600-foot water slides cascading into a sparkling swimming pool, along with the Stampede half pipe slide, a kiddie pool, cabanas and a snackbar.

More Arroyo Grande Adventures

Looking for more t hings to do in Arroyo Grande ? Stroll the charming Arroyo Grande Village , where antique shops, restaurants and boutiques beckon. Take in a show at the Clark center, where national and local acts converge, or enjoy a wine tour of Edna Valley’s chardonnay and pinot noir offerings. Whether you hit a local farmstand or check out historic fun on the History and Heritage Trail, visitors will find a dynamic family-friendly destination.

A favorite of foodies far and wide, Arroyo Grande’s Ember offers a rustic-Italian culinary experience to remember. This cherished eatery is known for its inventive wood-fired pizzas, captivating entrees and salads brimming with fresh, local elements. Discover elevated flavors accompanied by warm hospitality and an expansive drink selection featuring fine wines, local craft beer and expertly crafted cocktails. Be sure to leave space for dessert, too. Hungry visitors will also want to check out our full overview of the best Arroyo Grande dining experiences and restaurants .

Things to do in Pismo

The pismo preserve.

Hike the Pismo Preserve , where the breathtaking ocean view spans Point San Luis to Point Sal. This expansive 880-acre preserve presents 11 miles of versatile trails catering to hikers, mountain bikers and equestrian enthusiasts of all ages. Previously utilized as grazing land for generations, a collaboration with The Land Conservancy has preserved its legacy while aiding fire prevention. Visitors can explore this incredible landscape by foot, hop on a mountain bike, or saddle up on a horse. Behold sweeping sights of the Nipomo and Oceano Dunes towards the west and captivating wine country scenery to the east. Abundant wildlife enhances the experience: deer, coyotes, sea birds, snakes, squirrels and even distant offshore whales might be spotted by visitors. For a peek into the lives of local critters, explore the Wildlife Camera Project, a live camera that captures animals in action. Situated on the east side of Highway 101 in Pismo Beach, the Pismo Preserve offers accessible parking featuring ADA amenities, a picnic area and equestrian trailer accommodations.

Pismo Beach Pier & Promenade

The Pismo Beach Pier & Promenade provides endless entertainment within arm’s reach of the ocean. Traverse the seaside promenade, followed by a leisurely stroll along Pismo Pier. While there, kids can try the concrete slides or partake in pier fishing. Nearby, find various shops, including renowned surf spots like Pancho’s and Moondoggies, as well as Hotlix, famous for its insect-studded lollipops. Stroll through Pismo Beach’s downtown for an authentic taste of classic California beach life. An array of dining options await, including iconic clam chowder at Splash Cafe. Food trucks also cluster near the pier, offering a range of delights from hot dogs to salads. Just steps away, shoot pool at Hot Shots Billiards or knock down a few pins Pismo Lanes..

More Pismo Beach Adventure

Looking for more things to do in downtown Pismo Beach ? Easily rent a wetsuit and board and hit the water for a day of surfing, boogie boarding or Stand Up paddle Boarding. Nearby, find craft beer hangouts and wine tasting rooms as well as an oceanside golf course. With year-round events in Pismo Beach , including the Pismo Clam Festival, Wine, Waves & Beyond and Fourth of July Fireworks, there’s always something exciting going on along this sunny slice of coastline.

Ventana Grill

Indulge in fresh Mexican-California flavors with an ocean view at Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach. With stunning oceanfront vistas and a menu featuring coastal cuisine crafted from local ingredients, Ventana Grill offers an unforgettable dining experience by the water. Savor fresh seafood cooked with a Mexican twist, enchiladas, burgers, steak, and Sunday Brunch fare all while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. Known for pouring up stellar wine, beer and cocktails, patrons will also find an extensive list of tequilas and mezcals to round out the fun.

Things to do in Oceano

The oceano melodrama.

While Oceano’s dunes might be well-known, The Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville Revue is a close second. Since 1975, this charming saloon-style theater on Highway 1 has been delighting visitors with musicals, comedies and classic melodramas in a cabaret setting. As a professional theater company, the Melodrama features talented actors acclaimed for their humor, musical skills and commitment to craft. Live piano accompaniment enhances each show in a traditional style suitable for all ages. Join in the fun from Wednesday to Sunday throughout most of the year, and relish in the opportunity to participate by hissing the villain and cheering the hero. Visitors should note that seasonal holiday shows are popular and tend to sell out quickly. Satisfy your appetite with the theater’s snack and bar offerings, personally served by the actors during intermissions. Dropping a tip in the jar earns patrons an amusing song performed by the actors.

More to do in Oceano

Horseback ride on the beach.

Discover the beauty of Oceano’s coastline while galloping across its sandy shores. Explore the Pacific Dunes Riding Ranch, conveniently located just off Highway 1 in Oceano, offering captivating beachfront horseback riding experiences. Knowledgeable guides lead both group and private trail rides from Friday to Tuesday, catering to ages 7 and above. (Younger children under 7 can enjoy pony rides within the corral.) With well-trained horses, riders are guided through wooded areas, dunes and beach. The ranch also offers equestrian camping amenities for those with their own horses, as well as horse boarding services. Riders of all skill levels are welcome, so you need not be an equestrian expert to partake in the adventure.

Biplane Rides

Soar high above Oceano with a thrilling biplane ride . Operating from Oceano Airport, Banner Airways presents aerial sightseeing tours over the Oceano Dunes in a vintage 1942 open cockpit plane. This iconic aircraft, featuring a 450-horsepower Pratt & Whitney radial engine, was a staple of U.S. military pilot training during World War II. Experience the nostalgia without combat training, as Banner Airways offers choices to view the Pismo Pier from above or both the Pismo Pier and the vast Oceano Dunes. For the daring, the “Top Gun” flight promises exhilaration with loops, twists and flips above Oceano. Complimentary essentials including a leather jacket, goggles, helmet, and life jacket enhance the experience.

Humvee Tour

Off-road through Oceano with Humvee tours of the Oceano Dunes . Traverse the expansive dune landscape in rugged style and hold onto your seat. Guided tours offer a unique blend of excitement and awe, allowing visitors to witness the vastness of the dunes while chasing adrenaline-fueled fun. Whether seeking high octane thrills or a joyride through breathtaking scenery, Oceano Humvee tours provide an unmatched opportunity to motor along the sea.

More Oceano Adventure

Looking for more things to do in Oceano ? Dine on family-friendly favorites at Pier Street Deli in Oceano, where the sandwiches are locally famous. Explore more incredible attractions, including the nearby Nipomo Monarch Butterfly Grove, a sight to behold.

Rock and Roll Diner

Savor one of Highway 1’s classic burger joints at Rock and Roll Diner in Oceano. Housed within two authentic 1950s train cars—a 1946 Pullman dining car and a 1947 Budd lounge car, once part of Johnny Cash’s “Orange Blossom Special”—the diner features a nostalgic setting. Indulge in classic American fare like oversized burgers, crispy fries and creamy milkshakes. Notably, the diner is owned by a Greek proprietor, adding a twist to his “Big Fat Greek Menu,” known for an array of specialties. Hungry visitors should also check out our full overview of the best Oceano dining experiences and restaurants .

Things to do in Nipomo

The monarch habitat of nipomo.

Imagine seeing thousands of jewel-toned Monarch butterflies at once, tucked in and fluttering among the silvery leaves of a eucalyptus tree grove. Such a View countless Monarch butterflies fluttering in a eucalyptus grove just off Highway 1 in Nipomo. Adjacent to the Monarch Dunes Golf Course, this enchanting habitat is a haven for overwintering Monarchs each September through mid-February, with peak numbers reaching 60,000. The 19-acre Tasmanian Blue Gum Eucalyptus grove remains open year-round, inviting visitors to bask in its beauty from sunrise to sunset. Find relaxation at the picnic tables amidst the grove. Simply park at the parking lot at 1610 Kingston Drive in Nipomo and look for the interpretive sign from the Western Monarch Trail. For more Monarch hotspots, explore our list of Monarch Butterfly Groves on Highway 1 .

Other Stops Nearby

Monarch dunes golf course.

Nipomo is known for excellent golfing. Visit the Monarch Dunes Golf Course , just beside the Monarch habitat, for access to two of the finest golf courses on Highway 1. The first course built here, sometimes called “The Old Course,” is an 18-hole, par 71 championship-level track. The course was built in 2006 within a planned community called Woodlands Village. Architects Damian Pascuzzo and Steve Pate—the latter of whom is also a professional golfer—designed the course in the style of an oceanfront links track. Shortly after it opened, GOLF Magazine named the Old Course one of the world’s Top 10 New Courses. In 2008, the resort opened its Challenge Course, sometimes called the “New Course.” This 12-hole track is par 26, with 8,000-square-foot greens with elevation changes of up to four feet. On either course, enjoy views of the storm-fed lakes throughout the property, clean bentgrass greens, and a driving range. Don’t miss the Butterfly Grille for post-game celebrations over great grub, craft beer and local wines.

A trip to the Dana Adobe transports visitors to Nipomo’s frontier era. Constructed in 1839 by Captain William Goodwin Dana, this historic dwelling was established on the sprawling 38,000-acre Rancho Nipomo land grant. Captain Dana and his wife Maria Josefa raised their family of 16 children within these walls. During the California ranchos period, Dana’s Adobe played a pivotal role as a rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real en route to Mission San Luis Obispo. The trading post thrived, handling goods such as candles, soap, textiles and livestock. Thanks to dedicated volunteer endeavors for conservation, the Dana Adobe endures at the base of Nipomo hills as a California Historical Landmark and a National Register of Historic Places entrant. The surrounding countryside vistas, reminiscent of Dana’s era, offer a serene backdrop to this cultural attraction. Visitors can partake in guided tours, explore art displays, attend special events and classes and explore an array of walking trails on the adobe’s grounds.

More Nipomo Adventure

Looking for more things to do in Nipomo ? Enjoy a quiet stroll along the Oso Flaco Lake boardwalk, which winds from forest to dunes. Along the way, spot a multitude of bird species thriving in pristine landscape. Come hungry and leave satisfied after a great lunch at old school Nipomo hangout Jocko’s Steakhouse. Ready for a high-flying experience? Book an exhilarating biplane ride across the sunny Nipomo sky.

Dinner at Jocko’s

For an exceptional steak, visit Jocko’s Restaurant situated at the corner of Thompson Road and Tefft Street in Nipomo. Originally established in 1838 as a saloon, Jocko’s has evolved into an iconic West Coast barbecue destination. Founded by Ralph “Jocko” Knotts, it remains a family-owned establishment. Immerse yourself in Santa Maria-style hospitality with generous portions, a cozy bar and branded cattle motifs adorning the walls. While the menu features a diverse range of options including chicken, fish and vegetarian choices, the true standout is the renowned steaks. Indulge in various cuts, each flame-grilled over red oak coals on the outdoor Santa Maria-style barbecue pit. Meals include a relish tray, salad, garlic bread, Jocko’s signature beans, potatoes, ice cream and coffee. Hungry visitors should also check out our full overview of fantastic Nipomo dining offerings and restaurants .

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A Complete Road Trip Guide of CA Highway 1: Los Angeles to San Francisco

California is full of hidden gems and beautiful towns, landscape and delicious food. For the longest time we have dreamt about a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1 or 101), probably California’s most popular road trip, visiting Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Monterey and San Obispo. The scenic route runs along the California coast with stunning viewpoints, state parks, and wildlife.

The entire Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is about 475 miles and it can take 8 hours to drive, but you will need at least a week to fully enjoy it as you would want to stop along the way as it offers a little piece of everything that has made California popular along travelers.

Another trip you could add to your ultimate Pacific Coast Highway getaway is a road trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park. It takes about 2 hours 30 minutes and it is about 164 miles. On your way, you should stop at La Jolla’s Torrey Pines for a quick and breathtaking hike.

Other stops you could add to your trip are Temecula for a quick wine-tasting and/ or the Desert Hot Springs for a quick soak in hot mineral water pools. In Joshua Tree National Park you can go for a variety of hikes and drives within the park that showcase Joshua Tree’s strange rock formations, stunning landscapes, and beautiful sunsets.

Highway 1 starts in San Diego and ends at the border between California and Oregon, but for this guide we started the trip in Costa Mesa and finish it in San Francisco passing through Big Sur. If you are starting your trip from the start of Highway 1 make sure to check out this guide with the best things to do and see in San Diego .

Map with the best Pacific Coast Highway stops from Los Angeles to San Francisco including Big Sur:

In this map you will find all the stops we mention in our blog post. The stops we deem as California highlights are marked with a star. To send the map to your phone make sure to click on the save icon.

How long do I need for a Highway One Classic Road Trip?

We spent three full days completing the Highway One road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco and wished we had several more days as an ideal itinerary is 5 to 7 days. It all depends on what you want to do and see along with how long you wish to spend in each town or natural park.

If you have less time you can still drive CA Highway 1 as it is only a 7 hour drive, but do not expect the same experience as you will miss many of the stops along the route.

Tips to drive the Pacific Coast Highway route:

Make sure you leave Los Angeles with a full tank of gas. While gas is not cheap anywhere in California, along the Big Sur gas is more expensive, especially in Gorda.
Bring snacks to save money and enjoy picnics at the viewpoints.
The best direction to complete the road trip is from San Francisco to Los Angeles as you are driving along the water side of the highway. Either way we never had any problem finding parking or stopping at the viewpoints.
Download the map and any blog posts you are using as notes as cell phone service can be limited for a big part of the trip.

Road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway

Now that you have some of our general California road trip tips it is time to pack your bags, put on some sunglasses and get ready to cruise. If you are looking for the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway experience, go all out and splurge on a convertible rental.

Day 1: Arrive to John Wayne Airport and spend the night in Costa Mesa

Arriving to Costa Mesa via the John Wayne Airport you will find yourself only a few minutes away from Costa Mesa’s main attractions. Even though Costa Mesa does not have a beach it is pretty close to spectacular beaches such as Newport Beach and Long Beach. It is also close to some of the biggest attraction parks in the state such as Disney and Buena Park.

Our favorite things to do in Costa Mesa is to enjoy of its delicious cuisine and spend the afternoon at any of the city’s many unique shopping areas like the Anti Mall or The Camp. If you are looking for more luxurious and international brands, you must visit the biggest mall in the West Coast, The South Coast Plaza.

Read More about: What to do in Costa Mesa in two days

Day 2: Spend the day exploring Los Angeles

Los angeles.

You can spend countless days in Los Angeles and still not have enough time to fully explore the city. However, in one day you can see the main landmarks that LA has to offer.

Our favorite things to do in Los Angeles are to visit the Griffith Park for a panoramic view of the city and the Hollywood Sign, take photos at LA’s famous murals, and of course visit the urban light exhibition at the Wilshire Boulevard entrance to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. You can also visit Hollywood and Beverly Hills.

Read More about: What to do in Los Angeles on the weekend

Day 3: From Los Angeles to Ventura

Venice beach.

Venice Beach is one of the most iconic spots to visit in California to just go for a walk and chill. With its man made canals, boutique shops and the Venice Boardwalk, there is a great vibe to put you in the California mood.

Santa Monica

Get ready to spend your time right on the water in Santa Monica. Home to the Santa Monica Pier with the Pacific Park amusement park, Looff Hippodrome Carousel and Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Right next to that is Muscle Beach, an open air gym.

Matador Beach

Matador beach is located right after the city of Malibu. Malibu is a nice stop as it has a beautiful pier and is home to many movie stars. Some famous beaches in Malibu are the Zuma Beach and Surfrider but we decided to just stop at Matador Beach and it honestly is mind-blowing. It has a cliff and several rock formations that make it the perfect place to take photos! We made it for sunset and it is absolutely beautiful.

We kept driving to Ventura where we slept, as the next day we planned to visit the Channel Island National Park. The park is beautiful but you need to spend a full day to explore any of the islands. After the day You can keep driving or sleep again in Ventura. While you are in Ventura make sure to stop at the Outlet Premium of Camerillo.

Read More: The ultimate guide with the best things to do in Ventura

Day 4: From Ventura to Morro Bay

Santa barbara.

Santa Barbara is one of my favorite stops along the Pacific Coast Highway. Our first impression of the city is that it is a mix between a Mediterranean city and an American city with a view of the Santa Ynez Mountains. You can still see the influence of the Spanish conquest which lasted until the early 1800s. The main things to visit in Santa Barbara are the Old Mission Santa Barbara , to take a stroll along State street, the Stearns Wharf Pier and of course the Santa Barbara County Courthouse , where you can go up the clock tower and see a 360 degree view of the city.

Solvang transports you all the way to Denmark! It is the most unique town you will see in the route from Los Angeles to San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway. The town has a strong Danish culture as it was founded by Danish settlers in the early 1900s. Solvang is known for its windmills, beautiful Danish architecture and of course delicious food, wine, and craft brew culture. My favorite things to do in Solvang are visit the Little Mermaid replica, take a photo with the big red shoe, go to any of the many wine tasting rooms , and visit the windmills.

Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is known as the Clam Capital of the world as they used to have the famous Pismo Clams. Make sure to walk along the pier and take a photo of the gigantic concrete clam statue on the end of Price Street.

San Luis Obispo

We did not stay too long in San Luis Obispo (SLO) as we were running out of daylight and we wanted to catch sunset at Morro Bay, but it is a beautiful town with its own California vibe. In a way it reminded me a lot of San Francisco but smaller. Things you must see in San Luis Obispo are the Moon Tree, which is a sequoia that was born from a seed that traveled to space in Apollo 14 and of course take a photo at the Bubblegum Alley. The Alley is covered with gum and is such a cute photo opportunity. Some of our favorite things to do in San Luis Obispo is trying new craft beers, wine tasting or enjoying the outdoors in the nearby nature reserves.

A good place to go to sleep is the Madonna Inn as it is a very photogenic with a unique personality but unfortunately, it was fully booked so we kept going to Morro Bay, which is an amazing spot to catch the sunset!

Tip: Fill up the gas tank here so you do not have to worry about getting stranded for the next leg of the drive.

Morro Bay was founded in 1964 and its highlight is the big rock near the ocean called Morro Rock, which is a volcanic plug that is part of the nine sisters. The Nine Sisters or the Morros are a chain of nine volcanic mountains and hills in western San Luis Obispo County which are over 21 millions years old.

We recommend taking several photos from the pier or even get close to the rock and walk away from the beach to get a panoramic view. The best place for sunset is at the beach near Morro Rock.

We ended up staying at the Best Western San Marcos Inn and it was fantastic! We even got a balcony. The hotel also has a hydrotherapy spa which is perfect to relax after a day of exploring and driving.

Day 5: From Morro Bay to Monterey going through the Big Sur

One of most popular things to do in California is visiting the Hearst Castle . It was built as the private estate of media mogul W.R. Hearst but today this state park features lavish furnishings and authentic art pieces. We were running out of time on our road trip so had to skip Hearst Castle as the tour takes at least two hours.

The Big Sur is famous for its California cliffs with breathtaking views. Some of the spots you must visit while in the Big Sur are Bixby Bridge , Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park & McWay Falls , Piedra Blancas and Garrapata State Park .

Cayucos Pier

Cayuco is a small town with a beautiful pier and ocean view. The best thing to do in Cayucos is just to walk around the downtown and appreciate the houses, as they are adorable.

Moonstone Beach

Moonstone Beach is located in the small town of Cambria and is famous for having colorful pebbles instead of sand. It is a nice stop if you would like to see a different type of beach. We recommend to take a stroll along the rustic beach boardwalk and just enjoy the amazing view of the crashing waves.

Piedras Blancas

Our favorite stop of the day was to to see the elephant seals! There is a specific viewpoint, Elephant Seal Vista Point, along the road where you can park and just watch these precious creature.

Tip: The best time to see these magnificent animals are between the months of December to April as it is when the majority of them are resting in Piedras Blancas. However, they are there all year round.

There are several signs pointing to the viewpoint so you will not miss it and there is plenty of parking! The only thing to be aware is that from this point on you might lose cell phone service all the way to Carmen by the Sea.

If you are doing this route between November to April make sure to stop at the Whales Watcher Cafe as you will have a big chance to see whales on migration.

Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach is a cool beach down a cliff. We did not trek down to the beach but enjoyed the view from the top of the cliff. You will spot several surfers as it is a great surfing spot due to the waves.

Parking is $10 but if you want to avoid paying for parking you can pull off on the side of the road. We asked the person in charge who said this is allowed.

Big Creek Bridge

Even though the Big Creek bridge is not as famous as the Bixby Creek bridge, it is honestly more impressive and beautiful. It has several arches that makes this bridge a masterpiece. Make sure to pull over at any of the different viewpoints along the route before crossing the bridge to get the best photo.

Driving along the Big Sur is surreal. It is by far the best spot on the entire California road trip. The views from the cliffs to the beach were breathtaking and it is one of the areas in California with more State Parks ready for you to explore. You can easily spend several days exploring many of the state parks and enjoying the beaches.

The best State Parks along the Big Sur are the Limekiln Beach State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Andrew Molera State Park. Make sure to stop by McWay Falls, take a quick drive along the Ventana Big Sur for views of huge sequoias and make a quick stop at the Henry Miller Library. My favorite beach along this part of the route is the Pfeiffer Beach but keep in mind that it is a popular spot so finding parking is almost impossible. We had to wait for almost 2 hours to get in.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: In Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park you will find the McWay Falls. You can see the waterfalls from the road or actually walk into the park and along a boardwalk to the main viewpoint. If you want to park in the state park there is a $10 fee. The best thing to do to avoid paying for parking is to park on the side of the road, many people do it and from what I asked it is a common behavior. The reason why this waterfall is so special is because the water from the fall goes straight to the ocean or the sand depending on the time of the year.

Henry Miller Library: It is a library in memory of the famous writer Henry Miller. It is a cool place to make a quick stop and even buy a new book.
Ventana Big Sur: It is one of the few accommodations along the Big Sur. What we love the most is driving through the campground to see the Sequoias forest. It is magical.

Pfeiffer Beach: The beach is famous for having a big rock with a hole that looks like a cavern. We tried going into the beach twice but unfortunately there was no parking available and you are not able to park along the road. There is not a sign showing where the beach is located so drive carefully so you do not pass it. Parking is $12.

Bixby Creek Bridge: Make sure to stop at Bixby Bridge for the iconic photo in Big Sur. It is famous for being one of the few bridges with only one big arch in the world. The bridge was built in 1932 and is over 75 meters high. You can park your car on either side of the bridge, I would recommend stopping to both sides to get the best photo possible depending on the time of the day.

Point Lobos Natural Reserve

Point Lobos Natural Reserve is one of the best parks to see marine wildlife in California. We were not able to make a stop as we were running out of time but everyone we asked leaving the park said that it was beautiful!

Carmel-By-The-Sea

Carmel-by -the-Sea is one of the most charming, artist-friendly, and quaint seaside town in California. Highlights include walking around the city centre, visiting the beach and driving the 17 Mile drive. It is a popular day trip option from San Francisco.

Fun Fact: The local law declares that you cannot wear high heels without a permit. This is crazy right?

17-Mile Drive takes you along a private scenic road through an exclusive neighborhood. The entrance fee is $10.50 per car. Along the road you will pass coastal cliffs, mansions, two golf courses and the iconic Lone Cypress at Pebble Beach.

Monterey became famous after its music festival in June 1967, the Summer of Love. The best things to do in Monterey is walk along the Cannery Row and the Fisherman’s Wharf.

Cannery Row used to be sardine canning factories that now are Monterey’s waterfront shopping and restaurant street. Here you will find cinemas, pubs, live music venues, and the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium . Make sure to do the Jellies Experience for a glowing jellyfish encounter or the Open Sea exhibit during feeding time.

The Fisherman’s Wharf is a historic pier where you can spot sea lions!

San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most iconic cities in all of California and by far my favorite city in the United States. What makes San Francisco unique is its distinct vibe and just how powerful it is as a city. It makes for an amazing end point for your complete road trip along CA Highway 1.

The best things to do and see in San Francisco is to take a food walking tour though Chinatown to taste the delicious food, visit Seaport Village and Pier 39 for waterfront entertainment, dining, and shopping, visit the Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints and take a day trip to Marin Headlands for even more viewpoints of this iconic bridge and explore the city. If I have not convinced you yet on why San Francisco is so beautiful you should definitely read this blog with 7 reasons why to love San Francisco .

Read More: The ultimate guide with the best things to do in San Francisco in 3 days

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A road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco

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The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner

Planning to go on the best road trip in the world? You have come to the right place.

Welcome to our ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner!

We are the #1 resource dedicated to planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Pacific Coast Highway road trip ranks pretty high among bucket list travel experiences – in fact its one of the most scenic drives in the entire world!

Highway 1 is a gorgeous drive along sprawling cities, charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, majestic forests, and stunning landscapes.

Whether you are planning a trip to California, Oregon, or Washington….

….or planning the ultimate West Coast Road Trip from San Diego to Seattle;

We have multiple Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary recommendations that cover different areas of the West Coast!

That means you can use this as a Washington / Oregon Highway 101 road trip planner or California coastal road trip planner for Highway 1.

This Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner will help you plan your entire trip and cover the following:

The Best Cities to begin your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Best PCH Itineraries for all types of travelers
Best Stops / best attractions to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway
Where to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
Best places to eat along the Pacific Coast Highway
Hidden Gems / Offbeat attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway

This Pacific Coast Highway road trip guide also covers other useful and important information including

Best time to visit the Pacific Coast
How much to drive each day along the PCH
What to pack for Pacific Coast Highway road trip
How much does a Pacific Coast Highway road trip cost aka Budgeting for your PCH trip

It is quite easy to plan a PCH road trip by yourself using our Highway 1 / Highway 101 trip planners and online booking sites to reserve your flights/rental car/hotels.

Awesome, right? Then let’s start planning your Pacific Highway road trip itinerary now.

Before you begin

As an American, you probably know what goes into planning an epic cross country road trip.

After all, we are pretty road-trip obsessed country!

However, what if you are traveling from abroad and are interested in the Pacific Coast Highway drive itinerary?

You’re in luck – we have many resources to help you plan your trip including information on visas, renting a car, and driving in America.

Our detailed PCH road trip planners will take you step by step through the process of planning your trip:

The initial steps in planning the Pacific Coast Highway road trip involve: Deciding what part of the PCH will you drive How many days will you devote to the entire trip and When is the best time to visit. Information to help you in deciding these is covered in Step 1: PCH FAQs and Step 2: Best PCH Stops
You also need to pick a PCH gateway city, decide how will you reach there, and whether you need to rent a car or drive your own. Find information on the best cities to start your PCH Road Trip in Step 3: PCH Gateway Cities
If you want to see the highlights of central California, specifically Highway 1, then refer to the California coast road trip planner. If you want a Pacific coast trip through PNW, then focus on the Oregon coast and Olympic peninsula. Information on specific Itineraries is covered in Step 4: PCH Itineraries
Finally, book your trip! Find our recommended hotels, car rental companies, and flight aggregators in Step 5: Book your PCH Road Trip .

Also, don’t forget to join our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Facebook Page where you can ask questions or share your photos or itinerary with fellow travelers. Click here to join now .

Ready to get started? Let’s start planning the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip together!

Don’t believe us when we say that the PCH road trip is the most beautiful road trip in the world?

Then check out these beautiful photos from the USA West Coast!

Step 1: PCH FAQs

The Pacific Coast Highway is pretty large and rather confusing.

It is essential to understand the PCH before you plan a trip.

Here’s some basic information:

Where does the Pacific Coast Highway start and end?

Wondering where is the Pacific Coast Highway and how long it is? Also, where does the PCH start and end?

One of the things that creates confusion while planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip is that the road is simply huge.

Plus everybody seems to be talking about a different stretch of the road when they refer to the PCH.

We experienced this several times while planning our first trip to the region.

The coastal route or the PCH starts at San Diego near the Mexican border and ends near Seattle in the city of Olympia in the Pacific Northwest.

It is not officially named the Pacific Coast Highway but has always been called so since it parallels the Pacific Coast.

The routes to follow for the road trip include Highway 1 in southern and central California and Highway 101 in northern California, Oregon, and Washington.

How long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

Since it goes the entire length of the West Coast, just how long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

The road beginning in San Diego to its end in Olympia, the capital of Washington State is roughly 1700 miles long!

And yes, it really does go parallel to the Pacific Ocean for the most part!

What is the PCH1?

The road officially called the PCH1 is located in California. Its other name is California State Route 1 (SR1) or Highway 1.

Where does Hwy 1 start and end?

The PCH1 drive extends from the I-5 intersection in Orange County, Southern California to Highway 101 intersection near Leggett in Northern California.

Also, the name PCH 1 is interchangeably used with Highway 1 (Hwy 1) or Route 1 or California 1 or SR 1.

Add to that, certain parts of California PCH 1 near Pismo Beach on Central Coast are known as Cabrillo Highway while a section north of San Francisco is called the Shoreline Highway.

Many times Hwy 1 merges with Hwy 101, creating even more confusion.

This is most noticeable from Pismo Beach to San Luis Obispo and along the Golden Gate Bridge where the two roads merge.

The Hwy also simply disappears and takes street names in San Francisco (19th Avenue) and in Santa Monica (Lincoln Blvd).

If you are planning a trip along this route, then the Highway 1 trip planner will help you discover attractions between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

So how do you ensure you don’t get lost while planning a road trip up PCH?

The easiest way is to ensure that you are following the PCH1 between Monterey and San Luis Obispo in California.

This is the most spectacular stretch that passes through Big Sur and the road here is clearly marked, causing no confusion.

Our California Highway 1 road trip planner will guide you towards the best stops on Highway 1 California in Big Sur including McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

Which section of the Pacific Coast Highway should you drive?

For first-timers, we recommend driving the California Highway 1 or PCH 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles for multiple reasons.

This stretch of PCH1 passes through the beautiful Big Sur region.

For many people, Big Sur is the #1 attraction along the route.

Also, the gateway cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco are very well connected and easy to fly in or out after your trip.

One-way car rentals between the two cities are easily available or you also have the option of a loop road trip.

Our San Francisco road trip planner will help you plan your trip to SF, LA, as well as the attractions in between.

Have already been to this part of California Coast? Don’t want to begin in SF? You have many other options to customize the itinerary as you want!

After the PCH 1 ends, you can either drive south along the coast to San Diego or all the way up to Olympic National Park and the Canadian border in the north.

Alternatively, you can also begin the Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Diego and drive north.

The entire route is scenic and has plenty of attractions.

In northern California you will find beautiful redwood trees while in Oregon, you can see stunning capes and lighthouses as well as unique geological formations.

In Washington, you will find everything from deep blue lakes and dense rainforests to sea stacks and driftwood covered beaches.

And that’s why it is so important to decide which stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway you want to drive before you plan your trip.

Which direction to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?

All right, so you have decided which section of the Pacific Coast Highway you are going to be driving.

You know how much time you have in hand.

So which gateway city do you begin your PCH Road trip?

Is it better to drive north or south on the Pacific Coast Highway?

While many people recommend driving from south to north, our favorite is to drive south.

Yes, you will see the most gorgeous sites first and might end in the chaotic city of Los Angeles but you will be closer to the stunning views plus have easier access to parking lots and pull-outs.

That being said, if you have enough time to savor the trip then the direction won’t really matter much!

When to visit the Pacific Coast Highway?

The best part? You can drive the Pacific Coast Highway year round!

There are, however, certain times of the year when the PCH road trip is more scenic than others.

Spring is our personal favorite.

You can see wildflowers along the Pacific Coast Highway plus spot wildlife including migrating whales.

The temperature is pleasant for hiking, during the daytime it is neither too hot nor too cold.

An added bonus, the crowds are fewer than in summer or winter holidays.

However, you should skip spring break week, if possible.

Remember: Spring can be too windy and cold but the gorgeous wildflowers tip the scales.

Our second favorite time of the year for this road trip is from late summer to early fall, just after the schools are in session.

September and October on the coast are mild and sunny.

A pleasant breeze flows from the ocean making hikes more fun.

Wineries along the PCH in Napa, Sonoma, and along the Central Coast have beautiful fall colors and are ready for harvest.

Visitors can enjoy grape stomping at wineries if they time it right.

Winter and summer both have their pros and cons.

In winter, you can whale watch and enjoy the scenic beauty without the fog.

But temperatures, especially for northern California, can be quite chilly.

It can also rain, causing landslides and slippery trails.

The PCH may stay closed for days due to extended storm damage.

The very end of winter – from mid to late February – is a good time with mild weather and low crowds.

The summer months of June, July, and August can be quite foggy.

Big Sur looks beautiful and dramatic in the fog but the roads can be treacherous for driving.

The fog usually prevails in the morning and evening so you should still have clear blue afternoons.

As you continue south, it can get too hot to hike or stay outdoors for longer times.

Peak tourist times are winter holiday season and summer vacations.

Expect accommodations to fill up faster, potential delays on the road, and full parking lots at major attractions like Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls.

To read more about the best time to visit and see photos in different seasons, read our post When to Drive the Pacific Coast Highway .

How to rent a car for a PCH road trip? Which car should you rent?

The best way to travel Pacific Coast Highway is by car!

Look for one way car rentals unless you plan to do a round trip.

However, one-way rentals can be expensive so factor that in while planning your itinerary.

If you have more time and want to do the Pacific Coast Highway road trip on a budget, then you can definitely return to the original destination to reduce costs.

An SUV is really useful while negotiating the twisting turns of the PCH however, it is also easy to break in into.

Because of that, we prefer a sedan if we are driving with kids and have a lot of luggage in the trunk.

A muscle car or a convertible is also a great option for driving the Pacific Coast Highway.

The coast has stunning views and a top down lets you feel the ocean breeze and enjoy the panorama.

A recently popular option is to rent an RV for the Pacific Coast Highway travel itinerary.

This allows you to enjoy the natural attractions along the coast to the maximum.

How much should you budget for Pacific Coast Highway road trip?

The famous question, how much does it cost to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?! Or what should be your Pacific Coast Highway road trip budget?

In general, we recommend budgeting $200 per person per day including hotel, car, and food for road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway.

That’s why the easiest way to do the trip on a budget is to choose a shorter Pacific Coast Highway trip itinerary.

The fewer number of days on your trip, the fewer the costs.

That said, California, in general, is expensive and we have never been able to go on an extended California trip under $1000 per person including airfare.

You can also consider road tripping the PCH 1 along Oregon or Washington to reduce costs as these states are somewhat cheaper than California.

More Pacific Coast Highway FAQs

To read more Pacific Coast Highway FAQs including the following common doubts, click here .

Is the Pacific Coast Highway dangerous to drive?
What should you not miss on the Pacific Coast Highway?
Which part of California should you visit?
How long does it take to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway?

Step 2: Best PCH Stops

If you have decided to visit the most popular part of coastal California:

Begin your Pacific Coast Highway road trip planning by exploring the major attractions and things to do along California’s Hwy 1.

Popular attractions including West Coast lighthouses , waterfalls, state parks, hiking trails, beaches, coastal towns await you on this marvelous drive – and off course the iconic Bixby Bridge!

You can find information about these and other essential attractions in our California Coast trip planner.

Also, explore other stops on Highway 101 in northern California if you have more time.

Here you will find majestic redwood trees and the Redwoods State and National parks.

Road trip the Redwoods Scenic Byway and explore cities like Eureka and Crescent City.

There are also plenty of stunning stops along the Pacific Coast Highway in both Oregon and Washington.

You can read more about the best stops along the PCH here.

This will give you an idea of the most important places to visit and help in planning the trip around your interests.

Step 3: PCH Gateway Cities

Once you have selected your itinerary, you need to select which West Coast cities you can fly into.

While there are many cities on the West Coast, the 5 major ones which make perfect places to begin your PCH road trip are these:

Begin a Pacific Highway trip around the Evergreen State in the Emerald City of Seattle.

Read our post on things to do in Seattle now to plan your trip.

To see Oregon’s dramatic coastline, redwood trees, rock formations, and sand dunes, start a Hwy 101 road trip in Portland.

Read our post on Things to do in Portland now.

San Francisco

San Francisco is our personal favorite to start an epic Pacific Coast road trip.

It also makes an excellent starting destination for California fly drive route planner.

Read our post on things to do in San Francisco now.

Los Angeles

Tinseltown is exciting and glamorous.

It also happens to be cheap to fly into and makes a perfect start to PCH drive.

You can plan a California coastal highway itinerary up or down the coast and have whale of a time.

Read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles now.

San Diego is the perfect destination to plan a trip using our SoCal trip planner.

Read our post on Best Things to do in San Diego now.

How to reach the PCH Gateway Cities?

The major airports for road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway 1 in California are San Francisco and Los Angeles.

San Francisco actually has three airports: San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.

You need to research airfares to all three to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Similarly, Los Angeles also has a couple of nearby airports including Long Beach, Burbank, Orange County, etc and is a great California PCH trip start point.

If you are extending your trip along the West Coast, then fly into San Diego, Portland, or Seattle to start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary.

Budget airlines that often have great deals to California or the Pacific Northwest include Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Alaska Air, and Southwest.

To get the best flight deals, we recommend booking using flight aggregators like Skyscanner or CheapOair.

Step 4: PCH Itineraries

This is our favorite part of trip planning!

This is also where we can help you the most as we have been planning road trips since the past 12 years.

We recommend that you go through our many itineraries, pick the one that is the best fit, and customize it to suit your needs.

Let’s plan the perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip ever!

Fly and Drive PCH Itineraries by number of days

Since you will already be driving a lot every day along the PCH we generally recommend fly and drive itineraries.

However, if you happen to live nearby or have enough time to travel, then you can definitely drive to California and then go on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

You can spend anywhere from 4 days to 10 days on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Here are the highlights of our popular itineraries.

Click the link to read in-depth each itinerary for Pacific Coast Highway.

Pacific Coast Highway 4 day itinerary

The simplest California road trip planner.

If you have only 4 days, then spend one day in San Francisco and see the highlights including the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz.

Visit one of the beaches: Ocean Beach, Crissy Field Beach, or Baker Beach are the most popular ones!

The next day, leave early from San Francisco and explore Half Moon Bay and Monterey.

See the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, visit the sandy beaches of Half Moon Bay, and take some time to explore Santa Cruz or Pebble Beach.

Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur.

See Bixby Creek Bridge, hike McWay Falls, spend time at San Dollar Beach before reaching San Luis Obispo for the night.

Spend some time to see SLO attractions including Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, Historic Downtown, Bubblegum Alley, and the Madonna Inn – a famous hotel with eclectic decor!

Then stop at Santa Barbara. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez mountains, this coastal city feels very Mediterranean.

Santa Barbara has many attractions including the charming white colonial downtown, Mission Santa Barbara, museums, zoo, and more!

Enjoy shopping or dining at Stearns Wharf or take a whale watching cruise before heading for Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, visit the Walk of Fame, see Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign before calling it a day.

You can read this itinerary here for this Highway 1 trip planner.

Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary

Looking for Pacific Coast Highway itinerary of 5 days?

We would recommend following our 4-day pacific highway 1 itinerary with just a few changes: you can spend the extra day exploring either San Francisco, Big Sur Coast, or Los Angeles.

In San Francisco, use your second day to see Muir Woods, Mission District, Chinatown, and Twin Peaks.

If you chose to stay in Big Sur, then stay at the romantic Ventana Resort or Post Ranch Inn.

Stop at each pull-out and look for wildlife.

Tour the Point Sur Lightstation, photograph the Bixby Bridge, and see the seals at Elephant Seal Rookery in Piedras Blancas.

Make the detour to explore Central Coast’s wine country.

If you chose Los Angeles then the sky is the limit.

You can explore the museums especially the Broad and LACMA or spend a day at Universal or Disney!

If you ask us, we would pick Big Sur over the cities, any day!

You can read about this itinerary in detail here for the 5 Day PCH trip planner.

Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary

Our favorite! A week is a perfect time to drive this stunning route.

On your first day of California pacific coast highway itinerary 7 days, start at the northern end in Leggett and see those majestic coastal redwoods.

Drive your car through the Chandelier Tree tunnel.

Then eat oysters in Tomales Bay and visit Point Reyes Lighthouse before spending the night in San Francisco.

For the rest of your coast to coast road trip planner, spend 1 day each in San Francisco, Monterey, Big Sur, Solvang, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles.

With 7 days in hand, you have enough time to explore Big Sur’s hidden gems such as Henry Miller Memorial Library and Andrew Molera State Park.

View this itinerary now to read all the details of the 7 day Pacific Coast Highway trip planner.

Pacific Coast Highway 10 day itinerary

With 10 days in hand, you have so many options.

One way is to follow the 7- day itinerary but drive all the way down to San Diego to create the ultimate California driving trip planner.

Another is to start in Los Angeles, follow our 7-day itinerary heading north, and explore up to the Avenue of Giants in northern California.

If you love slow travel, then drive from Leggett to Los Angeles but spend time hiking in Point Reyes and Point Lobos, visiting the remote Channel Islands National Park, and touring the wineries of Santa Ynez Valley.

The epic 10 day California road trip for families and RVers.

The ultimate chilled-out California Pacific Coast Highway trip!

You can also do a Northern California road trip from San Francisco for the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary 10 days.

Or you can drive all the way up to Portland and see the Oregon coast attractions along the way.

You can also visit the Olympic Peninsula on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip in Washington.

To decide which itinerary to choose, click here now .

If you have less than 4 days

If your Pacific Coast Highway drive time is too long, then you won’t have enough time to enjoy all the attractions on the way.

We would not recommend driving the entire length of the PCH or Highway 1 if you have less than 4 days.

For short weekend trips, consider the below trips in our California road trip route planner.

We also suggestions for PCH day trips in Oregon and Washington.

Best PCH road trips from San Francisco

If you have 3 days or under, then it is not feasible to drive the entire length of PCH.

You can make the drive but will miss out on a lot of attractions.

Instead, consider day trips and weekend getaways along the coast for Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary 3 days.

Our top 3 getaways for Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary 1 day from San Francisco are Point Reyes, Monterey, and Big Sur.

Carmel by the Sea, only a short drive from Monterey and Pebble Beach, is also a great weekend trip from San Fran.

Best PCH road trips from Los Angeles

For day trips and weekend getaways along Hwy 1 from Los Angeles, consider visiting La Jolla, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Pismo Beach, or San Luis Obispo.

Or drive south towards San Diego, Newport Beach, and La Jolla.

These destinations are just a few hours away from LA and great to visit.

Visiting Big Sur from Los Angeles is hectic if you have only 2 days but possible with 3 days in hand.

Best PCH road trips from San Diego

You can also road trip up the pacific coast highway from San Diego to Los Angeles or Anaheim.

Enjoy Hollywood or city life in Los Angeles or see Disney and other theme parks in Anaheim.

Relax at Huntington Beach. Or visit Coronado island for a different type of trip.

The San Diego trip planner has many ideas to enjoy the attractions of southern California.

Best PCH road trips from Portland

Combine a visit to Portland with an adventure down the PCH.

While you cannot use Portland to San Francisco road trip planner in just 4 days, you can visit Astoria or Cannon Beach.

Go hiking in Ecola State Park or drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop.

Best PCH road trips from Seattle

There are plenty of PCH trips from the Emerald City.

Drive the Highway 101 south to Tacoma or Olympia.

Or take the ferry to Port Angeles and Olympic peninsula and follow Highway 101 all around the peninsula.

If you have more than 10 days

If you have anywhere around two weeks, we would recommend driving either down to San Diego in the south or driving towards Portland or Seattle in the north from LA or SF.

You can also drive from San Diego to Seattle or vice versa using our west coast road trip planner.

2 Week West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

2 weeks is the ideal time to go on an epic US West Coast Road trip.

From the Olympic peninsula in Washington to southern California, you can use our border to border coast trip planner to plan the most amazing, once in a lifetime, USA West Coast Road Trip Itinerary.

You can either start in San Diego and drive towards Portland or Seattle or start in the Pacific Northwest and drive south.

The entire drive is over 1700 miles and should be done only if you have 2 weeks or more in hand.

Point to Point PCH Itineraries

You can also plan PCH road trip itinerary depending on your start city and destination rather than days.

Pacific Coast Highway Itineraries by State

San diego to los angeles drive.

Wondering how to plan a trip to California coast between Los Angeles and San Diego?

This California Highway 1 road trip itinerary will take you through stunning beaches of La Jolla, Laguna Beach, and Oceanside.

You can see charming coastal towns and enjoys SoCal’s relaxed vibe.

California Coast Road Trip from LA to SF

This is the ultimate CA road trip planner.

Visit two of California’s biggest cities and visit the natural attractions on the coast including beautiful Big Sur, McWay Falls, and 17 Mile Drive.

This Pacific Highway 1 road trip is our favorite road trip along the West Coast! Read this itinerary now.

Northern California Coast Road Trip

This Highway 101 road trip itinerary in Northern California will take you through giant, majestic redwood trees and the most remote parts of the coast.

From attractions like Point Reyes and Muir Beach to charming cities like Mendocino and Eureka, this itinerary for driving Pacific Coast Highway will leave you spellbound.

See the glass beach at Fort Bragg, tour the famous Point Arena Lighthouse, enjoy hiking at Mendocino State Parks, and drive the Avenue of Giants on this epic PCH itinerary.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Planner

Plan a trip from Brookings in the south to Astoria in the north using our Oregon Highway 101 road trip planner.

Visit attractions such as Cannon Beach, Natural Bridges, and Devil’s Punchbowl on this amazing Oregon Coast Road trip .

Washington Olympic Peninsula Road Trip

Our Highway 101 trip planner in Washington follows the road around the Olympic peninsula.

It can be used to visit attractions such as Ruby Beach, Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, Port Angeles, and Seattle. Read this itinerary now .

We would recommend going through our list of Suggested PCH Itineraries and deciding upon an itinerary based on your interests before finalizing your trip.

Pacific Highway Road Trip Map

Looking for map of Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip?

Among our resources, we have plenty of Pacific Coast Highway road trip maps, depending on the section you want to drive.

If you are interested in Big Sur, use the California Highway 1 road trip map.

Use the Northern California road trip map planner to see the redwoods.

Follow Pacific Highway itinerary maps for Oregon or Washington to plan a Pacific Northwest trip.

Be sure to finalize your Pacific Coast Highway Map and print copies before you embark on your trip.

Step 5: Book your PCH Road Trip

And finally we come to the task of booking your PCH vacation.

When to book and plan your PCH trip

In general, we recommend booking your trip at least 6 months in advance, though ideally, earlier is better.

While you can always plan a last-minute PCH road trip, especially if staying nearby, it is not recommended.

This especially applies if you are traveling in peak periods and in the Golden State.

Every California trip planner suggests booking in advance.

As we have experienced, booking hotels closer to the trip can definitely make the trip twice as expensive.

Before booking your trip, we recommend researching destinations and finalizing your Pacific Coast Highway Road trip itinerary.

In some instances, we have booked first and then planned the trip but this can lead to more hectic trips.

Here’s what all you need to book for your trip.

Book flight tickets to the West Coast

For best deals, book your tickets to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, or Seattle by checking on Skyscanner or Google flights.

Book car rental

All major companies have their branches in California.

You can rent from a variety of companies including Hertz, Fox, Enterprise, Dollar, and Thrifty for your trip.

Book hotel accommodations as per the itinerary

There are a variety of hotels, resorts, and motels for every budget along the PCH.

We have covered the best places to stay along the PCH in detail in this post.

Purchase travel insurance

We recommend getting travel insurance from World Nomads.

Purchase attraction tickets, if any

There are several attractions along the PCH for which you can purchase tickets in advance.

We recommend the advance purchase of tickets for attractions like the Monterey Aquarium, San Francisco museums, etc.

Purchase tours and cruises, if any

You can go on a variety of wildlife watching cruises along the PCH including whale watching, dolphin cruises, etc.

You can also reserve tickets for the Alcatraz cruise prior to your trip.

Recommended group tours

There are no tour companies that take you the entire length of PCH.

This is very much a self-drive trip.

However, there are companies that will take you to Malibu from Los Angeles or to Monterey from San Francisco.

Also in Monterey, you can take whale watching tours.

Reserve a table at restaurants, if needed

You will find amazing restaurants serving a variety of cuisine along the PCH.

Our favorites are seafood restaurants in Monterey, oysters in Tomales Bay, Mexican food in Mission District of San Francisco, and a variety of cuisines in Los Angeles.

If you like to plan every detail or want to plan for a special meal for birthdays or anniversaries, then you can reserve a table at the hotel of your choice in advance.

Prepare, pack, and go on the best road trip ever!

What other preparations should you make.

If you are traveling internationally then check your passport validity and visa status.

Apply for visas, if necessary.

Also, check whether you need IDP (International Driving Permit).

Other preparation includes print and/or having virtual copies of all maps, itineraries, tickets, and bookings easily accessible on your phone.

Also, budget your trip and convert currency, if needed.

Read below for more detailed information.

Understand internet and phone coverage

You will find that there is extremely poor and at times zero cell coverage along many stretches of the PCH, especially in the Big Sur region.

That’s why we recommend carrying a GPS in addition to your phone as well as saving offline maps on your phone.

You can also get printed maps of PCH1 for the section you are planning to drive.

If you are traveling internationally

The three main areas to take care of if you are traveling internationally include taking care of passports and visas, renting a car and driving in USA, and converting money to USD.

If you are traveling with kids

Pacific coast highway road trip with kids? Been there, done that!

Our final section of the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner.

Did you know that you can drive the Pacific Coast Highway with kids?

The first time we went with our kids was when our daughter was just a 6 months old baby and our son was 3 years old.

We started in San Francisco, cycled the Golden Gate Bridge with the kids, drove through Big Sur, watched the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas rookery near San Simeon, and ended our trip at Anaheim in Disney.

Both the kids loved every bit of it.

Also, most places and businesses in California, Oregon, and Washington and especially along the Pacific Coast Highway are kid-friendly.

When we road tripped, most hotels provided crib or baby cots, all the restaurants had high chairs, and even the wineries had kid-friendly areas.

Throughout our trip, we met friendly people who smiled and waved at our kids.

We always felt welcome wherever we went and felt quite at ease.

Read our post on Best Kid-friendly resorts along the Pacific Coast Highway to book your accommodations.

There are so many things to do along the Pacific Coast Highway road trip that are perfect for the kids.

They will love exploring nature: hike through redwood forests, discover tide pool creatures, play in the sand and on the beach, splash in the water, hike to see waterfalls, whale watch using binoculars, plus spend quality time with the parents.

There are also many kid-friendly attractions on the route including the Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Oceano Dunes Railroad museum, sand dune buggy rentals, whale watching tours, Santa Monica Pier, Disney theme parks, etc.

For more information, read our post on the Best Things to do on the West Coast with kids.

In fact, driving the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most fun family holiday vacations for families.

Other things to consider

Stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway can get closed due to storms or landslides or wildfires, so we recommend keeping an eye on the news before your trip and getting travel insurance for just in case anything goes awry.

What should you pack for Pacific Coast Highway road trip?

It can get chilly along the PCH any time of the year, so we recommend packing in layers: long sleeve shirts, short sleeve t-shirts, and tank tops.

Pack long hiking pants for the northern and central coast and shorts for SoCal.

Pack a rain jacket and a sweater for the chilly days.

Take hiking shoes and socks and water shoes for beachcombing.

Pack some heels and a silk blouse for date nights in San Francisco, Monterey, and Los Angeles.

If you plan to drive north towards Portland and Seattle in the winter, then add thermal underwear and a packable jacket.

In summer, take sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen.

Do not forget to pack a camera and binoculars.

Read this before you leave

We have got many excellent resources on planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

We suggest that you browse around the site – take a look at our PCH Road Trip itineraries , bookmark us for a later visit, sign up for our newsletter, or follow us on social media to know more about the Pacific Coast Highway.

If you need to ask us questions about the trip, then join our Pacific Coast Highway Facebook Community now – it’s the perfect place to ask any itinerary related questions and plan your PCH road trip.

We hope that our Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner helps you in planning an awesome road trip.

Best Stops on Highway 1: California Road Trip Itinerary

Post Topic: Best Stops on Highway 1

Our road trip down the coast on California’s Highway 1 was a bittersweet one. It was the start of a long road trip back to the Lone Star State. Randy and I had spent over five months away from home, working remotely, and exploring America’s vast beauty and diversity. We had mixed feelings about heading back to Dallas, but we were just trying to soak up every last minute of our epic trip.

After heading up to Redwoods National Park and making it within 5 miles of the Oregon border (still kicking ourselves for not crossing that border), we were a grand total of 2,100 miles away from home. We started our grand trek home with an unforgettable trip down the California Coast on the famous Highway 1.

Is your California Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip a part of a longer trip? You may also like these articles:

10 Can’t Miss Stops on the Oregon Coast

Channel Islands National Park – Santa Cruz Island

10 Jaw-Dropping Things to do in Redwoods National and State Parks

How to Plan an Unforgettable U.S. Road Trip

Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links, which means if you buy something through those links my blog will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me to create free resources like the one you just read. Thank you for the support!

Map of the Best Stops on Highway 1

You can experience the magic of Highway 1 from either direction. Although, I do highly recommend driving from north to south as you’ll have the ocean views and pull offs to the right.

Leggett to San Francisco: Best Stops on Highway 1

Did you know that Highway 1 doesn’t go all the way up California to the border of Oregon? It actually starts much further south in Leggett, California.

If yo u’re wanting to explore the coast of California north of the start of CA-1, check out my post on Redwoods National Park which has lots to see and do on the coast.

There’s actually not much to do in Leggett, but it’s where we’ll start this road trip. The first city you’ll come to on the California 1 is Fort Bragg where you can check out the Glass Beach in MacKerricher State Park .

A bit further south you’ll find Jug Handle Beach, which wasn’t originally on our road trip itinerary. As we were driving past, I got a glimpse of this small beach perfectly situated in a little alcove and I insisted that Randy pull the car over for a quick stroll on the beach. So glad we did!

Mendocino is a short drive south from Fort Bragg. Check out Mendocino Headlands State Park for insane views of the coastal bluffs. There are a couple of easy trails along the cliffs that provide epic sights of the ocean and rock formations below. Keep your eyes open for seals and other wildlife in the area.

After checking out the state park, spend some time strolling the streets of charming Mendocino. Some great local places to check out are Mendocino Country Store , which offers wine tastings on the weekends, and Mendocino Jams and Preserves.

Up for some exercise? Head to the Big River Estuary and rent a kayak from Catch a Canoe or check out one of the nearby hiking trails.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Our next big stop on the Pacific Coast Highway is Point Reyes National Seashore . Point Reyes was one of the places that I was most excited to visit on our road trip down the coast. Unfortunately, we visited on a day with super dense fog that impeded our view of a lot of the most popular landmarks in the park.

If you’re wanting to “better your chances” of seeing the famous Point Reyes Lighthouse and other sights, plan to visit in the afternoon after the sun has burned off most of the fog.

Here’s a few things to see while you’re at Point Reyes:

Visit the abandoned Point Reyes Shipwreck in Inverness . This interesting landmark is a must-see!
Take a short hike to the Chimney Rocks , one of the best views in Point Reyes National Seashore.
Visit the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse . What’s a coastal drive without a few lighthouses?

Palace Market in Point Reyes Station is the perfect place to grab a deli lunch. Head to the back of the grocery store for a selection of pre-made and build-your-own sandwiches that are delicious and super fresh! Their buffalo milk soft-serve ice cream is also delicious and worth a try!

Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is located only an hour north of San Francisco and is known for its long sandy beaches. It’s also the first town on this road trip that gives off a surf-town vibe.

If it’s a sunny day, park your car at the beach and then spend some time strolling the walkable tiny town.

Wanting more epic views of the coast? If it’s a clear day, head up to the Muir Beach Overlook .

San Francisco Area: Best Stops on Highway 1

Next up, the great city of San Francisco! If you can, stay here for a couple of days to take in all of the sights and sounds.

San Francisco has a special place in my heart as it was the first city I traveled to as an adult. Planning that trip did a lot to inspire me to start this blog. I actually wrote my first blog post ever on San Francisco, which I’ve since revamped. Go check it out here!

There’s lots to do here but make sure that you check out these epic stops on Highway 1!

But before you actually get to San Francisco, stop at Muir Woods National Monument which is in Mill Valley, just 30 minutes north of the city. Muir Woods, named after naturalist John Muir, is one of the best places in California to see the Coastal Redwoods. Parking at Muir Woods requires a reservation which you can obtain here .

You can easily spend a couple of hours or all day hiking the trails in Muir Woods. I recommend hiking the Main Trail and Hillside Trail for an easy loop trail that features the best views of Redwood Trees that Muir Woods has to offer.

San Francisco

No California Coast road trip would be complete without a drive over the Golden Gate Bridge. For a different vantage point of the bridge, check out Fort Point, Marshall’s Beach , and Golden Gate Overlook . Riding a bike across the Golden Gate is also an unforgettable experience.

Continuing along highway 1, you’ll find lots of great beaches in SF like Ocean Beach . I once found over a dozen perfectly intact sand dollars from this beach.

Note: If you plan to fly home, sand dollars may trigger an additional search at airport security . I may or may not know this from experience.

Add Golden Gate Park to your San Francisco Highway 1 itinerary. Fun fact, Golden Gate Park is the 3rd most visited park in the United States. You’ll find lots of great museums, gardens, and even a Dutch windmill.

Is this your first visit to San Francisco? Check out my First Timer’s Guide to San Francisco.

San Francisco to Big Sur: Best Stops on Highway 1

We didn’t make too many stops on our way to Big Sur from San Francisco but there are a few places that we highly recommend stopping at. One of those places is the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve to explore the tide pools. This stop is a must if you’re traveling with kids! Spend some time hunting for crabs and other sea creatures – you may also be able to see sea lions down the beach.

Further down the coast, check out the Pigeon Point Light Station State Park , one of the most picturesque lighthouses on this coastal road trip. If you’re visiting this area near lunch or dinner time, make a stop at Highway 1 Brewing Company for some bites and brews.

No trip down the Pacific Coast would be complete without a stop in Monterrey . While we only made a quick stop in Monterrey, you could easily spend several days in this part of California.

If you’re looking to get out of the car and stretch your legs, walk the Monterrey Bay Coastal Trail. Or rent a bike and explore on two-wheels! Carmel Beach is a great spot to soak up some rays.

Monterrey (and Carmel-by-the-Sea) is located just north of Big Sur which makes it a great place to stop for food and essentials before continuing south where amenities and services become limited.

Big Sur: Best Stops on Highway 1

Big Sur is by far the most popular and well-known section of the Pacific Coast Highway and it’s not hard to figure out why. This 90-mile stretch of coast is absolutely breath-taking around every bend.

Although some disagree on where the Big Sur area begins and ends, most agree that the northern end starts at the Carmel River and the southern end, San Carpoforo Creek.

There are many state parks, state beaches, coastal hikes, redwood tree groves, and other amazing things to see in Big Sur. And like I just mentioned, this area is full of incredible nature parks but few food and gas services so make sure you plan accordingly.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is by far a favorite stop in Big Sur. The park is only a few minutes from the town of Carmel, California.

There is a $10 parking fee to enter the park, but there were many visitors who were parking along the road outside of the park and walking in for free. This was a popular method but also a necessity for some as parking in the park did fill up mid-morning.

The views at Point Lobos were some of the most picturesque we saw on the entire Pacific Coast Highway.

Other things to see in Big Sur

If you’ve seen pictures of Big Sur before, you’ll probably recognize the Bixby Creek Bridge . This iconic bridge is most known for its aesthetic design and is actually one of the most photographed bridges in the world!

Next on your road trip, make a stop at Pfeiffer beach . This was VERY high on my list of places to see, however, the parking situation was horrible. We weren’t even able to make it to the parking lot because at attendant turned us away saying to come back later than afternoon. And unfortunately, we had to stick to a schedule and keep making our way south. So next time, we’ll be making time for Pfeiffer Beach and arriving earlier in the day.

Nearly across the street from Pfeiffer Beach is Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park . A GREAT place for camping if you can manage to snag a hard-to-get reservation. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is located on the banks of the Big Sur River and is home to many more of California’s incredible Redwood Trees. Even if you’re not camping, there are a few hiking trails along the river and Redwoods that are worth checking out.

Another one of the most beautiful stops on the Pacific Coast Highway is McWay Falls in Julia Burns Big Sur State Park. This water fall is absolutely stunning as it cascades off a cliff and onto the beach below.

Unfortunately, you are unable to hike down to the waterfall and the only way to see this incredible wonder is from a lookout above the falls. The parking fee at Julia Burns Big Sur is $10/vehicle. But if you are able to find parking along the road (and park LEGALLY), then you can walk into the park for free.

We found Julia Burns Big Sur State Park very crowded but the waterfall was simply breathtaking and so worth it. And I usually don’t say crowded spots are worth it.

Big Sur to Santa Barbara: Best Stops on Highway 1

After you leave Big Sur, make a stop at Elephant Seal Vista Point to see the funny-looking elephant seals. These awkward looking creatures are really a funny sight to watch. Between their goofy looking “elephant trunks” and their grumpy attitudes. The vista point is right off the highway and makes a perfect 10-15 minute stop.

Next up, make a stop in the city of Cayucos for delicious eats and fun shopping. The Brown Butter Cookie Company is a must for their shortbread cookies. If you’re ready for a real meal with a view, check out Schooners for some classic American Seafood. They’re located right by the pier, so after your meal, walk out on the pier and watch the local surfers riding the waves.

Morro Rock is located further south and is another incredible sight to see. Morro Rock Beach is one of the largest beaches I’ve seen. Stop here for a walk or a swim.

I highly recommending you plan your itinerary to be in Pismo Beach for breakfast. A stop at Old West Cinnamon Rolls is a must. You can thank me later.

Santa Barbara

The very last stop on this epic road trip is the city of Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara is actually the first spot on this road trip that you’ll get to experience what many people consider to be the stereo-typical California sights – think Spanish style architecture and streets lined with palm trees.

Spend your time exploring the sights of Santa Barbara, like the Old Mission Santa Barbara, Stearns Wharf, or Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Or simply spend the day laying on a warm sunny beach like East Beach.

If you’re interested in indulging in a whale watching tour on your trip down the coast, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to do that. You’ll find many whale watching tours departing from here.

Bonus Stop: Channel Islands National Park

If you have an extra day in the Santa Barbara area, consider a day trip to Channel Islands National Park. Island Packers operates tour boats from Ventura, California (and sometimes Santa Barbara) to various islands in the national park.

We did a day trip to Santa Cruz Island from Ventura a couple of years ago, and it was an outstanding experience! I highly recommend taking the time to do this incredible excursion. Especially if you’re an avid hiker.

Pack These for a California Highway 1 Road Trip

1. good hiking shoes.

There are so many great hiking trails on the California Coast! Especially in the state parks in Big Sur.

It’s super important to wear sturdy hiking shoes or sandals on the trails. I wear brands like Merrell Moab 2 Mid Ventilator , Teva Universal Trail (trail sandal) , and Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof . My husband, who is very prone to ankle injuries, wears Salomon X Ultra Low GTX and swears by them.

I love being able to switch between a solid hiking boot and a trail sandal with excellent traction on the easier or wet trails. I’m very prone to blisters and having different shoes to change into makes a world of difference.

2. Water Bottle & Hydration pack

It’s important to stay hydrated on hiking trails. Even if the conditions are wet & rainy and you may not think about drinking water.

To keep your drink extra cold, go with a Hydroflask , which is vacuum-sealed and keeps your liquids cold for up to 24 hours. If you’re looking for something a bit more lightweight, go with the traditional Nalgene .

On longer hikes, fill up your Ospry Hydraulics Reservoir to keep your water easily accessible & hands free. My favorite day pack that accommodates a hydration bladder is the Osprey Mira 22 Hydration Pack .

3. Snacks & More Snacks

Every good road trip requires good snacks. Make sure you bring enough energy-boosting food to get you through the day. full of driving & hiking.

Some of our favorite road trip and trail snacks are the traditional PB&J, grapes, trail mixes, Go Macro Bars , and RX Bars .

4. Wool Clothes & Moisture Wicking Clothes

I HIGHLY recommend wool material clothes for both road trips and hiking. Wool is the best at keep your cool when the temperatures are warm and keeping you warm when it’s cold out. It’s natural fibers are great for pulling the moisture and sweat away from your body and don’t cause the build-up of bacteria. Meaning wool clothes won’t start to smell like your polyester shirt!

These Icebreaker T-Shirts have been a favorite of mine recently, they’re excellent at keeping you dry. And the best part is that they don’t stink even after a long sweaty day on the trail!

6. Lots of Layers (including a Rain Jacket)

You can expect the temperatures on the coast to be cooler than you expect. Literally. In the middle of July, I didn’t go many places without my puffer jacket (although I was still wearing shorts). Definitely pack and carry a jacket with you. Especially during an early morning or late evening hike.

A rain jacket is absolutely essential. Rain on the coast is very likely.

More California Adventures

10 Unforgettable Things to Do on Your First Trip to San Francisco
A Perfect Weekend in Sequoia and Kings Canyon

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YOUR ULTIMATE HIGHWAY 1 CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP GUIDE

You can find plenty of great road trips to take throughout the United States but the Pacific Coast Highway just might be the most breathtaking. This California gem isn’t just popular because of tradition but offers stunning views of a beautiful coastline with each mile. If you’re stationed in the Golden State, grab a few friends, pile up on snacks, and get ready for a fun adventure. Here are five can’t-miss locations to enjoy on your Highway 1 California road trip.

1. Look in Awe at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

San Diego is going to be a part of your journey and no Highway 1 California road trip is complete without appreciating the 2,000 acres found at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve .

Just off Highway 1, you’ll find a picturesque SoCal coastline that is near and dear to locals and visitors far and wide alike.

The coolest part about the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is that while you’re still near San Diego’s city attractions, you are also accessing premier hiking trails that offer over 8 miles of trail exploration.

2. Catch the Surf and Vibes at Huntington Beach

No road trip on California Highway 1 is complete without spending some time in Huntington Beach .

Earning the well-deserved nickname of Surf City, you can bet that there are plenty of waves and vibes to catch throughout the town.

Even if you aren’t paddling out, there are ample opportunities to enjoy other beach activities, including volleyball, bicycling, or simply walking down the coast.

Your California Highway 1 road trip map should include Huntington Beach, even if it’s just to refuel. There are plenty of shops and delicious restaurants where you can restock for the drive ahead.

3. Take a Short Hike at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

While all of Big Sur should be a focal point of your California Highway 1 road trip, we wanted to provide special attention to the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park .

You won’t have any problems finding places to hike while along the PCH Highway; however, the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park may just be the most rewarding opportunity with the lowest amount of energy to receive it.

The views you can see of McWay Falls don’t take long to get to and if you journey a bit further, the mile-round trip along the Partington Cove Trail even provides you with a haunting tunnel and unique beach.

Always plan ahead, as Mother Nature waits for no one. Some trails may be closed due to erosion and weather, so always check the park’s closures online before you set out on your adventure.

4. Discover or Rediscover San Francisco

Everything from the expected to the surprising can be found in San Francisco . So much so, that even if you’ve been several times before, you’re sure to discover something new to fall in love.

Home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than almost any other city in the U.S., you can also find mouthwatering dishes at humble locations offering a wide variety of cuisine.

Getting lost in Chinatown is a great way to experience a plethora of cultures all in one place.

Of course, the City by the Bay also provides plenty of military history, Victorian architecture, museums, the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, and plenty of nightlife activities.

This is just part of what makes San Francisco such a great place to visit.

As if Maitais, mouthwatering Asian flavors, and a variety of entertainment options weren’t enough, of course, the Golden Gate Bridge is an essential part of any California Highway 1 road trip itinerary.

5. Dine in Mendocino

When you find yourself on the northern portion of your California Highway 1 road trip, you’ll want to take some time to explore Mendocino, specifically, its food scene.

No California Highway 1 road trip guide would be complete without mentioning this quaint beach town offering eclectic shops, and delicious eateries, including Flow , which offers guests a stunning view while they dine.

Nearby towns and areas close to Mendocino offer plenty of nearby recreation and camping to round out your Highway 1 California road trip or jumpstart your journey with a mix of activities and flavors.

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The Ultimate California Highway 1 Road Trip Guide

Sunset ocean views at Poplar Beach in Half Moon Bay.

I grew up in the small coastal town of Half Moon Bay, located 30 miles south of San Francisco. Driving up and down the Pacific Coast Highway (also known as Highway 1) was a regular occurrence in my childhood. I didn't realize until later on in my adulthood how lucky I was to experience such scenic ocean views everyday. As a local I love to share the love and tell where to find my hidden gems spots.

Beginning from North to South, I've built the ultimate guide with the top spots along Highway 1 worth pulling over for!

Ocean views from the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay.

Map Your Route Along the Pacific Coast Highway

Sausalito is a small coastal town just north of San Francisco located right across the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a nice place to spend a day sightseeing and eating fresh seafood. We found the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge while sailing in Sausalito .

Golden Gate Bridge

Probably the single most iconic landmark in San Francisco is the Golden Gate Bridge. I have an entire guide to the best photo spots with the Golden Gate Bridge prominently in the background. My suggested locations will make for some epic travel photos!

Autumn pumpkin patches in Half Moon Bay.

Colorful autumn Indian corn from the Half Moon Bay pumpkin patches.

Lands End & Sutro Baths

Lands End Park is located on the northwest tip of San Francisco where the urban city ends and the vast Pacific Ocean begins. Lands End Park and Sutro Baths has some incredible panoramic ocean views and interesting historical ruins.

Devil’s Slide Trail

When I was growing up Devil’s Slide used to be an active road in Half Moon Bay. But it has since been turned into a scenic walking trail with stunning ocean views. On some days the thick fog rolls in over the mountains giving you all those mysterious and spooky vibes. Trail head starts off Highway 1, between Pacifica & Montara. It’s dog friendly too! See my Devil’s Slide Walking Trail Guide on the blog .

Vintage barn and ocean views on the trail inside Año Nuevo State Park in Pescadeo.

Coastal lookout spot at the Año Nuevo State Park in Pescadeo.

Montara Mountain Trail

The Montana Mountain Trail is not terribly long, just slightly over 2 miles. But the altitude quickly starts to ramp up and you’ll ultimately climb 1174 feet in elevation once you reach the top. If you hike high enough on a foggy day, you'll actually walk through the clouds until you're standing above them. Heaven on earth.

Barn Burger

Barn Burger in Half Moon Bay is a quaint little barn turned burger joint which opened fairly recently and has quickly become very popular with both locals and tourists alike. The outdoor patio's decor is just too cute and the weather is perfect on a sunny day. Dogs are welcome on the patio so feel free to bring Fido along. With locally sourced ingredients the food is gourmet quality and oh so delicious.

The vintage "I Love Pescadero Barn" down the road from the Pescadero Country Store.

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail

The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail runs over 11 miles along the coast line and provides spectacular cliff views. You can find a great spot on the sand to set up a picnic and relax. We took our dog Holly for a walk along the trail in this dog-friendly guide to Half Moon Bay .

Kayaking in Pillar Point Harbor

For our afternoon of kayaking in Pillar Point Harbor we rented our equipment from the Half Moon Bay Kayak Company and set off into the harbor. Under a cloud of fog we cruised along through the bay in our kayaks and enjoyed the views. The heavy fog brought an aura of calm but we still managed to squeeze in a little adventure.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse located along the Pacific Coast Highway in Pescadero.

Fresh flowers from the Pescadero Farmer's Market on Stage Road across Arcangeli Grocery Company Store.

Sunflower Fields at Andreotti Farm

Beginning in September the sunflower fields begin to bloom in Half Moon Bay and you can walk among these 15 feet tall giants.

The Andreotti Farm is “u-pick” meaning you can cut your own flowers. We paid a dollar for each flower and came home with a giant bouquet. These are not your typical supermarket sunflowers, some of the ones we cut were huge! Scroll down to see the photos from our visit! The Andreotti’s have multiple farm locations but the sunflower fields are located at 800 Cabrillo Hwy N, Half Moon Bay.

Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

Just about an hour south of San Francisco you can step into another world and walk among redwood giants. If FernGully was real, this would be the exact place to find woodland fairies! One of our all-time favorite hikes is the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve . This park has over 24 miles of trails, some with steep inclines so you will really be getting your cardio! If you are visiting the coastal Half Moon Bay area this is a great half-day hike.

Andreotti U-Pick Sunflower Farm in Half Moon Bay.

Giant sunflowers at the Andreotti U-Pick Sunflower Farm in Half Moon Bay.

San Benito House

The San Benito House Deli has the best sandwiches in Half Moon Bay with fresh baked bread (see image below). The San Benito House Hotel used to be a saloon and brothel back in the wild wild west days. If you stay at the hotel many of the rooms have the original furnishings and giant clawfoot bathtubs.

Pumpkin Patches in Half Moon Bay

Autumn is especially magical in Half Moon Bay because along Highway 92 and Highway 1 you'll find many adorable pumpkin patches , sunflower fields and flower nurseries. Every October there's a huge Pumpkin Festival with all kinds of foods made from pumpkins. Pumpkin ice cream is my favorite!

Cliffs views above Three Rocks Beach at Miramontes Point in Half Moon Bay.

Arcangeli Grocery Company Store

At the Pescadero Arcangeli Grocery Company Store you can pick up a custom made sandwich with their popular fresh baked artichoke and pesto ciabatta bread. Ask for the God Father sandwich, it's locally famous. This country store has all that old world rustic charm travelers love to experience. This shop is located not far from the beach so it makes for a great spot to grab picnic supplies.

Bean Hollow State Beach

Bean Hollow is a secluded and untouched beach located right near Pescadero. Found right off Highway 1, it’s very easy to quickly set up camp on the sand. We shot all the photos in this Pacific Coast Highway hidden gems blog post at Bean Hollow Beach.

Storefront of the San Benito Deli on Main Street in Half Moon Bay.

Sandwiches from the San Benito Deli in Half Moon Bay.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

The Pigeon Point Lighthouse is actually a hostel and you can book a night's stay in this historical spot. The photo opportunities here are so Insta-worthy, keep scrolling below to see the pics from our visit.

Ano Nuevo Beach

Ano Nuevo is a very private beach is known for beautiful bluff views and a large population of elephant seals. While we didn't find any seals during our visit (breeding season is in the winter), we enjoyed the very quiet and peaceful scene away from all the typical beach crowds.

Pool deck with colorful patio chairs at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo.

Pink road sign at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo.

Ornate flower decor inside the bathroom of the Old Fashioned Honeymoon Suite at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo.

Strawberry & Olallieberries Berry Picking

Last year we headed out to Swanton Berry Farm in Davenport, Ca. During the summer months you can pick fresh strawberries and olallieberries straight from the farm and pay by the pound. It is so much fun to be out in the country and the strawberries are so sweet (way better than store bought). Now that's what you call farm to table!

Santa Cruz is the Northern California hub for surfing and a very popular weekend destination for folks all around California. The weather tends to perfect - not too hot in the summer but warmer and sunnier than the San Francisco Bay Area. There’s a lot of colorful areas, a vibrant downtown scene and of course beautiful beaches.

Rocky ocean shores at the Point Lobos State Marine Reserve in Carmel.

White sand on the Carmel Beach at Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Courtyard and gardens outside the Carmel Mission.

Beach Town Capitola

Capitola is a colorful little beach town located at the north end of Monterey Bay, almost a 2 hour drive south of San Francisco. The sandy beach is a perfect place to lay out a blanket and enjoy a summer picnic. Feeling adventurous? Take a walk under the pier or grab your surf board and catch some waves. The local Esplanade is full of great eats and shops to explore, you can watch the sunset on the dock while enjoying fresh caught seafood. Yum!

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Just south of Monterey is the small village known as Carmel-by-the-Sea . We took a family road trip to Carmel when my daughter was a baby and enjoyed a relaxing long weekend on the beach. For those who love to hike and watch wildlife, there’s a variety of trails at the Point Lobos State Marine Reserve.

Family day at Bean Hollow State Beach along Highway 1.

Playing in the surf at Bean Hollow State Beach along Highway 1.

San Luis Obispo

I was particularly impressed with the food scene during our visit to San Luis Obispo . Local restaurants are featuring a variety of fresh and inventive gourmet eats along with great atmosphere with contemporary style. During our 3-day stay we ate handcrafted artesian food, we shopped adorable boutiques and we slept in vintage luxury at the Granada Hotel .

Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo

Located in the heart of San Luis Obispo, the Madonna Inn has become a California landmark and a favorite road trip destination. As one of the most photographed hotels in all California, the Madonna Inn has so many unusual sights that you could spend hours exploring the grounds. One of the first things you might notice when looking at all these photos is "My gosh, the decor is just so tacky!". And you would be spot on to think so, the fabulously tacky style of the Madonna Inn is it's claim to fame. Each of the 110 rooms has a unique theme with an over-the-top interior design scheme, making each stay at the inn a new experience.

The Market inside Abbott Square in Santa Cruz.

Surf boards and beach themed wall art inside Sawyer / Land, Sea & Supply shop in Santa Cruz.

Carlsbad Flower Fields

The famous flower fields are located in Carlsbad in Southern California, about 40 miles north of San Diego. The blossoms are known as the "Persian Buttercup" and the fields of these beauties stretch for 50 rainbow acres. The flower season begins in March and the fields remain open until mid-May.

I lived in San Diego for a year and my favorite part was exploring all the different neighborhoods. I have published over 18 San Diego guides on the blog , there’s so many areas to explore in this beach-side metropolis. From the beaches, where to eat, colorful murals and more - you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit on this website.

Raw natural honey from local bees for sale at a farm stand in Half Moon Bay.

Fresh berries from local farms for sale in Pescadero.

La Jolla in San Diego

The San Diego city of La Jolla is the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway. It's got all the vacation essentials you need including colorful murals, artesian food and endless beach sunsets. I've built a quick and easy guide to popular spots in La Jolla . Looking for amazing Instagram photo spots? Want to eat a delicious meal on a rooftop while gazing into a sunset sky? It's all here!

Coronado Beach & Hotel

When I first moved to San Diego so many people told me: "You have to go visit Coronado Beach !". There was so much buzz about this spot and when I checked it out in person I understood why. In 2012 this beach was named number one of all the beaches in the United States! The beach is maintained by the prestigious Hotel del Coronado and has an old world charm. When my friend visited she said it felt very much like the Hamptons, which is a great way to describe it. The best part is that the beach is open to the public, so you don't have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it. You can even order cocktails at the bar and sip a margarita on the beach!

View of the sunset setting over the ocean from San Diego's Mission Beach.

Mission Beach

The Mission Beach area of San Diego is that quintessential California cool spot with surfers and chill vibes. During our weekend visit to Mission Beach, we walked down the Oceansfront Boardwalk from Mission Beach to Pacific Beach, stopping to enjoy some sherbet and snow cones. We strolled down Crystal Pier and admired the adorable little white beach cottages that sit above the water.

RV Road Trippin’

Pinterest has predicted that the fastest growing trend in traveling is “Van Life”, meaning skipping the hotels and taking your RV on the road. The perks to RV traveling include waking up right next to the beach, especially when you’re parking it for the night in one of these San Diego RV parks .

See more California road trip guides on the blog:

The Ghost Town of Bodie

California National Parks Checklist

13 Hidden Secret Spots in Joshua Tree National Park

Travel Guide to California's Silicon Valley

San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip Itinerary

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Book a Stay At One Of these stylish hotels along Highway 1:

Hotel del Coronado

in San Diego.

Granada Hotel

in San Luis Obispo.

Ritz Carlton

in Half Moon Bay.

Madonna Inn

in Santa Cruz.

Proper Hotel

in San Francisco.

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The Ultimate California Highway 1 Road Trip Guide

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Home / Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway road trip driving distance map from California to Oregon and Washington

For some reason, when people elsewhere in the country refer to the Pacific Coast, particularly California, it’s apparent that they think it’s a land of kooks, an overbuilt suburban desert supporting only shopping malls, freeways, and body-obsessed airheads. All this may be true in small pockets, but the amazing thing about the Pacific Coast—from the dense green forests of western Washington to the gorgeous beaches of Southern California—is that it is still mostly wild, open, and astoundingly beautiful country, where you can drive for miles and miles and have the scenery all to yourself.

Planning a West Coast Road Trip

Road Trip USA’s Pacific Coast route begins at the northwest tip of the United States at Port Townsend near Olympic National Park, and remains within sight of the ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border. This 1,650-mile (2,655 km), mostly two-lane route takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert. Most of the Pacific Coast is in the public domain, accessible, and protected from development within national, state, and local parks, which provide habitat for such rare creatures as mountain lions, condors, and gray whales.

A misty day at rocky Cape Flattery on Washington's Olympic Peninsula.

Heading south, after the rough-and-tumble logging and fishing communities of Washington State, you cross the mouth of the Columbia River and follow the comparatively peaceful and quiet Oregon coastline, where recreation has by and large replaced industry, and where dozens of quaint and not-so-quaint communities line the ever-changing shoreline. At the midway point, you pass through the great redwood forests of Northern California, where the tallest and most majestic living things on earth line the Avenue of the Giants, home also to some of the best (meaning gloriously kitsch) remnants of the golden age of car-borne tourism: drive-through trees, drive-on trees, houses carved out of trees, and much more. The phenomenally beautiful coast-line of Northern California is rivaled only by the incredible coast of Big Sur farther south, beyond which stretches the beachfronts of Southern California. The land of palm trees, beach boys, and surfer girls of popular lore really does exist, though only in the southernmost quarter of the state.

Along with the overwhelming scale of its natural beauty, the West Coast is remarkable for the abundance of well-preserved historic sites—most of which haven’t been torn down, built on, or even built around—that stand as vivid evocations of life on what was once the most distant frontier of a new nation. While rarely as old as places on the East Coast, or as impressive as those in Europe, these diverse sites include the Spanish colonial missions of California, Russian and English fur-trading outposts, and the place where Lewis and Clark first sighted the Pacific after their long slog across the continent.

Last but certainly not least are the energizing cities— Seattle and Portland in the north, San Francisco in the middle, and Los Angeles and San Diego to the south—that serve as gateways to (or civilized respites from) the landscapes between them. Add to these the dozens of small and not-so-small towns along the coast, with alternating blue-collar ports and up-scale vacation retreats, and you have a great range of food, drink, and accommodations options. Local cafés, seafood grills, and bijou restaurants abound, as do places to stay—from youth hostels in old lighthouses to roadside motels (including the world’s first, which still stands in lovely San Luis Obispo, California) to homespun B&Bs in old farmhouses.

10 Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

For more insight into each stop along a West Coast road trip, our content is arranged by state, with California’s coastline broken into its northern, central, and southern sections. Here are ten major sights along the Pacific Coast Highway where travelers aiming to follow only a section of the full cross-country route may wish to use to plan their drive:

Sunset at McWay falls in Big Sur along the Pacific Coast Highway

Olympic National Park, Washington – Combines the features of Maine’s rocky coast, the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and the unique rainforests of the Pacific Northwest
Astoria & Fort Clatsop, Oregon – Part of the extensive Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, Fort Clatsop is just outside the oldest American city west of the Rockies
“Dune Country,” Oregon – Hop out of the car and into a dune buggy to travel through some of the tallest sand dunes in the world
Redwood National Park, California – Stretch your legs with a walk through Lady Bird Johnson Grove
Mendocino, California – One of the prettiest towns on the California coast, and extra fun for fans of the TV show Murder, She Wrote
San Francisco, California – Easily one of the most enjoyable cities in the US and a great place to start, end, or spend a weekend along the Pacific Coast Highway
Monterey, California – Home to the excellent Monterey Bay Aquarium and the internationally famous Monterey Jazz Festival
San Simeon, California (Hearst Castle) – One of the truly unique attractions to see on a classic Highway 1 road trip
San Luis Obispo, California – A lively college town with a beautiful 18th-century Spanish mission to tour, and the Madonna Inn, one of the quirkiest places to spend a night
Los Angeles, California – Hollywood, Sunset Boulevard, and an intersection with another storied road trip: Route 66
San Diego, California – Beautiful beaches, grand buildings, and home to the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the world

Related Travel Guides

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The Ultimate California Highway 1 Road-Trip Itinerary

Trina Hendry

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/LQZR7L/the-ultimate-california-highway-1-road-trip-itinerary

Road Trip Travel

Nature Escapes

Sightseeing

Curator’s statement

A cruise down California's Highway 1 — the PCH as it is affectionately known by locals — from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the quintessential California road trip. As you journey through quaint towns and stunning landscapes unlike anywhere else on the planet, you will find yourself mesmerized by the postcard-perfect beauty and sheer diversity of this 500-mile stretch of highway. This five-day adventure covers all of the main attractions, from Bixby Bridge in Big Sur to the beaches of Malibu, with stops at hidden gems and local haunts along the way.

The Fora Difference

Book with Trina to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Cambria beach lodge.

Indulge in coastal relaxation at Cambria Beach Lodge, where modern comforts, breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere combine for a memorable stay along the stunning Central Coast of California.

Food & beverage credit.

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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

The Surfrider

Located at Surfrider Beach, a great pick for easy access to the Malibu Pier, featuring rooms with a sophisticated, yet laid-back Californian feel.

Complimentary wetsuit rentals.

Upgrade whenever possible.

Shutters on the Beach

The classic Santa Monica beach experience, the lobby makes this property feel more intimate, but the pool is a great scene.

$100 food / beverage credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

A luxury lifestyle hotel on sun-drenched Wilshire Boulevard where guests will have a front-row seat to sunsets over the Pacific.

Complimentary bottle of wine in room on arrival.

Complimentary welcome gift on arrival.

Monterey Tides

Experience the coastal charm of Monterey Tides, where ocean views, sandy beaches and laid-back vibes create the perfect beachfront getaway.

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Day 1: San Franciso to Monterey

Start the day with an early breakfast at Tartine Manufactory to fuel up for the 120-mile drive to Monterey. Hop onto CA 1 and drive to Half Moon Bay for a seafood lunch at Sam’s Chowder House . Sam’s is famous for its Lobster Roll, which is hailed as one of the “Five Best Sandwiches in America” by The Today Show. As you make your way south, take a quick pitstop in Capitola, the most darling candy-colored beach town near Santa Cruz. It is also the oldest beach resort on the West Coast. Depending on the time, you may wish to meander along the famous 17-mile drive at Pebble Beach before arriving in Monterey. Check into either the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa or the Monterey Tides , a recently renovated boutique hotel right on the beach. Tip : If you stay at Monterey Tides, ask for the second or third floor for the best vistas. Cap off a perfect day with a seaside dinner at Fish Hopper , located on the pier at Cannery Row.

Day 2: Monterey to Cambria

Begin the day with an early morning beach walk before driving 10 minutes south to the quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea for breakfast at iconic Katy’s Place . If you love eggs benedict you will die and go to hollandaise heaven with more than 20 varieties to choose from. After a leisurely walk around town, it’s time to head to Big Sur! Your first stop Bixby Bridge for the iconic Big Sur view and photo.

Grab coffee-to-go and a chocolate cookie at Big Sur Bakery and then admire McWay Falls from the overlook trail. As hunger sets it, it is time to head to Nepenthe for a leisurely lunch of California fare perched on a Big Sur cliff overlooking the ocean. The views are magnificent. Head out toward the central coast beach town of Cambria, stopping to see the elephant seals sunbathing at the rookery in San Simeon. San Simeon is also the home to Hearst Castle, which I highly recommend it if you’ve never been. In Cambria, stop in at the Cambria Pines Lodge’s Fireside Lounge for Happy Hour or an early dinner before checking in to the hotel. Check into the Cambria Beach Lodge just in time to watch the sunset at Moonstone Beach.

Day 3: Cambria to Santa Barbara

After enjoying a complimentary continental breakfast in the lodge’s reception area, followed by a stroll through town, I highly recommend taking a quick inland detour off Highway 1 to Paso Robles for a morning of wine tasting. Head back to the 101 freeway to San Luis Obispo for lunch, a slice of the renowned Pink Champagne Cake and a bathroom break at the quirky Madonna Inn. Tip : The inn is famous for its restrooms, especially the men’s, which has a waterfall over the urinal!

As you make you way down the central coast, you pass through the towns Santa Ynez Valley, sometimes referred to as Napa’s baby sister, including Los Alamos (the trendiest town in the region at the moment,) Los Olivos and Buellton, the town made famous in the wine cult film, “Sideways." Arrive in Santa Barbara mid-to-late-afternoon and head straight to the Funk Zone for some more wine tasting at Municipal Wines, or the other 14 tasting rooms that make up Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail . Check in at Hotel Californian, a stunning Moroccan-inspired hotel steps from the beach. You’ll be hard pressed to find a bad meal in Santa Barbara. I highly recommend making a reservation at Bibi Ji , a modern Indian street food restaurant on State Street. Other popular restaurants with walking distance of the hotel include The Lark (New American), Loquita (Spanish tapas) and Lucky Penny (pizza.) If you wish to venture out a bit further from the funk zone, La Super-Rica Taqueria is always a hit as is Bettina (Italian) in Montecito and Toma (Mediterrean) on State Steet in downtown Santa Barbara.

Day 4: Santa Barbara to Malibu

Kick off the day in Santa Barbara at Helena Avenue Bakery for a cold brew coffee and their famous Breakfast Sandwich on Brioche. On your way out of town, I highly recommend you stop at Metropoulos Fine Foods Merchant , a delicious gourmet food shop and deli. Have them pack up a couple of sandwiches for the road. Trust me, they are some of the best handhelds you will ever eat, and this food emporium is a local favorite. Take the 101 S to Ventura County and follow the signs back to Highway 101 of the scenic drive to Malibu. If the tide is out, make a pit stop at Leo Carillo State Beach to explore the tide pools or go for a beach stroll at one of the most stunning So Cal beaches, El Matador. Check in at the Surfrider Malibu , an exclusive 20-room Californian Beach House located on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, across the street from the world-famous Surfrider beach.

Lunch/brunch at Malibu Farm directly across the street from the hotel on the Malibu Pier. I normally go the cafe at the end of the pier, but this epic journey is worthy of a meal at the organic, farm-to-table restaurant at the beginning of the pier. After lunch, do a bit of shopping at Aviator Nation (located directly across from the pier) and Malibu Country Mart , which is excellent for not only local and designer brands but also for people watching. End the day by watching the sunset with a glass of wine in hand on the hotel’s rooftop, or catch Happy Hour and sunset views at the Malibu Beach Inn’s Carbon Beach Club or Nobu, both located a very short walk from the hotel.

Day 5: Malibu to Los Angeles

Beautiful blue water beach with people and green hills.

No trip to Malibu would be complete without a hike. I suggest driving back up the coast for about 15 minutes to the Point Dume Nature Preserve, which offers beautiful walking trails and a wooden boardwalk along the cliff, as well as stairs down to the quiet beach where you will often find sea lions sunning themselves and dolphins frolicking in the surf. Other great hiking options include Escondido Falls and Solstice Canyon. If you’re hungry, head to the Point Dume plaza for Lily’s famous breakfast burrito. I suggest calling in your order though as they take 45 minutes to prepare and there is often a line-up. Head back down the coast to Santa Monica to begin your Los Angeles adventure. For beachside accommodation, Oceana and Shutters on the Beach are excellent choices. Santa Monica Proper is my favorite hotel in Los Angeles, and if you prefer to stay in the heart of the action, aka West Hollywood, the Pendry Hotel and 1 Hotel West Hollywood would be my picks.

Travel Advisor

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Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Grace Hilty’s guide, 3 Days in Big Sur, California .

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California .

Ultimate California Highway 1 Road Trip

Drive. Dine. Walk. Gawk. Find joy. Explore 735 gorgeous miles of the iconic road with these essential stops along the way.

Laguna Beach to Santa Monica

Highway 1 begins unceremoniously, emerging from a tangle of freeway ramps in Orange County’s Dana Point. There’s a glimpse of ocean, but it isn’t until Laguna Beach that Highway 1 becomes Pacific Coast Highway in more than name. In the O.C., the luxe life is everywhere—pastel villas, yachts, and the requisite Ferrari dealer—while Huntington Beach delivers the simpler pleasures of 10 miles of beachfront. Then the road veers from the ocean, even going underground beneath the runways at LAX. All of which makes it that much sweeter when Highway 1 escapes the darkness of the McClure Tunnel to bask in the Santa Monica sun.

Miles: 60 | Number of boats in Newport Harbor: 9,000 | Surf shops in Huntington Beach: 13 | Lights on Santa Monica Pier’s Pacific Wheel: 160,000

Most Beautiful Stretch of Sand, Laguna Beach

Jumping for Joy, Laguna Beach

Ultimate Coastal Combo, Laguna Beach

Perfect Fish Sandwiches, Newport Beach

A Soulful Surfing Superstore, Huntington Beach

Far out Footprints, Huntington Beach

Legends of the Surf, Huntington Beach

A Peerless Pier, Manhattan Beach

Wild Ride, Manhattan Beach

A Stay at the Shore, Santa Monica

Malibu to Lompoc

Secluded Sands, Malibu

Perfect Pause, Malibu

Island Idyll, Ventura

Seaside Seafood, Santa Barbara

Match Made in Heaven, Santa Barbara County

Golden Road, Santa Barbara County

The Hills Are Alive, Santa Barbara County

Miracle Burgers, Jalama Beach

Serenity Now, Jalama Beach

The New Wine Country, Lompoc

Cayucos to Point Lobos

Smokin' Good Fish, Cayucos

The Magic Castle, San Simeon

Unfortunately, Hearst Castle is closed during the summer of 2020 due to COVID-19, with no firm reopening date set. Please check the castle's web site before you go to see if it has reopened.

A Bend in the Redwoods, Big Sur

Solitary Strolling, Big Sur

Cozy Hangout, Big Sur

Dining with a View, Big Sur

Secret Bargain, Big Sur

Greatest Hike, Point Lobos

Postcard-Perfect Scenery, Point Lobos

Pebble Beach to Half Moon Bay

After the untamed drama of Big Sur, Highway 1 makes a calmer approach to the sweep of Monterey Bay. The pleasures here are civilized: Pebble Beach’s fairways, Carmel’s galleries, and Pacific Grove’s narrow streets of tiny Victorian cottages. But along the Santa Cruz waterfront, the refined gives way to the endless summer pursuits of roller-coaster rides at the beachfront boardwalk and surfing the perfect waves at Steamer Lane. It can get big at Steamer but nothing like at Half Moon Bay, 50 miles north, where the Mavericks Invitational doesn’t even take place unless the wave faces reach 20 feet or more. So much for civilized pleasures.

Miles: 96 | Number of U.S. Opens held at Pebble Beach: 5 | Year people first surfed at Santa Cruz: 1885 | Top speed of Giant Dipper roller coaster: 46 mph

Lunch on the Links, Pebble Beach

Meet the Marine Life, Monterey

Perfect Beach Day, Monterey Bay

Thrill Rides, Santa Cruz

Picnic Pairings, Santa Cruz

Tasty Souvenirs, Davenport

Top Taps, Pescadero

Scenic Sentinel, Pescadero

Guided by Nature, San Mateo County

Hidden Gem, San Mateo County

Hidden Beaches, Half Moon Bay

Roadside Stunner, Half Moon Bay

San Francisco to Jenner

A Perfect Point of View, San Francisco

Lost in the Labyrinth, San Francisco

Fort Baker, Sausalito

Divine Descent, Point Reyes

Heaven on the Half-Shell, Inverness

Placid Path, Tomales Bay

Architectural Icon, Bodega Bay

A Private Pocket of the Coast, Jenner

Fortuitous Curves, Sonoma Coast

Sea Ranch to Rockport

The northernmost stretch of Highway 1 is moody. One hour it’s fog-wrapped and brooding. An hour later, a gentle sun gives highway, forest, and ocean a brilliant sparkle. The road skirts coastal towns that hug cliff tops (Elk) and pose tidily on bluffs (Mendocino). Rivers—the Navarro, the Little, the Big—curve beneath bridges as they meet the sea. This remains a working coast. Fort Bragg’s still a fishing port, and you may share the road with a logging truck. Above Rockport, Highway 1 bends inland toward its terminus at U.S. 101 at Leggett. Before that, linger among the redwoods that line its final miles: They’re stunning, unforgettable, like Highway 1.

Miles: 90 | Most recent value of year’s catch from Fort Bragg: $6.8 million | Number of B&Bs in Mendocino Village: 46 | Steps up Point Arena Lighthouse: 145

Stairway to Heaven, Point Arena

High Light, Point Arena

Cafe Society, Point Arena

Legendary Beauty, Sonoma Coast

A Marvelous Main Street, Elk

Paradise Found, Mendocino County

Bygone Era Charms, Mendocino

Under the Bridge, Fort Bragg

Big Trees, Rockport

Keep reading:.

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Driving California's Scenic Highway One

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

California's Highway One is a state highway. It runs from Capistrano Beach in Orange County to Leggett in northern Mendocino (Dana Point), a total of about 650 miles. You can tackle it in sections, pick just part of it to see or make the journey into a week-long road trip.

No matter what you have in mind, this guide links to detailed directions for every single mile of it, starting from the south.

Orange and Los Angeles Counties

Highway One begins in the town of Capistrano Beach in Orange County. From there, to Santa Monica and through Malibu, it's a city street.

It takes on several street names but is most often called Pacific Coast Highway (which locals shorten to PCH). Between Manhattan Beach and LAX, it's called Sepulveda. North of the airport to Santa Monica, it's Lincoln Blvd.

The route sometimes follows the coastline, but far more often it passes neighborhoods and mundane strip malls. The best parts of that route are from Laguna Beach to Naples (just south of Long Beach) and from Santa Monica through Malibu to Oxnard.

Santa Monica, Malibu, and Oxnard

One of the most scenic sections of Hwy 1 goes through beautiful Malibu . For the first part of the trip, the road passes the garages and back doors of coastal homes, but north of Pepperdine University it sometimes runs so near to the continent's edge that it feels like you could reach out and dangle your fingers in the water.

Oxnard to San Luis Obispo

North of Oxnard, CA Hwy 1 merges with US Hwy 101. The stretch of 101 between Oxnard and Santa Barbara is especially scenic, with views of the Channel Islands offshore.

Just north of the Gaviota Tunnel (which is north of Santa Barbara), Hwy 101 turns inland, and you won't see the ocean again until you get to Pismo Beach, and then only briefly.

Hwy 1 splits off from Hwy 101 north of Gaviota, passing through Lompoc and Guadalupe before rejoining Hwy 101 just south of Pismo Beach . This 50-mile section is sometimes called the Cabrillo Highway. You could drive it if you want to cover every single inch of the famous highway, but there's little of interest if you're just sightseeing. From Pismo Beach to San Luis Obispo, Highways 1 and 101 are the same.

San Luis Obispo to San Francisco

The road you think of as the Pacific Coast Highway is probably the section between San Luis Obispo and Monterey. Its sights include Hearst Castle , the Big Sur coast , Carmel , Monterey , and Santa Cruz .

Through the City of San Francisco

In the city of San Francisco , Hwy 1 is a street: 19th Avenue. It leads to the Golden Gate Bridge . It's a busy street with little to see and traffic that's more than annoying. You can get through town more easily by merging with I-280 north of Pacifica or by taking CA Hwy 35 north and following the coastline.

Golden Gate Bridge, Marin, Sonoma, and Mendocino

North of the Golden Gate Bridge, the official highway name of Highway 1 is Shoreline Highway. It passes along some dramatic coastline, through scenic Marin, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties . It ends north of Rockport, where it turns inland toward Leggett and disappears.

Tips and Advice

These tips and ideas will help make your trip more pleasant:

Check your gas gauge. There's no gasoline available for up to 40 miles in some stretches, especially in Big Sur and north of San Francisco.
"Go" when you have a chance. Restrooms are also scarce in those same areas.
Allow plenty of time. Assume you will average about 30 miles per hour (45 kph). A trip to Hearst Castle and Big Sur from San Luis Obispo can take most of a day. San Francisco to Mendocino can be a very tiring all-day drive.
If anyone in your party suffers from motion sickness, be prepared. If that party is a licensed adult, try letting them drive which helps control nausea.
If you are driving Highway One in only one direction, go from south to north if you can. You will be driving on the less knuckle-whitening insides of the curves and views are clearer toward the north.
If you are driving the road in both directions (making a round trip to Hearst Castle from Big Sur, for example), avoid crossing traffic to see things on the opposite side of the road. Save them for the return trip instead.
CA Hwy 1 is prone to closure due to landslides, especially during rainy winters. Check its condition online or call 800-427-7623 before you go.

It's always good practice to follow these safety tips, but they become even more important along busy CA Hwy 1:

Drive defensively. Avoid dangerous situations and allow plenty of distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
Buckle up! California law requires it for the driver and all passengers.
Pull over if five or more cars are following you. It's also a California law, but only do it when you can pull over safely
Don't pass where there are double yellow lines. This rule is more important than ever on the curve-filled sections of the highway where visibility is limited.

Take a Road Trip on Scenic Highway 395

Carmel's 17-Mile Drive: The Complete Guide

Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway in the Los Angeles Area

10 Top Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California

Eleven Roses Ranch: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Things to Do Along California’s Highway 1 Discovery Route

Top Things to Do in Santa Barbara, California

12 Top Things to Do in Monterey, Carmel, and Pacific Grove

Ventura County Beaches

Humboldt County Beaches

Best Spas in California

The Best Santa Cruz Beaches For Every Activity

The Weirdest Places in California

A Guide to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Best Orange County Beaches

An Offbeat California Highway 1 Road Trip

Updated March 2024

The California road trip is probably one of the most iconic adventures you can take in the United States. Locals and international travelers alike are drawn to the sense of freedom, wonder, and awe that a journey along the Pacific inspires. While it’s possible to do the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles in one (long) day, it’s totally worthwhile to take the time to discover the hidden treasures and well-loved stops of this route. This guide to the ultimate West Coast road trip features great stops, super scenic overlooks and, of course, the perfect overnight locations to rest and dream about the next day’s adventure.

San Francisco to Pescadero

The good times start at HI San Francisco Downtown hostel , where you’re in the heart of the city so you can do plenty of exploring before you head out. There’s a car rental spot right across the road from the hostel, or, if you’re taking your own car, you’ll find parking is easier when you stay at HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf hostel .

Since Pescadero, the closest little town to HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse hostel , is only about an hour’s drive away on the famous Highway 1, you can set off a little later in the morning. Once you hit Highway 1, take your time winding along the tree-lined way that eventually transforms to flat, green farmland on one side and sparkly blue ocean on the other. You’ll go past the town of Half Moon Bay and past HI Point Montara Lighthouse hostel , where you can take a peek at the historic lighthouse .

Keep going and you’ll get tempted by the colorful roadside farm stalls heavy with seasonal fruits and vegetables – stock up here and get off the highway to Stage Road in Pescadero for a stop at Arcangeli Grocery, where it’s kind of mandatory to pick up a loaf of their signature steamy artichoke bread. Enjoy your picnic wares at Bean Hollow State Beach, which has two sheltered coves perfect for watching the waves, and afterwards, take a rather incredible mile-long walk to Pebble Beach. The trail is perfect for getting a close look at the undisturbed native coastal landscape, tide pools and colonies of birds and harbor seals

From here, it’s only a few more miles to HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse hostel , your first stop of the trip. As soon as you check in, be sure to book your half-hour slot in the famous hot tub at the edge of the water. Check out the lighthouse and the fog signal building, where you can also see the impressive Fresnel lens that once cast the light out into the sea. If you’d like to stay a bit longer and explore more of what the area has to offer, it’s quite easy to spend two perfect days at Pigeon Point .

Driving Distance : 50.7 miles

Pescadero to Santa Cruz

Bench overlooking the ocean at Pescadero Beach

The next leg of the journey is about 45-minute drive to laid-back Santa Cruz, so once again, you can enjoy a relaxing morning taking in the scenery before you head out. A bounty of charming little towns and unbelievable beaches await on the road ahead, so even the though the drive is fairly short, you’ll be making plenty of stops to take photos and simply marvel. Don’t miss Davenport, which is a blink-and-you-miss-it sort of place that also happens to have a stunning beach peppered with fascinating rock formations, making it a favorite of photographers.

Then, just before you get to Santa Cruz, there’s Natural Bridges State Park, a beach area named after the huge arched rock that sits just beyond the shore. This is also another excellent spot for tide pooling, but you may be more drawn to the local monarch butterfly preserve and plethora of birds.

Once you’re in Santa Cruz, it’s totally worth making a stop at the boardwalk amusement park, which is the oldest surviving one in California. After you’ve had your fill of old-school Americana, fun rides, and fair food, keep going towards Moss Landing, another quaint beach town with an incredible marsh alive with local birds and wildlife. Take time to hike along one of the trails and then grab a drink or a snack at one of the many restaurants with great views. There’s also the option to spend the night at Santa Cruz Hostel , which is perched at the top of the Beach Hill neighborhood.

Driving Distance : 35.3 miles

Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo

Bixby Canyon Bridge on Highway 1 in California

Follow Highway 1 south and take in what’s probably the most photogenic part of the Pacific Coast Highway, mainly because of the Big Sur coast with its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking vistas. The first iconic must-see is the Bixby Bridge, which arcs over a huge rocky canyon and into the ocean, and along the way there are other stop-worthy beaches, including McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Partington Cove. This drive is the longest stretch so far, and will probably take even longer because of all the stops you’ll want to make for photos, so be prepared!

This next stretch leads you to San Luis Obispo, a quirky-cool college town with a lively downtown. A must-visit is germaphobe’s nightmare Bubblegum Alley. It’s become a bit of a tradition to add your own gum to this wall, so chew away then leave a piece of yourself behind. Along with great beaches, this corner of California has excellent farmers markets and great hikes. Just ask the folks at Hostel Obispo to point you in the right direction no matter what you’re in the mood for.

Driving Distance : 177 miles

San Luis Obispo to Santa Monica

It’s the final leg! This part of Highway 1 doesn’t hug the ocean for the first half, so you can make a straight shot for Santa Barbara and your first taste of Southern California life. Wander around Stearns Wharf, a favorite spot for locals and visitors to eat, shop and take magnificent photographs of the Pacific and the remarkable mountains on the other side. As is par for the course along this coast, there are lots of awesome beaches to stop at for breaks and picnics before you get to your final destination!

HI Los Angeles Santa Monica hostel is ideally located right in the heart of LA’s trendy west side. You’ll be within easy walking distance of the beach and the iconic Santa Monica pier, and hostel staff recommendations will give you an insider’s taste of the city of Los Angeles. And once you’ve experienced it all, you can tick the California road trip off your bucket list, and resist the urge to turn around and do it all over again!

Driving Distance : 207 miles

Friends' Trip
Los Angeles
Pigeon Point
San Francisco

Your ultimate guide to Sequoia National Park

W ere you to tally up all the locations and landmarks that capture the enormous state of California in a single image, you might find that you have compiled quite the list. The Hollywood Sign would be there; the Golden Gate Bridge too. The much-curving stretch of Highway 1 that connects San Francisco to Los Angeles would make the cut; as would any number of the beaches (at Malibu and Santa Barbara) on the way. You would probably add Yosemite National Park , with its cliffs and granite monoliths. And if you somehow forgot the valley vineyards of Napa and Sonoma, well, go back and start again.

But you should also include another picture; one that comes with a particular power and natural wow-factor: A single sequoia tree – or redwood, to use the more familiar name – pushing the limits of physics and plausibility as it thrusts its branches high into the sky. Up, up, to the extent that you can scarcely see the top; your hand to your face to shield your eyes from the sun; your neck craned so far back that you begin to lose your own balance – wobbling on your feet even as the tree maintains its poise right in front of you.

There are several Californian hotspots where you can see arboreal titans such as these. At Redwood National and State Parks, near Klamath, in the far north-west of the state. At Humboldt Redwoods State Park, 80 miles further south (but about 200 miles north of San Francisco) – where the “Avenue of the Giants” showcases these monsters of the woods in all their high glory. At Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, on the aforementioned Highway 1.

But the redwood rises most splendidly in Sequoia National Park , where it sprouts across 631 square miles of forested terrain, on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada. If you have ever wanted to stand at the foot of a living organism, many many times taller than yourself, and feel gloriously small in your shoes, this may be the place.

Where is Sequoia National Park?

As with two other big-hitters of the state’s national-park network – Yosemite and Death Valley – Sequoia National Park sits on the eastern side of central California. It is easily combined with both these “neighbours” (Death Valley is directly to the east), as part of a road trip – as, for all its wildness, Sequoia is reasonably accessible. It sits almost exactly at the heart of the triangle formed by Los Angeles , San Francisco and their Nevada counterpart Las Vegas – 200 miles north of the first, 275 miles south-east of the second, 225 miles west of the third. Each city is a feasible launchpad for a journey in search of it.

Anyone planning to see the national park should also consider a stop at another of its neighbours. Indeed, Sequoia sits so near as to be contiguous with Kings Canyon National Park, its colleague immediately to the north (the National Park Service brackets them together; Kings Canyon shares Sequoia’s official website). As its name suggests, this second protected space cradles a deep scar in the soil; Kings Canyon is a glacier-carved remnant of the Ice Age, over a mile deep in parts, and home to sequoia groves of its own.

What is Sequoia National Park known for?

Proof of the old adage that “size matters”. Not only does the national park play host to the aptly titled “Giant Forest”, this particular cluster of sequoias contains what are believed to be five of the ten biggest trees on the planet. Chief among these is “General Sherman’’, the behemoth thought to be the world’s largest (although – for the record – neither the tallest, nor the oldest) single-stem tree. Estimated to be as much as 2,700 years old, the General achieves a height of 275ft (84m) – and has a maximum diameter of 36ft (11m).

Nor is General Sherman alone in being the champion in its field. Sequoia National Park also (partly) contains the highest mountain in the US’s “lower” 48 states (ie, excluding Hawaii and Alaska). Mount Whitney is every bit as majestic as the trees around it; the star of the Sierra Nevada, all 14,505ft (4,421m) of it. Use its “other” name, “Tumanguya” – as it is referred to in the indigenous Paiute language – and it sounds more majestic still.

All of this has been written into the American law-books for over 130 years. Sequoia National Park was formally founded in the mists of the 19th century (in September 1890).

Which animals are found in Sequoia National Park?

Sequoia National Park’s mountainous aspect means it is home to creatures which thrive at higher elevations. Black bears prowl the forests; mule deer flit and dart through them. Mountain lions, though rare, are there in the shadows. Smaller and far more common are pikas (relations of the rabbit) and pine squirrels. If you are exceedingly lucky, you may spot a California condor swirling in the firmament, or the northern pygmy owl perched quietly in a tree. Less fortune is needed to glimpse an American dipper or a Canyon wren.

What to do in Sequoia National Park

As well as the sights listed above, you might attempt all the below during a visit to the national park(s):

Meet the ‘other’ General

Where Sequoia National Park has General Sherman, Kings Canyon has General Grant. Another redwood rock-star, this totemic tree cannot quite match its big brother for size – it is “only” the planet’s second biggest sequoia, with a height of 267ft (82m) and a circumference of 108ft (33m). But it has the distinction of being named after a former US president (Ulysses Grant, White House resident 1869-77).

Reach the rooftop

It may sound like madness, but you can ascend to the top of Mount Whitney – and thus the roof of the contiguous USA – without mountaineering expertise. The key is the Mount Whitney Trail, an 11-mile path to the peak that can be hiked (and scrambled) rather than climbed, especially in summer when the ice has melted. You need to be in good physical condition – but the 22-mile round trip is possible in 12 or so hours.

Espy the splash

Sequoia National Park provides a less strenuous hiking option in the 1.7-mile trail which meanders from the Lodgepole Campground to the foot of Tokopah Falls. Your impression of the cascade in question will depend on the season. Though its flow measures some 1,200ft (370m), water rushing across a granite headwall, its autumn appearance (a gentle trickle) can be wholly different to spring (an ice-melt extravaganza).

Best feet forward

There are plenty of possibilities for those who like to set off in hiking boots – and keep going. The Mineral King Valley – a sumptuous sub-alpine groove in the south of Sequoia National Park – is laced with pathways and routes are available online . These include the 4.2 miles of the Monarch Lakes Trail, which shows off two glacial legacies (the Upper and Lower Monarch Lakes) as they capture the adjacent Sawtooth Peak in their mirrored surfaces. Kings Canyon has the Rae Lakes Loop; a 41-mile odyssey that requires prior backpacking experience, and lots of stamina.

How to get to Sequoia National Park

If you are heading to Sequoia from overseas, you will almost certainly approach it from one of the big cities within its orbit – most of which welcome direct flights from the UK. American Airlines , British Airways , Delta , United and Virgin Atlantic serve Los Angeles from Heathrow. Virgin, United and BA all fly into San Francisco from the same London hub, while BA also offers a direct connection to less-heralded San Jose (from Heathrow). BA and Virgin both visit Las Vegas from Heathrow, while BA also flies in from Gatwick.

The national park’s position in a high-altitude area of the Sierra Nevada makes for a limited choice of routes in. In effect, there are only two – from the west, via Fresno, on Route 180; from the south, on Route 65, probably via Bakersfield, and on through Three Rivers. The majority of visitors use the southern approach, which has a lower elevation. This, marginally, makes Los Angeles the best start-point. Any trip from Las Vegas will also call for a drive around to the southern route, as there is no way across the ridgeline from the east.

For further inspiration read our guides to Los Angeles and Las Vegas .

Where to stay in Sequoia National Park

Wuksachi lodge.

The main accommodation inside Sequoia National Park is this 102-room stronghold, near the southern entrance, in the Giant Forest. Officially, it is open throughout the year, but its lofty position (7,050ft/1,980m) means access may not be guaranteed during the winter.

From £233; visitsequoia.com

John Muir Lodge

This inviting kernel of sturdy accommodation is actually located in Kings Canyon National Park. Set in Grant Grove Village, John Muir Lodge comes with 36 rooms, nearby shops, and plenty of sequoias – and is open to guests between spring and autumn.

From £84; visitsequoia.com

Grant Grove Cabins

Grant Grove holds its head up at significant elevation, troubling the clouds at 6,500ft (1,980m). Those dreaming of a more rustic style of lodging may be drawn to this cluster of comfortable cabins, which tends to open for the year when the last snow melts in May.

From £97; visitsequoia.com

When to visit Sequoia National Park

Both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are open throughout the year, although access roads can be closed by heavy snowfall. Snow chains may be necessary in winter.

Before you arrive

Check ahead: The official website provides a running list of closures caused by snow, fire or other issues. For example, at time of writing (August 2024), Crystal Cave – a three-mile feast of stalactites and stalagmites; the only accessible member of Sequoia’s 270-strong cave club – is roped off from the public and there is extensive road damage and closures, due to winter storm damage.
Whitney wait-list: You need a permit (US$15/£12) to hike the Mount Whitney Trail. The number of these passes is capped in the high season (May-October), and issued via a lottery held in February ( register online ). A permit is still needed outside the summer months, but there is no limit on hiker numbers between November and April.
Fee and easy: National-park entry costs $35 (£28) for a private car or minibus and all passengers (up to a maximum of 15 people); $20 (£16) per person for individuals arriving on foot or on a bicycle. Each pass is valid for seven days, and covers both national parks.

Safety and admittance

Heat of the moment: Both national parks are vulnerable to wildfires (Sequoia suffered in 2020 and 2021). Their official website gives detailed information on when and where visitors are permitted to build campfires.
Paws for thought: As in many other California national parks, bears will happily break into cars whose drivers have been daft enough to leave food and snacks inside after dark.

This story was first published in April 2023 and has been revised and updated.

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Sequoia National Park host to the aptly titled 'Giant Forest'

The 4 Best Ways to Travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima

Traveling from Kyoto to Hiroshima means covering about 360 km (224 miles).

The fastest and most convenient way is using the Shinkansen (bullet train), which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes.

You could also have a private road transfer for the most flexible transit.

Highway buses are cheaper, but take longer.

For those who prefer air travel, there are planes from Osaka airports to Hiroshima Airport, which take about 1 hour without including airport transfers.

1. JR-Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Speed and Convenience

There are two options of traveling between Kyoto and Hiroshima using the JR-Shinkansen (Bullet Train).

The fastest option is the Nozomi , which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes along the Tokaido–Sanyo Shinkansen line.

The next quickest are the Haruka Limited Express and Nishi–Akashi , which are only slightly slower, taking approximately 2 hours along the JR-Kyoto Line via Shin–Osaka Station.

Which Trains Are Best: Nozomi, Haruka Limited Express, or Nishi-Akashi?

The Shinkansen Nozomi option only has three stops (Shin–Ōsaka Station, Shin–Kōbe Station, and Okayama), making it the speediest way to travel to Hiroshima.

The Haruka 1 Limited Express and Loca–Nishi–Akashi require a transfer at Shin-Osaka Station, adding an extra 20–25 minutes to their journeys.

Train Schedules

How to buy train tickets.

Use the JR West Timetable & Route Finder to find the best trains for your journey.

Purchasing tickets is simple. You can find ticket machines and ticket offices beside all the shinkansen ticket gates.

When buying your tickets, you will receive two cards and a receipt. One card is your basic fare ticket (joshaken) which you can use to pass through regular JR ticket gates. The other card is your super express ticket (tokkyuken) that you will need to pass through the shinkansen gates. You need to show both your basic fare ticket and super express ticket to the conductor on the train.

When purchasing a ticket, choose the seat you want. There are two classes of carriage on shinkansen trains: Ordinary and Green Cars (first class). The seats on Ordinary Cars are comfortable enough, but the seats on Green Cars are larger and offer a little more comfort and leg-room. Green Car tickets are about 33% more expensive and must be reserved before the traveling date.

Should You Purchase Tickets in Advance / Reserve Seats?

Tickets usually cost around US$78, but can slightly change depending on the travel season (which includes the spring and the New Year's holiday) and traveling package.

Most travelers use the Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on all Shinkansen trains. You can purchase a JR pass for 7, 14 or 21 days, according to you travel schedule.

Reservations are not always required for Shinkansen bullet trains because many of them have non–reserved cars with seats that are available on a first–come, first–served basis. But if you want to reserve a seat, you can do this at ticket offices on the station or through the Japan Rail website.

A Limited Express Ticket for an adult on the Shinkansen Nozomi costs (43 + 35 = US$78). This is the basic fare ticket plus a reserved seat. Non-reserved seating costs (43 + 27 = US$70). A Green Car Seat costs (43 + 59 = US$102).
A Limited Express Ticket for an adult on the Shinkansen Sakura and Hikari costs (43 + 30 = US$73). This is the basic fare ticket plus a reserved seat. Non-reserved seating costs (43 + 27 = US$70). A Green Car Seat costs (43 + 55 = US$98).

Which Station to Use in Kyoto and How to Board Your Train

We recommend using Kyoto Station for Shinkansen direct trains, which don't stop in most stations, unlike other local trains.

Once you arrive at Kyoto Station, follow the signs for the Shinkansen (bullet train) platforms. The Shinkansen entrance is well-marked and located on the second floor.

To board your train, find your specific departure platform by checking the electronic departure boards, which display train times and platform numbers in both Japanese and English.

The management requires passengers to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before departure to allow time for navigating the station and finding your platform. Once on the platform, follow the signs and markings for your car number and reserved or non-reserved seating sections.

2. Private Transfers (Most Comfortable and Convenient)

If you want the utmost comfort and convenience, a private transfer from Kyoto to Hiroshima with an English-speaking driver is the best option. Private transfers offer personalized service, flexibility, and the opportunity to explore Kyoto and Hiroshima with the insights of a knowledgeable guide.

We provide door-to-door service from your accommodation in Kyoto to your destination in Hiroshima, eliminating the need for navigating public transportation.

Tailor your journey with us according to your interests and schedule.

3. Highway Buses from Kyoto to Hiroshima: Budget Friendly Option

Willer Express, Japan Bus Line, and Japan Bus Online (Kintetsu Co.) are some of the best companies that offer bus services from Kyoto to Hiroshima.

Day buses usually take between 7 and 9 hours from Kyoto to Hiroshima, while night buses take about 8 and 10 hours. The cost of traveling from Kyoto to Hiroshima ss about USD$40–90, depending on the service and company chosen.

Day buses depart during early morning or mid–afternoon while night buses usually depart between 10pm and midnight.

To check the fares and book your ticket, visit the Willer Express, Japan Bus Line, or Japan Bus Online (Kintetsu Co.) website, select your departure and arrival cities, choose your travel date and preferred time, then book your tickets in advance.

Willer Express buses travel from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit to Hiroshima Station.
Japan Bus Line buses go from Kyoto Sta Hachijo to Hiroshima city center.

4. Flights from Kyoto to Hiroshima: An Expensive Alternative

Flying via domestic flights is another alternative to travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima. It takes about 1 hour flight time from Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) using All Nippon Airways or Japan Airlines.

However, it takes around 3–4 hours total when considering travel to and from the airports and check-in time.

Cost-wise, we recommend looking for discounts or promotional fares for better deals, because the cost of flying can go up from USD$350 to US$1,700, depending on the season.

Can I Take a Day Trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima?

Yes, you can take a day trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima, thanks to the Shinkansen (bullet train). The Nozomi train can complete this journey in under 1 hour and 40 minutes, allowing you to explore Hiroshima's highlights in a single day.

For history lovers, the iconic A-Bomb Dome and the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island offer the best experience. Hiroshima Castle, located in the city's heart offers an ideal place to learn a few things about Hiroshima's history before heading back to Kyoto in the evening.

You might like to read more about How to Get Around Japan

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The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Breakfast at the Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco.

Stop for photos at Bixby Bridge in Big Sur.

Lunch in Big Sur with breathtaking views.

Visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library.

Spend a night in Big Sur.

Stop to see the elephant seals in San Simeon.

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Rest and refuel near Santa Barbara.

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Explore Los Angeles' most dynamic neighborhood.

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California Coast

#3. Ventura

#4. Santa Barbara

#5. Solvang

#6. Pismo Beach

#7. Morro Bay

#8. San Simeon

#9. Big Sur

#10. Point Lobos Natural Reserve

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#12. Monterey