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Best Highway 1 Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

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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? 

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!

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Travelspirations

The Ultimate Guide to California’s Highway 1 Road Trip

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Last updated 10 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!

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!

Also in United States

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 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!

Also interesting

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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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The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Get ready to enjoy a scenic Highway 1 road trip. Our Pacific Coast Highway itinerary highlights the best places to stop along the way.

February 16, 2024

“It is all very beautiful and magical here—a quality which cannot be described. You have to live it and breathe it, let the sun bake it into you.” ― Ansel Adams

Brisk, salty air flows through your hair, sweeping curves captivate your senses, and cliffside views take your breath away. Taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway feels like a right of passage and reminds us that it’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

So, load up on your favorite California-made snacks , fill the gas tank, secure your surfboard, turn on the radio, and get ready for the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) road trip . Whether you've recently gotten your car repaired by a mechanic or you’re fresh off the lot , there’s no better way to show off your whip than to take it for a ride along 655 miles of California’s coastline.

Known as one of the most scenic drives in the country, the PCH—also called Highway 1—runs next to the ocean’s crashing waves, from Leggett in  Mendocino County  all the way down to  Dana Point in Orange County . With so many miles to cover, considering all the potential  Pacific Coast Highway stops  can seem daunting—but we found the best road trip sights along the way, so relax and make the most of every minute.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1

Begin your adventure at the starting point of Highway 1, located just beyond Capistrano Beach in Dana Point. You will have an enjoyable and scenic 45-minute drive that takes you past the picturesque Laguna Beach , skirts the edges of Crystal Cove State Park, and brings you close to the Newport Beach Pier, before you reach your destination at Huntington Beach.

Huntington Beach

Dubbed “Surf City USA”, this stop is a must on any true California coastal road trip . Pull over, grab your surfboard, and jump into the swells to really experience the Golden State. After catching the perfect wave, it’s time to climb back into the car, roll down the windows, and breathe in the fresh air as you make your way up the state.

Venice Beach

After driving on Highway 1 for about two hours, you’ll come upon Venice Beach. Between the street performers, local artists, eclectic shops, and gorgeous views of the pier in the distance, this destination is well worth the time spent off the road. Appreciate the quirky culture of the Venice Beach Boardwalk and explore the iconic Venice canals to stay along the water’s edge. 

If the beach is not calling, however, head inland to grab a slice of vegan pizza , visit the art museums of downtown Los Angeles , see the Hollywood Walk of Fame , or admire the architecture of Beverly Hills mansions.  

Santa Monica

Once you’re done exploring Venice, make your way to Santa Monica. The Santa Monica Pier is worth a trip, so take a ride on the ferris wheel at Pacific Park and grab a bite to eat for dinner. With a long day under your belt, spend a luxurious evening in town , rest your head at one of the nearby hotels, and get ready for the adventures awaiting on the next leg of your trip.

Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary: Day 2

The following morning, make the short drive up to Malibu to look at the coastal homes and enjoy breakfast at one of the local restaurants. Stop by the rocky coves, cliffs, and headlands at Point Dume, and practice your skills at one of the most scenic rock-climbing spots in California . Then, take in the views of the San Fernando Valley from Topanga Overlook before continuing on. 

Drive north to Ventura to take a surf break at Surfers Point, see the long Ventura Pier where fishermen cast their lines, walk around Ventura Harbor Village, visit the town’s historical sights, and discover beauty within the art galleries. 

Santa Barbara

From Ventura, it’s a short jaunt to Santa Barbara , where the rolling hills and sweeping vineyards show the agricultural power of the California coast. Indulge in the local goods, dine alfresco, and hike around the varied landscape before hitting the road again. 

San Luis Obispo

Spend some time getting to know the Central Coast’s surf scene to see how it stands up to Southern California’s reputation. Then, explore Pismo Beach’s oceanside parks, farmers market, shopping outlets, and butterfly grove before enjoying a picnic on the sand. After walking around this beloved beach town, head slightly inland to San Luis Obispo .

Admire the Spanish architecture, meander through the museums, snap a pic in the quirky Bubblegum Alley, and check in to the vibrant Madonna Inn for a charming overnight experience unlike any other. 

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 3

Drive for 45 minutes and start the day with a 15-minute excursion inland to San Simeon to tour the elaborate Hearst Castle. While mansions are anything but rare in Southern California, this opulent residence showcases the impressively lavish life of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst , whose home included 165 rooms on 127 acres complete with pools, fountains, and precisely landscaped gardens.

Savor the ocean views from the balconies before heading into town to check out one of the industry-changing surf shops : Hobie Surf Shop. Add another surfboard to your collection, then find your way back onto Highway 1 to experience more of the breathtaking coastline.

In the morning, venture on toward the hot springs , rolling dunes, and unbeatable seafood of Big Sur . Take a short hike to see McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , then continue on to cross the oft-photographed Bixby Bridge and experience the rugged coastal views from atop one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world. Just north of here, you’ll find the quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea , followed by the popular destination of Monterey.

Take some time to explore the aquarium, Cannery Row, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf that make Monterey one of the best stops along the coast . Just on the other side of Monterey Bay, you’ll find the adorable town of Capitola, followed by the ultimate beach-bum town. 

Take the opportunity to surf the waves and ride the roller coasters that epitomize the Santa Cruz lifestyle . Stroll around to see the boutiques and eateries that exude the coastal vibe and the California dream before continuing north.

For a slight detour, jump on Highway 17 to San Jose to witness the incredibly unusual Winchester Mystery House . This supposedly haunted mansion has been under continual construction since 1884, due to Sarah Winchester’s wishes and the upkeep that comes along with having the eccentric home open to the public. 

Half Moon Bay

After exploring the unique San Jose landmark, take Highway 9 south toward Santa Cruz and drive through Castle Rock State Park, or travel north through Mountain View to catch Highway 84, which meets up with Highway 1 again at San Gregorio. Either road will lead you to Half Moon Bay for exclusive beaches and decadent seaside eateries. Once you’ve had your fill of adventures for the day, check in to a nearby hotel and catch the sunset before turning in.

Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary: Day 4

San Francisco

A Highway 1 road trip isn’t complete without a stop in San Francisco . Enjoy sumptuous spoonfuls of clam chowder from a sourdough bread bowl ; indulge in a bar of Dandelion Chocolate ; and say hello to Karl the Fog (who will undoubtedly stop by). Then, drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and visit Sausalito for stunning views of the city before traveling west toward Point Reyes.

Point Reyes

Soon, you’ll find Muir Woods National Monument , which provides the perfect scenery for a forested hike . Continue your outdoor adventure in nearby Stinson Beach and walk around Point Reyes before driving through Bodega Bay. 

Pull off the road in the seaside town of Bodega Bay , and go on a horseback ride to take full advantage of the environs. Sit on the sand to admire the waves, bluffs, and beauty that surrounds you before you tackle the curvy section of the PCH, which eventually leads to Timber Cove Resort —one of the best places to stop on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Check in for the evening, capture the view with a photograph or two, and savor the flavors of sustainable seafood and local produce at Coast Kitchen. Listen to a record and enjoy a pour-over by the fireplace to experience a truly decadent evening in.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 5

Spend the morning relaxing in your room, then set out toward Mendocino . Watch the waves become rougher as the inland scenery incorporates denser brush and taller trees. Get out of the car in Mendocino to look at the historic architecture, making sure to drive north to Fort Bragg to see the intriguingly beautiful Glass Beach. 

Cruise northeast for just over an hour and you’ll find yourself in Leggett, completing the last portion of the drive. When Highway 1 ends, turn around , and prepare yourself as you begin the Pacific Coast Highway road trip from north to south . S top by the colorful fruit stands, fishing villages, intimate beaches, and bustling towns that caught your eye on the way up. Returning home with a happy car and even better memories will leave you eager to plan your next California road trip . 

Ready for another adventure? Check out the sites worth stopping for on Route 66 .

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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.

• San Francisco
• Santa Barbara

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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.

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Top Tips For Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip

Update: April 1, 2024

Want to take the ultimate California road trip? Drive California’s Highway 1 (aka California’s Pacific Coast Highway)  along the Central Coast. It’s rightfully rated as one of the top road trips in the world.

This is a breathtaking drive, especially along the Big Sur coast where the Santa Lucia mountains plunge into the sea and the wind bends the native cypress trees into otherworldly shapes. You’ll see coves painted in shades of turquoise, sapphire, and teal, that will make you long to plant your flag and declare that beach your own. 

Photo courtesy of See Monterey

Before you embark on the ultimate California road trip, let me share some of my top tips to help you along the way . While it’s a fun drive, it can be very challenging and demands 100 percent of your attention.

I’ll also share some of the top attractions from Monterey to Cambria . Keep in mind this is a small selection. Honestly, there is so much to see and do, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, I can’t cover it all in one article.

Be sure to read 5 Things to Love About Monterey which includes information about restaurants and tours in the area. You’ll also find there are more than 5!

How long does it take to drive California Highway 1?

The trip takes about five hours if you drive at a leisurely pace. I drove both north to south and south to north (Monterey to San Luis Obispo). Most people prefer driving north to south and I agree because when you drive south the ocean views are on your right side and it’s easier to pull off at the turn-outs to take pictures.

Top tips for the Ultimate California road trip   

Tip: 1 drive a comfortable car.

Driving a comfortable and reliable car is a must. This is a two-lane mountain road. In some places the shoulder is quite narrow leaving little real estate between you and the sea below. There’s a forty-to-fifty-mile stretch of hairpin twists and turns.  Since you’ll be pulling over frequently to take photos and admire the views, I recommend you drive a car that picks up speed quickly. I drove the cute Kia rental car you see in the image below.

Asilomar Beach, Pacific Grove

Tip 2: When is the best time to go?

The short answer is to go in the off-season.  The main reason to go in the offseason is probably obvious, but let me be clear: Driving this road with heavy traffic would make it that much more challenging. The distance from Cambria to Big Sur is only 60 miles, but it takes at least two hours depending on how many stops you make. Not to mention the curves in the road make the distance pass a little more slowly.

California gets plenty of sunshine and it’s not that cold in the winter—even in the offseason the weather is temperate. I was there the first week of January and it was chilly in the mornings but sunny.  It got warmer as the day went by. Wear layers that you can easily remove and you’ll be fine.

If you go during the off-season, the only activity that you may miss out on is working on your tan. You can still surf, hike, go whale-watching, and enjoy everything else that makes California so popular.

Winter Weather Warning

One possible drawback to the winter is it’s the rainy season. Be sure to check for updates on the road conditions. Excess rain in California can mean road closures due to mudslides.

Tip 3: Fill Up Your Car

Don’t forget to fill up the car with gas before you hit the road. There are 40 miles of highway between Cambria and Big Sur but no place to buy gas.

Tip 4: There are no bathrooms

If you need to use the bathroom do that when are getting gas. Again, there’s no place to stop, even on the roadside. The only places to pull over are turnouts where there will be other tourists. There is no privacy.

Tip 5: Take Your Time

Don’t rush it. A California coast road trip is one of the bucket list experiences that people dream about. Take your time. Smell the ocean air. Notice the natural beauty around you. Stop and look for whales migrating up the coast noticing the tension leaving your body. Relax, you’re in California.  Do you feel it?

Just a typical view along California’s Highway 1

Tip 6: Charge Your Camera

Make sure you have a great camera with you, and that you have a fully charged battery and plenty of memory on the card. Be sure to ask someone to snap a photo of you in that stunning scenery. I saw plenty of people with selfie sticks at lookout points, it’s an option if you’re traveling alone. Your phone is also a great camera and many times the best choice.

Tip 7: It’s Better To Drive Than Ride

If you suffer from carsickness it’s best to drive,  because once you enter the Big Sur area the road is a bit of a roller coaster. If for some reason you cannot drive, be prepared with some non-drowsy Dramamine. It would be a crime to fall asleep on this bucket list road trip.

Have questions? Feel free to email me via my contact page or leave a comment.

Top Attractions Along California Highway 1

Hearst Castle

The story goes, that when publishing mogul William Randolph inherited 40,000 acres of California coastal land from his mother, he told architect Julia Morgan that he wanted to “build a little something.” That little something was Hearst Castle. 

As a young boy Hearst and his father spent time camping on the land around San Simeon. The glamorous castle, once his private residence, is now a state park and vacation destination about twenty miles north of San Luis Obispo.

Tour Heart Castle

I took the Grand Rooms Tour. T hough the house is a magnificent example of Mediterranean and Gothic architecture filled with antiquities from all over the world, my favorite part of the tour was the indoor Roman Pool . From the exquisite blue tile work to the soft ambient lights, and the mirror reflection on the water, the Roman pool has an immediate calming effect. 

I loved the stories of famous personalities and frequent guests at the castle who would sneak out to the pool after hours for a little romantic interlude, in one of the many secluded corners. According to our guide, Cary Grant said, “The Roman pool is a great place to get to know someone just a little bit better.” I wouldn’t mind meeting up with him there at all.

The Roman Pool at Hearst Castle

 As you walk through the house imagine all the famous and infamous people that stayed there. As owner of the largest media company in the United States, Hearst entertained the movers and shakers of the world.  After the tour, you can wander outside to your heart’s content.  Be sure to book a castle tour in advance. Plan to spend at least two hours here.

For more information about Hearst Castle and the various tours available, you can book online .

Elephant seals on the beach near San Simeon.

Elephant Seal Viewing Area

Just five miles from Hearst Castle is the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery. These animals are quite ugly but very interesting to watch. They’re also very noisy, especially during the mating season. The shore area is dotted with large lava rocks, making it hard to distinguish the seals from the rocks when they are in the water. The day I went there was a backup of cars waiting to get into the parking lot. This is another good reason to go off-season or on a weekday.

Imagine building bridges along this road.

Attractions in the Big Sur Area

Bixby bridge.

This may be the most photographed bridge in California aside from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Bixby Bridge is a single-span concrete arch more than 260 feet high and 700 feet long. You can park at a turnout at either end to take photographs. Bixby Bridge along with Garrapata and Rocky Creek Bridge, was built in the 1930s, paving the way for tourism in Big Sur.  Before the completion of Highway 1, the Old Coast Road was the only access. It remains an unpaved road and is not suitable for standard passenger automobiles.

McWay Falls, a top attraction in Big Sur

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

A great place for hiking, this park is best known for McWay Falls , a 100-foot waterfall that cascades from an 80-foot high drop-off into the cove below. The trail to get there is quite easy. It’s an iconic spot and may be a bit crowded but worth doing. 

 Don’t park on the side of the road . You’ll see that a lot of people do, but I think it could be dangerous. In the off-season there will be plenty of parking within the park. 

The falls used to drop into the ocean, but due to a landslide several years ago,  now they fall onto the sandy cove. It’s an idyllic spot and one that makes you wish you could access the beach and the falls. There is signage everywhere warning against it. Be smart and admire safely from afar.

Pfeiffer Beach is one of the best beaches in the area. But it is not the beach with the waterfall. 

Nepenthe Big Sur

Nepenthe is an indoor/outdoor restaurant best known for its views, but it also has an interesting history. The restaurant and surrounding land have been in the family for over 60 years. It’s still a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. There’s a very nice gift shop with handcrafted jewelry, unique fragrances, books, and children’s gifts, carefully curated from around the world.

The view from Nepenthe, Big Sur

Highway 1 North of Big Sur

After you pass Big Sur it’s about thirty or forty minutes to Carmel by the Sea. Carmel is also known as “the little town in the forest by the sea,” an apt description. Much like a European village, it’s a place to walk, not drive. There are many unique shops and galleries featuring local artists and great restaurants. The beach there is known as one of the best places on the Monterey Peninsula to watch the sunset.

Carmel was voted #2 Best Small City in the USA by Conde Nast Traveler in 2014.

Carmel by the Sea

Pebble Beach

A short drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach is known for its stunning golf links among the dunes and the famous 17-mile drive . Do this drive at sunset if you can. Check out my short article about 17-mile Drive and the Lone Cypress. 

Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

I did not have time to visit the sanctuary but the information I found on Wiki makes me want to go.

The black-and-orange butterflies spend much of the fall and winter in the local Monterey Pine trees, roughly from Halloween until Valentine’s Day. Residents of Pacific Grove help the butterfly’s habitat by planting purple and yellow flowers, such as lantana, yellow aster, Pride of Madera, and Mexican Sage, in what is called Butterfly Gardens. from Wikipedia.

Point Pinos Lighthouse

Since 1855, the Point Pinos Lighthouse has been a beacon for ships on the Pacific coast . It’s the oldest continually operating lighthouse on the West Coast and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

A personal side note: I left a ring in the bathroom at the lighthouse and didn’t realize it until I was back in my room several hours later. Luckily I thought to check if they had a Facebook page. I left a message about leaving the ring in the bathroom and asked if it had been found. The next morning I was on my way to pick it up. You might say the lighthouse provided the lumens I needed to know the best way to make contact with them, thereby reuniting me with my ring. Either way, I will never forget the lighthouse.

Jellyfish at the Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium opened in 1984, quickly becoming one of the most visited aquariums in the world. Today the aquarium receives over 2 million visitors per year. Located on the north end of Cannery Row, it’s on the former site of the Hovden Cannery, the last cannery to close, in 1973.

Cannery Row

Cannery Row, originally Ocean View Avenue, became famous largely due to John Steinbeck’s eponymous novel. The book was the basis for a film named Cannery Row starring actors Debra Winger and Nick Nolte. One of the main characters, Doc, was a real person, a scientist- named Edward F. Rickets. His lab still exists. Across the street is a Chinese-American-owned store, also mentioned in the novel. Today Cannery Row is filled with shops, restaurants, and hotels, and is a tourist attraction in Monterey.

I’m reading an excellent book about Steinbeck and Monterey by author Susan Shillinglaw, A Journey Into Steinbeck’s California . You can purchase this book at the Aquarium or the Steinbeck house in Salinas. You can also obtain a copy through Roaring Forties Press. 

Where To Stay

The Monterey Bay area has a good selection of places to stay from bed and breakfasts to cottages and modern hotels. If you want to be in the middle of it all, stay in Monterey.  You are five to ten minutes from Carmel, twenty from Big Sur, and only two hours from San Francisco.

I earn a small commission if you book your hotel through one of my links. It doesn’t cost you extra and helps me keep the site going. 

Bungalow at Casa Munras, Monterey, California

Casa Munras

I stayed at the historic Casa Munras, one of the Inns of Monterey . Located just off the 101, it’s an excellent location for walking downtown and to the Fisherman’s Wharf.  You can compare prices at this link .

Intercontintental Monterey 

A really beautiful hotel right on the water in an excellent location.  It’s easy to walk around the historic area of Monterey. If you truly want to be in the heart of Cannery Row, stay at the  Intercontinental on Cannery Row. 

Great weather almost 365 days a year, a laid-back attitude, and scenery that has inspired romantics,  artists, explorers, and adventurers for centuries – any time of year is a great time to take the Ultimate California Road Trip.

Alternate Routes Are Listed Below

  If you are driving from San Francisco or the San Jose area, take the 101 south to Highway 156 through Castroville. 156 will connect to Highway 1 where you can continue your journey south, to Monterey.

From Los Angeles take the 101 north to the 156. Alternatively, you can drive the 101 north to Santa Barbara where you will connect with Highway 1 (this is not the most scenic stretch). From there you can drive to Morro Bay and Cayuga, a beautiful stretch of highway. If there are road closures you’ll need to take Highway 46 and reconnect with the 101 to continue north. If your road trip begins or ends in Los Angeles , be sure to visit this historic winery in downtown LA.

Highway 46 will take you to the city of Paso Robles , a great place for tasting Rhone varietals.  Or, visit the wine-tasting rooms along Highway 46 – there are 40 to choose from!

No matter when you go, California’s Highway 1 is the Ultimate California Road Trip.

Looking north from McWay Falls, Big Sur.

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98 comments.

Hi Penny, We are planning a drive from San Diego to Napa over about 5 days in early July, and would like to make a few select stops along the way. We’re unfamiliar with the area, and are concerned about whether we’ll be able to pass through the Big Sur area after reading about the landslides. Do you have any insight on that? Also, besides Monterey, what highlights would you recommend?

Hey Mike, Here’s an article with info about the closures. It looks like it’s open. https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/california/highway-1-big-sur-reopens-repairs/3541168/

Most of the “highlights” are in my article. You have to read the whole article. It’s numbered and easy to skim to the parts you’re interested in.

Hi Penny, we are planning a 3-week tour through the western USA at the end of July to mid-August (SF – LA – LV – Death Valley NP – Yosemite NP – Sac – SF). Of course we also want to drive Highway 1 and hope that it will be passable again at that time. Your report is very inspiring, we will definitely consider many of your tips. Best regards from Germany, Juergen

I hope you’re planning on spending a month or two here! 🙂 You’re covering a lot of pretty places. Enjoy! Reach out if I can help, which means ask me about California but not LV. Also, I haven’t been to Yosemite, yet! Can you believe it?

Just by the way, I’ve seen all 3 seasons of “Emily In Paris”, the 4th is due to be released on Netflix in August. On our trip we will visit Alcatraz in S.F., Death Valley NP and Yosemite NP. In your opinion, is it better to buy the AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL Annual Pass or to pay the fee for the parks individually? And you’ve never been to Yosemite? Unbelievable! I’ll report back to you 😉

Yes please do let me know! I’ve never been to any of those places. I mean I’ve been to San Francisco, LV, Sac, Los Angeles, many times etc. You know there’s a nice little area called Muir Woods near SF. About the park pass, that’s a good question. A quick google search regarding fees for Yosemite and Death Valley, it looks like 65 to go to those two places. Not sure if Alcatraz would be included in that pass. If you think you might go to more parks then the 80 USD for the pass seems maybe a good deal. https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/entrance-fee-prices.htm

Also, check if you can buy an REI membership. For 30 dollars it’s good forever. And you can return things. But if you don’t need to buy anything for your trip then maybe it’s not good for you. But if you love camping, the outdoor life, etc. you’ll love REI. About Emily in Paris, so do you agree with me about the episode and the luggage?!

Also, I really need to update those about pages!

This is a great resource for anyone planning a road trip down Highway 1! The Big Sur coast is definitely one of the most scenic drives in the country, and your tips about avoiding crowds and renting a comfortable car are spot on.

I was wondering if you had any recommendations for places to stay along the way? There are so many great little towns and stops, it would be hard to decide where to base yourself for the night. Thanks!

Hi there, glad to hear you found the article useful. Where to base yourself is actually pretty easy. Monterey, Carmel by the Sea, and Pacific Grove (all north of Big Sur) are all within a stones throw of each other. There are two hotels mentioned at the end of the article that are in Monterey but there are many others. I enjoyed staying in Monterey and if you stay in the historic area you can walk everywhere. But, I also stayed in Carmel by the Sea, Carmel Valley, and in Big Sur. Here’s a link with more hotel options. https://www.adventuresofacarryon.com/lodging-options-cambria-to-carmel-california/

[…] about five hours north of Los Angeles and two hours south of San Francisco on California’s Central Coast, the sublime scenery attracts artists, photographers, tourists, and locals, all of whom come for […]

[…] January, I packed the car and headed north to discover California’s Central Coast and drive iconic Highway 1 from Los Angeles to Monterey County, staying in Cambria, Big Sur, and […]

[…] boomers road-tripping in the Golden State, Penny Sadler offers Top Tips for Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip. But even a walk in the neighborhood can be an adventure, she says with a laugh. (If only at our […]

My driver will drive an International 24 passenger bus from a town called Seaside, CA 93955 going on to Hwy 1 to Los Angeles, what is the best route please?

I love your detail article! I am taking my husband for the first time to Monterey Bay on September 3, and I am so excited!! This will be my third time going to Monterey Bay, and I’ve already made my list of stops to see along route 1. I will be driving from Los Angeles to Monterey Bay so he can see the most beautiful aquarium and walk the beach, see Cannery Row. Thanks for the additional point of interest.

Hi there, We visited CA last year and drove down Hwy 1 from San Francisco to the Paso Robles area, and used your guide every step of the way. We took many of your suggestions of where to stop, sights to see, and places to lodge and eat. We really enjoyed all of your suggestions. So I just tried to find that online guide again, and can no longer find it. Wondered how we can get to it? We are traveling this fall from Santa Barbara down to Newport Beach and would like to use your guide again. Thank you!!!

Hi Brenda, First of all, thank so much for the message. As a writer and blogger I focus on writing what I love and hope that others will too. Your affirmation means a lot. I’m not sure what guide you speak about though as I have several articles about traveling on Highway 1 from Cambria to Monterey, but they are not in a guide format. I don’t have one for Santa Barbara to Newport Beach either, but there are many articles about what to do in Santa Barbara, especially where to go wine tasting. You may have read one of my articles published on another site perhaps? There’s also an article about a few sites along the Malibu coast and the Getty Museum, downtown LA, Long Beach and a few others. Just look under destinations, Californai. Hope this helps! I’m actually working on some new content for southern California. Thanks for being a loyal fan and reader. I’d love to hear from you how you think the site could be a better resource. Cheers!

I would like to travel highway #1 in July this year from San Francisco to LA. What is your suggestion what to see and for how many days travel.

Hi there, There is a lot of content about what to see along the way in the article. Of course, there is also much more. I’ve also provided links to other websites that can provide more information to help you plan your trip. If you’ve never done the drive before, I’d allow at least 5 days, with overnight stops at your desired locations. Of course, what will be open may dictate where you stop. If you’d like me to map out an itinerary including hotels for you I can send you a questionnaire to fill out and we can go from there. Just send you info through the contact form on this site. Thanks!

Hi, love this article! Me and my partner are also planning on doing San Fran to LA this July. Have you got any tips on car hire? Also, if you have this itinerary still, I would be really grateful to have a copy? Thank you so much!

Hi Dee, Sorry I’m just getting around to approving article comments. I don’t have an “itinerary” but you can make your own via the article. I was traveling on my own so I just stopped where I wanted to really. As for car hires, I’m really sorry but I have not rented a car in a long time.

Hi Penny, I am travelling to the US for the first time and would like to get the link to the questionnaire as I am planning to rent a camper van and drive from San Francisco to LA for 5 days. Looking forward to your reply and guidance on the road map itinerary.

Hi there, I’m not sure what questionnaire you are referring to?

place me on your email list

Thanks for the tips. My sister and I are planning this drive from Seattle in March. We are so excited! Glad to hear the road is clear through Big Sue!

You will love it. Be sure to read my other article Reasons To Visit Monterey, California. There’s more info, not the same …

Awesome post, Penny. Very informative and helpful. I’ll be going to Monterey next week and plan on driving along this coast. Thank you so much for all the fantastic tips.

Glad to know that you found it helpful. That’s what it is all about!

Hi Penny, Just want to say I enjoyed this report as Im in California 4 weeks today for a 24 day holiday. Travelling from Spain where I live now. So looking forward to the drive down the PCH isn´t fully booked yet as trying to cram so much in. We have 4 days in San Francisco booked (Tues to Sat) then pick up hire car and move to Vallejo (six flags) for 2 days(Sat and Sun). next booked in at Santa Cruz for a night (Mon)and next day booked in at Monterey(Tues). Now we have nothing booked until we arrived in Downtown L.A (Sat to Sat). Obviously we don´t want to rush but would lo love to be in San Diego by the Friday before heading to L.A Saturday afternoon. So we´re thinking as leaving Monterey (Tues), next night stop Cambria or San Luis Obispo(Weds) , then next stop Santa barbara or Ventura (thurs) and travel to San deigo on the Friday morning. In your opinion do you think we have given us enough time to see everything or are we cramming too much in? San Diego isn´t a must but would love to see it. Would it be safe to just drive and book when we want to stop? After L.A. we have two free days to get to Las Vegas where we drop off hire car and have booked 4 nights before heading home. Any help would be appreciated. Regards Rob and Kike.

Hi Rob, I’m afraid I’m not clear exactly what you’re doing but I can say that I would spend at least 4 days in the Monterey/Big Sur area. Have a great time!

How many beaches, state parks, and national parks did you visit along your trip? I am debating buying a California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass ($195) and/or a National Parks & Federal Recreation Lands Annual Pass ($80). Do you think it would be worth it or should I just plan to pay as I go?

Hello Dakota, I can’t really say if you’d find it worth it or not. I didn’t actually visit that many because I had limited time. If you’re going to have more than a week or two it may be worth it to you. Maybe decide where you want to go and add up the costs individually compare to the passes?

Amazing tips for highway driving. Thaks for share for fantastic this tips.

Thanks Lisa!

Loved ur writing!! Question for you? I have done the Carmel to big sur route in the past and have to agree it’s truly amazing! I am heading to Napa now and want to do the northern shore (1 North) – is it as good as this one? Ocean on one side and mountains on the other? Thanks!

Hi there, I can’t really comment. I’ve only been as far north as River’s End at Jenner Beach. However, my friends from the area say yes! Enjoy your trip!

[…] and explore. For boomers road-tripping in the Golden State, blogger Penny Sadler offers these “Top Tips for Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip.” But even “a walk in the neighborhood can be an adventure!” she laughs. (Now if only at our […]

[…] cost you a fortune, either.   Join me on a photo walk along California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway. We’ll stop for happy hour and watch the surfers ride the waves. Then, we’ll continue […]

Thank you for sharing all this info of this wonderfull place! I’m from Brazil and planning driving from San Francisco down to LA next year with my boyfriend, but we can only go by the end of March. Could you please tell me what to expect in this time of year? We’ll probably be in SF on March 20. I’ve read a lot about the weather but nothing conclusive…I understand it’s in the very beggining of spring and can still be a little cold for brazilian references. It’s not the cold we are worried about but the cloudy days! Can you please help me? Thanks!

Hi Emilia, Unfortunately it is very hard to predict. This year California had a lot of rain but next year, who knows. The end of March should be ok. There could be fog in the mornings and sunshine in the afternoon. Ultimately, does it matter? Go and have a great time enjoying the beauty – never mind the weather!

Hello Penny, thanks for the feedback! Actually that’s what everyone says right? It’s beautiful no matter when! We are thinking perhaps we should postpone the trip and go on september or novemeber, would it be better?

It might be warmer but I don’t know what to tell you. Go when it works best for you. Off season will be less expensive. Maybe that’s a factor?

Well it could be! I’ve done a little research and people say it’s the best time to visit… I think we will stick to September! Thank you!

It’s really a cool and helpful piece of information. Thanks for share.

Thanks Lara

Amazing and informative road tips about California! I did not know most of them. Thanks dear for sharing with us.

So happy to hear you found the information useful. Best wishes to you

[…] Cambria, about 60 miles,  you’ll come to the coastal area known as Big Sur – this is the ultimate Highway 1 experience. Travelers who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and fall asleep to the sound of waves […]

[…] I’d heard a lot about California’s scenic 17 Mile Drive, it was on my list of recommended attractions in the Monterey Bay area. Would it really be worth it I wondered. I’d just driven Highway 1, the most spectacular coastline I’d seen since my 1999 trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. (read my article The Ultimate California Road Trip.) […]

[…] Willow City Loop is one of the prettiest drives anywhere and I should know. I’ve driven California’s scenic central coast and the gorgeous Hudson River […]

[…] meal at the Harmony Cafe is a must when traveling Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County. Chef Giovanni will woo you with his passion for preparing and serving […]

Your post brought back wonderful memories of a girlfriend’s road trip I did back in the day. I’d love to do it again and this time focus on the outdoor activities instead of just the drive.

Those are exactly my thoughts Mary. It’s a lot to see and the drive is only part of the experience, or it can be the entire experience.

What a dreamy area! It’s definitely one of those places where renting a car makes full sense. We’ve got to head back there soon!

Highly recommend. 🙂

When I was in undergrad, I drove that highway from Stanford to L.A. Solo. Got a ticket on my way back but it was such a wonderful expression of freedom at such a young age, I’m baffled thinking about it. THanks for the trek down memory lane.

So glad you enjoyed it and it brought back good memories.

Love this part of the world.

One tip though, go from Carmel / Santa Cruz in the north to the south. This way, the passenger is overlooking the ocean without another lane in the way (and all those cars in high season) and the driver has a better view too.

For those moments when a glimpse can be snatched while driving that road!

Stop for food at the Big Sur River Inn or Fernwood Resort (also a nice place to stay, they even have cabins in among the Redwood trees).

Hi Jack, I totally agree with you, the drive from north to south is the easier and prettier for caching a glimpse or pulling over. I stayed at the Big Sur River Inn but did not eat there. Interesting place right on the river. Unfortunately it was too cold to enjoy sitting in the river, but the atmosphere and location were perfect.

America really is the best country for road tripping! We went to Monterrey on our trip from Seattle to Vegas and I have to say I didn’t enjoy it. Left after a night!

Hey Bethaney Sorry you had a bad time. I have to wonder where exactly you were. The entire area which includes Big Sur, Carmel by the Sea, Pacific Grove and lots more, is stunning. But if you stayed near Cannery Row or some other more urban touristy areas then I can’t really comment. If you’re ever back in the area go to Big Sur. I’m sure you will love it.

We’re considering this for a mini moon before heading back abroad – great article, and our other ideas have some serious competition!

thanks Cat!

[…] fresh food, and great museums. I recently crossed one of my California wishes off my list – driving Hwy. 1 and seeing Big Sur. That was epic. Of course I’d like to do it again, but slower this […]

I haven’t been on the PCH-1 in a long time. Many years ago, we drove out from Malibu on the 1 in an attempt to arrive in the South Bay Area later that very same day. Riiiiiggghht; yeah, no. Of course, we underestimated the driving time by a ridiculous amount. We decided by committee, and “surrendered” by heading inland at San Luis Obispo, with cuts back to 101 then up I-5 the rest of the way north.

Years later, I’m on a big coach/bus for a comfortably reclined 7-hour ride from Santiago, Chile to the small coastal resort town of La Serena. The drive takes place on Ruta-5 (Route 5), also known as the Carretera Panamericana or the Panamerican Highway. Much of the Chilean Pacific coastline is very similar to scenery along the PCH-1.

Wow that is really interesting. South America is appealing because no time zone change! LOL. I also underestimated this drive because my GPS kept saying it’s only 60 miles. I didn’t factor 60 miles of switchbacks!

Highway 1 through Big Sur is indeed a spectacular scenic drive. Thanks for the great tips & article.

Thank you for the comment!

Thanks for stopping by Marilyn.

Very nice article! I would like to add that gasoline is available in Gorda.

Steve, thank you very much! I remember passing through Gorda. How far is it from Cambria?

California road trips are near and dear to my heart and the Central Coast is amazing. You’ve captured it brilliantly in your photos. Great tips, too. There are so many wonderful places to visit along the way — Hearst is definitely a must. Love your pic of the indoor pool – that’s one of my favorite places in the castle, too.

Cathy I envy you living there. I hope to be able to spend most of my summer there.

I have done this road trip a few years ago. Unfortunately when I visited in August it was quite misty and the views weren´t as clear. It is a beautiful landscape and the perfect drive. It is great to see yoour photos of the trip

I have done quite some Road Trips in the US but I have never done this one. It looks like a stunning trip with lots of attractions along the way. Definitely added to my list, thanks for the great tip !

The US is a great place for road trips. My family used to drive from Texas to California often enough when I was a kid. Now that’s a road trip I could have done without out! LOL

I’ve been top to bottom and bottom to top on the PCH — When people ask me for vacation recommendations — this is number 1 for sure. Nothing like it anywhere!

California is one of thos places I am determined to get to, and this post makes me want to do it even more. Carmel looks like my kind of place, although it all looks lovely.

California is “one of those places.”

Love the look of Carmel, Penny. This sounds like a road trip best experienced from the passenger seat. I knew there was a reason I still haven’t got my licence.

Ha! I hope you have a good driver!

Awesome post, we’re actually leaving for the Highway 1 April 10 so these tips are great! Thanks!

Glad you find them useful.

There is a place just south of Nepenthe – very rustic place to stay – Lucia Lodge. We have stayed there several times. No frills, but breathtaking views!!!

Nancy, I stopped at Lucia because they have a little market there. I hoped to get a look at some of the rooms but they were all booked. I agree it’s in an amazing spot. I’d love to go back and stay there a couple of days though you aren’t close to anything except nature so you have to prepare. 🙂

This post brought back great memories. I’ve only done a few of the side trips – elephant seals and the Monterey Aquarium and for the beauty alone it’s a drive worth repeating. I don’t know if there is a foggy time of the year but that’s the only time I’d really not want to go.

Leah, good point! There is a foggy time of year and I believe it’s summer. Definitely would not be a fun drive in the fog!

ooooh lovely! These photos brought back some wonderful memories of when my friend and I made this tour. We got super lucky at the car rental place, and they upgraded us to a convertible for only $20 extra per day, so that really made the trip and view amazing. We drove from LA up to Carmel-by-the-Sea and then back down the same way we came. Beautiful shot of the jellyfish, by the way! Love that color contrast.

Hi Dana, Yes I did the drive both ways. It’s not easy but worth it. A convertible would be fun! I had a sun roof, not quite the same. 🙂 thanks for the compliment on the photo. I loved the jellyfish!

We just did the coast road trip at Christmas time, It was an amazing trip.we were heading to San Diego. I’m surprised that you didn’t go to” Point Lobos ” It is my favorite place to visit. it also has the beautiful rugget landscape. it was also the setting for alot movie scenes.”A Summer Place”one of my favored movie.

Moneypenny that is also one of my nicknames. 🙂 I now will have to watch a Summer Place.

Penny, check out “The Sandpiper” w/Liz Taylor and Richard Burton for another Big Sur-locale film. It will take you back to a 60s vibe (which still exists in some ways in the area). Nice article and good shots!

I agree. And thanks for the film tip.

VERY top tip: do not head north from LA towards Pacific Grove/Big Sur on Hwy 1 after dark! We left LA around sunset. The lady we were to meet in Monterey/Pacific Grove called to ask where we were, as we should have arrived around 4 PM. I told her we were coming up Hwy 1. She asked if she might suggest an alternative route. I said we’d wanted to see the water and wanted to do this. She wished us luck. Now, back when E-Systems sent me to Stanford to attend an AI seminar for two weeks, I drove *south* from Palo Alto to the Monterey peninsula on Hwy 1, and it was beautiful. Thus I did not expect the AAAAAAA experience of having the sheer cliff dropoff to the ocean on the left and the mountains on the right. Hubby drove this, including the Bixby Bridge (XOXOX), in the pitch blackness with no moon and other cars on the two-lane road coming the other way. He said he enjoyed it and that it was like the first-person videogames he has played. I think my mother began her decline as she clung to the sides of the back seat of the van because she could actually see the ocean. I was looking straight ahead and willing the oncoming vehicles to go more slowly and NOT come into our lane, as there was NOWHERE to go. Man! We arrived at our host house around midnight. Do not do as we did. Do the drive during the day when you can be properly terrified!

Too Funny. You’re right though, very good tip, drive during the day! Otherwise, what’s the point.

Just gorgeous! And what fantastic (and useful) tips – thank you!

Thanks Jessie.

Thanks Tawanna and don’t forget to vote.

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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.

Table of Contents

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 .

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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The Essential Road Trip Itinerary for California’s Highway 1

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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.

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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California , guides , north america , travel stories , united states, trace california’s coast on a highway 1 road trip.

• Published September 23, 2020

California State Route 1 (also known as Highway 1) is the highway that runs along most of the state’s Pacific coastline. With stretches of beaches, cliffs, forests, hills, and mountains, Highway 1 provides an especially scenic route for a road trip to the numerous attractions and cities along the coast. 

The highway is designated as an “all-American road,” and is often considered the best coastal scenic route in all of North America, if not the world. Although it’s definitely not the fastest way to travel the length of the state, it’s by far the most beautiful.

Below is an itinerary for your next road trip adventure along Highway 1.

• Length: 655 miles (1,055 kilometers)
• Northern terminus: U.S. 101 near Leggett
• Southern terminus: I-5 in Dana Point
• Major cities: San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Cruz, San Francisco
• Drive on the: Right

The highway spans the entirety of California, but the most popular road trip along this route stretches from San Diego to San Francisco. In this itinerary, we’ll begin at the southern end of the state and travel north through Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Carmel, Monterey, and Santa Cruz, and into the Bay Area.

Begin your trip in one of California’s sunniest destinations, where the weather is basically 70°F (21°C) all year. In the heart of the city, you can shop at Horton Plaza or catch a baseball game at Petco Park. You can also explore the famous San Diego Zoo, or wander through the city’s diverse neighborhoods: Little Italy, North Park, South Park, and East Village. These pedestrian-friendly areas form the epicenter of San Diego’s burgeoning culinary movement, progressive art scene, and craft beer boom. If you venture along 30th Street or University Avenue, you can choose from a wide selection of farm-to-table restaurants and boutique wine bars, or head to a local favorite–Carnitas’ Snack Shop with an ever-evolving menu. You can also walk around Mission Bay or cross the idyllic bridge to Coronado Island–known for its pristine beaches, crystal waters, and friendly beach-town persona.

Once you’re done exploring San Diego, drive north along the water to stop in La Jolla and snap a few photos of the coastline. Then you can hop on Highway 1 in Dana Point.

Orange County

There are plenty of places to explore in Orange County, but we recommend starting in Huntington Beach where Southern California’s beach culture is alive and well. Along this city’s curving shoreline, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for cycling oceanfront paths, playing volleyball, and surfing. From Huntington Pier, it’s just a short walk to Main Street’s boutiques and restaurants–many of which offer sidewalk tables or decks that let you take in the ocean breeze. You can also explore the other side of town by horseback-riding in Huntington Central Park or bird-watching and trailblazing in Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve–restored wetland and one of Southern California’s most vital coastal habitats.

From there, follow the coastline to California’s largest metropolitan area — but be sure to listen to Phantom Planet’s “California” at least once before leaving O.C.

Los Angeles

L.A. is California’s largest city and overflowing with fun things to do. That said, it can be more than a challenge to navigate, so plan your trip in advance. Start in the coastal city of Santa Monica — with its open beach, signature pier, shopping at Third Street Promenade, rooftop dining, and ocean and city views. It’s definitely worth a visit. Follow Santa Monica Boulevard northeast to visit legendary Beverly Hills, continue east toward Hollywood to stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame or visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, drive east to explore hip and historic downtown Los Angeles (DTLA), or head northeast and wander through Pasadena’s old Victorian and art deco buildings.

Return to the coast and drive north past Malibu on to one of California’s prettiest cities.

Santa Barbara

Tucked in the Santa Ynez Mountains and protected from the brunt of Pacific wind and waves, Santa Barbara boasts a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunny days. With its cache of culture and distinct Spanish colonial-style architecture, this seaside city is often called the “American Riviera.” The area also boasts an idyllic wine country, outdoor adventures on both land and sea, and plenty of artistic and cultural entertainment. Stroll down State Street for local shopping and dining, paddle a kayak from East Beach to Stearns Wharf, visit Old Mission Santa Barbara, or tour the 1782 Presidio for a look at original adobes like El Cuartel, the second-oldest surviving building in the state.

Then, drive north to sample the region’s breathtaking wine country.

Santa Ynez Wine Country

This next stop encourages you to slow down, relax, and savor your surroundings. The Santa Ynez Valley, just north of Santa Barbara, is one of the most diverse grape-growing regions in the county. And to top it all off, it’s surrounded by rolling hills, cascading vines, and ancient oak trees. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start at Sunstone Winery. It boasts sustainably grown grapes and a spectacular limestone chateau available for overnight stays. Tip: if you buy a pass from the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Association , you’ll save on tastings at 15 participating boutique wineries.

Continue on to one of the state’s most remarkable and ornate structures.

Hearst Castle

From Highway 1, you’ll be able to spot this incredible complex of embellished towers and buildings perched on the coastal hilltop. Park in the main lot of the state park grounds and check in at the visitor center to ride one of the park’s shuttle buses up to the castle. Lavishly designed by Julia Morgan (California’s first female licensed architect) as the private residence of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, the complex is an extraordinary homage to 1940s opulence. Now showcased within one of California’s most visited state parks, the 165-room castle and the 127 acres of terraced gardens, fountains, and pools are must-sees.

From Hearst Castle, head north 15 miles (24 kilometers) along Highway 1 for a looped road trip along the twisted roads that lead to Ragged Point, or the “Gateway to Big Sur” — a prime viewing spot for whales, dolphins, and elephant seals. Be sure to check out this site for updated road closure information to see if continuing all the way to Big Sur is an option. If not, visiting Ragged Point will ensure that you see the iconic panoramas of California’s rugged coastline.

Paso Robles

After venturing to Ragged Point, head south on Highway 1 and pull over near Piedras Blancas Rookery for a viewing of the elephant seals. Continue south for a temporary detour around Highway 1, starting just beyond Cambria. Turn left onto the vineyard-flanked Highway 46 and continue on to U.S. Highway 101 North to reach the growing wine country destination of Paso Robles. This San Luis Obispo County destination offers rolling hills, mineral hot springs, wine and beer tastings, agritourism, and outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding. Browse the art galleries of the historic downtown square, and complete your stop with a soak in one of the area’s thermal springs — found at River Oaks Hot Springs Spa, Franklin Hot Springs, or select rooms at the Paso Robles Inn.

Make your way back to Highway 1 and continue up the coast toward the Monterey Peninsula.

Monterey and Carmel

Surrounded by the sparkling Pacific on three sides, the Monterey Peninsula features plenty of clean beaches, quiet coves, casual eats, and local art. And if you like aquariums, you’re in luck — the Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-renowned, with tanks and exhibits showcasing more than 35,000 animals and over 550 species of plants. Step outside and find yourself among the hotels, shops, and restaurants along Cannery Row, the area made famous by local author John Steinbeck. Rent bikes and follow the coast south around the peninsula to Pacific Grove, or drive around the neighborhoods and pick your favorite iconic Monterey home.

Head south to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a town that deftly straddles the line between rich history and new wealth. The Carmel Mission is one of the state’s most beautiful churches, with shady trails fanning out from the site and into the Mission Trail Nature Preserve. Stroll the white sands of Carmel Beach, or explore the area’s main village.

From there, you can still spot some of Big Sur’s best sights with another looped journey south. Spend an hour or two hiking around the shoreline trails of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (10 minutes south of Carmel) and, while you’re there, be sure to snap a photo of Big Sur’s Bixby Bridge.

After the added detour, continue north beyond Monterey to California’s quirkiest beachfront town.

At its heart, Santa Cruz is a surf town — in fact, it’s where the sport was originally introduced to California. In the center of town, Pacific Avenue offers a variety of shops with a neighborhood twist, including Santa Cruz local Jack O’Neill’s namesake store, the independent Bookshop Santa Cruz, and various locally sourced vegan cafés. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk also offers yesteryear-style attractions, such as classic roller coasters, arcade games, corn dogs, and a historic carousel. Or, if you’re looking for vintage shops and organic restaurants, head to the downtown area.

Next, travel to your last stop on your Highway 1 road trip.

San Francisco

Wrap up your Highway 1 road trip in one of the world’s most iconic cities. Park your car and explore San Francisco by foot, bike, or public transportation. Walk or cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, wander through the Presidio, and head to Golden Gate Park to take in the towering redwoods, visit the Conservatory of Flowers, or row across Stow Lake. Explore the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can try your luck at the creepy yet iconic arm-wrestling game from “The Princess Diaries.” Hop on a cable car, indulge at Tartine Bakery, stroll through the boutique of Maiden Lane, wander Hayes Valley, catch a show in the theatre district, or venture to North Beach for Beach Blanket Babylon , an irreverent San Francisco institution. For nightlife and dining, head to the Mission district, and enjoy all that San Francisco has to offer.

Regardless of the route you take or the pit stops you make on your road trip, California’s Highway 1 is sure to leave you speechless.  Share your Highway 1 road trip stories with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your experiences on the beautiful Californian coastline!

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One of World’s Great Drives is Open! California’s HWY 1 Open

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 5 June, 2024

2017 was a turbulent year all around the world, but especially along the HWY 1 along California’s Central Coast. Natural disasters left sections of this famous road closed for over a year. Two events happened that caused major detours for people taking a HWY 1 road trip.

However, it’s time to celebrate because the historic HWY 1 is back open! Something that you don’t get to say very often is that they finished this massive project, not just on time – but early. Once you see the pictures of the aftermath of the landslide, you’ll see what a massive undertaking it actually was. 

Here is a little bit more background  & our guide to the perfect road trip down HWY 1 along the Central Coast! Our most recent trip was actually our third time driving HWY 1.

A few years ago, we drove from Vancouver to L.A. on part of an even bigger road trip around the country. We love road trips and can truly say this is one of the best in the world! 

The Big Sur Land Slide

In May 2017, a massive chunk of rock and soil came tumbling down, covering HWY 1 for a quarter-mile-long section and spilling into the sea. In total, 6 million cubic yards of land slid down from the hills behind HWY 1, near Big Sur at Mud Creek. Luckily, before the Big Sur landslide happened, CalTrans (the government body responsible for the road) was monitoring the situation and had already closed the road, and no one was hurt.

It’s hard to put into perspective how large this landslide was and how much work it was going to be to repair the road. The aftermath of the HWY 1 landslide was a major project to safely reconnect the road. With a lot of hard work, CalTrans finished the road a few months ahead of schedule and the road is again open. You can now drive the entire length of HWY 1 with no detours.

Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge Closure

The second major closure on HWY 1 about 30 miles north was the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge. Here, another landslide compromised the structural integrity of the concrete columns supporting the road.

In order to reconnect the road, a new bridge replaced the previous one in late 2017. Using advanced techniques, HWY 1 was partially reopened with a new bridge with a steel backbone to span the canyon.

Dream Drive 2018

To celebrate the reopening of HWY 1, California celebrated by rounding up nearly 100 vintage cars to make the drive from Monterey Bay to Morro Bay. With the help of local volunteers and classic car owners, we took a drive down this famous road in a convoy of amazing cars.

Our car for the event was a baby blue 1953 Chevy Bel Air. We started the day with a lap around the Laguna Seca Race Track before hitting the streets! We didn’t set any speed records on the track, but we loved our big ole’ cruiser. It was the perfect car to make the trip and seemed to embody what this road trip feels like to us.

Top Stops Along HWY 1 Central Coast Cabrillo Highway

The coastal stretch of HWY 1 from Monterey Bay to Morro Bay is also known as the Cabrillo Highway. Within this portion of the famous highway are many great stops and viewpoints. We just got back from driving this section of road as part of the Dream Drive put on by Visit California .

We had so much fun, we did it again the next few days making our way up and down this amazing road. Here are our favorite stops along HWY 1 Central Coast. 

Bixby Creek Bridge

One of the most iconic and most photographed spots on HWY 1 is the Bixby Creek Bridge. This arched concrete bridge spans the canyon of Bixby Creek, about 25 miles from Carmel. There are a few pull-offs to get a photo of the bridge and coastline.

Our favorite is the dirt road on the Northeast corner of the bridge. From here, you get nice views of the bridge and coast. If you line up your shot just right from here, you can frame yourself under the arches.

McWay Waterfall

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Big Sur, it might have been this picture-perfect waterfall. Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a unique waterfall that spills out right onto the sand just inches from the sea.

Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately – you’re not allowed to go right down by the falls themselves. Which once you’re there, you’ll appreciate the fact you can get a shot of this impressive 80-foot waterfall without other people in your pictures.

Related Article: Best National Parks Near Los Angeles

Hearst Castle

One of the most popular stops on Highway 1 is the over-the-top Hearst Castle. This massive estate was once the home of William Randolph Hearst, a famed newspaper and media mogul.

The Hearst Castle holds 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms set around 127 acres of gardens. Be sure to set aside a couple of hours to visit the Hearst Castle while stretching your legs on a California HWY 1 road trip.

Willow Creek

A more low-key stop compared to the castle is Willow Creek. Keep your eyes open for signs for this pull-off inside Los Padres National Forest. It’s easier to spot traveling from north to south but is worth pulling over for.

Here, you’ll find piles of dark rocks surrounded by steep cliffs, worn smooth by the power of the ocean. You can picnic here or spend part of your day enjoying the surroundings.

Hearst Winery

A Paso Robles winery run by the Hearst Family. Make sure to plan a pit stop for a glass of rose or a red blend along your drive (while being responsible, of course). If you don’t have time to make it to the tasting room among the vines in Paso Robles, you can catch a wine flight across the road from Hearst Castle in their seaside tasting room.

If you’re looking for a lunch spot on your HWY 1 road trip, this is the place to stop, with great options for adults and children too.

The small town of Big Sur might only take a whole two minutes to drive through, but there is so much to see and do here you could spend weeks. This place is a mecca for hiking, surfing, and has recently become a place for wellness retreats.

If you are up for a hike, Big Sur has mile after mile of trails leading to spectacular pristine beaches and grand vistas.

Ragged Point

A favorite stop among locals and visitors is the perfectly placed ragged point. Jutting out into the Pacific Ocean is a mini peninsula with stunning views of the coastline. Due to its westward-facing cliffs, it is an epic place for sunset. Watch the sun melt into the horizon here while sipping some wine or having dinner at the Ragged Point Inn & Restaurant .

If you’re in need of some rest, Ragged Point also has rooms to rent and makes a great place to stay. Ragged Point Restaurant is really busy for lunch, but at dinner time, we were able to get a table outside right away.

Piedras Blancas (Elephant Seal Beach)

A California HWY 1 road trip itinerary must include a stop for the most famous residents along the way, the Elephant Seals on Piedras Blancas.

You are guaranteed to see seals chilling on the beach and every so often coming and going back out to sea. These creatures are fun to sit and watch with their big floppy noses.

There is a large parking lot right off HWY 1 and two wooden walkways with viewing platforms. There is even a webcam, click here to see what’s happening at Piedras Blancas right now and how many Elephant Seals are sunning themselves on the beach. Please obey the signs and don’t feed the elephant seals or jump the fence and enter the beach.

Whale Watching

Don’t forget to pack a pair of binoculars or a zoom lens for your camera because just about any time of the year, you can spot whales off the coast. We pulled off at one stop where a small crowd had gathered to find about five whales splashing offshore.

Paso Robles Wine Region

On the slopes behind the southern stretch of the central coast is an emerging wine region in Paso Robles. Know for its red blends. This region makes the perfect detour while cruising down the central coast of California.

When you see a massive rock plunked down in the Pacific Ocean just a few hundred yards from shore, you know you’ve made it to Morro Bay. This iconic rock was the end of our dream drive, where we took in a misty sunset.

Pismo Beach

One of the last pieces of shoreline you can catch before HWY 1 turns inland on its southward journey to L.A. is Pismo Beach. Around this area, the road also changes names from the Cabrillo Highway to the PCH. Don’t miss this stop-off before the road curls east, and you lose sight of the coast for about 80 miles.

Q: Is HWY 1 open all the way now?

A:  Yes,  as of July 18th, 2018, HWY 1 is now completely reopened and ready for your next road trip.  HWY 1 is open from north to south and everywhere in between as of the article. However, conditions change and it’s best to check before starting your drive.

Q: Is the bridge on HWY 1 open?

A: Another landslide caused the closure of the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge where the slide jeopardized the integrity of the bridge, but the bridge has been rebuilt and open again.

Q: Where is the Cabrillo Highway?

A: The Cabrillo Highway refers to the section of HWY 1 roughly from San Franciso to Pismo Beach.

Q: Is the PCH the Same as HWY 1?

A: No, but kinda. The PCH 1 is a portion of HWY 1, but not the whole thing. It’s a common misnomer that HWY 1 is the PCH 1, but that’s not really correct. The PCH is HWY 1, but HWY 1 has several names along its path down the California Coast. The PCH 1 is the proper name of HWY 1, and it covers either side of L.A. for a few hundred miles from Gaviota to Dana Point.

Where to Eat Along HWY 1 Central Coast

On this section of HWY 1, there are surprisingly very few restaurants or really anything for that matter – just a whole lot of natural beauty. There are a few stops worth mentioning if you get hungry along the drive.

It’s best to pack a few drinks and snacks for your road trip down the central coast on HWY 1. There will be places to stop for food and gas, but they are kinda far apart. Here are a few of our favorites!

Ragged Point Restaurant

This place is the perfect halfway point along the Central Coast drive and a great spot for dinner and sunset. One of our favorite nights we on our HWY 1 road trip was the evening we spent having dinner here and then watching the sunset.

A great place for brunch is Ventana perched on a tall cliff overlooking the Pacific. Here, you’ll find a refined atmosphere surrounded by lots of natural beauty. There’s both indoor and outdoor dining with an amazing patio area.

Taco Temple

If you find yourself hungry along HWY 1 and you are anywhere near Morro Bay, this is the place for you. Here, you’ll find giant plates of great seafood tacos and other offerings.

Even if you’re not starving when you drive past Morro Bay, this place is worth a stop, but we would suggest splitting because their portions are massive.

Moonrock Bay

A favorite on the southern stretch of this drive is Moonrock Bay Restaurant. Serving up local seafood in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.

Tucked away high in the hills overlooking the ocean is a unique little restaurant and glamping resort. We saw this place from HWY 1 and had to check it out. Up in the hills, they have yurts and treehouses to stay in, and they also have a cute little restaurant with great views.

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Don’t Forget to Pin Me For Later!

*Thanks to Visit California for inviting us to be part of the Dream Drive Event. As always all opinions are our own. We love heading off on a California Hwy road trip, we know we’ll be back again!

Sunday 24th of October 2021

Somewhere just off hwy 1 somewhere in Monterey Bay Area is turnoff for original settlers road coming from East. Have driven it but cannot find it located on maps. Name and location please from anyone who knows. Thanks judy

Wednesday 3rd of October 2018

First of all, I want to thank you for the experiences told to everybody ! and thank you also for the important information and also for the beautiful photos...

Catherine @ To & Fro Fam

Saturday 25th of August 2018

This post is so helpful to me: I'm driving from Portland to LA with my family this November, and I've just begun planning road trip stops. Thanks for the great information and recs!

Hannah Lukaszewicz

That is an amazing drive! We drove from Vancouver to LA and the HWY 1 road trip was our favorite part. How long do you have to make the trip? Are you taking your time?

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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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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.

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4 Reasons You Should Take a Road Trip Through New England This Fall

Is new england the best place in the world to experience fall.

New England in the Fall is like stepping into a postcard, with vibrant foliage, crisp air, and historic towns that seem frozen in time.

We had always heard that this region was the ultimate destination for Autumn, so we decided to see it for ourselves with a 72-hour road trip through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island in our converted Sprinter van. From breathtaking landscapes to rich history and tasty seasonal treats, we absolutely loved our East Coast adventure. Here are four reasons why we recommend taking a road trip through New England this fall.

1. New England’s Iconic Fall Foliage

New England is world-renowned for the vibrant fall colors that blanket the region every Fall and a road trip is no doubt the best way to experience these bucket list views. There are endless places you could go to find colorful fall trees all around New England, but there are two locations in New Hampshire that we think rise above the rest.

Kancamagus Scenic Byway, New Hampshire: Located in the White Mountains National Forest, the Kancamagus is maybe the most famous place to see fall foliage in all of New England. The Kanc, as locals call it, is 56 miles of winding highway, surrounded by trees in every fall color you could ever imagine. If you drive straight, it takes just over an hour to drive the highway, but there are so many scenic points to stop along the way, you could spend the whole day here. Some of the most popular stops are Otter Rocks, Franconia Falls, and Pemigewasset Overlook.

Mount Washington, New Hampshire: As the tallest mountain peak in all New England, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that Mount Washington offers panoramic fall foliage views you couldn’t find anywhere else. There are two ways to reach the peak of the mountain. The first is an 8.2 mile hike with 4,280 feet of elevation gain, perfect for those who are experienced hikers. The second option, better for families, is to take the 3-hour round trip Cog railway to the top. Either option will take you through miles of orange, yellow and red trees up to a panoramic view of what seems like the entire state of New Hampshire. We’d recommend taking the last train up to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sunset.

2. Rich History and Picturesque Towns

From the arrival of the Pilgrims on the Mayflower to the infamous Salem Witch Trials, New England is deeply steeped in history and spooky legends, especially during the Fall.. There are countless picturesque small New England towns that would be perfect additions to a New England road trip itinerary, but there are two towns that are must-visits.

Plymouth, Massachusetts: This famed town is known for being the spot where the pilgrims disembarked from the Mayflower in 1620. The location where they landed is marked by Plymouth rock, which is admittedly smaller than we imagined, but it was still interesting to see the spot where history was made. Nearby, is a recreation of the Mayflower and a recreation of the village that the Pilgrims lived in when they arrived. During the Fall, the historic Plymouth center is decorated with pumpkins and everything is covered in fallen fall leaves.

Salem, Massachusetts: Home of the infamous Salem Witch Trials, Salem is no doubt the spookiest town in New England and during the Fall, the town really lives up to its reputation. Taking a walking tour (evening ghost tour, anyone?) is definitely the best way to learn all about Salem’s complex history, but the tours get booked up fast in the Fall, so make sure to plan ahead. Outside of walking tours, it’s a lot of fun to check out some of the haunted events put on by the town and explore all of the unique shops!

3. Seasonal Delicacies

Pumpkin and apple and lobster, oh my! Fall in New England is the perfect time to savor those fall flavors that we all love so much.

Lobster Rolls: Fall is peak lobster season and when you visit you’re likely to stumble across numerous restaurants and stands serving lobster rolls - a favorite in the region. We met a local in Massachusetts that told us their favorite lobster rolls could be found at Lobster Hut in Plymouth. Make sure to order your lobster roll with extra butter!

Apple Cider Donuts & Pumpkin Pie: Every bakery across New England is sure to sell these must-try fall delicacies. The cinnamon sugar-coated apple cider donuts pair perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or hot cider and a scenic drive through the fall trees. These are a must try!

Seasonal Produce: Whether you’re renting Airbnbs along your road trip route or living out of a van, like us, there will be nothing better than winding down after a day of exploring with a warm meal. Why not stop at a market in one of those small towns to pick up some locally grown produce like corn, pumpkin, or butternut squash to cook yourself up the perfect Fall meal?

4. Coastal New England Views

While Fall might not seem like the best time to head to the beach, the coastal towns of New England offer the perfect peaceful place to start or end your day.

We started our New England autumn road trip, by taking a stop in Cape Cod, Massachusetts to enjoy the views at sunrise. While waking up at the crack of dawn, especially on vacation, is difficult, it is never something we regret.

Sunrise over Cape Cod is so peaceful. The sunrise was beautiful and with all of the summer tourists long gone, we found ourselves there alone with the sounds of waves crashing over the rocks, birds flying across the sky, and a New England fog rolling across the water.

Fun Fact: the ocean in New England is the same temperature as an ice bath, if you’re into the idea of a cold plunge. Or maybe we’re the only people crazy enough to jump in the Atlantic Ocean in the middle of October…

A road trip through New England in the fall offers an experience that’s both enchanting and unforgettable. Whether it’s the iconic fall foliage, the rich history,, the delicious seasonal treats, or the peaceful coastal views, each stop along the way reveals something new and incredible.

Ready to be inspired for your own autumn adventure? Watch our YouTube video below to see more highlights from our Fall road trip and start planning your journey today!

Hi! We're Kara and Nate. High school sweethearts from Nashville, TN whose shared love of travel has led us on the adventure of a lifetime. In 2016 we quit our jobs to spend one year traveling around the world. Seven years later, we still haven't stopped! We quickly fell in love with life on the road and capturing our travels on video. We've visited over 100 countries, and have been fortunate enough to build an awesome community of subscribers on our YouTube channel and newsletter Daily Drop. We're so grateful to do what we love everyday and we hope our story and our content might inspire you to travel somewhere new!

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Sell my car, car research, sign in, how to plan an ev road trip.

If you're yearning to hit the open road in your EV, a little planning and vehicle prep can go a long way.

QuickTakes:

• Use apps for your next EV road trip
• How far and where you can travel in an EV
• Other considerations when planning an EV road trip

Thanks to longer driving ranges and a vast increase in charging opportunities — even in rural communities — electric-vehicle range anxiety  gives way to a "go for it" attitude regarding EV road-tripping. EV owners can comfortably plan longer journeys by using route-planning apps and fast-charging stations, and by adjusting their driving habits.

Use Apps for Your Next EV Road Trip

The latest EVs, such as the Lucid Air luxury sedan, can offer more than 500 miles of range, making an extended voyage feasible. Tesla's proprietary Supercharger network  can also assist with long-distance trips.

If you own a non-Tesla EV, you may have a preferential arrangement or subscription with one of the major charging networks, such as ChargePoint , Electrify America , EVgo , and others. Their respective apps may help determine the availability of charging stations along your road trip route.

Today's EV charging network is somewhat scattered across the country. To accurately measure how far you can travel before recharging, enter your destination on a trip-planning app, such as A Better Routeplanner or ChargeHub , and get a detailed overview of where to stop and charge and for how long.

Alternatively, EVHotels lists accommodations that also feature overnight charging stations.

Another favorite crowd-sourced app is PlugShare , which will allow you to plan a trip and see every charger along your route.

Google Maps is also gradually improving its capabilities to help with EV road trips, highlighting routes with faster chargers.

How Far and Where I Can Travel in My EV

Once you've picked a route, the fundamental limitations are the range of your vehicle and the availability of higher-speed charging opportunities. You'll have to contend with the issues related to the increasing popularity of EVs, starting with busy charging stations. There may be other challenges, too, such as the unreliable nature of more than a half-dozen competing EV charging companies and various still-emerging technologies.

When driving in remote areas, be aware that charging stations sometimes require cell phone service to activate those apps and initiate a charge.

While Tesla owners can benefit from access to the company's widespread Supercharger and Destination Chargers network, the automaker has begun to offer limited charging access to owners of non-Tesla EVs.

Other Considerations When Planning an EV Road Trip

New EV hardware and technologies, such as heat pumps and ever-improving batteries , are helping to make longer road trips more reliable and convenient year-round. But weather can still be a major factor in how far you may or may not be able to drive your EV.

If you head out in the middle of a freezing winter, colder temperatures can decrease the total range of your EV by as much as 30% or more. Running your EV's heater and accessories to stay comfortable during your trip can drastically reduce your total range. Similarly, high temperatures can strain your EV's systems and charging capabilities in the summer. See if you can charge in a shaded area and run your air conditioner.

You'll also achieve a more extended driving range in an EV or a traditional gas-powered car by properly inflating your tires , as lower tire pressures can reduce driving ranges.

Written by humans. Edited by humans.

Andy Stonehouse literally fell into the world of auto writing while working as a ski-town journalist, and has not looked back since. A childhood spent dealing with the eccentricities of a 1976 MG Midget has made any subsequent auto experience a more safe and reliable drive. He has been blessed with nearby mountain trails and snowy roads in Colorado to do TV-adventure-styled test drives on a weekly basis.

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17-Day Guided Tour in Silk Road China

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Discover the treasures of the Silk Road on this 17-day adventure through China, retracing part of the ancient trade route that linked East and West. An epic journey from bustling Xi'an to the frontier city of Kashgar, travel by train across diverse and beautifully rugged landscapes to see some of the country’s most spectacular relics. From dynastic palaces and Muslim minarets to hidden grottoes and rock-cut Buddhist masterpieces, this is an unforgettable Eastern odyssey.

Ticket Options

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17-Day Guided Tour in Silk Road China: $3080

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• Accommodations
• Admission fee (mentioned above)
• Fast train tickets

What's not Included

• Small Goose Pagoda (CNY-50)
• Great Mosque (CNY-25)
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda (CNY-80)

Cancellation Policy

• If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Additional Info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

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As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

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Where to road trip around Manitoba this fall

Summer travel season may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop exploring Manitoba.

During the fall, the province has a number of top-tier road trip destinations for those who want to hike, bird watch, or enjoy the fall foliage.

CTV News Winnipeg reached out to Travel Manitoba to find some of the province's best fall road trip destinations.

“There are tons of spots around Manitoba that I would recommend for anyone looking for some fall experiences,” said Kit Muir, media content specialist with Travel Manitoba.

“Depends what you’re looking for. Obviously, we get some really great fall foliage across the province, but there’s also a lot of opportunity for things like corn mazes, pumpkin patches, some great hikes.”

Here are some of Travel Manitoba's fall road trip suggestions:

Pine Point Rapids

For those wanting to travel east of Winnipeg, Muir suggests heading to Pine Point Rapids for some hiking.

She said this area offers different lengths of hiking trails for people of all different abilities.

The hiking area along the Whiteshell River can provide striking views of waterfalls and rapids.

Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary

While out east, Muir also recommends visiting the Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary to get an up-close view of goose or bird migration.

The sanctuary features an interpretive program, displays, exhibits, a self-guided hiking trail, and an observation gallery.

The sanctuary is located 0.5 kilometres east of Rennie on Highway 44.

Birds Hill Provincial Park

If all you’re looking for is a day trip, Muir suggests starting your day at Birds Hill Provincial Park.

“You could do breakfast at Pineridge Hollow,” she said. “They’ve got some great shopping there, so you can start your morning a little bit more leisurely.”

Muir added that Birds Hill is also a great place to see some fall foliage while walking through the different trails.

“[It works] for different levels of accessibility as well because some of them are completely paved, which makes things easier for folks who might be using a wheelchair or mobility aids,” she said.

“Other ones will take you a little bit more through the bush, but varying in lengths as well.”

Birds Hill is located 24 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg on Highway 59.

Oak Hammock Marsh

Another popular day trip destination outside of Winnipeg is Oak Hammock Marsh, a birding hotspot in Stonewall.

Muir noted the interpretive centre is currently closed for renovations. However, programming is still taking place, especially during migration season. She added that it is a great spot to watch the geese and birds fly in.

“They’ve got hundreds of different species that come through there and thousands and thousands of birds that land there during migration season,” Muir said.

“So it’s really an incredible spot to go if you really want to experience that migration feeling of the fall.”

Spruce Woods

Manitobans looking for a more extended road trip can head southwest to Spruce Woods Provincial Park in Carberry.

“Spruce Woods is the little desert of Manitoba,” Muir said. “It’s got these incredible sand dunes.”

Muir noted that the Spruce Woods can get very warm in the summer, making fall an ideal time to visit.

Muir also recommends making a stop in Boissevain, a community near the North Dakota border.

“Boissevain is such a cute little town,” she said.

“You can stop and say ‘hi’ to Tommy the Turtle, who’s their roadside attraction there.”

Muir also suggests overnighting at the Turtle Mountain Adventure Huts in Turtle Mountain Provincial Park.

“There’s a small hike to them, so you have to have a little bit of an adventurous spirit,” she said.

“But it’s a great spot and a great home base if you want to explore the park.”

Road trip advice

In order to prepare for your road trip, CAA spokesperson Kaitlynn Furse said it’s essential to ensure your car is in good working order. That includes checking the air pressure in your tires, topping up all your fluids, bringing an emergency kit, and ensuring your lights and car battery are working.

Once you’re on the road, Furse recommends planning your routes in advance and knowing where you’ll make pit stops.

“When it comes to driving long distances, you really want to just keep an eye on that fatigue, so making sure that you’re not driving more than 800 kilometres a day, taking 15-minute breaks every two hours, and making sure that you’re keeping your gas tank at least half full,” she said.

Do you have a favourite Manitoba fall road trip of your own? Let us know by emailing [email protected]

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Chicago Cubs | ‘Like a tale of two seasons.’ 3 takeaways from…

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Chicago Cubs

Chicago cubs | ‘like a tale of two seasons.’ 3 takeaways from the chicago cubs’ stellar 8-1 road trip..

A great double play turned by third baseman Isaac Paredes with the bases loaded and nobody out in the second inning Sunday helped limit the damage to one run by the Washington Nationals, and the Cubs’ offense took care of the rest, at times taking advantage of shoddy defense. The Cubs cruised to a 14-1 victory to sweep Washington for a season-high, sixth-straight win.

The Cubs (71-66) finished the road trip 8-1 and have won 12 of their last 15 games.

“It’s like a tale of two seasons,” said shortstop Dansby Swanson, who collected four of their 18 hits.

With the Cubs taking care of business against three teams below .500, there are three takeaways from their stellar trip.

1. Cubs are at least giving themselves a shot.

Sure, the odds are seriously against the Cubs reaching the postseason.

Even after dropping only one game during their three-city trip and going on this offensive run over the last two weeks, the Cubs’ odds to secure a wild-card spot sits at 6.8%, according to FanGraphs, behind the current holder of the last spot, Atlanta (75.5%), and the only other team chasing ahead of them, the New York Mets (28.7%).

But getting to September is all about having at least a shot to capture magic over the final four weeks of the regular season. What felt so unlikely this summer instead becomes a possibility worth hoping for. After an 18-8 August following an underwhelming performance from May through July, the Cubs’ upcoming games still matter as they return home to face the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Yankees.

“It’s awesome for everyone to be able to experience,” Swanson said. “Obviously, there are guys in this room that have experienced it before, some guys that haven’t, and just the fun and exciting time that it can be, and we’ve obviously given ourselves a chance to do that.”

2. The lineup shows why it can be so dangerous.

Expecting the Cubs to continue scoring at this recent output is unrealistic. But they have certainly been putting on a show.

Over their last 10 games, the Cubs have scored 99 runs, something they have done just once in a 10-game span during a season since 1901 when they produced 104 runs from May 28 to June 7, 1930. Amid this stretch, the Cubs have tallied 33 doubles, one triple and 14 home runs with contributions from throughout the lineup. In Sunday’s win, six Cubs recorded a multi-hit game and eight drove in at least one run.

“Early in the year, y’all are saying that we stink and can’t score runs and all that kind of stuff and everyone’s putting so much pressure to be able to score runs and produce,” Swanson said. “And then right now, it feels like the opposite. Everyone’s just free and confident, and whether it’s themselves or the guy that’s on deck or the guy that’s in the batter’s box. So it’s been a lot of fun, and we’ve definitely been enjoying that.”

With the emergence of offensive consistency from Pete Crow-Armstrong and catcher Miguel Amaya at the bottom of the order and Swanson coming through more frequently, the Cubs aren’t so top-heavy and relying on the same six hitters to produce for the offense to be successful.

“What they’ve done over the month of August has been a difference-maker for sure,” manager Craig Counsell said of Crow-Armstrong and Amaya. “The other guys have done their part, absolutely, been consistent. But what those two guys have done has really changed and I think it’s changed our offense.”

3. Jordan Wicks gives the Cubs a fresh arm for the stretch.

For the first time in 2 1/2 months, left-hander Jordan Wicks was back on a big-league mound Sunday.

Wicks gave the Cubs what they needed, limiting Washington to one run and four hits over five innings in his return from an oblique strain. He got the start instead of the originally scheduled starter Jameson Taillon. The Cubs wanted Taillon and Justin Steele to get an extra day of rest at this point in the season, and they will start the first two games this week against Pittsburgh.

Beyond Wicks feeling good and helping the Cubs win, one of the key elements of his return is giving the Cubs a fresh starter for September. Wicks entered Sunday having thrown just 28 innings for the Cubs over seven games (six starts). He will need to stay healthy, having already spent time on the injured list twice for two different ailments, but his return gives Counsell and the Cubs some options with how to best deploy their starters.

“It’s been exciting watching them, I’ve been tuned into pretty much every game while I’ve been gone,” Wicks said. “And so just to see the way that we’re swinging the bats and flying around the field and doing all that sort of stuff is a lot of fun to see, and it’s even more fun in person.”

More in Chicago Cubs

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Chicago Cubs | Shota Imanaga and 2 relievers throw a combined no-hitter for the Chicago Cubs in a 12-0 rout of the Pittsburgh Pirates

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Section of Scotland’s most famous road trip route shuts for two months

The part of the north coast 500 will be closed between 8pm and 7am, article bookmarked.

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A key stretch of Scotland ’s most famous road trip route is scheduled to be closed to drivers until November.

The Bealach na Ba single track on the bucket list North Coast 500 (NC500) route is set to close overnight during eight weeks of planned roadworks in September and October 2024.

Between 8pm and 7am, the section of Scottish road which leads to Applecross will be shut so Bakkafrost, a salmon farming company, can install a wire along the route to supply power for its Kishorn hatchery.

The NC500 is a 516-mile ‘superloop’ through the Scottish Highlands’ mighty glens, mountains and moorlands that takes around five days to drive.

Read more: The best Scotland road trips to take in your lifetime

Megan MacInnes, an Applecross councillor, raised concerns about the impact of the closures on tourism, residents and businesses.

Ms MacInnes said: “Feedback has been given in meetings with the developers and by email on numerous occasions. Specific examples from those whose jobs, income, livelihoods and businesses will be impacted have also been provided.

“This includes people in Applecross who work, for example in Kishorn or Lochcarron, who will not be able to travel to work on time during the closures. This also impacts local businesses in the hospitality sector on the peninsula whose bookings are already being impacted by the rumours of proposed closures,” report The Mirror .

Further closures are scheduled for four more weeks, around February and March 2025, after winter weather conditions in the area have improved.

A spokesperson for Bakkafrost said: “Drivers will be diverted to follow the coast road via Shieldaig. We understand that many have asked for a shorter period of closure each night. We plan to have three teams of workers working 11 hours per night whilst the nights are still relatively light and long, which means we can complete the job before the winter weather conditions.

“Working to this timescale is necessary to ensure the safety of all workers.”

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast

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