Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: 13 Best Stops And Complete Visitor Guide
A Pacific Coast Highway road trip is one of the most iconic drives in the world. Hugging the rugged California coastline along Highway 1, this route takes you through scenic cliffside views, seaside towns, historic lighthouses, and hidden coves. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended adventure, this first-time visitor guide will help you make the most of your journey on this legendary stretch of highway.
Overview
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1, spans over 600 miles along the California coastline from Dana Point in Southern California to Leggett in Northern California. Most road trippers choose to drive the most scenic section, from San Diego or Los Angeles to San Francisco or even beyond to Northern California’s redwood country. The route combines dramatic ocean vistas, charming towns, pristine beaches, and natural wonders, making it a dream destination for photographers, road trip enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers alike.
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How to Get There
- Start in the South: Most visitors begin in San Diego or Los Angeles, both of which are served by major international airports (SAN, LAX).
- End in the North: Common endpoints include San Francisco, Monterey, or Leggett (if you’re continuing into redwood territory).
- Rental Car Tip: Consider a one-way rental if you don’t want to loop back. Be sure to book early during peak travel seasons.
Best Times to Visit
- Late Spring to Early Fall (May–October): Ideal for warm weather, clearer skies, and open attractions.
- September–October: Fewer crowds and some of the best coastal weather.
- Winter Months: Less crowded but occasional rainstorms and road closures due to landslides (especially in Big Sur).
- Summer: Very popular, but coastal fog (known as “June Gloom”) may obscure some views, especially in Southern California.
13 Best Stops on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip
- Santa Monica Pier – Iconic beachfront fun and a great starting point.
- Malibu – Surf spots, celebrity homes, and scenic beaches.
- Santa Barbara – Beautiful Spanish-style architecture and wine tasting.
- Solvang – Danish-style village with unique charm and bakeries.
- Pismo Beach – Relaxed surf town perfect for a lunch stop.
- San Luis Obispo – Home to Bubblegum Alley and vibrant downtown.
- Morro Bay – Famous for Morro Rock and coastal wildlife.
- Hearst Castle – Lavish historic mansion overlooking the Pacific.
- Big Sur – Rugged coastline, Bixby Bridge, and cliffside views. Big Sur California is easily a top destination across the entire PCH.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea – Fairytale cottages and upscale boutiques.
- Monterey – Explore Cannery Row and the world-class aquarium.
- Santa Cruz – Surf town with a classic boardwalk and redwood parks.
- San Francisco – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and diverse neighborhoods.
I also recommend this Tripadvisor page for more Pacific Coast Highway recommendations from other visitors on top of the list above.
6 Hidden Gems
- El Matador Beach (Malibu) – A secluded beach with stunning rock formations.
- Harmony, CA – A quirky town with a population of 18 and local art shops.
- Pfeiffer Beach (Big Sur) – Known for purple sand and a rock arch.
- Point Lobos State Reserve – Hiking and marine wildlife near Carmel.
- Devil’s Slide Trail – A scenic coastal walking/biking trail south of Pacifica.
- Davenport – Small coastal town with beach swing photo ops and dramatic cliffs.
1–5 Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
- Visit: Santa Monica, Malibu, El Matador Beach
- Stay overnight in Santa Barbara
Day 2: Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo
- Visit: Solvang, Pismo Beach
- Stay overnight in SLO
Day 3: San Luis Obispo to Big Sur
- Visit: Morro Bay, Hearst Castle, Ragged Point
- Stay overnight in Big Sur
Day 4: Big Sur to Monterey/Carmel
- Visit: Pfeiffer Beach, Bixby Bridge, Point Lobos
- Stay overnight in Carmel or Monterey
Day 5: Monterey to San Francisco
- Visit: Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, Devil’s Slide Trail
- End in San Francisco
Packing List
You can get the majority of items on this list from my Amazon gear store:
- Layers (coastal temps can shift quickly)
- Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sunglasses
- Binoculars for spotting whales or sea otters
- Camera or smartphone with plenty of storage
- Offline maps (cell service can be patchy in Big Sur)
- Snacks and picnic supplies
- Park pass or entry cash for state parks
Where to Stay
Check hotels around Pacific Coast Highway
Tip: Lodging in Big Sur is limited and books up quickly. It’s recommended to book early.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Drive North to South for Ocean Views: If you’re not doing a loop, this direction puts you on the coastal side of the road.
- Gas Up Often: Long stretches like Big Sur have limited stations and high prices.
- Watch for Road Closures: Check the Caltrans website for landslide-related shutdowns, especially in the Big Sur area.
- Cell Signal is Spotty: Download maps and guides offline in advance.
- Respect Local Wildlife: Seals, sea otters, and tide pools are plentiful, observe but don’t disturb.
Related
Final Thoughts
A Pacific Coast Highway road trip is more than just a scenic drive, it’s an unforgettable journey through California’s diverse coastal landscapes and communities. From secret beaches to dramatic cliffs and vibrant towns, every mile offers something new to explore. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with friends or family, this route has something for everyone. Follow this first-time guide and get ready to experience one of America’s greatest road trips.
Hi all these places look amazing, but I really liked the Glass Beach, Fort Bragg. I have always enjoyed going on beach trips with family or friends, and I would love to visit this one. Collecting the ‘jewels’ will be great as it will provide a great memory of the place.
It’s a wonderful place, but I wouldn’t swim there, the area is filled with jagged rocks. For sight seeing though and collecting the glass, it’s perfect!
I’ve always wanted to check out Big Sur. I’ve been along the California coastline and it is gorgeous. I would love to drive the entire state’s coastline one day. I know, I know, it would take awhile to complete, but man it would be worth it!
I’ve never heard of Hug Point, but the photo looks amazing. I might be making a trip to Oregon at some point, so definitely will check it out.
Hi Nate, I think the California coast is over 800 miles, I don’t think it’s possible to cross in a single day, especially on the 101 that generally is limited to 40 mph speeds hah. But seriously, if you do it again, take your time and make sure to visit Oregon man, it is even better!