Are you planning your Great American Road Trip, but you aren’t sure where to start? The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)— also known as California State Route 1— is one of the best and safest routes in America to set off on a memorable trip. PCH is the ultimate California road trip.
Picture golden sunshine, beaches, and sands. Visualize clear blue skies and the deep blue sea. Imagine refreshing sea breezes and salty air. Conjure up images of rolling hills studded with sparkling orange poppies and redwood-filled valleys.
Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or with family and kids, the stretch of Pacific Coast Highway between San Francisco and Los Angeles (460 miles) is the stuff of dreams—arguably one of America’s most exciting road routes.
With the shimmering Pacific Ocean keeping you company during much of the drive, your eyes feast on breathtaking views of stunning beaches, breathtaking natural scenery, exciting wildlife, wine regions, and classy seaside towns.
What to Expect
“All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown)
And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray)
I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk)
On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)
I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm)
If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)
California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day”
The Mammas & the Papas Song (1965)
Dotting this route are some of America’s most recognizable cities (Los Angeles and San Francisco), picturesque coastal towns (Santa Barbara, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey), stunning beaches (Venice, Malibu, Santa Cruz), and landmarks (Hollywood, Golden Gate, and Bixby Creek Bridge).
For more detailed information about how to plan a grand road trip in America, check out our blog “The Great American Road Trip: 7 U.S Route to Explore Before You Die”
Get ready, gather your loved ones, and embark on a trip of adventure across California. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your California road trip.
Where to Begin
You can do the PCH driving north to south, as well as south to north. But we recommend that you start in San Francisco and then head south. If it’s your first time in the city, take your time to explore the city before you hit the road.
Sunsets, Skylines & Bay Area Bliss: the San Francisco Getaway
“The City by the Bay” is a northern Californian gem, best known for its legendary Golden Gate Bridge, rich historical heritage, and an affable blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Here are some family tour ideas and must-see tourist Attractions in San Francisco.
- Golden Gate Bridge: Witness the bridge Visit the Golden Gate Park, and explore the gardens and museums.
- Pier 39: Visit Pier 39 for spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay and California’s famous sea lions that congregate on the K-Dock. You get unhindered views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz.
- Alcatraz Island: You can take a ferry to the infamous former prison.
After you’ve seen the sights and sounds of San Francisco, it is time to hit the road down south.
Heading South: Surf, Sands, and Sunset Half Moon Bay & Santa Cruz
San Francisco’s urban landscape gives way to coastal cliffs and rugged hills as you head south to the ‘Pumpkin Capital of the United States’. The scenic little town of Half Moon Bay (known for its pumpkin festivals and stunning beaches) is the first major stop on PCH (30-mile/36-minute drive). Pull over to explore the downtown.
The next stopover Santa Cruz (48 mile/ 1 hr drive) is renowned for its “high-stroke surf” culture, beaches, amusement & theme parks, and historical landmarks. If you are traveling with kids, visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park is a great idea.
Seaside Serenity and Cozy Cottages: Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea
More small-town Californian charm awaits you at Monterey (47 min/46 miles) which prides itself on the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium, described by Forbes as “one of America’s most captivating aquariums.” Monterey was once a thriving fishing town, immortalized by John Steinbeck in his novel Cannery Row. It was also the setting for HBO’s Hit Series starring Reese Witherspoon Big Little Lies. In Monterey, you can also join a tour to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life.
Carmel-by-the-Sea (only 4 miles outside of Monterey) has a laid-back charm and is known for its more than 100 art galleries, studios, and antique stores. Carmel used to be a retirement destination for California and once had Clint Eastwood as its mayor.
Redwood Groves, Craggy Cliffs, and Splashy Waves: Exploring the Wonders of Big Sur
The landscape shifts dramatically as you enter the rugged and mountainous Big Sur characterized by towering cliffs, lush forests, and the Pacific Ocean. Big Sur has been dubbed “one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation” by the Washington Times. It has become a popular tourist destination due to its scenic ocean views, redwood forests, hiking trails, and beaches.” The drive through Big Sur is arguably the highlight of a PCH road trip.
This lap of your journey is home to the most Instagram-worthy destination on the PCH: the Bixby Creek Bridge— “one of the most photographed bridges in California.”
Be sure to pull over at the Pfeiffer Beach known for its unique rock formations and purple sand.
Experience the Historical Charm of San Luis Obispo
The PCH road trip isn’t just about natural beauty and the ocean, it offers considerable historical allure and mystery as well. The quaint little town of San Luis Obispo (“SLO” to its locals) is famous for its historic mission (Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa) which was established in 1772 AD. The downtown has a chic old-world America feel to it.
Another big attraction of the town is the opulent estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Heart known as Hearst Castle which was frequented by Hollywood celebrities in the 1920s and 1930s.
Art, Wines and Waves: Discovering America’s Riviera Santa Barbara and Malibu Beach
Dubbed “the American Riviera,” the Southern Californian town of Santa Barbara is noted for its thriving wine scene, white revival Mediterranean-style architecture, swaying palms, and beautiful beaches. A stopover here on your California road trip is a must.
Make sure you leave enough time on your itinerary to go on a wine-tasting tour of the local vineyards and tasting rooms. If you do not have time for a wine tour, watching a sunset at Malibu Beach (1 hr drive from Santa Barbara) is a great idea.
Frolicking in La La Land: “The City of Angels” Los Angeles
Your Great Californian Road Trip ends in Los Angeles, known for Hollywood, movie stars, theme parks, pop culture, and gorgeous beaches.
L.A. is the perfect place to sign off your PCH road trip. It brims with attractions. If it’s your first time, we recommend that you spend a day or two to explore the city. Spot the Hollywood Sign (best seen from Lake Hollywood Park), take a tour of the Paramount Pictures Studios, catch L.A’s bohemian vibe at Venice Beach, take a stroll in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, drive through Sunset Boulevard, or unwind at the Griffith Park.
Conclusion – California Road Trip
When it comes to picking a route to plan a “Great American Road Trip” you are spoiled for choice. There are so many exciting routes to choose from. Some are more challenging and adventurous than others.
Alaska’s Seward Highway takes you on a thrilling journey to America’s icy frontiers. Tracing the Great Mississippi River, The Great River Road takes you on an epic journey across 10 different states. And the U.S. “Route 50 in Nevada” which shoots through the desert of Nevada takes you on a mesmerizing ride on “the Loneliest Road in America.”
The Pacific Coast Highway road trip offers you a taste of everything you expect from a grand road trip. The glitz and glamour of L.A. and Hollywood; the small coastal town charm of Half Moon Bay, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz; picture-perfect beaches like Venice, Glass, and Santa Cruz, and the historical heritage of San Luis Obispo.
So, what are you waiting for? The Golden State awaits you. Rev up the engine!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY (CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP)
How many days do I need for a Pacific Coast Highway, California road trip?
The distance between San Francisco and Los Angeles is 460 miles on PCH (Highway 1), which can be covered in approximately 9-10 hours if you do not make a stop. However, to truly enjoy the sights and attractions along the way, we recommend that you set aside 4-7 days for a Great California Road Trip.
Here is a sample Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for you.
- Day 1: Sightseeing in San Francisco
- Top Attractions: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Golden Gate Park, Pier 39, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Day 2: Drive to Monterey and Carmel-by-the Sea (Overnight stay at Carmel)
- Top Attractions in Monterey: Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row
- Top Attractions in Carmel: Carmel River State Beach, Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
- Day 3: Carmel to Big Sur and San Luis ObispoTop Attractions Big Sur: Pfeiffer Beach, Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls
- Top Attractions San Luis Obispo: Mission San Luis Obispo De Tolosa
- Day 4: San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles
- Top Attraction Los Angeles: Universal Studios Hollywood, Hollywood Sign, the Getty, Griffith Park & Observatory, Santa Monica Pier.
What is the best time of the year to go on a Pacific Coast Highway, California road trip?
You can take the road trip throughout the year. But the best time to go is from April to October (late spring to early fall).
Is the Pacific Coast Highway safe to drive?
Yes, the PCH is perfectly safe to drive. Even a Sedan would do. You can also drive the PCH in an RV. There are many camping grounds along the way as well.
Interested in more adventures across America? Check out our guide “U.S. Route 66 Road Trip: Ultimate Adventure on America’s Mother Road”
