The Only Stops You Need To Make For The Ultimate Highway 1 Road Trip Through California
While road trips may not be in your immediate future if you’re reading this in 2020, there is definitely still time to update that bucket list and start planning. The top of your U.S. bucket list should definitely include a Highway 1 road trip through California.
I’ve done the drive from L.A. to Portland at least fifteen times. While there are numerous routes, my favorite route is taking Highway 1. There are so many things to do on the PCH. Not only is a Highway 1 road trip breathtaking, since it follows along the Pacific Coast, but it’s also home to the most beautiful places in California.
If you’re planning your next road trip, look no further. This is the only California coast road trip itinerary you need:
Pacific Coast Highway 1 Road trip North to South: Full Itinerary
San Francisco
Your first stop in Northern California should absolutely be San Francisco. California’s most populous city is not to be missed. With cultural offerings abound, cooler and windier weather, the hype surrounding this bayside city is valid.
Must See:
- Enjoy seafood, views and ice cream at Fisherman’s Wharf
- Eat and photograph your way through Chinatown
- Check out the bohemian vibe in The Haight
- Take a tour to Alcatraz island– use my affiliate link to book today.
Tourist Attraction to Skip?
The Golden Gate Bridge. High entry free, paired with intense traffic make this an overrated stop. You can get numerous photos of the Golden Gate Bridge throughout the city, without having to pay or deal with those crowds.
Pro Tip:
You’ll notice that accommodation in the city isn’t cheap, and it’s also not very car friendly. My suggestion would be to stay in Oakland instead. Oakland is a cultural hub with beautiful architecture, less crowded but equally delicious food stops, available street parking, and a vibe of its own. Depending on traffic, it will take you less than 30 minutes to get into the heart of San Francisco from Oakland.
Longer Trip? Check These Nearby Places Out Off Highway 1:
Santa Cruz
The hippie town of all California hippie towns, Santa Cruz is not to be missed. Only 45 more minutes from San Francisco, you could alternatively stay here as well. With an unbeatable coast line, and the famous Redwood National Forest on the other side, you have a variety of outdoor activities.
Must See:
- Hike your way through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Enjoy the amusement park on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk
- Eat, shop, and drink your way through Front St.
- Explore University of Santa Cruz’s magical campus
- Catch a sunset at Natural Bridges State Beach
Tourist Attraction to Skip?
Santa Cruz Wharf. In comparison to the nearby Santa Cruz Boardwalk, there isn’t much you need to see or eat on the Santa Cruz Wharf.
Pro Trip:
While there are cute boutique hotels abound here, the camping is pretty amazing. You can camp oceanside just outside of Santa Cruz, but my favorite camping spot is in the redwoods. While camping at Big Basin State Park is about 20 minutes outside of town, these campsites are stunning. Surrounded by red woods, super spacious, affordable, with hiking trails abound.
Longer Trip? Check These Nearby Places Out Off Highway 1:
Monterey County
Within Monterey County, you have sight after sight to see. This area is home to the best highway 1 attractions, in my humble opinion. Most of these places can just be quick pit-stops, but if you’re into camping, there are numerous destinations here. I would highly recommend choosing one place to stay the night. I’ll break down each area below with its must see places.
Carmel:
- 17 mile Drive: Numerous jaw dropping views and spots.
- Point Lobos State Reserve: Hiking trails, lagoons, waterfalls, do it all.
Big Sur National Forest:
- Pfieffer National Park: 10/10 best campgrounds in the area.
- Pfieffer Beach: two words-purple sand.
- Nepenthe: Exclusive views, paired with the best alcoholic hot cocoas.
- McWay Waterfall: Blink and you’ll miss it. Hidden waterfall on the side of the highway 1.
- Salmon Creek Falls: Awesome bouldering, paired with gorgeous waterfalls. If you climb to the top of the falls you’re in for a treat.
Pro Tip:
This area is largely remote. Download offline maps before heading down, purely so you don’t miss all the attractions. If you’re going to camp-which you should- keep in mind reservations often fill up months in advance.
San Luis Obispo
The recipient of the happiest town in America numerous times, SLO is a gem. San Luis Obispo is hipper and trendier than most people think, with cool coffee shots, an immaculate downtown and some of the cutest beach towns in the area. While it’s just slightly off the coast, it’s worth the stop on your highway 1 road trip, especially if you’re into the outdoors.
Must See:
- Eat and drink your way through downtown SLO
- Take in the kitschy sights of Madonna Inn
- Swim, hike, and picnic at Montana De Oro State Park
- Spot elephant seals, chill vibes, and Morro Rock at Morro Bay
Pro Trip:
My two favorite places to stay in SLO have two very different vibes. If you’re into kitschy, unique hotels, then you should definitely stay at the Madonna Inn. With themed rooms, this bright pink resort also offers horseback riding, wine tasting and visual treats abound. Alternatively, Montana De Oro is my favorite camping spot in Southern/Central California. With beach side camping, and views rivaling Big Sur, these cliffs are absolutely stunning at sunset.
Tourist Attraction to Skip?
Bubblegum alley. It’s small and over rated, and honestly a bit gross.
Longer Trip? Check These Nearby Places Out Off Highway 1:
- Visit the insanely beautiful Hearst Castle
- Stop at Vista Point to ogle the Elephant Seals.
- Enjoy wine tasting in Los Olivos
- Enjoy pristine beaches of Pismo Beach, and my favorite nude beach, Pirate’s Cove.
Santa Barbara
There’s a reason I lived in Santa Barbara for three beautiful years. Known as the American Riviera, this European and Spanish inspired town is truly a secluded paradise. Only an hour and a half from Los Angeles, this city often gets overlooked on the common Pacific Coast highway stops. With beautiful homes, stunning architecture, relative walkability, wine galore, fresh seafood-it’s a must see on your highway 1 road trip.
Must See:
- Explore, admire and eat your way through State St.
- Drink your way through the Funk Zone.
- Picnic at the Historic Mission and stay for sunset.
- Bike from the pier to Butterfly Beach and Miramar in Montecito.
- Cruise up the 154 to Cold Spring Tavern, Lizard’s Mouth, and Knapp’s Castle. Trust me.
Tourist Attraction to Skip:
Thankfully, Santa Barbara doesn’t exactly boast huge tourist attractions. Overall, I’d recommend avoiding the restaurants on the beach front and instead exploring more local cuisine as you walk up State St, like Milk and Honey Tapas.
Pro Tip:
If you want to enjoy Santa Barbara at its peak, go during the first week of August to experience their “Old Spanish Days Fiesta.” The entire town basically takes work off, and celebrates day and night. Vendors line the street, parades happen and you will see confetti everywhere.
Longer Trip? Check These Nearby Places Out Off Highway 1:
- Enjoy a beach day in Carpinteria, check out Santa Claus Lane.
- Check out Point Mugu State Park in Oxnard.
- Visit the Danish town of Solvang.
Los Angeles
Does this city really need an introduction? The biggest, most diverse city in California, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone in the world who hasn’t heard of it. I called LA my home for four glorious years and the city has a soft spot in my heart. You can’t have a highway 1 road trip without this place.
Must See:
- Sight see on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, ending with a boozy brunch or lunch at the Venice Ale House.
- The Griffith Observatory: incredible views.
- Santa Monica: shop and eat your way through the Promenade and Main Street.
- Cruise down Sunset Blvd and Wilshire Blvd, where you’ll pass through Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.
- Shop your way through Melrose Avenue.
- Enjoy less crowded beaches in Marina Del Rey.
- Malibu: Point Dume boasts some of the best views, while El Matador is my favorite beach. Don’t forget to eat at Malibu Seafood, Malibu Farm or splurge on the best Nobu there is.
Tourist Attraction to Skip:
As with most known cities, there are a lot of famous places that just aren’t worth it anymore. I’d definitely say skip the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It’s dirty, crowded, and filled with people trying to sell you things. Additionally, you don’t need to visit the Santa Monica Pier- walking on the beach nearby will suffice.
Pro Tip:
Los Angeles is a massive place. What you decide to do really depends on your interests. While it’s essential to have a car (so it’s good you’re road tripping) do some research beforehand on each area. Keep in mind it will take you a good hour just to get from the east side to the west side, so while I recommend exploring both, base yourself on the one you want to explore the most. For accommodation, hotels are pretty expensive. Check out Airbnb for better deals, you can use my referral code here.
Longer Trip? Check These Nearby Places Out Off Highway 1:
- Manhattan Beach: Picture picture beach town and pier.
- Dana Point: The prettiest, ritziest beach town in Orange County.
- Laguna Beach: The most iconic beach town in Orange County, right next door.
San Diego
Ahh, Los Angeles’ chiller, debatably prettier, neighbor and the last big city before Mexico. San Diego is a sprawling, laid back, surfers paradise and notable foodie destination. You absolutely cannot miss out on this vast and diverse city.
Must See:
- La Jolla Cove: Beautiful view, seals, and great place for sunset.
- Mission Beach: Idyllic area, perfect for a picturesque beach day.
- Explore Downtown San Diego– see a Giants game, drink your way through the Gas Lamp district, and enjoy all the food.
Tourist Attraction to Skip:
Sea World. Come on, it’s 2020- supporting Sea World is not okay. Skip this please.
Pro Tip:
San Diego is also a massive city, which many don’t realize beforehand. Where you choose to stay also depends on what your interests are. Downtown will be better for those looking to party, and eat their way through the city, but it also has some sketchier areas. Mission Beach will give you an iconic SD feel with lots of beach front houses but it’s sleepier and costs a pretty penny.
Longer Trip? Check Out These Nearby Places Off Highway 1:
- Encinitas: A hippie suburb of San Diego with great food, good vibes and less crowds.
- Embark on some hikes! There are so many in the area it’s overwhelming. Camp at San Onofre for beautiful views and access to everything.
- Head to Joshua Tree or Palm Springs! Only about 2.5 hours away.
Alicia Briggs
Full-time digital nomad since 2018, I focus my blog on slow travel and sustainable living. I'm a freelance writer, regularly contributing to Passion Passport, Hidden Lemur and Outspoken. I love veggie tacos, rooftop happy hours, day hikes and living in cities I had never heard of before moving there.
