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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit on the West Coast — From Charming Small Towns to National Parks

From Washington to California, these are the best places to visit on the West Coast.

Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure , TravelAge West , Ventura Blvd , and L.A. Parent , writing about food, family travel, and more.

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As a California native, I say the following with obvious and admitted bias: the West Coast is the best coast. Urban oases like Los Angeles , San Francisco , and Seattle attract visitors from around the world for good reason.  However, if anyone asks me for itinerary assistance, I push for balancing city sojourns with slow escapes to the West Coast's most beautiful spots – none of which are smack dab in the middle of a city, in my opinion. Here are 15 of the best places to visit on the West Coast, arranged from south to north, that really show off the treasures of the region’s contiguous states: Washington, Oregon, and California.

Big Sur, California

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The undulating 90-mile length of California’s Central Coast known as Big Sur is the stuff of travel lore. Much of the road is right at the edge of a cliff, so if you don’t have incomparable sea views, it’s likely only because you’ve been enveloped in fog. While I love a misty morning, sunny days here are spectacular. Enjoy iconic McWay Falls from above via Overlook Trail , explore Andrew Molera State Park , and trek along Pfeiffer Falls Trail . A stop at Big Sur Bakery is another itinerary must. Be sure to check that the road is open before you visit, as the road’s precarious placement means it's regularly impacted by winter rains and mudslides.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

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This coastal village measures less than one square mile and is the ideal destination for easy strolls. You will walk past fairy-tale cottages (note that people actually live in them), charming cafes and galleries, and even the soft-sanded Carmel Beach. Then hop on the famous 17-mile Drive , keeping on the lookout for endemic Monterey cypress trees as you circle the Monterey Peninsula.

Muir Woods, California

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Muir Woods National Monument is small at 558 acres, but its resident trees are not small at all. You will find towering ancient redwoods here, many nearly a millennium old and standing taller than 250 feet. Spend a couple of hours exploring below these mighty giants and reading placards to learn about the history of the land. The monument is less than 20 miles from San Francisco and is the most easily accessible redwood grove in the state. Parking reservations are always required, as spots are extremely limited.

Point Reyes, California

Point Reyes National Seashore is situated on a hammer-shaped peninsula about 60 miles north of San Francisco. Set aside a few hours for a misty out-and-back hike on Tomales Point Trail , where wildflowers and tule elk can be spotted, or try the short-but-stunning Chimney Rock Trail . Then grab oysters along Tomales Bay at an oyster shack of your choice.

Russian River Valley, California

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The Russian River Valley is lush and green and even delicious, thanks to wineries, beloved cafes, and marketplaces. Walk the town of Guerneville, stopping for a meal at Big Bottom Market (Oprah’s favorite biscuits are made here), then trek around in Armstong Redwoods State Natural Reserve . Plan to float the Russian River (Steelhead Beach is a preferred starting point), and save time for wine tasting at nearby spots like Hartford Family Wines and Equality Vines .

Mendocino, California

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There’s something particularly majestic about a teeny town on a bluff overlooking the sea, and Mendocino is just that. Grab coffee and pastries in this quaint and preserved historic town, then enjoy nature on as many trails as you can. Top paths are in Mendocino Headlands State Park for bird’s-eye ocean views, Hendy Woods State Park for redwood viewing, and Russian Gulch State Park for a beach walk.

Redwood National and State Parks, California

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This collection of parks protects the ultra-special redwood tree – they only grow in coastal California and southern Oregon, and they’re jaw-dropping in size (nothing on the planet grows taller) and beauty. There are miles of trails here to trek, but you might want to start with Tall Trees Grove Loop or Trillium Falls Trail . To simply hang out with and marvel at redwoods, head to Lady Bird Johnson Grove .

Thor’s Well, Oregon

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Thor’s Well is a sight to see. It looks like a hole in the ocean, where rushing waters sink to unseen depths; scientists say it's likely the remnant of a collapsed sea cave. Visit at high tide to get the full effect of this “drainpipe of the Pacific.” The area is also good for gray whale spotting in December and January when they travel south for the winter.

Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

Who knew Oregon had so many waterfalls ? If you’d like to enjoy these natural treasures, try the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park . The 7.2-mile loop trail brings hikers through dense forest and – you guessed it – past ten waterfalls, and it’s pretty moderate in elevation gain (800 feet). Do the whole trip if you’re able so you can appreciate both the stretches on the forest floor and up the canyon. Start early to avoid crowds.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

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There are more than 700 wineries in Willamette Valley, Oregon’s expansive wine country. Build your own wine-tasting itinerary , and save time to go waterfall hiking (as mentioned above, you will find so many falls in this region). Then shop and dine in towns like Cottage Grove , Brownsville, Silverton, or McMinnville.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

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This is Oregon’s most famous beach, and for good reason – the high basalt rocks just offshore pierce the landscape dramatically (puffins are pretty active here from April to July), and the cute coastal town of the same name sits just behind the sand. While small, it has everything you need, from breweries and ice cream shops to oceanside lodging options. Small nearby towns like Manzanita and Seaside charm visitors, too.

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

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This dreamy, double-tiered waterfall is set in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area , which attracts more than two million people every year. Park near the base and enjoy the view from below (there’s a pretty footbridge at the falls’ midpoint), or hike to the top of the falls via a 2.6-mile out-and-back trail. Note that timed-use permits will be required beginning in May.

White Salmon, Washington

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Also in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, White Salmon, Washington is a perfect riverside town with all the ambiance and activity you could ask for. Expect supreme kite and windsurfing, mountain biking, hiking, and even a brand-new Wildflower Festival in May. You can also explore the area on a whitewater kayaking excursion.

Hurricane Ridge Trail, Olympic National Park, Washington

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Olympic National Park is nearly one million acres in size, and Hurricane Ridge Trail is considered one of the best routes in it, as the path delivers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. The trail and its surroundings are set to reopen Memorial Day weekend after a big rehabilitation effort. Note that the trailhead is in the northeast corner of the park about 100 miles from Seattle, and it closes during snowy winter months.

Friday Harbor, Washington

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Washington’s San Juan Islands are breathtaking year round, and though the archipelago includes hundreds of islands, a ferry system allows for easy access to just a handful of them, including San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. Friday Harbor is considered the hub of the region, and it's a great place from which to explore. Visit for orca watching, hiking in preserves like Lime Kiln Point State Park , and even farm and winery tours.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

5 West Coast Beach Towns Perfect For A Long Weekend Escape

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Along the West Coast of the United States, from Seattle to San Diego , scenic beach towns beckon not only with sand and surf but also cute downtown areas for shopping and dining, as well as boutique hotels ideal for a weekend getaway.

While much of the U.S. is buried in snow and freezing temperatures, Southern California might be most appealing for a winter escape with its sunny skies and moderate weather. But even towns further up the coast allow for moody walks on uncrowded beaches in the off-season. And of course, Pacific sunsets can be stunning all year round.

Consider these West Coast beach towns perfect for a long weekend escape.

Pismo Beach Pier

1. Pismo Beach, California

On California’s central coast, Pismo Beach offers visitors 17 miles of coastline to explore. To the north and south of Pismo Beach Pier are wide stretches of soft sand for beach picnics, frisbee, and volleyball. At low-tide, check out the nifty tidepools at Shell Beach.

From October through February, be sure to visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove , where more than 10,000 orange and black butterflies flock annually. Three historic wine-making regions are a short drive away for wine tastings and strolling through vineyards — Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, and Avila Valley.

Where To Stay In Pismo Beach

Inn at the Cove is set on an oceanfront bluff, while Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection is steps from the pier. 

Fairy-tale architecture in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea

2. Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

A 2-hour drive south of San Francisco, charming Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to a 1-square-mile village where surprises delight around every corner. Whimsical fairy-tale cottages look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. Wine-tasting rooms make for a great place to rest while browsing local boutiques in narrow passageways and pretty courtyards.

Dogs can roam leash-free on expansive Carmel Beach. Walk the flat Scenic Pathway that skirts the sea, or do the loop trail in the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve , which takes you through cypress groves and to lookouts above rocky coves.

Where To Stay In Carmel-By-The-Sea

Doris Day once owned the pet-friendly Cypress Inn , which dates back to 1929. Also historic, L’Auberge Carmel might be downtown’s most luxurious boutique hotel, while Carriage House Inn is a romantic spot with just 13 rooms.

Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach

3. Newport Beach, California

Orange County’s Newport Beach is a coastal city of more than 80,000 residents, but its distinct neighborhoods help make the upscale spot feel more intimate. Take the ferry to Balboa Island, check out the tidepools in Corona del Mar, and shop the chic stores at Fashion Island. Balboa Peninsula is the spot for surfing, boogie boarding, beach bars, and seaside dining.

Where To Stay In Newport Beach

Just opened in the fall of 2023, Pendry Newport Beach is the area’s newest lodging option. Newport Beach Hotel is steps from the beach and Balboa Bay Resort hugs yacht-clad Newport Harbor.

Quiet beach in Gearhart, Oregon

4. Gearhart, Oregon

Three miles north of Seaside — a bustling, family-friendly vacation destination with adventure parks and arcades — is quiet Gearhart , Oregon. The uncrowded small town has no traffic lights and provides a peaceful backdrop for a coastal weekend escape, especially for visitors from Portland, a 90-minute drive away. Walk along the unspoiled beach, go kayaking in Neacoxie Creek, or tee off at Gearhart Golf Links.

Where To Stay In Gearhart

The Drifthaven at Gearhart is a 12-room boutique hotel with cozy fireplaces in every room and thoughtful amenities like complimentary use of beach bikes and a continental breakfast delivered to your room daily. 

5. Seabrook, Washington

Seabrook, Washington, is a planned coastal community developed about 20 years ago. While it may not have the authentic history of a marina town like Port Townsend , laid-back Seabrook does offer visitors an idyllic town square, 18 green parks, and several miles of mountain biking trails.

Seabrook has plenty of beachfront within walking distance of town, or you can venture further afield to Pacific Beach State Park, Roosevelt Beach, and Copalis Beach. Seabrook also makes a great home base for adventuring in Olympic National Park .

Where To Stay In Seabrook

Unique vacation rentals abound in Seabrook, from cozy one-bedroom cottages close to the beach to larger multi-bedroom houses with spacious yards ideal for a family getaway.

The Bottom Line

Whether you want to surf, stroll, poke around tidepools, or watch the sunset, there’s a West Coast beach town ideal for your weekend getaway. 

While it may be difficult to tear yourself away from the soothing sound of ocean waves, remember that beach towns can also make great launch pads for visiting nearby wineries, national parks, and golf courses to round out a short coastal vacation.

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In her editorial career spanning more than 30 years, Kara Williams has served as a magazine editor, newspaper reporter, corporate copy editor, and proofreader. Currently, as a freelance writer, Kara focuses on all things travel, from sublime spas and upscale hotels to RV camping and outdoor adventures. National parks, romantic escapes, and tropical destinations are other favorite travel topics she covers. Kara has won Lowell Thomas, SATW Western Chapter, and NATJA awards for her work. An empty nester, she makes her home in the Colorado mountains with her husband and writes about her travels at her blog, Life Here & There . Learn more about Kara on her portfolio website .

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19 Iconic West Coast Road Trips For Adventures All Year Long!

Post Summary: West Coast Road Trips And The Most Scenic Drives To Take !

Itching to go on one of many West Coast road trips? There are virtually endless possibilities! 

From the Pacific Coast Highway to the Rocky Mountains, there is an American west coast road trip just for you!

In this post, we’re sharing tons of inspirational west coast road trips to take this season, including how to find the best camping spots, photogenic stops, and highlights of each route.

Let’s get started!

West Coast Road Trips - Pacific Coast Highway (Golden Gate Bridge)

19 Stunning West Coast Road Trips For Adventure-Lovers

Disclaimer about these road trips on the West Coast USA: You may be wondering why we’re covering landlocked locations when this is a blog post about west COAST road trips. Instead, think of these as Western USA road trips, that cover everything from the Pacific Ocean to the Continental Divide!

How To Get Around On A West Coast Road Trip

Getting around on an American West Coast road trip requires a little planning and a lot of flexibility!

It can work for anyone regardless of if you are seeking luxury, or simply traveling on a budget – there are west coast road trips for you!

For budget road trippers: We highly recommend downloading an app called The Dyrt . It’s the largest database of campsites in the USA, including reservable AND free sites! We have the pro membership and love it for finding campsites offline & last-minute . We also love that The Dyrt has BLM and National Forest maps, so we can make sure that we are actually camping on free land. Try the pro membership free for 30 days, by using our code MANDAGIES !

West Coast Road Trip Resources (Camping)

What To Pack In Your Car For A West Coast USA Road Trip

Before embarking on any of these west coast road trips, it’s important to pack all the necessary road trip essentials. Being prepared will make your trip as smooth & carefree as possible.

Navigation Apps : Download all the essential road trip planning apps , offline maps, and tools you need to hit the road. Most importantly, sign up for The Dyrt Pro , so you can find last-minute campsites offline!

Emergency Roadside Kit : It’s important to be prepared for an emergency on your West Coast USA road trip. Use this road trip emergency kit guide to help build your own and keep it in your car!

Podcasts & Music : Podcasts and the right music can really set the mood for your West Coast road trips! Check out our favorite road trip podcasts for a great mix of comedy, news, lifestyle, and mystery content!

Conversation Starters : Road trip podcasts and playlists might get you far, but nothing beats some good conversations with good friends! Save this list of 101 road trip questions to ask on your next adventure.

First Aid Kit : Ideally part of your roadside emergency kit , you can also keep one near the front part of your car. This way, it’s easily accessible. We like this one for it’s compactness and durability!

Cash : No matter where you go, cash is king – especially if you are traveling between small towns and away from big cities. Cash especially comes in handy to pay day-use fees in parking lots, last-minute camping fees, and to use in small-town grocery stores.

Car Adapter & Power Cables : If you are traveling photographers like us, it’s essential to have chargers nearby to power up things like our laptops, cameras, and phones. We use this car inverter that easily plugs into the cigarette lighter of any standard car.

Comfy Car Shoes : The ultimate road trip shoes are the Ember Mids and Ember Mocs by Teva . These slipper-shoe hybrids keep your feet cozy with their sleeping-bag knitted quality, while giving traction on the sole when walking outside. We can’t recommend them enough!

Light Scarf/Blanket : If that A/C gets too chilly, it’s convenient to have a light scarf or blanket to use. This is also helpful to prevent sunburns if you are stuck on the sunny side of the car!

Ergonomic Neck Rest : If you are going to be driving for long periods of time, consider investing in some ergonomic support for your neck and back! We have these neck supports , and they can double as a makeshift pillow, too!

The Best West Coast Road Trips (Routes + Details)

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip - Surfing in Huntington Beach

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1 and Highway 101)

West Coast Road Trip USA Route - Pacific Coast Highway MAP

Known For : Windows rolled down, cruising along the ocean. Sweet, sweet summer memories!

The Pacific Coast Highway road trip is probably one of the most famous West Coast road trips out there! From the epic sea stacks of Washington & Oregon to the sunny beaches of California, this is a must-do trip if you love the ocean. 

Places to Visit : Gloomy Washington beaches , Golden Gate Bridge, The Oregon Coast , Redwoods National Park , Huntington Beach (Surf City USA)

Where To Begin/End:  You can start on either end, (Seattle or San Diego). That really depends on the time of year you take this amazing West Coast USA road trip.

  • Coming In Winter/Spring? Go Southbound to end up on the sunny California Coast.
  • Visiting In Summer/Fall?  Drive Northbound to escape the scorching heat.

Time Required:  It can be done in one week, but give it two weeks to see everything!

Berty Mandagie walking down Oregon Coast - Road Trip in US West Coast

Oregon Coast Road Trip (Highway 101)

Oregon Coast Route Map

Known For : Quaint Oregon Coast beach towns , stunning coastline, 50+ family-friendly public Oregon coast beaches

Along the Oregon Coast’s iconic Highway 101 , you’ll experience quaint beach towns, historic lighthouses, and some of the most beautiful sea stacks anywhere on the West Coast.

Some of the best Oregon photography locations can be found on its coast. It’s definitely worth a drive if you’ve got a week to spare!

Not ready for it to end? You can follow our classic Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary ! Alternatively, you can continue in either direction to explore the iconic Washington beaches . Even more, keep driving south for a California Coast road trip !

Places to Visit : Cannon Beach , Cape Kiwanda , Oregon Coast Sand Dunes, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Where To Begin/End:  Start in Portland, Oregon, pick up a rental car, and drive south down the coast. At the bottom, cut east to Interstate-5 and return to Portland with an overnight stop in Eugene . 

Time Required: 5 days is very doable, one week is ideal to see everything. 

Olympic Peninsula Road Trip - Sol Duc Falls

Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA Highway 101)

Olympic Peninsula Route MAP - West Coast Road Trips

Known For : Washington’s famous temperate rainforest, amazing things to do in the Olympic National Park , amazing beach hikes

The Olympic Peninsula road trip route is for the weekend warrior . It’s for people who want one of the coolest west coast road trips that embark from Seattle, WA. Easily accessible, this is the ideal weekend trip from Seattle , all-inclusive with beaches, ferries, rainforests, and waterfalls. 

Places to Visit : Cape Flattery , Camping on Second Beach , The Hoh Rainforest , Hiking Mt. Storm King , Visiting Sol Duc Falls

Where To Begin/End: Begin and end in Seattle, driving a one-way loop. 

Time Required: You can do all the Olympic Peninsula highlights on a long weekend trip from Seattle . However, try 4-5 days for a more leisurely pace.

Easy Hikes In Jasper National Park - Athabasca Falls

 Icefields Parkway, Alberta Canada (Highway 93)

Canadian West Coast Road Trip - Icefields Parkway

Known For : Epic roadside views, powerful waterfalls, towering mountains

The Icefields Parkway is a scenic drive in Alberta, Canada between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park . Spanning 166 miles in length, this is a drive that will definitely fill up your entire day . There are amazing stops to take around every turn, including glaciers, waterfalls, and gorgeous aqua-colored lakes! This is a must-do scenic drive for any good Canadian Rockies Road Trip!

Places to Visit : Peyto Lake, Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls, Abraham Lake (during Banff in winter)

Where To Begin/End: Begin in Banff, Canada, and end in Jasper, Canada.

Time Required: 1 long day

Driving a car on an American West Coast road trip

Highway 12 In Utah

Highway 12 in Utah MAP - West Coast Road Trip

Known For : Unspoiled landscape, colorful Slickrock, hoodoos (outside of Bryce Canyon !), and high desert scenery

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is definitely not the quickest route to anywhere in particular, but it is for sure a beautiful route nonetheless. Start at Bryce Canyon National Park and ending at Capitol Reef for a quick visit to these iconic national parks. This 122 miles of winding, lonely road (in the best way) connects you with the surrounding landscape and encourages you to stop frequently and take it all in. 

Places to Visit : Henry Mountains, Grand Staircase–Escalante, Capitol Reef National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park

Where To Begin/End: Bryce Canyon National Park ending in Capitol Reef National Park

Time Required: 1 day (three hours drive if you don’t stop…but you will!)

Berty Mandagie and Emily Mandagie in Glacier National Park

Going To The Sun Road, Glacier National Park Montana

Glacier National Park MAP - West Coast Road Trips

Known For : Dramatic mountain views, wildlife, and amazing addition to your Glacier National Park itinerary

Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park , Montana is hands down one of the most beautiful scenic drives on the West Coast. Only open a few months every year (usually July to September ), this is a highly coveted drive. It’s available only for the dedicated and most adventurous!

Before heading out on your drive through Going-To-The-Sun Road , it’s important to plan your stops . This way, you can take advantage of the many amazing attractions and hikes in Glacier along the way.

Places to Visit : All of these stops on the Going-To-The-Sun Road  including Big Bend, Logan Pass, and Lake McDonald. Extend your trip to the Many Glacier Area or the Two Medicine Lake area to see more of this epic west coast road trip.

Where To Begin/End: Begin in Kalispell, Montana, end in St Mary, Montana

Time Required: 1 day passing through, or 2-3 days with multiple visits back (a long weekend).

Mormon Row Barn at Grand Teton National Park

Highway 191 In Wyoming (Grand Teton + Yellowstone)

Known For : Incredible geological and natural features, wildlife viewing, and the amazing Teton Mountain range

Highway 191 is one of the longest north-south roads west of the Continental Divide. This 290 stretch of Highway in Wyoming is known as one of the most scenic drives in the USA among the many West Coast road trips! It will connect two famous national parks – Yellowstone National Park , and Grand Teton National Park.

Passing through Yellowstone National Park ‘s famous Old Faithful Geyser, driving through the National Elk Refuge, and a quick visit to Jackson, Wyoming are just some of the highlights of this beautiful road. Stay overnight in both national parks to make the most of this Rocky Mountain road trip.

Places to Visit : Schwabacher’s Landing, Old Faithful, Mormon Row, Downtown Jackson, WY

Where To Begin/End: Begin in Bozeman, MT , and End in Jackson, Wyoming

Time Required: 2 days (staying one night in Yellowstone National Park )

Trail Ridge Road Scenic Byway in Colorado

Trail Ridge Road Scenic Byway, Colorado (Rocky Mountain National Park)

Known For : Tundra-like conditions, views of the Rocky Mountains, high-elevation roads

This amazing 48-mile stretch of road in Colorado is famous for a lot of different reasons. Most of all, for its panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains in all directions! It’s also a nationally designated All-American Road . Climbing high above the treeline, it feels like you’re entering another world. It kind of resembles the unforgiving arctic landscape of northern Alaska! 

With sharp turns, steep dropoffs, and jaw-dropping views, you’ll be on the edge of your seat the entire time during this west coast road trip!

Places to Visit : Alpine Visitor Center, Lava Cliffs, Rainbow curve, the Continental Divide

Where To Begin/End: Begin and end in Estes Park, or end in Grand Lake, Colorado.

Time Required: Half a day’s drive from Estes Park

Alabama Hill's Movie Road - California

Highway 395 California

Highway 395 MAP - West Coast Road Trips

Known For : Lonely roads, abandoned towns, and out-of-this-world landscapes

This 600-ish mile stretch of lonely road is the perfect attraction for alien lovers and ghost towns!

The Eastern Sierras provide cool desert shapes of Alabama Hills (you’ve got to check out the iconic Movie Road !), and the unforgiving landscape of Yosemite National Park ‘s eastern entrance. With Tioga Pass and the relaxing natural hot springs near Mammoth Lakes, you’ll get a perfect dose of ‘wow’ moments along California’s Highway 395 .

A Highway 395 itinerary is one of the best west coast road trips if you love the long and open road, privacy, and quiet!

Places to Visit : Alabama Hills , North Fork of Big Pine, Crowley Lake Columns, Mono Lake

Where To Begin/End: Begin in Los Angeles and end in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Time Required: 3 days (with a night camping in Alabama Hills , and the camping near Lake Tahoe)

Cascades Lakes National Scenic Byway, Oregon

Known For : Alpine Lakes, camping, hiking, canoeing

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is famous for passing through some of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Oregon!

Take the Oregon Route 372 for the scenic way to Bend, Oregon from the Diamond Peak Wilderness to the south for one of the best west coast road trips in Oregon.

We recommend coming in the summer months for full access to the road and access to all the hiking trails and camping recreation sites. It can get really snowy in the winter season, but the summer provides all sorts of things to do like canoeing, lake dips, and more!

Places to Visit : Sparks Lake, Mt Bachelor Mountain Resort (winter), Elk Lake, Lava Lake. Not ready to leave? Extend your drive to include the Mount Hood Scenic Byway from Portland to Hood River!

Where To Begin/End: Spend the weekend in Bend, Oregon , and finish in Diamond Peak Area in the Cascade Mountains

Time Required: 1 afternoon from Bend, Oregon (or multiple days if you want to go camping in Bend!) 

Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park

Highway 20 – North Cascades National Park

Known For : Mountain views, incredible hiking trails, backcountry camping opportunities

Often referred to as the North Cascade Highway , Highway 20 is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Washington for its countless mountain views and gorgeous scenic pullouts. Some of the most iconic places to stop are Diablo Lake Overlook , Washington Pass Overlook, and Rainy Pass.

If you want to stay longer in the North Cascades National Park , consider hiking the popular Heather/Maple Loop Pass, or even take an overnight backpacking trip to the Sahale Glacier Camp . Regardless of the length of your adventure, you’ll leave wanting to return as soon as possible!

Highway 20 is also a great starting point for any of the west coast road trips in Washington – start north and work your way down south to Mount Rainier and the Olympics! 

Places to Visit : Diablo Lake, Washington Pass Overlook

Where To Begin/End: Begin in Seattle, Washington, and end in Winthrop or Twisp, WA

Time Required: 1 day 

Things To Do Around Anchorage, Alaska - Hatcher Pass

The George Parks Highway (Alaska Highway 3)

American West Coast Road Trip USA - George Parks Highway MAP in Alaska

Known For : The main road in Alaska that connects major stops like Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks in the Interior region 

Commonly named the George Parks Highway , this is the main road that connects the two largest cities in Alaska: Anchorage and Fairbanks .

It also is the most iconic west coast road trips in Alaska, including visiting the Denali National Park, a plethora of adventures from Talkeetna, and city life in Anchorage.

Take this road to begin one of the coolest Alaska Road Trip itineraries!

Places to Visit : Talkeetna, Denali National Park, Fairbanks

Where To Begin/End: Begin and end in Anchorage, Alaska , with a northernmost stop in Fairbanks.

Time Required: 5 days

Emily walking on Devil's Bridge - Southwest Road Trip Destination -TheMandagies.com

Route 89A In Sedona, Arizona

Highway 89A Route MAP - West Coast Road Trips

Known For : Red rock buttes and formations, gorgeous high-desert pine forests, and amazing sunrises and sunsets. 

Route 89A in Arizona takes you through some of the most incredible, rich-colored rock structures in the entire state! Sedona, Arizona is known for being a spiritual place , so many people come here for its mystical, peaceful nature and stunning hikes.

On the edges near the Red Rocks State Park , you can find plenty of free places to camp , so you can continue to return to the park to explore the many amazing Sedona hiking trails around. The best time to visit is in the spring and fall seasons when the desert weather is cool in the morning and warm in the afternoons – not too hot!

Places to Visit :  Soldiers Pass , The Devils Bridge , The Birthing Cave , Cathedral Rock during sunset .

Where To Begin/End:  Start in Flagstaff on 89A, and finish off on Highway 17 on your way west or south to Prescott or Phoenix.

Time Required:  2-3 Days

Big Lonely Doug Tree Near Port Renfrew

Pacific Marine Circle Route (Vancouver Island, British Columbia)

Pacific Marine Circle Route MAP - Canada West Coast Road Trips

Known For : Ocean vistas, ancient trees, and lush rainforests. 

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 180-mile loop that begins and ends in Victoria, British Columbia. The drive will bring you to some of Vancouver Island’s most iconic locations , which include Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, East Sooke Park, and of course, the city of Victoria. 

Now, we KNOW this west coast road trip route isn’t in the United States , but it is a very easy weekend getaway from Seattle , and definitely part of the Pacific Northwest, which is what this blog is all about! If you are looking for an adventurous west coast road trip in Canada, this is your route!

Places to Visit : The city of Victoria, East Sooke Park, Port Renfrew , Avatar Grove, and Goldstream Provincial Park

Where To Begin/End:  Begin and end in Victoria, BC

Time Required: 2-3 days (but you can see the entire Island with our Vancouver Island road trip route here! )

car top tent at Alabama Hills

 Southern California Road Trip

Southern California Road Trip MAP

Known For : Incredible beach sunsets, dry desert landscape, and unique Airbnbs!

A Southern California road trip is perfect for LA and San Diego locals who are looking for a quick getaway from the city ! Just driving a few hours east brings you to stunning deserts, incredible hikes, and lots of desert solitude.

You can also enjoy the best of the California coast, including tons of outdoor activities in Orange county , delicious restaurants , and free things to do around Laguna Beach , Huntington Beach, and Newport beach!

Make your home base in Palm Springs to do day trips (and also to stay in a cozy bed) or get adventurous and find free camping on BLM land . No matter how you do it, there’s a little something for everyone on this West Coast road trip!

Places to Visit : Joshua Tree National Park, Alabama Hills, Anza-Borrego Desert, Mojave National Preserve, and the Trona Pinnacles

Where To Begin/End:  Start and end in either San Diego or Los Angeles with a loop drive

Time Required:  3-4 days (or one long weekend)

Berty Mandagie walking in the Redwoods in Northern California

Northern California Road Trip

West Coast Road Trips - Northern California Route Map

Known For : Wild California coastlines, giant redwood trees, tons of camping opportunities

A Northern California road trip is perfect for people who want big adventures without venturing too far away from the big cities of California. You can easily plan a long-weekend trip to Northern California from San Francisco , which makes this one of the best West Coast USA road trips for its convenience and epic scenery!

Places to Visit : South Lake Tahoe, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Patrick’s Point State Park , Redwood National And State Parks , Yosemite (for longer trips) and Shasta Lake

Where To Begin/End:  Begin and end in San Francisco or Oakland, California

Time Required: 3-4 days (or one long weekend)

Emily Mandagie standing in Death Valley National Park

 Southwest Road Trip

Big Southwest Road Trip Route MAP - Road Trip In USA West Coast

Known For : Epic desert landscapes, iconic American southwest destinations , several national parks

A Southwest road trip is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime scenic drive on the West Coast USA! This iconic road trip in the American West Coast is best taken in the shoulder season (October/November or March/April) because the summer weather can be HOT.

Places to Visit : Grand Canyon National Park , Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park , Sedona, Arizona , Utah National Parks , deserts of New Mexico, Monument Valley – just to name the big ones!

Where To Begin/End: Driving one way? Begin in San Diego and end in Salt Lake City, UT. Driving in a loop? Begin and end in Las Vegas, NV.

Time Required: One Week (at least!)

Eastern Oregon Road Trip Route - Leslie Gulch Stop

Eastern Oregon Road Trip

Eastern Oregon Road Trip Route MAP

Known For : Desert landscapes, backcountry hot springs, and incredible geological wonders

An Eastern Oregon road trip is not one you would typically expect to find when planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest ! This part of Oregon is filled with long & lonely stretches of highway, endless sagebrush, and lots of peace and quiet.

This is one of the best West Coast road trips to take if you want to escape the crowds . Come prepared with an off-road-ready vehicle, and have fun exploring this incredible part of Oregon!

Places to Visit : The Owyhee Wilderness , Joseph, Oregon, The Painted Hills , Hart Mountain Hot Springs , The Alvord Desert , and many more Eastern Oregon hot springs !

Where To Begin/End: Start and end in Bend, Oregon

Time Required: 4-5 days

long weekend trips west coast

Idaho Hot Springs Route

long weekend trips west coast

Known For : Seemingly endless amounts of natural geothermal pools to explore, all over the state of Idaho!

Idaho hot springs deserve their own road trip that is completely dedicated to relaxation! Luckily, there is a route in Idaho that takes you to the majority of the popular ones in the state , making it a perfect road trip for adventure lovers. Come in the fall and winter to warm up the most!

Places to Visit : Kirkham Hot Springs , Boat Box Hot Springs , Pine Flats Hot Springs , Mountain Village Hot Springs, Goldbug Hot Springs

Where To Begin/End: Begin in Boise, Idaho and turn back to the city

Time Required: 3-days or one long weekend trip from Boise .

long weekend trips west coast

What are some of your favorite West Coast road trips? Did we miss any routes? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

Pacific Coast Highway California shot from above, one of the best romantic vacations for couples in the United States

19 Exciting West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Stretching from the glaciers of Alaska to the deserts of southern California, there’s no doubt that the west coast of the United States is home to some of the most stunning (and diverse) nature on the planet. Add in iconic cities, quirky small towns, a great food scene, plenty of historic highlights, and several wine regions, and the possibilities for putting together a west coast USA road trip itinerary are nearly endless.

We teamed up with several travel writers to share their favorite west coast road trip routes, and the results are worthy of any bucket list.

Here are the best US west coast road trip ideas!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

Best west coast usa road trips in california, oregon + washington road trip itinerary ideas, west coast usa road trip ideas in alaska.

Two people walking through a doorway in a fallen redwood tree in california usa

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Before we dive into exploring the best west coast road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your west coast USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling. Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your US west coast road trip today!

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

snowcapped mountains in alaska as seen fro the water

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check requirements for crossing the border as well.

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between. We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on our road trip packing list  before you go!

Mission covered in wildflowers located in california along the pacific coast highway

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for road trips in the USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the US west coast is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your west coast US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

road in the mountains of northeast oregon lined with evergreen trees as seen from above

The Iconic Pacific Coast Highway

From Allison of California Crossroads

View along highway 1 pacific coast highway california with the ocean taking up most of the shot

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

Bixby bridge as seen along highway 1 in california, one of the most iconic us west coast road trip stops

San Diego to Los Angeles

From Chris of Explore Now or Never

Beach in La Jolla California with purple flowers in the foreground, a fantastic stop on a west coast usa road trip itinerary

Los Angeles to Yosemite

From Eden of Rock a Little Travel 

A Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip makes an excellent choice for those who love the big city, but also appreciate some quality time outdoors. 

During your time in Los Angeles, I recommend getting an early start to hike the city’s famous Runyon Canyon trail in Hollywood. After your hike, make your way towards Melrose Avenue to grab brunch and maybe do a little vintage shopping. Spend your afternoon in Santa Monica enjoying the beach before heading into downtown LA for dinner and drinks in the Arts District. 

From Los Angeles, you’ll head north to Paso Robles, one of California’s favorite wine regions. The wineries here are fun and affordable, and most are family-owned. Paso Robles is known for being down to earth and friendly, so even if you don’t know a lot about wine, you’re guaranteed to feel welcome and have a good time. 

After enjoying the wineries of Paso Robles, it’s time to head to Yosemite. Once inside the park make your way towards the Tunnel View lookout. This lookout offers some of the best views in the park with Bridal Veil Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome off in the distance.

From Tunnel View, you’ll make your way down into Yosemite Valley. From here you can ditch the car and begin exploring this beautiful park on foot or bicycle. You’ll find trails and waterfalls all around you, so take your time and see it all. 

Three to five days is perfect for this Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip. This will give you at least one full day in each destination with the option to add on more time where you like. 

You’ll have lots of time in the car, so consider bringing some California books like Wild along!

yosemite falls in california, one of the best us west coast road trip destinations

Los Angeles to Eastern Sierra

The first place you can explore is off of the 14 freeway, the Red Rock Canyon State Park. In the summer, this area does get very hot, but if you’re doing this trip in the fall, spring, or winter months, it’s a great place to stop and soak in the desert views.

From there, head to Lone Pine, a cute town where several Western movies were filmed. From here, explore the Alamaba Hills. You can spend the day driving up and down dirt roads, viewing the rock formations, and gazing upon the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You can also disperse camp here.

From Alabama Hills you get a stellar view of Mt. Whitney , standing at 14,505 feet, it’s the highest point in the lower 48 states. Mt. Whitney is not an easy hike, but it’s a must-do for any avid hiker or backpacker. Permits are required for both day hikes and backpacking trips, and it’s a 22-mile round trip hike from Whitney Portal out of Lone Pine, so make sure to train if you want this hike to be part of your west coast road trip itinerary. 

Lone Pine is the start of the Eastern Sierra. From here, as you drive further North, you’ll encounter Independence, Big Pine, Bishop, and then Mammoth. There are so many hiking trails just outside of each of these towns with views that will make you not believe you’re in California.

You can make this trip as short or as long as you’d like. If you’re new to the area, give yourself a week to do several hikes, soak in hot springs and take in different elements of what this area has to offer.

view of mount whitney with an empty road in the foreground. mount whitney is a fantastic addition to a usa west coast road trip route

California Gold Country

Highway 49 links many historical gold rush towns through the foothills of the Sierra Mountains in California. Start your journey in the adventure-filled town of Angels Camp, then drive north through Placerville, Coloma, Auburn, Grass Valley, and ending in Nevada City.

Each of these gold rush towns is full of interesting museums, quaint stores, great dining options, and adventures like panning for gold or watch a real blacksmith at work.

Placerville, also known as Hangtown, has the oldest hardware store west of the Mississippi. Half the store is filled with gold mining equipment (like gold mining pans) and hard to find hardware, the other half is packed with housewares and fabulous gifts. There is something for everyone.

If looking for a shorter trip, start in Auburn, the easiest of the towns to get to from Sacramento, then head up to the sister cities Grass Valley and Nevada City. There are old gold mines to explore, the best chocolate candy store (Grass Valley), shopping until you drop, and then top it all off with an ice cream cone from one of many locations.

Highway 49 winds through beautiful pine trees and at times it passes along the South Fork American River making this a peaceful road trip with unlimited potential. Each of these gold rush towns along this highway has something unique and “oldest” that they can claim.

Driving this route directly would only take about 2.5 hours, but with so much to see and do, it could easily take you four to five days to complete this west coast USA road trip route. Much of the drive is through small towns along windy roads with a continuous supply of mining and gold rush history and activities for all ages.

American River in California gold country near auburn ca

San Diego to Palm Springs Loop

Hiker overlooking a sunrise in Anza Borrego State Park southern California, one of the best stops on a southern california road trip itinerary

California’s Lost Coast

From Julia of Well Planned Journey

California’s Lost Coast  is the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States. For 75 miles, the famed Pacific Coast Highway cuts inland, unable to pass through the rough terrain. This road trip from Eureka to Mendocino is perfect for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path. 

Start your Lost Coast road trip in Eureka, California, an old town famous for its Victorian houses. Leave the Pacific Coast Highway behind as you head for the small town of Ferndale, where you can explore the Victorian homes and the Golden Gait Mercantile.

Mattole Road winds through rolling hills and backcountry before running parallel to the Pacific Ocean. Stop along Mattole Road to enjoy the solitude and coastal views. As Mattole Road turns back inland, you trade the rugged Lost Coast for a redwood forest.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the largest old-growth redwood forest in the world. End your first day in Humboldt Redwoods State Park exploring the Avenue of the Giants, a famous 31-mile scenic drive through the redwoods. Stay the night in one of Humboldt Redwoods State Park’s many campgrounds or if you prefer a hotel, stay at The Tides Inn in Shelter Cove. 

The next morning, make your way to Shelter Cove. Explore Black Sands Beach and grab lunch and a beer at Gyppo. After lunch, stop to explore Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, searching for sea glass, and watching for seals and whales. End your Lost Cost journey in Mendocino where you can hike the coast on the Mendocino Headlands trail or go on a kayaking tour with Kayak Mendocino.

Recommended Trip Length

While this route could be driven in a day, 2-3 days gives you the perfect amount of time to explore the Lost Coast and the Mendocino area. 

rolling green hills with the ocean in the distance with the pacific ocean in the background on california's lost coast, one of the best us west road trip ideas

National Parks in Southern California

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Road trips are a wonderful way to experience California’s stunning natural wonders. And one of the very  best California road trips with a nature focus is a route that covers southern California’s great desert parks.

Start in Los Angeles and make your way to Palm Springs, a fun desert city with many resorts and spas to enjoy. Palm Springs is home to mid-century modern architecture and desert canyon hikes, as well as an aerial tramway that takes you to the top of Mount San Jacinto.

From Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is just about an hour’s drive. The park is known for its magnificent boulder masses and the strange-looking, unique Joshua trees that aren’t really trees but a type of succulent. Whether you enjoy hiking or early settler history replete with relics of ranches and mines, you will have fun exploring Joshua Tree National Park.

Next, drive through the Mojave National Preserve, with more stands of Joshua trees and mighty sand dunes, before arriving at Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley National Park is home to the lowest point in North America. It is cool to take a photo by the sign saying “282 feet below sea level” at Badwater Basin! Explore the massive salt flats and take in the views from iconic viewpoints such as Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View. Death Valley National Park is huge but easily explored if you have a car.

From Death Valley National Park, make your way back to Los Angeles, stopping, if you like at more desert places along the way, such as Alabama Hills.

This trip is best enjoyed over a time frame of 5-7 days. Each of the parks is large and deserves a day or two to see the major sights and get in a couple of hikes.

desert landscape at sunrise in joshua tree national park, an excellent part of several of the best west coast road trips usa

Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport

From Jeanine of Le Wild Explorer

One of the most incredible places in California is the Eastern Sierras. It’s full of natural beauty and a great place for outdoor adventures. A road trip from  Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport  will take you amazing hot springs with killer views, pristine lakes, scenic hiking trails, and more. 

You’ll begin your trip to Mammoth Lakes which is extremely busy in the winter and summer. The famous Mammoth Mountain is an all-season resort that is popular for snow sports in the winter and mountain biking in the summer. Mammoth Lakes also has incredible hot springs and loads of hiking trails.

From Mammoth Lakes, you’ll head north where you can drive the June Lake Loop. The Loop is made up of four different lakes where you can go fishing, kayak, swim (in the summer), and more. There are also hiking trails that lead you to postcard-worthy vistas. 

Continue your drive north to Lee Vining where you’ll find Mono Lake. The lake is one of the oldest in North America and a true gem. The tufa towers are made of mineral deposits and give it an out-of-this-world look. The best time to visit is for sunrise or sunset but you can enjoy day-time activities such as kayaking and birdwatching.

Last, you’ll reach Bridgeport where you can soak in more hot springs and even visit a ghost town. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular. And if you love fishing check out their annual fishing events and go fly fishing in one of the creeks. 

This Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport road trip can be done in a weekend but at least three days is recommended if you hope to enjoy a few hikes.

lone car driving on the june lake loop with the mountains in the background of the photo

Portland to Seattle 

Recommended by Lotte from  Beste voor Kids  

Start your road trip in the delightfully weird city of Portland (Keep Portland Weird is actually the city’s slogan) and stock up on food, snacks, and gas. If you’ve never been to Portland, be sure to allow for a day in your itinerary to explore the city before hitting the road.  

From Portland, head north on the I-5 S and drive to the Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center (about an hour). Here you can learn more about the major eruption on March 27 in 1980. This eruption took the lives of 57 people and drastically changed the shape of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding ecosystem.   

Drive to Randle on the 12 and continue to Windy Ridge via the NF-99. Often cited as one of the most scenic drives in Washington State, be sure to take plenty of time to admire the views here. Note that the NF-99 closes around late October/early November (depending on the first serious snowfall). At the end of the road, you can hike up Windy Ridge for a beautiful view of Mount Saint Helens and Spirit Lake.  

Next up on your west coast road trip itinerary is Mount Rainier National Park. Drive here via the 123 and Steven’s Canyon Road (also closed in winter) and spend a day or two exploring this amazing National Park. Nice hiking trails are the Skyline Trail (8.4 miles round trip) and the short but beautiful Alta Vista trail (1.8 mile). Both start at the Paradise parking lot.   

End your trip in Seattle, the birthplace of Starbucks, home to famous Pike Place Market, and of course the 605-ft.-tall Space Needle.  

You could drive the 175 miles from Portland to Seattle in just under 3 hours via the I-5 S, however, for this road trip, I’d recommend 3 days if you don’t plan on exploring Portland or Seattle. If you want to visit these cities as well, add at least two extra days so you can spend an entire day in both of these great west coast cities.  

Snowcapped Mount St Helens with purple and red flowers in the foreground of the photo

Willamette Valley

From Sarah & Nathan of Discover the PNW

Just south of the popular Oregon city of Portland sits the gorgeous Willamette Valley, known for the state’s wine production. A west coast USA road trip between Portland and Eugene will take you right through one of the most beautiful places in Oregon with plenty of opportunities to stop for great wine, food, and scenery.

There are nearly 600 wineries in the Willamette Valley and many of them are open year-round for tastings and tours. The region is known for producing premier Pinot-Noir but you will also find many other varietals to taste. 

Another plus to this road trip is the cute towns along the way offering fabulous dining and charming accommodations. McMinnville is a favorite with its historic center, boutique shops, foodie-focused restaurants, and dozens of tasting rooms. 

Oregon’s pretty capital city of Salem is also worth a visit with its gardens, cultural, arts, and food scene. Pay a visit to the Willamette Valley Cheese Company, enjoy a brunch cruise on the Willamette Queen Riverboat, or partake in a glass of wine at Oregon’s oldest producing winery.

The Willamette Valley is also a top choice of nature lovers. With miles of farmland, orchards, and vineyards plus views of the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains, the drive is nothing short of stunning. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure be sure to spend some time around Eugene which is surrounded by hiking and cycling trails, waterfalls, and rivers. 

120 miles one way or 240 miles as a loop.

It only takes about 5 hours to drive this west coast USA road trip loop but with so many places to stop along the way we recommend at least 1 night and 2 full days.

grape vines in willamette valley oregon in the fall with yellow leaves

Portland to Bend

From Amanda of A Dangerous Business

Oregon is a great place for a road trip, and an easy route that includes everything from waterfalls to mountains to rainbow-hued hills is from Portland to Bend.

Once you’ve had your fill of weird in Portland, hit the road to the Columbia River Gorge. This river-carved canyon along the Oregon-Washington border is known for its great hiking trails and incredible waterfalls. Don’t miss Multnomah Falls, or hikes to spots like Latourell Falls, the Oneonta Gorge, and Elowah Falls.

From here, you can head south towards Bend on OR-35, which takes you past Mount Hood, Oregon’s most famous volcano. You could stop to hit the ski slopes or the mountain bike trails on Mt. Hood, or simply ride the Magic Mile Chair Lift up to 7000 feet for great views.

Continue your drive to an otherworldly spot in eastern Oregon: the Painted Hills at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument near Mitchell. Enjoy the scenic drive through the park, and take a short trail or two to get up close to these orange, yellow, and green hills.

You’ll have to retrace your route on your way back towards Bend, so you may as well also stop Smith Rock State Park. Famous for its rock climbing, this stunning park also has some good hikes for all skill levels. If you’re up for a challenge, try the Misery Ridge Trail.

From Smith Rock, it’s only about 40 miles to Bend, the outdoor recreation mecca of Oregon. Bend is a great jumping-off point when you decide to continue your Oregon road trip .

If you drive straight through, this route takes 8 hours. But of course, you don’t want to drive it straight through! I’d recommend at least 3-4 days for the driving portion of this trip, not counting the time you spend in Portland. 

Mount Hood Oregon with wine country in the foreground

Seattle to the San Juan Islands

From Adria of The Emerald Palate

The San Juan Islands are an incredibly scenic chain of 170 islands about 3 hours north of Seattle that offer a ton of outdoor adventures. San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island are the 3 most popular ones to visit, and all of them are a perfect final stop on a road trip from Seattle.

Starting from Seattle, take I-5 north toward the Skagit Valley. Pronounced “skaaa-jit”, this area spans about 100 miles and is made up of a bunch of quaint towns and farms worth visiting on your road trip.

Start your trip off with a beer tasting flight in Mt. Vernon. If you love shopping, Mt. Vernon has some great antique shops and boutiques worth poking your head into. 

Next head to the nearby Chuckanut Drive. This is one of my favorite things to do in Skagit County, WA . It’s a 20-mile scenic drive that takes you along the coast through dense trees that open up to offer incredible views of the San Juan Islands. Hikers will love the Oyster Dome trail for incredible, uninterrupted views of your final destination. Those looking for more low-key hikes should head to Larrabee State Park.

Before heading to the San Juan Islands, make a stop at Deception Pass State Park. There are a bunch of easy walking trails overlooking some of the bluest water in Washington. It makes for a beautiful photo when you get the mint-colored Deception Pass Bridge in the shot.

Lastly, make your way to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal about an hour before your reserved your ferry ticket (reservations are a must in the summer).

If you chose the quieter and least-visited Lopez Island as your final destination, you can expect the ride to be about an hour on a direct ferry. Orcas Island, the largest and most food-focused of the islands, will take about an hour and 20 minutes. San Juan Island, the most popular and known for art and wildlife, will take about 1.5 hours.

No matter which island you chose, make sure you plan a whale watching tour because this is one of the best places in the world to see orcas and other types of whales.

About 155 miles one way. Here’s a map of the route .

Five days would make for a solid US west coast road trip, spending about 2 days in the Skagit Valley and 3 days on whichever island you choose.

orca jumping out of the water as seen in san juan islands washington

Northeast Oregon

From Erika of Erika’s Travels

Northeast Oregon is an underrated USA west coast road trip destination that will take you to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest. It is an off-the-beaten-path corner of the state that is home to character-filled Western towns, lonely scenic byways, soaring granite peaks, and the deepest canyon in North America. 

The road trip begins and ends in Baker City—a historic town that was once the largest settlement between Portland and Salt Lake. The picturesque town has over 100 historic houses, a phenomenal Oregon Trail interpretive center, and its very own Carnegie Library. 

From Baker City, the road follows the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the artsy town of Joseph, on the shores of Lake Wallowa State Park. 

Lake Wallowa is one of the premier recreation areas in Eastern Oregon. The shimmering cobalt lake is a paradise for boaters, swimmers, and fishing enthusiasts. It is also a primary gateway to the towering granite peaks of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. 

If you have a few days to spare on your road trip, hiking the Wallowas is an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience. The sprawling area boasts alpine lakes, wildflower-laced meadows, and 18 peaks that eclipse 9,000 feet.  

From the Wallowa Mountains near Joseph, the road trip traverses barn-dotted farmlands and winds through a rugged river canyon to the minuscule community of Imnaha. The tiny town is the starting point of an epic adventure along a narrow and treacherous gravel road, to the Hat Point Overlook.

At Hat Point, a fire tower showcases stunning views of canyon walls that rise nearly 8,000 feet above the waters of the Snake River.

After taking some time to soak in the views of  Hells Canyon  from Hat Point, the scenic loop continues toward Baker City. Along the way, it traverses the eastern flank of the Wallowas and winds through golden hills of cow-speckled farmlands. 

A northeast Oregon road trip should ideally take at least 3-4 days. However, If you enjoy camping and hiking, consider adding a few extra days to enjoy the vast Eagle Cap Wilderness in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains. 

Wallowa mountains in northeastern Oregon with a red barn in the foreground. northeast oregon is an offbeat usa west coast road trip itinerary

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

Because of its simple route and beautiful coastal scenery, the Oregon Coast is the most popular west coast road trip in the state.

If you start at the north end, closer to Portland, you will pass the iconic bridges of Astoria, and also a major artistic hub for film and movies.

Once you reach the city of Seaside, where Lewis and Clark (and Sacagewea and York!) famously completed their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. While you stop to relax on the beachfront, be sure to head to Cannon Beach for a look at Haystack Rock.

Driving south, stop in the city of Tillamook  to visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory for a taste of their globally recognized cheese and farm-fresh ice cream.

Stay overnight in Yachats, a town that prides itself on sourcing local and sustainable products, as well as amazing attractions such as Oregon’s Sea Lion Caves and Cape Perpetua.

Next, wake up and drive to Florence, the sand dune capital of Oregon, and rent ATVs for the day. Or, continue south and spend your time exploring the dramatic views of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. However long you decide to drive the coast, the best lodging options to fully experience the location would be to rent a cabin on the beach.

About 338 miles.

It is not a far distance in total,  so 3-4 days is recommended to explore the Oregon Coast at a more relaxed pace. However, if you are an avid photographer or love to immerse yourself in nature by hiking and camping, spending a week in the area might be more fulfilling. 

One car driving along the oregon coast as shot from above

Beaches of Olympic National Park

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best US west coast road trips to take in the PNW is to the Olympic National Park Beaches. The Olympic Peninsula beaches are so different than any beaches you have ever seen before! These beaches are filled with sea stacks, tide pools, wildlife, and driftwood. If you are lucky, you will spot a bald eagle while having a nice walk down the beach. 

The first stop should be the Kalaloch Beach. There are many campgrounds here if you want to stay a night. After that, make sure to stop by Ruby Beach, which has an enormous sea stack. It is a perfect place for sunset with the family, and you don’t need to hike too far to get great views.

Next, try out a great hike at Second Beach (4-mile round trip). Many people love backpacking and staying the night at this beautiful spot. The trailhead is located close to River’s Edge Restaurant, which had yummy food and large windows to watch the bald eagles hunt outside. 

The next beach on the list is  Rialto Beach . This beach has a popular hike called The Hole In The Wall hike, and it is around 4 miles round trip. The best time to experience this hike is during low tide. 

The last spot on this trip is a special place called Cape Flattery. This is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and is also part of the Makah Reservation. 

This is a great weekend destination. The first day you should experience Kalaloch, Ruby, and Second Beach, then Stay in Forks. The next day, drive to Rialto Beach and Cape Flattery.

Rocky Beach in Olympic National Park washington at sunset, a fantastic view along a west coast usa road trip destination

Portland to Cannon Beach

From Daris of The Discovery Nut

The picturesque Cannon Beach is one of the shortest and most popular road trips from Portland.

The most distinct feature of the area is the iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-feet rock formation jutting out of the Pacific Ocean. Not far from it, visitors can explore the scenic Ecola State Park with stunning nature and hikes that can be entered from the north end of Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach stretches for nine miles and provides plenty of space for walking, running, and strolling. Some of the top activities are wildlife watching, hiking, and relaxing. If you look closely, you might spot colonies of puffins on Haystack Rock and spot large mammals such as elk and deer more in the area more inland.

And while the town has become a tourist magnet for travelers taking a west coast USA road trip, it has retained a small-town charm thanks to stringent regulations that limit the number of big-name chains such as stores and restaurants allowing small businesses to dominate the downtown.

You can easily road trip to Cannon Beach from Portland on a day trip, but to enjoy a quieter side to this beautiful spot, consider spending the night.

Cannon Beach Oregon as seen from above, one of the best stops on a west coast usa road trip itinerary

Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park

From Rachel of Rachel Off Duty

When visiting Anchorage, Alaska, one thing you absolutely must do is rent a car and drive down to the Kenai Peninsula. Just 2.5 – 3 hours away from Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula is a natural wonderland where the ice age mixes with the present day. Lush, dense forests, teal glacial water, massive glaciers, and abundant wildlife make this destination one that truly can’t be missed. 

Driving from Anchorage, within minutes you’ll find yourself tracing the side of Chugach State Park and Turnagain Arm, a massive waterway famous for bore tides that happen on a near-daily basis. Pullover at Beluga Point for a great viewing point of Turnagain Arm and, you guessed it, belugas! 

Back on the road, continue until you hit Girdwood, a resort town that’s bustling with things to do for adventure-lovers. You can stay here for the night, or simply make a pit stop for a bite to eat. Jack Sprat Restaurant is a popular choice, or for something more upscale with unbeatable views, go to Seven Glaciers Restaurant (which you can access by tram!). 

From Girdwood, it’s just another hour and 45 minutes to Seward, the entry point for Kenai Fjords National Park. Once you’re here, you can explore the national park on foot, by kayak, or by boat tour. On Resurrection Bay, you might spot whales, sea lions, otters, kittiwakes, and more! Be sure to also check out Exit Glacier, which is the only glacier you can pretty much drive right up to, park, and enjoy without hiking. 

While a trip to Kenai Fjords National Park and a quick boat tour of Resurrection Bay can easily be done in one day with minimal stops, we recommend dedicating at least 2 days to exploring the park and the surrounding areas in south-central Alaska .

fjord in alaska with a glacier visible in the background of the image. alaska is an incredible place for west coast usa road trip ideas

Anchorage, Seward + Denali Loop

From Jenifer of The Evolista

What’s better than an Alaskan cruise? An Alaskan road trip!

On a road trip in Alaska, you’ll see breathtaking views of mountains, wildlife, and ocean critters along with thrilling active pursuits along the way. 

Starting in Anchorage, take one of the most scenic roads in America, Seward Highway to visit Kenai Fjords National Park. Once in Seward, you can hike a glacier, take a whale-watching cruise, go iceberg kayaking, fishing, or one of sample some of these exciting things to do in Seward .

The next stop is Girdwood, Alaska’s ski resort town. Stay in the luxurious Alyeska Resort where you’ll have access to multiple hiking trails and the Alyeska Aerial Tram for breathtaking views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach Mountain Range.

Snowcapped mountain in Denali National Park with evergreen trees in the foreground. Alaska is a bucket list us west coast road trip itinerary

Talkeetna, Alaska, 3 hours north, is a quirky, fun town that some say was the inspiration for the TV show Northern Exposure. Around May 1st, Talkeetna is overflowing with climbers preparing for a Denali summit. Not planning to climb a 20,320-foot mountain? You can still have the experience of a lifetime with a flightseeing tour complete with a glacier landing.

If you have an extra few days to spare, the entrance to Denali National Park is 2 hours north. The 6 million-acre national park is one of the best places in the world to spend time up close with wildlife but it’s too large for a day trip to be worth it. Plan accordingly and head back to Anchorage to complete the trip.

488 miles without Denali, 767 with Denali.

One week trip for Seward, Girdwood, Talkeetna, and Anchorage.

If you want to include Denali National Park, add a few days to this west coast USA road trip itinerary. There are additional activities near Denali like ATV trips or going to see the Into the Wild bus in Healy, Alaska.

photo of la jolla beach in southern california with purple flowers in the foreground. black and pink text on a white background reads "the best west coast road trips"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “19 Exciting West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

Vielen Dank für die Tollen Anregungen. kann es kaum erwarten loszufahren. Grüße,Noeppes

Bitte schön!

Thanks a lot! I’m from Europe and planning a road trip for next year on the West Coast, focusing on Oregon and Washington. This was really helpful and interesting to read! I can’t wait to discover this fantastic country.

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Countdown to Summer: 9 Best West Coast Escapes

C'mon, admit it. The west coast is the best coast. There's the damn near perfect weather, the laid back lifestyle, the postcard-worthy beaches and don't even get us started on the eats. Still not convinced? Check out these 9 west coast getaways and you'll be California dreamin' in no time.

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Santa Monica

Anyone who says that no one walks in LA hasn’t been to Santa Monica. Though surrounded on three sides by America’s second-largest city, the artsy beach community has miles of bike lanes, car-free promenades and large, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. Take a walk down the wooden planks of Santa Monica Pier and see local anglers fishing for mackerel while jugglers, sketch artists and other street performers put their talents on display. After, give your credit card a workout on Main Street's mile-long strip of galleries, restaurants and boutique shops. We love the one-of-a-kind turquoise jewelry and vintage pieces at Love Adorned and the wares from brands like Raquel Allegra and Lemlem at Lost & Found . Make your base Shutters on the Beach , which has a distinctive whitewashed shutter façade, three world-class restaurants and a museum-worthy art collection, including works by Hockney and Lichtenstein.

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Those “Keep Portland Weird” bumper stickers you see all over town don’t come from nowhere. Proof: Every June , thousands of cyclists take to P-town's streets to protest transport pollution while wearing nothing but helmets and body paint. But don't worry—if you prefer to keep your clothes on, Portlandia has something for you too. At Rontoms , you can play ping pong, drink local craft brew and listen to free live music on a buzzy outdoor patio. Bibliophiles will want to linger over the million-plus (yes, really) titles at Powell's City of Books , the flagship of the largest independent chain of bookstores in the world. Want to pick up some cool retro souvenirs? Check out Crossroads , a sprawling emporium of used vinyl from more than 35 individual record collectors. Shop for a classic rock or jazz record (their specialty) or skip the tunes altogether and opt for a cool vintage concert poster.

RELATED:   9 Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon

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Photo by Kodiak Greenwood

The 90 mile-stretch of craggy coastline that makes up Big Sur is undeniably one of America's most beautiful landcapes. Explore the redwood groves at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park , hike to the beach and the McWay Falls , or go surfing at Sand Dollar Beach . You can also saddle up with Molera Horseback Tours for rides through Andrew Molera State Park . Tours range from one to two-and-a-half hours and take guests across flower-filled meadows and forests, then end with a ride along Molera Beach. Big Sur has plenty of stylish stays, and if you're looking to splurge, book a room at the eco-luxe Post Ranch Inn , a collection of 40 high-design cottages on a ridge 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, or check into the rustic-chic Ventana Big Sur , with 243 private wooded acres.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Big Sur, CA hotels

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It may be one of the rainiest city's in the US, but come summer, Seattle is the place to be: the sunshine is out and beaches packed, the outdoor bars are in full swing, and the locals are deliriously happy. Pike Place Market is always a crowd pleaser with its fish throwing and stalls of fresh flowers, plus great restaurants like the recently opened Jarr Bar and Matt's in the Market . From there, you're a short walk away from Pioneer Square, where you can admire the neighborhood's Renaissance Revival architecture, take a history-packed Underground Tour or get your culture fix at galleries like Foster/White , home to the work of big-name artists like glass prodigy Dale Chihuly. If you're curious to check out the roots of the Seattle grunge movement, take in a gig at Belltown's legendary The Crocodile , where bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam once played.

RELATED: Our Favorite Hotels in Seattle Now

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Santa Barbara

If you can't make it to Northern California’s wine country, Santa Barbara County ⎯ which includes Santa Ynez, Los Olivos and the antiques-filled town of Solvang ⎯ is the next best thing. There are nearly 250 wineries in the area, but the standouts are Au Bon Climat , which has been making subtle pinot noirs for 25 years, and Kunin , known for producing small lots of Rhone-style wines. Another way to taste it all is on the Urban Wine Trail , a walkable trail downtown made up of 30 vineyards that turn out rich Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and more. Get over your wine hangover with wild boar meatballs and a slice of thin-crust truffle pizza at Cecco Ristorante , followed by a walk along Butterfly Beach.

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Laguna Beach

Equal parts glam (courtesy of its covetable location in Orange County) and boho (thanks to the artists and surfers who call the seaside community home), Laguna Beach has been luring travelers since the 1920s. Get in step with the beach town's artistic vibe with a walk down Gallery Row. Here, ateliers and galleries abound (local artist Ruth Mayer is a favorite), and the first Thursday of the month is reserved for the festive Art Walk , when the galleries stay open late. Cafés, restaurants and bars dot this walkable city—don't miss the lobster rolls and chowder fries (yes, that's clam chowder and bacon-covered frites) at Slapfish , and the Sonoma Valley wine flights and ocean views at Driftwood Kitchen . Now that you're ready to descend into a full on food coma, crash at the Pacific Edge Hotel , a 129-room surfer-themed hotel located on the softest swathe of sand in Laguna.

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Cannon Beach

Brimming with art galleries, shingled storefronts and charming family-owned restaurants, Cannon Beach has become one of Oregon’s must-see beach towns. Hit the more than five miles of sand between Ecola Creek and Arch Cape for unbeatable views of Haystack Rock, one of the state’s most recognizable landmarks, and after, grab a broiled shrimp sandwich and a slice of apple walnut cake from Lazy Susan Café . On drizzly days, check out the town's buzzing art scene at White Bird Gallery , the oldest fine arts gallery in town, and Bronze Coast Gallery , which displays lost-cast bronze sculptures. At the end of the day, there's no cozier place to unwind than at the Stephanie Inn . The warm interiors offer plenty of nooks to curl up in, from the oceanfront library and chart room to the lobby, which has a striking stone hearth.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Cannon Beach, OR hotels

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If you’re into Victorian architecture, salty ocean air and green meadow scenery, Pescadero is for you. Half way between Santa Cruz and San Francisco, the town may be small, but it's got coastal charm in spades, along with knockout natural scenery (sky-high redwoods and crystal-blue). During the day, head to Whaler’s Cove beach, where you can spot elephant seals and gray whales, plus the iconic 115-foot-tall Pigeon Point Lighthouse that towers over the landscape. Hungry? The nearby Taqueria y Mercado de Amigos , an unassuming taco joint set within a gas station convenience store, serves up pan dulce (sweet bread) and barbecued pork and cow tongue tacos (hey, don't knock it 'till you've tried it). At night, hang with the locals and listen to live bluegrass at the San Gregorio General Store .

RELATED: 11 Unexpected Beach Destinations

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Palm Springs

Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elizabeth Taylor—a who’s who of showbiz has long found solace in Palm Springs. Today this desert oasis is the perfect mix of modern and kitschy which attracts a hip L.A. crowd. Spend an afternoon wandering the Uptown Design District, where eye-catching boutiques (we love the Midcentury housewares at Christopher Anthony ) are joined by retro-chic restaurants and bars. Bootlegger Tiki , Palm Canyon Drive's mixology-centered newcomer, has a 12-2 a.m. happy hour, kitschy luau-themed décor, and hangover-worthy cocktails (we love the cheekily-named Mango Unchained.) If live music is what you seek, check out Melvyn's at Ingleside Inn , the storied supper club-style hangout once frequented by Ol' Blue Eyes himself.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Palm Springs, CA hotels

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9 Unique Outdoor Destinations Near The West Coast USA

9 Unique Outdoor Destinations Near The West Coast USA

Updated March 2024

From Washington to the southern tip of California, the West Coast of America is full of incredible outdoor weekend destinations. Some of my favorite trips over the years have included weekend getaways out to the coast, to valleys in Washington, and into the Redwoods.

When it comes to summer travel, I always think of heading out on a road trip which is exactly the way we will be traveling this year. I know there is so much to see and so I wanted to offer up a few ideas for those weekend warriors or long-haul road trippers who are looking for something new. If you’re based in the West Coast area, you’ll be within a day’s drive to most of these locations.

I have one secret spot outside of Seattle that I’ve only spoken about a few times on the blog, so keep an eye out for that. Especially if you’re thinking of exploring up the northern part of the West Coast. Trust me, you’ll want to drive inland for this untouched national park and design accommodations.

As always, this summer we’re taking a pledge to travel safely and responsibly. So I’d recommend giving this blog post a read. It talks about everything you need to know as travel opens up in California and helpful tips for planning.

So here’s to exploring the open road and the beautiful outdoors on the West Coast. Now tell me, where are you itching to experience first?

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Pick for the Best West Cost Outdoor Destination Hotels:

  • Rolling Huts (Methow Valley, WA), for the best architectural stay
  • Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave (Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA),  for the best village hotel
  • Timber Cove Resort (Jenner, CA), for the best oceanfront hotel

1. Mendocino, California

People that I’ve met who’ve been to Mendocino always proclaim how much they love it. And then there are so many who have never been, and I do my best to convince that it is well worth the extra drive. It may be that it’s about an hour plus more north than most coastal destinations from the Bay Area, making it just a bit more effort to reach. But it is so worth it — the diversity in landscape, the range of accommodations, and the plethora of things to do make Mendocino a true gem.

Located on the Northern California coast, this coastal town sits on a quiet bay where the river pours into the ocean. From state parks to explore to kayaking up the river, Mendocino, for me, is one of those bucket list destinations. I’ve been a half dozen times and never tire of it. You can take a day trip to Fort Bragg or even go down the coast to the remote town of Elk, where along the way the sprawling headlands bump up right against the ocean cliffs.

Mendocino is perfect for a romantic getaway, weekend camping, or even a solo trip for those looking to disconnect.

Mendocino Hotel Recommendations

  • Heritage House Resort and Spa , for the best oceanfront hotel
  • Brewery Gulch Inn , for the best Mendocino hotel
  • SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm , for the best bed and breakfast hotel

Helpful Mendocino Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • A Weekend Guide to Mendocino, California
  • 15 Best Things to Do in Mendocino, California
  • The Coastal Holiday: A Mendocino Guide

2. Methow Valley, Washington

This is my secret spot that I try not to tell anyone about. Methow Valley — I can’t even begin to describe how this haven has become our go-to for disappearing for a few days. We’ve been a couple of times where we turn off our phones, have a paper map, and just explore. What brought us originally to this valley about a three hour plus drive from Seattle was the architectural huts designed by our favorite architect firm, Olsun Kundig.

These self-sustaining huts sit on a valley, looking back at the mountains. You feel remote, you’re in nature, and you’re on your own except for the few other huts spread across the valley. I’d make the journey just to stay here. Nearby is the hip Mazama Store where you can get all of your supplies for a weekend break.

The Methow Valley is both a winter and summer destination — summers are for hiking in alpine elevations and winters are perfect for cross country skiers.

Methow Valley Hotel Recommendations

  • Rolling Huts , for the best design stay

Helpful Methow Valley Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • Architecturally Outdoors: The Methow Valley Guide
  • 10 Photos To Inspire You To Visit The Methow Valley

3. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

The best of both worlds. Perhaps you want to be by the ocean but want the perks of city amenities. That is what Carmel-by-the-Sea is, or commonly known as Carmel. You’re within a ten to twenty minute drive to places like Point Lobos, Moss Landing, or Big Sur. But you can stay in seaside village that is full of incredible restaurants and wineries.

So for those that are looking for a breath of fresh air and access to restaurants, I’d say Carmel is one of the best spots on the West Coast.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Hotel Recommendations

  • Hotel Carmel ,  for the best village hotel
  • Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave ,  for the best new hotel
  • Villa Mara , for the best boutique hotel
  • Carmel Mission Inn ,  for the best design-for-dollar hotel
  • La Playa Carmel , for the best larger hotel
  • L’Auberge Carmel , for the best luxury hotel
  • Carmel Valley Ranch , for the best luxury resort

Helpful Carmel-by-the-Sea Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • The Best Hotels In Carmel, California
  • 20 Best Restaurants In Carmel, California
  • Best Things To Do In Carmel, California
  • First-Timer’s Guide To Carmel, California

4. Redwood National and State Park, California

For those willing to make the extra drive and by extra, I mean almost to the top of California, then set your sights on Redwood National and State Park. One of the most biologically diverse parks in the State, you have access to the ocean and some of the tallest redwoods around.

It’s home to Fern Canyon (pictured below) where you can walk through this carved canyon, covered in ferns and running water. I’ve never seen anything like it.

I’d recommend staying a bit south of the park in Trinidad, where you’ll be by the ocean and can make the scenic drive to nearby sights.

Helpful North Coast California Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • A Road Trip Guide To California’s Wild North Coast

5. Cannon Beach, Oregon

It may be one of the most iconic beaches of the Pacific Northwest and certainly on everyone’s West Coast Road trip itinerary. This is Cannon Beach and there are several good reasons to set your sights here.

From a wild coastline to this calm beach, the surrounding landscape meets at this beach to create a picture-perfect postcard. If you’re interested in a small coastal town with some amazing breweries and restaurants, with access to the beach, then this is a must in Oregon.

Oregon has one of the most wonderful coastlines I’ve personally seen. Cannon Beach was my favorite area for the northern part of the state. And it’s true, there is a herd of elk that do live in the area and often take sunset walks on the beach.

Cannon Beach Hotel Recommendations

  • Schooner’s Co ve Inn

Helpful Oregon Coast Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • The Best Oregon Coast Towns and Attractions
  • The Best Stops on the Southern Oregon Coast
  • 30+ Inspiring Photos From Tillamook To Cannon Beach On The Oregon Coast

6. Sonoma Coast + Valley, California

Perhaps you want to get out of the city and make a shorter drive to the outdoors. Well, I personally love the Sonoma Coast and valley area for exactly that. There is everything from the Russian River that winds through Guerneville out to Jenner, to the Santa Rosa Mountains.

There are plenty of ways to get outdoors here and enjoy it with space from others. Some of the best-designed Airbnbs in the woods are also here as well. So for those looking for a chic stay that is out in nature, Sonoma area may be a great fit.

Sonoma Hotel Recommendations

  • Timber Cove Resort , for the best oceanfront hotel
  • MacArthur Place Inn and Spa , for the best boutique hotel
  • Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa , for the best luxury hotel
  • Beltane Ranch Bed & Breakfast , for the best countryside stay

Helpful Sonoma Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • Best Of Wine Country: Wellness In Napa And Sonoma Valley
  • 9 Incredible Airbnbs In Sonoma, California

7. Mammoth Region, California

Nestled in the Eastern Sierras is the incredibly stunning area of Mammoth Lakes. The towering peaks of the mountains are contrasted with valley desert plains, where there are plenty of hot springs and lakes to enjoy.

For those looking to up-level their hiking game, may I suggest going a bit further south and exploring the Inyo National Forest, where you can hike through the John Muir Wilderness. It’s truly one of those places to immerse yourself in raw and often untouched nature.

Mammoth Lakes Hotel Recommendations

  • The Westin Monache Resort , for the best overall hotel
  • The Village Lodge Mammoth , for the best-located hotel
  • Juniper Springs Resort , for the best budget-friendly hotel

Helpful Mammoth Lakes Guides to Plan Your Trip

  • A Guide To California’s Most Epic Day Hike To Big Pine Lakes
  • 7 Incredible Things to Do in Mammoth Lakes

8. North Cascades National Park, Washington

I think one national park that does not get enough credit on the West Coast is North Cascades National Park. A few hours from Seattle, this park is beautifully serene. The lake (picture above) is always that color where it almost looks fake.

You can stay near here, go out on the lake when it’s open, and hike the trails around here. The many times we’ve been here, we’ve hardly seen other hikers. It’s a nice spot to go for a long weekend and you could even combine it with the Methow Valley mentioned above.

North Cascades Hotel Recommendations

9. cape meares, oregon.

Last but not certainly least is the more southern-central part of Oregon’s wild coastline. The Cape Meares section of the coast is easily reached with a two hour drive from Portland, making it a wonderful place to escape for a long weekend.

We stayed inland a bit near Tillamook at a wonderful Airbnb (pictured above) and spent time going out to the coast. It’s not highly populated making it feel remote and most of the time, it feels like you have it all to yourselves.

On the ocean, there are a few places to explore, go for walks on the beach, and hiking destinations.

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

  • World Nomads (best for all-around)
  • Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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Might you recommend some airbnbs in the woods by Sonoma Coast? Or an area I can search for? Much appreciated!

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Inspired Routes

30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe

Posted on Published: January 31, 2023  - Last updated: December 18, 2023

Ready for an epic road trip adventure through the American west? From amazing coastal views to stunning national parks, the western part of the USA has some truly unbelievable landscapes. If you’re looking for the best west coast road trip – here’s 30 routes you’ll absolutely love.

west coast road trip USA view of ocean and road with black sand beach and rugged coastline

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely drive over a long weekend or plan an amazing adventure covering a lot of ground over 2 weeks, this list has a bit of everything.

Visit charming towns along the California and Oregon coast. Go hiking in the national parks out west and catch views of dramatic landscapes. Rugged coasts, dense forests, wide open spaces and outta-this-world desert scenes, you’re about to find your perfect road trip out west in this guide .

Let’s dive in!

large mountain peak and lake with some snow green forest white puffy clouds on road trip out west

Must-see video: west coast road trips

West coast road trip map

This map includes highlights of some of the destinations on the west coast road trip itineraries below. Check out the full guide on each destination below!

Oh and by the way, I haven’t been everywhere (yet), so I’ve called in some help from some fellow travel writers to create these epic itineraries. Enjoy!

Essentials for your Road Trip USA west coast

road trip out west to mt rainier national park hiking trail through meadow of flowers and trees and mountains in distance

Before we dive into the list of awesome road trips, make sure you’re prepared by packing the right gear. Here are some suggestions to make your road trip go smoothly.

  • Collapsable cooler. Perfect for if you’re flying to a destination for a road trip, or just to store when you’re not using it. A collapsable cooler keeps your drinks and food cool, too.
  • Appropriate clothing for weather. From tank tops to a winter coat, be sure to check the weather before you go and take the appropriate layers. If you’re hiking, this is my favorite medium hiking coat , rain jacket and sun hat .
  • Emergency items like satellite communicator and first aid kit . We all think it will never happen to us – until it does! This 2-way satellite communicator comes with me on all road trips and hiking adventures. Take this first aid kit for your car or pack it for day hikes.

hiking trail through rocky terrain

  • GoPro. Capture the best photos and videos of the road (while another adult is driving) or take it for underwater adventures and swimming. This GoPro goes with me on every trip!
  • Reusable water bottles. Pack one or two for each person to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles. Refill at restaurants, hotels and clean water stations at national parks.
  • Right hiking gear. If you’re visiting any of the national parks in the west and stepping foot out of your car, you’ll want the right gear to be comfortable. These are my favorite hiking shoes , hiking socks , trekking poles and hiking backpack that accompany me to any hiking destination.

By the way, if you’ll need to rent a car for this adventure, try searching Discover Cars first. It’s free to use, the site searches the major car companies and I typically save 10-30% using Discover Cars .

US west coast road trip

Gahhh! I’m so excited for you! Epic adventures await on a west coast road trip. Starting off with a few of my favorites…

1. Oregon Coast road trip

oregon cliffs and ocean on a road trip usa west coast

Distance: 745 miles Recommended time: 5-10 days Best time of year: May through October

The Oregon Coast is perfect for road trips, with 363-miles of stunning coastlines and more than 15 not-to-be missed towns.

It’s perfect for a choose-your-own-adventure kind of trip, to accommodate your interests and the amount of time you have to spare. But if you have some flexibility, you could easily spend a week and a half exploring the coastline.

Start your trip in Portland and make your way to the northern portion of the Oregon coast. Cannon Beach should absolutely be on your bucketlist, home to the iconic sea stack, Haystack Rock. Here, you can explore tidepools, keep a lookout for puffins in the summertime, and have a bonfire right on the sand. 

Making your way south, stop at Pacific City Beach, which offers sweeping sand dunes and epic rock formations at Cape Kiwanda . If you’re brave, this is an excellent spot to take on the chilly Pacific waves at a surf lesson- it’s one of the most popular places along the coast to catch a wave!

Continuing south, the town of Florence has a charming historic downtown, with ice cream parlors and salt-water taffy stores. Florence is also home to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area , a 40-mile stretch of rolling sand dunes that has earned the town the name “Sandboarding Capital of the World.”

At the southern tip of the Oregon Coast, you’ll find the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor in Brookings. This recreation area has rugged sea stacks, secluded beaches, and some of the most jaw-dropping vistas you’ll find on the West Coast.

Finally, make your way back to Portland, completing the 745-mile loop around the western portion of the state.

Summer is absolutely the best time to head to the Oregon Coast , thanks to the pleasant weather and clear skies. If you want to avoid the crowds, though, early fall (late September and early October) can be a good time to get most of the attractions to yourself and snag some decent deals on accommodations.

The Oregon Coast from Portland is certainly worthy of being on this list: road trip USA west coast!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

2. Pacific Coast Highway road trip: San Francisco to San Diego

Big Sur california view of grey beach teal water scenic road through mountain

Distance: 615+ miles Recommended time: 3-10 days Best time of year: November through April

You’ll want to keep this west coast road trip itinerary! The drive from San Francisco to San Diego, California is absolutely stunning.

From the rugged, untouched coast of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Southern California and charming towns in between, this is a bucket list road trip, for sure!

Fly into San Francisco and rent a car , drive the coast and fly back out of San Diego. You can do this trip in as little as 3 days, but 7-10 days is recommended.

There are over 30 fabulous stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip , so you’ll never run out of things to do.

Starting in San Francisco, be sure to visit the Golden Gate Bridge and hike the Land’s End Trail for spectacular views of the bay. Next up is Monterey, where you can shop and dine in the historic Cannery Row, or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium .

There are plenty of things to do with kids in Monterey too, making this road trip option one of the best on this list for families.

A must-see along this US west coast road trip is Carmel-by-the-Sea. Charming architecture met with great beaches, this is a fun stop. This is a great spot for an overnight stay , because Big Sur is next and there’s not very many accommodations for a few hundred miles.

Fill up on gas in Carmel-by-the-Sea before hitting the road to Big Sur. This undeveloped stretch of land is where cliffs meet the ocean, where whale watching, sea lions and sea otters are prominent nearly year round.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur that every vacation style will love this region. Be sure to stop by the Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls and Sand Dollar Beach.

As you make your way through Southern California, the charming towns of San Luis Obispo and Solvang make way for Malibu, Huntington Beach, La Jolla and finally to San Diego.

Ideally, you could spend 2 days in San Diego , visiting the highlight including Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego , the Gaslamp District and Coronado Beach.

This fun-filled road trip can be done any time of year. The Big Sur coast sees a lot of marine fog during the summer and early fall months, so winter and spring are the best times for views and the fewer crowds.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

3. Washington National Parks

mt rainier hike up skyline trail with paved path wildflowers and mountain in distance

Distance: 600+ miles Recommended time: 7 – 14 days Best time of year: June through September

If you’re looking to see some of the most beautiful views on the western part of the United States, then a Washington state national parks road trip is a must!

On this trip, you’ll see the sites and hear the sounds of Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades National Parks, as well as see the Rainy City, Seattle.

Start the road trip in Mount Rainier, hit Olympic second, and then make your way towards North Cascades for a long , but totally worth it road trip. 

This trip can quickly become over 600 miles, so it’s recommended to have at least a week to complete it, but having 10 to 14 days is more ideal.

Starting in Mount Rainier, it’s a must to visit the Paradise area of the park, and spend some time hiking the trails, such as the Skyline Trail . The Nisqually Vista trail is one of the best beginner trails in the state.

After you’ve spent time enjoying the best things to do in Mt Rainier National Park , head north towards Olympic National Park. Start your visit on the western half, along the Pacific Coast. Visit Ruby and Rialto Beaches before heading to Hurricane Ridge.

From here, drive out of the park and stop in Seattle before the last leg of the trip. Spending just one day in Seattle , you can see the highlights like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture and the Olympic Sculpture Park. Be sure to take one of the Pike Place Market food tours while you’re in town!

North Cascades is your final destination, where you’ll be greeted with towering peaks. See the fabulous Diablo Lake and Washington Pass Overlook. Embark on the Maple Pass Hike or to Blue Lake.

Because this Washington road trip is through many mountains, it’s best done in the summer, as many roads close in the winter.

If you’re flying in, it’s best to fly into Seattle and then rent a car there. And don’t forget your America the Beautiful parks pass , as you’ll get good use out of it on this trip!

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

4. Anchorage to Seward, Alaska (one of the most scenic on this list of road trip USA west coast)

west coast road trip itinerary view of Alaska wilderness trees green and yellow and lake in fall

Distance: 125 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: April through September

The drive from Anchorage to Seward Alaska is arguably among the most beautiful stretches of road in the USA. On a map the distance between these two cities is just 125 miles, but with all the stunning views and beautiful places along the way it takes much longer than 2 hours to drive.

This road trip follows the Old Seward Highway which traces Turnagain Arm, a waterway that forms the northern boundary of the Cook Inlet off of the Gulf of Alaska.

On one side of the road is deep blue water with snow-capped mountains in the distance and on the other side are the stunning forest-covered Chugach Mountains with endless hiking trails to explore. Beluga whales can be spotted along this section from July through August.

Once you reach the town of Portage, the highway crosses onto the Kenai Peninsula, where the small harbor town of Seward is located. Here you will find Kenai Fjord National Park , which is accessible by both land and water. By land, hike up to Exit Glacier or, by water, spend a day on a glacier cruise into the park.

Other great places to stop on this road trip from Anchorage to Seward include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the Alyeska aerial tram in Girdwood and a boat ride to Portage Glacier in Portage.

This road trip is best in the warmer months, from April through September. Beginning in October, many businesses and tours begin shutting down for the season. Seward is a charming town to stay in with many lodging options ranging from hotels, quaint cabins by the water and bed and breakfasts.

This Alaskan adventure is undoubtedly one of the best west coast road trip itineraries!

Recommended by Susan of This Big Wild World

5. Arizona road trip: Phoenix to Tucson

pink sky at dusk with road below and mountain in disance

Distance: 110+ miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: spring or fall

This US west coast road trip is based in Arizona, and you’re certainly in for a treat!

While Phoenix may be the official capital of Arizona, Tucson is the outdoor hub of the state. One hundred and twelve miles to the southeast of Phoenix, Tucson’s surrounded by mountains, saguaros and the only National Park protecting the sacred Saguaros – Saguaro National Park. 

The drive on Interstate 10 isn’t much to write home about, but when you begin to close in on the Tucson City limits, the fun begins. You’ll first reach the western half of Saguaro National Park, a pristine landscape covered in cacti.

This part is geared toward photographers and those without the need for handholding. It’s best viewed at sunset when Arizona’s famed skies put on a show.

After sunset, continue into the city for delicious Mexican food and your lodging. The following day you can explore Tucson , drive the 50 minutes up to Mt Lemmon, a 9,000+ foot goliath casting its shadow over Tucson, or head to the eastern end of town for the second half of Saguaro National Park.

If you choose the park, know it’s more developed, mountainous (trails go as high as 8,000+ feet), and has a visitor center. The eastern part is perfect for families and those looking for a moderate day hike. The main area isn’t large but offers a nice loop drive with various trailheads to start your walks.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months and looking to escape the heat, Mt. Lemmon is your best friend. On average, the top of the mountain offers visitors a 22-degree reprieve from the heat below . Here, you’ll find miles and miles of hiking and mountain biking.

After your adventure, stop by the famous Cookie Cabin for delicious pizza and an even more tasty Pizookie. Then, on your way down, stop by Windy Point and take in the sunset. Tucson’s known for putting on the best sky magic in the southwest. 

Lastly, be careful while driving on Mt. Lemmon’s scenic byway. It’s curvy and a favorite of cyclists in the area. 

Recommended by Alec of Explore with Alec

6. San Francisco to Yosemite (iconic west coast road trip route)

San Francisco bridge with cliffs in background white waves and large bridge

Distance: 212 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through September

Visiting Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular weekend trips from San Francisco, and is a fantastic option for one of the best west coast road trips itineraries!

A scenic road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite is the best way to enjoy the area. The most scenic route to  Yosemite from San Francisco  takes CA-99 S and CA-140 E and goes through the towns of Merced, Mariposa, and Midpines to the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite National Park. 

The distance between San Francisco and Yosemite NP via this scenic route is just over 200 miles, and the average driving time is about 4.5 hours. 

However, making stops in Merced, Mariposa and Midpines on the way to Yosemite is a must-do. Therefore, choose to spend an extended weekend in Yosemite instead of a weekend.

Merced, called the “Gateway to Yosemite’, is about 130 miles away from San Francisco. Make a stop in Merced and do wine tasting at Vista Ranch , see the historic Merced County Courthouse Museum and visit the fabulous Merced Antique Mall. 

After a break in Merced, head to Mariposa, only 37 miles from Merced. The town Mariposa is such a charming Gold Rush town.

You might enjoy staying overnight in Mariposa . Choose a 2-hour zipline adventure at Yosemite Ziplines & Adventure Ranch from the mountain in Polaris Rangers to Downtown Mariposa. Afterward, indulge in delicious bites at Charles Street Dinner House and explore fantastic Mariposa wineries like Casto Oaks Fine Wine and Art and the Butterfly Creek Winery.

Continue to Yosemite after Mariposa, but make a break in Midpines, which is only 12 mi southwest of El Portal in Yosemite. Midpines is a lovely place for picnicking, swimming, rafting and fishing.

After Midpines, head to Yosemite. The stylish Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite is in Buck Meadows and on the way from Midpines to Yosemite Valley. Check-in at your room and start exploring the marvelous Yosemite National Park.

El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point viewpoint, Fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias await you! 

The best time to visit Yosemite is from May to September. 

Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

7. Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon

orange curvy sandstone rock in antelope canyon arizona

Distance: 726 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: spring or fall

One of the best road trips in the western USA is  Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon . Because Las Vegas airport has so many connections and fairly cheap flights, many people like to fly into Las Vegas and explore from there.

This road trip starts in Vegas and explores some of the amazing destinations northern Arizona and southern Utah has to offer.

You can do this road trip as a loop, or as a there-and-back trip. Starting out at Vegas head west towards Flagstaff and along the way you can stop off and enjoy Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Kingman Arizona.

From Flagstaff head north towards the Grand Canyon, one of the best stops on this road trip. After checking out the Grand Canyon, head north to Page, Arizona, which is a great stop-over city to spend the night.

The next morning head out to explore all the best sights near Page, such as Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. After touring these incredible places, you can start heading towards Zion National Park.

After hiking some incredible trails inside the park, grab a hotel room in Springdale , just outside Zion. The next day head out back towards Las Vegas, while stopping at Valley of Fire State Park on your way back.

Of course you can spend longer at any of these destinations, but if you’re short on time this road trip can be done in 3 days . 

The best time to do this road trip is in spring or fall. In the summer it can be incredibly hot in this part of the country. Zion in particular is one of the best national parks to visit in May , if you can arrange for it.

The winter is a great option if you really want to avoid the crowds, but some trails and roads could be closed so keep that in mind. Don’t forget to buy your Antelope Canyon tickets in advance, as they sell out really fast.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

8. Utah national parks road trip

Zion National park view of canyon with massive orange rocky cliffs and road deep in valley

Distance: 878+ miles Recommended time: 5 – 14 days Best time of year: anytime

One of the best American west coast road trip adventures is through the Mighty 5 in Utah. A stunning display of nature and endless views greet you on a Utah national parks road trip .

It’s best to start this road trip by flying into Salt Lake City and departing from Las Vegas. Rent a car, RV or camper van to explore these amazing national parks.

From Salt Lake City, travel about 4 hours to Moab. There, you’ll have access to Arches and Canyonlands National Park. Ideally, you’d have a few days to explore each park. But you can see quite a bit with just one day in Arches National Park .

Hike to Delicate Arch, the most famous arch in the world! Visit the Devil’s Playground, where you’ll see multiple arches in a short distance. The last major stop within the park is The Windows, where you see the huge Double Arch.

Canyonlands National Park has expansive views with many overlooks and hiking trails. The Mesa Arch Trail is a short walk to an arch overlooking the canyon, and perfect for a sunrise adventure. Be sure to check out the views at Grand View Point Overlook, Green River Overlook and White Rim Overlook.

The journey to Capital Reef is a fun drive along Utah Scenic Byway 24. Once there, be sure to check out the Fruita Historic District, Hike the Hickman Bridge Trail and take the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.

For out-of-this-world views, you’ll love Bryce Canyon National Park. Check out the viewpoints at Inspiration Point and Bryce Point. This park has a shuttle system that’s convenient and prevents congestion within the park.

Be sure to take the shuttle to Sunrise Point, where you can start a phenomenal 3.2 mile hike, the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop . Walk through the funky hoodoos into the base of the amphitheater. So fun!

The last park on this US west coast road trip is Zion. This is one of the most visited national parks in the USA, and for good reason! Massive canyon views surround you throughout the park.

Take the Zion shuttle to hike The Narrows, or apply for a permit to hike Angels Landing . For a low-key trip to Zion with kids , you could hike the Canyon Overlook Trail, Emerald Pools or Pa’rus Trail.

After your visit to the Mighty 5 in Utah, take the 2.5 hour drive to Las Vegas. Fly out directly or spend a day or two exploring Vegas and the area’s many attractions.

Want to see more of Las Vegas? Check out what you must do in Vegas for first timers .

9. Salt Lake City to Yellowstone (perfect US west coast road trip)

multicolored prismatic spring with steam coming off it and parking lot in distance

Distance: 321+ miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: May through September

Salt Lake City is a beautiful place to start your road trip to Yellowstone National Park. Surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains, breathtaking views will greet you from the get-go.

The drive from Salt Lake City to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park is 321 miles and takes 5 hours to drive via I-15N. It’s one of the best west coast road trips USA!

If you’d prefer a more scenic route, consider taking a longer trip to the south entrance of the park through Jackson, Wyoming, via Highway 89. This longer loop (SLC to Yellowstone and back to SLC) includes 12 hours of road time, covering 734 miles.

Whether you have a few days to spare or all week, take this trip at your own pace.

The scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone detours through Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. Jackson is a popular ski resort and has a charming wild west feel to the town.

If you’re looking for lodging in Jackson, consider staying at Elk County Inn , Wyoming Inn of Jackson Hole or at The Lodge at Jackson Hole .

Grand Teton National Park is just miles away from Jackson. The beautiful park features amazing hiking trails and scenic views, including Inspiration Point Grand Teton . Most known for its beautiful mountains, the Teton Range is famous for its sharp peaks.

Once you’ve made your way to Yellowstone, best places to stay in Yellowstone are limited. Old Faithful Lodge and Cabins, Canyon Lodge and Cabins, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are great options for lodging. Keep in mind West Yellowstone and Gardiner are also great nearby areas to stay.

Most of the roads and amenities in Yellowstone are closed through May in the Tetons and in the park. May is a great time to visit because it’s less crowded, but most of the park, including the most popular attractions, is open.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger 

10. Salem, Mt Hood and Oregon waterfalls loop

mount hood at sunset and lake reflection pink sky

Distance: 530 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: June through September

Starting in  Salem  or Portland, you can easily visit the wide range of Oregon’s diverse terrain in a short time. This Oregon Highlights loop can be completed in less than 11 hours (530 miles) of driving time. 

You’ll want to spend a minimum of 3 days on this road trip, though it’s best enjoyed over a full week, or even longer.

While the trip can be enjoyed all year round, you may sometimes need chains or snow tires to drive through the mountain pass in winter. For the best road tripping weather in Oregon, aim for June through September. 

First, spend as much time as you want in Oregon’s largest cities – Portland or Salem, where you’ll find tasty eateries, urban hikes and cute shopping streets. 

Next, head East on I-84 through the impressive Colombia River Gorge with its many waterfalls, on your way to the trendy windsurfing town of Hood River. 

You can pick up treats from local apple farms as you head South through Mt. Hood National Forest and drive by snow-capped mountain peaks on your way to Central Oregon.

After enjoying your favorite outdoor adventure activities in the high desert, make your way back over the mountain range to Silver Falls State Park . This is where you can see 10 waterfalls on one trail – and even walk behind a few of the falls! 

Continue back into the Willamette Valley. Explore Oregon wine country around McMinnville, Oregon, taking your pick of scenic vineyards for wine tasting.

Then, continue West just 1 hour to reach the rugged Oregon Coast. You can climb the dunes at Pacific City and grab some crispy fish and chips. Make a final stop at the Tillamook Cheese factory on your way back to Salem or Portland.

Recommended by Michelle of Intentional Travelers

Can you believe this list?! Not even half done, there’s way more ideas to build your perfect west coast road trip itinerary coming right up!

11. Death Valley to Yosemite (find adventure with this road trip USA west coast route)

view of brown tan rocky terrain at Death Valley national park

Distance: 319 miles Recommended time: 2-3 days Best time of year: September or October

The drive between Death Valley and Yosemite is an epic adventure through some of America’s most iconic national parks, and it’s one of the best west coast road trips!

The 2 parks have their own distinct personalities — Death Valley National Park is a desert expanse with hundreds of mountain ranges and some of the lowest elevation points in North America, and Yosemite National Park is filled with granite cliffs and waterfalls that provide majestic landscapes.

Start your trip at Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. You can stop along Highway 190 as it passes through Furnace Creek, but plan on stopping near Zabriskie Point for sunset views of the surrounding mountains and valley floor.

Then head north towards Mono Lake and stay overnight in Lee Vining or Mammoth Lakes . End your trip in Yosemite Valley after driving through Tioga Road in Yosemite.

The drive from Badwater Basin to Yosemite Valley is 319 miles and takes 6 to 6.5 hours non-stop. You can finish the road trip within a day but it’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 days exploring the parks and in between.

Highlights of this road trip include Lone Pine, Crowley Lake and Mammoth Lakes.

The best places to stay are inside Death Valley National Park and Yosemite National Park so you’ll get more time to explore the park. Since Tioga Road is closed from November through May and Death Valley gets scorching hot during the summer, the best time to do the road trip is in the fall. 

Recommended by Rasika of Bae Area And Beyond

12. Road to Hana, Maui

black sand beach epic maui road trip with green covered cliffs and ocean

Distance: 52 miles Recommended time: 1- 2 days Best time of year: anytime

When you think of Hawaii, a road trip may not come to mind but driving the  Road to Hana  on Maui is one of the best ways to experience this island. The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the eastern side of the island to the town of Hana. 

While obviously not located in the Continental US, it’s a must-see on this list of best road trip USA west coast!

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one lane bridges, hairpin turns and curves. This road trip will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas before you embark on this journey.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, pristine beaches and through lush rainforest. Some highlights of this drive include Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, the awe inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park, Wailua Falls and Haleakala National Park.

Most people drive the Road to Hana and back in the same day but if time allows, stay the night in Hana town . If you stay at the  Hana Maui Resort  you’re in for a real treat.

This will give you a full day to experience the Road to Hana and to not feel rushed on the way back. Plus it’s not the most enjoyable drive at night on a narrow, winding cliffside road.

Since we are talking about Hawaii, you can road trip the Road to Hana anytime of the year. Just avoid this journey during heavy rains as flash floods can happen in the blink of an eye and parts of the road can get swept away.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit, water shoes and pack a lightweight towel because pulling off the side of the road to swim under a waterfall is the name of the game. Buckle up, enjoy the ride and prepare for a road trip of a lifetime.

Recommended by Jess of I’m Jess Traveling 

13. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

bright blue lake water and shore road trip usa west coast

Distance: 323 Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: June through October

A road trip from the San Francisco Bay Area to Lake Tahoe is filled with gorgeous vistas and plenty of amazing things to do!

This road trip is 323 miles and can be done in only 2 days, but do yourself a favor and spend a few more to really soak up the beauty of the area! A road trip to Lake Tahoe can be completed in any season of the year, however summer or fall is recommended to avoid possible road closures due to snow.

Departing from San Francisco, travelers should head east on Highway 80 through Donner Pass, Truckee and then Tahoe City on the lake. 

Driving around the full length of Lake Tahoe is 72 miles of pure beauty. In summer, there are  many swimming beaches  such as Kings Beach, Zephyr and Sugar Pine Point Beach. 

The Tahoe East Shore Bike Trail is a 3 mile long paved path that runs from Incline Village to Sand Harbor either on bike or on foot. Many other hiking trails also provide a break from being in the car, such as Eagle Rock or down to Emerald Bay.

Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa and Hotel Azure Tahoe are both wonderful choices for lodging due to their lakefront locations, incredible views and lovely rooms.

After circling the lake, visitors are in for a fun day of adventure in Virginia City . This old silver mining town is filled with old saloons selling sarsaparillas, tours of underground mines and old schoolhouses, wooden sidewalks and plenty of cute shops. 

This Lake Tahoe road trip can end by taking an easy flight out of the Reno airport or travelers can head back on the scenic Highway 50 for another route back toward the Bay Area. No matter which route you choose, your San Francisco to Lake Tahoe adventure is sure to be one of the best west coast road trips!

Recommended by Sierra of Island and Alpine

14. Grand Teton to Glacier National Park (amazing sights on this road trip USA west coast)

Yellowstone national park waterfall with snowy mountain cliffs nearby

Distance: 500+ miles Recommended time: 10 – 14 days Best time of year: August or September

The next road trip USA west coast is a must-see! A Wyoming and Montana road trip from Grand Tetons National Park to Yellowstone National Park to Glacier National Park is a great way to take in some of the most scenic and wild places in America.

At Grand Teton National Park, you’ll see the Teton Mountains, considered one of the most beautiful stretches anywhere in the Rockies.   Must-see in Grand Teton include Inspiration Point, Jackson Lake Beach and the Hike to Taggart Lake.

These parks are so amazing in late summer and early fall, Grand Teton made the list of one of the best places to visit in August in the US.

In Yellowstone, you’ll see some of the most famous landmarks in the country: Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Prismatic Spring. The wildlife, wide open spaces and scenic views are simply incredible.

And finally, in Glacier, you’ll see the park’s namesake glaciers, along with big horn sheep and, depending on the season, one of the most famous drives in America: the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Don’t miss the beautiful waterfalls in Glacier National Park , including Virginia Falls, Saint Mary Falls, Baring Falls and more.

You can start by basing yourself in Jackson, Wyoming, then move on to West Yellowstone, Montana, and end your trip in Whitefish, Montana. 

The trip is over 500 miles from start to finish, however, plan on putting many more miles than that on your car as you explore the parks. 

If you rent a car , you can fly into Jackson and fly out of Kalispell. Just make sure you get a car with unlimited miles!

Timing this road trip is the real challenge, as these parks are remarkably different from season to season.  

This trip is perfect for a shoulder season road trip since you’ll find smaller crowds in May and September than in the summer. 

However, watch for seasonal closures, as some of the highlights of the parks (especially Glacier) are only open in the late summer. If you want to be able to experience all of the best sites at each park, plan your trip for August or the first half of September and book early! 

While these parks can technically be visited in winter, highway closures combined with heavily restricted park access make these a winter destination for those with a true sense of adventure (and an ability to be flexible!).

Ten days is enough to get the highlights of each park, but, if you can spring for 2 full weeks, you won’t regret it! If you do end up with more time, you can even see more of the  National Park Sites in Montana  or Wyoming.

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

15. Kauai road trip

multicolored canyon with blue sky, green trees and red cliffs

Distance: 80 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: anytime

While not in the continental US, this is absolutely one of the best west coast road trips!

Home to the jaw-dropping NaPali Coast, you can’t actually circle the whole island via car, but you can drive most of the perimeter. This road trip takes you around as much of the island as you can drive from north, to south, then west and back north again.

Starting in Princeville, Hawaii on the north shore of Kauai, visit the famous Hanalei Pier , an iconic place in Kauai. Go snorkeling on Anini Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai . You’ll want to spend at least one day exploring the north shore, or more if you have the time.

Next stop is Kapaa, this eclectic beach town perfect for smoothies and swimming. Be sure to stop at Java Kai, one of the best places to eat in Kauai . Later that day, make your way south to Koloa.

Famous for Poipu Beach, this is typically the sunniest and driest part of the island. Visit Shipwreck Beach and hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail , where you’ll see the stunning southern coastline.

On your 3rd day touring the island, you’re in for a real treat! Drive about an hour northwest to the Waimea Canyon State Park. Also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, the Waimea Canyon is a stunning, multicolored canyon and a must-see in Kauai.

There, you can spend some time at the overlooks or hike the Waimea Canyon Trail , which takes you into the canyon to a lush waterfall. So fun!

After seeing the Waimea Canyon, you’ll want to head to Koke’e State Park to witness the stunning NaPali Coast . Visit the Kalalau Lookout or Pu’u O Kila Lookout for amazing views of the rugged coastline. If you’re prepared with hiking boots and trekking poles , hike the Pihea Trail for even more views of the NaPali Coast.

This epic Kauai vacation and road trip around the island can be done anytime of year. You’ll want to spend as many days in Kauai as possible to experience the magic of the island, but at minimum 3 days and 4 nights to complete this road trip.

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

16. Portland to Seattle, plus Astoria

view of coast and bridge in Oregon with poles sticking out of water

Distance: 275 miles Recommended time: 4+ days Best time of year: spring and summer

One of the best road trips in the western U.S. hits 3 of the best cities in the Pacific Northwest: Portland, Astoria and Seattle.

The entire route is only 275 miles and about 5 hours if you drive straight through. But you’ll want to spend 2-3 nights in each stop to enjoy each of these wonderful spots and their surroundings. This PNW road trip is the perfect combination of beautiful scenery, history, bucket list attractions and great food.

In Portland, stay at the Hyatt Centric and you’ll be in walking distance to Pioneer Courthouse Square, as well as some great restaurants. The City of Roses is one of the best food cities in America after all.

Make sure to eat some of the  famous foods of Portland  like a Voodoo Doughnut and local charcuterie from Olympic Provisions. If you have the time, a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge is worth an excursion.

Drive to Astoria via route 26. It’s worth the 5 extra minutes on your 2 hour trip for the scenery. The best part is you’ll see the northern Oregon Coast. Stop at Ecola State Park for stunning views of Cannon Beach.

When you arrive in Astoria on the Columbia River, stay at the Bowline Hotel . Spring for a riverfront room where you’ll have gorgeous views from your balcony. Stroll the Riverwalk, admire the Victorian architecture, and explore the historic gems of the Lewis and Clark expedition. 

When leaving Astoria, go across the Astor-Megler Bridge to follow the 101 to Seattle. This large port city has lots of museums, gardens, and coffee shops.

Although it’s touristy, go to the top of the Space Needle for incredible vistas and explore Pike’s Place Market to see whole fish being tossed back and forth at the fish markets. 

This American west road trip offers classic views of the ocean and the moody coastline. Plus it’s a road trip you won’t soon forget!

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

17. Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Arizona (epic adventure: road trip USA west coast)

Grand Canyon National Park red multicolored canyon at sunset on a west coast road trip

Distance: 850+ miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: March through May

Start and end this  epic 7 day southwest road trip loop  in Las Vegas. You’ll see 12 amazing natural features, including 4 national parks, and one modern engineering marvel. Not to mention any extra days spent exploring Vegas at the beginning or end of your trip!

Begin with a day trip out to Death Valley National Park. Return to Vegas for the night.

Next, explore the beauty of Red Rock Canyon scenic drive , a national recreation area in the morning and the fiery red swirls of Valley of Fire State Park in the afternoon. Drive to St George, Utah to spend the night.

Enjoy the next 2 days exploring Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks . Both have stunning hikes and views. Continue on to Page, Arizona.

Spend a day in this area visiting photogenic Horseshoe Bend, touring Antelope Canyon and paddling or hiking around Lake Powell.

Next, explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim in just a day . Take the scenic drive in from the east entrance and end the day at Mather Point viewpoint for stunning sunset views. Drive to Flagstaff, Arizona to overnight.

A quick morning visit to Walnut Canyon National Monument is worth it to see ancient cliff dwellings up close and personal. Then get on the road and drive to Hoover Dam, gaining an hour as it operates on PST, arriving in time to catch one of the afternoon Dam Tours.

Back in Vegas, use the evening to explore or catch a show!

Spring is the ideal season for this road trip. You’ll avoid the extreme heat of summer but also miss most of the snow and reduced winter hours at the higher elevation parks.

An America the Beautiful National Park Pass will save you hundreds of dollars on this road trip itinerary. It pays for itself several times over in just a week, and it’s valid for a year.

This amazing western USA road trip is busy and covers a lot of ground! If you can expand your time to 2 weeks, you take take a more leisurely pace.

Recommended by Rachel of Means to Explore

18. Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes, California

view of mammoth lakes with forest and mountains

Distance: 200 miles Recommended time: 4-5 days Best time of year: spring or fall

Take an amazing American west coast road trip full of outdoor adventures in the Eastern Sierras from Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes!

The drive north along US-395 is approximately 200 miles and takes about 4 hours straight through, but it’s definitely worth taking at least 4 or 5 days to fully explore all the areas along the way.

Start your road trip in Death Valley National Park , located along the border of Nevada and California. Death Valley is home to the highest recorded air temperature on earth, as well as the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin.

Head from Death Valley to the town of Lone Pine, which is famous for being home to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental US. You’ll need a permit to hike Mt. Whitney , but if you’re lucky enough to snag one, standing on the 14,505 foot summit is a truly incredible feeling. If you just want a view of Mt. Whitney, camp in the Alabama Hills for a truly spectacular sight of the Sierra Nevada.

After you come down from that high, drive north to Bishop and partake in your favorite outdoor pursuit . This mountain town is home to plenty of hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing crags.

Finally, make your way to Mammoth Lakes where you can continue your outdoor adventures or take a break and soak in some of the many nearby hot springs . Be sure to check out the Crab Cooker if you like it hot! And say cheers to your epic road trip with a local beer at Mammoth Brewery.

Recommended by Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

19. Alaska Highway (amazing idea for west coast road trips)

view of buffalo crossing road on Alaska Highway road trip USA west coast

Distance: up to 1,390 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: May through September

Are you looking for an epic road trip USA west coast? Look no further than the Alaska Highway! Stretching 1,390 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska, this highway will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Canada and Alaska.

To get to the Alaska Highway (Alcan), you’ll need to take one of two ways to get to Dawson Creek: either up Icefield Parkway ( Banff to Jasper National Park ), or through British Columbia down the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Perhaps take one there and the other on your way back home!

When planning your road trip on the Alaska Highway, it’s important to consider how much time you want to spend on the road and where you want to stop along the way.

The highway can be completed in as few as 3 days, but that will feel very rushed. Even spending at least a week along the Alcan highway will feel too fast if you’re fully taking advantage of everything this incredible journey has to offer. 

While the Alaska Highway winds through some of the snowiest parts of the world, the road is open and maintained all year long. However, this amazing west coast road trip is best between May to September.

From wildlife viewing opportunities and breathtaking mountains, to roadside attractions like Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, there is something for everyone along the Alcan Highway. 

There are plenty of national parks, provincial parks and free remote camping spots along the way, as well as small hotels and inns in even the smallest of towns. Do keep in mind that peak season along the Alaska Highway is short and things book up fast, so the earlier you make reservations the better!

Recommended by Chris & Sara of Chris and Sara

20. Southern California road trip: Los Angeles, Joshua Tree, San Diego

US west coast road trip view of California pier with carnival rides above ocean

Distance:  408 miles Recommended time:  4 days Best time of year:  spring or fall

If you’re looking for a Southern California sampler, this 4-day road trip itinerary is for you! On this looped route, you’ll see the best of Southern California including Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park, and San Diego for some city, desert and beach time!

Whether you’re traveling to Southern California as a couple, solo, with young kids or even exploring LA with teens , you’re going to love this road trip!

Because this route is a loop, you can easily start from Los Angeles or San Diego depending on where you can secure the cheapest flights. Spring and fall are the best times to visit all 3 destinations because of great weather and fewer crowds.

In Los Angeles, you’ll want to stay at least 2 full days to get a good taste of the city. 

First, visit the downtown LA area where at Grand Central Market, you can try many local favorites including strawberry donuts from The Donut Man and Mexican sweet and spicy fruit cups at La Frutería.

Also nearby is Angel’s Flight Railway, the Last Bookstore and the iconic Bradbury Building.

On your second day in LA, be sure to visit Griffith Observatory, which has great views of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA. If you prefer another museum, the Getty is one of the best art museums in the city, or instead opt for a half day at the Santa Monica Pier to ride the ferris wheel at Pacific Park.

In Los Angeles, stay in Burbank for a more quiet location, or Silver Lake to be right next to the action downtown!

Next, take a  day trip to Joshua Tree National Park . 

Check out Barker Dam Nature Trail with authentic petroglyphs, Keys View for a one-of-a-kind view of ecosystems colliding, hike Lost Horse Mine Trail Loop to learn about the Western mining history in the park, and finally visit Cholla Cactus Garden with plants that you can only see here.

Joshua Tree has some phenomenal camping or check out the many unique vacation rentals nearby including those that look like spaceships!

San Diego is the final stop on this loop (or maybe first for you depending where you flew into). 

You can see the highlights of San Diego in one day including Balboa Park where there are over 20 local museums and gardens, the historic Gaslamp Quarter with a vibrant nightlife scene, and Cabrillo National Monument where you can explore the Point Loma Tide Pools and maybe spot some sea lion!

Be sure to check out the best things to do in Old Town San Diego as well, including the birthplace of California.

In San Diego, stay along the marina or near the Gaslamp Quarter for the most central location. The Horton Grand Hotel is a great affordable option with a beautiful courtyard!

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

More ideas for a west coast road trip

This final 1/3 of the list we’ll hit more of the west coast states, including Washington, California, Oregon and many more. Let’s keep going!

21. Denver to Moab

large lake with mountains and trees on partly cloudy day

Distance: 348 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: April through October

This is an American west coast road trip that offers a variety of views from the stunning Rocky Mountains to the desert landscapes in Utah.

Starting in Denver, Colorado, spend a day enjoying the city sights like Union Station, 16th Street Mall and the Denver Art Museum. From there, hit Interstate 70 through the gorgeous Rocky Mountains.

So many charming mountain towns greet you along the way. Be sure to stop and see lake Dillon, and Sapphire Point Overlook which is stunning, particularly in the summer sun.

Next stop by Vail for shopping and dining. This 4-season town is great for skiing in the winter, hiking and biking in the spring, summer and fall. Stay overnight at the Lodge at Lionshead to break up the long drive on this Denver to Moab road trip .

The next day, you’ll drive through more of the Rocky Mountains and Glenwood Canyon out to western Colorado. Swim at the world’s largest mineral hot springs in Glenwood Springs or grab lunch in the charming downtown.

On your way out of Colorado be sure to visit the Colorado National Monument, where this scenic drive provides hiking opportunities and the last of the dramatic landscape in Colorado.

Hop off I-70 and take the scenic highway 128 in Utah. Drive through rocky red desert scenes along the Colorado River to Moab.

Once in Moab, take a day or more to hike in Arches National Park and see the sights of Canyonlands National Park. From there, take a long day’s drive back to Denver, or go through the Mighty 5 in Utah and fly out of Las Vegas.

22. San Francisco, CA to Newport, OR (one of the most underrated road trips USA west coast)

coastal waters with rugged cliffs lighthouse and blue ocean

Distance: 625 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: May through October

Taking a  Pacific Coast road trip  is a bucket list experience, and one of the most beautiful stretches is between San Francisco, California and Newport, Oregon.

Start to finish is about 625 miles and will take approximately 14 hours, so allow at least 3 days for this road trip. North of San Francisco, catch CA-1 and stop at Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s a great place to spot gray whales and elephant seals in the spring.

As you continue north, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Once you reach Mendocino, take some time to explore this charming coastal town. Enjoy the best Mendocino restaurants , Glass Beach, botanical garden and so much more.

Pick up Highway 101 when CA-1 ends in Leggett. When it’s time to stop for the night, you can camp at Sue-Meg State Park in Trinidad. It’s a verdant park with easy access to oceanfront trails.

Get an early start the next day, because you’re in redwoods territory. Plan to do some hiking in Redwoods National and State Parks. Since there are multiple parks, stop at the visitor center for maps and advice from rangers.

The next stretch of the coast is stunning! You’ll want to stop at every scenic overlook; there isn’t a bad view along the entire drive. This is especially true once you enter Oregon. 

Brookings is a good place for an overnight at Beachfront Inn . From there, Newport may only be 200 miles away, but it’s definitely going to take some time to get there. A few of the must-see spots include Spruce Island Viewpoint, Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint, and Heceta Head Lighthouse and Cape Perpetua. 

Once you’re in Newport, head to Mo’s Seafood and Chowder for some crave-worthy clam chowder. While there are now multiple locations, there’s nothing like a cup from the original.

With its incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, historic lighthouses, charming towns, and lush forests, a drive from San Francisco to Newport is one of the best west coast road trips , and an experience you’ll remember forever.

Recommended by Theresa of The Local Tourist

23. Kona to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii

volcanoes national park red lava at sunset with dark sky

Distance: 200 miles Recommended time: 5-7 days Best time of year: anytime

The Big Island of Hawaii is a bucket list destination and a must-see. A road trip to experience all the unique places should definitely be part of your Big Island itinerary . 

As most visitors land at Kona International Airport, this road trip starts in the beach town of Kona, then continues to the rainforest town of Hilo, followed by a visit to the Volcanoes National Park and then back to Kona.

A total of 5-7 days are recommended for this Big Island road trip to explore all the best sights. 

Plan to spend a few nights in Kona to experience the amazing beaches and snorkeling activities. Kona is the drier side of the Big Island and where all the brand-name resorts are.

The next stop is Hilo, which is around 2 hours drive from Kona. Hilo is where the amazing waterfalls are like Akaka falls and Rainbow Falls. Plan to spend a couple of nights in Hilo. 

Hilo makes for a great base to visit the Volcanoes National Park which is around 45 minute drive from Hilo.

There are amazing hikes here like the Kilauea Iki Crater hike, and you can see the lava glow depending on recent volcanic activity in the park. Visit the nearby black sand beach which is amazing to see. (Oh and if you love unique beaches, be sure to add the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico to your bucket list!)

Finally, make your way back to Kona to complete your road trip. 

In Kona,  King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel  is a great beachfront hotel at a prime location. In Hilo, the Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is a great oceanfront property. 

Although not on the continental US, you can definitely say this is one spectacular road trip USA west coast!

Recommended by Anu of Destination Checkoff

24. Boise to Twin Falls (road trip USA west coast – perfect weekend getaway)

gorge in Idaho view of bright blue water at base of canyon

Distance: 285 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through September

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path road trip in Western USA, give Idaho a try.

From Boise to Twin Falls, you’ll walk on the Oregon trails where emigrants travelled in the early 1800s, discover lava tube caves and paddleboard on a crystal clear turquoise river.

Start in Boise, the capital city of Idaho . Make sure to walk around the city center, visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary and hike the Table Rock trail (a 3.5 miles hike).

Then, drive to Three Island Crossing State Park. It’s 73 miles away from Boise.

Stop at Y Knot Winery for a winery tour and a wine tasting. You can stop at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Site and see the original wagon ruts and Conestoga replicas. Or take a self-guided tour of the park.

The Three Island Crossing State Park has a nice campground if you’re camping.

The next day, drive to Twin Falls and explore the Thousand Springs State Park complex . Make a first stop at the Malad Gorge unit, where you can walk along the rim to the Devil’s Washbowl Overlook.

Next up, drive to the Ritter Island unit, where you can paddleboard around the island and admire Lemon Falls. When you are ready, drive to Box Canyon Springs. You can hike down to enjoy the Snake River.

End your day at the Niagara Springs unit before arriving in Twin Falls for the night.

Don’t miss the Perrine Coulee Falls, the Shoshone Falls and the Perrine Memorial Bridge in Twin Falls. If time allows, drive north to Shoshone and stop at the Mammoth’s Idaho Cave and the Shoshone Ice Cave.

Recommended by Emilie of Love Life Abroad

25. Portland to Yellowstone National Park

waterfall through trees west coast road trips itineraries

Distance: 800+ miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through August

A great road trip to take in the Western USA is from  Portland, Oregon to Yellowstone National Park , and back again.

There are 2 routes that are roughly the same distance, one which follows a southern route and one which follows a northern route. It’s the northern route that passes through some amazing landscapes.

Taking the northern route will cover over 800 miles and can be done in as little as 2 days. However, if you are combining it with a visit to Yellowstone National Park, visit the park first and take a leisurely drive back to Portland over several days, stopping at least once along the route.

From Portland, you take I-84, along the Columbia Gorge Creek. If you have time and are doing this route over a few days, stop at Multnomah Falls, one of the most popular recreational places to visit in the Pacific Northwest.

After Columbia Gorge Creek, you will meet I-90 which travels through spectacular scenery and past Coeur d’Alene which sits on the northern end of Harrison Slough lake. 

From wide open country to mountain passes with slopes of trees on either side and then ranch country of Montana, the ever-changing landscape will leave you awe-inspired. 

Yellowstone National Park is your destination and it won’t disappoint. Don’t miss Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs.

On your return journey, spend a few nights in Missoula and enjoy leisure time in Caras Park, meditate among the statues of the Garden of 1000 Buddhas, or visit the National Bison Range. And then head back toward Portland.

This route is best taken during summer due to possible road closures due to snow/ice conditions during the winter. There are some steep mountain roads to pass which may be hazardous to drive. 

And be aware that later in summer, the landscape may not be completely visible due to forest fires. However, if you manage to avoid them, you will have a pleasurable drive along this US west coast road trip!

Recommended by Cath of Passports and Adventures

26. Anchorage to Fairbanks (gorgeous west coast road trip itinerary)

river in valley in alaska during a vacation to west coast road trip itinerary

Distance: 360 miles Recommended time: 5 – 7 days Best time of year: June through September

Alaska offers an ideal road trip to visit its gorgeous national parks!

Starting in Anchorage, head north toward the small town of Trapper Creek for approximately 2 hours. You should stay 1-2 nights in the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. This quaint lodge is in a secluded area and has a few restaurants onsite.

From there, you can drive further north for 2 hours to Denali National Park or take the  McKinley Explorer train ride  from the nearby town of Talkeetna. This luxurious train offers double decks for upstairs seating under the glass dome windows and downstairs restaurant dining.

The scenic train journey (climbing from 350 to 1600 feet altitude) takes 5 hours and crosses many rivers.

Once in Denali National Park, you can stay at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge for 2 nights. This resort offers a huge main lodge, several restaurants and many gift shops.

You’ll want to spend at least 1 full day touring the nearby Denali National Park where you’ll see jaw-dropping scenery. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife such as grizzly bears, ground squirrels, golden eagles, Dall sheep or wolverines!

Onward to Fairbanks for a 2.5-hour drive, you can stay at the comfortable  Westmark Fairbanks Hotel which offers expansive views from the rooms.

One fun excursion to do in Fairbanks is the  Riverboat Discovery tour  which takes you on an eventful cruise on the Chena and Tanana rivers aboard an authentic sternwheeler boat. Observe sled dog training, bush pilot flying and visit a traditional village.

This is one of the best west coast road trip itineraries, and the best time of year to do it is in September to see the amazing Autumn colors!

Recommended by Jan of Jan Adventures

27. Southern California charm: Ventura, Santa Barbara, Solvang

Solvang California windmill with patio and potted plants

Distance:  130 miles Recommended time:  3-4 days Best time of year:  anytime

While this west coast road trip may be low in mileage, it takes you through some of the best spots in California! A route primarily along an ocean-front section of Highway 101, you’ll see Ventura, Channel Islands National Park, Santa Barbara and Solvang. 

Departing from Los Angeles, drive north roughly 2 hours to your first stop, Ventura. You’ll want to spend at least 2 nights here.

On your first evening, you should visit Ventura’s Main Street. This pedestrian-friendly street is full of theaters, boutiques, breweries, and restaurants . Check out TikiGirl for shopping and Rumfish y Vino for dinner. You could also visit the historic Spanish Mission San Buenaventura or grab drinks at the VenTiki Tiki Lounge.

Using the next full day, visit Channel Islands National Park . Departing from Ventura Harbor, take the official boat taxi, Island Packers, to see one of the least visited national parks in the country. Along the way, dolphin, sea lion, or other marine life sightings are nearly guaranteed. 

On your 3rd day, drive an hour north along the coast for your next stop, Santa Barbara . Two nights are also recommended here. Santa Barbara has a wide variety of activities.

From surfing to kayaking and hiking to wine tasting, there is no shortage of fun things to do . If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the action, try the Hotel Californian. Other recommended spots for food or drinks include Zaytoon, Handlebar Coffee Roasters, Loquita and the Santa Barbara Public Market.

Finally, your last stop takes you inland to California’s Danish town. Solvang is memorable for its windmills sprinkled throughout the walkable town.

A thematic experience, Solvang boasts many bakeries and hosts festivals celebrating its Danish heritage. It’s also within the Santa Ynez Valley, so you can visit many wineries and sample some of California’s best wines. If you like cycling, this area is also quite popular among cyclists and you can even do a wine and cycling tour . So fun!

Recommended by Taylor of Taytrum Travels

28. Portland to Southwest Utah (more amazing sights on this US west coast road trip)

utah rocky cliffs desert scenery

Distance: 2,000+ miles Recommended time: 6+ days Best time of year: May or June

This is the West USA road trip for pacific northwest dwellers who are emerging from a long winter and craving sunshine!

The best time for this road trip is the last week of May or the first week of June. The parks are open and it’s hot in SW Utah but it is not the high season yet.

At just over 2,000 miles roundtrip, you will cover some ground. Plan on setting aside at least 6 days to complete the loop, and 8+ days if you have the extra time. 

Beginning in Portland, drive east to Boise, Idaho for your first night. Make sure to stop at Shoshone Falls on the way.

From Boise, continue to SW Utah, stopping in Salt Lake for lunch. Spend 3-5 days exploring all that Southwest Utah has to offer and soaking up the desert sun.

Stay at Under Canvas Zion for a luxury glamping experience, and/or at Zion EcoCabins for other worldly views from your A-frame or private hot tub. For details and more places to stay check out where to stay Near Zion National Park . 

Allocate at least 1 day to explore Zion National Park. Hike Angels Landing for sunrise and Canyon Overlook Trail in the afternoon.

The next day, venture to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area for incredible scenery and hiking, then hop over (5 minutes) to Quail Creek Reservoir to cool off. You can even rent paddle boards and kayaks. 

On your last day, begin your journey home and stop at Bryce Canyon National Park on the way.

Spend a few hours exploring the trails around Sunrise Point to get a feel for the park. The Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop offers spectacular scenery.

Continue on to Park City for your last night. Spend the evening strolling the picturesque streets. Rise early to make your way back to Portland.

Recommended by Jade of Well and Good Travel

29. Las Vegas to Death Valley

Death Valley national park california road trip west coast USA multicolored sand hills at sunset

Distance: 298 miles (there and back) Recommended time: 1 – 3 days Best time of year: October through April

Unknowingly to most, Las Vegas is actually a perfect starting point for many west coast road trips itineraries. You can oftentimes find affordable flights to the McCarran airport which will start your adventure off on the right foot.

This Las Vegas to Death Valley road trip will take you to other-worldly landscapes, epic hikes and some of the best views. 

The Furnace Creek Visitor Center in Death Valley is located just over 2 hours from the airport and this road trip can actually be completed in just one day! Get an early start to your day so you can catch the breathtaking sunrise inside the park. 

After arriving in the park, head to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes to watch the sun rise over the undisturbed and smooth sand dunes. You can choose to hike to the top of a dune or watch closer to the parking lot. Once the sun has risen, head to the Mosaic Canyon Trail for a 3.3-mile hike. 

Other stops on this road trip include lunch at Stovepipe Wells, marveling at the lowest place in North America , Badwater Basin, driving Artist Palette drive, Golden Canyon trail and watching the sunset over Zabriske point. 

It’s HIGHLY discouraged to visit this park in the summer months as the temperature rarely dips below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so this road trip is best done between October and April . If you’re wanting to extend your time in Death Valley, you can grab a room at one of the 4 on-site lodges or a campsite.

If completing this west coast road trip in a day, you will then return back to Las Vegas for a good night’s rest and to prepare for the rest of your L as Vegas adventures . No matter how long you choose to spend on the road trip, it’ll surely be one to remember for years to come.

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

30. Seattle to Glacier National Park (a favorite on this list of American west coast road trips)

waterfall along cliff green water at base on a US west coast road trip

Distance: 805 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: April through October

This west coast road trip itinerary is one of the most scenic routes in the U.S! It passes through 2 national parks, varied landscapes, gorgeous lakes and quaint cities like Spokane and Coeur d’Alene. 

A perfect itinerary would be spending 1 full day hiking through Mount Rainer, exploring the best of Paradise Mt Rainier , including Myrtle Falls and Reflection Lakes.

The next day can be spent by driving to the Idaho panhandle. If you have the time, be sure to stop in Palouse Falls and Spokane City along the way.

Then spend one day in Coeur d’Alene, and 2 days exploring Glacier. Be sure to check out all the amazing things to do in Glacier National Park like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Avalanche Lake Trail , iconic Lake McDonald and going stargazing.

It’s optimal to take this road trip between April – October since the scenic roads at Mount Rainer and Glacier National Park are closed in the winter. 

To make the most of your time, make sure to leave early from Mount Rainer on day 2. There’s a lot of ground to cover between Mount Rainer and Coeur d’Alene, and you will thank yourself for finishing it in a single day.

Waking up in Idaho on day 3 will make the remainder of the trip much more relaxing.

In each National Park, there are lots of campsites available to reserve, but in between Mount Rainer and Glacier, one of the best places to stay is at One Lakeside Hotel , right at the heart of Coeur d’Alene.

Of course, if you have more time, you could add a day for each part of the journey, or spend one day in Seattle , too.

Recommended by Caleb of Pazook Travel Journal

US West coast road trip itineraries

rocky scenery with blue sky orange spires on a road trip out west

Whew! What a list!

There are exciting adventures around nearly every curvy road, mountain, desert scene and coastal area in the American west. There’s simply so many breathtaking views along these routes in the west. How do you ever choose?!

Let’s recap that list one more time, in a quicker fashion…

Road trip USA West Coast ideas

  • Oregon Coast
  • San Francisco to San Diego
  • Washington National Parks
  • Anchorage to Seward
  • Phoenix to Tucson
  • San Francisco to Yosemite
  • Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon
  • Utah national parks
  • Salt Lake City to Yellowstone
  • Salem, Mt Hood and Oregon waterfalls loop
  • Death Valley to Yosemite
  • Road to Hana, Maui
  • San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
  • Grand Teton to Glacier National Park 
  • Kauai road trip
  • Portland to Seattle, plus Astoria
  • Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Arizona
  • Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes
  • Alaska Highway
  • Los Angeles, Joshua Tree, San Diego
  • Denver to Moab
  • San Francisco, CA to Newport, OR 
  • Kona to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii
  • Boise to Twin Falls
  • Portland to Yellowstone National Park
  • Anchorage to Fairbanks
  • Ventura, Santa Barbara, Solvang
  • Portland to Southwest Utah
  • Las Vegas to Death Valley
  • Seattle to Glacier National Park

Related posts to read next: 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 17 Exciting Winter Road Trips USA: Scenic and Unexpected Routes You’ll Love 32 Amazing Stops on a San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip (You’ll Love) AMAZING Utah National Parks Road Trip (Map, Best Hikes, Scenic Route Between Parks + More) 12 Epic Scenic Drives Colorado (Map + Tips + Photos)

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30 gorgeous west coast road trip routes with road trip images coast wild flowers and mountains

Sunday 19th of February 2023

These all look like beautiful road trips! I think I would combine a few different ones and go for a couple of weeks of exploring!

Thursday 2nd of March 2023

Loooove this idea! So many good ones, it would be hard to choose. Wise to combine a few :)

Thursday 16th of February 2023

Marvelous places! I’d so loooove to ride my motorcycles on some of these roads, especially Death Valley!

Friday 17th of February 2023

Oh that would be so much fun Isabella! Sounds like a trip in your future ;)

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

This is an epic road trip guide through the American West Coast. We are planning to take a road trip from Seattle to San Francisco so this will serve as a great resource.

Oh that will be an awesome road trip! Love the coastal, moody vibes from Seattle to San Francisco. Have fun!!

Linda (LD Holland)

We do love a great road trip and these are some great choices on the west coast. We have talked about investing in a satellite communicator and really should follow up. And now day we will make it up to Alaska for a great summer road trip.

Linda yes! A satellite communicator is crucial when you're in areas with no cell phone coverage. And gosh, a road trip through Alaska sounds amazing too. Enjoy!

These all so incredible, I don't even know how I would choose! The Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon route looks out of this world😍

Right?! There's so many fabulous places in the western USA, it's really difficult to decide, that's for sure!

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The Long Weekend

West Coast Weekend Getaways

Otherworldly natural landscapes, delicious food and wine, relaxing spa resorts and beachfront escapes...there is something to that "West Coast, Best Coast" saying. And with such variety of scenery and activity within reach, there are plenty of options for extended long weekend trips on the West Coast. Here are a few of our favorite places, all within an easy drive or flight from major West Coast hubs. Contact Indagare for assistance planning a customized weekend getaway.

From Los Angeles and San Diego

Crystal blue waters, expansive beaches, fresh cuisine and excellent properties have long made Los Cabos a favorite quick getaway for A-listers and sun-seekers.

Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, One&Only Palmilla draws a mix of families, couples and groups of friends to its Mission-style estate. Across 25 lushly planted acres, the resort’s adobe buildings house 174 lavish suites. Families return year-after-year thanks to the popular KidsOnly Club, and travelers of all types come back for the two pools (one for families), decadent restaurants and a wealth of activities—including a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and excellent spa, plus adventures out at sea—but it’s the service that steals the show at this Indagare Index property .

Related: Read our Review: One&Only Palmilla

What to do: The sea is the playground of Los Cabos, whether travelers prefer to enjoy the views from the beachfront or dive in with surfing, fishing and snorkeling. For non-water-based activities, the surrounding desert offers prime opportunities for hiking and zip lining.

Where to eat: In the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, Flora Farms is a destination in and of itself. After embarking on a tour of the 10-acre farm, enjoy a delicious seasonal lunch comprising produce and meats all sourced from the property. And be sure stop by their ice cream cart to see what flavors they have available—it is all house-made and the flavors change with the farm’s produce. And back on property, One&Only Palmilla’s SEARED is the resort’s signature restaurant, with menus from Jean-Georges Vongerichten that showcase local seafood and meats (paired with one of Mexico’s best wine lists).

Flying distance from San Diego (SAN): Two-hour-and-fifteen-minute direct flight. Flying distance from Los Angeles (LAX): Two-and-a-half-hour direct flight.

PALM SPRINGS & JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

This desert oasis has been a beloved getaway since Hollywood’s golden years, and today Palm Springs remains the ideal all-season escape.

The brand-new adult’s-only Azure Sky , which opened its doors in March 2022, pairs whimsical architecture with striking desert views and was developed by the Hollywood A-list. Other options include the hip and low-key Arrive , with a youthful ambience and deep connection to the cool zeitgeist of the modern Coachella Valley and the  Colony Palms Hotel , a bohemian boutique hotel with Moroccan-inspired décor.

What to do: Visit Sunnylands, the 200-acre estate of philanthropist Walter Annenberg. Guided tours are the only way to enter the historic house (reserve in advance), but no tickets are necessary to explore the Impressionism-inspired gardens. Architecture buffs may enjoy a private tour with the Palm Spring Architecture + Design Center to the former houses of stars like Elvis Presley (Indagare can arrange). East of town, the trails (and whimsical flora) of Joshua Tree National Park beckon.

Where to eat: The bustling Birba is a go-to for an al fresco meal, thanks to its large outdoor patio. Head here for farm to table meals and Thursday night live music. Classic, upscale Italian is best enjoyed at Il Corso , where the menu includes homemade pasta dishes and fresh seafood. For the best brunch in town, don't miss Norma's .

Driving Distance from Los Angeles: About two hours, although traffic can vary.

Related: The Best New Boutique Hotels in the U.S.

A-Listers like Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres own homes in this community about five miles from Santa Barbara. In addition to star quality, exquisite food and ultimate relaxation, the dramatic hills and sunny coastal weather of Montecito make for ideal hiking and biking conditions.

Where to stay:

 Set on 16 acres sandwiched between the beach and the mountains,  Rosewood Miramar Beach  (an Indagare Index hotel which opened in 2019) has a scallop-shaped pool with cabanas, six restaurants and a Goop-branded boutique.

What to do: Check out Lotusland , a 37-acre estate where the late opera star Madame Ganna Walska created her own personal (and eccentric) Eden. Advanced reservations for tours are a must. Foodies may enjoy a culinary guided tour and cooking classes with Laurence Hauben , a proponent of the Slow Food Movement—which Indagare can help arrange.

Where to eat: Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery is a favorite for breakfast, thanks to fresh-baked pastries, delicious challah French toast and classic egg dishes.

Driving Distance from Los Angeles: Around two hours

From San Francisco

California’s preeminent wine regions are both idyllic destinations where days are spent visiting wineries, biking the winding roads and savoring incredible food. Napa is the elegant, more exclusive option, with some of the most awarded restaurants. Sonoma , meanwhile, is more laid-back and can feel less sceney.

 In Napa, the current talk of the town is the Four Seasons Napa Valle y , in Calistoga, which welcomed its first guests in Fall 2021. Expect spacious rooms with fireplaces and vineyard views, an on-site winery and two pools (one for families). Meadowood , long an Indagare member favorite, currently has 36 elegant cottage and rooms open—a reduction from 50 following wildfire damage in 2020—with a full revamp and rebuild in the works. Nearby, the equally luxe Auberge du Soleil offers a relaxing romantic escape, with its outdoor pool looking over the valley below.

In Sonoma, the Montage Healdsburg opened in January 2021, with a massive spa, dreamy pool and California-fresh dining. For an option in town, the sophisticated  MacArthur Place  has handsome accommodations within walking distance to the shops and restaurants of downtown Sonoma.

What to do: Taste the fruit of the vine, of course. Some of the top vineyards include Calistoga’s historic Schramsberg Vineyards (known for its sparkling wines), Quintessa in St. Helena (which makes organic, biodynamic vintages) and the 100 percent solar-powered Frog’s Leap . Over in Sonoma, there are even more options, although crowd-favorite Scribe is still closed to non-members due to Covid.

Where to eat: Now number 50 on the World’s 50 Best, SingleThread pays homage to Japanese tradition and cuisine, serving farm to table fare—their 5-acre farm supplies 70% of their produce. French Laundry continues to be one of the world's most lauded restaurants and makes for a fabulous, pretense-free dinner experience. Reservations can be hard to come by. Due to wildfire damage, the ever-popular Restaurant at Meadowood remains closed.

Driving Distance from San Francisco:  Under two hours

Related: The 26 Best Farm-to-Table Restaurants in the World

BIG SUR & CARMEL

Vying with Italy's Amalfi Coast for most gorgeous stretch of shoreline, Big Sur , just south of the beachy arts colony Carmel , is on many travelers' must-see list. And it just happens to be an easy (and jaw-droppingly gorgeous) drive south from San Francisco.

Seemingly suspended over the Pacific,  Post Ranch Inn is a serene and romantic escape that blends into its hillside surroundings and looks out (through enormous window) to the ocean below. In Carmel, Carmel Valley Ranch is an idyllic family-friendly property nestled in the Santa Lucia mountains, with an 18-hole Pete Dye-designed golf course, spa, sports center and a homey and rustic vibe.

What to do:  Part of the magic is just driving Highway 1, a road so stunning that HBO's  Big Little Lies used it throughout the series even though it's miles away from the show's setting in Monterey. The area has several state parks, each with great trails and scenic overlooks, which can make for incredible picnic spots. Indagare can help arrange for specialist guides to craft the ideal hiking itinerary for your group (with add-ons like photography, food foraging and surf lessons).

Where to eat:   Big Sur Bakery is a must-stop lunch spot along the road, with a rustic façade that makes its impressive cuisine all the more surprising. Lunches here showcase seasonal comfort cuisine with local produce (currently open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday). Plus, stay on the lookout for the soon-to-open Chez Noir in Carmel from Jonny and Monique Black who have worked in San Francisco’s top restaurants—the menu will highlight the many charms of the central coast.

Driving Distance from San Francisco:  Under three hours on the fastest route, with options to spend more time on Highway 1 bringing it to around three and half hours

Related: 5 Best U.S. Road Trips

Indagare members often opt for a house rental around Lake Tahoe. For resorts, the  Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe is a favorite for skiers. In the mountains of Truckee, on the north shores of Lake Tahoe, this lodge-like property has ski-in, ski-out access to Northstar. Those looking for direct frontage on Lake Tahoe should consider  Edgewood Tahoe . The resort has a contemporary design, with a fabulous outdoor pool (open year-round), as well as a 18-hole George and Tom Fazio-designed golf course. In the winter, Heavenly Ski Area is just a few minutes away. And this fall, the first of Edgewood's elegant new villa suites will become available to guests.

What to do:  Summertime sees hiking, biking and—of course—plenty of time on the water, either swimming or with a boat charter. Come winter, skiing and snowboarding take centerstage.

Where to eat:  In Truckee, Trokay is a fine-dining, tasting-menu restaurant with a relaxed ambience and a serious pedigree: husband-and-wife owners John and Nyna Weatherson decamped to Tahoe following careers as chef de partie at New York's  Daniel  (John) and head cheesemonger at Murray's Cheese.

Driving Distance from San Francisco:  Three-plus hours to either Truckee or South Lake Tahoe

Related: The 14 Best Lakefront Hotels in the U.S.

From Seattle & Portland

Restaurants (and oenophiles) across the country have, finally, begun to pay close attention to the wines coming out of Oregon's Willamette Valley . The region is even more laid-back than Sonoma, with more than 500 wineries making exceptional Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and more.

Where to stay:  In July 2022, the Tributary Hotel opened in a restored 100-year-old building, armed with an intimate food-and-wine-tourism experience and a restaurant from Matthew Lightner, of New York’s two- Michelin -starred Atera, and Shaun Kajiwara and Katie Jackson of Sonoma County’s Jackson Family Wines. A longtime member favorite in the area is The Allison Inn & Spa , set on 35 acres of manicured gardens and rolling vineyards. It's an ideal home base for exploring the wineries, but the hotel itself is a destination in its own right, with an emphasis on wellness and reconnecting to nature, thanks to a 15,000-square-foot spa.

Where to eat:  Sustainably sourced directly from the restaurant’s own farm, The Tributary Hotel’s ōkta is a new must-try on the scene. And for more farm-to-table cuisine, Jory at The Allison is one of the Willamette Valley's top restaurants for a special occasion. Its seasonal menus showcase the wine region's bounty.

What to do: Like in California Wine Country, days in the Willamette Valley move slowly, with relaxed tastings at multiple top wineries. Some of our favorites include Sokol Blosser ,  Ponzi Vineyards  and  Solena.

Driving Distance from Seattle and Portland:  Three and a half hours from Seattle; 35 minutes from Portland

Related: The Perfect Weekend in Portland

From Vancouver

Vancouver Island is rich enough as a region to entertain you for a week, but also makes a superb destination as a long weekend. Its beaches and rainforest trails are great for kids, while its sheer remoteness makes it unbelievably romantic.

The area is home to two refined wilderness lodges: the secluded, family-run Nimmo Bay Resort  promises a remote and extremely private retreat with only nine cabins, while  Clayoquot Wilderness Resort  (an Indagare Index hotel) is a tented camp offering a unique wilderness experience with sublime food and service in an unforgettable setting.

What to do: Adventures range from bear-viewing and whale-watching to guided kayaking and boat tours of the Broughton Archipelago.

Distance from Vancouver: To reach Nimmo Bay, take a one-hour flight to Port Hardy and then a seaplane or helicopter ride to the resort (half-hour charter flight). Clayoquot has set guest arrival dates of Thursdays and Sundays and schedules an afternoon sea plane to collect incoming guests from Vancouver Airport. The flight is about an hour and is a gorgeous aerial introduction to the region.

Contact Indagare for assistance planning a customized weekend getaway.

This article was published by Indagare Travel in partnership with One&Only Resorts.

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

best weekend trips 2020

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

best weekend trips 2020

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

best weekend trips 2020

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

best weekend trips 2020

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

best weekend trips 2020

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

lone mountain and big sky montana at night

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

best weekend trips 2020

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

annapolis, maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

autumn colors

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

best weekend trips from us 2020

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

bar harbor,acadia national park,maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

mitchell park  marina greenport, new york

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

asheville north carolina aerial view at sunset

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

best weekend trips 2020

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

texas bluebonnet field

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Wood, Property, Real estate, Outdoor furniture, Furniture, Interior design, Hardwood, Daylighting, Fixture, Balcony,

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

waterfall and bridge at watkins glen state park, new york

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

aerial view of mackinac island, michigan, usa

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

cathedral rock near sedona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

horses grazing in pasture, elevated view

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

cape may beach ave

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Headshot of Leena Kim

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Headshot of Stefanie Waldek

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Don't Miss: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has a beautiful sandy beach for sunbathing in the summer, and offers great whale watching in December and January.

Ellensburg, Washington

Don't Miss: The Kittitas County Farmers Market is open on Saturdays, May through October, offering farm fresh produce and a selection of hand crafted goods. Here you will find unique items such as handmade soaps, jewelry, and delicious artisan cheese by Tieton Farm & Creamery.

Healdsburg, California

Don't Miss: Wine Country Walking Tours offer a great way to get to know the area while sampling amazing food and wine.

Hood River, Oregon

Don't Miss: Northwest Rafting Company offers half day trips in the Wind River, the White Salmon River and the Columbia Gorge for beginner and expert paddlers.

Walla Walla, Washington

Don't Miss: Whitman College offers lovely architecture, art exhibitions at The Donald Sheehan Gallery, and beautiful landscaping.

San Luis Obispo, California

Don't Miss: Downtown SLO Farmers' Market on Thursday nights features live music, 120 vendors and delicious each such as ribs, sausage, and BBQ. The market is held on Higuera Street, between Osos and Nipomo streets.

Seabrook, Washington

Don't Miss: On your stroll through Meriwether Square, take photos in the charming gazebo.

Astoria, Oregon

Don't Miss: The Astoria Riverfront Trolley will take you on a scenic one-hour ride past Astoria’s most popular attractions, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Coronado, California

Don't Miss: Stop by the Coronado Visitor Center to get a free map and advice from friendly staff.

The Dalles, Oregon

Don't Miss: Learn about the history of the area and stroll through 54 acres of ponds and scenic overlooks at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum.

McMinnville, Oregon

Where to Stay: A'Tuscan Estate is a European-style bed and breakfast just a short walk from downtown shops and restaurants.

La Jolla, California

Don't Miss: La Jolla Cove offers beautiful ocean views and is the perfect place to spot seals.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Don't Miss: Watch a cooking dinner show at EVOO Cannon Beach Cooking School or sign up for one of their hands-on cooking classes.

Palm Springs, California

Don't Miss: Have a romantic picnic surrounded by wilderness in the Coachella Valley Preserve .

Ventura, California

Don't Miss: Explore the town’s history and delicious eateries with Ventura Food Tours which last about 3 hours and let you sample a variety of flavors.

Santa Barbara, California

Don't Miss: Visit Arroyo Burro County Beach Park for a romantic sunset stroll, whale watching or a picnic.

Fort Bragg, California

Don't Miss: Explore the beautiful Mendocino Coast with Liquid Fusion Kayaking which offers tours and classes that let you learn about nature as you glide on the water and admire the scenery.

Nevada City, California

Don't Miss: Learn all about the narrow gauge railroad era at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum which houses important artifacts from that time period.

Sausalito, California

Don't Miss: The Cavallo Point Cooking School offers hands-on cooking and demonstration classes in a state-of-the-art kitchen.

Romantic Weekend Destination: Truckee, California

Don't Miss: Piping Rock Equestrian Center offers horseback riding for novice and expert riders, including clinics, and both Western and English instruction.

Two Harbors, Catalina Island, California

Where to Stay: The Banning House Lodge is a historic hideaway which was built by the Banning brothers, once owners of Santa Catalina Island.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Don't Miss: Vino Napoli is a local and visitor favorite for wine tastings and after dinner drinks.

Langley on Whidbey Island, Washington

Where to Eat: The Chocolate Flower Farm shop in downtown Langley sells delicious fudge, tea, and chocolate-inspired items such as candles and an edible chocolate garden seed kit.

The 23 Best Romantic Weekend Destinations on the West Coast & Fun things to do near me today:

  • 1. Big Sur, California
  • 2. Ellensburg, Washington
  • 3. Healdsburg, California
  • 4. Hood River, Oregon
  • 5. Walla Walla, Washington
  • 6. San Luis Obispo, California
  • 7. Seabrook, Washington
  • 8. Astoria, Oregon
  • 9. Coronado, California
  • 10. The Dalles, Oregon
  • 11. McMinnville, Oregon
  • 12. La Jolla, California
  • 13. Cannon Beach, Oregon
  • 14. Palm Springs, California
  • 15. Ventura, California
  • 16. Santa Barbara, California
  • 17. Fort Bragg, California
  • 18. Nevada City, California
  • 19. Sausalito, California
  • 20. Romantic Weekend Destination: Truckee, California
  • 21. Two Harbors, Catalina Island, California
  • 22. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
  • 23. Langley on Whidbey Island, Washington

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11 Scenic West Coast Destinations For Fall Getaways

yellow fall foliage in Napa

The West Coast is a unique destination that offers visitors an exquisite blend of beauty and entertainment. From the painted mountains and valleys to the small towns brimming with fun fall activities, there is something for everyone here. Much of the West Coast experiences mild, crisp temperatures during the fall, with the autumn foliage at its peak throughout October in most regions, making it an ideal time to visit. 

Popular fall destinations to explore on the West Coast include the Bavarian-styled city of Leavenworth, where you can experience authentic German cuisine and culture, and the various trails around Mount Hood that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, you can visit the haunted locations in Salem (Oregon) or rediscover cultural gems like the Japanese Tea Garden and San Francisco Botanical Garden as the leaves change. 

Our list of destinations includes both popular and lesser-known locations that provide a perfect balance of natural beauty and engaging activities. To curate this list, we conducted extensive research on travel forums such as Reddit and Quora, gaining insights from frequent visitors. From peaceful walks along tranquil rivers and crisp coastal beaches to autumn hikes that offer breathtaking mountain views, consider these destinations for your next West Coast fall getaway. 

Ashland, Oregon

Ashland, Oregon treats visitors to a visual feast from the end of September to the end of October. Tree-lined pathways on the Southern Oregon University Campus transform this college town into a canvas of vibrant colors, offering a picturesque experience as you walk through downtown Ashland. The crowning jewel of Ashland, Lithia Park, displays incredible pops of colors with different hues of yellow, orange, red, and purple. This 93-acre sanctuary offers miles of hiking trails and gardens, including the breathtaking Japanese Garden and Rose Garden, duck ponds, and fountains. However, visitors should be prepared for potentially damp and rainy days while exploring the town's exquisite outdoor landscapes.

If you enjoy fine arts, immerse yourself in world-class theatrical performances at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival Theatre or stop by the Oregon Cabaret Theatre. With a diverse repertoire of plays and performances, these cultural gems add a special touch to the fall experience in Ashland. Nature lovers can explore the surrounding hills and hiking trails, such as Oredson-Todd Woods, or enjoy the incredible views from Mount Ashland. Ashland's downtown scene offers a delightful blend of activities for the whole family, including the ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum and Ashland Library. Explore the streets lined with unique shops, savor culinary delights and local wine, and immerse yourself in the town's rich artistic scene.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco unveils its most colorful and enchanting side during October and the beginning of November. Venture to the top of Twin Peaks for a mesmerizing panorama that stretches across the entire city, or visit the Marin Headlands for postcard-worthy scenes of the Golden Gate Bridge against the Pacific Ocean backdrop. As the temperatures mellow and the crowds subside, fall becomes the perfect season to immerse yourself in iconic San Francisco activities. Catch the vibrant yellow, orange, and red colors as you explore the Golden Gate Park , where you will find gardens, lakes, and cultural highlights like the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Francisco Botanical Garden.

Embark on a ferry journey to Alcatraz Island, where the historic prison provides a fascinating glimpse into the past with captivating views of the city skyline and the bay. Take a trip to Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley for incredible views of fall foliage against the rolling hills and vineyards of wine country, or venture out to Yosemite National Park, a top-ranked West Coast destination for incredible views of vibrant golden fall foliage. Though the weather is more mellow, you can typically expect sunny days with an enjoyable breeze. Enjoy fall activities such as picking out pumpkins and finding your way through an intricate maze at Arata's Pumpkin Patch or enjoying fall treats from a variety of shops in the shopping center downtown.

Big Sur, California

The stunning coastal beauty of Big Sur truly comes to life during October and November, when the area is awash with breathtaking golden hues and scenic vistas. This iconic drive along Highway 1 offers incredible coastal views, with plenty of pull-over spots where you can get out and explore. Notable destinations that you won't want to miss include Nepenthe , a cliffside restaurant that boasts panoramic views, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve with its diverse ecosystems and scenic hiking trails, and McWay Falls, where a stunning waterfall cascades onto a pristine beach. You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant autumn colors by hiking through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Another must-see attraction is the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, which provides a perfect vantage point to capture the coastal scenery and the vastness of the Pacific Ocean. With fewer crowds to contend with during this time of year, you can enjoy a relaxing day at Pfeiffer Beach, known for its purple sand and stunning rock formations, or hike down some trails to Partington Cove. To complement the incredible views from Highway 1, you'll find plenty of restaurants, bakeries, shops, and art galleries along the way. When it comes to accommodations, Big Sur offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to more unique experiences like a cozy room at Post Ranch Inn or a comfy yurt at Treebones Resort.

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Nestled in the heart of Washington, Bainbridge Island is a stunning location that boasts a tapestry of vibrant foliage and serene landscapes from October to November. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Bloedel Reserve, a public garden that unfolds diverse landscapes, including Japanese gardens, woodlands, and meadows. The peaceful Fay Bainbridge Park is another must-visit location that offers breathtaking waterfront views, picturesque beachcombing opportunities, and scenic picnic spots. If you want to explore the island's charm, there are plenty of activities to engage in. You can hop on a bike and take a leisurely ride through picturesque neighborhoods, farmlands, and the scenic coastline of Bainbridge Island. 

The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art offers contemporary art exhibits and cultural installations that showcase the island's rich history and cultural heritage and are free to the public. You can also explore Fort Ward State Park, the Suquamish Museum, and the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial to experience the island's diverse history, innovation, and military structures. You may also consider visiting the downtown area of Winslow, known for its charming shops, galleries, and cafes that create an artsy atmosphere. During the fall season, expect mildly chilly weather and the island adorned in a palette of autumn colors that enhance its already scenic landscapes.

Anchorage, Alaska

As autumn sets in September and October, the Alaskan wilderness surrounding Anchorage undergoes a breathtaking transformation of vibrant golden hues dotting its rich green landscapes. If you do not only want to visit Anchorage for its stunning fall foliage, then visit it for the incredible wildlife experiences that happen during this time of year. In preparation for winter, wildlife starts moving closer to the city. This makes fall an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. Explore the breathtaking Chugach State Park , offering mountain views and opportunities to spot Alaska's native species, or hike Flattop Mountain for a panoramic perspective of the city and the picturesque Cook Inlet.

Popular activities in autumnal Anchorage include Oktoberfest, biking and hiking, and enjoying the scenic coastal, mountain, and wildlife views along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Immerse yourself in Alaska's indigenous cultures at the Alaska Native Heritage Center , featuring informative exhibits, captivating performances, and traditional crafts. Ride the Alaskan rail or embark on a day cruise to see glaciers and wildlife, adding a touch of adventure to your Anchorage experience. 

Additional popular destinations include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the Anchorage Museum, offering exhibits on Alaskan history, art, and science for a comprehensive cultural exploration. Longer days and clearer nights during this time of year typically mean more breathtaking views of the aurora borealis, adding a unique and unforgettable touch to the fall experience in Anchorage.  

Salem, Oregon

Enjoy Salem's fall foliage from September to October, with moderately chilly temperatures and fall-inspired activities. What makes Salem unique is its variety of parks nearby bursting with fall colors. Some popular parks include Bush's Pasture Park, Orchard Heights Park, Brush College Park, and Riverfront Park. Head to Silver Falls State Park to experience the Trail of Ten Falls, offering lush foliage and cascading waterfalls, or stop by the Deepwood Museum and Gardens for picture-perfect fall backdrops. Enjoy popular activities like exploring the vineyards and wine tasting in the Willamette Valley, or visit local pumpkin patches for a family-friendly experience.

Discover the museums, shops, and cultural sites in Salem's historic district, and explore the state capitol building and its scenic grounds. Seasonal activities include apple picking, corn mazes, and harvest festivals, and local farms and orchards typically serve fall treats like donuts and apple cider. When the fall harvest season is in full swing in the Willamette Valley, don't miss visiting Salem's nearby vineyards and wineries. Or, if you're looking for a more spooky Halloween experience, visit some of Salem's haunted landmarks and buildings.

Mount Hood, Oregon

Mount Hood is an inactive volcano that transforms into a breathtaking display of orange, yellow, and red colors from late September until the end of October. For those who love winter sports, Mount Hood offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding experiences, though the season typically starts in early November. For a more leisurely experience, take the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway, a picturesque drive that offers stunning views of the mountain foliage and its surroundings. The Hood River Valley is also a must-visit destination, with its local farmers' markets, orchards, and renowned wineries that offer freshly harvested apples and pears, pumpkin picking, and wine tastings.

If you're looking for other ways to experience the fall beauty of Mount Hood, there are plenty of options. Trillium Lake offers a stunning reflection of the mountain and its colorful foliage, while the Gallery Without Walls art walk is a unique outdoor experience that combines nature and art. For those who enjoy hiking, the Mt. Hood National Forest , Hunchback Mountain, Hidden Falls Nature Park, and Old Salmon River Trail offer some of the best trails and locations to experience the fall foliage up close. You can stay in unique cabin rentals or find accommodations in nearby towns to make the most of your Mount Hood experience.

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington, lets you experience a taste of Bavaria amid Washington's breathtaking Cascade Mountains. It offers visitors incredible landscapes and diverse cultural activities, and the opportunity to experience impressive landscapes and vibrant fall foliage in popular spots like Tumwater Canyon and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness or Lake Wenatchee. Known for its lively Oktoberfest celebration, festive atmosphere, unique architecture, quaint shops, and delectable food, this charming town offers something for everyone. While downtown, enjoy the green spaces and community events at Front Street Park, a central gathering place in the heart of the village. 

If you're looking for an intriguing cultural experience, explore the fascinating world of nutcrackers and their history at the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum. Relax by the water at Waterfront Park, or embark on a scenic hike along the Enchantments Trail in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness . Stop at the Leavenworth Farmer's Market for beautiful artisan goods and local produce. Plan to visit Leavenworth from the end of September to mid-October for typical peak foliage. The weather is typically crisp during the fall, but depending on the year, you might find snow hitting Leavenworth towards the end of October. 

Bend, Oregon

Fall is a great time to visit Bend, Oregon for beautiful golden and orange foliage and mild chill weather, perfect for outdoor activities and photography. While planning a trip to this stunning West Coast destination during the fall , check the weather often, as September and October tend to bring unpredictable weather. For breathtaking panoramic views, you should head to Pilot Butte. This elevated vantage point allows you to take in the beautiful city and surrounding landscapes. The Deschutes River Trail and Mirror Lake are also popular attractions with incredible landscape views. If you love outdoor activities, try hiking and biking along the Deschutes River Trail or fishing on East Lake.

You can also immerse yourself in Bend's natural and cultural history at the High Desert Museum, or plan to visit during the Bend Film Festival, Fall Festival, and Oktoberfest. Follow the Bend Ale Trail to explore the diverse breweries that contribute to Bend's renowned craft beer scene, or stop by Drake Park, found along the Deschutes River, with riverfront views that are perfect for relaxing. 

The Old Mill District is another popular spot known for its unique boutiques and restaurants that pride themselves in using seasonal and locally grown produce. You can also attend concerts and performances at the historic Tower Theatre and Hayden Homes Amphitheater, but if you want to catch more of the exciting fall festivals and concerts, like the Sisters Folk Festival, plan to visit Bend during September.

Bellingham, Washington

Fall is the perfect time to plan a getaway to Bellingham, Washington, a charming coastal town with a little bit of everything to offer. For stunning panoramic views of the city and fall foliage, take a hike through Sehome Hill Arboretum at Western Washington University. Don't forget to climb up the observation tower for breathtaking views of Bellingham Bay. Another must-do activity is to take a scenic drive along Chuckanut Drive, offering picturesque backdrops of farmland, water, and the Chuckanut Mountains.

Bellingham is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking trails available, such as Lake Whatcom Hertz Trail, Bagley Lakes trailhead, and Interurban trail, and though the weather can be unpredictable at times, it's typically nice and crisp. Or, if you're in the mood to relax, head to Boulevard Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll by the bay. 

The Fairhaven Historic District is a must-visit for those interested in history and shopping. The area is known for its charming shops and galleries. You can also shop for local goods made by a variety of artists and craftsmen at Bellingham's farmers market. For family-friendly activities, consider visiting Zuanich Park or exploring the interactive science exhibits at Mindport .

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington is a fantastic fall destination to add to your West Coast bucket list , offering iconic views, outdoor activities, and a rich history. The Paradise area is the perfect spot for scenic views of Mount Rainier surrounded by vibrant meadows and drastic landscapes, while Reflection Lake is a serene location that offers a stunning reflection of Mount Rainier in its calm waters, which is enhanced by the fall colors. The Skyline Trail near Paradise is an excellent option for hiking, providing panoramic views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and wildlife. The Grove of the Patriarchs trail is also popular due to its old-growth trees and suspension bridge. 

Stop by the Longmire Historic District, Longmire Museum, and the National Park Inn for a glimpse into the park's rich history. The Sunrise Visitor Center is another great spot to explore, offering information, exhibits, and stunning sunrise views of Mount Rainier. The best time to witness Mount Rainier's spectacular fall foliage is from October to the beginning of November, though plan on potential trail closures towards the end of October, depending on early snowfall. 

Methodology

While exploring different West Coast fall destinations, we referred to Reddit, Quora, and Tripadvisor forums to gain insight into some of the most popular West Coast towns and parks to visit, when to go during the fall for peak foliage, and what activities you can plan to do around the area. We then dug deeper into each location, choosing area highlights to help visitors plan diverse itineraries to accommodate a range of preferences. 

Julie Around The Globe

15 Best West Coast Romantic Getaways and Vacation Spots for Couples

Posted on September 12, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on December 27, 2022

Planning your next West Coast romantic getaway ? Discover some of the best destinations on the West Coast for couples looking to spend some quality time together.

Whether you’re more into outdoor adventures, exploring cities, or small towns full of charm , you’ll find the perfect destination for you and your partner. With cozy bed and breakfasts, scenic views, fun activities, and romantic restaurants, these places are ideal for a romantic weekend getaway, a vacation, or a day trip if you live nearby.

Keep on reading to discover some of the most romantic getaways on the West Coast.

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Romantic Getaways in Washington

Olympic national park.

Olympic National Park, WA

By Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Washington state’s Olympic National Park , with its dramatic beaches and moody forests, is perfect for a romantic getaway, especially for outdoorsy couples. It was the setting of the romance series, Twilight , after all! Tucked away in the Olympic Peninsula, this gorgeous national park is 175 miles northwest of Seattle.

If you visit during the summertime , consider hiking any of the incredible trails , where you can explore Olympic’s dynamic landscape, from craggy sea stacks towering out of the Pacific to snow-capped mountains.

For a particularly romantic experience, consider hiking and camping at Shi Shi Beach , a secluded beach with spectacular sunsets, beachside campfires, and gentle waves lulling you to sleep at night.  

For a slightly lower impact option, head to the Hurricane Hill , where you ca n walk across a mountain ridgeline, hand in hand, and gaze at the peaks of the Olympic Mountains around you. In the summertime, the slopes of the mountains are covered with colorful wildflowers and you might even spot a mountain goat or two.

If you’re visiting in the wintertime , book a stay in a cozy lodge or cabin , like the Kalaloch Lodge , overlooking the Pacific Ocean and with romantic details, like mulled wine and fire pits.

The coastal area provides moderate temperatures year-round , so you can still explore beaches and rainforests, like the Hoh Rainforest, a UNESCO Biosphere, regardless of the time of year. Just make sure to pack a raincoat- it is the Pacific Northwest, after all!

Related – Best National Parks on the West Coast

Orcas Island

Orcas Island, Washington, USA

Part of the San Juan Islands, Orcas Island makes for a perfect weekend getaway on the West Coast with your better half. Take time to enjoy the scenery, go on a couple of hikes, and discover the island’s arts and culture scene.

You can spend a day driving the Orcas Island Scenic Byway, stopping along the way to visit small towns, enjoy the beach, and just admire the island’s stunning landscape.

The highlight of a trip to Orcas Island is, of course, going on a wildlife cruise . Year-round the chances of spotting orcas, minke whales, harbor seals, Dall’s and harbor porpoises, and other bird species are high, but the best time is between March and October.

There are plenty of opportunities for hiking any time of the year , while you can enjoy water activities during the warmer months.

Don’t miss exploring the island’s historic buildings . Stop at Orcas Island Historical Museum where you can visit six homestead cabins  and see artifacts of Orcas’ Native American and settler history.

Many other buildings have been turned into hotels and restaurants. Don’t miss the Outlook Inn , where you can grab a bite at their New Leaf Café , the Orcas Hotel , Rosario Resort , and Doe Bay Resort & Retreat , one of the first post offices (and taverns) on Orcas Island.

To get there, take a ferry from Anacortes, between Seattle and Vancouver.

Otter’s Pond Bed and Breakfast is one of the best places to stay on the island for couples . Featuring garden view rooms, the hotel offers a tasty breakfast and a hot tub making it an ideal romantic getaway.

If you want more privacy, you can also check out the vacation rentals around the island, plenty feature stunning views and romantic amenities like hot tubs and fireplaces.

Spokane Riverfront, WA

The perfect blend of outdoor and cultural activities makes Spokane one of the best West Coast romantic getaways . Visit the city’s museums and historic buildings, sample the local gastronomy, go on a scenic hike, you’ll find plenty of romantic things to do in Spokane.

In town, visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and its exhibits on art, culture, and Native American heritage. Then, tour the 19th-century Tudor-style Campbell House , before strolling through the Vast Riverfront Park and its sculpture walk. There, don’t miss riding the cable car to the top to get impressive views over Spokane Falls.

You can also go for a stroll (and picnic if the weather is nice) at John A. Finch Arboretum home to thousands of different types of plants. Manito Park is another popular garden to visit while in Spokane.

Outside of town, you can shop for fresh produce or pick your own fruits at the farming community of Green Bluff .

For some outdoor adventures, head to Mount Spokane State Park , where you can hike and mountain bike during the warmer months and ski or snowboard in the winter. You can also go whitewater rafting at one of the many rapids nearby.

If you like wine, you should go wine tasting at the award-winning and family-run Latah Creek Winery.

When it comes to places to stay, the Historic Davenport is undoubtedly one of the best options in Spokane. For something more intimate, book a vacation rental either in town or outside if you’d rather be surrounded by nature.

Romantic vacation spots in Oregon

Portland

By Candice from CS Ginger

Portland, Oregon is a fantastic place for a romantic getaway. The best time to visit is around June until the end of August . This is because you will have the best weather during this time, but don’t let that deter you from going outside of those months. The city is worth visiting even if the time of year is outside of those months.

The city is full of life with many fun things to do , it is also a great foodie destination. You can spend your time strolling through the multiple romantic flower gardens, learning about the city’s history at the Pitk Mansion , or taking a bike tour around town.

There are also lots of fun day trips to take from Portland . The Pacific Northwest is such a beautiful part of the country, and many great places are within a few hours of downtown Portland. The Oregon Coast is just over an hour away. Cannon Beach is a very charming and romantic coastal town with a quaint downtown area and great hiking trails in Ecola State Park.

Another fun area to explore is the Columbia River Gorge. It is home to the famous Multnomah Falls as well as many other waterfalls. You can take a romantic day exploring the beautiful waterfalls, packing a picnic to enjoy at one of them.

You will also love many of the unique and modern hotel accommodations, from small boutiques to gorgeous luxury hotels . Portland is the romantic destination we should all be visiting with our significant other. One of the best places to stay in Portland is Jupiter NEXT . It is a beautiful boutique hotel within walking distance of many of the fun areas to explore in downtown Portland.

You’ll also find plenty of quirky condos and apartments available for rent near the downtown area.

Willow-Witt Ranch, Ashland

From stunning landscapes to a rich cultural life, Ashland in Southern Oregon is an ideal getaway on the West Coast for couples looking for a blend of outdoor activities, great festivals, and plenty of entertainment options.

Ashland is known to host the 8-month-long Oregon Shakespeare Festival where you can watch a performance almost every day from February to October. Visit the Schneider Museum of Art with rotating exhibits featuring art from the 20th and 21ft centuries.

If you want to spend some time outside, go on one of the many scenic trails you’ll find at Lithia Park . There you’ll find themed gardens, ponds, historical landmarks, picnic spots, and an ice skating rink. You can also head to Emigrant Lake County Park where you can camp, rock climb, swim, kayak, and hike.

More adventurous couples can go on a whitewater rafting trip down the Rogue River. During winter, you can also enjoy a plethora of winter activities on Mt. Ashland.

For a place to stay, check out the top-rated Arden Forest Inn , ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway option. For something more intimate, book a private cottage in or outside of town.

Romantic getaways in Northern California

San francisco.

San Francisco, romantic getaway in the USA

By Mary from Be Right Back by Mary

From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Painted Ladies, San Francisco is a gorgeous city located in the north of California and makes a perfect romantic vacation spot. Visited by millions of tourists every year, the city is more than just touristy spots. San Francisco offers lots of romantic activities for couples thanks to the stunning scenery it offers. 

One romantic activity to do in San Francisco at night is to hop on a sunset cruise in the Bay. With a glass of wine, you can enjoy a calm cruise with gorgeous views of the San Francisco skyline and a whole new perspective on the Golden Gate Bridge. If you’re lucky, you might even come across dolphins. This is a must to add to your San Francisco itinerary !

An alternative to that for active couples is to go kayaking in the Bay . Bottlenose dolphins sometimes even come up to the kayaks! 

A  fun day activity for couples in San Francisco is to head to the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge to the small municipality of Sausalit o. Sausalito is a boat house neighborhood with lots of different pontoons you can walk on. The houses are eclectic and well decorated with lots of flowers. This is a fun and unique part of San Francisco to discover with a partner. 

After exploring San Francisco, you can spend a night at the Fairmont Hotel which offers stunning views of the city and also offers a large pool with a bar. You can also book a vacation rental for more privacy and access to a kitchen.

Napa Valley, California

By Tori from Tori Pines Travels

A getaway to Napa, California is one of the most romantic trips that you and your significant other could dream of. Located near San Francisco in Northern California, a Napa day trip is great if you don’t have a lot of time, but you could easily spend a week there!

Napa Valley is known for its delicious wine, and you’ll likely want to try some while you’re in town. The most romantic winery is Castello di Amorosa , which has a castle located on the vineyard. After your tasting in the castle, wander its back hallways and take in stunning views of the valley.

Check out downtown Napa for a variety of gourmet food at restaurants like Bistro Don Giovanni or Compline , both extremely romantic and serving delicious bites. If you’re looking to wow your special someone, try one of the four Michelin Star restaurants in the area instead.

The best thing you and your partner can do in Napa is to take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train . During a daytime ride, you can view the valley and vineyards , or enjoy a romantic evening experience. Whichever you choose, you’ll be served delicious food, drink local wine, and enjoy time together.

To top off the trip, you must book a couples massage at one of the luxurious spas in town. There are so many to choose from, but a great option is Calistoga Spa Hot Springs for a massage together, a volcanic ash mud bath treatment, and then relaxing in the hot springs pools. You might want to stay the night here as well!

You’ll find plenty of vacation rentals with stunning views of the mountains and vineyard as well.

Getting to Napa is easy, fly into San Francisco International Airport and rent a car, and drive north for 1.5 hours. Or, book a driver if you don’t need a car during your stay.

Mammoth Lakes

Wild Willys Hot Spring, Mammoth Lakes, California

By Jessica from UpRooted Traveler

Mammoth Lakes, California, a charming ski town tucked away in the eastern Sierra Nevadas, is the perfect place to cozy up with a loved one. 

Given the surrounding epic mountains, it’s no surprise that there are world-class ski resorts , like Mammoth Mountain , here, so if you’re visiting in the wintertime, hit the slopes and take in the spectacular alpine views around you. Afterward, get an apres-ski drink or soak in an outdoor hot tub to warm up from the chilly temperatures. 

If you’re visiting, instead, in the summertime, there are plenty of ways to explore the spectacular landscape, from hiking, kayaking, or backpacking. If you’re looking for a more lowkey activity, take a picnic basket to the shores of the Mammoth Lakes basin , and afterward, rent a canoe to get out on the water.

Regardless of what season you visit, be sure to enjoy some of the incredible hot springs sprinkled throughout town , like Wild Willy’s Hot Spring . Here, you’ll find a natural pool, filled with naturally steamy water, with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevadas around you.

One of the best things about Mammoth Lakes is its remoteness- it feels like there’s nothing around beyond you and the gorgeous mountains. That being said, you’ll need to either fly into Los Angeles (a 5-hour drive away) or Las Vegas (5 and a half hours away).

Once you arrive in Mammoth Lakes, consider making the Westin Monache Resort, with an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, your home base for your stay. You’ll also plenty of gorgeous condos with incredible amenities for couples.

Mendocino-CA

By Denise from Chef Denise

Three hours north of San Francisco, Mendocino offers the picture-perfect romantic getaway for couples on the West Coast: a charming town, gorgeous scenery, amazing restaurants, and stunning sunsets.

The small town itself in shades of pastel looks like it came out of a storybook. Historic Victorian buildings house restaurants and boutiques that look out at the Mendocino Headlands State Park.

The park trails lead you along the dramatic cliffs to spectacular views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its rugged coastline, there are countless vista points with incredible views . For those that prefer an actual beach, just outside of town there’s Van Damme State Beach . You’ll also find Van Damme State Park with trails through the Pygmy Forest and Big River where you can kayak or canoe. 

A few miles to the north lies one of the most romantic places for couples to stroll in the spring, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Advance tickets are required to walk through the 47 acres of blooms along coastal bluffs.

There are lots of excellent  restaurants in Mendocino . But if you’re looking for a romantic setting, The Ravens at the Stanford Inn by the Sea is the spot for breakfast or dinner. Request a window that overlooks the garden and ocean. Even better, if you stay at the inn, your daily breakfast is included.

You’ll also find many gorgeous and romantic cottages with sweeping ocean views.

Romantic getaways in Central California

Paso robles.

Paso Robles

By Anu from Destination Checkoff

Paso Robles is an awesome romantic getaway destination on the central coast of California known for its world-class wineries and vineyards . It is also known for its rejuvenating mineral hot springs, charming historic downtown , and an amazing light show called Sensorio.

Paso Robles is around a 2 to 3-hour drive from both northern and southern California, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway for locals in California. For people visiting from outside of California, flying to either San Jose international airport, Santa Barbara airport, or Los Angeles airport will be the best option. From there, Paso Robles is around a 2-hour drive.

Fall and Spring are great seasons to visit Paso Robles . In fall there are many harvest festivals and in spring the rolling hills of Paso Robles come alive with a brilliant color of green.

Sensorio Field of Lights in Paso Robles is a famous light and art display by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro and is a must-visit! It is a perfect date night experience to spend an evening at Sensorio walking among the thousands of colorful lights set against the backdrop of the Paso Robles rolling hills landscape.

Paso Robles has a laid-back downtown and is very charming with numerous boutiques, art galleries, and shops around the main city park square. The downtown has wine tasting rooms for most of the famous vineyards in the region. The city park is a great place to have a romantic picnic or visit the historic Carnegie library museum .

Sculpterra winery and sculpture garden has interesting art sculptures to admire, it also has live music and food trucks on most weekends.

If you choose to stay in Paso Robles, a vacation rental downtown is a good option, so you can walk to many of the wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops. There are also some great hotels in downtown Paso Robles like the historic Paso Robles Inn . At Paso Robles Inn you can request a room with a mineral hot tub on a private balcony!

Paso Robles is a beautiful town for a romantic getaway on the West Coast.

Big Sur Bridge, West Coast Romantic Vacation Spot

By Nikki from Inspired Routes

If you’re looking for the best romantic getaways on the West Coast , look no further than Big Sur, California. Nestled just south of Monterey, Big Sur is one of the most beautiful, natural coastlines in all of the US.

Big Sur can be explored as a day trip from the adorable town of Carmel , California. Or, couples can begin their adventure in Carmel and stay a night – or two throughout the coast to really see more of it. The Big Sur River Inn and Alila Ventana Big Sur are both great, romantic spots to enjoy along the coast.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur you could spend a long weekend or a full week exploring the area . Top attractions include the Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Sand Dollar Beach. There are countless scenic overlooks as you make your way down the coast, too.

The best time to visit Big Sur for a romantic vacation is spring and fall . The fog is most dense in the summer months which inhibits the view, and the rainy season is over the winter months. Although any time of year it’s possible to see sunshine on the California Coast. 

Couples will want to fly into the airport in Monterey California and rent a car for the journey. Driving the Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur is a bucket list vacation, and couples will love the experience.

Romantic destinations in Southern California

Related – Best Romantic Destinations in Southern California for Couples on a Budget

Lake Tahoe, romantic getaway on the West Coast

By Meg from Fox in the Forest

One of the best romantic getaways on the west coast is Lake Tahoe. It is a stunning alpine lake in the Sierra Nevadas that straddles the border between California and Nevada.

As a result, it is brimming over with incredibly romantic things to do that you and your partner will love.

So, fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport and drive around 45-minutes to the North Lake Tahoe area. Just use I-580 S and US-395 S/NV-431 W to take you to Incline Village and North Lake Tahoe.

Once there, settle into a suite at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa and Casino . Not only does this place have its own private beach but rooms have a charming, alpine theme.

You also can’t leave without going for a swim in the heated outdoor pool before cozying up in the hot tub together and booking couples massages at the award-winning Stillwater Spa & Salon.

Then, start your romantic Lake Tahoe itinerary with a ride on the Heavenly Gondola . After all, this gondola ride will whisk you away to some of the best skiing in the region . Alternatively, you could always just relax at the observation deck area and sip on hot cocoa at Cafe Blue while admiring the vast landscape.

Next, go on an hour’s drive to the Sierra Hot Springs with its romantic domed hot spring, meditation pool, historic bathhouse, and more.

Enjoy the 102-degree water before heading to Emerald Bay State Park and tackling incredible hikes like the Eagle Falls/Eagle Lake hike and the Emerald Bay – Vikingsholm Hike.

Finally, spend a romantic evening savoring incredible New American cuisine at the sophisticated Lake House Restaurant and enjoy some of the best food in the region.

San Diego, USA

By Nikki from She Saves She Travels

One of the most romantic getaways on the West Coast is San Diego, California. With beautiful beaches , a fantastic food scene , and so many things to do, couples will love visiting San Diego.

Enjoy walking around the streets of La Jolla while shopping, watching street performers, and dining. Or, for more adventure, take a kayak tour of the La Jolla Cove. Be sure to grab gelato at Bobboi’s Natural Gelato while you soak in the views of the coast.

Next, head to Old Town San Diego where you’ll find tons of rich history and fabulous Mexican food . Couples can walk the streets of Old Town, discovering the monument marking the birthplace of California, checking out museums, an artisan market, live music, and so much more. There are so many things to do in Old Town San Diego , but perhaps the best yet is all the Mexican food!

While spending a romantic weekend in San Diego, be sure to visit Coronado Beach. The bougie island near downtown San Diego offers super soft, white sand, perfect for an afternoon on the beach. Bring a picnic or grab a pizza and enjoy the sunset with the sparkling sand. There’s truly nothing more romantic for couples on vacation!

And if it’s within your budget, be sure to stay at the Hotel Del Coronado . Rich in history and located right on the beach, it’s an incredible stay. You will also find plenty of vacation rentals at all price points.

San Diego is busiest in the summer months, but it’s also the warmest, especially if you want to swim in the water. Fall and spring in San Diego are perfect with mild temperatures and not as many tourists. Winter is a perfect escape from the cold, and the second busiest time in the city for visitors. 

Solvang, destinations for couples in Southern California

By Reshma from The Solo Globetrotter

Solvang is a cute town in Southern California known for its rich Danish history, architecture, and culture , and is one of the best romantic getaways on the west coast. 

From exploring the city’s major attractions to attending festivals and tasting local delicacies, you will spend a relaxing romantic vacation in Solvang, known for its laid-back vibes.

The mild climate and many sunny days make magnificent Santa Ynez Valley one of the best places for wine tasting . Take tours of stunning wineries surrounded by fantastic landscapes, where you can enjoy lunch or dinner with wine in the restaurants overlooking beautiful views of the valley.

Solvang hosts festivals most of the year, so plan to attend a few of them with your special one. In spring, the famous cultural festival Danish Days is a beautiful fest, and if you are here during the fall months, attend the wine festival Grape stomp.

Although spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Solvang, December is an excellent month if you are looking for a romantic California getaway. The town transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, with decorations everywhere, resembling a European Christmas town full of holiday spirits. 

Mirabelle Inn & Restaurant  in downtown Solvang is a fantastic Danish-style cottage featuring a spa, pool, and other comfortable amenities, plus spacious rooms and excellent reviews. You’ll also find plenty of romantic vacation rentals around town.

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Romantic Getaways on the West Coast

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11 Family Vacations Along the West Coast

West Coast = Best Coast. Stretching from Washington to Southern California, this diverse slice of America features rainforests, coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, urban centers, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for an amusement park weekend with your tiny tots or a week of mountain exploration for older kids, use this guide to book the perfect resort for your next family getaway.

A Family-Friendly Yosemite Gateway Retreat

Two Bay Area dads launched Rush Creek Lodge after realizing there were no family-focused hotels near Yosemite National Park. Set on a wooded hillside just beyond the park’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, the 20- acre property features adventurous playgrounds with surprises like steep ziplines and wild slides. Indoors, families can grab a casual meal at the Tavern or play a round of cards in the indoor game room.

Book a main lodge room for smaller families, or opt for a spacious hillside villa with multiple bedrooms, a large seating area, a fireplace , a mini kitchen, and an expansive private deck with alpine forest vistas. You won’t find TVs though – Rush Creek keeps it old school and supplies radios and games for entertainment instead of electronics.

When you’re ready to explore the Sierra Nevada’s wilds, book a private guided nature excursion with the Recreation Program at Rush Creek Lodge. Choose short walks into sequoia groves or lengthy climbs up granite domes, and discover quiet trails beyond Yosemite’s hotspots. After your hike, soak tired muscles in the heated saltwater pool, and cheers to a day of adventure with cocktails (and mocktails for the kids) at the Pool Bar.

Rush Creek Lodge

An island beach getaway in san diego.

Seeking an island retreat without leaving the mainland? Head to Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay in San Diego, California. With its bungalow-style rooms and tropical gardens, this 44-acre island gives you Caribbean vibes, but it’s actually right next door to Sea World. Stay to roam its mile-long sandy beach, take a plunge in one of five swimming pools, dine at one of five restaurants, or simply build a bonfire with your family on the beach.

Adventurous families can bike ride along the bay on nearby paths, putt around the golf course, or play lawn games outside. If sports are your family pastime, enjoy a round of basketball or tennis together. Beyond the resort property, find fast-paced fun at Sea World, see wild animals at the San Diego Zoo, or explore the shops of Old Town San Diego.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

A mountain resort with an all-new aquatics center.

Escape to Oregon for a family retreat near Bend at Sunriver Resort . Set in the mountains along the Deschutes River, Sunriver is a place outdoorsy families can come to bike, float, golf, horseback ride, and play tennis together.

Choose to stay in one of 245 hip guestrooms and suites, or rent out a luxury home or condo—many with their own hot tub . If you’re bringing Rover along, don’t worry – pet-friendly accommodations are available.

Kids will love splashing in the new Cove aquatic center, built along the existing outdoor pool. This indoor-outdoor center offers year-round swimming, a zero-entry pool, a spiral waterslide, a large jetted spa, and a pool bar (for the adults).

Hotel Sunriver Resort

A classic washington resort in the cascade mountains.

Get away from it all in the Cascade Mountains with a rustic stay at Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort . The secluded location along Icicle Creek, just outside the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth, features foothills to explore and gourmet onsite dining.

Use the resort as a basecamp and take your family apple picking in the Wenatchee Valley, or try zipline adventures and kayaking outdoors. When the snow falls, enjoy skiing, sledding, tubing, and even ice climbing nearby.

Guest rooms are uniquely arranged in clusters made up of several private rooms—perfect if you’re planning a reunion or other family gathering. You can also book the Rookery cabin, which sleeps up to eight in plush quarters.

Relax after busy days with a self-guided art walk or take a break from the kids and enjoy a deep tissue massage at Aspen Leaf Day Spa. Let teens explore the property on a self-guided art walk, or smell herbs in the resort’s organic garden.

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

A happening revamped motor lodge in the heart of san francisco.

Enjoy a San Francisco vacay at Hotel del Sol —an old motor lodge transformed into a hip, colorful stay in the Marina District. This kid- and pet-friendly oasis includes touches like free milk and cookies in the afternoons, goodie-filled knapsacks for kids, and special children’s programming.

Adults will love this vibrant, beachy hotel too thanks to its affordable parking, outdoor courtyard, heated outdoor pool, and complimentary continental breakfast. Hotel del Sol’s Marina District neighborhood is a quick walk to landmarks like Union Street, Palace of Fine Arts, and Park Presidio.

Hotel Del Sol

Beachfront property on oregon's rugged coast.

Take in Oregon coastline views at The Ocean Lodge , Cannon Beach’s premier waterfront hotel. Enjoy a long walk on the beach, explore tidepools with your family, and roast s’mores by moonlight. When the weather turns chilly, enjoy the lodge’s library of movies and games like chess, cards, and bocce.

Set on sandy shoreline with miles of beach to play on, you can walk from the lodge to see the legendary Haystack Rock jutting out of the ocean. With only 45 rooms, service is top notch and includes thoughtful features like fresh baked cookies, a wood-burning fireplace in the lobby, and daily breakfast.

The Ocean Lodge

Indoor waterpark resort in grand mound, washington.

Don’t wait for summer to visit a water park! Great Wolf Lodge in Centralia, Washington has an indoor waterpark with slides , river rides, splash pads, and a wave pool that are open year-round. Wow the kids with a stay in a themed suite with fun cave-style bunk beds and receive free waterpark passes for the whole family.

When tummies are grumbling, grab pizzas at Hungry as a Wolf or fancier fare at Lodge Wood Fire Grill, then treat yourselves with dessert at Bear Paw Sweets & Eats. Keep the crew entertained by making a stuffed animal at Build-A-Bear, play a few rounds in the arcade, or explore the lodge on a magical quest.

Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound

A theme park resort for lego-loving families.

Treat your kiddos to the ultimate vacation and sleep right outside Legoland California at Legoland California Resort Hotel in Carlsbad. Fanatics will go crazy for themed rooms with ninjas, castles, and pirates and the LEGO shop filled with goodies that kids can construct right in your guestroom (just watch out if you’re walking barefoot).

Expect interactive features throughout the hotel and nightly children’s entertainment. Breakfast is included with your stay at Bricks Family Restaurant, while lunch and dinner are served onsite at Skyline Café.

Legoland itself caters to ages 2-12 and has over 60 sliding, bouncing, rollercoastering rides that kids and grownups will love. Don’t miss realistic Lego reconstructions of New York City, New Orleans, and San Francisco.

Hotel Legoland California Resort

A family favorite right in fisherman's wharf.

Stay in the heart of San Francisco’s action at Hotel Zephyr , a youthful property near Pier 39, Ghiradelli Square, and the Museum of 3D Illusions —all tourist attractions you and the kiddos will love. The maritime theme ties into its by-the-bay location and most rooms boast waterfront views. Seafaring décor bedecks the hotel lobby—to the delight of kids and the young at heart.

A sculpture-filled outdoor play area called The Yard brings families together to compete in giant Connect 4, foosball, and shuffleboard. Start the day right by grabbing Belgian waffles or croissants from The Camper food truck, and return to The Yard at night to roast marshmallows around the fire pits.

The adjacent Zephyr Walk houses seven eateries and four tour operators—all offering discounts to Zephyr guests. Choose from Big Bus Tours, Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals and Tours, San Francisco Segway Tours, and more.

Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

Go glam at this stunning lake tahoe retreat.

Whether you come to ski Nortstar California’s slopes in winter or paddle and sail Lake Tahoe’s azure waters in summer, the Ritz-Carlton- Lake Tahoe is the perfect AAA Five Diamond home base for your family getaway. Located mid-mountain with lakefront views, the Ritz exudes luxury but is welcoming to families. Spacious guest rooms features floor- to-ceiling mountain-facing windows and in-room fireplaces for chilly nights.

Tiny tykes (and their parents) will love the Ritz Kids program and its schedule of kid-friendly programming. Expect dive-in movies at the pool on summer nights, Telescope Tuesdays where littles can stare up at brilliant stars, a daily scavenger hunt, and a complimentary s’mores kit.

Looking to explore beyond the property? Ride the gondola to Village at Northstar or explore the historic town of Truckee. Get into the great outdoors on a naturalist-led family hike to Sawmil Lake. Unwind after by relaxing under a private cabana at the pool. When you need a parents’ day out, schedule massages at Ritz-Carlton’s luxurious 17,000-square- foot spa, followed by an al fresco dinner at Slopeside Backyard Bar and BBQ.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

A pacific ocean beauty on the southern california coast.

Set on the southwestern tip of the Palos Verdes Peninsula near Los Angeles, Terranea Resort is a luxurious retreat known for its spacious bungalows, casitas, and villas that fit your whole family. While Terranea has four swimming pools, families will love the Main Pool most thanks to its 140-foot waterslide and Pacific Ocean vistas.

There’s endless terrain to explore through the resort’s Experience Center, which books nearby adventures on land and sea. However, you may be tempted to just stay at the resort and enjoy delectable dining, award-winning golf, an impressive spa, and boutique shopping—all perched on rugged coastal cliffs.

Terranea Resort

The 14 best day trips on the US West Coast

Oct 8, 2020 • 6 min read

Golden Gate Bridge seen from Marshall’s Beach.

San Francisco is at the heart of any West Coast adventure ©Mark Read/Lonely Planet

Landscapes and legends draw adventurers to the West, where a good day includes locavore dining, vineyard wine-sipping, Native American history and outdoor adventure. Western cities have distinct personalities. In California there's the  Hollywood flash of Los Angeles and silicon-meets-bohemian in San Francisco . Further north in Seattle , cutting-edge joins homegrown, often over a cup of joe. Opportunities for day trips abound to get to know the West Coast a little better. 

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Best day trips from Seattle

Snoqualmie Valley Seat of farm-to-table dining, dairy farms, lush orchards and small-town Americana, this mountain-framed valley is as lovely a drive as it is a destination. Head to Duvall for boutique shopping and wine tasting, or to North Bend for Twin Peaks nostalgia. Don’t miss gaping at the 82m Snoqualmie Falls from Salish Lodge in Snoqualmie town. 30min by car.

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Leavenworth Bavaria too far? Thank goodness for Leavenworth, where you can eat German sausages, quaff frosty beers and see enough men in lederhosen to save that fare to Europe. The mountain scenery feels like The Sound of Music and you’ll actually hear Bavarian music piped through the streets. Take off on myriad outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Christmas here is magical. 2hr 20min by car.

Diablo Lake The intensely turquoise Diablo Lake sits in a bowl ringed by mesmerizing and often snow-topped peaks. There are heaps of trailheads to view-filled hikes, or plop in a canoe for paddling or fishing for rainbow trout. Don’t miss the Diablo Dam Overlook for one of the best views in the Cascade Mountains. 2hr 30min by car.

See more day trips from Seattle .

Best day trips from Portland 

Sauvie Island With pick-your-own fruit farms in summer, corn mazes and hay rides come autumn, and beaches, trails and waterways to explore year-round, Sauvie Island is an easy trip to pastoral bliss. Plus, it’s as fun for kids as it is for adults. As the largest island in Columbia River, any land not dedicated to farming is a protected wildlife area. Expect to see ospreys, herons, bald eagles and maybe even a beaver. 40min by car.

Seaworks

Cannon Beach The Oregon Coast holds some of the most beautifully grand but lesser-known beaches in the contiguous USA. Cannon Beach is the ideal, easy-to-reach introduction to the region, with miles of white sand, waterfalls tumbling to the beach and the hulking, 235ft Haystack Rock which makes for a picture-perfect silhouette. In town, you’ll find art galleries, chic boutiques and incredible dining (hint: try the chowder). 1hr 30min by car.

Johnston Ridge Observatory, Mt St Helens Gaze into the awesome crater of Mt St Helens from the state-of-the-art Johnston Ridge Observatory . Whether this is your destination or you’re preparing for a longer hike through the National Volcanic Monument, you’ll learn the science behind the 1500 atomic bomb-force eruption in 1980. Then take the 1-mile Eruption Trail walking loop for even more views, with explanations, of the volcanic destruction. Closed winter; 2hr 30min by car.

See more day trips from Portland .

Best day trips from San Francisco

Sausalito Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito’s picturesque town center has a charming strip of art galleries, ice cream parlors, cafes and boutiques, most set inside pretty pastel-painted Victorian buildings. Just beyond the town is a fascinating artistic houseboat community. Fort Baker, once a military garrison, is another worthwhile stop for a visit to the kid-friendly Bay Area Discovery Museum . 30min by car or ferry.

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Muir Woods Forget San Francisco’s skyscrapers, head north to marvel at Mother Nature’s towering giants, a grove of trees that soar over 250ft. Muir Woods , named after the naturalist John Muir and established as a national monument in 1908, is a stunning slice of nature where you can walk between the massive redwoods and commune with an old-growth forest. Advance parking and shuttle reservations are required. 30min by car

Half Moon Bay As one of three self-described "Pumpkin Capitals" in America, Half Moon Bay is a great place to visit in October. The rest of the year, visitors stop here to horseback ride or cycle along the coast, or (in winter) to check out the famed surf spot Mavericks. At Pillar Point Harbor you can see crabs being sold straight from the fishing boats. 30min by car.

Wine Tasting

Sonoma Valley It was in Sonoma in 1846 that American rebels revolted against the Mexican government, an incident known as the Bear Flag Revolt. Wander around the historic town square , the largest plaza in California, home to excellent restaurants, shops and the Mission San Francisco Solano. Head north on Hwy 12 to visit wineries and Jack London Historic State Park . 1hr by car.

See more day trips from San Francisco .

Best day trips from Los Angeles

Laguna Beach Secluded coves, romantic cliffs, azure waves and waterfront parks imbue the city of Laguna with a Riviera-like feel. But nature isn’t the only draw. Laguna has a strong tradition in the arts, starting with the plein air impressionists who lived and worked here in the early 1900s. Today it’s the home of renowned arts festivals, galleries, a well-known museum and exquisitely preserved arts-and-crafts cottages and bungalows. 1hr by car.

Santa Barbara Mission

Santa Barbara History meets art in this Spanish-style beachfront city that has it all: a mission, art museums and famous painters, and a thriving university in nearby Isla Vista. Perfect weather, beautiful buildings, excellent bars and restaurants, and activities for all tastes and budgets make Santa Barbara a must-see place for visitors to Southern California. Check out the Spanish Mission church first (the museum and tours are currently closed), then just see where the day takes you. 1hr 30min by car.

Catalina Island Here’s the secret to a peaceful Catalina getaway: after the ferry docks in charming Avalon, head out to explore. Go on foot or with a tour, by bike, kayak or golf cart – there’s a 20-year waiting list to own a car on the island. You’ll have a chance of spotting Catalina’s most famous Hollywood residents: bison. A 1924 film crew left a herd after shooting a western, and 150 now call Catalina home. 40min by car to ferry terminals in San Pedro & Long Beach, then 1hr ferry.

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Alabama Hills Star Trek , Iron Man , Django Unchained , Gladiator , almost every single western ever – when Hollywood goes looking for a desolate, otherworldly landscape, they scout Alabama Hills , just west of Lone Pine. Its desert-like scrub and striking geological formations have been the backdrop for over 400 movie shoots. Just off Movie Flat Rd in the Alabama Hills Recreation Area is the Mobius Arch Loop Trail , where the eponymous arch folds scenically over Mt Whitney. 3hr by car.

See more day trips from Los Angeles .

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Florida Trippers

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

caladessi island off the west coast of florida

15 Best Things To Do On The West Coast Of Florida (+ Hidden Gems!)

May 12, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

If you are looking for a list of the best things to do on the West Coast of Florida, we have you covered! Check out our list of the best cities and activities to do on the west coast. 

For those looking to explore the west coast of Florida, we have put together the best stops for those looking to road trip, or just take day trips from popular west coast cities like Naples, Tampa, and Pensacola.

From visiting offshore islands, breathtaking beaches along the Gulf coast, State parks, Florida springs, and historical sights there is so much to do!

Make sure to check out our master post on the Best Time To Visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

a girl in red swimsuit standing on a fort in florida on the gulf coast

15 Best Things To Do On The West Coast Of Florida (+ hidden gems!)

Beer can island.

Located in Sarasota area of Longboat Key , Beer Can Island is not only one of our favorite  hidden gems in Florida , it is one of the best things to do on the west coast of Florida! . It is actually one of our favorite  Things To Do In Sarasota  so you really must visit. If you are looking to experience a magical island oasis, head to Beer Island ( also known as  Greer Island ), not to be confused with Beer Island in Tampa. As one of our favorite spots, we have put together this  post for tips when visiting  as visitors often find the location a bit tricky to find! 

For visitors you will walk along the sand path for 5-8 minutes before the path starts to open up and you will see more dead driftwood and trees. You will be awarded with gorgeous driftwood trees jetting up out of the beach and ocean, making it a picture perfect background.

Almost like escaping to a deserted island with its crystal clear water and lack of crowds as with other  nearby beaches ! Please be respectful as this island is beautiful but has a fragile ecosystem so make sure to not litter or destroy the mangroves or driftwood trees.

a girl in a white swimsuit among the driftwood trees in the ocean at beer can island on the west coast of Florida

Rainbow River State Park

Rainbow River State Park is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Florida for those seeking a serene outdoor oasis featuring 10,000 year old sapphire-blue waters, ornamental gardens, waterfalls, and mossy covered trees. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube, kayak, and  swim in the spring  that stays a constant 72 degrees, hike the 2.5 mile path to explore waterfalls, or simply have a picnic in the park. 

Open daily from 8 am till sunset 365 day a year, admission is $2 per person. The State Park is located in the central west coast area of Florida, the nearest town is Dunnellon, and can be easily reached from Ocala, Orlando, Tampa and Naples. The entry fee does not cover water activities or the 4 mile spring run.  Tubing  is $20 a person and includes the 2 hour trek down the river, and your tram ticket back to the parking lot! 

Likewise you can rent a kayak for 1 hour for $16 ($50 daily) and canoes are $22 for an hour ($60 daily). The State Park is open for tubing April through September. Rainbow Springs hosts the Florida Manatee Festival, one of the best  festivals in Florida  dedicated to the  beautiful wild manatee s ! And the Jazz Up Dunnellon, a  music festival  in October.

For those looking to  camp on the Florida west coast , Rainbow Springs State Park’s campground is located along the river and visitors can reserve a spot at either an RV or a tent site. Campsites include free admission to the head springs and tubing area!

A girl in a dress standing by a wooden fence surrounded by trees near the Rainbow springs

Marco Island Dome Houses

For one of the  more unique things to do on the Florida gulf coast head to Marco Island  and check out the Florida Dome Homes (Cape Romano Dome House). The houses are located about 300 feet offshore from Cape Romano Island, just south of Marco Island the homes are only accessible by boat or jet ski. 

Built by Bob Lee a millionaire seeking the seclusion of living an island life on the ocean, these 6 unusual-looking domes on slits over the water now act as shelter to preserve bird and aquatic life off the Gulf Coast. Don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Naples while you are here!

However, after Hurricane Andrew in 1992 the homes have not been inhabited and the dome structures have begun eroding back into the ocean, creating an artificial reef. Further hurricanes have continued to sink the homes making it one of the more unique reefs in Florida. Divers are in awe of the diverse aquatic life that have made the reef home. This is truly one of the best things to do in Southwest Florida!

The 6 dome homes off the coast of Marco Island are one fo the more interesting things to do on the west coast of Florida

Crab Island

 Found in northwestern panhandle town of  Destin , a visit to  Crab Island  one of the natural wonders that makes Florida so quintessentially Florida!

Crab Island, Florida is one of the most famous Florida west coast attractions. If you’ve ever vacationed in the area it is one of the most popular summer destinations and has been features on HGTV, Good Morning America, in various travel magazines and publications across the globe.

Crab Island is not an actual island, it was manmade by the Army Corps and has eroded overtime to become a sandbar. You can rent a boat, or take a charted boat out and anchor at the sandbar for a fun day of relaxing at the enormous sandbar just off the coast. Or try the Crab Island Company offers a Shuttle Boat, or a wildly popular Adventure Tour.

The best time to visit for the best weather is from spring to fall, and it is a popular destination for snowbirds,  spring breakers  and families as well!  While it is often considered a party destination during spring break times, there are floating food vendors during busy times.

Boats surrounded at the sandbar of the Crab Island

Ringling Museum

If looking for what to do in Florida west coast for museum and architecture lovers try a visit to the Ringling Museum. This historical site in Florida is located in  Sarasota !

Visitors flock to the 36,000-square-ft Ca’ d’Zan winter residence of John and Mable Ringling. The Renaissance inspired pink 66 acre estate complex with a courtyard and  garden area showcased by flowers, fountains, and bronze and stone casts of iconic sculptures like Michaelangelo’s David. We highly recommend taking one of the 90 minute tours of the gardens that are offered weekdays at varying times, as the garden and buildings make for a    beautiful backdrop for Instagram photos. 

Built in 1930’s, today it houses 21 galleries housing masterworks from across Europe. The  Ringling Museum of Art  houses the collection of circus co-founder John and his wife Mable Ringling favorite artists from the Roman, Greek, Medieval, and Renaissance periods.

The entrance fee of $25 for adults at this state run museum. Reduced entrance rates are offered on Thursdays between 5 PM – 8 PM. Just an hour from Tampa by car, making it a must-visit on Florida west coast road trip  day trip from Tampa.  

Make sure to save time to visit the Ringling Circus Museum that showcases memorbelia and artifacts from various era’s of the circus. It also features the train carriage that the Ringling’s travelled across America in. 

woman standing in front of the ringling museum in sarasota wearing a blue dress

Myakka River State Park

For those looking to explore state parks in Florida, the historic Myakka River State Park is one of the  Florida west coast destinations , you must visit! It is actually the only River that has been given the status of a State Park. And trust us the   Myakka River  is a breathtaking destination!

Over the 58 square miles of the park, the Myakka River travels through various ecosystems including wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. Visitors can expect to see a variety of Florida Wildlife including white-tailed deer, osprey and of course alligators on their  walk through the canopy ! The Myakka River is one of the  best places to see wild alligators in Florida .

Climb up 76 foot observation point, and walk through the towering hammock canopy to see vultures on the tops of live oak and palms. On the Birdwalk, you can see some of the rarest birds in Florida. The best time to see the most wildlife is when the water levels in the floodplain are low, usually around January through March.

Myakka State Park is one of the best things to do on the west coast of Florida

Ford and Edison Winter Estate

Just three hours away from   Orlando , you will find what believe is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Florida, the Ford and Edison Winter Estates . The Ford And Edison Winter Estate served as the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, two of the most well known inventors of all time.

Just think of how many inventions that we use daily were thought of here! We think there is something truly special about that, especially for those fascinated by history, invention, and science.

Once inside take one of the offered tours of the estate and the gorgeous botanical gardens! Where you will even get tot visit the laboratory used by Edison and Ford for inventions like Botanic Research. Inside the homes you will catch a glimpse inside the lives of the two men with model cars and electric experiments, as well as innovation gallery.

Explore the 20 acer botanical gardens with 1,700 plants from six continents including a rare plant Moonlight garden. Tickets are $25 for adults, with self-guided tours offered from 9 am to 4:30 pm. And the historian group tour is only $30. Trust us this is one of the things to do in the west coast of Florida that is worth the visit!

The laboratory at the ford and Edison estate

Boat Tour in Naples

If you are looking for Florida west coast getaways, why not head to Naples! Florida’s West Coast beaches are beautiful, but why not try something more exciting – a boat tour! There is a variety of tours offered, and we have an entire post of different boat tours in Naples.

This  tour  is one of the most fun Naples boat tours, exploring the Ten Thousand Island, one of Florida’s top natural attractions!  It is a chain of islands and mangrove off the coast of southwest Florida, between Cape Romano and the mouth of the Lostmans River.

The tour departs  Marco Island , about fifteen minutes south of Naples, with a max of 12 guests. Then you’ll head to a small barrier island only accessible by boat on tour lasting about 3 hours.

The captain will point out sea life while giving interesting facts on the local history and ecology. While on the island, you’ll be able to swim, go  snorkeling , or shelling.

Book Now :  Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

The islands at then thousand islands near Naples

Wakulla Springs

No trip to Florida is complete without a visit to a spring. Visiting the springs are one of the great outdoor things to do on the west coast of Florida, regardless of time of year as they stay a constant 68-72 degrees year round. As it is a State Park entry fee is $6 per car, park opens at 8 am and swimming area at 9 am.

For those in North Florida looking for things to do on the west coast of Florida, Wakulla Springs should be at the top of your list! Wakulla springs are located near Tallahassee, within the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, a 6000 acre park.

 The Wakulla Springs are the World’s Largest Natural Spring, meaning this magical oasis provides space to relax, play, and explore. There are two level wooden swimming platforms to jump off, a large roped off swimming area, and a few sunbathing platforms for everyone to enjoy.

For those who dive, you can see remains of Mastodones at 120 feet, the first of which was discovered in 1850’s in what is known as the bone cave. Plus you can camp here!

long weekend trips west coast

Pensacola Beach

Located in the northwestern part of Florida, this panhandle beach stretch along the Gulf of Mexico and like all Gulf beaches  are known for warm water. With almost 20 miles of sugar-white sand and gorgeous blue water, Pensacola Beach is one of the best beaches on the west side of Florida.

Beaches on the west coast of Florida are some of the most  beautiful beaches in the state . Stroll the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk where you can shop, eat, and listen to live music. Pensacola beach is one of the great Panhandle beach towns on the west coast of Florida to visit with families and couples alike.

There is also a pier at Pensacola Beach where you can rent fishing gear from the bait and tackle shop. And once you’ve explored the beach and boardwalk, the whole area of Pensacola has lots of  fun things to do !

An arial view with a giant Pensacola Beach water tower with the beach in the background

Lovers Key State Beach

This state park lives up to its name by being one of the best west coast Florida beaches . Just minutes from Fort Myers,  Lovers Key State Park  is best known for its perfect scenery and photographic backdrop. It’s also a popular  honeymoon  and  romantic getaway  destination.

With its serene, turquoise blue waters, it’s not hard to understand how this beach became known for love and romance. In fact, the beach was supposed to be sold for beach-front real estate but instead was donated to the state of Florida to be admired and enjoyed by all.

While one of the best things to do on the west coast of Florida lie back, relax, and spend time with those you love on the beautiful Gulf waters or at Lovers Key State Park. Plus the park also has lagoons and canals to explore, where you can spot wildlife.

The park offers all the amenities needed for a relaxing experience including parking, trams to the beach, and elevated boardwalks. In addition, beach wheelchairs can be rented for free to ensure every guest is able to experience the beauty of the beach. There are also restrooms and a picnic pavilion.

A couple walking on a beach at sunset time with driftwood jutting out of the sand

Caladesi Island State Park

Those who love the outdoors and are looking for what to do in Florida west coast, why not take a trip to Caladesi Island State Park ? This beautiful barrier island paradise has remained largely undeveloped, making it one of the best beaches in Florida for those who prefer a quiet, peaceful beach trip where you can disconnect. Plus it is just a quick trip from Clearwater.

Visitors to Caladesi Island State Park can bring their fishing gear, pack a picnic to enjoy at any of the pavilions or for those with kids enjoy the playground. For those wanting to be more adventurous, the tranquil  hiking trails  and paths along the dunes can be so relaxing as well.

For water lovers  kayak  through the mangroves on the island or try camping on a boat! The marina is equipped with electrical service and water hookups as well as a grill for a completely different  camping  experience.

If you’re up for a bit of a walk, Caladesi Island State Park is also accessible by foot from Clearwater Beach if you are willing to walk six miles.However, the easiest way to get here is via the Caladesi Ferry .

An Ariel view of Caladesi island where you can see the sandy beach and the turquoise waters of the gulf Coast

Three Sisters Springs

Just about 90 minutes north of  Tampa Bay , Three Sisters Springs is actually part of a large network of about 40 natural springs called Crystal River , and perfect for those on a Florida west coast road trip .

Three Sister Springs  originates in King’s Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. Only accessible by boat, these springs are one of the best outdoor things to do on the Florida west coast.

At Three Sister Springs you can swim with manatees or snorkel the crystal clear water . January, one of the  best times to see manatees as they migrate from rivers to natural springs to keep warm during the winter months.

Another option for those who don’t want to swim in the chilly water why not rent a glass-bottom boat or kayak to get an amazing view of the springs without getting wet!

three sisters spring where people are snorkeling to see manatees

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Ichetucknee Springs is another of the Florida springs that is located in Fort White, Florida. Ichetucknee Springs State Park is located to the south of US Highway 27, admission to the state park is $6 per vehicle.

You will find crystal-clear waters of one of Florida’s natural lazy rivers where you will can either paddle or tube down the 72 degree water from this first magnitude spring. Ichetucknee Springs often can get overwhelmed with visitors during the summer. For example, on memorial day, this park can draw up to 10,000 people to the park! 

If you are a diver and are certified, head to the Blue Hole Springs. This cave has more than 600 feet to explore and is a larger part of the first-magnitude springs in North Florida.

a girl in a red dress infant of the springs

Fort De Soto

Fort De Soto Park , is truly one of the best west coast Florida playgrounds! Consisting of five offshore islands that are the perfect blend of natural coastal beaches with a unique history including a fort and more! Best of all it just minutes from Saint Petersburg one of the best cities on the west coast of Florida.

You can explore the over 7 miles of waterfront, camp at on of the 238 campsites , hike or bike over seven miles of paved trails, swim and relax on the beach, or explore the historic fort dating back to the Civil War! Making it one of the best small beach towns on the west coast of Florida!

At sunset see the boardwalk and the fort ruins at fort de soto

Home

Moscow Day Trips

long weekend trips west coast

The long way home - Prologue - 17500 km overland to reach my hometown!

Photo of Yubanaswa Chakraborty

On the 14th day of our travel, we were looking out of our train window and enjoying the view of the semi frozen lake Baikal. We were on a day long journey on a slow Russian passenger train. Everything moved backwards towards the west, slowly. Pine trees, snow on the ground. The towering snow clad peaks behind them.

We had come about 8300 km since we started. A little over half the distance we were covering. This is not my usual route to go home. This is not the usual route people travel from Europe to India. But this is one of the most feasible overland route to complete this journey. Although very few actually travel this way. Our inn keeper in the town of Listvyanka by the shores of lake Baikal told us - "The last Indian tourist I saw here was about five years ago"

Ever since I moved to London, I have been toying with the idea to travel overland to India, by means of public transport - i.e. trains and road transport. After years of waiting, I finally got myself to travel.

Photo of The long way home - Prologue - 17500 km overland to reach my hometown! 2/4 by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

In April-May, me and my wife Beena, traveled from London to Siliguri (India), mainly by trains.

Photo of The long way home - Prologue - 17500 km overland to reach my hometown! 3/4 by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Although we had crossed over from Europe to Asia long way back near the town of Yekaterinburg, the real Asia doesn't start until you cross the deepest lake of the world.

Let me now tell you about the trip we concluded.

Our trip in numbers - 10 countries, 32 days, 17500 km, highest altitude 5400m, lowest altitude 100m below MSL.

Outline of the trip:

Day 1 - 4 : London-Brussels-Koln-Warsaw-Minsk-Moscow

Day 4-10: Moscow-Yekaterinburg-Novosibirisk-Irkutsk-Listvyanka

Day 11-14: Lake Baikal-Ulan Ude

Day 15-19: Mongolia / Ulan Bator

Day 20-23: Beijing

Day 24-30: Beijing-Lhasa-Shigatse-Quomolangma (Mt Everest) Base Camp

Day 31-32: Lhasa-Kathmandu-Siliguri

Eurostar in Brussels

Photo of London, United Kingdom by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Koln station

Photo of Cologne, Germany by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Gauge change of trains to the Russian system

Photo of Brest, Brest Region, Belarus by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Moscow Belorusskaya terminal

Photo of Moscow, Russia by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Novosibirsk

The Trans-Siberian journey

Photo of Novosibirsk, Novosibirsk Oblast, Russia by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Lake Baikal

Photo of Lake Baikal, Irkutsk, Russia by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Horse traders in Mongolia

Photo of Ulan Bator, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

The great wall of China

Photo of Beijing, China by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

The railway station in Lhasa

Photo of Lhasa, Tibet, China by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Mount Everest base camp

Photo of Shigatse, Tibet, China by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Purple Haze, Thamel, Kathmandu

Photo of Kathmandu, Central Region, Nepal by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

Good old Indian Railways, after travelling 192 hours on foreign trains

Photo of Siliguri, West Bengal, India by Yubanaswa Chakraborty

*****************************************************************************

Read about the first leg - London to Moscow , the second leg - Trans Siberian , the third leg to Mongolia,  the fourth part over to Tibet and finally the concluding leg of crossing the Himalayas into India .

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Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 

A local hero: Afanasy Nikitin - a traveler born and raised in Tver who sailed across the 'three oceans' to India

A local hero: Afanasy Nikitin - a traveler born and raised in Tver who sailed across the 'three oceans' to India

Tver residents say their city suffers from the bad luck of being located between Moscow and St. Petersburg because many of its best educated and talented people gravitate to the opportunities in those much bigger cities. "All they leave in Tver is sh***," said one local taxi driver. 

This is quite a pessimistic view, and so let's be very clear right away: They don’t love Muscovites here. Actually, Tver’s populace always thought their city should have been Russia’s capital. As a result of centuries of conflict with Moscow’s princes, however, Tver was several times occupied, looted and burned to the ground.

Unfortunately, except for the old kremlin and several medieval churches, there is not much left to see today. Still, during your walk through the city you’ll see that it prospered and continues to thanks to its strategic location between the capitals. In fact, famous architects often worked in Tver before they took on bigger projects in Moscow or St. Petersburg.

Day 1: A walk through Russian history

long weekend trips west coast

To see the most important sights, take a walk along the embankment of the Volga River, which begins not far from Tver. In winter you can cross the frozen Volga by foot or ski.

At Stepan Razin Street you will see a long block of beautiful old merchant houses. Often film crews, who want to depict old Moscow, in fact shoot movies here. On the other side of the river you can see the white-blue-green convent of St. Catherine. Pay a visit if you want to  dive into the world of silent tiny Russian churches . 

On the spot where today the Tver river port awaits demolition, there once stood the oldest monastery in the region. Chronicles say it was built in 1206, but Stalin demolished it, and only the small Dormition church survived. Then, in 1938, a river port was built in Stalin’s favorite monumental neo-classicism, widely known as ‘Stalinist empire style.'

The architects, however, hadn't properly studied the unsteady ground underneath, and this mistake became obvious in summer 2017 when parts of the building collapsed.

European bridges and 'Asian' cinema

Tver's 'Old Bridge' is a copy of the famous metal bridge in the Hungarian capital, Budapest.

Tver's 'Old Bridge' is a copy of the famous metal bridge in the Hungarian capital, Budapest.

A few hundred meters down river you’ll see the so-called ‘new’ stone bridge, which in fact is partly a present from St. Petersburg. When in 1956 that city's government started to rebuild its oldest bridge, parts of it were sent to the city of Kalinin – which is how Tver was called from 1931 to 1990. Now, the locals are proud of their 'St. Petersburg bridge.' 

Another bridge across the Volga has quite a European history: It’s a copy of the famous metal bridge in the Hungarian capital, Budapest.  From the views at the beginning of the big steel structure, you can’t be sure whether you’re on the Danube or on the Volga.  

Between the two bridges stands Tver's cultural center: The eye-catching Zvezda cinema ("Star“) was built in 1937 in the prevailing constructivist style. According to local legend, however, the architects mixed up two project and this building should have been built in Uzbekistan’s capital, Samarkand. But most likely this is just a way how the locals rationalize such unusual architecture in their region.

Tver travelers: Pushkin, Nikitin and Catherine the Great

Alexander Pushkin greets you from the river Volga.

Alexander Pushkin greets you from the river Volga.

After making a small circle through the city park you return to the river where  Alexander Pushkin  will greet you. He used to travel a lot in the region. On the opposite side of the river you are  greeted by Afanasy Nikitin  - a traveler born and raised in Tver who sailed across the 'three oceans' to India, but unfortunately never returned home.

One of Tver's most beautiful sights is the recently renovated palace of Catherine the Great. This palatial complex and park, which suffered through revolution and war, has been rebuilt using historic photographs and original documents. In the 18th century, the palace was originally built as a travel lodge for Catherine the Great, who often journeyed between the two capitals. 

The local art museum is also worth a visit: From old Russian religious artifacts to the classics:  Shishkin ,  Aivazovsky   and   Repin , as well as Soviet propaganda porcelain. Here, you can find iconic pieces dating to every epoch of Russian art.  

Pedestrian zones for the hungry and thirsty

To complete your first day in Tver, two pedestrian zones - Tryokhsvyatskaya and Radyshtsheva - await you with cafés, restaurants and bars. Although the city seems to be small and provincial, its gastronomical culture is well developed. Here you'll find an Italian restaurant with 'Italian' cheese made in Russia next to local cuisine classics on a cozy indoor terrace, or fresh milled coffee and homemade cakes.

You can also watch a Video about Tver and its sights here !

Day 2: Explore the hidden beauty of the Russian countryside 

On the second day you have many opportunities to leave Tver and immerse yourself in serene and pure country life. 

Staritsa - a picturesque spiritual town  

Staritsa's Dormition Monastery was founded in the 16th century.

Staritsa's Dormition Monastery was founded in the 16th century.

In the middle of the central bridge in Staritsa (about 65 km northwest of Tver) you will be excited: The Volga rushes under your feet and you are standing in a circle on the hills of three monasteries with  a dozen old Russian churches . Where to feel yourself Russian, if not here?

Staritsa was founded in the 13 th  century as a river fortress, but the old kremlin didn’t survive its role on the border between warring principalities. Later, the town became a spiritual center of the Tver and Moscow regions. The Dormition Monastery is the most popular and famous here, founded in the 16 th  century.

In case you have a bit more time, you can also visit the country house of the Osip-Wulf family in Bernovo, where  Pushkin  used to stay with friends and fans. Besides the tiny local  museum (link in Russian)  and the nearby park, you can enjoy a walk through an authentic Russian village, and feel yourself a bit like a poet!

Torzhok - a golden history

The Monastery of Sts. Boris and Gleb stands high above the river Tvertsa and Torzhok's small but pretty city center.

The Monastery of Sts. Boris and Gleb stands high above the river Tvertsa and Torzhok's small but pretty city center.

The   fair city of Torzhok  (60 km west of Tver) is situated on the Tvertsa River, and its favorable location fostered commerce. Just like Tver, Torzhok is sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: In 1478, Torzhok was annexed by Moscow's ruler, Ivan III (the Great). After the founding of St. Petersburg in 1703, the town became a major hub on the route for supplies moving to the new imperial capital.

The post road between Moscow and Petersburg also brought a steady stream of prominent visitors  through Torzhok . In the 18th century, these included Catherine the Great and her court; while in the 19th century came writers Pushkin, Gogol, Turgenev and Tolstoy. Like other provincial towns, Torzhok was essentially rebuilt in the late 18th century. 

Many of the town's prosperous residents rebuilt their houses in neoclassical design, which you can see on the newly renovated embankment. In Torzhok there are two main sights to visit: the  Monastery of Sts. Boris and Gleb , and the  Museum of the Torzhok Goldwork Embroidery Factory .

Kimry - unique wooden Art Nouveau 

The most popular sights in Kimry are the beautiful and unique Art Nouveau wooden mansions.

The most popular sights in Kimry are the beautiful and unique Art Nouveau wooden mansions.

While a trip to both Staritsa and Torzhok can be done  in one day , (if you get up early enough), the  small town of Kimry  (100 km east of Tver)  is located in the opposite direction. While it requires a separate day, if you're a big fan of architecture and history, you definitely should go there.

Although Kimry was first mentioned in a charter issued by Ivan the Terrible in 1546, only in 1917 was the settlement officially elevated to the rank of city . Like most cities situated between the two capitals, Kimry was a trading center, especially popular for production of leather boots, which were even sent to the great International London Exposition in 1862. Today, these stylish and practical shoes and boots can be seen in  the local museum (link in Russian) .

The most popular sights in Kimry are the beautiful and  unique Art Nouveau wooden mansions  – Russia's only log houses in such style.

How to get there? 

From Moscow take the comfortable Lastochka suburban trains (almost every hour, tickets can be purchased without a passport) that run from the Leningrad Rail Station.

There are also a few high speed trains: Sapsan stops in Tver; as well as long distance trains traveling to St. Petersburg.

Of course, there are also buses and mini-buses, but they often get stuck in the long traffic jams near Moscow.

From St. Petersburg take any long distance train in the direction of Moscow, but some high speed trains, such as Sapsan, stop here. 

In and around Tver you can: a) take cheap taxis, or b) public transportation (mini-bus, tram, trolleybus, or regular bus). The mini-buses to the towns near Tver leave opposite the train station.

After such a perfect weekend in the Tver region you can just jump into the wild waters of the two Russian capitals - for cultural highlights all around the year in St. Petersburg or for dancing and imbibing in Moscow !

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  • "Memory vigil": Searching for ancestors lost in WWII
  • Torzhok: The golden age of provincial Russia
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  • From Tver to the Deccan: Retracing Afanasy Nikitin’s life in India
  • Monastery of Sts. Boris and Gleb in Torzhok: In memory of martyred princes
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  18. The 14 best day trips on the US West Coast

    The 14 best day trips on the US West Coast. Lonely Planet Editors. Oct 8, 2020 • 6 min read. San Francisco is at the heart of any West Coast adventure ©Mark Read/Lonely Planet. Landscapes and legends draw adventurers to the West, where a good day includes locavore dining, vineyard wine-sipping, Native American history and outdoor adventure.

  19. 15 Best Things To Do On The West Coast Of Florida (+ Hidden Gems!)

    Rainbow River State Park. Rainbow River State Park is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Florida for those seeking a serene outdoor oasis featuring 10,000 year old sapphire-blue waters, ornamental gardens, waterfalls, and mossy covered trees. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube, kayak, and swim in the spring that stays a constant 72 ...

  20. Moscow

    Price per person. 641,69. View details. About the tour Reviews 10. 8 days / 7 nights. St. Petersburg Moscow. We offer you a unique opportunity to visit Russia's two largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. This fascinating, week-long tour will take you to the historic Russian capitals that have always played the most important part in the ...

  21. Moscow Day Trips

    If you want to get out of Moscow for some time, here are some great places you can go within an easy reach from Moscow. Alternatively, you can also check out our section on eco-tourism in Russia, some places, like Bolotov Dacha are only an hour and a half away, and will provide you with a refreshing break from the busy city life.

  22. The long way home

    On the 14th day of our travel, we were looking out of our train window and enjoying the view of the semi frozen lake Baikal. We were on a day long journey on a slow Russian passenger train. Everything moved backwards towards the west, slowly. Pine trees, snow on the ground. The towering snow clad p...

  23. Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect

    Peggy Lohse. The fair city of Torzhok (60 km west of Tver) is situated on the Tvertsa River, and its favorable location fostered commerce. Just like Tver, Torzhok is sandwiched between Moscow and ...