highway 1 road trip

Best Stops on Highway 1: California Road Trip Itinerary

Post Topic: Best Stops on Highway 1

Our road trip down the coast on California’s Highway 1 was a bittersweet one. It was the start of a long road trip back to the Lone Star State. Randy and I had spent over five months away from home, working remotely, and exploring America’s vast beauty and diversity. We had mixed feelings about heading back to Dallas, but we were just trying to soak up every last minute of our epic trip.

After heading up to Redwoods National Park and making it within 5 miles of the Oregon border (still kicking ourselves for not crossing that border), we were a grand total of 2,100 miles away from home. We started our grand trek home with an unforgettable trip down the California Coast on the famous Highway 1.

Is your California Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip a part of a longer trip? You may also like these articles:

10 Can’t Miss Stops on the Oregon Coast

Channel Islands National Park – Santa Cruz Island

10 Jaw-Dropping Things to do in Redwoods National and State Parks

How to Plan an Unforgettable U.S. Road Trip

Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links, which means if you buy something through those links my blog will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me to create free resources like the one you just read. Thank you for the support!

Map of the Best Stops on Highway 1

You can experience the magic of Highway 1 from either direction. Although, I do highly recommend driving from north to south as you’ll have the ocean views and pull offs to the right.

Leggett to San Francisco: Best Stops on Highway 1

Did you know that Highway 1 doesn’t go all the way up California to the border of Oregon? It actually starts much further south in Leggett, California.

If yo u’re wanting to explore the coast of California north of the start of CA-1, check out my post on Redwoods National Park which has lots to see and do on the coast.

There’s actually not much to do in Leggett, but it’s where we’ll start this road trip. The first city you’ll come to on the California 1 is Fort Bragg where you can check out the Glass Beach in MacKerricher State Park .

A bit further south you’ll find Jug Handle Beach, which wasn’t originally on our road trip itinerary. As we were driving past, I got a glimpse of this small beach perfectly situated in a little alcove and I insisted that Randy pull the car over for a quick stroll on the beach. So glad we did!

Mendocino is a short drive south from Fort Bragg. Check out Mendocino Headlands State Park for insane views of the coastal bluffs. There are a couple of easy trails along the cliffs that provide epic sights of the ocean and rock formations below. Keep your eyes open for seals and other wildlife in the area.

After checking out the state park, spend some time strolling the streets of charming Mendocino. Some great local places to check out are Mendocino Country Store , which offers wine tastings on the weekends, and Mendocino Jams and Preserves.

Up for some exercise? Head to the Big River Estuary and rent a kayak from Catch a Canoe or check out one of the nearby hiking trails.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Our next big stop on the Pacific Coast Highway is Point Reyes National Seashore . Point Reyes was one of the places that I was most excited to visit on our road trip down the coast. Unfortunately, we visited on a day with super dense fog that impeded our view of a lot of the most popular landmarks in the park.

If you’re wanting to “better your chances” of seeing the famous Point Reyes Lighthouse and other sights, plan to visit in the afternoon after the sun has burned off most of the fog.

Here’s a few things to see while you’re at Point Reyes:

Visit the abandoned Point Reyes Shipwreck in Inverness . This interesting landmark is a must-see!
Take a short hike to the Chimney Rocks , one of the best views in Point Reyes National Seashore.
Visit the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse . What’s a coastal drive without a few lighthouses?

Palace Market in Point Reyes Station is the perfect place to grab a deli lunch. Head to the back of the grocery store for a selection of pre-made and build-your-own sandwiches that are delicious and super fresh! Their buffalo milk soft-serve ice cream is also delicious and worth a try!

Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is located only an hour north of San Francisco and is known for its long sandy beaches. It’s also the first town on this road trip that gives off a surf-town vibe.

If it’s a sunny day, park your car at the beach and then spend some time strolling the walkable tiny town.

Wanting more epic views of the coast? If it’s a clear day, head up to the Muir Beach Overlook .

San Francisco Area: Best Stops on Highway 1

Next up, the great city of San Francisco! If you can, stay here for a couple of days to take in all of the sights and sounds.

San Francisco has a special place in my heart as it was the first city I traveled to as an adult. Planning that trip did a lot to inspire me to start this blog. I actually wrote my first blog post ever on San Francisco, which I’ve since revamped. Go check it out here!

There’s lots to do here but make sure that you check out these epic stops on Highway 1!

But before you actually get to San Francisco, stop at Muir Woods National Monument which is in Mill Valley, just 30 minutes north of the city. Muir Woods, named after naturalist John Muir, is one of the best places in California to see the Coastal Redwoods. Parking at Muir Woods requires a reservation which you can obtain here .

You can easily spend a couple of hours or all day hiking the trails in Muir Woods. I recommend hiking the Main Trail and Hillside Trail for an easy loop trail that features the best views of Redwood Trees that Muir Woods has to offer.

San Francisco

No California Coast road trip would be complete without a drive over the Golden Gate Bridge. For a different vantage point of the bridge, check out Fort Point, Marshall’s Beach , and Golden Gate Overlook . Riding a bike across the Golden Gate is also an unforgettable experience.

Continuing along highway 1, you’ll find lots of great beaches in SF like Ocean Beach . I once found over a dozen perfectly intact sand dollars from this beach.

Note: If you plan to fly home, sand dollars may trigger an additional search at airport security . I may or may not know this from experience.

Add Golden Gate Park to your San Francisco Highway 1 itinerary. Fun fact, Golden Gate Park is the 3rd most visited park in the United States. You’ll find lots of great museums, gardens, and even a Dutch windmill.

Is this your first visit to San Francisco? Check out my First Timer’s Guide to San Francisco.

San Francisco to Big Sur: Best Stops on Highway 1

We didn’t make too many stops on our way to Big Sur from San Francisco but there are a few places that we highly recommend stopping at. One of those places is the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve to explore the tide pools. This stop is a must if you’re traveling with kids! Spend some time hunting for crabs and other sea creatures – you may also be able to see sea lions down the beach.

Further down the coast, check out the Pigeon Point Light Station State Park , one of the most picturesque lighthouses on this coastal road trip. If you’re visiting this area near lunch or dinner time, make a stop at Highway 1 Brewing Company for some bites and brews.

No trip down the Pacific Coast would be complete without a stop in Monterrey . While we only made a quick stop in Monterrey, you could easily spend several days in this part of California.

If you’re looking to get out of the car and stretch your legs, walk the Monterrey Bay Coastal Trail. Or rent a bike and explore on two-wheels! Carmel Beach is a great spot to soak up some rays.

Monterrey (and Carmel-by-the-Sea) is located just north of Big Sur which makes it a great place to stop for food and essentials before continuing south where amenities and services become limited.

Big Sur: Best Stops on Highway 1

Big Sur is by far the most popular and well-known section of the Pacific Coast Highway and it’s not hard to figure out why. This 90-mile stretch of coast is absolutely breath-taking around every bend.

Although some disagree on where the Big Sur area begins and ends, most agree that the northern end starts at the Carmel River and the southern end, San Carpoforo Creek.

There are many state parks, state beaches, coastal hikes, redwood tree groves, and other amazing things to see in Big Sur. And like I just mentioned, this area is full of incredible nature parks but few food and gas services so make sure you plan accordingly.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is by far a favorite stop in Big Sur. The park is only a few minutes from the town of Carmel, California.

There is a $10 parking fee to enter the park, but there were many visitors who were parking along the road outside of the park and walking in for free. This was a popular method but also a necessity for some as parking in the park did fill up mid-morning.

The views at Point Lobos were some of the most picturesque we saw on the entire Pacific Coast Highway.

Other things to see in Big Sur

If you’ve seen pictures of Big Sur before, you’ll probably recognize the Bixby Creek Bridge . This iconic bridge is most known for its aesthetic design and is actually one of the most photographed bridges in the world!

Next on your road trip, make a stop at Pfeiffer beach . This was VERY high on my list of places to see, however, the parking situation was horrible. We weren’t even able to make it to the parking lot because at attendant turned us away saying to come back later than afternoon. And unfortunately, we had to stick to a schedule and keep making our way south. So next time, we’ll be making time for Pfeiffer Beach and arriving earlier in the day.

Nearly across the street from Pfeiffer Beach is Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park . A GREAT place for camping if you can manage to snag a hard-to-get reservation. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is located on the banks of the Big Sur River and is home to many more of California’s incredible Redwood Trees. Even if you’re not camping, there are a few hiking trails along the river and Redwoods that are worth checking out.

Another one of the most beautiful stops on the Pacific Coast Highway is McWay Falls in Julia Burns Big Sur State Park. This water fall is absolutely stunning as it cascades off a cliff and onto the beach below.

Unfortunately, you are unable to hike down to the waterfall and the only way to see this incredible wonder is from a lookout above the falls. The parking fee at Julia Burns Big Sur is $10/vehicle. But if you are able to find parking along the road (and park LEGALLY), then you can walk into the park for free.

We found Julia Burns Big Sur State Park very crowded but the waterfall was simply breathtaking and so worth it. And I usually don’t say crowded spots are worth it.

Big Sur to Santa Barbara: Best Stops on Highway 1

After you leave Big Sur, make a stop at Elephant Seal Vista Point to see the funny-looking elephant seals. These awkward looking creatures are really a funny sight to watch. Between their goofy looking “elephant trunks” and their grumpy attitudes. The vista point is right off the highway and makes a perfect 10-15 minute stop.

Next up, make a stop in the city of Cayucos for delicious eats and fun shopping. The Brown Butter Cookie Company is a must for their shortbread cookies. If you’re ready for a real meal with a view, check out Schooners for some classic American Seafood. They’re located right by the pier, so after your meal, walk out on the pier and watch the local surfers riding the waves.

Morro Rock is located further south and is another incredible sight to see. Morro Rock Beach is one of the largest beaches I’ve seen. Stop here for a walk or a swim.

I highly recommending you plan your itinerary to be in Pismo Beach for breakfast. A stop at Old West Cinnamon Rolls is a must. You can thank me later.

Santa Barbara

The very last stop on this epic road trip is the city of Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara is actually the first spot on this road trip that you’ll get to experience what many people consider to be the stereo-typical California sights – think Spanish style architecture and streets lined with palm trees.

Spend your time exploring the sights of Santa Barbara, like the Old Mission Santa Barbara, Stearns Wharf, or Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Or simply spend the day laying on a warm sunny beach like East Beach.

If you’re interested in indulging in a whale watching tour on your trip down the coast, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to do that. You’ll find many whale watching tours departing from here.

Bonus Stop: Channel Islands National Park

If you have an extra day in the Santa Barbara area, consider a day trip to Channel Islands National Park. Island Packers operates tour boats from Ventura, California (and sometimes Santa Barbara) to various islands in the national park.

We did a day trip to Santa Cruz Island from Ventura a couple of years ago, and it was an outstanding experience! I highly recommend taking the time to do this incredible excursion. Especially if you’re an avid hiker.

Pack These for a California Highway 1 Road Trip

1. good hiking shoes.

There are so many great hiking trails on the California Coast! Especially in the state parks in Big Sur.

It’s super important to wear sturdy hiking shoes or sandals on the trails. I wear brands like Merrell Moab 2 Mid Ventilator , Teva Universal Trail (trail sandal) , and Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof . My husband, who is very prone to ankle injuries, wears Salomon X Ultra Low GTX and swears by them.

I love being able to switch between a solid hiking boot and a trail sandal with excellent traction on the easier or wet trails. I’m very prone to blisters and having different shoes to change into makes a world of difference.

2. Water Bottle & Hydration pack

It’s important to stay hydrated on hiking trails. Even if the conditions are wet & rainy and you may not think about drinking water.

To keep your drink extra cold, go with a Hydroflask , which is vacuum-sealed and keeps your liquids cold for up to 24 hours. If you’re looking for something a bit more lightweight, go with the traditional Nalgene .

On longer hikes, fill up your Ospry Hydraulics Reservoir to keep your water easily accessible & hands free. My favorite day pack that accommodates a hydration bladder is the Osprey Mira 22 Hydration Pack .

3. Snacks & More Snacks

Every good road trip requires good snacks. Make sure you bring enough energy-boosting food to get you through the day. full of driving & hiking.

Some of our favorite road trip and trail snacks are the traditional PB&J, grapes, trail mixes, Go Macro Bars , and RX Bars .

4. Wool Clothes & Moisture Wicking Clothes

I HIGHLY recommend wool material clothes for both road trips and hiking. Wool is the best at keep your cool when the temperatures are warm and keeping you warm when it’s cold out. It’s natural fibers are great for pulling the moisture and sweat away from your body and don’t cause the build-up of bacteria. Meaning wool clothes won’t start to smell like your polyester shirt!

These Icebreaker T-Shirts have been a favorite of mine recently, they’re excellent at keeping you dry. And the best part is that they don’t stink even after a long sweaty day on the trail!

6. Lots of Layers (including a Rain Jacket)

You can expect the temperatures on the coast to be cooler than you expect. Literally. In the middle of July, I didn’t go many places without my puffer jacket (although I was still wearing shorts). Definitely pack and carry a jacket with you. Especially during an early morning or late evening hike.

A rain jacket is absolutely essential. Rain on the coast is very likely.

More California Adventures

10 Unforgettable Things to Do on Your First Trip to San Francisco
A Perfect Weekend in Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Save on Pinterest

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

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

February 16, 2024

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

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

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

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

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1

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

Huntington Beach

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

Venice Beach

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

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

Santa Monica

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

Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary: Day 2

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

San Luis Obispo

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

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

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

Half Moon Bay

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

Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary: Day 4

San Francisco

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

Point Reyes

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

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

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

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary: Day 5

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

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

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

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

Enter your zip code.

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.