Picture it: Driving up the scenic California coast, windows (or top) down, blasting your favorite tunes—sounds like the perfect road trip, right? The Pacific Coast Highway, formally known as California State Route 1, is the ultimate road trip route. It’s designated an All-American Road for its scenic views, and it packs one amazing path that takes you past awe-inspiring attractions and places. Here’s a guide to the must-see spots while roadtripping the PCH.
2331 North Horne, Mesa, Arizona
Once you reach Malibu, pull over at Point Dume State Beach. Here you can spot dolphins, explore tidepools, and swim in the relatively calm water—or just sit on the beach and soak it all in.
The next town you'll reach is Oxnard. The harbor at Channel Islands Beach has a marina, shops, attractions, and more. You can just hike along the shore, find a place to rent kayaks, or book a tour out to the stunning Channel Islands National Park.
While in Goleta, visit Gaviota State Park. The consistently mild weather and lovely beach make this park worth a visit. It also offers hiking, boating, camping, and plenty more to see and do. And, it was a filming location for the movie Sideways.
Solvang, California, United States
Once you reach Lompoc, prepare for some serious wine tasting. The laid-back vibes at Palmina Wines make the experience of tasting some outstanding varietals (paired with cheese, charcuterie, bread, and olive oils) even more incredible. The winery produces dozens of European (mostly Italian) wines using grapes from vineyards across Santa Barbara County.
If you're not tired of eating fish tacos, make a stop at Firestone Grill in San Luis Obispo, which serves up BBQ ribs, tri-tip sandwiches, burgers—and yes, fish tacos, too.
Next you'll reach Cambria. The PCH bisects the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, which features some of the best hiking in the area. At this hidden gem, you can see wildflowers, forests, and dramatic ocean views from the 400-foot bluff. Several well-maintained and easy trails offer plenty of ways to experience the ranch.
When you need to unwind and unplug, visit Esalen Hot Springs. This retreat has hot springs with incredible views, open to the public between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.. Book online and make the trip up to soak in the mineral-rich waters with stunning views of the night sky.
One of the most famous views in all of Big Sur is that of McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. You can't get too close to the falls, but they look fabulous even from a distance.
Located below the ritzy restaurant Nepenthe is the casual and more relaxed Cafe Kevah. It's the perfect place to take your time with a cup of coffee and some brioche French toast or a cheese board. Brunch is served all day.
While much is made of how lovely the wild, rugged coast of Big Sur is, the rocky cliffs made it hard for sailors to navigate. Thankfully, a lighthouse was built on this outcropping, now called Point Sur Historic Park, to guide the way. Tour the property to take in the views and learn about the human history of this special landscape.
If all of that fresh ocean air is making you hungry, the Tuck Box Tea Room is the perfect stop for lunch or afternoon tea. Sandwiches, salads, and amazing baked goods, as well as a storybook atmosphere, will add to the effect of this road trip that oftentimes feels right from a fairy tale.
It'll cost you about $10 to take the majestic 17 Mile Drive, but it's worth it-- and it's a lot cheaper than playing a round on what is commonly accepted as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world: Pebble Beach. Keep a lookout for otters, golfers, the gorgeous mansions, and, of course, the famed Lone Cypress tree, which is begging for a photo op.
The best time to travel the Pacific Coast Highway: It should be noted that June, July, and August are particularly foggy months. If you're looking for a time of year with the clearest views and best weather, October is generally the best time to roadtrip the PCH. Notably, the summer months can get crowded at many of the attractions along the route. Since it's high tourist season, you'll experience higher rates at hotels and longer waits at restaurants (many of which are also seasonal and closed in winter).