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An Iconic California Coast Road Trip Itinerary (45 Epic Stops!)

Post Summary: 45 Epic California Coast Road Trip Stops (Northbound!)

Did you know that California’s Highway 1 is one of the most popular west coast road trips in the United States?

It makes perfect sense. California’s rugged coastline, gorgeous sunsets, and nostalgic adventure feel have drawn us in more times than we can count!

If you’re hoping to plan your own road trip down the famous Highway 1, you’ve come to the right place. From the Redwoods all the way down to the sunny beaches of San Diego, there are so many amazing stops to see!

In this post, we’re sharing our favorite stops along Highway 1 for the ultimate California coast road trip. We hope this post encourages you to create your own adventure in California and explore this beautiful coast! 

After reading this guide on how to plan a trip to the California coast, you’ll be ready to have another epic western US adventure.

The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip (All The Best Stops)

Where do i begin northbound or southbound.

Where to start your California Coast road trip is completely up to you!

Starting south and driving northbound is probably the most common way to travel Highway 1 because of the easy access to airports and rental cars to begin your journey.

There are easy southern starting points like San Diego or Los Angeles. Northern California starting points are a little more difficult – you’ll have to begin in Medford, Oregon, or Redding, California and drive a few hours to the coast to begin.

However, if you’re driving from Portland or Seattle and following our Pacific Coast Highway road trip or our Oregon Coast Road Trip , you’ll find that going southbound isn’t much of a problem!

For the sake of this post, we’re sharing stops in the order of someone going northbound!

Want To Take On The Entire Pacific Coast Highway?

We’ve got lots of information about the ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip and tons of advice for your journey . Here are some posts to get you started on planning your next road trip on Highway 1!

• The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip (Washington To California)
• 10 Amazing Road Trip Planner Tools + Apps For Your Best Trip Yet
• How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California
• Adventurous Things To Do In And Around San Francisco
• 30 Necessary Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

The California Coast Road Trip – Northbound (Beginning in San Diego!) 

San diego area stops.

To get a taste of SoCal, visit San Diego! San Diego is one of the most beautiful places in California, and it offers visitors gorgeous views, lots of fun attractions, and a diverse array of activities and experiences.

Here are some of the most popular (for good reason!)–and our favorite–places to go in San Diego:

La Jolla is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego! This is because of its cute and high-end shops, delicious restaurants, and tons of amazing places to stay.

If you love animals and long walks, you’ll want to visit the La Jolla Cove and the La Jolla Coast Walking Trail to see all kinds of coastal creatures!

The beaches in La Jolla are also top-notch for ocean kayaking (where you can go into sea caves!)! There are also tons of opportunities to go snorkeling/swimming, and relaxing.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Looking to be close to town while still having adventures in nature? Check out Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve !

In the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, you’ll find tons of hiking trails (both popular and more secluded), unique foliage specific to this area, lots of wildlife, gorgeous Pacific Ocean views, and lovely corners to find solitude and relaxation.

Some of our favorite things about Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve are the beautiful cliffs, blooming wildflowers native to Southern California, and the Torrey Pines State Beach .

A day use fee to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve costs between $10-25 , depending on what vehicle you drive. The gates open at 7:15AM, though the park is busiest from 10AM-1PM everyday!

Just north of San Diego , Encinitas is another perfect stop on your California coast road trip.

Here, you’ll find lots of great beaches to relax or play, including Cardiff State Beach , Swami’s Beach , and Moonlight State Beach !

For a full stay in Encinitas, take a day at LEG O LAND California (just 15 minutes north of Encinitas in Carlsbad, CA)! You can also stroll through the San Diego Botanic Garden , and grab a bite to eat at the famous restaurant, The Taco Stand .

San Clemente

For cute California vibes, you must stop in San Clemente, California!

San Clemente boasts top-notch relaxation and picnicking at the San Clemente State Beac h . There is also fun hiking/strolling along the 2.3-mile San Clemente Beach Trail , great surfing, epic sunset views on the San Clemente Pier , and tons of cute shops and restaurants.

Orange County Stops

Orange County is the place to go if you’re looking for epic outdoor adventures. From surfing their iconic waves to exploring the gorgeous bluffs and canyon trails, there’s so many amazing places to go in Orange County!

Here are some of our favorite things to do:

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is full of amazing opportunities to hit the beach, explore the coast, and stroll around downtown. With their weekly summer art walks, this is a perfect stop for people who love locally-made goods.

Looking to stay on a budget during your California Coast road trip? Here are some free things to do in Orange County to have fun and save money at the same time!

Newport Beach

Newport Beach is the perfect destination for boutique shops, paddle boarders, and sailboat lovers! 

Looking for a bit more adventure? Head over to “The Wave” which is located at the end of the jetty. This is where giant waves come and challenge even the best surfers – you’re sure to get a show here!

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is the place to go if you’re seeking that iconic California coast culture. There won’t be a shortage of surfers here! Some of the best waves on the entire California Coast are found on Huntington Beach.

Want to experience the waves for yourself? Consider taking a lesson with Toes on The Nose surf school to try out a new skill!  

Los Angeles Stops

Los Angeles is another big city stop along your California Coast road trip. Known for its fame and glamor, Los Angeles features the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame , top-tier restaurants, and hundreds of unique shops, hotels, and attractions.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is the place to go for iconic California fun. Popular for its amazing public pier, this area is full of activities to do on your California Coast road trip. Stop a while and play in the waves, check out the amusement park right on the pier, or grab an ice cream cone and watch the sunset.

There isn’t a bad way to experience Santa Monica Pier!

Venice Beach

When planning your California coast road trip itinerary, be sure to include visiting Venice Beach. This is a classic SoCal beach with tons of popular attractions.

Known for its bohemian vibe, the walkable Venice Beach highlights street performers, a fun pier to walk on and watch the sunset, and unique beachside activities.

The Getty Museum is a FREE museum located in West Hollywood in Los Angeles.

Being one of the largest art organizations in the world, you must visit the Getty Museum! Here, you’ll find both American and European Art, lots of unique architecture, and gardens to spend hours in.

Other Famous L.A. Destinations

Want more to do while in Los Angeles? We gotchu! While in this popular SoCal city, be sure to check out The Broad , Griffith Observatory , Hollywood Bowl , Watts Towers Arts Center , Los Angeles Theater , Los Angeles Conservancy , and Huntington Beach Pier .

Topanga State Park

Topanga State Park is known as the largest state park within a city limit in the US. It is one of the easiest natural attractions to access while in the greater Los Angeles area!

With over 76 miles of trails, Topanga State Park is the perfect place to escape after exploring the big city.

The most popular trails in Topanga State Park include the Eagle Rock/Eagle Spring Loop Trail , Musch Ranch Trail , and Will Rogers Trail .

Not up for hiking? Try biking or horseback riding!

Malibu, California is one of the most well-known cities along the California coastline. It’s known for its big estates and the grand homes of celebrities!

In Malibu, you can also expect a relaxed surf culture in places like Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach .

For jaw-dropping harbor scenes and vintage town vibes, be sure to stop in Ventura, CA!

What makes Ventura unique is their popular Surfers Point at Seaside Park . This is a paved beach pathway lined with palm trees–and easy access to Santa Cruz Island . This is an island located in Channel Islands National Park that has tons of hiking, kayaking, diving, and camping.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of the most picturesque areas along the west coast with cool attractions. It’s often called the American Riviera!

Some of the most popular destinations in Santa Barbara include the Old Santa Barbara Mission and botanical gardens, hiking at Figueroa Mountain or Arroyo Burro Beach County Park , and stopping for a margarita, Mexican food, and epic sunsets at the end of the day.

San Lius Obispo Stops

San Luis Obispo, or SLO, is one of the cutest stops on the California coast with many fun attractions!

Here are some of our favorite activities in San Luis Obispo:

Lompoc Flower Fields

The Lompoc Flower Fields is a stunning area filled with larkspur, stock, and sweet peas.

The best times to see the blooms at the Lompoc Flower Fields are between May and June!

While the fields are privately owned (AKA no trespassing!), you can take pictures from the side of the road. Even better, stop to buy some locally owned fruit stands along the way and enjoy a treat!

The Town of San Luis Obispo

The charming town and greater area of San Luis Obispo has lots of things to do for families, couples, individuals, and friends. It’s almost halfway between San Francisco and L.A.!

While in the area, you can relax at Pismo Beach , go wine tasting in SLO’s wine country , or explore the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail (easy, 4.1-mile trek with 229’ elevation gain) in Montaña de Oro State Park .

Hiking the Bluff Trail and tide pooling near Spooners Cove is another fun stop in SLO. It offers visitors epic views of the California coast!

Big Sur Stops

For a complete road trip up the California coast, you must travel along the world-famous Big Sur Scenic Byway.

Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of coast with some of the most scenic curves and bends along the coast. It’s truly a must-see attraction!

Sunrise at Coastal Pullouts

Along these winding, twisting roads are endless opportunities to pull the car over and capture the roaring waves crashing into the cliffs! Foggy hills, jagged rocks, and dramatic coastlines are around every corner here in Big Sur.

Read More: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip

McWay Falls

If any view can sum up your time on the California Coast, the view of this 80ft tall McWay Falls would be it! 

It’s the shortest recorded trail in the Big Sur area. That makes it a perfect option for families and people who want to quickly stop by on their drive.

Park at the parking lot labeled “Overlook/Waterfall Trail/Pelton Wheel” and head back toward the coast. You cross through a tunnel that goes under the highway, and then have access to the boardwalk view of McWay Falls. Viewing platforms, short walk.

There is no beach access at McWay Falls!

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a wonderful place to explore, that’s marbled with purple sand! However, be caution of the route! The way to the beach is through a winding 2-mile narrow road, so be prepared to squeeze right next to another car to get by one another!

Another popular attraction for visitors in Keyhole Rock. Keyhole Rock which is a natural bridge worn through by the crashing waves.

Read More: California’s Black Sand Beach

Bixby Creek Bridge

Did you know this is one of the most photographed bridges in California?

Built in 1932, this bridge was important to the people of Big Sur because it finally connected communities on either side of the canyon. Before the bridge, people had to drive on an 11-mile old and dangerous coastal road to reach the other side!

There are pullouts available on either side of the bridge and an overflow parking lot on the north/inland side.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Stops

One of the cutest and most charming spots along the California coast is Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey!

There are tons of little shops, art galleries, and cafés in these towns. Here are some of our favorite attractions in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos Natural Reserve is located just south of Monterey, California. This area is widely referred to as the “crown jewel” of California state parks. This is because of its focus on natural preservation, miles of trails, and gorgeous coastline. Because of its proximity to larger cities and right off Highway 1, this place is an easy getaway for visitors to be immersed in nature.

You can explore See Monterey’s website for things to do at Point Lobos like as hiking, bird watching, diving and other activities!

Natural Bridges State Beach

For excellent bird watching and places to explore marine life, check out Natural Bridges State Beach!

At Natural Bridges State Beach, you’ll see grand sea stacks along the compact, sandy beach, tide pools that are perfect for curious kids, and lots of wildlife.

Just 10 minutes north of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, CA is another charming town in Central California.

In Monterey, the most popular attractions include visiting Cannery Row. It actually inspired John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row , and the Monterey Bay Aquarium .

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

For a romantic date with your beau or fun day with the family, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk –an amusement park set right along the sandy beaches of Central California!

Admission to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk starts at $40 (though you can often find deals!), and hours are typically 10AM-10PM in the peak summer season.

Shark Fin Cove

Be on the lookout for this spot before the small town Davenport, California because it can be easily missed! There is no sign indicating the cove’s location, just a large pull out on the coastal side of Highway 1! You can park your car free of charge right off the road on a cleared dirt area.

After a brief walk across old train tracks from the “parking lot”, you can stand on the cliffs above to get a dramatic view. There are walking paths to see the “shark fin” from many perspective, and all are unique and beautiful, in our opinion.

You can also choose to climb down to to the bottom to explore on the beach. The beach access is a steep but manageable trail, and we enjoyed an empty beach with the early sunset. Be careful not to enter the natural arch on the far left side of the beach. Loose rocks often fall from the top (we saw it happen!) and standing under when that happens could be extremely dangerous.

Read More: What To Expect At Shark Fin Cove – Davenport, California

Davenport Pier

This is located not even a mile away from Shark Fin Cove. The Davenport Pier was once used for the village of Davenport, but only the concrete base remains intact. Park at the Davenport Beach parking lot to view it from the cliffs about.

The route down to the actual beach is dangerous, so use your best judgement when deciding to make the descent. Here is a helpful article that explains the area and what you might expect here!

San Francisco Area Stops

San Francisco–like many big cities–is a bustling area full of unique places, diverse people, and lots to do!

We’ve narrowed down some of the best stops in San Francisco for you to add to your California Coast road trip itinerary:

Gol d en Gate Bridge

Who doesn’t love a classic? While traveling along the California coast, you must stop at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for pictures and to enjoy the view of the bay and Alcatraz.

Just 30 minutes from the city center, this stop is one of the most convenient along your entire road trip!

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is another one of those iconic San Francisco stops you must take while traveling along the California coast.

Here, you can explore the wharf, rent a bike , go shopping , eat at any of the amazing restaurants, visit local galleries and museums , and more!

Want more activities like this? Check out Pier 39 –a popular pier on the ocean that offers visitors tons of fun activities, shops, restaurants, and experiences!

About 40 minutes from San Francisco, Muir Woods was named a national monument in 1908 after the well-known naturalist, John Muir.

Within Muir Woods, you can hike the Canopy View Trail, which is a great hike that takes you right under big redwoods!

IMPORTANT: Muir Woods has very specific parking requirements, and you must reserve a spot in advance , so be sure to plan ahead before you go as walk-ins are prohibited.

Bolinas Ridge

Bolinas Ridge –a mountain in Mt. Tamalpais State Park –is one of the most popular hiking destinations for visitors and locals alike!

You can summit Bolinas Ridge for yourself on the Bolinas Ridge Trail , which is a 21.9-mile trek with 2,470 feet of elevation gain.

One of the best things about this area is that you can hike it or bike it, take as much or as little time as you’d like, and enjoy the scenery of Central California all the while!

Stinson Beach

Found on Bolinas Bay, Stinson Beach is a great way to stop and have a picnic while driving along the California coastline.

Here, you can look for critters in tide pools with the kids, relax with a book and drink on the beach, or explore the nearby town.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the most unique stops along the Pacific Coast Highway , as it’s known as being one of the “foggiest places in North America,” has lots of hiking, is perfect for camping overnight, and has tons of epic hiking trails .

Some of our favorite hikes (among many more !) in Point Reyes National Seashore include the Laguna Trail Coast Trail Loop (6 miles), Tule Elk Road Tomales Point Trail (9 miles), and Elephant Seal Overlook Trail (0.5 miles).

Northern California Stops

While making your way up to Northern California, you’ll want to make sure to visit these popular attractions:

Just north of San Francisco, Bodega Bay is a must-see stop on your California coast road trip.

Known for its hiking around Bodega Head –which also has epic whale watching–and easy access to the beachside Doran Regional Park , this area is perfect for nature-lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Near Bodega Bay, you can also take a spa day at the OSMOSIS Day Spa Sanctuary , stay at The Lodge at Bodega Bay , or hike around the bay on the Shorttail Gulch Trailhead .

Sonoma Coast State Park

North of Bodega Bay, you’ll find the stunning Sonoma Coast State Park –a natural area full of great hikes, epic Pacific Ocean views, and fun beaches to explore. It’s the perfect place for families or solo trips!

Within Sonoma Coast State Park, you can go horseback riding on the Bodega Dunes trail system , hike the Kortum Trail (easy, 9.3 miles with 912 feet elevation gain), and go beachcombing on the rugged, sandy beaches.

Shelter Cove – Black Sands Beach

With a coastline of over 20 miles and unique black sand, the Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove is one of the coolest beaches in Northern California!

One of the best ways to experience Black Sands Beach is on the Lost Coast Trail –a 24.6-mile trek that offers visitors a unique coastal wilderness hiking adventure and sightings of classic coastal wildlife.

Not up for hiking? This area is perfect for tide pooling and enjoying the natural wildflowers!

Fort Ross and the Fort Ross State Historic Park is a great place to experience the wide variety of stories, cultures, and natural history of the area. The primary people group that inhabits the land have been the Kashia Pomo Indian Tribe . Russian colonizers (1812-1842) and the Ranch era (1842-1972) changed the primary inhabitants, then the area became a protected resource as a State Historic Park.

You can learn more about this area’s rich history at the park’s Visitor Center !

Mendocino is another unique coastal area in Northern California that has lots of things to do on the California coast.

While in the area, you should explore the Mendocino Headlands State Park , peruse the Water Gallery , and walk through the Cypress Grove park .

Eureka! While the name might have a silly history , it also means “I have found it!” with a connotation of discovery. Eureka, California is no exception, as there’s lots to discover in this California coastal town!

While in Eureka, be sure to check out the town’s local stores , explore the Victorian-era Carson Mansion , stop at Stinky Beach (which, unlike the name, is not stinky…anymore), and follow the city’s mural map to see unique art from local artists.

Sue-Meg State Park

Directly 30 miles north of Eureka, Sue-Meg State Park is the perfect stop for those who want to camp overnight , hike, or learn more about the culture and history of the area.

One of the easiest ways to experience Sue-Meg State park is by hiking the 3.1-mile-long Patrick’s Point Rim Trail , which starts at Palmer’s Point and ends at Agate Beach.

If you’re staying here for longer, make it a full day and drive along Wedding Rock Road to make the short, steep climb up to Wedding Rock . Here, you can explore North Coast Native American history at Sumêg Village .

Trinidad is one of the best places in California to explore cool beaches, because of the many sea stacks and unique geological features!

While in Trinidad, you’ll want to check out Agate Beach , Trinidad State Beach (where you can also hike the Trinidad Head Trail Loop ), and Old Home Beach !

Whether you want to go on a morning walk on the beach or love seaside sunsets, Trinidad’s beaches are the way to go.

Redwood National Park Stops

Redwood National Park is one of the coolest national parks in the west–and for good reason! 

If you’re not sure what to do while in Redwood National Park, make sure to add these to your list:

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

To travel the 32-mile-long Avenue of the Giants –a scenic drive through some of the largest redwood trees in the area–you’ll want to visit Humboldt Redwoods State Park !

Open year-round, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the perfect place to vacation and get a taste of Northern California magic.

We suggest stopping by the visitor center , admire the 300-foot-tall trees on the Gould Grove Nature Trail , walk along the fallen Dyerville Giant , and take a dip in the South Fork of the Eel River .

Fern Canyon

The Fern Canyon Trail is one of our favorites in Redwoods National Park and is a Northern California gem. With tons of plants, cool lighting, and enchanting vibes, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale when hiking along the Fern Canyon Trail!

The Fern Canyon Trail is a short 1-mile loop that’s perfect for all levels.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

The expansive Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is one of the best state parks in the redwoods area, as it has over 75 miles of hiking trails, great camping spots , and epic views of Northern California’s world-famous redwood trees.

There’s also tons of resources for kids , making it a perfect stop on your family road trip!

While visiting Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, you might even catch sight of a herd of Roosevelt Elk.

NOTE: Permits/day-use fees are required in some locations in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, such as Gold Bluffs Beach .

Tall Trees Grove

One of the best hiking areas in the greater Redwoods National Park is the Tall Trees Grove .

You can park at the trailhead parking lot and reach the Tall Trees Grove on a 4.5-mile round trip backcountry hike with a total 1,600 feet of elevation gain.

Permits are required to visit the Tall Trees Grove , but they’re easy to get online and FREE! You must reserve your permit 24 hours in advance of visiting the Tall Trees Grove.

California Coast Road Trip Conclusion

Alright, you’ve made it all the way across Highway 1 and 101 on a California Coast road trip! Want to keep driving? Read our guide on the best Oregon Coast road trip route, and even continue to Washington with our Olympic Peninsula road trip route !

We hope you enjoyed our post and happy travels!

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Follow Our Pacific Coast Road Trip Board on Pinterest For More California Road Trip Ideas!

Best Places to Visit in California: Top 25 Locations

Here are the 25 best places to visit in California including the top locations both inland and on the coast. I’ve explored this state for several years, continue to do so and the list in this post is the most updated one.

Here are my 25 best places to visit in California (the summarized list):

• Fort Bragg.
• This awesome lookout on the Coast Highway Lookout.
• Redwoods State Park.
• Sunset Cliffs Cave.
• Russian Gulch.
• Monterey Beach California.
• Shark Fin Cove Beach.
• San Francisco Bay.
• Muir Woods.
• Fern Canyon.
• Channel Islands National Park.
• Mount Shasta.
• Joshua Tree National Park.
• Pinnacles National Park.
• Yosemite National Park.
• Lake Tahoe.
• Sequoia National Park.
• Angeles National Forest.
• Death Valley National Park.
• Kings Canyon National Park.
• Pyramid Lake.
• Pacheco State Park.
• Natural Bridge near Chanchelulla Peak.
• Castello Di Amorosa (castle and winery area).

I’ll be mentioning where each location can be found, but I have organized this list in the following order:

• The first 12 are more on the California Coast (it used to be 10, hence that picture).
• The next 13 are more inland California.

I’m someone who looks for the most beautiful nature areas, so whether I explore them and add them personally or you know of any beautiful spots in the California (coast or otherwise), let me know below!

The first 12 places on this list are in my opinion the best places to see on the California Coast:

It’s what I originally started exploring California for and there are 800+ miles of many different places to see, but here are my top choices so far:

1) Big Sur:

California Coast, south of San Jose.

Description:

Big Sur is about 40 miles long and has many areas within it worth seeing. For nature, we have these top things to see in Big Sur as well as other activities you can do. One of my main goals in visiting the California coast the first time I went there was to see Big Sur because some say it has the best nature areas all fit into one region, in all of California.

I will say that is a strong argument after seeing it for myself (twice). In any case, I recommend exploring at least the 5 areas in Big Sur that I believe have the most beautiful areas in it and you can see them all in a day. Additionally, Big Sur has one of 5 best scenic drives in southern California I recommend taking.

2) The famous Glass Beach in California:

Fort Bragg, 3 hours north of San Francisco on the California Coast.

The main attraction of Fort Bragg isn’t really it’s nature, but the Glass Beach it holds that drives a lot of tourists there. I’ve visited the Glass Beach in California three times and while I liked the actual glass beach, I learned that there was a ton more things to see and do there (which I included in a specific post above on Glass Beach).

Additionally, if you travel a little bit north of Fort Bragg, you’ll cross a place called the Pudding Creek Bridge, which is beautiful to explore as it has a large bridge over it called Pudding Creek Trestle. During sunsets, this place is very photogenic and I will personally be making plans to photograph this iconic spot on my next trip through Fort Bragg!

3) This amazing lookout California Coast overlook called Coast Highway lookout:

About 10 miles north of Fort Bragg.

One of the main benefits of being on route 1 on the California Coast is all the stops available and some of them aren’t even well know, such as this one I found.

Details on where to find it: I couldn’t even find the name of it on Google maps, but it’s located right near Coast Highway Lookout (1 kilometer south of it) and it is a one of the best scenic drives in northern California that I have seen. It’s also located about 20 minutes north of Fort Bragg if you need more references. But anyway, not only does it have a beautiful lookout to see the sunset with, but there’s also hikes to the beach and other beautiful scenery to explore.

4) Redwoods State and National Park (the giant trees):

This specific area is close to the Southern Oregon Coast border (about 1 hour south of it).

Until I entered California State for the first time in 2017, I had no idea this was the same state that had the famous giant trees, which aren’t just Redwoods, but also Sequoias (there are big differences between Redwoods vs Sequoia trees by the way) , but when I discovered that it was, I had to go and visit it! And as it just so happens, it is located right on the California coastline.

In fact, you’ll find tons of Redwoods north (and south) of Fort Bragg as you travel further and further north of it ( see a list of the best places to see Redwoods here ), and the epicenter of where most of these trees can be found is in the Redwoods State (and National) park.

I highly recommend going there during a weekday and during off season, because you just might be the only one there to enjoy the beauty, views, and air and more. There is something truly breathtaking about being in the Redwoods and being able to enjoy them yourself. It felt surreal for me when I did it the first time.

5) Sunset Cliffs Cave:

Near San Diego (California Coast).

If you love sea caves and being able to enter them, then Sunset Cliff’s Cave should be on your list. This area is on a beach right by San Diego and it really looks a lot like the Devils Punchbowl area in Oregon I explored.

But it’s easier to walk in through Sunset Cliff’s Cave than it is to Devils Punchbowl in Oregon. Anyway, this spot, as you can see on the picture to the right is very iconic, and it is highly recommended to time your visit here when the sun is about to set (for obvious reasons).

6) Russian Gulch State Park:

30 minutes south of Fort Bragg.

Russian Gulch State Park is a beautiful park with a beautiful beach, giant bridge, sea caves, Redwoods and much more that should absolutely be explored if you get the chance. It’s a small park, but it has a lot to see.

When I was looking for places to see in California’s Coast, an image of this spot came up, but I didn’t discover where it was until the next time I would travel through California. Fortunately, I was able to see this awesome spot recently and I couldn’t be happier.

In many ways, this area looks so similar to the type of stuff you see on the Oregon Coast , and there is a ton to explore there, including sea caves, a beautiful beach, and even a Devil’s Punchbowl. If you have the chance, check out Russian Gulch State Park. It has an awesome scenic drive too around it which I ranked as one of the top best scenic drives in northern California .

7) Monterey Bay on the California Coast:

About 15 minutes north of Big Sur.

Monterey Bay is a popular spot to check out near the Monterey area. But the coastal area there itself is very scenic and has cliffs you can hike near. There’s also a lot of other tourist attractions in the Monterey area worth exploring aside from the coast itself, but for me, it’s a place I have yet to explore personally.

When I first saw a picture of this place, I thought it was in Big Sur, but sadly, I was wrong (it was south of it) but I do recommend you plan your visit to this area too if you plan to explore the California Coast. In short, I recommend you explore this and other areas within Monterey Bay.

8) Shark Fin Cove Beach:

About 15-20 minutes north of Monterey Bay.

I think you can tell why this place is called Shark Fin Cove Beach. In any case, I think it’s gorgeous and has to be on this list! Sadly, it too is another spot I missed on the 3 trips I’ve taken across the California Coast.

Most of my adventures so far on this coastline have been north of Big Sur, and Shark Fin, like Monterey Bay are south of it, so I highly recommend that if you really want to plan a trip across this coastline, to start in San Diego, and map out all of the locations I am giving you here, so you don’t miss any of them like I did. I’m definitely planning to make a future stop here too!

9) San Francisco Bay:

Right under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

San Francisco itself is a very beautiful city and while it has had a lot of troubles, you can’t deny it’s nature is still there and is still beautiful and probably worth visiting and since we’re talking about the coastal areas, San Francisco Bay has to be on the list.

There’s tons of attractions and scenic spots there to see, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and activities to try such as mountain biking and hiking.

One of the most scenic hikes you can do in this region that will give you a great overview of the coastline is passing the Golden Gate Bridge, and going up the mountain right after it, which has scenic drives, and viewing areas to check out.

10) Muir Woods (More Redwoods):

Right by San Francisco.

Muir Woods is one of the most popular parks in California and quite honestly one of the best places to see Redwoods in California overall (there’s also many other great options I included in that link). Muir Woods in this case has many trails for just simple walks, hikes and even trail running.

There are also plenty of other attractions throughout this park and obviously the most notable thing is the Redwood trees there. But overall, if you are visiting San Francisco but want to see some amazing nature spots, I would say the Muir Woods are likely the best and closest option to it.

11) Fern Canyon:

Fern Canyon is close to the Redwoods National and State Park (near Gold Bluffs Beach) I mentioned above and is a beautiful hike in a canyon that has plenty of greenery, a beautiful stream and an overall memorable hike that many people enjoy doing.

It’s a very short hike through a watery trail and it’s absolutely beautiful. In my case, I actually missed seeing this place twice due to GPS issues as there are 2 Fern Canyons and the one you want here is near Gold Bluff’s Beach. 

Note: If you want to know of places that look like Fern Canyon, I’d recommend Oneonta Gorge in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge area. It is still likely closed, but in case it ever opens, I say it’s better there than it is in Fern Canyon.

12) Channel Islands National Park (one of the top California Coast areas to see):

This is an island with an national park. The closest area to it (California Coast) is Santa Barbara.

This is one of the most popular NP’s in California but it requires boating to reach. There are private boat tours and companies which can take you there. But aside from exploring these islands and hikes there, you can also find a lot of sea caves. many exotic fish and other outdoor activities (including underwater) to check out. Views wise, this place looks a lot like Hawaii and some mixes of things you see on the Oregon Coast too.

13) Mount Shasta:

It’s located about 1 hour south of the mid southern Oregon border.

Mount Shasta is one of the most popular mountains in the entire California area and one of the best places to visit for hiking, tourism, and other things. There are alpine lakes and tons of things to do. The good news about this area is that it’s right by Interstate 5 and there is a large town near the mountain to stay at.

14) Joshua Tree National Park:

2-3 hours west of Los Angeles.

I have only been to this park once and explored a hike called the Chasm of Doom at Joshua Tree . I was very impressed with this park because it has a lot of cactus’s, boulder exploration, awesome hikes and amazing sunsets all combined. I plan to return to Joshua Tree but if you’re staying in LA or headed towards Las Vegas from LA, then this is one of the best places to visit in California in either case.

15) Pinnacles National Park:

The closest area to it is Monterey (2 hours from it).

If you like parks and caves, I recommend you visit Pinnacles National Park at least once. That’s what I did and I enjoyed hiking through it’s main areas, which involves nice trails, 2 awesome cave explorations (one wild and another more simple and good for tourists). The park also has great overlooks, trails, camping and more.

16) Yosemite National Park:

In eastern California’s Sierra Mountains.

I honestly believe Yosemite National Park is one of my favorite places to visit in California when it comes to the eastern part of the state (I’ve been there two times). Aside from having many amazing hikes, the best place to check out for first timers is the Yosemite Valley area which you can drive into, and from there find many awesome hikes, trails, tourist spots and tons of photogenic spots as well.

17) Lake Tahoe:

North Eastern part of California (north of Yosemite NP).

This is one of my favorite lakes and it divides Nevada with California. You can literally drive around the whole lake on one road and see different scenery and attractions in each state that’s connected to it.

On the California side, I personally noticed way more attractions with skiing involved and more beautiful towns to stay at and eat while on the Nevada side, you can find a lot of awesome nature spots to kayak and swim in.

18) Sequoia National Park:

Sierra Nevada Mountains too (southern area near Fresno).

After trying for many years to visit this place, I finally got to spend one day in Sequoia National Park in 2022 and it was amazing. This park’s most notable feature are giant Sequoia trees which are even wider and often taller than the Redwoods I have seen.

I saw some of the top spots in this park during my one day trip and share what to see there too. It’s got a very scenic drive, many hikes along that same drive and many Sequoia trees to see everywhere.

19) Angeles National Forest:

Very close to LA.

This is a very large mountain and forest area near LA which has tons of hikes, waterfalls and many amazing destinations (Mormon Rocks, awesome scenic drives and more).

I explored some of this area in 2017 and then in 2021 and have to say that it deserves many more visits because of how much beauty there is, and on top of that many adventures I am looking forward to exploring. It’s right near LA and is arguably the best and closest spot to visit near that city if you’re looking for nature.

20) Death Valley National Park:

South eastern side of California.

In early 2023 I visited Death Valley National Park for the first time with the main intent to just drive through it. It’s gigantic and there are many beautiful views on just the road alone to see, which will take you at least 2 hours to do.

But aside from the drive, there are many hikes, natural bridges and slot canyon trails to see. On top of that, you also have many amazing hiking trails to take you to beautiful overlooks (which you can also see while driving on the main road, whether from the bottom of the park to the highest points there). I would recommend only going to this park during winter because it is known to be extremely hot there.

21) Kings Canyon National Park:

Right by Sequoia National Park.

Kings Canyon National Park is right next to Sequoia and I explored it too. To me, it blends together stuff you see in Sequoia with the beauty you see in Yosemite and it’s one of the many reasons why I loved visiting this park. It is also less crowded than both of them, but at the same time offers a ton of beauty, sights, scenic drives, water hikes and much more to see.

22) Pyramid Lake:

About 2 hours from LA, and right near Interstate 5.

Pyramid Lake is an amazing place that I accidentally spotted while driving from LA to Sequoia National Park. It is basically a reservoir where you can fish, boat, hike, camp and have a great day exploration at.

A buddy of mine and I visited this place (2nd time for me) in 2022, rented a boat for $35 for 2 hours and took it across the whole lake while stopping at popular hikes and other attractions there and it’s an awesome activity to do if you go here (one of many).

23) Pacheco State Park:

Between Monterey and Modesto California.

This is another one of those amazing places in California I accidentally found and in this case, I was just driving through it and decided to stop around sunset time. The key to really enjoying this park is to come here during winter through early spring time and the reason why is because that’s when the green in this place is really noticeable. Mixed together with the fact that this park is beautiful and has amazing hikes and overall stunning scenery, it makes for an awesome spot to see in California.

24) Natural Bridge:

Near Chanchelulla Peak.

There are many natural bridges that I have explored and this one came up on my Google maps while I was driving to Eureka California from Lake Tahoe. There is some driving in remote areas to reach this place but once you do, it’s worth it.

Basically this is a giant natural bridge with a huge cave and river in it that you can walk into and through if you want. The hike from any parking area near it to the natural bridge is only a few 100 feet too. Here is the Natural Bridge area and how to get there. I would recommend an AWD car to get through the last road area that is not on concrete.

25) Castello Di Amorosa:

Very close to Santa Rosa.

There are many wineries in California and Castello Di Amorosa is one of the most popular ones and a top attraction in California overall. Not only is it a winery, but there is also a giant castle there.

You can get a lot of diverse adventures from coming here and while I am personally a nature fan, this specific spot blends together a lot of museum and castle type attractions perfectly with nature to make me want to visit this place.

Popular questions about visiting California:

What cities are in the coastal region of california.

The main cities on the California Coast are San Jose, San Diego, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

What is the California Coast known for?

The California Coast has tons of attractions, beautiful coastal drives and beaches as well as historic locations all throughout.

What is the prettiest place in California?

Big Sur in my experience is one of the most beautiful places to see in California.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in California?

There are many popular tourist attractions in California, and the top ones are Big Sur, Yosemite National Park, Monterey and San Diego.

The good news about these 25 spots (besides their beauty):

I’ve arranged the order of them so the first 12 are the best places to see on the California Coast, while the other 13 are further east so if you’re planning a road trip on the coast, you can try to see all the best places I listed above that are there, whereas if you plan to explore California further east, there are also a lot of spots you can cover.

If you need help planning a road trip to California, let me know which area you want to visit and I’d be happy to share advice on how to plan an itinerary there.

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

Learn More Here

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30 STUNNING & Best Stops On A California Coast Road Trip

Looking to enjoy one of the most scenic drives in the world? A California coast road trip is without a doubt one of the most gorgeous places to take as little or as long of a road trip as you can! With a diverse and dramatic coastline, the stops we suggest fitting in your California coast road trip range from cool coastal cities, scenic parks, small beach towns, and incredible natural wonders of the Golden State, plus highlights at each of the stops!

And better yet, because California has such a comfortable climate, this road trip can be done any time of the year. Northern California, being a bit colder on average than Southern California, still be mild and temperate even in the winter.

The Pacific Coast Highway in California technically starts in Legget in Mendocino County and ends at Capistrano Beach in Dana Point in Orange County. This guide includes stops further south than Dana Point, making it more of an epic California coast drive vs only specifically the California Pacific Coast Highway drive stops, which is noted below. 

For the purposes of this guide, we are going to organize these California coast drive and California Pacific Coast Highway drive stops from North to South.

It would take a month to complete this California coast road trip if you were to make every stop suggested in this guide, so use this to either go all out and plan a month or use this for inspiration to customize and curate your own Highway 1 road trip using our suggestions.

Scott grew up in California and I lived there for a decade! We spent a considerable amount of time traveling along the California coast and it’s just impossible to do it all in one trip. So just know that you will likely want to see more places than you can on this road trip (it’s just a good excuse to come back again!).

We also give options for where to stay along the California coast too. Alternatively, it might be worth renting an RV with a company like RVshare using sites like Hipcamp to find cool RV spots , the California Department of Parks and Recreation to book RV spots at State Parks , or apps like iOverlander which is a great resource for free spots along your road trip too!

Disclaimer: This post contains commissionable links.

Awesome California Pacific Coast Highway Drive Stops

Crescent city.

Starting off the California Pacific Coast Highway drive in the northern part of the state, Crescent City is known for being the place where the redwoods meet the Pacific Ocean. Rocky bluffs with softly crashing waves, traditional lighthouses, and dense forests are what you can expect to see when you stop here.

A few of the best spots to see the giant redwood trees include driving along Howland Hill Road, hike the Boy Scout Tree Trail, and Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park.

One of the best parts about visiting Crescent City is that it’s home to one of the most beautiful lighthouses in California at Battery Point Lighthouse. This picturesque destination is perched on an island slightly offshore of Crescent City. Visitors can make their way over to the island during low tide, and if you happen to be visiting when tours are offered, you can get a guided journey through the lighthouse and up to the lamp room in the tower.

Another cool destination here is the Northcoast Marine Mammal Center, where you can see seals and sea lions that are being cared for by the staff before being released back into the ocean.

Hanging out in Crescent City for a little bit on your Highway 1 road trip is a great way to begin your adventure!

Where to Stay: One of the most iconic places to stay in Crescent City on your California coast road trip is Curly Redwood Lodge , which was constructed from one curly redwood tree! Plus you’re less than a 5-minute drive from Redwood State and National Parks. Book here.

Redwood National Park

Among the top natural wonders in this part of the country are the enchanting redwood trees in the Redwood National Park . Redwoods are known to be some of the most mature and colossal trees in the world. They look almost…otherworldly.

Just about half of the redwood population in the world is located here which is why this is one of the best places to visit in Northern California . The park encompasses Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, meaning there are 200 miles of paths to explore.

So, what can you do at Redwood National Park? You can hike or bike on dozens of paths that will get you up close and personal with the natural beauty of Redwood National Park. You can take a scenic drive through the stunning landscape.

There are several roads, either paved or unpaved, that will give you incredible views of the forest and coastline. Redwood National Park is one of the California Pacific Coast Highway drive stops that you won’t want to miss!

Where to Stay: One of the most iconic places to stay, mentioned above just a 5-minute drive from Redwood State and National Parks is is Curly Redwood Lodge , which was constructed from one curly redwood tree! Book here.

The charming community of Mendocino is known to attract artists and other creative people for its idyllic landscape and pleasant small-town vibe. It’s the kind of place you would expect to see in a romantic comedy, with beautiful scenery, cute cottages, and a perfectly manicured downtown with shops and restaurants.

While you’re here, be sure to traverse the trails, coast, and beaches at Mendocino Headlands State Park. Artists who work with photography or paint have been known to come here due to the beautiful features of the area.

A great place you won’t want to miss is the Historic Ford House , which not only serves as the Visitor’s Center for the park, but it is also a dedicated little museum about the history of the area.

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are nestled right by the ocean and offer a unique and stunning view for a botanical garden. The views of the bright, cheerful flowers are accompanied by the sound and views of the ocean in the background.

Additionally, there are great restaurants in Mendocino, including some wineries and breweries. Make sure to include this city on your list of California Pacific Coast Highway drive stops.

Where to Stay: A gorgeous, coastal stay on your Highway 1 road trip in Mendocino is  Agate Cove Inn , a beautiful B&B perched on a botanical bluff above the Pacific Ocean with access to Agate Beach. Book here.

Point Reyes

Continuing south on your PCH drive is Point Reyes, a stunning spot by the coast. Located in Marin County, a handful of towns comprise the area known as Point Reyes. This is a popular destination, especially for the nearby San Francisco Bay area.

People come here to hike and take in the gorgeous views, as well as kayak near Tomales Bay. One of the popular hiking trails is the Bear Valley Trail, which you can explore by hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

Additionally, Alamere Falls is a breathtaking waterfall right by the ocean, which is quite a sight. But, prepare for quite a trek to get to Alamere Falls, as it is a 13 mile round trip excursion.

With all that being said, the true gem here is the Point Reyes National Seashore. Spanning over 70,000 acres on the Point Reyes Peninsula, this park is a naturally beautiful landmark of the area. At Point Reyes National Seashore, you can go hiking, catch a glimpse of whales off the coast, watch the northern elephant seals during the cold months, and enjoy incredible birdwatching. And don’t miss the insanely beautiful Cypress tree tunnel while you’re here!

Where to Stay: A gorgeous stay on your PCH drive in Point Reyes is  Olema House , a boutique property nestled in the gardens with pet-friendly options, charming cottages, and cozy stays that feel like home away from home with a historic tavern on site. Book here.

San Francisco

One of the most famous cities in California is San Francisco, and it’s known for the Golden Gate Bridge, steep streets, and Alcatraz to name a few of the many remarkable landmarks!

On your Highway 1 road trip, you’ll cut right through the Golden Gate Bridge, arguably San Francisco’s most iconic feature. Golden Gate Park is a great place to cruise around and explore the green surroundings, and visit attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden, the San Francisco Botanical Garden, and the California Academy of Sciences.

Lombard Street is a twisty, turny road that almost has to be seen to be believed, and always one of my personal favorite spots and things to do in San Francisco .

Alcatraz Island is a notable attraction, with this lighthouse site-turned-famous penitentiary offering tours to see where well-known criminals were once held, which is a popular place to take a tour .

And to explore the city’s culturally rich environment, make a visit to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) to see modern and contemporary art. This incredible city is among the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway in California.

This is where many people kick off a California coast drive, often driving from San Francisco to San Diego , which is an option. With bigger cities like this though, you’ll want more than just a quick stop, we recommend checking out our 3 days in San Francisco itinerary to plan a proper visit!

Where to Stay: With a city like San Francisco, there are endless options for where to stay. We recommend Omni San Francisco Hotel located in the Financial District, which is a great base for exploring the city and is pet-friendly if you’re doing your California coast road trip with a furry friend in tow. Book here.

Half Moon Bay

Next up on your California coast road trip is Half Moon Bay, a peaceful and stunning little city. The crescent shape of the area gives the city its name. It’s known for Mavericks, a surfing destination that offers up big waves. In fact, surfers from across the world come here to catch towering waves.

One of the highlights here is Pillar Point Harbor, which looks a whole lot like a coastal New England town. There are restaurants and shops here, and it’s a fun walkable area.

Half Moon Bay’s Main Street has fantastic places to grab some food and do a little shopping, as well as explore some historical spots on the street.

A standout attraction is the Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park , which has one of the tallest lighthouses in the country. It’s near Half Moon Bay, and the lighthouse is still active. Depending on when you visit, you may be able to catch a tour. The surrounding grounds are quietly beautiful, and you can enjoy a brisk breeze while watching seals and whales offshore.

Where to Stay: There are plenty of great hotels around Half Moon Bay including Beach House Hotel on the waterfront of El Granada in Half Moon Bay. The best part, most of the rooms have ocean views and it’s easy to walk along the beach here. Book here.

Santa Cruz Beach & Boardwalk

Keep heading south on your Highway 1 road trip, and you’ll encounter the charming city of Santa Cruz. Dotted with colorful buildings and homes in Capitola Village and all the entertainment on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a seaside park that dates back over 100 years.

The park itself is a State Historic Landmark, and it contains two National Historic Landmarks, the 1911 Looff Carousel and 1924 Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. There are almost a dozen thrill rides that will get you up in the air for amazing views of the surrounding area, as well as mini golf, arcades, laser tag, and bowling.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has free admission, but there is a fee for ride tickets. Additionally, this attraction has classic theme park food, so come prepared to chow down!

Other highlights include the Santa Cruz Wharf, which juts out into Monterey Bay, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where you might see dolphins, otters, sea lions, and whales swimming off the coast. Not to mention the beautiful Walton Lighthouse.

Where to Stay: There are plenty of great options for where to stay overnight in Santa Cruz on your California coast road trip including Sea & Sand Inn which overlooks Monterey Bay Beach atop of a bluff. You’re also just a short walk to the Santa Cruz Wharf here too. Book here.

Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea

Two incredible California beach towns that make for a couple of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway in California are Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea. They are very close together, and each is interesting in its own right.

Monterey is known for its fishing history, and has several attractions that pay homage to that pastime. Cannery Row used to be a hub for the sardine canning industry, and now it’s a waterfront street where these canning factories used to be. Old buildings have been converted into shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Fisherman’s Wharf used to be a wholesale fish market until the 1960s, and today there are eateries, stores, and there’s still marine activity. As far as attractions go, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a terrific spot to check out. It used to be a sardine cannery, and now it is home to more than 35,000 marine animals.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for attracting artists and other creatives for its aesthetic setting, but it may be more well known for having Clint Eastwood as mayor from 1986 to 1988. A bit of trivia about this city is that they have some interesting laws. There are no chain restaurants allowed, and a permit is required to wear high heels with a heel height of more than 2 inches.

Some of the highlights here include Carmel River State Beach, which is a popular place for divers and bird watchers, and Point Lobo State Reserve, which is a great scenic location for hiking and picnicking.

Where to Stay: Many of the lodging options in Carmel-by-the-Sea are set in historic buildings that look straight out of a storybook like the Vagabond House Inn which is in the heart of this seaside town and a great base during stop on your California PCH road trip. Book here.

The next destination on your California coast drive is a well known treasure on the west coast. Big Sur is known for its breathtaking scenery, wildflowers, and exaggerated and staggeringly beautiful landscape. Highway 1 goes right through Big Sur, so as you’re traveling on the Pacific Coast Highway, you will be led right to this attraction.

The Bixby Bridge is an iconic part of this area. It’s over 260 feet high, and over 700 feet long, and construction on this bridge dates back to 1932. The Bixby Creek Bridge View Point gives you a straight-on view of Bixby Bridge, and you’ll want to have your camera ready to snap some photos.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is another place to check out. It’s a great place to get out and stretch your legs, as this is a great place to go hiking. In particular, the Overlook Trail is fantastic for exploring and getting great views of Big Sur. You won’t want to miss McWay Falls while you’re here, it’s a dramatic 80-foot waterfall that flows into the ocean on the beach! This is one of the things to do on the Pacific Coast Highway in California that is a can’t-miss destination.

Where to Stay: One of the coolest stays on this guide has to be Glen Oaks Lodge which is a converted mid-century motor lodge that’s been modernized with amenities but still has all the charm and character of the original property. This rustic stay offers cozy cabins and cottage-style rooms with fireplaces and streamside seating.  Book here.

Pfeiffer Beach

After exploring Big Sur, the next California Pacific Coast Highway drive stop is Pfeiffer Beach. It is actually situated in Big Sur, and reflects the beauty of its surroundings. Two prominent features that Pfeiffer Beach is known for is Keyhole Rock and purple sand.

Keyhole Rock has a “keyhole” arched opening that waves and rays of sunshine burst through, and it’s a popular spot for photographers to shoot.

The purple sand found on certain parts of the beach is produced from manganese garnet rocks in the cliffs. Other activities you can partake in include photography, walking the beach, and exploring the tide pools and dunes.

Be sure to check out the sub-alpine forests, chaparral, desert badlands, and riparian areas in the Los Padres National Forest. Pfeiffer Beach is located within the forest, and it is the third largest national forest in the state.

You can go camping, hiking, take a scenic drive, go OHV riding and camping, do some horseback riding, go on a beach walk, see the wildflowers, and have a picnic.

Where to Stay: Since this is so close to Big Sur, we are still recommending Glen Oaks Lodge for exploring this part of your Highway 1 road trip in California. Book here.

San Luis Obispo

Continuing on your PCH drive, you’ll come across the delightful community of San Luis Obispo. Known for historic architecture and vineyards, this tourist destination has great places to explore.

Bubblegum alley is a street in the downtown part of the city where people place their chewed gum on the walls. Dallidet Adobe & Gardens dates back to the mid-nineteenth century, and was constructed by the first commercial vintner in the county. It is a great place to walk the paths and enjoy the plants and greenery.

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art displays pieces from California artists, and is a lovely way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture. There are also a good selection of restaurants where you can enjoy a glass of local wine.

Make sure to check out Morro Bay, a city by the coast near San Luis Obispo. It’s known for Morro Rock, an enormous old volcanic heap at the end of the beach.

Another cool attraction and one of the best things to do in San Luis Obispo is visit Hearst Castle at San Simeon. Publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst had a hand in designing the estate, and it dates back to the early to mid twentieth century.

Today, you can visit the castle and get tours of this magnificent property. San Luis Obispo is a great addition to the itinerary on your California coast drive!

Where to Stay: When you’re on the central section of your California Pacific Coast Highway drive there is no way you can pass through this area without at least stopping, if not staying at the iconic and historic Madonna Inn . This historic-themed hotel has unique rooms, some are covered ceiling to floor in pink, blue, or green to rooms are built into rocks and look like caves! Plus you’ll want to dine in their over-the-top pink dining room and save some room for one of their world-famous cakes! Book here.

Pismo Beach

For unique things to do on the Pacific Coast Highway in California, head to Pismo Beach. Known for wineries, beaches, and the Monarch butterflies that migrate to Pismo Beach during the fall and winter, this is a mellow stop off the PCH where you can get into interesting activities.

There is Dinosaur Caves Park, which has trails, coastal overlooks, and open grassy areas. People come here to walk, take photos, or go fishing, and you can also watch birds, seals, and sea lions. There’s the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where you can view the migrating Monarch butterflies, which is quite a sight.

And for the wine aficionados, there are regions just half an hour outside of Pismo Beach where wine is made, and restaurants in the city carry these local varieties. So, be sure to grab a glass or two of wine while you’re here!

Where to Stay: Spending the night in a hotel with ocean views is a must during your Highway 1 road trip and a great spot to do that in Pismo Beach is at the Shore Cliff Hotel . This is a great base for wine tasting, relaxing in your room witih ocean views, and enjoying their beautiful pool with ocean views. Book here.

One of the more unique California Pacific Coast Highway drive stops is Solvang, otherwise known as “The Danish Capital of America”. It’s visually interesting, with Danish-style architecture, as well as a good number of wineries.

There are terrific eateries in the village, where you can indulge in some delicious Danish pastries and interesting shops that you can pop in and browse.

The Elverhoj Museum of History & Art showcases the history of the city, and contains national and international pieces of art. The Old Mission Santa Ines is aesthetically quite beautiful. And taking a ride on the trolley is a fun way to experience this city.

Solvang is on the more unique side of things to do on the Pacific Coast Highway in California, and certainly worth a visit! And if you happen to be here around the winter holidays you’ll love how charming the town is this festive time of year. Just make sure you watch Sideways again before stopping on your PCH road trip!

Where to Stay: When stopping in Solvang on your Highway 1 road trip you’ll want to stay in a hotel that fits the entire Danish town! The Mirabelle Inn is an elegant European-style stay (with a half-timbered style building) complete with its own private winery on site. Not to mention, it’s in a great location in Solvang! Book here.

Santa Barbara

Some of the best things to do on the Pacific Coast Highway in California can be found in Santa Barbara. Known as “The American Riviera”, this tourist and resort city features Mediterranean architecture and serene energy.

Casa Del Herrero is a National Historic Landmark and showcases Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture and flourishing gardens. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center is an interactive aquarium where you can explore multiple exhibits.

And to take advantage of Santa Barbara’s gorgeous scenery, get outside! Popular outdoor activities at the city’s beaches and parks include hiking, biking, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, fishing, horseback riding, and sailing.

Oh, and don’t forget the incredible wine-tasting scene around here whether you’re visiting the tasting rooms in the Presidio District or the Funk Zone, or you can explore out and beyond the city center to wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley. Stop and explore Santa Barbara on your PCH drive!

Where to Stay: There are plenty of amazing hotels in Santa Barbara whether you stay for one night or use this as a base to explore Central California on your California Pacific Coast Highway road trip. For a more quaint stay, check out Hotel Milo Santa Barbara which has beach access, a pool, and a hot tub for guests! For a bit more of a splurge, check out the 5-star stay at Hotel Californian , a luxury stay with a rooftop terrace, a poolside bar, and gorgeous rooms.

Cruising along on your Highway 1 road trip, a stop in Ventura is well worth your time. Known for its beaches, Ventura has several spots that are terrific for enjoying a little time by the ocean.

Ventura State Beach at Ventura Pier is appropriately nestled right by the pier and promenade. At Pierpoint Beach at South Seaward Avenue, it’s close enough to restaurants that you can walk and grab a bite after being out in the sun. And saving the coolest for last, Marina Beach has a pirate ship!

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Ventura , you can easily spend a few nights here exploring the area and using it as a base to visit the Channel Islands National Park too.

There are also great hiking and biking trails. Rincon Bike Trail goes twelve miles from Ventura to Carpinteria, and the Ojai Valley Trail is 19 miles one way and leads to downtown Ojai.

Additionally, the Working Artists of Ventura (WAV) is a place where artists live and work, and is a cool place for the community to visit. Ventura is one of the coolest places to wander around on your California Pacific Coast Highway drive.

Where to Stay: For a really unique stay on your PCH road trip, check out Waypoint Ventura , an entire ‘hotel’ made up of restored vintage campers! They have an entire fleet with a cliffside location complete with views of the ocean and Ventura Pier, firepits, corn hole, bikes, and BBQ areas! Each trailer is unique, so it will be tough to pick which one to stay in! Book here.

Often referenced in pop culture is Malibu, the coastal city known for celebrity homes and idyllic Los Angeles beaches . One of the highlights is the Getty Villa, one of the best museums in Los Angeles that resembles a Roman country home. It has Greek and Roman art, as well as stunning outdoor gardens.

A fun attraction for wine lovers is Saddlerock Ranch, which has vineyards with caves, and they offer Malibu Wine Hikes. Malibu Pier is the spot for restaurants, shops, fishing, and boat excursions.

And to get a beach fix and put your toes in the sand, hit up one of Malibu’s several beaches. Some of the best ones include El Matador State Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach, Malibu Surfrider Beach, Las Tunas Beach, and Zuma Beach & Point Dume.

Malibu has some great options for things to do on the Pacific Coast Highway in California, be sure to read our full guide to best things to do in Malibu for more ideas.

Where to Stay: One of the most beautiful hotels to stay at in Malibu is the Surfrider Hotel located directly across from the Malibu Pier, so you can’t beat the location or the views. Not to mention the rooms are absolutely stunning at this luxury stay. Book here.

Santa Monica

One of the more recognizable city names in SoCal, Santa Monica is one of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway in California. This beachy city has a lot going on! And the heart of the action is at the Santa Monica Pier, which is probably what the city is most known for. It has an amusement park with rides, an arcade, street performers, stores, and restaurants. There are always lots of people, lots of lights, and lots of activity.

The Santa Monica Pier also has the End of Route 66 sign, whose original purpose was to signal that Route 66 ended at that point, otherwise you would keep going into the Pacific Ocean.

Palisades Park is another one of the best things to do in Santa Monica and a fun place to go, with art installments to check out, views of the Santa Monica Bay, and the famous Camera Obscura attraction.

And the Original Muscle Beach is a unique attraction since onlookers look on as bodybuilders use the outdoor equipment and flex their athletic skills. Be sure to also take the beach bike and walking path down to Venice Beach while you’re here too!

Where to Stay:   The Georgian Hotel is one of the more charming accommodation options in the area, it’s a historic 4-star beach hotel dates back to 1933 and was dubbed Santa Monica’s First Lady built in a beautiful combination of Romanesque Revival and Art Deco aesthetics. Book here.

After leaving the Los Angeles area, continue on your PCH drive to the coastal city of Long Beach. Waterfront attractions reign supreme here, like the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach is a fantastic destination to explore.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is the largest aquarium in southern California. It has more than 100 exhibits, and focuses on the Pacific Ocean, Northern Pacific, Southern California/Baja region, and Tropical Pacific.

The Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner and museum ship, and it’s a super fun spot to check out. There are tours, including haunted excursions around the ship, and you can also enjoy a meal onboard.

The Long Beach Museum of art is another great place to check out. They have American and European Art, as well as permanent and rotating exhibits. The East Village Arts District in downtown Long Beach is a cool place to explore, with Art Deco architecture and an array of independent shops and restaurants. Your California Pacific Coast Highway drive should definitely include a tour of Long Beach!

Where to Stay: Speaking of the Queen Mary , you can actually stay aboard this historic vessel! We highly recommend booking a night here during your epic PCH drive! Book here.

Huntington Beach

The next city on your Highway 1 road trip is known as “Surf City USA”. Huntington Beach is the quintessential southern California community with aa famous surfing culture. It’s also where Scott was born and raised (and we both lived here before moving to New York City).

At Huntington City Beach and Huntington State Beach, you can watch experienced surfers ride the waves. Huntington City Beach is where the annual US Open of Surfing is held. For a lazy beach day, pack your towels and sunscreen and head over to Huntington State Beach.

Huntington Beach Pier is one of the longest piers on the West Coast. On a clear day, you can see Catalina Island, Newport Beach, Long Beach, and San Pedro from the pier, and you can even fish off the dock.

Another great spot is Bolsa Chica State Beach, which is near Huntington Beach and you can walk over to the preserve and bird watch. You can surf, play volleyball, get into watersports, surf fish, lay out in the sun, and watch the wildlife.

An 8.5 mile paved trail connects Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach, so you can easily get to two attractions in the area. This is one of the best California Pacific Coast Highway drive stops to explore SoCal’s surfing culture, check out more of our picks for the best things to do in Huntington Beach to plan your stay.

Where to Stay: In the heart of Huntington Beach,  The Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort is a great option for where to stay on this leg of your California Pacific Coast Highway road trip. With oceanview options and a daily complimentary wine happy hour, you can’t beat this location. Plus they allow guests to use all their loaner beach gear!  Book here.

Newport Beach

As you’re cruising along on your PCH drive further south, make sure to peel off at picturesque Newport Beach. Known in particular for its idyllic harbor, where you can see rows of boats and sea lions frolicking, this community is perfect for a fun and relaxing time.

Aside from Newport Harbor, one of the best things to do in Newport Beach is make a visit to Balboa Island. It’s a scenic community by the water, and you get there by riding the Balboa Island Ferry. If you’re familiar with the television show Arrested Development and know its lore, the frozen bananas made famous by the show are sold at a shop on Balboa Island.

Then, wander around Marine Avenue, which is filled with cute shops and restaurants. Other Newport Beach highlights include whale-watching tours, where you have the possibility of seeing gray whales, humpback whales, finback whales, and giant blue whales.

Fashion Island is a well-known shopping destination in the region, and it has an assortment of shops, dining, and a movie theater. Newport Beach is a fabulous place to peel off for a bit on your California Pacific Coast Highway drive.

Be sure to hit up the beaches too, Newport Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County along with gorgeous multi-million dollar homes right on the sand. 

Where to Stay: Newport Beach Hotel is a great boutique hotel property located steps away from the sand and Newport Pier on Balboa Peninsula with complimentary bicycle use to cruise the beach bike path on for guests!  Book here.

Crystal Cove State Park

You won’t have to travel too far to get to another one of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway in California, Crystal Cove State Park. Located in Newport Beach, this state park includes over 3 miles of coastline, canyons, and beach houses.

It’s situated off the Pacific Coast Highway, between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach. So, what kinds of activities can you get into at Crystal Cove State Park? Hike the bluffs, enjoy a beach day, and check out tide pools. The inland portion of the park has 15 miles of trails, 2,400 undeveloped acres, and you can explore the area by hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The coastal portion has a 2.5 mile paved trail along the top of the bluffs where you can walk and bike.

At the beach here, you can go swimming and surfing, and enjoy the seclusion and peacefulness of the surroundings.

And don’t miss dining at the Beachcomber restaurant right on the sand here. Come for lunch or enjoy a fancier dinner. There’s also a bar here and if you eat at the restaurant you can validate your parking at the lot above.

Laguna Beach

If Laguna Beach isn’t best known for the early aughts show of the same name, it’s known for being one of the most famous communities in Orange County. It’s got all the quintessential SoCal features, like palm trees, constant sunshine, and social activities centered around the beach.

And, unlike larger cities in Orange County that have a lot of hustle and bustle, Laguna Beach just has a slower and calmer pace, which is why I loved living here so much when I did.

Other than being known for its namesake show, Laguna Beach has quite the art scene. Laguna Beach prides itself on being an artist colony, and you will find art classes, public art, galleries, and art festivals to dive into.

Additionally, outdoor adventures include hiking and biking the picturesque city, and exploring the coves and tidepools. Laguna Beach is the perfect spot to spend an ideal day in Southern California, so this should definitely be on your itinerary of best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway in California. Don’t miss our picks for the best beaches in Laguna Beach either!

There are also some stunning beaches in Laguna Beach as well as tons of awesome things to do in Laguna Beach you’ll want to read up on!

Where to Stay: For a great place to stay check out La Casa del Camino is located right on the PCH. You not only have access to a small beach but you’re easily able to walk downtown, to more beaches, and tons of restaurants and shops. Book here.

One of the more lavish beach towns you will encounter on your California Pacific Coast Highway drive is Dana Point. Known for luxury resorts and spas, fishing, and pristine beaches, this is the place to enjoy a lush experience.

Dana Point has the title of the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World, so it figures that whale-watching tours and this Whale Watching Excursion are a big deal here. Embarking on such an excursion means you may get to see dolphins, whales, and sea lions!

Another one of the most popular things to do in Dana Point and water activity is sportfishing, where you will have the opportunity to catch tuna, halibut, seabass, corbina, mackerel, and rockfish close to shore. Or, farther out from the shore, there is yellowtail, bluefin tuna, dorado, bonito, and sand bass. Fishing charters are the best way to go sportfishing.

To get out and enjoy the scenery, the Dana Point Headlands Trail and Conservation Area is a 3 mile path that connects several conservation parks in the area. Some of the best features here are the overlooks that have views of the Pacific Ocean. And lastly, since Dana Point is known for their luxury resorts, book a spa treatment to really pamper and treat yourself!

Where to Stay: Known for its luxury resorts, a great place to pamper yourself and get a bit of well-deserved R&R on your PCH road trip is by staying at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort, a AAA Five-Diamond status resort. Just about anything you could ask for in a luxury resort, you will find here; a deluxe spa, wellness activities like aerial yoga and floating meditation, a challenging golf course, picturesque pools, pristine tennis courts, and incredible restaurants. Book here.

Technically this is where the Pacific Coast Highway in California ends, at Interstate 5 in Dana Point. So beyond this stop heading south, these are just cool California coast road trip stops down to the last 65 or so miles to San Diego.

Additional Southern California Coast Drive Stops

San clemente.

Heading southbound on your California coast road trip, you’ll come across a welcoming coastal city with Spanish colonial-style architecture. San Clemente, known as the “Spanish Village by the Sea, has ocean and mountain views, and a pleasant climate.

It’s a beautiful place to roam around and enjoy a peaceful day and there are quite a few cool things to do in San Clemente that make it worthy of an overnight stay. Especially if you’re wanting to explore Orange County and don’t want to stay at an $$$$ luxury hotel just a further north in Dana Point.

The San Clemente Pier is a great place near all the action. It’s right by the entrance to San Clemente Pier Beach, so after you’re done checking out the pier, you can head down to the sand. And there’s several dining options on the San Clemente Pier, so if you get hungry, there are great restaurants to grab some fresh food.

The San Clemente Beach Trail takes you by beautiful natural landscapes, as well as populated areas with shops. Take in gorgeous views of the surroundings, feeling the ocean breeze, while walking on this path. And if you’re in the mood to do check out some local stores, Avenida Del Mar is a shopping hotspot. Browse the various shops, and enjoy a drink and a meal at one of the local restaurants here.

Where to Stay: The Sea Horse Resort with an ocean-view room located right along the beach in San Clemente. What’s nice about this stay is that you’re walking distance to downtown and the beach and the rooms are incredibly spacious. Guests can enjoy the garden terrace that overlooks the ocean too. Book here.

Continuing on your California coast drive, pull off at one of the most underrated places to go in Southern California in Carlsbad. Known for beaches and attractions, Carlsbad is the place to visit for fun and sun. In particular, it is a fantastic family-friendly city.

Legoland California Resort has over 60 rides, plus shows and other attractions. There is also an adjoining waterpark and aquarium. If you have kids traveling with you, this is a must-do activity. Be sure to  book your Legoland California theme park tickets  in advance!

Around the city, you’ll find standup paddleboarding, surfing, golfing, go-karts, and skating. When you’re ready to hit the sand, there are several beaches to choose from. Tamarack State Beach is great for swimming, surfing, scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, and beachcombing.

It’s also known for incredible sunsets, and is known to draw crowds to watch the sunset. South Ponto Beach is one of the widest beaches in Carlsbad, and it’s in an undeveloped area, making you feel like you’re in a more secluded spot.

Colorful doesn’t even begin to describe the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, another one of the best things to do in Carlsbad . Spanning 50 acres, you will see vibrant hues of ranunculus flowers, and get to partake in wagon rides, get lost in a maze, and explore the greenhouses and themed gardens.

Where to Stay:   Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach is a gorgeous 4-star resort located right by the beach with rooms featuring a balcony overlooking the ocean, and enjoy their loaner bicycles, and beach accessories like chairs, umbrellas, and towels. Book here.

Getting deeper into southern California on your California coast road trip, the city of Encinitas really embodies the SoCal lifestyle. Beaches and surfing are what this community is known for. So of course, you have to hit up the beaches when you’re here!

Moonlight State Beach is named after a local favorite activity of having midnight picnics in the early 1900s. This beach has fire rings, which is exactly what you would want to have to grill food for a barbecue and heat up some s’mores. Another great beach is Swami’s, which is an internationally known surfing spot. And, it is ingrained in music history, as it was mentioned in “Surfin’ USA” by the Beach Boys.

Switching from beach activity, the San Diego Botanic Garden has almost 4,000 types of plants. The exhibits you can explore include rare bamboo groves, an undersea succulent garden, and a subtropical fruit garden. And a bit of trivia about Encinitas is that they are the world’s leading grower of the poinsettia! Be sure to check out all the amazing things to do in Encinitas .

Where to Stay:

The  Surfhouse Boutique Hotel  is a cute independent property that offers different sizes of rooms if you’re traveling with family or a group located steps away from Leucadia Beach in Encinitas. This laid-back modern beachy hotel also lets guests borrow loaner beach cruiser bikes so getting around is a breeze!  Book here.

Solana Beach

The beachy vibes should be getting really strong at this point in your California coast drive, and the perfect city to stop at is Solana Beach.

Sun, surf, and being a generally walkable coastal city are what Solana Beach is known for. Fletcher Cove is the main beach here, and it feels like a secluded getaway. This is a great beach for swimming, surfing, and kayaking, and there is also a park on site with lawn areas to sprawl out.

Pertaining to the walkability of the city, most shops and restaurants are within a 30-minute walk from Fletcher Cove Beach. Tide Beach Park is another fantastic spot to check out. Here, you can partake in surf fishing, go snorkeling over the reef, and explore the tide pools.

When you need a break from the sun, head over to the Cedros Design District. It’s a shopping destination that features acclaimed designers, restaurants, and boutique agencies. From art and interior design to fashion and beauty, and specialty gifts, there are all kinds of stores to scope out.

Where to Stay: Technically located in Del Mar, near the famous racetrack, Del Mar Beach Hotel is a great option if you’re wanting to stay right on the beach and close to dining! Book here.

As you near the final stop on your California coast road trip, make sure to stop at the coastal city of La Jolla. Known for beaches, and beach-centered activities, this is the place to break out the swimsuit and sunscreen.

At La Jolla Cove, the waters are protected, and you will find vibrant garibaldi, yellowtail, rays, and leopard sharks underneath the surface. So, you can get in and swim with them, or grab your snorkeling gear and watch them swim by. Diving is also a popular activity here. La Jolla Shores is a calm, wide beach that is perfect for an easy day of enjoying the sun and sand.

Either beach is great to visit, but if you’d like to see both, you can take the La Jolla Walking Trail. It connects La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores, and makes for a pleasant and scenic walk.

Getting away from the beaches, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a gorgeous swath of land that has incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. There are many easy walking paths, so you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy this spot. You will be treated to views of sandstone, succulent plants, and wildflowers as you traverse the terrain. Torrey Pines is a great, scenic way to connect with the city.

Where to Stay: One of our favorite hotels we’ve ever stayed at in Southern California is in La Jolla! The Pantai Inn is located steps away from the views at Rocky Point and less than a 5-minute walk to many of the beaches and main attractions and things to do in La Jolla . Book here.

The last stop on your California coast drive is the warm and welcoming city of San Diego. Fantastic weather, sunny beaches, and fun activities are what this city has in store for you.

San Diego’s most famous beach, and perhaps one of the best beaches in the country, is Coronado. This sparkly, pristine beach is accompanied by charming shops and scenic restaurants. This is also where you can stay at the historic and iconic Hotel del Coronado .

Old Town San Diego is basically a one stop shop for dining, parks, historical attractions, and nightlife. You could easily spend hours here checking out everything Old Town has to offer.

The Gaslamp Quarter is the place to come for dinner and entertainment. Get some cocktails and appetizers, then walk to a nearby venue for live music or a comedy show.

Don’t miss all the fun things to do at Balboa Park either including the world-famous San Diego Zoo, museums, shops, hiking trails, and more! 

And with like any larger city, there’s so much to do and see here, we recommend spending a few days around the city and using our 3 days in San Diego itinerary to help you plan your trip as well as our guide to the best things to do in San Diego . And now you’ve hit all the best stops on your California coast road trip!

Where to Stay: There are so many cool places to pick for where to stay in San Diego , but if you’re looking for an iconic stay we still recommend the historic Hotel del Coronado.

Bookmark this guide to the California PCH and the best California coast drive stops for later or share below on Pinterest!

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The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

last Updated: March 27, 2024 big sur california carmel central coast half moon bay highway 1 Los Angeles monterey orange county pismo beach road trip san francisco santa barbara santa cruz santa monica solvang

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Planning a California coast road trip?! Taking a drive down the PCH?! You’re in the right place!  I’ve got loads of info for you!

A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer. 

From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on the California Coast. 

Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel, you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. Let’s get this Pacific Coast Highway road trip under way!

Being one of the most scenic drives in the world (and rightfully so), I advise you to take your sweet time to really savor all the charming beauty of this west coast road trip down California.

And before we go into it, if you’ve got even more time in California and you’d like to visit a few spots off the coast, check out my latest post: 45 (Extremely) Beautiful Places in California   (opens in new tab, don’t worry!) << lots more itinerary inspiration for your California road trip!

Recommended Route down the California Coast

• Stop 1:  San Francisco, California
• Stop 2:  Half Moon Bay
• Stop 3:  Santa Cruz
• Stop 4:  Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Stop 5:  Big Sur
• Stop 6:  San Simeon
• Stop 7:  San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach
• Stop 8:  Solvang
• Stop 9:  Santa Barbara
• Stop 10:  Ventura  → Channel Islands
• Stop 11:  Malibu
• Stop 12:  Los Angeles/Santa Monica
• Stop 13:  Anaheim
• Stop 14:  Orange County
• Stop 15:  San Diego

ALL 75 of my favorite PCH stops RIGHT over here ! There’s tons of ideas in this California coast road trip itinerary, but those are my absolute favorites.

Note that the number of stops you’ll be able to make highly depends on how much time you have allotted for this California road trip.

Suggested One-Week Itinerary: If you have a week or so for this drive down the California Coast, I recommend a day in SF (depending on whether you’ve been or not), a day in Carmel/Monterey, a day in Big Sur , stopping at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, dune-bashing (if that’s your thing) in Pismo Beach, a day in Santa Barbara, stopping in Malibu en route of LA, checking out the main sights of LA/Santa Monica , then some beach time in Orange County .

Yes , it’ll be pretty jam-packed , but highly doable if you plan your drives correctly. You can really spend an infinite amount of time on the California Coast, so it’s hard to say exactly how long this road trip will take. It highly depends on your interest, how much time you wanna spend in the cities, and how much driving per day you wanna do.

Note that you can drive directly from San Francisco to LA in roughly 6 hours, but this route (via Highway 101 and Highway 5) will take you inland, meaning you’ll miss out on so much of the Central Coast. 

If you’re planning to drive round trip, I highly recommend that you drive South down the coast via Highway 1 – the Pacific Coast Highway , and then venture back up North via Highway 5 and Highway 101. 

You can drive either way (from SF to LA/San Diego -or- LA/San Diego to SF), but I prefer driving South, starting in the SF Bay Area and making my way down to LA/SD.  Pssst: the views are better this way as the car will be closer to the water. 😉

Renting a Car: Since this is in fact a  road trip , you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this California coast road trip itinerary!

I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (it may be worth the extra 6 hour drive back to your original starting point to avoid this pesky fee).

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here !

WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA:

First things first, if you’re not a resident of San Francisco (or LA), you’ll of course need to get yourself there. Since SFO is a major international airport, and a hub for many airlines, you can easily find cheap airfare within the states. 

I swear by  Skyscanner  and  Google Flights , and always always  always  use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two. 

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas of the US with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found  here .

If you’ll be following this  itinerary and heading south (without driving the direct 6+ hours back to  San Francisco ), you’ll want to book two one-way tickets. 1) HOME → SFO, 2) LAX→ HOME. Make sure to search for one-way flights when booking tickets.

Totally your call, but I suggest flying round trip from the same airport so you can avoid one-way drop off rental car fees.

When to Drive Down the California Coast

Keep in mind that the summer months (June, July, and August) are usually rather foggy in San Francisco and down the California coast.  Because of this, some mornings will be pretty damp and misty.  For best weather and best chance of sunshine, plan for a road trip in either late September or October. 

If summer is your only option, you may get lucky with clear skies, but don’t count on it.  However, with this in mind, the fog usually clears up by mid-morning/afternoon.  Normal summer temps are in the low-60’s to mid-70’s, so bring a jacket and reconsider that convertible!  “May Grey, June Gloom” is a real thing out here.

*All drive times are approximations.  Traffic can be heavy at some points along the drive, and you’ll likely be getting out of your car occasionally to take photos along the way.

Stumped on what to pack for a California road trip itinerary? Check out this ultimate road trip essentials packing guide (opens in new tab)!

What to Pack for your Pacific coast highway road trip (rotate sideways on Mobile)

Now let’s get this California coast road trip planning on it’s way!

California Coast Road Trip Itinerary:

1) start in san francisco.

Ahhh, SF, my favorite city; although technically I’m biased because I chose to move to the city by the bay from NYC a few years ago. 😉

A few San Francisco must do’s include either walking or driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, wandering around Fisherman’s Wharf (and stuffing your face with an ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli’s), getting spooked at Alcatraz Island (go on the night tour!), relaxing with some coffee in Union Square, walking down twisty Lombard Street, and riding a cable car. 

Get some great views at either Twin Peaks or the top of Coit Tower, check out the Painted Ladies, commonly known as the “Full House” houses, and nosh on some sourdough bread, fresh pasta in North Beach, and a burrito in the Mission District.

Other things to do in San Francisco include taking a panoramic night tour of city , cruise around the bay in a catamaran (champagne included!), see the Golden Gate Bridge from above  on a seaplane tour , and taking a day trip to Napa Valley (not to be missed on any PCH road trip !)

Visiting San Francisco for the first time? Read THIS  and THIS .  🙂 And make sure to check out this perfect 3-day SF itinerary !

Beware, parking is not the greatest (and garages are expensive), and public transportation is somewhat lacking.  I’ve lived here for 4 years now and still don’t love touring the city via car.

I recommend playing tourist and taking a full tour of the city  instead of trying to do everything on your own.  Or rent bikes , electric bikes (!!!), or even a really fun (and kind of cheesy) goCar  if you’d prefer to fly solo. Uber is always a good suggestion, and with my discount code  (jessicak148), you can get a few bucks off your first ride!

Read More about San Francisco:

• A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco
• The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List
• Hiking in San Francisco: A Coastal Walk through Lands’ End
• 25 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco
• Best Places to Photograph the Golden Gate Bridge
• Best Desserts in SF (All my Favorite Spots)

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Intercontinental San Francisco (up-scale luxury and fantastic restaurant)
• Hotel Carlton (travel themed and around the block from Mr. Holmes Bakehouse)

2) Half Moon Bay (45 minutes from SF)

Your first official stop on your California coast road trip (unless you wanna make a few stops in Pacifica /Pescadero – I’ve got a whole road trip guide from San Francisco to Santa Cruz here )!  Say goodbye to the city and venture on over to Half Moon Bay, a cozy little seaside village right on the coast. 

You could easily plan a full day’s worth of activities here, but I suggest spending either a morning or afternoon, unless you want to take the plunge and stay at the ever-so-beautiful Ritz Carlton . 

A few must do’s: go for a stroll on one of the many beaches that dot this area of the coastline (my favorites: Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar), wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street, walk the coastal trail, and indulge in a lobster roll from Sam’s Chowder House.

Read More about Half Moon Bay:

• The Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay
• 12 Reasons to Love the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
• All My Favorite Beaches in Half Moon Bay

3) Santa Cruz (1 hour from Half Moon Bay)

Drive a bit further on Highway 1 and you’ll reach Santa Cruz, where I suggest stopping for a few hours .  Walk on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, ride the Giant Dipper and/or the Ferris Wheel right on the beach, and stop for a snack or two (churros and funnel cake are my favorites).  You can also head to Shark Fin Cove if you’re looking for a unique beach!

Also, don’t miss the Mystery Spot, which I won’t give away for obvious reasons, and make sure you try Marianne’s before heading out (the absolute BEST ice cream in the area).

Read More about Santa Cruz:

15+ Things to do in Santa Cruz

4) Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea (45 minutes from Santa Cruz)

Next up on our Pacific Coast Highway road trip – Monterey and Carmel! California is just full of sweet little seaside towns, and this area, despite being rather touristy, is definitely one to stop at. 

Monterey and Carmel are only a few miles apart, and I highly suggest spending the night in either of these towns (Monterey being the more affordable option) while on your California coast road trip.

A few recommended activities and bites: bundle up on a whale watching tour , indulge in clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s wharf, walk around Cannery Row, and spend a few hours at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (included in the San Francisco CityPASS if you’ve gotten it previously).

Don’t miss a walk around the charming little town of Carmel, cruising around the area in a Sea Car , watching the sunset at Carmel Beach Park, and stopping at the viewpoints along the 17 Mile Drive. 

On our most recent visit, I couldn’t stop raving about the food, with my favorites being the Monterey Crepe Company, Red’s Donuts, and The Poke Lab.  I really should make an-depth guide to Monterey soon!

Read More about Monterey/Carmel:

• Why I Want to Move to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
• Monterey and the 17 Mile Drive

Where to Stay in Monterey:

• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa (located on a golf course!)
• Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row (wonderful location)
• The Monterey Tides Hotel (right on the beach!)

5) Big Sur (50 minutes from Monterey)

Next up: Big Sur , famous for a reason and many people’s favorite stop on this California coast road trip itinerary. Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. 

It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the coast. 

With this being said, plan to drive down the coast and consider setting up camp/hotel in another location, unless you want to fork over some big bucks for a luxury hotel.  I recommend everyone spend a bit of time in Big Sur on a California coast road trip (at least half a day)– it’s too remarkable to miss!

You’ll be stopping on the side of the highway so many times you’ll lose count – the coast line is just that spectacular!  It’s known for its winding turns, seaside cliffs, and breathtaking views of the often misty coastline. 

A few must-do’s here in Big Sur : see McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, wiggle your toes in purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach (yes, parts of it really are purple, I was surprised too…), marvel at the Bixby Creek Bridge, and check out all the views from Point Lobos. OH, and if you’re visiting between February and April, definitely find the hidden blooms at Calla Lily Valley !

Read More on Big Sur

• A Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Big Sur (Super Duper Beautiful Luxury Spots)

• Post Ranch Inn  (cliff-top hotel with a gorgeous spa)
• Ventana Inn  (luxe wilderness resort, with lots of privacy)
• Hyatt Carmel Highlands  (overlooking Big Sur)

6) San Simeon (2 – 4 hours drive, depending on how many stops you make in Big Sur)

Did you think you’d be stopping at a castle on your California coast road trip?  When I first learned about Hearst Castle, I was mesmerized.  Being a historic landmark on the coast, tours do fill up in advance, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time . 

First time visiting?  Sign up for the Grand Rooms Tour – and that’s exactly what you’ll see – plenty of spectacularly ornate rooms, plus lots of time to explore the absolutely stunning grounds. 

Non-negotiable on any California Coast road trip, in my opinion.  Be sure to look out for the zebra on the side of the highway as you enter/leave.  Bizarre, opulent, and oddly satisfying.

And while you’re in the area, make sure to stop at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, a popular spot to observe elephant seals with its own boardwalk and viewing areas. 

The best times to visit the rookery are in late January, late April, and late October, but visits are encouraged year round.  Have you seen an elephant seal use their large, inflatable noses to make noise?  It’s pretty wild!

7) San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach/Morro Bay/Paso Robles (45 minutes from San Simeon)

So there’s kinda a lot to do in this little area – so best to pick and choose your favorites (if not, you can easily spend a whole week here!). 

In SLO (what locals refer to as San Luis Obispo), sip pink drinks at the Madonna Inn , stuff your face with bbq are Firestone Grill, blow bubbles at the Bubble Gum Wall in downtown, and grab donuts at SLO Donut Company (SloDoCo). All my favorites, and I can’t image an afternoon not doing any of these.

Looking to stretch your legs?  Opt for the Bluff Trail at Montaña de Oro State Park, a 3.4 mile round trip relatively flat path with (better-than-okay) ocean views.

Thought Napa/Sonoma were the only wine countries in California? Winos – you’re in luck.  This part of your California coast road trip (in Paso Robles ) features over 100 wineries, and deciding which to visit is the hardest part! 

The DAOU Vineyards gets constant praise, and with it’s wonderful wine, olive oil, and views, it’s hard to beat!

Want someone else to take you around? Probably a good idea if you’ll be drinking lots of wine! Hop on a full-day hop-on, hop-off wine tasting tour (yes, they exist!) and you can choose your own itinerary in Paso Robles Wine Country.

Or take the easy way out and let someone else decide for you on this  Ultimate Wine Experience in San Luis Obispo (foodie lunch and 3-5 wineries included!).

You need to include a dune buggy ride on Pismo Beach on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip ! One of the most epic things to do in this area! More info on that here . Nowhere else in California can you drive a vehicle on a public beach!

Before getting to SLO, you may as well make a pit stop in Moro Bay. If the weather cooperates (always a gamble over here), you’ll be rewarded with views of the giant monolith. Be sure to walk around the nearby beach to find sand dollars, and grab a cinnamon bun from one of the local bakeries.

If you’re thinking of stopping here for the night (or have had too much to drink…), consider staying at no other than the wildly famous Madonna Inn .  But be sure to save your breakfast appetite for SLO’s legendary Big Sky Café.  Oh, and there’s always beach time as well if the weather cooperates.

8) Solvang (1 hour from San Luis Obispo)

A bit in-land, but well worth the few miles off the highway.  This cute little area will feel as if you’ve been transplanted to a Danish village, with authentic Dutch bakeries and international cuisine.  Worth a quick pit stop, for the pastries alone (try the aebleskiver – pancake puffs). 🙂  

Stroll the village to spot Danish icons including the Little Mermaid Fountain, a handful of historic windmills, the giant red clog, and Round Tower.  There’s also two historic churches to check out, Old Mission Santa Ines and Bethania Lutheran.

Looking for something a bit more active? See the unique architecture of the only Danish city in The West via segway tour ! They are so much fun and an easy way to get around!

9) Santa Barbara (45 minutes from Solvang)

An absolute must-stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip !  Here in Santa Barbara – dubbed the American Riviera – you’ll find widespread beaches and a truly relaxed atmosphere. 

Downtown you’ll find Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, which accurately reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage.

And the food! Oh, the food here! Consider joining a historic Santa Barbara Food Tasting Tour  to get a true feel for what the locals love here (hint hint: includes Northern Italian dishes, gourmet cheese, local wine and handcrafted chocolates… yum).

Rather take a beer tour? Sign up for the  Self-Guided Santa Barbara Lagoon Loop Craft Beer Trail  (yes, it’s a thing down here).

Don’t miss Old Mission Santa Barbara, a historic church known for its beauty, a panoramic view of the city from the Clock Tower observation deck of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and the Santa Barbara Public Market. 

Save some time for Stearn’s Wharf and then beach it up, you deserve it!  If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m all about that ice cream – satisfy your sweet tooth at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams (worth the wait and then some).

And whatever you do, don’t leave Santa Barbara without taking a surf lesson  (<– reserve your spot now, as they can fill up pretty quickly during the warmer months).

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara:

• Inn by the Harbor (romantic and Mediterranean two blocks from the waterfront)

Recommended Tours in Santa Barbara:

• El Paseo Wine and Photo Tour
• Santa Barbara Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• Santa Barbara Funk Zone: Food and Photo Tour

10) Ventura for Channel Islands National Park (40 minutes from Santa Barbara)

Usually not very common on a ‘traditional’ California coast road trip, but I couldn’t leave this destination off the list.  In Ventura, be sure to check out Mission San Buenaventura, Olivas Adoble, and Oxnard Beach Part. 

This vibrant town is the unexpected spot to make your way to Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast via ferry, plane, or private boat.

Take a break from the crazy urban life and go for a hike on the Channel Islands, literally!  The park is comprised of 5 islands and their surrounding mile of ocean, so it’s best to decide beforehand where and what to go/do. 

Head to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island for some of the best views of the National Park, and/or you can snorkel/dive/kayak in Landing Cove (Anacapa Island) or at Scorpion Anchorage (Santa Cruz Island).  If you’re on Santa Cruz Island, be sure to check out Cavern Point, which provides a spectacular view after a short hike.  You can even go whale watching around here!

FYI – there is NO transportation available on the islands – you have to either walk, kayak, or cruise around via private boat.  Bicycles are not allowed.  Plan a day trip here from Ventura to get your nature fix.

Recommended Channel Islands Tours

• Channel Islands Full-Day Private Sailing Trip

11) Malibu (50 minutes from Ventura)

Just the name “Malibu” sounds exotic and beachy to me.  Here on your California coast road trip you’ll find wide stretches of beaches, celebrity homes, and The Getty Villa (which is said to be absolutely stunning). 

But Malibu is more than just that, including stunning canyons, horse ranches, waterfront restaurants, acres of land, and lots and lots of hiking trails. You can also take a private surf lesson if you missed out in Santa Barbara!

A few spots not to miss: Paradise Cove (the only restaurant you can actually drink on the beach), Geoffrey’s Malibu for a wonderful lunch view (get some fresh seafood here!), Point Dume Beach (you’ll always see dolphins!), Malibu Pier, a tour of celebrity homes , and wide and sandy Zuma Beach, known for its excellent surf. 

Don’t leave without some gelato from Grom Gelateria, the absolute best of the best! And if you’re a sucker for fantastic views like me, don’t miss out on a Malibu scenic airplane tour ! Your pictures will be epic, I promise!

12) Los Angeles/ Santa Monica (50 minutes from Malibu)

I highly suggest you spend at least 2-3 days here as there is just SO much to do .  You’ll want to divide your time between Downtown LA (DTLA) and Santa Monica/Venice Beach, with possible other stops to make as well.  

After checking out all the necessary tourist hot spots , you’ll have more time to envelope yourself in the “true” feeling of Los Angeles. Promise me you won’t miss a Warner Brothers Hollywood Studio Tour !

In DTLA , I highly suggest the Broad Museum (FREE, but usually a long wait time), getting an egg sandwich at Eggslut, The Last Bookstore, macaroons at Bouttega Louie, and culture and snacks in Little Tokyo.

Don’t feel like walking? Take a segway tour of DTLA ! Don’t feel like figuring out public transportation? A hop-on, hop-off bus of the LA area is always the way to go!

In Santa Monica and Venice , be sure to check out the Santa Monica Boardwalk (ride the ferris wheel and/or the coaster during sunset), Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice Canals, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

In addition, you can’t miss the Urban Lights exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)!  You’ll find pretty cool murals all around the area as well if that’s your type of thing (it most definitely is mine)!

Hike in the Hollywood Hills , take an airplane tour of Santa Monica and the coastline , go on a tour of some movie stars’ homes ,

Read More about Los Angeles/Santa Monica:

• The Ultimate SoCal Guide: 25 “Very LA” Things to do in Los Angeles, California
• The Perfect Way to Spend A Day (or Two) in LA
• The Cool Girl’s Guide to LA: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Los Angeles/Santa Monica

• The Orlando Hotel (middle of West Hollywood and lots of great Mexican nearby!)
• HI Hostel (perfect for solo travelers, and around the block from the beach)

13) Anaheim for Disneyland (45 minutes from LA)

Disney lovers will enjoy this spot for sure, but just for the record, Disneyland is not as large and/or “wow!!!!” as Disney World.  I had a Disney-fanatic-friend visit Disneyland a few months back and she was not impressed to say the least. 

Save this stop if you’ve never been to the location in Florida, or if you can’t stand not to check it out for yourself.  Regardless, you’ll have a grand ol’ time on the rollercoasters and indulging in all things Mickey.

A few parks to check out (click to buy tickets): Universal Studios Hollywood , Disneyland Park , Adventure City, and Disney California Adventure Park.

I highly recommend getting these theme park tickets in advance to by-pass any super-long lines and spend more time in the parks. You’ll save yourself lots of time, that’s for sure!

• Universal Studios Hollywood 1-Day Ticket with Options
• Anaheim: Disneyland Resort 1-Day Entrance Ticket

14) Orange County: Huntington Beach/Newport Beach/Laguna Beach (35 minutes from Anaheim)

This stretch of coast is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and should not be missed if your itinerary has you driving down to San Diego (or even as an extra stop from the LA/Ahaheim area). 

Here you’ll find manicured beach towns, a hell of a lot of beautiful people, and even more beautiful stretches of sand with mesmerizing sunsets. 

The beaches are plentiful, but my favorites include Huntington Beach , Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach, all within a few miles of each other.  We recently spent a bit of time in San Clemente , and fell in love with the town! Don’t miss gelato at Gelato Paradiso and the views from Heisler Park and Dana Point.

You won’t want to skip “The OC” on your California coast road trip – I can promise you that!

Read More about Orange County/Southern California

• My Birthday in Sunny Southern California
• 4 Days in Huntington Beach: Everything You Need to Know
• The Complete Guide to San Clemente

Want to extend your PCH road trip?!

1) GO FURTHER SOUTH! You could choose to venture even further south to San Diego, as there’s lots and lots to do! Watch this space for updates and more information on California, including best things to do in San Diego as well!

2) START UP NORTH! Interested in starting this Pacific Coast Highway road trip a bit north of San Francisco? Check out the drive from San Francisco to Mendocino , highly recommended in my opinion if you’ve got a few more days to explore! A weekend in Mendocino is the perfect way to start your trip! And if you’re looking for some redwoods, you’ll find lots around here !

3) HEAD ALL THE WAY TO SEATTLE! Yes, it’s possible! If you have ample extra time, say another week (or more), check all these stops on a San Francisco to Seattle road trip ! Crater Lake and donuts, anyone?!

Have you ever take a California coast road trip?!  Is taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway on your bucket list?!

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July 30, 2020 at 5:32 pm

Totally agree! I added Santa Barbara last minute to my road trip and you are so right – you don’t want to miss out on this city. The weather was as close to perfect as you can get. It really makes you want to spend as much time outside as possible.

If you are looking for bike rentals I would suggest Cal Coast Adventures as they offer tons of biking options. Beach cruisers to mountain bikes – they really have it all!

Another bucket list item I was able to check off was learning to surf with Santa Barbara Surf School. The instructors were so knowledgeable about ocean life and safety and I stood up on my first wave.

It was an experience I’ll never forget. Can’t wait to make my way back to Santa Barbara!

October 20, 2020 at 8:22 am

I wanted to thank you for all your great advice and suggestions. My husband and I decided to take a spontaneous 4-day weekend road trip down the PCH. We flew in to San Francisco from Minneapolis and, thanks to your posts, were able to experience some amazing sights. We flew in later in the day, so we stayed in Pacifica for the night. We were right on the beach and saw our first California sunset there! I rolled my eyes at your Taco Bell suggestion (in a another post), but we decided to try it (as my husband is a Mt. Dew lover!). What a fun experience … a Mt. Dew margarita, a Grande Burrito and an awesome ocean view!!

The next day we started our journey down 1 and made it from Half Moon Bay down to Santa Barbara and then back up to San Francisco. We had a fabulous experience, thanks to both beautifully sunny, warm October weather and your insight and suggestions (on this post and several others). We packed in a lot, but it was a trip of a lifetime and made more special with your help!

November 15, 2020 at 7:04 pm

Hi Alison – so glad you had such a special trip! I absolutely LOVE the PCH and California in general so I'm so happy my posts were helpful! Hope you get back to CA sooner than later! And yes – we love that Mountain Dew marg, haha!

December 22, 2020 at 12:11 am

Great itinerary and very nice hotel recommendations. I really enjoyed reading this. On stop #10, Ventura, consider stopping by the Hollywood Beach Salon – Spa – Boutique for some relaxation overlooking the beautiful Channel Islands Harbor!

January 18, 2021 at 1:05 pm

I also want to golf at Pebble

January 19, 2021 at 10:23 am

That would be such an experience! It's on my husband's bucket list for sure!

January 22, 2021 at 7:15 am

Hi, I live in Westminster near Anaheim and am going to visit my daughter in Monterey from 2/5-2/7. This is a short trip. I am thinking take the fastest route there and on the way back make short stops at some of the places you recommended. I will have my 3 kids with me in their 20s and possibly my Australian Shepherd. I was wondering what you recommend? The trip back has to be done in one day. I'm a little nervous about driving to since I tend to get lost lol. Thank you

January 22, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Hi Mary! I recommend stopping in Paso Robles, Morro Bay, and San Luis Obispo. These 3 spots are all so different from each other and aren't too far apart. Morro Bay is on the coast (look out for adorable sea otters), Paso has delicious wines (just make sure they aren't take out only right now), and SLO is a fun town to walk around (don't miss the bubble gum wall!).

Also, I'd opt to take the 101 (and NOT highway 1) driving down from Monterey to Paso since the drive from Monterey through Big Sur to Cambria is literally on the side of a cliff and takes forever.

Have fun!!!

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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 .

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30 Best Central California Coast Attractions For Visitors

With warm weather year-round, the California coast is an ideal location for exploring any time of the year . If you’re planning a trip to the coast, in this guide we share first-hand knowledge of all the best Central California Coast attractions!

As California locals, these are all places that we have personally visited and keep returning to over and over again. From charming beach towns to rugged landscapes and endless hiking trails, there is so much to see and do in this region.

This list covers all the best locations on the Central California Coast from Malibu all the way to Santa Cruz (in order from south to north). Let’s get started!

Thinking of renting a campervan or RV to travel around California? We recommend using our favorite van rental company Outdoorsy . Outdoorsy offers thousands of recreational vehicle rentals from popular cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more. Check out Outdoorsy here !

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, may I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!

30 Best Central California Coast Attractions:

1. el matador state beach.

Located just north of the bustling Los Angeles city, Malibu offers a peaceful getaway on the coast. This wealthy beach town is known for mega-mansions, lots of outdoor hiking trails, and the scenic El Matador State Beach .

El Matador State Beach is a public beach located off Highway 1 that travels next to the coast. This stunning beach features ocean cliffs with jagged, towering rocks scattered along the sandy shoreline .

The unique setting makes this beach an excellent place for photography, especially around sunset and sunrise!

I use the Sony a7c camera for my travel photos. This is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera available on the market – perfect for traveling, hiking, and road trips – while still maintaining the same incredible image quality as Sony’s full-frame cameras.

Ventura is a cozy Central California Coast town and happens to be our home for the past several years. Despite being a small beach city, there are so many incredible things to do in Ventura !

Ventura is best known for having beautiful beaches, a charming downtown area with lots of restaurants & breweries, scenic hiking trails, and of course world-class surfing. Some of the best surfing spots in California can be found in Ventura County.

Ventura also boasts excellent day picnic sites at the San Buenaventura State Beach . At this beach, you can head on a walk or a bike ride along the Ventura Beach Bike Trail down to the Ventura Pier and beyond. Be sure to stay for an epic sunset at Surfers Point at Seaside Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf, book this Ventura Surf Lesson ! During the surfing lesson, the experienced instructors will teach you how to stand up on the surfboard, find your balance, and ride waves to the shore.

3. Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park is the place to go if you’re seeking epic outdoor adventures away from the busy tourist crowds. Planning a trip to the Channel Islands does take a bit of effort as you will need to make boat reservations ahead of time .

Channel Islands National Park consists of five islands:

• Santa Barbara

These islands can only be reached by a private boat or by booking a ride through Island Packers Cruises . Anacapa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa are the most popular islands for visitors.

I’ve been to Santa Cruz Island as a day trip before and it was truly a remarkable experience! We rented kayaks through Channel Islands Kayak Center in Ventura that we brought on the boat with us to kayak around the sea caves.

After, we spent a couple of hours hiking along rugged cliffside trails with stunning views all around. If you’re looking for incredible California Central Coast day trips, it doesn’t get better than this!

4. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of the best attractions in Central California. This beach town draws big crowds year-round for its charming boutique stores, delicious restaurants, pristine beaches, and top-rated hotels.

You can spend the day walking down the Stearns Wharf , visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786 , go shopping along State Street and grab food & drinks in the Funk Zone .   

Santa Barbara County is also home to over 280 wineries and produces some of the best wines in California. It’s the perfect place to take a wine-tasting tour of the Santa Barbara wine country to sample some of the wines made here!

5. Los Olivos

Visiting the small town of Los Olivos is one of the most romantic things to do in Central California. This charming town is home to over 25 wineries and tasting rooms offering the perfect place to relax and unwind for couples on a weekend getaway.

Most of the wine-tasting rooms are located within a couple of city blocks so you can easily walk around and try out a few different spots. Some of the most popular wineries in Los Olivos are:

• Carhartt Family Wines
• Saarloos and Sons
• Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard (10 minutes north of town)

Solvang is an interesting Central California tourist attraction. This little town is situated between Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach so it’s a great stop for those on a road trip along the Central Coast.  

Solvang is a unique town with Danish-style houses and businesses . From picturesque windmills to fun Octoberfest events, pastry stores, and charming boutique shops, the entire town focuses on attracting tourists and visitors.

Not sure where to start? Book this Solvang Food and Photo Tour that will take you to all the best foodie spots in town while learning more about Solvang’s history!

7. OstrichLand USA

Stopping by OstrichLand USA is a unique thing to do on the Central California Coast, especially for families with kids. At this destination, you can pay a small fee and see ostriches and emus up close in a ranch setting .

For an additional $1, you can even purchase bird food to feed the big guys. Just be sure to watch your fingers as some of the birds can get a bit aggressive when eating!

OstrichLand is open to visitors every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entrance costs $7 for adults, $3 for kids (under 12), and $5 for military. After your visit, you can stop by the gift shop where you can check out souvenirs to bring back home.

8. Oceano Dunes

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a few hours, head over to the OHV Open area – Oceano Dunes SVRA just south of Pismo Beach town! This open space allows off-roading in cars and ATVs amongst giant oceanfront dunes .

If you don’t have a car that you feel comfortable taking into the dunes, we recommend renting an ATV or UTV from one of the rental companies in Pismo Beach. This is what we did on a previous visit and had such a blast riding a 2 seater UTV up and down towering sand dunes!

We rented a UTV from the popular Steve’s ATV Rentals on Pier Avenue nearby. You can also check out availability and pricing from Arnie’s ATV Rentals and Sun Buggie Fun ATV Rentals across the street.

9. Pismo Beach

As California locals, Pismo Beach is a place that we keep returning to over and over again!

This coastal town has an array of fun outdoor adventures including camping, hiking, surfing lessons , and ocean kayaking. Pismo Beach also offers lots of opportunities for relaxing and lounging on the sunny shoreline.

A few of the top places to visit in Pismo Beach include:

• Pismo Beach Pier . Here you can walk down the wooden pier and watch surfers catch waves in the ocean.
• Pismo Preserve . This outdoor space has beautiful oceanfront hiking trails. Our favorite hike is the 3.4-mile-long Spring To Spring Trail At Pismo Preserve .
• Meadow Creek Trail . This short trail follows a wooden boardwalk next to the ocean dunes with stunning views along the way. It’s flat and easy making it a great place to go for a leisurely stroll for families with kids and dogs.
• Old West Cinnamon Rolls . I can’t visit Pismo Beach without stopping by Old West Cinnamon Rolls . This family-operated bakery has been selling THE BEST cinnamon rolls since 1972 (the long lines out the door speak for themselves!).

Read Next: 20 Top Things To Do On a Weekend Trip To Pismo Beach

10. Monarch Butterfly Grove

Pismo Beach offers some of the best opportunities for viewing Monarch Butterflies on the California Coast. At the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove , you can stroll around and explore a eucalyptus grove where butterflies seek shelter in the winter months.

We recommend visiting Monarch Butterfly Grove grove from October to December when you might see thousands of butterflies resting together in the eucalyptus trees. This is one of the few groves in California that often receives over 10,000 butterflies per season!

11. Dinosaur Caves Park

Dinosaur Caves Park is one of the top things to do on California’s Central Coast with kids. This 11-acre oceanfront park features a playground, easy walking paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities making it a great spot to visit for families.

Take a walk along the bluffs, enjoy the scenery, and see a variety of bird species that live on the jagged ocean rocks just off the shore. This location also features restrooms and is dog friendly, so it’s a great stop for those on a road trip along the coast.

12. Avila Beach

Situated slightly north of Pismo Beach, Avila Beach is another wonderful location for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular attractions in Avila Beach include the oceanfront Smugglers Cave , Cave Landing , and Pirates Cove Beach (clothing optional).

If you have extra time on your hands, I highly recommend hiking the Ontario Ridge To Shell Beach Bluff Trail . This loop is only 3 miles long with stunning coastal views from up top. There’s even a picture-perfect swing that hangs off an oak tree with the sparking ocean as the background!

After, stop by the Avila Valley Barn to browse through local products, grab a sandwich for lunch, and pet the adorable farm animals.

13. San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo (or SLO) is a wonderful Central California Coast city for relaxing getaways. SLO is situated slightly inland between Pismo Beach and Morro Bay so it’s a little less crowded than the nearby beach towns.

San Luis Obispo is a great place to visit for the day as a stop on a road trip or as a weekend mini-vacation. A few of the most popular attractions in the city include Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa 1772 , the famous Bubblegum Alley , and Irish Hills Natural Reserve .

SLO is also home to the quirky Madonna Inn where each of the unique rooms is decorated with a different theme!

Just a short drive from the city you can visit charming local wineries including:

• Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards
• Edna Valley Vineyard
• Tolosa Winery and many more!

Read Next: 12 Best Hikes In San Luis Obispo County, California

14. Montaña de Oro State Park

Montaña de Oro State Park is a hidden gem just south of Los Osos town near Morro Bay. This oceanfront State Park offers quiet campsites at the Islay Creek Campground along with beachfront hiking trails.

Covering over 8000 acres of land, Montaña de Oro is one of the biggest State Parks in California yet it’s very much under the radar for most travelers. Here you can enjoy solitude away from the crowds, beautiful seaside scenery, and miles of hiking & mountain biking trails.

15. Morro Bay

Morro Bay is the perfect Central California coastal destination for those who want to be close to the beach, yet get away from big tourist crowds. This low-key town is a great place to head for beachfront camping, hiking, and mountain biking enthusiasts.

Whenever we come to spend a few days in Morro Bay, we like to stay at the Morro Bay State Park Campground . There are also lots of great hotels in Morro Bay with ocean views if camping is not your thing!

A few of the top things to do in Morro Bay include hiking the Black Hill Trail , visiting the towering Morro Rock , and indulging in fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants situated along the Embarcadero shopping strip.

A few of the most popular seafood eateries in Morro Bay are:

• Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant
• Great American Fish Company
• Giovanni’s Fish Market And Galley

16. Morro Bay T Pier

Popular for its stunning views, Morro Bay also offers some of the best places for viewing wildlife in California!

Morro Bay T Pier is situated along the Embarcadero road and extends like a T shape out into the ocean creating a calm habitat for wildlife, especially sea otters . Sea otters typically stay near marinas and nature preserves where they can find plenty of kelp forests and seafood to munch on.

Depending on the time of year, you can see from a few to several dozen sea otters floating in the Morro Bay marina. Due to calm water and abundant food options, the Morro Bay T Pier has become a popular place where you can observe sea otters with their young pups resting on their bellies ( is there anything cuter than this?! ).

17. Cayucos

Cayucos is a hidden little gem of a town that most people don’t even know about in California! Here you can visit the Cayucos Pier , hike at Estero Bluffs State Park , and swim, surf & layout in the sand at Cayucos State Beach .  

If you want to get away from the crowds while enjoying stunning ocean views, we recommend hiking the Cass Hill Trail in Cayucos . We’ve done this hike a couple of times and the views from the summit are just gorgeous!

18. Cambria

Cambria is a picturesque area on the Central Coast with stunning landscapes. Charming boardwalks, rugged ocean views, and diverse ecosystems make Cambria a great place to enjoy nature and observe wildlife in California.

For first-time visitors, I highly recommend spending a few hours hiking at the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve . Here visitors can often spot whales, seals & otters, and head down to the beach to explore tide pools from the trails that travel next to the bluffs.

Cambria also has a small, charming downtown filled with cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and wineries.

Read Next: 17 Best Places To Stay In Cambria CA Near The Beach

19. San Simeon

San Simeon is a charming area that offers lots of outdoorsy things to do for families and couples .

Here you can spend the day lounging in the sand next to the San Simeon Pier, go on a hike along the San Simeon Bay Trail to see elephant seals, and enjoy wine tasting at the Hearst Ranch Winery set next to the ocean.

If you are a fan of camping, you can book a campsite at the Hearst San Simeon State Park which features spacious campsites close to the beach. For hotels and vacation rentals, check out our guide that covers 18 best places to stay in San Simeon, California!

20. Hearst Castle

When looking for places to visit on California’s Central Coast, be sure to add Hearst Castle to your list! This grand estate is located on a hilltop near San Simeon and allows visitors with guided tours .

Hearst Castle consists of 165 rooms, a spacious garden, terraces, and outdoor swimming pools, all filled with artwork and historic artifacts. Visitors can book a variety of Hearst Castle daily tours that showcase different parts of the estate.

On your way to Hearst Castle, be sure to keep an eye out for wild zebras that reside in the hills surrounding the property. The zebras were originally brought over by William Randolph Hearst as part of his private zoo and were later released into the wild.

21. Elephant Seal Vista Point

If you love animals, you’ll want to visit Elephant Seal Vista Point just north of San Simeon!

This is one of the most popular sightseeing stops along California’s Central Coast for families and little kids. This vista point is located just north of Hearst Castle and consists of walkways and viewing platforms where you can giant elephant seals lounging on the shoreline from a safe distance.  

Elephant Seals were once nearly hunted to extinction, but have made a miraculous recovery. The best time to visit this lookout point is in the winter months from November to January when the elephant seals congregate on the beach for mating.

22. Big Sur

Big Sur is a place that you have to see at least once in your life! This rugged stretch of California coastline has some of the most pristine landscapes in the world that are hard to believe exist.

The entire Big Sur drive is around 90 miles long starting in San Simeon in the south and ending in Carmel-By-The-Sea in the north. It’s best to set aside 2-3 days to explore Big Sur and see all of its top attractions at a comfortable pace.

If you’re short on time, you can drive the entire stretch of Big Sur in one day. We’ve done both and either way, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views along the way!

Before heading into Big Sur we recommend downloading a Big Sur Self-Driving Audio Tour   that comes with a map of the route and all the best attractions. There is no cell reception in Big Sur so this will help you keep a lookout for popular stops!

23. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a beautiful destination on California’s Central Coast. This is an easy attraction to access while driving along Highway 1 in Big Sur so many people stop here on their road trips.

The most popular trail at this State Park leads to a viewpoint of McWay Falls , a stunning beachfront waterfall in California . Visitors are not allowed to go down to the sandy shoreline but can see and photograph the waterfall from a designated viewing platform.

Visitor Tip: It costs $10 to visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for the day. The visitor parking lot is located just north of Pacific Coast Highway 1.

24. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a beautiful hidden gem along the Big Sur coast. This stop offers epic views of rugged ocean cliffs, a sandy beach where you can lay out, and a unique rock formation called the Keyhole Arch .

To reach Pfeiffer Beach you will need to turn off from Highway 1 and follow the narrow Sycamore Canyon Road to where it ends at the Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area.

Visitor Tip: It costs $12 to visit Pfeiffer Beach for the day which you can pay upon arrival. Dogs are allowed on the beach which is great for those traveling with their furry four-legged friends!

25. Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is a Central Coast attraction that can be a quick stop or you can turn it into a several-hour adventure. This gorgeous State Park consists of beachfront hiking trails that start at the coast and travel into the nearby canyons.

If you’re looking for quick road trip stops, there are several turnout points along Highway 1 where you can park your car and walk down to the rugged ocean cliffs. A few of the most popular viewpoints are:

• Garrapata State Park Vista Point
• Painters Point
• Soberanes Point

In the spring months, you’ll see lots of blooming wildflowers along the trails adding to the beautiful scenery. Keep an eye (and ear) out for sea lions that you might see and hear lounging in the rocks nearby.

26. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

At Point Lobos State Natural Reserve you’ll find lots of short day hikes, rugged cliffs, wildlife viewing opportunities, and gorgeous ocean views. Two of the most popular hikes here are the Cypress Grove Trail and Sea Lion Point Trail which travel next to stunning ocean cliffs and turquoise beach coves.

Visitor Tip: It costs $10 to visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for the day. You can pay the visitor fee at the entrance booth that’s located at the beginning of the park off Highway 1. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed anywhere within this nature reserve (including cars).  

Want to see the best of this nature reserve in a short amount of time? Then book this Guided 2-Hour Point Lobos Nature Walk where an experienced guide will take you to all the top landmarks and wildlife viewing spots in just 2 hours ( rated 5/5 stars )!

27. Carmel By The Sea

Right next to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, you can visit the small coastal community Carmel-By-The-Sea. We often stay here on road trips because you can find plenty of charming hotels and inns while still being close to the Big Sur drive.

Within the town, you can explore Carmel Mission Basilica Museum , spend a few hours at Carmel River State Beach , and dine at a cozy café in downtown Carmel.

28. Monterey

One of the most fun things to do in Central Coast of California is visiting Monterey City just north of Big Sur! Known for its laid-back vibe, its proximity to the coast, and the incredible scenery, Monterey is a must-see location.

For starters, we recommend driving the loop around the Monterey peninsula and stopping at some of the most popular attractions including:

• Old Fisherman’s Wharf
• Lovers Point Park
• Spanish Bay
• Lone Cypress
• Pescadero Point

Monterey is also home to thriving marine life. If you have kids, set aside a few hours to explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium where you can see different exhibits and wildlife viewing stations.

From Monterey, you can also head on an exciting Half-Day Whale Watching Tour . During this tour, you’ll be able to see migrating grey whales along with humpbacks, blue whales, dolphins, and sea lions – a true bucket list experience!

29. Santa Cruz

For a unique and memorable vacation, head over to Santa Cruz situated just slightly south of San Jose. This eclectic beach town offers fun attractions such as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , Natural Bridges State Beach , and the Santa Cruz Wharf .

From this coastal town, you can head on many amazing redwood trails near Santa Cruz to hike amongst giant redwood trees.

Within a short drive, you can also reach The Mystery Spot – a fun tourist attraction where you can take a tour of a ‘slanted cabin’ and be entertained for an hour by the quirky tour guides displaying various gravity-defying objects.

Read Next: 12 Top Places To Stay In Santa Cruz On The Central Coast

Felton is located just slightly north of Santa Cruz and offers a wonderful place to escape into the forest. The scenic drive along Highway 9 is an adventure of its own with towering redwoods, viewpoints, and narrow, twisty turns!

At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton, you can visit some of the oldest redwood trees in California that were protected from logging. Nowadays only 5% of the original redwood forests remain on the West Coast after most of these gentle giants were logged during the 1800s.

Within this redwood park, you can marvel at 270+ foot tall redwood trees, hike the mile-long Redwood Grove Loop Trail and cool off at the San Lorenzo River. As a fun adventure, you can book a train ticket at Roaring Camp to ride a historic steam train through towering redwood trees – an unforgettable experience of a lifetime!

Looking for more information on Felton? Check out these guides next:

• How To Hike The Lime Kiln Trail In Fall Creek Unit, Felton
• 10 Top Rated Vacation Rentals & Hotels In Felton, California
• Staying At The Fern River Resort In Felton

We hope this guide has helped you discover a few new places to add to your Central California travel bucket list. With pristine landscapes, sandy shorelines, fun outdoor activities, and charming beach towns there are plenty of adventures to discover on the coast!

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Be sure to check out these guides next:

• 25 Best Beaches On The Central Coast In California
• 20 Best Waterfalls In Central California (By a Local)
• 15 Top Rated Catalina Island Tours
• 16 Best Places To Stay In Carpinteria CA On The Coast
• 15 Wonderful Places To Stay In Oxnard Near The Beach
• 13 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels In Ventura, California

This post is written by Laura . Hi, I’m a California local and the founder of the California Wanderland travel blog. I currently live in Ventura County and help 30,000 readers a month discover things to do in Central California! Read more about me here .

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15 Central California Coast Towns You Must Visit (2024 Guide!)

The towns of the Central California Coast are picturesque, laid-back, and full of charm. They also pack a punch when it comes to things to see and do. And you will find great food and drink to enjoy as well.

The California Central Coast stretches from Santa Cruz County in the north to Ventura County in the south.

Along this length of coastline, a string of beautiful towns and small cities make for idyllic vacation destinations.

In this article, we’ve rounded up some of the most charming California Central Coast towns for you. Some of them are technically cities, but they exude that essential small town vibe that qualifies them for inclusion!

Central California Coast Towns: Santa Ynez Valley California Central Coast Towns: San Luis Obispo County Central Coast Towns: Monterey Peninsula

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

Central California Coast Towns: Santa Ynez Valley

The Santa Ynez Valley, on the southern part of the Central Coast of California, is set a little back back from the water, but the scenery in the valley is definitely high on the “wow” factor, with rolling hills, lush vineyards, and majestic oaks making up a beautiful landscape.

The six little communities in the Santa Ynez Valley are set close together, making it easy to explore them all or take it easy by just choosing one or two for a relaxed time in the region.

Solvang: A Little Bit of Europe

Known for its Danish roots and its charming downtown, Solvang makes for a wonderful Central Coast getaway in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley.

Admire the beautiful Danish facades of the buildings, and the many giant windmills. Sample local wines at the many tasting rooms, and shop!

Visit Old Mission Santa Ines: it has gorgeous views, and a museum where you can learn about the first European settlement in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Also do not miss the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, housed in a beautiful building reminiscent of an 18th century Danish farmhouse. Here you can learn about Solvang’s Danish heritage.

Downtown Solvang is home to five authentic Danish bakeries, where you can try aebleskivers and other delicious pastries. You will find some restaurants that serve Scandinavian dishes, but you can also enjoy other cuisines in Solvang.

Where to Stay

Hotel: King Frederik Inn is located in the heart of downtown Solvang, walking distance to restaurants, tasting rooms, and shopping. Rooms are spacious and feature contemporary furnishings. Parking is free, and wifi is good. Enjoy pastries from local bakeries, delivered every morning. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental: This 3-bed, 2-bath house is located inside the Danish Village. The house has a fenced-in yard, garage, and full kitchen, and is walking distance to shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms in downtown Solvang. Great for a family, with room to spread out. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Solvang, California !

Los Alamos: The Wild West Vibe

For a wild west feel and an amazing gastronomy scene, head to the little town of Los Alamos.

Bell Street, the main thoroughfare, is small (only seven blocks long!) and walkable, with historic facades and quirky signs.

As you stroll, you will find numerous art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques to browse.

Los Alamos is known as “Little LA,” because many famous Angelenos have moved here in recent years to help transform the tiny town into a superb wine and dining destination.

A must-stop spot in Los Alamos is Bob’s Well Bread, one of the best bakeries in SoCal. Enjoy their sandwiches and pastries, but don’t forget to get a loaf to go.

Pico is housed in a photogenic vintage structure, and their menu, featuring local ingredients, is flavorful. For drinks with a Wild West ambience, head to 1880 Union.

Hotel: Skyview Los Alamos is a contemporary boutique hotel set on a hilltop and housed in a 1950s motel building looking out onto wine country. Some rooms and suites feature fireplaces and balconies with vineyard views. Rooms are well-appointed and feature luxury touches. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental: Magnolia Cottage is a cozy 1950s style duplex in a quiet neighborhood, with 2 bedrooms and one bath. There’s a private yard with covered outdoor dining, a fire pit, and a gas BBQ. It’s walking distance to shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants in downtown Los Alamos. Book a stay here !

Los Olivos: Wining and Dining

Los Olivos, with gorgeous views over surrounding vineyards, has lots of wine tasting rooms and craft breweries (over 30!), making it the place to go for a dedicated day of eating and drinking well.

The town is known for its many artisanal eateries.

You can find both still and sparkling wine tastings in Los Olivos.

Try the Foxy Bubbles sparkling rosé at Blair Fox: the low-sugar wine is both light and fresh.

The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail is home to a number of local wineries where you can reserve tastings in advance.

Wandering the historic town center is fun. The quaint and charming downtown features many art galleries, antique stores, and boutiques.

Step into Global Gardens for organic olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and other artisanal products.

Vacation Rental: This lovely 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a cozy fireplace can accommodate 4-6 adults comfortably, perfect if you want room to spread out or for a group wine tasting trip! You can walk to many tasting rooms and restaurants. Enjoy the large redwood deck and the fenced backyard, fringed by old grape vines. Book a stay here!

Vacation Rental: This charming cottage is located in downtown Los Olivos. Restaurants, wine tasting, craft breweries, and boutique shopping are all literally steps away. The two bedrooms feature king beds and there are two full baths. The fenced cottage offers both privacy and convenience. Book a stay here!

Santa Ynez: Enjoy the Outdoors

The picturesque town of Santa Ynez is nestled in the midst of rolling hills and vineyards. Santa Ynez is fun for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike.

Outdoor lovers can go horseback riding through the beautiful countryside. The adventurous can enjoy a hot air balloon ride if they are up for an early morning wake-up call.

Hikers can try the scenic Lover’s Loop via Grass Mountain Trail, which offers fabulous views of Santa Ynez.

History buffs will enjoy touring the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum & Parks-Janeway Carriage House. The carriage house has the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles west of the Mississippi. Other exhibits showcase the histories of the valley.

Wine aficionados can opt for a vineyard tour: do not miss photogenic Bridlewood Estate Winery, with its tree-lined drive and beautiful gardens. Ranchos Olivos offers olive oil tastings.

Foodies will want to visit S.Y. Kitchen for the yum Italian offerings. Brothers Restaurant offers American fare.

Hotel: ForFriends Inn Wine Country Bed & Breakfast is located in downtown Santa Ynez. The luxurious inn offers just eight rooms, well appointed, with comfortable beds. A full breakfast is included, as is an evening happy hour. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental: This charming 2 bedroom, 1 bath casita is set on a 10-acre property, convenient to area sights, restaurants, and tasting rooms. The Spanish-style home has vaulted ceilings and terracotta tile. There is a patio with seating and outdoor grill. Dog friendly. Book a stay here !

Buellton: Pea Soup and Sideways Locations

Buellton is home to award-winning craft breweries and craft distilleries. Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. is a great place to try beers made with local ingredients. DorWood Distillery offers unique spirits crafted in small batches.

To try Buellton’s famous split pea soup, head to Pea Soup Andersen’s.

Stop by Ostrichland to view, or feed, the ostriches and emus. Stroll the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, which showcases plants that are native to the watershed of the Santa Ynez River.

Tour the quirky Mendenhall’s Museum of Gasoline Pumps & Petroliana. Stroll the streets of downtown to browse the shops and tasting rooms.

Buellton is home to filming locations for the movie Sideways . The Days Inn where Miles and Jack stay in Buellton is now called Sideways Inn. Hitching Post II Restaurant offers Santa Maria style barbecue (no ostrich steaks!) and other tasty bites made with locally-sourced ingredients.

Hotel: Hampton Inn and Suites offers spacious, comfortable guestrooms. Each room comes with a mini-fridge and a microwave. There is a heated outdoor pool and outdoor seating with fire pits. The hotel has a good location, among the rolling hills and oak trees of the valley. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental: This charming cottage has a lovely rural setting but it is just a 5-minute drive from downtown Buellton. The one bed, one bath cottage is ideal for a wine country couples getaway. There is a covered porch with fire pit. Book a stay here!

Ballard: Charm in a Small Package

Ballard is tiny, but very scenic and very relaxing. And it boasts a beautiful inn, where you can base yourself on your Santa Ynez Valley vacation. We would be happy just kicking back and spending a lazy weekend at the inn!

If you do stay here, reserve your spots in advance to dine at The Gathering Table, the onsite restaurant. And Bob’s Well Bread is a great place for breakfast!

In Ballard, wander the streets on foot to admire the beautiful historic homes. Old Country Chapel makes a great photo stop. The one sight you just cannot miss is the lovely Little Red Schoolhouse, which has been open since 1883!

Ballard’s setting, in the midst of vineyards, makes it a very picturesque town to visit when wildflowers are in bloom in the spring, or when the vines change color in the fall. Touring area vineyards should definitely be on your itinerary for Ballard!

Hotel: Ballard Inn is a four diamond property with fifteen individually styled rooms. All accommodations are furnished in a laid-back sophisticated style, and some rooms feature wood-burning fireplaces. The inn offers free wifi and parking, cooked-to-order breakfast, wine and cheese reception in the evening, and cookies at turndown time. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental: This Mission-style house is set on 10 acres and is just 0.5 mile from Ballard. The home is spacious and has 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. There are 12 wineries within 3 miles of the property. The home features fabulous views of surrounding vineyards and countryside. Book a stay here !

California Central Coast Towns: San Luis Obispo County

Another charming cluster of Central California Coast towns in San Luis Obispo County offers endless opportunities for recreation and great food and drink. Some towns here are right on the water, others set a little bit inland but still close to beaches and the ocean.

Vineyards and scenic drives abound in the region, and eateries serve up flavorful dishes with locally-sourced ingredients. It is the perfect part of the state for a chill vacation, whether you go alone, as a couple, or as a family.

Pismo Beach: Lots of outdoor Fun!

Pismo Beach is a beach town, but it offers so much more to do outdoors, plus great food and wine. Active visitors can choose from a wide variety of water- and land-based activities, but the town is also great for just relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

The Pismo Preserve offers miles of trails and roads perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Coastal ridge trails offer stunning water views. The pier, and Pier Plaza, are great for strolling at sunset.

The adventurous can pick from biplane rides and Hummer ATV tours, or OHV driving at Oceano Dunes, a few miles south of town.

Go kayaking in Pismo Beach or Shell Beach. Take a surfing lesson. In the winter, look for monarch butterflies overwintering in the eucalyptus grove at Pismo Beach. Dine at a waterfront restaurant and sip locally-grown wine.

Hotel: Inn at the Cove offers rooms with full views of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel has an outdoor heated pool and hot tub. Rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished. Free parking and wifi are available. The hotel is located right across from the Pismo Preserve. B ook a stay here !

San Luis Obispo: Superb Food + Drink

One of our favorite Central Coast destinations, San Luis Obispo is not on the water, but just a short drive away from several beaches. It has a lively downtown with a large number of quality restaurants, plus lots of wine tasting rooms and craft breweries, distilleries, and cideries.

In downtown SLO, visit the beautiful Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, stroll the pathway by the creek, and walk the streets to browse the many unique shops and galleries. The much-Instagrammed Bubblegum Alley is also in downtown SLO.

The Edna Valley Wine District, just outside the city, is a beautiful area to tour if you enjoy vineyard tastings or just want a scenic drive. For an active pursuit, hike to the top of Bishop Peak for panoramic views.

Hotel: Hotel San Luis Obispo is located in the heart of downtown SLO, offering easy access to major sights, restaurants, and shopping. The hotel has a pool and hot tub. Rooms are spacious and feature contemporary furnishings. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in San Luis Obispo !

Morro Bay: A Big Rock and Cute Otters

The small coastal community of Morro Bay is known for its idyllic setting and many natural areas. Morro Bay is a great place to watch otters frolicking in the water, and it is one of the most famous birdwatching locations along the California coast.

Enjoy a cruise of Morro Bay, or go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Along with the stunning scenery, you may see marine life and birds. Stroll the Embarcadero, the waterfront walkway lined with shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms.

Spend a little time walking Morro Strand State Beach, which offers great views of Moro Rock, or explore other natural areas nearby, such as the El Moro Elfin Forest or Sweet Springs Nature Preserve. Morro Bay State Park is a must-explore as well. If you enjoy birding, do not miss the Heron Rookery.

Hotel: 456 Embarcadero Inn and Suites offers spacious and well-appointed rooms, with microwaves and refrigerators. Some rooms have views of the water. There is a hot tub onsite, and free wifi and parking are offered. The hotel is located walking distance from shopping and dining. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Morro Bay, California !

Paso Robles: Laid-Back Wine Country

Paso Robles is located inland, about a 40-minute drive from the coast, but it is a must-visit destination on the Central California Coast. California Highway 46, which runs east and west of Paso Robles, is lined with picturesque wineries you can tour.

Downtown Paso Robles offers beautiful architecture to admire and fun shops to browse. You will find many antique shops and art galleries here. There are numerous tasting rooms in the walkable downtown as well as many quality restaurants that serve farm to table cuisine.

Visit Mission San Miguel, built by Spanish missionaries at the end of the 18th century. Go biking or horseback riding, or enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs at the River Oaks Spa. Pop into the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum if you enjoy delving into local history.

Hotel: The Allegreto Vineyard Resort is gorgeous. We had lunch here when we were on our way back from a trip to Southern California, and we want to go back to stay…the rooms are elegant and the grounds beautiful. The hotel offers a pool and hot tub. It is located a short drive from the town center. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Paso Robles

Cambria: Charming Seaside Village

Cambria is a tiny seaside village, the ultimate charming Central California Coast experience. It’s rare you will go for a morning walk in Cambria and not see deer or wild turkeys or other wildlife. The village is small and the perfect size for strolling.

Walk the Moonstone Beach boardwalk trail, which also offers access to the black sand Moonstone Beach, where you can go tidepooling or beachcombing. Another beautiful ocean view walk is the bluff trail at the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve. The preserve has other trails you can explore.

Stroll the village to browse the many gift shops and art galleries. Stop for a slice of olalliberry pie at Linn’s. Cambria may be small, but it has several great restaurants and wine tasting rooms.

Hotel: Moonstone Landing is an oceanfront property, and all rooms offer either a partial or a full ocean view. Rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished. There is an outdoor patio and hot tub. Parking and wifi are free. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Cambria, California!

California Central Coast Towns: Monterey Peninsula

The towns of the Monterey Peninsula are yet another cluster of picturesque Central California Coast towns to explore. Located towards the northern end of the Central Coast, the area also encompasses beautiful Big Sur , and includes the scenic 17-Mile Drive .

There is enough to see and do in each of these towns to warrant spending two or three days just in one town, but you can also pick and choose highlights from each town for a marvelous weekend getaway.

Carmel-by-the-Sea: Artsy Village and Pristine Beach

The little village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is just one square mile in area. In this small space, the upscale village has lots of unique stores and galleries, a plethora of great dining spots, beautiful architecture, and scenic little courtyards and passageways to explore.

Carmel is also famous for its gorgeous crescent beach, edged with ancient Monterey cypresses. Stroll the beach or walk the scenic pathway above the beach. Adjoining Carmel River State Beach features a lagoon teeming with sea birds, so remember to pack your binoculars.

Carmel’s Spanish mission is one of the most beautiful in the Golden State. The gardens are lovely, and the museum houses many impressive artifacts. If you enjoy history and architecture, you will also want to tour the storybook cottages of Carmel!

Hotel: The Getaway has a great location, close to shopping and dining in Carmel Village. Rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished, and beds rated very comfortable. There is outdoor seating and an outdoor fireplace. Free parking and wifi are included. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California!

Monterey: Fabulous Whale Watching

Monterey is known for its aquarium, and for Cannery Row, the street by the water lined with shops and art galleries, where a sardine canning industry once flourished. While they are top tourist attractions in Monterey, you can find plenty more to do away from the tourist core.

The whale watching in Monterey is considered among the best in the world. We’ve gone once so far, and it was a fabulous tour, because we saw dozens of whales, some even breaching: jumping out of the water!

Tour the sites of Monterey State Historic Park to learn about Monterey’s rich past. There are about a dozen sites you can tour today, some with lovely gardens. Walk the Coastal Recreation Trail to enjoy beautiful views, or book a relaxing spa treatment.

Hotel: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is located on Cannery Row, close to lots of dining and shopping options. The hotel offers magnificent views of Monterey Bay. It has a full-service spa and private beach. Rooms come with a separate sitting area and are well-appointed. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Monterey, California !

Pacific Grove: History + Outdoor Fun

Pacific Grove is possibly our favorite Monterey Peninsula town. Downtown Pacific Grove is peaceful and quaint, and boasts numerous historic homes and colorful murals. There are also lots of great places to eat and drink.

But Pacific Grove also has a stunning waterfront, one you can drive and walk. The Asilomar Coastal Trail is a must-do when you visit: it has lovely water views and wildflowers in season. You can also walk the sand dunes boardwalk trail across the street.

Snap a photo of the charming Point Pinos Lighthouse. Stroll of fly a kite at the sandy Asilomar Beach. Enjoy a picnic at Lovers Point Park, where you can also launch a kayak at the beach.

Hotel: Green Gables Inn is located in a historic building along Ocean View Boulevard, convenient to the beach and trails as well as downtown Pacific Grove. Rooms are well-appointed, and a full breakfast andevening reception are offered. Rooms feature fireplaces and the beds are rated super comfy. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Pacific Grove, California !

Carmel Valley: Charm in a Rural Setting

Carmel Valley is set a little bit inland, but it is home to many vineyards and offers a peaceful pastoral setting for a relaxed getaway. Carmel Valley is flush with wildflowers in the spring, and you may even see a little lamb or two as you drive Carmel Valley Road!

Touring area vineyards is definitely one of the top things to do in Carmel Valley. Go hiking in Garland Ranch Regional Park or drive scenic Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade Road. The latter offers panoramic views over the valley.

Tour the demonstration garden at the Earthbound Farms Farmstand. They have several small gardens and orchards you can stroll, and end with a simple but delicious lunch of soup and sald or a sandwich, all made with organic, farm-fresh ingredients.

Hotel: Bernardus Lodge & Spa is an absolutely stunning property with a beautiful courtyard, lots of lush landscaping, and views over the vineyards. There is an outdoor heated pool, and the onsite restaurant is superb: we’ve had lunch here a couple of times. Rooms feature fireplaces and 2-person soaking tubs. Book a stay here !

Get the full scoop: The Best Things to Do in Carmel Valley!

Planning to explore more of Central California? Check out some of our other articles!

• The Best Things to Do in Big Sur, California
• Visiting Carrizo Plain National Monument in SLO County
• One Day in Pinnacles National Park
• Hiking the Bluff Trail in Montana de Oro State Park

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara loves to explore her home state of California. With her husband Kishore, she has done numerous road trips in the state in every season. She hopes to share her love of the Golden State with you, and help you find your own exciting experiences here.

You May Also Like:

Pinnacles National Park: The Ultimate 2024 Guide

Garrapata State Park in Carmel, CA: Things to Do + Tips for Visiting!

Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel: Why You Should Visit (+ Tips)

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The Best Towns to Visit on a Road Trip Down California's Central Coast for Incredible Food, Wineries, and Hotels

A food and drink expert charts the perfect course from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

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Los Angeles and San Francisco are two of the most celebrated cities on the planet. Often overlooked by those doing the celebrating, however, are the 350 miles of stunning shoreline separating the two. Don’t make the same mistake. The central coast of California is a dynamic slice of culture, wildlife, and topographic wonder. It is best enjoyed slowly and surely on a week-long road trip between its world-famous bookends. And while you undoubtedly have heard the greatest hits — names like Santa Barbara and Big Sur — that’s just the tip of the scenic spear. It’s time for the deep cuts.

Below you’ll find the ultimate guide to coastal California. If this doesn’t inspire you to pack up your car and head for the Pacific Coast Highway, nothing will. The only thing that’s missing is a full tank of gas. This one starts in LA and heads northbound toward the Bay Area. But feel free to reverse it and leave from SF — or even wash, rinse, and repeat once you get to the other end.

Santa Barbara

Sandwiched between sea and the Santa Ynez peaks , Santa Barbara is a sight to behold. You’ll feel its calming effects immediately upon rolling into town — which, if you started at LAX would require almost exactly 100 miles on the US-101. Although its status as a weekend retreat for city-weary Angelenos was enshrined ages ago, it has only more recently asserted itself as a global destination in its own right. The abundance of luxury hotels certainly helps. 

Book your stay at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel , and you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of all the beauty from the comfort of its country-style cottages. The main building includes a veranda with a bar and restaurant stretching out toward the sea, some thousand feet below. And yet it’s still easy to get downtown: the city’s primary pedestrian thoroughfare, State Street, is just a 10-minute drive. 

When you arrive there, Santa Barbara’s signature Spanish revival architecture will be on full display. Go for an afternoon winery crawl, beginning at Frequency Wine Company where independently produced wines express a special focus on single-vineyard selections. If you’re not afraid to get some steps in, it’s just under a mile down to an oenophile’s delight in the aptly named Funk Zone. The former industrial area on the opposite side of the highway now features a cluster of innovative wine shops. 

S. Greg Panosian /Getty Images

As the evening approaches, explore the varied storefronts as the sky glows orange and amber with the setting sun. When it’s time to dine, your options will be robust. Vegetarians won’t want to miss the natural wine–backed offerings at Satellite . The hot spot is a quaint bottle shop and bar, which doubles as a restaurant.

Meat-eaters can get their fill at the many Mediterranean standouts befitting the scenery. Loquita is a long-running hit for Spanish fare and Toma for Italian. But this scene is increasingly devoted to eclecticism, as evidenced by the popularity of Bibi Ji — a State St. favorite for contemporary Indian. 

If you’re looking to get outdoorsy — beyond the obvious surf and sand activities — start your morning with some birdwatching at Andrée Clark Bird Refuge near East Beach. You can also rent some kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from the SB Sailing Center within the harbor. Or if you’re here in between the high season of late spring through early fall, book a whale-watching excursion with Condor Express . You’ll have a good chance of spotting humpbacks or even blue whales on their migratory path up and down the Pacific Coast. 

Santa Maria Valley 

Venture northward out of Santa Barbara and you’ve got an immediate choice to make; both of them fantastic. You can keep hugging the coastline on Highway 1 to Gaviota State Park — at which point you stay with US-101 up to Los Alamos. Or you can crest the Santa Ynez ridge line on highway 154 and then connect with highway 246 for a drive through the Danish wonderland known as Solvang, with perhaps a stopover to feed the massive flightless birds populating Ostrichland USA . 

Either way, you’ll eventually want to break off the highway just before Santa Maria and beeline straight to the charming Wine Stone Inn at the edge of downtown Orcutt. Spacious rooms with balconies start at just $169 per night. This hidden gem is a fantastic springboard from which to dive into the under-explored magic of the greater Santa Maria Valley. And yes, there will be wine. 

In fact, there’s a whole dedicated wine trolley to take you around the local producers of the AVA. Beginning each May and running through to the fall, the $15 shuttle carries drinkers to a half a dozen destinations continually throughout weekend afternoons. Hallmark varieties in this part of the world include chardonnay, pinot noir, and syrah.

For a markedly more rugged way to explore the vines, saddle up to Presqu'ile Winery’s estate tour by horseback . The $250 experience includes an hour-long ride through the 400-acre property, during which you learn all about the grape growing heritage of the region. You’ll marvel at sweeping panoramas of the neighboring San Rafael Mountains before heading back to the tasting room for a flight of the local juice, paired with garden-fresh appetizers from chef Julie Simon.

At sunset, make your way to the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve. The sloping sand forms an ideal vantage point from which to admire the open sky as it fractures into pigments of pink and purple. When it’s dinner time, you’ll find a bevy of options to suit any culinary desire. The Hitching Post in Casmalia is as classic a California barbecue experience as you’ll find anywhere. Prime cuts of filet and sirloin sizzle atop an open flame, directly adjacent to a boisterous, Western-themed dining room. Head back to downtown Orcutt and you’ll encounter some flavorful options within an easy stroll of the hotel. The Cubanissimo Cafe is a local favorite focusing on artfully rendered Cubanos and puerco frito from husband and wife co-owners, Arqui and Chrystal Trenado. If you want to keep it even more casual, you can grab some pints of heavily hopped IPA over at Naughty Oak Brewing and BYOP from Pizzeria Bello Forno directly across the street.

Meanwhile, on the northern side of downtown Santa Maria, there’s a whole other set of wineries worth checking out on the following day. Laetitia Vineyard holds pole position on that list. “I lived here all my life and am still in awe of everything we have to offer in a 10-mile radius,” observes Eric Hickey, chief winemaker for the 40-year-old producer. “We have hiking trails, beaches, water sports, fishing, and great food and drink. It doesn’t hurt that the microclimate — cool in the mornings, warmer during the day and cool again when the fog rolls back in — is ideal for methode champenoise sparkling wine, which we’ve made at Laetitia for over 40 years. Visit the winery and enjoy the bubbles and the ocean view.”

Highway 1/Big Sur

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And speaking of ocean views, no assortment of adjectives could possibly oversell what comes next. As you continue north past the Santa Maria Valley, through San Luis Obispo (if you’re into sour beer, stop here for a pint or flight at Libertine Brewing ), you’ll eventually be welcomed by the stunning seascape of Morro Bay. From here, you’ve got just over 120 miles of coastline to call your own, as it clings to California’s craggy western edge. 

Pull off Highway 1 into Cambria — an idyllic village of less than 6,000 residents. The downtown strip is speckled with cute gift shops and cozy eateries. Linn’s Restaurant is a popular place to start. Part souvenir store and part country cafe, you can load up on postcards and olallieberry pie. Just outside of town, you can hike the hills of Stolo Family Vineyards to work up a slight sweat before cooling down with their sensational estate-grown syrah. Do dinner at Robin’s : a down-home kitchen lifting inspiration from every corner of the globe. From the property’s quaint garden, you can pair local wines with international flavors — crispy Vietnamese spring rolls, Brazilian seafood stew — all of it as robust as it is faithfully recreated. Overnight at the beachfront cabins of Oceanpoint Ranch . Rates at the three-star hotel can go as low as $145 a night when it’s not the peak of the summer high season. S’mores for the on-site fire pit aren’t included in the price but are easily worth the up-charge.

Next up is the world-famous Hearst Castle , just 6.5 miles north on Highway 1. Tours of the sprawling 165-room mansion begin at $30 — though there are a number of longer and more in-depth surveys which range up to $100 per ticket. It’s worth the cost of admission just to come up and admire the view from the crest of its massive ridgeline frontage. 

Back down below in San Simeon, Hearst Ranch Winery is offering tasting flights to pair with local charcuterie just steps from the windy beach. Continue five more miles north after lunch and pull over at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery . In the peak months of January, April, and October, there are up to 17,000 eponymous pinnipeds crowding these shores. This is the only rookery of its kind in the world that’s easily accessible and free to the public every day of the year.

Now it’s time to kick things into the scenic stratosphere. You’re about to climb up into Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This is the California coast of postcard fame, where arched bridges traverse corrugated river valleys. Endless ocean aligns along the left side of the vehicle, mountains soar skyward on the right. Everything about this region exists on a higher plane, even the hospitality — especially if you happen to be staying at the Post Ranch Inn .

What many seasoned travelers consider to be the most luxurious lodge in all of the U.S. owes its exalted status to a few key factors. For one, its positioning is flawless: 100 acres of dense redwood forest suspended 1,200 feet above the Pacific shores. Secondly, the villas here are at once cozy and opulent, affording unimpeded views of the ocean clouds rolling in from the incomprehensibly distant edge of the horizon. Finally, the execution of the food and beverage at Sierra Mar is nearly as awe-inspiring as the scenery. Executive chef Il Hoon Kang plates farm-driven California cuisine that changes weekly and is enhanced by selections from an expansive wine cellar which holds some 3,200 different labels. 

When you’re ready for adventure, Big Sur boasts enough hiking trails to keep you occupied for years. But if you only have one day, head down the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, which recently reopened after 13 years of closure. Those with keen Googling skills ought to head down the unmarked road leading to Pfeiffer Beach — it’s home to purple sand and a massive rock protruding from the waves. In the middle of the outcropped earth is Keyhole Arch, and if you arrive during the winter months, you can actually spot the sun setting through the hole. Beware: the car park can get super busy during the day, and you’re not allowed to leave your vehicle along the side of the small road. 

Rent an e-bike from Big Sur Adventures , however, and you can pedal to parts far less frequented. The easy-to-use equipment is available for $75 per day. You can arrange delivery to a fabulous trailhead — ascending toward the heavens — across from the dirt road entrance to Andrew Molera State Park. (Alternatively, you can head 30 minutes up the road to their shop in Carmel to grab a bike in person.)

Monterey County/Carmel

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It’s time to head back into civilization for the last leg of your coastal California excursion. Thankfully, you are ending on a serious high note. Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the Golden State’s most charming, pedestrian-friendly villages. So secure your overnight at the Vagabond’s House Inn and ditch your car in their complimentary parking lot. The cozy cottages here feature fireplaces, soaking tubs, and a verdant vantage point right in the heart of downtown. King rooms start at $324 per night. 

Stroll the streets in search of fine art and vintage antiques, or pull up a stool at one of the town’s 16 wine-tasting rooms. You don’t have to have any specific destination in mind. Though, when mealtime arrives, you’ll want to have reservations at Toro Sushi to enjoy the eatery’s creative rolls of raw fish and outsized list of sakes sourced from up and down Japan. Then, make your way to Carmel Bakery for dessert. The legendary confectioner has been serving up snacks here since 1899. 

On your final day, take a leisurely ride along 17-Mile Drive to explore famed Pebble Beach, snap photos of the Lone Cypress , and breathe in the briny ocean air of the Monterey Peninsula. The experience will cost you — it’s an $11.25 toll per vehicle to access the exclusive enclave, but that fee is refunded with a purchase of $35 or more at any of the Pebble Beach resorts . 

The opposite end of the drive spits you out in Pacific Grove, not far from Cannery Row and downtown Monterey. Peruse the historic storefronts of Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, book an instructive tour with Sail Monterey — located right next to the Crab House. For $150, you’ll receive a two-hour-long lesson from a seasoned pro. It’ll provide all the basics you need to learn how to sail on your own. And, of course, you’ll get to take in the maritime wonder of Monterey Bay along the way. If that’s too ambitious, they also offer $85 sunset cruises where you won’t have to do anything except enjoy your complimentary adult beverage. 

When you’re back on dry land, book dinner at Cella . The hip dining den offers imaginative craft cocktails, a masterful mushroom gnocchi and the best gourmet burger in all of Monterey. For dessert, mosey your way a few blocks down to The Whisky Club . As its name suggests, this inviting parlor specializes in aged brown spirit. In fact, it holds more than 300 expressions of scotch and bourbon — much of it lined up against a soaring backbar, with even more available for takeaway purchase in an adjoining bottle shop. Grab a bottle and pour yourself something special to savor when your trip winds to an end.

Where to Visit Along the Northern California Coast

With summer on its way, there has never been a better time to visit the Northern California Coast. There is almost a reversed effect with the weather, as the valley gets hot and the coast cools off. Growing up in Northern California, when the sun would be in full force, we made our way to the coastline.

Navigate Northern California Like a Local!

Unlock the best-kept secrets of Northern & Central California with my curated Google Map, showcasing 600+ accommodations, eateries, coffee shops, and unique experiences. Get the map here!

Over the past years, I’ve worked my way up from San Francisco, popping into each of the towns all the way up the Highway 1 to Fort Bragg. There is so much to love — each town and city is unique in its own way and of course that wild coastline is hard to beat. There is always a ton to do in the summer in the Bay Area ( see this post for things to do in Northern California ) and can’t wait for the adventures to begin.

Read this ultimate Northern California Coast road trip itinerary  to help plan your trip.

Here’s a look at where to visit along the Northern California Coast

Northern california coast weather.

I will be honest that the weather on the coast is always hit or miss. If you’re looking for guaranteed sunny days, then I would say it’s not here. The weather in the summer months can often be the coldest, especially in San Francisco. So I would be sure to pack a few layers and prepare for some variant temperatures. On Highway One, the weather can be clear and then suddenly foggy.

Personally, I enjoy the colder days as it’s a reprieve from the hot sun. When you get up north, closer to Sonoma County, the summer months are often in the mid-sixties to seventies for temperature. The light breeze often will cool off as well at night.

For more information on the best time to visit Northern California, read this full guide .

Northern California Map & Overview

The areas I will be talking about will be from San Francisco up to Mendocino County. There is so much more to see past Mendocino, however, I have not been yet so I will add those areas into the guide once I do!

Destinations along the Northern California Coast (all north from San Francisco)

Point reyes & marshall.

If you’re looking to discover one of the best gems on the coast’s highway, start with a trip to Point Reyes. There is so much love here like the Point Reyes National Seashore area. The town of Point Reyes Station is incredibly quaint and has a few local restaurants and a market to check out on the weekend.

In this area, you’ll find Tomales Bay which is really popular for hiking and grabbing fresh oysters for lunch at places like Nick’s Cove or Hog Island.

For more outdoor adventures, you can also rent some kayaks in Marshall and explore the area that way.

As you make your way up the coast, the next biggest town is Bodega Bay on the coast. Known for its beaches, it makes for a great family-friendly destination. You can make your way to Bodega Head and try your luck with whale watching here or head into Doran Regional Park for their public beach.

This is also another great spot to go sea kayaking, be sure to visit Bodega Bay Kayak to get your rentals this summer. There is a ton of fresh seafood here, so if you want to try the local catch, my favorite spots are Spud Point Crab Company and Terrapin Creek Cafe.

Jenner, Timber Cove, & Sea Ranch

One of the most iconic and scenic parts of the Northern California Coast is the section between Jenner and Sea Ranch. It’s wildly beautiful, with curvy roads that hug the cliff’s edge. Along the way, there is not a whole lot but an open landscape that is amazing for outdoor adventure.

Jenner is one of the smaller towns and near it is Goat Rock Beach, Fort Ross State Historic Park, and a lot of wildlife. You’ll often spot seals and sea lions basking in the sun off the coast. Nearby is Fort Ross Vineyard, which you could pop in for a wine tasting.

Further north up the coast, you will make your way to Timber Cove which is anchored by the stunning Timber Cove Hotel. I’d make this a destination for lunch or dinner and even consider staying overnight here.

The final spot is Sea Ranch, famous for its sprawling headlands and architecture. Take a look at Pebble Beach, the iconic Sea Ranch Chapel, hike the Gualala Point Regional Park, and walk on Stengel Beach.

Mendocino & Fort Bragg

The final destination up the Northern California Coast is the town of Mendocino. It’s one of my favorites to visit because of its outdoor beauty, charming town, and incredible food scene. We always go for at least two nights and make our way around our favorites. One of my top activities to do there is to rent an outrigger with Catch-A-Canoe to explore up the river, where you can see river otters and harbor seals.

We often grab a few picnic items and eat out on the outrigger. Russian State Gulch Park is also a beautiful area to explore and has a great walk along the cliff’s edge and its own beach. Some restaurants to check out in the area include Little River Inn, Trillium Cafe, Wild Fish, and Patterson’s Pub. ( here’s my full guide )

The last spot just a bit more north of Mendocino is Fort Bragg. We grew up going here for soccer tournaments and always loved taking the Skunk Train for a scenic ride and then heading down to Glass Beach.

Head here for my recommended one-week itinerary for Northern California. 

Northern California Beaches

We do have some incredible beaches in Northern California. Most are destined for surfers or those willing to brave the cold Pacific Ocean waters. On the clear and sunny days, they make for a great afternoon excursion or part of a road trip north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Here are a few of the top ones I personally love:

• Stinson Beach (45 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Rodeo Beach in Marin County (30 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Bodega Bay (1 hour 30 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Russian Gulch State Park in Mendocino (3 hours 15 minutes north of San Francisco)
• Glass Beach in Fort Bragg (3 hours 30 minutes north of San Francisco)

Where to Stay on the Northern California Coastline

As an Airbnb Associate, I may earn a small commission when you book through these links.  Your support helps me to continue creating content like this.

Where you want to stay is completely up to the experience you’d like to have. I’d recommend staying somewhere in the middle like Bodega or Jenner. Here are my top picks of hotels on the Northern California Coastline or read my full list of best hotels on the Northern coast of California :

Nick’s Cove

Manka’s Inverness Lodge

Bodega Bay Lodge

Timber Cove Resort  

Harbor House Inn

Brewery Gulch Inn

Mendocino Grove Glamping

There are also some incredible Airbnbs in the area:

+ Check out this post for incredible Airbnbs in Sonoma County.

+ Check out this post for some great Airbnbs in Northern California.

Search For Northern California Airbnbs here:

Save this post for later on pinterest:, 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

Related Posts

13 Hip Boutique Hotels in Santa Barbara, California (2024)

The 20 Best Restaurants in Napa Valley (2024)

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Fornalutx, Mallorca

So many reasons to love California. Absolutely great article! Love the footage! You’re so good writer! Very well researched blog…Redwood Forest is Incredibly Awesome!

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26 top things to do in california.

There's something for everyone in the Golden State.

Top Things to Do in California

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California is full of beautiful destinations and fun attractions to experience.

California's attractions are so diverse that travelers of all types will have no problem finding things to thrill them. Beaches , lakes , forests, mountains and deserts all sit side by side within the state's borders. Amid its natural wonders, California is also home to several wine regions, luxury hotels and, of course, star-studded Hollywood. With all this and so much more, it may be challenging to figure out how to fit all the state's most important must-sees in one or more trips.

Let this guide assist you in your California vacation planning, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. From the north to the south and everything in between, these are the top things to do in California.

17-Mile Drive

California's 17-Mile Drive is a spellbinding and awe-inspiring route that weaves along the most scenic stretch of the Monterey Bay coastline. This must-visit road, winding through the exclusive community of Pebble Beach, takes drivers up into the Del Monte Forest, past palatial mansions and down along picture-perfect craggy beaches and bluffs. Take time to stop at the various lookout points marked along the way, including the famous Lone Cypress.

If you're interested in bedding down in Pebble Beach, consider splurging on a room, or at least stopping for a meal, to behold the stunning scenery that surrounds the properties at Pebble Beach Resorts, including The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay . If you are not staying overnight or dining here, expect to pay a vehicle fee to access 17-Mile Drive. Also note that motorcycles are not allowed.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

This small community in Monterey County is one of the most unique and charming towns in California. Its enchanting coastal location, wooded streets, fairytale-like architecture, and bevy of local shops and restaurants make Carmel-by-the-Sea well worth the detour from the iconic state Route 1. Even if you only have a half-day in Carmel, browse the art galleries, take a walk on the beach and enjoy a meal in one of the quaint restaurants.

Be sure to visit a few of Carmel's beaches, starting with the namesake Carmel Beach, which is located at the end of Ocean Avenue, the town's main drag; pet owners will be pleased to know it's a dog-friendly beach . Carmel River State Beach, which is lesser known and typically not as highly trafficked, connects to the even more secluded Monastery Beach via the Carmel Meadows Trail. As for where to stay, consider treating yourself to one of the town's luxurious accommodations, including traveler-approved L'Auberge Carmel or La Playa Carmel .

[Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles .]

Visit the theme parks

Courtesy of Universal Studios

You are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to theme parks in California. The impressive amount of options will please every type of traveler. Kids will naturally be dazzled by Anaheim's world-famous Disneyland Resort . However, if you're not up for paying Disneyland's notoriously high ticket fees, consider exciting alternatives such as Legoland California . There are Six Flags amusement and water parks near both Los Angeles and San Francisco – perfect for thrill-seekers – and Universal Studios Hollywood is home to the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the new Super Nintendo World.

Due to the popularity of these parks, you'll have no problem finding nearby accommodations. Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a top choice among travelers, as is The Garland for those visiting Universal Studios Hollywood. Legoland has two kid-friendly hotels to choose from, though travelers can also opt for a stay at the well-received Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa , which is located right on the beach and only a short drive to Legoland.

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Yosemite National Park

If you only have time to visit one outdoor destination during your California trip, make it Yosemite . With the national park welcoming more than 3 million visitors per year, Yosemite Valley has been known to stir awe for centuries with its grand granite peaks, magnificent waterfalls and lush evergreen landscapes. There is so much to do in this nearly 750,000-acre park that you'll need several days to take it all in. If you're unsure where to start at this California bucket list destination, know that Glacier Point, Half Dome, Tunnel View and the Mist Trail are considered iconic, can't-miss Yosemite attractions , according to recent travelers.

There are three hotels within Yosemite, including the luxury Ahwahnee hotel. You'll also find cabins, canvas-sided tents, campgrounds and RV campsites spread around the park, as well as several dining options. Be warned that the park does get very crowded during the summer months, so visiting in the offseason is a great idea – especially with Yosemite's picturesque snow-capped peaks. Check for road closures during winter months; tire chains may be required.

Explore the desert

To properly appreciate California's diverse geological landscape, you'll need to venture beyond the coast and explore the desert. Luckily, two magnificent desert landscapes can be found less than three hours from Los Angeles and San Diego. Joshua Tree National Park , located about 130 miles east of Los Angeles, is an approximately 800,000-acre oasis dotted with the unique Joshua tree, which can only be found in the American Southwest. Meanwhile, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located about 85 miles northeast of San Diego, is California's largest state park and features striking scenery ranging from slot canyons to palm oases.

Both of these parks offer memorable hiking trails and camping options. You'll want to plan a multiday trip to explore either of these vast parks. Traveler favorites in Joshua Tree include the 3-mile out-and-back Ryan Mountain trail and the 1.7-mile Skull Rock loop trail. In Anza-Borrego, visitors enjoyed the 2.6-mile out-and-back Pictograph Trail and the more moderate 2.3-mile Slot loop trail. Due to the desert's extreme summer heat (think: daytime temperatures in the 90s or even 100-plus degrees), it's best to visit during the spring and fall.

See more of Joshua Tree National Park: Things to Do | Photos

Laguna Beach

If you're interested in experiencing small-town Southern California, Laguna Beach is the perfect place to start. Conveniently situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach is located along the coast just off state Route 1. Laguna Beach's picturesque setting is characterized by pristine oceanfront parks and a collection of beautiful beaches wedged between its coastal bluffs. Be sure to visit unique cove beaches, such as Victoria Beach and Crescent Bay Beach, as well as larger shorelines, including traveler-favorite Crystal Cove State Park, which receives praise for its beautiful setting between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar.

Laguna Beach is also home to a bevy of luxurious accommodations , including The Ranch at Laguna Beach and the traveler-approved five-star Montage at Laguna Beach . Once an artists' colony, Laguna Beach is known for its summer art festivals and numerous art galleries. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy too, such as mountain biking, skimboarding and hiking. Parking can be hard to find in the summer months and on holiday weekends, but there is a free open-air trolley service that runs along the area's stretch of coastline.

See more of Laguna Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Located a little more than 30 miles west of Los Angeles, Malibu is often seen as a coastal refuge for the rich and famous. While that impression is certainly true, Malibu is worth a visit for its superb beaches and the exceptional parks a stone's throw away.

Drive up state Highway 1 and make a pit stop at popular shorelines, including Robert H. Memorial State Beach, Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach. Nature lovers should also take time to hike some of the many trails at Point Mugu State Park, Topanga State Park or the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. For hikes with spectacular ocean views, hit up the 3-mile Solstice Canyon Loop trail or the challenging 2.7-mile Mugu Peak loop trail. Check for trail closures before heading out.

Due to Malibu's small size and affluence, you won't find many hotels that offer affordable rates, so you might want to bed down in nearby Los Angeles. If you are intent on staying in Malibu, you'll find comfort and luxury at the Malibu Beach Inn , The Surfrider Malibu and Hotel June Malibu. Stop by Malibu Country Mart for high-end shopping and farm-to-table dining, or check out Trancas Country Market for snacks at Vintage Grocers or lunch at Malibu Brewing Company.

Read: The Top Los Angeles Beaches

San Francisco

A visit to California is not complete without a stop in San Francisco . There are several ways the city is a standout, not only in the state but in the entire country. Its scenic bayfront setting, towering hills and the plethora of colorful Victorian homes that line them are a feast for the eyes. On top of all of that, the city is home to world-famous attractions and is widely considered to be one of the best foodie cities in the U.S.

While here, check out all the visitor-favorite sights , including the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown. You can also take advantage of the outdoor spaces that make up the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, such as Land's End, Muir Woods National Monument and more. As for where to stay, you have endless hotel options in San Francisco , including Ritz-Carlton , Four Seasons and St. Regis outposts.

See more of San Francisco: Tours | Photos

Alcatraz Island

While in the San Francisco Bay Area, take a tour of the infamous Alcatraz Island , an island that has housed a fort, military prison and penitentiary. Self-guided audio tours are included with your ferry ticket to Alcatraz: Listen to the stories of past inmates as you walk through what was once a maximum-security prison. On the island, you'll also find an exhibition about the 1969 Native American occupation of Alcatraz that took place for 19 months to advocate for Indigenous civil rights.

Alcatraz features amazing views of the San Francisco skyline, historic gardens and a sanctuary for nesting waterbirds. The ferry ride aboard Alcatraz City Cruises takes about 15 minutes. Advance reservations are recommended.

The state's second-largest city is a great alternative for those who want a big city experience without the intense traffic and smog of neighboring Los Angeles. San Diego is a premier vacation destination thanks to its diverse array of attractions . Here, you have your pick of fantastic beaches , including Pacific Beach and La Jolla Shores.

Other top things to explore include the world-famous San Diego Zoo, museum-heavy Balboa Park, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and traveler-favorite USS Midway Museum, located in a retired aircraft carrier. You'll find plenty of hotels near various points of interest in San Diego, including by the beach, the bay and downtown. For a real treat, consider a stay at the elegant Fairmont Grand Del Mar or the historic Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton .

See more of San Diego: Tours | Photos

Death Valley National Park

This national park is one for the books, breaking records as both one of the hottest places on Earth and the driest land in North America. A visit to Death Valley is not easy; the closest major airport sits nearly two hours away in Las Vegas . Should you decide to make the trek, you'll be rewarded with memorable desert landscapes, including walkable sand dunes and Artists Drive, a 9-mile paved road past colorful hills. There's also the Racetrack, which is home to the famous moving rocks. If you'd like to stay within the park, know that there are a variety of campgrounds and lodging options, including The Oasis at Death Valley.

This laid-back remote region located along the central coast of California should be on everybody's bucket list. The beauty of Big Sur is so palpable and restorative that it's become a popular spot for a wellness retreat. You can achieve this with a stay at the famous Esalen Institute, a holistic educational and wellness center, or at the luxurious Alila Ventana Big Sur , where you can book spa treatments and wellness activities. Travelers can also practice mindfulness while taking in all of Big Sur's stunning natural sights .

First-time visitors should stop and admire Bixby Bridge, hike along the coast at Andrew Molera State Park and visit McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. You can also check out the inspiring Hawthorne Gallery or browse the Henry Miller Memorial Library before capping off the day by sitting in an Adirondack chair in the river at the Big Sur River Inn or catching a sunset at Pfeiffer Beach, home to the famous Keyhole Arch. Don't miss out on the delectable pastries at Big Sur Bakery. For lunch with a view and artisan souvenirs, Nepenthe is a must.

If Ventana Big Sur is out of your price range for accommodations , consider a stay at the more affordable Glen Oaks Big Sur or the Big Sur Lodge, both of which earn high praise from travelers for their serene woodland settings. Or, pitch a tent at Ventana Campground.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a go-to place that deserves a spot on every California itinerary. Aside from being home to Hollywood, Los Angeles also offers an incomparable dining scene; some of California's most famous beaches, including Venice and Santa Monica; world-class art institutions, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the state-of-the-art Getty Center; self-guided hiking options galore; and a variety of other attractions .

There is so much to do that you'd need more than a week to see it all. An easy way to take in the sights is through bus tours: Some tours allow you to skip the line for popular attractions. LA is also filled to the brim with exceptional hotels . Give yourself the celebrity treatment and splurge on a stay at highly rated properties, such as The Beverly Hills Hotel , Hotel Bel-Air or The Peninsula Beverly Hills .

See more of Los Angeles: Tours | Photos

Indulge in wine country

Many are aware of Napa Valley 's reputation as a world-class wine destination , but Napa isn't the state's only wine producing hot spot. Sonoma is considered Napa's more casual sibling, offering more diversity in terms of attractions , including the beaches of Sonoma Coast State Park and the African-style game drives run by Safari West. Travel farther south to experience the Santa Ynez Valley, considered one of the most diverse grape-growers in the country. Meanwhile, Temecula Valley Wine Country, found north of San Diego, has produced hundreds of award-winning wines from its member wineries. With so many wine regions in California, you are likely to be within driving distance of at least one wherever you are in the state.

Behold the giant sequoias and redwoods

Did you know that the Pacific Coast of the U.S. is the only place in the world where giant sequoias and coastal redwoods grow naturally? Visiting these natural wonders is a must-do when in the Golden State. Contrary to popular belief, redwoods and sequoias are not the same tree; they require two separate climates to survive. To see giant sequoias, head into the Sierra Nevada mountain range, such as to Sequoia National Park , where you'll find the world's largest tree measured by volume: General Sherman.

To marvel at giant redwoods, you have your pick of Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park or Humboldt Redwoods State Park (don't miss the Shrine Drive Thru Tree). All these parks sit in northwestern California. These parks offer a variety of camping experiences, such as individual campsites, group sites and trail camps for wilderness backpacking and backcountry camping. Tent camping sites and cabins are available.

If you're the kind of traveler who enjoys a lake vacation , know that Lake Tahoe is California's best. Situated in Northern California, Lake Tahoe is so big that is spills into neighboring Nevada. This alpine lake destination is lauded for its spectacular clear blue waters and beautiful mountainous landscape, and it features some of the best skiing in the country .

If you're visiting during winter, enjoy a ride along the slopes of Heavenly Ski Resort and Northstar California Resort. During the summer, soak up the sun with a dip at Kings Beach State Recreation Area or with a hike through one of the many trails that meander around the lake, such as the 4.4-mile out-and-back Emerald Point Trail at Emerald Bay State Park. What's more, there are a bevy of highly rated hotels in the area, including The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe ; The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe; and the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino .

See more of Lake Tahoe: Things to Do | Photos

Experience wildflower season

Spring and summer are great times to see an abundance of wildflowers – such as the state flower. Depending on where you go, the California poppy has been known to blanket valleys and hills with its vibrant orange tint. How much of a bloom you see and where varies based on the year's seasonal rainfall. Some of the best places to see wildflowers are in Southern California. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Point Mugu State Park, Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area and Chino Hills State Park are a few of the most popular locations where you can spot pretty flowers.

If your California travels will be concentrated in the north, try North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve or Lake Tahoe, the latter of which is known to feature a spectacular seasonal display of violet and deep blue lupines. Just be sure to respect the landscapes by staying on designated trails, checking to see if dogs are permitted before you bring your furry friend, and visiting only during park hours.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara enjoys a beautiful location wedged between the coast and the mountains, affording visitors plenty of opportunities for hiking and time at the beach. Can't-miss shorelines include Summerland Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach and Leadbetter Beach. Santa Barbara's alluring Spanish and Mediterranean architecture also makes this destination feel like a true getaway.

Visit the Funk Zone for wine tasting and art, State Street for shopping and dining, and the one-of-a-kind Ganna Walska Lotusland. Hotel options in Santa Barbara are just as dreamy as the setting, with highly rated spots like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel . What's more, Santa Barbara sits around 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles (about a two-hour drive), which could make it a convenient addition to your LA itinerary.

See more of Santa Barbara: Things to Do | Photos

Learn to surf at Huntington Beach

One of the most quintessentially Californian things to do during your trip is learn how to surf . There are several places you can surf up and down the coast, but beginners shouldn't go just anywhere: The best shorelines for novice surfers feature calm waters and knowledgeable lifeguards. Surf City USA (the nickname for Huntington Beach ) fits that bill perfectly, with several surf schools here. Highly rated operators include Corky Carroll's Surf School, Learn2Rip Surfing and Ocean Academy, and Banzai Surf School. After hitting the waves, rest your sore muscles at top-rated beachfront hotels , including the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort or the Pasea Hotel & Spa .

See more of Huntington Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Explore one or more of the national forests

Did you know California has the most national forests of any state in the nation? In addition to its famous national parks, California has 18 national forests to its name. If you are vacationing in the southern part of the state, consider a visit to the Cleveland, Angeles, San Bernardino or Los Padres national forests (but check with the U.S. Forest Service before you go to ensure they're not under closure orders caused by fire or storm damage when you visit). These options sit in proximity to vacation hot spots like San Diego, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

North of Sacramento, outdoor lovers have their choice of nearly a dozen national forests, including the Mendocino, Six Rivers and Klamath national forests, to name a few. These forest destinations offer beautiful wilderness landscapes, hiking trails and camping options.

Trek along the Lost Coast

Intrepid travelers looking to experience the untouched landscapes of California should consider a trek along one-of-a-kind Lost Coast. Located less than 40 miles south of Eureka in Northern California, the Lost Coast is an undeveloped stretch of coastline. Unlike Big Sur, which shares similar geography, the Lost Coast is devoid of major roads and can be accessed via a 25-mile-long hiking trail. The trail takes about two to four days to traverse (one way), so you should only attempt this hike if you're an experienced backpacker.

Visitors who make the journey will be treated to peace and quiet, empty beaches and plenty of wildlife, ranging from elk to elephant seals, not to mention striking views of the King Range, a collection of mountains that hug the coastline. Camping is allowed on the coast, but you need to obtain a backcountry permit in order to do so.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore gives visitors a glimpse into a wilderness landscape on the Northern California coastline with no development. Conveniently situated less than 40 miles northwest of San Francisco, this national seashore is easier to reach than Big Sur and the Lost Coast.

Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking stretches of coastline, some of which are only accessible by trail, including the popular 9.7-mile round-trip Tomales Point Trail. A visit to Point Reyes will also take you through verdant, wooded landscapes and put you in close contact with wildlife such as elk, bobcats, seals, beavers and much more. You'll find campgrounds on-site for backcountry hike-in and boat-in camping, as well as modest accommodations in nearby towns, including Olema, Point Reyes Station and Inverness.

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here: The observatory hosts fascinating exhibits and features a top-notch planetarium. Recent travelers cited the breathtaking setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. Use of the public telescopes is also free, but you will have to pay a fee for the planetarium shows.

Hollywood Sign

The iconic Hollywood Sign is located in Griffith Park on Mount Lee. Visitors can hike to this iconic landmark on a few different routes and get sweeping views of LA, but the sign itself is fenced off and is typically guarded. Many visitors say that seeing the sign up close is a must-do.

The sign was originally built in 1923 and read, "Hollywoodland," the name of a real estate development, before the last four letters were removed in 1949. After years of neglect, the dilapidated sign was finally rebuilt in 1978 and has been a universal symbol for the glitz and glamour of the movie industry ever since. In 2023, the sign is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Griffith Park is free and open to the public daily with limited complimentary parking provided throughout the property.

Palm Springs

If you're looking for a place to unwind, Palm Springs is hard to beat. The Sonoran Desert provides a beautiful backdrop, warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. In the late fall and early spring, temperatures typically range from the 50s at night to the 80s during the day. If you just want to chill, you can spend the day sipping cocktails poolside or get pampered at a luxurious spa. For travelers seeking an active vacation, other draws to the area include golf, tennis and miles of hiking trails.

A traveler-favorite Palm Springs attraction is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which whisks visitors from the desert floor up 2.5 miles to Mount San Jacinto State Park. When the sun sets, head out to one of the city's hip bars or restaurants for a gourmet meal or craft cocktail, such as Bar Cecil or Mr. Lyons Steakhouse. Make it a weekend away with an overnight stay at a Palm Springs hotel like the new wellness-focused Sensei Porcupine Creek or the modern yet rustic Sparrows Lodge .

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Located on the central California coast, the Monterey Bay Aquarium draws nearly 2 million visitors per year. This institution houses more than 200 world-class exhibits that highlight the marine habitats of the area, as well as plants and creatures of the deep ocean. Guests can watch sea otters frolicking, witness glowing jellyfish and admire a 28-foot-tall kelp forest.

The aquarium also prides itself on working to protect the Pacific Ocean off California's coast. Its initiatives include reducing plastic pollution in the ocean, promoting sustainable seafood choices and helping rebuild sea otter populations. Past visitors recommend taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in California
• The Top Romantic Getaways in California
• The Top Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, California
• The Top Things to Do in Orange County, California
• The Top Hot Springs in California

The 13 Best National Parks in California

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , California Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Perfect 5 to 7-Day Northern California Coast Road Trip

Published on September 26, 2023

by Audrey Webster

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Most visitors to California’s coastline head for the southern half of the state. Yet, if you set out for a northern California coast road trip, you’re met with rugged coastlines, historic lighthouses, and tasty food—as well as some stops that are a little more off the beaten path.

You could spend weeks exploring all the ins and outs of this pristine coastline, but 5 to 7 days in northern California is usually plenty for a first trip to the area. 

This article takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about driving the northern California coast. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern California?

The sweet spot is 5 to 7 days in northern California. With this amount of time, you can cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed or switching accommodations every night.

With 5 days in northern California, you’ll have plenty of time to drive from the Bay Area to Redwoods National and State Parks. You could opt to turn around sooner and spend more time at each stop. You’ll have time to spend a day or so exploring the towns, overlooks, and beaches you visit without feeling terribly rushed. 

Should you have 7 days in the northern part of California, you have two options for how to spend your trip. First, you can go beyond Redwoods National and State Parks to explore the coastline closest to the California-Oregon border.

Our itinerary below offers a few suggestions for places to stop for the extra two nights. Your second option is to simply spend more time at each stop between SF and the Redwoods. 

No matter how much time you spend in northern California, set aside time to check out the highlights as well as wander off the beaten path. Here is where you’ll find the hidden gems!

Getting To & Around Northern California

You’ll want a car for a northern California road trip—there’s really no way to make the trip without your own vehicle.

If you’re flying in from out of state, you can rent a car from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and return it to the same place when your trip concludes.

There are no places to rent cars along the drive outside of SF, nor are there any options for guided tours to get you between cities. Renting a car or having your own is absolutely needed. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices or alternatively have a look at Outdoorsy if you prefer to rent an RV or campervan.

For most of the drive, you’re heading along Highway 101 or Highway 1 – also known as the Pacific Coast Highway or the PCH. This highway is well-known for its stunning views and curvy roads though it most popular when driving between LA and San Francisco . It’s important that you drive slowly.

If you’re easily carsick, have some remedies on hand to help ease it. While the road is curvy and narrow in places, you get incredible views of the coastline as you drive, so you’ll want to take your time. Stop anywhere there’s a safe pullout or parking lot to pause and admire the view. 

5 to 7 Day Northern California Coast Itinerary

Our itinerary starts in San Francisco. If you’re flying into the state, you’ll most likely begin here. However, if you’re driving in, feel free to mix and match the itinerary stops in the way that makes the most sense for you. Plan for one long travel day at the end to return to San Francisco. 

Day 1 – San Francisco

Plan to spend a day exploring San Francisco upon arrival. If you’ve flown in from a different time zone, spend some time readjusting to Pacific time and resting before kicking off your northern California coastal road trip. 

If you’ve never visited the Bay Area before, now is a great time to check out the city. Walk along the Golden Gate Bridge, stroll through Golden Gate Park, visit Chinatown, or ride the famous cable cars. With enough time, you can even visit Alcatraz Island and wander Pier 39. 

You could easily spend several days getting to know San Francisco, but for this itinerary, budget one or two days, depending on how much total time you have. Tonight, you can either spend another night in the city or head out to the coast in the evening. The drive from SF to Point Reyes Station is just shy of two hours. 

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Orchard Hotel – Located in downtown San Francisco, this cute boutique hotel is a great base in the city. They have a great location within walking distance of all of San Francisco’s top attractions and there is also breakfast available in the mornings.  Click here to check availability

Axiom Hotel – Those after a luxury option to kick start their Northern California road trip will love this hip hotel right off Union Square. They have an array of lovely rooms to choose from and plenty of amenities available to guests. Click here to check availability

Green Tortoise Hostel – Budget and solo travellers looking to save a bit of cash or meet some other people will love this centrally located hostel. They have a number of dorms and privates along with good common areas and free breakfast. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in San Francisco!

Day 2 – Point Reyes Station

Point Reyes is the jump-off point to visit Point Reyes National Seashore and Tomales Bay State Park.

This charming small town is home to some lovely boutique hotels and rentals where you can decompress after enjoying a day on the coastline. Oysters are a must-try here, and there are several places where you can taste local seafood. 

In terms of how you spend your time in Point Reyes, the short answer is to head out to the seashore! Visit Point Reyes Lighthouse, hike to Chimney Rock, and relax on Drakes Beach. One of the most picturesque spots is the Cypress Tree Tunnel. You can also seek out the elephant seals, visit local creameries, rent kayaks if the weather is on your side, and shop at local stores in town. 

Tonight you can stay again in Point Reyes or head to Timber Cove in the evening. The drive is about an hour and a half. 

Where to Stay Near Timber Cove

Jenner Inn – This quaint inn in the town of Jenner makes for an excellent base for this part of your Northern California road trip itinerary. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from and plenty of good amenities for guests to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Timber Cove Resort – Located in a dramatic cliffside setting, this is a great choice for those after a luxury option while visiting Northern California. They have a range of gorgeous rooms on offer along with countless plush amenities on offer to guests. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – A private vacation rental is another great option on your road trip. There are countless properties – like this dramatic oceanfront house – available to choose from across a variety of booking platforms. Click here to browse more Timber Cove private rentals!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Timber Cove hotels!

Day 3 – Salt Point State Park & Timber Cove

Day three brings you to Timber Cove and Salt Point State Park. Located in Sonoma County (the wine regions of Napa and Sonoma are located just inland!), the state park covers over six miles of rugged coastline.

There are over 20 miles of hiking trails, but the area is well known for its diving. However, if you’d rather stick to dry land, Salt Point Trail, North Trail Loop, and Pygmy Forest Trail are all great options for easy-to-moderate hikes. 

Tonight, head into Timber Cove. This quaint and secluded town is perfect for a quiet evening. There are several accommodations—all with incredible views of the rocky coastline. This area is known for its craggy sharp cliffs that drop down into pockets of sandy beaches.

Pay a visit to Goat Rock Beach, Fort Ross, and Gualala’s Sand Dunes. If you’re a wine lover, there are five coastal AVAs here for you to explore. Spend tonight in Timber Cover before heading to Mendocino early in the morning. 

Day 4 – Mendocino

The drive from Timber Cove to Mendocino is just under two hours. It’s one of the longer stretches of coastline you’ll drive on this northern California road trip.

The town of Mendocino is charming, so set aside some time to walk around. There are plenty of delicious seafood restaurants and local bakeries to explore. 

Mendocino is unique in that you have access to coastal landscapes and lush forested state parks. Russian Gulch State Park features the historic Russian Gulch Bridge and moderately difficult trails like the Falls Loop Trail that takes you to a 36-foot waterfall.

Along the coast, Big River Beach, Mendocino Bay, and Jug Handle State Natural Reserve are all worth a visit. At Jug Handle, hike the Ecological Staircase Trail takes you along the cliff, through a redwood forest, and to the pygmy forest filled with stunted and ancient trees. 

Where to Stay in Mendocino

Headlands Inn Bed and Breakfast – This cosy bed and breakfast is a great, mid-range option in Mendocino. They have a number of cute and quaint rooms to choose from and makes for an excellent base for this part your your road trip in Northern California. Click here to check availability

Agate Cove Inn – Boasting incredible coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, this inn is a great base in Mendocino for those looking for a bit of an upscale stay. They have a number of bright and comfortable rooms to choose from, free parking and an excellent breakfast. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – There are also plenty of private vacation rentals – like this cute cottage in Mendocino village – to choose from in this area along the Pacific coast if that suits your travel style more. Click here to browse Mendocino private rentals!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Mendocino hotels!

Day 5 – Humboldt Redwoods State Park

No visit to northern California is complete without hiking amongst the impressive redwoods. There are pockets of protected national and state redwood parks throughout northern California.

If you only have a 5-day itinerary, make a stop at Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Here, you can drive the Avenue of the Giants.

The 31-mile route should be at the top of your to-do list if your time in the park is limited. Founders Grove, Rockefeller Forest, and the Lost Coast Drive are all great ways to spend your time. 

Now, if day five is the last day of your trip, here is where you’ll turn around and head back down to San Francisco. In total, the drive back to the city is 5 to 6 hours. 

Day 6 – Trinidad

If you have 7 days to devote to exploring northern California’s coast, continue driving until you reach Trinidad.

This tiny coastal town features some of the best beaches along the route and several that are reminiscent of the Oregon coast.

Trinidad State Beach and College Cover are two iconic stops. Sue-Meg State Park with its rim trail and Wedding Rock climbs are well worth the visit.

For your overnight accommodation, there are several cabins or vacation rental homes that provide a comfortable stay. 

Where to Stay in Trinidad

View Crest Lodge – This lodge located close to Agate Beach is an excellent place to stay in Trinidad. They have a number of rustic rooms and cottages to choose from along with free parking and a good breakfast available each morning. Click here to check availability

Trinidad Bay Bed and Breakfast Hotel – This is another great option right on the coast in Trinidad. They have a number of quint rooms on offer to guests, an excellent breakfast and a perfect location directly on the beautiful beach. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – If you’re looking for your own space in the Trinidad area, there are plenty of properties to choose from – like this romantic cottage near the beach . There is something to suit everyone across a range of platforms. Click here to browse Trinidad private rentals

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Trinidad hotels!

Day 7 – Redwoods National & State Parks

First thing first—there are actually four redwood parks throughout the state of California. They include Redwood National Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

All the parks are clustered in northern California, so you can visit all four parks if time allows. Within the parks, you’ll find some of the world’s most pristine old-growth redwood forests. 

During your visit to Redwood National Park , make a stop at the Kuchel Visitor Center to learn about the park and get the latest updates about its trails.

Ladybird Johnson Trail, Redwood Creek Overlook, and Tall Trees Grove Trail are the three most popular routes. Within the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, head over to the wildly famous fern canyon for a truly unique hike. 

Each park has its own unique trails, scenery, and hikes. If you’re pressed for time, pick just a couple to visit. The national park tends to see bigger crowds, so if you want to get away from other visitors, head for one of the lesser-trafficked state parks.

Have More Time?

If you have a little more time on your California north coast road trip, stop at Anderson Valley. It sits between Highway 101 and the coast. It’s a beautiful stretch of land filled with giant oak trees and sprawling vineyards.

There are two towns: Philo and Boonville. Anderson Valley is a wine lovers’ paradise. It’s one of the lesser-known wine regions in California, which makes it great if you want to enjoy the state’s iconic wine without fighting the crowds you’ll find in Napa or Sonoma . Hendy Woods State Park is full of great hiking trails. You could easily spend a day or two exploring this area. 

It’s also worth your time to linger in San Francisco at the start or end of your trip. There is so much to do in this city that you could spend an entire week here and never run out of ways to fill your time. Relax in Dolores Park, visit the Painted Ladies, take iconic photos at Lombard Street, or visit any of the city’s amazing art museums. 

Should you have more than two weeks in your itinerary, head inland to visit places like Lassen National Park, Yosemite National Lake, and Lake Tahoe . The area around Mount Shasta is also amazing for camping, hiking, and overlooks. 

Finally, if you have more than 7 days to dedicate to the northern California coast, we recommend spending even more time in each destination. Ideally, a minimum of two days allows ample time to admire the location and relax. The redwood forests in particular warrant an entire trip on their own. You’ll be able to catch the highlights on this road trip. 

Of course, you could continue north from your final destination in California and venture along the Oregon Coast and terminate in lively and eccentric Portland. Otherwise, you could even go for an entire San Francisco to Seattle road trip and see a good part of the coastal Pacific Northwest !

The northern California coastline is full of stunning landscapes and hidden gems. There’s so much to do and see that the trick is narrowing down exactly how to spend your time. No matter how long you visit or where you stop, your itinerary will be jam-packed with unforgettable sights. 

Are you visiting northern California? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

13 Best Stops on an LA to San Francisco Drive

9 Best Stops on a San Diego to Grand Canyon Road Trip

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Los Angeles Itinerary

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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10 best places to visit in California

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

The best places to visit in California include amazing natural wonders and some of the most cosmopolitan cities in the US © franckreporter / Getty Images

From towering redwood forests in foggy northern California to perfectly sun-kissed surf beaches in the south, the Golden State on the Pacific simply begs to be explored.

Tip back top vintages and dig into world-class cooking. Blow your mind exploring active volcanoes, soaring mountains and grand redwood groves. Roam free at the world's most iconic surfing beaches, craggy coves and austere bluffs. Get your wheels in gear for incredible road trips from desert to dunes. Hoist your pack and delve into truly remote wilderness.

Here are the best places to visit in California.

1. San Francisco

Best city for variety, iconic sights and LGBTIQ+ travel

Pushing boundaries with trendsetting food, social movements, art and technology, San Francisco  is as far out as you can get without winding up in the Pacific.

This town is defined by bold moves. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is an engineering marvel in a color chosen over the Navy's objections. Nature lovers elbowed aside speculators to establish Golden Gate Park . Alcatraz was occupied by Native American protestors and turned into a museum.

Discover the weirdest tech in the West at the Exploratorium  and find inspiration in new-media installations at supersized SFMOMA . Be moved by poetry by San Francisco’s literary landmarks, starting with City Lights Books .

You don’t need to stay up late to be out and proud in SF. Flag-flying crowds are an absolute joy throughout June Pride month, at Sunday afternoon Castro “tea dances” (a WWII euphemism for LGBTIQ+ parties) and any sunny day at Dolores Park’s “Gay Beach.” 

Local tip: Don’t forget to sample widely some of the state’s most interesting cuisine, from Asian-fusion creations at Benu that look like minimalist sculptures to some of the world’s best burritos at Mission District classics like Taqueria El Farolito  and East Bay treats like Chez Panisse .

2. Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Best region for magnificent trees and family travel

Hugging a tree never came so naturally as it does in California's sun-dappled groves of ancient redwoods, the world's tallest trees. The roots of these giants may be shallow, but they hold each other up and reach dizzying heights, some surviving since the days of the Roman Empire. Even a short stroll on the soft forest floor beneath them puts the rest of the world into perspective.

Redwoods thrive along the coast from Big Sur north to the Oregon border, and you'll find massive stands of old-growth groves at Redwood Nationaal Park . Don’t miss the magical drive through Avenue of the Giants and California’s largest redwood park, Humboldt Redwoods State Park , which covers 53,000 acres – 17,000 of which are old growth.

Local tip: Stop for a pizza at  Brick & Fire  in Eureka and soak away any hiking aches at the Finnish Country Sauna and Tubs in the eclectic town of Arcata.

3. Sonoma Wine Country

Best region for wine and food

As winemaking in neighboring  Napa Valley grows ever more upscale, sun-dappled vineyards in Sonoma County are still surrounded by pastoral ranchlands. Wineries range from the Sonoma Valley to the coastal Russian River Valley , and tasting rooms abound in buzzy Healdsburg .

The uniqueness of the terroir is valued in this down-to-earth wine country, where you taste vintages straight from the barrel inside a tin-roofed shed while playing with the winemaker’s pet dog (at Porter Creek , just one of many excellent wineries). In addition to wine tasting, wallow in volcanic bubbling mud in Calistoga or float the river around LGBTIQ-friendly Guerneville.

Local tip: Follow your bliss down the Bohemian Hwy to Occidental and its epic Friday night farmers market, alive with live music. 

4. Highway 1

Best region for road tripping, ocean views and couples

Though in southern California it's known by its more famous name, the  Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), northern Californians have a more succinct label for the 400-mile stretch from San Francisco to Crescent City: Hwy 1. The edges of the highway hug the coast and cradle small communities as it alternates between hairpin switchbacks and straight stretches through the bucolic countryside. 

Start on the PCH at Santa Monica  and cruise north through Malibu , Big Sur, Monterey Bay, and San Francisco and up along Sonoma Coast State Park. In Fort Bragg, stop and admire the "glass beach" and check out its artistic community. 

5. Yosemite National Park

Best region for waterfalls, outdoors and family trips

Feeling so small has never felt this grand. Everything is monumental at Yosemite National Park : thunderous waterfalls tumble over sheer cliffs, granite domes tower overhead and the world's biggest trees cluster in mighty groves of giant sequoias.

Conservationist John Muir considered Yosemite a great temple, and awe is a natural reaction to the vast wildflower-strewn meadows and steep valleys carved over millennia by glaciers, avalanches and earthquakes. To achieve maximum wonder, stop at Glacier Point under a full moon, or drive the high country’s Tioga Rd on a cloudless summer day. Unsurprisingly, Yosemite has some of the best hikes in California .

Detour: You can enjoy an extravaganza of incredible parks by combining your visit to Yosemite with stops in Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park .

6. Los Angeles

Best city for celebrity sightings and movie buffs

Bordered by sandy beaches, winding canyons and the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles is a sprawling cityscape of distinct neighborhoods, endless entertainment options and year-round outdoor recreation. Bask in the undulating stainless steel curves of  Walt Disney Concert Hall , commune with world-beating contemporary art at the  Broad or check out modern music history at the  Grammy Museum . 

Stop for a meal at the century-old but gourmet-led  Grand Central Market before browsing the galleries and shops of the Arts District,  Olvera Street and  Chinatown . 

When you're ready for your close-up, there's only one place to go. The stars come out at night for red-carpet premieres at restored movie palaces, and you too can have your Hollywood moment on the pink-starred Walk of Fame . Snap a selfie outside TCL Chinese Theatre (better known as Grauman’s) or duck into Hollywood and Highland’s Babylon Court for a photo op with the iconic Hollywood sign and revel in your 15 minutes of social-media fame. Afterward, visit the fascinating  Academy Museum .

Local tip: How do you beat LA traffic? Hit the beach instead. Sunny  Santa Monica bestows joy upon even the weariest traveler. Learn to surf, get a bird's-eye view from your seat in a solar-powered Ferris wheel, learn more about the secrets of the ocean at the aquarium’s tidal touch pools or paddle in the Pacific and let your troubles float away. Join the parade of New Agers, muscled bodybuilders and goth punks at nearby  Venice Beach , where there's a tribe for everyone. 

7. Monterey Bay

Best region for wildlife and family fun

Get up close and personal with California marine life in the fishing village of Monterey , where writer John Steinbeck brought colorful local wharf characters to life – and the seals are pretty outrageous too. Hop aboard a whale-watching cruise to explore a national marine sanctuary or walk right into the bay at the aquarium to spot golden sea dragons, shy pink Pacific octopuses and scene-stealing rescued otters at play.

Soak up the authentic maritime atmosphere at the  West Coast’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse in Pacific Grove. Head north to quirky Santa Cruz , stopping off on broad stretches of cream-colored beach to spot gray whales, sea otters, sea lions and seals. Indulge in some playtime on the beach boardwalk with its historic roller coaster and watch surfers shred at Steamer Lane.

Local tip: In the winter, you'll see local Dungeness crab on menus – order it.

8. Death Valley National Park

Best region for desert drama and spring trips

Its daunting name of brings to mind Wild West ghost towns, broken-down pioneer wagon trains and tumbleweed blowing past skulls on desert sand dunes, but Death Valley is actually full of life. 

Spring wildflowers daub the dunes with a painter’s palette of colors, adrenaline-seekers zoom across crackled salt flats, and shy desert wildlife lives by starlight. Twist your way up narrow canyons, zoom across crackled salt flats and past geological oddities, and descend into volcanic craters formed by a massive eruption 2100 years ago.

9. Lake Tahoe

Best region for mountains, adventure and skiing

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe , the second-deepest lake in the USA, is a California favorite. In summer, startlingly clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking and even scuba diving. Meanwhile, mountain bikers careen down epic single-track runs, and hikers stride along trails threading through thick forests. 

After dark, retreat to a cozy lakefront cottage and toast s’mores in the firepit. When the lake turns into a winter wonderland, gold-medal ski resorts keep downhill fanatics, snowboarders and Nordic traditionalists more than satisfied. You'll never be short of  things to do in Lake Tahoe .

Detour: Head to Truckee for the burgeoning local food scene and the area’s best restaurants.

10. Big Sur

Best region for coastline

Following your bliss inevitably leads to Big Sur . Waterfalls splash down sandy bluffs in rainbow mists, and yurt retreats perch at the edge of redwood forests. Beyond purple-sand beaches and coves lined with California jade, pods of migrating whales dot the sparkling Pacific.

But don't forget to turn around: hiding behind these coastal bluffs are hot springs and Beat literary retreats, with California condors circling over the cliffs. Experience all of the best adventures on a s cenic Big Sur road trip .

Local tip: Time your visit for peak waterfall season in May or after the summer vacation period for maximum meditation.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated September 2023

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Your last-minute guide to enjoying the solar eclipse — in L.A. and beyond

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It’s finally here: the great eclipse of 2024.

The last total solar eclipse that crossed the contiguous United States was in August 2017, according to NASA. Another one won’t cross again for 20 years .

Throngs of people are traveling to the Midwest and east, where the eclipse action will be the most dramatic.

And although California won’t experience the phenomenon of totality, there is still plenty to see.

Here is a quick guide:

What is a total solar eclipse?

• Total eclipse : Midday darkness will be cast on a sliver of states, including Texas, Illinois, Ohio and New York — but there won’t be any “totality” in Los Angeles.
• Partial eclipse : In Los Angeles, about half of the sun will be visibly covered by the moon, and in San Francisco, one-third will be. The northernmost parts of the state will see the smallest amount of the eclipse, while cities to the south will experience more.

How to watch the solar eclipse from California — and avoid heartbreak if chasing ‘totality’

Though there won’t be totality in California, the state will still enjoy an impressive partial eclipse in the late morning — if the skies remain cloud-free.

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What time is the eclipse?

In Los Angeles, a substantial blocking of the sun will be obvious by 10:39 a.m. and will peak at 11:12 a.m. By 12:22 p.m., it will be over, according to the Griffith Observatory.

There will be a lot of events locally.

6 excellent L.A. spots to watch the awe-inspiring solar eclipse

Whether you’re a science nerd hoping to pick the brains of professional astronomers or a parent looking to teach their child about space, these six events will elevate your eclipse-viewing experience.

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How to see the eclipse

• Looking up: The first rule of a solar eclipse is, don’t look at the sun without specialized eclipse glasses or a solar viewer. It’s not safe. If you look up at the eclipse without protection, it will cause severe eye injury, according to NASA .
• Using the right glasses: Here are some safety and glasses tips. When you do get a pair of glasses or viewers, make sure they’re in good condition. If the viewers are torn, scratched or punctured, discard them. If the filters are coming loose from their cardboard or plastic frames, discard them.
• Taking pictures: Even taking photos on your phone can pose risks to your eyes. Casually including the sun in a photo for a quick snapshot isn’t really a safety issue for the camera. But experts have tips.

Preparing for Monday’s solar eclipse: What you need to do to watch safely

Looking for a place to watch the solar eclipse on April 8? Events are happening around Los Angeles County. Here where to catch a glimpse, how to watch safety and where to get free solar eclipse glasses.

April 4, 2024

How to take a photo of the eclipse without damaging your phone

Here are some tips for taking photos of Monday’s upcoming solar eclipse without ruining your smartphone.

And finally ...

Enjoy the day! Rare moments can bring people together. At least some scientists think so.

Of course they can also spark end-times conspiracies (please, ignore those!).

At least it will be clear in Southern California. Elsewhere, cloudy skies risk spoiling the view for eclipse chasers. There are only expected to be a few small clouds in the Los Angeles area near the eastern San Gabriel Mountains, but even hikers on those peaks will still be able to catch the eclipse, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Kristan Lund.

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Researchers and citizen scientists will observe how animals’ routines at several zoos are disrupted during the April 8 total solar eclipse.

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These scientists think an ‘awe’-some eclipse could help unite Americans in troubled times

Awe is a serious topic among psychologists, including one at UC Irvine investigating whether awe-inspiring solar eclipses can help unite Americans.

April 7, 2024

Going to miss the solar eclipse? Don’t worry, the next one is only years away

California only gets a partial eclipse. But that’s no reason to miss it. The next one is years away.

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Rong-Gong Lin II is a Metro reporter based in San Francisco who specializes in covering statewide earthquake safety issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Bay Area native is a graduate of UC Berkeley and started at the Los Angeles Times in 2004.

Hannah Fry covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. She most recently covered Orange County for The Times and has written extensively about criminal trials, housing, politics and government. In 2020, Fry was part of the team that was a Pulitzer finalist for its coverage of a boat fire that killed 34 people off the coast of Santa Barbara. Fry came to The Times from the Daily Pilot, where she covered coastal cities, education and crime. An Orange County native, Fry started her career as an intern at the Orange County Register.

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When is the next total solar eclipse in US after April 8, 2024?

North America will not experience another total solar eclipse for decades.

"Eclipse Across America" will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

If experiencing totality during the April 8 total solar eclipse makes you hungry for another celestial spectacle, you may have to wait decades.

"Solar eclipses are sort of like potato chips -- once you eat one, you want another one," Fred Espenak, a former astrophysicist from NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and author of "Road Atlas for the Total Solar Eclipse of 2024," told ABC News.

MORE: 'The sun has been eaten': Inside the history and mythology of total solar eclipses

"Every eclipse is unique and exciting," Espenak continued. "I would say it's the most spectacular, natural phenomenon that you can see with the naked eye."

On Monday, the total solar eclipse plunged a path through the contiguous United States into an eerie twilight showcasing the sun's corona and the atmosphere's array of stars as the moon passed in front of the sun.

For the 31 million Americans who live inside the eclipse's path of totality, the experience was brought right to their doorstep, while millions of other eclipse chasers traveled to the 115-mile-wide path for the historic day.

"Many people will definitely get the bug and join the cohort of eclipse chasers, who go to any reasonable means of traveling around the world to see nature's most dramatic sight," Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer and founder of Greatamericaneclipse.com, told ABC News.

Next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after 2024

The next total solar eclipse to occur in the contiguous U.S. won't be until Aug. 23, 2044, and will only shadow three states in its path, Montana and North and South Dakota, according to NASA.

In Canada, British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan will also experience totality, according to the agency.

Next coast-to-coast total solar eclipse

The next year, on Aug. 12, 2045, a total solar eclipse will span coast to coast, according to NASA.

MORE: How to photograph April 8's solar eclipse with a camera or a smartphone

The far-reaching path of totality will cover parts of California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Georgia, the agency reports.

Similar to the total solar eclipse in 2017, the 2045 eclipse offers a chance for many Americans to experience totality within their states.

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Adding to the decades-away excitement, since the 2044 and 2045 eclipses are slated for August, the summer season increases the likelihood of clear, cloudless skies during the event.

Next total solar eclipse internationally

If you can't wait two decades for the next chance to experience totality, another total solar eclipse will take place in Europe in 2026.

On Aug. 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse is set to sweep over the Arctic Ocean, Greenland, Iceland, Atlantic Ocean, Portugal and northern Spain, according to the National Solar Observatory .

"Witnessing a total solar eclipse is a deeply emotional experience for anyone," Zeiler said. "And the first question you may ask after the eclipse is: When is the next one? And you may want to go see the very next eclipse in Spain in 2026."

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When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S.? See the paths for the 2044 and 2045 events

By Cara Tabachnick

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 2:31 AM EDT / CBS News

Eclipse-watchers waited more than six years since the last time a total solar eclipse charted its way across the United States,  in 2017 . After the  April 8 event , prepare to wait a lot longer — the next chance won't be coming around any time soon.

Viewers in what's called " the path of totality " saw the moon completely block the sun  — an opportunity those in North America won't have again for 20-plus years. The next total solar eclipses in North America are not anticipated until 2044 and 2045.

"A total solar eclipse is one of the most spectacular things anyone can see in their lifetime," Virginia Tech astrophysicist Nahum Arav told CBS News. The eclipse "looks like a black hole in the sky," said Arav, who watched the paths of totality of eclipses in 1991 and 2017.

Monday's eclipse started around 11:07 a.m. PDT on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, and then moved into Texas . The eclipse's visibility tracked  through 15 states  — Oklahoma, Illinois , Ohio,  Pennsylvania , New York , Vermont ,  New Hampshire  and Maine , among them — before heading northward into Canada and then exiting North America.

Even with spotty weather in some states, millions of people from coast to coast saw a partial solar eclipse, in which the moon partially covers the sun. However, only those within the path of totality experienced the darkness of the total solar eclipse. 

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after the 2024 eclipse?

Solar eclipses happen about twice a year, said Arav. "Eclipses happen all over the Earth evenly," he told CBS News — but noted the timings when they occur are not regular. That means  eclipses can occur within just a few years, or every few decades, in North America.

Before the eclipse in 2017, the last total solar eclipse to cross North America was in 1979 . That was the first eclipse whose path of totality crossed the entire continent in 99 years. 

Even though eclipses may seem to occur randomly, scientists can pinpoint exactly when and where they will happen.

"There is no ambiguity, as we know exactly where it will land," said Arav. 

There will be eight total solar eclipses visible from North America in the 21st century, Arav said, with one occurring about every 12 years, on average.   

The next total solar eclipse to cross North America is predicted to occur on Aug. 23, 2044 , NASA said. However, the path of totality from this eclipse will only touch three states, according to  The Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to public interest in space.  

This next eclipse will mainly be observed in Canada, Arav said. 

Path of totality for the 2044 total solar eclipse

The 2044 eclipse will start in Greenland on Aug. 23, 2044, and will continue its path through Canada. 

The 2044 total solar eclipse will be short, mostly appearing in Canada. It will be visible from three states in the U.S.: Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.  

The path of totality will cross Williston and Dickinson, North Dakota, and Great Falls, Montana.

Path of totality for the 2045 total solar eclipse

The next solar eclipse that crosses a significant portion of the continental U.S. will be in 2045, said Arav. That year, a solar eclipse will darken skies in parts of the U.S., Haiti, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname and Brazil. 

In North America, the 2045 total eclipse will be visible in many states as it moves from coast to coast. The eclipse will start in California and move east to end in Florida, similar to 2017, Arav said. 

There will be numerous U.S. cities where eclipse watchers can view the total eclipse, including Reno, Nevada; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Orlando, Florida.

Future solar eclipses in North America after 2045

Scientists have predicted eight total solar eclipses will appear in North America in the 21st century.

"Natural phenomena are like a Swiss clock," Arav said. "We know exactly when and where they will appear."

After the 2044 and 2045 total solar eclipses, the next total eclipses in North America will occur in 2078 and 2099.

May 11, 2078

This total solar eclipse on May 11, 2078 , will pass over the southern United States.

Cities include:

Atlanta, Georgia

New Orleans, Louisiana

Charlotte, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Sept. 14, 2099

This total solar eclipse on Sept. 14, 2099 , will cross a wide swath of the United States.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Chicago, Illinois

Columbus, Ohio

Fargo, North Dakota

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor and journalist at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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From California to East Coast: they came to Bucyrus to witness 2024 total solar eclipse

People from across the nation. from California to the East Coast, came to Bucyrus to witness the total solar eclipse of 2024. Meanwhile, the majority of Bucyrians hid inside their residences and were nowhere to be seen. Some later noted they did not intend to watch the eclipse.

Despite earlier expectations the event would draw thousands and thousands of visitors to the area, almost doubling the county’s population, the streets of Bucyrus as well as Crawford County roads looked serene and deserted minutes before the most expected event of the year.

Almost none of the Bucyrians, with a few exceptions, were seen to be watching the eclipse in their front yards. Those who appeared on the streets later said they did not watch the eclipse because they were not interested.

Jason Tharp, living just a few blocks from Aumiller Park where people from across the country gathered to celebrate and share the unique experience, said he and his family decided to watch the eclipse from their home rather than going to party somewhere.

“We were fine being home watching it,” Tharp said. 

Groups of friends were scattered around Bucyrus downtown after the eclipse enjoying their snacks and the warm afternoon sun, but they invariably answered they were not from Bucyrus.

Bucyrus Aumiller Park 

Aumiller Park became one of the local focal points for the travelers who said they were attracted by slower traffic, weather conditions forecasting fewer clouds and the playgrounds that Aumiller Park offers.

Matt Charleston, Ian Osborne, Parker Hunt and Colin Moreland said they came to Bucyrus from Westerville to see the eclipse. Charleston said the main reason they chose Bucyrus was lower traffic flow.

He said it was not the first solar eclipse they experienced, as they went to Illinois to see the one in 2017. However, at that time, the eclipse was not total.

National Weather Service : Observed Weather for past 3 Days : Erie, Erie International Airport

“We’re pretty excited this time,” Charleston said.

The guys said some of them were Ph.D. students, but the eclipse was out of the scope of their professional interests. Some were engaged in studying physics, and in particular condensed matter and atmosphere dynamics, but none of that was directly related to the eclipse.

Some of the travelers said they did not plan to watch the eclipse from Bucyrus, originally aiming at the Sandusky County, Lake Erie and Lima area. However, the weather forecast predicting cloudy weather farther north stopped them in Bucyrus.

Nathan Weaver said he and his family planned to go to the Lima area, but seeing the weather forecast not favorable, the Weavers found Aumiller Park online and decided to stop there.

Robert Finicum said he and his family came from South Carolina. He intended to be closer to Sandusky County, but the clouds were getting thicker the farther north they got, and as they were driving through Bucyrus, they thought it was a nice community and went to the local park.

Sonia Yevick said she came to see the eclipse in Bucyrus Aumiller Park with her family and friends from Maryland because they wanted to see it in totality and were aiming for a place that was not cloudy.

Yevick said specifically for the eclipse she was wearing a skirt with Saturn rings and an eclipse-themed T-shirt.

“I thought it was a good skirt to wear today, my daughter has a matching dress,” Yevick said.

Vishwa Murthy and Pallavi Mahalingaiah said they came from California by plane for the eclipse because there would not be another eclipse like this for a long time in North America. Murthy said it was also interesting to see the eclipse and defy superstitions he heard about in his childhood.

“You’re not supposed to have food around that time,” Murthy said. “A lot of superstitions.”

Kelly Winks with her sister, grandchildren and grandfather said that they came from the Westerville area because Bucyrus was designated as a spot to watch the eclipse on the National Solar Observatory eclipse map, and they heard about Bucyrus before.

Katie Bittner, who came to witness the eclipse with her brother, sister, mother and eight of 13 of her mother’s grandchildren, said they decided to come from Columbus, which was not in the path of totality, for the kids to see the unique solar event.

Bittner said they were looking for a park with playgrounds for the kids to be able to enjoy the eclipse in a family friendly environment, and having driven through Bucyrus before they decided Aumiller Park suited them perfectly.

Morgan Moore who came twith her boyfriend, Brian Driftmyer, and their children said they chose Bucyrus because it was convenient to get there traffic-wise. Driftmyer said they did not want to go to larger communities in the path of totality, such as Cleveland.

Sarah Mayabb and Cassia Mangin came to Bucyrus from Columbus to show the eclipse to their children as well. Mayabb said they wanted a smaller, quieter venue, and they remembered Bucyrus from a previous visited through Girl Scout events.

Mangin said this was her first eclipse, and Mayabb said she had seen some before, and they were fun.

“I just wanted to have a chance to bring the kids out so they could experience one in totality because the others weren’t in totality for us,” Mayabb said.

Students from Christian Star Academy in Mount Vernon took a ride to Aumiller Park for the full eclipse because of its playground. School co-founder Sue Feasel said they made eclipse themed T-shirts ahead of time. Feasel said she was glad the students got to see the unique celestial event.

“They’re fascinated watching the advancement of the coverage,” Feasel said.

After the totality

Deb and Bob File from North Carolina said this was their first total eclipse viewing, but they saw a partial one as children. They chose Bucyrus because of its Aumiller Park. Bob File said he had never seen a park in a city this size as nice as this one.

“That was stunning,” he said. “Never seen anything like it.”

Joe Kleman said he came from Columbus because he is from Bucyrus originally and went to Bucyrus High School. Kleman said the eclipse was amazing, and he was glad he came.

Mark Petti same to Bucyrus from New Jersey. He said he was planning on coming to the Lake Erie area, but abandoned that idea because of the cloudy forecast. He started to look for an alternative place, and he chose Bucyrus because of its disc golf course.

“The eclipse was awesome, the park is beautiful, and the disc golf course is pretty cool,” Petti said. “Cool experience.” 

David Kruzei who came to see the eclipse with his friends from the Ohio State University said it was definitely “one of the coolest things” he had ever seen. One of his friends Max Kanuez said they chose Bucyrus for its longer totality time,

“It is not very often that you get to see things move in the sky like that,” Kruzei said. “Really gives you a feel for where we are in the universe.”

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse