Top Tips For Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip

 If you are planning to drive Highway 1, these are my top tips of the day! March 12, 2023

The Ultimate California Road Trip

Want to take the ultimate California road trip? Drive California’s Highway 1 along the Central Coast. It’s rightfully rated as one of the top road trips in the world.

This is a particularly breathtaking drive, especially through Big Sur where the Santa Lucia mountains plunge into the sea, and the surf and wind relentlessly pound the rocks and shore bending the native cypress trees into otherworldly shapes. You’ll see coves painted in shades of turquoise, sapphire, and teal, that will make you long to plant your flag and declare that beach your own. 

Top Tips Driving Highway 1 Ultimate California Road Trip

Photo courtesy of See Monterey

Before you embark on the ultimate California road trip, let me share some of my top tips to help you along the way . While it’s a fun drive, it can be very challenging and demands 100 percent of your attention.

I’ll also share some of the top attractions from Monterey to Cambria . Keep in mind this is a small selection. Honestly, there is so much to see and do, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, I can’t cover it all in one article.

Be sure to read 5 Things to Love About Monterey which includes information about restaurants and tours in the area. You’ll also find there are more than 5!

How long does it take to drive California Highway 1?

The trip takes about five hours if driven at a leisurely pace. You can drive from the north to the south (Monterey to San Luis Obispo), or south to the north. I drove it in both directions, taking longer to drive back because I had no place I had to be at the end of the day. I also liked driving north to south best, because the ocean was on my right side and it was easier to pull off in the turn-outs to take pictures.

 top tips driving California Highway 1 Ultimate Road Trip @PennySadler

Top tips for the ultimate California road trip   

Tip: 1 drive a comfortable car.

Driving a comfortable and reliable car is a must. This is a two-lane mountain road. In some places the shoulder is quite narrow, and there’s not much between you and the sea below. There’s a forty to fifty-mile stretch that’s full of hairpin twists and turns.  Since you’ll be pulling over a lot to take photos and admire the views, a car that picks up speed quickly is also important. 

 Kia Forte on the beach from Ultimate California Road trip

Asilomar Beach, Pacific Grove

Tip 2: The Best Time To Go

Go in the offseason. The main reason to go in the offseason is probably obvious, but let me be clear: driving this road with heavy traffic would make it that much more challenging. The distance from Cambria to Big Sur is only 60 miles but it takes at least two hours depending on how many stops you make, not to mention the curves in the road make the distance pass a little more slowly.

California gets plenty of sunshine and it’s not that cold in the winter– even in the offseason the weather is temperate. I was there the first week of January and it was chilly in the mornings but sunny; and got warmer as the day went by. Just be sure to wear layers that you can easily remove and you’ll be fine.

If you go during the off-season, the only activity that you may miss out on is working on your tan. You can still surf, hike, go whale-watching, and enjoy everything else that makes California so popular.

Winter Weather

There is one possible drawback to the winter season – winter is the rainy season. Be sure to check for updates on the road conditions. Excess rain in California can mean road closures due to mudslides.

Here’s a great article from USA Today about whale watching on the California coast.

Tip 3: Fill Up Your Car

Be sure you’ve filled up the car with gas before you hit the road. There are 40 miles of highway between Cambria and Big Sur–and no gas stations.

Tip 4: There are no bathrooms

If you need to use the bathroom, don’t wait. Again, there’s no place to stop, even on the roadside. The only places to pull over are turnouts where there will be other tourists. No privacy.

Tip 5: Take Your Time

Don’t rush it. This drive is truly one of the bucket list experiences that people dream about. Take your time. Smell the ocean air. Notice the natural beauty around you; stop and look for whales migrating up the coast, then, feel the tension leave your body. Relax, you’re in California.  Do you feel it?

The Pacific Ocean near Big Sur, from, Ultimate California Road trip @PennySadler

Just a typical view along California’s Highway 1

Tip 6: Charge Your Camera

Make sure you have a great camera with you, and that you have a fully charged battery and plenty of memory on the card. Be sure to ask someone to snap a photo of you in that stunning scenery. I saw plenty of people with selfie sticks, a trend I won’t imbibe in, but it is an option if you’re traveling alone. Your phone is also a great camera and many times it’s the best choice.

Tip 7: It’s Better To Drive Than Ride

If you suffer from carsickness it’s best if you drive because once you enter the Big Sur area the road is a bit of a roller coaster. If for some reason you cannot drive, be prepared with some non-drowsy Dramamine. It would be a crime to fall asleep on this bucket list road trip.

Have questions? Feel free to email me via my contact page and Subscribe to receive more useful content like this

Sunshine on the Pacific Ocean, from, Top Tips for the Ultimate California Road Trip @PennySadler 2015

Top Attractions Along Highway 1

Hearst Castle

When publishing mogul William Randolph inherited the land from his mother, the story goes that he told the architect, Julia Morgan, that he wanted to “build a little something.” That little something is Hearst Castle. 

As a young boy Hearst and his father spent a lot of time camping on the land that comprises San Simeon. The glamorous castle, once his private residence is now a stat park and vacation destination about twenty miles north of San Luis Obispo.

Hearst Castle exterior with Palm trees @PennySadler 2015

I took the Grand Rooms Tour. T hough the house is a magnificent example of Mediterranean and Gothic architecture, filled with antiquities from all over the world, my favorite part of the tour remains the indoor Roman Pool . From the exquisite blue tile work to the soft ambient lights, and the mirror reflection of the water, this pool begs you to lose yourself in its deep blue calm.

I love the stories of famous personalities and frequent guests at the castle who would sneak out to the pool after hours for a little romantic interlude in one of the many secluded corners. Cary Grant was quoted as saying “The Roman pool is a great place to get to know someone just a little bit better.” I wouldn’t mind meeting up with him there at all.

indoor pool at Heart Castle @PennySadler 2014

The Roman Pool at Hearst Castle

You’ll want to book a castle tour in advance. After the tour, you can wander around the grounds outside to your heart’s content. Plan to spend at least two hours here.

For more information about Hearst Castle and the various tours available you can book online .

Elephant Seal Viewing Area

Just five miles from Hearst Castle is the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery. These animals are really quite ugly, but very interesting to watch. They’re also really noisy, especially during the mating season. The shore area is dotted with large lava rocks, and it can be hard to distinguish the seals from the rocks when they are in the water. The day I drove past, there was a backup of cars waiting to get into the parking lot. This is another good reason to go off-season or on a weekday.

Elephant seals near Cambria California @PennySadler 2015

Elephant seals on the beach near San Simeon.

Attractions in the Big Sur Area

Bixby bridge.

This may be the most photographed bridge in California, aside from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Bixby Bridge is a single-span concrete arch more than 260 feet high and 700 feet long. You can park at a turnout at either end to take photographs. Bixby Bridge, along with Garrapata and Rocky Creek Bridge, was built in the 1930s and paved the way for tourism to come to Big Sur.  Before the completion of Highway 1, the Old Coast Road was the only access. It remains an unpaved road and is not suitable for standard passenger automobiles.

Imagine building bridges along this road.

Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park

A great place for hiking, this park is best known for McWay Falls , a 100-foot waterfall that cascades from an 80-foot high drop-off into the cove below. The trail to get there is quite easy and it’s such an iconic spot that you can’t skip it.

 Don’t park on the side of the road. You’ll see that a lot of people do, but I think it could be dangerous. There’s plenty of parking in the park itself, at least in the off-season.

The falls used to drop into the ocean but due to a landslide several years ago,  now they fall onto the sandy cove. It’s an idyllic spot and one that makes you wish you could access the beach and the falls. There is signage everywhere warning against it. Be smart and admire safely from afar.

McWay Falls, Big Sur, California @PennySadler 2015

McWay Falls, a top attraction in Big Sur

Nepenthe Big Sur

Nepenthe is an indoor/outdoor restaurant best known for its views, but it also has an interesting history. The restaurant and surrounding land have been in the family for over 50 years. It’s still a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. There’s a very nice gift shop with handcrafted jewelry, unique fragrances, books, and children’s gifts, carefully curated from around the world.

The view from Nepenthe, Big Sur

Highway 1 North of Big Sur

After you pass Big Sur it’s about thirty or forty minutes to Carmel by the Sea. Carmel is also known as “the little town in the forest by the sea,” an apt description. Much like a European village it’s a place to walk, not drive. There are many unique shops, galleries, and great restaurants. The beach there is known as one of the best places on the Monterey Peninsula to watch the sunset.

Carmel was voted #2 Best Small City in the USA by Conde Nast Traveler last year.

Pretty street with colorful leaves on the trees in Carmel by the Sea

Carmel by the Sea

Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

The black-and-orange butterflies spend much of the fall and winter in the local Monterey Pine trees, roughly from Halloween until Valentine’s Day. Residents of Pacific Grove help the butterfly’s habitat by planting purple and yellow flowers, such as lantana, yellow aster, Pride of Madera, and Mexican Sage, in what is called Butterfly Gardens.

Point Pinos Lighthouse

Since 1855, the Point Pinos Lighthouse has been a beacon for ships on the Pacific coast . It’s the oldest continually operating lighthouse on the West Coast and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Hours of operation are Thursday – Monday 1:00 – 4:00 pm.

A personal side note: I left a ring in the bathroom at the lighthouse and didn’t realize it until I was back in my room several hours later. Luckily I thought to check if they had a Facebook page. I left a message about leaving the ring in the bathroom and asked if it had been found. The next morning, I was on my way to pick it up. You might say the lighthouse provided the lumens I needed to know the best way to make contact with them, thereby reuniting me with my ring. Either way, I will never forget the lighthouse.

Pinos Point Lighthouse, From, Top Tips Highway 1 Ultimate California Road Trip

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium opened in 1984, quickly becoming one of the most visited aquariums in the world. Today the aquarium receives over 2 million visitors per year. Located on the north end of Cannery Row, it’s on the former site of the Hovden Cannery, the last cannery to close, in 1973.

Monterey Bay Aquairium jellyfish data-jpibfi-post-excerpt=

Cannery Row

Cannery Row, originally Ocean View Avenue, became famous largely due to John Steinbeck’s eponymous novel. The book was the basis for a film named Cannery Row and starred actors Debra Winger and Nick Nolte. One of the main characters, Doc, was a real person – a scientist- named Edward F. Rickets. His lab still exists and across the street is a Chinese-American-owned store, also mentioned in the novel. Today, Cannery Row is filled with shops, restaurants, and hotels, and is a tourist attraction in Monterey.

I am reading an excellent book about Steinbeck and Monterey by author Susan Shillinglaw, A Journey Into Steinbeck’s California . You can purchase this book at the Aquarium or the Steinbeck house in Salinas. You can also obtain a copy through Roaring Forties Press. 

Where To Stay

The Monterey Bay area has a good selection of places to stay from bed and breakfasts to cottages and modern hotels. If you want to be in the middle of it all, stay in Monterey.  You are five to ten minutes from Carmel, twenty from Big Sur, and only two hours from San Francisco.

5 Reasons to Love Monterey

Bungalow at Casa Munras, Monterey, California

I stayed at the historic Casa Munras, one of the Inns of Monterey . Located just off the 101, it’s an excellent location for walking downtown and to the Fisherman’s Wharf. 

If you truly want to be in the thick of it, or you just want a hotel with a more modern flair, stay at the Intercontinental on Cannery Row. 

Great weather almost 365 days a year, a laid-back attitude, and scenery that has inspired romantics, creatives, explorers, and adventurers for centuries – any time of year is a great time to take the Ultimate California Road Trip.

Alternate Routes Are Listed Below

  If you are driving from San Francisco or the San Jose area, take the 101 south to Highway 156 through Castroville. 156 will connect to Highway 1 where you can continue your journey south, to Monterey.

From Los Angeles take the 101 north to the 156. Alternatively, you can drive the 101 north to Santa Barbara where you will connect with Highway 1 (this is not the most scenic stretch). From there you can drive to Morro Bay and Cayuga, a beautiful stretch of highway. If there are road closures you’ll need to take Highway 46 and reconnect with the 101 to continue north. If your road trip begins or ends in Los Angeles , be sure to visit this historic winery in downtown LA.

Highway 46 will take you to the city of Paso Robles , a great place for tasting Rhone varietals.  Or, visit the tasting rooms along Highway 46 – there are 40 to choose from!

No matter when you go, California’s Highway 1 is the Ultimate California Road Trip.

sunset at McWay Falls from, Top tips driving highway 1 ultimate california road trip @PennySadler

Looking north from McWay Falls, Big Sur.

My road trip was sponsored by Kia and See Monterey. However, all content is editorial and I am under no obligation to write anything at all.

Like the images you see? Please be respectful. If you’d like usage just shoot me an email.

Looking for more articles like this? Sign up for email updates.

Related posts:

Postcards Sunset at the Lone Cypress on Pebble Beach@PennySadler 2015

Vote! For Bernini, Italy, and Me

Where would you go creating a bucket list, if you liked this article check out another.

Santa Barbara County courthouse by Penny Sadler

Tips For A Perfect Weekend In Santa Barbara, California

Roman baths, Unesco World heritage site

How To Have A Solo Adventure In Enchanting Bath, England

Shoes on the Danube by Penny Sadler

6 Fascinating Dark Tourism Sites In France You Shouldn’t Miss

travel highway 1 in california

5 Reasons To Visit Malibu Any Time Of Year

Castello di Amorosa @PennySadler 2014

Castello di Amorosa, An Italian Castle in Napa Valley

89 comments.

[…] about five hours north of Los Angeles and two hours south of San Francisco on California’s Central Coast, the sublime scenery attracts artists, photographers, tourists, and locals, all of whom come for […]

[…] January, I packed the car and headed north to discover California’s Central Coast and drive iconic Highway 1 from Los Angeles to Monterey County, staying in Cambria, Big Sur, and […]

[…] boomers road-tripping in the Golden State, Penny Sadler offers Top Tips for Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip. But even a walk in the neighborhood can be an adventure, she says with a laugh. (If only at our […]

' src=

My driver will drive an International 24 passenger bus from a town called Seaside, CA 93955 going on to Hwy 1 to Los Angeles, what is the best route please?

' src=

I love your detail article! I am taking my husband for the first time to Monterey Bay on September 3, and I am so excited!! This will be my third time going to Monterey Bay, and I’ve already made my list of stops to see along route 1. I will be driving from Los Angeles to Monterey Bay so he can see the most beautiful aquarium and walk the beach, see Cannery Row. Thanks for the additional point of interest.

' src=

Hi there, We visited CA last year and drove down Hwy 1 from San Francisco to the Paso Robles area, and used your guide every step of the way. We took many of your suggestions of where to stop, sights to see, and places to lodge and eat. We really enjoyed all of your suggestions. So I just tried to find that online guide again, and can no longer find it. Wondered how we can get to it? We are traveling this fall from Santa Barbara down to Newport Beach and would like to use your guide again. Thank you!!!

' src=

Hi Brenda, First of all, thank so much for the message. As a writer and blogger I focus on writing what I love and hope that others will too. Your affirmation means a lot. I’m not sure what guide you speak about though as I have several articles about traveling on Highway 1 from Cambria to Monterey, but they are not in a guide format. I don’t have one for Santa Barbara to Newport Beach either, but there are many articles about what to do in Santa Barbara, especially where to go wine tasting. You may have read one of my articles published on another site perhaps? There’s also an article about a few sites along the Malibu coast and the Getty Museum, downtown LA, Long Beach and a few others. Just look under destinations, Californai. Hope this helps! I’m actually working on some new content for southern California. Thanks for being a loyal fan and reader. I’d love to hear from you how you think the site could be a better resource. Cheers!

' src=

I would like to travel highway #1 in July this year from San Francisco to LA. What is your suggestion what to see and for how many days travel.

Hi there, There is a lot of content about what to see along the way in the article. Of course, there is also much more. I’ve also provided links to other websites that can provide more information to help you plan your trip. If you’ve never done the drive before, I’d allow at least 5 days, with overnight stops at your desired locations. Of course, what will be open may dictate where you stop. If you’d like me to map out an itinerary including hotels for you I can send you a questionnaire to fill out and we can go from there. Just send you info through the contact form on this site. Thanks!

' src=

Hi, love this article! Me and my partner are also planning on doing San Fran to LA this July. Have you got any tips on car hire? Also, if you have this itinerary still, I would be really grateful to have a copy? Thank you so much!

Hi Dee, Sorry I’m just getting around to approving article comments. I don’t have an “itinerary” but you can make your own via the article. I was traveling on my own so I just stopped where I wanted to really. As for car hires, I’m really sorry but I have not rented a car in a long time.

' src=

Hi Penny, I am travelling to the US for the first time and would like to get the link to the questionnaire as I am planning to rent a camper van and drive from San Francisco to LA for 5 days. Looking forward to your reply and guidance on the road map itinerary.

Hi there, I’m not sure what questionnaire you are referring to?

' src=

place me on your email list

' src=

Thanks for the tips. My sister and I are planning this drive from Seattle in March. We are so excited! Glad to hear the road is clear through Big Sue!

You will love it. Be sure to read my other article Reasons To Visit Monterey, California. There’s more info, not the same …

' src=

Awesome post, Penny. Very informative and helpful. I’ll be going to Monterey next week and plan on driving along this coast. Thank you so much for all the fantastic tips.

Glad to know that you found it helpful. That’s what it is all about!

' src=

Hi Penny, Just want to say I enjoyed this report as Im in California 4 weeks today for a 24 day holiday. Travelling from Spain where I live now. So looking forward to the drive down the PCH isn´t fully booked yet as trying to cram so much in. We have 4 days in San Francisco booked (Tues to Sat) then pick up hire car and move to Vallejo (six flags) for 2 days(Sat and Sun). next booked in at Santa Cruz for a night (Mon)and next day booked in at Monterey(Tues). Now we have nothing booked until we arrived in Downtown L.A (Sat to Sat). Obviously we don´t want to rush but would lo love to be in San Diego by the Friday before heading to L.A Saturday afternoon. So we´re thinking as leaving Monterey (Tues), next night stop Cambria or San Luis Obispo(Weds) , then next stop Santa barbara or Ventura (thurs) and travel to San deigo on the Friday morning. In your opinion do you think we have given us enough time to see everything or are we cramming too much in? San Diego isn´t a must but would love to see it. Would it be safe to just drive and book when we want to stop? After L.A. we have two free days to get to Las Vegas where we drop off hire car and have booked 4 nights before heading home. Any help would be appreciated. Regards Rob and Kike.

Hi Rob, I’m afraid I’m not clear exactly what you’re doing but I can say that I would spend at least 4 days in the Monterey/Big Sur area. Have a great time!

' src=

How many beaches, state parks, and national parks did you visit along your trip? I am debating buying a California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass ($195) and/or a National Parks & Federal Recreation Lands Annual Pass ($80). Do you think it would be worth it or should I just plan to pay as I go?

Hello Dakota, I can’t really say if you’d find it worth it or not. I didn’t actually visit that many because I had limited time. If you’re going to have more than a week or two it may be worth it to you. Maybe decide where you want to go and add up the costs individually compare to the passes?

' src=

Amazing tips for highway driving. Thaks for share for fantastic this tips.

Thanks Lisa!

' src=

Loved ur writing!! Question for you? I have done the Carmel to big sur route in the past and have to agree it’s truly amazing! I am heading to Napa now and want to do the northern shore (1 North) – is it as good as this one? Ocean on one side and mountains on the other? Thanks!

Hi there, I can’t really comment. I’ve only been as far north as River’s End at Jenner Beach. However, my friends from the area say yes! Enjoy your trip!

[…] and explore. For boomers road-tripping in the Golden State, blogger Penny Sadler offers these “Top Tips for Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip.” But even “a walk in the neighborhood can be an adventure!” she laughs. (Now if only at our […]

[…] cost you a fortune, either.   Join me on a photo walk along California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway. We’ll stop for happy hour and watch the surfers ride the waves. Then, we’ll continue […]

' src=

Thank you for sharing all this info of this wonderfull place! I’m from Brazil and planning driving from San Francisco down to LA next year with my boyfriend, but we can only go by the end of March. Could you please tell me what to expect in this time of year? We’ll probably be in SF on March 20. I’ve read a lot about the weather but nothing conclusive…I understand it’s in the very beggining of spring and can still be a little cold for brazilian references. It’s not the cold we are worried about but the cloudy days! Can you please help me? Thanks!

Hi Emilia, Unfortunately it is very hard to predict. This year California had a lot of rain but next year, who knows. The end of March should be ok. There could be fog in the mornings and sunshine in the afternoon. Ultimately, does it matter? Go and have a great time enjoying the beauty – never mind the weather!

Hello Penny, thanks for the feedback! Actually that’s what everyone says right? It’s beautiful no matter when! We are thinking perhaps we should postpone the trip and go on september or novemeber, would it be better?

It might be warmer but I don’t know what to tell you. Go when it works best for you. Off season will be less expensive. Maybe that’s a factor?

Well it could be! I’ve done a little research and people say it’s the best time to visit… I think we will stick to September! Thank you!

' src=

It’s really a cool and helpful piece of information. Thanks for share.

Thanks Lara

' src=

Amazing and informative road tips about California! I did not know most of them. Thanks dear for sharing with us.

So happy to hear you found the information useful. Best wishes to you

[…] Cambria, about 60 miles,  you’ll come to the coastal area known as Big Sur – this is the ultimate Highway 1 experience. Travelers who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and fall asleep to the sound of waves […]

[…] I’d heard a lot about California’s scenic 17 Mile Drive, it was on my list of recommended attractions in the Monterey Bay area. Would it really be worth it I wondered. I’d just driven Highway 1, the most spectacular coastline I’d seen since my 1999 trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. (read my article The Ultimate California Road Trip.) […]

[…] Willow City Loop is one of the prettiest drives anywhere and I should know. I’ve driven California’s scenic central coast and the gorgeous Hudson River […]

[…] meal at the Harmony Cafe is a must when traveling Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County. Chef Giovanni will woo you with his passion for preparing and serving […]

' src=

Your post brought back wonderful memories of a girlfriend’s road trip I did back in the day. I’d love to do it again and this time focus on the outdoor activities instead of just the drive.

Those are exactly my thoughts Mary. It’s a lot to see and the drive is only part of the experience, or it can be the entire experience.

' src=

What a dreamy area! It’s definitely one of those places where renting a car makes full sense. We’ve got to head back there soon!

Highly recommend. 🙂

' src=

When I was in undergrad, I drove that highway from Stanford to L.A. Solo. Got a ticket on my way back but it was such a wonderful expression of freedom at such a young age, I’m baffled thinking about it. THanks for the trek down memory lane.

So glad you enjoyed it and it brought back good memories.

' src=

Love this part of the world.

One tip though, go from Carmel / Santa Cruz in the north to the south. This way, the passenger is overlooking the ocean without another lane in the way (and all those cars in high season) and the driver has a better view too.

For those moments when a glimpse can be snatched while driving that road!

Stop for food at the Big Sur River Inn or Fernwood Resort (also a nice place to stay, they even have cabins in among the Redwood trees).

Hi Jack, I totally agree with you, the drive from north to south is the easier and prettier for caching a glimpse or pulling over. I stayed at the Big Sur River Inn but did not eat there. Interesting place right on the river. Unfortunately it was too cold to enjoy sitting in the river, but the atmosphere and location were perfect.

' src=

America really is the best country for road tripping! We went to Monterrey on our trip from Seattle to Vegas and I have to say I didn’t enjoy it. Left after a night!

Hey Bethaney Sorry you had a bad time. I have to wonder where exactly you were. The entire area which includes Big Sur, Carmel by the Sea, Pacific Grove and lots more, is stunning. But if you stayed near Cannery Row or some other more urban touristy areas then I can’t really comment. If you’re ever back in the area go to Big Sur. I’m sure you will love it.

' src=

We’re considering this for a mini moon before heading back abroad – great article, and our other ideas have some serious competition!

thanks Cat!

[…] fresh food, and great museums. I recently crossed one of my California wishes off my list – driving Hwy. 1 and seeing Big Sur. That was epic. Of course I’d like to do it again, but slower this […]

' src=

I haven’t been on the PCH-1 in a long time. Many years ago, we drove out from Malibu on the 1 in an attempt to arrive in the South Bay Area later that very same day. Riiiiiggghht; yeah, no. Of course, we underestimated the driving time by a ridiculous amount. We decided by committee, and “surrendered” by heading inland at San Luis Obispo, with cuts back to 101 then up I-5 the rest of the way north.

Years later, I’m on a big coach/bus for a comfortably reclined 7-hour ride from Santiago, Chile to the small coastal resort town of La Serena. The drive takes place on Ruta-5 (Route 5), also known as the Carretera Panamericana or the Panamerican Highway. Much of the Chilean Pacific coastline is very similar to scenery along the PCH-1.

Wow that is really interesting. South America is appealing because no time zone change! LOL. I also underestimated this drive because my GPS kept saying it’s only 60 miles. I didn’t factor 60 miles of switchbacks!

' src=

Highway 1 through Big Sur is indeed a spectacular scenic drive. Thanks for the great tips & article.

Thank you for the comment!

Thanks for stopping by Marilyn.

' src=

Very nice article! I would like to add that gasoline is available in Gorda.

Steve, thank you very much! I remember passing through Gorda. How far is it from Cambria?

' src=

California road trips are near and dear to my heart and the Central Coast is amazing. You’ve captured it brilliantly in your photos. Great tips, too. There are so many wonderful places to visit along the way — Hearst is definitely a must. Love your pic of the indoor pool – that’s one of my favorite places in the castle, too.

Cathy I envy you living there. I hope to be able to spend most of my summer there.

' src=

I have done this road trip a few years ago. Unfortunately when I visited in August it was quite misty and the views weren´t as clear. It is a beautiful landscape and the perfect drive. It is great to see yoour photos of the trip

' src=

I have done quite some Road Trips in the US but I have never done this one. It looks like a stunning trip with lots of attractions along the way. Definitely added to my list, thanks for the great tip !

The US is a great place for road trips. My family used to drive from Texas to California often enough when I was a kid. Now that’s a road trip I could have done without out! LOL

' src=

I’ve been top to bottom and bottom to top on the PCH — When people ask me for vacation recommendations — this is number 1 for sure. Nothing like it anywhere!

' src=

California is one of thos places I am determined to get to, and this post makes me want to do it even more. Carmel looks like my kind of place, although it all looks lovely.

California is “one of those places.”

' src=

Love the look of Carmel, Penny. This sounds like a road trip best experienced from the passenger seat. I knew there was a reason I still haven’t got my licence.

Ha! I hope you have a good driver!

' src=

Awesome post, we’re actually leaving for the Highway 1 April 10 so these tips are great! Thanks!

Glad you find them useful.

There is a place just south of Nepenthe – very rustic place to stay – Lucia Lodge. We have stayed there several times. No frills, but breathtaking views!!!

Nancy, I stopped at Lucia because they have a little market there. I hoped to get a look at some of the rooms but they were all booked. I agree it’s in an amazing spot. I’d love to go back and stay there a couple of days though you aren’t close to anything except nature so you have to prepare. 🙂

' src=

This post brought back great memories. I’ve only done a few of the side trips – elephant seals and the Monterey Aquarium and for the beauty alone it’s a drive worth repeating. I don’t know if there is a foggy time of the year but that’s the only time I’d really not want to go.

Leah, good point! There is a foggy time of year and I believe it’s summer. Definitely would not be a fun drive in the fog!

' src=

ooooh lovely! These photos brought back some wonderful memories of when my friend and I made this tour. We got super lucky at the car rental place, and they upgraded us to a convertible for only $20 extra per day, so that really made the trip and view amazing. We drove from LA up to Carmel-by-the-Sea and then back down the same way we came. Beautiful shot of the jellyfish, by the way! Love that color contrast.

Hi Dana, Yes I did the drive both ways. It’s not easy but worth it. A convertible would be fun! I had a sun roof, not quite the same. 🙂 thanks for the compliment on the photo. I loved the jellyfish!

' src=

We just did the coast road trip at Christmas time, It was an amazing trip.we were heading to San Diego. I’m surprised that you didn’t go to” Point Lobos ” It is my favorite place to visit. it also has the beautiful rugget landscape. it was also the setting for alot movie scenes.”A Summer Place”one of my favored movie.

Moneypenny that is also one of my nicknames. 🙂 I now will have to watch a Summer Place.

' src=

Penny, check out “The Sandpiper” w/Liz Taylor and Richard Burton for another Big Sur-locale film. It will take you back to a 60s vibe (which still exists in some ways in the area). Nice article and good shots!

I agree. And thanks for the film tip.

' src=

VERY top tip: do not head north from LA towards Pacific Grove/Big Sur on Hwy 1 after dark! We left LA around sunset. The lady we were to meet in Monterey/Pacific Grove called to ask where we were, as we should have arrived around 4 PM. I told her we were coming up Hwy 1. She asked if she might suggest an alternative route. I said we’d wanted to see the water and wanted to do this. She wished us luck. Now, back when E-Systems sent me to Stanford to attend an AI seminar for two weeks, I drove *south* from Palo Alto to the Monterey peninsula on Hwy 1, and it was beautiful. Thus I did not expect the AAAAAAA experience of having the sheer cliff dropoff to the ocean on the left and the mountains on the right. Hubby drove this, including the Bixby Bridge (XOXOX), in the pitch blackness with no moon and other cars on the two-lane road coming the other way. He said he enjoyed it and that it was like the first-person videogames he has played. I think my mother began her decline as she clung to the sides of the back seat of the van because she could actually see the ocean. I was looking straight ahead and willing the oncoming vehicles to go more slowly and NOT come into our lane, as there was NOWHERE to go. Man! We arrived at our host house around midnight. Do not do as we did. Do the drive during the day when you can be properly terrified!

Too Funny. You’re right though, very good tip, drive during the day! Otherwise, what’s the point.

' src=

Just gorgeous! And what fantastic (and useful) tips – thank you!

Thanks Jessie.

Thanks Tawanna and don’t forget to vote.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

The Essential Road Trip Itinerary for California’s Highway 1

By Christina Liao

California Highway 1 Bixby Bridge

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

When Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge collapsed earlier this year, Big Sur came to a bit of a halt. California’s crown jewel was now divided into what the locals referred to as the north and south, indicating which side of the overpass you were on. In order to get from one end to the other, residents had to hike up and down a steep trail; vehicular access was cut off, and so was Highway 1. Regarded as not only one of the best road trips in the United States but also in the world, the coastal cruise down this major State Route is on many a bucket list. After eight months, the bridge reopened on October 13, and with most of the freeway now clear, the prodigious drive is calling your name.

The key is to start in San Francisco and head down to Los Angeles so that you’re riding along the Pacific Coast. Plus, it also makes it easier to pull over at viewing points and take those FOMO-inducing Instas. To help you embark on this adventure, we’ve put together a comprehensive itinerary on where to stop along the way as well as mini guides to the major cities you’ll be passing through.

The Battery San Francisco

Day 1 If you can, nab a flight that’ll get you to San Francisco by noon to make the most of your first day. Head straight from the airport to The Battery , a chic member’s club that also doubles as a hotel. With only 15 accommodations, it’s intimate and, thankfully, quiet. Once you’ve dropped off your bags, go down the street to Hog Island Oyster Co. and pick up some fresh (and sustainable) mollusks for lunch. For dessert, venture over to their neighbor Humphry Slocombe for a scoop of Blue Bottle Vietnamese coffee ice cream or Golden Gate Bakery in nearby Chinatown for egg tarts that rival those of Hong Kong (just make sure they’re open; the owners have a very sporadic vacation schedule) before you make a beeline to Alcatraz . After you’ve toured the famed former federal penitentiary, wander over to Fisherman’s Wharf where you’ll see hundreds of sea lions at Pier 39, but skip the touristy shops and head back to your room to recharge and freshen up before a stellar dinner at Sons & Daughters . This 28-seat restaurant sources seasonal ingredients from local farms for their ever-changing nine-course tasting menu. Make sure not to skip out on their bread and butter—both house-made, both incredible. And if you’ve still got some energy before you call it a night, enjoy The Battery’s cozy courtyard with a tipple from the bar.

Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco

By Daniel Rodgers

This 77-Year-Old Bride Wore a Custom Attersee Suit for Her Manhattan Wedding Celebration

By Lilah Ramzi

Those Paparazzi Photos Won’t Stop the Princess of Wales Conspiracy Theories

By Elise Taylor

Day 2 Kick off the day with some delicious dim sum at Lai Hong Lounge , a better and much more authentic option than another glitzier establishment in the city. But if you’re not a fan of the Chinese small plates, run over to Mama’s for some classic breakfast offerings, but be prepared to wait as there’s always a line out the door. Then, if you’ve never been, make your way over to San Fran’s famous winding Lombard Street to snap a few photos before venturing over to the famous Golden Gate Bridge, followed by a stroll around Golden Gate Park , the California Academy of Sciences , and a visit to the row of pastel-color Victorian and Edwardian homes known as the Painted Ladies.

Otherwise, fill your time with a little shopping (yes, there’s more to this techie city than hoodies and jeans). Up first: Hero Shop , the brainchild of former Vogue editor Emily Holt . It’s certainly the city’s coolest concept store, carrying designers like Rosie Assoulin , Creatures of the Wind , and Of Rare Origin. Follow that up with a trip to Veer & Wander (if you want a quick snack on the way, swing by 20th Century Café for a slice of fluffy Russian honey cake or Salt & Straw for some inventive ice cream), where the beauty salon has a brilliant selection of products for purchase, Le Point for another well curated clothing boutique, and Taylor Stitch for great shirting and basics.

By now it’s time for lunch and you won’t want to miss out on La Taqueria , a no-frills eatery serving up some of the best burritos in San Francisco. Walk it off in the eclectic Mission District and keep your eyes peeled for vibrant murals (Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley are two great places to start). Afterward, venture back to Hayes Valley for an aperitif at new champagne bar The Riddler before dinner at State Bird Provisions , where dim sum–style plates of modern Californian fare with an Asian influence are carted around the dining room, ready for your taking.

Carmel Valley Ranch

Day 3 Pick up your rental car early in the morning and drive over to Tartine Manufactory , where bread is made in-house daily and a breakfast sandwich is the perfect way to start your day, before you hit the road for Monterey (preferably by 8:00 a.m. at the very latest). Your GPS will tell you to take 280 or 101 for the fastest route, but don’t forget you’re here for a reason, and that’s to take the longer, much more scenic Highway 1. It’ll take you anywhere between two to three hours before you hit the seaside town that has been made even more famous on the HBO hit Big Little Lies . Take in harbor views at Fisherman’s Wharf and, if you want to check out marine life on land, take a spin around the Monterey Bay Aquarium . And while the 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach (where the Lone Cypress resides) passes through an exclusive neighborhood with gorgeous homes and offers great views of the coast, it doesn’t quite warrant the admission fee given what you have in store ahead. Instead, scoot on down to Carmel-by-the-Sea and drive along their beach before dropping by Il Grillo for lunch, a small casual Italian restaurant dishing out rustic plates. (Their homemade pasta is obviously a must.)

Now it’s time to head inland, where you’ll check into the sprawling Carmel Valley Ranch . Spread over 500 acres, accommodations are spacious and there’s plenty to keep you busy. An 18-hole golf course, eight tennis courts, and multiple pools (one of which is adults-only and overlooks the property’s vineyard) are at your disposal in addition to a long list of activities including beekeeping, a variety of fitness classes, visits to the organic garden and goat pen, and nightly s’mores by the fire pit. Once you’ve traipsed around a bit, go back into town for dinner at Cantinetta Luca for more impeccable Italian fare, or just snuggle up in your quarters with room service.

Highway 1

Day 4 Now it’s onto the good stuff: You’re going to Big Sur today! The route from Carmel to California’s forest gem is perhaps the best stretch of the drive, warranting multiple stops along the way. Grab a bite at the hotel before you check out or head back into town to favored bistro La Bicyclette for a croissant and coffee before pulling into Point Lobos State Natural Reserve . With several trails to hike and panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, you don’t want to rush your time here. Take in the limestone rock formations, rugged bluffs, and coves dotted with seals and sea lions while peering out into deep blue waters, keeping an eye out for spouting whales.

Continue on, and you’ll find that there are a number of pull-over spots along the highway for you to step out and take photos of the undisturbed coastline. One in particular is right before Bixby Bridge, an architectural marvel (one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world) that acts as a gateway to Big Sur. Shortly after you’ll come across Point Sur State Historic Park , home to the still-functioning Point Sur Lighthouse. But before you step into Big Sur Bakery for a quick bite, make sure to drive down to Pfeiffer Beach, where tide pools and a natural arch known as Keyhole Rock await. (Note: You might lose cell service along the way, so make sure you have directions saved elsewhere just in case.)

Ventana Big Sur Suite

By now it’s late afternoon and you’ll want to retire at the newly renovated Ventana Big Sur . Reopened on October 20, the 160-acre hotel grounds have transformed into an Alila property, with the brand’s namesake spa, two outdoor pools, Japanese bath houses, and an upcoming glass art gallery. Its 59 revamped cabin-like rooms are spacious, each with a private balcony or patio looking out on the soaring redwoods. (They’ve also got a glamping option should you really want to connect with the great outdoors.) Opt for a Big Sur suite, furnished with a woodburning fireplace, a hammock on the deck, and a stone bathroom with a large soaking tub for two, and make sure to grab an alfresco table at the resort’s restaurant for some delectable coastal cuisine by Chef Paul Corsentino.

McWay Falls

Day 5 Wake up early and try to hit the road by 8:00 a.m. Your first stop will be a short 20-minute drive down to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , where you’ll hike a short distance to the McWay Falls overlook and set your eyes on 80 feet of cascading water. If you want to stretch your legs some more, check to see if the other trails are open, otherwise, enjoy the rest of the coastal drive ahead. While we wait for the Mud Creek area to recover from a recent landslide, you’ll have to turn off of Highway 1 onto Nacimiento-Fergusson Road to continue south, which actually sets up the perfect opportunity to visit Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo. The former is home to a number of vineyards and distilleries, but the one to visit is Re:Find , where handcrafted spirits are made from saignée (free run juice from wine grapes). They offer a $15 tasting that includes all of their wine and liquor offerings; in the summer go for a refreshing cucumber vodka, while the fall calls for a tangy kumquat liqueur. To assuage a rumbling stomach, drive 40 minutes to SLO and dine at Thomas Hill Organics , where seasonal ingredients come in the form of light and healthy dishes, while others are more indulgent, like their thick-cut fries cooked in duck fat.

After you’ve had your fill, jump back in the car and head straight to L.A. It’ll take you between three to four and a half hours depending on traffic, landing you in Beverly Hills by late afternoon. The renowned neighborhood plays host to some of the finest hotels in the city, such as Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills , Montage Beverly Hills , Beverly Wilshire , and the brand-new Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills . Check into your luxurious temporary home and grab a snack at The Blvd —a creative take on a classic dessert by pastry chef Chris Ford will do just the trick—while looking out onto Rodeo Drive.

Gwen restaurant Los Angeles

Once you’ve recharged, do a little shopping on Melrose Place, popping into Cassandra Grey’s cult beauty shop Violet Grey and Vanessa Traina’s chic retail concept store The Apartment by the Line before heading off to dinner at Gwen . As it’s a butcher shop–meets–restaurant, there’s no question that meat is the name of the game here. Go for the five-course tasting menu and enjoy the finest charcuterie plate in the city, but make sure to supplement your main course with a tender, mouthwatering steak (the Wagyu New York strip is the way to go). End the night at No Vacancy , a speakeasy-esque bar with a secret entrance (we won’t ruin the surprise) inside a restored Victorian home. Sip on craft cocktails in the courtyard and enjoy live entertainment (live bands, burlesque, tightrope walkers, oh my!) by the Baroque fireplaces as you unwind.

Bestia restaurant Los Angeles

Day 6 Sleep in. No, really, it’s okay. After a packed several days, it’s well deserved. Skip breakfast and head over to A.O.C. for lunch, where a seat in the ivy-lined, exposed brick patio awaits. Make sure to start off with a cheese plate (they even carry Pantaleo from Sardinia) before you dive into a brilliantly composed salad or, if they have it—the menu is constantly changing—the grilled sea bass, where the skin is crispy and the meat is moist, topped with a lemon labneh that adds the perfect amount of acidity to the dish. Then head on up to the Hollywood Hills and drop by Jerome C. Daniel Overlook for sweeping vistas of the City of Angels before heading over to Griffith Observatory for even more exceptional views.

Once you’re done with your jaunt in the hills, make your way downtown and stop by The Broad , where Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors is on display from October 21 until January 1. Continue the gallery hopping at Art Share L.A. to check out the works by emerging local artists, then head off to dinner at Bestia , where the multiregional Italian cuisine has been receiving accolades year after year and is one of the hottest seats in town. And before you head back west to check out Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation at LACMA and crash in your comfy bed, drop by Spire 73 , the highest rooftop bar in the United States, at the new InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown for a quick nightcap.

Venice Beach Skate Park

Day 7 If you can swing it, book a flight that doesn’t leave until early evening so that you’ll still have plenty of time to explore on your final day. Start off with breakfast or brunch at République , a French eatery that makes all of their bread and pastries on-site with a great juice and smoothie menu to boot. Afterwards, drive over to Santa Monica to walk around the carnivalesque pier and savor your final moments at Venice Beach , paying a visit to the skate park and ogling at all of the amazing tricks. If you happen to be leaving on a Sunday, track down the Guerilla Tacos truck between these two spots for some unique takes on the Mexican favorite, otherwise, a trip to In-N-Out (there’s one right by the airport) will definitely hit the spot and end your trip on a high note.

Vogue Daily

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Architectural Digest.. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Driving California's Scenic Highway One

travel highway 1 in california

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

California's Highway One is a state highway. It runs from Capistrano Beach in Orange County to Leggett in northern Mendocino (Dana Point), a total of about 650 miles. You can tackle it in sections, pick just part of it to see or make the journey into a week-long road trip. 

No matter what you have in mind, this guide links to detailed directions for every single mile of it, starting from the south.

Orange and Los Angeles Counties

Highway One begins in the town of Capistrano Beach in Orange County. From there, to Santa Monica and through Malibu, it's a city street.

It takes on several street names but is most often called Pacific Coast Highway (which locals shorten to PCH). Between Manhattan Beach and LAX, it's called Sepulveda. North of the airport to Santa Monica, it's Lincoln Blvd.

The route sometimes follows the coastline, but far more often it passes neighborhoods and mundane strip malls. The best parts of that route are from Laguna Beach to Naples (just south of Long Beach) and from Santa Monica through Malibu to Oxnard.

Santa Monica, Malibu, and Oxnard

One of the most scenic sections of Hwy 1 goes through beautiful Malibu . For the first part of the trip, the road passes the garages and back doors of coastal homes, but north of Pepperdine University it sometimes runs so near to the continent's edge that it feels like you could reach out and dangle your fingers in the water.

Oxnard to San Luis Obispo

North of Oxnard, CA Hwy 1 merges with US Hwy 101. The stretch of 101 between Oxnard and Santa Barbara is especially scenic, with views of the Channel Islands offshore.

Just north of the Gaviota Tunnel (which is north of Santa Barbara), Hwy 101 turns inland, and you won't see the ocean again until you get to Pismo Beach, and then only briefly.

Hwy 1 splits off from Hwy 101 north of Gaviota, passing through Lompoc and Guadalupe before rejoining Hwy 101 just south of Pismo Beach . This 50-mile section is sometimes called the Cabrillo Highway. You could drive it if you want to cover every single inch of the famous highway, but there's little of interest if you're just sightseeing. From Pismo Beach to San Luis Obispo, Highways 1 and 101 are the same.

San Luis Obispo to San Francisco

The road you think of as the Pacific Coast Highway is probably the section between San Luis Obispo and Monterey. Its sights include Hearst Castle , the Big Sur coast , Carmel , Monterey , and Santa Cruz .

Through the City of San Francisco

In the city of San Francisco , Hwy 1 is a street: 19th Avenue. It leads to the Golden Gate Bridge . It's a busy street with little to see and traffic that's more than annoying. You can get through town more easily by merging with I-280 north of Pacifica or by taking CA Hwy 35 north and following the coastline.

Golden Gate Bridge, Marin, Sonoma, and Mendocino

North of the Golden Gate Bridge, the official highway name of Highway 1 is Shoreline Highway. It passes along some dramatic coastline, through scenic Marin, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties . It ends north of Rockport, where it turns inland toward Leggett and disappears.

Tips and Advice

These tips and ideas will help make your trip more pleasant:

  • Check your gas gauge. There's no gasoline available for up to 40 miles in some stretches, especially in Big Sur and north of San Francisco.
  • "Go" when you have a chance. Restrooms are also scarce in those same areas. 
  • Allow plenty of time. Assume you will average about 30 miles per hour (45 kph). A trip to Hearst Castle and Big Sur from San Luis Obispo can take most of a day. San Francisco to Mendocino can be a very tiring all-day drive.
  • If anyone in your party suffers from motion sickness, be prepared. If that party is a licensed adult, try letting them drive which helps control nausea.
  • If you are driving Highway One in only one direction, go from south to north if you can. You will be driving on the less knuckle-whitening insides of the curves and views are clearer toward the north.
  • If you are driving the road in both directions (making a round trip to Hearst Castle from Big Sur, for example), avoid crossing traffic to see things on the opposite side of the road. Save them for the return trip instead.
  • CA Hwy 1 is prone to closure due to landslides, especially during rainy winters. Check its condition online or call 800-427-7623 before you go.

It's always good practice to follow these safety tips, but they become even more important along busy CA Hwy 1:

  • Drive defensively. Avoid dangerous situations and allow plenty of distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. 
  • Buckle up! California law requires it for the driver and all passengers.
  • Pull over if five or more cars are following you. It's also a California law, but only do it when you can pull over safely
  • Don't pass where there are double yellow lines. This rule is more important than ever on the curve-filled sections of the highway where visibility is limited.

Los Angeles to San Francisco on US Highway 101

Camping Road Trip: California's Central Coast

Los Angeles to San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Highway

Best of the West: Top Tourist Destinations

Road Trip: North from San Francisco on CA Highway One

Top 12 Places to Visit in the US

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

How to Get to Big Sur, California

California's Central Coast: The Complete Guide

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California

15 Los Angeles-Area Road Trips and Getaways

When and Where to See the California Wildflowers

Scenic California Drives: 7 Routes That Will Make You Swoon

The 12 Best Destinations on California's Central Coast

21 Things to Do in California

Weather on California’s Central Coast: Climate, Seasons, and Average Temperature

The Lovers Passport

Home » Blog » Best Highway 1 Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

Best Highway 1 Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our Disclosure Policy  for details.

Big Sur cloud inversion along highway 1 in california

Highway 1 is arguably one of the most beautiful stretches of coastal roads in the United States, perhaps even in the world. Our first road trip together was actually this very itinerary! If you’re looking for jaw dropping views of never ending coast, beautiful blue water beaches, and gorgeous overlooks, this is Highway 1 Road Trip for you.

travel highway 1 in california

Disclaimer : The Lovers Passport is reader-supported. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free! Since this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for all of our readers. This has absolutely no effect on our recommendations or evaluations and all opinions are our own. Thanks for supporting our adventures!

ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Living in California for all of our lives, both Stephen and I have done this road trip several times. In fact, we’ve probably done this itinerary at least 4 or 5 times in the past year. So this blog post is all based on our own personal experiences down the coast, as well as some recommendations from fellow adventurers we’ve met along the way. 

WHERE TO START & END YOUR HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

Since LAX is one of the most popular starting spots for this trip, we’ll be starting off on a route from LA up the coast and back, as well as a route for those that would rather make a loop around after completing the stretch of Highway 1. In saying that, you could jump on either of these itineraries at any stage of your Highway 1 road trip and you may choose to start/finish in different spots. Or, if you start from San Francisco, you can drive down the route in reverse and just complete it in a different order. This itinerary is more geared toward those driving the whole way, whether it’s in your own car, a rental, or a campervan , rather than flying in between major cities.

If you decide to go the camper van route, we loved doing this itinerary in our Kuga Rental from Traveller’s Autobarn . We picked it up in Los Angeles and drove all the way up to Point Reyes and Back using this itinerary. The van was so convenient in terms of spaciousness, comfortability, and transportability. We usually car camp, so this was our first van life experience, and the rental worked out super well for us in terms of getting us from Point A to B in a super easy and hassle free way! 

If you’re interested in booking a camper van for your Highway 1 Road Trip, make sure to use the code “LoversPassport ” at checkout with Travellers Autobarn to receive a $50 discount on a Kuga camper van rental. The coupon will work on a 5 day minimum rental for a Kuga Campervan model for the rest of 2021! 

HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP TIPS:

Best time of year to visit highway 1.

California generically has fantastic weather year round. However, when it comes to the coast, expect several mornings to be socked in with low hanging clouds or fog. Usually it will burn off by the afternoon, but we’ve encountered the Big Sur Coast to be cloudy and moody like 7/10 times we’ve gone so just be prepared.

Honestly, the summer months of June, July and August are the most foggy. The best weather is usually in September or October with still moderately warm temperatures, less crowds, and less likelihood of clouds. Mid-to-late February through April is also pretty nice, just with mildly colder temperatures. 

WHERE TO RENT A VEHICLE FOR YOUR HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

Choosing a Highway 1 rental car will depend on the type of trip you plan to take and whether you would prefer to stay in Air BnBs, hotels, tents, or stay in a camper van. If you plan to stay in hotels or guest houses then you can opt for a regular rental car and we would recommend picking it up after you fly into Los Angeles International Airport. 

We personally love to either travel via a SUV with a camper build or rooftop tent or a camper van when traveling around the coast of California. That way we have more flexibility in terms of where we want to go each day and what we want to do, as well as where we want to stay the night. Other perks of renting a car camper or camper van is that you can adjust your plans on the go without having to worry about a spot to sleep. Click here to book your Highway 1 campervan rental (we highly recommend using Travellers Autobarn if flying into Los Angeles or San Francisco ). If you plan to tent camp then you’re probably best to opt for a small rental car as that will be your most budget-friendly option.

WHERE TO STAY ALONG THE CALIFORNIA COAST

The biggest piece of advice when it comes to finding accommodations is to plan in advance! Campground reservations along the latter part of Highway 1 up closer to Big Sur book out several months in advance. If you want to stay in established campgrounds, make sure to set reminders on your calendar of when campground permits are released. 

However, there are several other options. If you don’t mind dispersed camping in which you are completely self sustained, then make sure to check out freecampsites.net or iOverlander to find campsites along the route that you’d like to stay at. 

If you are going along the hotel route, some of the most popular hotels along this route tend to run on the more pricey side. That being said, we’d still recommend some popular favorites like the Ritz Carlton Bacara or Rosewood Miramar Hotel in Santa Barbara, The Cliffs Hotel in Pismo Beach, the Madonna Inn in SLO, Ragged Point Inn near San Simeon and Big Sur, and Ventana in Big Sur. 

LOGISTICS OF A HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

Gas in California has gotten quite expensive recently. Mapping out your route ahead of time can give you a good idea of how much you’re going to need to budget for gas since this road trip does cover quite a bit of miles! We always like to use Gas Buddy to find the best gas prices along our route. 

Theft is also quite prominent in major cities. Always make sure to be wary of your surroundings and keep your valuables with you and out of sight when exiting your car along Highway 1 Road Trip stops. 

CAR SICKNESS

Also, it should be noted that there are a lot of curvy roads along the way. If you get carsick, make sure to take proper precautions! 

CLEANLINESS ON THE ROAD

While road tripping for a week, you are likely going to want to shower. We love bringing our Rinsekit on road trips like this where we are typically car camping. It’s a portable shower that is so easy to just pack in the car so you can basically shower anywhere you want! We lay down a tarp we bought from Walmart and hang a towel across the back of the car with magnets for privacy, but you can also invest in a pop up shower tent to go along with your Rinsekit.

LENGTH OF YOUR HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP

If you are dedicated and don’t mind driving a ton with less time at each stop, you could totally do this itinerary in 3 days. However, if you want to fully experience Highway 1, I’d recommend allotting 5-7 days to really experience each town along the way. Since the total drive is quite a bit of miles, it will be nice to pace your itinerary out a bit rather than rushing through the whole thing. 

That being said, Stephen and I both work full time office jobs during the week and are able to do this road trip with modifications on a Friday Night-Sunday Night. If you have less time, I would cut out 3-4 of the stops listed below so that way you can still enjoy your Highway 1 Road Trip without feeling rushed. You’ll also have an excuse to come back and see the beauty of the California Coast again in the future!

EPIC HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Any Highway 1 Road Trip is going to be jam packed with lots of beautiful spots and lots of driving. BUT, it’ll totally be worth it! Thankfully, the California Coast has some of the most scenic coastal viewpoints where your mind will be blown for the majority of the ride,

SANTA MONICA

Whether you love relaxing at the beach or hiking in the mountains, Santa Monica has a variety of things to do. Make sure to stop by the Santa Monica Pier and shop around the Third Street Promenade. If you are a history or fine arts lover, the Getty Villa is also close to Highway 1 and is a great little stop to enjoy beautiful views of the Santa Monica coastline. 

For our avid hikers, check out Tuna Canyon for beginners, or one of our favorites in the Santa Monica recreation area called Sandstone Peak. If you head up to hike Sandstone Peak for sunrise or sunset, you may just get treated to a cloud inversion depending on the cloud elevation!

The Malibu coastline boasts some of the best beaches in all of California. My home beach of Zuma Beach is a classic one to visit to enjoy a summer day or learn how to surf. Leo Carrillo State Beach is another gorgeous option for a beautiful beach day. 

For some classic brunch spots along the Malibu coast, check out Duke’s Malibu and try to get an early reservation for brunch outside for a view or Malibu Farm along the pier for a trendy (but expensive) brunch or cocktail with a gorgeous beach in front of you! If you are a wine lover, make sure to check out Malibu Wine Safari and Rosenthal Winery right along Highway 1. 

For our outdoorsy lovers, check out Point Dume. If you love outdoor rock climbing, you can actually climb here! As previously mentioned, the surfing in the area is fantastic, or you can enjoy a variety of coastal hikes found here on All Trails. Finish up your time in Malibu with a sunset at El Matador State Beach. 

OXNARD & VENTURA

This is our stomping ground, so if you’re ever in the area make sure to reach out and say hi! Check out the Oxnard or Ventura Harbor and even rent a kayak or paddleboard if you want to get out on the water. Enjoy a beautiful view of the beach towns up at Serra Cross, grab a delicious brew from Madewest Brewery on the Ventura Pier, and check out the surfers at Surfers Point before heading on up the coast further. If you want a more in- depth guide on just Ventura, check out this video on a day in the life of the gorgeous coastal city.  

OPTIONAL HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP ADD ON: CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK

While at either city harbor, you can check out Island Packers, where you can book a day trip or overnight trip to one of the Channel Islands in Channel Islands National Park! We recently did an overnight trip to Anacapa Island and it was beautiful, but you could definitely do it as a mini day trip! Santa Cruz is by far the most popular island and offers a lot more diversity on the island! Make sure if you decide to camp out there that you book your sites in coordination with your f erry tickets out to the islands. 

Check out our Youtube video of our experience camping on Anacapa to see the full experience! 

SANTA BARBARA

Just around 40 minutes north from Ventura, you’ll find a beautiful paradise in Santa Barbara. This city is a MUST stop along the way! Stephen and I both lived here for 4 years and it’s honestly our favorite city in all of California. There’s a little something for everyone.

For the adventure lovers, make a little detour from Highway 1 up the Santa Barbara Mountains via the 154 and check out Lizards Mouth or La Cumbre Peak for sunrise or sunset. If you are into hiking, check out Inspiration Point or 7 Falls Trail for beautiful views of the Santa Barbara Coast and the Channel Islands in the distance on a clear day. For more on Santa Barbara, check out our Couple’s Guide to Santa Barbara or our Santa Barbara videos on Youtube. 

Make a stop at East Beach and set up your hammock or slackline among the palm trees. Swing by East Beach Tacos or La Superiqua for some amazing Mexican food for lunch. Some of our other favorite beaches in the area are Hendry’s Beach (dog-friendly, too, and has a great restaurant called Hendry’s Boat House there), as well as Butterfly Beach and Santa Claus Beach. There’s also the beach that is next to the Santa Barbara Pier which is often nice, and you can also rent kayaks or paddle boards here.

For the city lovers, check out the Funk Zone in downtown Santa Barbara for some of the finest wine, beer, and food. We always love checking out The Lark, Loquita, Helena Avenue Bakery, the Lucky Penny, Finneys, and there are so many more options for amazing restaurants in the area. Once you’re done exploring there, you can cruise on up to State Street and check out the amazing outdoor shopping and other dining opportunities. Lastly, make sure to get some ice cream from McConnell’s Ice Cream on State Street before heading to your next road trip stop!

North of Santa Barbara, you’ll encounter Gaviota, which is a quaint little area with beautiful, quieter beaches than Santa Barbara. We always love checking out Gaviota State Park! Our favorites are the Gaviota Hot Springs Hike as well as the Gaviota Wind Caves hike, which is a great one for kids as well. Please make sure to leave no trace and keep the trails better than you found them when recreating in these areas since they are more fragile and less maintained.

OCEANO & PISMO

We always love making a pit stop at the Oceano Sand Dunes right near Pismo Beach. If you’ve ever checked out the Sand Dunes in Death Valley, you probably won’t be as impressed. However, these dunes are still super fun to walk around. We love coming here for sunrise photography since there’s usually no one else around. Beware, walking on the sand is much more strenuous than you think though! Allot yourself more time than you think you’ll need when visiting here.

We love stopping at  Brooks Burgers here for lunch before we keep heading up Highway 1. 

AVILA BEACH

One of our favorite hidden gems along the coast is Avila Beach. Right after Pismo and right before you get to San Luis Obispo, check out Avila Beach. It is tucked away off the side of Highway 1 and is the cutest little beach town! We love parking in the beachfront area and ordering a pizza from Mission Pizza (their Maui Wowie pizza and Cheese Sticks are awesome) and having a beach side picnic. There’s also a cool mini hike down to Pirate’s Cove. This requires descending down a cliffside rope, so make sure to be wearing the right shoes and don’t do anything you aren’t comfortable with. Beware, you might see some nude people hanging around since there’s a neighboring nude beach right there as well! 

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Stephen’s all time favorite donut place in California is SLO Donut Company and it’s right off of Highway 1. If you’re driving late, it’s open from 5am-12am (*check Yelp as hours may change with pandemic restrictions), and it has the best donuts and fantastic coffee. 

We always love heading into downtown SLO as well for other restaurants, fun nightlife, and nice shopping. If you are a Spanish food lover, we cannot recommend the Paella from Luna Red enough. 

SLO is also an adventure lovers playground. Bishop Peak offers several amazing outdoor climbing routes and an amazing view of the city when hiking the peak itself. Madonna Mountain, also known as Cerro San Luis, also offers some nice hikes. Another stop to include would be Terrace Hill for a beautiful view of the ocean.

Morro Bay State Park and Morro Strand State Park are amazing parks to check out if you have time. They both offer stunning views of Morro Rock and are great areas to sit and enjoy the sunset. If you have extra time, also add the nearby Montana De Oro State Park to the list. Monta De Oro State Park features rugged cliffs, quiet sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, and more. 

Unless you are into surfing, the only pitstop in Cayucos you really need to make is visiting the Brown Butter Cookie Company. You will thank us later. They have some of the best homemade cookies you will ever try. 

San Simeon is home to the famous Elephant Seal Lookout and is pretty close to Hearst Castle as well. If you have kids, this is a great stop along your Highway 1 Road Trip! Due to the pandemic, Hearst Castle hasn’t been open recently; however, it’s definitely worth checking out when it reopens!

RAGGED POINT

Ragged Point is known as the “Portal to Big Sur.” It truly is the first amazing look at the Big Sur coast line on your way up from LA. We like to stop here for a coffee and we’ll take it around the property so we can look at all the beautiful viewpoints around the inn. If you are in need of some food, too, they usually have a cafe as well!

For more information on Big Sur specifically, make sure to check out our ultimate guide to Big Sur . This blog covers all information from campsites, hikes to do, and beaches to see across the Big Sur stretch of Highway 1.

We highly recommend checking out all of the following stops along the Big Sur Coast!

  • Sand Dollar Beach
  • Limekiln State Park
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
  • Mcway Falls
  • Hike Partington Cove
  • Andrew Molera State Park 
  • Bixby Bridge: Make sure to not park illegally here or you will get a ticket. People drive quite crazily trying to pull off here, so just be aware. 
  • Notley’s Landing: if you blink, you might miss it! This is just a tiny little pullout for a few cars with a gorgeous look at Bixby Bridge from a far. 
  • Garrapata State Park: One of the few dog friendly beach areas in Big Sur! 

The Big Sur area, in particular, is especially known for limited accommodations. Make sure to know exactly where you will be camping or staying before since you can get in trouble for staying overnight on certain parts of Highway 1, and campgrounds fill up incredibly quickly.

Before you get to San Francisco, also try hitting Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Davenport along the way for beautiful views of beaches! Shark Fin Cove is also along the way if you happen to be driving by it for sunset.

Monterey is a beautiful coastal city right along Highway 1 after Big Sur. There are so many family friendly activities in Monterey. For a more in depth guide to exploring this beautiful area, check out our weekend recommendations for visiting Monterey .

SAN FRANCISCO

A note before visiting San Francisco, this city, especially now, has been experiencing more theft and break ins ever than before. Please remember when visiting to take all of your valuables with you and leave nothing in sight in your car or van to prevent theft. If you can’t find a reputable campground, there are a variety of hotel options as well.

As more outdoorsy people, we hardly ever venture into the city because of the insane amount of traffic and trash. HOWEVER, we try to make a point to hit the following spots in San Francisco when doing our typical Highway 1 Road Trip. 

  • Battery Spencer
  • Bunker Hill Hike
  • Golden Gate Overlook
  • Baker Beach
  • Marshall’s Beach
  • Muir Woods National Monument (Make sure to make a parking reservation ahead of time!)
  • Muir Beach Overlook
  • Mt. Tamalpais State park
  • Stinson Beach 

Food wise, Aristicault’s Bakery is a MUST for pastry lovers. Their croissants are seriously next level. When we take people with us to visit SF, we will also do the touristy clam chowder bowls down in Fisherman’s Wharf or take them to the Ferry Building to look around. 

POINT REYES NATIONAL MONUMENT

Point Reyes was one of those spots that we had little expectations for, but it absolutely blew us away! That’s why we chose to end the road trip itinerary here! Make sure to hit the Cypress Tree Tunnel and the Lighthouse area to take in mind blowing views of the California Coast line that almost compare to those of Iceland’s Black Sand Beach. 

If you are lucky enough to have more time in this area, definitely check out the hikes in the monument. The coastal bluffs are ridiculously beautiful. 

And that’s it for this itinerary! If you continue on heading up North via Highway 1, you’ll get some amazing chances to visit the Redwoods. But we’ll save that for a specific Northern California Road Trip itinerary! If you decide to do a more Northern CA road trip, we would recommend picking up your campervan in San Francisco and doing a loop from there. 

Have you ever taken a road trip up Highway 1? If so, which spot was your favorite? 

The Lovers Passport is reader-supported. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free! Since this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for all of our readers. This has absolutely no effect on our recommendations or evaluations and all opinions are our own. Thanks for supporting our adventures!

You may also enjoy:

Milford Sound New Zealand at Sunset

The Best New Zealand Road Trip Stops from Te Anau to Milford Sound

People Traveling to a New Country

12 Amazing and Cheap Places to Fly to in 2024

Hiking the wave in Kanab Utah

Best 7 Things to Do Near Kanab, Utah in 2024

travel highway 1 in california

Love this! thank you!

Stephen & Giselle backpacking the Sierra High Route

You may also like

Couple paddle boarding on Lake Tahoe in the Summer

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

travel highway 1 in california

Best Stops on Highway 1: California Road Trip Itinerary

Post Topic: Best Stops on Highway 1

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

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

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

10 Can’t Miss Stops on the Oregon Coast

Channel Islands National Park – Santa Cruz Island

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

How to Plan an Unforgettable U.S. Road Trip

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

Map of the Best Stops on Highway 1

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

Leggett to San Francisco: Best Stops on Highway 1

travel highway 1 in california

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Point Reyes National Seashore

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

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

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

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

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

Stinson Beach

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

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

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

San Francisco Area: Best Stops on Highway 1

travel highway 1 in california

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

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

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

San Francisco to Big Sur: Best Stops on Highway 1

travel highway 1 in california

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

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

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

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

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

Big Sur: Best Stops on Highway 1

travel highway 1 in california

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

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

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

travel highway 1 in california

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

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

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

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

Other things to see in Big Sur

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Sur to Santa Barbara: Best Stops on Highway 1

travel highway 1 in california

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

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

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

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

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

travel highway 1 in california

Bonus Stop: Channel Islands National Park

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

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

Pack These for a California Highway 1 Road Trip

1. good hiking shoes.

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

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

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

2. Water Bottle & Hydration pack

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

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

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

3. Snacks & More Snacks

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

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

4. Wool Clothes & Moisture Wicking Clothes

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

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

6. Lots of Layers (including a Rain Jacket)

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

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

More California Adventures

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

Save on Pinterest

travel highway 1 in california

Share this:

  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

travel highway 1 in california

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • MEET CAROLINE
  • WORK WITH ME

Travel Advisor Trina Hendry in a black and white striped dress in front of a brick wall.

Get in touch with Trina

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Trina within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Trina Hendry

Your message has been sent to Trina !

Learn more about what to expect when working with an advisor.

The Ultimate California Highway 1 Road-Trip Itinerary

Travel Advisor Trina Hendry in a black and white striped dress in front of a brick wall.

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/LQZR7L/the-ultimate-california-highway-1-road-trip-itinerary

Road Trip Travel

Nature Escapes

Sightseeing

Road on the Mountainside with sea.

Curator’s statement

A cruise down California's Highway 1 — the PCH as it is affectionately known by locals — from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the quintessential California road trip. As you journey through quaint towns and stunning landscapes unlike anywhere else on the planet, you will find yourself mesmerized by the postcard-perfect beauty and sheer diversity of this 500-mile stretch of highway. This five-day adventure covers all of the main attractions, from Bixby Bridge in Big Sur to the beaches of Malibu, with stops at hidden gems and local haunts along the way.

The Fora Difference

Book with Trina to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Cambria beach lodge.

Indulge in coastal relaxation at Cambria Beach Lodge, where modern comforts, breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere combine for a memorable stay along the stunning Central Coast of California.

Food & beverage credit.

Welcome treat in room on arrival

Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

The Surfrider

Located at Surfrider Beach, a great pick for easy access to the Malibu Pier, featuring rooms with a sophisticated, yet laid-back Californian feel.

Shutters on the Beach

The classic Santa Monica beach experience, the lobby makes this property feel more intimate, but the pool is a great scene.

$100 food / beverage credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

A luxury lifestyle hotel on sun-drenched Wilshire Boulevard where guests will have a front-row seat to sunsets over the Pacific.

Complimentary bottle of wine in room on arrival.

Complimentary welcome gift on arrival.

Monterey Tides

Experience the coastal charm of Monterey Tides, where ocean views, sandy beaches and laid-back vibes create the perfect beachfront getaway.

Icon [object Object]

Unlock perks by contacting Trina to book your trip.

Day 1: San Franciso to Monterey

Aerial view of Monterey, CA.

Start the day with an early breakfast at Tartine Manufactory to fuel up for the 120-mile drive to Monterey. Hop onto CA 1 and drive to Half Moon Bay for a seafood lunch at Sam’s Chowder House . Sam’s is famous for its Lobster Roll, which is hailed as one of the “Five Best Sandwiches in America” by The Today Show. As you make your way south, take a quick pitstop in Capitola, the most darling candy-colored beach town near Santa Cruz. It is also the oldest beach resort on the West Coast. Depending on the time, you may wish to meander along the famous 17-mile drive at Pebble Beach before arriving in Monterey. Check into either the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa or the Monterey Tides , a recently renovated boutique hotel right on the beach. Tip : If you stay at Monterey Tides, ask for the second or third floor for the best vistas. Cap off a perfect day with a seaside dinner at Fish Hopper , located on the pier at Cannery Row.

Day 2: Monterey to Cambria

travel highway 1 in california

Begin the day with an early morning beach walk before driving 10 minutes south to the quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea for breakfast at iconic Katy’s Place . If you love eggs benedict you will die and go to hollandaise heaven with more than 20 varieties to choose from. After a leisurely walk around town, it’s time to head to Big Sur! Your first stop Bixby Bridge for the iconic Big Sur view and photo.

Grab coffee-to-go and a chocolate cookie at Big Sur Bakery and then admire McWay Falls from the overlook trail. As hunger sets it, it is time to head to Nepenthe for a leisurely lunch of California fare perched on a Big Sur cliff overlooking the ocean. The views are magnificent. Head out toward the central coast beach town of Cambria, stopping to see the elephant seals sunbathing at the rookery in San Simeon. San Simeon is also the home to Hearst Castle, which I highly recommend it if you’ve never been. In Cambria, stop in at the Cambria Pines Lodge’s Fireside Lounge for Happy Hour or an early dinner before checking in to the hotel. Check into the Cambria Beach Lodge just in time to watch the sunset at Moonstone Beach.

Day 3: Cambria to Santa Barbara

Views of Santa Barbara in California.

After enjoying a complimentary continental breakfast in the lodge’s reception area, followed by a stroll through town, I highly recommend taking a quick inland detour off Highway 1 to Paso Robles for a morning of wine tasting. Head back to the 101 freeway to San Luis Obispo for lunch, a slice of the renowned Pink Champagne Cake and a bathroom break at the quirky Madonna Inn. Tip : The inn is famous for its restrooms, especially the men’s, which has a waterfall over the urinal!

As you make you way down the central coast, you pass through the towns Santa Ynez Valley, sometimes referred to as Napa’s baby sister, including Los Alamos (the trendiest town in the region at the moment,) Los Olivos and Buellton, the town made famous in the wine cult film, “Sideways." Arrive in Santa Barbara mid-to-late-afternoon and head straight to the Funk Zone for some more wine tasting at Municipal Wines, or the other 14 tasting rooms that make up Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail . Check in at Hotel Californian, a stunning Moroccan-inspired hotel steps from the beach. You’ll be hard pressed to find a bad meal in Santa Barbara. I highly recommend making a reservation at Bibi Ji , a modern Indian street food restaurant on State Street. Other popular restaurants with walking distance of the hotel include The Lark (New American), Loquita (Spanish tapas) and Lucky Penny (pizza.) If you wish to venture out a bit further from the funk zone, La Super-Rica Taqueria is always a hit as is Bettina (Italian) in Montecito and Toma (Mediterrean) on State Steet in downtown Santa Barbara.

Day 4: Santa Barbara to Malibu

Beach with blue water and green hills.

Kick off the day in Santa Barbara at Helena Avenue Bakery for a cold brew coffee and their famous Breakfast Sandwich on Brioche. On your way out of town, I highly recommend you stop at Metropoulos Fine Foods Merchant , a delicious gourmet food shop and deli. Have them pack up a couple of sandwiches for the road. Trust me, they are some of the best handhelds you will ever eat, and this food emporium is a local favorite. Take the 101 S to Ventura County and follow the signs back to Highway 101 of the scenic drive to Malibu. If the tide is out, make a pit stop at Leo Carillo State Beach to explore the tide pools or go for a beach stroll at one of the most stunning So Cal beaches, El Matador. Check in at the Surfrider Malibu , an exclusive 20-room Californian Beach House located on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, across the street from the world-famous Surfrider beach.

Lunch/brunch at Malibu Farm directly across the street from the hotel on the Malibu Pier. I normally go the cafe at the end of the pier, but this epic journey is worthy of a meal at the organic, farm-to-table restaurant at the beginning of the pier. After lunch, do a bit of shopping at Aviator Nation (located directly across from the pier) and Malibu Country Mart , which is excellent for not only local and designer brands but also for people watching. End the day by watching the sunset with a glass of wine in hand on the hotel’s rooftop, or catch Happy Hour and sunset views at the Malibu Beach Inn’s Carbon Beach Club or Nobu, both located a very short walk from the hotel.

Day 5: Malibu to Los Angeles

Beautiful blue water beach with people and green hills.

No trip to Malibu would be complete without a hike. I suggest driving back up the coast for about 15 minutes to the Point Dume Nature Preserve, which offers beautiful walking trails and a wooden boardwalk along the cliff, as well as stairs down to the quiet beach where you will often find sea lions sunning themselves and dolphins frolicking in the surf. Other great hiking options include Escondido Falls and Solstice Canyon. If you’re hungry, head to the Point Dume plaza for Lily’s famous breakfast burrito. I suggest calling in your order though as they take 45 minutes to prepare and there is often a line-up. Head back down the coast to Santa Monica to begin your Los Angeles adventure. For beachside accommodation, Oceana and Shutters on the Beach are excellent choices. Santa Monica Proper is my favorite hotel in Los Angeles, and if you prefer to stay in the heart of the action, aka West Hollywood, the Pendry Hotel and 1 Hotel West Hollywood would be my picks.

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Grace Hilty ’s guide, 3 Days in Big Sur, California .

Travel Advisor Trina Hendry in a black and white striped dress in front of a brick wall.

Travel Advisor

Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

Travel Advisor Trina Hendry in a black and white striped dress in front of a brick wall.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California .

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

© 2024 California.com All Rights Reserved

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

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.

Rachael Medina

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.

travel highway 1 in california

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

travel highway 1 in california

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.

travel highway 1 in california

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

travel highway 1 in california

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. 

travel highway 1 in california

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

travel highway 1 in california

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.

travel highway 1 in california

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.

travel highway 1 in california

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

travel highway 1 in california

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

travel highway 1 in california

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

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

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

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

Enter your zip code.

California's 11 Most Affordable Places to Live

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

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

Oakland Restaurant Week 2024: When is it? Where to Eat?

RELATED Articles

travel highway 1 in california

RELATED CITIES

travel highway 1 in california

Discover More

The 5 Best Spring Vacation Spots in California

The 5 Best Spring Vacation Spots in California

Enjoy the perfect California spring weather at these ideal spots for a spring vacation in California.

The Top Sacramento Entertainment Hotspots

The Top Sacramento Entertainment Hotspots

Here's a breakdown of the top entertainment hotspots in the state's grand capital of Sacramento.

The Best Water Activities in San Diego

The Best Water Activities in San Diego

From kayaking, to sailing, to surfing, here are the best water sports activities to enjoy in San Diego.

Exploring California's Best Northern Cities

Exploring California's Best Northern Cities

The beautiful wilderness and easy living make Northern California such a great place to live.

Purpose section

  • >", "name": "top-nav-watch", "type": "link"}}' href="https://watch.outsideonline.com">Watch
  • >", "name": "top-nav-learn", "type": "link"}}' href="https://learn.outsideonline.com">Learn
  • >", "name": "top-nav-podcasts", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/podcast-directory/">Podcasts
  • >", "name": "top-nav-maps", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.gaiagps.com">Maps
  • >", "name": "top-nav-events", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.athletereg.com/events">Events
  • >", "name": "top-nav-shop", "type": "link"}}' href="https://shop.outsideonline.com">Shop
  • >", "name": "top-nav-buysell", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.pinkbike.com/buysell">BuySell
  • >", "name": "top-nav-outside", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/outsideplus">Outside+

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? >", "name": "mega-signin", "type": "link"}}' class="u-color--red-dark u-font--xs u-text-transform--upper u-font-weight--bold">Sign In

Outside watch, outside learn.

  • >", "name": "mega-backpacker-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.backpacker.com/">Backpacker
  • >", "name": "mega-climbing-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.climbing.com/">Climbing
  • >", "name": "mega-flyfilmtour-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://flyfilmtour.com/">Fly Fishing Film Tour
  • >", "name": "mega-gaiagps-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.gaiagps.com/">Gaia GPS
  • >", "name": "mega-npt-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nationalparktrips.com/">National Park Trips
  • >", "name": "mega-outsideonline-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/">Outside
  • >", "name": "mega-outsideio-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outside.io/">Outside.io
  • >", "name": "mega-outsidetv-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://watch.outsideonline.com">Outside Watch
  • >", "name": "mega-ski-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.skimag.com/">Ski
  • >", "name": "mega-warrenmiller-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://warrenmiller.com/">Warren Miller Entertainment

Healthy Living

  • >", "name": "mega-ce-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.cleaneatingmag.com/">Clean Eating
  • >", "name": "mega-oxy-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.oxygenmag.com/">Oxygen
  • >", "name": "mega-vt-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.vegetariantimes.com/">Vegetarian Times
  • >", "name": "mega-yj-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.yogajournal.com/">Yoga Journal
  • >", "name": "mega-beta-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.betamtb.com/">Beta
  • >", "name": "mega-pinkbike-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.pinkbike.com/">Pinkbike
  • >", "name": "mega-roll-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.rollmassif.com/">Roll Massif
  • >", "name": "mega-trailforks-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.trailforks.com/">Trailforks
  • >", "name": "mega-trail-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://trailrunnermag.com/">Trail Runner
  • >", "name": "mega-tri-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.triathlete.com/">Triathlete
  • >", "name": "mega-vn-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://velo.outsideonline.com/">Velo
  • >", "name": "mega-wr-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.womensrunning.com/">Women's Running
  • >", "name": "mega-athletereg-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.athletereg.com/">athleteReg
  • >", "name": "mega-bicycleretailer-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.bicycleretailer.com/">Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
  • >", "name": "mega-cairn-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.getcairn.com/">Cairn
  • >", "name": "mega-finisherpix-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.finisherpix.com/">FinisherPix
  • >", "name": "mega-idea-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.ideafit.com/">Idea
  • >", "name": "mega-nastar-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nastar.com/">NASTAR
  • >", "name": "mega-shop-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideinc.com/outside-books/">Outside Books
  • >", "name": "mega-veloswap-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.veloswap.com/">VeloSwap
  • >", "name": "mega-backpacker-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.backpacker.com/">Backpacker
  • >", "name": "mega-climbing-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.climbing.com/">Climbing
  • >", "name": "mega-flyfilmtour-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://flyfilmtour.com/">Fly Fishing Film Tour
  • >", "name": "mega-gaiagps-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.gaiagps.com/">Gaia GPS
  • >", "name": "mega-npt-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nationalparktrips.com/">National Park Trips
  • >", "name": "mega-outsideonline-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/">Outside
  • >", "name": "mega-outsidetv-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://watch.outsideonline.com">Watch
  • >", "name": "mega-ski-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.skimag.com/">Ski
  • >", "name": "mega-warrenmiller-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://warrenmiller.com/">Warren Miller Entertainment
  • >", "name": "mega-ce-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.cleaneatingmag.com/">Clean Eating
  • >", "name": "mega-oxy-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.oxygenmag.com/">Oxygen
  • >", "name": "mega-vt-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.vegetariantimes.com/">Vegetarian Times
  • >", "name": "mega-yj-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.yogajournal.com/">Yoga Journal
  • >", "name": "mega-beta-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.betamtb.com/">Beta
  • >", "name": "mega-roll-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.rollmassif.com/">Roll Massif
  • >", "name": "mega-trail-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://trailrunnermag.com/">Trail Runner
  • >", "name": "mega-tri-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.triathlete.com/">Triathlete
  • >", "name": "mega-vn-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://velo.outsideonline.com/">Velo
  • >", "name": "mega-wr-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.womensrunning.com/">Women's Running
  • >", "name": "mega-athletereg-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.athletereg.com/">athleteReg
  • >", "name": "mega-bicycleretailer-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.bicycleretailer.com/">Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
  • >", "name": "mega-finisherpix-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.finisherpix.com/">FinisherPix
  • >", "name": "mega-idea-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.ideafit.com/">Idea
  • >", "name": "mega-nastar-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nastar.com/">NASTAR
  • >", "name": "mega-shop-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://shop.outsideonline.com/">Outside Shop
  • >", "name": "mega-vp-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.velopress.com/">VeloPress
  • >", "name": "mega-veloswap-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.veloswap.com/">VeloSwap

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS NOW

TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

Outside Festival feat. Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more.

GET EARLY-BIRD DEALS

Taking a roadtrip up the California coast using Highway 1 is a great summer adventure.

The Perfect Highway 1 Road Trip Through California

Don't travel this iconic route without hitting up great camping, hiking, surfing, and more along the way

Taking a roadtrip up the California coast using Highway 1 is a great summer adventure.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

California’s Highway 1 is a perennial favorite for adventurous road-trippers—and for good reason. You can visit the sunny beaches of San Diego, the wine country of the central coast, the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, and the towering redwoods of Mendocino without ever leaving the road. Sections of the iconic highway were closed  due to wildfire and mudslides for over a year, but these   reopened in July 2018 and the route is eager for visitors. Along the way, score dreamy campsites overlooking the Pacific Ocean or post up at the many revamped retro hotels that dot the route. Tackle the whole thing, or take it on piecemeal by planning a trip for one of the sections below.

travel highway 1 in california

San Diego to Santa Barbara

Start from the southern end of Highway 1 in San Diego, where you’ll find a thriving craft-beer scene, friendly surf breaks, and 65 miles of trails in the city’s 1,200-acre  Balboa Park . Stay in Hotel del Coronado  (from $323), a historic guesthouse on Coronado Island in the heart of San Diego Bay, and don’t miss the ever changing collection of small plates, like pork shoulder with bacon-braised lentils and black trumpet mushrooms, at the   award-winning restaurant Juniper and Ivy  in the city’s Harbor View neighborhood.

Crystal Cove , near Newport Beach (south of Los Angeles), has oceanfront cottages and private rooms for rent starting at just $37 a night, or continue north and hit  Sandy’s Beach Shack  in Huntington Beach for mahi-mahi tacos, beer, and a surf session before checking into Malibu’s  Surfrider Hotel  (from $369), a revamped 1950s-era motel with wetsuits and surfboards for rent and a rooftop deck. Near Santa Barbara, Skyview Los Alamos  (from $179) is another renovated motel, this one with outdoor showers overlooking wine country and loaner mountain bikes for exploring the area’s miles of quality singletrack.

travel highway 1 in california

The Central Coast

Camp, sandboard, or drive ATVs on more than five miles of sand dunes in Oceano Dunes State Park , and check out the history of skateboarding at the Morro Bay Skateboard Museum . Then be sure to grab a scoop of Harmony Valley Creamery ice cream at the legendary Thursday-night farmers’ market  in San Luis Obispo. The Hotel San Luis Obispo (from $445) opens in June, or check out the town’s eccentric Madonna Inn  (from $109), where you can stay in a rock-lined room designed to mimic the granite walls of Yosemite.

Instead of continuing north on Highway 1, make a short detour inland to visit the wineries that surround Paso Robles in addition to a new multi-acre installation from artist Bruce Munro called Field of Light , where you can wander among 58,800 solar-powered spheres that light up the night. Back on route, spot elephant seals on the beach in the seaside   village of Cambria, and book a tour of Hearst Castle  in San Simeon to take in the art, gardens, and free-roaming zebras that were once part of William Randolph Hearst’s private zoo.

travel highway 1 in california

Big Sur to San Francisco

Stop off in  Limekiln State Park  and you’ll find a secluded beach and views of the Big Sur coast. Then hike the trails and pitch a tent in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , which should reopen sometime this summer after a storm damaged it in early February. From there, it’s just an hour north to Big Sur proper and the surf breaks at Sand Dollar Beach. If you’re in search of some luxe accommodations, opt for a safari-style tent nestled in a redwood forest at Ventana Big Sur  (from $450), which overlooks the ocean and has Japanese-inspired hot baths and a gallery featuring the works of local artists. Can’t-miss eats in the area include the cookies at Big Sur Bakery  and the Ambrosia burger on the outdoor patio at  Nepenthe .

On your way north toward San Francisco, Carmel Coffee , in the charming one-square-mile town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, has espresso and surprisingly good ramen bowls, and there’s quality mountain biking in Santa Cruz’s Demo Forest , just south of San Francisco. Don’t miss the freshly baked artichoke bread at Norm’s Market  in the old fishing town of Pescadero, just off Highway 1, and the sunset from  San Gregorio State Beach .

travel highway 1 in california

Mill Valley to Mendocino

Once Highway 1 crosses the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll be treated to vast stretches of empty, jagged coastline and little towns worth long pit stops. Start with a mountain-bike ride or a trail run with ocean views in Mount Tamalpais State Park , north of Muir Beach, where mountain biking first got its start. There’s a well-loved surf break in Bolinas—and good beta and gear at the town’s 2 Mile Surf Shop , which rents boards and offers lessons—if you can find the turnoff for this unmarked beach town . Fuel up with tasty tacos in an old lifeguard tower at  Siren Canteen  in Stinson Beach.

In Guerneville, AutoCamp  (from $190) rents decked-out Airstreams for a night along the Russian River and provides canoes for a mellow paddle. Or book yourself into the Bodega Bay Lodge  (from $189), which has recently renovated rooms on a rocky bluff above the sea. In Mendocino, Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too  rents paddleboards and bikes and offers guided boat tours on outrigger canoes up the Big River, which flows into Mendocino Bay. From there the highway continues along the coast for a few dozen miles before turning inland to join Highway 101.

  • San Francisco
  • Santa Barbara

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

Popular on Outside Online

travel highway 1 in california

Enjoy coverage of racing, history, food, culture, travel, and tech with access to unlimited digital content from Outside Network's iconic brands.

  • Clean Eating
  • Vegetarian Times
  • Yoga Journal
  • Fly Fishing Film Tour
  • National Park Trips
  • Warren Miller
  • Fastest Known Time
  • Trail Runner
  • Women's Running
  • Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
  • FinisherPix
  • Outside Events Cycling Series
  • Outside Shop

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > California Road Trip Itineraries > California Coast > Pacific Coast Highway: The Road of the American Dream

pacific coast highway road trip

Pacific Coast Highway: The Road of the American Dream

This site may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Also known as Route 1 or Highway 1 , the Pacific Coast Highway is the road of the American Dream, a U.S. route that offers beautiful views of the coast along the 620-mile road from Orange County (near Dana Point, south of Los Angeles ) to Mendocino County (just above San Francisco , in Leggett), that covers almost the entire California coast.

A Pacific Coast Highway road trip passes through desolate moors and viewpoints that allow you to enjoy the rare and amazing natural beauty of the coast. The possibilities are endless but a common route is to take the coastal scenic route from Los Angeles to San Francisco (or vice versa), and often people extend the journey and continue south to San Diego , a city with beautiful beaches and pleasant temperatures.

But a road trip on Highway 1 doesn’t only offer unforgettable scenic views. Even history buffs will find something of interest. Along the Pacific Coast you will find the many Franciscan missions that were built in California starting the eighteenth century, all included in the historical itinerary El Camino Real . We start our Pacific Coast Highway itinerary from the south, from the beaches of Orange County, and will head north towards San Francisco Bay and beyond.

Pacific Coast Highway Map

Orange county, located south of los angeles, from los angeles to santa barbara, hearst castle and big sur, the monterey peninsula, san francisco bay area and marin county, north of san francisco: the last stretch of highway 1, how long is the pacific coast highway.

Pacific coast highway

Usually, the last stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway, which crosses Orange County, is traveled on the way from Los Angeles to San Diego . Best known for Disneyland , Orange County is a region that can boast many incredible attractions, including the beautiful beaches and charming hidden coves that characterize Laguna Beach , the area’s most popular beach destination, but also interesting historical places, such as San Juan Capistrano , 11 miles south of Laguna Beach, which, in addition to its historic district , has one of the most fascinating missions on the entire California coast.

Highway 1 california

If you love surfing, there are a few places where you can go in search of the perfect wave, starting with Huntington Beach . Many consider it the surf capital of the United States (not surprisingly it was renamed “Surf City USA”). There are also Newport Beach and The Wedge , on the southern end of the Balboa Peninsula .

This section of Highway 1 is not particularly impressive to drive along, but it can be very rewarding if you decide to stop in the various coves and inlets that the Laguna Beach area offers along the way (e.g. the cliffs of Treasure Island Park ). For a list of recommended stops, please refer to our guide of Laguna Beach.

california coast road trip

Continuing north, pass through Long Beach and plan to stop next in Santa Monica , one of the most famous destinations in the Greater Los Angeles area , known throughout the world for its amusement park on the pier (Santa Monica Pier ) and for being the end of Route 66 . Next, head to Malibu , a stretch of the coast that was renamed “27 miles of great views”, and then on to Santa Barbara , at the foot of the Santa Ynez Mountains, a green valley full of vineyards and farms that you can also cross via Highway 101 , an alternative and faster road that goes from Los Angeles to San Francisco .

california coast drive

Santa Barbara is a destination that really deserves an extended visit, especially because of the multiple pieces of history and the many Spanish Colonial buildings. Since you are here, take the opportunity to make a detour in a very unusual town, Solvang , a Danish town in the USA.

big sur road trip

Further north, the Pacific Coast Highway begins to show its most majestic and impressive scenery, rising 1640 to 3280 ft above the roaring waves of the Pacific. Considered by many as America’s most fascinating scenic road , the rugged and wild 90-mile drive that stretches from Hearst Castle , just past the interesting towns of Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo , is bound to win the hearts of road trip enthusiasts.

Big Sur , which is bordered by the rugged mountains of Saint Lucia to the east and the Pacific to the west, is certainly the most fascinating section of the coast, “A place of greatness and eloquent silence”, as described by Henry Miller, the author of the novel Tropic of Cancer .

It was practically inaccessible before the Pacific Coast Highway was built. Thanks to the work of prisoners and New Deal funds, Big Sur was completed in 1937 and began to attract tourists. Its beauty has inspired artists and writers like Miller, whose books and photographs can be found at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, and alternative thinkers, some of whom helped found the Esalen Institute.

Proudly protected by its 1,500 inhabitants, Big Sur offers landscapes that seem to be taken from a Romantic painting. The land is splashed by the impetuous waves of the ocean and circumscribed by curved and narrow roads that wind along the edge of the sheer mountains. You will definitely want to take pictures at Bixby Bridge , the famous symbol of this road.

pacific coast highway road trip itinerary

Hearst Castle, located near Pfeiffer State Beach , a beach with violet sand and picturesque sea stacks, is another unforgettable place, and if you are looking for somewhere to take a break and relax, stop by Nepenthe for a drink, a restaurant with an outdoor patio 2,625 ft above the sea.

For more details about things to do in the area, check out our guide on how to visit Big Sur .

California to oregon road trip

The most spectacular section of Highway 1 is behind us, but this road still has a lot of surprises for us. The Monterey Peninsula is a treasure trove with many places to discover, starting with Carmel By the Sea , a charming town with a beautiful mission, then Monterey , famous for its large aquarium and many well-preserved historic buildings, the 17-mile Drive , a winding scenic road that runs along the ocean around Carmel Point, and Pebble Beach , an area frequented by wealthy people that has golf courses, luxurious villas, as well as charming views of the sea and trees with unusual shapes.

In addition, there is also Pacific Grove , which has a rugged coastline dotted with pink flowers and embellished with the striking lighthouse of Point Pinos , and Point Lobos , a beautiful protected area where you can go and view the perfect inlet.

For a complete recap of everything that awaits you on this stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway, please read our Monterey Peninsula guide.

driving highway 1

You’ve arrived in San Francisco and most people decide to conclude the trip on America’s most scenic road here, yet this fascinating itinerary still has so much to offer. Highway 1 continues along one of the most famous bridges in the world, I’m not talking about the aforementioned Bixby Bridge but the famous red bridge that crosses San Francisco Bay (read our tips for driving across the Golden Gate Bridge ) and will take you to the giant redwood forest of Muir Woods , but before you get there, I recommend a small detour from the main road to visit Point Bonita Lighthouse , one of the most scenic lighthouses on the West Coast.

pacific coast highway drive

Continuing further north, the coast of Marin County has stunning views of cliffs and sea stacks; it is an area known as the Gulf of the Stacks and part of the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary . Those who love lighthouses will enjoy visiting Point Reyes Lighthouse , one of California’s most scenic and well-known lighthouses.

highway 1 california itinerary

After crossing Marin County, the lesser-known and less touristy part of the coast awaits us. Highway 1 continues along the ocean and still offers some breathtaking views of the cliffs overlooking the sea. The first interesting stop is Bodega Bay , which Hitchcock used as the set for the movie The Birds . If you go on Westshore Road, you can visit Bodega Head , where you can enjoy one of the best views of Highway 1 (the area is also recommended for whale watching).

travel highway 1 in california

Mendocino, famous for being used as a set for Jessica Fletcher’s Cabot Cove , is certainly the most picturesque area of this stretch of the road because of the sea stacks and cliffs of Headlands State Park . Those who love lighthouses will still find points of interest, namely Point Arena Lighthouse and Point Cabrillo Lighthouse , both built after the devastating earthquake in San Francisco in 1906. The lighthouses can be visited by taking a short detour from Highway 1. Also worth mentioning is the very special Bowling Ball Beach : the name says it all!

pacific coast highway attractions

The Pacific Coast Highway officially ends in Leggett, 53 miles north of Mendocino, where it connects to Highway 101 , which leads to the area with the world’s tallest redwoods ( Redwood National Park ) and then to more spectacular views on the coast of Oregon .

The travel time is not to be underestimated. If you are in a hurry, this is not the right road for you. There are several alternative roads further inland that allow you to travel more quickly (but alas what you will see will be less rewarding). To travel the main stretch of Highway 1, the one between Los Angeles and San Francisco, I suggest you plan 1 or 2 stops (for directions on how to break the journey, you can read my guide on where to stay between Los Angeles and San Francisco ). Here are some guides to the most important destinations you will find along the way:

  • Santa Barbara
  • San Luis Obispo
  • Hearst Castle
  • Point Lobos

If you want to continue to the end of the Pacific Coast Highway, keep in mind that from San Francisco Bay to Mendocino the drive is slow and depending on the length of the stops, you may need another stop to break up the journey, for example, in Gualala . Before Leggett, the best stop is Mendocino (about 90 minutes away). We also have an article in which you can read our advice on what to do and where to stay in Mendocino .

For more detailed information about finding accommodations in Los Angeles and San Francisco, read our in-depth articles:

  • Where to stay in San Francisco: Recommended areas and neighborhoods
  • Where to sleep in Los Angeles: Staying in the city and the surrounding area

The Pacific Coast Highway is the ideal route for those who dream of going on a road trip and gives you the chance to admire the natural wonders of California’s coast. It is one of the most popular routes traveled by those who love to take road trips around the USA and who love adventure.

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

lorenzo puliti

lorenzo puliti

I am fascinated by the wonders of the world I never tire of going in search of them.

Related posts

top gun filming locations

Discover the Main Filming Locations of Top Gun and Maverick!

17-mile drive best stops

17-Mile Drive: Pebble Beach’s scenic road in California

Pigeon Point lighthouse

Pigeon Point Light Station State Park, a fascinating lighthouse on the California Coast

Point Arena Lighthouse California

How to Plan a Visit to the Historic Point Arena Lighthouse in Mendocino, California

Leave a comment cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Travel Babbo

Travel Babbo

A Family Travel Blog

A Perfect Highway 1 California Road Trip

By Eric Stoen on September 10, 2021 • Last Updated November 17, 2021 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Note: This Highway 1 California road trip post is sponsored by  Ecolab . 

Travel in 2021

I’ve loved road tripping the past two summers. Last year it was all about  treading lightly  as we were in the height of COVID-19. This year, our 18-day road trip from California to  The Broadmoor  in Colorado Springs in June only made me want to travel more, but at the same time, the news from day-to-day is a roller coaster. 

A Highway 1 California Road Trip through Big Sur to Monterey

Because Highway 1 through Big Sur closed several times the past few years due to landslides, it had been at least a decade since I had driven the iconic highway. I thought it was time to change that before the next rainy season possibly shuts things down again.

Highway 1 California Road Trip -

I took a three-day / two-night road trip from Ventura to Monterey and back along Highway 1. It’s around half an hour faster to travel inland, but then I’d miss some of the best coastal scenery in the world. Where’s the fun in that? 

I LOVED this quick trip, fitting in as much as possible. But not everything went right. Here’s how I planned this trip, everything I did, and what didn’t quite work out. 

A Highway 1 California road trip stop at Carmel Beach

My Planning

I booked this trip on a Monday night and then left Tuesday morning – embrace the spontaneity! I had two priorities when it came to selecting accommodations: 1) the hotel is committed to a higher level of cleanliness; and 2) it’s situated in a walkable location (a must I’ve learned after visiting Monterey several times).  Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa  fit the bill as the location has earned the  Ecolab Science Certified ™ seal  and  was near all the sites and restaurants. 

Cleanliness has never been more important to me, especially when traveling. I wanted to feel confident in my hotel choice and that the location was committed to clean – from the products being used to the behind-the-scenes practices. 

Highway 1 California Road Trip - The Ecolab Science Certified seal is confirmed on Casa Munras' website

I stayed mid-week so the tourist destinations would be less crowded, more enjoyable, and less expensive than the weekends. 

With a hotel booked, I looked into activities – specifically those that were outside and adventurous. The activities that immediately jumped out were an ebike ride around 17-Mile-Drive and Pebble Beach, and a whale watching excursion. I booked both online – the whale watching for my first night (a sunset sailing) and the ebike ride for the next morning.

Driving to Monterey

I planned my departure so that I would arrive in Cambria, one of my favorite small towns, around 11:30 am to beat the lunch rush. I parked in a public lot and walked to Robin’s – recommended by an Instagram follower. After a quick lunch (the lamb burrito is great), I got back on the road heading north. 

travel highway 1 in california

If you’re only going to travel one direction on California’s Highway 1, I’d recommend traveling north to south. Virtually all pullouts are on the west side of the road, so it’s a lot easier to stop when you’re heading south. Knowing that I would be driving the highway back down the coast, I only stopped a few times heading to Monterey.

One of my stops was at Bixby Creek Bridge, the second most famous bridge in California. This is also the only exception to the north-south guidance, as the easiest parking is on the east side of the road just past the bridge. 

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Iconic Bixby Creek Bridge

I also stopped whenever the view was just too good not to photograph! This is one of my favorite pictures.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Looking south down the coast

My attempted stop at Pfeiffer Beach was a failure. The beach looked stunning, so I mapped to it. There’s virtually no signage at the road and then there’s a two-mile very narrow road to the beach. I made it one mile down the road before a person heading the other way told me that there was a three-hour wait for parking. So I turned around and drove on to my hotel. 

Casa Munras Garden Hotel and Spa

I mentioned Casa Munras and its Ecolab Science Certified seal above. In addition to adhering to the highest standards of cleanliness, the hotel is simply a great place to base in Monterey. I loved the location. When a follower recommended Alta Bakery for breakfast, I looked it up and it was only a four-minute walk from my room! The staff at the front desk had a lot of Monterey recommendations for me, parking was easy, the pool was great, and my room was perfect.

Casa Munras Garden Hotel and Spa in Monterey

A Two-Day Monterey Itinerary

The farmers market at old monterey marketplace.

After checking into Casa Munras and finding out that my sunset whale watching was cancelled due to high winds, I walked towards Fisherman’s Wharf and quickly found myself at the Old Monterey Farmers Market, which stretches down four blocks of Alvarado Street on Tuesday evenings. In addition to fruit, berries and vegetables, there were countless street food stands, arts & crafts and even a walk-up COVID-19 vaccine table. If you’re planning a Highway 1 California Road Trip, you may want to time it so you’re in Monterey on a Tuesday! 

Highway 1 California Road Trip - The Monterey Farmers Market on a Tuesday evening

Whenever I’m somewhere new and there’s street food, I head to the stand with the longest line. It’s a good indicator that the locals like that one best! In this case, there was an Indian food vendor with maybe 20 people in line. I purchased dinner and found a place to stand up and dine along Alvarado Street. 

Highway 1 California Road Trip - My dinner stop. I knew the naan was fresh!

Fisherman’s Wharf

The Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf has restaurants and shops, and it’s where whale watching excursions and harbor cruises leave from. My whale watching was cancelled, but I still walked all around the area – a perfect place to watch the sun go down (the last time I would see the sun for a day and a half).

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Fisherman's Wharf

An Ebike Ride Around 17-Mile-Drive

I had never been on the 17-mile Pebble Beach loop, and I thought a bike ride sounded like a great way to see the area. I booked through Big Sur Adventures , met up with Rob our guide and eight others near Cannery Row, and we set off towards Pebble Beach. I’ve been ebiking in Europe several times but never before in the US, and this was fun…and social! We stopped often, and there was a half-hour break at the Pebble Beach Visitor Center where we relaxed, snacked and talked. I’d recommend this for anyone 10 and over who can ride a bike – the biking was very easy (the ebikes do all the work) and there was very little traffic.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - A stop along 17-Mile-Drive to look at the tidal pools

Cannery Row

Cannery Row isn’t my favorite area as it always feels a little too touristy, but I walked around, looked for otters and sea lions, and had lunch at the fisherman-owned, non-touristy Sea Harvest Fish Market, recommended by Rob the bike guide.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Cannery Row

One of Monterey’s top-rated restaurants happened to be at my hotel – convenient, plus knowing it had earned the Ecolab Science Certified seal made me feel confident dining there. Reservations for  Estéban  typically fill up well in advance, but I managed to get a table at 5:45 p.m. on my final night in Monterey. I brought a book with me but ended up talking with the hostess most of the time while waiting for my food. The empanada and the coca were excellent! 

Highway 1 California Road Trip - The pork empanada at Estéban

Carmel Beach

After my failed attempt to visit Pfeiffer Beach, and the clouds and rain present for most of my trip, I wasn’t planning on seeking out another beach. But a follower on Instagram highly recommended Carmel Beach, so I picked up croissants and coffee from Lafayette Bakery in Carmel when they opened at 7am and drove to the beach. Parking is easy that early! I sat on a bench overlooking the beach and enjoyed breakfast, and then walked up and down the beach with my coffee. So glad I went since the sun finally came out and the beach in the morning was absolutely perfect.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Lafayette Bakery in Carmel

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

When I checked into Casa Munras, Bob at the front desk said that his favorite place to hike near Monterey was at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. So after Carmel Beach I drove over to Point Lobos, arriving just after they opened the gate at 8am (entry is $10). I drove the standard loop through the reserve, stopping frequently and hiking the marked trails I saw. Such a gorgeous setting! I highly recommend visiting early in the day as most of the trailheads and overlooks have small parking areas.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Whalers Cove at Point Lobos

Driving South on My Highway 1 California Road Trip

From Point Lobos I headed south towards home, but I was in no hurry. I stopped whenever the view of the coastline was particularly stunning, I hiked at Garrapata State Park, and then I headed to McWay Falls. At Point Lobos I talked with a woman at the Whalers Cove overlook who, after learning that I was driving south, brought out her phone to show me all of her favorite stops along Highway 1. One that jumped out at me was McWay Falls. She said to look for a line of cones near the road, park and view the falls from the road. I did that, but then I turned into the parking area (parking is free if you’ve already paid to enter Point Lobos the same day) and I walked out to the main overlook. I’m posting photos from both areas below so you can decide whether the free overlook is sufficient or you want to pay $10 to park. It’s a short, easy hike if you do decide to pay to park.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - No one at Garrapata State Beach

I then drove further down the coast and found a turnout with a great view where I stopped and ate lunch (I had purchased a sandwich from Lafayette Bakery), and talked with others who were also enjoying the perfect scene. Then I drove home, completing my north-south road trip in roughly seven hours, including hiking stops.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Best lunch spot ever?

What I Skipped

There are a lot of famous sites between Cambria and Monterey. Some I visited on this trip, but four notable ones that I skipped were:

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle in San Simeon has been closed to visitors since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Elephant Seal Vista Point

Also in San Simeon, the Elephant Seal Vista Point is usually crowded, but well worth a stop at least once since it’s fun to see dozens of elephant seals lazing on the beach and occasionally waddling into the ocean. I’ve been several times with the kids.

Elephant Seal Lookout Highway 1

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

Likewise, I’ve visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium many times with my kids. It’s one of the world’s great aquariums, but I wasn’t tempted to spend $49.95 and several hours visiting again solo. I highly recommend a visit if you’ve never been. Buy tickets in advance (they often sell out) on their website .

Carmel-by-the-Sea

I’ve visited Carmel a lot over the years, so I didn’t explore the town this time. Definitely recommended.

California Road Trip - Candy in Carmel!

Scientific Clean

Throughout my travels, I’ve come to discover that there  is  a difference between “clean” and “Scientific Clean.” A “Scientific Clean” is deeper than just shiny surface or a fresh scent – it’s advanced cleaning and disinfecting products, combined with repeatable practices and periodic check-ups, that help businesses deliver a higher level of cleanliness. A higher level of cleanliness is one that makes me feel more confident as I get back to the moments and places I’ve been missing.

And it’s for exactly that reason that I look for establishments that have earned the Ecolab Science Certified seal. 

Ecolab Science Certified

I’ve written about the  Ecolab Science Certified  seal a lot the past two years. It really is a great way to feel confident that any hotel, restaurant, grocery store or other business that has earned the seal has committed to a higher level of cleanliness – it brings the same scientific cleaning expertise used in hospitals to the places you eat, stay, shop and play. When you see the Ecolab Science Certified seal, you know they:

  • Use the broadest product portfolio proven to kill the COVID-19 virus as well as other germs. This includes hospital disinfectants and food-contact sanitizers like  Ecolab ’s Sink & Surface Cleaner Sanitizer, proven to kill the COVID-19 virus in just 15 seconds.
  • Implement protocols created to support a higher level of cleanliness informed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and developed by Ecolab’s team of food safety and public health experts, backed by decades of experience helping keep hospitals, restaurants and hotels clean.
  • Train their employees on current public health and food safety cleaning and disinfecting practices. 
  • Are subject to independent audits by  Ecolab  specialists to verify practices are being followed and products are being used correctly. They receive additional support and training to resolve any gaps.

Highway 1 California Road Trip - Casa Munras and Ecolab

Before the Ecolab Science Certified program, it was difficult to feel confident that an establishment adhered to a higher level of cleanliness before booking. Now even before we arrive, we know there will be science-based products and practices behind the surfaces!

This post is sponsored by   Ecolab , the global leader in cleaning and disinfecting expertise for commercial environments. Follow them on  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to learn how they are using scientific expertise to deliver a higher level of cleanliness. To view a list of some of the businesses that have earned the Ecolab Science Certified seal, visit  sciencecertified.com/partners/ .  

All photos and text are mine. I planned every element of this Highway 1 road trip, including choosing activities and restaurants, and did not receive media discounts.

A Highway 1 California Road Trip: Your Turn

Have you taken a Highway 1 California Road Trip? What did you like best? What did I miss? And if you made it to Pfeiffer Beach, what’s your secret? 🙂

California Road Trip - Highway 1 through Big Sur

More from Travel Babbo

Taking Back Our Social Life at the Broadmoor

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Newsletter Signup

Sign up to receive email updates and to hear what’s going on with Travel Babbo!

Privacy Overview

Ultimate California Highway 1 Road Trip

Drive. Dine. Walk. Gawk. Find joy. Explore 735 gorgeous miles of the iconic road with these essential stops along the way.

travel highway 1 in california

Laguna Beach to Santa Monica

Highway 1 begins unceremoniously, emerging from a tangle of freeway ramps in Orange County’s Dana Point. There’s a glimpse of ocean, but it isn’t until Laguna Beach that Highway 1 becomes Pacific Coast Highway in more than name. In the O.C., the luxe life is everywhere—pastel villas, yachts, and the requisite Ferrari dealer—while Huntington Beach delivers the simpler pleasures of 10 miles of beachfront. Then the road veers from the ocean, even going underground beneath the runways at LAX. All of which makes it that much sweeter when Highway 1 escapes the darkness of the McClure Tunnel to bask in the Santa Monica sun.

Miles: 60 | Number of boats in Newport Harbor: 9,000 | Surf shops in Huntington Beach: 13 | Lights on Santa Monica Pier’s Pacific Wheel: 160,000

Most Beautiful Stretch of Sand, Laguna Beach

Most Beautiful Stretch of Sand, Laguna Beach

Jumping for Joy, Laguna Beach

Jumping for Joy, Laguna Beach

Ultimate Coastal Combo, Laguna Beach

Ultimate Coastal Combo, Laguna Beach

Perfect Fish Sandwiches, Newport Beach

Perfect Fish Sandwiches, Newport Beach

A Soulful Surfing Superstore, Huntington Beach

A Soulful Surfing Superstore, Huntington Beach

travel highway 1 in california

Far out Footprints, Huntington Beach

travel highway 1 in california

Legends of the Surf, Huntington Beach

A Peerless Pier, Manhattan Beach

A Peerless Pier, Manhattan Beach

travel highway 1 in california

Wild Ride, Manhattan Beach

A Stay at the Shore, Santa Monica

A Stay at the Shore, Santa Monica

Malibu to Lompoc

Malibu to Lompoc

Secluded Sands, Malibu

Secluded Sands, Malibu

travel highway 1 in california

Perfect Pause, Malibu

travel highway 1 in california

Island Idyll, Ventura

Seaside Seafood, Santa Barbara

Seaside Seafood, Santa Barbara

travel highway 1 in california

Match Made in Heaven, Santa Barbara County

travel highway 1 in california

Golden Road, Santa Barbara County

travel highway 1 in california

The Hills Are Alive, Santa Barbara County

Miracle Burgers, Jalama Beach

Miracle Burgers, Jalama Beach

travel highway 1 in california

Serenity Now, Jalama Beach

travel highway 1 in california

The New Wine Country, Lompoc

Cayucos to Point Lobos

Cayucos to Point Lobos

Smokin' Good Fish, Cayucos

Smokin' Good Fish, Cayucos

travel highway 1 in california

The Magic Castle, San Simeon

Unfortunately, Hearst Castle is closed during the summer of 2020 due to COVID-19, with no firm reopening date set. Please check the castle's web site before you go to see if it has reopened.

A Bend in the Redwoods, Big Sur

A Bend in the Redwoods, Big Sur

travel highway 1 in california

Solitary Strolling, Big Sur

travel highway 1 in california

Cozy Hangout, Big Sur

travel highway 1 in california

Dining with a View, Big Sur

travel highway 1 in california

Secret Bargain, Big Sur

travel highway 1 in california

Greatest Hike, Point Lobos

travel highway 1 in california

Postcard-Perfect Scenery, Point Lobos

travel highway 1 in california

Pebble Beach to Half Moon Bay

After the untamed drama of Big Sur, Highway 1 makes a calmer approach to the sweep of Monterey Bay. The pleasures here are civilized: Pebble Beach’s fairways, Carmel’s galleries, and Pacific Grove’s narrow streets of tiny Victorian cottages. But along the Santa Cruz waterfront, the refined gives way to the endless summer pursuits of roller-coaster rides at the beachfront boardwalk and surfing the perfect waves at Steamer Lane. It can get big at Steamer but nothing like at Half Moon Bay, 50 miles north, where the Mavericks Invitational doesn’t even take place unless the wave faces reach 20 feet or more. So much for civilized pleasures.

Miles: 96 | Number of U.S. Opens held at Pebble Beach: 5 | Year people first surfed at Santa Cruz: 1885 | Top speed of Giant Dipper roller coaster: 46 mph

Lunch on the Links, Pebble Beach

Lunch on the Links, Pebble Beach

travel highway 1 in california

Meet the Marine Life, Monterey

travel highway 1 in california

Perfect Beach Day, Monterey Bay

Thrill Rides, Santa Cruz

Thrill Rides, Santa Cruz

Picnic Pairings, Santa Cruz

Picnic Pairings, Santa Cruz

travel highway 1 in california

Tasty Souvenirs, Davenport

Top Taps, Pescadero

Top Taps, Pescadero

travel highway 1 in california

Scenic Sentinel, Pescadero

travel highway 1 in california

Guided by Nature, San Mateo County

travel highway 1 in california

Hidden Gem, San Mateo County

travel highway 1 in california

Hidden Beaches, Half Moon Bay

travel highway 1 in california

Roadside Stunner, Half Moon Bay

San Francisco to Jenner

San Francisco to Jenner

A Perfect Point of View, San Francisco

A Perfect Point of View, San Francisco

travel highway 1 in california

Lost in the Labyrinth, San Francisco

Fort Baker, Sausalito

Fort Baker, Sausalito

travel highway 1 in california

Divine Descent, Point Reyes

Heaven on the Half-Shell, Inverness

Heaven on the Half-Shell, Inverness

travel highway 1 in california

Placid Path, Tomales Bay

travel highway 1 in california

Architectural Icon, Bodega Bay

travel highway 1 in california

A Private Pocket of the Coast, Jenner

travel highway 1 in california

Fortuitous Curves, Sonoma Coast

travel highway 1 in california

Sea Ranch to Rockport

The northernmost stretch of Highway 1 is moody. One hour it’s fog-wrapped and brooding. An hour later, a gentle sun gives highway, forest, and ocean a brilliant sparkle. The road skirts coastal towns that hug cliff tops (Elk) and pose tidily on bluffs (Mendo­cino). Rivers—the Navarro, the Little, the Big—curve beneath bridges as they meet the sea. This remains a working coast. Fort Bragg’s still a fishing port, and you may share the road with a logging truck. Above Rockport, Highway 1 bends inland toward its terminus at U.S. 101 at Leggett. Before that, linger among the redwoods that line its final miles: They’re stunning, unforgettable, like Highway 1.

Miles: 90 | Most recent value of year’s catch from Fort Bragg: $6.8 million | Number of B&Bs in Mendocino Village: 46 | Steps up Point Arena Lighthouse: 145

travel highway 1 in california

Stairway to Heaven, Point Arena

travel highway 1 in california

High Light, Point Arena

travel highway 1 in california

Cafe Society, Point Arena

travel highway 1 in california

Legendary Beauty, Sonoma Coast

travel highway 1 in california

A Marvelous Main Street, Elk

travel highway 1 in california

Paradise Found, Mendocino County

travel highway 1 in california

Bygone Era Charms, Mendocino

travel highway 1 in california

Under the Bridge, Fort Bragg

travel highway 1 in california

Big Trees, Rockport

Keep reading:.

These Are the Absolute Best Destinations for Spring Break Camping

These Are the Absolute Best Destinations for Spring Break Camping

The 2024 Sunset Travel Awards Are Now Open—Enter Today!

The 2024 Sunset Travel Awards Are Now Open—Enter Today!

Here’s how to pick the perfect pot for your houseplants, this is exactly what to order at the best ice cream shops in the west, sign up for our newsletter.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Popular cities, explore by region, featured guide.

travel highway 1 in california

Japan Travel Guide

Destinations.

travel highway 1 in california

A Creative’s Guide to Thailand

Creative resources, photography, videography, art & design.

travel highway 1 in california

7 Tips to Spice up Your Photography Using Geometry

GET INVOLVED

EXPERIENCES

travel highway 1 in california

#PPImagineAZ Enter to Win a trip to Arizona!

The journal, get inspired, sustainability.

travel highway 1 in california

How to Be a More Responsible Traveler in 2021

California , guides , north america , travel stories , united states, trace california’s coast on a highway 1 road trip.

travel highway 1 in california

  • Published September 23, 2020

California State Route 1 (also known as Highway 1) is the highway that runs along most of the state’s Pacific coastline. With stretches of beaches, cliffs, forests, hills, and mountains, Highway 1 provides an especially scenic route for a road trip to the numerous attractions and cities along the coast. 

The highway is designated as an “all-American road,” and is often considered the best coastal scenic route in all of North America, if not the world. Although it’s definitely not the fastest way to travel the length of the state, it’s by far the most beautiful.

Below is an itinerary for your next road trip adventure along Highway 1.

travel highway 1 in california

  • Length: 655 miles (1,055 kilometers)
  • Northern terminus: U.S. 101 near Leggett
  • Southern terminus: I-5 in Dana Point
  • Major cities: San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Cruz, San Francisco
  • Drive on the: Right

The highway spans the entirety of California, but the most popular road trip along this route stretches from San Diego to San Francisco. In this itinerary, we’ll begin at the southern end of the state and travel north through Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Carmel, Monterey, and Santa Cruz, and into the Bay Area.

Begin your trip in one of California’s sunniest destinations, where the weather is basically 70°F (21°C) all year. In the heart of the city, you can shop at Horton Plaza or catch a baseball game at Petco Park. You can also explore the famous San Diego Zoo, or wander through the city’s diverse neighborhoods: Little Italy, North Park, South Park, and East Village. These pedestrian-friendly areas form the epicenter of San Diego’s burgeoning culinary movement, progressive art scene, and craft beer boom. If you venture along 30th Street or University Avenue, you can choose from a wide selection of farm-to-table restaurants and boutique wine bars, or head to a local favorite–Carnitas’ Snack Shop with an ever-evolving menu. You can also walk around Mission Bay or cross the idyllic bridge to Coronado Island–known for its pristine beaches, crystal waters, and friendly beach-town persona.

Once you’re done exploring San Diego, drive north along the water to stop in La Jolla and snap a few photos of the coastline. Then you can hop on Highway 1 in Dana Point.

travel highway 1 in california

Orange County

There are plenty of places to explore in Orange County, but we recommend starting in Huntington Beach where Southern California’s beach culture is alive and well. Along this city’s curving shoreline, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for cycling oceanfront paths, playing volleyball, and surfing. From Huntington Pier, it’s just a short walk to Main Street’s boutiques and restaurants–many of which offer sidewalk tables or decks that let you take in the ocean breeze. You can also explore the other side of town by horseback-riding in Huntington Central Park or bird-watching and trailblazing in Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve–restored wetland and one of Southern California’s most vital coastal habitats.

From there, follow the coastline to California’s largest metropolitan area — but be sure to listen to Phantom Planet’s “California” at least once before leaving O.C.

travel highway 1 in california

Los Angeles

L.A. is California’s largest city and overflowing with fun things to do. That said, it can be more than a challenge to navigate, so plan your trip in advance. Start in the coastal city of Santa Monica — with its open beach, signature pier, shopping at Third Street Promenade, rooftop dining, and ocean and city views. It’s definitely worth a visit. Follow Santa Monica Boulevard northeast to visit legendary Beverly Hills, continue east toward Hollywood to stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame or visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, drive east to explore hip and historic downtown Los Angeles (DTLA), or head northeast and wander through Pasadena’s old Victorian and art deco buildings.

Return to the coast and drive north past Malibu on to one of California’s prettiest cities.

travel highway 1 in california

Santa Barbara

Tucked in the Santa Ynez Mountains and protected from the brunt of Pacific wind and waves, Santa Barbara boasts a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunny days. With its cache of culture and distinct Spanish colonial-style architecture, this seaside city is often called the “American Riviera.” The area also boasts an idyllic wine country, outdoor adventures on both land and sea, and plenty of artistic and cultural entertainment. Stroll down State Street for local shopping and dining, paddle a kayak from East Beach to Stearns Wharf, visit Old Mission Santa Barbara, or tour the 1782 Presidio for a look at original adobes like El Cuartel, the second-oldest surviving building in the state.

Then, drive north to sample the region’s breathtaking wine country.

Santa Ynez Wine Country

This next stop encourages you to slow down, relax, and savor your surroundings. The Santa Ynez Valley, just north of Santa Barbara, is one of the most diverse grape-growing regions in the county. And to top it all off, it’s surrounded by rolling hills, cascading vines, and ancient oak trees. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start at Sunstone Winery. It boasts sustainably grown grapes and a spectacular limestone chateau available for overnight stays. Tip: if you buy a pass from the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Association , you’ll save on tastings at 15 participating boutique wineries.

Continue on to one of the state’s most remarkable and ornate structures.

travel highway 1 in california

Hearst Castle

From Highway 1, you’ll be able to spot this incredible complex of embellished towers and buildings perched on the coastal hilltop. Park in the main lot of the state park grounds and check in at the visitor center to ride one of the park’s shuttle buses up to the castle. Lavishly designed by Julia Morgan (California’s first female licensed architect) as the private residence of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, the complex is an extraordinary homage to 1940s opulence. Now showcased within one of California’s most visited state parks, the 165-room castle and the 127 acres of terraced gardens, fountains, and pools are must-sees.

From Hearst Castle, head north 15 miles (24 kilometers) along Highway 1 for a looped road trip along the twisted roads that lead to Ragged Point, or the “Gateway to Big Sur” — a prime viewing spot for whales, dolphins, and elephant seals. Be sure to check out this site for updated road closure information to see if continuing all the way to Big Sur is an option. If not, visiting Ragged Point will ensure that you see the iconic panoramas of California’s rugged coastline.

travel highway 1 in california

Paso Robles

After venturing to Ragged Point, head south on Highway 1 and pull over near Piedras Blancas Rookery for a viewing of the elephant seals. Continue south for a temporary detour around Highway 1, starting just beyond Cambria. Turn left onto the vineyard-flanked Highway 46 and continue on to U.S. Highway 101 North to reach the growing wine country destination of Paso Robles. This San Luis Obispo County destination offers rolling hills, mineral hot springs, wine and beer tastings, agritourism, and outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding. Browse the art galleries of the historic downtown square, and complete your stop with a soak in one of the area’s thermal springs — found at River Oaks Hot Springs Spa, Franklin Hot Springs, or select rooms at the Paso Robles Inn.

Make your way back to Highway 1 and continue up the coast toward the Monterey Peninsula.

Monterey and Carmel

Surrounded by the sparkling Pacific on three sides, the Monterey Peninsula features plenty of clean beaches, quiet coves, casual eats, and local art. And if you like aquariums, you’re in luck — the Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-renowned, with tanks and exhibits showcasing more than 35,000 animals and over 550 species of plants. Step outside and find yourself among the hotels, shops, and restaurants along Cannery Row, the area made famous by local author John Steinbeck. Rent bikes and follow the coast south around the peninsula to Pacific Grove, or drive around the neighborhoods and pick your favorite iconic Monterey home.

Head south to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a town that deftly straddles the line between rich history and new wealth. The Carmel Mission is one of the state’s most beautiful churches, with shady trails fanning out from the site and into the Mission Trail Nature Preserve. Stroll the white sands of Carmel Beach, or explore the area’s main village.

From there, you can still spot some of Big Sur’s best sights with another looped journey south. Spend an hour or two hiking around the shoreline trails of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (10 minutes south of Carmel) and, while you’re there, be sure to snap a photo of Big Sur’s Bixby Bridge.

After the added detour, continue north beyond Monterey to California’s quirkiest beachfront town.

travel highway 1 in california

At its heart, Santa Cruz is a surf town — in fact, it’s where the sport was originally introduced to California. In the center of town, Pacific Avenue offers a variety of shops with a neighborhood twist, including Santa Cruz local Jack O’Neill’s namesake store, the independent Bookshop Santa Cruz, and various locally sourced vegan cafés. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk also offers yesteryear-style attractions, such as classic roller coasters, arcade games, corn dogs, and a historic carousel. Or, if you’re looking for vintage shops and organic restaurants, head to the downtown area.

Next, travel to your last stop on your Highway 1 road trip.

travel highway 1 in california

San Francisco

Wrap up your Highway 1 road trip in one of the world’s most iconic cities. Park your car and explore San Francisco by foot, bike, or public transportation. Walk or cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, wander through the Presidio, and head to Golden Gate Park to take in the towering redwoods, visit the Conservatory of Flowers, or row across Stow Lake. Explore the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can try your luck at the creepy yet iconic arm-wrestling game from “The Princess Diaries.” Hop on a cable car, indulge at Tartine Bakery, stroll through the boutique of Maiden Lane, wander Hayes Valley, catch a show in the theatre district, or venture to North Beach for Beach Blanket Babylon , an irreverent San Francisco institution. For nightlife and dining, head to the Mission district, and enjoy all that San Francisco has to offer.

Regardless of the route you take or the pit stops you make on your road trip, California’s Highway 1 is sure to leave you speechless.  Share your Highway 1 road trip stories with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your experiences on the beautiful Californian coastline!

Trending Stories

The pursuit of self on south africa’s spectacular otter trail, two hours from: reykjavic, from the arabian sea to your plate: seafood in varkala , explore by region, explore by map.

travel highway 1 in california

SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Get your weekly dose of armchair travelling, straight to your inbox.

© Passion Passport 2024

Hiker stands amidst a field of wildflowers on the rolling Carrizo Hills

Nathan Yan / Stocksy United

travel highway 1 in california

Twinkling cities, misty redwood forests, sun-kissed beaches, a creative local food scene and an adventurous attitude: California is instantly captivating.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

October 9, 2014: Visitors gather at Glacier Point with the Half Dome mountain in the background.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada

Yosemite means "killer" in the Indigenous Miwok language, and in today's parlance it's indeed an impressive, awesome site. Everywhere you look in Yosemite…

An aerial view of Golden Gate Park from the Pacific Ocean. Golden Gate Park is the third most visited city park in the US.

Golden Gate Park

San Francisco

When Frederick Law Olmsted, architect of New York's Central Park, gazed in 1865 upon the plot of land San Francisco Mayor Frank McCoppin wanted to turn…

Griffith in Blue

Griffith Observatory

Los Feliz & Griffith Park

With eyes on both the galaxy above and palm-flanked boulevards below, the Griffith Observatory hovers above LA like a hulking spacecraft. This is one of…

APRIL 24, 2018: Victorian-style homes in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco.

Haight Street

The Haight & Hayes Valley

Was it the fall of 1966 or the winter of ’67? As the Haight saying goes, if you can remember the Summer of Love, you probably weren’t here. The fog was…

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA. 15th August, 2017: historic san francisco chinatown neighborhood

Chinatown Alleyways

North Beach & Chinatown

If you look close today at the clinker-brick buildings lining these narrow backstreets, past the temple balconies jutting out over bakeries, acupuncture…

SAN FRANCISCO - SEPT 2, 2017: The Beat Generation lives on at City Lights bookstore in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco.

City Lights Books

No one could have predicted the cultural force City Lights would become when it first opened in 1953. Sure, it had a proletarian ethos suggested by its…

SAN FRANCISCO, USA - December 8, 2019, visitors are similar in color to the artifacts in question at the California Museum of Modern Art, a girl walks past the picture.; Shutterstock ID 1622086819; your: Meghan O'Dea; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: POI page

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Downtown, Civic Center & SoMa

When the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art expanded in 2016, it was a mind-boggling feat that nearly tripled the institution's size to accommodate a…

Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill Boulevard, San Francisco, USA

If you want to really see San Francisco, head to Coit Tower, a 1933 art deco beaut designed by Arthur Brown, Jr. and Henry Howard that sits high up on…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do in california that no one has told you about yet.

Monarch Grove Sanctuary

Monarch Grove Sanctuary

Central Coast

Between November and February, over 25,000 migratory monarch butterflies cluster in this thicket of tall eucalyptus trees, secreted inland. During peak…

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Greater Palm Springs

This rotating cable car climbs nearly 6000ft vertically and covers five different vegetation zones, from the Sonoran desert floor to pine-scented Mt San…

San Simeon, California / USA - May 12, 2018: Exterior view of Hearst Castle, William Randolph Hearst's extravagant coastal hilltop estate designed by architect Julia Morgan over 28 years.; Shutterstock ID 1297759909; your: Meghan O'Dea; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: POI

Hearst Castle

Perched high on a hill, Hearst Castle is a wondrous, historic, over-the-top homage to material excess. From the 1920s into the '40s, Hearst and Marion…

Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park

Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park

Santa Barbara Wine Country

This tiny, off-the-beaten path historic site shelters pictographs painted by Chumash tribespeople over 400 years ago. The sandstone cave is protected from…

Cut-price California: the best free things to do in the Golden State

Lone Pine, CA / USA - October 19th, 2019: The storefront of the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine, near Alabama Hills, CA; Shutterstock ID 1538832260; your: Bridget Brown; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: POI Image Update

Museum of Western Film History

More than 400 movies, not to mention numerous commercials (mostly for rugged SUVs and Jeeps), have been shot in the area. This fascinating museum contains…

Hiking through the Redwood forest.

Redwood National Park

North Coast & Redwoods

This park is the southernmost of a patchwork of state and federally administered lands under the umbrella of Redwood National & State Parks. After picking…

Point Bonita Lighthouse

Point Bonita Lighthouse

Marin County

This historical lighthouse is a breathtaking half-mile walk from Field Rd parking area. From the tip of Point Bonita, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge…

USA, California, Pacific Coast, National Scenic Byway, Big Sur, Point Sur State Historic Park, View to Point Sur Lighthouse

Point Sur State Historic Park

A little over 6 miles south of Bixby Bridge, Point Sur rises like a velvety green fortress out of the sea. It looks like an island, but is actually…

Jade Cove

In the waters of Jade Cove in 1971, local divers recovered a 9000lb jade boulder that measured 8ft long and was valued at $180,000. People still comb the…

CIA at Copia

CIA at Copia

The former food museum beside Napa's famous Oxbow Public Market has been revived as a center of all things edible by the prestigious Culinary Institute of…

Manzanar National Historic Site, site of World War Two-era internment camp for Japanese-Americans, guard tower

Manzanar National Historic Site

Eastern Sierra

A stark wooden guard tower alerts drivers to one of US history's darkest chapters, which unfolded on a barren, windy sweep of land some 5 miles south of…

French Laundry

French Laundry

Napa Valley

The pinnacle of California dining, Thomas Keller’s three-Michelin-star rated French Laundry is epic, a high-wattage culinary experience on par with the…

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Point Reyes Lighthouse

With wild terrain and ferocious winds, this spot feels like the end of the earth and offers the best whale-watching along the coast. The lighthouse sits…

Patrick Amiot Junk Art

Patrick Amiot Junk Art

Russian River Area

Prepare to gawk and giggle at the wacky Patrick Amiot sculptures gracing front yards along Florence Ave. Fashioned from recycled materials, a hot-rodding…

Wild Horse Sanctuary

Wild Horse Sanctuary

Northern Mountains

Since 1978 the Wild Horse Sanctuary has been sheltering horses and burros that would otherwise have been destroyed. You can visit its humble visitors…

Shasta Dam

Redding & Around

On scale with the enormous natural features of the area, this colossal, 15-million-ton concrete dam is second only in size to Grand Coolie Dam in…

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

The Deserts

The largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego comprises a staggering 640,000 acres of land punctuated with hiking trails, canyons, palm groves and…

travel highway 1 in california

Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve

Along Highway 101

Two miles west of Orr Hot Springs, this 2743-acre reserve protects some of the best old-growth redwood groves within a day’s drive from San Francisco. A 2…

John Muir National Historic Site

John Muir National Historic Site

Naturalist John Muir's former residence sits in a pastoral patch of farmland in bustling, modern Martinez. Though Muir wrote of sauntering the Sierra…

Willow Creek China Flat Museum

Willow Creek China Flat Museum

Pop over to this museum to take in its persuasive Bigfoot collection. Footprints, handprints, hair…it has all kinds of goodies to substantiate the ole boy…

Earthquake Fault on Minaret Road near Mammoth Lakes California

Earthquake Fault

Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Mountain is the product of millions of years of volcanic activity, so it should be no surprise that the region surrounding it is full of…

Cesar E Chavez National Monument

Cesar E Chavez National Monument

San Joaquin Valley

This newly designated national monument, Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz, is the national headquarters of the United Farmworkers of America and was the…

Graziano Family of Wines

Graziano Family of Wines

The Italian Graziano family is one of the oldest grape-growing families in Mendocino County and specializes in ‘Cal-Ital’ wines – including Primitivo,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

California has a reputation for sunshine, beaches and palm trees, but there's much more to see in the Golden State. Here are California's top things to do.

Things to Know

California's sun-drenched parks, beaches and cities are a huge draw for tourists but where to begin? Here's what you need to know before you go.

Transportation

California may be besotted with cars but that's not the only way to see the Golden State. Here's everything you need to know about getting around California.

Money and Costs

California has a lot to offer travelers and unfortunately, the price tag to match. But there are ways to visit on a budget if you know how!

Best Road Trips

These ultimate California road trips take you from sea to mountains and through desert and redwoods.

Latest stories from California

Filter by interest:

  • All Interests
  • Adventure Travel
  • Art & Culture
  • Beaches, Coasts & Islands
  • Food & Drink

travel highway 1 in california

Mar 4, 2024 • 8 min read

The Golden State is known for its wealth of golden sands. Start planning your visit now with our list of the top 10 best beaches in California.

A majestic hot air balloon soars under the stars of the Milky Way, over the desert - Mesquite Dunes of Death Valley National Park. Moonlight provides luminosity showing the patterns and shapes of the desert landscape.

Jan 25, 2024 • 13 min read

Three friends hanging out at the lifeguard tower on a beach in California

Sep 14, 2023 • 6 min read

travel highway 1 in california

Sep 14, 2023 • 5 min read

Two black women enjoying a road trip together

Sep 14, 2023 • 11 min read

travel highway 1 in california

Sep 13, 2023 • 4 min read

travel highway 1 in california

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Bixby Bridge on the way from San Franciso to L.A.

Sep 10, 2023 • 4 min read

Lone Pine, California

Sep 9, 2023 • 7 min read

travel highway 1 in california

Sep 8, 2023 • 8 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in California

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of California with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

California and beyond

500px Photo ID: 119821001 - Foggy Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes
  • Destinations

The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Where to stay, eat, and sightsee on the drive between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

travel highway 1 in california

California’s Pacific Coast Highway is one of America’s most scenic drives, with stunning bluffs and designated vista points featuring sparkling ocean views. While Highway 1 extends more than 600 miles, the most photogenic stretch can be found along California’s Central Coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. In addition to picturesque panoramas, this classic road trip offers plenty of restaurants (Korean barbecue!), beaches (Santa Barbara!), and attractions (the Henry Miller Memorial Library!) along the way.

I hit the road with the mission of plotting out the best itinerary for a weekend trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Here's my play-by-play guide, complete with stops for photos in Big Sur, antique shopping in Solvang, and craft cocktails at one of L.A.'s coolest bars.

Looking to finally take that perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip? Read on.

Breakfast at the Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco.

If you're departing from San Francisco, it's a good idea to kick-start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip with a hearty breakfast. Welcome to the Ferry Building Marketplace on the Embarcadero, an 1898 transit hub that's something of an icon thanks to its handsome white clock tower. Inside, you'll find artisanal bakeries, cheese shops, cafes, and a mushroom shop. Grab a cup of joe from the Oakland-born Blue Bottle Coffee and a pastry at the Acme Bread Company .

Stop for photos at Bixby Bridge in Big Sur.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

It'll take you about three hours to reach Big Sur from San Francisco, and by then you'll be ready to stretch your legs. As soon as you hit the section of the Pacific Coast Highway connecting Carmel-by-the-Sea to Big Sur, you'll start seeing vista points where you can pull off the road and take photos. Be sure not to miss the one approaching Bixby Bridge. Sure, there will be plenty of other tourists getting out of their cars to take selfies, but with a stunning view like that, how can you blame them? Join in and snap away — you'll want to remember this landscape forever.

Lunch in Big Sur with breathtaking views.

After you've filled your camera roll, it's time to fill your stomach. If you feel like splurging, the Post Ranch Inn's restaurant Sierra Mar offers a $75 prix fixe lunch menu and a chance to dine at a clifftop restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. For more casual fare with equally fantastic ocean views, stop at Nepenthe , which serves sandwiches and salads in a rustic lodge dating back to the 1940s.

Visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library.

Big Sur has inspired many famous writers, and seeing the natural beauty of the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, it's easy to understand why. Walt Whitman wrote about its charms, and the Beats were drawn to the enchanting landscape and bohemian way of life. Henry Miller lived in Big Sur from 1944 to 1962, and his experiences informed his book "Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymous Bosch." After Miller died in 1980, his good friend, the painter and writer Emil White, founded the Henry Miller Memorial Library within his own home — now an art-filled reading room, bookstore, and performance venue in the heart of the woods.

Spend a night in Big Sur.

If you want to stay overnight in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn is an excellent choice. There's also Alila Ventana Big Sur , which landed a spot on the T+L 500 best hotels of 2023 list and boasts villas and glamping tents spread out over 160 acres of redwood forest, a restaurant overlooking the ocean, and a spa that uses organic and locally made skin care products. As you sip your morning coffee with views of the Pacific, you might never want to leave.

Stop to see the elephant seals in San Simeon.

As you continue south on the Pacific Coast Highway, you won't want to miss the Elephant Seal Rookery at San Piedras Beach in San Simeon. Over 15,000 elephant seals migrate here every year. From the viewing platform, you can watch them sunbathe and flop around on the sand.

Get your retail fix in Solvang.

Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley is the charmingly anomalous town of Solvang , which was settled in the early 20th century by Danish pioneers. Take a quick detour off the Pacific Coast Highway to explore quaint streets full of Danish architecture, antique shops, restaurants, and more. The town square features a bust of Hans Christian Andersen and a replica of Copenhagen's famous Little Mermaid statue. Pop into the family-owned Mortensen's Danish Bakery for strudel, butter cookies, and other treats.

Rest and refuel near Santa Barbara.

After a full day of driving, you'll be ready for a good meal and some R&R. The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton , just outside of Santa Barbara, offers both — plus cocktails and SoCal vibes. The easygoing hotel centers on the pool, where bands perform some evenings, and people gather around fire pits with margaritas and beers. Grab a table at the restaurant and order fish tacos, ahi poke nachos, and cauliflower tempura for an eclectic feast. After dinner, unwind with a nightcap at the bar or head up to your room, with its plush bed, coastal furnishings, and turntable.

Breakfast at Renaud's Patisserie in Santa Barbara.

In the morning, head over to Renaud's Patisserie , a Santa Barbara institution just a short drive from the Leta. Sample their excellent pastries, or order organic eggs prepared any style for a heartier meal.

Enjoy the art and views at the Getty Center.

Before heading into the heart of Los Angeles, stop at the Getty Center to get your culture fix. Oil tycoon and art collector J. Paul Getty originally built the Getty Villa in Malibu to house his collection of European art. His foundation continues to fund the museum and the Getty Center, designed by Richard Meier. Ride the tram up to the top of the hill and spend a few hours exploring the galleries and grounds — they have excellent views thanks to their elevated vantage point.

Explore Los Angeles' most dynamic neighborhood.

The Line LA is not only a great base for exploring the city's hip Koreatown neighborhood, but it's also a destination in and of itself. The hotel's revamped midcentury building features a raw but polished aesthetic (think exposed concrete custom furnishings and original art), a great restaurant by renowned chef Josiah Citrin, a cafe, an outdoor pool, and multiple bars including the '80s-themed Break Room 86 (complete with private karaoke chambers). Be sure to request a room with a view of the Hollywood Hills — the beds face the windows. so you can wake up to a stunning vista.

Feast on Korean barbecue at Park's BBQ.

While you could easily stay within the bounds of the Line and dine at Openaire , you'd be remiss not to venture out and see what else the neighborhood has to offer. Beeline to Park's BBQ , a no-frills restaurant in a strip mall, for authentic Korean barbecue that draws locals and celebrities alike. Feast on shrimp or Wagyu beef grilled tableside and a smorgasbord of sides, including veggies and savory kimchi pancakes.

KCRA 3 News and Weather

  •   Weather

Search location by ZIP code

Northern california storm updates: chain controls dropped on interstate 80.

Track live updates of Sierra storm impacts here.

  • Copy Link Copy {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied!

travel highway 1 in california

GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTS

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

Chain controls have finally ended on Tuesday for those traveling on Interstate 80 to the Sierra.

The interstate reopened earlier reopened after a late-night closure due to big rigs that were either spun out or jackknifed.

Parts of Highway 88 remain closed, while Highway 50 no longer has chain controls in effect. See the latest road conditions here .

The region is drying out after the weekend's snowstorm dumped more than seven feet of snow at some resorts .

  • See more live updates below.

(Video below: LiveTracker 3 had an exclusive look at I-80 conditions on Monday morning before the roadway reopened. Officials gave us permission to show viewers the conditions.)

Get California storm-ready

  • Forecast timeline for Sierra snow, Valley rain
  • Track Doppler radar for California snowstorm, traffic maps
  • Download our app for the latest breaking news and weather alerts
  • See our live traffic map
  • Send us your weather videos and photos
  • Be prepared for road closures : Download Caltrans' QuickMap app or check the latest QuickMap road conditions here . This will also show chain control information.

Monday, March 4, 2024

10:13 p.m.: All schools in the Lake Tahoe Unified School District will be closed Tuesday due to the weather, officials said.

8:17 p.m.: Eastbound Interstate 80 at Truckee is closed because of a jackknifed big rig, CHP said. Westbound traffic west of Donner Lake Road is also being held due to spun-out big rigs.

Crews can also be seen holding eastbound traffic at Kingvale.

5:44 p.m.: Sierra-at-Tahoe plans to reopen the ski resort on Tuesday with limited operations.

2:22 p.m.: I-80 is now open for trucks, Caltrans says. Chain controls have been lifted on Highway 50.

#TrafficAlert I-80 is open to truck traffic. Chain control (R2) Nyack to Truckee, Trucks Max. Crews are turning singles pulling doubles. Take it slow and be prepared. Some areas are narrow with a lot of moving equipment. @Cal_OES @CaltransHQ @CHP_Truckee @CHPGoldRun pic.twitter.com/xE2teyTShy — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 4, 2024
Great news! Chain restrictions have been lifted on US 50 this afternoon 🙌However...snow showers are expected throughout the day so conditions can change quickly. Please take it slow and be mindful of our crews doing cleanup work. Current look at Echo Summit: @CHPSouthLake pic.twitter.com/ErJIQNQTYw — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 4, 2024

12:34 p.m.: LiveTracker 3 is on the move, barely, on I-80. Traffic is heavy.

LIVE | LiveTracker 3 has an view of conditions on I-80 after the roadway reopened https://t.co/M4iMx6COga — kcranews (@kcranews) March 4, 2024

12:33 p.m.: The snowstorm didn't stop a Sacramento couple from getting hitched over the weekend. Read about their story here .

12:32 p.m.: I-80 is expected to reopen for trucks at 2 p.m., Caltrans says.

Update: New Truck ETO around 2pm. No single screws and no doubles. Once released chain control will be Trucks Max. @Cal_OES @CaltransHQ @PlacerCA @NevadaCountyCA @CHP_Truckee @CHPGoldRun https://t.co/efhoppLhby — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 4, 2024

11:11 a.m.: Heather Waldman has been tracking Sierra snow totals and where the snowpack stands. Learn more here .

Over 6 feet of snow at Donner Summit since Thursday! Grateful for the hard work put in by @UCB_CSSL throughout the weekend. Taking obs and keeping things running in those conditions is NOT easy! https://t.co/CgDOOHKnpF — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 4, 2024
Statewide, the snowpack water content jumped 10% over the past four days. We're now at 94% of the season peak! That typically happens in late March/early April, depending on early spring weather patterns. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/dLhrTdzRrn — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 4, 2024

9:17 a.m.: I-80 has reopened for passenger vehicles, Caltrans said.

80 is back open to passenger vehicles as of 9:15 am Monday! Big rigs can likely access this afternoon. CalTrans says it will still be a VERY slow drive with chain controls. https://t.co/VRMsiV7WiD — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 4, 2024

8:30 a.m.: KCRA 3's Mike TeSelle has a view of conditions off Highway 50 in El Dorado County.

What your drive up Highway 50 over Echo Summit looks like Monday morning. Lots of cars…almost like a weekend. @kcra @kcranews pic.twitter.com/WerUwAMiPp — Mike TeSelle (@MikeTeSelleTV) March 4, 2024

See more updates from our 8 a.m. news coverage below.

8:16 a.m.: Here's another exclusive LiveTracker 3 look at I-80 conditions during the road closure.

7:28 a.m.: Here are a couple of the viewer videos that were sent to us showing what conditions have been like for Sierra travel since the weekend.

Viewer Alekz Londos sent this video showing what conditions were like when Interstate 80 closed for Sierra travel on Friday, March 1.

Viewer David sent this view of extra snowy conditions on Highway 50 at Echo Summit on Sunday, March 3.

7:18 a.m.: Some Sierra resorts got more than three feet of snow just in the past 24 hours.

Sierra snow totals

That's on top of more than seven feet of snow from Friday through Sunday .

6:21 a.m.: Tahoe Truckee Unified School District, Lake Tahoe Unified School District and Pollock Pines schools are all closed this morning. There is a two-hour delay for schools in the Black Oak Mine Unified School District.

Palisades Tahoe plans to reopen today. Sierra-At-Tahoe will remain closed.

See more updates from our morning newscast below.

6:18 a.m.: KCRA 3's Melanie Wingo has a view of conditions on I-80, which remains closed for Sierra travel, from LiveTracker 3. Parts of Highway 88 also remain closed this morning.

LIVE | LiveTracker 3 has a view of conditions on I-80, which remains closed for Sierra travel https://t.co/3GKRdXP0aL — kcranews (@kcranews) March 4, 2024

Sunday, March 3, 2024

11 p.m.: Here's a look at our evening news coverage of conditions and the forecast.

8:30 p.m.: Traffic is being held from 1.5 miles west of Kyburz to Meyers in El Dorado County due to spinouts.

6:00 p.m.: KCRA 3's Erin Heft was on Highway 50 all day, where traffic in the Sierra was held for hours due to spinouts.

1:30 p.m.: Caltrans told KCRA 3's Michelle Bandur I-80 is unlikely to open today. Crews are battling difficult snow conditions.

12 p.m.: Vehicles were trapped in snow just east of Echo Summit on Highway 50.

Here's a video after a snow sluff just east of Echo Summit trapped a few vehicles and closed Highway 50 for about 30 minutes this morning. There were no injuries and crews worked quickly to reopen the roadway. @CHPSouthLake pic.twitter.com/myd5Ay6E32 — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 3, 2024

9:50 a.m.: Caltrans reports that Highway 50 is back open after a snowslide. Traffic is moving slowly in both directions, the agency said. Chain controls remain in place from just east of Placerville to Meyers.

9:37 a.m.: Highway 50 is closed due to a snowslide at Echo Summit and will be closed until further notice, the city of South Lake Tahoe said.

7:28 a.m.: Here's a look at how much more snow to expect through Monday.

Snow forecast

7 a.m.: I-80 remains closed for Sierra travel this morning, along with parts of Highway 88. Chain controls are up on Highway 50. Check out Heather Waldman's latest forecast for today here .

Saturday, March 2, 2024

11 p.m.: Here's a look at conditions on Saturday night.

6:45 p.m.: KCRA 3's Orko Manna was in Downtown Sacramento capturing the heavy downpour on Saturday night.

Rain 🌧️ falling in downtown #Sacramento . The beautiful Tower Bridge in the background. We’re tracking the conditions tonight on @kcranews . #CAwx pic.twitter.com/YENFpZcG70 — Orko Manna (@orko_manna) March 3, 2024

5:50 p.m.: Thousands of PG&E customers lost power in Fairfield on Saturday afternoon, according to the company's outage map.

As of 5:40 p.m., 760 customers are affected by the outage.

The outage map says the outages are weather-related.

5:00 p.m.: KCRA 3's Carolina Estrada was at the start of the I-80 closure in Colfax where drivers are being asked to turn around. Chain controls are in effect on Highway 50 in the Sierra

1:15 p.m.: KCRA 3's Dirk Verdoorn says to expect more rain showers throughout the Valley by Saturday evening.

11:30 a.m.: Interstate 80 is still closed from Colfax to Nevada Stateline. Caltrans told KCRA 3's Erin Heft that while the highway is closed to the general public, first responders are allowed on I-80.

11:15 a.m.: KCRA 3's Heather Waldman provided an updated tally of Sierra snowfall since Thursday.

A few more numbers are in. Here's an updated tally of snow in the Sierra. Snow began falling Thursday. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/kBNIEtcsrh — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 2, 2024

8 a.m.: Here's a breakdown of how much more snow to expect by elevation level.

The snow level dropped as low as 2200' this morning along 80 & 50. There's a lull in showers below 4000' right now, but snow will pick up again this afternoon and this evening. Here's a breakdown of expected totals through Monday. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/IKL8eeKy6b — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 2, 2024
As a general rule, snow is more likely to be steady above 4000' on Saturday. Below that elevation, wet snow will start and stop through the day. Lower Foothills communities will see a chilly rain. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/59GqMQ5ADy — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 2, 2024

7:41 a.m.: Palisades Tahoe says it received more than two feet of snow in the past 24 hours and all lifts will be closed on Saturday because of more intense snowfall on the way, along with gusty winds.

Heather Waldman has a look at more Sierra snow resort totals.

A few snow reports from resorts in the Sierra. These are 24-hour accumulations for Friday and Friday night. Northstar is up to 44" of snow since Thursday afternoon! @kcranews pic.twitter.com/M1GqLJmmgz — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 2, 2024

Below are more snow impact updates from our 7 a.m. newscast.

7:18 a.m.: Meteorologist Heather Waldman has a look at what to expect today.

🌨️ SATURDAY MORNING 🌨️ As promised, the big change today is the lower snow level. Radar showing that the snow level has dropped to about 2200' on I-80 & Hwy 50. Freezing level is a bit higher (~3400') farther south on Hwy 108. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/DW6MGgQkf3 — Heather Waldman (@KCRAHeather) March 2, 2024

Weather impacts

7 a.m.: I-80 remains closed from Colfax to the Nevada State Line. Parts of Highway 88 and Highway 49 are also closed. Chain controls are in effect on Highway 50 from 9 miles east of Placerville to Meyers.

#TrafficAlert (as of 7:30am) I-80 remains closed EB at Colfax, WB at Stateline, No ETO. Crews are out this morning evaluating conditions while also working on vehicle recovery from yesterday's spin outs. @PlacerCA @NevadaCountyCA @CHP_Truckee @CHPGoldRun pic.twitter.com/h8dw1ZWJgO — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 2, 2024

Friday, March 1, 2024

11:26 p.m.: Here's a look at the forecast for tomorrow.

11:12 p.m.: KCRA 3’s Carolina Estrada counted 12 inches of snow from her position in Strawberry tonight. People are still driving out on Highway 50.

11:11 p.m.: Chief meteorologist Mark Finan says the snow level is starting to drop tonight.

10:13 p.m.: KCRA 3's Orko Manna spoke to travelers who have been stuck on I-80 after spinouts forced the interstate's closure. One man said he thought he could make it up the mountain in time. Another woman said she didn't realize it would be snowing.

10:12 p.m.: Chief meteorologist Mark Finan says sustained winds at the top of Alpine Meadows range from 80-100 mph with some gusts over 150 mph.

9:10 p.m.: A big portion of I-80 remains shut down for Sierra travelers. Drum Forebay to Kings Beach in North Lake Tahoe is about 50 miles.

#TrafficAlert I-80 is closed 🚧🚧🚧 due to multiple spin outs. EB at Drum Forebay WB at Stateline/Truckee No ETO. pic.twitter.com/WQ9wd3HXPH — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 2, 2024

8:44 p.m.: Chief meteorologist Mark Finan reports there have been blizzard conditions at Donner Summit.

8:22 p.m.: Here's a look at The Beam through overcast skies in Sacramento. The Kings beat the Timberwolves in Minneapolis .

BEAM STREAM | The Kings just beat the Timberwolves, 124-120. Light the beam! https://t.co/XNMx3vnPm3 — kcranews (@kcranews) March 2, 2024

7:43 p.m.: The Truckee Donner Utility District says 743 customers remain without power after the lights were turned back on for about 500 others. High winds have been causing trees and branches to fall on powerlines.

7:23 p.m.: KCRA 3's Carolina Estrada has a view of fierce winds and heavy snow along Highway 50 at Sierra-at-Tahoe. Watch in the video below.

Strong gust of winds continue. This what conditions looked like at 7:20 at Sierra-At-Tahoe. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/D7XLC7IUH5 — Carolina Estrada (@Caro_Estradaaa) March 2, 2024

7:22 p.m.: KCRA 3's Orko Manna has an update on I-80 closures tonight.

Rain & snow mixture is heavily falling along I-80 near the Baxter Rd. exit. Things just picked up in the last few minutes. All vehicles are being stopped at the next exit to the east, Drum Forebay, all the way to the Nevada State Line due to spinouts and the conditions. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/9isufy3gPD — Orko Manna (@orko_manna) March 2, 2024

7:07 p.m.: Here's how much snow is expected later this weekend by elevation level.

Sierra snow on Saturday and Sunday.

6:33 p.m.: The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down in Madera County on Friday afternoon.

Tornado from earlier this afternoon in Madera County. #tornado #cawx pic.twitter.com/fQf6K7efLJ — NWS Hanford (@NWSHanford) March 2, 2024

6:25 p.m.: Here's a look at the latest forecast and updates from our team of reporters at 6 p.m.

6:19 p.m.: KCRA 3’s Jason Marks reported from Highway 50 at Kyburz, where he spoke to someone who has helped drivers put on chains since 1981.

“It could be worse,” he said of conditions at 6 p.m.

His advice to drivers was to have chains and know how to use them, “unless you don’t want to pay me.”

6:10 p.m.: Here's another view from Highway 50 this evening.

Wind picking up snow causing whiteout conditions in some parts of HWY 50. Chain controls in effect from Kyburz to Meyers. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/M5J6WHQFKY — Carolina Estrada (@Caro_Estradaaa) March 2, 2024

5:50 p.m.: Below is a look at conditions from our coverage during the 5 p.m. hour.

5:31 p.m.: LiveTracker 3 is on the move again on I-80.

LIVE | Follow LiveTracker 3 as it drives around on I-80 during the Sierra snowstorm https://t.co/eaXXigOJTc — kcranews (@kcranews) March 2, 2024

5:14 p.m. KCRA 3's DeNeeka Hill as a view of conditions on I-80 where spinouts have closed the roadway in both directions.

4:47 p.m.: KCRA 3's Carolina Estrada is covering conditions along Highway 50 tonight. Here's an early look.

Today we are tracking road conditions on HWY 50. Starting to see icy roads and low visibility in Camino. More updates on @kcranews pic.twitter.com/xoZAgx077i — Carolina Estrada (@Caro_Estradaaa) March 2, 2024

4:43 p.m.: Traffic is now being held in both directions on I-80, Caltrans says.

#TrafficAlert Holding traffic EB at Drum Forebay and turning traffic WB at Stateline and Truckee along I-80 both due to multiple spin outs. SR-20 closed EB as well locals only. pic.twitter.com/xNZfru33lT — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) March 2, 2024

4:26 p.m.: As of right now, a Snowfest parade in Tahoe City is still on tomorrow from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn more here.

4:20 p.m.: Here's a look at our team coverage of Sierra snowstorm impacts. Our reporters have a view of the conditions on I-80 and Highway 50.

4:09 p.m.: KCRA 3's DeNeeka Hill reports from Caltrans crew at the scene that I-80 is now closed for eastbound traffic at Nyack.

2:57 p.m.: Traffic has been released on I-80 after an earlier closure, Caltrans says.

2:51 p.m.: PG&E says there was a power outage at 2:13 p.m. that impacted 886 customers in Placerville. Power was restored to 182 of those customers at 2:30 p.m. Crews are working to troubleshoot the issue.

2:16 p.m.: Westbound traffic on Interstate 80 at Truckee is being held due to multiple spinouts, according to the California Highway Patrol. There is no estimated time of reopening.

8:20 a.m.: Carson Spur on Highway 88 is closed for avalanche control, Caltrans said.

#TravelAdvisory Caltrans CLOSED the Carson Spur on SR-88 for avalanche control as of 1:07AM on 3/1/24. The Spur remains closed with no current ETO. Be sure to check https://t.co/sgfT02rMbM for updates and the latest traffic and road closure information. @CaltransHQ @AmadorChp pic.twitter.com/zI6TWnwyBD — Caltrans District 10 (@CaltransDist10) March 1, 2024

8:08 a.m.: El Dorado County officials said the vote center at the Lake Tahoe Community College will be closed due to the weather.

This content is imported from Facebook. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

7:27 a.m.: When going downhill in snowy conditions, it's important to maintain a slower speed to avoid the risk of losing control. KCRA 3's Mike Teselle caught a big rig going above 30 mph.

Reminder: CHP/Caltrans warn speed limit in chain controls is no more 30 mph on I-80. Speed especially critical on long downhills like this one. This big rig is well over 30mph. @kcranews Interstate 80 between 4000-5000’ ft elevation. pic.twitter.com/hFFOLOPbta — Mike TeSelle (@MikeTeSelleTV) March 1, 2024

7:09 a.m.: KCRA 3's Mike Teselle captured a view of snowy roads from below a 5,000-foot elevation.

A look at I-80 below 5000’. Snow level dropping. Live coverage on @kcranews with @KCRAtberg on My58 all morning. pic.twitter.com/GvhKd1lzPn — Mike TeSelle (@MikeTeSelleTV) March 1, 2024

6:43 a.m.: Palisades Tahoe said it would close all of its lifts at Palisades and Alpine due to heavy snow and wind gusts of over 100 mph.

6:40 a.m.: Lake Tahoe Unified School District announced it would close all of its schools on Friday due to inclement weather.

6:12 a.m.: The California Highway Patrol said conditions worsened overnight at Donner Summit, causing heavy traffic congestion.

Video the department shared on Facebook shows several vehicles, including big rigs, at a standstill amid flurries of snow.

Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024

10:20 p.m.: The Way Too Cool 50K trail run in El Dorado County has been canceled because of the weather conditions. It had been planned for Saturday.

10:15 p.m.: Traffic was temporarily delayed on I-80 as crews responded to reports of a traffic collision on the Central Truckee offramp, according to California Highway Patrol online logs. No injuries were reported.

8 p.m.: KCRA 3's Carolina Estrada with a view of snowfall in Nyack.

This is what road conditions look like driving up I-80. Chain controls in effect starting at Nyack. Latest updates on @kcranews pic.twitter.com/NVUfXRlQ1D — Carolina Estrada (@Caro_Estradaaa) March 1, 2024

7:40 p.m.: KCRA 3's Lee Anne Denyer is between Twin Bridges and Meyers on Highway 50, where chain control is still in effect.

SIERRA SNOW | Chain control in effect on US- 50, Twin Bridges to Meyers, per @CaltransDist3 . Snow covered roads past the Caltrans trailer. Pack chains & make a full stop when passing thru checkpoint. @kcranews pic.twitter.com/7S9vENAj2d — KCRA Lee Anne Denyer (@KCRALeeAnne) March 1, 2024

6:15 p.m.: A semitrailer was rear-ended as at least one passenger was putting chains on the wheels on the eastbound I-80 near Cisco Road onramp.

6 p.m.: A blanket of snow hit Meyers along Highway 50. KCRA 3's Maricela De La Cruz was there to describe the sudden change in conditions.

4 p.m. : Chain controls are in place along I-80 in the Sierra. KCRA 3's Deneeka Hill is in Kingsvale and says some drivers are losing their chains while traveling up the road.

https://t.co/72shxoiCrR pic.twitter.com/bHOnRpyEhk — DeNeeka Hill (@DeneekaHill) February 29, 2024

3:45 p.m.: Yosemite National Park says it will be closed from midnight all the way through Sunday at noon, if not later, due to the storm.

Anyone visiting the park is being asked to leave as soon as possible and no later than Friday at noon.

1:35 p.m.: Snow is now visible along Highway 50.

And so it begins... Highway 50 at Phillips. Just the start of a few days of heavy snow pic.twitter.com/FB6mfBvztm — Mark Finan (@kcraFinan) February 29, 2024

12:30 p.m.: KCRA 3's Maricela De La Cruz was at Sierra-at-Tahoe, which decided to also close today along with closing Friday.

Ski lifts were not moving, and some people could be seen leaving. The resort's general manager told KCRA 3 that he would play opening and closing by ear each day based on conditions.

12 p.m.: Watch our weather coverage from the 12 p.m. newscast below.

11:39 a.m.: Eastbound Interstate 80 at Donner Summit has reopened hours after a big rig overturned and blocked lanes.

#TrafficAlert EB I-80 is open and traffic has been released at Drum Forebay, Applegate and SR-20. Chain controls (R2) EB & WB Nyack to Truckee, Trucks Max. Avoid travel if possible and please take it slow. Speed limit along I-80 is 30mph during chain control. pic.twitter.com/Q7VbPeBVBW — Caltrans District 3 (@CaltransDist3) February 29, 2024

11:25 a.m.: These are chain controls as of this writing, according to Caltrans.

Interstate 80

Eastbound — Chains are required for all four-wheel-drive vehicles with snow tires on all wheels from Kingvale in Placer County to Truckee in Nevada County.

I-80 in this direction is closed to all big rigs due to an overturned big rig at Donner Summit blocking lanes. Caltrans recommends drivers choose an alternate route.

Westbound — Chains are required for all vehicles except four-wheel-drive vehicles with snow tires from Kingvale to roughly five miles west of Kingvale.

Trucks are being screened five miles west of Reno at Mogul. Drivers must have chains in their possession to proceed.

No traffic restrictions at this time.

10:58 a.m.: The California Department of Water Resources announced the findings of its third Phillips Station snow survey of the season.

9:30 a.m.: KCRA 3's Melanie Wingo was at the Foothills along Highway 50, where people stocked up on supplies ahead of the snowstorm.

8:40 a.m.: Sierra-at-Tahoe plans to either stay open or closed depending on snow conditions. General Manager John Rice talked about his plans for the safety of guests and staff.

7:36 a.m.: An overturned big rig has eastbound Interstate 80 shut down. Officials said speed was a factor, and chain controls were not in effect at the time. The estimated time of reopening is 1:15 p.m.

6:30 a.m.: The California Department of Water Resources is doing its third snow survey Thursday morning, a day early because of hazardous snowy conditions forecast on Friday.

Follow our KCRA weather team on social media

  • Chief meteorologist Mark Finan on Facebook and Twitter
  • Meteorologist Tamara Berg on Facebook and Twitter
  • Meteorologist Dirk Verdoorn on Facebook
  • Meteorologist/Climate Reporter Heather Waldman on Facebook and Twitter

Watch our forecasts on TV or online

Here's where to find our latest video forecast . You can also watch a livestream of our latest newscast here . The banner on our website turns red when we're live.

We're also streaming on the Very Local app for Roku, Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV.

Transportation | Highway 1 overcrossing in Capitola to shutter…

Share this:.

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Today's e-Edition

  • Latest News
  • Environment

Transportation

Breaking news, transportation | california election results, key 2024 primary races in the bay area and beyond, transportation | highway 1 overcrossing in capitola to shutter for 14 months, 24-hour highway closure set for march 23.

travel highway 1 in california

CAPITOLA — A Highway 1 overcrossing in Capitola will shut down for more than a year as planners continue with the next phase of a multimodal project along the county’s primary transportation corridor.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, March 11, the Capitola Avenue Highway 1 overcrossing will be closed to all vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic for approximately 14 months, according to a release from the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, which is the lead on the project. A detour, highlighted by message and direction signs, will be in place via Bay Avenue/Porter Street and Park Avenue.

Though the Capitola Avenue highway overcrossing remains open for now, crews have begun preparation work ahead of the announced March 11 closure. (PK Hattis - Santa Cruz Sentinel)

The long-term closure will mark the beginning of an effort to demolish and rebuild the bridge, complete with bicycle lanes, and sidewalk improvements that connect to nearby schools, neighborhoods, parks, beaches and commercial centers. The commission also hopes the revamped infrastructure will promote the use of alternative transportation modes translating to improved transportation system capacity and reliability.

The new overcrossing, expected to reopen in the summer or fall of next year, is part of a larger project from the transportation commission to build auxiliary lanes and bus-on-shoulder improvements in both directions of the highway from Bay Avenue/Porter Street to State Park Drive interchanges, according to the release. The project will also include construction of a bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing at Mar Vista Drive.

24-hour closure

During the closure, northbound highway travelers will exit at Park Avenue and move down Soquel Drive before rejoining the northbound highway via the Bay Avenue/Porter Street onramp, according to the release. Those heading southbound will be directed off at Bay Avenue/Porter Street to then navigate down Soquel Drive and back onto the highway at the Park Avenue onramp. Highway 1 is expected to then fully reopen to travel by 7 p.m. March 24.

However, officials have noted that the 24-hour closure and planned demolition are weather-dependent and any updates will be shared before March 23.

Joining the transportation commission as collaborators in the $79 million project are Caltrans, Santa Cruz County, the city of Capitola and Santa Cruz Metro. The contractor is Watsonville-based Granite Construction, according to the release, and the effort is expected to be completed sometime in 2026.

Last April, the commission broke ground on a similar auxiliary and bus-on-shoulder project stretching from Soquel Drive to 41st Avenue interchanges that also includes a new bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing at Chanticleer Avenue. That project is expected to be complete by late 2025.

The third section of the highway construction effort ranges from State Park Drive to Freedom Boulevard and, in addition to the same auxiliary and bus-on-shoulder work, includes construction of Segment 12 of the Coastal Rail Trail encompassing about 1.25 miles from State Park Drive to Rio Del Mar Boulevard.

  • Report an error
  • Policies and Standards

More in Transportation

The fatal collision happened early Saturday morning in the 700 block of El Camino Real.

Crime and Public Safety | Woman killed in hit-and-run in Redwood City

Persistent snow and winds are keeping Interstate 80 shut through the Sierra Nevada mountains and its reopening time unclear.

SUBSCRIBER ONLY

Weather | photos: stranded bay area travelers make the best of the tahoe blizzard as interstate 80 remains closed.

The Reno National Weather Service has extended its blizzard warning until 4 a.m. on Monday as mountain communities attempt to dig out from the biggest snowstorm of the year.

Weather | Persistent Sierra blizzard forces Bay Area visitors into a waiting game

Made the year she was born, the "Son of the Year' candidate spent $80,000 on this restored, modified classic vehicle.

Local News | Me & My Car: Bay Area man gave Restomod ’39 Ford Cabriolet to his mom

IMAGES

  1. 13 California Road Trips

    travel highway 1 in california

  2. 13 California Road Trips

    travel highway 1 in california

  3. California Highway 1: 750 Miles of Spectacular Scenery

    travel highway 1 in california

  4. California Highway 1: The Essential Road Trip Itinerary

    travel highway 1 in california

  5. Highway 1 in California rijden? Ontdek onze favoriete stops + tips!

    travel highway 1 in california

  6. California's Highway 1 Is Officially Open, and It's Time for a Big Sur

    travel highway 1 in california

VIDEO

  1. Street View

  2. Winter Drive-Revelstoke to Lake Louise

  3. The Best Coastal Road Trip Worldwide

  4. Highway 1 through Canada's Rocky Mountains, Lake Louise to Banff

  5. California Freeway

  6. Highway 1 California Road Trip 2016 (SF to LA)

COMMENTS

  1. Highway 1's Most Scenic Stops

    California's coast-hugging Highway 1 is what dream drives are made of. The iconic roadway—which extends for more than 650 miles from Dana Point north to Leggett—offers endless vistas overlooking the Pacific, with plenty of redwood trees and wildlife sightings along the way. The most well-known stretch runs along California's Central Coast from Santa Barbara to Monterey, passing by the ...

  2. An Epic Highway 1 California 5-Day Itinerary (2024)

    The Highway 1 California road trip is a popular itinerary among travelers to California. While this historic highway goes over 600 miles along the coast, most visitors drive the stretch from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

  3. Top Tips For Driving Highway 1: Ultimate California Road Trip

    Tip: 1 Drive a comfortable car. Driving a comfortable and reliable car is a must. This is a two-lane mountain road. In some places the shoulder is quite narrow, and there's not much between you and the sea below. There's a forty to fifty-mile stretch that's full of hairpin twists and turns.

  4. California Highway 1: The Essential Road Trip Itinerary

    A road trip down California's Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles is an absolute must at some point in your life. ... The Best Places in the World to Travel Solo. By Nicole Kliest. The ...

  5. The Ultimate 10-Day California Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

    Drive Time: About 3.5 Hours. The majority of this California road trip will take place on Highway 1, AKA the Pacific Coast Highway, AKA the PCH, AKA Cabrillo Highway, AKA Shoreline Highway, AKA The Prettiest Highway in the World. But all of those are just ways to say "The 1.".

  6. California's Highway 1: The ultimate road trip guide

    California's Highway 1 is a 1,100-mile national treasure. These six itineraries feature more than 150 scenic sites and experiences to help you plan your next coastal road trip.

  7. Driving California's Scenic Highway One

    Check its condition online or call 800-427-7623 before you go. It's always good practice to follow these safety tips, but they become even more important along busy CA Hwy 1: Drive defensively. Avoid dangerous situations and allow plenty of distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

  8. Best Highway 1 Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

    BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT HIGHWAY 1. California generically has fantastic weather year round. However, when it comes to the coast, expect several mornings to be socked in with low hanging clouds or fog. ... We personally love to either travel via a SUV with a camper build or rooftop tent or a camper van when traveling around the coast of ...

  9. Best Stops on Highway 1: California Road Trip Itinerary

    Big Sur to Santa Barbara: Best Stops on Highway 1. After you leave Big Sur, make a stop at Elephant Seal Vista Point to see the funny-looking elephant seals. These awkward looking creatures are really a funny sight to watch. Between their goofy looking "elephant trunks" and their grumpy attitudes.

  10. The Ultimate California Highway 1 Road-Trip Itinerary

    Curator's statement. A cruise down California's Highway 1 — the PCH as it is affectionately known by locals — from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the quintessential California road trip. As you journey through quaint towns and stunning landscapes unlike anywhere else on the planet, you will find yourself mesmerized by the postcard ...

  11. The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

    Cruise down the iconic Highway 1 for a scenic and unforgettable California road trip. 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 ...

  12. The Perfect Highway 1 Road Trip Through California

    Download the app . California's Highway 1 is a perennial favorite for adventurous road-trippers—and for good reason. You can visit the sunny beaches of San Diego, the wine country of the ...

  13. Pacific Coast Highway: Road Trip Itinerary Tips

    Also known as Route 1 or Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway is the road of the American Dream, a U.S. route that offers beautiful views of the coast along the 620-mile road from Orange County (near Dana Point, south of Los Angeles) to Mendocino County (just above San Francisco, in Leggett), that covers almost the entire California coast.. A Pacific Coast Highway road trip passes through ...

  14. How to Plan the Perfect Solo Road Trip on California's Famed Highway 1

    Photo: Visit California, Chris Kaufman. I had long dreamed of driving California's Highway 1 alone. The iconic coastal road, stretching 665 miles from Mendocino to San Diego, promised epic seaside ...

  15. How to Explore California's Pacific Coast Highway Route 1 in Just 5

    Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey - 120 miles. If you've set your mind on this road trip for the beaches, then we suggest setting your starting point to Baker Beach in San Francisco for a unique view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Start your day off with some magic and head to Baker Beach at sunrise, or simply take a quick snapshot before your ...

  16. A Perfect Highway 1 California Road Trip

    Note: This Highway 1 California road trip post is sponsored by Ecolab.. Travel in 2021. I've loved road tripping the past two summers. Last year it was all about treading lightly as we were in the height of COVID-19. This year, our 18-day road trip from California to The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs in June only made me want to travel more, but at the same time, the news from day-to-day is ...

  17. Take a magical road trip on California's Highway 1

    Find out why taking an epic road trip down California's most panoramic highway should be on your bucket list.Plan your own road trip with Lonely Planet's Epi...

  18. Highway 1 in California: A Scenic Journey along the Beautiful

    The California State Route 1, also known as Highway 1 or California 1, is a truly iconic road that winds its way along the stunning California coast. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and countless incredible highlights along the way, this panoramic route is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

  19. 20 'Secret' Spots Along California's Pacific Coast Highway

    A local's twist on the classic coastal road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles. California's iconic Highway 1 has many natural and historic attractions along the Central Coast, famous for its ...

  20. Ultimate California Highway 1 Road Trip

    Stroll down from the parking lot through what feels like primeval rain forest, cross Highway 1, and voilà … your own private inlet. Or head a quarter-mile north to explore glorious seaside meadows. $7/vehicle; 22455 Hwy. 1, 15 mi. north of Jenner; parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov. 55 of 65 Thomas J. Story.

  21. Trace California's Coast on a Highway 1 Road Trip

    Kacie McGeary. Published September 23, 2020. California State Route 1 (also known as Highway 1) is the highway that runs along most of the state's Pacific coastline. With stretches of beaches, cliffs, forests, hills, and mountains, Highway 1 provides an especially scenic route for a road trip to the numerous attractions and cities along the ...

  22. Coastal Highway 1 travel

    Coastal Highway 1. A half-mile trail passes through a large grove of cypress trees leading to a staircase down to this pristine quarter-mile beach. Walkers can follow the…. Westport-Union Landing State Beach. Coastal Highway 1. Located 1.5 miles north of Westport, this ruggedly beautiful beach extends for three miles on coastal bluffs.

  23. Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

    California's Pacific Coast Highway is one of America's most scenic drives, with stunning bluffs and designated vista points featuring sparkling ocean views. While Highway 1 extends more than ...

  24. Highway 1 Conditions in Big Sur, California

    HIGHWAY 1 INFORMATION. Estimated reopening Highway 1 at Paul's Slide is for late Spring 2024. See latest Caltrans Press Release below the map. Travelers in the Morro Bay - Cambria area will be able to travel north for over 47 miles from Cambria on Hwy. 1 until they encounter the turnaround at Limekiln State Park.

  25. Live updates on California snowstorm, road and travel impacts

    The California Highway Patrol said conditions worsened overnight at Donner Summit, causing heavy traffic congestion.Video the department shared on Facebook shows several vehicles, including big ...

  26. Driver flies off road, lands along cliffs by California's Highway 1

    A man was rescued after swerving his car off the road and landing in a rugged coastal area along Highway 1 near Big Sur this past week, the California Highway Patrol's Coastal Division Air ...

  27. Highway 1 overcrossing in Capitola to shutter for 14 months

    Beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, March 11, the Capitola Avenue Highway 1 overcrossing will be closed to all vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic for approximately 14 months, according to a release…

  28. Travel on I-80 in Tahoe, CA resumes with some restrictions

    As blizzard conditions begin to clear in the Tahoe region, travel on Interstate 80 has resumed — with limitations, the California Department of Transportation said. "Eastbound and westbound I ...