Pacific Coast Highway
Pacific Coast Highway
5
About
Take a drive down the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the most scenic roads in the world. You'll be treated to stunning views of the rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. You'll also pass by natural wonders like Big Sur and historic landmarks like the Bixby Bridge, so make sure you take your time to stop and admire the views. Hearst Castle and Monterey Bay Aquarium are fun stops too. To take the stress out of the trip, consider joining a driving tour from San Francisco. Spring is a great time to do the drive for pleasant weather, rolling green hills, and wildflowers. – Tripadvisor
Duration: More than 3 hours
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- F W6 contributionsUnbelievable beauty around every turnWe covered the PCH between San Francisco & Big Sur and stopped at nearly every pullout. Unbelievable beauty lies around every turn with everything from jaw-dropping rock formations and cliffs to huge sand dunes. Lighthouses, seal lions, redwoods and agriculture are highlights as well. We were fortunate to arrive at the tail end of the "Superbloom" that happened this year and we were not disappointed. Get in your car with some snacks and leave your agenda behind and the road will show all it's secrets!Visited May 2023Written June 9, 2023
- PetagalRegina, Canada35 contributionsMust do! Build in some extra time for unexpected stops and exploring the beauty.Must do activity. Give yourself plenty of leisure time for stops and exploring. Views are amazing. From the unique Bixby bridge to the crashing waves of the ocean to the beautiful waterfalls and tidepools. Something for everyone.Visited May 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 12, 2023
- DontStopExploringWinnipeg, Canada1,051 contributionsBeautiful Scenic DriveWe drove this highway from Cambria to Carmel by the Sea. It's so beautiful and a bit scary with the hairpin turns. It was a bit busier than I expected. We stopped at many spots along the way. We'll be back.Visited July 2023Written August 10, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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5.0
1,676 reviews
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DMSMD64
Chester Springs, PA507 contributions
Jul 2020
I‘ve seen the PCH on TV and movies so I thought it would be a good motorcycle ride. I googled PCH and Wikipedia, that world renowned resource, stated that California 1 is the PCH and runs from Dana Point in Orange County in the south to Leggett in Mendocino County. I started in Dana Point and rode to San Francisco. In Dana Point it starts by the beach and quickly moves into town. Then multiple other towns. There are sightings of the water, but in Southern California it’s basically just a rode. As a matter of fact, it runs right through LAX airport. Not what I was expecting. Further north, above Los Angeles, there are spots where you may have been able to see the water before the homes were built obstructing the view. It gets even better when you reach the end to end trailers permanently parked on the service rode so all you can see are plastic outhouses, trailers and pickup trucks. The road is not incredibly well marked. It merges on and off with the 101. In Oxnard I actually took a 15-mile detour because I didn’t know I had to get on the highway. North of San Luis Obispo the views were a little better, but the road becomes a little sportier. The road becomes very steep with winding turns and (foggy, at least it was the morning I was riding it). There were not a lot of gas stations or places to eat in this section. To be clear the views you will see are not all beaches and coastal cliffs. I saw town after town, some nice some not so nice, houses, trailers, hills, crop fields, cities and an occasional glimpse of the ocean. Not to mention the 30 miles of road construction around Big Sur all the way to Carmel. Milled roads are not fun on a Motorcycle. Overall, I’ve had better coastal ride in Hawaii and Florida. Maybe north of California is worth a second trip but CA 1 is not.
Written August 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HeardItBothWays
Easton, PA2,402 contributions
Oct 2019
My husband and I drove the Pacific Coast Highway while making our way down the West Coast from Seattle to San Diego. This was the most beautiful drive we have ever taken.
The views of the coast and the Pacific are absolutely stunning. There are tons of vistas and beaches to stop at, and sometimes even the road itself is a sight to see. There was also so much to see along the way! We stopped at:
* Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
* Shelter Cove
* Glass Beach
* Bowling Ball Beach
* San Francisco
* Point Arena Lighthouse
* Davenport Pier
* Monterey
* 17- Mile Drive
* Bixby Bridge
* Big Sur
* Santa Barbara
I'd recommend trying to take in all of them because we enjoyed every single place we visited. Also, make sure to check for closures. We were fortunate in that the entire stretch was open when we visited. There were some minor areas of construction where we had to wait a bit before passing, but it wasn't a long wait.
I think everyone should experience this beautiful highway and every breathtaking mile it has to offer!
The views of the coast and the Pacific are absolutely stunning. There are tons of vistas and beaches to stop at, and sometimes even the road itself is a sight to see. There was also so much to see along the way! We stopped at:
* Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
* Shelter Cove
* Glass Beach
* Bowling Ball Beach
* San Francisco
* Point Arena Lighthouse
* Davenport Pier
* Monterey
* 17- Mile Drive
* Bixby Bridge
* Big Sur
* Santa Barbara
I'd recommend trying to take in all of them because we enjoyed every single place we visited. Also, make sure to check for closures. We were fortunate in that the entire stretch was open when we visited. There were some minor areas of construction where we had to wait a bit before passing, but it wasn't a long wait.
I think everyone should experience this beautiful highway and every breathtaking mile it has to offer!
Written September 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Temac1970
Melbourne, Australia148 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
We drove LA to San Francisco over two days, stopping in San Simeon overnight. Found it an interesting and picturesque drive with lots of lovely, changing scenery. The driving does require concentration in some parts, as its pretty winding - but nothing too hairy. (even for an Aussie driver having to drive on the wrong side of the road!!!)
Two days was enough to comfortably drive and stop for lunches, coffees, etc.. but you’d probably need at least an extra day if you wanted to stop at various landmarks along the way for any length of time.
PS: If you love this drive, you really need to try the Great Ocean Road - Victoria, Australia.
Two days was enough to comfortably drive and stop for lunches, coffees, etc.. but you’d probably need at least an extra day if you wanted to stop at various landmarks along the way for any length of time.
PS: If you love this drive, you really need to try the Great Ocean Road - Victoria, Australia.
Written December 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kayohh7
Monterey, CA136 contributions
Jan 2022 • Family
We have driven this twice. Once from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara. Once from Monterey to Big Sur and back. It is so beautiful and you see the most outrageous landscape and seascapes. Do NOT drive this at night. You can’t see anything and you will not be able to get off, basically stuck for 3 hours. We learned from that mistake the first time. Do check for closures before you go. Definitely worth it if you’re planning a trip.
Written January 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ali A
Houston, TX7 contributions
Dec 2019
I took the route from LA to SF but stayed overnight in Carmel Monterey as I had kids with me. I m glad I stayed over night and didnt drive to SF as in one day. The road is amazing and fun to drive. Its safe you just need to be alert as most of the parts are one way and you have to keep distance from the car infront of you.
I recommend families to stay over night in Monterey(I stayed in Red Lion Hotel). The last part before you reach Monterey is a bit curvy and through the mountains and you need to refuel in Bigsur before reaching there as there will be no fuel stations and if any found prices are very high. I filled in Chevron station just before Santa Maria and it was enough to keep me going all the way.
Next day I drove to SF through highway 154 and 101 to SF city.
Aamzing scenenic drive not to be missed if you are driving from LA to SF.
I recommend families to stay over night in Monterey(I stayed in Red Lion Hotel). The last part before you reach Monterey is a bit curvy and through the mountains and you need to refuel in Bigsur before reaching there as there will be no fuel stations and if any found prices are very high. I filled in Chevron station just before Santa Maria and it was enough to keep me going all the way.
Next day I drove to SF through highway 154 and 101 to SF city.
Aamzing scenenic drive not to be missed if you are driving from LA to SF.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KLM1
Kitchener, Canada762 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
The drive along the PCH is magnificent. We started from Carmel, and headed south to San Simeon. I would recommend heading south, so that the view point parking lots are on your right, and easily accessible.
There are an endless number of places to stop, so I’ll just mention a couple of my favourites.
Before you cross the Bixby Bridge heading south, you can get a beautiful view from the mountain side of the highway. There is a small dirt road on your left, which has an incredible view of the bridge, with the ocean in the background. You can also go to Castle Rock Viewpoint, after crossing the bridge, and look back up the coast at the bridge.
Before you reach San Simeon, stop at the Elephant Seal Vista Point. The size and number of elephants seals is amazing. I could stand and watch them for hours. But don’t go down onto the beach to get close to them.
Take your time, and allow lots of time for stops along the way. Pack a picnic lunch so you can stop and eat anywhere you like.
There are an endless number of places to stop, so I’ll just mention a couple of my favourites.
Before you cross the Bixby Bridge heading south, you can get a beautiful view from the mountain side of the highway. There is a small dirt road on your left, which has an incredible view of the bridge, with the ocean in the background. You can also go to Castle Rock Viewpoint, after crossing the bridge, and look back up the coast at the bridge.
Before you reach San Simeon, stop at the Elephant Seal Vista Point. The size and number of elephants seals is amazing. I could stand and watch them for hours. But don’t go down onto the beach to get close to them.
Take your time, and allow lots of time for stops along the way. Pack a picnic lunch so you can stop and eat anywhere you like.
Written July 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JDZatSF
San Francisco, CA1,119 contributions
Jan 2020
Especially on sunny days, driving along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a privilege and pleasure every time. I never tire of it and I never take it for granted. It is some of the most beautiful stretch of amazing views anywhere in the world.
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicolás B
Bogota, Colombia28 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
Great place to visit and many sites to go. Started from LA and went all the way up to SF. Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, San Francisco were definitely the best places to hang out. Don’t miss Santa Barbara either!
Written May 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mini
Fremont, CA189,974 contributions
Feb 2020
We have driven the Pacific Coast Highway many times. So far in 2020, we have visited the Highway One (Pacific Coast Highway) in Ensenada, Mexico.
We have also drive from San Francisco to Cambria. Some of the highlights are of Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, 17 Mile Drive, Carmel, Big Sur, and the elephant seals just north of Hearst Castle.
We have also drive from San Francisco to Cambria. Some of the highlights are of Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, 17 Mile Drive, Carmel, Big Sur, and the elephant seals just north of Hearst Castle.
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
purpleij
Sarasota, FL258 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
We drove from Napa Valley to San Diego mostly on Hwy 1 and it was worth it! The scenery breathtaking with lots of viewpoints and opportunities for places to eat and bathroom breaks. Along the way we stopped at Half Moon, stayed in Monterey (preferred Carmel), Pebble Beach, Cambria, stopped at Solvang, stayed in Santa Barbara and San Diego. We took our time and allowed extra time for each location (about an additional hour from what google map tells you). We felt the coastal roads were safe and easy to navigate.
Written May 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neil E
Winchester, UK47 contributions
Looking to drive from Seattle to San Diego next May..any recommendations of RV rentals would be appreciated... Looking to pick up in Seattle & drop off in San Diego/San Francisco if possible
Shreyansh G
5 contributions
What is the best portion of the highway between LA & San Francisco?
NikkiPhotographer
San Juan, Puerto Rico60 contributions
I’m traveling the Pacific Coast starting point will be Seattle and all the way to Santa Monica. What are your recommended itineraries for a 10 day trip. Which cities should I stay in between and what “Must see” atttractions or detours should be book?also, what are good recommendations for stay the night and where? We will be renting a car at Seattle airport since we will be arriving there. Dates of travel will be July 7 Tru July 16. Thank you!!
HalfFull13
Maine37 contributions
When: April 2022
Who: 1 Parent - 3 teenagers who don't mind pushing itineraries and driving long distances.
Path: Ventura to San Francisco, tail end of NP loop.
Time: 3 full days
Goals: to see beautiful scenery, wildlife, sunset and sunrises. We like off the path hikes/ideas. Low key eats with a view. Accommodations near pretty places so sunrise/sets are easy to get to.
Help Needed:
1. I'm trying to piece together realistic driving distances and where to stop to minimize crowds and catch early and late day sun?
2. Knowing when to stay on Routes 1, 101, 5 and definitely PCH?
3. Here's what I'm thinking. Is this doable?
Day One:
Leave Ventura early am
Solvang - eat Danish pastry :)
Ocean Dunes - drive on the beach if possible
Pismo Beach
San Luis Obispo (SLO) - Bubble Gum Alley
Morro Bay
Cambria
Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
Ragged Point
Jade Cove/San Dollar Beach
(stay near Pfeiffer State Park if possible)
Day Two:
Sunrise - Pfeiffer State Park
Keyhole Arch, McWay Falls, Sea Otters
Bixby Creek Bridge
Pebble Beach?
17 Mile Drive?
Point Lobos State Park - quick hike
Monterey - Old Fisherman's Wharf
Day Three:
San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge
Trolley Car
Crooked Street
Mosaics Stairs?
Airport hotel, exhausted and depart the next day...
katelouise_11
Kinver, UK140 contributions
Help!! We have a RV from LA up to SF from 10-25 April. Never been before and really just want to take it as it comes, but my fear is that it will be packed and we will be left with nowhere to park up. We have two young kids with us. Should I guess the route and book sites for each step of the way, or can I afford to be more relaxed about it? Are there any that I will regret not booking/ any “must stay” places that the kids will love? I’m completely lost with it all and would love any help :-)
Pat R
31 contributions
i suggest that you try to plan how far you are gonna go each and where you think you will be stopping and look for a place to reserve and stay.
Maps36362701951
San Bernardino, CA
Can I walk to it and see it ? even the inside.
How do I get there if riding to the P.C.H. I am coming from san bernardino, ca.
mini
Fremont, CA189,974 contributions
The Pacific Coast Highway is also know as Highway one You can bike there from San Bernardino. Head to one of the Orange county communities would be closest - such as Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach That would give you a good view of the PCH Enjoy.
Britt A
Auburn, CA4 contributions
We are headed from Auburn, CA to Eureka and would like to enjoy the Pacific Coast Highway.
It will be my husband and myself with our 1 year old daughter.
Where should we go, what routes, things to do and places to stay?
mini
Fremont, CA189,974 contributions
Some of the things to see are Avenue of the Giants, Trinidad (a cute city by the ocean), Prarie Creek State park (elk), Klamath River and Requa Road (see the river flow into the Pacific Ocean), Trees Of Mystery, Crescent City. There is the harbor area in Crescent City, the lighthouse, and inland Jedidiah Smith State Park. Check to see if the wild blackberries are ripe - they are so good when you pick them.
There is also a jet boat trip on the Klamath River.
Lots to do - have a great time.
For places to stay look at also Mendocino (charming town, MacKerricher State Park for tidal pools, the botanical garden, Ride the Skunk Railroad through the redwoods, see the abalone divers at Van Damme State Park There is the harbor area at Fort Bragg. There is lots more to do in this area too.
Look at places like Mendocino/Fort Bragg; Garberville; Trinidad, and Crescent City to stay at. There is also a nice hotel with views of the Pacific Ocean just north of Crescent City in Brookings, Oregon.
Have a good time.
My wife and I are celebrating our 15 anniversary and with Covid, we decided to stay in the states. We are flying into San Francisco on Monday morning and flying out of San Diego the following Monday afternoon. I know it's impossible to see and do everything. Planning on staying in San Fran for 2 days but wanted to get itinerary help for the rest of the trip. Done LA before so not planning on spending much time there. Thanks in advance for your help!
mini
Fremont, CA189,974 contributions
You might want to consider for your 7 days:
Day One and Two: San Francisco
Day Three: Drive to Monterey/Carmel area
Day Four: Drive through Big Sur to Central Coast staying in Cambria, Pismo Beach or one of the other cities in the area
Day Five: Lunch in Santa Barbara and then stay in Orange County at one of the beach communities such as Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach or other
Day Six on: San Diego
Since you have been in LA before skipped additional time there. You may also want to post your question on the California Trip Advisor Forum. You will get additional advise by doing so.
Enjoy - I drive this route a lot and decide number of nights based on your interests Perhaps one more night in Monterey/Carmel.... Or if into seeing Channel Island National Park include a night in Santa Barbara or one of the neighboring communities.
Enjoy - Its good to know local virus rules this year about what's open, what's not, etc so posting on the forum will also give you some more local information on each city on your final agenda.
have a great time.
natalie r
1 contribution
Hi, I am looking for a good route from LA to San fran to Yosemite road trip via PCH. It will be 2 adults and 3 children between ages of 3-10yrs. I am trying to decide length of trip and good destinations to stop and how long for. Any advice of points in the right direction much appreciated!
mini
Fremont, CA189,974 contributions
You may want to ask your question on Trip Advisor forum as well as its a very popular question and you will find good information there as well.
In general, book Yosemite Now. Many book lodging a year in advance.
For a general route,
Los Angels to Pismo Beach - Look at Pismo Beach Lighthouse Suite or similar. Good place to stay with a family.
Pismo Beach to Morro Rock (see the Rock), San Simeon (see the elephant Seals) and then drive Big Sur to Monterey.
In Monterey some of the fun things to do are the aquarium, Fisherman Wharf Dennis the Menace Beach, 17 mile drive, Asilomar State Beach (drive from Lovers Point in Monterey to Asilomar, etc.).
Then from Monterey drive North to Santa Cruz. See the sea lions at the wharf; possibly do ride or two on the Boardwalk; and see close by Henry Cowell Redwood State Park.
From there drive highway 1 to see the coast with stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, perhaps Hurley Goat Ranch, Half Moon Bay on your way to San Francisco.
From San Francisco, drive 120 to Yosemite National Park. Two fun places to see on the drive there are close to Sonora. They are Columbia Historic State Park as well as Railtown 1897.
Its about a two to two and a half hour drive from there to the valley floor area (iconic area) in Yosemite National Park.
Have fun on your trip.
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Claim your listingPacific Coast Highway - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Pacific Coast Highway
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Pacific Coast Highway:
- Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive - Full Day Tour from San Francisco (From $120.00)
- Small-Group Best Beaches in Orange County Day Tour (From $89.00)
- Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Coast Explorer from San Francisco (From $119.00)
- 3.5 Hour Private Coastal Tour of Santa Monica, Venice Beach and Malibu (From $306.25)
- Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Day Tour from Los Angeles (From $349.00)
- Restaurants near Pacific Coast Highway:
- (9.15 mi) Pacific's Edge
- (9.41 mi) Big Sur Roadhouse
- (9.37 mi) Ripplewood Resrt Restaurant
- (8.80 mi) Big Sur River Inn Restaurant
- (9.84 mi) Fernwood Resort Bar & Grill
- Attractions near Pacific Coast Highway:
- (0.09 mi) Bixby Bridge
- (0.04 mi) Big Creek Bridge
- (0.05 mi) Hurricane Point
- (0.34 mi) Old Coast Road
- (0.51 mi) Rocky Creek Bridge