Pacific Coast Highway Explorer
A quintessential 5-day journey down Highway 1, blending rugged Big Sur cliffs, Danish villages, and the sun-drenched beaches of Southern California.
San Francisco → Monterey → Big Sur → San Simeon → Solvang → Santa Barbara → Los Angeles
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- McWay Falls
- Hearst Castle
- Santa Monica Pier
Day 1 · Foggy Cliffs & Coastal Pines
San Francisco → Monterey. Begin your journey by crossing the iconic Bixby Bridge and winding through the cypress groves of the Monterey Peninsula.
Half Moon Bay
Start with a walk along the dramatic bluffs and watch surfers at Mavericks.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Stroll the historic wooden pier and catch the nostalgic scent of saltwater taffy.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Explore world-class marine exhibits in a converted sardine cannery.
17-Mile Drive
Wind through Pebble Beach to see the Lone Cypress standing against the Pacific.
Day 2 · The Big Sur Spirit
Monterey → San Simeon. This is the heart of the PCH, featuring the most dramatic mountain-meets-sea scenery in the world.
Point Lobos State Reserve
Walk the Cypress Grove Trail for turquoise coves and barking sea lions.
Bixby Creek Bridge
Stop at the north end pull-out for the quintessential California road trip photo.
McWay Falls
Witness the rare 'tidefall' that drops 80 feet directly onto a sandy beach cove.
Elephant Seal Vista Point
Observe hundreds of massive elephant seals lounging on the beach just feet away.
Day 3 · Castles & Danish Delights
San Simeon → Solvang. Transition from the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the rolling hills and vineyards of the Central Coast.
Hearst Castle
Tour the lavish estate of William Randolph Hearst, a masterpiece of Mediterranean architecture.
Morro Rock
Visit the 'Gibraltar of the Pacific,' a 576-foot volcanic plug at the harbor entrance.
Pismo Beach Pier
Walk the diamond-shaped pier and watch the local surf culture in action.
Solvang Village
Explore this Danish-themed town complete with windmills and authentic bakeries.
Day 4 · The American Riviera
Solvang → Santa Barbara. A short drive leads to the palm-lined shores and Spanish Colonial architecture of Santa Barbara.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Visit the 'Queen of the Missions' with its beautiful twin bell towers and gardens.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Climb the clock tower for the best 360-degree views of the city and sea.
Stearns Wharf
Walk California's oldest working wharf for fresh seafood and ocean breezes.
The Funk Zone
Wander through converted warehouses now housing art galleries and wine tasting rooms.
Day 5 · Malibu Dreams & Pier Lights
Santa Barbara → Los Angeles. The final stretch takes you through the surf mecca of Malibu to the end of Route 66.
El Matador State Beach
Explore sea caves and enormous rock formations on Malibu's most beautiful beach.
The Getty Villa
Visit this recreation of an ancient Roman country house overlooking the ocean.
Santa Monica Pier
Celebrate the finish line at the iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel.
- Check for Big Sur road closures before departing
- Bring layers; the coast can be foggy and chilly even in summer
- Book Hearst Castle tours at least 2 weeks in advance