Pacific Coast Highway: Classic California Coastal Drive
A quintessential journey along the rugged California coastline, this 5-day trip balances dramatic cliffside views with charming seaside villages. Starting in iconic San Francisco, you'll traverse the winding curves of Big Sur, explore Mediterranean-style Santa Barbara, and conclude in vibrant Los Angeles. Perfect for travelers seeking breathtaking ocean vistas, fresh seafood, and a relaxed driving pace through the st
San Francisco -> Monterey -> Big Sur -> Santa Barbara -> Los Angeles
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- Hearst Castle
- Santa Barbara County Courthouse
- Santa Monica Pier
Monterey Bay and Coastal Cliffs
Ferry Building
Ferry Building, San Francisco, California, US
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, California, US
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey, California, US
The Dramatic Wilds of Big Sur
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel, California, US
Bixby Creek Bridge
Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, California, US
McWay Falls
McWay Falls, Big Sur, California, US
Estates and Elephant Seals
Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle, San Simeon, California, US
Elephant Seal Boardwalk
Elephant Seal Boardwalk, San Simeon, California, US
San Luis Obispo Old Town
San Luis Obispo Old Town, San Luis Obispo, California, US
The American Riviera Charm
Pismo Beach Pier
Pismo Beach Pier, Pismo Beach, California, US
Solvang Visitor Center
Solvang Visitor Center, Solvang, California, US
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Santa Barbara, California, US
Malibu Sands to City Lights
Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, California, US
Malibu Pier
Malibu Pier, Malibu, California, US
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, California, US
Los Angeles City Center
Los Angeles City Center, Los Angeles, California, US
- Check Caltrans for Highway 1 road closures, especially in the Big Sur region, before departing.
- Reserve Hearst Castle tours at least 2-4 weeks in advance as they frequently sell out.
- Fuel up in Monterey or Carmel; gas prices in the Big Sur stretch are significantly higher than average.