Pacific Coast Highway Explorer
A quintessential 5-day California road trip covering 700km of rugged cliffs, historic missions, and iconic piers.
San Francisco → Big Sur → San Simeon → San Luis Obispo → Santa Barbara → Los Angeles
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- McWay Falls
- Hearst Castle
- Santa Monica Pier
Foggy Cliffs & Redwoods
Start your journey from San Francisco, crossing the iconic Bixby Bridge to reach the heart of Big Sur.
San Francisco
Pick up your rental and head south on Highway 1 for the ultimate road trip.
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Stretch your legs at this vintage seaside park. Grab a saltwater taffy.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
World-class marine life exhibits. The kelp forest is a must-see.
Bixby Creek Bridge
The most photographed bridge on the coast. Park on the north side for the best view.
Big Sur to San Simeon
Navigate the most dramatic winding turns of the PCH, passing waterfalls and elephant seals.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Walk among the ancient redwoods and follow the river trail.
McWay Falls
An 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto a pristine beach cove.
Elephant Seal Vista Point
See hundreds of massive seals lounging on the beach. Peak activity in winter.
Hearst Castle
The opulent hilltop estate of William Randolph Hearst. Book the Grand Rooms tour.
Central Coast Charm
Transition from rugged cliffs to the rolling hills and Mediterranean vibes of San Luis Obispo.
Morro Rock
A 576-foot volcanic plug standing at the entrance to the harbor.
San Luis Obispo
Visit the historic mission and the quirky Bubblegum Alley nearby.
Pismo Beach Pier
Classic California beach town vibes. Famous for its clams and wide sandy shores.
Danish Dreams & Riviera Vibes
Explore a Danish village in the mountains before arriving in the 'American Riviera'.
Solvang
A charming Danish village. Great for bakeries and unique architecture.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
The 'Queen of the Missions' with stunning twin bell towers and gardens.
Stearns Wharf
Walk the oldest working wood wharf in California for great harbor views.
Malibu to the City of Angels
The final stretch takes you past celebrity beach houses and the Santa Monica Pier.
El Matador State Beach
Hidden sea caves and enormous rocks. The most beautiful beach in Malibu.
Santa Monica Pier
The official end of Route 66. Iconic amusement park and lively atmosphere.
Griffith Observatory
The best view of the Hollywood Sign and the sprawling LA basin.
- Drive North to South to stay on the ocean side of the road
- Cell service is non-existent in Big Sur
- Book Hearst Castle tours weeks in advance
- Day 2: hotel change (Big Sur Village → Cambria Moonstone Beach) — allow 1-2h check-out + transfer
- Day 3: hotel change (Cambria Moonstone Beach → Pismo Beach) — allow 1-2h check-out + transfer
- Day 4: hotel change (Pismo Beach → Santa Barbara West Beach) — allow 1-2h check-out + transfer
- Day 5: hotel change (Santa Barbara West Beach → Santa Monica / Venice) — allow 1-2h check-out + transfer