If you’re dreaming of a spring break filled with stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and fresh seafood, then a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is the adventure for you. Stretching from Leggett, California, to Dana Point, this iconic route (also known as Highway 1) offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your journey, with must-see stops, hidden gems, and tips to ensure an unforgettable road trip!
📍 Start: San Francisco
Kick off your road trip in the City by the Bay! Spend a day or two exploring:
- Golden Gate Bridge – Take in one of the most famous views in the world.
- Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39 – Grab some clam chowder in a sourdough bowl and say hello to the sea lions!
- Alcatraz Island – A fascinating (and slightly eerie) tour of this former prison.
- Lombard Street – Drive the famous winding road for an iconic San Francisco experience.
👉 Road Trip Tip: Grab some picnic supplies at the Ferry Building Marketplace before you hit the road!
📍 Stop 1: Half Moon Bay
A short drive from San Francisco, this peaceful coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches and rugged coastline.
- Mavericks Beach – A must-see for surf lovers!
- Pumpkin Farms & Wildflower Fields (in season)
👉 Hidden Gem: Stop at Sam’s Chowder House for their famous lobster roll!
📍 Stop 2: Santa Cruz
Next up is Santa Cruz, a laid-back surf town with a vibrant boardwalk.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Classic roller coasters, arcade games, and beachside fun.
- Natural Bridges State Beach – Stunning rock formations and tide pools.
- Mystery Spot – A quirky roadside attraction with gravity-defying illusions.
📍 Stop 3: Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea
One of the most scenic stretches of the drive!
- Monterey Bay Aquarium – One of the best aquariums in the world.
- 17-Mile Drive – A scenic detour through Pebble Beach with jaw-dropping ocean views.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea – A charming storybook town with cozy cottages and art galleries.
👉 Must-Do: Grab a coffee at Carmel Bakery and stroll along Carmel Beach.
📍 Stop 4: Big Sur 🌊
The most breathtaking stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway!
- Bixby Bridge – One of the most photographed spots on the PCH.
- McWay Falls – A stunning 80-foot waterfall cascading onto a secluded beach.
- Pfeiffer Beach – Known for its purple sand and incredible rock formations.
👉 Pro Tip: There’s no cell service in Big Sur—download maps and plan your stops in advance!
📍 Stop 5: San Simeon & Hearst Castle
- Hearst Castle – A grand mansion with extravagant architecture and history.
- Elephant Seal Rookery – Stop by Piedras Blancas Beach to see hundreds of elephant seals sunbathing!
👉 Fun Fact: Hearst Castle’s indoor swimming pool is tiled with real gold!
📍 Stop 6: Morro Bay & San Luis Obispo
- Morro Rock – A massive volcanic rock rising from the ocean.
- Bubblegum Alley – A weird but famous alley covered in chewing gum in SLO.
- Paso Robles Wine Country – A short detour inland for amazing wine tasting.
📍 Stop 7: Santa Barbara
This coastal paradise has a Mediterranean vibe with palm-lined streets and stunning beaches.
- Stearns Wharf – A beautiful pier with restaurants and shops.
- Santa Barbara Mission – A historic Spanish mission with gorgeous architecture.
- Funk Zone – A trendy neighborhood full of wine bars, art, and food trucks.
👉 Must-Eat: Try Santa Barbara-style tri-tip at Shalhoob’s!
📍 Stop 8: Malibu & Los Angeles
As you approach Southern California, you’ll pass some of the most famous beaches in the world.
- Malibu’s Zuma Beach – Soft sand, perfect waves, and celebrity sightings.
- Santa Monica Pier – End the road trip with a ride on the Ferris wheel.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – A quick stop for some classic LA sightseeing.
👉 Alternative Ending: Continue south to Laguna Beach, Dana Point, or San Diego!
🌟 Pacific Coast Highway Travel Tips
✔ Plan for 5-7 days – While you can drive the PCH in a day, take your time to soak in the views!
✔ Drive Southbound – You’ll be on the ocean side of the road, making it easier to pull over for photos.
✔ Check for Road Closures – Landslides occasionally shut down sections of Highway 1, especially in Big Sur.
✔ Pack Layers – Even in spring, the coast can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
✔ Book Accommodations in Advance – Especially in popular spots like Carmel and Big Sur!
🌊 Final Thoughts
A Pacific Coast Highway road trip is the ultimate spring break getaway, offering everything from coastal cliffs to charming towns. Whether you’re hiking in Big Sur, sipping wine in Paso Robles, or soaking up the sun in Malibu, this drive will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
So roll down the windows, blast your favorite road trip playlist, and enjoy the ride—the adventure of a lifetime awaits! 🚗💨 -Those Traveling Petersons
Those Traveling Petersons 