California Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

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A Dream Itinerary for your California Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

There’s something magical about rolling down your windows, feeling the ocean breeze, and cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Stretching from Southern California all the way up to Northern California, this iconic highway offers jaw-dropping coastal views, charming towns, and plenty of places to eat, stay, and explore. It’s one of my biggest recommendations, if you have the time, as it allows you to see many of the best cities in California. Plus, the California Pacific Coast Highway road trip is one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S.

If you’re planning a road trip along Highway 1, buckle up—we’re diving into the must-see stops, unique stays, and can’t-miss bites from Los Angeles to San Francisco (with a few bonus detours along the way). You might also be interested in purchasing a self-guided audio tour for your drive so you don’t miss a thing.

🚗 California PCH Road TripStart: Los Angeles, CA

What to See:
Kick off your California PCH road trip in sunny L.A. with a morning stroll along Santa Monica Pier or a bike ride down the beach path in Venice. If you’re into art or pop culture, squeeze in a visit to The Getty Center or Hollywood before hitting the road. Check out this complete list of the best family things to do in Los Angeles for even more suggestions. If you need a great family hotel recommendation in Los Angeles, I have you covered with that as well.

Fuel Up:
Grab a hearty breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in West Hollywood or an Instagram-worthy latte at Urth Caffé.

🌊 Malibu, CA

Just 30 minutes out of L.A., Malibu feels like another world.

Must-See:
Stop at El Matador State Beach—a stunning stretch of coastline with dramatic rock formations that’s perfect for photos. For surfers and sunset seekers, Point Dume is a peaceful gem.

Lunch Break:
Malibu Farm at the end of the Malibu Pier serves fresh, organic bites with ocean views. Try the cauliflower crust pizza or the Swedish mini pancakes.

🌴 Santa Barbara, CA

A couple of hours north, you’ll hit the laid-back coastal town of Santa Barbara, often dubbed the “American Riviera.” Note: When you head out of Santa Barbara, you can head straight up to San Luis Obispo, or if you have some time to spare, you go go a bit out of the way to see the charming Danish-themed town of Solvang.

Don’t Miss:
Walk along State Street, visit the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse, or take in the ocean views from Stearns Wharf.

Where to Stay:

• Hotel Californian – modern luxury right in the Funk Zone
• Moxy Santa Barbara – a playful, modern hotel with bold design and a great central location
• Check out this complete list of the best family resorts in Santa Barbara

Dinner Tip:
Stop by The Lark for a seasonal, shareable dinner experience with a local wine list that’ll make you want to linger.

🐘 San Luis Obispo + Pismo Beach

The nest stop on your California Pacific Coast Highway road trip should be in San Luis Obispo (SLO to the locals) for a quick downtown walk or a quirky visit to Bubblegum Alley.

Then head to Pismo Beach for a beach walk or dune buggy adventure.

Fun Stay:
Madonna Inn – this iconic roadside hotel is pure kitschy magic, with themed rooms and over-the-top decor. It’s one of the best theme hotels in the U.S. and is definitely worth checking out. Even if you don’t stay, grab a slice of their signature pink champagne cake.

🐘 Hearst Castle + San Simeon

Hearst Castle is a must—this opulent estate built by media tycoon William Randolph Hearst feels like something out of a movie. Be sure to book a tour in advance.

Pit Stop:
Pull over to say hello to the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas Rookery just north of San Simeon. They’re weirdly adorable and very photogenic.

🌲 Big Sur

This is the stretch of the highway where your jaw will actually drop. Check out my other popular post for everything you need to know about Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Don’t Miss:

• McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
• The Bixby Creek Bridge (iconic photo alert!)
• Garrapata State Park for wildflowers and dramatic cliffs

Where to Stay:

• Treebones Resort – luxury yurts with ocean views
• Big Sur River Inn – cozy and right by the water
• Or if you’re camping, Kirk Creek Campground is unbeatable

Eat:
Nepenthe is a cliffside restaurant with a killer view and solid sandwiches. For coffee or a cozy stop, try Big Sur Bakery.

🏙️ Monterey + Carmel-by-the-Sea

After winding your way out of Big Sur, your California Pacific Coast Highway road trip will bring you to Monterey. This is the perfect place to take a break. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-renowned and worth every penny.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is as charming as it gets—storybook cottages, local art galleries, and sandy beaches. And be sure to check out Carmel Beach, which is one of the best beaches in California.

Stay:

• La Playa Carmel – romantic and walkable to town
• Hofsas House – budget-friendly with charm to spare

Dinner Idea:
Cultura Comida y Bebida in Carmel brings a fun Oaxacan flair to this coastal village.

🌉 Final Stop on Your California PCH Road Trip: San Francisco

Your California PCH road trip will wrap up in San Francisco, a city full of character.

Must-See:

• Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge
• Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and the sea lions
• Ride a cable car or visit Alcatraz

Check out my full list of recommended things to do in San Francisco with kids and this one day in San Francisco itinerary, if you’re limited on time.

Where to Stay:

• Hotel Zephyr – nautical-themed and super close to the waterfront
• The Proper Hotel – chic and stylish with rooftop views

Don’t Leave Without Trying:
Boudin’s clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, or hit up Tartine Bakery for pastries that people literally line up for.

🎉 Final Tips for Your California Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Adventure:

• Take it slow. This isn’t the road trip to rush—build in time for stops and detours.
• Pack layers. Coastal California weather can go from sunny to foggy fast.
• Download maps in advance. Cell service can be spotty in Big Sur.
• Stay flexible. The best road trip moments are often unplanned.

Whether you’re snapping selfies at seaside cliffs, sipping wine in cozy coastal towns, or just enjoying the ride, the Pacific Coast Highway delivers unforgettable memories every mile of the way. So load up your playlist, fill up the tank, and hit the road—you won’t regret it.

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out these fun road games for kids that will provide hours of entertainment for everyone.

I will mention that the first time we did this drive, we were young and naive. We thought we’d drive back down the 5 instead of the PCH so that we could see different things on our way home. Big mistake. It’s farmlands the entire way, and we saw nothing until we were just north of Los Angeles. So either continue your drive somewhere else, fly back, or enjoy the scenic PCH again on your way back.

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