The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (4 Weeks)

A Pacific Coast Highway road trip is best enjoyed over 3-4 weeks to fully take in all the sights. This gives you plenty of time to explore each destination at a leisurely pace, soaking in the unique beauty along the way.

While many guides just cover the California portion of the drive, I felt it was best to cover the full Pacific Coast Highway, starting with Vancouver, British Columbia. I’ve also included Washington and Oregon in this driving tour, which I believe have some of the nicest stretches of coastline.

If you’re short on time, you can condense the trip into 10-14 days by focusing on the key highlights and skipping some of the less essential stops. While a shorter trip means more driving and less time to relax, you’ll still get a fantastic glimpse into the wonders of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Below is everything you’ll need to know for a Pacific Coast road trip in 2024. This guide includes a detailed road trip map, a 30-day itinerary, must-see destinations, and essential trip-planning tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Road Trip Itinerary Map for the Pacific Coast Highway

This map highlights all the key stops along this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary. We’ll dive into these destinations in more detail below and provide advice on how to make your itinerary as efficient and effortless as possible.

• Queen Elizabeth Park: Visit this beautifully landscaped park featuring the Bloedel Conservatory and Quarry Garden. It offers spectacular views of the city from its highest point.
• Kitsilano Beach: Relax at one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches, known for its stunning views of the city skyline and mountains. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or a game of beach volleyball.
• Science World: Engage with interactive exhibits and watch immersive films at this iconic geodesic dome. It’s perfect for families and science enthusiasts.
• Yaletown: A trendy neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife, chic boutiques, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great place to explore in the evenings.
• Robson Street: Vancouver’s premier shopping street, lined with international brands, local boutiques, and diverse eateries. It’s a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts.
• The North Shore: Take a short trip across the Lions Gate Bridge to explore North Vancouver. Visit the Lonsdale Quay Market, hike the Grouse Grind, or ski at one of the local mountains in the winter.

• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): A fantastic museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater. It’s perfect for families and science enthusiasts.
• Alberta Arts District: Explore this vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful murals, boutique shops, and delicious eateries. The Last Thursday Art Walk is a monthly highlight.
• Hawthorne District: A bohemian area filled with vintage shops, record stores, and quirky cafes. It’s the perfect place for a laid-back afternoon of exploring.
• Mount Tabor Park: An extinct volcanic cinder cone turned park, offering hiking trails, reservoirs, and stunning views of the city. It’s a local favorite for outdoor activities.
• Portland’s Food Carts: Scattered throughout the city, these food carts offer a diverse array of international cuisines. Some of my personal favorites are found at the Alder Street Food Cart Pod.

For me, the most appealing part about Portland are the day trips and nature spots within driving distance. Portland’s central location in the Pacific Northwest makes it a fantastic base for exploring some truly spectacular nearby destinations. Here are a few cool day trip ideas that I’ve personally enjoyed and highly recommend:

Give yourself 1-2 extra days in Portland to explore these epic spots nearby.

• Multnomah Falls: Just a 30-minute drive from Portland, this is one of my favorite spots. The towering 620-foot waterfall is breathtaking. Be sure to hike the trail to the top for an incredible view.
• Vista House at Crown Point: This historic observatory offers stunning panoramic views of the gorge. It’s a perfect stop for some great photos.
• Hiking Trails: The Gorge is filled with beautiful trails of varying difficulty. One of my favorites is the Eagle Creek Trail, which features multiple waterfalls and lush scenery.

• Timberline Lodge: About an hour and a half from Portland, this historic lodge offers year-round skiing and snowboarding. Even if you’re not into winter sports, the lodge itself is worth a visit for its rustic charm and history (it was the exterior for the Overlook Hotel in “The Shining”).
• Trillium Lake: In the summer, this is a wonderful spot for a picnic, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the reflection of Mount Hood on the water. The view is absolutely stunning.

• Wine Tasting: Just an hour south of Portland, the Willamette Valley is home to over 500 wineries. I love spending a day wine tasting and enjoying the beautiful vineyard views. Some of my favorite wineries include Domaine Serene and Stoller Family Estate.
• Lunch at a Winery: Many of the wineries have lovely spots to enjoy a meal. Pack a picnic or dine at one of the winery restaurants for a leisurely afternoon.

• Haystack Rock: This towering sea stack is one of the most photographed landmarks on the Oregon coast. The view of Haystack Rock at sunset is absolutely breathtaking and one of my favorite moments in Cannon Beach.
• Ecola State Park: Just a short drive from the town center, Ecola State Park offers some of the best coastal views in Oregon. Hike the trails for panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, watch for whales, or enjoy a picnic overlooking the stunning scenery. The views from the Clatsop Loop Trail are particularly spectacular.
• Cannon Beach Downtown: The downtown area is filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and excellent restaurants. Don’t miss the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum to learn more about the area’s rich history.
• Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site: Located at the south end of Cannon Beach, this spot is perfect for a relaxing beach day. It’s a bit quieter than the main beach near Haystack Rock and a great place for a peaceful walk or a picnic.
• Hug Point State Recreation Site: Just a few miles south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point features a picturesque beach with caves and a seasonal waterfall. It’s a wonderful spot for exploring and photography, especially during low tide.
• Indian Beach: Part of Ecola State Park, Indian Beach is a secluded spot popular with surfers and hikers. It offers a quieter, more rugged beach experience with excellent tide pooling and scenic views.

• Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site: A few miles south of Cannon Beach, Arcadia Beach is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the Oregon coast. The beach is wide and sandy, perfect for a peaceful walk.
• Oswald West State Park: About 10 miles south of Cannon Beach, this park offers beautiful hiking trails through old-growth forests and down to Short Sand Beach, a favorite spot for surfers and beachcombers.
• Nehalem Bay State Park: A bit further south, this park offers camping, hiking, and a beautiful beach. It’s a great spot for a day trip if you have time to explore more of the coast.
• Tillamook Rock Lighthouse: Known as “Terrible Tilly,” this lighthouse sits on a rocky island just offshore. While you can’t visit the lighthouse itself, you can get great views from Ecola State Park.

Redwood National and State Parks is one of my all-time favorite spots in Northern California. This ancient forest is home to the tallest trees on Earth!

Stretching along the northern California coast, these parks offer an awe-inspiring experience that combines natural beauty with rich biodiversity. As you journey along the Pacific Coast Highway, a stop here will immerse you in a world of towering redwoods, serene trails, and breathtaking landscapes.

• Avenue of the Giants: Driving through the Avenue of the Giants is an iconic experience. This scenic route winds through massive redwoods, offering numerous pullouts where you can stop, take photos, and marvel at the sheer size of these ancient trees. Probably my favorite view of the Redwoods!
• Fern Canyon: Fern Canyon is like stepping into another world. This lush, green canyon is adorned with ferns clinging to its 50-foot walls. The hike through the canyon is relatively easy and involves crossing a small stream.
• Lady Bird Johnson Grove: This easy, one-mile loop trail takes you through an enchanting grove of old-growth redwoods. Named after the former First Lady, the grove is especially beautiful in the morning light when rays filter through the towering trees.
• Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Known for its scenic beauty and diverse habitats, Prairie Creek offers a variety of trails and stunning landscapes. Don’t miss the James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon, a longer but rewarding hike that takes you through lush forests and ends in the magical Fern Canyon.
• Tall Trees Grove: For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Tall Trees Grove is a hidden gem. Access requires a permit and a long hike, but the journey is worth it. This grove is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, and its remote location ensures a quiet, reflective experience among the giants.
• Trillium Falls Trail: This moderate 2.5-mile loop trail winds through an old-growth redwood forest and features a beautiful waterfall. The trail is rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for elk, birds, and other forest creatures.

• Redwood Creek Overlook: For a stunning panoramic view, head to Redwood Creek Overlook. This spot is perfect for catching the sunrise or sunset, offering sweeping vistas of the redwood forests and the coastline beyond.
• Klamath River Overlook: A short drive from the main park area, the Klamath River Overlook offers breathtaking views of where the river meets the Pacific Ocean. During whale migration seasons, it’s an excellent spot for whale watching.
• Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: This scenic drive provides easy access to many trailheads and picnic areas. It’s a great way to see the park if you’re short on time or prefer to explore from the comfort of your car.
• Elk Prairie: Visit Elk Prairie to see herds of Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadow. The sight of these majestic animals in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors.

• Lombard Street: Drive down the “crookedest street in the world,” with its eight sharp turns and beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s a fun, quick stop for a photo op.
• Mission District: Discover vibrant street art and murals in the Mission District. Grab a burrito at La Taqueria and relax in Dolores Park with great views of the city.
• Cable Cars: Hop on a historic cable car for a quintessential San Francisco experience. The Powell-Hyde line offers fantastic views, including a stop at Lombard Street.
• Union Square: Shop till you drop in this bustling area, home to high-end retailers and department stores. In the winter, the square features an ice-skating rink and festive decorations.
• North Beach: Also known as Little Italy, this neighborhood is perfect for a leisurely stroll and a meal at an Italian café. Don’t miss the famous City Lights Bookstore and the nearby Coit Tower for panoramic city views.
• Sausalito: Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Sausalito is a nice little town that you should consider spending half a day.

On the way down Highway 1 from San Francisco, consider taking a detour in Half Moon Bay. It’s about 25 miles (40 km) south of SF, making it a convenient day trip. I recommend spending at least a half day here, if not 1-2 nights to soak in the relaxed vibes.

From its breathtaking beaches to its quaint downtown, Half Moon Bay has a way of capturing your heart. Here are some of my top recommendations for what to see and do here:

• Downtown Santa Cruz: A bustling area filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and local cafes. Stop by Bookshop Santa Cruz, grab a coffee at Verve, and enjoy the vibrant street performances. The downtown farmers’ market is a great place to sample local produce.
• Mystery Spot: This quirky attraction is a must-see, where gravity seems to defy itself. Enjoy the guided tour that offers fun facts and mind-bending experiences.
• West Cliff Drive: A scenic route offering breathtaking ocean views. Walk or bike along the path, making sure to stop at Steamer Lane to watch skilled surfers tackle the waves. Lighthouse Point is a great spot for sunset watching.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially sea lions and dolphins near the wharf and coastal areas. It’s always a treat to see them in their natural habitat! Don’t forget to check tide schedules before visiting Natural Bridges or other tide pool areas. Low tide is the best time for exploring marine life.

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: This world-renowned aquarium is a must-visit. Located on Cannery Row, it features incredible exhibits like the Open Sea, Kelp Forest, and Sea Otters.
• Cannery Row: Once the heart of the sardine-packing industry, Cannery Row is now a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Visit the Cannery Row Antique Mall and enjoy a meal with ocean views.
• Old Fisherman’s Wharf: Take a stroll along the historic wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, whale watching tours, and souvenir shopping. Don’t miss the clam chowder samples offered by various restaurants.
• 17-Mile Drive: This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, famous golf courses, and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress. There are several spots to stop and take photos, including Spanish Bay and Pebble Beach. There’s a fee to enter 17-Mile Drive, but it’s worth it for the views.
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Just south of Carmel, this reserve offers stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and excellent hiking trails. The Cypress Grove Trail is a favorite for its beautiful scenery and relatively easy walk.
• Carmel Beach: Known for its soft white sand and scenic beauty, Carmel Beach is perfect for a relaxing day. Walk along Scenic Road for stunning views of the coastline and charming beach cottages.

• Carmel Mission: Visit the beautifully restored Carmel Mission Basilica, one of California’s most historic landmarks. The serene gardens and museum offer a glimpse into the area’s Spanish colonial history.
• Carmel-by-the-Sea: Wander through the charming streets of this village, known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Visit the Cottage of Sweets for some delicious treats and enjoy a meal at one of the many fine dining restaurants.
• Pacific Grove: Just a short drive from Monterey, this quaint town is known for its Victorian homes and the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. It’s a peaceful place to explore and enjoy the coastal views.
• Asilomar State Beach: A great spot for a leisurely walk along the coast. The beach and surrounding dunes offer beautiful scenery and are less crowded than some of the more popular beaches.

Insider Tip: Monterey Bay is a prime spot for whale watching with a 90% chance of seeing them on any given month. Tours operate year-round, but the best times are from April to November.

• Big Sur River Inn: A perfect spot to relax by the river, enjoy a meal, or even stay overnight. The outdoor seating area with chairs in the river is a unique and refreshing experience.
• Nepenthe: This iconic restaurant offers delicious food and unbeatable views of the coastline. It’s a bit pricey, but the experience is worth it. Arrive early to snag a good seat and enjoy a sunset dinner.
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Known as the “mini Yosemite,” this park offers beautiful redwood groves, hiking trails, and the picturesque Big Sur River. The Valley View Trail and Pfeiffer Falls Trail are popular hikes.
• Garrapata State Park: A great spot for hiking and enjoying coastal views. The Bluff Trail is a relatively easy hike that offers spectacular ocean vistas and access to Garrapata Beach.

Highway 1 through Big Sur is narrow and winding. Drive carefully and be mindful of cyclists and other road users. Don’t forget to stock up on gas, food, and supplies before entering Big Sur. There are limited services and stores in the area, and prices are much higher!

Also located in San Luis Obispo County, Avila Beach is a seaside village that is a highlight of the region. The beach is usually less crowded than its neighboring counterparts, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful day by the ocean.

Stroll along the pier, where you can try your hand at fishing or simply enjoy the stunning views of the coastline. If you’re feeling more adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters and possibly spot some marine life.

Stearns Wharf is the perfect spot to kick back and soak in the Santa Barbara vibes. Start your visit with a leisurely stroll along the pier, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains. It’s a great place to watch local fishermen reel in their catch or spot some playful seals and pelicans hanging out by the water.

Stearns Wharf has plenty of dining options to satisfy your cravings. Grab a fresh seafood meal at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company, where you can enjoy everything from clam chowder to lobster while sitting right on the pier. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by The Great Pacific Ice Cream Company for a delicious cone as you continue exploring.

Don’t miss the Sea Center, an engaging little aquarium that’s fun for all ages. You can touch tide pool creatures, learn about local marine life, and even see sharks up close. Afterward, pop into the souvenir shops to pick up some unique gifts or keepsakes.

It’s easy to spend an entire day exploring Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Here are the best attractions to visit:

• Huntington Beach (Surf City USA): This beach town is a mecca for surfers and beach lovers. Walk along the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, catch some waves, or just relax on the sandy shores. The International Surfing Museum is also worth a visit.
• Pacific City: Located in Huntington Beach, this modern shopping and dining complex offers a variety of stores, eateries, and ocean views. It’s a fun place to spend an evening.

• Newport Beach: Take a stroll on the Balboa Pier, rent a Duffy boat for a cruise around Newport Harbor, or relax at the pristine beaches. The Newport Beach Whale Watching tour is a fantastic experience, especially during migration seasons.
• Balboa Island: A charming little island with quaint shops, restaurants, and the famous Balboa Island Ferry. Don’t forget to try a Balboa Bar, a local ice cream treat.
• Fashion Island: If you love shopping, Fashion Island in Newport Beach is the place to be. This open-air shopping center offers high-end stores, great dining options, and beautiful views.

• Laguna Beach: Known for its art galleries, tide pools, and beautiful coves, Laguna Beach is a must-see. Visit the Laguna Art Museum, explore Heisler Park for stunning ocean views, and check out the tide pools at Crescent Bay Beach.
• Crystal Cove State Park: This park offers beautiful hiking trails, a historic district with beach cottages, and pristine beaches. It’s a great spot for hiking, swimming, and exploring the tide pools.

• Dana Point: Known for its marina and whale-watching opportunities, Dana Point is a great place to get out on the water. Visit the Ocean Institute or take a whale-watching tour for an unforgettable experience.
• San Clemente Pier: Head down to San Clemente for a more relaxed beach town feel. Walk along the pier, enjoy the local shops and cafes, and take in the beautiful coastal scenery.

No trip to Orange County is complete without a visit to the Happiest Place on Earth. Spend a day enjoying the magic of Disneyland and California Adventure Park. Make sure to book tickets in advance and use the Disneyland app for wait times and ride info!

Tip: Traffic in Orange County can be heavy, especially on the 405 and 5 freeways. Plan your travel times to avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).

• Carlsbad Village: This charming downtown area is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. Stroll through the streets, visit the weekly farmers’ market, and enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries.
• Carlsbad State Beach: Also known as Tamarack Beach, this beautiful stretch of sand is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The Seawall runs alongside the beach, providing a great path for walking and jogging.
• Legoland California Resort: If you’re traveling with kids, Legoland is a must-visit. The park features rides, shows, and attractions all themed around the famous building blocks.
• The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch: If you’re visiting in the spring, don’t miss the spectacular display of ranunculus flowers at the Flower Fields. The vibrant blooms cover 50 acres and are a breathtaking sight.
• Batiquitos Lagoon: This serene nature reserve offers easy walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the area away from the more crowded beaches.

Take advantage of the numerous rental shops for snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards. La Jolla Shores is great for beginners, while more experienced surfers might prefer the waves at Torrey Pines.

As you make your way toward San Diego from Orange County, consider taking a little extra time to visit the charming coastal towns of Del Mar and Encinitas. Both offer unique experiences that add even more magic to your Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Just a bit further south, Encinitas offers a laid-back vibe with a strong surfing culture and vibrant downtown. Moonlight State Beach is a local favorite for its wide sandy shore, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. If you’re into surfing or want to watch the pros, Swami’s Beach is the place to be. The San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas is a lush, serene retreat featuring diverse plant collections from around the world. Downtown Encinitas is bustling with unique shops, cozy cafes, and a variety of dining options, making it a great place to wander and soak in the local atmosphere.

• Highway 1: If you want to soak in the last bit of coastal beauty, consider taking Highway 1 back to San Francisco. It’s a longer route but offers stunning ocean views and a chance to stop at some final scenic spots.
• Highway 101: For a faster return, take Highway 101. It’s a more direct route that still offers some beautiful views and interesting stops along the way.
• Interstate 5: If you’re in a hurry, I-5 is the quickest route back to San Francisco. It’s not as scenic but will get you there faster, giving you more time to relax and unwind before the trip ends.

Stretch your legs and consider stopping by these attractions on your way back:

• Half Moon Bay: If you have time, make a final stop at Half Moon Bay. It’s a charming coastal town with beautiful beaches and great seafood. The Half Moon Bay State Beach is perfect for a last walk along the ocean.
• Pigeon Point Light Station: This historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views and a great photo opportunity. It’s right off Highway 1, making it a perfect quick stop on your way back.
• Santa Cruz Mountains: For a change of scenery, consider driving through the Santa Cruz Mountains. The winding roads and redwood forests are a beautiful contrast to the coastal views.
• San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park: Once you’re back in the city, unwind in Golden Gate Park. Visit the Conservatory of Flowers, the Japanese Tea Garden, or simply relax by Stow Lake. It’s a peaceful way to end your journey.
• Ferry Building Marketplace: If you’re craving some good food, head to the Ferry Building Marketplace. It’s a foodie’s paradise with gourmet shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the Bay Bridge.

If you have more time and want to explore beyond the main stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, consider visiting these additional destinations along the California coast:

• Cambria: This charming town offers a more relaxed pace with unique attractions like Moonstone Beach, known for its smooth pebbles and tide pools. Visit the nearby Hearst Castle for a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of media mogul William Randolph Hearst.
• Paso Robles: If you’re into wine, Paso Robles is a must-visit. This inland detour offers numerous wineries and tasting rooms. The town itself is charming, with a historic downtown area filled with shops and restaurants.
• Solvang: Experience a bit of Denmark in California in this quaint town. Solvang is known for its Danish-style architecture, bakeries, and the beautiful Mission Santa Inés. It’s a perfect spot for a unique cultural experience.
• Malibu: Known for its stunning beaches and celebrity homes, Malibu is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Visit Zuma Beach, take a hike in the Santa Monica Mountains, or enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants.
• Ojai: Nestled in a scenic valley, Ojai offers a peaceful retreat with great hiking, unique shops, and local art galleries. The Ojai Valley Inn is a luxurious place to stay if you want to treat yourself.
• Carpinteria: A small beach town with a laid-back vibe, Carpinteria is known for its gentle surf and family-friendly beaches. Visit the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve for stunning coastal views and the chance to spot seals and sea lions.
• Napa Valley: Just a quick 1-2 hour detour from San Francisco, Napa is one of America’s most famous wine regions. It’s known for its rolling vineyards and upscale wineries, making it worthwhile for wine and food lovers.

Before hitting the road for your Pacific Coast Highway adventure, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Here’s some practical info to help you plan:

Kicking off your journey in San Francisco is a great choice. This city is packed with cool sights and is a perfect launching pad for your drive. San Francisco International Airport has tons of flight options and rental cars. You could also start in Los Angeles and head north, but starting in San Francisco means you’ll get the best coastal views right away.

Picking the right time for your trip makes all the difference. Here’s a quick rundown on what to expect each season:

• Spring (March to May): Perfect weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. It’s a sweet spot for road tripping.
• Summer (June to August): Awesome beach weather but expect crowds and higher prices. Plan ahead for accommodations.
• Fall (September to November): Cooler weather and fewer people make for a relaxed trip. The fall colors are a bonus.
• Winter (December to February): Northern parts can be rainy, but Southern California stays mild. It’s quieter and more peaceful this time of year.

The length of your trip depends on how much you want to see and do. For a solid experience, plan for at least 5-7 days. In that time, you can explore San Francisco, chill in Santa Cruz, snap pics at Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur, and hit the beaches in Santa Barbara and Malibu.

If you’ve got more time, stretching your trip to 10-14 days is even better. You can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, tour Hearst Castle, check out the Danish vibes in Solvang, and soak up the LA scene. More days mean more chances to discover hidden gems and take things at a relaxed pace.

Planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is super exciting, but it can also bring up a lot of questions. Here are some answers to common queries to help you plan your journey.

If you’re short on time but want to experience the highlights of the Pacific Coast Highway, check out this 5-day itinerary.

• Day 1: San Francisco Kick off your trip in San Francisco. Explore the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and take a ferry to Alcatraz. Don’t miss out on the city’s vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Mission District.
• Day 2: Monterey and Carmel Head down to Monterey and visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Drive the scenic 17-Mile Drive, and explore the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
• Day 3: Big Sur Spend the day in Big Sur, known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. Visit McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, and take in the scenery at Pfeiffer Beach.
• Day 4: San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach Continue to San Luis Obispo for a relaxed vibe and check out the unique Bubblegum Alley. Then head to Pismo Beach for some beach time and maybe even a dune buggy ride at Oceano Dunes.
• Day 5: Santa Barbara End your trip in Santa Barbara, known for its Mediterranean charm. Visit the Santa Barbara Mission, explore Stearns Wharf, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Without stops, the drive takes about 10-12 hours. But trust me, you’ll want to take your time. Plan for at least 3-5 days to really enjoy the sights and attractions along the way.

Absolutely! Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary:

• Day 1: San Francisco Start your adventure in San Francisco. Check out the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz. Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
• Day 2: Santa Cruz and Monterey Drive to Santa Cruz and spend some time at the Boardwalk. Continue to Monterey and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Take the 17-Mile Drive and explore Carmel.
• Day 3: Big Sur Spend the day exploring Big Sur. Visit McWay Falls, hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
• Day 4: San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach Head to San Luis Obispo, check out Bubblegum Alley, and then relax at Pismo Beach. Explore the Oceano Dunes if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Day 5: Santa Barbara Drive to Santa Barbara and visit the mission, Stearns Wharf, and enjoy the local wineries and beautiful beaches.
• Day 6: Malibu and Santa Monica Continue to Malibu and visit the Getty Villa. Head to Santa Monica to stroll the pier, shop, and enjoy the beach.
• Day 7: Los Angeles End your journey in Los Angeles. Visit Hollywood, Griffith Observatory, and enjoy the vibrant culture and nightlife.

A comfortable car with good fuel efficiency is key. If you can, rent a convertible to fully enjoy the scenic drive and the California sunshine.

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