The Perfect 5-Day Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip (24 Awesome Stops!)
Everything you need to know for the perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip down California’s Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles (with every wild and wonderful stop in between!).
Ahhh, the stunning California Pacific Coast Highway.
It’s easily the USA’s most iconic road trip. Convertible top down, salty Pacific Ocean air blowing through your hair, and California sunshine shimmering on your cheeks.
Considered one of the world’s most scenic drives, the Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip is a classic American travel experience.
And after recent closures in the wake of landslides and the Los Angeles wildfires, the iconic PCH is scheduled to fully re-open by the end of May, just in time for the summer road trip season!
The PCH is famous for jaw-dropping vistas, seaside villages, incredible wildlife, excellent dining, unique shops, mom-and-pop produce stands, quirky attractions, and even America’s answer to Buckingham Palace.
What more could you ask for?
This Bucket List road trip also holds a spot on my own personal list of the Top 30 Travel Experiences around the world.
Here are 29 more if you’re curious: Around the World in 30 Extraordinary Travel Experiences
I’ve made this California coastal drive several times and discovering fun and quirky new stops along the way is always the best part!
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
But before I lay out my ideal Pacific Highway road trip itinerary, let’s answer the most important question.
Where does the Pacific Coast Highway start and end?
Also known as California Highway 1 , the Pacific Coast Highway is the longest state route in California at just over 656 miles. The PCH begins south of Dana Point in Orange County and ends at US 101 in Mendocino County.
Along the way, this stunning highway passes through such beautiful spots as Monterey, Big Sur, Pebble Beach, Santa Monica, Malibu, and Santa Barbara, to name just a few.
Driving the entire length of the PCH can take 10 to 12 hours without stops. While it’s technically possible to do it in one day, it’s best to spread the journey over a few days to fully enjoy the attractions and scenic viewpoints along the way.
The Perfect 5-Day PCH Road Trip Itinerary
For the purposes of this post, I’ll focus on a 5-day road trip itinerary. However, if you’re short on time, the highlights can easily be tackled in two or three days.
If you have more time, I’ve indicated below where I’d suggest adding a day.
But all of the following stops along the Pacific Highway in California can be easily customized to cater to specific interests.
So whether you’re road-tripping solo, with your significant other or with the entire family…lower the top on that convertible, crank up the tunes, and let’s hit the road!
Quick tip!
Plan your PCH road trip driving north to south! Why? Because driving California’s scenic Highway 1 is best appreciated heading south where you’ll have unobstructed views of the stunning coastline right out your window.
Not to mention, it makes quick pullovers at photo-worthy spots hassle-free.
PCH Road Trip Day 1: San Francisco
You don’t need a car in San Francisco (in fact, it’s more of a pricey hindrance) so if you’re picking up a rental car, plan to get it on your way out of town the next morning.
Tip: For the best rates on rental cars, I love Discover Cars.
San Francisco is worthy of a week of exploration unto itself!
However, as the starting point for your PCH road trip, we’ll assume you just have one day.
Start your day with breakfast…
Kick-off your San Francisco exploration at the Embarcadero for breakfast. Head straight for the majestic white clock tower of the Ferry Building Marketplace. This 1898 transit hub is now home to cafes, artisanal bakeries, cheese shops, and even a mushroom shop.
On Saturday mornings, the weekly Farmer’s Market runs from 8:00AM – 2:00PM. On Tuesdays and Thursdays it runs from 10:00AM – 2:00PM.
Check here for the most current Farmer’s Market hours and more details.
5 Things You Shouldn’t Miss in San Francisco
Whether you’re short on time or plan extra days for the City by the Bay, here are 5 things you shouldn’t miss:
- Golden Gate Park
- Alcatraz Island – If you’re short on time, you may have to skip this one. Plan on 2-3 hours for a guided tour of the infamous prison. Tour prices include the 10-minute boat ride to the island each way and are often sold out days or even weeks in advance.
- A trolley car ride to Fisherman’s Wharf
- The Painted Ladies
- Lombard Street
Tip: This 4-hour Skip The Bus: San Francisco By Luxury Van Tour is a terrific way to see the best of the city in one action-packed afternoon!
Where to Spend the Night – San Francisco
The Argonaut Hotel – Located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, this eco-friendly hotel boasts gorgeous views across San Francisco Bay. Nautically-themed rooms are large by San Francisco standards and the restaurants and shops of Fisherman’s Wharf are at your doorstep.
PCH Road Trip Day 2: Muir Woods, Santa Cruz & Monterey
Redwoods, beaches, and gravitational mysteries, Day 2 has it all. ..now let’s get started on those 24 stops!
1. Muir Woods National Monument
Today’s first stop will have you backtracking a bit north of San Francisco. So if you have extra time in San Francisco you may want to include it in your exploration of the city.
If not, it’s well worth the brief detour to walk among the soaring old-growth redwoods at Muir Woods.
Current park hours are 8:00AM – Sunset. Advance reservations are now required to visit Muir Woods. The parking fee (standard vehicle) is $9.50 or shuttle reservations (from local transit stations) are $3.50 per adult. Entrance fees are $15 per adult (free for children under 16).
Tip: Be sure to download your parking reservation or shuttle ticket in advance, there is no wifi or cell phone reception in the area.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Where to find it: Mill Valley, CA 94941
2. Half Moon Bay
Pull off the road for a quick picture from the cliff of the expansive Half Moon Bay State Beach below or follow the Coast-side Trail north to Pillar Point.
Where to find it: 95 Kelly Avenue
3. Duarte’s Tavern (Stop for Lunch!)
Since 1894, this family-run diner has been delighting road trippers along the PCH. Located in Pescadero between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, Duarte’s Tavern is the perfect place to break up your day. Open daily for lunch (except Tuesday) from 11:00AM – 3:00PM, it’s a must on your drive down the PCH.
Tip: Don’t miss the famous cream of artichoke soup.
Where to find it: 202 Stage Road, Pescadero, CA 94060
4. Pie Ranch (Stop for a Snack!)
Continuing south along the PCH highway from Pescadero, you’ll spot it on your left before you reach Santa Cruz. More than meets the eye, Pie Ranch is part farm stand, part organic farming school which partners with local schools. Pie fillings on offer rotate with the fresh crops of the season.
Open weekdays (except Tuesday) from 12:00PM – 5:00PM, weekends from 10:00AM – 5:00PM.
Where to find it: 2080 Green Oaks Way, Pescadero, CA 94060
5. Santa Cruz
Start your afternoon tour of Santa Cruz with a photo stop at Lighthouse Field State Beach. Visit the Wharf for great restaurants and shops and soak up the old-school Americana vibe of the Beach Boardwalk.
6. Mystery Spot
File this one under bizarre.
Located just outside Santa Cruz, this unusual gravitational attraction makes for a fun stop for the whole family (and endlessly amusing photo ops!). Discovered by surveyors in 1939, this roadside attraction is a California Historical Landmark that has been mystifying visitors since 1940.
Open daily from 10:00AM – 5:00PM and weekends until 8:00PM, tickets are $10 and parking will run you $5. Book tickets online in advance if you want to use a credit card, otherwise, it’s cash only at the door.
Be sure to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
Where to find it: 465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
7. Monterey (Stop for the Night!)
Intercontinental The Clement Monterey – This waterfront resort and spa is a great choice to rest up before hitting Big Sur the next day. Located on Cannery Row next door to the legendary Monterey Aquarium, it’s the perfect location for shopping, dining, or just soaking in the harbor views from Fisherman’s Wharf.
Note: Tickets for the Moneterey Aquarium must be purchased in advance online. You cannot purchase tickets in person. Open 10:00am-5:00pm daily.
PCH Road Trip Day 3: Pebble Beach & Big Sur
Today is the day your Instagram account has been waiting for.
Between Pebble Beach and Big Sur, be sure to plan lots of time for impromptu photo stops on today’s itinerary!
8. Pebble Beach 17-Mile Drive
Start your day bright and early from Monterey to make the “17-Mile Drive” through the exclusive coastal resort of Pebble Beach.
Dating back to 1892, the 17-Mile Drive was created by a consortium of railroad companies as an excursion for guests of their nearby hotel. The road meanders along beaches and forested areas between Monterey and Carmel and remains a popular activity for visitors to the area.
Pebble Beach is home to seven public and private golf courses, the most famous of which is Pebble Beach Golf Links – arguably the best golf course in the western United States and a five-time site of the U.S. Open.
9. Point Lobos State Nature Reserve
Stop just long enough for a photo op or visit the Whaler’s Cabin Museum (open daily from 9:00AM – 5:00PM).
10. Big Sur
Landscape artist Francis McComas once called Big Sur the world’s “greatest meeting of land and sea” and I’d have to say those are the best words I’ve heard to describe it.
The 90-mile stretch of untouched, ruggedly beautiful coastline features gravity-defying bridges, inaccessible stretches of golden sand, and pounding surf. During the winter months, even the occasional whale sighting from December to May.
Keep a sharp eye out for the Castle Rock Lookout Point (plug it into your GPS so you don’t miss it!). This is the spot to capture the iconic image of the Bixby Creek Bridge that is essential to any PCH California road trip.
The winding highway is dotted with areas to pull over to soak in the view and listen to the crash of the surf and the bark of the sea lions. After the Bixby Bridge, don’t miss Point Sur State Historic Park, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls.
Reminder!
A portion of Highway 1 south of Big Sur remains closed due to extensive damage from a landslide.
Unfortunately, it’s not currently possible to continue south from there so you’ll have to do some backtracking. The good news is that Stops #11 and #12 below have re-opened.
Just be sure to add some extra time in your itinerary today to get around the closure.
The remainder of Highway 1 is expected to reopen by Summer 2025. For the latest updates (including how to get around the closure) check the Big Sur Chamber of Commerce site.
11. Nepenthe (Stop for Lunch!)
For incredible views, casual dining, and a terrific shop featuring unique Big Sur souvenirs, don’t miss a stop at Nepenthe for lunch. Open daily from 11:30am-10:00pm. Reservations are only accepted for parties of 5 or more.
Tip: Try the Ambrosiaburger!
Where to find it: 48510 Highway One, Big Sur, CA 93920
12. Spend the Night in Big Sur
Alila Ventana Big Sur Resort – If you’re searching for a romantic splurge on your road trip, look no further than this epic adults-only luxury retreat.
After a complete renovation in 2017, this Big Sur resort features luxurious villas, a decadent spa, and a restaurant with awe-inspiring views of the glimmering Pacific. With rates hovering around $1,000/night, the Ventana is more of an “experience” than just a hotel choice.
But, if you’ve got room in the budget for a one-night splurge, this is the place to do it.
Where to find it: 48123 Highway One, Big Sur, CA 93920
Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn – For a more rustic option (and I mean really rustic), this historic inn will give you a true “off the grid” experience.
Things to expect: Quaint, individually decorated rooms, thin walls, a truly unique experience.
Things not to expect: Wifi, TV, phones, cell service, online reservations. To make a reservation, call the inn directly at 831-667-2377.
Where to find it: 48865 Highway One, Big Sur, CA 93920
PCH Road Trip Day 4: San Simeon, Hearst Castle & San Luis Obispo
As you continue along this beautiful coastal highway, California’s got more fun in store for you on Day 4.
Start your morning with a visit to the elephant seals of San Simeon before enjoying a tour of sprawling Hearst Castle. Stop for a seaside lunch in Cambria and end with a visit to one of this Highway 1 road trip’s most eclectic homes.
13. San Simeon
Over 15,000 elephant seals migrate to the Elephant Seal Rookery on San Piedras Beach each year. Peak season is December to March. Viewing areas are open every day and there’s no fee required. There’s also a visitor center and gift shop.
Where to find it: For the viewing points, enter “Elephant Seal Vista Point” in your GPS. The Visitor Center is located at 250 San Simeon Avenue, Suite 5A, San Simeon, CA 93452
14. Hearst Castle
Conceived by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and inspired by his European travels, Hearst Castle is a sprawling 250,000- acre compound of rooms, kitchens, cottages, gardens, pools and more. Now a State Park and historic museum, the castle offers a variety of tour options with tickets starting at $30 for adults and $15 for children
Open daily at 9:00AM, tours can be reserved online up to 60 days in advance or purchased upon arrival based on availability. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged for this one.
Tip: Plan your time accordingly, the Grand Rooms Tour (the most popular) takes one hour.
Where to find it: 750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452
15. Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill (Stop for Lunch!)
After your morning at Hearst Castle, stop by Cambria’s Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill for a seafood lunch with an ocean view. After lunch, make time for a stroll down beautiful Moonstone Beach.
Lunch served from 11:00am-3:00pm daily. Check their website (link above) for the latest info.
Where to find it: 6550 Moonstone Beach Drive, Cambria, CA 93428
16. San Luis Obispo (Stop for the Night!)
Madonna Inn – This iconic hotel is a must on any PCH California drive. Each of the hotel’s 110 distinct rooms is decorated in a uniquely whimsical way. With room names like Captain’s Bridge, Italy, California Poppy, and Desert Sands, the options are endless and so is the fun.
My favorite rooms at the Madonna Inn are Daisy Mae and Rock Bottom.
Tip: Do NOT miss a stop in the bakery!
Where to find it: 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
While in town, check out the Fremont Theater, Soda Lake, and nearby Pismo Beach. Like Seattle, San Luis Obispo is home to a bubblegum attraction called Bubblegum Alley. It’s a 70-foot-long alley lined with discarded gum from various passersby.
Yes, it’s gross. Yes, it’s a literal nightmare in a post-Covid-19 world.
And yes, you know you still want to see it.
PCH Road Trip Day 5: Solvang, Santa Barbara, Malibu, LA
It’s the final day of our 5-day Pacific Coast Highway road trip and this will be an ambitious one!
If you have more than 5 days, this is the place to add in an extra day. My suggestion would be an overnight stay in Santa Barbara before moving on to LA (more on that below!).
17. Solvang
One of the quirkier stops on the PCH road trip itinerary, the historic Danish village of Solvang requires a short detour off Highway 1 but is well worth the stop.
Take a ride on the Solvang Trolley or stop for a pastry at an authentic Danish bakery. Stroll the antique shops and boutiques while enjoying the Euro architecture.
Where to find it: 1639 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang, CA 93463
18. Santa Barbara
Known for wide, sandy beaches, Santa Barbara is a great place to stop and soak up the California sunshine.
East Beach is a popular spot for beach lovers, while State Street boasts plenty of shops and restaurants. Stearns Wharf is California’s oldest working pier and the city’s most iconic landmark.
If you have an extra night to spare on your California coast road trip, Santa Barbara is a great place to spend it.
Here’s my favorite place for a fun overnight stay:
Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages – This charming B&B is the perfect overnight choice. Like the Madonna Inn, rooms are whimsically themed yet in a more understated and elegant way.
With room names like Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, and Tweedle Dee, the Alice in Wonderland theme extends beyond the hotel walls and throughout the lovely grounds.
Tip: For a room with a beautiful terrace overlooking the grounds, choose Alice’s Balcony or the White Rabbit Balcony room.
Where to find it: 36 West Valerio Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
19. Ventura Beach
The gateway to the Channel Islands National Park, head to Ventura Harbor Village for seaside dining and shopping (and to book a day trip to the Channel Islands if you have some extra time!). Don’t miss a stroll down Ventura Pier.
Where to find it: 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001
20. Malibu
It’s the most famous 21-mile stretch of prime Pacific coastline in southern California.
Nicknamed, “the Bu,” Malibu is home to both warm, sandy beaches and many of Hollywood’s biggest movie stars and moguls.
Framed by the Topanga Canyon to the East, the Santa Monica Mountains to the North and the Pacific Ocean to the South, Malibu’s natural beauty makes it almost impossible to believe you’re just a few miles from the city.
While this exclusive community is home to the rich and famous, almost all of its beachfront remains open to the public. Don’t miss Point Dume State Beach.
21. Paradise Cove Beach Cafe (Stop for Lunch!)
Paradise Cove Beach Cafe – Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s the perfect place to soak up the Malibu sunshine and views. If you’ve got some extra time, beach chair rentals are also available. It’s worth noting that they do charge for parking, even if you’re dining in (welcome to Malibu).
Tip: Try the world-famous clam chowder and fish tacos.
Where to find it: 28128 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
22. Santa Monica Pier
Within a few years of its opening in 1909, the original Santa Monica Pier soon had a neighbor. Famous carousel manufacturer Charles I.D. Looff purchased the land immediately south of the pier and developed one of the area’s first successful amusement parks.
Ultimately, the two piers were joined and in 1996 the opening of Pacific Park reinvigorated the pier by introducing new rides and creating the vibrant entertainment complex we know today.
Open daily from 6:00am-10:00pm, check the official Santa Monica Pier website for updates.
Where to find it: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
23. Manhattan Beach
With just over 2 miles of sandy California beachfront, Manhattan Beach is known for a more laid-back vibe than LA heavyweights Santa Monica or Venice Beach.
The downtown area is home to high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars. And The Strand is a wide, paved path often filled with cyclists and joggers.
Don’t miss a walk down the Manhattan Beach Pier for some of the best views of LA’s prime oceanfront real estate.
24. Spend the Night in Malibu!
Malibu Beach Inn – If you’re seeking the Hollywood-star-Malibu-home experience, try a night at this beachfront oasis. All rooms feature coastal decor and ocean views (though only some are truly oceanfront). Every room has direct access to a private beach.
Where to find it: 22878 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Quick Tips for Your PCH Road Trip:
What’s the best time of year to drive the PCH?
One of the best things about an epic California coast road trip is that this winding west coast highway is a great drive any time of year.
However, if I had to pick a favorite, it’s the springtime months of March and April. The wildflowers are in full bloom and it adds even more beauty to the drive. Fall is also a great time.
While the summer months are the most popular time to drive the Pacific Coast Highway, they’re also the most crowded. So if you make the road trip in June, July, or August, expect more traffic and higher hotel rates.
Is there a good or bad day of the week to drive the PCH?
Every day is a great day to drive the Pacific Coast Highway! The PCH’s spectacular views are open and free to all travelers daily. However, you will find that many restaurants and roadside attractions are closed on Tuesdays.
So if there’s a day of the week I’d recommend avoiding, it’s Tuesday.
Are there any tolls on the PCH?
No, there are no tolls on the Pacific Coast Highway. That’s another terrific thing about this classic California road trip. The only exception to that is the Golden Gate Bridge in the southbound direction. (And if you’re heading to Muir Woods, you will have to cross the bridge heading back into San Francisco.)
Just keep in mind that while the PCH itself is free to drive, some state parks and attractions along the way do have entrance fees or parking fees.
So add this epic road trip to your Travel Bucket List!
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles is definitely one of America’s greatest road trips. And while it can be done in 3-5 days, it’s even more rewarding if you can spare a whole week!
Read More: I’ve Been To 175 Countries. Here Are My Top 50 Places to See in Your Lifetime
The Pacific Coast Highway is a truly unforgettable road trip experience with breathtaking vistas, so take your time, savor the moments, and enjoy the ride.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to hit the road!
Looking for more great road trip ideas?
If this Bucket List Pacific Coast Highway road trip left you craving more epic road trip ideas, here are a few of my favorite road trips across the pond:
How to Survive Driving in Ireland (& Actually Enjoy It!): A Perfect 4-Day Itinerary
The Bucket List Scotland Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Amazing Days
The Great UK Road Trip: Scotland, England & Wales!
Dazzling Dalmatia: The Best of the Croatian Coast in 7 Perfect Days
And if you’re looking for more terrific vacation destinations in the good old USA, here are a few of my favorites:
Washington’s San Juan Islands are the Best US Islands You’ve Never Heard Of
5 Awe-Inspiring Things to Do in Colorado Springs (3 are free!)
10 Marvelous Things to Do in Punta Gorda, Florida (Don’t Miss #7!)
3 Reasons Pensacola Beach is the Best of Florida’s Emerald Coast
