The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

One of the most iconic road trips in the United States is a California Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway.  Here is a detailed itinerary (with stops) along the PCH from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

San Francisco

Start your adventure along the Pacific Coast Highway here. If you have a few days to spend in San Francisco I recommend these things.  The Golden Gate Bridge & Pier 39 are musts, but if you’re up for it, leave the car at home because this city is perfect for walking and taking public transportation which includes cable cars.

Santa Cruz is under 2 hours from San Francisco, making it a great stop for people driving the entire length of the highway or who just want a quick taste of it on a day trip from San Francisco.

Santa Cruz

“Carmel” as locals call it or Carmel-by-the-sea as it’s officially known is old world charming and the town is filled with Hansel & Gretel esque cottages. It’s truly photogenic and to me is like walking through the pages of a fairytale.

CarMEL

The drive along Big Sur is one of the most scenic parts of the PCH. Here, the rugged cliffs get higher and higher above the indigo Pacific. As your car weaves around redwood forests and mountains, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the coastline.

Big Sur

Morro Bay is a beautiful and intimate coastal town that’s famous for its inspiring landmark — Morro Rock. This rock is ginormous, as locals and tourist flock to this off-the-beaten path destination to admire its natural beauty. 

Morro Bay

Want to see the rest of the Pacific Coast Highway Stops?? Swipe up!

Yellow Wavy Line
Yellow Wavy Line