The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)—also known as California State Route 1—is one of the most scenic road trips in the world. Stretching over 600 miles along the California coastline, the drive offers dramatic ocean views, charming beach towns, towering cliffs, and countless hidden gems.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this complete road trip itinerary will help you make the most of every mile on the PCH, from San Francisco to San Diego.
Overview of the Pacific Coast Highway
- Route: San Francisco to San Diego (or vice versa)
- Total Distance: Approx. 600 miles
- Recommended Duration: 7 to 10 days
- Best Time to Go: Late spring to early fall (May–October)
- Vehicle: Car, campervan, or motorcycle
Day-by-Day Road Trip Itinerary
| Day | Location | Highlights & Activities | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | San Francisco | Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street | — |
| Day 2 | Santa Cruz | Surfing, Boardwalk, Natural Bridges State Beach | 1.5–2 hours |
| Day 3 | Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea | Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17-Mile Drive, Carmel Mission | 45–60 minutes |
| Day 4 | Big Sur | Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach | 1–1.5 hours |
| Day 5 | San Simeon & Cambria | Hearst Castle, Elephant Seal Rookery, Moonstone Beach | 2–3 hours |
| Day 6 | San Luis Obispo | Downtown SLO, Bubblegum Alley, Wine tasting | 1–1.5 hours |
| Day 7 | Santa Barbara | State Street, Wine tasting, Stearns Wharf | 1.5–2 hours |
| Day 8 | Malibu & Santa Monica | Zuma Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Coastal hiking | 1.5–2 hours |
| Day 9 | Los Angeles | Venice Beach, Hollywood, Griffith Observatory | 30–45 minutes |
| Day 10 | San Diego | La Jolla, Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Island | 2–2.5 hours |
Detailed Itinerary Highlights
Day 1–2: San Francisco to Santa Cruz
Start your journey in San Francisco by visiting iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Head south to Santa Cruz, a laid-back beach town known for its classic Boardwalk, local surf culture, and coastal trails.
Day 3: Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea
Spend your morning at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, then drive the scenic 17-Mile Drive to Carmel. Carmel is an artsy village known for its fairy-tale cottages, boutique shops, and peaceful beaches.
Day 4: Big Sur
Perhaps the most dramatic portion of the PCH. Stop at Bixby Bridge for photos, hike around Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and visit McWay Falls, a waterfall that drops into the ocean.
Day 5: San Simeon & Cambria
Tour the extravagant Hearst Castle, then visit the Elephant Seal Rookery near Piedras Blancas. End the day in Cambria, a quaint coastal town perfect for a relaxing evening.
Day 6: San Luis Obispo
Enjoy the artsy downtown, explore Bubblegum Alley, and visit nearby wineries in Edna Valley. SLO is also a great place to grab local produce or artisan coffee.
Day 7: Santa Barbara
Nicknamed the “American Riviera”, Santa Barbara offers palm-lined beaches, upscale boutiques, and Spanish-style architecture. Walk along Stearns Wharf or rent a bike for a coastal ride.
Day 8: Malibu & Santa Monica
Drive through scenic Malibu, known for its surfing spots and luxury homes. Stop at Zuma Beach, then head into Santa Monica for the famous pier and local eateries.
Day 9: Los Angeles
Take time to explore LA’s unique neighborhoods—Venice Beach for its artistic flair, Hollywood for sightseeing, and Griffith Park for panoramic views of the city.
Day 10: San Diego
Finish your trip in sunny San Diego. Highlights include the San Diego Zoo, La Jolla Cove, and Balboa Park. Relax on Coronado Beach or explore the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter.
Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
1. Book Accommodations in Advance
Especially in popular spots like Big Sur and Santa Barbara, lodging can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
2. Pack for All Weather
Even in summer, coastal areas can be windy and foggy. Bring layers and comfortable walking shoes.
3. Download Offline Maps
Signal can be spotty, especially around Big Sur. Apps like Google Maps allow offline downloads of specific areas.
4. Budget Wisely
Some attractions are free, but others (like Hearst Castle or Monterey Bay Aquarium) have entrance fees. Plan your stops accordingly.
5. Start Early
To avoid crowds and get the best light for photos, begin your driving days in the early morning.
Hidden Gems Worth a Detour
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (near Carmel): Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Garrapata State Park: Lesser-known trails with jaw-dropping ocean views.
- Solvang (near Santa Barbara): A Danish-style village known for pastries and boutique shops.
- El Matador Beach (Malibu): Stunning rock formations and sea caves.
Integrating This Trip into Bigger Travel Plans
If you’re traveling from out of state or internationally, you might be wondering how this road trip fits into a broader itinerary. Some travelers pair this journey with visits to national parks, Las Vegas, or international flights home. If you’re planning to leave the country after your road trip, it’s worth researching How to Find Cheap Last-Minute International Flights to score a deal without compromising on timing.
FAQs: Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
What’s the best direction to drive—north to south or south to north?
North to south is ideal because you’ll be on the ocean side of the road, making pull-offs and scenic stops easier.
Is it safe to drive the PCH in one day?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The beauty of the PCH lies in stopping frequently. Stretch it over 7–10 days for a relaxing experience.
Can I do this trip in a campervan?
Absolutely. Many travelers choose RVs or campervans. Just make sure to book campsites ahead of time in popular areas like Big Sur.
Are there food stops along the way?
Yes—everything from fresh seafood in Monterey to taco shacks in Malibu. Pack snacks, but make time for local eateries.
What type of vehicle is best for the trip?
A comfortable car or SUV is perfect. If you plan to go off the beaten path, choose a vehicle with decent ground clearance.
Final Thoughts
The Pacific Coast Highway offers more than just a road—it’s a sensory experience. With ocean breezes, winding roads, and unforgettable views, this California classic is a bucket-list journey for any traveler. Whether you’re exploring nature, relaxing on beaches, or indulging in coastal cuisine, the PCH road trip delivers a perfect balance of adventure and serenity.
Plan your route, set your playlist, and hit the road. The Pacific is calling.
