California Coastal Drive San Francisco to Los Angeles by JetSettingFools.com

An Epic California Coastal Drive: San Francisco to Los Angeles

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Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles on the Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic American road trip experience. The California Coastal Drive features the majestic coastline, amazing forests and incredible viewpoints. We meticulously planned our Coastal California Drive – and are sharing our CA Route 1 itinerary details to help fellow travelers plan their perfect trip!

 

San Francisco to Los Angeles: Pacific Coast Highway

The San Francisco to Los Angeles coastal drive on the Pacific Coast Highway – or PCH – rolls through small California seaside towns and crosses magnificent bridges.

The scenery along the SF to LA coastal drive is simply breathtaking. The Big Sur coastal drive section is certainly a highlight of the trip. In our California Coast Road Trip Itinerary, we include the region’s top attractions and prime places to stop!

 

Planning a California Coastal Trip on Highway 1

In this itinerary, we outline a 4-Day California coastal trip on the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

We also understand that not all travelers plan to make this SF to LA drive in the same time allotment. Some may only have a couple of days to complete a Cali self-drive tour, while other adventurers plan on spending a week driving the coast of California. In fact, it is even possible to make the San Francisco to LA coastal drive in a single day. 

Regardless of your time frame, you can use our coastal road trip planner to create your best California self-drive itinerary. In addition to suggestions to help you plan your California coastal vacation, we include tips of where to stay, what to pack in your suitcase and alternate Route 1 stops.

We even share a San Francisco to Los Angeles coastal drive map marked with top attractions at the end of the article.

Pro Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your Cali Coast Road Trip by using our Travel Planning Printables!

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com


 

Coastal California Trip FAQs

View down Malibu Pier, California, USA

Before jumping into our day-by-day plan for driving down the coast of California, we are answering a few commonly asked questions.

 

How Long is the Drive on PCH from San Francisco to LA?

Our California coastal drive itinerary is a one-way trip that begins in San Francisco and ends in Los Angeles. Although there are numerous ways to break up the route, we designed a 3-night, 4-day California road trip between the two cities. 

 

How to Plan a One Week California Trip

A simple way to turn our trip into a 1-Week San Francisco to Los Angeles itinerary is to stay in each destination for two nights. This will allow you to thoroughly enjoy the San Francisco to Los Angeles scenic route and have a full day of exploration in between driving PCH.

Alternatively, you could create a complete 1 Week California Itinerary by spending time in both SF and LA before and after your 4-day CA coastal road trip. Our detailed day-by-day California coastal drive vacation does not include time for exploration in either San Francisco or Los Angeles.

Therefore, we suggest spending a few days in San Francisco before embarking on your SF to LA road trip. Time permitting, one day in Los Angeles at the end of your SF to LA Highway 1 drive would also be ideal.

 

What’s the Distance from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The distance between SF and LA on the Pacific Coast Highway is roughly 500 miles. While it is possible to cover that in about 10 hours, your drive time will be much longer – due to both traffic and sightseeing.

For each day’s journey of our Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, we indicate the route length and an estimated drive time. Be aware that in the busy summer months, some parts of the California coast experience bumper-to-bumper traffic, resulting in much longer drive times. Pack your patience and adjust your California Coast road trip itinerary as necessary.

Pro Tip: Our San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip itinerary is designed as a scenic drive featuring multiple stops. If you just need to get between the two cities, rather than taking Highway One San Francisco to Los Angeles, it is much faster (about 6 hours) to take I-5. 

 

What Vehicle to Use on PCH from San Francisco to LA?

We believe an SUV – that sits higher off the ground – is best for the scenic drive on the California Coast. Use our Car Rental Tips before you start your online search. The advice will help you find the best rental car prices for your San Fran to LA drive!

Note that our California 1 Pacific Coast Highway road trip is a one-way route. Renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another may incur extra fees, which need to be considered for your overall Road Trip California Coast vacation budget. 

 

Which Direction is Best for a California Self-Drive Trip?

We believe the best route from San Francisco to Los Angeles via the Pacific Coast Highway is from north to south. Traveling south on the CA 1 allows for uninterrupted views of the shoreline. Plus, it is a lot easier to pull off into most of the scenic overlook spots on the right.

 

South to North via Pacific Coast Highway: Los Angeles to San Francisco

While we do not prefer it, there is nothing wrong with driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco on Pacific Coast Highway.

Views will be slightly obstructed by southbound cars and turning left into scenic overlooks will require caution. For the best places to stay on an LA to SF coastal drive, simply use our outlined itinerary, in reverse!

 

Where are the Best Overnight Stays on the Coastal Drive from San Francisco to LA?

The overnight California coastal drive stops we include in our itinerary are Monterey, Morro Bay and Santa Barbara. For each stop in our San Francisco to Los Angeles driving itinerary, we include suggested California coastal hotels based on places we have actually stayed.

 

When is the Best Time for California Coastal Trips? 

Deciding the best time to drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 1 depends on many factors. Weather is a concern when driving San Francisco to Los Angeles, but not the sole factor. You will also want to consider the crowds (and, thus, traffic) on your San Francisco to LA drive. 

 

Best Weather to Drive California Coast PCH San Francisco to LA

Overall, the California coastal region weather is a Mediterranean climate with mild year-round temperatures. Summers are usually dry, but winters can be rainy and windy. When considering weather, the best time to drive Pacific Coast Highway is from late spring through autumn.

 

Autumn Road Trip: San Francisco to Los Angeles

Personally, we believe autumn is the best time to visit Big Sur and the central Cali coastal region. We made our Coastal California road trip in mid-autumn. Maybe we were lucky, but the weather was absolutely perfect.

 

Crowds and Traffic on the PCH

While the summer provides the best weather for the SF to LA Route 1 drive, it is also the time of year that PCH is most crowded. With the heavy crowds comes extra traffic…which can result in a very long San Francisco to LA drive time. 

Additionally, crowds on the road trip from San Francisco to LA also means more expensive accommodations and full-booked restaurants. If you are going to drive the California coast in summertime, plan ahead and make reservations early.

 

Will I Be on PCH from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The Pacific Coast Highway – or ‘PCH’ – is the best route for driving the California Coast. However, you will notice that there are multiple names (and signs) for the same road.

The reason is that PCH is just part of California State Route 1 (or CA SR 1). State Route 1 runs from Leggett (north of San Francisco in Mendocino County) south to San Juan Capistrano (between LA and San Diego), where it merges onto Interstate 5.

Only specific portions of the 655-mile-long road are designated as the PCH. Regardless of proper names, the entire stretch of the San Francisco to Los Angeles drive is commonly referred to as the Pacific Coast Highway. 

Also note that a Highway 101 California Road Trip is different from Coastal Highway 1. While the two roads merge (from San Luis Obispo to Pismo Beach and from Gaviota to Ventura), CA Highway 101 is mostly inland.

Fun Fact: The SF to LA road trip is one of the country’s best coastal drives – and the PCH highway is also labeled an All-American Road!

California Coastal Drive by JetSettingFools.com


 

Our California Coastal Drive

View from Twin Peaks, San Francisco, CA, USA

Okay, are we ready to dive into our coastal drive California itinerary? Great! In the outline for our road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, we highlight the prime places for sightseeing, hikes and viewpoints. Our Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner even includes specifics on where to eat!

With our detailed day-by-day California Coast drive itinerary, you can easily plan your trip on the Pacific Coast Highway. It features great towns, fun attractions and epic viewpoints. Please do keep in mind that our estimated driving times do not include stops or HWY1 traffic delays.

Save, Pin, or Bookmark our California Coastal Trip Guide for your PCH Drive!

 

Day 1: Drive the California Coastal Region – San Francisco to Monterey

Fog covers Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

  • Destinations: San Francisco, Pacifica to Monterey Bay via Highway 1.
  • Route: Pick up your rental car at the San Francisco International Airport (or Bay Area Airport of your arrival). Start your drive from SF to LA via Pacific Coast Highway. Hop on Route 1 at Pacifica and drive south to Monterey.
  • Distance from San Francisco to Monterey Bay: 120 miles.
  • San Francisco to Monterey Bay Driving Time: 2 hours 30 minutes.

The San Francisco to Monterey Pacific Coast Highway route features a beautiful beaches, parks and hiking trails.

 

Pacifica, California 

Pacifica is an excellent place start to your San Francisco coastal drive. Especially if you are renting a car from the San Francisco Airport, as Pacifica is directly west of SFO.

Shortly after starting your southbound California Coast drive, stop at Devil’s Slide Trail. This 1.3-mile section of Old Route 1 that has been converted into a pedestrian path and features stunning ocean views. 

 

Seafood Lunch

Eat lunch at Moss Beach Distillery, which has an outdoor patio that overlooks Seal Cove. The cliffside spot features an abundance of seafood and classic American fare.

If you are looking for something more casual, stop by Sam’s Chowder House (3 miles south on PCH). They not only serve award-winning clam chowder and legendary lobster rolls, but there’s a great view of Half Moon Bay!

 

Half Moon Bay Trail and Beaches

Work off your lunch with a stroll on the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail (you can also rent bikes). Alternatively, just put your feet in the sand and walk along the string of beaches along the bay.

 

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

If you’re ready to make a detour on your San Francisco to LA road trip, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a super sight off the Pacific Coast. Just keep in mind that it will take up a big portion of the day unless you head there directly from SF.

Big Basin Redwoods was designed as a state park in 1902. The area features hiking trails, waterfalls and the famous Coast Redwood Trees. They can live for more than a thousand years and are among the tallest trees in the world.

 

Santa Cruz

If time allows in your Highway 1 San Francisco to Los Angeles trip, stop in Santa Cruz to walk the wharf and boardwalk. With ample time, consider making the 6-mile roundtrip walk on West Cliff Drive to the Natural Bridges State Beach Vista Point. 

 

Monterey

The first overnight stop on our Pacific Coast Highway trip planner is Monterey. With heaps of attractions, history and natural beauty, Monterey is one of the best California coastal cities to visit!

Check out the fascinating Jellyfish Exhibit at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, walk from historic Cannery Row to Fisherman’s Wharf and stand on the shore to spot Sea Otters and Sea Lions.

 

Where To Eat and Drink in Monterey Bay

There’s so many to choose from! We started with sipping locally produced wine at the waterfront A Taste of Monterey. Then indulged in casual and cozy pub fare and craft beers at Peter B’s Brewpub.

 

Where To Stay in Monterey Bay

We stayed at the Portola Hotel and Spa – and we highly recommend it to fellow travelers! Centrally located, the fashionable hotel offers excellent amenities and has an on-site spa. Check availability!

California Coast Drive by JetSettingFools.com


 

Day 2: Big Sur Drive – Monterey to Morro Bay

View of Bixby Bridge, Big Sur, California, PCH, Highway 1, USA

  • Destinations: Monterey, Big Sur and Morro Bay.
  • Route: Pacific Coast Highway South.
  • Distance from Monterey to Morro Bay: 123 miles.
  • Monterey to Morro Bay Driving Time: 3 hours.

On the second day of your SFO to Los Angeles drive, embark on the HWY 1 Route to Big Sur. The distance from Monterey to Morro Bay is about 125 miles and passes through some of the most gorgeous sections of the coastal drive in California.

Leaving Monterey via the 17-Mile Drive (rather than California Route 1), travel through Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then follow SR 1 through the incredible beauty of Big Sur and on to Morro Bay.

 

California 17-Mile Drive

The scenic 17-Mile Drive hugs the coastline of California through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. Sights of along this section of California Coast include the Point Pinos Lighthouse, Bird Rock Vista Point, the Lone Cypress tree (a Pebble Beach icon), Pescadero Point and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course.

 

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Rated as one of the best state parks in California, Point Lobos is well-worth a stop. If you are feeling ambitious, complete the 6.7-mile Point Lobos Loop Trail. Otherwise, just take in the magnificent views by making short jaunts from a few of the parking lots.

 

Drive to Big Sur

Driving Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway is an absolute highlight of any California road trip! The Big Sur drive features rugged coastline to the west and the Santa Lucia Mountains to the east. Beyond taking in the stunning scenic landscapes, we recommend seeking out a few must-see Big Sur sights.

Some of the best places to see in Big Sur are Rocky Creek Bridge, Bixby Bridge, Point Sur Lighthouse, Nepenthe restaurant, McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Big Creek Bridge.

 

Lunch in Big Sur

As one of the best places to visit in Big Sur, Nepenthe is a perfect spot for lunch. Enjoy their Famous Ambrosiaburger on the outdoor patio of the cliff-topping restaurant. The sweeping views are as satisfying as the food!

 

Big Sur to Morro Bay

Continue the Big Sur scenic drive south on California Pacific Coast Highway. After crossing Big Creek Bridge, consider stopping at Limekiln State Park to explore the waterfalls on one (or more) of the three short trails. 

 

Elephant Seal Vista Point

A fun (and sometimes smelly) stop on a PCH road trip is at the Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon. A shoreline boardwalk offers fantastic views of the mammoth Elephant Seals as they dwell in their natural habitat. Plus, volunteers are on hand to answer questions.

 

Hearst Castle on the Road from San Francisco to Los Angeles

A landmark sight between Big Sur and Morro Bay is the Hearst Castle in San Simeon. It is one of the top places to stop between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

While most include the extraordinary castle as a stop on their California coastal route, we skipped it for more hiking. Deciding if visiting Hearst Castle is worth it is entirely up to you.

 

Morro Bay, California

Quaint, peaceful and an Underrated US Destination, Morro Bay is an ideal place to relax after two full days on the scenic California coastal drive. For us, it proved to be one of the best places to stay between San Francisco and Los Angeles to recharge.

The Central California seaside town is incredibly laid back and defined by the massive Morro Rock. The volcanic 581-foot-tall monolith is preserved as a California Historical Landmark. It is also home to numerous bird species, as well as sea lions, otters, seals and other wildlife.

Besides Morro Rock, the town has a charming city center comprised of cozy restaurants, cafes, inns and shops. Morro Bay State Park sits to the south, while The Stacks – three chimneys formerly part of a power plant – mark the north end.

 

Where To Eat in Morro Bay

The pleasant town has numerous waterfront eateries, all of which feature a fresh seafood menu. However, we recommend dining at Dorn’s Breakers Cafe. It’s been a local institution since 1942 and offers fine views of the bay and Morro Rock from the elevated patio.

 

Where To Stay in Morro Bay

We struggled somewhat to find a hotel in Morro Bay. Desiring to be on the water in the center of town at an affordable price (not asking too much, right?!), we chose to stay at the Bayfront Inn.

While the property doesn’t necessarily dazzle guests, the staff were friendly and the rooms clean and comfortable. We would definitely stay at the Bayfront Inn again. Check rates!

San Francisco to Los Angeles Coastal Drive by JetSettingFools.com


 

Day 3: Drive from Morro Bay to Santa Barbara

Morro Rock, Morro Bay, California, PCH, Highway 1, USA

  • Destinations: Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara.
  • Route: CA SR 1 South.
  • Distance from Morro Bay to Santa Barbara: 126 miles.
  • Morro Bay to Santa Barbara Driving Time: 2 hours 20 minutes.

Continuing south from Morro Bay, the landscape shifts from dramatic seaside cliffs to vine-covered rolling hills. State Route 1 – called Cabrillo Highway in this section – deviates inland and merges at different points with Highway 101 as it wiggles its way south. The road eventually turns back to the shoreline as you approach Santa Barbara.

 

San Luis Obispo

Get a jump on the third day of your California Coast trip itinerary and leave Morro Bay early for San Luis Obispo – or just SLO, for short.

Stop at the iconic Madonna Inn for breakfast in the over-the-top Copper Cafe. Then duck into the historic town center to visit the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, get a glimpse of Fremont Theater and leave your mark on Bubblegum Alley.

From SLO, it’s a short drive on Route 1 to Pismo Beach, where you can walk out on the pier or visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove (best from autumn to mid-winter).

Alternatively, take Route 227 south from San Luis Obispo for a beautiful drive through the vineyards of Edna Valley. For more wineries, consider detouring to nearby Santa Maria Valley wine country.

 

Solvang, California

Dubbed the “Little Denmark in California,” Solvang in the Santa Ynez Valley was established by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. Today, it is an interesting place to include on your Pacific Coast Highway drive itinerary.

The town features European-style architecture, replicas of Copenhagen landmark sights and an array of bakeries and restaurants serving Danish treats. In addition to the strong ties to the city’s founders, Solvang is home to numerous tasting rooms from local Cali wine producers.

 

Santa Barbara: One of our Favorite Coastal California Towns

Continue your California coastline drive to one of the best cities on the Pacific Coast: Santa Barbara.

Stylish and chic, Santa Barbara is brimming with a multitude of tourist attractions, delectable eateries and breezy wine bars. Also featuring an abundance of nature, history, art and gastronomy, Santa Barbara just might be the best California coastal town. It even makes our list of the Super US Weekend Destinations

Top things to do in Santa Barbara include visiting the Old Mission, stepping inside the opulent Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and viewing exhibits at the SB Museum of Art.

Additionally, shopping at Paseo Nuevo, going to the Botanic Gardens and exploring the many hiking trails are all excellent Santa Barbara activities.

To be perfectly honest, what we love most about Santa Barbara is the fun beach atmosphere and fabulous places to wine and dine!

 

Where To Eat and Drink in Santa Barbara

After getting settled in, take a stroll on West Beach and out on Stearns Wharf. Start your walk up State Street, but detour into the Funk Zone for an afternoon wine tasting. Oreana had always been one of our favorites, but the space in now occupied by Pali Wine Co.

If you can tear yourself away from the fun vibes of the Funk Zone, continue your walk up State Street and pick a place to eat dinner. We suggest indulging in classic Southern California Mexican cuisine at Carlitos Cafe y Cantina or go old school American and Joe’s Cafe.

 

Where To Stay in Santa Barbara

We have stayed in many hotels in Santa Barbara, but our top pick is the Milo. With a prominent location right on the waterfront at West Beach and just minutes from Stearns Wharf and the Funk Zone, the boutique property has a heated pool and stylishly decorated rooms. Check availability!

California Coastal Drive Trip Planner by JetSettingFools.com


 

Day 4: Los Angeles Coastal Drive from Santa Barbara

View from Point Dume, Malibu, California, USA

  • Destinations: Santa Barbara, Malibu and LA.
  • Route: CA SR 1 South.
  • Distance from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles: 100 miles.
  • Santa Barbara to Los Angeles Driving Time: 2 hours.

On the final morning of your San Francisco coastal drive to Los Angeles, spend some time enjoying just a bit more of Santa Barbara.

Before leaving, eat a classic California breakfast at Chad’s Cafe. Then work it off with a morning bike ride along the Cabrillo Bike Path that extends all the way to Butterfly Beach.

Next, start the final leg of your California coastal drive to Los Angeles. Work up your appetite on the hour-long drive to Malibu – because Neptune’s Net is a must-see stop on the PCH!

 

Malibu

Home to movie stars and millionaires, Malibu is a posh seaside town that seems to embody the iconic California lifestyle.

For lunch, eat at the landmark Neptune’s Net seafood diner. Established in the 1950s, it has been featured in many films and television shows. Just a bit further down the road, Point Dume Lookout is worth a stop for another elevated view of the coastline from the rocky bluff.

Top Tip: Be sure to plan your visit using our Best Things To Do in Malibu article!

 

Santa Monica

As you roll through Santa Monica, you may be tempted to visit the famous pier. In addition to the giant Ferris wheel and other amusement rides at Pacific Park, there is an aquarium and a few classic eateries. Just to the south is the original Muscle Beach, which was designed in the 1930s.

Fun Fact: The Santa Monica Pier marks the western end of Route 66, which begins in Chicago, Illinois, and is another epic American road trip!

 

Complete Your California Coastal Drive at LAX

From Santa Monica, the Pacific Coast Highway turns inland, passing through Venice Beach (but not on the shore) and leads straight to LAX Airport. You may want to drop off your car rental to avoid outrageous fees for parking at most hotels. Then use Uber to get to your accommodations.

 

Where To Stay in Los Angeles

Choosing where to stay in LA is quite the conundrum. There are thousands of LA hotels – and the city is massive. Because of LAX’s close proximity to the beach, we have often opted for an LA airport hotel for the convenience.

The Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel is one of our top picks if you decide to stay near LAX. The sleek (in a 1980’s way) property offers spacious rooms, comfortable beds, a pool and free airport transport. Check rates!

That said, we love the local vibes at Manhattan Beach and believe it’s a spectacular place to stay – especially if you plan on visiting LA for a few days. There are a few places right on SR 1 – like Best Western Plus and Wave Hotel – which are just a short walk to the beach, but the chic boutique Shade is an absolute gem!

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California Coastal Map: San Francisco to Los Angeles

Use this Google Map to follow our route on California Highway 1. Our San Francisco to Los Angeles Map is interactive and has all the recommended stops along Pacific Coast Highway.

California Coastal Drive MAP from San Francisco to Los Angeles on PCH by JetSettingFools.com

 

Check Current State Route 1 Road Conditions

It is essential to check driving conditions (including SR 1 road work and HWY 1 road closures) online prior to your trip. We suggest using the official Caltrans site to get the most current PCH road conditions. 


 

Alternate California Coastal Drives

Driving amongst the Redwoods on Howland Hill Rd, Crescent City, California

We outlined what we believe is the absolute best itinerary for a California coastal drive. However, it’s far from the only route to take.

In fact, there are numerous different ways to create itineraries for coastal drives in California. Factors to consider are your allotted time, budget and interests. We are highlighting a few other popular ways to drive the Pacific Coast Highway.

 

San Francisco to Big Sur

For a looping out-and-back California coastal road trip that returns to the Bay Area, consider driving from San Francisco to Big Sur. The San Francisco to Big Sur distance is only about 150 miles.

Those interested in creating an SF to Big Sur California Coastal Drive Itinerary can simply use our route for Days 1 and 2, then return to SFO on Day 3.

 

San Francisco to Santa Barbara

Travelers who are limited to a 3-Day Pacific Coast Highway road trip can eliminate the last segment to LA. In our opinion, the most beautiful part is from San Francisco to Santa Barbara via Pacific Coast Highway. Conveniently, Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) has recently added many direct flights.

 

San Francisco to San Diego

Driving from San Francisco to San Diego on PCH is a phenomenal way to see the California coastline. 

It is relatively easy to create a California Coast Drive Itinerary from San Francisco to San Diego on the Pacific Coast Highway. In fact, you only need to add one more day to your Cali Coast trip plan.

After staying 1 night in Los Angeles, hop on the Pacific Coast Highway from LA to San Diego. The distance from LA to SD is about 130 miles and could take 3 to 4 hours (but be prepared for traffic).

Note: PCH ends at San Clemente and you will then join Interstate 5. You can return to the coast at Carlsbad and follow Highway 101 all the way to La Jolla.

Check out our Weekend in San Diego Itinerary!

 

Northern California Coast Drive

The Pacific Coast Highway north of San Francisco is drastically different from Central California. Characterized by epic scenery, Redwood forests and secluded beaches, a Northern California Coast road trip offers a more rustic experience (but don’t expect to be the only one there).

Top sights to see on a North California road trip itinerary are Point Reyes National Seashore, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg and the Redwood National Park. 

Travelers can even extend their trip up to Crescent City – and then continue driving up the Oregon Coast.

Read about our Oregon Coastal Road Trip Itinerary!


 

What You Need For a Road Trip on the California Coast

California Surfer on a beach in Malibu

Before you set off on your California Coast scenic drive, we have a few final tips and packing hacks for your Cali road trip!

 

Weather Appropriate Clothing 

As we already discussed, the coastal climate varies from north to south – and from season to season. It is best to be prepared with clothing that can be layered.

A warm jacket may be required in the north, while you will want to back your swimsuit for Southern California.

A wide-brimmed hat, sufficient sunscreen, a lightweight raincoat and umbrella are also suggested when traveling from San Francisco to LA via Highway 1.

 

Versatile Shoes 

Short hikes and city exploration are sprinkled throughout our California Coast drive trip. We recommend bringing a few different pairs of travel shoes to ensure you have the proper footwear.

For the cities and towns, I prefer walking shoes – like these by New Balance or Columbia. Kris wears Merrell trail shoes and believes they are ideal for this coastal trip. Flip flops are great for the beaches and you may want hiking boots if your PCH trip planner includes some treks.

Find it all and more on our Ultimate Packing List!

 

Binoculars 

The scenery on a West Coast California drive is nothing short of spectacular! With a good pair of binoculars, you will be able to scan the water for whales and clearly appreciate the surrounding nature.

 

Camera with Zoom Lens

If you’re anything like us, you’ll be snapping a ton of pictures on your California Pacific Coast Highway trip!

We strongly suggest upgrading to an actual travel camera for this adventure. We carry a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. This setup can be purchased with an array of accessories, which makes it great value for beginner photographers, too!

 

Start planning your trip to the US! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

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