Highway 1 isn’t the fastest route from San Francisco to Los Angeles, but it’s without a doubt the most enjoyable. The iconic journey down the Pacific Coast Highway serves as California’s veritable greatest hits with a spin through the Golden State’s legendary scenery and hot spots. There are plenty of big coastal views, quaint farm stands, and redwood groves from San Francisco to Santa Cruz and the Monterey Peninsula. Further south, enjoy the aptly named SLO county of San Luis Obispo, which offers a more relaxed vibe and a handful of under-the-radar finds. By the time you make your way down to Santa Barbara, you’ll be perfectly poised to relax on the palm tree-lined beaches from there through Santa Monica.
To make the most of your trip, there are a few potential detours to note. While Big Sur’s sky-high ocean vistas and wooded splendor are absolute highlights of the trip, frequent road closures along Highway 1 may prevent you from driving through its entirety (check highway conditions for the latest status). Also, consider popping over to Highway 101 for Paso Robles’ wine country, and again at Pismo Beach so as not to bypass the darling tiny towns of Los Alamos and Los Olivos.
Where to stop: You’ll get a good glimpse of Monterey Peninsula’s famously scenic coastline from the road, but nothing compares to the front-row views at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. In Morro Bay, comb for sand dollars at Morro Strand State Beach, an underrated gem with six miles of sandy shoreline adjoining the town’s 581-foot centerpiece, Morro Rock. Just save time to explore the stunning, over-the-top gardens of the late Ganna Walksa’s former estate at Lotusland in Santa Barbara (advance reservations required).
Where to eat: Steps from its namesake surf break in Santa Cruz, the take-away Steamer Lane Supply draws a line for fresh fish tacos, kimchi quesadillas, and freshly baked pastries. For dinner, score a table at Carmel’s Chez Noir whose glammed-out dining room hums with the energy of a buzzy dinner party. Plenty of Bell offers an excuse to pull over in Los Alamos with comfort food faves like bacon breakfast sammies and turkey Reubens. In Santa Barbara, the menu at La Paloma Cafe is a nod to early California—the oak-grilled tri-tip with horseradish cream is a must—served on a lush, palm tree-shrouded patio.
Where to stay: A giant neon “Motel” sign marks River Lodge, a reimagined mid-century property in Paso Robles with a happening, bar-equipped pool deck (heads up, it’s 21+) and exceedingly dog-friendly accommodations. Inn at Mattei’s Tavern offers cushy digs in Santa Ynez wine country hot spot, Los Olivos, while Waypoint Ventura has tricked-out vintage travel trailers that are walking distance from the beach.
Planning to only do half the drive? Consult this San Francisco to Paso Robles itinerary.
