Imagine a highway where every twist and turn reveals a whole new world. That’s the magic of the Pacific Coast Highway. Running alongside the Pacific Ocean from Mendocino County in Northern California to Orange County in Southern California, the PCH demonstrates just how dynamic California is. From eclectic, artsy towns to classic fisherman’s villages and energetic surf spots, the PCH is packed with ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure. We’re providing you with our 18 must-visit locations, each with multiple detailed recommendations for an iconic coastal highway road trip on the PCH.
Planning a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
If we had to choose one word to capture the experience of driving the coast of California, it would be ease. You’ll never struggle to find landmarks and coastal treasures, and you’re never far from access to services. However, you’ll still need to do some planning to get the most out of your Pacific Coast road trip. Here are some things to consider before hitting the open road.
Best Time to Go
While the coast offers a distinct charm year-round, fall is, in our opinion, the most ideal time to go. Schools are back in session, so you can skip the crowds while enjoying the last of the summer weather. Days will be warm and sunny, and nights will show just a hint of the fall chill that’s to come — but you still shouldn’t need more than a light jacket. Plus, summer prices will have cooled down, too.
Packing List
While you won’t need to load down your vehicle with luggage, don’t expect to pack like a backpacker, either. The diversity of the California coast requires a varied wardrobe and some key gear. Below is a preliminary packing list:
- Beach gear: You’ll want to enjoy the many beaches on this trip. Pack a swimsuit (or two), towels, beach chairs and maybe some buckets for building sand castles.
- Hiking gear: On this trip, you will have as many opportunities to scale mountains as you will to swim in the ocean. Bring good walking shoes, sunscreen, workout clothes, and a hiking backpack for essentials like snacks, water, and sunglasses.
- A California state map: It can be fun to get a big-picture look at what you’ve covered, what’s to come and what other destinations are nearby. A CA state map helps you see more areas than a phone screen can.
- Layers: On a coastal highway road trip spanning days and nights between Northern and Southern California, temperatures might range from 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. When packing, think layers: tank tops, long-sleeve shirts, a hoodie, a water-proof jacket, and maybe a fleece.
- Binoculars. There will be plenty of opportunities to view wildlife from a safe distance. So pack binoculars for a closer look.
- Dressy-casual attire. California coast fashion is famously laid-back. However, if you plan on visiting some of the dinner restaurants on our list, you might still want some dressy-casual clothes.
Starting Point and Days of Travel
We recommend starting your trip in Northern California. This puts you in the lane closest to the sea, so you can enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean the entire way.
Consider putting aside at least six days to explore the Pacific Coast Highway. That will give you two days to enjoy each section — Northern California, the Central Coast and Southern California.
With your suitcase packed and your car fueled up, it’s time to explore the shores of the Pacific. A Highway 1 road tripis calling your name — answer the call.
The 18 Best Places to Go on a California Coast Road Trip
Whether you’re after natural beauty, small-town charm, rugged landscapes or sandy beaches, you’ll find it all on the Pacific Coast Highway. Below is a California coastal highway itinerarythat will let you soak up the beauty and thrills of the PCH. But leave a little room in your days for spontaneity because our list only scratches the surface of all that the CA coast has to offer.
1. Marvel at Mother Nature in Redwood National and State Parks
Start your trip where the massive redwood trees towering over you will have you pondering your place on this planet. Don’t skip the Avenue of the Giants, a 31-mile stretch of road that runs parallel to the 101 through southern Humboldt County. Here, you’ll find the biggest redwoods in the world. With tree trunks you can drive through and houses carved out of trees, Avenue of the Giants is straight out of a storybook.
Drive where (Hollywood) dinosaurs have roamed in Fern Canyon — the filming location for “The Lost World: Jurassic Park.” The glistening canyon walls serve as the habitat for ferns and other moisture-reliant plants, and the result is a natural structure that looks like a collaboration between Mother Nature and mankind.
Seek solitude at Gold Bluffs Beach, a remote beach and campground that’s only accessible via a narrow dirt road. Visitors are often lucky enough to spot elk grazing here (though keep your distance as they scare easily). If you’d like to spend extra time in the Redwoods, our Redwood to San Francisco road trip guide includes even more lookout points and must-see corners of the parks.
Continue onward and reemerge into society in Mendocino County. Drive time: 4 hours
2. Contemplate Conservation in Mendocino County
Mendocino County is known for its natural beauty and many wildlife sanctuaries. The locals take great pride in preserving the slices of natural heaven you can find here. Experience several protected ecosystems at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Developed by the California Coastal Conservancy, the gardens provide a home for many native flora and fauna species across their 74 acres of wetlands, pine forests and coastal bluffs.
Next, stop at Glass Beach, a famous area that’s pretty at first sight, but complicated once you get to know it. Glass Beach used to be a dumping ground for Fort Bragg. It gets its name from the millions of pieces of tiny, colorful glass that has washed up here from the waste. The waves and ocean water have smoothed out these glass shards into round, pebble-like pieces that now adorn the shores, offering a reminder to how our habits impact the planet.
Finally, make spotted friends at the B. Bryan Preserve. Opened by conservationists, it’s dedicated to the preservation of African hoofstock, including antelope and giraffes. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto the African Savannah as you tour the grounds and even get the chance to feed these majestic animals.
Next, leave sky-high animals and trees for sky-high buildings in San Francisco. Drive time: 3 hours, 30 minutes
3. Take in the City Lights and Sights of San Francisco
You’re headed into “The Paris of the West” for culture, cuisine and city life. In true big-city fashion, each of San Francisco’s vibrant neighborhoods transports you into a different corner of the world. Head to North Beach for a taste of Italy in California. Properly called “Little Italy,” this part of SF is bustling with cute cafes and restaurants. Stroll through Washington Park, where you can watch elderly men playing bocce ball for a trip back in time. Don’t miss City Lights bookstore, which served as a hotspot for anti-conformity and self-expression in the 1950s and 1960s.
Craving a little more action? Head to the Castro, one of the most famous LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods in the world. Visit the Rainbow Honor Walk in Harvey Milk Plaza, where public art installations honor influential LGBTQ+ pioneers throughout history. And don’t miss the opportunity to dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs here.
Next, you’re off to the heart of Spanish influence in San Francisco: the Mission. It has a large Latino population and, as such, contains some of the best Mexican food in the city. In fact, it’s the birthplace of the Mission burrito, which is generally a tortilla filled with meat, cheese, beans, salsa, and hot sauce. It’s the perfect hand-held lunch for when you check out Mission Dolores, the oldest building in San Francisco and the last intact mission chapel in the state. By the way, if you're a foodie, check out our San Francisco to Big Sur road trip guide with a focus on culinary adventures for more Northern California restaurant recommendations.
You can’t visit SF without a stop at Golden Gate Park. With its huge lawns ideal for picnics, multiple museums, and beautiful gardens, all with a view of the famous Golden Gate Bridge, the park is possibly one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
It’s time to unwind in Half Moon Bay. Drive time: 45 minutes
4. Dive into Oceanside Charm at Half Moon Bay
If you wanted a classic cozy ocean village to appear on this itinerary, here it is — Half Moon Bay. Begin your visit by heading to Surfer’s Beach, where you can watch experienced boarders ride the epic waves. Work up an appetite watching all those water sports and then pull up a seat at Sam’s Chowder House to enjoy a cup of clam chowder or a lobster roll. Named one of the “100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America,” Sam’s Chowder House overlooks the Pacific Ocean and serves up fresh, sustainably sourced seafood.
Once you’ve filled your stomachs, empty your wallets supporting local businesses on the historic Main Street. With over 100 locally owned businesses, including art galleries, boutiques, maritime-themed gift shops and bookstores, Main Street can keep you busy for a full afternoon of shopping.
Go from handmade treasures to ocean-dwelling ones at Seal Cove Beach. The beach is one of the best places to spot tide pools. These rocky saltwater pools show up at low tide and contain entire ecosystems within them. See tons of marine life species you’d otherwise only see at aquariums.
Next, you’ll leave ocean worlds for other-worldly mystique in Felton and Santa Cruz. Drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
5. Appreciate the Artistic Vibes in Felton and Santa Cruz
It’s hard not to connect with your inner child in the eclectic streets of Felton and Santa Cruz. Begin your journey by passing through the Felton Covered Bridge. Built in 1892, this covered bridge reaches over the San Lorenzo River and once served as the only wagon route for freight transport between San Lorenzo Valley and…anywhere else. Today, this is a pedestrian-only bridge, but it makes a photogenic stop before heading into Santa Cruz.
Don’t depart Felton without stopping at the Bigfoot Discovery Museum. At first glance, this museum looks like a regular log cabin, but inside, you’ll find an astounding collection of artifacts pertaining to Bigfoot sightings. Oddities and “evidence,” such as Bigfoot teeth and footprints, line the shelves.
Then, head into Santa Cruz, which is known for its surfer/hippy culture. Stroll the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, where you can enjoy rides that swing and pivot right over the ocean. Indulge in classic boardwalk treats like churros and funnel cakes (best enjoyed after riding the rollercoaster). Once you’ve had your fill of the boardwalk, drive over to the Mystery Spot. This attraction lives up to its name and is a gravitational anomaly that will set the scene for confusing and amusing photos, thanks to its location on a tilted hill.
The trippy vibes extend to nature here too, at Natural Bridges State Beach, which gets its name from a sandstone cliff that stands on its shores. Over time, waves have crashed into the cliff at just the right angle to create arches that nearly look manmade, creating the illusion of a bridge.
Move from peculiar oddities to spectacular views next, in Monterey and Carmel. Drive time: 1 hour
6. View Rare Sea Life and Fine Art in Monterey/Carmel
The stunning seaside cities of Monterey and Carmel are less than five miles apart, so book a stay in either place (Monterey being the more affordable option) and launch from there to visit both destinations. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is probably the most famous attraction in Monterey. View its massive kelp forest from an underwater viewing platform encircled by glass panels that make you feel like you’re at the bottom of the ocean. Don’t miss the Into the Deep exhibit, where you can spot deep-sea animals.
Next, head to Old Fisherman’s Wharf for a bite to eat. Once an active wholesale fish market, the wharf now serves as a major dining out and shopping area. When you’re ready to head to Carmel, we recommend paying the small admission fee to take the world-famous 17-Mile Drive. It winds through the affluent gated community of Pebble Beach, where you can check out mansions and internationally renowned golf courses. Some say the 17-Mile Drive in Monterey is the prettiest part of the Pacific Coast Highway.
Once you exit, you’ll be in the fairytale city of Carmel. This European-style hamlet is only one square mile in size. But within it, you can stroll well-maintained cobblestone streets while popping in and out of the dozens of art galleries. At the end of your day, enjoy a meal at Cantinetta Luca— a local favorite. Most items on the menu feature imported Italian and/or locally sourced ingredients.
Trade rows of shops for rows of trees next; you’re off to Big Sur. Drive time: 1 hour
7. Explore the Central Coast’s Rugged Side in Big Sur
Central California has its own towering redwoods and enchanting forests — and you’ll find them at Big Sur. This striking stretch of coast connecting Carmel and San Simeon combines dramatic landscapes with even more dramatic coastal views. Big Sur contains several state parks where you can camp and hike, including Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. With numerous marked trails taking you past coves and waterfalls and — of course — through redwood forests, this park is a nature lover’s dream come true.
Don’t forget to stop by Bixby Bridge, a popular place for a photo op. This 260-foot concrete bridge crosses a canyon forged by the creek of the same name. After getting your photo at the bridge, visit a turn-of-the-century lighthouse at Andrew Molera State Park. Point Sur Lighthouse has helped mariners find their way back to shore since 1889 and is open to the public for docent-led tours. If you’re seeking some quiet time and sand, head to Sand Dollar Beach. Its crescent-shaped shore protects it from strong winds and waves, creating a serene place to swim or sunbathe.
Next, you’re off to wine country in Paso Robles. Drive time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
8. Fill Your Literal and Figurative Cup in Paso Robles
It’s time to unwind in wine country. A California paper road map will show that Paso Robles is a short trip inland off the PCH. However, it’s well worth the detour. The Paso Robles Old Town is home to dozens of boutiques, many featuring items made by local artisans. If you’re looking for a grub spot that will appeal to various palates, head to the Paso Market Walk. This open-air market features tons of food vendors, offering everything from ramen to fish tacos to satisfy different culinary cravings.
Wine is the star here, and there are plenty of places to enjoy a tasting. But if it’s 360-degree views of the full wine country you’re after, head to Daou. Once the wine has you feeling giddy and good, catch different views at a light show. The Light at Sensorio consists of immersive light installations sprawled out amongst easy walking paths, complete with cocktails.
Ready to admire architectural beauty and a natural miracle? You’re off to San Simeon. Drive time: 50 minutes
9. Roam a Castle and Admire Seals in San Simeon
Just a short drive south of Paso Robles is San Simeon, home to the breathtaking Hearst Castle. The castle belonged to publishing and media entrepreneur William Randolph Hearst, who worked with architect Julia Morgan for over 28 years, constructing a property to mirror the royal properties he’d seen in Europe. The result is an estate that sits on 127 acres, has several swimming pools, 165 rooms across its various structures and a breathtaking art and antique collection. Today, the public can tour the property and get a glimpse of Hearst’s paradise come to life.
If you’re more interested in a wildlife wonder, head to Elephant Seal Vista Point. Watch elephant seals wander, play and give birth. The seals appear year-round, but activity peaks in January, April and October. Docents from the Friends of the Elephant Seal conservation program are available during the day to answer questions.
Explore one more lighthouse at the Piedras Blancas Light Station. Built in 1875, the lighthouse was once an important navigational beacon for maritimers. Today, it’s on the National Registry of Historic Places and is designated a California Coastal National Monument. It also happens to serve as a wildlife sanctuary.
The next stop is Morro Bay, for your own National Geographic photo shoot. Drive time: 35 minutes
10. Visit an Extinct Volcano at Morro Bay
Even if you’ve never visited Morro Bay, you’ll know it when you see it. Morro Bay is home to Morro Rock, one of the most photographed natural structures in the world. This extinct volcano is the last in a line of nine volcanic peaks between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay and rises 567 feet in the air. Today, it serves as a habitat for egrets and blue herons and makes an unforgettable stop for photography lovers.
Ready to head indoors? On a hill just above the bay, you’ll find the Museum of Natural History, which offers views of Morro Rock, the ocean, an estuary and a sandspit. The museum boasts a range of exhibits dedicated to the history and celebration of the area, including oceanography, interactive and Native American history exhibits.
Head down to the estuary next. Morro Bay Estuary sits on 2,300 acres of land between Morro Bay and Los Osos. A nearby sandspit and Morro Rock protect the area, resulting in a unique mixture of ocean water and fresh water from two nearby creeks. It’s a terrific place to view wildlife and a rare ecosystem.
Next, you’re off to the playful cities of Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo. Drive time: 30 minutes
11. Dine, Drive and Discover Beauty at Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo
Pismo Beach offers the vibrant dining and shopping scene of a big city, packed into a classic small beach town. Stroll the Pismo Beach Pier & Promenade, where you can take a classic PCH road trip photo in front of the Pismo Beach sign, watch surfers dominate the waves and see fishermen bring in their catch of the day.
Ever wanted to drive right on the sand? There’s a designated area where you can take your car along the shoreline. If you want a more thrilling excursion, rent a dune buggy and ride the famous sand dunes here. Afterward, you can visit beautiful creatures that float on wings at the Monarch Butterfly Grove.This nature preserve consists of an idyllic eucalyptus tree grove that thousands of monarch butterflies call home.
Next, visit the college town of San Luis Obispo. Home to Cal Poly University, SLO (as the locals call it) is buzzing with that collegiate energy. The downtown area is filled with tasty, affordable places to grab a bite, along with cute boutiques to shop. Want to step away from the crowds for a moment? Trek off to the Serenity Swing Hike. This 3.5-mile out-and-back, moderate hike takes you to a tree-hanging swing bench that overlooks SLO Valley.
It’s time to travel to “Denmark” and picturesque vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley. Drive time: 1 hour
12. Visit CA’s Version of Denmark and Taste Wine in Los Olivos and Solvang
The Santa Ynez Valley has several adorable towns to explore. However, if you only have time for two, go to Los Olivos and Solvang. Barely six miles apart, these spots are easy to explore on the same day. A quick look at a US Highway map will show you that, while you can stay on Highway 1 (the PCH) between SLO and the Santa Ynez Valley, this particular stretch of it won’t keep you near the ocean. So if you want to cheat and take a shortcut on the 101, this is the one time we would recommend it.
Los Olivos is all about wine tasting. The quaint downtown area spans just a few blocks and contains tasting rooms, charming boutiques and rustic restaurants where you can enjoy the perfect food-and-wine pairings with local vintages.
If the beautiful rolling hills call your name, hop in your car and drive to the many vineyards in the area, all of which offer tastings and stunning views of the valley. Looking for a unique way to see all of Los Olivos? Book a ziplining tourand fly above the rows of grapes, flower fields and grassy hills.
Make sure to set aside at least half a day for Solvang. Here, you’ll be transported into a surrogate Danish town. Founded by Danish educators in 1911, its streets are lined with authentic Danish bakeries, shops where you can find handmade Danish shoes, furniture, toys and more, plus old-world European architecture.
Ready for a laid-back, star-studded beach town? You’re off to Santa Barbara. Drive time: 50 minutes
13. Search for Celebrities in Santa Barbara
You’ve landed in Santa Barbara, the beach city that many celebrities (including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Oprah, and Rob Lowe in 2024) call home. Begin your visit in the Funk Zone, an eclectic 13-block region of old warehouses now converted into breweries, wine-tasting rooms and craft cocktail bars.
From the Funk Zone, you’re just a short walk from Cabrillo Boulevard, one of the most well-known streets in Santa Barbara. It runs alongside the Pacific Ocean, with a wide, paved path perfect for jogging, walking or riding a tandem bicycle. Want to enjoy a meal with views of the harbor? Head to the Breakwater, a historic restaurant just a stone’s throw away from where the boats dock. Enjoy classic and comforting dishes like fish tacos, burgers and breakfast plates at this neighborhood favorite operating since 1962.
Once the sun sets and you’re ready to part ways with the shoreline, head to the Granada Theater to catch a show. Open since 1946, the Granada is one of the best-known performing arts venues on the central coast. This 1,500-seat theater offers all of the opulence and glamor you could ask for, with Depression-era chandeliers and an arched ceiling.
Ready for island life off the California coast? Keep driving south to Ventura.Drive time: 45 minutes
14. Shop for Vintage in Ventura and Island Hop the Channel Islands
Ventura is where Santa Barbara locals go to shop, thanks to its abundance of thrift stores and antique shops in downtown Ventura. Once you’ve worked up an appetite hunting for vintage treasures, head to Ventura Harbor Village and enjoy a waterfront meal. Brophy Bros is a local favorite. Enjoy its extensive seafood menu with classic and modern dishes like ceviche, seafood pasta and oyster shooters.
Want to explore off the coast? Then hop on the Islands Packers cruise to the Channel Islands. The Channel Islands are an eight-island archipelago just about an hour-long boat ride from the Ventura Harbor. Enjoy true island life here, as some islands don’t even allow cars, and those that do have very few. Hop the islands where you can hike, bike, kayak, snorkel and bird watch.
The islands have their own rich history. You can tour the remains of ancient Native American villages, as well as now-defunct ranches and military structures. There are many hotels and campsites across the islands, so you can easily spend a few days here, exploring each one.
Next, tour a private art collection at a Roman villa and dine amongst donkeys in Malibu and Topanga. Drive time: 1 hour
15. Admire Art, History and Hippies in Malibu and Topanga
Now you’ve landed in Malibu and the Topanga Canyon region. Here, you’ll find a fascinating mix of ultra-wealthy recluses and hippy surfers mingling together to enjoy the breathtaking beachfront communities. Indulge your inner art lover at the Getty Villa. The villa was built for the sole purpose of housing the art collection of successful oilman J. Paul Getty. Here, you’ll view Roman, Greek and Etruscan antiques and works of art organized by themes such as the Stories of the Trojan War and Gods and Goddesses.
Immerse yourself in one of Malibu’s most iconic activities and stop by Zuma Beach. Known for its incredible waves, Zuma is the perfect place to watch the surfers. You might even recognize it as a frequent filming location for “Baywatch.” If watching the surfers gets you hungry and thirsty, make a short trek inland to Cornell Wine Co. and the Old Place Steakhouse. These Western-style venues share an outdoor space, where you’ll find Adirondacks, bench swings, donkeys and wild peacocks. Enjoy a glass of wine at Cornell while you wait for your table at Old Place.
It’s time to head to Santa Monica, where LA glitz and glamor meet beach living. Drive time: 30 minutes
16. Bop Along the Boardwalk and Sites in Santa Monica
Go from the hippy surfers of Malibu to the fashionable folks of a different beach in Santa Monica. The official end point of the now-defunct Route 66, the Santa Monica Pier is both historical and simply a lot of fun. Ride the Ferris wheel with views of the sandy shore on either side of the pier, enjoy food from the dozens of vendors, play games and pick up souvenirs.
Once you’re on the pier, you’re just a short walk from the Third Street Promenade, a popular pedestrian-only shopping street with a combination of national and local chain stores and restaurants, along with street performers to entertain you while you shop and dine. If you’d like to escape the tourists for a bit, head over to Main Street. This is where the locals bar-hop and enjoy a selection of delicious restaurants and bars, most complete with patios for people-watching. There’s even an eclectic local artists co-op, Ten Women Art Gallery, featuring female artists in the area if you’re eager for a spark of creativity.
Though not technically part of Santa Monica, the Venice Canals are 3.5 miles south, and definitely worth a visit once you’re in the area. Created in the early 1900s by millionaire entrepreneur Abbot Kinney, the canals are a part of Kinney’s vision for a “Venice of America.” Kinney designed them to capture the essence of Venice, Italy, and as you stroll these six canals connected by bridges and sidewalks along the water, you’ll see why (you’ll also see some stunning mansions).
Next, you’re headed to the affluent beach city of Laguna Beach. Drive time: 2 hours
17. See Where Luxury Meets Leisure in Laguna Beach
Indulge your artsy side in Laguna Beach, home to over 100 public works of art, plus just as many galleries and studios. Much of the art you’ll see draws its inspiration from the breathtaking beaches, just steps away. While visiting beaches near Los Angeles can require circling for parking for a half hour, Laguna Beach’s shores are famously accessible. You’ll usually find parking right where the asphalt meets the sand. From there, you can enjoy activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, swimming, beach volleyball, surfing and more. Main Beach is the most popular local beach and is recognizable by its big white lifeguard tower.
Hungry after a day of playing in the sun and sand? Head to The Cliff Restaurant. With outdoor seating complete with views of the ocean, this seafood-centric restaurant is the place for a summer meal al fresco. Plus, they have live music six nights a week. If you want a little more culture before you leave, go to the Laguna Art Museum, the oldest museum in the state. It houses more than 3,000 works of art depicting California or dedicated to its history.
It’s time to end your trip in sunny San Diego.Drive time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
18. Explore the Animal Kingdom in San Diego
While San Diego technically sits just beyond the PCH , a California road trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this city. If you’re an animal lover, head to the San Diego Zoo, which is world-famous for housing over 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Visit the Lost Forest, designed to mirror an authentic rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where you can see a variety of African animal species like pygmy hippos and lowland western gorillas. Stroll the botanical garden, which contains over 700,000 plants. See it all from a bird’s eye view on the Skyfari Aerial tram, which will take you on a trip over the treetops.
Naturally, you can’t visit San Diego without enjoying a California Burrito. Nearly any of the (many) great Mexican restaurants in the city will make you this filling burrito, which traditionally contains your meat of choice, pico de gallo, cheese, sour cream, guacamole and (the signature Cali ingredient) french fries.
Let Rand McNally Publishing Guide the Way On Your Next Road Trip
Are you excited to explore all that the California coast has to offer? We’re confident that a Pacific Coast Highway road trip is well worth using your vacation days. As you can see, every mile of the PCH features unique stop-offs including well-known attractions and hidden gems. With one of our paper maps or atlases on hand, you’ll be able to plan your trip, choosing spontaneous excursions, always with the big picture in mind. If you’re ready to enjoy sand, sun, cultural enrichment and thrilling outdoor adventures, all along the Pacific Ocean, then it’s time to map out your California coastal highway road trip.