America's Most Iconic Coastal Drive
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) — officially California State Route 1 — stretches along the California coastline and ranks among the world's most celebrated road trips. With dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, charming beach towns, and world-class scenery at almost every turn, it's a route that rewards slow, deliberate travel.
Route Overview
The full PCH runs approximately 650 miles from Dana Point in the south to Leggett in the north, where it joins Highway 101. Most travelers drive it in segments or focus on the most scenic central stretch — roughly from Los Angeles to San Francisco — a journey of around 400 miles.
Suggested Itinerary: 7 Days LA to San Francisco
| Day | Segment | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | LA to Malibu / Oxnard | Santa Monica Pier, Malibu beaches, Point Mugu |
| Day 2 | Oxnard to Santa Barbara | Channel Islands view, Stearns Wharf |
| Day 3 | Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo | Gaviota State Park, Pismo Beach |
| Day 4 | San Luis Obispo to Big Sur | Morro Rock, Ragged Point, Bixby Creek Bridge |
| Day 5 | Big Sur to Monterey | McWay Falls, Point Lobos, Carmel-by-the-Sea |
| Day 6 | Monterey to Half Moon Bay | 17-Mile Drive, Santa Cruz Boardwalk |
| Day 7 | Half Moon Bay to San Francisco | Pacifica, Ocean Beach, Golden Gate Park |
Northbound vs. Southbound: Which Direction is Better?
This is a perennial debate among PCH travelers. Driving northbound (south to north) puts you on the ocean side of the road for much of the journey, giving passengers and drivers easier ocean views. Southbound driving is sometimes preferred for the pull-out convenience of stopping on the inland shoulder. Either direction is spectacular — choose based on your starting city.
Essential Route Planning Tips
- Check road conditions before you go. Big Sur in particular is prone to landslides and closures — always verify via Caltrans before departure.
- Book accommodations in advance. Lodging in Big Sur, Carmel, and Santa Barbara fills up quickly in summer.
- Allow extra time. The posted speed limits rarely reflect actual driving pace — curves, scenic pull-outs, and fellow sightseers slow everything down pleasantly.
- Fuel up in towns. Gas stations are sparse through Big Sur and other rural stretches.
- Download offline maps. Cell coverage drops in many coastal canyons.
Best Time to Drive the PCH
April through October offers the most reliable weather, though summer weekends bring heavy traffic. Spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) are ideal — mild weather, fewer crowds, and wildflowers in bloom along the hillsides.
Winter driving is possible but carry extra caution: fog, rain, and occasional road closures make conditions more challenging.
Must-Have Navigation Tools for This Route
- Download the Google Maps or Apple Maps route offline before departure
- Pick up a physical California road atlas as a backup
- Use the Roadtrippers app to discover hidden gems along the route
- Check the Caltrans QuickMap app for live traffic and road closure updates
The Pacific Coast Highway is not a drive you rush. Give it the time it deserves, and it will reward you with memories that last a lifetime.