THE ULTIMATE HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the iconic California Highway 1, a scenic route renowned for its breathtaking coastal vistas, charming towns, and diverse attractions. This quintessential California road trip promises adventure, relaxation, and a taste of California's laid-back lifestyle.
Picture yourself cruising along winding roads hugged by rugged cliffs, with the Pacific Ocean stretching out endlessly beside you. This is the allure of the California Highway 1 road trip, where every turn reveals a new postcard-perfect view. Start your adventure in vibrant San Francisco, where you can explore iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge before hitting the road southward. As you venture along the coast, be sure to stop at quaint seaside towns like Capitola, Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and stroll along picturesque beaches.
No California Highway 1 road trip is complete without a visit to the stunning Big Sur coastline. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs plunging into the ocean below, and don't miss the chance to hike through ancient redwood forests in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Further south, the charming town of Cambria awaits, offering a taste of small-town charm and the chance to spot elephant seals lounging on nearby beaches.
Continue your journey to the enchanting city of Santa Barbara, where Spanish architecture blends seamlessly with California cool. Spend your days exploring historic landmarks, sampling local wines in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, or simply relaxing on the sun-drenched beaches. Finally, conclude your Highway 1 adventure in the glamorous city of Los Angeles, where you can soak up the sun on iconic beaches like Malibu or explore the vibrant cultural scene in neighborhoods like Hollywood and Venice Beach.
Below is a day-by-day sample itinerary to help you plan your California getaway. If you’d like a more detailed itinerary, we can curate a California road trip that is personalized to your travel schedule, budget and interests.
Day One—San Francisco to Monterey
Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at Tartine Manufactory before hitting the road for a 120-mile drive to Monterey. Along the way, indulge in a seafood lunch at Sam’s Chowder House in Half Moon Bay, renowned for its Lobster Roll. Don't miss the chance to ride the swing at the abandoned Davenport Pier and explore the candy-colored beach town of Capitola. Arrive in Monterey and check into Monterey Tides for a beachfront stay, then enjoy a seaside dinner at The Fish Hopper on Cannery Row.
Day Two—Monterey to Cambria:
Kick off your day with a beach walk before heading to Carmel-by-the-Sea for breakfast at Katy’s Place. Then, journey south to Big Sur, stopping at iconic spots like Bixby Bridge and Nepenthe for lunch with stunning coastal views. Continue to Cambria, making sure to see the elephant seals at the San Simeon rookery before checking into White Water just in time to catch a sunset at Moonstone Beach.
Day Three—Cambria to Santa Barbara:
Enjoy a continental breakfast before detouring to Paso Robles for wine tasting. Head to San Luis Obispo for lunch at the famously eclectic Madonna Inn and then make your way down the Highway 101, through the stunning Santa Ynez Valley to Santa Barbara's Funk Zone for more wine tasting at the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. Check into the Mediterranean-inspired Palihouse Santa Barbara or the artful Riviera Beach House and dine at Gala Restaurant, a local haunt with Southern European dining.
Day Four—Santa Barbara to Malibu:
Start your day at Helena Avenue Bakery, Santa Barbara’s best scratch bakery, then get an early start toward Malibu via Highway 101 and Highway 1. Stop at Leo Carillo State Beach or El Matador for beach time before checking into The Surfrider Malibu, a 20-room Californian Beach House located on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, across the street from the world-famous Surfrider beach. Enjoy brunch as you relish in the ocean breezes at Malibu Farm before crossing the street to shop the colorful sweatshirts at Aviator Nation. Relax with a nap in your hammock overlooking the beach before ending the day with Happy Hour at Carbon Beach Club or Little Beach House Malibu (if you are Soho House member).
Day Five—Malibu to Los Angeles:
Savor your last morning in Malibu with one of LA’s best breakfast burritos at Lily’s in Point Dume. Explore a local hiking trail like Escondido Falls or Malibu Creek State Park before heading back to Los Angeles.
Embarking on a California Highway 1 road trip is an experience like no other, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back vibes. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first road trip, the allure of Highway 1 is sure to captivate you from start to finish. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime along one of the most scenic drives in the world.
This itinerary is just a highlight of all the incredible places to discover along California’s Highway 1. If you would like to learn more or have your own detailed itinerary created, reach out and let one of our California travel specialists design a quintessential California road trip tailored to you!
