If there’s one road trip that captures the soul of California, it’s the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Stretching along the rugged coastline from Southern California to Northern California, this scenic highway is more than just a road—it’s an experience of ocean views, charming towns, and unforgettable attractions.
Whether you’re starting in Los Angeles and heading north toward San Francisco, or doing the drive in reverse, the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway are what make the journey truly magical. From sandy beaches to redwood forests, here are the Pacific Coast Highway stops you can’t miss on your road trip.
1. Santa Monica Pier – Classic California Start
If you’re beginning your drive in Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Pier is the perfect first stop. This historic pier is home to an amusement park, arcade games, and plenty of oceanfront dining. Stroll along the boardwalk, grab an ice cream, and take in the sunset before officially starting your journey north.
Why stop here? It sets the tone for the rest of the Pacific Coast Highway drive, blending California fun with stunning Pacific views.
2. Malibu – Beaches and Scenic Views
A short drive from Santa Monica, Malibu is famous for its celebrity homes and pristine beaches. Zuma Beach and El Matador State Beach are among the best beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway, offering tide pools, sea caves, and picturesque cliffs.
If you have time, stop at Malibu Pier for fresh seafood or a quick coffee with a view. This stretch of PCH gives you a taste of the coastal beauty ahead.
3. Santa Barbara – The American Riviera
Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara combines Spanish architecture with laid-back California vibes. The palm-lined waterfront, the historic Mission Santa Barbara, and Stearns Wharf are highlights worth exploring.
Many road-trippers pause here for lunch or even stay overnight before continuing the journey. It’s a great stop to balance relaxation with sightseeing.
4. Pismo Beach – Classic Roadside Charm
A true gem on the California coastal drive, Pismo Beach offers wide sandy beaches, a lively pier, and a classic surf-town vibe. It’s also famous for its clam chowder—don’t leave without trying a bowl from Splash Café.
If you’re visiting in fall or winter, the Monarch Butterfly Grove near Pismo Beach is a magical detour, with thousands of butterflies clustered in the eucalyptus trees.
5. San Simeon – Hearst Castle
No list of must-see Pacific Coast Highway stops is complete without Hearst Castle. Built by publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, this opulent estate sits high above the coastline.
Touring the castle gives you a glimpse into California’s Gilded Age, complete with lavish rooms, gardens, and the famous Neptune Pool. Even if you don’t do the full tour, the ocean views from San Simeon are breathtaking.
6. Elephant Seal Vista Point
Just north of San Simeon, you’ll find one of the most surprising Pacific Coast Highway attractions—the Elephant Seal Rookery. Depending on the season, you can see hundreds (sometimes thousands) of elephant seals lounging, sparring, or caring for pups along the beach.
It’s an unforgettable wildlife encounter that doesn’t cost a thing.
7. Big Sur – The Heart of the PCH
If there’s one stretch of road that defines the Pacific Coast Highway drive, it’s Big Sur. With its dramatic cliffs, winding curves, and panoramic ocean views, this section is often called the most beautiful drive in America.
Must-See Stops in Big Sur:
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Bixby Creek Bridge – One of the most photographed bridges in the U.S., especially at sunset.
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Pfeiffer Beach – Famous for its purple sand and keyhole rock formations.
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McWay Falls – A stunning waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach.
Driving through Big Sur feels like stepping into a postcard, and you’ll want to pull over at every turnout.
8. Carmel-by-the-Sea – Storybook Charm
Just north of Big Sur, the quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a completely different vibe. Its fairytale-style cottages, boutique shops, and art galleries make it one of the most charming towns on the Pacific Coast Highway.
The town’s white-sand beach is perfect for a sunset walk, and nearby 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach offers iconic coastal scenery.
9. Monterey – Marine Life and Cannery Row
A short drive from Carmel, Monterey is another must-stop on the PCH. The world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight, showcasing sea otters, kelp forests, and massive ocean tanks.
Cannery Row, once a hub for sardine canneries, is now filled with restaurants, shops, and history. If you love wildlife, consider a whale-watching tour, as Monterey Bay is one of the best places in California for spotting whales year-round.
10. Santa Cruz – Surf Culture Meets Boardwalk Fun
Further north, Santa Cruz captures the essence of California’s surf culture. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a nostalgic amusement park right on the sand, complete with a historic wooden roller coaster.
Stop by Steamer Lane to watch surfers tackle world-class waves or grab some fish tacos before heading toward San Francisco.
11. San Francisco – Iconic Finish Line
Most Pacific Coast Highway road trips end in San Francisco, where iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz Island await. Driving across the Golden Gate at the end of your journey feels like the perfect finale to a California coastal adventure.
Tips for Driving the Pacific Coast Highway
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Time to allow: At least 3–5 days to truly enjoy the stops.
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Best direction: Many prefer driving south to north (Los Angeles to San Francisco) for easier pull-offs on the ocean side.
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Best time to go: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
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Road conditions: Parts of Big Sur can close due to landslides, so always check ahead.
FAQs About Driving the Pacific Coast Highway
1. How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
Driving without stops takes about 10–12 hours, but to enjoy the Pacific Coast Highway attractions, plan at least 3–5 days.
2. What is the most scenic part of the Pacific Coast Highway?
Most travelers agree that Big Sur is the most scenic section, with its dramatic cliffs, winding curves, and iconic bridges.
3. Can you drive the Pacific Coast Highway in one day?
Technically yes, but you’ll miss the best stops. A Pacific Coast Highway one-day trip might cover Santa Monica to Big Sur, but the magic lies in taking it slow.
4. Is it better to drive the Pacific Coast Highway north or south?
Both directions are beautiful, but driving northbound (Los Angeles to San Francisco) keeps the ocean on your left, making it easier to pull over at viewpoints.
5. What should I pack for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip?
Pack layers (coastal weather changes quickly), a camera, comfortable shoes for exploring, and snacks for the long stretches, especially through Big Sur.
Final Thoughts
The Pacific Coast Highway stops you can’t miss are what make this road trip unforgettable. From the beaches of Malibu to the cliffs of Big Sur and the charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea, every stop adds its own magic to the journey.
If you’re planning a California coastal road trip, give yourself time to explore, stop often, and soak in one of the most beautiful drives in the world.