Taking the PCH – Pacific Coast Highway is a viewfinder’s delight. Conventionally, the PCH, or Pacific Coast Highway, has always been referred to as the entire length of State Rt. 1 in California. But those who fly into the state often rent a car in either San Fran or LA and just drive the length stretching between these two cities.
There’s so much more to the PCH!
There are beaches where you’ll find solitude, mountains that hug the Pacific, and laid-back, vibey towns. While you can drive the length of the PCH in a day, you should allow yourself at least three days to appreciate it, but even more if you want to experience the Pacific Coast Highway as the journey it’s meant to be – relaxing.
If you have a month or better for your road trip, start out on US Rt. 101 in the village of Port Angeles up in Washington state. Drive down Washington and Oregon along the coast and it’ll take you right to California’s Rt. 1. You can then take Rt. 1 all the way south to San Diego and really see what the West Coast is all about.
If you’re traveling with family, you’re a young adult, or simply young at heart, you’ll want to make a pitstop at Santa Cruz. The beach’s boardwalk is decked out with dining establishments, midway rides and other attractions, and seriously endless diversions – it’s the best way to start a PCH trip.
Next, you’re on to Monterrey, where you’ll find a cool aquarium with local sea life. If you want to stop for a shopping diversion, check out Cannery Row.
Just a little outside Monterrey, you’ll come upon Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs coupled with beaches of solitude. One of the world’s tallest bridges is right here, too, the Bixby Bridge. Just in this section of the PCH alone, you’ll spend at least half the day taking pics for your Instagram account.
After Monterrey, next up is:
- San Simeon where you’ll find the Hearst Castle
- San Luis Obispo, home of university students and surfers
- Santa Barbara with traditionally styled Spanish homes and fantastic wine
- Malibu, home of the rich and famous – well, their beach homes, anyway
If you decide to tackle the long way ‘round, check out Olympic National Park, the Giant Redwoods, and San Diego’s beaches.
Get out there and drive for breathtaking views while taking the PCH – Pacific Coast Highway.
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