The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) — officially known as California State Route 1 — is one of the most iconic road trips in the world. Stretching along the rugged California coastline, this legendary route offers dramatic ocean cliffs, charming seaside towns, hidden beaches, famous viewpoints, and unforgettable sunsets. Whether you’re planning a multi-day trip or a short scenic drive, the PCH delivers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, culture, and classic California vibes.
This Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide covers the best stops, things to do, itinerary recommendations, average travel costs, and useful local tips to help you plan the ultimate road adventure.
Why Drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
The PCH is more than just a road — it’s an experience. Travelers love it for:
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Breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean
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Epic photo spots — cliffs, beaches, bridges, and mountains
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Iconic stops like Big Sur, Malibu, Santa Barbara, and Monterey
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Relaxed coastal atmosphere with surf towns and wineries
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Perfect mix of nature, culture, and local cuisine
If you’re looking for a bucket-list U.S. road trip, this is it.
Best Places to Visit on the Pacific Coast Highway
Below are the top highlights you shouldn’t miss, moving from south to north.
1. Laguna Beach
A vibrant artistic seaside town known for its:
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Crystal-clear coves
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Tide pools
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Surf breaks
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Art galleries
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Heisler Park coastal walk
Laguna is a perfect early stop for swimming, snorkelling, or relaxing by the water.
2. Malibu
Home to celebrities, perfect surf, and dramatic coastline.
Top attractions:
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Zuma Beach
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El Matador Beach (one of California’s most photographed locations)
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Malibu Pier & Malibu Farm
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Point Dume hiking trail
3. Santa Monica & Venice Beach
A lively area with a mix of entertainment, beach culture, and iconic landmarks:
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Santa Monica Pier
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Venice Boardwalk
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Muscle Beach
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Abbot Kinney Boulevard
This area is ideal for food, nightlife, and beach activities.
4. Santa Barbara
Often called the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara charms visitors with:
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Spanish-style architecture
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Stearns Wharf
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Wide beaches and surf spots
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Santa Ynez wine country nearby
A great place to relax, drink local wine, and enjoy upscale dining.
5. Pismo Beach
A quiet coastal town famous for:
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Giant sand dunes
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Beachfront hotels
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Monarch butterfly grove (seasonal)
Perfect for off-road adventures and peaceful walks.
6. San Luis Obispo
A charming inland detour with:
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Mission San Luis Obispo
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Bubblegum Alley
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Quaint boutiques and restaurants
It’s a great overnight stop on the way to Big Sur.
7. Hearst Castle
A must-see landmark near San Simeon. This luxurious estate features:
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Lavish rooms and gardens
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Ocean-view pools
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Rare art collections
Tours are available daily — booking in advance is recommended.
8. Big Sur (Highlight of the Highway)
Big Sur is the heart of the PCH — a dramatic stretch where mountains drop into the ocean.
Top sights in Big Sur:
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Bixby Creek Bridge
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Pfeiffer Beach (purple sand!)
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McWay Falls (waterfall onto a beach)
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Point Lobos State Reserve
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Garrapata State Park
This area offers the most iconic photos of the entire trip.
9. Carmel-by-the-Sea
A European-style village known for:
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Storybook cottages
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Art galleries
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Beautiful white-sand Carmel Beach
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Scenic 17-Mile Drive (Pebble Beach area)
It’s one of the most romantic towns in California.
10. Monterey
A vibrant seaside city famous for:
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The Monterey Bay Aquarium
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Cannery Row
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Whale-watching tours
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Surfing at Asilomar Beach
Great for families and nature lovers.
11. Santa Cruz
A classic California surf town with:
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park
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Pacific Avenue shops
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Natural Bridges State Park
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Legendary surfing spots
A fun and youthful stop before heading north.
12. San Francisco (End/Start Point)
Finish your journey with world-famous sites:
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Golden Gate Bridge
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Fisherman’s Wharf
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Chinatown
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Alcatraz
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Pier 39 sea lions
San Francisco is the perfect grand finale of the Pacific Coast Highway adventure.
Things to Do on the Pacific Coast Highway
There’s much more to PCH than scenic driving. Some of the best activities include:
✔ Whale watching
Blue whales, humpback whales, and dolphins are common year-round.
✔ Hiking coastal trails
Big Sur and Point Dume offer stunning hiking routes.
✔ Surfing
Try Malibu, Santa Cruz, or Pacifica.
✔ Kayaking & paddleboarding
Especially popular in Monterey and Santa Barbara.
✔ Wine tasting
Visit vineyards in Santa Barbara County or Carmel Valley.
✔ Sunset photography
The whole coastline turns golden — a dream for photographers.
How Much Does the Pacific Coast Highway Trip Cost in 2025?
Approximate travel costs for 2–4 days:
Car rental:
$55–$120 per day
Gas:
$80–$150 (depending on mileage and car type)
Hotels:
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Budget: $80–$140
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Mid-range: $160–$250
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Premium coastal lodges: $300–$700
Food:
$30–$70 per person per day
(cheaper in surf towns, more expensive in Santa Barbara & Big Sur)
Attractions:
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Whale-watching: $70–$120
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Hearst Castle tours: $30–$35
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State park parking: $10–$15
Local Tips for a Perfect PCH Road Trip
1. Drive south → north for better ocean views
You’ll drive on the ocean side of the road the entire time.
2. Book hotels in Big Sur early
This area sells out quickly — especially in spring–fall.
3. Watch for road closures
Big Sur frequently experiences landslides.
(Check conditions before your trip.)
4. Fill up on gas before Big Sur
There are only a few stations, and prices can be very high.
5. Don’t rely on cell service
Download offline maps — Big Sur has almost no signal.
6. Keep your camera ready
Every turn might reveal a perfect photo opportunity.
Recommended PCH Itinerary (2–3 Days)
Day 1: Los Angeles → Santa Barbara
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Malibu beaches
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Santa Monica Pier
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Sunset in Santa Barbara
Day 2: Santa Barbara → Big Sur → Monterey
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Pismo Beach
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Hearst Castle
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McWay Falls
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Bixby Bridge
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Overnight in Monterey
Day 3: Monterey → Santa Cruz → San Francisco
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Aquarium
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Boardwalk
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Golden Gate Bridge
This is the most popular and balanced route for first-time travelers.
Final Thoughts
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most breathtaking routes on earth — a perfect combination of dramatic nature, charming towns, delicious food, and iconic California atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling for the first time or returning to relive the magic, PCH promises an unforgettable adventure.
