Road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway is one of life's most intense travel pleasures; one that should be enjoyed at just the right pace. Too fast, and the sublime scenery is gone in a flash. Too slow, and the exhilaration of driving along twisting cliff-edged roads, not knowing what is around the next bend, is lost. There is a balance to be struck to ensure maximum enjoyment. It is possible to achieve that balance during this unique, once in a lifetime route through road trip heaven. Situated on the California coast, the PCH runs for over 500 miles. In its entirety, it stretches from Baja in the southern tip of California, right up to the Olympic Peninsula in the north. Road trippers will encounter many delights en route. There is mile after mile of stunning ocean-side scenery and many interesting stopping points on the way. (Photo "Pacific Ocean" by KDunlap06)
Driving the whole route would take around two weeks but most people narrow it down to smaller, intense chunks of driving delight. For travel inspiration it doesn't get much better than the Pacific Coast Highway and here is just a small selection of stops en route to set those planning wheels in motion.
Monterey
South of San Francisco is an old fish-canning town, which used to be the California state capital. Visitors call there now to see the famous aquarium and the historic quarter, with sites such as The Presidio Chapel, Casa Soberanes and the Custom House. The Monterey State Historic Park is worth a visit and those staying overnight will find a wide range of lodgings and restaurants.
Carmel by the Sea
Nestling beside the Pacific Ocean, this charming community that counts many artists amongst its number, is well known for its rich cultural attractions and quaint cottages, inns, galleries and shops. Enjoy a picnic on the Carmel River State Beach whilst pelicans fly overhead, or visit Tor House, the previous dwelling of poet Robinson Jeffers. Three miles south of Carmel, Point Lobos State Reserve has extensive wildlife in a stunning setting. If the timing is right, whales can be seen between December and April.
Big Sur
One of the highlights of the PCH, this 90-mile stretch of coastline is breathtakingly beautiful. Mountainous cliffs, clad in redwoods, plunge down into the ocean; here the elements and natural world are certainly at their most impressive. The once resident Beatniks have been priced out of the area but it still retains a pleasing, laid back vibe that puts the visitor at ease. (Photo "Big Sur" by ggaler)
San Simeon
A visit to Hearst Castle at San Simeon breaks up the journey and is definitely worthwhile. It often gets crowded, but that is only because it's such a high quality attraction. See newspaper magnate William Randall Hearst's unique take on paradise and marvel at one of the most opulent residences ever built in the USA.
The Pacific Coast Highway is a beautiful road that really delivers on expectations. Bear in mind that the twisting and challenging route asks a lot of a driver and the tight turns are not ideal for RVs. Some areas are remote so make sure the gas tank is full. Summer is obviously busiest when everyone with a ragtop wants to feel the sea breeze in their hair, but with a kind Californian climate plenty of other options are open to you throughout the year. Happy road tripping!
