Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is one of California’s most breathtaking drives. This coastal road winds along the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns of the California coast, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences. This 7-day itinerary takes you on a journey from the vibrant streets of San Francisco to the iconic beaches of Los Angeles, with stops at some of California’s most beautiful destinations along the way.
Day 1: San Francisco to Half Moon Bay
Morning:
Start in San Francisco: Begin your adventure in San Francisco, exploring landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Lombard Street if you haven’t already. Have breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square for delicious pancakes and French toast, and enjoy a scenic morning in this lively city.
Pick Up the Pacific Coast Highway: Once you’re ready to hit the road, head south on Highway 1 and leave the city’s hustle and bustle behind as you venture toward the coast.
Mid-Morning:
Stop at Devil’s Slide Trail: A short drive south of San Francisco, stop at Devil’s Slide Trail. This former highway section was transformed into a scenic walking path along the cliffs with amazing views of the ocean below.
Lunch:
Lunch in Half Moon Bay: Continue south to Half Moon Bay, where you can have lunch at Sam’s Chowder House, famous for its seafood, including lobster rolls and clam chowder. Take in the beautiful views of Half Moon Bay and relax in the seaside atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Half Moon Bay Beaches: Spend your afternoon exploring the beautiful beaches of Half Moon Bay. Visit Half Moon Bay State Beach or Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, where you can explore tide pools and see marine life up close.
Check into a Local Inn: Half Moon Bay has several cozy inns and lodges. Check into your accommodation, such as the Half Moon Bay Lodge, where you can enjoy comfortable rooms and beautiful surroundings.
Evening:
Dinner in Town: Enjoy dinner in downtown Half Moon Bay at Pasta Moon, a cozy restaurant known for its Italian cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.
Day 2: Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz
Morning:
Breakfast at Moonside Bakery & Café: Start your day with fresh pastries, coffee, and breakfast sandwiches at Moonside Bakery in downtown Half Moon Bay.
Head South on Highway 1: Continue driving along Highway 1, enjoying the scenic coastal views as you head toward Santa Cruz.
Mid-Morning:
Stop at Pigeon Point Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is one of the tallest in the U.S. and offers a stunning view of the coast. Take a short walk around the lighthouse and enjoy the rugged coastline views.
Lunch:
Lunch in Santa Cruz: Once you reach Santa Cruz, grab lunch at The Picnic Basket, known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and sandwiches.
Afternoon:
Explore Santa Cruz Boardwalk: Spend the afternoon at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California’s oldest amusement park. Enjoy the vintage rides, classic arcade games, and carnival food, or relax on the beach.
Natural Bridges State Beach: If you have time, visit Natural Bridges State Beach to see its iconic natural rock arch and enjoy the beautiful sandy beach.
Evening:
Dinner in Downtown Santa Cruz: Dine at Laili, a Mediterranean and Afghan fusion restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz. The cozy atmosphere and flavorful dishes make it a great spot to unwind.
Day 3: Santa Cruz to Monterey
Morning:
Breakfast at Verve Coffee Roasters: Enjoy a fresh coffee and pastry from Verve Coffee Roasters before you start your drive.
Drive to Monterey: Head south along the coast toward Monterey, taking in the scenic views of the Pacific.
Mid-Morning:
Visit Capitola Village: Stop by Capitola, a colorful seaside village with charming shops, cafes, and a scenic beach. Take a stroll along the shore and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Lunch:
Lunch in Monterey: Arrive in Monterey and enjoy lunch at Café Fina, a waterfront restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf known for its seafood and Italian dishes.
Afternoon:
Monterey Bay Aquarium: Spend the afternoon exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best aquariums in the world. With incredible exhibits on marine life, including sea otters, jellyfish, and a giant kelp forest, it’s a must-see attraction.
Cannery Row: After the aquarium, take a walk along Cannery Row, the historic waterfront street filled with shops, art galleries, and cafes.
Evening:
Dinner in Pacific Grove: Enjoy dinner at Passionfish in nearby Pacific Grove, a highly-rated restaurant known for its sustainable seafood and creative dishes.
Day 4: Monterey to Big Sur
Morning:
Breakfast at Old Monterey Café: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Old Monterey Café, a local favorite.
17-Mile Drive: Before heading to Big Sur, take the scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach. Enjoy stops at famous sites like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay, and take in the dramatic coastal views.
Lunch:
Lunch at Nepenthe in Big Sur: Arrive in Big Sur and enjoy lunch at Nepenthe, a cliffside restaurant with stunning ocean views. The Ambrosia Burger and spectacular scenery make it a memorable stop.
Afternoon:
Explore Big Sur: Spend the afternoon exploring Big Sur’s natural beauty. Visit Pfeiffer Beach to see its unique purple sand and Keyhole Rock, or go for a short hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see McWay Falls, a waterfall that cascades onto the beach below.
Evening:
Stay in Big Sur: Check into a lodge or cabin in Big Sur, such as the Big Sur River Inn or Ventana Big Sur. Enjoy dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant like Big Sur Bakery.
Day 5: Big Sur to San Simeon and Cambria
Morning:
Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery: Start your day with breakfast at Big Sur Bakery, known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
Bixby Creek Bridge: Head south and stop at Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots along the Pacific Coast Highway. Take in the stunning view of the bridge and cliffs.
Mid-Morning:
Drive to San Simeon: Continue south to San Simeon, with scenic viewpoints along the way, like Limekiln State Park and Ragged Point.
Lunch:
Lunch in San Simeon: Stop for a quick lunch at a local spot, such as Sebastians Café, near Hearst Castle.
Afternoon:
Hearst Castle Tour: Take a tour of Hearst Castle, the luxurious estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The opulent mansion, gardens, and stunning views make it a fascinating stop on your trip.
Elephant Seal Rookery: Visit the Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon, where you can observe these fascinating creatures resting and interacting on the beach.
Evening:
Stay in Cambria: Drive to nearby Cambria, a quaint coastal town. Check into a local inn, such as the Cambria Pines Lodge, and enjoy dinner at Robin’s Restaurant, known for its international cuisine and cozy setting.
Day 6: Cambria to Pismo Beach and Santa Barbara
Morning:
Breakfast in Cambria: Enjoy breakfast at Linn’s Restaurant in Cambria, famous for its olallieberry pie and hearty breakfast dishes.
Drive to Morro Bay: Head south to Morro Bay and stop to admire the iconic Morro Rock. Take a short walk along the beach and watch the surfers and sea otters.
Lunch:
Lunch in Pismo Beach: Continue south to Pismo Beach for lunch. Stop at Splash Café for their famous clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl.
Afternoon:
Explore Pismo Beach: Spend some time exploring the Pismo Beach Pier, a popular spot for fishing, surfing, and beach activities.
Drive to Santa Barbara: Head to Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean climate and stunning coastline.
Evening:
Dinner in Santa Barbara: Dine at The Lark in the Funk Zone, a popular neighborhood with a great selection of restaurants, bars, and art galleries. The Lark’s seasonal, farm-to-table dishes are highly recommended.
Day 7: Santa Barbara to Los Angeles
Morning:
Breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery: Start your final day with breakfast at Jeannine’s, a local favorite known for its homemade pastries and breakfast dishes.
Explore Santa Barbara: Visit the Santa Barbara Mission, also known as the “Queen of the Missions,” and take a stroll through the picturesque Rose Garden. You can also explore Stearns Wharf, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and a small aquarium.
Lunch:
Lunch in Malibu: On your drive toward Los Angeles, stop in Malibu for lunch at Malibu Farm Café on the pier. Enjoy fresh, organic dishes with a view of the ocean.
Afternoon:
Explore Malibu: Take some time to enjoy Malibu’s beautiful beaches, such as Zuma Beach or El Matador Beach, known for its dramatic rock formations.
Drive to Los Angeles: Continue south to Los Angeles, completing your journey on the Pacific Coast Highway.
Evening:
Dinner in Los Angeles: End your road trip with a celebratory dinner at a popular LA restaurant like Gjelina in Venice or Bestia in downtown LA. Both offer an incredible menu and ambiance for a memorable final meal.
Conclusion
This 7-day road trip along Highway 1 takes you through California’s most scenic coastal areas, charming towns, and iconic landmarks. From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Malibu, this journey offers unforgettable sights, unique experiences, and a taste of California’s coastal beauty at every turn. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or history buff, this road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is sure to be a memorable adventure.
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