Is driving the Pacific Coast Highway worth it?

End of the Road: Wrapping Up 5 Days on the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to LA. Driving the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles is definitely one of America's greatest road trips. And while it can be done in 3-5 days, it's even more rewarding if you can spare a whole week!



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If you want to do the whole thing, you'll need at least 14 days. However, if you're low on time, you can rush through it in 10 days (I really don't recommend this!) There are a few Pacific Coast Highway stops where I suggest spending 2 days, while others are quick stops along the route.

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As a general rule, it's better to start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip in the north and head south so your car is always in the lane closest to the ocean. That way, there's nothing blocking your view of the cliffs during your drive down and you can really enjoy the sights.

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Therefore, the best month to drive the Pacific Coast Highway is September, when you're most likely to have great weather along the entire length of the road trip.

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Even spring and fall can bring cold weather, and some snow. Our advice is to plan your PCH drive for the summer months of June through to September, when you're more likely to have warm days, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

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The Highway 1, aka Pacific Coast Highway, road trip that passes through Big Sur on California's Central Coast is perhaps the most famous scenic drive in the Golden State. But it's not the only scenic, unforgettable road trip in California—by far.

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Big Sur. At Big Sur, the most spectacular portion of the Pacific Coast Highway 1 begins, where huge, rugged cliffs and forested inlets overlook the pounding surf below. Whale-watching is popular here at certain times of year; depending on the season you can see blue, gray or humpback species breeching off the coast.

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Known by locals as “the One”, the most popular stretch of this highway runs between San Francisco and San Diego, meandering in twists and turns through quaint coastal towns, pristine beaches, breathtaking views, and plenty of historical places, making it one of America's greatest road trips.

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Can You Camp Along Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway)? Unfortunately, you cannot camp on the side of Highway 1. Camping or parking your car overnight is illegal. Prosecutors will receive a fine of up to $1,000.

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12 Road Trip Stops on California's Pacific Coast Highway
  1. Crescent City Pebble Beach. Lighthouse. ...
  2. Giant trees and lush forest in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park. ...
  3. Golden Gate Bridge. ...
  4. Devil's Slide at Half Moon Bay. ...
  5. Surfers at Sunrise in Santa Cruz. ...
  6. Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf. ...
  7. Bixby Bridge. ...
  8. Elephant Seals resting on the beach.


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Experience tells me that a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday are probably best - mainly because there is LESS traffic to deal with.

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