Pacific Coast Highway (Rt.1)
Running for over 500 miles along the California Coast, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S.; packed with stunning coastal views, landmarks, and unique stop-offs. Now designated as an All-American Road, Rt. 1 guarantees a road trip full of unforgettable memories.
To make sure you won't miss a thing, we have put together our list of Must See and Do on the Pacific Coast Highway.
Monterey
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The adorable sea otters often steal the show at this world-renowned aquarium with over 600 species on display. Step outside the Aquarium and you're on the famed Cannery Row.
Cannery Row
Once the epicenter of the sardine canning industry and made famous by John Steinbeck, today the area is lined with shops, hotels, restaurants, and activities for the whole family.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Just a short distance from Monterey, this quaint and picturesque enclave is home to small inns, shops and art galleries.
Point Lobos State Reserve
Home of hiking, a whaling museum, the first undersea ecological reserve in the country, and 250 species of wildlife.
Big Sur
To get to this, you'll have to cross the Bixby Bridge, one of the tallest single span bridges in the world. This area runs about 90 miles south into San Simeon and is quite possibly the most dramatic stretch of the PCH with stunning views of cliffs plunging to the sea.
Big Cone Peak
The highest coastal mountain in the lower 48.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Home of massive redwood groves and an 80 foot waterfall that pours right into the Pacific Ocean.
Nepenthe Restaurant
Established in 1949, it provides indoor and outdoor dining at 800 feet above sea level with breathtaking views of the bluffs, mountains, and ocean.
San Simeon
Hearst Castle
The jaw-dropping palatial home of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst and a National Historic Landmark. The main house has 115 rooms housing everything from the opulent to the bizarre.
Piedras Blancas Beach
Home to a 17,000 member elephant seal colony.
San Luis Obispo
Pismo Beach
A winter monarch butterfly grove hosting an average of 100,000 of the delicate creatures. See them in the trees in formations like roof shingles for a sight to remember.
Santa Barbara
Renowned for fine weather and Spanish Architecture, Santa Barbara is known as the 'American Riviera'. Learn more in our City Guide to Santa Barbara →
Mission Santa Barbara
Founded in 1786 and called the 'Queen of the Missions'. Widely considered to be one of California's most beautiful buildings, it is still the home of an active congregation.
Stearns Wharf- Built in 1872 to serve cargo and passenger ships, and used as a Navy installation during WWII, it is now home to several shops and restaurants. Be sure to check out Sea Center marine education center, perfect for the entire family.
Long Beach
Long Beach Museum of Art
Often overlooked, we think it is worth a stop. Housed in an early 20th century mansion and perched right on an ocean bluff, the museum's cafe has amazing postcard-ready views.
A trip along the Pacific Coast Highway in California is surely at the top many a bucket list. Use our Must See and Do as a guide, add to it, or make your own; the important thing is that you hit this iconic stretch of roadway and start making some memories.
