Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Suggested 7 days route through California. Day assignments are illustrative; travel times, overnight stops, and seasonal access must be checked before departure.

Day-by-day route

1. Day 1: San Francisco — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
2. Day 2: Monterey and Carmel — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
3. Day 3: Big Sur viewpoints — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
4. Day 4: San Luis Obispo — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
5. Day 5: Santa Barbara — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
6. Day 6: Los Angeles — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
7. Day 7: San Diego — focus on the area and allow time for stops.

Driving and route considerations

Highway 1 sections can close due to slides; check Caltrans QuickMap and allow inland detours.

Confirm route legs in a live mapping service. Build in extra time for weather, meals, rest breaks, and attractions. For national parks, review official NPS alerts.

Accommodation strategy

Book in gateway towns close to the following day’s stops rather than automatically returning to the starting point. Compare parking fees and cancellation policies.

Food along the way

Seek local diners, farmers markets, and regional specialties; check opening days in smaller towns.