If you’re looking for a scenic road trip in the United States, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is an excellent choice. The PCH spans over 600 miles along the California coastline, providing stunning views of the ocean and landscape.
Planning a PCH road trip requires some preparation to ensure you make the most of your journey. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips on how to plan your PCH road trip.
Choose Your Route
One of the first things you need to decide when planning your PCH road trip is which route you want to take. The most popular route is from San Francisco to Los Angeles or vice versa. However, there are other routes that you can take depending on how much time you have and what sights you want to see.
San Francisco to Los Angeles Route
If you decide to take the San Francisco to Los Angeles route, you’ll start by driving across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. From there, you’ll make your way down Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. This route will take you through charming towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara and give you plenty of opportunities to stop at scenic overlooks.
Los Angeles to San Francisco Route
If you’re starting from Los Angeles, your journey will be in reverse. You’ll start by heading north up Highway 1 and eventually end up in San Francisco. This route will give you plenty of opportunities to see stunning beaches and rugged cliffs.
Determine Your Timeline
Before setting off on your PCH road trip, it’s important to determine how much time you have available for your adventure. Depending on how many stops and detours you plan on taking, a full-length PCH road trip can take anywhere from three days to two weeks.
Three-Day Itinerary
If you only have three days, we recommend sticking to the section of Highway 1 between San Francisco and Monterey. This route will give you plenty of opportunities to see iconic landmarks like the Bixby Bridge and Point Lobos State Reserve.
One-Week Itinerary
If you have a week, you can take your time exploring the entire San Francisco to Los Angeles route. You’ll have plenty of time to stop at beaches, visit lighthouses, and explore charming towns along the way.
Two-Week Itinerary
For those with two weeks available, you can extend your trip north of San Francisco or south of Los Angeles. This will allow you to see more of California’s coastline and even detour inland to visit places like Yosemite National Park.
Plan Your Stops
Once you’ve determined your route and timeline, it’s time to plan your stops. There are plenty of sights and attractions along the PCH that are worth visiting. Here are a few must-see stops:
- Bixby Bridge
- Point Lobos State Reserve
- 17-Mile Drive
- Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Big Sur
- Hearst Castle
- Santa Barbara Mission
- Ventura Pier
- Morro Bay State Park
- Pismo Beach Sand Dunes
- Muir Woods National Monument (detour)
- Yosemite National Park (detour)
Pack Smartly for Your PCH Road Trip
Packing smartly for your PCH road trip is essential. Here are a few things you don’t want to forget:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: The California sun can be intense, and you’ll want to protect your skin and eyes.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so make sure you have comfortable shoes.
- Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning scenery along the PCH.
- Snacks and water: There are plenty of places to stop for food and drinks, but it’s always a good idea to have some snacks and water on hand.
- Warm clothes: Even if you’re traveling in the summer months, temperatures can drop along the coast, so pack some warm clothes just in case.
Conclusion
Planning a PCH road trip can be a fun and exciting adventure. By choosing your route, determining your timeline, planning your stops, and packing smartly, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable journey. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the stunning views along the way!