The Open Road Travel

Best Places To Stop On A Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

With a Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary taking days to complete, no matter how fast you drive, you will need to break it into more manageable chunks. There are plenty of great places to stop on this route, but the following are the best places for an extended stop on the PCH.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is one of the most famous cities in the United States. It was founded in 1776 as Mission San Francisco De Asis and experienced significant growth during the California Gold Rush of 1849. Currently, the city has a population of nearly 900,000 residents and often ranks highly nationwide for income levels, quality of life, and low crime rates.

Attracting more than 25 million tourists each year, San Francisco features iconic attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf, along with a variety of museums, sports teams, parks, and filming sites, all contributing to its friendly ambience. This makes it easily one of the best places to make an extended stop on your PCH road trip itinerary.

For your ease, we provide comprehensive guides highlighting the top activities and the best neighbourhoods for accommodations in San Francisco.

Best Hotel To Stay At In San Francisco, California – Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf is a stunning establishment located at Fisherman’s Wharf, conveniently positioned near Pier 39 and Pier 33, allowing guests easy access to many of the city’s major attractions. The rooms are tastefully decorated and feature comfortable furnishings, equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, an iPod docking station, a flat-screen cable TV, a CD player, a refrigerator, and a security safe.



The shared spaces are equally welcoming, featuring a lobby seating area that offers complimentary tea and coffee, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Additionally, the hotel boasts a fine Italian restaurant, serving a daily menu including fresh seafood and Italian specialities from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, the United States' second-most populous city behind New York City and the eighth-largest in the contiguous U.S., was founded in 1781 and became an official city in 1835. Celebrated for its pleasant weather, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks, it also emerged as a central hub for the film industry during the early 20th century, earning recognition as a global movie capital.

The city boasts a variety of well-known film studios, filming locations, and attractions that celebrate celebrity culture, including the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. As one of the most visited cities in the world, drawing approximately 50 million tourists each year, Los Angeles ranks just behind New York City. This makes it a perfect destination for an extended visit on any road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Our best areas in Los Angeles guide will help you decide where to explore.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Los Angeles, California – Regent Santa Monica Beach

Regent Santa Monica Beach is an opulent, 5-star resort located directly on the Santa Monica shoreline, along the PCH. The elegantly designed rooms feature stylish, cosy décor and are equipped with amenities including air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the establishment. Certain rooms also include private balconies with picturesque views of the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean.



The resort offers a range of amenities, including a fourth-floor pool with ocean views, a sun deck, 13 fire pits reminiscent of campfires, a high-end restaurant, a coffee shop, and both indoor and outdoor meeting venues. In addition, room service is available for guests.

Top Attractions On A Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

Olympia, Washington

Olympia, the capital city of Washington and an important cultural hub in the South Puget Sound region, is famous for its prominent attractions, including the Washington State Capitol and the historic Governor’s Mansion built in 1909. Those who love nature will enjoy the picturesque Percival Landing Park, featuring art installations and a delightful boardwalk. Additionally, the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge protects a diverse array of wildlife, including more than 200 bird species. Olympia is also the launching point for any PCH road trip itinerary.



Olympic National Park & Forest

Located in the northwestern corner of the contiguous United States, Olympic National Park features Mount Olympus at its core. This towering peak is flanked by various landscapes such as meadows, rivers, rugged mountains, subalpine forests, lush temperate rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. As one of the most untamed regions in the nation, the park offers opportunities for visitors to hike up Mount Olympus or explore untouched wilderness areas rich in diverse wildlife, including mountain goats, elk, deer, and a plethora of marine life and bird species.

Siuslaw National Forest

The first Oregon attraction on our PCH road trip itinerary, Siuslaw National Forest, covers 634 acres along the Pacific Coast, illustrating the stunning junction of mountains and the shoreline. Within this area, visitors can explore diverse environments, including beaches, forests, lakes, rivers, dunes, streams, and tide pools. Notably, the tallest peak in the Oregon Coast Range, Mary’s Peak, reaches an elevation of 4,097 feet.

These varied habitats support a rich array of wildlife and offer ample opportunities for recreational activities, such as camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife watching, off-roading, and picnicking.

Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

Spanning 1.8 million acres, the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest encompasses the Siskiyou, Klamath, Cascade, and Oregon Coast ranges. Esteemed as one of the most scenic national forests in the U.S., it boasts an extensive wilderness filled with waterfalls, winding rivers, ancient woodlands, and the planet’s tallest ponderosa pine tree, which stands at 268 feet (82 meters). This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts crafting a Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary to explore and appreciate natural beauty.

Redwood National Park

Here is where our PCH road trip itinerary enters California. Covering 40 miles of California’s Pacific coast, the famous Redwood National Park is celebrated for its impressive ancient coastal redwood forests. These giants are surrounded by canyons, meadows, rivers, streams, beaches, and tidal pools, offering breathtaking ocean views. The park is rich in wildlife, featuring California sea lions, deer, elk, bears, and nearly 300 bird species.

A popular destination for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching, it was also a filming site for various movies and TV shows, including Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, making it an appealing spot for film lovers. Those seeking more information can find our Redwood National Park guide here.



San Jose, California

San Jose, the third most populous city in California and the tenth in the United States, is noted for its significance as an innovation centre. It is the largest city in Silicon Valley, which is known as the heart of the American technology industry. Featuring impressive architecture, a vibrant arts scene, and some of the country’s top entertainment venues, San Jose offers an excellent setting for enjoying a performance or a night out in a dynamic urban atmosphere, making it a worthwhile stop on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is not often seen on a PCH road trip itinerary, as it isn’t situated directly on the Pacific Coast Highway. However, we have included it as it is easily reachable from the PCH and definitely worth a detour. This park, which became part of the national park system in 2013, is celebrated for its impressive rock formations, caves, pinnacles, and spires, all framed by a rugged volcanic landscape.

It is a popular destination for rock climbers and cavers, while hiking lovers enjoy its extensive trail network. During the spring, the trails come alive with colourful wildflowers, and various wildlife, including bats, bobcats, deer, and foxes, can be spotted across the park. Furthermore, it serves as an excellent birdwatching site, boasting over 180 species, including the remarkable California condor. Read our detailed guide to Pinnacles National Park here.

Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Carmel-By-The-Sea is a historic town that was founded in 1770 by the Spanish with the creation of Mission San Carlos Borromeo De Carmelo. This mission is regarded as one of the most authentic Roman Catholic churches in California, preserved in remarkable condition and noted for being the only church in the state that still features its original tower and bell.

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, it is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to serving as an active parish church, it is a museum with exhibits that inform visitors about local history and the mission’s past.

Big Sur, California

Often regarded as the most scenic roadway in the contiguous United States, Big Sur is the backdrop for many of the Pacific Coast Highway's most memorable images. It features striking mountain landscapes alongside breathtaking ocean vistas, with the village of Big Sur boasting the widest selection of shops and visitor information centres within a 70-mile area.



This locale is a fantastic spot for adventurers, offering a variety of hiking paths that wind through forests or lead down to the shoreline. Despite its remote, rural environment, the region draws visitors in similar numbers to those of nearby Yosemite National Park, largely due to its stunning natural beauty. It is a quintessential destination on any PCH road trip itinerary.

San Simeon, California

San Simeon is a coastal area along the Pacific Ocean that draws visitors interested in viewing the Piedras Blancas Rookery, an important breeding ground for northern elephant seals. Nonetheless, the region's most famous attraction is undoubtedly Hearst Castle. Built in the early 20th century by William Randolph Hearst, this mansion atop the hill has been transformed into a museum, California State Park, and National Historic Landmark.

The castle's striking architecture enchants many. Intricate furnishings, elaborate designs, and outdoor structures like pergolas and pools highlight Hearst's extensive collection. A particularly remarkable feature of Hearst Castle is the zebras that wander the grounds freely. Even though a zoo was never established, these unique animals have resided on the estate for many years, making it a rare U.S. spot where they can be seen outside a cage.

Channel Islands National Park

Located just off the coast, Channel Islands National Park comprises five beautiful islands teeming with wildlife and offering stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by expansive kelp forests that can reach depths of up to 100 feet, these islands are accessible through a daily ferry service that departs each morning from Oxnard Harbour, which itself is a worthwhile addition to any PCH road trip itinerary.

While visiting the islands, guests can enjoy activities such as hiking the Anacapa Island Loop, snorkelling or scuba diving in the kelp forests, and camping overnight. The diverse ecosystems support various species, including the endangered island fox and nearly 400 bird species. Furthermore, the waters around the islands provide chances to spot dolphins, sea lions, seals, spiny lobsters, and even whales. Read our Channel Islands National Park guide here.

Malibu, California

Malibu, often referred to as having "21 miles of scenic beauty," is an upscale coastal community popular among many celebrities. Its beaches feature stunning stretches of golden sand and are generally less populated compared to those located closer to the city. Surfers planning a PCH road trip itinerary will particularly appreciate Malibu for its powerful waves and strong currents.



In 2010, Surfrider Beach was recognised as the first site in the world to be designated a World Surfing Reserve. This makes "The Bu" an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the beach or for adventurous individuals eager to ride some waves.

Read our Malibu, California, visitors' guide here.

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Located in the northern region of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) spans almost 157,000 acres. Recognised as the largest urban national park in the world, this area features a variety of mountains, distinctive rock formations, diverse wildlife, and stunning vistas, making it a significant natural refuge amid the vast urban environment that encircles it.

Long Beach, California

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its laid-back beach vibe. A prominent landmark is the Queen Mary, a 1936 ocean liner that now serves as both a hotel and a maritime museum. The city is also home to the Aquarium of the Pacific, which holds the title of California's largest aquarium, and the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), unique in the U.S. for its focus on modern and contemporary art from Latin America and Latinx artists.

The 4th Street Corridor, commonly nicknamed Retro Row, offers a delightful experience featuring vintage shops, a variety of dining choices, and the historic Art Theatre. Additionally, Cambodia Town reflects the local Cambodian culture through its traditional cuisine and annual events. For those seeking tranquillity, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden presents a serene environment with its koi ponds and classic landscaping.

Sunset Beach, California

Sunset Beach, California, is a must-include on any beach lover’s PCH road trip itinerary, as it features one of the top beaches in the country, extending 1.5 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. The nearby 14-acre "Green Belt" park provides a peaceful retreat from the beach, along with historical sites such as the notable Water Tower House and various tours that explore stories from the Prohibition era. Huntington Harbour is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding and is also home to a variety of local shops and dining options.



Huntington Beach, California

Huntington Beach, California, ranks among the nation’s premier surfing destinations. It caters to surfers of every skill level due to its stunning beaches and formidable waves, so it is another great inclusion on any surfer’s PCH road trip itinerary. Behind the beach, a boardwalk features numerous surf shops and outlets offering a variety of surfing-related products. Additionally, the International Surfing Museum showcases a collection of vintage surfboards and memorabilia, making it a perfect place for visitors to learn about the history and development of surfing.

Laguna Beach, California

Laguna Beach, a quaint coastal town in California, is celebrated for its lively arts community, featuring street art and a variety of galleries showcasing exhibits by local talent and internationally recognised artists. The stunning beaches are enhanced by an array of tide pools, allowing guests to relish the ocean and scenery without the concern of strong currents. Additionally, the area boasts numerous coastal, nature, and marine parks, along with beautiful gardens.



Dana Point, California

The serene harbour town of Dana Point, California, will be on every PCH road trip itinerary, as it is recognised as the southern endpoint of the Pacific Coast Highway. Its magnificent marina and waterfront venues offer breathtaking views, opportunities for daily cruise access, and inviting spots to unwind with a drink as you bring your Pacific Coast Highway road trip to a close.

Final Thoughts On A Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

That concludes our guide to planning the perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary. You now have all the vital info required to enjoy every inch of the PCH to the fullest, including when to go, how to get there, how long it will take, and what to see and where to stay along the way. All that’s left is to decide what to take with you, and then you can start booking and budgeting everything, so you can look forward to enjoying it all for yourself as soon as possible.



Anyone looking to continue their drive may also appreciate our selection of road trips from Los Angeles and San Diego, as the PCH ends roughly halfway between these two amazing cities. This includes:

The Ultimate LA to Grand Canyon road trip

A road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas

A Los Angeles to San Diego road trip

A San Diego to Las Vegas road trip

A road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park