The Best California Destinations Along The Pacific Ocean

What You’ll Get Out Of This Article

• Description of each California city along the Pacific coast, including travel distance between.
• What to see and do in each city.
• Tips on places to stay at each destination.
• Guide to packing for a trip to these California destinations.

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELLING TO CALIFORNIA

• Hotels – For the best prices on accommodations in California and the most choices, we prefer to use Booking.com for all of our stays. You can search a variety of hotels, vacation rentals and even some campsites. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Car rentals – For a PCH road trip you will need a car! We always start our search with Discover Cars and RentalCars to find the best deals. You can also save the most money through car rental coupon codes while you’re at it!
• Flights – If you dread seeing those flight prices, try out the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature and find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to California.
• Insurance – Something that many travelers overlook but it SO important, cover you and your family for all of your travels with the best travel insurance.
• Hottest deals – Be sure to bookmark our frequently updated travel deals page for all your travel needs.
• Insurance – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about where to buy the best travel insurance.

📚 California Mini Guide 📚

🏨 Best Hotels – Inn San Francisco, La Casa Inn, Spindrift Inn, Arbor Inn Monterey, Carmel River Inn, Big Sur River Inn, Quality Inn near Hearst Castle, 1906 Lodge, Old Town Inn, La Quinta Inn & Suites, Beach Street Inn and Suites, Motel 6, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, The Rosemary, The Best Western, Brand Plaza Hotel, Glendale Hotel, Brannon Cottage Inn, The Inn on Pine, Upvalley Inn and Hot Springs, El Pueblo Inn, Sonoma Creek Inn, Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn

🏠 Hostels – San Francisco Tradewinds Hostel, San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel, Monterey Hostel, Samesun Ocean Beach Hotel and Hostel, Santa Barbara Beach Hostel, Santa Cruz Hostel, Echo Zen Hostal

⛺ Camping – Big Sur Campground and Cabins

🍴 Best Places To Eat – The French Laundry

🥾 Best Places to Hike – Marin Headlands, Muir Woods, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Henry Cowell State Park, Jack London State Historic Park , Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

🎟️ Best Places To Visit – Alcatraz Island, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, USS Midway Museum, San Diego Zoo, Surfing Museum, West Cliff Drive, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Park, Alex Theatre, Glendale Galleria, Bodega Bay

⭐️ Must Do Activities – Whale Watching Tours, Beginner Surf Lesson, Santa Barbara Bike Tour, Full Day Iconic Sights of LA tour, Warner Bros Studio Tour, Napa Valley Wine Train, Napa Valley bike tour

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is San Francisco for?

• San Francisco is a great destination for those who like to explore cities and like to go hiking. It’s also a perfect destination for tech enthusiasts and foodies.

Best time to visit San Francisco:

• The best time to visit San Francisco is from September to November when the summer crowds have left and before the winter rains start. The fall offers warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Springtime can also be a great time to visit with mild weather and colorful blooms throughout the city.

Best place to see Redwoods in San Francisco:

• Muir Woods:
  • Location: Mill Valley, CA 94941, United States.
  • Price: $15.
  • Hours: 8AM – 6PM Everyday.
  • Reservation Requirements: Everyone driving or taking a shuttle to Muir Woods needs to use the reservation system. If you are arriving on foot, by bike, or on a tour bus, you don’t have to make a reservation.
• Alcatraz Island:
  • Book Alcatraz Tickets a month in advance.
  • Price: $45.25.

Tips:

• San Francisco has unfortunately been hit extremely hard with homelessness and drug issues, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings and stay safe while exploring the city.
• Bring layers, the fog can roll in at any moment and make the temperature drop.
• Take public transportation, driving in the city is hectic and parking can be expensive.
• Make dinner reservations! This is big if you have a place you’d love to eat at, make a reservation ahead of time, especially on weekends.

Where to stay:

• Inn San Francisco – This Victorian-style hotel is exactly what San Francisco is, charming and unique. Enjoy breakfast every morning and tea and coffee all day.
• San Francisco Tradewinds Hostel – Backpackers or budget travelers may opt to stay at the San Francisco Tradewinds Hostel, a popular choice for its affordable rates and friendly atmosphere. The hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, as well as communal spaces such as a kitchen and lounge area.
• San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel – Overlooking the San Francisco Bay, this hostel offers affordable accommodation for those looking to explore the popular Fisherman’s Wharf area.
• La Casa Inn – La Casa Inn is on the budget-friendly end of the scale. Located in the heart of San Francisco’s famous Fisherman’s Wharf, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to popular attractions.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is Monterey for?

• Monterey is a great option for travelers who are interested in marine life, coastal towns, and scenic drives. It is also a good starting point for those looking to explore Big Sur.
• Drive time from San Francisco to Monterey: 1 hour 50 minutes.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium:

• Hours: 10AM – 5PM daily.
• Price: Adults $65 Kids $50.

Whale Watching Tours:

• Price $70.
• Best Time to Go: December – April for gray whales, April – October for humpback whales.
• Length of Tour:
  • Summer and fall morning tours last 3.5 to 4 hours.
  • Winter morning tours and year-round afternoon tours last 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Starting and Ending Address: 66 Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey, CA 93940.
• Depart from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can see hundreds of California sea lions in the harbor as the boat sets off.  As you pass historic Cannery Row, you’ll enter the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. You’ll have the opportunity to see feeding humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, blue whales, and fin whales.

Where to stay:

• Spindrift Inn – For a little bit of Luxury, the Spindrift Inn is a top choice for visitors to Monterey. Located on Cannery Row, this hotel offers cozy and charming rooms with fireplaces and stunning ocean views.
• Monterey Hostel – Enjoy a hassle-free stay in Monterey at the Monterey Hostel. It’s a great budget-friendly option. With shared dorms and private rooms available, it’s great for all different travelers. This hostel also offers free breakfast and a communal kitchen for guests to use.
• Arbor Inn Monterey – This inn is right in the middle of all of Monterey’s top tourist attractions, including Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. It’s a great option for those looking to explore the city on foot or by public transportation.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is Big Sur for?

• Literally, anyone, Big Sur is the epitome of natural beauty and offers something for everyone. There are endless hiking trails, stunning views, and the chance to spot wildlife like whales and dolphins.

Basic information:

• Drive Time: 2 hours.
• Distance: 90 Miles.
• Starting Point in the North: Carmel-by-the-Sea.
• Ending Point in the South: San Simeon.
  • or vice versa.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:

• Hours: 8AM – sunset.
• Price: $10 per car, per day. 
• Hiking: See the trails page for hiking information.

Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Summer and Fall (June – October).
• Big Sur is known for its foggy weather, so be prepared for possible limited visibility and road closures in the winter months.

Where to stay in Big Sur:

• Big Sur Campground and Cabins – For an epic camping experience, reserve a campsite or cabin at this popular Big Sur campground. Surrounded by redwood trees, you’ll be immersed in nature while still having access to normal comforts like hot showers and Wi-Fi.
• Carmel River Inn – At the North tip of Big Sur, you’ll find the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The Carmel River Inn is an excellent spot to stay with cozy cabins, a peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to the beach and town.
• Big Sur River Inn – Stay along the Big Sur River at the Big Sur River Inn for a serene and rustic experience. This charming inn offers cabins, suites, and even camping options for those who want to fully immerse themselves in nature.
• Quality Inn near Hearst Castle – At the South end of Big Sur, visitors can stay at the Quality Inn near Hearst Castle for a comfortable and convenient stay.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is San Diego for?

• San Diego is perfect for travelers who love a mix of city and beach life. With its laid-back atmosphere, great food, and sunny weather, it’s a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Travel:

• San Diego to Los Angeles: approximately 120 miles (193 km).
• San Diego to San Francisco: approximately 500 miles (805 km).
• San Diego has a major international airport and is also easily accessible by train or car.

Best Time to Visit:

• Summer and Fall (June – October) are the best times to visit San Diego. The weather is perfect for spending enjoying an ice cream at the beach.

San Diego Zoo:

• 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101.
• Hours: 9AM – 6PM Daily.
• Price: Adult $74 Child $64.
• Purchase tickets online to save money and avoid lines.

Where to stay in San Diego:

• Samesun Ocean Beach Hotel and Hostel – This fun hostel is just a few blocks from the beach in Ocean Beach, one of San Diego’s most popular areas. It offers both dorm-style and private rooms, making it ideal for budget travelers or groups.
• 1906 lodge – 1906 is a bed and breakfast just 5 minutes from Coronado Beach. The spacious rooms feature warm interiors and modern amenities. Guests enjoy free breakfast, and afternoon snacks, and can use beach chairs and towels during their stay.
• Old Town Inn – The Inn embodies the charm of San Diego. This quaint hotel is in the heart of Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings and Mexican restaurants. The rooms are simple and clean, ideal for a short stay.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Beginner Surf Lesson:

• Location: Cowell Beach, 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA.
• Price: $129 per person.
• Duration: 3 hours.
  • Learn how to surf from an experienced instructor. 
  • Practice paddling out, popping up, and catching waves in a calm beginner friendly section.
  • Learn about ocean safety and surfing etiquette. 
  • Includes all equipment needed for the surfing lesson.

Henry Cowell State Park:

• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset.
• Price: $10.
• Reservations are recommended from Memorial Day to Labor Day (May-August).

Where to stay in Santa Cruz:

• La Quinta Inn & Suites – With high ratings and a low price, the La Quinta Inn & Suites is a great option for those looking to save money without sacrificing comfort.
• Beach Street Inn and Suites – Wake up and enjoy the ocean right outside on the wrap-around patio of Beach Street Inn and Suites. Located just steps away from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this hotel offers a prime location.
• Santa Cruz Hostel – Historic Cottages that have been turned into a hostel, Santa Cruz Hostel offers an affordable option for travelers looking to make friends and enjoy the beaches of Santa Cruz.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is Santa Barbara for?

• With its upscale vibes, SB is popular for couples and families who are looking for a luxurious beach getaway.

Travel:

• Santa Barbara to Los Angeles: Approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers).
• Santa Barbara to Big Sur: Approximately 190 miles (306 kilometers).

Santa Barbara Bike Tour:

• Starting time: 9AM.
• Price: Starts at $100.
  • E-bike tour through the Santa Ynez Valley wine region with pickup from Santa Barbara.
  • Enjoy a guided ride on a Rad Power E-bike to different wineries and a lavender farm. 
  • Sample some delicious wine and olive oil.
  • Picnic lunch at a winery included.
  • Bikes and helmets are provided. 
  • Provided hotel pickup and drop-off for your ride to the location.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara:

• Motel 6 – Motel 6 is usually not a traveler’s first choice, but the Santa Barbara Beach location is a hidden gem. It offers budget-friendly prices and is just steps away from the beach and downtown Santa Barbara.
• Santa Barbara Beach Hostel – This is an excellent stay for backpackers, everything is super modern and clean. The rooms are all very spacious and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful.
• Avania Inn of Santa Barbara – Avania Inn has a prime location in Santa Barbara, within walking distance of many attractions near Stearns Wharf. The hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, making it a great choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.

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Details: The second visit date must be within 7 days from the first visit date (inclusive of the selected first visit date). The ticket is not valid for a 2nd day visit on the following blackout dates: December 26 – 31, 2024.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Full Day Iconic Sights of LA tour:

• Free hotel pick up included.
• Price: $99 per person.
• Hours: 7 1/2 hour tour.
• Stops Included:
  • Santa Monica Pier
  • Venice Beach Boardwalk
  • Rodeo Drive
  • The Original Farmers Market
  • Griffith Park
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame
  • Sunset Strip
  • The Roxy
  • The Whiskey
  • The Viper Room

Hollywood Walk of Fame:

• Location: Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States.
• Price: Free.
• Hours: 24 hours.

Where to stay in Los Angeles:

• The Rosemary – You’d be hard-pressed to find a more centrally located and stylish place to stay in Los Angeles than The Rosemary.  This boutique hotel is located in the trendy Silverlake neighborhood and offers beautifully designed rooms with all the amenities you could need.
• Echo Zen Hostal – Finding affordable and stylish accommodation in LA can be a challenge, but Echo Zen Hostal offers just that. While everything is shared, the communal areas are clean with good facilities.
• The Best Western – This best western is a great stay near Union Square. The location is convenient and the rooms are clean and comfortable. Plus, you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast to start your day off right.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is Glendale for?

• Glendale is for those who want to visit the big city, but aren’t too keen on staying in the busy tourist areas. It’s perfect for those who want to experience both city life and outdoor activities without having to travel far.

Glendale Galleria:

• 100 W Broadway Suite 100, Glendale, CA 91210, United States.
• Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11AM-8PM.
• Friday – Saturday 10AM – 9PM.

Where to stay in Glendale:

• Brand Plaza Hotel – The Brand Plaza Hotel is a highly-rated hotel located in the heart of Glendale. It’s within walking distance of many shops and restaurants and only a 15-minute drive to Universal Studios Hollywood.
• Glendale Hotel – The Glendale Hotel is a standard-stay hotel that offers comfortable and clean rooms for a budget-friendly price.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is Napa Valley for?

• Napa is the perfect stop on the Pacific Coast Highway for couples, wine enthusiasts, and foodies. It’s the most luxurious destination on the list, so if you’re looking for top-tier EVERYTHING, this is your spot!

Best time to visit Napa Valley:

• Napa Valley is beautiful all year round, with mild winters and warm summers. However, the most popular time to visit is during the fall harvest season from August to October. During this time, wineries offer grape picking and crushing activities, and there are also various events such as the Napa Valley Harvest Festival.
• If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting during the off-season months of November through April. The winter months can be rainy, but it’s a perfect excuse to cozy up by a fireplace with a Pinot.

Wine Tastings:

• Hours: Most wineries Open at 10 or 11AM and close at 4PM or 5PM (check the wineries’ website for specific hours).
• Price: Tastings can range from $35 to $100+ depending on the winery and type of tasting experience.
• Reservations: It’s highly recommended to make reservations in advance, even for just tastings.

Napa Valley Wine Train:

• Price: $129+
• Hours: 10AM – 5PM.
  • Pickup and drop-off from Oxbow Market included.
  • 3-4 winery reservations (Doesn’t include tasting prices).
  • Lunch.
  • Vineyard Tours.

Tips:

• Make reservations, a lot of the wineries will even turn you away for just a tasting without one.
• Designated Driver or Tours: Whether it’s through a tour group or hiring a designated driver, make sure to have a safe way to get around Napa Valley.
• The French Laundry is a must-eat for foodies. Reservations are difficult to get, so book in advance.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the many stunning wineries with beautiful views.
• Check out the small boutique wineries as well, they often have unique and delicious wines that you won’t find elsewhere.
• Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on doing a bit of exploring around the vineyards.

Where to stay in Napa Valley:

• Brannon Cottage Inn – A local cottage inn with all the Napa charm, the Brannon Cottage Inn is a cozy and intimate bed and breakfast located in Calistoga.
• The Inn on Pine – For something a little more low-key, The Inn on Pine is the perfect choice, with a pool for hot summer days and spacious rooms to relax in.
• Upvalley Inn and Hot Springs – Enjoy the wide open spaces and hot springs at this charming inn. With comfortable rooms, a relaxing pool, and nearby hiking trails, it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers to unwind.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Who is Sonoma Valley for?

• Sonoma Valley is perfect for travelers who enjoy a quieter, more laid-back wine-tasting experience and want to explore the outdoors in addition to indulging in good food and wine.

Best time to visit Sonoma Valley:

• Sonoma Valley is gorgeous all year round, but the peak tourist season is from June to October. The best time for wine tastings is during harvest season, which typically runs from August to October.

Jack London State Historic Park:

• Location: 2400 London Ranch Rd, Glen Ellen, CA 95442, United States.
• Hours: 9AM – 5PM.
• Price: $10 Vehicle entry fee.
• Trails: over 29 miles of backcountry trails and a mix of Moderate and Difficult trails. Dogs are allowed on the Historic Trails with a leash.

Where to stay in Sonoma:

• El Pueblo Inn – This oasis in Sonoma Valley offers a tranquil and luxurious stay at an affordable price with its Spanish-inspired architecture and lush gardens.
• Sonoma Creek Inn – A casual motel just minutes from downtown Sonoma, the Sonoma Creek Inn is the perfect home base for exploring all that this charming town has to offer.
• Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn – Located in downtown Sonoma, the Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn is a unique bed and breakfast with a charming rustic feel. Enjoy breakfast each morning before heading out on your wine tours or hikes.

What is the most scenic part of the Pacific Coast Highway?

The most scenic part of the Pacific Coast Highway is definitely Big Sur, the coastline turns rugged and dramatic with steep cliffs, crashing waves, and breathtaking views.

Is it better to drive up or down the Coast of California?

As a rule of thumb, it’s better to start your road trip in the North and head South so that your car is on the ocean side of the road, giving you unobstructed views of the Pacific.

How many days do I need to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?

How much time do you have? Because the longer the better. What makes this road trip so epic is being able to take your time and truly soak in the beauty of each destination along the way. Ideally, you’ll want to set aside at least 5-7 days for this trip, but if you have more time, even better!

How long does it take to drive from San Francisco to LA?

The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles along the Pacific Coast Highway can take anywhere from 8-12 hours, depending on how many stops you make and traffic conditions. However, as mentioned above, it’s best to take your time and spread out the drive over a few days to fully experience everything this route has to offer.

What is the best time of year to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?

The Pacific Coast Highway can be driven at any time of year, but it’s best to avoid peak tourist seasons if possible. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.

• AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%
• KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
• Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
• Ubigi – AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.