Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

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A bridge with the ocean on one side and mountains on the other.

A drive down the Pacific Coast Highway takes you past numerous national parks. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

A week exploring the state and national parks along the Pacific Coast Highway

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Allegra PusateriDecember 20, 2024

Sponsored by: Avis Hertz

Wide open spaces. That’s what sets the U.S. apart from most countries. America is 50 states, spanning over 3 million square miles of diverse terrains. From grassy planes and rocky mountains to expansive deserts and sandy beaches, the U.S. has so much to explore.

America’s national parks are where you’ll find most of the country’s natural beauty. 30 states have at least one to discover, but California has the most by far. Whether you’re a national park newbie or a seasoned hiker, we suggest starting in San Francisco, renting a car and spending a week on the road, winding down the Pacific Coast Highway. As you head south towards Los Angeles, some quick detours allow you to witness a few of California’s most breathtaking parks. Since you’re driving, there’s no rush. And trust us, the views are worth it.

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.
You can cross the Golden Gate Bridge by bike or car. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Before heading on your national parks tour, spend some time in San Francisco. Take a moment to appreciate the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, which you can cross by bike or by car. Or ride the city’s famous cable cars, a system dating back to the late 1800s that survived the great San Francisco earthquake and political opposition. Today, only three lines remain, including one running between Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf and another that runs along California Street.

Speaking of Union Square, there you’ll find some of San Francisco’s best shopping and theatres. Fisherman’s Wharf is known for Pier 39 and the sea lions. If you’re hungry, stop by Boudin Bakery, the city’s longest operating business, and try their signature sourdough bread that’s been around since 1849. For dinner head to Mission Street Burrito for a delicious, fresh-ingredient filled burrito the size of your forearm.

Day 2: Muir Woods National Monument

A hiking trail lined by redwood trees.
Explore the redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Rather than driving north to Redwood National Park, we recommend heading to the less-known but just as beautiful Muir Woods National Monument. The park’s coastal and forest views are worth the hour’s drive from San Franscico. Wander through towering redwoods on an easy, moderate or hard trail of your choosing. Both Fern Creek and Hillside Loop and Bootjack Loop are great options for day hikes. However, make sure to call ahead and reserve parking for your car.

Alternative route option

If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Yosemite National Park is about three hours outside San Francisco and is known for its stunning scenery. Think waterfalls, sequoias, meadows and cliffs.

Day 3: Pinnacles National Park

Red-color peaks on top of a tree covered hill at sunset.
The peaks in Pinnacles National Park were formed by volcanic erruptions. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Abandon the Pacific Coast Highway for a day to drive down to Pinnacles National Park. Around 1.5 hours outside of Monterey, Pinnacles has a striking landscape formed by volcanic eruptions over 23 million years ago. Hike past imposing rocky peaks and deep canyons. Some of our favorite trails include the Condor Gulch to High Peaks Loop and Moses Spring and Rim Trail Loop.

Alternative route option

Sequoia National Park is about 4 hours from Pinnacle along Highway 198. Sequoia is home to the largest tree on earth, named General Sherman.

Day 4: Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve

A bench at the end of a hiking trail, surrounded by coastal oak trees.
The oaks in Los Osos are smaller than your standard oak tree. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

On day four, take CA-25, a state highway that cuts through the base of the Diablo Mountain Range, for two hours back to the coast and Los Osos Oaks State Nature Reserve. There you’ll trade rocky trails for sandy dunes covered in oak trees. Unlike your standard oak, these coastal trees are wide and stubby, rarely growing over eight feet tall, with thick branches sprouting in every direction. For easier paths just under two and a half miles, try the Oak Trail and the Los Osos Loop. Stroll through a sea of greenery and spot wildlife, like wild brush rabbits and California valley quail.

Day 5: Gaviota State Park

Round cutout in a rock with a view of the landscape and ocean.
The Gaviota Wind Caves Trail takes you across cliffs with ocean views. Photo courtesy of shutterstock.

Make day five a beach day. Take the Pacific Coast Highway (aka Highway 1) south to Gaviota State Park, the “Gateway to the Pacific Ocean.” Gaviota is just an hour outside Santa Barbara and allows visitors to hike and camp near a secluded beach. The Gaviota Wind Caves Trail takes you further inland and is great for explorers. Or try horseback riding and find natural hot springs on the Hot Springs and Trespass Trail.

Day 6: Los Padres National Forest

A grassy hill with purple wildflowers.
Los Padres National Forest has a variety of terrains, including grasslands. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

On your last day in nature, it’s time to head inland a bit. Take the 101 east two hours and you’ll find yourself at Los Padres National Forest. It has everything: rocky coasts and beaches, redwoods and conifer forests, grasslands and desert areas. Each terrain can be explored by different trails. Hike Saint Paula Canyon to First Falls Trails past swimming holes and a waterfall, or get adventurous and trek across uneven boulders on Lizard’s Mouth Trail.

Day 7: Los Angeles

The Los Angeles skyline with palm trees in the foreground.
Spending time in Los Angeles? We recommend a convertible. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Wrap up your week by spending a day in Los Angeles. LA is a sprawling city that’s most easily explored by car… and multiple days. So, we’ve narrowed down our recommendations by interest.

If you like architecture, check out the Bradbury Building for its marble staircases and skylights (several movies have been filmed here, like Blade Runner and (500) Days of Summer). If you love escaping into a museum’s large halls, LA County Museum of Art is a must-see. Spend the full day there or choose one building and deep dive into its housed collection. For some infamous LA sites, head to Venice Beach and Melrose Place, then Grand Central Market and the Hollywood sign.

You’ll eventually get hungry, and when you do, grab dinner in Koreatown. Other popular spots are Tacos Los Cholos for authentic tacos or crispy fried chicken from Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen. And, when it’s time to head back home, you can easily return your rental car at the airport before dropping off your bags.

Ready to hit the road? Book your flight and rent your car today.

Road trip tips

Before you hit the road make sure you’re prepared:

  • Book your car early and consider your trip details. How many people are you traveling with, and what kind of terrain will you be driving through?
  • Some of these routes have long stretches without gas stations, so fuel up when you can.
  • Download maps in advance (possible on both Google and Apple Maps) in case you lose phone signal.
  • Always opt for the scenic route.

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