Classic California Roadtrip

San Francisco to Los Angeles on Highway 1

California’s Pacific Coast Highway is what dreams are made of.  The iconic route is one of the top drives of all time.  With around 500 miles of coastal route, the section from San Francisco to LA offers a mix of twisting, coast hugging roads with the Pacific Ocean crashing over rocks to your right and beautiful landscapes stretching out to your left.

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Having spent a few days in San Francisco soaking up the atmosphere of its varied neighbourhoods, cycling over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and visiting the infamous island of Alcatraz, it's time to embark on the roadtrip of a lifetime.

Heading down the coast you will pass through the laid-back surf-town of Santa Cruz.  Take a stroll along its famous boardwalk and visit its iconic amusement park on the beach before continuing your journey down towards the fishing town of Monterey, a great place to embark on a whale-watching trip and we would highly recommend a visit to the world-acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium.Monterey Bay Aquarium

Be sure to take in the famous 17-mile drive with its fantastic coastal scenery and oft-photographed lone cypress tree and for the keen golfers amongst you, there's always the famous Pebble Beach course to discover.  Visit the charming town of Carmel with its picture-postcard streets and numerous galleries and cafés.

As you head down the coast, marvel at the majestic views of the Pacific ocean with its rocky headlands.  Passing over the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, (stopping for an obligatory selfie), the scenery is spectacular as you head towards the Big Sur stretch of the coastline.  There is much to be discovered in this area from hikes amongst giant redwoods, to picturesque coastline and secluded sandy bays.  For wildlife lovers, this area won't disappoint with the possibility to spy Blue whales, California condors, Peregrine Falcons, Bald Eagles, or even Mountain lions.Bixby Creek Bridge

As you continue down the coast into San Luis Obispo County, a few miles north of San Simeon, take time to stop off at the excellent elephant seal viewing point which is free and easily accesible, where you are treated to the sight of thousands of elephant seals curled up on the rocky sands. Be sure to look out for the gothic-style Hearst Castle set atop the hills to your left in this area.

As you continue south, you will pass by Morro Bay, recognisable by its landmark volcanic rock formed 23 million years ago.  You can witness an abundance of beautiful wildlife here such as great blue herons, sea otters, peregrine falcons and from October to March, Monarch butterflies.  Morro Bay

Between Pismo Beach and LA, lies the mission town of Santa Barbara.  Tucked away between the sparkling Pacific ocean and the rugged mountains, Upscale Santa Barbara is blessed with outstanding scenery, beautiful beaches and year-round Mediterranean climate, earning it the nickname 'the American Riviera'.  Partake in local wine tours, enjoy the Spanish adobe architecture or simply stroll along the palm-lined waterfront enjoying the sea air.

Enjoy the last couple of hours driving down the coast through the glamorous beach town of Malibu with its stunning oceanfront homes and excellent surf before hitting Santa Monica known for its iconic amusement park on the pier and its sandy beach.

Malibu Beach house

Have fun exploring the city of Angels known for so much more than the famous sights of Hollywood and Rodeo drive.  LA consists of numerous cities within a city, each with its own distinct character.  With its many museums, wonderful beach communities, excellent shopping and diverse cuisine, you cannot fail to be amazed by all this incredible city has to offer.  For theme park-lovers, no trip to LA would be complete without a visit to the original California Disneyland or a fun-filled day at Universal Studios.

What are you waiting for?  Contact us today to begin planning your dream California road trip!