The coast of California is a stretch of land so breathtaking it could make the most jaded traveler feel like they’ve stumbled upon heaven on Earth. Mike and I first caught a glimpse of its beauty during a trip for my surgery the previous year.
Even in the haze of recovery, I knew we had to come back—this time, to take it all in. So, a year later, healed and ready, we planned a 5-day road trip along Highway 1, from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Here’s how it all went down.
Our California Coast Road Trip Itinerary
- Day 1: Fly into San Francisco, rent a car, and visit San Jose.
- Day 2-3: Explore Monterey Bay, Big Sur, and spend two nights soaking in the coastal vibes.
- Day 4: Stop at Avila Beach, overnight at Pismo Beach.
- Day 5: Santa Barbara pit stop, then on to Los Angeles for the grand finale.
Why North to South is the Way to Go
Most travel guides suggest starting in Los Angeles and heading north, but we decided to flip the script. Why? For starters, the coastline views are better when you’re on the ocean side of the highway, without pesky oncoming traffic blocking your panorama.
Plus, starting in the cooler north and ending in sunny Southern California just made sense as well as shedding the extra layers. And, most importantly, pulling off at scenic lookout points was easier—no crossing traffic, just pure, unfiltered beauty every few miles.
The Essentials
Before you hit the road, here’s what you’ll need:
- A rental car: Opt for something fun like a convertible or a Jeep. We scored an upgrade to a BMW 8 Series, which was a joy for Mike to drive.
- Sunblock: The California sun doesn’t mess around. Whether you’re cruising with the top down or soaking it up through the sunroof, protection is non-negotiable—just ask my husband’s forehead. For this trip, I relied on ISDIN Sun Protection. Curious how it held up, check out my ISDIN sunscreen review.
- Snacks and water: Especially crucial through Big Sur where rest stops are rare.
- Paper towels or wet wipes: Great for cleaning up after roadside picnics or hikes.
Highlights From the Cali Road Trip
Landed in San Francisco
We landed in San Francisco and, after a seamless baggage claim, hopped on the AirTrain to pick up our rental car from Sixt. Shoutout to Sanjeey for upgrading us! We initially had reserved a Challenger for the trip, but got upgraded to a BMW 8 Series. We loved the car so much, we named it Benny. I’ve never been a huge fan of BMW, but the experience and comfort we had driving this car has certainly changed my perspective. Maybe I can convince the husband to get me one as my next vehicle? A wife can dream right?
Car Rental Tip: When it comes to one-way rentals, the selection is slim and it’s practically impossible to get your hands on a performance or exotic sports car on top of that. Trust me, I tried. I had this grand plan to surprise my husband with a Corvette Stingray for our coastal adventure.
Can you picture it? Him behind the wheel, top down, wind in his hair, and the California coastline as his runway. But alas, dreams of Stingray glory were dashed when I discovered most of these beauties aren’t available for one-way trips.
Here’s the deal: if cruising in a performance or exotic car is on your travel wishlist, you’ll need to design your trip to return the car to the same location. Otherwise, your choices dwindle faster than a pair of Louboutins at a sample sale.
Oh, and let’s talk about the little detail no one warns you about: one-way rental fees. Turns out, many companies charge an extra fee for the convenience of not bringing the car back. It’s like a breakup surcharge—“You’re leaving me? That’ll cost you.” Plan accordingly, my fellow road warriors.
While we skipped exploring San Francisco itself—thanks to some cautionary tales about its high crime rate—we did detour for a Mediterranean meal at Saaj in Bayhill Shopping Center. Think Chipotle but with falafel and shawarma. Delicious and quick, it set the tone for the adventure ahead.
However, if you do want to explore San Francisco here’s some popular spots to check out:
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Alcatraz Island
- Pier 39 in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf
- Museums: MOMA, de Young Museum, California Academy of Sciences, Exploratorium
- Parks & Zoos: San Francisco Zoo, Golden Gate Park
San Jose: Winchester Mystery House
If you’re a history buff—or just love a good quirky backstory—the Winchester Mystery House might be your next must-see. Tucked away in the charming city of San Jose, it’s only a 40-minute drive from San Francisco and feels like stepping into a real-life puzzle.
But a word to the vertically gifted: mind your head. Sarah Winchester, the mastermind behind this architectural enigma, stood at a petite 4’10”, and the ceilings reflect her perspective. Let’s just say you’ll get an extra workout with all the crouching and ducking. And for those needing wheelchair accessibility, keep in mind that this house wasn’t exactly designed with modern standards in mind. Its maze-like structure and eccentric design, makes the mansion not accessible for those who require a wheelchair.
While the tour is perfectly family-friendly, I wouldn’t recommend it for toddlers or little ones who think everything is an invitation to touch. Even as an adult, I had to resist the urge to wander off and play—it’s like a historic funhouse where every corner holds a new secret.
Tickets will set you back $38.99 for adults, $17.99 for kids, and $32.99 for seniors. The tour itself is a little over an hour, just enough time to get lost in the maze of staircases that lead nowhere and doors that open to…nothing. Pro tip: Watch the movie, Winchester before your visit for a dose of Hollywood drama, but keep your ghost-hunting goggles at home.
Spoiler alert: this isn’t a ghost tour. Instead, it’s a fascinating peek into the history of the house and the woman who built it. While the spirits Sarah supposedly catered to remain elusive, the home’s eerie charm and architectural oddities will leave you spellbound—just in a more grounded, historical way.
And as intriguing as the house is, don’t miss the gardens that surround it. They’re a breath of fresh air, a beautiful contrast to the house’s spooky reputation, with lush greenery and vibrant flowers that feel like an oasis.
One of the most interesting things about the Winchester House, though, is its location. A haunted mansion built for ghosts, sitting smack in the middle of a bustling, modern city—it feels almost comically out of place. As you drive up, you half-expect it to be hidden on some isolated hilltop, but no. It’s nestled in a busy neighborhood, surrounded by the hum of everyday life. That juxtaposition alone makes it worth the visit.
After leaving the Winchester Mystery House, we set off down Highway 1 toward Monterey Bay, a drive so scenic it feels like something out of a movie. The kind where the ocean flirts with the horizon, and the winding roads make you forget you’ve been in the car for over an hour. But a word to the wise: make sure your gas tank is ready for the journey. Gas stations are few and far between on this stretch, and trust me, the last thing you want is to be stranded while trying to channel your inner road trip zen. Also, do yourself a favor and check for road closures—Highway 1 loves a good rockslide, which might have you rerouting to the far less romantic US-101 S.
By the time we rolled into Monterey, we were running on fumes—not in the gas tank, but in pure energy. The day had been long, and it was the perfect excuse to check into our hotel, drop our bags, and let the day melt away. We stayed at Hotel 1110, an effortlessly chic boutique spot that felt like the perfect mix of cozy and stylish. If you’re curious, you can read all about our stay in my full Hotel 1110 review.
Monterey Bay
After checking into Hotel 1110 and dropping our bags, we decided to stretch our legs and take an evening stroll around Monterey Bay. Our first destination? Cannery Row—a waterfront street that feels like a postcard come to life, lined with bars, restaurants, and enough charm to make you forget about tomorrow’s early alarm.
First stop: Lalla Oceanside Grill. Picture this—massive bay windows framing the ocean, cocktails so good they deserve their own fan club, and a vibe that’s equal parts trendy and relaxed. If you’re a guava lover (and who isn’t?), the Guava Martini is non-negotiable. I had two, and I don’t regret a single sip. The place was such a hit we came back the next day for dinner. Pro tip? Reserve a table right before sunset. The view as the sun dips into the horizon is pure magic, but once it’s gone, the water fades into pitch-black nothingness. It’s all about the timing.
Our second stop of the night was The Salty Seal, a bar with a vibe that says, “locals only,” but without the exclusivity. If Lalla is a polished pearl, The Salty Seal is your favorite worn-in sweater—comfortable, easygoing, and perfect for a cold beer. It’s casual in the best way, with a few bar games and a chance to swap stories with Monterey’s finest locals.
Oh, and a little insider tip? Stay away from the bell on the bar unless you’re feeling generous. One ring, and you’re buying shots for everyone standing there. Yes, everyone. Consider yourself warned.
The evening flew by, and while we only made it to two spots on Cannery Row, the street is bursting with options—restaurants, bars, quirky shops—just waiting to be explored. But with Big Sur’s trails calling our names, we wrapped things up early. After all, tomorrow promised a whole new kind of adventure.
Big Sur
From Monterey Bay, the drive to Big Sur is about an hour—at least, that’s what Google Maps will tell you. But when the Pacific Ocean is your backdrop and every twist and turn feels like a scene from a movie, that hour can easily stretch into two or three. And trust me, you’ll want it to. The drive along Highway 1 is like a siren song for scenic pullovers—you’ll find yourself stopping every few miles to snap photos, breathe in the salty air, and question if you should quit your job and become a nomadic writer living out of a van. (Just me?)
Before you hit the road, though, let me play travel mom for a second and remind you:
- Fill up your tank. Gas stations in Big Sur are as rare as a bad ocean view here—few and far between.
- Bring water and snacks. Big Sur isn’t the place to battle a hangry meltdown.
- Sunblock and sunglasses? A must. Especially when you’re up at the summit.
- Wear sheddable layers. The temperature dances between cool coastal breezes and downright toasty as you climb. By the time we hit higher elevations, I was shedding layers like a Beyoncé costume change.
Roadhouse Restaurant
By the time we rolled into Big Sur, we were starving—a rookie mistake if you’re planning a day of hiking. Luckily, we stumbled upon Roadhouse Restaurant, and let me tell you, it’s the kind of spot that feels like a warm hug after a long drive.
It’s cozy, rustic, and unassuming in all the right ways. Pro tip? Grab a seat on the back patio if you can. There’s a gorgeous view that makes every bite feel like it belongs in a food magazine. You’ll order at the counter, grab a little number stand, and wait for your food to find you. Don’t expect a hostess or waitstaff fluttering about—it’s a casual, no-fuss vibe.
With a full belly and renewed energy, we were ready to take on Big Sur’s legendary hiking trails.
Buzzards Roost: A Hike to Remember
If you’re into long hikes that test your endurance and reward you with jaw-dropping views, Buzzards Roost is calling your name. My husband and I, in our infinite wisdom, picked this nearly 3-mile roundtrip trail to challenge ourselves. And challenge us, it did.
The trail starts off serenely, winding through majestic Redwoods that tower over you like something out of Avatar. (Seriously, are these trees real?) As a Midwest girl used to maple trees and rolling hills, seeing trees this massive felt like stepping into another world.
But let me be honest: Buzzards Roost is not for the faint of heart—or the hungover. Those guava martinis from Lalla’s the night before? Let’s just say I felt every step of the climb. The trail can get steep, narrow, and a little unforgiving.
Quick note for families with little ones or those who aren’t prepared. We saw a few families turning back early, and I don’t blame them. The hike can get a bit strenuous and there are some sections where you need to watch your footing like a hawk. And with little ones who are still their barings with walking, they could easily trip and fall, especially around areas that get pretty steep.
If you’re not a seasoned hiker or have little ones, don’t worry. There are plenty of shorter, easier trails in Big Sur. Stop by a visitor center or chat with a park ranger for personalized recommendations. But if you’re feeling adventurous or an expert hiker, Big Sur also offers trails will spark your daring spirit and satisfy your craving for a thrill.
As we climbed higher, the temperature climbed with us. What started as a cool, shaded hike through the Redwoods quickly turned into a sweaty ascent under the blazing sun. But with every layer I shed, the views got more and more stunning. Coastal cliffs, endless ocean, and a horizon that makes you believe in magic—it was breathtaking in every sense of the word.
Big Sur: A Promise to Return
Big Sur is more than just a place; it’s an experience, a feeling, a reminder that nature will always outdo anything we could ever dream up. As we descended from Buzzards Roost, exhausted but exhilarated, I couldn’t stop thinking about how much more there was to explore. The photos I snapped barely scratch the surface—Big Sur’s beauty isn’t something you capture. You really have to see it with your own eyes.
If we’d had more time, we would’ve stayed longer, hiked more trails, and soaked up every inch of this rugged paradise. But Big Sur isn’t going anywhere. It’s a siren song I’ll gladly return to—because some places deserve more than one love story.
A little extra tip for the road: If time is on your side, make a detour to Carmel-by-the-Sea. This enchanting town is like stepping into a storybook, with its whimsical cottages, charming boutiques, cozy restaurants, and art galleries that feel straight out of a dream. And word on the street? The sunsets here are the stuff of legend—golden hues painting the sky as if nature itself took up oil painting. Carmel is officially on our bucket list for next time, because who doesn’t want a touch of fairy tale magic on their California adventure?
Returning to Monterey Bay
After falling head over heels for Big Sur, Monterey Bay started calling our name like an old flame you just can’t forget. Instead of continuing our journey south and scrambling for a hotel room, we hit rewind on our adventure and found ourselves back in the cozy embrace of Monterey Bay.
While we had already checked out Hotel 1110, fate (and a great deal) led us to the InterContinental right off Cannery Row. Chic, elegant, and perched perfectly by the waterfront, it was the ideal retreat to nurse our sore muscles after a day of hiking and get lost in the plushest bed that felt like it was made out of clouds.
Pro tip: Do yourself a favor and have breakfast at the InterContinental. There’s something magical about sipping your morning coffee as the sun rises over the water, painting the horizon in shades of gold and amber. It’s the kind of view that makes you want to hit pause on life, if only for a moment.
But let’s be real—Monterey has a way of drawing you out of even the most comfortable accommodations. We weren’t quite ready to say goodbye, so we ventured out for one last night of coastal charm before the next leg of our journey.
Coast Guard Pier at Breakwater Cove Marina
Before leaving Monterey Bay, there’s one stop you have to make: the Coast Guard Pier, where sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters put on the most heartwarming show this side of nature. Picture this—sea lions lazily basking in the sun, harbor seals cuddling on the rocks, and the occasional sea otter floating by with a sense of effortless cool. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a baby pup snuggled up next to its mother—a sight so cute, it might just make your heart skip a beat.
Side tip for the adventurers: If you’re into diving (or have always wanted to give it a try), the beach near the pier is home to one of the West Coast’s most popular diving spots. Just swing by the dive company at Breakwater Cove Marina, and they’ll set you up with everything you need to explore the underwater world. Because, let’s face it, Monterey’s charm doesn’t stop above sea level.
Avila Beach
Avila Beach is one of those places that feels like it was made for lovers. The kind of spot where romance fills the air like the sound of waves crashing on the shore. Mike and I couldn’t help but fall for it—though, unfortunately, every hotel was booked solid. And believe me, we tried them all.
Pro-tip: If you’re dreaming of an overnight stay at Avila Beach, book ahead. This is not a “last-minute availability” kind of destination. Trust me, your future self—and your relationship—will thank you.
It’s easy to see why Avila Beach is a magnet for couples. Many of the hotels lean into the romance, offering in-room whirlpool tubs surrounded by candles and petals, while others offer a bottle of wine or champagne to toast the moment, a few may even offer both! It’s the kind of setup that made us feel like honeymooners again.
The charm doesn’t stop at the hotels. Avila Beach boasts an array of restaurants and bars, many featuring live music that drifts through the air like a soundtrack to your love story. Picture a Spanish guitar playing softly as you stroll hand-in-hand with your partner, stopping to share a meal or sip cocktails, all while the ocean sparkles in the background.
And that view? Oh, that view. Every step you take along the beach feels like a scene straight out of a movie.
Avila Beach has officially made its way to the top of our bucket list for our next trip to California. By then, we’ll likely be new parents in desperate need of a romantic getaway. And if there’s one place to rekindle the magic, it’s here—where the sunsets are golden, the vibes are intimate, and love feels as infinite as the ocean.
Pismo Beach
If Avila Beach is for lovers, then Pismo Beach is for the loud and rowdy—the life of the coastal party, where the energy doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. It’s the kind of beach town that thrives on nightlife: bars, restaurants, and nightclubs keeping the streets alive well past bedtime. But, as with any bustling hub, there’s a catch: traffic that tests your patience and parking that feels like a competitive sport.
Driving through Pismo in the afternoon gave us front-row seats to a few dramatic episodes of road rage, which, let’s just say, added a certain flair to the experience. And at night? It gets even more chaotic. If you’re a light sleeper like me, staying in the heart of Pismo Beach might not be your dream scenario. Between honking horns, rowdy laughter, and the kind of street noise that refuses to quiet down, you might find yourself counting sheep until dawn.
Thankfully, we booked a room just outside the city center at SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel, which turned out to be a slice of paradise amidst the chaos. If you crave a more serene experience while still having access to all the fun Pismo Beach has to offer, this is the spot.
The mornings here are nothing short of magical. Picture yourself waking up early, grabbing a cup of coffee, and wandering down to the beach to explore hidden rock formations and secluded caves. It’s the kind of peaceful escape that makes you forget the frenzy of the night before.
But what really set SeaCrest apart were the cozy firepits scattered across the property. Under the stars, with the ocean as your backdrop, it’s the perfect place to swap travel stories with fellow adventurers. There’s something so timeless about a crackling fire, good conversation, and the smell of saltwater in the air.
Pismo Beach might be the wild child of the California coast, but with the right accommodations and a bit of morning magic, it offers something for everyone—even those of us who prefer a little peace with our party.
Los Alamos: A Small Town with Big Western Charm
Los Alamos wasn’t on our original itinerary, but sometimes the best adventures happen when you least expect them. What started as a quick stop to fill up our gas tank turned into a delightful detour into a town straight out of an old Western film. Mike was absolutely captivated by its rugged charm, envisioning cowboys strolling down the main street, tipping their hats before a gunslinging duel at high noon.
But Los Alamos is more than just its cowboy nostalgia. If you’re an antique lover, this town is a hidden treasure trove waiting to be explored. From vintage jewelry to eclectic artwork, the antique shops here are brimming with unique finds. Here’s a tip for my fellow antique aficionados: if you’re planning to shop, make sure you’re driving something with enough room to haul your treasures—especially if you’ve got a soft spot for antique furniture. Trust me, you’ll want the extra space.
Beyond the old West vibes and charming antiques, Los Alamos has even more to offer. From boutique shops and cozy restaurants to some truly fantastic wines, this town is a small-but-mighty gem that deserves a spot on your travel list.
So, whether you’re here to channel your inner gunslinger, hunt for antique treasures, or sip on a glass of local vino, Los Alamos proves that even the tiniest detours can lead to unforgettable moments. It’s the kind of town that lingers in your memory, beckoning you back for more.
Santa Barbara
As we continued our journey down the coast, we made a quick stop in Santa Barbara—a city that feels like it was designed to soothe your soul. With its elegant charm, serene vibe, and breathtaking coastal beauty, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, take a deep breath, and savor the moment.
Santa Barbara boasts a gorgeous pier and an enchanting main street lined with charming restaurants. But here’s the thing: if you’re visiting on a Sunday and hoping for dinner, brace yourself. The restaurants are packed, and getting a reservation can feel like scoring tickets to a sold-out concert. We got lucky and snagged a spot at a local gem called Chad’s.
Let me tell you about Chad’s. First, the food is fantastic, but what really stole the show? The warm chocolate muffins they serve before your meal. Yes, chocolate muffins. They were so divine I couldn’t leave without buying a box to go—because when life hands you chocolate muffins, you savor every bite.
While our time in Santa Barbara was short, the city left a lasting impression. For me, the real allure lies in its vibrant culinary scene. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes, breweries, and wineries, Santa Barbara is a haven for foodies and wine enthusiasts. I’ve heard rave reviews about the Funk Zone—a trendy neighborhood full of tasting rooms, galleries, and creative energy. It’s definitely on my list for our next visit.
If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend checking out this Santa Barbara Reddit guide for insider tips on dining, drinking, and entertainment. And if you’re a fan of walking maps (who isn’t?), the Funk Zone map is a great resource to plan your stops.
Santa Barbara may have been a quick stop for us, but it’s a city I can’t wait to return to—hopefully with more time, a dinner reservation, and a box (or two) of those chocolate muffins.
Los Angeles
For our final stop, we arrived in Los Angeles, cruising down the scenic twists of Highway 1 and 101. California’s coast isn’t just a road trip; it’s a love letter to life’s detours—where every curve in the road feels like an invitation to linger a little longer. And then there’s LA: a city that manages to balance the glitz of city life, the tranquility of mountain hikes, and the allure of the Pacific coastline, all in one perfect, chaotic package.
What I love most about Los Angeles is its dual personality. One minute, you’re strutting down Rodeo Drive, window shopping for designer dreams, and the next, you’re hiking through a canyon surrounded by nature’s grandeur. It’s a city that says, “Go ahead, have it all.”
This time around, Mike and I skipped the Hollywood tours and Walk of Fame and opted for the great outdoors—because let’s be honest, we’re more “hiking boots and waterfalls” than “tour buses and star maps.” We explored the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, hiking through Solstice Canyon. The trail, with its ruins of old homes and a waterfall, offered the perfect blend of history, nature, and breathtaking views. It’s an easy hike, but the scenery feels like it belongs in a big-budget movie.
After shaking off the trail dust, we retreated to the Beverly Hills Marriott to clean up and prepare for our last night in LA. And what better way to begin a farewell evening than with cocktails? We started at the rooftop bar at SIXTY Beverly Hills, a place that feels like Malibu chic meets cowboy swagger. The drinks were exceptional, thanks to the talented mixologists who schooled us on whiskey and bourbon brands we’d never heard of but now can’t stop raving about.
From there, we strolled down Rodeo Drive—because who can resist that iconic strip?—before making our way to dinner and drinks. But the highlight of our evening was a visit to the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel, where the glamour of old Hollywood feels alive and well. There’s something about the place—the pink façade, the palm trees, the history—that whispers secrets of decades past. If walls could talk, I’d spend hours eavesdropping on every story.
The Beverly Hills Hotel is officially on our bucket list for our next visit. I can already picture myself sitting in the Polo Lounge, sipping a martini and pretending I belong in the golden age of Hollywood.
For first-time visitors, LA offers so much more than just a night on the town. There’s the Hollywood Walk of Fame (yes, it’s touristy, but you have to see it at least once), studio tours where you can wander through the sets of your favorite shows, and, of course, Malibu for a coastal hike at Point Dume or the iconic Santa Monica Pier for a bit of nostalgia.
And for the car enthusiasts, let me plug the Petersen Automotive Museum. Mike loved every minute of it, and I had to admit, even I was impressed. It’s a car lover’s dream with a side of sleek design and a touch of LA flair.
Los Angeles is a city that never sleeps, but it’s also a city that never forgets to dazzle. Whether you’re chasing stardom, sunsets, or just a really good drink, LA has a way of making you feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Lessons Learned & Tips
- Check Highway 1 conditions: Parts of it can close due to rockslides. Have a backup plan with Highway 101.
- Prepare for dead zones: GPS might fail in Big Sur, so bring a physical map.
- One-way rentals have fees: Budget for this if you’re not returning the car to its pickup location.
- Pack layers: The weather fluctuates wildly from the 60s to the 90s along the route.
Until Next Time, California
As our 5-day road trip along California’s coastal highway came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the magic of it all. From the rugged beauty of Big Sur to the old-west charm of Los Alamos, the romantic allure of Avila Beach, and the vibrant energy of Los Angeles, each stop along the way felt like its own little world. This journey wasn’t just about the places we visited—it was about the memories we created, the breathtaking sights that left us speechless, and the moments of quiet joy shared between the twists and turns of the road. California’s coast is more than just a destination; it’s a love affair with life’s possibilities, a reminder that the best adventures aren’t always planned, and an invitation to come back and explore even more. Until next time, California—thank you for the sun, the sea, and the stories that will stay with us forever.
