United StatesCoastal Destination

Pacific Coast Highway

California’s legendary coastal road trip from Big Sur cliffs to surf towns and Pacific overlooks.

900 km

7 days

California

General information

Everything you need to know about Pacific Coast Highway

Type

Coastal Destination

Length

900 km

Recommended Stay

7 days

Region

California

Description

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is one of the world’s great coastal drives: Big Sur, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and endless Pacific viewpoints. Ideal for road-trippers who want beaches, nature, and classic California scenery.

Famous for

Big Sur
Bixby Creek Bridge
Road-trip scenery
Surf towns
Pacific sunsets

Highlights

Big Sur pullouts and state parks

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Santa Monica Pier

Malibu beaches

Hearst Castle stop

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Water Activities

Dive into unique adventures and discover the sea from another perspective

Snorkeling

Explore coves and rocky bottoms.

Water Activity

Boat trip

Best way to see the coastline.

Water Activity

Live the adventure on the water!

Click on "Book" to find water activities in Pacific Coast Highway

Hidden Gems

Discover the best-kept secrets and unique corners few people know

👑 Royal Gem

Point Lobos

Dramatic coves and wildlife preserve.

Special note:

Arrive early.

Unique place

Discover unique places and special experiences!

Click on "Explore" to find exclusive tours and experiences

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Nature and Hiking

Connect with nature and discover unique landscapes that will leave you breathless

McWay Falls overlook

Tidefall viewpoint in Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP.

Location: 36.1580, -121.6720

Natural space

Explore nature and go on an adventure!

Click on "Route" to find hiking tours and activities

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Local Gastronomy

California seafood, farm-to-table, and wine country detours.

Main Dishes

Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl

Monterey/SF classic.

Typical Drinks

Central Coast wine

Pinot and Chardonnay country.

Sweets and Desserts

Artisan ice cream

Beach-town staple.

Discover the authentic flavors of the region!

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Festivals and Events

Local events throughout the year in Pacific Coast Highway.

Summer season

June–August

Peak beach and festival season.

Cultural

Experience local culture and traditions!

Click on "Info" to find related tours and activities

Links sponsored by GetYourGuide

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Points of Interest

Discover the most fascinating and unmissable places on this coast

Landmark

Bixby Creek Bridge

Most photographed bridge on Highway 1.

Note

Use pullouts safely.

Landmark

Discover unique and unmissable places!

Click on "Details" to find tours and activities at each point of interest

Ready to explore?

Each point of interest has its own unique history and magic

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Climate and Conditions

Temperatures by Season

Spring

15-22°C

Summer

25-32°C

Autumn

18-26°C

Winter

10-16°C

Precipitation

Mediterranean pattern: dry summers, milder wetter winters.

Water Conditions

Water Temperature

Ideal for swimming from June to October in most Mediterranean destinations.

Precautions

Jellyfish

Occasional jellyfish in warm months; follow beach flags.

Low

Currents

Respect flags; some open beaches have stronger currents.

Medium

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🏙️ Nearby Cities

Los angeles

Descubre Los angeles

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San francisco

Descubre San francisco

View more information →

Monterey

Descubre Monterey

View more information →

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Traveler Information

Everything you need to know to plan your visit

Best Time to Visit

May–June and September–October: great weather with fewer crowds.

Advertencias importantes

Book ahead in peak season. Respect the natural environment.

Connectivity

Public WiFi

Medium

Wi‑Fi in hotels and cafés.

SIM Cards

High

Local SIM or eSIM on arrival.

Safety Tips

Beach flags

Always respect local flags and notices.

Strong sun

Use high SPF sunscreen.

Transport Tips

Explore with time

Combine car/boat/local transport depending on the area.

Gastronomy Tips

Local produce

Try the typical cuisine of Pacific Coast Highway.

Culture & Etiquette

Respect the environment

Leave no litter; protect coves and dunes.

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Plan your visit to Pacific Coast Highway!

Discover everything Pacific Coast Highway has to offer

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Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

7 days cover beaches and a town or two. Add more for hikes or nearby islands.

Start with the featured beaches and towns on this guide; mix downtime with a hidden gem.

The nearby cities listed here usually work well for day trips along the coast.

Swimming, coastal walks, seafood, and seasonal water sports when available.

Many coasts are — look for easy-access beaches and towns with services.

Most visitors arrive via a nearby city, then use buses, cars, or local boats.

Pacific Coast Highway