How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
Quickest Route. About 380 miles, or 6 hours of driving. Pacific Coast Highway Route. About 460 miles, or 9 hours without a break. Combining the two. Note that if you set off from either end along the Pacific Coast Highway then there's no easy place to cut across to the freeway and make up time.
What is the California Coast Highway?
It is a highway that stretches the entire coast of California and for the majority of the drive is hugs the coastline, providing incredible views over the Pacific ocean. The route along the California coast follows both Route 1 and Route 101, as they often merge together.
What is the best way to drive around the Pacific Coast?
If you’re planning to drive round trip, I highly recommend that you drive South down the coast via Highway 1 – the Pacific Coast Highway, and then venture back up North via Highway 5 and Highway 101.
How long does it take to drive across California?
The Ultimate California Road Trip. The trip takes about five hours if driven at a leisurely pace. You can drive from the north to the south (Monterey to San Luis Obispo), or south to north. I drove it both directions, taking longer to drive back because I had no place I had to be at the end of the day.
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How long does it take to drive along the Pacific Coast Highway?
Strap in and get ready for an exhilarating driving experience along this twisting, cliff-hugging route. An exhilarating driving experience, this twisting, cliff-hugging, 123-mile (198-kilometer) route along the central California coast takes about five hours to complete at a leisurely pace.
What is the best time of year to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
The best time of the year to drive the Pacific Coast Highway is in mid-to-late February through April. California's rainy season typically ends in early February, turning its golden hills bright green and covering the coast with colorful wildflowers which last through April and into early May.
How long does it take to drive the entire California coast?
Hugging the coast California's north-south state highway takes in the Pacific coastline. Running 745 miles, this is an easy and relaxing route that takes in California's redwoods and astonishing sea vistas. Driving is easily accomplished over three days but be prepared for potential gridlock around major cities.
How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to LA?
about 10 to 12 hoursDriving the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to LA takes about 10 to 12 hours without stops. Most visitors choose to spend about 2 to 3 days driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
What is the prettiest part of the Pacific Coast Highway?
The Golden Gate Bridge Perhaps one of the most iconic views along the whole highway – San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge is as visually stunning as the views one gets from the bridge itself. Before you head across, come off the highway to get some of the best views and see the best San Francisco sights of the area.
Is driving the Pacific Coast Highway worth it?
But people tend to call the whole highway the PCH.) Naming technicalities aside, the most popular road trip along the route goes from the greater Los Angeles area to San Francisco, and no matter what you call it, the drive is absolutely worth a trip.
Where can I sleep on the Pacific Coast Highway?
Best Hotels Along Pacific Coast HighwayThe Brewery Gulch Inn (Mendocino)Nick's Cove (Marshall)Pelican Inn (Muir Beach)Stanyan Park Hotel (San Francisco)Bella Notte Inn (Santa Cruz)Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (Monterey)Candle Light Inn (Carmel-by-the-Sea)Fernwood Resort (Big Sur)More items...
Is it better to drive up or down the California coast?
Many travelers question, Is it better to drive up or down the California coast? We think the best route on California State Route 1 is from north to south – which is why we recommend the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles via the Pacific Coast Highway.
Is it safe to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
The road often takes hairpin turns with narrow shoulders and steep drop-offs, so you must be alert at all times. Don't forget to pull over in safe places to really enjoy the vista. If you're hurt in an accident the PCH, then make sure you get help from car accident lawyer familiar with California law.
What is the best coastal drive in California?
Highway 1The Highway 1, aka Pacific Coast Highway, road trip that passes through Big Sur on California's Central Coast is perhaps the most famous scenic drive in the Golden State. But it's not the only scenic, unforgettable road trip in California—by far.
How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway from Seattle to San Francisco?
13 hoursThe drive from San Francisco to Seattle can take as little as 13 hours, or 16 hours or more if you take the coastal highway for part of the route. However, any route you choose will bring you through some of the most charming towns and beautiful scenery on the West Coast.
How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway from LA to Seattle?
about 18 hoursWhile one could hypothetically complete the Seattle to LA drive in about 18 hours, or two long days of driving, the route is best experienced if you take the time to get off of the interstate, hop on the PCH and see some of the highlights of one of the most iconic road trips in the world.
Is it better to drive north or south on PCH?
It's best to travel from north to south as you'll be on the right side of the road for uninterrupted views and to pull over to take photographs. Parking in cities can be expensive. It's better to leave your rental vehicle and use public transport. Plan in plenty of stops along the way.
Is it better to go to California in July or August?
The best time to visit California is in the spring during April and in the fall from September to October. During those months, the crowds are tolerable, and it's the best time for outdoor activities as the temperatures are usually pleasant and not too hot.
Is it better to drive up or down the California coast?
Many travelers question, Is it better to drive up or down the California coast? We think the best route on California State Route 1 is from north to south – which is why we recommend the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles via the Pacific Coast Highway.
What is the best way to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
Driving the route from north to south is ideal, as you'll be on the ocean side of the road the entire way, allowing unobstructed views of the jagged coastline below. Three days is a minimum, and if time allows you could easily spend more.
How many days does it take to drive the coast of California?
How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway? To drive the entire coastal CA Highway 1 takes 10-12 hours without stops. But this road trip is all about the stops! Plan on a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights.
How long does it take to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway?
If you want to drive the Pacific Coast Highway then you can do it in half a day. Officially it’s less than 130 miles long, running between Dana Point and Oxnard in southern California. This is the stretch of Highway 1 which has been legally designated the Pacific Coast Highway by the California state legislature.
What is the cheapest time to go to California?
High season is considered to be November and December. The cheapest month to fly to California is August.
What is the prettiest part of the Pacific Coast Highway?
PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY: THE MOST SCENIC SPOTS The Golden Gate Bridge. Greyhound Rock Beach. Carmel by the Sea. Big Sur and Pfeiffer State Beach. Dana Point. Point Loma. How Gray Line San Francisco can help you explore:.
Is it better to drive north or south on Pacific Coast Highway?
It’s best to travel from north to south as you’ll be on the right side of the road for uninterrupted views and to pull over to take photographs. Parking in cities can be expensive. It’s better to leave your rental vehicle and use public transport. Plan in plenty of stops along the way.
What is the best time of year to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
For us, the best times to drive the Pacific Coast Highway are from late spring, through summer, to early fall. In July and August you have the best chance of almost-perfect weather, but you also have the busiest crowds and high-season hotel prices.
What is the prettiest place in California?
The 15 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In California of 15. Lake Tahoe. of 15. Napa Valley. of 15. Santa Barbara. of 15. The Cypress “Tree Tunnel” of 15. Griffith Park. of 15. The “Glass Beach” of 15. Death Valley National Park. of 15. Big Sur.
Best Time to Drive the Pacific Coast Highway
While California can be visited any time of the year, the fall or springtime are the best times of year to drive this coastal route.
Where Does the Pacific Coast Highway Begin and End?
The California stretch of the PCH drive actually begins in Dana Point in Orange County and ends in Leggett in Mendocino County, north of San Francisco.
What is the Best Way to Drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
Honestly either way is a fabulous way to drive the PCH. But most will say that from north to south is best for unobstructed ocean vistas. But even driving south to north you will be impressed by the scenery so really choose what direction is easiest for you with your point of arrival and departure.
How Long Does it Take to Drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
For the California section of the PCH, 5-10 days is recommended, depending on your schedule, with a week being that sweet spot where you will still be able to see tons. Here are recommendations of Pacific Coast Highway stops for each itinerary length.
Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary
This itinerary follows the 7-day plan and notes where you can add in if you’d like! Use this as your base and add or subtract based on what you love to do or can take a pass.
Continuing Your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Return to LA or another major city (add 0-1 day): If you need to get back to LA to return your day, add an additional day to drive back (it will be a long one (about 9 hours from Avenue of the Giants). Or you could drive back to San Francisco to return your car rental and fly back to LA or out of San Francisco.
How long does it take to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
Although the Pacific Coast Highway and Highway 101 are mostly one and the same, there's a stretch of this route roughly between Salinas and San Luis Obispo when 101 goes inland. Going that way is about 126 miles, or about 2 hours of driving. Taking the coast route is about 150 miles and will take about 3 hours, as it's a slower route.
How long is the drive from Los Angeles to San Diego?
Quickest Route. From Downtown Los Angeles to San Diego is about 120 miles, or 2 hours on a good day. If you want to stick to the coast, then Santa Monica to San Diego is roughly 135 miles, or maybe 2 hours 15 minutes. Pacific Coast Highway Route. If you really stick to the coast and beaches the whole way, that's going to turn into about 150 miles ...
WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA
First things first, if you’re not a resident of San Francisco (or LA), you’ll of course need to get yourself there. Since SFO is a major international airport, and a hub for many airlines, you can easily find cheap airfare within the states.
When to Drive Down the California Coast
Keep in mind that the summer months (June, July, and August) are usually rather foggy in San Francisco and down the California coast. Because of this, some mornings will be pretty damp and misty. For best weather and best chance of sunshine, plan for a road trip in either late September or October.
How long is Big Sur Coast Highway?
This picturesque route is entirely paved. It’s 123-mile (198-kilometer) long running along the central California coast. Part of the stunning California State Route 1, the drive begins in Monterey and travels to San Luis Obispo.
How long does it take to drive the Big Sur Coast Highway?
Plan up to five hours of drive time one-way. The road will take you along the most fascinating scenery in the state. It’s widely considered to be one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States. This coastal scenic drive offers dramatic views of the rocky Pacific shore of California.
Is Big Sur Coast Highway dangerous?
The drive is suitable for all types of vehicles. It was built in 1937. The road is a delight to drive, with every kind of twist and turn. In places, this winding road has narrow shoulders and sharp drop-offs, so stay alert. This route can be tricky for RVs or other oversize vehicles.
Where is the Pacific Coast Highway?
The Pacific Coast Highway is located in the U.S. states of Washington, Oregon, and California. The Pacific Coast Highway runs along two highways: US 101 in Washington, Oregon, and parts of California and California Highway 1 in the majority of California. From end-to-end, the Pacific Coast Highway is 1,675 miles long from Olympia, WA to San Diego, ...
Why do you drive north to south on the Pacific Coast Highway?
Driving south on the right-hand side of the road, you’ll have a great view of the ocean and coastline.
When is the best time to drive in California?
In Northern California, the best weather of the year happens between September and October. Southern California has great weather year-round. Therefore, I recommend driving the Pacific Coast Highway in September, when you’re most likely to have great weather along the entire length of the road trip.
How many days to drive the PCH?
If you have more time to drive the PCH, this 10-day itinerary is perfect. You can even stretch it out by spending a few extra days exploring some of the cities along the route if you want to. Here’s a Pacific Coast Highway map and schedule for 10 days:
How many miles is the Pacific Coast Highway?
Mitch Diamond/Getty Images. The Pacific Coast Highway, also called California State Route 1, Coast Highway, or shortened by locals to be "PCH," is 650 miles of road. It connects the beautiful harbor town of Dana Point in southern California's Orange County to Leggett, California, in Mendocino County, home to some of the largest trees in the world.
What is the state route 1 in California?
Going north from Dana Point, California State Route 1 is called simply Coast Highway through Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. The first glimpses of the Pacific Ocean start in south Laguna Beach. People in Newport Beach seem to think it is better to live on the beach than to see it while driving by. Houses and businesses between the road and ...
Where to take a detour in Long Beach?
For a better ocean view and a more scenic glimpse of Southern California beach life, take a detour in South Redondo Beach.
How long is the drive from LA to San Francisco?
Or if you have set your sights even more northward, you can consider a drive up the coast from LA to San Francisco along the PCH. This scenic drive is long (440 miles) and will take you 8-plus hours, so plan on breaking up the drive by at least two days to truly enjoy the vistas.
How long does it take to drive from Dana Point to Santa Monica?
If you take a closer look at the 75-mile stretch from Dana Point to Santa Monica, you will find a lot of this part of the Pacific Coast Highway is made up of city streets and it will take you two to three hours to make the drive depending on traffic and how often you stop. In this part of California, the "Pacific Coast Highway" is ...
Where to take a ferry in Newport Beach?
For a fun detour along the way in Newport Beach, take Balboa Boulevard (if you are going south) or Jamboree Road (if you are going north) to the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, taking the charming little three-car ferry boat between them. After a quick drive to the end of the Balboa Peninsula, return to Coast Highway to continue.
Does Long Beach have a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean?
However, it seldom gives even a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. What it does give is a peek at a cross-section of southern California life as it passes used car lots, car washes, apartment buildings, and strip malls. On the west side of Long Beach, the road will even take you past an oil refinery.
