where can i stop highway 101

Full Answer

How many miles is a Highway 101 road trip?

Unlike a PCH road trip, you can cover a lot of ground on a Highway 101 road trip without a huge investment of time. We’ll be starting our trip at the beginning of Highway 101 in Los Angeles, and driving 165 miles to our first stop on California’s Central Coast.

Where is the best stop along Highway 101 in Oregon?

The best stop along Highway 101 in Oregon requires that you veer off of Highway 101 by just 3 miles. The Three Capes Scenic Route begins just south of Cloverdale and takes you to Pacific City where you’ll find Cape Kiwanda, the southernmost Cape along the Three Capes Route.

Is it worth it to stay on Highway 101 in California?

Maybe you’ll discover your new favorite vacation spot along the way. California road trips often start in the southland and opt to take the fast lane to the Bay area via the I-5. But staying on Highway 101 means you get to explore California’s serene Central Coast, a route that’s certainly worth the extra time.

Where should you stay on a Highway 101 road trip?

Dine at the inn’s quality restaurants, then unwind at the on-site spa before heading out to continue your Highway 101 road trip. Located in San Luis Obispo County, Cerro Alto Trail offers great views and an opportunity to stretch your legs just off the 101.

What is the most scenic part of Highway 101?

Oxnard to San Luis Obispo The stretch of 101 between Oxnard and Santa Barbara is especially scenic, with views of the Channel Islands offshore. Just north of the Gaviota Tunnel (which is north of Santa Barbara), Hwy 101 turns inland, and you won't see the ocean again until you get to Pismo Beach, and then only briefly.

What cities does Highway 101 go through?

Inland Cities from South to North:Buellton.Solvang.Santa Ynez.Lompoc.Santa Maria.Nipomo.Arroyo Grande.San Luis Obispo.More items...

Where does the Highway 101 start and end?

U.S. Route 101 (US 101) is a major north–south United States Numbered Highway, stretching from Los Angeles, California to Tumwater, Washington.

Is the 101 the same as the Pacific Coast Highway?

Known as the Pacific Coast Highway, California U.S. Route 101 (or 1 in some stretches) runs directly along the Pacific Ocean for 790 miles, from San Diego all the way to the Oregon border.

How long does it take to drive the entire Highway 101?

If you were to drive non-stop, the total time it would take to drive Highway 101 is 30 hours, or about 1,600 miles. When planning a road trip up Highway 101, budget at least five days to get from one end to another (though a week or more is better for sightseeing and exploring).

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.

How many miles long is Highway 101?

1,540 miU.S. 101 / Length

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 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.

Are there tolls on Highway 101?

In addition, express lanes are voluntary, and U.S. 101 in San Mateo County will continue to have the same number of general purpose lanes that exist today. No one will be forced to pay a toll to drive on U.S. 101.

Where should I stop on Highway 1 north of San Francisco?

Tip: It's better to visit Marin Headlands for the view in the afternoon because of the light.Golden Gate Bridge from the Marin headland viewpoint.The town of Point Reyes, California.Dillon Beach, Highway 1 north of San Francisco.View from Bodega Head.Sonoma Coastline.More items...•

Is it better to drive north or south on 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.

Is Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) the same as the 101?

The Pacific Coast Highway (otherwise known as Highway 1 or PCH) is not the same as Highway 101. Although they meet briefly in Central California, H...

How long does it take to drive Highway 101?

It depends on how many stops you’ll be making, and what adventures you’ll get up to. If you were to drive non-stop, the total time it would take to...

What is there to do on Highway 101 in Washington?

The Washington stretch of Highway 101 is one of the most beautiful—and exciting—parts of the road.Things to do on Highway 101 in Washington include...

Planning the perfect west coast road trip? Start here

A west coast road trip is one of the great American vacations. Our Los Angeles to Seattle Highway 101 road trip will take you through striking landscapes, fascinating places, and diverse histories over its 1,540 mile span.

Redwood Coast, California

After all that sunbathing and sipping, it’s time to reconnect with nature. And what better place than the humbling California redwoods, where getting lost in the thousand-year-old trees feels more like finding yourself? The offbeat beach towns peppering Northern California’s coastline are the perfect spot to pull over for a night or two.

Astoria, Oregon

Jump back on the 101 for about 450 miles and find yourself in Astoria. Once projected to be a major west coast city, fate had other plans for this sleepy, picturesque coastal town. Close to beaches, forests, and great restaurants, Astoria is the perfect spot to catch your breath for a few days and soak in the beauty of the Oregon Coast.

The Olympic Peninsula, Washington

The northern end of the 101 wraps around the Olympic Peninsula, a natural wonderland brimming with otherworldly forests, challenging peaks, striking Pacific vistas, and even some unique vacation homes, too.

Seattle, WA

While it’s not technically on the 101, Seattle is only an hour away from Tumwater (where the highway ends), and is the perfect place to end your adventure. A bustling big city with stunning natural features, Seattle has something for every visitor (just be sure to bring your rain jacket).

Highway 101 road trip FAQ

The Pacific Coast Highway (otherwise known as Highway 1 or PCH) is not the same as Highway 101. Although they meet briefly in Central California, Highway 101 and PCH combine for good in Northern California and continue up through Oregon and Washington as Highway 101.

What is the best stop on Highway 101?

Palace of Fine Arts. 1915 marked a rebirth for San Francisco with the installation of the Palace of Fine Arts, which remains one of the best highway 101 stops today. Surrounded by an idyllic lagoon, this extravagant palace celebrates architecture through its Roman columns and pale-pink hues.

What is the name of the highway that connects San Diego to San Diego?

The winding Oceanside coastline connects to the charming towns of San Diego through the U.S. Highway 101 —a panoramic drive for the ages. As salty air dances along the open road, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the glory that is the Golden State. From roaring shorelines to mountainous wilderness, the sweeping curves of Highway 101 hug ...

Is Santa Monica Pier on Highway 101?

Packed with an abundance of restaurants and bewitching seaside views, the iconic Santa Monica Pier remains a Highway 101 road trip necessity. Take a slight detour from the 101 and make your way through the Ocean Avenue neighborhood to find the charming pier in all its inviting glory.

How long is Highway 101?

The coastal US Highway 101 (or “the 101”) runs the length of the entire West Coast, spanning 1,540 miles of open road from the southernmost part in East Los Angeles to the northernmost part in Tumwater, Washington. The highway cuts through most of the state of California and at times merges with the Pacific Coast Highway.

How many miles is Highway 101 in California?

The coastal US Highway 101 (or “the 101”) runs the length of the entire West Coast, spanning 1,540 miles of open road from ...

What is the nickname for the fog that rolls through the hills and sometimes over the Golden Gate Bridge during the day?

While driving on the bridge, be on the lookout for Karl, the nickname for the city’s fog that rolls through the hills and sometimes over the bridge during the day. There is a toll for southbound drivers on the bridge, which is payable online. Open In Google Maps. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California, USA. +14159215858.

Where is the Madonna Inn?

The Madonna Inn is a landmarked hotel located in San Luis Obispo in California’ s Central Coast region. Known for its colorful and quirky decor, it was originally built as a motel. However, the Inn burned to the ground in 1966 and was rebuilt in an overly ornate and unique style spanning all 110 rooms. The Inn attracts tourists, art-lovers and photographers from around the country. Each room is unique with its own off-the-wall decor. A celestial room called “Just Heaven” features golden cherubs and a spiral staircase. A room modeled in the style of cave room called “Caveman” features animal print and rock walls. If staying the night isn’t an option, the Madonna Inn also features restaurants, a café and a cocktail bar. Reservations can be made online.

Where is Hendry's Beach?

Open In Google Maps. 2981 Cliff Drive, West Mesa, Santa Barbara, California, 93109 , USA.

Is there a stop at Ostrichland?

An ideal stop for families, Ostrichland USA gives people of all ages the chance to feed one of the most rarely seen birds in the world. No stop to Ostrichland is complete with pur chasing an ostrich egg or ostrich feather duster, just a few of the items available at the farm’s gift shop. Open In Google Maps.

Where to reconnect to Highway 101?

You can reconnect to Highway 101 as you travel north, after visiting Cape Lookout and Cape Meares. As the operator of three local lodging establishments, Jeremy Stober often gets asked about the unique places to eat, drink, and visit.

Where is the best stop on Highway 101 in Oregon?

The Three Capes Scenic Route begins just south of Cloverdale and takes you to Pacific City where you’ll find Cape Kiwanda, the southernmost Cape along the Three Capes Route.

What is the best road in Oregon?

Oregon Highway 101. The Oregon coastline is arguably the best stretch of road along the Pacific Coast - there is no other section of Highway 101 or 1 that stays so consistently close to the ocean. Rugged headlands, large rivers, and quiet beach towns are found throughout the entire coast. There is so much to explore with very few population centers ...

When was Highway 101 completed in Oregon?

In the early 20th century, towns along the rugged Oregon coast were practically unreachable. By the 1920s, rapidly growing interest in coastal tourism prompted the funding of a highway that would span the entire length (2). Over the course of five years, from 1921 to 1926, section by section of Highway 101 was completed.

What is the highest viewpoint on the Oregon coast?

The trails also offer great views of the crashing surf below, with numerous vantage points looking directly onto the famous Haystack Rock. 2) Neahkahnie Overlook is the highest viewpoint along the Oregon Coast and uses this to full effect - it offers visitors enormous 180 degree views of the coastline.

Where is Highway 101?

Highway 101 takes an inland route through most of California, but heads out to take the PCH’s place after Leggett. 101 is a natural extension and continues on for an additional 777 stunning miles to Port Angeles, Washington.

Where is Highway 101 in the Redwoods?

You are now in Redwood’s territory. Highway 101 heads through Crescent City before passing straight through Redwoods National Park. These huge tree keep popping up along the entirety of this section. Eureka is the last large town before the route dips inland to get around the Lost Coast.

Where is the Pacific Coast Highway?

California Highway 1 (the PCH) runs 655.8 miles from its southern terminus at Dana Point, CA to its northern terminus at Leggett, CA. Some of the most breath-taking scenery is found along the way, including the oceanside mountains of Big Sur, ...

Does Highway 101 go through Olympic National Park?

Highway 101 actually does a full loop around Olympic National Park, but since this is a coastal road trip guide, we are focusing on the western portion. From Port Angeles there are many opportunities to explore the national park including an alpine drive, hot springs, and rainforest hikes.