You would be hard pressed to find a more beautiful drive than the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). The views along the 655.8 miles that make up the PCH are amazing and make for a trip you will never forget.
This 5 day itinerary is based on a south to north route from Los Angles to San Francisco but could easily be done in reverse.
Day 1: Los Angles to Ventura
Los Angles
Los Angles is a great place to start your journey because it is easy to fly into and there are several things you can plan to do depending on when you fly in.
- Venice Beach – Funky Shops and street performers; Great place to people watch
- Hollywood Blvd – This is a cultural icon with ton of attractions: Hollywood Walk of Fame, TLC Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre, and El Capitan Theatre
- Santa Monica Pier – Classic pier with an amusement park and concession stands.
Malibu
Leaving the Santa Monica Pier, hit the Pacific Coast Highway and head towards Malibu. Malibu is a beach town that is north west of Los Angles. Here you will find the landmark seafood restaurant Neptune’s Net. Eat your meal on the patio overlooking the ocean.
End your day at the accommodations of your choice in Venture. See a list of options HERE.
Day 2: Ventura to San Luis Obispo
Ventura
This coastal city north of Los Angles is home to beautiful beaches. Popular with surfers, it is a classic California beach town.
- Marina Park – 15 Acre Oceanfront park
- Grant Park & The Cross – 107-acre hilltop park with beautiful coastline views
- Father Junipero Serra Statue – statue of the founder of Mission San Buenaventura. This is found in front of Ventura City Hall which is a beautiful building.
Santa Barbara
Head towards downtown and Stearns Wharf when you get to Santa Barbara. The Mediterranean-style buildings are beautiful as you pass through downtown. Stretch your legs with a walk a long Stearns Warf before you head inland into the mountains.
- Stearns Wharf – This deep water pier is home to several restaurants and specialty shops.
- Cold Spring Canyon Arch Bridge – Highest arch bridge in California
- Cold Spring Tavern – Started as a stage coach stop in 1868, this western saloon serves up a tasty menu in an antique setting.
Solvang
Your next stop is Solvang, a Danish-style town with multiple wineries nearby. Downtown is full of shops and cafes. I recommend stopping by one of the many candy shops and getting some chocolate or fudge.
San Luis Obispo
Finally you reach your stop for the night. The last time I made this trip, I rented an Airbnb. The home was small but it was perfect for 1 or 2 people. It was very clean and I would recommend it to others. Click HERE to see the listing.
Day 3: San Luis Obispo to Monterey
Get up this morning and head straight for Morro Bay.
Morro Bay
This small coastal town is best know for Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound at the end of Morro Rock Beach. Sadly one of my favorite attraction, the Morro Bay Skateboard Museum, closed.
- Morro Rock Beach – see the iconic Morro Rock
San Simeon
You’ve reached the halfway point between Los Angles and San Francisco. Just before getting to San Simeon stop along one of the scenic view points and see the elephant seals sun bathing on the beach.
Big Sur
This rugged section of the Pacific Coast Highway is best knows for its winding turns and sweeping views. This is by far one of my favorites parts of the trip. There are multiple pull-offs along this stretch of the PCH proving endless opportunities for amazing photos.
- Big Creek Cove Vista Point – Beautiful lookout
- Big Creek Bridge – Beautiful bridge along PCH
- McWay Falls – Famous waterfall
- Big Sur Tap House – Highly recommend this tavern to grab a bite to eat.
- Bixby Creek Bridge – Famous bridge along PCH
Monterey
Here’s where you’ll stop for the night. I recommend Springhill Suites by Marriott The Dunes on Monterey Bay as a good place stay.
Day 4: Monterey to San Francisco
Monterey
Home to the famous Cannery Row, this coastal town is bustling with tourist. There are many attraction in this area that make it such a hot spot.
- Pebble Beach Golf Course – See the golf course and the famous lone cypress tree
- Cannery Row – historic canneries along with shops and restaurants
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Old Fisherman’s Wharf – Dining, shopping and ocean activities
Santa Cruz
Another picturesque coastal town with a vintage feel. Stop here to check out the beach, pier and boardwalk.
- Santa Cruz Boardwalk – Beach-side amusement park
San Francisco
After leaving Santa Cruz, continue up the PCH until you reach San Francisco. This is where you’ll spend the night and then tour the city on your 5th day. The last time I was there I stayed at beautiful Airbnb outside of the city. It is easily one of the best Airbnb rentals I’ve ever stayed in. Click HERE to view the listing.
Day 5: San Francisco
Spend your last day touring the City on the Bay. There is so much to see and do in this area. I recommend starting at Muir Woods north of the city early in the morning and then venturing to San Francisco late morning /early afternoon.
- Muir Woods National Monument – Walk among the giants
- Pier 39 – Touristy Pier; lots of shops, restaurants and sea lions
- Golden Gate Bridge – Drive, walk or bike the bridge
- Yoda Fountain – Fountain outside the LucasFilms Headquarters
- Twin Peaks – 64-acre hilltop park
- Lombard Street – most crooked street in the world
Where to eat in San Francisco:
- Cha Cha Cha – Tapas Restaurant…get the sangria!
- Foreign Cinema – Californian-Mediterranean fare
- Buena Vista – Famous Irish Coffee
Disclaimer: As an Airbnb Associate, I earn a commission when you book through links in this post. There is no cost to you.
