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Best Places to Visit on the West Coast, USA

From the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington to deep within the Sierra Nevadas and Cascade ranges, from the Mojave desert to the beautiful and majestic Grand Canyon, there are plenty of amazing destinations to visit in the Western US. 

The Pacific Coast is one of our favorite places to visit. Here you will find vibrant cities, stunning natural attractions, and one of a kind landscapes. This part of the country is vast and diverse. It is perfect to visit for families and couples. It is also perfect for solo travel or a trip with friends. 

No matter what time of the year, a visit to the West Coast is always an exciting adventure.

Best Places to Visit on the West Coast

Looking for the best places to visit along the West Coast of the USA? For first time visitors, you can’t go wrong by following the most popular Las Vegas Los Angeles San Francisco itinerary with a stop to see the Grand Canyon. 

For repeat visitors, consider the Pacific Northwest and its highlights: Seattle, Portland, Columbia River Gorge, and the Olympic Peninsula. Or go for the Las Vegas Zion Grand Canyon route. Whichever places you decide to visit, your trip will be an amazing one!

Here are some of our favorite places to visit on the West Coast of the USA. 

San Francisco

When it comes to the West Coast, few places are as popular with tourists as San Francisco. The city is popular for its hilly streets, the fog that rolls up frequently during the summer, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. 

The city has a very liberal and inviting vibe. From neighborhoods like Chinatown, Haight Ashbury, and the Mission District to landmarks like the Palace of Fine Arts and Alcatraz Island, the city has plenty to offer for tourists. 

San Francisco also makes a great start for a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. West Marin County and Marin Headlands are very close to the city and a playground for outdoor explorers. Here you will find hiking trails, water sports, wildlife, and pristine beaches. 

Portland

Yosemite Valley

Los Angeles

Grand Canyon National Park

Seattle

Napa Valley

Lake Tahoe

Big Sur

San Diego

Zion National Park

Olympic Peninsula

Death Valley

Cannon Beach

Joshua Tree

Las Vegas

Yellowstone

Bend

Santa Barbara

Columbia River Gorge

San Juan Islands

Crater Lake

Mendocino

Solvang

Channel Islands

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner
Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 10 Day itinerary
All PCH Itineraries
Best Places to Stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops