There is something inherently romantic and charming about lighthouses.

They have been the beacon of light and hope to sailors and explorers, and have fascinating tales woven around them.

The rockier and more dangerous the coast, the more historically significant is the lighthouse! 

The West Coast of the USA is home to many iconic lighthouses including the most photographed lighthouse in the country.

These west coast lighthouses are spread all over the Pacific Coast from California to Washington, but the ones along Oregon’s wild and rocky coast remain some of the most photogenic in the world. 

If you love lighthouses, then you are in for a treat along the Pacific Coast Highway.

There are many beautiful lighthouses on the West Coast of the USA and most of these are easily accessible from Highway 1 in California or Highway 101 in the Pacific Northwest. 

Lighthouses are not just for romantic lovers and history enthusiasts.

Try climbing up the spiraling staircases of a really tall lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views from above, then you will understand why even adventure lovers enjoy visiting lighthouses. 

Even science and technology buffs love checking out the lighthouse maritime museums to view different types of lights and lenses and understand how the beacon and foghorn operates.

Here is an ultimate guide to the Pacific Coast Lighthouses.

Best Lighthouses along the West Coast, USA

Most visitors are surprised to know that there are just over 87 lighthouses on the West Coast.

Compared to over 150 in just Michigan itself and hundreds on the East Coast and Gulf Coast, this number does seem small, since the Pacific Coast is over 1290 miles in length!

Nevertheless, the lighthouses on the Pacific are just stunning structures and many of them have been converted into excellent museums.

From the iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse of Oregon to Pigeon Point Lighthouse in central California, here are some of our favorite lighthouses on West Coast USA to visit now.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse, California

California’s Pigeon Point Lighthouse bears the distinction of being the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast.

It is 115 feet tall and looks incredibly beautiful and romantic as it stands over a cliff on the Pacific Ocean.

It is amongst the best lighthouses in California.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse and even see the original Fresnel Lens, which once lit the coast. 

The lighthouse and its nearby areas are protected as a part of the Pigeon Point Lightstation State Historic Park.

In the park, you can hike along the coast and spot marine life including whales, seals, tide pool creatures, and sea birds from the lighthouse observation platform.

It is one of the prettiest lighthouses on Highway 1 and a must visit on this road trip.

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, Oregon

Located near Newport on the central coast of Oregon, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is the only surviving wooden lighthouse in the state.

It is located on a bluff at the mouth of the Yaquina River and can be seen on a guided tour.

While the light was decommissioned in 1874, it has been privately restored and is again operational today. 

The lighthouse is located within the Yaquina Bay State Park.

You can visit the lighthouse watch room and see exhibits on the lighthouse history and wildlife of the area.

Entry to the lighthouse is free while donations are welcome.

After seeing the lighthouse, you can also hike around the park and enjoy coastal views. 

Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon

In Oregon’s Yaquina Bay, you will find not just one but two lighthouses.

The Yaquina Head Lightstation is Oregon’s tallest lighthouse at 93 feet.

This is one the most photographed lighthouses on the West Coast and can be seen on a tour.

You can climb almost 114 stairs to the top of the best lighthouse in Oregon and see the working Fresnel lens.

The docents are dressed in period costumes and the entire experience is just wonderful. 

Located within the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, the lighthouse makes an excellent day trip along the Pacific Coast Highway 101.

Yaquina Head was formed by lava flows and the Pacific Ocean has eroded the volcanic coastline to create beautiful beaches, sea caves, rock formations, and sea stacks.

Go hiking in the area to enjoy the beautiful coastal views. 

Point Pinos Lighthouse, California

Point Pinos Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast!

It is one of the oldest landmarks of its kind in the USA and was built in 1855 to guide ships in the Pacific.

Located in Pacific Grove in Monterey County, this is also the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast. 

Visitors can tour the inside of this lighthouse and learn about its history from the knowledgeable docents.

Inside you can see interesting displays, learn about the original lens, and about its famous lightkeeper, Emily Fish.

The grounds and views from inside the lighthouse are also worth the visit. 

Point Sur Lighthouse, California

Point Sur Lighthouse is hands down one of the best things to do in Big Sir on the Central California coast.

The lighthouse is located in Monterey County.

The light and its supporting buildings are designated state historic buildings – making this one of the most visited lighthouses on California coast for history lovers.

The light stands on a lonely volcanic rock out in the ocean.

It has got a very commanding view of the coast. 

Built-in 1889, the lighthouse continues to assist ships in navigating the rocky coastline of Big Sur even today.

Docents lead visitors on three-hour-long tours that go to the lantern room and up and down the light stairs.

Along with the lighthouse, visitors can also tour the Point Sur Naval Facility, a relic from the Cold War days. 

Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon

Heceta Head Lighthouse in Oregon is one of the most picturesque and charming lighthouses on the West Coast.

It is located between Florence and Yachats, Oregon, and can be easily seen on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip.

This photogenic lighthouse also has the distinction of being the strongest light on the Oregon Coast. 

Heceta Head Lighthouse was built in 1894 and is 56 feet tall.

The light and adjoining natural area is protected as Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint.

The keeper’s quarters are operated as a B&B and make for an excellent stay.

The white painted lighthouse and surrounding buildings with their red roofs look very pretty perched on the rocky coast and make for a postcard-worthy view. 

North Head Lighthouse, Washington

Located in Cape Disappointment State Park, the North Head Lighthouse is an iconic light in Washington State.

It was built in 1898 at the mouth of the Columbia River to supplement the existing Cape Disappointment Lighthouse in an attempt to reduce the shipwrecks.

The lighthouse is still operational today and aids navigation. 

Visitors can tour the lighthouse on a trip to the state park.

From the top of the lighthouse, you have stunning views of the coast of southern Washington, northern Oregon, the Columbia River, and the Pacific Ocean.

There are 69 steps to the top of the lighthouse.

There is also a museum and gift shop at the light. 

Point Bonita Lighthouse, California

Point Bonita Lighthouse in Sausalito was built in 1855 to light up the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Strait.

The lighthouse is still active and one of the hidden gems in the San Francisco Bay area.

The lighthouse is located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area on Marin Headlands. 

To reach the lighthouse, visitors need to hike half a mile from the parking lot.

The hike is steep and has amazing views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean.

You walk over the suspension bridge to reach the light.

If you are tired after the hike, sit on one of the picnic tables at Battery Wallace and enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Alcatraz Lighthouse, California

The Alcatraz Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse to be ever built on the West Coast.

It is built near the entrance to the federal prison on the southern end of Alcatraz Island.

Even today, it continues to help ships navigate the waters around Alcatraz Island.

The lighthouse design is similar to that of Point Loma or Point Pinos. 

The original lighthouse tower was affected in the San Francisco earthquake of 1906 and was rebuilt in 1909. 

Visitors can see the Alcatraz Lighthouse up close as a part of the Alcatraz Island tour which departs from San Francisco.

However, entry inside the lighthouse is restricted and not open to the public.

The tickets include return cruises to the island, an audio tour of the federal prison and cells, and the history of the island.

New Dungeness Light Station, Washington

Located near Sequim in Washington, New Dungeness Light Station is a great place to visit while on the Olympic Peninsula.

The lighthouse enjoys a strategic location on the Dungeness Spit.

The lighthouse can be reached by a 5 mile long one-way hike from the parking lot.

The hike is best done at low tide when the path is clear. 

The views from the top of the lighthouse are fabulous.

There are many things to do on the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge apart from the lighthouse.

Dungeness Spit is the longest natural sand spit in the country.

From here, you can watch panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and spot abundant wildlife.  

Old Point Loma Lighthouse, California

Old Point Loma Lighthouse, located inside the Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, has a pretty interesting history.

At one time, it was the southernmost lighthouse on the West Coast.

Built-in 1855, the lighthouse stood over the San Diego Bay and helped keep ships safe for 36 years.

However, its position was always obscured by the fog and low clouds, making the light useless. 

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse was eventually abandoned in favor of the New Point Loma Lighthouse in 1891.

The newer light is much closer to the coast, clearly visible from afar, and continues to shine even today.

While visitors can just see the new light from afar, they can visit the Old Lighthouse which has been turned into a museum. 

Cape Flattery Lighthouse, Washington

Welcome to Cape Flattery!

This is the northwesternmost point in the contiguous USA and located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula in the Makah Reservation.

That makes Cape Flattery Lighthouse, built-in 1857, pretty unique.

Most visitors think that the lighthouse is located on the Cape Flattery but it is actually located on Tatoosh Island out in the sea. 

While you cannot actually visit the lighthouse, you can hike the Cape Flattery trail to the last observation platform to see a pretty postcard-perfect view of the lighthouse.

Since its construction, the light helped ships navigate waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound and reach the cities of Seattle and Tacoma.

It is now deactivated and awaits restoration. 

Point Reyes Lighthouse, California

Point Reyes is one of the most popular lighthouses in the Bay area.

Located in Point Reyes National Seashore, this light is perched atop the windiest point on the continent.

The lighthouse is just 35 feet tall and while you don’t have to climb a host of stairs inside the lighthouse, you do have to climb down 300 steps to reach the light itself! 

A must visit is the nearby Lighthouse Visitor Center.

Here you can see various exhibits, artifacts, and documents related to the lighthouse’s history, marine life, and natural history of the area.

If you do make it when tours are available and climb all the way down to the light, you will be treated to stunning views from the Lens Room and will be able to see the first-order Fresnel Lens. 

Cape Meares Lighthouse, Oregon

Located inside Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Meares Lighthouse is one of the underrated light stations along the Oregon Coast.

It is located along the Three Capes Scenic Loop in Tillamook County.

This is the smallest light station along the Oregon Coast and is just 38 feet tall but its light shines out 21 miles into the sea. 

The light enjoys an incredibly beautiful and dramatic location on the Tillamook Coast.

The adjoining area is known as the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint.

The views up and down the coast from Cape Meares are beautiful.

From here, you can also spot seabirds, eagles, falcons, whales, otters, seals, sea lions, and other marine life.  

Battery Point Lighthouse, California

Battery Point Lighthouse is one of the most famous lighthouses in Northern California.

Located in Crescent City, Battery Point Lighthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Its historical significance comes from the fact that Battery Point was among the earliest lighthouses along the California coast.

The lighthouse is located on a tiny islet in the ocean and looks striking when it is surrounded by waves at high tide. 

The lighthouse and its museum are open to visitors at low tide when the land bridge to the islet is accessible.

We recommend looking at the tidal charts and calling the museum before your visit.

On a tour of the lighthouse, you can see maritime artifacts, historic documents, photographs, as well as climb the lighthouse tower.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Northern California.

Did you like our list of best West Coast lighthouses?

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

The post 15 Best Lighthouses along the West Coast, USA appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best drives in the world!

This epic road trip promises sunshine, sandy beaches, and surf towns – but it is much more than that!

You will experience stunning natural beauty at every turn, spot marine life, hike in redwood forests, and more!

In this post, we highlight our favorite, unique, and simply the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Best Pacific Coast Highway stops along Highway 1 in California

The best places to stop along the almost 656 miles of Pacific Coast Highway combine beaches with bridges, delicious seafood, art communities, and dramatic cliffside views.

It is, after all, the #1 Road Trip in the country.

There are many excellent places of interest along the route.

We recommend starting in the northern California in San Francisco or ideally Leggett if you can.

We have listed the stops as they come while traveling north to south along the PCH1.

To plan a PCH1 road trip along these stops, check out our Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner. 

Chandelier Drive-Through Tree in Leggett

Leggett is the northern end of the Pacific Coast Highway 1 or SR1.

Leggett’s main attraction is the Chandelier Drive-Through Tree.

This massive coastal redwood has a hole cut in its base through which you can drive for $10 per car.

The tree is located in the Drive Through tree park which also has picnic areas and a gift shop and is good for spending some time.

Leggett also has many quaint hotels and B&B’s, making it a good place to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

Glass Beach, Fort Bragg

Located along the Mendocino Coast, Fort Bragg is a small coastal town that is perfect for exploring.

The town is home to the famed Glass Beach located in MacKerricher State Park.

The beach has a very interesting history.

The Great San Francisco Earthquake and the resulting fire that occurred in 1906 destroyed Fort Bragg’s buildings.

The rubble was dumped into the ocean prior to rebuilding the town.

After the reconstruction, many new people came to live in the town.

Most of the Fort Bragg residents dumped their trash, which included glass in the forms, into the ocean.

The sea waves broke the trashed glass down into small rounded pebbles over a period of 30 years, the result of which you can see at the beautiful Glass Beach. 

Coastal Bluffs of Mendocino

Mendocino is one of the most charming communities on the California Coast.

It has the most dramatic coastal bluffs with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

The best way to explore Mendocino’s coastline is by hiking over the coastal, cliffside trails.

The best trails and views can be seen from both Mendocino Headlands State Park and the Russian Gulch State Park.

Another unique Mendocino attraction is the Pygmy Forest at Van Damme State Park.  

Point Arena Lighthouse

The Point Arena Lighthouse is a striking landmark on the California coast between Mendocino and San Fran.

Situated atop a high bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this historic lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1870.

Today, the lighthouse is open to the public for tours and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

Also Read: 15 Best Lighthouses on the West Coast

Potter Schoolhouse, Bodega

Bodega is unique from most other Californian coastal communities.

Bodega and the nearby Bodega Head peninsula in Bodega Bay were used as a filming location in Alfred Hitchcock’s famous movie, ‘The Birds’ that came out in 1963.

Since then visitors come out to Bodega, which is located 4 miles off PCH1, to see the buildings featured in the movie.

The Potter Schoolhouse, where much of the movie takes place, and the Bodega Church are both worth a visit.

The schoolhouse is now a residential building, but you can still take photos from outside the fence.

Fresh oysters, Tomales Bay

Tomales Bay in Marin County is famous for its oyster farms and freshly shucked oysters.

There are many great places to eat oysters in the area, here’s a recap of our favorites.

Nick’s Cove has great oysters and fantastic seaside views.

They also have romantic cottages where you can stay for the night.

Hog Island Oyster Farm needs no introduction; however, they are crazy crowded on weekends.

For fried or barbecued oysters, try Tony’s Seafood.

For a picnic on the beach, purchase your oysters directly from the farm at Tomales Bay Oyster Company. 

Closer to Point Reyes, stop at the Station House Cafe or Cafe Reyes for some oysters. 

The Lighthouse at Point Reyes

Point Reyes is both foggy and windy.

In fact, it is the windiest place on the Pacific Coast and the foggiest place in the country!

The Lighthouse at Point Reyes National Seashore is the best place to enjoy both these things.

The iconic lighthouse was built in 1870 and was used to warn mariners till 1975.

Today the lighthouse and visitor center is great to learn about Point Reyes geology and to spot wildlife including whales, sea otters, and more.

You will need to climb down 300 steps to reach the lighthouse but it’s totally worth it.

The lighthouse is often closed when the winds are high, but you can always visit the Visitor Center. 

Alamere Falls

Located in Point Reyes National Seashore,

Alamere Falls is a tidal fall that plunges 40 ft into the Pacific Ocean.

Alamere Falls is one of the least famous attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway, primarily because of its inaccessibility.

To reach the Alamere Falls, you need to hike a 13 miles round trip trail.

You also need to consider low tide timings before planning a hike.

Because of its difficulty, this trail is recommended only for experienced hikers.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge, along with Big Sur, is the star attraction of the Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

The suspension bridge spans the one mile wide Golden Gate Strait and is considered to be an engineering marvel.

The PCH 1 actually crosses the Golden Gate Bridge (in this stretch it combines with Highway 101 – which is what you will see on the map) and the views from the bridge are amazing.

Even before you reach the bridge, we would recommend stopping at Golden Gate Bridge View Vista Point and the Golden Gate View Point near Battery Spencer.

Then cross the bridge, park at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, and walk back up to the bridge.

We love walking across the bridge to enjoy the views.

Coming back, visit the visitor center to learn interesting information about the bridge.

Explore the rest of the Golden Gate Park if you have the time.

Read our post on Best Things to do in San Francisco for more information on the city.

San Francisco

San Francisco has plenty of other attractions besides the Golden Gate Bridge.

Half Moon Bay State Beach

One of the most picturesque beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway!

Half Moon Bay State Beach is not just one beach but a 4 mile wide stretch of beaches along the town of Half Moon Bay.

The four beaches are Roosevelt Beach, Dunes Beach, Venice Beach, and Francis Beach.

Each of these beaches is accessible from Hwy 1 – Venice Beach is one of the most popular ones.

Not only are the beaches pretty and ideal for sunbathing but they are also perfect for bird watching, tide pools exploration, fishing, surfing, and beach-combing.

If you are camping along the PCH, then Half Moon Bay campground is a great place to stop for the night.

Read our post on Best Things to do in Half Moon Bay to learn all attractions in the area.

Want to ask us questions about your trip or just want to say hello?

Join our free Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Facebook Group now. That’s where we hang out, answer your questions, and share pictures from our most recent trip to the Californian Coast. 

Click here to join now.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Half the fun of driving the Pacific Coast Highway is in how the route weaves seamlessly in and out of natural areas.

After passing by hidden coves and remote beaches, it feels delightfully surprising to reach the crowded and popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

This Beachfront Amusement Park is the oldest in California and has many thrilling rides and arcade gaming areas.

The Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster and the carousel are its most iconic attractions.

Kids of all ages enjoy the boardwalk and it is one of the top places to stop along the Pacific Coast Highway with kids.

Pebble Beach golf courses

In Pebble Beach, California, golfers from all over the world come to experience one of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the world.

The 18-hole course hugs the rocky coastline, providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean for players.

With its many elevation changes and tight fairways, Pebble Beach tests even the best golfers.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the country and definitely worth a visit.

The aquarium places a lot of emphasis on marine research and animal conservation and has a variety of exhibits to introduce you to marine life along the Pacific Coast.

On a visit to the aquarium, you can see the sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellyfish, and more.

They have great educational exhibits as well as touch pools for the kids.

You will need at least 2 to 3 hours to see the aquarium completely.

Read post on Best Things to do in Monterey to plan your trip.

Carmel By the Sea

Carmel by the sea is an enchanting little town located on the central coast of California.

This beach community is known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, lovely weather, and quaint shops and restaurants.

Visitors to Carmel can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

There is also a great selection of art galleries, boutiques, and cafes to explore.

Point Lobos

Point Lobos is a breathtaking state park near Carmel-by-the-Sea in California.

With its rocky coastline, evergreen forests, and marine life, Point Lobos is a coastal paradise.

Visitors can explore the trails, see the tide pools, and even spot whales!

Bixby Creek Bridge & McWay Falls, Big Sur

Big Sur along California’s central coast is by far our favorite part of this road trip.

The scenery in Big Sur is spectacular and at every turn, you will see panoramic views, beautiful beaches, and lots of marine life.

There are so many things to do and see in Big Sur, that it is really hard to come up with just a few.

However, you cannot really see Big Sur without admiring the Bixby Creek Bridge or the McWay Falls.

Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in California; we recommend stopping at the pull-out points before the bridge.

McWay Falls, located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, is an 80 ft waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean.

There is a small hike from where you can see the McWay Falls.

For more attractions in Big Sur including Point Lobos and Keyhole Rock, read our post on Best Things to do in Big Sur.

Elephant Seal Rookery, Piedras Blancas

The Elephant Seal Rookery at Piedras Blancas is a must stop for those who love to watch wildlife.

The rookery has a boardwalk along which you can walk and spot the elephant seals lying on the beach or swimming in the water.

The Rookery is free to visit and has ample parking.

You can see pups, juvenile seals, and adults from the boardwalk – bring a good telephoto zoom lens to take photos and binoculars to watch the animals.

While you will be able to see the seals year-round, their population at the rookery peaks in January, April, and October. 

The elephant seals are another reason why spring is our favorite time of the year to drive the Pacific Coast Highway.

For more information on when to visit, read our article now. 

Hearst Castle, San Simeon

While Hearst Castle is not located on Highway 1, it is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in the region.

Hearst Castle is an enormous mansion commissioned by William Hearst, the publishing tycoon.

Work on the castle continued from 1919 to 1947 and famous California architect Julia Morgan designed the castle to resemble a Spanish Colonial Cathedral.

It has been designated a National Historic Landmark and can be seen on ticketed tours.

On a tour of the mansion, you can see the famous Olympic sized outdoor swimming pool and visit some of the Grand rooms. 

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, better known as SLO, is one of the hippiest towns on the Central Coast of California.

Being a university town, it is great for younger tourists who like to enjoy the nightlife, cafes, and unique attractions like the Bubble Gum Alley.

SLO also has many cultural attractions including the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a historic downtown district, Madonna Inn, and the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art.

Being midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, SLO makes a great pitstop on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip. 

Read our post on the Best things to do in San Simeon to plan your trip.

Pismo Beach and Morro Bay

Pismo Beach and Morro Bay are two laid back communities on the central coast where you can surf, eat seafood, drink coffee in quaint cafes, and browse local art.

In Pismo Beach, check out the Pismo Reserve and watch the sunset from the Pier.

Pismo State Beach is great to drive on, though make sure that you have a 4WD vehicle.

Morro Bay became more popular after it was mentioned in the Finding Dory movie – but the film isn’t actually based here so, don’t go around looking for the Marine Life Aquarium.

One of the major attractions of Morro Bay is Morro Rock, a volcanic rock that juts out of the ocean.

Both the towns are great for spotting seals, sea lions, otters, and for going on whale-watching expeditions.

Dune Bashing at Oceano Dunes

South of Pismo Beach, you will find another interesting stop – Oceano Dunes.

At Oceano Dunes, sand dunes of various sizes extend as far as the eye can see.

This is the largest coastal dunes area in California.

The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is great for dune bashing, horse riding, and camping.

A variety of quad bikes, dirt bikes, and dune buggies are available to rent in the area.

If you plan to camp in Oceano Beach, advance reservations are highly recommended.

Danish architecture, Solvang

Solvang is one of our favorite spots to stop along the Pacific Coast Highway.

While the area up to Pismo Beach is mostly considered central California, Solvang is often considered to be in southern California.

To reach Solvang, you need to leave the PCH and drive inland.

Why is then Solvang must visit?

Two reasons: it’s a Danish town that reminds you of being in Europe and it’s located in the Santa Ynez Valley, which is famous for its wineries.

Strolling through Solvang is a delight.

You will see Danish architecture, windmills, Danish restaurants, and shops throughout the town.

We recommend checking out the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, eating Danish pastries, and visiting Old Mission Santa Ynez.

You should also visit the nearby wineries and do a tasting. 

Mission Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has beautiful Spanish Colonial revival architecture and many historic buildings.

The most iconic building in the city is, however, the magnificent Mission Santa Barbara.

The mission also houses a museum displaying colonial art and sculptures and is beautiful inside out.

Other things to do in Santa Barbara include whale watching, visiting the Santa Barbara Zoo, exploring Stearns Wharf, shopping, and hiking.

Channel Islands National Park

Ventura on Hwy 101 is the base for exploring Channel Islands National Park, one of the most remote national parks in the country.

The national park comprises of a group of 5 archipelagos in the Pacific Ocean.

The islands have unique flora and fauna and you can spot sea lions, island fox, barn owls pelicans and other wildlife.

Other activities to do on the Channel Islands include kayaking, camping, scuba diving, etc.

The Park Visitor Center is located in Ventura itself and is worth a visit, even if you can’t visit the islands. 

Santa Monica Pier

Another kid-friendly attraction along the Pacific Coast Highway!

Santa Monica Pier is a Los Angeles icon and contains everything from an amusement park to fishing areas.

The amusement park, Pacific Park, has a variety of attractions including a solar-powered Ferris wheel, roller coaster, carousel, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, a video arcade, etc and is fun for the whole family.

The Santa Monica Pier is also the end of the famous Route 66 and taking a photo with the End of Road sign is one of the most popular things to do.

The Pier also has many restaurants and eateries and is great for spending an entire day. 

Dana Point

Dana Point is the official end of the PCH1.

This dreamy beach town in Southern California has amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and is great for a romantic getaway.

Visit the marina to take a whale watching or dolphin cruise into the Pacific.

Alternatively, take a champagne sunset cruise with your loved one.

Dana Point also has many good restaurants and resorts and makes for a great end of the road vacay.

Orange County Beaches

With its 40 miles of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Orange County has some of the prettiest beaches on the entire West Coast.

Popular OC beach towns include Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, and Newport Beach.

La Jolla

If you are driving south beyond the Dana Point, then make a stop in La Jolla.

La Jolla is San Diego’s wealthy seaside community.

There are many beaches in La Jolla including La Jolla Shores, La Jolla Cove, and the Children’s Pool.

La Jolla Cove is the most popular one with beautiful views of the Pacific, blue water, and white sand.

For water activities, visit La Jolla Shores beach, which is perfect for surfing, stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, and scuba diving.

For families, La Jolla Children’s Pool is a great beach with shallow, gentle water and lots of seals and sea lions lying on the clean sand.

San Diego

San Diego is an amazing city with a rich history and culture.

There are so many things to do in San Diego, from exploring the downtown area to spending time at one of the city’s beautiful beaches.

As the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean and the city of San Diego comes alive, visitors and locals alike are drawn to its many restaurants, bars, and attractions.

From the iconic Hotel Del Coronado to Balboa Park, San Diego makes the perfect end to this epic road trip.

We hope you liked our favorite stops along California’s Dream Drive.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

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

The post 23 Best Places to stop on the Pacific Coast Highway appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

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

The post Best Places to Visit on the West Coast, USA appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

But did you know there are many other famous West Coast Quotes and sayings that make perfect captions for social media posts or for wallpapers?

West Coast of the USA is a place that has proved an inspiration to artists, writers, poets, actors, and singers. From the striking desert of Joshua Tree to the moss-laden trees of the Olympic Peninsula, there is sublime beauty along the West Coast.

Along a Pacific Coast Highway road trip, you will find big cities, inspiring architecture, fascinating natural attractions, and solitude. That’s right, you might associate the enormous crowds of Venice and Santa Monica with the West Coast but try Big Sur or Rialto Beach in Washington to have teh Pacific Coast to yourself!

Related
Best Places to Visit in California
Best Places to Visit in Oregon
Best Places to Visit in Washington

The landscapes of the American Wild West are made for photographing and sharing with others, stands to reason you need beautiful West Coast Instagram captions to go with them!

Well here are our favorite West Coast sayings and West Coast quotes for Pacific Coast travelers! 

Best Quotes about the West Coast

There are many quotes that sing praises and are written as an ode to the beauty of the West Coast. These make perfect Instagram captions for dreamy sunsets or foggy mornings on the Pacific.

“In America, the colors sing, they don’t just glower at you. The West Coast especially is fantastic. It seems like you can do whatever you want here.” – Stanley Donwood

“Late afternoon on the West Coast ends with the sky doing all its brilliant stuff.” – Joan Didion

“And when the fog’s over and the stars and the moon come out at night it’ll be a beautiful sight.”

― Jack Kerouac

“To visit the West Coast, now and always, is to be overwhelmed by its beauty – the blue water and blue skies, the temperate air and the beaches and the looming mountains not so far away.” – Ross Douthat

“There’s something about the West Coast. The air is lighter. The vibe is chill.” – Matthew Ramsey

“When I get through tearing a lobster apart, or one of those tender West Coast octopuses, I feel like I had a drink from the fountain of youth.” – Joseph Mitchell

“Dean’s California–wild, sweaty, important, the land of lonely and exiled and eccentric lovers come to forgather like birds, and the land where everybody somehow looked like broken-down, handsome, decadent movie actors.” – Jack Kerouac

“Though outsiders always assumed Southern California is perpetually soft and subtropical with the perfect beach breeze, that sweet lick of sunshine, I knew the truth. The real Southern California exists in extremes. It’s a place of spontaneous wildfires, and Santa Ana winds, and droughts that turn lakes into craters, splintering the earth like pottery that has crazed. It’s a place of storms that transform streets into oceans, and I had no doubts now: the rain was coming.” – Sarah Nicole Smetana

West Coast Sunset Quotes

And then of course, you can’t talk about the West Coast without talking about the legendary sunsets! Here are some of my favorite West Coast quotes about the brilliant sunsets that you can find in California, Oregon, and Washington.

“Soon it got dusk, a grapy dusk, a purple dusk over tangerine groves and long melon fields; the sun the color of pressed grapes, slashed with burgandy red, the fields the color of love and Spanish mysteries.” – Jack Kerouac

“The first stab of love is like a sunset, a blaze of color — oranges, pearly pinks, vibrant purples…” – Anna Godbersen

“A large drop of sun lingered on the horizon and then dripped over and was gone, and the sky was brilliant over the spot where it had gone, and a torn cloud, like a bloody rag, hung over the spot of its going. And dusk crept over the sky from the eastern horizon, and darkness crept over the land from the east.” – John Steinbeck

“Bursts of gold on lavender melting into saffron. It’s the time of day when the sky looks like it has been spray-painted by a graffiti artist.” – Mia Kirshner

“Every sunset is an opportunity to reset.” – Richie Norton

West Quotes sayings about opportunities

West Coast, especially California is said to be teh alnd of opportunity. From the days of the Wild West, people have come here to seek their fortune and it continues even today in the form of Hollywood and Silicon Valley. 

Here are some of the top West Coast sayings and quotes about opportunities and possibilities.

“Down on the West Coast, I get this feeling like it all could happen.”- Lana Del Rey

“I think every tour stop on the west coast is equally rewarding for me. There is something healing about the air and the light in the west.” – Jason Reeves

“When people left on the Oregon Trail from St. Louis, they knew that only a fraction of them would make it to the West Coast. But they went anyway.” – John M. Grunsfeld

“The West Coast really allows you to understand who you are. You come across so many talented people you have to look back at yourself and see what makes you unique.” – Masego

Quotes about the Pacific Ocean

A trip to the West Coast cannot be complete without a visit to the Pacific Pcean beaches. Whether you want to visit a sandy beach in SoCal or a foggy beach on the coast of Oregon, here are some of the bets Instagram captions for becahy photographs!

“I’m so alive. As I stand facing the beauty of the never-ending Pacific Ocean, a late afternoon breeze blows down from the hills behind. As always, it is a beautiful day. The sun is making its final descent. The magic is about to begin. The skies are ready to burn with brilliance, as it turns from a soft blue to a bright orange. Looking towards the West, I stare in awe at the hypnotic power of the waves. A giant curl begins to take form, then breaks with a thundering clap as it crashes on the shore.” – Dave Pelzer

“The sea is emotion incarnate. It loves, hates, and weeps. It defies all attempts to capture it with words and rejects all shackles. No matter what you say about it, there is always that which you can’t.” – Christopher Paolini

“Each kiss of an ocean wave is passed along, as long as there is life on and in the seas.” – Anthony T. Hincks

“Ocean is more ancient than the mountains, and freighted with the memories and the dreams of Time.” – H. P. Lovecraft

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” – Jacques Cousteau

“To me the sea is a continual miracle; the fishes that swim, the rocks, the motion of the waves, the ships with men in them. What stranger miracles are there?” – Walt Whitman

“You only need to stand near the ocean to feel the power of the universe and a closeness to the one who created it.” – Susan Gale

“For her the ocean was more than a dream, it was a place she needed to visit to find herself. And when she returned to the city, you could see the sun in her eyes, the wind in her hair, and taste in the infinite salt on her lips.” – Jose Chaves

“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” – Rumi

“I couldn’t imagine living in a state that didn’t reach the ocean. It was a giant reset button. You could go to the edge of the land and see infinity and feel renewed.” – Avery Sawyer

“The person you think of when you stand in front of the ocean. That’s the person you’re in love with.” – Colleen Michele

“The three great elemental sounds in nature are the sound of rain, the sound of wind in a primeval wood, and the sound of outer ocean on a beach”. – Henry Beston

“My life is like a stroll upon the beach, as near to the ocean’s edge as I can go” – Henry David Thoreau

Quotes about West Coast redwoods and mountains

The redwood trees and mountains are some of the most iconic landscapes of the West Coast

“What can the redwoods tell us about ourselves? Well, I think they can tell us something about human time. The flickering, transitory quality of human time and the brevity of human life – the necessity to love.” – Richard Preston

“A grove of giant redwood or sequoias should be kept just as we keep a great and beautiful cathedral.” – Theodore Roosevelt

“Redwood time moves at a more stately pace than human time. To us, when we look at a redwood tree, it seems to be motionless and still, and yet redwoods are constantly in motion, moving upward into space, articulating themselves and filling redwood space over redwood time, over thousands of years.” – Richard Preston

“The mornings along the coast where the fog and mist meet with the salty spray of the seas is one of my favourite smells. I love the smell in the evergreen forest just after it rains – The Redwood Forest in California has the coast, too, so you have the best of everything!” – Paul Walker

“The redwoods, once seen, leave a mark or create a vision that stays with you always. No one has ever successfully painted or photographed a redwood tree. The feeling they produce is not transferable. From them comes silence and awe. It’s not only their unbelievable stature, nor the color which seems to shift and vary under your eyes, no, they are not like any trees we know, they are ambassadors from another time.” – John Steinbeck

“No one knows exactly when or where the redwood entered the history of life on earth, though it is an ancient kind of tree and has come down to our world as an inheritance out of deep time.” – Richard Preston

“The redwoods are like no other trees…find a secluded grove and tilt your head back 90 degrees, and look up into the green canopies far above you, your spirits are bound to rise for you are surrounded by such giants of beauty, beautiful spirits themselves reaching for the sky” – Bodhi Smith

“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees” – Henry David Thoreau

“All forests have their own personality. I don’t just mean the obvious differences, like how an English woodland is different from a Central American rain forest or comparing tracts of West Coast redwoods to the saguaro forests of the American Southwest… they each have their own gossip, their own sound, their own rustling whispers, and smells. A voice speaks up when you enter their acres that can’t be mistaken for the one you’d hear anyplace else, a voice true to those particular trees, individual rather than of their species.” – Charles de Lint

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by.” – Robert Frost

“I felt like lying down by the side of the trail and remembering it all. The woods do that to you, they always look familiar, long lost, like the face of a long-dead relative, like an old dream, like a piece of forgotten song drifting across the water, most of all like golden eternities of past childhood or past manhood and all the living and the dying and the heartbreak that went on a million years ago and the clouds as they pass overhead seem to testify (by their own lonesome familiarity) to this feeling.” – Jack Kerouac

Quotes about West Coast cities

Be inspired by Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco, and Seattle.

“I like to think Portland and L.A. are not rivals; they’re cousins. As cities on the West Coast, they’re distinct in their own way but still culturally similar.” – Fred Armisen

“It’s an odd thing, but anyone who disappears

is said to be seen in San Francisco.

It must be a delightful city and possess

all the attractions of the next world.”

– Oscar Wilde

“The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco” – Mark Twain

“One soft humid early spring morning driving a winding road across Mount Tamalpais, the 2,500-foot mountain just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, a bend reveals a sudden vision of San Francisco in shades of blue, a city in a dream, and I was filled with a tremendous yearning to live in that place of blue hills and blue buildings, though I do live there, I had just left there after breakfast.” – Rebecca Solnit

“Tip the world over on its side and everything loose will land in Los Angeles.” – Frank Lloyd Wright

“Portland is where young people go to retire.” – Fred Armisen

“Seattle is for people who love culture, but refuse to sacrifice their wild nature to attain it.” – Kimberly Kinrade

“To some extent, Seattle remains a frontier metropolis, a place where people can experiment with their lives, and change and grow and make things happen.” – Tom Robbins

West Coast Instagram Captions and Travel Quotes

The perfect travel captions for your West Coast photos. 

“The mountains are calling and I must go” – John Muir

“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams” – Oprah Winfrey

“Sometimes the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn’t mean to take.” – Angela N Blount

“Then one day, when you least expect it, the great adventure finds you.” – Ewan McGregor

“I was born lost and take no pleasure in being found.” – John Steinbeck

“Let us step into the night and pursue that flighty temptress, adventure.” – J.K. Rowling

“Not all those who wander are lost.” – J.R.R. Tolkien

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” – Marcel Proust

“We leave something of ourselves behind when we leave a place, we stay there, even though we go away. And there are things in us that we can find again only by going back there.” –  Pascal Mercier

West Coast Road Trip Quotes

“In the wee small hours, California Highway One north of Half Moon Bay is about as desolate as it gets. The narrow, twisting road was etched from sheer cliff faces that towered above me on the right and dropped away a hundred feet to the Pacific Ocean on my left.

A soggy wool blanket of San Francisco’s famous fog hung a few feet above the roadway, obscuring the stars and dribbling tiny spots of mist on my windshield. My headlights bored through the gap between road and fog, drilling an endless tunnel through the darkness.” ― H.P. Oliver

“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” – Jack Kerouac

“Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road, Healthy, free, the world before me, The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose.” – Walt Whitman

“Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road.” – Jack Kerouac

“The freedom of the open road is seductive, serendipitous and absolutely liberating.” – Aaron Lauritsen

Quotes on the West Coast Lifestyle and Hollywood

“I think they built Hollywood on the West Coast because they were always dreaming of a New World. When they arrived here, the only way to keep dreaming was to make movies. Film was the fourth dimension.” – Denis Villeneuve

“I’m getting comfortable with West Coast style, which is more laid-back than British style.” – Cat Deeley

“Sometimes Hollywood is a small town on the West Coast of America at the furthest point from everywhere else, and that can make it a little provincial and insular.” – Howard Stringer

“The almost Oriental politeness of the West Coast is one of its distinctive regional features, in marked contrast to the contentiousness of the East Coast…. So few human contacts in Los Angeles go unmediated by glass (either a TV screen or an automobile windshield), that the direct confrontation renders the participants docile, stunned, sweet.” – Edmund White

“The older I get, I’m definitely getting pulled towards the West Coast, because it’s a different quality of life. New York is great when you’re in your early 20s and you’re running around and it’s really fun, but it’s a place for me to get things done.” – Erin Wasson

“The people who invented the twenty-first century were pot-smoking, sandal-wearing hippies from the West Coast like Steve, because they saw differently,” he said. “The hierarchical systems of the East Coast, England, Germany, and Japan do not encourage this different thinking. The sixties produced an anarchic mind-set that is great for imagining a world not yet in existence.” – Walter Isaacson

“On the East Coast, people try to make life interesting. On the West Coast, they try to make it comfortable. The emphasis here is on fancy cars, how one looks, less on the mind per se.” – Al Seckel

Quotes About West Coast Music and West Coast Lyrics

“You don’t have to come from Trinidad to really love Harry Belafonte, you don’t have to come from the West Coast to appreciate the simplicity and the beauty of the songs Kurt Cobain wrote.” – Seth Avett

“I found out long ago, it’s a long way down the holiday road. Holiday road, holiday road. Jack be nimble, Jack be quick. Take a ride on the West Coast kick. Holiday road.” – Lindsey Buckingham

“We also want to try and slow down all this foolishness that’s going on between the East and West. We gotta understand that Hip Hop is now universal. Hip Hop is not East coast or West coast.” – Afrika Bambaataa

“I’ve always done music with so-called thug- or gangster-type lyricists. I’ve always been associated with that because I’m from the West Coast.” – Madlib

“I was always into the West Coast rap, the production and the flows were always more appealing to me. I think my rapping days are over though.” – MO

“Seattle, they like the Bay a lot. They like the Bay area sound, the West Coast sound.” – Lil Mosey

“The old West Coast rappers are the way I rap; they weren’t always on the beat but it was about telling a story. I’m just a little more modern so it doesn’t sound exactly the same.” – Blueface

“I represent the West Coast culture.” – YG

“West Coast hip hop was the sound of my neighborhood. It was something I could relate to because it had a sound that felt like my surroundings – almost more so than what they were saying. That music was made to be bumped in a Cadillac!” – Kamasi Washington

“A lot of rappers were influenced off the West Coast, even from the East.” – Jay Rock

“I’m really drawn to West Coast composers and I think it has a little something to do with looking across the Pacific instead of looking across the Atlantic.” – Mark Morris

“ ‘Going Back to Cali’ is one of my favorite songs because of all the East Coast – West Coast rivalry.” – ASAP Ferg

Thought-Provoking Quotes about the West Coast

The West Coast while beautiful is not without its problems. The cities are huge and polluted, sometimes there is a sense of fear and lawlessness, and climate change is having a real impact on its beauty in the form of wildfires and ocean changes. 

Here are some of my personal favorite, thought-provoking quotes about the West Coast – about issues that you might often experience first hand while traveling the Pacific Coast of the USA.

“I’ve always felt alone and isolated, and living on the West Coast, there’s no poetry community out here, and if there is, it’s really spread out – because it’s LA, it’s spread out.     

Victoria Chang

“If only I’d stayed on the West Coast, I might have made something of myself.” – Mitch Kapor

“This country, and the West Coast, especially, is bad at preserving any cultural legacy.” – Esa-Pekka Salonen

“When I left the West Coast I was a liberal. When I landed in New York I was a revolutionary.” – Jane Fonda

“I live on the West Coast of the United States, and yet the air that I breathe is sometimes the same air that was being breathed in China the day before.” – Alice Walker

“The United States has tried for years to live down President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s order during World War II to move Japanese-Americans on the West Coast to inland detention camps on grounds that they might be disloyal.” – Helen Thomas

“Freedom is in danger of degenerating into mere arbitrariness unless it is lived in terms of responsibleness. That is why I recommend that the Statue of Liberty on the East Coast be supplemented by a Statue of Responsibility on the West Coast.” – Viktor E. Frankl

“There’s no doubt in my mind that people on the West Coast – L.A. particularly – and the East Coast have no clue at all about what’s happening outside their own little bailiwick. And they think everybody is stupid because they are not sophisticated.” – Andy Williams

“The United States is filled with power places. The majority of them, however, are to be found either along the West Coast and in the southwestern United States or along the Eastern Seaboard.” – Frederick Len

“Oceans need more attention because climate change IS an ocean issue. Our oceans will be the first victim, and sea life will suffer dramatically. The detailed proof is hard in ocean science, but I think we’re already seeing big ocean changes caused by climate change, such as starvation of whales, seabirds, and other animals off the coast US west coast.” – Mark Powell

“The heart of our relationship, this natural environment that has blessed us really all along the west coast of North America, on both sides of the border we’ve realized that this incredible natural wealth comes with a price.” – Dan Miller

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

The post 90 Famous West Coast Quotes and West Quotes Sayings appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

The USA West Coast is our favorite region to go on a long road trip.

It has everything from the gorgeous shores and beaches of the Pacific to vibrant cities of San Francisco and Seattle.

It has national parks, volcanoes, and giant trees. It has tons of wildlife and really cool cuisine. 

The best way to explore the West Coast is no doubt on a super long trip from San Diego to San Francisco.

You will be traveling along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway and see beautiful natural spots.

The total distance is over 1200 miles and you will be driving straight for about 20 hrs.

With so many gorgeous stops along the way, you need at least two weeks for the West Coast drive. 

But of course, not everyone has the luxury of time – and that’s why in this post, we round up some of the best short road trips along the West Coast.

These trips are perfect to discover popular West Coast attractions when you have limited time on hand.

Some of these routes also end up in the American Southwest, so you are guaranteed pretty much the best time of your lives! 

Looking for travel inspiration for the best West Coast USA road trips?

Explore these stunning road trip ideas in California, Oregon, and Washington for your next holiday.

Best road trips along the West Coast

So when we mean the West Coast, just which states are we talking about?

Well primarily, the 3 states of California, Oregon, and Washington.

But if you consider the entire country, then even Alaska and sometimes, Hawaii are also considered to be the West Coast. 

And for putting together this interesting list, we have also considered trips that begin on the West Coast but go further inland – so don’t be surprised to find Yellowstone and the Sin City of Vegas on this list.

With that, let’s find out the most popular road trips along the West Coast of the USA.

Oregon Coast Road Trip

A road trip down the Oregon Coast is one of the most memorable drives in the country. Start this beautiful West Coast road trip in Portland and explore the vibrant city before heading down the coast to Astoria. See the Goonies filming locations and the Peter Iredale Shipwreck before heading south to Cannon Beach. 

Cannon Beach and the nearby Ecola State Park is where you can get the iconic photograph of the Oregon Coast with the fog covered sea stacks. Your next destination should be the famous Tillamook Creamery for its ice cream and cheeses. Next drive around the coastal road to Cape Kiwanda and the Devil’s Punchbowl area. 

For the last leg of your Oregon coast road trip, go south along the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Byway. Along the way you will see beautiful overlooks, rugged coastline, coastal bluffs, hiking trails, and the majestic redwood trees. To plan a road trip along Oregon’s iconic landmarks, read our post on Oregon Coast road trip itinerary. 

Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur

The road trip along Pacific Coast Highway in Big Sur is not only the best West Coast road trip in the country but also among top road trips in the world. Start this epic journey at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Few people realize that Highway 1 actually passes over this iconic bridge. Enjoy everything that San Francisco has to offer before heading down to Monterey. 

In Monterey, see the aquarium and drive the scenic 17 Mile Drive. Next head towards the beautiful region of Big Sur. This area is 90 miles long and it is miles over miles of natural coastline. Along the road, you can see beautiful ocean views, migrating whales, lighthouses, and colorful wildflowers in spring. 

In Big Sur, you will find several attractions including the Bixby Creek Bridge, the pretty McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, and the elephant seals at San Simeon. You can hike at Point Lobos and tour the Point Sur lighthouse. You will also see groves of California’s popular redwood trees along the route. To plan a road trip along this route, refer to our post on Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles. 

San Francisco to Yosemite

If you are looking for a short road trip along the West Coast that still lets you explore two of the biggest attractions in the country, then consider a road trip from San Francisco to the Yosemite Valley. Take a day or two to explore San Francisco’s attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, and Lombard Street. 

Then the road will take you through the Tri Valley area. This area has the closest wineries near San Francisco. Along with wine tasting, you can explore small towns such as Livermore and Danville. Then head to the historic mining town of Sonora in California’s Gold Country. Here you can go antiquing, explore Old West buildings, and understand the area’s mining history. 

At the end of the road lies majestic Yosemite National Park. Base yourself in the Yosemite Valley and take the roads to famous vistas in the park. The best known is Tunnel View from where visitors can see the iconic image of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan and Half Dome rising in the background. On your way back, explore Tolumne meadows and the Mariposa grove of redwood trees. 

Olympic Peninsula Highway 101

When it comes to the state of Washington, the road trip along Highway 101 or Pacific Coast Highway around the Olympic peninsula is the most memorable one. This is a loop road along which you can see snow capped mountains, glaciers, rainforests, and wildlife. This road trip is just 330 miles long, but you can easily spend a week on this road exploring the outdoor attractions and hiking the beautiful trails.

Start this West Coast road trip from Seattle. Explore the city’s attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Museum of pop culture before hitting the open roads towards the Olympic peninsula. Take the Bainbridge Ferry to enjoy beautiful water views. Then stop at Port Townsend to eat fresh seafood and admire the Victorian architecture of this charming port city. 

Take a whale watching cruise and visit a lavender farm in Sequim before entering the Olympic National Park. In the park you can go kayaking or paddle boarding at Lake Crescent, hike the beautiful Sol Duc Falls, and explore the rainforest at Neah Bay. Take in the views at the beautiful Pacific Coast beaches and admire the sea stacks. Go beachcombing for driftwood, shells, and other treasures or hike on the coastal bluffs. No matter what you do, you will be having a great time on this epic Pacific Northwest road trip.

Historic Columbia River Highway

Historic Columbia River Highway is another great short Pacific Northwest road trip. The scenic byway is just an hour west of Portland and can be easily seen as a day trip. The byway connects Portland with the Mount Hood National Forest. Along the road, you will see beautiful waterfalls, river vistas, historic buildings, and other attractions. This highway has the distinction of being the first major paved road in the region and is also the first scenic byway in the country. 

Start your road trip in the city of Portland. Savor the doughnuts at Blue Star or Voodoo and visit the beautiful Portland Japanese Garden. Experience the trendy vibe of neighborhoods like Downtown Portland, Pearl District, and Forest Park before taking the highway east up the Columbia River Gorge. The road is especially breathtaking in fall and is popular with foliage road trippers. At the start of the trip, admire the river vistas from the Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint. Next visit the Vista House Visitor Center at Crown Point.

There are many waterfalls along the byway including the Latourell Falls and Bridal Veil Falls but none are as spectacular as the famous Multnomah Falls. This beautiful waterfall is a two stage fall and the charming Benson Bridge is built over the creek between the two stages. Visitors can hike up to Multnomah Falls for iconic views and visit the Multnomah Falls Lodge to understand the history of the area. 

Northern California Coastal road trip

A coastal road trip along Northern California is one of the most underrated road trips along the West Coast. This road trip begins in the beautiful city of San Francisco and takes visitors past attractions like Point Reyes, Mendocino Coastal bluffs, and the redwood trees. While in San Francisco, see the city’s iconic attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Mission District, and Ghirardelli Square. 

Then head north to Point Reyes National Seashore. Point Reyes is the windiest point in the country. At Point Reyes, you can whale watch, go hiking, and tour the Point Reyes Lighthouse. Next stop in Tomales Bay which is famous for its oyster farms. Stop at Hog Island Oyster Company and eat the freshly shucked oysters. Follow Route 1 up the coast to Mendocino. This charming coastal town has white washed houses, scenic bluffs, and three state parks that are full of hiking trails and outdoor activities. Then see the glass beach at Fort Bragg before joining Highway 101 at Legett. 

The journey up north is an exciting adventure into old growth redwood forests. Drive through the Chandelier redwood tree at Legett. Hike through groves of redwood trees and gaze up at the high tree tops. In Humboldt County, drive along the Avenue of the Giants. This 31 mile portion of Highway 101 has giant redwood trees on both sides and is the ultimate road trip experience. At Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, hike through the Fern Canyon which was a filming locale for Jurassic Park. Throughout the road trip, you will experience stunning ocean views and beautiful beaches making this one of our favorite West Coast road trips. 

Los Angeles to San Diego

For a short road trip in Southern California, drive the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles to San Diego. Along the way you will find dozens of beautiful South California beaches and charming coastal communities. Begin your journey at Santa Monica. Take a stroll along the Pier and ride the roller coaster at Pacific Park. Next visit Venice Beach and see the skateboarders at the skatepark. 

Then drive along the road until you reach Long Beach. This is the perfect place to spend anything from an hour up to a weekend. You can simply lounge on the beach or go for a whale watching cruise or take the ferry over to Catalina Island. As the day draws to a close, stop in Huntington Beach for stellar nightlife. You will find nightclubs, dive bars, distilleries, and breweries here. Have a drink or two and call it a day in Huntington Beach.

Next morning, start anew and head for Orange County. Stop at Newport Beach for shopping, Crystal Cove State Park for hiking, Laguna Beach for stunning beaches, and Dana Point for the Farmers Market. If you have kids, add a day for Legoland in Carlsbad. Enjoy the beachy vibe of La Jolla before making your way to San Diego. Use the rest of your time to explore the city’s attractions including Balboa Park, the Embarcadero, Old Town, and Gaslamp Quarter. 

Napa Valley road trip

If you are visiting the Bay area and West Coast, then you must go on a memorable Napa Valley road trip. Napa Valley Wine Country has many attractions whether you drink wine or not. If looking for a short road trip, head out to Napa. If you have more time then combine Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley to explore the highlights of northern California’s wine region. This road trip has everything – stellar views, perfect climate, gourmet food, exotic castles, wine tasting rooms, and hot air balloon rides!

Start by following the Silverado Trail into Napa. Explore the towns of Yountville, St Helena, Calistoga, Rutherford, Oakville, and Napa. Tour the area’s most famous wineries including Beringer Vineyards and Castello di Amorosa. Other activities include venturing down into wine caves, eating at farm to table restaurants, and shopping in local stores. If you need to return, then take Highway 29 and explore some more wineries along the way.

If you have more time, take Highway 101 to Sonoma Valley. Along the road you will see rolling hills and terraced wineries. The view is just beautiful, so make sure you bring along your camera. Hit up a local market and buy cheese and wines as souvenirs. This road trip is most fun during fall: the wines turn color, the harvest season means grape stomping events, and more happening tours at the wineries. 

Seattle to North Cascades National Park

The North Cascades Highway road trip from Seattle is one of the ultimate road trips in Washington. A trip along the Cascade Loop promises breathtaking mountain views, lots of fresh air, wildlife encounters, and dense evergreen forests. You will be following State Route 20 for a major part of your trip. At the end of the road lies the reward, the unspoiled beauty of North Cascades National Park. 

Start your trip in Seattle and explore the city’s best attractions. Then make way for the Cascades Loop. Visit the historic town of Snohomish and go antiquing. Next drive along the Stevens Pass Greenway and see beautiful mountain towns. On the foothills of the Cascade ranges, you will find the Bavarian town of Leavenworth. In autumn, you can see fall colors and experience Oktoberfest! 

In North Cascades National Park, you will find glaciers, mountain lakes, waterfalls, and towering peaks. The turquoise colored Ross and Diablo Lake are very photogenic. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can camp, hike, bike, and kayak inside the park. 

Joshua Tree road trip

Joshua Tree is one of the most underrated national parks in the country. It is very beautiful. The large, twisting branches of the Joshua trees are in stark contrast with the surrounding low desert bush environment. The bare boulders provide a breathtaking backdrop for this unique terrain. Joshua Tree also lies several miles from most big cities and the only way to visit it is on a road trip through the South California desert. 

Visitors can begin a Joshua Tree road trip from either Los Angeles or San Diego. If starting from Los Angeles, some of the popular attractions along the way are Cabazon dinosaurs, the resort town of Palm Springs, Indian Wells, and Coachella Valley. We recommend stopping in Palm Springs for a day or two and exploring its attractions including the Aerial tramway, design stores, and date shakes. 

If coming from San Diego, you can see the gorgeous Borrego Springs sculptures, visit Anza Borrego Desert State Park, see the Salton Sea, abandoned community of Bombay Beach, and the unique Salvation Mountain. You can also do a Joshua tree road trip starting from Los Angeles and returning to San Diego or vice versa. 

Portland to Yellowstone

For a fun multiday trip in the Western USA, the road trip from Portland to Yellowstone National Park is a great option. This road trip is not for the faint hearted. The travel time from Portland to Yellowstone is 18 hours non stop – roughly a thousand miles. You will travel through 5 states and spend a lot of time on the road. But the rewards are plenty too. You will travel via the Columbia River Gorge and through Western Idaho to Boise. 

You can also easily add Grand Teton National Park to the road trip. It is near Yellowstone and you won’t have to spend any extra time on the road. Grand Teton has many beautiful hikes but the most popular is Cascade Canyon hike. To reach the trailhead, you need to take a boat shuttle across Jenny Lake. Other things to do in Grand Teton including panoramic views, wildlife sightings, and scenic drives. 

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country. It has the honor of being the first national park in the world. Visitors enjoy watching the Old Faithful Geyser erupt and shoot water into the sky. You can also see other geothermal features including bubbling mud pools and colorful hot springs. Wildlife sightings including grizzly bears, bison, and moose. This also makes a great summer RV road trip for families. 

Los Angeles Vegas Grand Canyon road trip

Technically, Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon is in the American Southwest but it is so popular that many visitors often see it along with popular West Coast attractions like San Francisco and Los Angeles. It is especially convenient to start this road trip in Los Angeles. The distance from Hollywood to Sin City is just a little over 4 hours. 

In Los Angeles check out the popular attractions such as Walk of Fame on Hollywood Blvd, Griffith Observatory, and the Broad museum. Then head out to Sin City and visit the attractions on the Las Vegas strip. Go to the casinos and gamble. If that’s not your thing, check out the free activities like Fountains of Bellagio, the flamingos at Flamingo, and the Big Apple skyline at New York New York. Experience Vegas nightlife and see one of the famous shows. 

After exploring Las Vegas, go on the 4 hour drive to Grand Canyon South Rim. Drive the scenic drive and see the majestic Grand Canyon from several viewpoints along the rim. Hike down into the Grand Canyon to see how it looks from below. Drive all the way to the Desert View Watchtower and spot the north rim in front of you. Last but not the least, check out the Visitor Center and understand the history of the world’s most famous canyon. Watch a video and pick up some interesting souvenirs from your road trip. 

California SR 395 road trip

For a unique West Coast road trip, plan a drive along California’s SR 395. This road runs east of the Sierra Nevada parallel to the state border. The road has many unique attractions and is not as popular as most other road trip routes. What that means is that you get to enjoy stunning natural landscapes and unique attractions all by yourself. 

Start your road trip in Death Valley National Park. This is the biggest national park in the country and famous for its salt flats. Visit Badwater Basin, one of the lowest and hottest places on the earth. Then see the panorama from Dante’s View before taking SR 395 up north towards Lone Pine. On the way, stop at Alabama Hills, a unique rock formation, that is also a popular filming locale. See the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine. 

Other attractions as you head north to Lake Tahoe include Manzanar National Historic Site, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Mono Lake, and Mammoth Lakes. Once you reach Lake Tahoe, you can enjoy a variety of summer activities like kayaking, hiking, biking, and camping. This road trip is even more fun in the fall when the Aspen trees in the Sierra Nevada turn color. 

Seattle to Glacier National Park, Montana

Montana’s Glacier National Park is about 12 hrs away from Seattle. You can easily go on a family car camping road trip from Seattle to the park . This road trip is perfect if you have anywhere from 4 days to a week on the road. 

You can fly into Seattle and take a day or two to see the highlights of the city. Then drive across Washington and western Idaho to Montana. Sandpoint in Idaho is a perfect midway stop for the first night. This lakeside city is tranquil and has plenty to do. Other small communities along the road from Sandpoint to Glacier National Park include Bonners Ferry, Pioneer Junction, and Kalispell. 

Once you reach Glacier National Park, drive the scenic Going to the Sun road. There are many things to do in western and eastern sections of the park. Some of the most popular points of interest include Many Glacier Area, Lake St. Mary, Avalanche Lake, etc. The Going to the Sun road usually opens in mid to late June and closes in the third week of September, so plan this road trip accordingly. 

Bend to Crater Lake

For another short road trip in Oregon, consider the drive from Bend to Crater Lake. Bend is an amazing city for foodies. It has many restaurants, eateries, and cafes serving a variety of cuisines. The city also has many breweries, in fact there is an ale trail where you can go to sample craft beer. Hike to Pilot Butte to get a beautiful view of the area. Bend also has a great art scene – you will find plenty of murals and museums in Downtown. 

Then begin your 2 hours long road trip to Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the USA and is a stunning blue color during the summer. It was formed when the volcano caldera collapsed and created the lake. The boat tour is a fantastic way to experience Crater Lake and is fun for all ages. Drive the scenic rim drive and stay at Crater Lake Lodge for the night. Then use the next day to hike and explore nearby attractions before returning to Bend.

Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, Oregon and California

For a unique road trip about volcanoes, calderas, lava tubes, and bubbling mud pools, road trip down the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. This road is just a little over 500 miles and passes through south east Oregon and north east California. It passes parallel to the Cascades ranges for most part. 

Start your trip at Crater Lake and admire this volcanic caldera lake by going on a rim drive. Then drive south via Klamath Falls to California. Along the way, stop at Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge to see beautiful wildlife. Your first stop in California should be the Lava Beds National Monument. This natural area lies on the eastern flank of the Medicine Lake Volcano in the Cascades. Rent spelunking gear at the Visitor Center and explore the many lava tubes. This is a fun activity for the kids. 

Next, visit Mount Shasta which is the second tallest volcano in the country. Spend a day on the water at Lake Shasta. See the McArthur Burney Falls before heading to Lassen Volcanic National Park. In the park you can see a variety of geothermal phenomena including geysers, dormant volcanoes, mud pots, hot springs, caldera lakes, and lava tubes. Be sure to walk along the boardwalk in Lassen to stay safe. 

Lake Tahoe Loop Road

Another stunning road trip further inland from the coast! Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to visit in California year round. A road trip along Lake Tahoe Loop Road allows visitors to enjoy everything that Lake Tahoe has to offer in a short time. The drive is just 68 miles long but expect to spend anywhere from half a day to 3 days on this route. The route passes through California and Nevada. 

On the trip, you will follow the shoreline at times but also see the lake from far above in certain sections. The road has many pull outs to enjoy the panoramic vistas. Along the road you will see several small mountain towns including South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, King’s Beach, etc. One of the major attractions is Emerald Bay State Park. You can also gamble at the casinos in the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. 

This drive is beautiful year round. In the summer, you can hike, bike, enjoy watersports, and experience stunning mountain scenery. In the winter, you can go snowshoeing, skiing, and have fun playing in the snow. In the spring, you can see waterfalls from melted snow and wildflowers while in the fall, you can see the leaves turn color. 

Special mentions for Best West Coast road trips

While the road trips above were in the Mainland USA, for the three trips below you will either need to cross the border or fly across the Pacific. But the trips as definitely well worth the effort!

Seattle to Alaska on the Alcan

The Alcan Highway or the Alaska Highway is a World War II era route that connects mainland US to Alaska via Canada. Head from Seattle to Dawson’s Creek in British Columbia where the highway begins. Take a picture at Milepost 0. Then drive through British Columbia and Yukon territory to Alaska. 

In British Columbia, you will find small towns and interesting museums worth exploring. But the highlight of the trip is the drive through Yukon territory. You will drive along the Continental Divide and have beautiful views and scenic vistas. Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another breathtaking attraction along the road. 

Then cross the Canadian border into Alaska at Milepost 1221. In Alaska, enjoy the stunning beauty of the tundras and the wildlife including bears, moose, caribou , eagles, migrating cranes, songbirds, and more. See the snow capped mountain ranges and explore the trails. Stop at Delta Junction in Alaska, which is the official end of the road. From here you can drive onwards to Fairbanks for an Alaska road trip. 

Road to Hana

The Road to Hana on Hawaii’s Maui Island is considered to be one of the best road trips in the world. This stretch of the road is 65 miles long and has some of the best sights in Hawaii. It follows the coast so you are treated to views of the white waves crashing on the lava coast. You can easily drive it as a day trip but it also has enough things to do to plan a multi day trip along this route. Start your trip in Paia and end in Hana or continue on the road beyond Hana as far as time permits. There are no gas stations between Paia and Hana so fill up the car before you start. 

The road is very curvy and narrow and fun to drive.  The first major attraction is the Waikamoi Ridge Trail. Hike the trail to see beautiful views and enjoy the surroundings. Next stop at the Ke’anae Arboretum to see multi-colored rainbow eucalyptus trees. The colorful bark of the tree is one of the most interesting things on this road trip. Then stop at the famous Three Bears or Upper Waikani Falls. There are 3 waterfalls and they are extremely photogenic.  

Next comes the major attraction of Wai’anapanapa State Park. This state park has the famous black sand beach. The lava tunnel here is also must-visit attraction. Spend at least a couple of hours at the park before heading to Hana. At the end of the road is Hana, a charming coastal town that is perfect to sit back and relax. You can also go past Hana to Seven Sacred Pools if you have the time.

San Diego to Ensenada

For a great road trip south of the border, consider the trip from San Diego to Ensenada. The total drive time is about 2 hours and the distance is roughly 85 miles. At the end of the road is Ensenada, one of the popular destinations in Baja California. You can do it as a day trip – but consider the time spent at the border while coming back to the US – or have a great weekend getaway. For a perfect Baja California itinerary, consider a trip along Tijuana Rosarito, and Ensenada. 

First stop in Tijuana, just half an hour drive from San Diego. This is a vibrant, urban city and has everything from stunning beaches to great craft beer. Next head to the tiny little beach town of Rosarito. It has delicious Mexican cuisine, fresh seafood, and a wonderful small town vibe. You can go ATV driving on the beach and enjoy Rosarito’s nightlife. 

Last, reach the port city of Ensenada. This is the perfect place to relax and sip on some margaritas while lounging on the beach. Ensenada’s street food is amazing and so is the local shopping. You can wine tasting in Guadalupe Valley, Mexico’s wine region. Last but not the least, visit La Bufadora – the marine geyser along the coast. At high tide, the geyser shoots up water into the sea caves and is a wonderful natural attraction. 

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

The post 21 Amazing West Coast road trip ideas to fulfill your wanderlust appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Mountains, impressive rock formations, awe-inspiring forests, sand dunes, and exquisite beaches like Rialto Beach or La Jolla Cove are just some of the impressive natural attractions found along the West Coast of the USA. 

The states of California, Oregon, and Washington have a variety of gorgeous landscapes to offer for all types of visitors. Most of these natural marvels are easily accessible on a Pacific Coast Highway Road trip.

On a trip to the West Coast, visitors are spoiled for choice in finding a bevy of activities from hiking among wildflowers, looking for tidepool creatures, spotting marine life, looking for songbirds, and other wonders of nature.

Best Natural Attractions along the West Coast

From the picturesque Natural Bridges of Oregon to the purple-hued shores of Pfeiffer Beach, here are our favorite natural attractions along the West Coast.

Bioluminescent beaches in Southern California

Few people associate bioluminescence with the coast of California, but you would be surprised to know that this natural phenomenon can be frequently seen along the coast, especially in the southern part of the state. They are most common in the spring and hard to predict, making them a rare treat for visitors to the Pacific Coast. 

Visitors can see bioluminescence along the beaches near San Diego, Los Angeles, and even as far north as Monterey. During bioluminescence, a bloom of phytoplankton causes the waves to glow a neon blue at night. This results in spectacular displays as the waves form and crash on the coast. 

Torrey Pines State Reserve, California

Located in Southern California, near San Diego, the Torrey Pines State Reserve makes for an exciting attraction along the Pacific Coast Highway 101. The landscape here is stunning and dramatic and seems far away from the busy city life of San Diego. 

At Torrey Pines, you will find an interesting juxtaposition of southern California’s desert landscape with the sweeping ocean views. The cliffs and bluffs here have been carved by erosion to create colorful sandstone canyons and rock formations. The Torrey Pine trees grow all over the reserve, hence the name.  

There are several hiking trails in the reserve to enjoy its striking beauty. You can see gray whales migrating in the winter and colorful wildflowers blooming over the cliffs in spring. The Torrey Pines State Beach can be reached by 1.5 miles round-trip Beach Trail and is one of the most popular spots to visit in the reserve.  

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, California

Located south of Monterey on California’s central coast, Point Lobos is one of the highlights of a Highway 1 Road Trip. At Point Lobos, you can see sharp and craggy rock formations extending all the way into the Pacific. The water here is astonishingly blue and sheltered beaches reward those who hike at Point Lobos. 

Point Lobos is also excellent for watching marine life and bird watching. Here you can find a variety of marine creatures and seabirds including sea lions, sea otters, ospreys, etc. The preserve is also a habitat for the rare Monterey Cypress trees. The most popular thing to do in Point Lobos is hiking along the many trails. 

Pfeiffer Beach, California

This amazing beach located in Monterey County is a highlight of Big Sur and the central coast of California. Inspite of its popularity, Pfeiffer Bexah remains a hidden gem along the California coastline because of its unmarked access road. To reach the beach, you need to go south past Big Sur Ranger Station and turn right at the Sycamore Canyon Road. It is really easy to miss the entrance. 

The beach is an easy hike from the parking lot. The beach is famous for its striking rock formations in the ocean, sweeping views along the coast, and purple colored sand. Visitors often wonder, why is the sand purple at Pfeiffer Beach. The answer is pretty interesting and intriguing: the color of the sand comes from the manganese garnet mineral that is found in the cliffs. 

McWay Falls, California

McWay Falls is one of the best natural attractions on the West Coast of the USA. This 80 foot tall waterfall is a tidefall because it empties directly into the ocean at high tide. At low tide, you can see a pretty secluded beach near the base of the falls. McWay Falls is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and is a must visit along the Pacific Coast. 

Due to the rocky cliffs surrounding the falls, the base of the falls and the cove at the bottom is not accessible. The best way to view the falls is from the 0.5 mile long trail inside the park that takes visitors to an observation platform from where you can get an extremely picturesque view of the McWay Falls. 

Avenue of the Giants, California

Located in Northern California, Avenue of the Giants, is a scenic byway in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Avenue of the Giants runs parallel to California Pacific Coast Highway 101. The byway is 31  miles long and takes about half an hour to drive. The byway is so named because of the towering coastal redwood tree groves that surround the byway. 

On the scenic byway, visitors can see so many of the towering redwood trees that are iconic to northern California. There are many exciting attractions and interests along the byway. Visitors can see the One Log House and go hiking to see even more trees. It is fascinating drive through the tall trees and fog that often envelops this road. 

Fern Canyon, California

Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, the Fern Canyon is a fascinating place. It is most popular as the filming locale for the movie Jurassic Park 2: the Lost World. The canyon, which is created by the Homer Creek, has 50 foot high walls of fern. The ferns are dense and big and have a prehistoric feel. Fern Canyon almost feels magical and is a must visit while in this part of the Pacific Coast. 

To make the most of your visit to Fern Canyon, be sure to complete the hike. This easy 1.1 mile  hike is family friendly and great with the kids. It is especially essential for any dinosaur fans. You walk through the bottom of the canyon and cross Homer Creek several times. You can take a close look at the five different species of ferns that grow on the canyon walls and take magical photographs. 

Devil’s Punchbowl, Oregon

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area, located in Otter Rock, Oregon is a striking hollow rock formation. The waves slam into the bowl shaped structure with tremendous force, especially during a storm. It is fascinating to see the water froth and churn inside the Devil’s Punchbowl and create a fascinating natural phenomenon. 

Along with surf watching, other popular things to do at Devil’s Punchbowl include hiking, surfing, whale watching, and tidepooling. Geologists estimate that the Punchbowl was created due to the weakening and subsequent collapse of the roof of two sea caves due to continuous wave action. 

The Devil’s Punchbowl can be easily accessed from the Pacific Coast Highway 101 and makes an excellent stop on the West Coast road trip. 

Devil’s Churn, Oregon

Devil’s Churn, south of Yachats, Oregon, is a narrow inlet. It is located in Cape Perpetua Scenic Area in the Siuslaw National Forest. It is easily accessible on Oregon Highway 101. During high tide, waves gushing inside the inlet can spray water several hundred feet into the air creating an interesting spectacle. 

To access the Devil’s Churn, you need to hike along the aptly named Restless Waters Trail. Hikers can’t get too close to the Devil’s Churn as it can be dangerous. If you don’t want to hike, you can also watch the violent wave action from the overlook. It is mesmerising to watch and for many, one of the favorite stops along the Oregon Coast. 

Spouting Horn, Oregon

To see the most unique wonders of the Oregon Coast, visit the collapsed sea cave of Cook’s Chasm. Here you will find Spouting Horn, a natural attraction created due to wave action.  At high tide, the wave action bursts from the deep hole periodically in the form of an ocean geyser. 

The almost mile long Cook’s Chasm Trail will take you down to the Cook’s Chasm and Spouting Horn formation. Spouting Horn looks especially dramatic during a storm or at an especially high tide. 

Thor’s Well, Oregon

Oregon’s wild rocky coast is strewn with hundreds of unique rock formations and natural attractions but few of them are as photogenic as Thor’s Well. Also located in Cook’s Chasm, Thor’s Well is a deep and narrow sinkhole on the Pacific Coast.  

Over thousands of visitors come to visit Thor’s Well every year. The sinkhole is 20 feet deep. The water initially shoots up from the sinkhole and then sinks down into the hole creating beautiful photo opportunities. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is one hour before and after high tide. 

Haystack Rock, Oregon

Haystack Rock is an iconic attraction of Cannon Beach in Oregon. This 235 feet tall sea stack creates wonderful photo opportunities especially at sunset. While the rock is inaccessible at high tide, visitors can walk right up to it over the sand at low tide. 

At the base of the Haystack Rock, you will find several tidepools filled with low tide creatures such as starfish, crab, shells, and sea urchins. This is also an excellent area for birding. The nearby city of Cannon Beach makes an exciting place to stay and explore the attraction of Haystack Rock. 

Natural Bridges, Oregon

Located in southern Oregon near Brookings, Natural Bridges are a wonderful series of rock formations on the Pacific Coast. The Natural Bridges are located just off Pacific Coast Highway 101 on the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and are easily seen from the Natural Bridges Overlook. 

Visitors can hike along the 0.5 miles long trail to see the two Natural Bridges and take Instagram worthy shots. These natural rock arches look even more beautiful at sunset. The water here is a pretty turquoise shade and provides a beautiful backdrop to the rock arches.  

Kalolach’s Tree of Life, Washington

Kalolach’s Tree of Life, located in Olympic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula, is also known as the Tree Root Cave. The tree is one of the most fascinating wonders along the Pacific Coast of the USA. 

This sitka spruce tree is immensely tall and wide and has a sprawling system of tangled roots. The coastal bluffs that the tree grew on has almost completely eroded and visitors can see the roots hanging in the air. It is almost mysterious that the tree has managed to stay green and alive and continues to support itself. 

Under the roots of the tree is the Tree Root Cave. A stream empties into this cave and continues to erode the soil underneath the tree, creating this natural wonder. The tree is located just south of the town of Forks along the Pacific Coast Highway 101. 

Ruby Beach, Washington

Located 27 miles to the south of Forks, Ruby Beach is a wonderful beach on the Olympic Peninsula. It is located inside the Olympic National Park and easily accessible from Highway 101. Ruby Beach is located near the mouth of the Hoh River and visitors can hike 3 miles up  to the river to see wildlife. 

Visitors to the beach will have access to a vast stretch of coastal wilderness filled with sandy shores, sea stacks, driftwood, tidepools, and rocky coastal bluffs. Beachcombing is a popular activity at Ruby Beach. Abbey Island, a large sea stack, can be reached from Ruby Beach at low tide. 

Hole in the Wall, Washington

The Hole in the Wall is an interesting rock formation at Rialto Beach on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. This is a naturally carved sea arch in a sea stack off the coast. While the beach has amazing views down the coast and the landscape is just stunning here, on the hike to the Hole in the Wall, you will find even more gorgeous views and a memorable outdoors experience. 

The beach is located inside Olympic National Park and can be easily accessed from the Highway 101. Take the drive to the parking lot and from the beach, you can hike 1.6 miles to the Hole in the Wall rock formation at low tide. The trail is inaccessible at low tide, so remember to consult the tide charts before you go. On the hike you can spot marine life, birds, and intertidal creatures.  

Cape Flattery, Washington

Cape Flattery is the northenmost point in mainland USA. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, the Cape is a significant detour from the Pacific Coast Highway but is totally worth the trip. It is located on the Makah Reservation. 

The hike to Cape Flattery is 1.5 miles long. It follows the coastal bluffs and has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. From the end of the trail, you have incredibly clear views of Tatoosh Island. There are 4 observation decks along the trail from where you can spot seabirds and migrating whales.  

Hoh Rainforest, Washington

Washington’s Hoh Rainforest is one of the most beautiful natural attractions along the West Coast. This is an enchanting and magical place located in the middle of the Olympic Peninsula. This is one of the rainiest places in the country and receives over 140 inches of rainfall every year. 

Because of the climate, a different ecosystem exists within the Hoh Rainforest. The trees here grow immensely tall and wide. Ferns and mosses grow on the trees creating a green canopy so thick that sunlight can hardly penetrate the ground. On the forest floor, you will find unique flora and fauna that thrives in the wet environment. 

Hurricane Ridge, Washington

Hurricane Ridge is the mountainous region of the Olympic Peninsula. Here you will find snow capped mountain peaks, valleys, and meadows close to the Pacific Coast. Hurricane Ridge is popular year round. During summer visitors can enjoy hiking and wildflowers while winter activities include skiing and snowboarding. 

The landscape at Hurricane Ridge is just stunning in every reason. There are a variety of short and long hikes suitable for all difficulty levels to explore the area. This is definitely one of the best places to visit on the West Coast. 

Puget Sound, Washington

Puget Sound is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean along the coast of Seattle. Here you will find an interesting collection of islands and waterways that make the region a must visit for nature enthusiasts. Scenic destinations like the San Juan Islands, Deception Pass, and Orcas Island are spread across the sound. 

There are many things to do in Puget Sound and it’s islands. The area is excellent for hiking, biking, camping, boating, kayaking, birding, and whale watching. The wildlife here is rich and varied, making Puget Sound one of the best places in the USA for wildlife and outdoor lovers.

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

The post Best Natural Attractions on the West Coast, USA appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

The coast was originally the home to many indigenous tribes but was settled by Europeans following the discovery of gold. The West Coast has undergone a huge transformation since the earliest European settlers arrived here and now, is one of the trendiest places in the country.

The West Coast of Mainland USA consists of the three states of California, Washington, and Oregon. California is the most popular with visitors while Oregon is slowly getting more recognition for its foggy coastline and sea stacks. 

Coastal Washington is the hidden gem along the coast and one of our favorite places to go for a road trip is the Olympic peninsula. Alaska is also technically West Coast and so is Hawaii, but are not popularly considered so because of their remote location. 

The West Coast is often called the Best Coast – a tribute to its spectacular scenery and world-class cities. It is among the greatest travel destinations in the world. 

Most of the West Coast cities have a unique bohemian vibe and counterculture and are especially popular with young professionals and millennials. The cities have everything to offer from culinary hotspots, museums, urban parks, and historic attractions. 

Best Cities to Visit on West Coast 

The West Coast is popular for its diversity and has a lot of cities that are worth visiting. They all are distinctly different from each other in their foods, values, trends, and cultures. 

While most people think of Seattle, San Francisco, Portland, and Los Angeles when they think of the West Coast, the region is also home to some of the most underrated cities like Sacramento, Bend, and Tacoma. 

Here is our favorite list of the best cities to visit on the West Coast. 

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is popularly known as the ‘Coffee Capital’ of the United States. Visitors will find an espresso bar on every corner of the city. The city is famous for its many tourist attractions including the vast Pike Place Market and the iconic Space Needle, which was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. The Space Needle is located in the Seattle Center, which in itself is a destination filled with an entertainment complex, museums, theaters, restaurants, and sports facilities. 

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum which features blown glass artwork by artist Dale Chihuly is also located in the center. The Olympic Sculpture Park, a part of the Seattle Art Museum, has many renowned sculptures along the waterfront. 

Discovery Park is the largest park in the city and is great to get up close to nature. The West Point Lighthouse is located in the park and can be seen via a 4.4-mile loop trail. From almost anywhere in Seattle, you can see great views of the stunning Mount Rainier.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is the heart of northern California. This city is famous for some of the best tourist attractions in the country. 

The world-famous Golden Gate Bridge is a popular San Francisco icon and visited by thousands of people every day. It is also the most photographed bridge in America and is considered an engineering feat. Visitors can experience the bridge in a variety of ways including taking a cruise in the San Francisco Bay.

Apart from the Golden Gate Bridge, there are many other attractions in the city. Alcatraz Island Cruise is popular with tourists because of its interesting history. This was a former prison and several notorious prisoners were kept here. 

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest and oldest Chinatown in the US. This city celebrates the Chinese New Year festival on a large scale and the celebrations are amazing to attend. The many outdoor adventures near San Francisco and the mild year-round weather make it a perfect destination along the West Coast. 

Portland, Oregon

Welcome to the city which goes by the slogan, ‘Keep Portland Weird’. This city in the Pacific Northwest is an amazing destination to visit on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip as it has many unique attractions for the visitors. 

Portland is known for its amazing parks and museums and it is also home to an incredible food scene. Visitors can eat off a variety of food carts, local farmers’ markets, and food truck pods in the city.

Most visitors begin exploring Portland in Washington Park. The largest urban park in the city, Washington Park has several tourist attractions including the International Rose test garden, Japanese Garden, museums, and the Oregon Zoo. 

The city has a great emphasis on sustainable living and is environmentally friendly. The hip vibe and culture of Portland makes it perfect for millennials and urban visitors. 

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is renowned internationally in the film and entertainment industry, making it a hotspot for celebrities and tourists alike for decades. However, at present, LA offers a lot more including a diversity of beaches, trails, museums, shopping experiences.

A West Coast road trip to Los Angeles is always glamorous with a visit to Hollywood and its grand Hollywood sign for city views and the 1.3 mile Walk of Fame at Hollywood Boulevard. Outdoor exploration is also popular at the gorgeous Venice Beach where activities like swimming, surfing, and skateboarding are always in action.

A fun-filled visit to Disneyland theme park and behind the scene tours at Universal Studios are perfect for cinema fanatics. There are numerous intriguing art displays and famed science exhibits at the Griffith Observatory, The Broad, and LA County Museum of Art. The list of things to do in LA is endless ensuring not a single dull moment. 

Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma is a port city in Washington. It is located on Puget Sound and is one of the best places to visit in Washington State. It is a highly cultural destination and has plenty of museums to pique your interest. Most of these museums are adjacent to each other and can be easily seen on one trip. 

Tacoma is most famous for the Museum of Glass, a one of a kind museum in the US that focuses entirely on contemporary artworks made from glass. Visitors can see the Bridge of Glass which has Dale Chihuly artwork for free. 

The Washington State History Museum is popular with tourists for its vast collection of Pacific Northwest artifacts and a seasonal Native American Art exhibition. The Tacoma Art Museum represents local artists and contemporary art. 

Tacoma’s Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium has marine life, animals, and plants from all over the world. Kids love seeing several exhibits about birds, Asian animals, arctic exhibits, etc. The city is also home to America’s Car Museum, which has a magnificent collection of classic cars and modern automobiles. 

San Diego, California

San Diego, located near the southern border with Mexico, is the oldest city on the West Coast. From the Cabrillo National Monument to Old Town San Diego, the city’s rich culture shines through in the historic buildings and architecture. 

San Diego is a popular travel destination for its sandy beaches, warm weather, and sunshine. The city has a variety of amusements for all kinds of visitors.

The large urban Balboa Park is home to hiking trails, museums, Spanish colonial architecture, theatres, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Seaport Village, with its benches, picnic tables, waterside patios, and fresh seafood restaurants, is great for a stroll on a sunny afternoon. 

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park offers amazing views of the Pacific Coast and is a great place to enjoy the sunset. The city is also great for foodies. Gaslamp Quarter is well known for its Mexican cuisine while the night clubs and rooftop bars in San Diego attract party animals.

San Jose, California

Nicknamed the ‘Capital of Silicon Valley’ for its innovation and technical excellence, San Jose is the ultimate tourist destination for geeks and nerds. 

A prime attraction is Tech Interactive, a technology museum where kids can get hands-on with robots, experience an earthquake, fly like a bird over cities and see science and engineering movies in an Imax theatre. 

History lovers should visit the Egyptian Museum to see mummies and other artifacts that originated on the Nile River. 

Other than technology, the city also has a lot to offer for tourists. A must visit is the Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling mansion that is designed to ‘confuse ghosts’! Inside the house, visitors can see strange rooms, stairs that don’t seem to go anywhere, and other quirky features. 

San Jose Museum of Art has a strong collection of sculptures, paintings, and modern graphic art. The Municipal Rose Garden has beautiful blooming flowers. 

Sacramento, California

Sacramento is the capital city of California. It is often counted amongst the best places to visit on the West Coast owing to the vintage charm of its historical architecture, gorgeous museums, and the hippy Midtown.

Exploring the abandoned Sutter’s Fort and Old Sacramento Historic Park brings back memories of the mid nineteenth century marking the beginning of the Gold Rush era. The museums here are no less with the State Capitol Museum featuring a glimpse into California’s past and the Railroad Museum allowing guided tours of restored train cars and locomotive engines.

The Fairytale Town, a storybook themed park, with creative playsets is a favorite of the kids. The Tower Theatre or the Crest Theatre is perfect to catch an old classic, a concert, etc. While others enjoy the famous Second Saturday Art Walk amidst the pretty art galleries of Midtown.  

Monterey, California

The sleepy coastal town of Monterey is the best city on the West Coast to experience the small-town atmosphere made stunning with diverse wildlife, unparalleled beaches, exhilarating outdoors, and top-quality wine and dining.

Riding along the 17-Mile Drive is an experience in itself with views of the ocean and the coastline surrounded by the Del Monte Forest. A stop at Pebble Beach with championship golf courses, spas, gourmet restaurants, and boutiques is also popular.

The huge marine exhibits of Monterey Bay Aquarium displaying sea otters, penguins, and sharks are a hit among the tourists. The Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row are lined by seafood restaurants, candy shops, souvenir shops, and wine-tasting rooms. With so many unique attractions, Monterey is not a place to be missed.

Olympia, Washington

A Pacific Coast Highway road trip is incomplete without a stop at Olympia, the capital city of Washington State. Olympia houses various opportunities to explore its evergreen landscape and charming history. Moreover, it allows tourists to enjoy a handcrafted way of life with special farmers’ markets, local-coffee, wine, beer, and spirits.

Stroll along the Capitol Lake shoreline inside the State Capitol Building campus which houses the historic legislative building and allows free guided walking tours of the same. Enjoy a movie, concert, or discover local art and history at the grand movie palace of Capitol Theatre. 

Bask in the unique fauna of the West Coast at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, home to various marine, terrestrial, and bird species. Mount Rainier National Park and the Olympic National Park provide the adrenaline with dramatic snow-clad peaks, hiking trails cutting through forests, and blooming meadows.

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria in Oregon is an appealing port city surrounded by the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean on two sides. With pleasant weather prevailing round the year, Astoria lets you do everything, be it hiking, watching whales, or sitting in cozy little coffee shops.

Enjoy hiking the Cathedral Tree Trail to reach the Astoria Column with traces of Astoria’s history and views of the city. Spend time camping, kayaking, or watching the historic shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park. Explore the coastal beaches, forts, forests, and two old lighthouses while visiting the Cape Disappointment State Park.

Head to the Oregon Film Museum with interactive sets to recreate iconic movie scenes with your loved ones. And do not forget to visit the Fort George Brewery for authentic beer and Clemente’s Café for some refreshing seafood. 

Salem, Oregon

The capital city of Oregon, Salem is the perfect destination for a pleasant and relaxing stop amid a West Coast USA road trip. From museums and theme parks to greenery and heritage, everything comes together in this city set in the Willamette Valley.

Gorge on handmade farmstead cheeses like Gouda, Brie, Mozzarella, and Cheddar at the Willamette Valley Cheese Company. Enjoy an amusing day out exploring the hiking trails, boat docks, playgrounds, bridges, and the famous Riverfront Carousel at the Riverfront City Park.

Head for a tour around the Oregon State Capitol to discover its modernist art deco, statues, history room, portrait hallway, and the Oregon Pioneer perched on top of the central tower. While those looking for an active time visit the Bush’s Pasture Park which offers tennis playgrounds, softball fields, hiking trails, rose gardens as well as the Bush House Museum.            

Mendocino, California

The cliffside trails and beaches of Mendocino, a small coastal community, make it much more charming than other big towns. Designated a historical landmark, Mendocino resembles New England villages with its charming cottages and Victorian mansions.

Mendocino Headlands State Park is one of the top attractions here for its rugged coastline, secluded beaches, hiking trails, and history, a favorite of artists and photographers. Ascending to the top of 115 feet Point Arena Lighthouse is worth the 360-degree views of the ocean and surrounding areas.

The Jughandle State Reserve is famous for its Ecological Staircase Walk. This is a must-visit attraction featuring long and short walks overlooking the changing coastal landform. Head to the Ford House Museum for a journey through Mendocino’s history and then to Kelley House Museum to witness period pieces from the 1800s.

Eugene, Oregon

A university city like no other, Eugene has its history rooted in the hippie culture and progressive ideas. Eugene is proudly known as the ‘Track and Field Capital of the World’ for the top-class competitions, events, trails, and outdoor spaces.

The Alton Baker Park with its bridges, bike trails, running route ‘Pretrial’ named after hometown hero Steve Prefontaine and water trails is a favorite of tourists. Catch various opera and jazz events as well as rare art displays at the Hult Centre for Performing Arts.

For a look into the process of rehabilitation of injured birds, head to the Cascades Raptor Centre home to eagles, falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey. At the main attraction, the University of Oregon, discover the heritage, culture, and history of Oregon by visiting museums like the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and Museum of Natural and Cultural History. 

Bend, Oregon

A small city on the Deschutes River, Bend is surrounded by the peaks of the Cascade Mountains on one end and the desert plateaus of Oregon on the other. Bend is a must-visit while on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip to enjoy a refreshing look at history, adventure, and landscape.

Hike to the summit of Pilot Butte, an extinct volcano, to witness astonishing views of the mountains, desert, and the city. Experience more of the unique volcanic history by visiting Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the Lava River Cave, a huge lava tube. Do not forget to engage in rockhounding around Central Oregon to take a little piece of obsidian home.

Enjoy the history and live wildlife exhibits at the High Desert Museum. And for a tummy treat, visit the Deschutes Brewery on the Bend Ale Trail providing fascinating brewery tours and cold craft beer. 

Santa Barbara, California

With the backdrop of Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is a glamorous town with Spanish architecture and stunning waterfronts. From beaches, trails, museums, to churches and shopping streets in close proximity, Santa Barbara is a delight to explore.

The East Beach offers stunning views and sunbathing opportunities while the West beach is famous for fireworks on the Fourth of July. Experience the colonial history at the Santa Barbara Mission, an operating worship house with a museum of colonial artifacts.

Head out to the Santa Barbara Channel for a closer look at the Mink Whales, Fin Whales, Humpback Whales, Blue Whales, and Dolphins galloping. And the Stearns Wharf is a must-visit with its fresh seafood options, wine tasting, a touch of an aquarium, and loads of other shopping alternatives. 

San Luis Obispo, California

A popular halfway stopping point between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo is the ideal city for a relaxing stop at the foothills of Santa Lucia Mountains. The pleasant weather with sunshine on more than 300 days of the year makes the outdoors perfect for picnics, sightseeing, and sunbathing.

The Spanish building of San Luis Obispo de Tolosa features an exquisite interior, a courtyard garden, and a museum showcasing Spanish and Native Indian culture. Held on Thursday evenings, the SLO Farmers’ Market on Higuera Street is crowded by vendors selling fresh produce, restaurants selling street food, and some festive live music.

A 23-mile shoreline with consistent waves at Pismo Beach is frequented by surfers, bodyboarders, and other sports enthusiasts. While some head to the Avila Valley Hot springs to enjoy the therapeutic natural thermal soaking pools. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

A quiet, romantic seaside destination, Carmel by the Sea is often remembered for its Spanish architecture, old-world charm and village ambiance. Because it doesn’t use numbered street addresses, this town is perfect to wander and chance upon storybook cottages, cafes, unique shops, and art galleries.

The Caramel Beach gives a secluded feel with pristine white sand and cypress trees allowing fun activities like sunbathing, nature walks, or volleyball. Shopping around Ocean Avenue lets one discover unique artisan shops, jewelry stores, boutiques, and antique stores. Explore the charming art galleries, beautiful courtyards, and passageways of Downtown Caramel.

The local wildlife amid scenic views of the Pacific Oceans intrigues tourists on a visit to the Point Lobos State Reserve. Yet others gaze at the sheep while enjoying a Sunday buffet brunch or sipping on drinks at Mission Ranch. Some head to the Caramel Wine Walk for a memorable wine tasting experience.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

One of the most beautiful locations on the West Coast, Cannon Beach is a seaside village with remarkable beaches, rock formations, and viewpoints. An escape from an otherwise active schedule, Cannon Beach allows tourists to sit back and relax around a beach fire, taste authentic candy, or go around hiking.

Right in the middle of Cannon Beach sits the marvelous Haystack Rock, the world’s third-largest monolith, making for photogenic scenery and home to a diverse marine life. The Ecola State Park is famous for camping, picnicking, hiking along the Clatsop Loop Interpretive Trail, and unmatched views of Tillamook Head and Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Watch the complicated art of live glassblowing up close at Icefire Glassworks and bring a piece home. 

Port Angeles, Washington

A quiet town on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles houses the best of lakes, rivers, mountains, forests and local lavender farms. This town became popular as the setting of the famous Twilight series and has since been a treasured tourist spot.

Hiking at the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge leads to rewarding views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the San Juan Islands as well as the New Dungeness Lighthouse. Enjoy sightseeing at the top of Hurricane Ridge to witness snow-clad mountains, vibrant sunsets, and deer grazing in the meadows nearby.

For a change, head to one of the various events in Port Angeles like the Juan de Fuca Festival of the Arts in May or the Sequim Lavender Festival in summer.     

Newport, Oregon

Newport in Oregon is a small fishing village that turned into a beach resort town with time. The Victorian construction of Newport is accompanied by an aquarium, excellent seafood restaurants, museums, and interesting water activities.

A tour of the Hatfield Marine Science Center offers live marine exhibits and educational displays about ocean-related topics. The South Beach State Park is ideal for thrilling watersports, kayak launching, fishing, hot showers, hiking, or wildlife watching. The tallest lighthouse in Oregon at Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site is a must-visit. 

The historic Newport Bayfront with the iconic Yaquina Bay Bridge and numerous seafood restaurants, shops, and art galleries along the Bay Boulevard make another hit attraction. 

Napa, California

Popularly known for the hillside vineyards, the Napa Valley is a tourist favorite. From hiking trails to museums, art galleries, and local boutiques, Napa offers more than just wineries and handcraft cheese.

Board the Napa Valley Wine Train to enjoy a tour of local wineries with American cuisine served onboard. Go for an entertaining paddleboarding tour on the waters of Napa River. Head for a hot air balloon ride offering rich views of the vineyards and the valley.

Learn about the farm life and animals at Connolly Ranch or head to the Napa Valley Opera House to catch some theatrical entertainment and witness the historical architecture. Don’t forget to visit the Oxbow Farmers Market for local gourmet food.

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

The post Best Cities on the West Coast, USA appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

From powder white sandy beaches to purple-hued coves, from sea stacks to foggy bluffs, from sea glass to driftwood washing up the shore, and from aquamarine waters to churning frothy waves, the West Coast beaches are spectacularly beautiful. They have something to offer for all beach lovers.  

Whether you are looking to swim, surf, kayak, play on sand dunes, camp, hike, tidepool, go crabbing or relax on the sand, the dramatic coastline of the Pacific Ocean makes it all possible. In the states of California, Oregon, and Washington you can find extensive sandy stretches, hidden coves, and sheltered beaches. 

Take a road trip along Highway 1 or Highway 101 and experience the stunning beauty of these beaches. Experience the enchanting nature of these postcard-worthy beach vacations on the West Coast. Come early for sunrise and stay for one of those legendary West Coast sunsets. 

Best beaches on the West Coast

Here are the best beaches including the best beach vacations, best beach resort getaways, and best beach towns along the West Coast of the USA. 

Laguna Beach, California

Located in California’s famous Orange County, Laguna Beach is a legendary beach vacation on the West Coast. It is known for its stunningly pretty white sand beaches including the popular Thousand Steps Beach. 

There are many other beaches in Laguna Beach. There is Main Beach where you can explore tidepools during a low tide or take a stroll along the boardwalk. Many of the city’s beaches have hiking trails nearby.  

The city of Laguna Beach makes a great beach vacation because of its proximity to Los Angeles, a charming downtown, and many art festivals and galleries. Many Hollywood celebrities also live in Laguna Beach, making it one of the most expensive areas in Orange County. 

Pfeiffer Beach, California

Pfeiffer Beach ranks top of this list of best beaches on the West Coast for multiple reasons. It is located on the incredibly scenic central coast of California in Big Sur, it has pretty purple colored sand, and is characterized by the iconic Keyhole Rock formation. 

Accessing this beautiful beach is not easy. It is located off the beaten path on California’s Highway 1. If you are traveling north to south, then drive past the Big Sur Ranger Station to the sign for Sycamore Canyon Road. Follow the road to the parking lot and then hike down to the beach. 

Once at the beach, you will find several jagged rocks along the coast. But the most striking is the keyhole rock which has a natural arch formation where the waves crash. Keyhole Rock looks spectacular at sunset. The purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach comes from the manganese garnet stones on the cliffside. 

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific Northwest. This iconic beach with the Haystack Rock has become famous since it was featured in the movie Twilight. Haystack Rock is 235 feet tall and when covered in fog or at sunset, is every photographer’s dream. 

The best views of Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock and a sweeping panorama down the Pacific Coast can be seen from Ecola State Park. Cannon Beach is simply huge and breathtaking and one of the best beaches to visit along the Pacific Coast.  

The beach is perfect for romantic long walks on the sand, especially at sunset. The beach is also a photographer’s paradise with the frothy waves, sea stacks, coves, and tidepools. The town of Cannon Beach makes the perfect beach gateway in Oregon. 

Baker Beach, California

No list of best beaches on the Pacific Coast is complete without mentioning Baker Beach in San Francisco. Located in the Presidio of San Francisco, on the ocean side of the Golden Gate Bridge, this is the most popular beach in the city. 

Baker Beach has one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and is the ultimate spot to come for highly photogenic pictures. Apart from walking along the coast and taking in the views, visitors can also go sunbathing or fishing at the beach. 

However, there are a few caveats while visiting the San Francisco beach: the beach is clothing optional and gets quite crowded on weekends. It also tends to get foggy in the summer and can have poor visibility of the bridge.

Seaside, Oregon

Seaside is Oregon’s favorite beach town and beach vacation destination. This is the largest city on the Oregon Coast and is home to a fabulous beach. The town is close to Tillamook Head which has excellent hiking trails along the coast. 

Seaside is an excellent beach vacation for families with kids. The 1.5 miles long Seaside Promenade boardwalk is a primary source of attraction in the resort town. The Seaside Aquarium, located along the promenade, is a great place to take the kids. 

Downtown Seaside is also charming with lots of historic buildings and museums. You can play arcade games, do boutique shopping, and eat at seafood restaurants in this lively town. The Seaside Turnaround is one the Lewis & Clark Trail and makes a great photo op. 

Rialto Beach, Washington

Located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, Rialto Beach is one of the best beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway 101. The beach is a part of the Olympic National Park and located adjacent to the Mora campground. 

This rocky beach is characterized by drift logs, a coastal forest, and views of sea stacks. A main highlight of the beach is Hole-in-the-Wall, a sea carved arch which can be reached on a 1.5 miles hike. 

Rialto Beach is also excellent for watching wildlife. You can spot whales, sea lions, sea otters, and birds including puffins, cormorants, and eagles. You can also sea tide pool creatures at low tide.  

La Jolla Beach, California

La Jolla Shores, located adjacent to San Diego, is home to the most famed beaches in southern California. At La Jolla, you will find white sandy beaches and hidden coves sheltered by rocky cliffs. 

This is a popular west coast beach vacation destination for families. You will find kids playing in the sand and surfers on the waves at La Jolla. You can also go scuba diving and beach kayaking at La Jolla.

La Jolla Cove is the most popular beach in the area. It is a part of the marine reserve and is excellent for snorkeling. Torrey Pines State Beach, located north of La Jolla, is great for hiking and enjoying the sunset. 

La Push Beaches, Washington

The La Push beaches on the Olympic Peninsula are separated from Rialto Beach by the Quillayute River. The beaches can be accessed via the La Push Road. These are actually three beaches known as First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach. 

The First Beach is located on the Quileute Reservation while the other two are part of the Olympic National Park. Second Beach and Third Beach also have tidepools and excellent for visiting with kids. 

Second Beach is the most popular one for its dramatic beauty. To reach the beach, you need to hike about 0.7 miles from the parking lot. The trail goes through the old-growth forest and the views are magnificent. Stairs at the end of the trail take visitors to the often foggy beach. 

First Beach is most easily accessible and hence frequently crowded. Third Beach needs a 1.4 miles hike and hence is less visited and great if you want the beach to yourself. 

Carmel Beach, California

Charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, located a few hours from Monterey, is an excellent beach vacation on California’s central coast. This upscale, charming, coastal community has a distinct art vibe. 

Carmel Beach is the perfect place to spend a day relaxing in the sun. The crescent-shaped beach is also dog-friendly and you will find many furry friends splashing in the water. Popular activities on the beach include swimming, surfing, and bonfires at night. 

Another great option is the Carmel River State Beach. It is less visited and so often secluded compared to Carmel Beach. Here you can find sand dunes and a mile-long beach. Also adjacent to the beach is a bird sanctuary and you can spot a variety of land birds and seabirds like warblers, pelicans, and oystercatchers. 

Rockaway Beach, Oregon

Located in Tillamook County of Oregon Coast, Rockaway Beach is a popular coastal city. Located just an hour away from Portland, this is a very popular beach vacation destination. The town itself is charming, you can see Victorian buildings from the Wild West days.  

A highlight of Rockaway Beach is Twin Rocks, a pair of sea stacks that rise out from the ocean. It looks even more spectacular at sunset or when covered in pastel hues in the spring. You can go beachcombing or take the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad to Garibaldi. 

Ruby Beach, Washington

Located in the Kalaloch Area of the Olympic National Park, Ruby Beach is an incredibly beautiful beach along the Pacific Coast. It has a certain mythical quality: the fog descends pretty low on the sea stacks and sunsets are just gorgeous here. The beach is located near the mouth of the Hoh River and is full of interesting rock formations. 

The tidepooling here is legendary: at low tides, you can observe crabs, sea urchins, and starfish. The beach has a beautiful view of Abbey Island and at low tide, you can even cross across the sand to go near the island. 

While the beach is easily accessible from the parking lot, the reach the area where the Hof River empties into the Pacific, you will need to go along a 3-mile long trail. You can also spot the Destruction Island Lighthouse from Ruby Beach. 

Long Beach, Washington

For a fun beach getaway in the Pacific Northwest, consider Long Beach. Located in Washington, Long Beach is known for its abundant seafood and longest beach in the US. 

The Long Beach Peninsula has the longest continuous beach in the country with 28 miles of sandy stretches. It is also the world’s largest drivable beach. Here you will find grass-covered sand dunes along the Pacific Coast. 

If you prefer not walking on the beach, then the city also has a half-mile long boardwalk. You can also hike or bike along the Discovery Trail and learn about Lewis and Clark’s expedition. 

A special attraction of the Long Beach peninsula is Cape Disappointment State Beach. It has two lighthouses, an old-growth forest, and hiking trails. 

Glass Beach, California

Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach located in Mackerricher State Park is one of the most unique beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway 1.  Here you will find abundant sea glass all over the beach. 

The sea glass was formed from trash and rubble that was dumped here decades ago. The sea glass while depleting, still makes the beach look gorgeous and unique.  

Fort Bragg itself is a charming town to visit and located adjacent to charming Mendocino. It makes a fun stop on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip. 

Horsfall Beach, Oregon

Horsfall Beach is located about 2 miles north of Coos Bay on Oregon’s central coast. This beach is located within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and is surrounded by a never-ending dunes field. 

The dunes here are some of the tallest on the continent. Some of them tower over 500 feet in height. The dunes field stretches for over 47 miles. Visitors can go offroading on the dunes and have a thrilling time.

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

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