This stunning stretch of coastline is home to rocky cliffs, jaw-dropping views, and plenty of winding roads that will have your heart racing.

While you could technically drive the entire length of Big Sur in a day, we recommend spreading out your trip over a few days to really take in all that this area has to offer.

To help you plan your perfect Big Sur road trip, we’ve put together a list of the 15 best stops along the way as well as recommendations to begin your road trip.

Also Read: 15 Best Lighthouses on the West Coast

Best Cities to begin Big Sur Road Trip

Several cities in California make for a great starting point for your Big Sur road trip.

San Francisco, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo are all located within a few hours’ drive of Big Sur and offer plenty to see and do before hitting the road.

San Francisco

If you’re starting your road trip from San Francisco, we recommend taking the California Highway 1 South towards Big Sur.

This drive will take you about 4 hours if you make no stops, but we highly recommend making a few stops along the way.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles in Southern California is another great starting point for visiting Big Sur.

The drive from LA to Big Sur will take you about 5 hours, but you’ll have the opportunity to see some of California’s most iconic scenery.

Monterey

If you’re starting in Monterey, we recommend driving south on Highway 1 to visit Big Sur.

This route is a little shorter than taking the route from San Francisco, but it offers plenty to see and do along the way.

Similarly, Carmel-by-the-Sea also makes a great starting point for this road trip.

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is a world-famous golf course located north of Big Sur.

This course is known for its stunning ocean views and challenging holes.

If you’re a golf fan, be sure to add Pebble Beach to your Big Sur road trip itinerary!

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is a great option if you’re looking for a slightly relaxed starting point for your road trip.

The drive from San Luis Obispo to Big Sur will take you about 3 hours, but you’ll have the chance to explore the city before hitting the road.

Once you’ve picked your perfect starting point, it’s time to hit the road and explore all that Big Sur has to offer.

Best Stops on Big Sur Road Trip

The best stops on a road trip down California’s Big Sur coastline are definitely worth your time.

From the dramatic scenery and wildlife to the tasty food and interesting history, these destinations along the California Coast will make your trip unforgettable.

There’s plenty to explore along this 173-mile route, so we’ve put together our top picks for the best stops on your journey.

Buckle up and get ready for some unforgettable memories!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Big Sur, California

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming little town that’s worth a stop on your road trip.

This picturesque town is known for its white-sand beaches, Spanish architecture, and art galleries.

There are also plenty of great restaurants and shops to check out, so make sure to spend some time exploring this lovely town.

Carmel Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

This beach is known for its white sand and stunning ocean views.

If you’re looking to relax and soak up some California sun, Carmel Beach is the perfect spot.

Bixby Bridge

Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most iconic bridges in California and a must-see on your road trip.

This beautiful bridge spans over 750 feet and provides stunning views of the coastline below.

There are pullouts along the side of the road to stop and take photos, so make sure to take your time enjoying this beautiful bridge.

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest is a gorgeous national park that’s worth a visit on your road trip.

This park is home to rugged mountains, oak and pine forests, and winding rivers.

There are plenty of great hiking trails to explore, so make sure to spend a few hours enjoying the natural beauty of this park.

McWay Falls

McWay Falls is a beautiful waterfall that’s located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

This 80-foot waterfall tumbles over a cliff and into the Pacific Ocean below, providing stunning views.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Apart from McWay Falls, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is also home to redwood forests, meadows, and plenty of hiking trails.

Some of our favorite things to do here include hiking to the Ewoldsen Trail, watching the sunset from the Cove Overlook, and enjoying a picnic lunch with a view.

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Big Sur and worth a stop.

This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, purple sands, and clear waters.

Pfeiffer Beach is known for its bright purple sand, which is caused by the high levels of manganese in the area.

Make sure to stop and take a few photos of the Keyhole Rock formation while you’re visiting this stunning purple sand beach.

The beach has a small parking lot with only a few spots and gets pretty full on weekends – arrive early to make the most of your time!

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is a must-see on your road trip down the California coast.

This castle was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and is now open to the public.

There are tours of the castle, gardens, and pools available, so make sure to spend a few hours exploring this stunning estate.

Partington Cove

Partington Cove is a beautiful stop on your road trip.

This cove is accessible by a short hike and features a stunning beach with dramatic cliffs.

There’s also a tunnel that was carved into the rocks in the 1800s that you can explore.

Make sure to bring your camera to capture the incredible views from this hidden gem.

Nepenthe

Nepenthe is a restaurant that’s located in Big Sur and a great place to stop for lunch.

This restaurant has stunning views of the coastline and serves delicious American cuisine.

Make sure to try their famous Ambrosia Burger, which is topped with avocado, bacon, and cheese.

They also have a great wine selection, so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing meal.

Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is a beautiful park that’s home to the rocky coastline, Redwoods, and rolling hills.

A highlight is Garrapata State Beach, a beautiful beach that’s located within Garrapata State Park.

This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and stunning views.

Make sure to stop here during your road trip to enjoy the incredible views and for some peaceful hiking in nature.

Andrew Molera State Park

Andrew Molera State Park is one of the most underrated state parks to visit during your Big Sur road trip.

This park is home to miles of hiking trails, a beautiful beach, and the historic Cooper Cabin.

Make sure to spend a few hours hiking through this stunning park and enjoying the incredible views along California’s Central Coast.

Big Sur Village

Big Sur Village is a small town located in the heart of Big Sur.

This town is home to cute shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Make sure to stop by here for some shopping and lunch during your epic road trip down the coast.

Some of our favorite stops here include Big Sur Bakery to try delicious pastries and the Big Sur River Inn for a meal with a view!

Limekiln State Park

Limekiln State Park is one of the most popular parks in Big Sur.

This park is home to beautiful hiking trails, a waterfall, and historic lime kilns.

Make sure to spend a few hours exploring this park and enjoying the incredible views of the California coast.

Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach is a beautiful beach that’s perfect for a relaxing stop.

This beach is known for its soft white sand and clear waters.

Make sure to stop by here and enjoy a swim, sunbathe, and relax on the beach.

Post Ranch Inn

Post Ranch Inn is a luxury hotel located in Big Sur.

This hotel is known for its incredible views, luxurious accommodations, and world-class service.

If you’re looking for a splurge during your road trip, we recommend booking a night or two at the Post Ranch Inn.

Ventana Redwoods Campground

If you’re looking for a camping option during your road trip, Ventana Redwoods Campground is a great choice.

This campground is located in the Ventana Wilderness and offers stunning views of the redwoods and the Pacific Ocean.

Make sure to bring your camping gear and spend a few nights under the stars in this beautiful part of California.

Point Lobos State Reserve

Point Lobos State Reserve is a beautiful nature reserve that’s worth a visit on your Big Sur itinerary.

This reserve is known for its rugged coastline, lush forests, and pristine beaches.

Point Lobos State Reserve is also one of the best places to see wildlife along the Big Sur coast.

This beautiful reserve is home to a variety of animals, including seals, sea lions, otters, and birds.

There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes!

Elephant Seal Vista Point

Elephant Seal Vista Point is a great stop to see the elephant seals.

Located within the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery near San Simeon, this is one of the best places to see these magnificent creatures up close.

There is a viewing platform where you can watch the seals sunbathe, swim, and play in the water.

This is a great stop for animal lovers and anyone who wants to see some unique wildlife.

The rookery is located close to Piedras Blancas Lighthouse, which makes another great stop on this spectacular road trip.

Best Time to Visit Pacific Coast Highway

The best time to visit Big Sur and the Pacific Coast Highway is from April to October.

During these months, you’ll have the best chance of good weather and will be able to enjoy all of the attractions and activities that this area has to offer.

If you’re planning a road trip, we recommend starting your journey in early May or late September to avoid the busiest times and to get the most out of your trip.

This amazing road trip is also fabulous during the winter months – you can easily spot whales along the coast.

There you have it—our picks for the best stops on a Big Sur road trip.

Also Read: Best Places to Stop on Pacific Coast Highway

While this list is far from comprehensive, it should give you a good starting point for planning your own Big Sur road trip.

So what are you waiting for?

Start packing your bags and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful areas in California!

We hope you enjoy this beautiful area as much as we do!

The post 15 Best Stops on Big Sur Road Trip appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Welcome to our ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner!

We are the #1 resource dedicated to planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

Pacific Coast Highway road trip ranks pretty high among bucket list travel experiences – in fact its one of the most scenic drives in the entire world!

Highway 1 is a gorgeous drive along sprawling cities, charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, majestic forests, and stunning landscapes.

Whether you are planning a trip to California, Oregon, or Washington….

….or planning the ultimate West Coast Road Trip from San Diego to Seattle;

We have multiple Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary recommendations that cover different areas of the West Coast!

That means you can use this as a Washington / Oregon Highway 101 road trip planner or California coastal road trip planner for Highway 1.

This Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner will help you plan your entire trip and cover the following:

• The Best Cities to begin your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
• Best PCH Itineraries for all types of travelers
• Best Stops / best attractions to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway
• Where to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
• Best places to eat along the Pacific Coast Highway
• Hidden Gems / Offbeat attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway

This Pacific Coast Highway road trip guide also covers other useful and important information including

• Best time to visit the Pacific Coast
• How much to drive each day along the PCH
• What to pack for Pacific Coast Highway road trip
• How much does a Pacific Coast Highway road trip cost aka Budgeting for your PCH trip

It is quite easy to plan a PCH road trip by yourself using our Highway 1 / Highway 101 trip planners and online booking sites to reserve your flights/rental car/hotels.

Awesome, right? Then let’s start planning your Pacific Highway road trip itinerary now.

Before you begin

As an American, you probably know what goes into planning an epic cross country road trip.

After all, we are pretty road-trip obsessed country!

However, what if you are traveling from abroad and are interested in the Pacific Coast Highway drive itinerary?

You’re in luck – we have many resources to help you plan your trip including information on visas, renting a car, and driving in America.

Our detailed PCH road trip planners will take you step by step through the process of planning your trip:

• The initial steps in planning the Pacific Coast Highway road trip involve:
  Deciding what part of the PCH will you drive
  How many days will you devote to the entire trip and
  When is the best time to visit.
  Information to help you in deciding these is covered in Step 1: PCH FAQs and Step 2: Best PCH Stops

• You also need to pick a PCH gateway city, decide how will you reach there, and whether you need to rent a car or drive your own.
  Find information on the best cities to start your PCH Road Trip in Step 3: PCH Gateway Cities

• If you want to see the highlights of central California, specifically Highway 1, then refer to the California coast road trip planner.
  If you want a Pacific coast trip through PNW, then focus on the Oregon coast and Olympic peninsula.
  Information on specific Itineraries is covered in Step 4: PCH Itineraries

• Finally, book your trip!
  Find our recommended hotels, car rental companies, and flight aggregators in Step 5: Book your PCH Road Trip.

Also, don’t forget to join our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Facebook Page where you can ask questions or share your photos or itinerary with fellow travelers. Click here to join now. 

Ready to get started? Let’s start planning the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip together! 

Don’t believe us when we say that the PCH road trip is the most beautiful road trip in the world?

Then check out these beautiful photos from the USA West Coast!

Step 1: PCH FAQs

The Pacific Coast Highway is pretty large and rather confusing.

It is essential to understand the PCH before you plan a trip.

Here’s some basic information:

Where does the Pacific Coast Highway start and end?

Wondering where is the Pacific Coast Highway and how long it is? Also, where does the PCH start and end?

One of the things that creates confusion while planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip is that the road is simply huge.

Plus everybody seems to be talking about a different stretch of the road when they refer to the PCH.

We experienced this several times while planning our first trip to the region. 

The coastal route or the PCH starts at San Diego near the Mexican border and ends near Seattle in the city of Olympia in the Pacific Northwest.

It is not officially named the Pacific Coast Highway but has always been called so since it parallels the Pacific Coast.

The routes to follow for the road trip include Highway 1 in southern and central California and Highway 101 in northern California, Oregon, and Washington.

How long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

Since it goes the entire length of the West Coast, just how long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

The road beginning in San Diego to its end in Olympia, the capital of Washington State is roughly 1700 miles long!

And yes, it really does go parallel to the Pacific Ocean for the most part!

What is the PCH1?

The road officially called the PCH1 is located in California. Its other name is California State Route 1 (SR1) or Highway 1.

Where does Hwy 1 start and end?

The PCH1 drive extends from the I-5 intersection in Orange County, Southern California to Highway 101 intersection near Leggett in Northern California.

Also, the name PCH 1 is interchangeably used with Highway 1 (Hwy 1) or Route 1 or California 1 or SR 1. 

Add to that, certain parts of California PCH 1 near Pismo Beach on Central Coast are known as Cabrillo Highway while a section north of San Francisco is called the Shoreline Highway.

Many times Hwy 1 merges with Hwy 101, creating even more confusion.

This is most noticeable from Pismo Beach to San Luis Obispo and along the Golden Gate Bridge where the two roads merge.

The Hwy also simply disappears and takes street names in San Francisco (19th Avenue) and in Santa Monica (Lincoln Blvd).

If you are planning a trip along this route, then the Highway 1 trip planner will help you discover attractions between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

So how do you ensure you don’t get lost while planning a road trip up PCH?

The easiest way is to ensure that you are following the PCH1 between Monterey and San Luis Obispo in California.

This is the most spectacular stretch that passes through Big Sur and the road here is clearly marked, causing no confusion.

Our California Highway 1 road trip planner will guide you towards the best stops on Highway 1 California in Big Sur including McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

Which section of the Pacific Coast Highway should you drive?

For first-timers, we recommend driving the California Highway 1 or PCH 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles for multiple reasons.

This stretch of PCH1 passes through the beautiful Big Sur region.

For many people, Big Sur is the #1 attraction along the route.

Also, the gateway cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco are very well connected and easy to fly in or out after your trip.

One-way car rentals between the two cities are easily available or you also have the option of a loop road trip.

Our San Francisco road trip planner will help you plan your trip to SF, LA, as well as the attractions in between.

Have already been to this part of California Coast? Don’t want to begin in SF? You have many other options to customize the itinerary as you want!

After the PCH 1 ends, you can either drive south along the coast to San Diego or all the way up to Olympic National Park and the Canadian border in the north.

Alternatively, you can also begin the Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Diego and drive north.

The entire route is scenic and has plenty of attractions.

In northern California you will find beautiful redwood trees while in Oregon, you can see stunning capes and lighthouses as well as unique geological formations.

In Washington, you will find everything from deep blue lakes and dense rainforests to sea stacks and driftwood covered beaches.

And that’s why it is so important to decide which stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway you want to drive before you plan your trip.

Which direction to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?

All right, so you have decided which section of the Pacific Coast Highway you are going to be driving.

You know how much time you have in hand.

So which gateway city do you begin your PCH Road trip?

Is it better to drive north or south on the Pacific Coast Highway?

While many people recommend driving from south to north, our favorite is to drive south.

Yes, you will see the most gorgeous sites first and might end in the chaotic city of Los Angeles but you will be closer to the stunning views plus have easier access to parking lots and pull-outs.

That being said, if you have enough time to savor the trip then the direction won’t really matter much!

When to visit the Pacific Coast Highway?

The best part? You can drive the Pacific Coast Highway year round! 

There are, however, certain times of the year when the PCH road trip is more scenic than others.

Spring is our personal favorite.

You can see wildflowers along the Pacific Coast Highway plus spot wildlife including migrating whales.

The temperature is pleasant for hiking, during the daytime it is neither too hot nor too cold.

An added bonus, the crowds are fewer than in summer or winter holidays.

However, you should skip spring break week, if possible.

Remember: Spring can be too windy and cold but the gorgeous wildflowers tip the scales. 

Our second favorite time of the year for this road trip is from late summer to early fall, just after the schools are in session.

September and October on the coast are mild and sunny.

A pleasant breeze flows from the ocean making hikes more fun.

Wineries along the PCH in Napa, Sonoma, and along the Central Coast have beautiful fall colors and are ready for harvest.

Visitors can enjoy grape stomping at wineries if they time it right.

Winter and summer both have their pros and cons.

In winter, you can whale watch and enjoy the scenic beauty without the fog.

But temperatures, especially for northern California, can be quite chilly.

It can also rain, causing landslides and slippery trails.

The PCH may stay closed for days due to extended storm damage. 

The very end of winter – from mid to late February – is a good time with mild weather and low crowds.

The summer months of June, July, and August can be quite foggy.

Big Sur looks beautiful and dramatic in the fog but the roads can be treacherous for driving.

The fog usually prevails in the morning and evening so you should still have clear blue afternoons.

As you continue south, it can get too hot to hike or stay outdoors for longer times.

Peak tourist times are winter holiday season and summer vacations.

Expect accommodations to fill up faster, potential delays on the road, and full parking lots at major attractions like Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls.

To read more about the best time to visit and see photos in different seasons, read our post When to Drive the Pacific Coast Highway.

How to rent a car for a PCH road trip? Which car should you rent?

The best way to travel Pacific Coast Highway is by car!

Look for one way car rentals unless you plan to do a round trip.

However, one-way rentals can be expensive so factor that in while planning your itinerary.

If you have more time and want to do the Pacific Coast Highway road trip on a budget, then you can definitely return to the original destination to reduce costs.

An SUV is really useful while negotiating the twisting turns of the PCH however, it is also easy to break in into.

Because of that, we prefer a sedan if we are driving with kids and have a lot of luggage in the trunk.

A muscle car or a convertible is also a great option for driving the Pacific Coast Highway.

The coast has stunning views and a top down lets you feel the ocean breeze and enjoy the panorama.

A recently popular option is to rent an RV for the Pacific Coast Highway travel itinerary.

This allows you to enjoy the natural attractions along the coast to the maximum.

How much should you budget for Pacific Coast Highway road trip?

The famous question, how much does it cost to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?! Or what should be your Pacific Coast Highway road trip budget?

In general, we recommend budgeting $200 per person per day including hotel, car, and food for road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway.

That’s why the easiest way to do the trip on a budget is to choose a shorter Pacific Coast Highway trip itinerary.

The fewer number of days on your trip, the fewer the costs.

That said, California, in general, is expensive and we have never been able to go on an extended California trip under $1000 per person including airfare.

You can also consider road tripping the PCH 1 along Oregon or Washington to reduce costs as these states are somewhat cheaper than California.

More Pacific Coast Highway FAQs

To read more Pacific Coast Highway FAQs including the following common doubts, click here.

• Is the Pacific Coast Highway dangerous to drive?
• What should you not miss on the Pacific Coast Highway?
• Which part of California should you visit?
• How long does it take to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway?

Step 2: Best PCH Stops

If you have decided to visit the most popular part of coastal California:

Begin your Pacific Coast Highway road trip planning by exploring the major attractions and things to do along California’s Hwy 1.

Popular attractions including West Coast lighthouses, waterfalls, state parks, hiking trails, beaches, coastal towns await you on this marvelous drive – and off course the iconic Bixby Bridge!

You can find information about these and other essential attractions in our California Coast trip planner.

Also, explore other stops on Highway 101 in northern California if you have more time.

Here you will find majestic redwood trees and the Redwoods State and National parks.

Road trip the Redwoods Scenic Byway and explore cities like Eureka and Crescent City.

There are also plenty of stunning stops along the Pacific Coast Highway in both Oregon and Washington.

You can read more about the best stops along the PCH here.

This will give you an idea of the most important places to visit and help in planning the trip around your interests.

Step 3: PCH Gateway Cities

Once you have selected your itinerary, you need to select which West Coast cities you can fly into.

While there are many cities on the West Coast, the 5 major ones which make perfect places to begin your PCH road trip are these:

Seattle

Begin a Pacific Highway trip around the Evergreen State in the Emerald City of Seattle.

Read our post on things to do in Seattle now to plan your trip.

Portland

To see Oregon’s dramatic coastline, redwood trees, rock formations, and sand dunes, start a Hwy 101 road trip in Portland.

Read our post on Things to do in Portland now.

San Francisco

San Francisco is our personal favorite to start an epic Pacific Coast road trip.

It also makes an excellent starting destination for California fly drive route planner.

Read our post on things to do in San Francisco now.

Los Angeles

Tinseltown is exciting and glamorous.

It also happens to be cheap to fly into and makes a perfect start to PCH drive.

You can plan a California coastal highway itinerary up or down the coast and have whale of a time.

Read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles now.

San Diego

San Diego is the perfect destination to plan a trip using our SoCal trip planner.

Read our post on Best Things to do in San Diego now.

How to reach the PCH Gateway Cities?

The major airports for road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway 1 in California are San Francisco and Los Angeles.

San Francisco actually has three airports: San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.

You need to research airfares to all three to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Similarly, Los Angeles also has a couple of nearby airports including Long Beach, Burbank, Orange County, etc and is a great California PCH trip start point.

If you are extending your trip along the West Coast, then fly into San Diego, Portland, or Seattle to start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary.

Budget airlines that often have great deals to California or the Pacific Northwest include Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Alaska Air, and Southwest.

To get the best flight deals, we recommend booking using flight aggregators like Skyscanner or CheapOair.

Step 4: PCH Itineraries

This is our favorite part of trip planning!

This is also where we can help you the most as we have been planning road trips since the past 12 years.

We recommend that you go through our many itineraries, pick the one that is the best fit, and customize it to suit your needs.

Let’s plan the perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip ever!

Fly and Drive PCH Itineraries by number of days

Since you will already be driving a lot every day along the PCH we generally recommend fly and drive itineraries.

However, if you happen to live nearby or have enough time to travel, then you can definitely drive to California and then go on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip. 

You can spend anywhere from 4 days to 10 days on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Here are the highlights of our popular itineraries.

Click the link to read in-depth each itinerary for Pacific Coast Highway.

Pacific Coast Highway 4 day itinerary

The simplest California road trip planner.

If you have only 4 days, then spend one day in San Francisco and see the highlights including the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz.

Visit one of the beaches: Ocean Beach, Crissy Field Beach, or Baker Beach are the most popular ones!

The next day, leave early from San Francisco and explore Half Moon Bay and Monterey.

See the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, visit the sandy beaches of Half Moon Bay, and take some time to explore Santa Cruz or Pebble Beach.

Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur.

See Bixby Creek Bridge, hike McWay Falls, spend time at San Dollar Beach before reaching San Luis Obispo for the night.

Spend some time to see SLO attractions including Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, Historic Downtown, Bubblegum Alley, and the Madonna Inn – a famous hotel with eclectic decor!

Then stop at Santa Barbara. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez mountains, this coastal city feels very Mediterranean.

Santa Barbara has many attractions including the charming white colonial downtown, Mission Santa Barbara, museums, zoo, and more!

Enjoy shopping or dining at Stearns Wharf or take a whale watching cruise before heading for Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, visit the Walk of Fame, see Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign before calling it a day.

You can read this itinerary here for this Highway 1 trip planner. 

Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary

Looking for Pacific Coast Highway itinerary of 5 days?

We would recommend following our 4-day pacific highway 1 itinerary with just a few changes: you can spend the extra day exploring either San Francisco, Big Sur Coast, or Los Angeles.

In San Francisco, use your second day to see Muir Woods, Mission District, Chinatown, and Twin Peaks.

If you chose to stay in Big Sur, then stay at the romantic Ventana Resort or Post Ranch Inn.

Stop at each pull-out and look for wildlife.

Tour the Point Sur Lightstation, photograph the Bixby Bridge, and see the seals at Elephant Seal Rookery in Piedras Blancas.

Make the detour to explore Central Coast’s wine country.

If you chose Los Angeles then the sky is the limit.

You can explore the museums especially the Broad and LACMA or spend a day at Universal or Disney!

If you ask us, we would pick Big Sur over the cities, any day!

You can read about this itinerary in detail here for the 5 Day PCH trip planner. 

Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary

Our favorite! A week is a perfect time to drive this stunning route.

On your first day of California pacific coast highway itinerary 7 days, start at the northern end in Leggett and see those majestic coastal redwoods.

Drive your car through the Chandelier Tree tunnel.

Then eat oysters in Tomales Bay and visit Point Reyes Lighthouse before spending the night in San Francisco.

For the rest of your coast to coast road trip planner, spend 1 day each in San Francisco, Monterey, Big Sur, Solvang, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles.

With 7 days in hand, you have enough time to explore Big Sur’s hidden gems such as Henry Miller Memorial Library and Andrew Molera State Park.

View this itinerary now to read all the details of the 7 day Pacific Coast Highway trip planner.

Pacific Coast Highway 10 day itinerary

With 10 days in hand, you have so many options.

One way is to follow the 7- day itinerary but drive all the way down to San Diego to create the ultimate California driving trip planner.

Another is to start in Los Angeles, follow our 7-day itinerary heading north, and explore up to the Avenue of Giants in northern California.

If you love slow travel, then drive from Leggett to Los Angeles but spend time hiking in Point Reyes and Point Lobos, visiting the remote Channel Islands National Park, and touring the wineries of Santa Ynez Valley.

The epic 10 day California road trip for families and RVers.

The ultimate chilled-out California Pacific Coast Highway trip!

You can also do a Northern California road trip from San Francisco for the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary 10 days.

Or you can drive all the way up to Portland and see the Oregon coast attractions along the way.

You can also visit the Olympic Peninsula on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip in Washington.

To decide which itinerary to choose, click here now. 

If you have less than 4 days

If your Pacific Coast Highway drive time is too long, then you won’t have enough time to enjoy all the attractions on the way.

We would not recommend driving the entire length of the PCH or Highway 1 if you have less than 4 days.

For short weekend trips, consider the below trips in our California road trip route planner.

We also suggestions for PCH day trips in Oregon and Washington.

Best PCH road trips from San Francisco

If you have 3 days or under, then it is not feasible to drive the entire length of PCH.

You can make the drive but will miss out on a lot of attractions.

Instead, consider day trips and weekend getaways along the coast for Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary 3 days.

Our top 3 getaways for Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary 1 day from San Francisco are Point Reyes, Monterey, and Big Sur.

Carmel by the Sea, only a short drive from Monterey and Pebble Beach, is also a great weekend trip from San Fran.

Best PCH road trips from Los Angeles

For day trips and weekend getaways along Hwy 1 from Los Angeles, consider visiting La Jolla, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Pismo Beach, or San Luis Obispo.

Or drive south towards San Diego, Newport Beach, and La Jolla.

These destinations are just a few hours away from LA and great to visit.

Visiting Big Sur from Los Angeles is hectic if you have only 2 days but possible with 3 days in hand.

Best PCH road trips from San Diego

You can also road trip up the pacific coast highway from San Diego to Los Angeles or Anaheim.

Enjoy Hollywood or city life in Los Angeles or see Disney and other theme parks in Anaheim.

Relax at Huntington Beach. Or visit Coronado island for a different type of trip.

The San Diego trip planner has many ideas to enjoy the attractions of southern California.

Best PCH road trips from Portland

Combine a visit to Portland with an adventure down the PCH.

While you cannot use Portland to San Francisco road trip planner in just 4 days, you can visit Astoria or Cannon Beach.

Go hiking in Ecola State Park or drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop.

Best PCH road trips from Seattle

There are plenty of PCH trips from the Emerald City.

Drive the Highway 101 south to Tacoma or Olympia.

Or take the ferry to Port Angeles and Olympic peninsula and follow Highway 101 all around the peninsula.

If you have more than 10 days

If you have anywhere around two weeks, we would recommend driving either down to San Diego in the south or driving towards Portland or Seattle in the north from LA or SF.

You can also drive from San Diego to Seattle or vice versa using our west coast road trip planner.  

2 Week West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

2 weeks is the ideal time to go on an epic US West Coast Road trip.

From the Olympic peninsula in Washington to southern California, you can use our border to border coast trip planner to plan the most amazing, once in a lifetime, USA West Coast Road Trip Itinerary.

You can either start in San Diego and drive towards Portland or Seattle or start in the Pacific Northwest and drive south.

The entire drive is over 1700 miles and should be done only if you have 2 weeks or more in hand.

Point to Point PCH Itineraries

You can also plan PCH road trip itinerary depending on your start city and destination rather than days.

Pacific Coast Highway Itineraries by State

San Diego to Los Angeles Drive

Wondering how to plan a trip to California coast between Los Angeles and San Diego?

This California Highway 1 road trip itinerary will take you through stunning beaches of La Jolla, Laguna Beach, and Oceanside.

You can see charming coastal towns and enjoys SoCal’s relaxed vibe.

California Coast Road Trip from LA to SF

This is the ultimate CA road trip planner.

Visit two of California’s biggest cities and visit the natural attractions on the coast including beautiful Big Sur, McWay Falls, and 17 Mile Drive.

This Pacific Highway 1 road trip is our favorite road trip along the West Coast! Read this itinerary now.

Northern California Coast Road Trip

This Highway 101 road trip itinerary in Northern California will take you through giant, majestic redwood trees and the most remote parts of the coast.

From attractions like Point Reyes and Muir Beach to charming cities like Mendocino and Eureka, this itinerary for driving Pacific Coast Highway will leave you spellbound.

See the glass beach at Fort Bragg, tour the famous Point Arena Lighthouse, enjoy hiking at Mendocino State Parks, and drive the Avenue of Giants on this epic PCH itinerary.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Planner

Plan a trip from Brookings in the south to Astoria in the north using our Oregon Highway 101 road trip planner.

Visit attractions such as Cannon Beach, Natural Bridges, and Devil’s Punchbowl on this amazing Oregon Coast Road trip.

Washington Olympic Peninsula Road Trip

Our Highway 101 trip planner in Washington follows the road around the Olympic peninsula.

It can be used to visit attractions such as Ruby Beach, Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, Port Angeles, and Seattle. Read this itinerary now.

We would recommend going through our list of Suggested PCH Itineraries and deciding upon an itinerary based on your interests before finalizing your trip.

Pacific Highway Road Trip Map

Looking for map of Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip?

Among our resources, we have plenty of Pacific Coast Highway road trip maps, depending on the section you want to drive.

If you are interested in Big Sur, use the California Highway 1 road trip map.

Use the Northern California road trip map planner to see the redwoods.

Follow Pacific Highway itinerary maps for Oregon or Washington to plan a Pacific Northwest trip.

Be sure to finalize your Pacific Coast Highway Map and print copies before you embark on your trip.

Step 5: Book your PCH Road Trip

And finally we come to the task of booking your PCH vacation.

When to book and plan your PCH trip

In general, we recommend booking your trip at least 6 months in advance, though ideally, earlier is better.

While you can always plan a last-minute PCH road trip, especially if staying nearby, it is not recommended.

This especially applies if you are traveling in peak periods and in the Golden State.

Every California trip planner suggests booking in advance.

As we have experienced, booking hotels closer to the trip can definitely make the trip twice as expensive.

Before booking your trip, we recommend researching destinations and finalizing your Pacific Coast Highway Road trip itinerary.

In some instances, we have booked first and then planned the trip but this can lead to more hectic trips.

Here’s what all you need to book for your trip.

Book flight tickets to the West Coast

For best deals, book your tickets to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, or Seattle by checking on Skyscanner or Google flights.

Book car rental

All major companies have their branches in California.

You can rent from a variety of companies including Hertz, Fox, Enterprise, Dollar, and Thrifty for your trip. 

Book hotel accommodations as per the itinerary

There are a variety of hotels, resorts, and motels for every budget along the PCH.

We have covered the best places to stay along the PCH in detail in this post.

Purchase travel insurance

We recommend getting travel insurance from World Nomads.

Purchase attraction tickets, if any

There are several attractions along the PCH for which you can purchase tickets in advance.

We recommend the advance purchase of tickets for attractions like the Monterey Aquarium, San Francisco museums, etc.

Purchase tours and cruises, if any

You can go on a variety of wildlife watching cruises along the PCH including whale watching, dolphin cruises, etc.

You can also reserve tickets for the Alcatraz cruise prior to your trip. 

Recommended group tours

There are no tour companies that take you the entire length of PCH.

This is very much a self-drive trip.

However, there are companies that will take you to Malibu from Los Angeles or to Monterey from San Francisco.

Also in Monterey, you can take whale watching tours.

Reserve a table at restaurants, if needed

You will find amazing restaurants serving a variety of cuisine along the PCH.

Our favorites are seafood restaurants in Monterey, oysters in Tomales Bay, Mexican food in Mission District of San Francisco, and a variety of cuisines in Los Angeles.

If you like to plan every detail or want to plan for a special meal for birthdays or anniversaries, then you can reserve a table at the hotel of your choice in advance.

Prepare, pack, and go on the best road trip ever!

What other preparations should you make?

If you are traveling internationally then check your passport validity and visa status.

Apply for visas, if necessary.

Also, check whether you need IDP (International Driving Permit).

Other preparation includes print and/or having virtual copies of all maps, itineraries, tickets, and bookings easily accessible on your phone.

Also, budget your trip and convert currency, if needed.

Read below for more detailed information.

Understand internet and phone coverage

You will find that there is extremely poor and at times zero cell coverage along many stretches of the PCH, especially in the Big Sur region.

That’s why we recommend carrying a GPS in addition to your phone as well as saving offline maps on your phone.

You can also get printed maps of PCH1 for the section you are planning to drive.

If you are traveling internationally

The three main areas to take care of if you are traveling internationally include taking care of passports and visas, renting a car and driving in USA, and converting money to USD. 

If you are traveling with kids

Pacific coast highway road trip with kids? Been there, done that!

Our final section of the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner.

Did you know that you can drive the Pacific Coast Highway with kids?

The first time we went with our kids was when our daughter was just a 6 months old baby and our son was 3 years old.

We started in San Francisco, cycled the Golden Gate Bridge with the kids, drove through Big Sur, watched the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas rookery near San Simeon, and ended our trip at Anaheim in Disney.

Both the kids loved every bit of it.

Also, most places and businesses in California, Oregon, and Washington and especially along the Pacific Coast Highway are kid-friendly.

When we road tripped, most hotels provided crib or baby cots, all the restaurants had high chairs, and even the wineries had kid-friendly areas.

Throughout our trip, we met friendly people who smiled and waved at our kids.

We always felt welcome wherever we went and felt quite at ease.

Read our post on Best Kid-friendly resorts along the Pacific Coast Highway to book your accommodations.

There are so many things to do along the Pacific Coast Highway road trip that are perfect for the kids.

They will love exploring nature: hike through redwood forests, discover tide pool creatures, play in the sand and on the beach, splash in the water, hike to see waterfalls, whale watch using binoculars, plus spend quality time with the parents.

There are also many kid-friendly attractions on the route including the Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Oceano Dunes Railroad museum, sand dune buggy rentals, whale watching tours, Santa Monica Pier, Disney theme parks, etc.

For more information, read our post on the Best Things to do on the West Coast with kids.

In fact, driving the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most fun family holiday vacations for families. 

Other things to consider

Stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway can get closed due to storms or landslides or wildfires, so we recommend keeping an eye on the news before your trip and getting travel insurance for just in case anything goes awry.

What should you pack for Pacific Coast Highway road trip?

It can get chilly along the PCH any time of the year, so we recommend packing in layers: long sleeve shirts, short sleeve t-shirts, and tank tops.

Pack long hiking pants for the northern and central coast and shorts for SoCal.

Pack a rain jacket and a sweater for the chilly days.

Take hiking shoes and socks and water shoes for beachcombing.

Pack some heels and a silk blouse for date nights in San Francisco, Monterey, and Los Angeles.

If you plan to drive north towards Portland and Seattle in the winter, then add thermal underwear and a packable jacket.

In summer, take sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen.

Do not forget to pack a camera and binoculars.

Read this before you leave

We have got many excellent resources on planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

We suggest that you browse around the site  – take a look at our PCH Road Trip itineraries, bookmark us for a later visit, sign up for our newsletter, or follow us on social media to know more about the Pacific Coast Highway. 

If you need to ask us questions about the trip, then join our Pacific Coast Highway Facebook Community now – it’s the perfect place to ask any itinerary related questions and plan your PCH road trip.

We hope that our Pacific Coast Highway road trip planner helps you in planning an awesome road trip.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary
PCH 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 The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Planning a road trip along the coast of southern California from Los Angeles to San Diego or in the opposite direction and looking for things to see between San Diego and Los Angeles on the Pacific Coast Highway? 

This is one of our favorite short road trips in California and consists of many excellent pit stops such as beaches, state parks, famous eateries, theme parks, and more! There are so many places to visit between San Diego and Los Angeles that you are spoiled for choices. 

How long does it take to drive from San Diego to Los Angeles? 

San Diego and Los Angeles are just under 125 miles apart from each other and the road trip takes about two hours via I-5. That’s right, in this part of the state, the Pacific Coast Highway is actually the I-5 in some parts and it travels pretty close to the coast. You will also be driving along small coastal roads, wherever possible. 

While you can actually take a plane, bus, and even a train – the Pacific Surfliner – between the two cities, taking a road trip in your own car allows you to fully enjoy the coastal attractions. 

So, Is the drive from San Diego to Los Angeles scenic? 

While the most scenic part of the Pacific Coast Highway is undoubtedly in Big Sur and then in Coastal Oregon, the road along the coast (Old Highway 101) from Oceanside or Laguna Beach is really pretty. 

Related:
California Coast Road Trip Itinerary from LA to San Francisco
Best Places to Visit in California

How many days should you keep aside for the drive from LA to San Diego? 

You can easily complete this road trip in anywhere from a day to a long weekend since the drive time is just 2 hours. However, to fully enjoy each and every stop on the road and enjoy the relaxed vibe of southern California, we recommend keeping aside at least 3 days for the San Diego to Los Angeles drive. 

Los Angeles to San Diego Road Trip: 24 Essential Stops

Wondering what to see between San Diego and Los Angeles? Or vice versa? There are plenty of charming small towns and scenic natural attractions on the road. 

Most of these can be easily seen on a weekend road trip to Hollywood City, making this one of the most popular drives in California and the West Coast. 

You will be driving through Orange County and see some of the famed Southern California beaches. You can relax by the Pacific Ocean, enjoy the legendary SoCal sunshine, and dine on seafood. 

Here are our favorite stops on the LA to San Diego road trip.

Santa Monica

Venice Beach

Marina Del Ray

Los Angeles

Long Beach

Huntington Beach

Newport Beach

Laguna Beach

Table Rock Beach

Dana Point Harbor

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Los Rios District

San Clemente State Beach

Oceanside

Carlsbad

Solana Beach

Encinitas

Cardiff By The Sea

Torrey Pines

La Jolla Cove

Pacific Beach

Mission Bay

Coronado Island

San Diego

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 Los Angeles to San Diego Drive appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Planning a Pacific Highway Road Trip along the coast of Northern California? This is certainly one of the most underrated trips in California and a favorite of ours! 

On this North California Coast road trip, you will find charming coastal cities, state parks, amazing natural attractions like the Avenue of the Giants, and miles and miles of hiking trails. 

Related:
California Coast Road Trip Itinerary from LA to San Francisco
Best Places to Visit in California
Best Places to Visit in Oregon
Best Places to Visit in Washington State

The North California Road Trip starts as a Highway 1 Road Trip from San Francisco before joining Highway 101 past Leggett and goes all the way north up to the Oregon border. 

We recommend keeping aside anywhere from 5 days to a week to explore this part of the coast. Here are our favorite stops that you should add to the North California Road Trip Itinerary. 

Ultimate North California Road Trip Itinerary: Essential Stops

Northern California is quite different than the California stereotype of warm sunny days and a laidback lifestyle. We find it more similar to Coastal Oregon: expect windy, foggy days year-round and a blistering chill in the winter. 

However, that doesn’t make summer a good time to visit! The coast is actually its foggiest from June to August and we would instead recommend spring or fall as the best times to plan your trip up the coast. 

San Francisco

San Francisco is the best city to fly into to start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip up the North Coast. You can also fly into Oakland or San Jose. Any of the Bay Area airports are convenient for a trip up north. After you arrive, rent a car from the airport and ether rest for your road trip or check the highlights of San Francisco.

If this is your first trip to the city, we definitely recommend doing the latter. San Francisco is a big and vibrant destination and should not be missed! Keep two to three days to exploring the city or see its highlights in a day if you are short on time. 

The #1 attraction in the city is of course the iconic Golden Gate Bridge! It is considered to be an engineering marvel and is one of the best places to visit on the West Coast. Other attractions include the Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, Twin Peaks, Lombard Street, and the Mission District. Don’t forget to ride the cable cars, sip on Ghirardelli Chocolate, and eat the dim sum in Chinatown!

Read our post on the Best Things to do in San Francisco to plan your trip to the city. 

Point Reyes National Seashore

If you loved Big Sur and Point Lobos on the central coast, you will love Point Reyes National Seashore. It is foggy, magical, and enchanting. Point Reyes is also the windiest place on the continent, so be prepared for strong gusts and layer up!

The many miles of hiking trails in Point Reyes and amazing wildlife watching opportunities delight most outdoor lovers. The trail to the lighthouse and the Lighthouse Visitor Center, both, are also worth the visit. Don’t forget to check out the tunnel of cypress trees on your visit. You can also explore the waters around Point Reyes with a kayak. 

Also, stop in the town of Point Reyes Station and take a stroll around its charming downtown. Located in Marin County along the Tomales Bay, the small town makes a perfect weekend destination in NorCal. Within the town, Highway 1 becomes Shoreline Highway along Main Street. Admire historic buildings built in the Italianate style of architecture. Check out the local boutiques and pick up souvenirs, apparel, and Northern California themed household goods and decor. 

For food, try Nick’s Cove Restaurant for fresh seafood or at Saltwater Oyster Depot in Inverness for fresh shucked oysters. Visit the Cowgirl Creamery and buy cheese to munch on your road trip. It is really amazing to see this undeveloped town less than 30 miles away from San Francisco! 

The road to Point Reyes passes by Muir Woods and Stinson Beach, but we do not recommend stopping here simply because you will get ample opportunities to see the redwood trees further up the coast. 

After seeing Point Reyes, most people often head directly to Mendocino however there are many incredible destinations between these major attractions. If you have the time, you should definitely check out a few of these on your North California Coast Road Trip. 

Tomales Bay

Tomales Bay is a narrow inlet of the Pacific that separates Point Reyes peninsula from the north California mainland. Stay on US 1 and you will soon find yourself driving past small coastal towns located on the eastern side of Tomales Bay. 

The bay is most well-known for its oysters. The bay is quite narrow and the water is just a little over 10 feet deep in many places – ideal conditions for oyster farming. Some of the best locations to eat oysters in Tomales Bay include Hog Island Oyster Company and the Tomales Bay Oyster Company. There is nothing comparable to the joy of eating fresh oysters right by the beach! Tomales Bakery is also a great place to stop for some decadent baked goods. 

Other popular activities in Tomales Bay include hiking along the coast, swimming, relaxing on the beach, and watersports. You can rent fishing charters, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, or boats in the towns along the bay. At night, you can watch bioluminescence along the bay in the summer. 

Bodega Bay

Located in Sonoma County, Bodega Bay is one of the most underrated destinations on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip through northern California. Here you will find hiking and biking trails, outdoor excursions, beautiful coastline, and off course because we are in Sonoma County, wineries! 

Visit the Sonoma Coast Vineyards for wine tasting. Then take a whale watching excursion around Bodega Head Peninsula or go fly a kite! The winds here are just perfect for kite flying. You can also rent bikes and cycle the county. Bodega Bay is an amazing relaxing place and it is really easy to lose yourself here. 

A hidden attraction is the nearby town of Bodega. Take a detour from US Route 1 to reach the town and you will be surprised to find yourself in an Alfred Hitchcock movie. Bodega was used as a filming locale for the movie, ‘The Birds’ and you can visit many sites in the town including the famous schoolhouse and the Church. 

Jenner

Jenner is a charming coastal town located at the mouth of the Russian River. This small town has a population of just over 130 and is a paradise for outdoor activities of every sort! Hike on the coastal bluffs, kayak the Russian River or go sea kayaking, watch the barking sea lions, lounge on the secluded beach, or go horseback riding. The sunsets are particularly spectacular at the Sonoma Coast State Park. 

Guerneville

Take a detour from Highway 1 to drive inland towards Guerneville if you have the time. Here you will find a charming community, rustic buildings, redwood groves, wineries, tasting rooms, and the placid Russian River. Guerneville became popular during the flower-power era and since then, is a favorite vacation destination for San Franciscans. The main reason we recommend coming here is to sample wineries and float on the river. That’s right, you can rent tubes in the town and spend a lazy day on the water. 

Timber Cove

Timber Cove is a particularly remote stretch of Highway 1. Very few other tourists make the trip this far north of San Francisco and even fewer stop in Timber Cove. It is located about 15 miles up the coast from Jenner and is perfect for slow travelers. The coast is quite rugged here: you will find craggy rocks, secluded beaches, tidepools, lonely trees, and turquoise water. 

The Timber Cove Resort is the most romantic place to stay on the West Coast. Its rooms are as beautiful as the grounds and this is a perfect place for honeymoons and anniversaries. The nearby Salt Point State Park has hiking trails and scenic views. 

Mendocino

All right, now that we have discussed all the hidden, underrated attractions between Point Reyes and Mendocino it is time to talk about this beautiful city itself. It is famous for its fascinating location along the coast, cliff side hiking trails, and charming New England style architecture. 

Take a stroll through the charming downtown, admire the art galleries, stay in a romantic bed and breakfast, explore the eateries in town, and shop for eclectic goods. Then take the time to explore the 3 amazing state parks near Mendocino. See the beautiful beach at Mendocino Headlands State Park, admire the bridge at Russian Gulch State Park, or hike the Pygmy forest in Van Damme State Park. 

Read our post on the Best Things to do in Mendocino to plan your stay in the town. 

Fort Bragg

The next stop while on the way north along the Pacific Coast is Fort Bragg. While the city has many attractions including museums, historic buildings, a lighthouse, the Skunk Train, Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, and wildlife, the main attraction of Fort Bragg is the famous Glass Beach. 

This one of its kind beach is formed by trash dumped in the ocean! The glass and rubble were rounded by the sea waves over several years to form sea glass. The beach looks absolutely beautiful to look at and is a highlight of the Pacific Coast Highway road trip. To visit the beach, drive to the southern end of the Mackerricher State Park. Or visit the Sea Glass Museum in the city to see rare and different types of sea glass pebbles. 

Leggett

After Fort Bragg, Highway 1 follows the Pacific Coast as far as Rockport then turns inward towards Leggett. Rockport had its origins as a timber town and today, there isn’t much to do in this community. Follow the road up to Leggett. 

Leggett is most famous for its many large and tall redwood groves. Here you will find some of the largest trees in the world. The main attraction of Leggett is the Chandelier Drive-Through Tree. This 276-foot tall redwood is 16 feet wide and has a tunnel large enough for cars to pass! It is fascinating to drive through the base of the tree and see the tree standing in spite of the dug-out tunnel. 

Leggett is the northern end of California Highway 1. However, your trip does not end here. Take the Pacific Coast Highway 101 in Leggett and follow it north all the way to the Oregon border. 

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is a scenic highway that runs parallel to Highway 101 north of Leggett. Located in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this scenic road is located amidst incredibly tall redwood trees. The byway is 31 miles long and has many pit stops for hiking trails, redwood groves, picnic areas, and swimming locations along the Eel River. 

On the Avenue of the Giants, you can admire many notable redwoods including the Immortal Tree, the Shrine Drive Through Tree, Founder’s Grove, Chandler Grove, and the Tree House. The views along the road are stunning: the tall trees line up on both sides of the road and cast dark shadows. Sunlight barely filters in here and fog is quite normal, providing an enchanting experience. 

The Lost Coast

As we mentioned above, Rockport is the last coastal community connected by Highway 1. Then farther up in northern California, Highway 101 again travels close to the coast near Shelter Cove. 

This part of the California coast between Rockport and Shelter Cove is known as the Lost Coast. It is so-called because the construction of roads near this part of the coast was estimated to be difficult and expensive, and hence the idea was abandoned. As a result, this is the most remote part of California and scattered communities throughout the Lost Coast are mostly cut-off from the state. 

The only way to access this part of the coast is via the Lost Coast Trail. The route is 25 miles but needs at least 3 to 4 days since many parts of the trail are underwater at high tide. This trail is a real hidden gem and passes through King Range National Conservation Area. Along the trail, you will find a remote coastline and a moderately challenging backpacking experience. 

Loleta

Loleta is one of our recommended stops on a North California road trip for 2 reasons: dramatic coastal scenery and the Loleta Cheese Factory! Loleta is situated smack dab in the middle of beautiful state parks and reserves and makes an ideal destination for exploring them. While in Loleta, you can go hiking and beachcombing in Eel River Wildlife Area, Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Mike Thompson Wildlife Area, or Table Bluff County Park. The Cheese Factory is now, however, closed and can’t be visited. 

Eureka 

Eureka, a port city in Northern California, is known for its historic charm. Eureka provides a refreshing alternative after spending time in the small coastal towns and villages. In the Old Town area, you can see Victorian mansions. If you have kids, visit the Sequoia Park Zoo and the adjoining Sequoia Park to see the massive redwoods right in the town. Take a cruise aboard the Madaket Ferry to see the wildlife of the Humboldt Bay. Eureka is a great place to stop for the night on your California road trip. 

Trinidad

Trinidad is a nice little coastal fishing town in North California. It is located on Trinidad Bay and surrounded by redwood trees. One of the popular attractions is the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse. You can also check out the museum or walk on the Pier. It is an excellent place for birding. Here you will find one of the largest seabirds nesting colonies. The colonies are based around Green Rock and Flatiron Rock and home to a variety of seabirds.   

Patricks Point State Park

Patricks Point State Park is a great place to stop and explore on a Northern California road trip. You can beach comb for agates at Agate Beach and driftwood, spot tidepool creatures including sea stars and urchins at Palmer’s Point, hike to Wedding Rock, and spot migrating whales. At the visitor center, you can understand more about the Native people that lived in the area and their traditions.   

Redwood Highway

Pacific Coast Highway 101 in this part of California is known as the Redwood Highway. The trees along the highway grow to over 300 feet long and over 15 feet wide. The scenic byway goes through old-growth forests and is just magical. You will find dramatic scenery on both sides of the road. This is definitely the most scenic drive in Northern California and worth taking the time to explore the stops. 

Redwood National and State Parks

The Redwoods National and State Parks is a collection of parks that preserve the old-growth redwood forests. We have already mentioned some of them in this itinerary including the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Other parks include Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Redwood National Park. 

Each of these parks has many large groves of redwood trees, some of them the oldest in the world. The parks are frequently covered in fog and absolutely beautiful. They are also home to abundant wildlife and have many hiking trails. We recommend stopping in these parks if you have the time to marvel at their majestic beauty. 

Fern Canyon

Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Fern Canyon is one of the best places to visit in California. This green shady canyon was made popular by the movie, The Lost World: Jurassic Park. That’s right, a part of the movie was filmed here and since then fans have made the hike deep into the canyon as a rite of passage! 

The 30-foot tall canyon walls are completely covered in large leafy ferns which gives the prehistoric feel. The creek runs through the canyon floor adding to the adrenaline rush. You will find several different varieties of ferns here. Hiking through the canyon is an incredible experience. The trail is a mile long and quite family-friendly. We recommend waterproof shoes as your feet will get wet in the creek. The trail can be closed in winter, so check before you go. 

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park

Crescent City

Crescent City is so named because of its crescent-shaped stretch of sandy beach. This is the northernmost city in California and a great place to end your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Located in Del Norte County, Crescent City packs outdoor attractions with a great city vibe. 

History lovers should visit the End of Trail Museum and Del Norte County Historical Society Main Museum. Here you will see a large collection of Native American artifacts and historical exhibits. Also, you will find two gorgeous lighthouses at Crescent City: Battery Point Lighthouse and St. George Reef.  If you have kids, visit the Ocean World Aquarium.  The beach here is also very pretty.  

For outdoor lovers, Crescent City is the perfect gateway to explore the majestic redwood forests. Or you can go hiking at Tolowa Dunes State Park. You can also rent kayaks, boats, or SUPs to explore the marine environment. There are also many hiking and biking trails in the area. 

After exploring Crescent City, you can either fly back to your destination or take the 101 straight to San Francisco. The trip back takes about 7 hours without stopping. Or you can even explore the Oregon Coast up north by driving the Pacific Coast Highway 101 in Oregon.

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 North California Road Trip Itinerary through the Redwoods appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast of California from Los Angeles to the redwoods in Northern California? This Highway 1 road trip planner will guide you in planning a spectacular road trip through the coastal attractions. 

California Coast Road Trip along Highway 1 or the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most thrilling, memorable, and beautiful road trips in the world. 

The road trip has panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rocky cliffs of the central coast. Route 1 passes through some of the most gorgeous natural areas including Big Sur, Point Reyes, foggy redwood state and national parks, and charming laid-back towns. 

For the most part of the trip, you have the mountains on one side and the sparkling blue water of the Pacific Ocean on the other side. And if you are lucky to drive during the off-season, you will have the road all to yourself!

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the reasons California is a top bucket list destination the world over. And there is no better way to experience the coast than on a road trip along the most scenic part of the coast. 

Highway 1 takes many forms in coastal California: near Malibu, you have sandy beaches and luxurious villas, in Big Sur, you have the rocky coastal cliffs and tidepools, in Monterey, you have multi-colored canning factories and sea lions, in San Francisco, you will find yourself driving amid skyscrapers! At the northern end, you will find the coastal redwoods – among the oldest trees in the world, these trees have been around since the times of the dinosaurs. 

A road trip along the California Coast is made for falling in love. With each other, with the road, with the journey, with the destination, with nature, with driving, and with life itself! This is truly the best road trip that California and the West Coast have to offer and it’s up for grabs for anyone who has a car! 

This California coast road trip itinerary will take you up the coast, exploring hidden gems and underrated attractions along the way. It will show you historic lighthouses and tell you bits of forgotten history such as Henry Miller’s eternal connection with Big Sur! 

While the itinerary follows the California Coast from south to the north, you can also use it to drive north to south. Here is a sample itinerary for a 10 Day California Coast drive. 

Day 1 – Los Angeles

Welcome to Los Angeles, one of our favorite cities to start a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. The city is everything you have heard of and much more! Here’s where Hollywood dreams come true. The city is truly the melting pot of the West and is the ultimate land of opportunity on the Pacific Coast. The city has many incredible attractions for everyone. 

The city makes the best of the famous SoCal sunshine by hosting a variety of outdoor events and celebrations. From sports and famous teams (Lakers, Angels, Trojans) to celebs walking down the road, you will have dozens of unique experiences in Los Angeles. Add in the beaches, boardwalks, and piers, and you are bound to have a mighty good time. LA’s beach lifestyle is certainly to be envied! 

Head to Downtown LA and Hollywood Blvd to enjoy the city’s most famous attractions including the Walk of Fame, Chinese Theater, movie studios, the Museum Row on Miracle Mile, and the Griffith Observatory. Read our post on the Best Things to do in Los Angeles to plan your day in the city. 

From finger-licking good Mexican food to a thriving nightlife scene, the list of attractions in Los Angeles never seems to end! Enjoy a California style burrito that reflects the city’s blended Hispanic heritage. Try vegan foods, fresh farm to table cuisines, and a bevy of health-conscious options. Sip on smoothies and cocktails. End the night at a dive bar or enjoy a world-class cultural event at the city’s famous venues on your California Coast Trip. 

Day 2 – Santa Barbara and Ventura

After having fun exploring Los Angeles, head up the coast to charming Ventura and sunny Santa Barbara. On the way north, you will pass through Malibu and Santa Monica. This is where Highway 1 starts getting really pretty. 

California Route 1 attractions in Santa Monica include the Pier. While you are here, see the canals of Venice. Then make your way past the celebrity beach homes in Malibu and maybe, make a surfing pit stop at Zuma Beach! Even if you don’t want to get into the water, you can just observe the surfers taking advantage of the excellent wave action. Drive past Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area and Oxnard to reach Ventura. 

Ventura, California is a charming beach town that is both arty and expensive to live in! Most of the city attractions are centered around the Ventura Pier. From here you can take cruises to the Channel Islands National Park or just walk along the wooden pier to see more of the city. Visit Surfer’s Point to see surfers riding the waves. Visit the beaches or the Mission in downtown Ventura. 

After exploring the streets of Ventura, continue to Santa Barbara on your California road trip itinerary of 10 days. This city is popularly called the American Riviera and has a very relaxed vibe. 

Santa Barbara is a quintessentially Southern California city. Here you will find a gentle ocean breeze, pretty beaches, white Spanish colonial architecture, and lots of water activities. There are a lot of things to do in Santa Barbara. Take a beachside stroll on the famous East Beach. This lovely beach has fewer crowds and great views of the Pacific. It is also very clean and a favorite with families. 

Adjacent to East Beach, you will find Stearns Wharf. This is the best place in the city to enjoy the coastal atmosphere of the city. Here you will find an impossibly long boardwalk that extends deep into the Pacific Ocean. Along the wharf, there are several excellent seafood restaurants, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores. This is also the place to take boat rides around the harbor, go whale watching, or fishing. 

You must also visit the Historic downtown. The Old Mission Santa Barbara is located here. The historic buildings around the mission are built in a similar style of architecture and look very pretty. Another must-visit attraction is the courthouse and clock tower. The view from the top of the tower is just stunning. 

Spend the night in Santa Barbara and enjoy the charms of the Pacific Ocean by the night on your California Coast Road Trip Itinerary. 

Day 3 – Solvang and San Luis Obispo

Early the next morning, take the PCH north up to the exit for Solvang. This pretty Danish town is not on the Pacific Coast Highway but it is absolutely worth the detour. Solvang was founded in the late 19th century by Danish people who moved to California. They built in the traditional style of architecture and even raised monuments iconic to Denmark including windmills, chalet-style buildings, etc. Here, you will find lots of eclectic shopping and Danish restaurants. 

You can either spend the whole day in Solvang or take the time to explore the pretty coastal cities of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. 

Pismo Beach is a great place to stop for an hour or so on California Coastal Road Trip. You can take a romantic stroll through the quaint downtown or go ATV riding on the Oceano Dunes. Munch on fish and chips by the beach or go surfboarding if the weather is good. 

Morro Bay might seem familiar to some of you! Its name was featured in the movie Finding Dory. This cute PCH pitstop is most famous for the volcanic Morro Rock that juts out from the ocean. The rock and surrounding coastal wilderness are part of the Morro Bay State Park. Here you will find hiking trails, a museum, tide pools, and excellent birding. 

Follow California Pacific Coast Highway 1 further inland and end your day in San Luis Obispo. This college town is trendy and has great nightlife. The city also has cultural attractions, you can read about them in our post Things to do in San Luis Obispo. 

Day 4 & 5 – Big Sur

The next day, head up to Big Sur from San Luis Obispo. This is where the road opens up to most iconic sights and attractions along the West Coast. The nature in Big Sur is unspoiled, dramatic, and spectacular. In fact, it is really amazing that this 90 mile stretch of the coast was saved from development and left undisturbed to be the paradise that it is. 

Big Sur is the best pit stop on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. It is home to many natural attractions, hiking trails, wildlife encounters, campgrounds, state parks and federal lands, incredible photo ops, and amazing adventures. Trust us, the two days spent in Big Sur are going to be a pretty memorable part of your Coastal California road trip. 

Some of the essential stops in Big Sur include the San Simeon Elephant Seal Rookery, the McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Point Sur Lighthouse, Point Lobos, and Bixby Creek Bridge. To plan your time in Big Sur and decide where to stay, read our post on Best Things to do in Big Sur. 

While you can certainly spend both days exploring Big Sur, here are some options if you want to see other parts of the coast. Wine lovers can go wine tasting and tour the wineries in Paso Robles. Couples can spend a quiet evening enjoying the sunset in Cayucos. See the mission and bears statue in Los Osos. Visit Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Explore the fog-covered town of Cambria and hike among the coastal pines. 

Day 6 – Monterey and Half Moon Bay

After you say goodbye to Big Sur and promise to come again soon – no, really, because no one can visit Big Sur just once – drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Half Moon Bay. That’s right, you are slowly inching closer to our favorite California city of San Francisco but you won’t arrive yet another day! 

Your first stop after Big Sur will be charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. It has beginnings as an art community and has a hipster vibe, but don’t be fooled! 

The fairytale-like cottages and wide open pristine coast may seem alluring, but Carmel is one of the most expensive places to live in California. Houses here average around 1.5 to 2 million and facilities like the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Course can run you into thousands! 

But Carmel is absolutely beautiful to explore. Wander into the art galleries, dine in the cafes, visit Carmel Beach, and go birding along the Carmel River. It is fun to spend an hour or two in the town. 

Next, pull yourself away from the ridiculously beautiful and charming coastal town and drive north on Route 1 towards Monterey. The city is most popular for the Monterey Aquarium located on Cannery Row. This is quite popular with the kids and a great place to see West Coast marine life at close quarters. Monterey also has great restaurants, museums, and is great to stop by for lunch. You can also visit the nearby city of Pacific Grove or take the highly scenic 17 Mile Drive. Read our post on Things to do in Monterey to plan your trip. 

Next, follow Highway 1 north. You can either continue all the way to Monterey and make a short pit stop in Santa Cruz. Take a stroll along the wharf, explore the eateries and shops, and ride the vintage carousel and coaster at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

Then it’s time to visit Half Moon Bay. Here also you will find a historic downtown that is perfect for antiquing. If you have the time, explore the tide pools at Scott Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and see the sunset by Pigeon Point Lighthouse in Pescadero. Visit Half Moon Bay State Beach and admire the Pacific Ocean. Read our post on Things to do in Half Moon Bay for more information. 

Day 7 – San Francisco

And finally, it’s time to explore this big and beautiful city of San Francisco. The city has felt like home since I lived in the Bay area a couple of years ago. 

The most iconic attraction of San Francisco is of course the Golden Gate Bridge. You would be surprised to know that the bridge is right on Highway 1! Walk, bike, or drive the bridge and admire the view of San Francisco from the Marin Headlands. See the city’s other popular attractions including the Palace of Fine Arts, Chinatown, Lombard Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf. There are so many amazing things to do in San Francisco, that spending just one day here is not enough! 

If you have the time, we suggest keeping a couple of days to explore San Francisco after you end your California Coast Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

Day 8 – Point Reyes

Follow the Pacific Coast Highway over the Golden Gate Bridge and across the Golden Gate Strait to the Marin Headlands. On the way, you can stop at Muir Woods, the largest coastal redwood forest near San Francisco. 

Then head north towards Point Reyes National Seashore. This is the windiest place on the continent! Hike to the beach or the lighthouse, go through the Cypress tunnel and admire the wildlife at Point Reyes. You might spot migrating whales, sea otters, seals, nesting seabirds, land birds, and more in Point Reyes. 

For seafood lovers, your next perfect PCH pitstop is Tomales Bay. This area is known for its oyster farms and oyster companies. Here you can eat freshly shucked oysters to your heart’s content. Spend the night in the vicinity of Point Reyes or reach Mendocino and call it a day. 

Day 9 – Mendocino and Fort Bragg

While southern California is sunny and warm, Central California is beautiful and charming. But none of them can quite compare to the fog covered mystery and allure of northern California. Here you will find beautiful coastal cities like Mendocino and Fort Bragg. 

Mendocino is one of the best places to stop on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. The pretty whitewashed architecture reminds visitors more of New England than California! It is really pretty to take a stroll but Mendocino’s main attractions are all found outside the city limits. Here you will find three state parks with miles and miles of hiking trails. Read our post on the Best Things to do in Mendocino to plan your trip here. 

After seeing Mendocino, visit Fort Bragg. The main attraction of Fort Bragg is its world-famous Glass Beach. The sea glass here is really pretty and makes the beaches one of the unique attractions in California. Visit Mackerricher State Park to see Glass Beach. 

Day 10 – Avenue of the Giants

From Fort Bragg, make your way north up to the northern end of California’s Pacific Coast Highway 1 in Leggett. Here you will find the Chandelier Drive-Through Tree, an iconic PCH attraction. 

While Highway 1 ends here, the Pacific Coast Highway doesn’t! It simply becomes Highway 101 and meanders all the way north up to Seattle along the Pacific Coast. But don’t worry, you will be following it only as far as the Avenue of the Giants. 

Avenue of the Giants is this gorgeous, dark, dreamy, foggy scenic drive through some of the tallest coastal redwoods on the West Coast. The trees here are quite tall and craning your neck that far up is tricky! The road parallels Highway 101 and is worth the exciting trip. 

The Avenue of the Giants is 31 miles long but takes about two to three hours to drive because of scenic spots and hiking trails. You can park and walk to see the redwood groves up close. We recommend keeping your camera ready as there are incredible views at every turn of the road.

That’s it! You have completed an amazing California Coast Road Trip all the way from Los Angeles to the north of Mendocino.

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 10 Days California Coast Road Trip Itinerary appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Oregon has one of the most stunning stretches of the Pacific Coast, USA. Here you will find stunning natural attractions including sea stacks and sea arches, a rocky coastline often covered in fog, sand dunes that rise high into the air, pretty coastal towns, and historic lighthouses.

The coast is divided into three parts: northern Oregon coast, central Oregon, and southern Oregon. The drive the total length of the coastline from Astoria to Brookings along the Highway 101 takes 8 hours without stopping. Add in the many attractions and scenic spots, and we recommend devoting 5 to 7 days for this road trip.   

Fun fact: it’s time to hit the Oregon coast! Did you know that Oregon has nearly 362 miles of coastline? 

Or you can also split this road trip into small trips and see a section of the coast over a long weekend. It is really hard to pick the best area of the Oregon Coast, rest assured, whichever part you visit you are certain to fall in love with the amazing scenery here. 

If you plan to visit other Oregon attractions including Crater Lake, Columbia River Gorge area, Mount Hood, and the Cascades, then read our Best of Oregon Road Trip Planner which takes you through central and southern Oregon.

To explore all the attractions in the Beaver State, read Best Places to Visit in Oregon. 

Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Oregon Coast means endless adventure. Whether you want to go sea kayaking or horseback riding on the beach or ATV riding up and down the sand dunes, Oregon Coast has it all. From fishing to crabbing and clamming and from hiking to birding and biking, there are plenty of fun things to do along the Oregon Coast. 

Here are our favorite spots along the coast of Oregon that you must visit on the ultimate Highway 101 road trip. 

Northern Oregon Coast Attractions

The North Coast of Oregon is considered to extend from Astoria to Neskowin. Here you will find lots of history and architecture. It is also the most popular part of the coast, easily accessible from Portland and its suburbs. 

Portland

While Portland is not located on the coast, it is a great starting point for your Coastal Oregon road trip since it is easy to fly to Portland and rent a car. 

Portland is also an amazing city to visit. It is famous for its hipster vibe and millennial population. The city has everything from museums, parks and gardens, eclectic shopping, vibrant neighborhoods, and a legendary culinary scene. If you do happen to fly into Portland, we recommend spending at least a day or two here to experience its unique culture. 

Related: Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

Astoria

Astoria was the first American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. It is also the oldest city in the state of Oregon and has plenty of historical attractions. Astoria is also popular among the movie buffs. The town was the main setting for the 1985’s cult classic, The Goonies. 

Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, this port city provides ample opportunities for fishing, sailing, kayaking, and more. Make sure to climb up the Astoria Column for a panoramic view encompassing the city, rivers, the Pacific Ocean, and several Cascade Mountain peaks. Drive through the 4-mile Megler Bridge, North America’s longest truss bridge. 

A great way to explore the town is to hop on Astoria’s Riverfront Trolley tour. This 3-mile heritage streetcar line runs all along the waterfront full of restaurants, docks, and piers. The trolley operates every day between March and September and costs $1 for a round-trip, or $2 for all-day on/off. 

After a day of exploration and water activities, enjoy fresh seafood at the cannery boatyard on the Astoria riverfront, Bridgewater Bistro. 

Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

Live an adventure in history as you navigate through the pine forests and coastal vistas at Lewis and Clark National Historic Park. The historic park was established to commemorate the completion of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

On the expedition, the explorers were tasked with exploring and surveying the land that the United States had recently acquired through Louisiana Purchase. The park encompasses a total of 12 sites along 40 miles of the Pacific coast.

At the park, visitors can follow in the footsteps of the voyagers. Commence your journey at Fort Clatsop, a replica of the fort where the Corps of Discovery found shelter in the winter of 1805-1806. Continue by hiking the 6.5-mile one-way Fort to Sea Trail, and visit the Salt Works, the site where the Lewis and Clark expedition set up a camp to obtain salt for use at Fort Clatsop. 

During the peak season, summer, you may be lucky enough to witness some costumed demonstrations such as muzzleloading and shooting, hide tanning and candle making. Good news for those traveling with children – the park organizes various activities to keep the little ones engaged.

Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is a 4,300-acre park along the Oregon Coast. Originally a historic military defense installation on the shores of the Columbia River, Fort Stevens, is the main highlight of the park. 

Fort Stevens was in use for 84 years, from the Civil War Era to World War II. While Fort Stevens is what makes this park unique, it is not the only attraction to see.

Visit the Peter Iredale shipwreck, the little that remains of a 275-foot-long sailing vessel that ran ashore in 1906. The shipwreck can be accessed via hiking the 0.4 miles moderately trafficked Peter Iredale Trail. Or swim in Coffenbury Lake, which can be accessed through 2.5 miles Coffenbury Lake Loop Hike. 

The other smaller lakes in the park are popular for canoeing and fishing. In total, the park has 6 paved trails suitable for biking and 6 unpaved trails for hiking. There are camping and picnic areas available throughout the park.

Seaside

Located on the Oregon Coast, Seaside is about one and a half-hour drive away from Portland. The resort town is highly popular among families and has multiple shops, art galleries, surf shops, and fine dining establishments for a relaxing urban beach getaway. 

Spend a day on the sandy beach or relive childhood memories by playing vintage arcade games at Funland Seaside Arcade. The entertainment center has been part of Seaside’s history since 1929 and is a favorite with locals.

Seaside’s 1.5-mile oceanfront promenade, popularly called the Prom, is a must-visit for those visiting the town for the first time. This historic promenade was built in the 1920s and is a great way to enjoy the coast. Take a romantic walk along the promenade at night. 

In the summer season, it’s common to find weekly farmer’s market, art gallery walks, seasonal holiday celebrations and fireworks on Memorial Day and the 4th of July, vintage car shows, and sandcastle competitions happening in Seaside.

Tillamook Head Trail & Tillamook Rock Lighthouse

At the south end of Seaside, at the end of Sunset Boulevard, visitors will find the Tillamook Head Trailhead. The hike is about 6-miles long through beautiful muddy forests with some ocean views along the way. 

Wear comfortable boots and take your time exploring and admiring the coast on the trail. You can even see the WWII era bunkers in the area while hiking. Stop for lunch in one of the picnic areas to admire the scenery and recharge by spending time in nature. 

On approaching the Hikers Camp at the end of this trail, visitors are greeted with an epic view of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. The light was called ‘Terrible Tilly’ by locals due to extreme weather conditions near the light and the dangerous path traversed by the lighthouse keepers to reach it. 

The light sits on top of a sea stack of basalt called the Tillamook Rock. It rises nearly 100 feet from the sea. The lighthouse was operational from 1881 to 1957 and was deactivated due to damage and erosion during severe storms.

Ecola State Park

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of the most romantic destinations in the country. This popular tourist resort is located on the Pacific Northwest Coast of Oregon. Cannon Beach is 80 miles west of Portland and 25 miles south of Astoria. 

It is home to 4 miles of pristine beach and the famous Haystack Rock, as well as beautiful parks, including the Ecola State Park. Everything in Cannon Beach is pretty close, given the small size of the town. Therefore, the downtown and surrounding area are perfect to explore on foot. 

Enjoy a quality cup of coffee accompanied by a pastry at Sleepy Monk Roasters. Visit the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum for an educational afternoon and see the cannon that gave this sleepy coastal town its name. 

Spend a romantic evening on the beach as you watch a glorious Pacific Northwest sunset. On weekends, there are live glass blowing demonstrations taking place at the Icefire Glassworks using the well-known technique invented during the 1st century BC.

Hug Point State Recreation Site

Your next stop on the Oregon Coast Road Trip is located just 5 miles south of Cannon Beach. Here travelers can find another wonderful beach hugging the cape and the coast. Visitors often think that this beautiful setting earns the area its name, Hug Point. 

However, there is a far more interesting story behind the name. Before the Pacific Coast Highway – Oregon Highway 101 was built – the stagecoach was the only way to travel via the coast. The pioneers had to travel on the beach in their stagecoaches and hug the point sticking out on the coast to get around it safely. Hence, the name. 

There are many hikes in the recreation area and visitors can even see the historic stagecoach ruts in the park. At low tide, you can get behind the point to a small waterfall as well as explore sea caves. Another popular low tide activity is tide-pooling. To find the times of high and low tides, check here.

Oswald West State Park

Over overshadowed by the more popular Ecola State Park and the scenic Three Capes area, Oswald West State Park is a spectacular 2,484-acre park along the Oregon Coast. The park comprises 4 miles of coastline as well as a temperate rainforest. 

Its highlight is the secluded Short Sand Beach, popularly called Shorty. The trail is just half a mile long and takes visitors through a rainforest, under Highway 101, along stunning coastal views to the beach. 

The state park also has several other trails including the Oregon Coast Trail which stretches through the entire park. This trail is recommended only for experienced hikers. Families prefer to spend a day at Shorty. This cove is picture-perfect for surfing, picnics, relaxation, and tide-pooling for the little sea creatures.

For those with more energy and time, points of interest include Cape Falcon and the Devil’s Cauldron. Beware that the short trail to Devil’s Cauldron gets rocky, uneven, very steep, and often muddy, though the views are totally worth it.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

While this is a primarily road trip itinerary along the Oregon Coast, we aren’t ones to shy away from a scenic railroad ride when one beckons!

Visitors can embark on the heritage steam railroad and relive Oregon’s history while on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. The primary mission of the railroad excursions along the coast is to revive the legacy of steam railroads and teach visitors about their importance in the development of Tillamook County. 

During summer, there are regular trips between Rockaway Beach and Garibaldi. This relaxing trip winds through Tillamook Bay and the Oregon Coast. The track winds up through thick forests along the Nehalem River and offers amazing views of the Pacific Coast. The beautiful views from the train are enjoyed by adults and children alike.

The prices are $22 for adults and $15 for children (3-12 years old) for a round trip. Feel free to explore Garibaldi once you get off the train – just ensure you don’t miss the last train back to Rockaway Beach. The railroad also offers occasional special event trains throughout the year.

The attraction is most enjoyable when it is warm and sunny outside, although there is a choice of an enclosed car to ride in too. In summer the tickets sell out fast, so we recommend booking online well in advance of your trip.

Rockaway Beach

The city of Rockaway Beach is a great place to check out on the Oregon Coast. The namesake Rockaway Beach is the most famous area attraction. This long sandy beach between the Coast Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean is as close as travelers can get to Twin Rocks without stepping off the land. Bring a camera to capture these unique and massive geological wonders. 

The Twin Rocks are one of the most well-known Oregon Coast rock outcroppings after Haystack Rock. The rocks are over 100 feet high and look spectacular at sunset. While it is hard to imagine now, the two rocks were formed 20 to 30 million years ago as one huge ridge structure. 

Over time, erosion separated the two rocks and also created the 35 feet arch in the leftmost rock. The rocks are incredibly romantic at sunset certainly and you can often see couples walking hand in hand and lovers professing their love as they gaze at the horizon.

There are many options for accommodations, restaurants, and shopping along the 7-mile shoreline of Rockaway Beach. Rockaway Beach City also hosts many events and festivals, including the annual July 4th celebration, the Pirate Festival early in the summer, and Kite and Art Festival in August. 

Garibaldi

Another cozy town sitting at the northern end of Tillamook Bay, Garibaldi, is home to 760-feet-long Pier’s End. This is the longest pier in Oregon and a beautiful dock to enjoy the Oregon Coast. 

Garibaldi treats its visitors with a relaxed beachy vibe and beautiful views. And don’t forget the fresh seafood! You can either dine out at a restaurant – try the famous ‘Fish Peddler @ Pacific Oyster’ in nearby Bay City or SOURCE Oyster and Wine Bar in garibaldi. Or visit the local seafood market, the Garibaldi Cannery, located in the port to buy fresh seafood to cook for yourself.

While many visitors are drawn to this town for fishing, crabbing, and clamming, Garibaldi is also home to the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad depot and the Garibaldi Maritime Museum, where you can learn the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest. 

There is a little motel and RV park right on the port of Garibaldi, Harborview Inn & RV Park. An overnight stay here is a good opportunity to unwind and relax before continuing the journey.

Tillamook Creamery

It would be a crime to not pass by the Tillamook Creamery once you’re in the Tillamook area. The Tillamook Creamery is an essential Coastal Oregon road trip stop for foodies! This coop dairy is one of the largest in the country and the famous Tillamook Cheese is a household name. Apart from cheese, the dairy also produces yogurt, butter, and ice-creams. 

This dairy lovers’ paradise offers an opportunity for self-guided interactive tours with educational videos and multiple kiosks. Best part? The tours are free! There are viewing windows from where visitors can directly observe the art of cheese making.

On a visit to the creamery, you can sample the world-famous cheese. There is also a café selling creamy Tillamook ice cream and other snacks such as grilled cheese sandwich, mac n cheese, artisan pizzas, salads, as well as Northwest brews and wine. 

Have long been waiting to spoil yourself with a wine and cheese session? This is a perfect chance!

Three Capes Scenic Loop

Oregon’s Three Capes Scenic Loop is one of the reasons you go on this road trip, one of the reasons you take a detour from the famous Highway 101. Located on the Tillamook Coast of Central Oregon, the scenic drive is all about slow travel, about savoring the views.

From downtown Tillamook, visitors can follow an epic 40-mile route northwest along the shoreline. You can enjoy many highlights and hidden attractions along the way as you drive around the 3 capes: Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.

Cape Meares Lighthouse and State Scenic Viewpoint

Your first stop, the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, rests over 200 feet above the ocean. From here, visitors can enjoy great views of the largest colony of nesting common murres. Bring along a pair of binoculars to see them up close. You might also spot other seabirds and even bald eagles. 

The Cape Meares area also has several hiking trails. The trails will take you along vertical sea cliffs, perched high above the ocean, and through forests of giant Sitka spruce and hemlock trees.

Drive over to the 38 feet tall Cape Meares Lighthouse. Built-in 1889 on the steep cliff, the short light is charming and open to visitors for a free tour from April to October. Next to the parking lot, you will find the famous Octopus tree with its tentacle-like branches. The tree is over 200 years old, 50 feet wide, and a historic landmark. Cape Meares is also home to the National Wildlife Refuge, definitely worth visiting if time permits.

Cape Lookout State Park

Cape Lookout State Park, a nearly two-mile oceanfront promontory that juts out into the Pacific, is your next stop. At the park, you will find spectacular geological formations, Oregon Coast native flora and fauna, and impressive views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Spend a day at the beach or hike to a waterfall. Fish along the Wilson River or walk on the sandspit in Netarts Bay. Camp in the state park or rent one of the yurts. Go beachcombing for glass floats or hike through old-growth forests. The opportunities at Cape Lookout State Park are too many to count. 

Hike the easy 2.5-mile Cape Lookout Trail. This trail is popular with visitors – it winds through the Sitka spruce forest and takes you to the Cape Lookout headland. From here you can spot whales, see sunsets, and enjoy views of Neahkahnie Mountain. You can also spot Cape Kiwanda in the distance.

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area 

The southernmost of the three capes and also the smallest, Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area doesn’t have many hiking trails. Most visitors hike the 2.2 miles Cape Kiwanda Loop for a walk along the coast. However, it does have a huge sand dune, which makes it no less unique than the other two capes. 

With a little bit of effort, visitors can climb up the 250 feet high Cape Kiwanda dune to observe miles of the ocean and even Cape Lookout in the north. Make sure to stay within fenced areas as it can be really dangerous.

Cape Kiwanda is also famous for its huge crashing waves that pound the sandstone escarpment. From the cape, you can spot Oregon’s second Haystack Rock, located close to Pacific City. It is said that the rock has protected the cape from erosion by the waves and helped retain its shape. 

We also recommend spending time at the beach in Cape Kiwanda. You can watch the unique dory boats being launched into the ocean. 

Pacific City

Pacific City is a sleepy beachfront town that is perfect for outdoor adventures. The shore near Pacific City in Tillamook County is lined by capes, sandy spits, and rivers flowing into protected bays. The Oregon Coast here has a wild feel. Even the Oregon Pacific Coast Highway 101 curves inland here.From the beach, you have great views of Oregon’s second haystack rock.

Visitors can enjoy exploring tide pools, hiking along the coast, whaling, and birding at the Bob Straub State Park. For a unique experience, go horse riding on the beach or ATV riding at Sand Lake Recreation Area. The Nestucca Bay Refuge, located just off Highway 101, is another popular destination to spot wildlife. 

Even if you don’t like spending much time outdoors, Pacific City makes a great road trip stop. This is the perfect family beach vacation destination. You can go shopping, dining, check out the local Pelican Brewery, and other bars and grills.

Central Oregon Coast Attractions

The area of Oregon Coast from Lincoln City to Florence is considered as the Central Coast. Here the coastline turns quite rocky and wild compared to the north coast. This area is known for its stunning natural rock formations and natural phenomenon such as Thor’s Well and Spouting Horn. Because of its rocky shape, this area also has some of the most historic and powerful lighthouses along the coast. 

God’s Thumb

Located near Lincoln City, God’s Thumb is a unique shoreline formation. The coast here is shaped like a giant thumbs up sign. This is still one of Oregon’s coastal secrets and not known by many people. Hiking to the basalt peak for sweeping views of Lincoln City, Cascade Head, and the Pacific Ocean is popular with the locals.

There are two routes up God’s Thumb: both start at Road’s End State Recreation Area and are unmarked. On both you will encounter dramatic views, rocky cliffs, beaches, and wildflowers. The more popular and scenic option is the 4.4-mile Knoll loop. It takes visitors over forested lands and grassy meadows before suddenly following the ridgeline to the peak. 

The shorter alternative is the 3.4 miles out-and-back trail. This trail is less challenging, has gradual inclines and is good for families with kids. The best time to hike to God’s Thumb is from March through September.

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area has an intriguing geology. The Devil’s Punch Bowl is a large hollow rock formation that was probably created from the collapse of roofs of two sea caves due to wave action. Here you can watch waves from the Pacific Ocean waves swirl and froth as it bellows inside the punchbowl.

There are many things to do in the natural area. Visitors come to spot the wave action, birdwatch, whale watch, tidepool, and even surf. Many picnic tables are located here with a beautiful view of the shore.

To reach the punchbowl, hike the 1.8-mile trail from the parking lot. It is not safe to go inside the punchbowl except at low tide and generally, we recommend viewing the wave action from a safe distance. 

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

A must stop for bird watching and tide pooling, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is one of the best places to visit on the Oregon Coast. The rocky basalt beaches like Cobble Beach are perfect to spot sea stars, crabs, sea urchins, sea anemones, and other colorful intertidal life at low tide.

A highlight of the natural area is the 92-feet tall Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the tallest in Oregon. The charming lighthouse was built in 1873 and is still operational. Visitors can climb up the 114 steps to the top on a self-guided tour. 

At the Yaquina Head Interpretive Center, you can learn about the cultural history and marine life along this part of Oregon. There are several informative displays at the center. Other attractions include hiking, spotting nesting colonies of seabirds, and watching the gray whales migrating to Alaska.

Newport

Your next stop south on your Oregon coast road trip should be Newport. This charming coastal city has everything from museums, the Yaquina lighthouses, aquariums, eclectic shopping, and eateries serving delicious seafood. Newport is home to numerous attractions and outdoor activities.

Begin your visit at the Newport Historic Bayfront. While it is smelly and loud, it does have stunning views of the Yaquina Bay. Another must is the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Here kids can see sea turtles, sharks, sea lions, and other marine life of the Pacific Northwest.

See the weird museums in town including Ripley’s Believe It or Not or the Wax Works museum. Seafood lovers must visit Chowder Bowl located at Nye Beach. This eatery is famous for its award-winning chowder and local cuisine.

The Hatfield Marine Science Centre is a favorite of ocean enthusiasts. To enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking, visit South Beach State Park. The Newport Farmer’s Market that takes place on Saturdays is a great place to shop local produce and artisan goods.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Located within Siuslaw National Forest, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area protects a large part of Oregon Coast. Here you will find abundant marine life, a rainforest, miles of hiking trails, pretty beaches, sea caves, rock formations, and tide pools.

Stop at the Visitor Centre deck to enjoy postcard perfect views of the surrounding rainforest, rocky coastline, and turbulent waves of the Pacific Ocean. Drive up to the Cape Perpetua Lookout and enjoy the vistas. 

Cape Perpetua is also home to the famous Thor’s Well. This is a sinkhole on the coast which appears to engulf waves. It looks most spectacular at high tide when the waves disappear down the formation. Another interesting geological formation is the Spouting Horn at Cook’s Chasm. This looks eerily like a whale spouting water at high tide. 

To make the most of your trip to Cape Perpetua, visit at low tide since most formations and trails are dangerous and often inaccessible at high tide. 

Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint

A half mile trail to the top of Heceta Head leads visitors to the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse, the most beautiful lighthouse in Oregon. It also bears the distinction of being the most photographed lighthouse in Oregon.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse including the ground floor with a park ranger. While visitors are not allowed on upper levels, a hiking trail near the lighthouse leads you to a good viewpoint of the lens. For a romantic option, experience the life of a lightkeeper by booking a night stay at the Light Keeper’s House. This has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the beach.

Wildlife watching is one of the highlights of Heceta Head. Here you can not only spot migrating whales and sea lions but also land birds, nesting seabirds, and the magnificent Roosevelt Elk. You can also take the mile long trail to Hobbit Beach, a nice sheltered beach with pretty views. 

Florence

Located just off Pacific Coast Highway 101, Florence is a must visit on a Coastal Oregon road trip. The city is located at the mouth of Siuslaw River and has a plethora of natural attractions including lakes, coastal bluffs, beaches, and sand dunes.

The Oregon Coast Military Museum is located in Florence. Here visitors can learn about American contributions to WWI, WWII, and also know more about the Vietnam War, Korea War, and the work of the Coast Guards. You can see actual war items donated by Oregon veterans including guns, swords, documents, photographs, and more. 

Take a photo of the historical Siuslaw River Bridge located right on Oregon Highway 101. The bridge has beautiful Art Deco style architecture and Gothic arches. It is one of the iconic bridges on the Oregon Coast. 

After checking out the bridge, venture into Historic Old Town Florence. Visit the art galleries and unique shops. Don’t forget to watch the sea lions lounging around at the Sea Lion Cave, the largest sea cave in America.

Southern Oregon Coast Attractions

The southern coast of Oregon extends all the way from the Oregon dunes to Brookings in the south. Here the water looks turquoise more frequently than in other parts and teh landscapes are just striking and dramatic. All the way south near the California border, you will also find the largest stands of coastal redwoods in Oregon. 

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, located in the Siuslaw Forest, is one of the best places to visit in Oregon. The sand dunes are sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and a temperate forest. They look magical and enchanting as they easily tower about 500 feet above sea level. 

The sand dunes were formed by the blowing winds and continue to be sculpted every year. The dunes stretch for a very long part of the coast and the most popular areas for road trippers include the South Jetty Area or Oregon Dunes Day Use Area.  

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Popular activities here ATV riding, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, bird watching, sand boarding, and camping. There are enough activities to keep visitors of all ages happy.

Popular hiking trails include the Lagoon Loop Trail and the Oregon Dunes Overlook Trail. Along with ATVs, you can also rent dirt bikes, sand buggies, or go horse riding to explore the majestic sand dunes. 

Coos Bay

As you head south from the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Your next stop should be Coos Bay. Coos Bay is one of our favorite destinations on the Oregon Coast road trip primarily because of the beautiful sunsets and scenic beauty that it offers. 

This outdoor paradise is close to the southern entrance to the dunes but is also adorned by beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, and a stunning wilderness. From the coast of Coos Bay, you can see views of the Capo Arago Lighthouse. Coos Bay is also the perfect place to explore 3 state parks along the Cape Arago Highway.

Coos Bay is also the largest city on the Oregon Coast and offers plenty of city attractions. Enjoy the interpretative displays, fish market, the Koos #2 tugboat, and many seafood restaurants along the Coos Bay Boardwalk. The views of the bay are beautiful from here.

Art lovers can visit the Coos Art Museum and admire its collection of Northwestern and contemporary art. The gallery exhibit dedicated to the runner Steve Prefontaine, who is a Coos Bay native, is loved by tourists and locals alike. Other attractions worth seeing include the Egyptian Theatre, Coos Bay Maritime Center, etc.

Cape Arago Lighthouse

The Cape Arago Lighthouse, located in Charleston, stands at Gregory Point on the detached Chief’s Island near the coast off Coos Bay. The lighthouse, while decommissioned and closed to the public, is popular with photographers. 

The lonely lighthouse perched on the rocky island looks romantic and mysterious. It was built in 1866 to aid ships carrying lumber to Coos Bay. The best views of the lighthouse can be seen along the Cape Arago Beach Loop. Try the pretty views from the Sunset Bay State Park or hike to Lighthouse Beach. 

Cape Arago Beach Highway

The detour to Cape Arago Beach Loop is a must on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip in Oregon. Along the highway you can spot sea lions and seals, seabirds, and migrating whales. You will also find exceptional views along the coastline.

Cape Arago Highway runs parallel to Pacific Coast Highway 101 and provides access to 3 state parks in Oregon. From north to south you will find Shore Acres State Park, Sunset Bay State Park, and Cape Arago State Park. 

Shore Acres has a formal rose garden and Japanese lily pond and is great to visit. All three state parks have beach access, amazing scenery, and miles of hiking trails. Visit the Bastendorff Beach to enjoy flying kites, surfing the waves, or beachcombing for shells and even fossils. This is one of the most popular beaches to visit in southern Oregon. You can also go hiking along the 1.2 mile long Cape Arago Loop Trail. 

Bandon Beach Loop Drive

Just off Highway 101, further south, is the Bandon Beach Loop Drive. This 5 mile long scenic drive provides access to one of southern Oregon’s most dramatic stretches. Along the loop, you will find secluded beaches and stunning viewpoints. Visitors can tide pool and bird watch while they enjoy the coastal scenery. 

The drive begins in the city at the Bandon Historical Society Museum. Here you can understand the town’s history. Past the city, the loop turns west towards the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. 

Here you will find the first famous viewpoint, Coquille Point. The view here is magical: foaming waves, sea stack, offshore rock islands, and seabirds nesting colonies look stunning at sunrise or sunset. The views of Elephant Rock are pretty clear. 

The drive south to the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. The interpretive trail here does a great job of explaining the Ntaive American legend behind the face on the rock. The last stop is Bandon State Natural Area. Devil’s Kitchen, next along the loop, provides easy access to a pretty beach area. You will find plenty of interesting rock formations here.

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

The last stop on your Coastal Oregon road trip! Located between Brookings and Gold Beach parallel to Highway 101, the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a must visit. The byway stretches for 12 miles and provides access to coastal bluffs, secluded beaches, offshore rock formations, and hiking trails.

At the northern end you will find the Arch Rock Viewpoint. Arch Rock is a famous sea arch in southern Oregon. This area also has picnic tables and is perfect to enjoy an outdoors lunch. Then drive down to the Natural Bridges Viewpoint. It is a famous point to spot two arched rocks and blowholes. 

Visit the dunes at Indian Sands or enjoy the quiet China Beach. Last but not the least, hike the stunning trail to Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. The mile-long trail has breathtaking views of the coastline, marine life, and gorgeous evening sky at sunset.

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 Ultimate Highway 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

The Oregon Coast Road Trip along Highway 101 is one of our favorite road trips in the world.

This trip along the Pacific Coast has everything from panoramic beaches, fog-shrouded hiking trails, secret coves, quaint beachside towns, artist communities, and even redwood trees!

Yes, those giants are not limited to North California but also thrive in southern Oregon. 

The best place to see them? Along the Oregon Redwood Trail, of course! 

In this itinerary, we have also included attractions further inland which means along with sandy beaches and buffs….

….you also get to see beautiful waterfalls, stunning blue lakes, volcanic domes, hot springs, and desert landscapes..

After all, this is Oregon – Things look different here! 

Related: Best Places to Visit in Oregon

Oh, and if you love craft beer you are going to love Oregon.

Throughout the state, you can find brewpubs, microbreweries, craft beers served in restaurants, and beer aficionados!

Use this itinerary to plan a stunningly spectacular Oregon Road Trip now! 

What is the best time to visit Oregon?

Oregon is just stunning to visit throughout the year, even in winter and spring.

In winter, you may not see the cornflower blue Crater Lake and will definitely need a car with snow chains but it still looks beautiful.

However, if you want a relaxed trip with no chance of getting stuck in a blizzard, then the summer is your best bet for visiting eastern Oregon. 

In summer, you will find excellent weather throughout the state and wildflowers in the mountains.

Summer is perfect for hiking with the sunset as late as 9 pm in the northern part of the state.

The water is also good for swimming, though in our opinion the Pacific is always too cold to swim! 

Winter and spring are usually rainy/windy for the coast.

If you are visiting in these seasons, we recommend bringing raincoat or rain jackets and an umbrella.

Further inland, you will encounter snow and even blizzards.

Bring along warm jackets and thermals, and get snow chains on your tires.

Also, remember: snow chains may void rental car agreements so skip visiting Crater Lake or any nearby areas in winter if renting a car or read your rental agreement carefully. 

Fall is another good time to visit, especially in early fall.

The Columbia River Gorge region looks spectacular with fall colors and the Willamette Valley wineries have harvest events.

How many days do you need to see Oregon?

Oregon is quite vast – you don’t realize how vast unless you look at the state map!

The I-5 and Highway 101 are quite far from the eastern side.

Thankfully, most major attractions are located along these two roads, making it feasible to see the Best of Oregon in a week or so. 

If you like slow travel, then keep aside 10 days to 2 weeks for this road trip.

On the other hand, if you are short on time then you can easily split your trip and do the coastal attractions in 4 or 5 days, keeping aside the interior for another visit. 

Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary

This ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary will take you through the best attractions in the state.

We have written this itinerary down along the coast starting in Portland and then up again towards this vibrant city. 

Whether it’s along Highway 1 in California or along Highway 101 in Oregon, we love driving along the Pacific Coast from the north to the south.

That way, the best views are on your right side and it is easy to stop at pullouts. 

Also, Portland makes a great city to fly in and out of, as well as to rent a car.

If you want to drive in the clockwise direction or fly into Eugene or someplace else, you can still use our itinerary – it is really easy to customize as per your interests. 

With that said, let’s dig down into what makes Oregon so special and how to plan a road trip along it all! 

Portland and the vicinity – 3 Days

Portland is a very convenient city to begin your Oregon Road Trip Itinerary.

But before you take the car and hit the Oregon coast, we would recommend spending a few days in Portland to experience its unique culture and vibe.

You should also check out the natural attractions just outside of Portland. 

Portland

Portland is pretty unique and known for its hipster culture.

The city goes by the slogan, ‘Keep Portland Weird‘. That should give you some idea of what to expect in this unique, vibrant city.

Bacon doughnuts, eateries serving ethically sourced foods, food trucks, board game cafes, karaoke bars, bike shares, indie coffees, murals – that sorta things! 

The Pacific Northwest’s incessant rains and humid climate provide a great growing environment for the city’s plants, trees, and bushes.

As a result – you will find many beautiful gardens in this city. 

Our favorite is the famous Japanese Garden.

Located within Washington Park, this beautifully landscaped garden is so tranquil that it transports you into a different world. 

Other things to do in Washington Park, Portland’s famous urban park, include the International Rose Test Garden, the Oregon Zoo, Children’s Museum, and more.

Keep aside at least half a day to see this area.

Another essential stop: Powell’s City of Books!

This used bookstore located in the Pearl District is a Portland landmark, akin to NYC’s Strand or Denver’s Tattered Cover Book Store.

Here you will find a million books, book readings and signings, and even writing workshops.

Book lovers can spend hours browsing through the books – if you have one, be prepared to literally drag them out to see the rest of Portland!

Other things to do in Portland include visiting the famous Pittock Mansion, Portland Art Museum, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, the chic Pearl district, the Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum.

If you want to focus more on experiencing the city rather than checking out attractions, then we’d suggest exploring more of the Pearl District.

This cool area was formerly a railyard and has the perfect mix of art galleries, cafes, boutiques, craft breweries, and pubs. 

Portland’s food scene is pretty amazing.

The city’s Voodoo doughnuts are popular with tourists but locals recommend Blue Star doughnuts.

Blue Star has plenty of unique flavors; Blueberry Bourbon Basil doughnut anyone?

If you do happen to visit Voodoo, don’t forget to take a photo with the ‘Keep Portland Weird’ sign which is located near the doughnut shop.

Another local chain worth trying is Salt & Straw ice cream.

They have unique flavors and a must for Portland visitors.

Other famous ice cream shops are Fifty Licks and Ruby Jewel.

For exotic cocktails, a visit to the famed Hale Pele Tiki Bar is essential.

Bring along friends and try their famous Volcano Bowl.

For real food (enough with ice creams, doughnuts, and cocktails), try Pok Pok’s fish sauce chicken wings! 

The city is also famous for its dumplings.

Portland also has many farmer’s markets where you can shop for organic produce and artisan products.

And don’t forget the horde of food trucks pampering every taste bud.

Where most cities have a truck or two lining up the sidewalks, Portland has food truck pods – areas where dozens of carts and trucks are parked next to each other, waiting for your patronage!

Wondering how much time to spend in Portland?

You ideally need at least 2 to 3 days to see most of Portland but you can cover the highlights including the Pearl District and Washington Park in a day if you have less time.

To make the most of your Portland trip, read our post on 29 Epic Things to do in Portland, Oregon.

Fun fact: Feeling lazy? Well, at least you don’t need to get out of the car to fill up on gas!

That’s right, Oregon is the second place where we encountered gas station attendants. The other being New Jersey!

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oregon.

While the area is vast, you can easily see it on a day trip from Portland on the Historic Columbia River highway.

Located just half an hour away, the national scenic area is full of trails, waterfalls, scenic drives, and lookout points.

We recommend driving along the 20 mile long Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway to explore the area.

Some of our favorite spots along the highway are Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Latourell Falls, and Vista House.

The parking lots along the byway, especially at Multnomah Falls, get full on weekends, so we recommend arriving early in the day. 

The #1 tourist attraction in the Columbia River Gorge area is the Multnomah Falls.

At 620 feet, the waterfall is the tallest of the many waterfalls in the gorge.

This beautiful waterfall has two drops, creating the upper falls and lower falls.

The picturesque Benson Bridge creates a perfect place to view the falls.

While you can see the falls from below after a 5 mins walk from the parking lot, you need to scramble up to Benson Bridge and another mile to reach the viewpoint at the top.

Another must visit is the Multnomah Falls Lodge which has a visitor center and is a designated historic place. 

Other things to do in the gorge region include hiking, boat cruises, visiting dams, winery tasting, waterfall hiking, etc.

We would recommend seeing Portland and the Columbia River Gorge area before beginning your Oregon road trip in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction as per your interest. 

The rugged Oregon Coast Road Trip – 3 Days

Oregon Coast is a different beast compared to most of the Californian Coast.

It is windy, rugged, wet, foggy, and cold. It is also beautiful and dramatic. 

Along the coast, you will find gorgeous geological formations including Haystack Rock, Thor’s Well, sand dunes, etc.

You will also find rainforests, artsy communities and beachy towns – plus, lots of seafood! 

The route you’ll be following – Highway 101 – completely parallels the coast and is a pleasure to drive. 

Astoria

We recommend starting your coastal road trip in Astoria in the north.

This pretty coastal town has many things to offer.

Start your visit by climbing to the top of the famed Astoria Column, a historic tower with stunning 360 degree views of Astoria and the coast. 

Other things to do in Astoria include:

the Columbia River Maritime Museum which narrates the seafaring history of the area,

the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park which is home to the historic Fort Clatsop,

and the Fort Stevens State Park where you can see a historic shipwreck. 

Seaside

Next stop at the resort town of Seaside.

It’s main attraction is the Seaside Promenade, a 1.5 mile long boardwalk, which is perfect for a stroll.

Other things to do include spotting harbor seals at the Seaside Aquarium, exploring the art galleries in town, sampling some of the famous Sea Star Gelato. 

While you are in Seaside, stop by the Bell Buoy, a locally owned seafood market where you can also order specialties like fish and chips, clam chowder, crab melt, and oyster shooters.

This is also a great place to pick up something for a picnic lunch. 

Cannon Beach

After leaving Seaside, head for the Cannon Beach area. Walk on the beach and marvel at the sea stacks.

To take the most photographed view of Haystack Rock with Cannon Beach in the background, visit Ecola State Park. 

From here, you can also spot the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.

The state park is also good for wildlife watching including bald eagles, brown pelicans, tufted puffins, elk, seals, sea lions, and migrating gray whales.

The park also has tidepools where you can spot a variety of low tide creatures. 

Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach is a charming Oregon coastal town and has been a popular West Coast beach getaway for families since many years.

A highlight is the Twin Rock formation off the coast.

In the town, you will find charming buildings, shopping, and seafood restaurants.  

Tillamook Coast

For a change of pace, ride the Oregon Scenic Coast Railroad between Rockaway Beach and Garibaldi.

This historic train will take you along the coast and has many special excursions in the Tillamook Bay area. 

Then stop at the famous Tillamook Creamery.

The Creamery / Cheese factory is an essential stop on the Oregon coast road trip.

At the factory, you can go on a self- guided tour of the cheese making and packaging process.

You can sample a few cheeses as well as buy some for the road – plus, they have ice cream!

This stop is a favorite with families and kids. 

Post Tillamook, you can either follow Highway 101 inland or take a detour towards the Three Capes Scenic Drive.

Along this scenic road, you will have amazing views of Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.

This road is a hidden gem and was a highlight of our road trip. 

Cape Perpetua

Next visit Devil’s Punchbowl and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, before driving to Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.

See the view from Cape Perpetua Lookout point, visit Thor’s Well, see the spouting horn which shoots water into the air, and see the Devil’s Churn.

Next stop at the famous Heceta Head Lighthouse.

The lighthouse position is extremely scenic and makes for iconic photographs.

You can also tour the lighthouse, see timings on the official website. 

Other stops as you make your way south include the Oregon Dunes, Coos Bay, the state parks near Bandon beach, and the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor.

The views along the corridor are especially scenic and we fell in love with this scenic road trip. 

The total distance from Astoria in the north to Brooking in the south is about 8 hours (~340 miles).

We recommend breaking it into ideally 3 to 4 days so you can hike, take scenic drives, enjoy time at the beach, visit local restaurants and factories, explore museums and antique stores, and generally, have a grand time. 

If you have only two days to see the coast, we would recommend visiting our favorite attractions of Cannon Beach, Three Capes Scenic Drive, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, and the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Byway. 

If you can hike only one trail, hike to Thor’s Well. If you can visit only one lighthouse, visit the Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Don’t forget to visit Tillamook Creamery and eat the seafood at Bell Buoy.

Stay the night at either Newport or Florence near the Heceta Head Lighthouse and observe the stunning sunsets on the Pacific. 

If you have more time, then plan a leisurely drive down to Southern Oregon coast.

There is so much more to see and do on the Oregon coast beyond the attractions mentioned in this itinerary. 

You can see unique sites like the Goonies filming location in Astoria, Indian beach, Cape Meares Lighthouse, check out breweries along the coast, stroll along the Garibaldi Pier, go whale watching, visit the Oregon Aquarium at Newport, explore the Old Town of Florence, etc. 

To find out our 25 favorite stops along the Oregon Coast and plan your road trip along Highway 101, read our separate post on Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary. 

Through the Cascades – 2 Days

In central Oregon, you will find the beautifully breathtaking Cascade Mountain ranges – a must stop on any Oregon Itinerary.

This region of Oregon is stunning with snow capped mountain ranges, amazing hikes, a variety of outdoor adventures, and charming mountain towns. 

That’s why, we recommend adding Central Oregon to your Oregon state road trip.

Those who come to see only Portland and Coastal Oregon are missing out on the diversity that the Beaver State offers to its visitors. 

Here you will find majestic mountain peaks, dense evergreen forests, beautiful mountain lakes, skiing in winter, and lots of wildlife encounters. 

Where you start your Cascades part of the trip depends on how far south you go along the Coast.

If you go down to Brookings, you will need to enter California before you can reach Central Oregon. 

Irrespective of that, your first stop should be Crater Lake National Monument. 

Crater Lake National Park

No road trip in Oregon is complete without visiting Crater Lake National Park.

This is a majestic place to visit year round though in the winter, you will be treated to closed roads and snow on the rim.

The lake itself always looks a mysterious and shimmering blue. 

There are many ways in which you can enjoy the astounding scenery of this beautiful place.

Drive the scenic rim drive or go hiking into the surrounding forest.

Stop at the pullouts and take stunning photographs of Crater Lake.

In the summer, you can also swim in the lake at Cleetwood Cove. 

This deepest lake in the country was formed when the Mount Mazama volcano erupted more than seven thousand years ago and water filled up it’s collapsed caldera.

You can read more about the fascinating history of this geological wonder at the visitor center. 

Optional: Umpqua National Forest

The Umpqua National Forest is a gorgeous region to add to your road trip through Oregon.

While the recent wildfires in Oregon have affected the outdoor recreation area, it still remains quite beautiful.

You can go on scenic drives through the mountains or enjoy hiking trails.

There are also many waterfalls and swimming holes in the forest where you can go hiking, fishing, and swimming. 

Bend

Located on the banks of the Deschutes River on the eastern slopes of the Cascade mountains, Bend is a delightful and charming city.

In the city, you will find boutique shopping, craft breweries, coffee shops, and trendy eateries.

Talking of breweries, Bend is famous for its beer scene and even has an ale trail – it is a must for beer lovers! 

Bend is also famous for its plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.

In summer you can enjoy watersports and go on hiking trails while in the winter, you can go skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding.

This is really a fantastic city to visit while in Oregon. 

Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway

Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway begins in Bend and is an amazing drive to enjoy the stunning summer scenery in the Cascades ranges.

The drive is 66 miles long and takes about half a day to complete considering the stops.

The route goes through the Deschutes National Forest, Three Sisters Wilderness Area, and beautiful mountain lakes. 

Optional: Deschutes River

If you have time and are looking for a relaxing and cooling day in the summer, then consider a floating trip down the Deschutes River.

This river in central Oregon is perfect for river tubing.

You can rent floats, kayaks, or canoes in Bend and can launch your trip from the Riverbend Park.

You can also try whitewater rafting along the river or go fishing.

The river is a must on your Oregon road trip itinerary for water lovers. 

After visiting Deschutes River, you can drive northwest towards Oregon.

However, if you have the time we would suggest exploring the beautiful bare, rugged landscape of eastern Oregon. 

Optional: Via the desert landscapes of Eastern Oregon – 2 Days

While Eastern Oregon has many unique desert landscapes including:

the Painted Hills, Owyhee Canyonlands, Hart Mountains, and Alvord Desert,

We recommend visiting just the Painted Hills and other units of John Day if you have less time. 

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Oregon is located close to Deschutes River.

The monument comprises 3 units: Painted Hills, Sheep Rock, and Clarno. 

Painted Hills is the most visited unit of the National Monument. 

The monument is most renowned for the excellently preserved fossils of plants and animals that lived in Eastern Oregon millions of years ago.

The fossils span over 50 million years and this is one of the most complete fossil records in the world. 

The monument and it’s units are located in rural Oregon.

Here you will find tiny villages, open ranches where cattle wander onto the roads, and very basic amenities.

We suggest filling up on gas whenever you encounter a gas station, you definitely don’t want to be stuck in these parts! 

Painted Hills

Painted Hills is a beautiful, magical landscape that looks even more stunning at dusk or dawn.

It looks even more vibrant after a rainfall when the colors on the hills are vivid and alive.

The site is considered among the Seven Wonders of Oregon and is a must visit while in the state. 

There are many things to do in the Painted Hills unit of John Day and several ways to take in the beauty of the area.

Hike to the iconic Painted Hills Overlook to get a panoramic view of the colorful hills.

Hike the short Painted Cove Trail to get up close to the hills or hike the 1.6 mile round trip Carroll Rim Trail to see the sweeping vistas. 

Optional: Owyhee Canyonlands

Southeastern Oregon’s Owyhee Canyonlands seems to belong more to the American Southwest than to the Pacific Northwest.

Here you will find a red rock landscape reminiscent of Sedona and spectacular, eroded canyons. 

Not many visitors come here, keeping this one of the best kept secrets of Oregon.

This volcanic landscape has been carved by flowing rivers and glaciers and contains several badlands, clifftops, canyons, and desert landscapes. 

One of the best ways to explore this remote attraction is by hiking.

Take to the trails and discover beautiful spots such as Leslie Gulch, Jordan Craters, and Painted Canyon Loop.

Remember to bring maps, plenty of water, and other hiking essentials as there are no amenities near the Canyonlands.

Also, you will need a 4WD vehicle to make the drive out here as it is on unpaved roads.

Optional: Alvord Desert

Alvord Desert is located in southeastern Oregon near the Steens mountains.

This was once a lake that was several hundred feet deep.

Today, you will find just a dry lake bed and a beautiful desert landscape.

The minerals from the lake are deposited over hexagonal cracks in the ground.

In some ways, Alvord Desert is similar to Death Valley.

It is also eerily silent and one of the most underrated destinations in Oregon. 

The area is famous for its geothermal activity and it is said that at night, you can hear booming noises from the seismic activity.

Visitors often camp here in this desolate landscape because of its unprecedented beauty plus the camping here is free and doesn’t need any permits.

That’s right, you could just walk up here, set up your tent, and enjoy the sunset before you turn in for the night. 

On the western edge of the Alvord Desert, you will find the Alvord Hot Springs.

These are a result of the high seismic activity in the area.

They are privately owned and can be accessed for a small entry fee.

Here you will find two simple concrete pools with wooden edges to sit.

If you camp here, you can soak in the hot springs even at night.

This is a truly one of a kind outdoor experience in Oregon. 

While you are there you can also drive the Steens Mountains Loop drive which is 60 miles long and takes about 2 hours.

The views along the drive are beautiful and there are lookout points at regular intervals.

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 of Oregon Road Trip Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure! appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

Then welcome to our Olympic Peninsula road trip planner. Here you will find the best things to do including hiking in Hoh Rainforest, cities to visit like Sequim and Port Townsend, and can plan the ultimate Olympic peninsula Itinerary on the West Coast, USA.

Related
Best Places to Visit in Washington State
Ultimate Washington State Road Trip Itinerary

The Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive in Washington is one of the most scenic drives along the West Coast. The drive through dense evergreen forests that are as tall as California’s redwoods and along wild coastal bluffs is very romantic and at 330 miles, deceptively small. While the drive seems doable in a day or two, you need a minimum of 3 to 5 days to explore everything that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer. 

The Olympic Peninsula is located across Puget Sound from Seattle and remained unexplored almost till the 20th century. Even now while Highway 101 loops around the peninsula, there are no roads in the interior. This large region of old-growth forests and snow-capped Olympic mountain ranges are protected from development by the Olympic National Park. 

Olympic National Park is one of the three national parks surrounding Seattle and is popular for its temperate rainforests, hot springs, the rocky volcanic coastline, and abundant wildlife. The peaks of the Olympic Mountain ranges are visible from the top of the Space Needle and making the drive from Seattle to Olympic National Park is almost an obligation. 

For a long time, Mount Rainier was the most popular national park in Washington but then the spotlight shifted to the Olympic Mountains. Visitors were delighted to discover this hidden gem and today the national park is a primary reason to visit the Olympic Peninsula. Olympic National Park is a unique and incredibly diverse environment. Nowhere else will you find a combination of beautiful beaches, snow-covered mountain peaks, and moss-covered Sitka spruce and hemlock forests in the same park.

However, there is much more to do on the Olympic Peninsula beyond the national park. Visitors can explore the coastal seaport cities of Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Fork. They can explore fascinating formations along the coast and find secluded beaches. They can see historic lighthouses and the beautiful Washington State Capitol at Olympia. Here is our epic road trip guide to this part of the Pacific Northwest. 

Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Planner

In this planner, we have mentioned the essential stops along the road along with things to do at each stop. You can complete the trip in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction. 

To begin this road trip, drive from Seattle to Olympia and then take Highway 101 either towards Aberdeen in the west or to Port Angeles in the north. In this post, we consider the loop trip in a clockwise direction starting with Aberdeen. 

Stop #1: Seattle

Seattle is the best place to begin your Olympic Peninsula road trip itinerary for multiple reasons. For visitors coming out of Washington, Seattle is the easiest city to fly into. Besides, you can’t really visit Washington without experiencing Seattle’s urban attractions. We suggest spending a day or two in Seattle before renting a car for your road trip around the Olympic Peninsula. 

Start your visit to the city at the famous Seattle Center. It has the top-visited tourist attractions in Seattle including the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture. Take the elevator to the top of the space needle to see panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Then see the beautiful blown glass artwork by Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Visit the museum of pop culture to know pop trivia, see movie props, costumes, and more. 

Other must-visit attractions in Seattle include the Pike Place Market – where the first Starbucks opened, the Chinatown International District, and Pioneer Square – where Seattle was first founded.

To read more about everything that Seattle has to offer, read our post on the Best Things to do in Seattle.

Stop #2: Tacoma

From Seattle, head your way down to Tacoma Tacoma is also famous for its cultural attractions including museums and historic places. See the Museum of Glass and take a walk across the famous Bridge of Glass that connects the museum to downtown Tacoma. The spirit also has artwork by Dale Chihuly. 

Another great place to visit is the Washington State History Museum where you can see Native American artwork, a model railroad, and Lewis and Clark expedition. Tacoma is also famous for its parks and gardens. The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is a great place to visit for families. If you love American cars, then you should definitely visit the LeMay Car Museum. Then drive down to the state capital of Olympia. 

Stop #3: Olympia

Olympia, located on the Puget Sound, is the capital of Washington. If you love to check out state capitols on road trips just like us, then you should definitely visit the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. The building is located on a beautiful campus beside the Capitol Lake. The grounds are beautiful year-round and are a popular location for photoshoots in Olympia. The historic building has beautiful architecture and is built from marble from five counties. The Tiffany chandeliers inside the building are beautiful. 

Besides the capital building, Olympia also has many other attractions and is worth spending a day. Take a stroll along the waterfront Percival Landing Park. Here you will find beautiful sculptures and get to watch the boats on the water. Go hiking at the brewery park at Tumwater Falls. Families love to visit the Hands-on Children’s Museum which has a great variety of themed activities and science galleries. 

Stop #4: Aberdeen

From Olympia, drive west towards Aberdeen on Highway 101. Its small-town charm makes Aberdeen amazing to visit. The city is often called the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. But the city’s claim to fame and history is through music. 

If you love pop trivia and rock bands, then you’re going to fall in love with Aberdeen. The city is called the birthplace of the Grunge genre of rock music. Nirvana band members Kurt Cobain and Kurt Novoselic were from Aberdeen. In fact, you can see Kurt Cobain’s home, visit the Kurt Cobain Under the Bridge Memorial Park, Young Street Bridge which has Nirvana related graffiti and was mentioned in the song ‘Something in the Way’, and take the Kurt Cobain Walking Tour conducted by the Museum of History. The town’s official welcome sign also says ‘Come as you are’ as a tribute to the band members. 

Other things to see in Aberdeen include seeing the Aberdeen Arts Center and the History Museum. You can also go hiking at the Morrison Riverfront Park or near Lake Aberdeen. 

Optional: Westport

Then you can take the detour to Westport on the Pacific Coast. Westport is home to the tallest lighthouse in Washington state, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. You can reach the lighthouse by hiking the two and a half-mile long Westport Light Trail (the Dunes trail). You can climb all the way to the top of the lighthouse for a nominal $5 entry fee to see amazing views along the Pacific Coast. The spiral staircase has 135 steps and is a great exercise. 

Another great place to visit in the small coastal town is the Westport Maritime Museum. The museum is located in the historic Coast Guard Station and has amazing exhibits including whale skeletons. The Westport observation door has a panoramic 360-degree view of the area. Other activities in Westport include beachcombing, fishing, people watching at the marina, and taking whale-watching cruises. 

Stop #5: Lake Quinault

Then drive back to Highway 101 and visit Lake Quinault. The lake is located to the south of Olympic National Park and is a great outdoor attraction. The area surrounding the lake is known for its rainforest and giant Sitka spruce and cedar trees. Some of the largest trees in the world are found here including the largest Sitka spruce, the largest western cedar, the largest mountain hemlock, and the largest Douglas fir. 

The best way to experience the rainforest is on the loop drive. The 31 miles drive circles around the lake, passes by the Quinault River, and even enters the Olympic National Park. On the way you will see beautiful waterfalls and numerous trailheads. Some stretches of the road are unpaved and suitable only for 4WD vehicles. 

Another must visit attraction is the historic Lake Quinault Lodge. Merriman falls on the loop drive is also worth the visit. Visitors often see the Roosevelt elks near Lake Quinault. The lake is popular for hiking, boating, camping, and other activities. The lake has a variety of fish including chinook salmon and a variety of trouts and fishing in the lake is quite popular. 

Stop #6: Kalaloch Beach

Kalaloch Beach is a hidden gem along the Western Coast of Washington. Located in Olympic National Park, the best beach here can be accessed by hiking the Kalaloch Beach Trail 4. The beach has fascinating rock formations and is a great place to visit for beachcombers. You can find shell, driftwood, and more at the beach. At low tide, you can also spot several tide pool creatures including sea anemones, barnacles, and mussels. Nearby Kalaloch Lodge is a great place to stay for the night. From the beach you can also spot the decommissioned Destruction Island Lighthouse.

Stop #7: Ruby Beach

Ruby Beach, also part of Olympic National Park, is located along Highway 101 south of the small town of Forks. The rocky beach has beautiful sea stack formations and is very photogenic. To reach the beach visitors can hike a 1.4 miles long loop trail. The trail is kid friendly and good for families. On the beach you can find driftwood, shells, and colorful pebbles. If you visit at low tide, you can also find tide pools at Ruby Beach and spot sea anemones, crabs, barnacles, and starfish. The beach is especially breathtaking just before or after sunset and during winter when a thick fog blankets the area. 

Stop #8: Forks

Forks is one of the best places in all of the Olympic Peninsula to experience the mystical beauty of this region. The town was settled around the wood logging industry and visitors can experience life during that time at the Forks Timber Museum. Another unique attraction is John’s Beachcombing Museum. This private collection of the items that washed up on the beaches of Washington is diverse and fascinating. 

The rivers surrounding the city are full of salmon and steelhead trout and are a delight for those who love fishing. In recent times, Forks is most well known as the setting for the Twilight series. The city is as charming as it sounds in the series and a Twilight walking tour to see many locales mentioned in the books is a must for fans. 

Stop #9: Hoh Rainforest

Hoh Rainforest is the place where legends are made. The moss covered trees in this rainforest grow dense and tall with some giants towering at 300 feet. The sunlight can barely penetrate through the canopy of the evergreen trees. The air in the rainforest is always humid, foggy, and misty. This unique set of climatic conditions have led to the Hoh Rainforest being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The area gets over 14 ft of rain a year and is one of the rainiest places in the country. Trees like the Sitka Spruce and the Western Hemlock grow abundantly in the rainforest. Must visit places inside the Hoh Rainforest include the Visitor Centre, Hall of Mosses Trail, and the Spruce Nature Trail. Inside the forest, visitors can see the Roosevelt Elk and the banana slugs that can grow upto 10 inches long.

Optional: La Push Beaches

After seeing the charming town of Forks and the Hoh Rainforest, you can directly visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs in Olympic National Park or take a detour towards the 3 beaches of La Push. The beaches are named First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach. 

First Beach is easily accessible, hence crowded, while Third Beach needs a 2.5 mile long hike through forests of sitka spruce, cedars, and hemlocks. Second Beach and Third Beach are both popular camping destinations because of fewer crowds. All the beaches are excellent for beachcombing for driftwood and spotting wildlife including sea otters, whales, eagles, deer, etc. 

Optional: Rialto Beach

Rialto Beach is located near Forks and is known for its stunning rock formations. This is Rocky Beach also has drift logs, violent waves, and views of islands off the coast including Tatoosh Island and Mushroom Rock.The beach is a part of Olympic National Park and requires the National Park pass to visit the beach. It is located adjacent to the Mora campground. Hikers can go on the two mile one way trail to the Hole-in-the-Wall arch formation. The trail is also good to view tide pool creatures. 

Optional: Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery on the Olympic Peninsula is the Northwesternmost point of Mainland US. Cape Flattery is a beautiful, wild area where tall trees and rain forests grow directly on water’s edge on the sandstone cliffs. Even the sea stacks have vegetation at Cape Flattery. Cape Flattery is located on the Makah Reservation. 

Visitors can hike a 0.7 mi one way trail from the parking lot to the end of the trail. Along the way, you will find several observation spots perched high on the cliffs and the Pacific Ocean will be at least 40 to 60 ft below you. The trail is family friendly and we highly recommend it. After all, how often can you say that you have visited the northwestern most point of the country?!

Optional: Neah Bay

Neah Bay is located directly across the US Canada border in the Olympic Peninsula on one side of Cape Flattery. It is the home of the Makah indigenous people and located on the Makah Indian Reservation. The coastline surrounding the Rialto Beach, Cape Flattery, Neah Bay, and Shi Shi Beach is one of the most remote and stunning coastlines in the world. 

While Neah Bay has many outdoor activities like wildlife watching, tide pooling, fishing, hiking, and kayaking, it is also an excellent place to understand the Makah Indian culture and traditions. Neah Bay has a museum where you can see exhibits about the tribal ceremonies, excavated historical artifacts, and native artwork. 

Optional: Shi Shi Beach

The remote Shi Shi Beach is also located on the Makah Reservation and is spectacular at sunset. To reach the beach, drive along the Cape Flattery road and park at the Shi Shi Beach trailhead. You will need to hike at least 2 to 2.5 miles through the forest to reach the beach. 

The trail is not well maintained and frequently muddy but well worth the adventure. Once you reach the beach you will see amazing sea stacks right near the shore. The beach also has many tide pools which are fun for the kids. Visitors can camp anywhere on the beach and this is one of the best places for wilderness camping on the West Coast.

Stop #10: Sol Duc Hot Springs

Olympic National Park has several natural hot mineral pools located in the northern part and the easiest way to see one is to visit the Sol Duc Valley. Sol Duc literally means magic waters in the native Quileute language. The Olympic Hot Springs Trail is 10.4 miles one way and recommended only for backpackers or bikers. If you do not want to go on the strenuous hike to soak in the hot springs, then you can also stay at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort located within the National Park. The resort has three hot springs soaking pools and is perfect for a relaxing stay. Park visitors can also hike to the Sol Duc Falls. 

Stop #11: Lake Crescent

The stunning blue 624 ft deep Lake Crescent is a highlight of Olympic National Park and a must visit on an Olympic peninsula road trip. The lake is located along route 101 and is easily accessible. The lake has very clear waters and is very photogenic.The lake has very clear waters and is very photogenic. Lake Crescent was carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age hundreds of thousands of years ago. Early in the 20th century, before the construction of highways, ferries and steamboats were used to transport people and goods on Lake Crescent. Now the lake is a premier tourist destination on the Olympic Peninsula. 

There are several trails around Lake Crescent and that climb the mountains and go through forests. Some of the most popular ones are Marymere Falls hike, Spruce Railroad hike, and Pyramid Mountain hike. There are also many picnic areas located around the lakeshore and this is a great place to spend a day out in nature. Water activities on the lake include kayaking, sailing, and paddle boarding. Visitors can camp near Lake Crescent at the Fairholme Campground or stay at the Lake Crescent Lodge. 

Stop #12: Port Angeles

Port Angeles is considered the gateway to Olympic National Park in Washington. Most attractions within the park including Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent are easily accessible from Port Angeles, making it a perfect place to base your stay on the northern Olympic peninsula. Port Angeles is also a great place to go on whale watching tours and excursions. For a unique international day trip, consider taking the ferry across the border to Victoria in British Columbia. 

Even though it’s an outdoor destination, Port Angeles also has many museums. Art lovers should visit the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center which is located in a historic building. Families love to visit the Feiro Marine Life Center where kids can touch type pool creatures. The city also has many great restaurants, wineries, and boutique stores. The Olympic Game Farm is a great place to see bears, deers, and llamas on a drive through safari.

Stop #13: Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge is the gateway to the mountains in Olympic National Park. It can be easily reached via a 17-mile scenic road from Port Angeles. Located at an altitude of 5242 feet, Hurricane Ridge is accessible year round and is one of the most popular areas to visit inside the park. In some water it is popular for hiking and biking whereas in winter it is famous for snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and snowboarding. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit and see exhibits about the Olympic mountains and their wildlife. 

Stop #14: Dungeness Spit

Inside Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, you will find the Dungeness Spit, which is the longest natural sand spit in the country. The spit is 6.8 miles long and amazing to walk on at low tide. Visitors can walk 11 miles to the very end of this narrow strip of land and explore treasures such as seashells, pebbles, and driftwood. The hike will also take you to the New Dungeness Lighthouse, which is located on the spit. 

But there are many other things to do inside the National Wildlife Refuge besides the Dungeness sand spit. The refuge cup prices of areas of the Dungeness Harbor and Bay as well as the Graveyard Spit. Visitors can hike through lush green forests, spot wildlife and marine life, as well as bird watch for shorebirds and seabirds. The refuge is also fascinating to visit for photographers and beach lovers. 

Stop #15: Sequim

Sequim, located on the top of the Olympic Peninsula, is famous for its lavender fields. In fact, no other country has lavender farms that can rival those of Sequim, except for France. There are several lavender farms in and around the town where visitors can pick their own lavender, purchase lavender products, and have a picnic. The Farms look magnificent during the blooming season and are one of the best places to visit on the West Coast. 

Other popular attractions in Seagram include the Olympic Game Farm where kids can see animals including buffaloes, bears, yaks, llamas, and cougars on a drive-thru safari and Sequim Bay State Park which is great for camping and hiking. The town also has many art galleries, museums, and boutique stores and is perfect to spend a relaxing day. 

Stop #16: Port Townsend

Port Townsend is famous for its quintessential small town charm and Victorian architecture. In the Historic Downtown District, visitors can see impressive and ornate Victorians such as the Jefferson County Courthouse as well as residential mansions. Walking in the downtown area is a fun activity. There are many unique shops and boutique stores such as the Whistle Stop Toys and Abracadabra as well as art galleries. As a book lover, The Writers’ Workshoppe was on the top of my list and it didn’t disappoint. 

Port Townsend also has great museums. The Aero Museum is a cool place for aviation enthusiasts. Art lovers will love the Jefferson Museum of Art and History that is housed inside the historic city hall. Port Townsend also has a rich naval history which you can experience at the Northwest Maritime Center. The waterfront Chetzemoka Park is a great place to take a stroll. 

Families and kids love to visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center located inside Fort Worden State Park. Here you can listen to orcas talking to each other offshore via earphones and touch tide pool creatures in a touch tank. There are many other things to do at the State Park as well including seeing the bunkers and batteries of Fort Walton and walking through its underground tunnels. The point Wilson Lighthouse is also located inside the park and is very photogenic. 

After Port Townsend, you have two options. You can either take Highway 101 south to Olympia or take the road through Bremerton. If you have less time you can even take the ferry from Bainbridge Island or Bremerton to Seattle. We recommend the latter options, as you can avoid going all the way down to Olympia and Tacoma plus enjoy the experience of taking a ferry across the Puget Sound. Cars are allowed on the ferries, making them a perfect option to complete the road trip. 

Stop #17: Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is located on Puget Sound across Seattle. The island can be easily accessed via the Seattle Bainbridge Island Ferry; we recommend taking this ferry back to Seattle. There are many free attractions on the island. The Bainbridge Art Museum is free to visit and represents many Pacific Northwest artists. The History Museum is located in a historic schoolhouse and has great information about the island’s past. The Eagle Harbor Waterfront Trail takes visitors past most of the town’s attractions. Bainbridge Island also has many great restaurants and cafes located near the ferry terminal and is a great place to stop on your way back to Seattle. 

Stop #18: Bremerton

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula in Puget Sound, Bremerton is an excellent destination to conclude your Olympic Peninsula road trip. The city is most famous for being home to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and naval museums. Maritime and navy enthusiasts should visit the USS Turner Joy Ship Museum and the Puget Sound Navy Museum. Architecture lovers should see the striking Manette Bridge which connects Bremerton and Manette. The city also has a puppet museum which is fun to visit for kids.

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 24 Awesome Stops on Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

The Pacific Coast Highway 101 takes a beautiful turn in Washington around the Olympic Peninsula. However, there are many other attractions in Washington State that you can easily combine with an Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip.

This trip planner is a must-read for those planning a Washington State road trip and looking for the perfect Washington State road trip itinerary. Here you will find information on must-visit attractions including Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula, Mt. Rainier, and North Cascades.

Related: Best Things to do in Washington State, USA

Whether you are planning a Tacoma or Seattle road trip or want to skip the cities and instead go on a Washington Coast Road Trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, we have got your covered. You can use our itinerary to plan the best road trip in Washington State. 

In this itinerary, we recommend spending anywhere from 7 to 10 days to see the highlights at a leisurely pace. We suggest beginning this one-week road trip from Seattle because it is easy to fly in and has excellent connectivity.

Then explore the state’s natural beauty! Visit Cascades National Park and Ross Lake before making your way to Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula to complete an epic Washington State National Parks itinerary. 

We have also given suggestions to have a short 4 day WA road trip or ways to plan a flexible, longer two week WA road trip itinerary that explores the petrified forest trails of eastern Washington. 

If you want to explore Highway 101 Washington State attractions and head further south along the Beaver State coast, then we even have suggestions to convert this into a terrific Oregon Washington PNW Road Trip Itinerary! 

And with that, let’s get to planning your best Pacific Northwest road trip ever. We hope you like our WA road trip planner! 

Ultimate Washington State Road Trip Itinerary

Washington is one of the most unique states in the country! It has a magical rainforest and trees so big that they tower above all others. It has Seattle, a trendy bohemian city, and Tacoma, a paradise for art lovers! 

Washington has summer wildflowers, deep blue glacier lakes, snow-clad mountain ranges, and stunning hiking trails. It also has a desert and petrified trees in its eastern part! 

Washington, honestly, is one of the best states to visit. You can’t road trip WA without getting overwhelmed and excited at the beauty that surrounds you at every place. No wonder, it’s nicknamed the ‘Evergreen State’! 

Seattle

Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is one of the most charming cities in the country. It is a tech and culture capital. The city is also famous for its coffee houses and everyone’s favorite Starbucks started right here! The city enjoys an amazing location on Puget Sound and water activities abound in the city. 

Related Post: Best Things to do in Seattle

Optional: Bellingham

After seeing Seattle, drive northwards along the coastline to Bellingham. This coastal city is closer to the Canadian border than to any other major US city. Located in the shadow of Mt. Baker, Bellingham is an important port for Alaska cruises. The city is charming and has plenty of outdoor excursions for enthusiasts. 

North Cascades National Park

From Bellingham, take the road to North Cascades National Park. The distance is merely an hour and a half. North Cascades has stunning alpine scenery and abundant wildlife. Here you will find frozen glaciers, volcanic peaks, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and stunning views. On the summer, you will find berry laden and flower filled meadows. Take a scenic drive or two or go hiking and camping in the park to explore its delights. 

Optional: Ross Lake National Recreation Area

A part of the Cascades, Ross Lake National Recreation Area is definitely worth the visit if you have time. This glacier fed lake is extremely picturesque. To get the most iconic view of this turquoise lake surrounded by the mountain ranges, stop by the overlooks on Highway 20. Rent a boat to get on the lake or stay in a cabin by its shores to enjoy this spectacular landscape. 

Optional: Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Also a part of the North Cascades National Park units, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is also great to stop. This is one of the most remote areas in the country and has no accessible roads! That’s right, you need to take a ferry from the town of Chelan to access the area and its attractions. But the untouched nature here is the reward for your efforts! 

Leavenworth

We definitely recommend adding the Bavarian alpine town of Leavenworth on your Washington State bucket list. Located in the Cascade mountains, Leavenworth has intriguing history. Take a stroll along the pretty chalet architecture and indulge in Bavarian delicacies. If you happen to plan a winter time Washington State road trip, then you will find Leavenworth even prettier, sporting stunning holiday decor. 

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

Forget the snowy mountains and the foggy coast. Step foot into eastern Washington’s arid desert. Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park and the adjacent Wanapum Recreation Area are unique geological attractions. Here you can see many species of petrified wood and Native American petroglyphs. The on site museum explains the unique history of the park. 

From the state park, start driving west towards the famous Mt Rainier National Park. 

Mt Rainier National Park

Mt. Rainier provides the fascinating backdrop to the Seattle skyline. This iconic peak and its surrounded meadows are preserved as a part of Mt. Rainier National Park. The park has enchanting scenery and the wildflowers that bloom here during the summer are simply incredible. You really cannot complete a Washington State road trip without visiting the famous Mt Rainier. 

Mt St. Helens National Volcanic Monument 

The volcanic peaks of Mt St Helens offers a special attraction to those who love geology. The Johnston Ridge Observation located very near the crater rim offer splendid views of the volcanic blast area. The views from Johnston Ridge are simply fantastic. 

After seeing Mt St. Helens Volcanic Monument, make your way to the Olympic Peninsula. We have also covered all the attractions here in a separate Olympic Peninsula Highway 101 Loop Trip post, we suggest reading that post before you plan your Washington road trip. Here are some of the must-sees in the Olympic peninsula. 

Hoh Rainforest

Hoh Rainforest, located in Olympic National Park, is a magical and enchanting place. It is one of the largest rainforests in the country and frequently receives over 150 inches of annual rainfall. The trees here grow tall and immense and the mosses and lichens that grow over their trunks and branches provide a canopy so thick that sunlight can barely reach the forest floor. 

Rialto Beach

Another must stop on your Washington Coast road trip! Rialto Beach is popular due its striking sea stacks and driftwood that line the beach. The views of the beach on a foggy day or at sunrise or sunset are just spectacular. This is one of the most Instagram famous destinations along the Washington Coast. 

Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of mainland USA. Located on the Makah reservation, Cape Flattery viewpoint is an absolutely beautiful place that can be reached by a short mile long trail. From here, you have stunning views of the carved out coastal bluffs, trees that grow right up to the ocean, and marine life. 

Lake Crescent

Located inside Olympic National Park, Lake Crescent is one of the deepest lakes in the country. The lake is located right along Highway 101. The lake waters almost always appear calm and placid, making the lake appear like a glistening mirror, broken by the occasional boat on its surface. Visitors can rent a canoe or a kayak and enjoy the splendid views from the surface. 

Olympic Hot Springs

Another must stop on the Olympic Peninsula are Olympic Hot Springs. Drive along the Olympic Hot Springs Road till you reach the trailhead. A moderate 4.8 miles round-trip hike leads visitors to the hot springs. To enjoy the hot springs without hiking, stay at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and enjoy the lukewarm water in the comfort of a pool. 

Hurricane Ridge

Olympic National Park is unique and diverse. It encompasses everything from the coastal bluffs to the icy mountain ranges. To experience the towering peaks on the Olympic Peninsula, visit Hurricane Ridge. Here you can ski and snowboard in the winter and go hiking in the summer. 

Port Angeles & Port Townsend

Port Angeles and Port Townsend, both, make excellent places to stay while visiting the Olympic Peninsula. Port Angeles is big and bustling while Port Townsend is a small Victorian community with quaint buildings and architecture. Here’s a little information about both destinations, we recommend spending some time in both to enjoy their vibes. 

Port Angeles makes a great vacation destination with it’s proximity to the national park and other outdoor attractions as well as a variety of indoor attractions. Visit the art galleries, Feiro Marine Life Center, Olympic Coast Discovery Center, and more in the city. You can also tour nearby wineries and go wine tasting.  

Sequim, which is located close to Port Angeles, as well as the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge are also worth visiting while in the area. From here you can have excellent views of the San Juan Islands. Sequim is famous for its lavender farms. 

After visiting the park and Port Angeles, visit Port Townsend. This charming town enjoys a strategic location on the Puget Sound. It is most famous for the Victorian houses that can be found throughout the town. Check them out as well as the well maintained gardens, stroll through downtown, and spend time at the marina.  From here, you can also go on whale watching tours. 

After seeing the Olympic peninsula, head back to Seattle. You can either take the ferry back from Port Townsend or continue along Highway 101 to Olympia and Tacoma before reaching Seattle. 

Optional: Olympia

Olympia is the state capital of Washington. It is located on the southern end of Puget Sound in the shadows of Mount Rainier. Olympia’s main attraction is the Washington State Capitol building. You can tour the grounds as well as the interior and admire this beautiful structure. Also check out the farmers market and the Olympia waterfront area. 

Optional: Tacoma

Tacoma is one of the most culturally buzzing destinations in the state. It’s museums are equal to those of Seattle. Tacoma is also the state’s largest port city and was once the western terminal of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Visit the famous Tacoma Glass Museum and admire the unique glass artwork. Visit Fort Nisqually and learn about Lewis and Clark at the Washington State History Museum. Tacoma also has many restaurants and cafes and a diverse dining scene. 

If you have more time, you can also make a day trip to Snoqualmie Falls from Seattle. 

Optional: Snoqualmie Falls

While Snoqualmie Falls need you to make a detour from this Washington Road Trip, they are certainly worth a visit. Located just half an hour away from Seattle, they make an excellent outdoor destination. The 268 foot waterfalls are beautiful to look at. You can hike to the Upper Falls Viewpoint or have a picnic in view of the lower falls. The falls are very scenic and make a great addition to your Washington itinerary. 

Optional: Drive south to Portland

If you want to go on just a western Washington road trip, then you can see Seattle, Tacoma, Olympic Peninsula, and then drive south along Pacific Coast Highway 101 to the Oregon Coast. 

Oregon Coast is even more dramatic and wild than the Washington Coast. In northern Oregon you have sea stacks, in the Central Oregon Coast, you have towering sand dunes, while in southern Oregon, you have the giant redwood trees. 

See the highlights of the coast, then make your way to the unique city of Portland. Read the below articles to plan the Oregon part of your road trip:

Best Places to visit in Oregon
Oregon Road Trip Itinerary
Essential Stops along Oregon Coast Road Trip
Best Things to do in Portland

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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