by Jennifer Fontaine – An epic summer Pacific Coast Highway road trip is as American as warm apple pie ala mode, but the intricacies of planning accommodations and outdoor activities along the famous Route 1 one can prove a bit more challenging than simply following grandma’s recipe. Complex itineraries, careful budgeting, and a thousand hours of in-car entertainment can take months to plan, so we teamed up with Expedia.com to give your family a jump start.
Snaking its way up more than 655 miles of breathtaking California coastline, the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Route 1, is a once in a lifetime family road trip which should top anyone’s bucket list. So, our editorial team got down to business, compiling our favorite family-friendly outdoor activities, eateries, and lodgings to help you plan your own epic Pacific Coast Highway road trip.
Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary
We begin our Pacific Coast Highway road trip in the Southern California village of Carlsbad, and wind our way up the magnificent coast, stopping at Oceanside, Dana Point, Newport Beach, Santa Monica, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Big Sur, Monterey, San Francisco, Jenner, and ending up in the small Mendocino County town of Leggett. Caution: We make frequent stops on the famous Route 1, to take in the view, smell the roses, and snap pics to last a lifetime.
Route 1 – Stop #1 – Carlsbad
Known as the “Village by the Sea”, Carlsbad offers 7 miles of pristine Pacific beaches right on the Pacific Coast Highway, a year-round summer climate, and nearly 50 miles of well-kept hiking and biking trails.
Outdoor Activities
Kayak with the kids at Carlsbad Lagoon.
Family Eats
Let Beach Plum Kitchen’s fair-trade certified coffee wake up your palate.
Where to Stay
Sleep in comfort right on Route 1, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #2 – Oceanside
Oceanside offers a perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip stop with its powder-white sandy beaches, lined with quaint, family friendly spots for refueling, and an infectious beachy attitude.
Outdoor Activities
Rent a boat from Oceanside Harbor Boat Rental of America.
Family Eats
Eat your weight in seafood at Hello Betty Restaurant.
Where to Stay
Fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves at SpringHill Suites Oceanside.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #3 – Dana Point
Breathtaking beauty, dramatic cliffs, and outdoor adventure abounds in the unique seaside town of Dana Point.
Outdoor Activities
Just steps away from the Pacific Coast Highway, experience hands-on marine science, environmental education and maritime history programs at the Ocean Institute.
Family Eats
Dine harbor-side at Wind and Sea Restaurant.
Where to Stay
Kick back with sophistication at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #4 -Newport Beach
Beyond the sun and surf of famous Newport Beach, you’ll discover harbor-front promenades and a charming community of inviting locals.
Outdoor Activities
Commune with nature at the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve.
Family Eats
Gorge on coconut-macadamia pancakes at The Beachcomber.
Where to Stay
Enjoy free breakfast overlooking the Pacific Coast Highway and the stunning waves at Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #5 – Santa Monica
With eight distinct neighborhoods, Santa Monica is a smorgasbord of culture and outdoor fun, including its iconic Southern California beach and pier, situated right on Route 1.
Outdoor Activities
Ride the world’s only solar powered ferris wheel at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier.
Family Eats
Catch some live music and chow down on family-friendly fare at Rusty’s Surf Ranch.
Where to Stay
Savor apartment-like living at Cal Mar Hotel Suites with a bird’s eye view of the Pacific Coast Highway and the roaring ocean.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #6 – Malibu
It’s easy to get sidetracked by star-gazing in Malibu, but make sure to also explore its bountiful outdoor spaces, including the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, the largest urban national park in the country.
Outdoor Activities
Explore the tide pools and caves at Leo Carrillo State Park.
Family Eats
Make a stop at the Trancas Country Market to rent a surf board at Drill’s and catch some waves, come back and recharge with a nosh from Kristy’s Village Cafe or Vintage Grocers, and shop one-of-a-kind local retailers for that perfect summer outfit. Before heading back on the road, grab snacks to-go and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth at SweetBu, Malibu’s only candy shop.
Where to Stay
Camp beach-side at Leo Carillo State Park.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #7 – Santa Barbara
Aptly named the American Riviera, Santa Barbara’s stunning Spanish colonial architecture and quaint downtown are a must-see on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.
Outdoor Activities
Let Sunset Kidd put the wind in your sails with an exciting whale watching cruise.
Family Eats
Cool down with a scoop (or three) of Mc’Connell’s Fine Ice Cream.
Where to Stay
Glamp to your heart’s content at El Capitan Canyon, just steps off the Pacific Coast Highway.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #8 – Pismo Beach
Located right on the Pacific Coast Highway, Pismo Beach is a classic California Central Coast beach town for anyone who wants a laid back location to relax and escape.
Outdoor Activities
Watch the Monarchs take flight at the Monarch Butterfly Grove.
Family Eats
Devour traditional clam chowder at Brad’s Restaurant.
Where to Stay
Snooze steps from the sand at the Sandcastle Inn.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #9 – Cambria
Cambria is the point where the views from the Pacific Coast Highway become transcendent, so it’s no surprised that this small town by the sea was named One of the Most Beautiful Cities in America by Forbes Magazine.
Outdoor Activities
Observe the raucous elephant seals of Route 1 up close and personal at the The Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery.
Family Eats
Indulge in a slice (or two) of sweet or savory pie at Linn’s Easy as Pie Cafe.
Where to Stay
Watch the sun set over the Pacific from your Sand Pebbles Inn balcony.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #10 – Big Sur
Big Sur is a sparsely populated city of the California Central Coast region known for its idyllic coastline, sublime campgrounds, and lush state parks.
Outdoor Activities
Choose from a variety of family-friendly hikes at Limekiln State Park.
Family Eats
Feast on true home-style cooking at Lucia Lodge, a 5th generation-family owned restaurant overlooking the majestic Pacific.
Where to Stay
Camp under a canopy of redwoods or on a private beach directly under a Pacific Coast Highway bridge at Limekiln State Park.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #11 – Monterey
Monterey is a bustling city situated on a picture-perfect bay, boasting ample opportunities for families to get active, enjoy a festival, or simply reconnect with the loved ones.
Outdoor Activities
Hike alongside lichen-draped pine trees and rare and endangered Monterey Cypress at Point Lobos State Nature Reserve located right on the Pacific Coast Highway.
Family Eats
At the Grotto Fish Market on Fisherman’s Wharf, you can treat the whole family to fresh-off-the-boat seafood in an unpretentious atmosphere.
Where to Stay
200 yards from Fisherman’s Wharf and near Route 1, Portola Hotel and Spa at Monterey Bay offers refined accommodations and fresh-baked cookies at check in.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #12 – San Francisco
A cornucopia of smells, sights, and sounds, San Francisco is arguably, one of the most unique cities in America and a must-see on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. There is no shortage of outdoor fun here; just hop on a cable car and go.
Outdoor Activities
Take the ferry to Angel Island and hike to the summit of Mount Livermore for a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view.
Family Eats
With floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning panoramic ocean views, The Cliff House is a casual bistro guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Where to Stay
At the chic Argonaut Hotel, near Fisherman’s Wharf, crib’s are free and kids pick out a toy from the treasure chest at check-in.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #13 – Jenner
Located on the Pacific Coast Highway, near the mouth of the Russian River, Jenner is home to only 136 year-round residents. This portion of the Sonoma County coast is wild and rugged, and full of striking family road trip stops.
Outdoor Activities
Explore the rocky Sonoman coastline and fern-lined canyons of the Stillwater Cove Regional Park hiking trails.
Family Eats
Known for its delectable coffee and views of the Russian River, Cafe Aquatica is perfect for kids and adults alike.
Where to Stay
Camp next to giant coastal Cedars at the Stillwater Cove Regional Park on Route 1.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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Route 1 – Stop #14 – Leggett
Leggett is home to some of the largest trees in the world, the grandiose California Redwoods, and our last stop on this epic Pacific Coast Highway road trip.
Outdoor Activities
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is the southern gateway to the world-famous “tall trees country” and home to the Big Tree Trail, which leads to the park’s tallest redwood, the Captain Miles Standish Tree.
Family Eats
If you’ve always had a hankering to enjoy an authentic New Orleans po’boy with kombucha on tap, then Big Chief Restaurant is the spot.
Where to Stay
The Benbow Historic Inn has sat on the dramatic Eel River since the 1920s and kids stay free.
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Oceanside | Dana Point | Newport Beach | Santa Monica | Malibu | Santa Barbara | Pismo Beach | Cambria | Big Sur | Monterey | San Francisco | Jenner | Leggett
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6 Tips For A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
1. Know the Road. Download the California Department of Transportation’s Quickmap App for real-time information on Pacific Coast Highway traffic, lane closures, and more. You can also receive real time updates of current State Route 1 conditions via the CALTRANS website. Before driving, check with the Caltrans Highway Information Network (CHIN) (800) 427-7623.
2. Spare Check. Before hitting Route 1, inspect your spare to ensure it’s in good working condition.
3. Car Care. Be sure to schedule a maintenance check up before beginning your Pacific Coast Highway road trip.
4. Safety First. Pack an emergency car kit, flashlight, and a first aid kit, because it’s always better to be safe, than sorry.
5. Games Galore. Get creative and don’t skimp on the amount of in-car entertainment. You will thank us.
6. Go with the Flow. Planning is important, but make sure to leave wiggle room for Route 1 discovery detours.
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Jennifer Fontaine is the founder of Outdoor Families Magazine, publisher of MommyHiker.com, a blog to encourage outdoor activities with children, and an activist filmmaker inspiring dynamic change in the world. She lives in Southern California with her family.
melindacrow says
Thanks for the comprehensive guide! I have only done a small portion of the PCH, but hope to explore more of it soon!
Shelly Rivoli says
Great guide! We’ve done some sections but still have “blanks” to fill in. This is helpful.
Ann says
So many great tips. I’ve only done a small portion of the PCH, but this definitely makes me want to go back to California to try others. I especially love the colors in that hotel you posted a photo of! Unexpected.
Leslie Carvitto says
Big Sur would have to be my favorite spot on Highway 1! I grew up about 45 minutes north east of the area and remember a lot of road trips with my family to visit the parks and eat at Nepenthes. Did you happen to stop there on your way up? It’s a beautiful restaurant situated up on the cliffs.
Jennifer Fontaine says
We’ve had so many trips up HWY 1 where Big Sur was the destination, I can’t even count 🙂 It’s probably our most favorite place on the California coast!
Views From an Urban Lake says
This looks like a really comprehensive list of stops, must be a great journey
Tatiana Sorokina says
I love CA-1, our family have driven it multiple times and we always discover something new. The beauty of California is that wherever you go, not just CA-1, there are amazing travel opportunities. I have started my collection of family road trip itineraries focusing on California a while ago but just recently started making them public. I hope they will be useful to other families.
Sharon pollock says
Did the PCH last year drove from Seattle down to san Diego stopping in the reswoods, san Francisco and Santa Monica and san diego. Was truly an amazing trip and so amazingly
beautiful.. But coming from florida the moutain driving and cliffs were a bit nerve racking. For us flatlanders.