- How long is the Pacific Coast Highway: San Francisco to Los Angeles route?
- This route takes 10 days taking in 7 stops.
- Where does this route start and end?
- The route runs from San Francisco, California to Los Angeles, California in California, United States.
- When is the best time to travel this route?
- The best time to travel this route is April to October, spring and autumn are clearest.
- How active is this route?
- Activity level: Active. Moderately active — expect some walking and light physical activity.
- What transport do I need for this route?
- A car is the primary way to get around on this route.
- What budget do I need for this route?
- Mid-range spending — expect comfortable accommodation and a mix of dining options.
- What type of accommodation suits this route?
- Mixed accommodation works well along this route.
- What is the pace of this trip?
- Balanced — a good mix of sightseeing and downtime.
- What type of trip is this?
- This route is well-suited to: Scenic, Coastal, Nature, Classic road trip.
- Are there any practical tips for this route?
- Pick up the rental car on day two, not day one, to avoid paying for city-centre parking overnight. Fill the tank in San Francisco before heading south. Take Highway 1 via Half Moon Bay rather than the faster Highway 101 to catch the first ocean views of the trip. Stop at Davenport Bluffs for a short clifftop walk en route. Book Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets online at least a week in advance during summer, when it regularly sells out. Combine with a free walk along Cannery Row and a sunset stop at Carmel Beach. No mobile signal in Big Sur: download offline maps and a playlist before leaving Carmel. Fill up on fuel there too; the next station heading south is around Cambria, 65 miles on. Hearst Castle tours sell out weeks ahead in summer; book online and aim for a mid-morning slot. The elephant seal viewpoint is always free and has helpful volunteer docents on weekends. State Street is the main dining strip. The Funk Zone (converted industrial block near the waterfront) has the best wine bars and craft breweries. Stearns Wharf is a short walk from both. Continue on Highway 1 through Malibu for a scenic final leg rather than jumping onto Highway 101. Return the rental car from near Santa Monica or LAX on departure day.
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