An absolute must-do American road trip, a California coast road trip is an exhilarating journey full of scenic beauty. Lined with rugged cliffs, gorgeous beaches, and breathtaking forests, each mile of this drive is more amazing than the last.

But, with countless beaches, state parks, and seaside towns to explore, planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip can be challenging. To help you prepare for the journey, we’ve compiled the best sights, activities, campgrounds, and eats along California’s coast. From San Francisco to Los Angeles, this Pacific Coast Highway road trip is filled with mile after mile of adventure!

Best Route From San Francisco to Los Angeles

From San Francisco, you can reach Los Angeles in a little over 5 hours via Interstate 5. While this route is direct and fast, it skips most of California’s most incredible destinations. Therefore, we highly recommend following the PCH (California State Route 1) and turning your drive into a California coast road trip. 

Following our six-day itinerary, you will take the PCH route. After picking up your camper van in the Bay Area, you’ll head west to Santa Cruz to start exploring California’s beaches. Next, you’ll head south to Monterey to check out a few of California’s seaside state parks. The following day, you’ll visit the breathtaking region of Big Sur. After that, you’ll explore the beachy towns of San Luis Obispo and Ventura. Finally, you’ll head to Los Angeles to drop your camper van off.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Travel Time

This California coast road trip is a point-to-point journey that begins at the San Francisco Escape Camper Vans hub and ends at the Los Angeles Escape Camper Vans hub. From start to finish, this drive is approximately 472 miles and takes about 8 hours and 36 minutes.

We recommend using this itinerary for a six-day Pacific Coast Highway road trip. However, you can also shorten this trip by visiting multiple cities in a day or by skipping stops. 

Best Time of Year for a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

The PCH is accessible year-round, making a California coast road trip an excellent choice at any time of year. That being said, each season has unique advantages. Here are some seasonal considerations to think about before booking your California coast road trip.

Spring: In early spring, the California coast experiences a fair share of fog. However, in late spring, the sky usually clears up, the weather gets warmer, and wildflowers begin blooming. For these reasons, late spring is an ideal time to complete this road trip.

Summer: Summer is the warmest and driest season along the California coast, so you won’t need to worry about fog or rain at this time. Since the weather is so beautiful, summer tends to be the busiest time to visit the California coast. This means that you’ll probably experience crowds at popular destinations, and campgrounds will book up in advance. 

Fall: Crowds begin to diminish in the fall, which makes this a peaceful time to visit California’s coast. The weather typically remains pleasantly mild through late fall. Additionally, autumn marks the beginning of the whale migration season, so you might get to experience these incredible creatures swimming south if you visit at this time.

Winter: December to February are the coldest and wettest months in California. During this time, there’s often a lot of fog, especially in the northern cities along this route. This can cause poor driving visibility and can obstruct ocean views. However, winter is the quietest time to visit the California coast, so you won’t have to worry too much about crowds or campsite reservations.

Preparation for a California Coast Road Trip

California’s coast is brimming with things to see and do. Therefore, to make the most of your time on this road trip, it’s best to do a little bit of planning beforehand. Follow our helpful tips on packing essentials, campsite reservations, and navigation, and you’ll be more than prepared for a smooth, stress-free ride!

Gear

Layers: Despite California’s weather being pretty mild year-round, mornings and evenings still get chilly at times. Even if you visit during summer, it’s a good idea to bring a hoodie and some layers so you can be prepared for any temperature.

Seasonal Gear: Traveling the coast in the summer? Don’t forget your swimsuit! Visiting during winter or early spring? Make sure to throw a raincoat into your backpack. 

Sunscreen: California is known for its sunny weather, which also means that its UV index is pretty high. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid spending your trip sunburnt. 

Food & Water: There are delicious food options all along the PCH, but eating out for every meal in California can quickly add up. Save money and make the most of your camper van’s convenient kitchenette by stocking up on groceries at the start of your trip. 

State Park Entrance Passes: This itinerary includes several stops at state parks and beaches, so it’s important to note that most of these areas charge entrance fees. Most parks and beaches charge about $10 per vehicle for day use. 

For more information about each park’s fees, check out this list. Furthermore, if you frequently visit California’s state parks, we recommend investing in a California State Parks Pass. 

Campsites

Most of California’s coastal campgrounds are open year-round. That being said, popular campgrounds often require reservations, especially during the peak summer season. Before beginning your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, we recommend that you check out your campground options and book campsites in advance if required.

In a camper van, you can also experience the freedom of dispersed camping, or camping for free on federal and BLM land. Download these apps to discover dispersed camping areas for your California coast road trip.

Navigation

Phones & Chargers: Your cell phone’s GPS is one of the most important road trip navigation tools, so make sure to keep your phone charged. When your camper van is running, you can use a car charger, but when the vehicle is off, you’ll need to use a portable charger.

Maps: Within coastal towns and on the PCH, cell phone coverage is usually decent. However, within state parks, reception can be spotty. To avoid any navigation issues, it’s always a good idea to bring a printed map. Additionally, you can download the Google Maps route before your trip to view it offline. 

Escape Camper Vans Rental

From the San Francisco Escape Camper Vans location, all five of our camper van models are available for rental. Based on your group size and travel needs, you can select the best adventure vehicle for your California coast road trip. 

The Mavericks, Mesa, and Del Mar models are our biggest camper vans. They each include a queen-sized bed, a kitchenette, and solar panels, and they sleep up to five people with an optional rooftop sleeper. The Santa Cruz van and the Jeep Camper are ideal for solo travelers and couples since they are more compact and can only sleep up to two people.

Picking the right camper van is an important part of road trip planning, so take some time to compare each vehicle before booking your trip!

California Coast Road Trip Stops

The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles is dotted with incredible beach towns and awe-inspiring state parks. Our itinerary covers several can’t-miss destinations, but you should also give yourself plenty of time for spontaneous stops. 

Don’t forget to roll down your windows and enjoy the ride as well because driving along the PCH is a beautiful journey in and of itself. Without further ado, here’s your six-day San Francisco to Los Angeles Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary! 

Day 1: Santa Cruz

On the first day of your California coast road trip, pack up your camper van and make your way to the coastal town of Santa Cruz! Known for its vibrant surf culture and iconic boardwalk, this laid-back city is surrounded by natural beauty. 

From the Bay Area, drive approximately 38 miles (about 46 minutes) to Santa Cruz.

Sights and Activities in Santa Cruz

Stroll Around the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf: No visit to Santa Cruz is complete without a stop at its historic seaside amusement park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Full of rides, games, and interesting exhibits, the boardwalk is a family-friendly attraction everyone will enjoy. After checking out the boardwalk, take a short walk to the United State’s longest pier, the Santa Cruz Wharf, to shop, watch the barking sea lions, and indulge in fresh seafood.

Watch the Sunset at Natural Bridges State Beach: Earning its name because of its iconic rock arch that resembles a bridge, Natural Bridges State Beach is a beautiful spot to check out in Santa Cruz, especially at sunset. After spending some time in the sand, follow the short trail to the beach overlook to see the area from a new perspective. In the fall and early winter, this is also a great place to see migrating whales. 

Marvel at Nature in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is home to ancient coast redwood trees, which are some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth. Along with marveling at these gigantic trees, visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities here, including hiking and picnicking. 

Campgrounds in Santa Cruz

Henry Cowell Redwoods Graham Hill Campground: After visiting Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, you can conveniently stay at one of the park’s 107 campsites. Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance, and reservations are highly recommended between Memorial Day to Labor Day. Based on bookings, first-come, first-served campsites might be available at times.

New Brighton State Beach Campground: For a campsite with a view, check out New Brighton State Beach Campground. Situated on a forested bluff, the 100+ campgrounds here are some of the most beautiful beachfront spots in the state. This campground is open year-round. Campsite reservations can be made online six months in advance or by calling 800-444-7275.

Where to Eat in Santa Cruz

Mad Yolks: Start your day off right with a nourishing brunch at Mad Yolks! Famous for their overflowing egg sandwiches on brioche buns, Mad Yolks serves up fresh and flavorful breakfast items and refreshing lattes. Located in the heart of Santa Cruz, this cozy cafe is the perfect place to fuel up at.

Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe: Another hot breakfast spot in Santa Cruz, Linda’s Seabreeze Cafe is a local favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality food. While all of its omelets and breakfast plates are delicious, the homemade cinnamon rolls are the real MVP here. Linda’s is also open for lunch, and its lunch menu features a wide selection of sandwiches, burgers, and salads. 

Special Noodle: Special Noodle is a Bay Area staple that’s recently expanded to Santa Cruz. It features a huge menu of Chinese dishes, including handmade dumplings, noodles, and soups. For fresh food that arrives quickly and friendly service, visit Special Noodle. 

Day 2: Monterey

The second day of your Pacific Coast Highway road trip will take you to the vibrant town of Monterey. This oceanside town offers a blend of stunning scenery, rich history, and outdoor recreational activities. 

From Santa Cruz, drive approximately 42 miles (about 48 minutes) to get to Monterey.

Tip: If time allows, check out the nearby city of Carmel-By-The-Sea. This adorable town is often referred to as a fairytale village because of its charming architecture that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. It’s also a top-rated wine destination, so stop by one of its 18 tasting rooms.

Sights and Activities in Monterey

Enjoy the Views Along 17-Mile Drive: A complete tour of the Monterey Peninsula, 17-Mile Drive is a scenic roadway that passes some of Monterey’s top sights. While exploring areas like Pebble Beach and Spanish Grove, you’ll be awestruck by Monterey’s rocky coastline and gorgeous homes. Please note that this is a privately managed roadway, so there is a fee to access this road in a vehicle. However, it’s free to bike and walk here.

Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Located just south of Monterey, Point Lobos is a true paradise for nature lovers. With dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and tide pools throughout the park, opportunities for exploration are endless here. Some of the most popular activities at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve include hiking, scuba diving, and bird watching. 

Explore Fort Ord Dunes State Park: Home to miles of expansive sandy beaches and rolling hills, Fort Ord Dunes State Park is truly mesmerizing. In the summer, its shoreline is great for sunbathing, kite flying, and wildlife viewing. The park also has four miles of hiking and bicycling roads, so you can enjoy a range of outdoor activities here. 

Campgrounds in Monterey

Veterans Memorial Park Campground: Veterans Memorial Park Campground offers first-come, first-served campsites that are conveniently located just a mile away from downtown Monterey. This campground is open year-round and is situated in a park with hiking trails and picnic areas. Campsites start at $47 per night.

Laguna Seca Recreation Area: Also located minutes away from downtown Monterey, the Laguna Seca Recreation Area is another excellent camping option. Perched upon a hilltop, this campground is near the popular WeatherTech Raceway, a road racing track that hosts auto and motorcycle races. That being said, this campground is busy during events but is otherwise peaceful. Reservations are highly recommended, but walk-in reservations are also accepted until 5 pm daily. Tent sites start at $54 per night. 

Where to Eat in Monterey

Monterey’s Fish House: For incredibly fresh seafood, cooked-to-perfection steaks, and homemade pasta, visit Monterey’s Fish House. Although it might not look like much from the outside, the food inside this cozy seafood joint will surely amaze you. The food here is so delicious that it was even featured on an episode of Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Try it for yourself, and prepare to be wowed.

The Butter House: Whether you’re hoping to order a classic breakfast meal or a brunch dish with a twist, the Butter House has got you covered. Featuring American favorites with Filipino flare, this brunch spot packs flavor into every dish. The Butter House attracts quite a crowd on weekends, so we recommend that you make a reservation in advance! 

Alvarado Street Brewing: Unlike at some brewpubs, you don’t have to sacrifice delicious food for good beer at Alvarado Street Brewing. With a huge menu of locally brewed ales and tasty bar bites, it can be difficult to decide what to order here. However, the servers are incredibly helpful in providing recommendations. 

Day 3: Big Sur

No California coast road trip is complete without a stop at Big Sur! Known for its dramatic cliffs, gorgeous ocean vistas, and lush redwood forests, Big Sur will undoubtedly leave you awestruck. 

To enjoy a full day of exploring Big Sur’s rugged natural beauty, we recommend that you get an early start and resume your drive down the PCH right away. From Monterey, drive approximately 30 miles (about 49 minutes) to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Sights and Activities in Big Sur

Check Out the Bixby Creek Bridge: Heading to Big Sur from San Francisco, this is one of the first Big Sur landmarks that you’ll see. Pull off at the Bixby Bridge Vista Point to snap some photos of this iconic structure and its breathtaking surroundings. 

Beachcomb at Sand Dollar Beach: One of Big Sur’s most beloved beaches, Sand Dollar Beach is home to majestic sand dollars. If you visit this beach during low tide in the winter, you can stroll along the pretty shoreline and look for sand dollars. During the other seasons, it can be harder to find sand dollars here, but there’s still plenty to do! Many people visit this clean beach to surf, swim, and relax. 

Hike the Overlook Trail to McWay Falls: A short 0.5-mile roundtrip hike, the Overlook Trail is a popular trail located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park that leads to one of Big Sur’s most iconic waterfalls. McWay Falls is a stunning waterfall that empties directly into the ocean. While McWay Falls is striking at all times, it’s especially pretty during sunset, so try to time your hike here accordingly. 

To learn about more sights and activities around Big Sur, check out this article. 

Campgrounds in Big Sur

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground: This campground is one of Big Sur’s biggest campgrounds, and it’s also one of the most popular. Its 189 tent and RV sites are located along the serene Big Sur River. Even in the winter, these campsites book up months in advance, so make sure to reserve a spot here early. Reservations can be made online or by calling 800-444-7275. Campsites start at $50 per night. 

Kirk Creek Campground: Located within Los Padres National Forest, Kirk Creek Campground is truly an oceanside paradise. With dozens of campsites overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this campground provides unbeatable views of Big Sur’s coastline. Kirk Creek Campground is open year-round and accepts reservations up to six months in advance. Campsites start at $45 per night. 

Plaskett Creek Campground: Also situated within Los Padres National Forest, Plaskett Creek Campground is located just minutes from the aforementioned Sand Dollar Beach. It provides convenient access to many other outdoor activities nearby as well. Plaskett Creek Campground is open year-round and features 43 non-electric campsites. Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance. Campsites start at $45 per night. 

Where to Eat in Big Sur

The Nepenthe Restaurant: Perched above Big Sur, the Nepenthe Restaurant’s food is just about as memorable as its view. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and it serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and entrees. However, its signature ambrosia burger is the most raved-about menu item by a long shot. Whether you come for this unique burger or the view, you won’t be disappointed by the Nepenthe Restaurant. 

Ripplewood Cafe: A cozy roadside spot, the Ripplewood Cafe serves classic American options and authentic Mexican dishes for breakfast and lunch. This cafe’s wide menu features a variety of delicious comfort foods, such as eggs benedict and huevos rancheros. Plus, the Ripplewood Cafe has a lovely garden patio, which makes it the perfect place to enjoy brunch on a sunny day. 

Day 4: San Luis Obispo

Watch the sunrise over Big Sur and enjoy a camper van breakfast with a view before packing up your gear and heading to San Luis Obispo (SLO). In SLO, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s beaches and vineyards.  

The drive from Big Sur to SLO is approximately 171 miles (about 2 hours and 57 minutes). Depending on PCH road closures, you might have to head inland and drive on U.S. Route 101 during this part of the road trip.

Sights and Activities in San Luis Obispo

Taste Some Local Wines: As a part of California’s Central Coast wine region, SLO has a lot to offer in terms of its wine. With 30 wineries surrounding just five miles of SLO’s coast, there are plenty of options for tasting room visits and wine tours in SLO. Make sure to safely park your camper van first, and then have fun enjoying SLO’s luscious wines. 

Hike the Terrace Hill Trail for Sunset: Embark on the short but steep hike up Terrace Hill for a stunning panoramic view of SLO. This 0.9-mile loop trail features a significant uphill climb, but it’s worth it for the lovely scenery at the top, especially during sunset. 

Visit Avila Beach and Pismo Beach: Located just a few miles from one another, Avila Beach and Pismo Beach are two of SLO’s most stunning stretches of coastline. Each beach has a pier and plenty of options for activities, including surfing, beach volleyball, bike rentals, and more. 

Campgrounds in San Luis Obispo

Pismo State Beach North Beach Campground and Oceano Campground: Pismo State Beach features two campgrounds that are accessible to camper vans. These campgrounds are both just steps away from the ocean. They provide standard amenities including restrooms, fire rings, and picnic tables. These campgrounds require reservations during the peak summer season and on holiday weekends. Reservations can be made online up to six months in advance.

Morro Bay Campground: Situated within Morro Bay State Park, this campground is a great place to enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, surfing, and wildlife exploration. Morro Bay Campground is home to over 140 campsites that are open year-round. Advance reservations are required and can be made online.

Where to Eat in San Luis Obispo

Bear & The Wren: If you’re in search of some seriously good pizza in SLO, look no further. Bear & The Wren crafts wood-fired Neapolitan and Detroit pizzas that are unbelievably delicious. The staff here is very friendly, and it’s clear that they put their hearts into creating unique pizzas, salads, and starters.

Goshi Japanese Restaurant: Goshi Japanese Restaurant takes pride in serving up only the highest quality of sushi, which is apparent from the incredibly fresh taste of all their dishes. Authentic Japanese food is hard to come by in SLO, but this restaurant is an anomaly. Therefore, it’s almost always packed. Luckily, you can make reservations here in advance on the restaurant’s website.

Corazon Cafe: Located right in downtown SLO, the Corazon Cafe is the place to be for fresh tacos and breakfast burritos. This restaurant also has a huge menu of specialty lattes and drinks that pair perfectly with their all-day breakfast and lunch items. The cozy ambiance and welcoming staff here make this restaurant even more lovely. 

Day 5: Ventura

On day five, you’ll hop back onto the PCH and head to another one of our favorite beachside towns in California. In Ventura, you’ll get to experience the town’s laid-back surf culture, vibrant art scene, and incredible proximity to nature. 

From SLO to Ventura, the drive is approximately 122 miles and takes about 2 hours.

Sights and Activities in Ventura

Beach Hop Around Ventura: With more than a dozen beaches to pick from, choosing just one beach to visit in Ventura can be difficult. Instead, spend the day exploring a few of Ventura’s beaches to find your personal favorite. San Buenaventura State Beach, Emma Wood State Beach, and Surfer’s Points are a few of Ventura’s most popular beaches, but there are plenty of hidden gems too!

Hike Around Channel Islands National Park: Channel Islands National Park provides a completely different experience than any of California’s other eight national parks. This national park comprises five of the eight Channel Islands, and it’s just an hour away from Ventura via boat. Anacapa Island is closest to Ventura, and it’s home to several easy, scenic hikes.

Check out Downtown Ventura: Lined with delicious eateries, unique galleries, and antique shops, Ventura’s downtown area is full of charm. Stroll around, check out some of its cute boutiques, and enjoy a nice meal here. Afterward, take the 15-minute walk to the Ventura Pier for stunning views of the ocean and the city.

Campgrounds in Ventura

Emma Wood State Beach North Beach Campground: This lovely state beach is also home to a primitive campground with 90 campsites. This campground only accommodates fully self-contained vehicles, such as camper vans. Its campsites offer direct beach access, so staying here means that you’ll wake up to a view! Reservations are required and may be made up to six months in advance. 

Faria Beach Park Campground: Also located steps away from the Pacific Ocean, Faria Beach Park’s campground is another excellent seaside camping option. This campground is located a little north of Ventura and offers 42 scenic campsites. Non-hookup campsites start at $37 per night.

Where to Eat in Ventura

Lure Fish House: Nestled in the heart of downtown Ventura, Lure Fish House is a Ventura staple that’s known for its outstanding seafood selection. Its menu is filled with almost any seafood dish you could imagine. However, the clam chowder, lobster ravioli, and fish tacos are especially beloved here.

Immigrant Son Caffe: Serving up some seriously tasty dishes, this Italian-inspired restaurant redefines the word cafe. Immigrant Son Caffe has crafted incredibly unique dishes, such as its breakfast lasagna that’s topped with a fried egg and its eggs benedict that’s smothered in roasted tomatoes. Creative and delicious, this brunch spot is worth a visit while exploring downtown Ventura.

On the Alley: For a casual but high-quality meal at any time of day, stop by On the Alley in Ventura Harbor. Its huge menu features everything from breakfast burritos to burgers to seafood dishes. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy the view while chowing down on a delicious meal. Save some room for dessert and try On the Alley’s milkshakes and ice cream too!

Day 6: Los Angeles

Sadly, the time has come to wrap up your California coast road trip and drop off your camper van in LA. But first, make one last stop in Malibu for a quick breakfast.

From Ventura, drive approximately 69 miles (about 1 hour and 14 minutes) to the Los Angeles Escape Camper Vans location. Keep in mind that LA is infamous for its heavy traffic, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to arrive before your designated drop-off time. 

Why Rent a Camper Van for a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip?

If you’re hoping to experience unparalleled freedom and convenience while cruising from San Francisco to Los Angeles, a camper van is the adventure vehicle for you! Compared to a traditional RV, our camper vans are a much better option for a California coast road trip. Here’s why. 

Mobility: The PCH is defined by two things: its gorgeous views and its narrow, winding roads. Since our camper vans are extremely compact, it’s much easier to navigate these roads in a camper van than in an RV. Plus, camper vans make it much easier to stop at scenic pull-offs and park in crowded areas.

Flexible Camping Options: California is such a popular destination, so many of its campgrounds book up months in advance. But, in a camper van, that’s no problem! Since our camper vans are self-contained, you don’t need to worry about finding spots with electrical or sewer hookups. With the flexibility to camp at tent sites and off-the-grid, it’s much easier to secure camping spots in a camper van than in an RV. 

Adventure Ready: Our camper vans are fully equipped with everything you need to embark on the ultimate California coast road trip. By renting one of our adventure-ready vehicles, you’ll be able to focus more on having fun and less on setting up gear and planning stressful logistics. 

Reserve With Escape Camper Vans for Your California Coast Road Trip

It’s time to stop daydreaming about California’s coastline and time to start exploring it! After booking your dream camper van, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying this bucket-list California coast road trip. So, click the link below and start packing your bags. Miles of scenic beauty await!