The cliff-hugging coastal stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway is made up of winding ribbons of road that showcase some of the most incredible West Coast scenes. The 147-mile drive from Carmel to Morro Bay is dubbed the “All-American Road” and it’s undoubtedly the best way to get a taste of California’s breathtaking natural landscapes. From the towering, old redwood trees to the rocky mountains that plunge into the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, the beauty seems limitless. So gather your travel buddies and pack your bags to experience all of these unforgettable stops on Highway 1 in California.
Scroll to the bottom for a map to help you find your way.
1. Glass Beach
While this beach may seem pretty to look at it is actually the remains of decades of dumping anything from cars to discarded glass and appliances. Despite the grim act of Fort Bragg residents chucking unwanted junk over a cliff to the beach below—also known as “The Dumps”—nature has still managed to transform it into this beautiful sight that attracts thousands of tourists every year. In 1967, the North Coast Water Quality Board initiated a major cleanup program and in 2002 the 38-acre Glass Beach property became a part of MacKerricher State Park.
2. Davenport
Shark Fin Cove in Davenport is easily recognizable by its unique fin-shaped rock, making it a standout landmark along Highway 1. Nearby, Davenport Beach is a popular spot for sea glass hunting, thanks to the remnants of blown-glass trimmings from Lundberg Studios that were washed into the sea during a storm decades ago. Visitors should also check out the historic Davenport Jail, a small one-room jailhouse from 1914, the picturesque abandoned Davenport Pier, and the renowned Whale City Bakery, famous for its delicious pastries.
3. Monterey
John Steinbeck’s novels brought this town to life with vivid portraits of cannery workers and roughnecks he had known personally. Beyond the novels, though, you’ll discover an abundance of ocean wildlife both in the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and swimming freely in the Pacific Ocean. If you decide to take the 17-Mile Drive you’ll see seals soaking up California sun on the beach and pelicans hanging out on the cliffs and there’ll be plenty of quaint shops and cafes to stop at along the way. Whale watching, sailing, kayaking, golfing and biking are also worth looking into if you have the time.
4. Big Sur
If entrances are telling, then driving into Big Sur along the Bixby Bridge soaring at 260 feet above the Pacific should give you an idea of the unique sandy beaches, waterfalls, pine forests and floral diversity that lies ahead. This part of California is where the poets, artists, and writers (and glamping lovers), retreat to and it’s easy to see why. Being enveloped in this impressive natural landscape is immediately inspiring and invigorating. You won’t want to miss the purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach—it gets its color from the manganese garnet deposits that are found in the surrounding rocks—or the stunning McWay Falls (a rare tidefall).
5. San Simeon
Take a break from nature and driving and head up to Hearst Castle on The Enchanted Hill. This historical monument built as the private residence for publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, boasts 250,000 acres of lavish rooms, suites, cottages, and grounds to wander through. When you’ve seen enough of the 20th-century mansion, then you can head over to Hearst Ranch Winery or head to the popular Moonstone Beach.
6. Carmel-by-the-Sea
This idyllic coastal town along Highway 1 is known for housing dozens of fairytale-style cottages, some of which are private homes and some of which you can visit yourself. Covering only one square mile, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a delightful haven set among natural scenery. Sit down to an adorable tea service at Tuck Box, set in a nearly century-old building, or enjoy a delicious seafood meal at Flaherty’s.
Written by Ashlyn Davis and Jamie Ferrell