I’ve been spending my weekends over there quite recently in an effort to explore closer to home, and am constantly adding other activities and restaurants to my list of things to do in Pacifica.

The area is known for its oceanside bluffs, alcoholic slushies (yas!), perpetual fog, and an underrated surf scene. The hikes in Pacifica provide panoramic coastal views, and there’s endless stretches of golden sand beaches in the area, too.

Kinda like Half Moon Bay, Pacifica is San Francisco’s funky, underrated beach town to the south. Although it’s not as sleepy as HMB. And you’ll find even more surfers over here, believe it or not. 

Not to sound like a total cliche, but Pacifica really is a coastal gem in Northern California. And hardly anyone thinks to visit! Including myself, until recently!

Now, I’m not claiming to be an expert (I just moved to California a few years ago and recently started exploring Pacifica), but I wanted to share all the cool things I’ve found in the area, as well as the easy Pacifica hiking trails I’ve walked if you’re looking to get outside! 

So, get ready for a local’s guide to Pacifica hiking – filled with all the best hikes in Pacifica with the best views!

Where is Pacifica Exactly?

Nope, it’s not in San Francisco! And it’s not in Half Moon Bay either! The charming moderately-sized beach town of Pacifica is located on the coast between the two! Not many people realize this, but it’s actually right on the PCH. It’s a real shame the area isn’t typically included on Highway 1 trips, although it’s one of my favorite spots on the Pacific Coast Highway!

Pacifica makes for a great day trip from San Francisco being only 15 minutes or so down the coast (depending on traffic, of course!). And it honestly feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pacifica’s a relaxed oasis compared to the crowds of SF. If you wanna truly feel away without going too far, head out on some of these hikes in Pacifica – just bring a light jacket!

→ READ NEXT: 30+ Day Trip Ideas from San Francisco (all my favorites!)

How to Get to Pacifica

Since Pacifica is oh so close to San Francisco, you can easily drive down the 1 and voila, you’re there! If you don’t have easy access to a car (which I know is quite the norm in SF), it’ll be an inexpensive Uber/Lyft ride away. 

And thankfully, there are actually a whole bunch of things to do in Pacifica that are within walking distance to each other, so you can get dropped off at one spot and then explore other areas nearby.

If you’re visiting from SF without a car, I recommend getting dropped off at either of these spots:

• Pacifica State Beach: within walking distance to Taco Bell (yes, you need to go to this location), Puerto 27 Restaurant, an easy hike/walk with great views of the beach, as well as Rockaway Beach
• Mori Point (Parking Lot): you can easily spend two hours or so hiking in Pacifica around Mori Point, and then walking along the path to the pier, going as far as Pedro Point Brewing and Mazzetti’s Bakery if you get hungry

When to Visit Pacifica (Weather and Fog Forecasts)

There’s no perfect time to go hiking in Pacifica, but I’d recommend between July and October. This is when the areas typically the warmest and sees the least rain. 

The winter can get pretty chilly and is when the rain comes, so stay away if you’re after pleasant hiking temps and dry weather. 

Like other parts of the Northern California coastline (like Half Moon Bay and Pescadero), the weather is temperamental at best. Half the days are clear and sunny, while the others are covered in dense fog. 

It is what it is. Temps don’t change too drastically (with an average temperature of 58°F for the year), but it’ll obviously feel way warmer in the sun. 

And yes, you can lay out in your bathing suit and get a tan some days (don’t forget the sunscreen even when the fog rolls in).

But don’t expect to go swimming over here- the ocean water is just too cold for that (like most of NorCal, sorry). You WILL see surfers in the water, but they wear pretty thick wetsuits to stay warm. 

If you find yourself with a sunny day in Pacifica, consider yourself lucky. The fog here is real, y’all! The Linda Mar area of Pacifica see’s the most sunshine, but you never really know until you get there. 

We’ve visited year round and have had endless afternoons of fog, while other days there hasn’t been a cloud in the sky. Like I said, temperamental! My advice? Just always keep a light jacket with you and you’ll be good to go!

Another thing you have to understand about the area is that the weather and fog changes pretty drastically pretty quickly. You could be hiking in Pacifica with clear skies, then BAM! The fog starts to roll in and it instantly feels 15-20 degrees colder. Or you could be driving through thick fog and in a mere 5 minutes you’re awarded with sunny skies. 

Regardless of the fog/no-fog situation, there’s usually some sort of breeze. I mean, this is the Northern California coast, it gets windy! It’s typically not too bad and feels more like a natural air-conditioning (something none of us have in our NorCal apartments!). 

What to Bring on the Pacifica Hiking Trails (and other Hiking Essentials)

Since none of these hikes in Pacifica are longer than a few miles, I don’t feel the need to bring tons of hiking gear. Here’s what I do in fact bring along, although most are your typical essentials anyways.

A light jacket: An absolute MUST, even in summer, and yes, even when it feels like it’s 80 degrees out! Because of the crazy unpredictability of the weather here (it’s no joke), I always tie a sweater or light jacket around my waist. 

Water bottle: Although the hikes in Pacifica aren’t too strenuous, there’s not much shade on many of the trails, meaning you’ll probably get extra thirsty extra fast.

Hiking shoes/trail runners: Since some of these hikes in Pacifica are actually paved, don’t worry too much about your footwear. Regular sneakers will be just fine, but I recommend trail runners if you’ve got ‘em (especially for patches of loose sand/rocks/gravel).

I’ve actually worn sport sandals on Devil’s Slide, but this probably wasn’t the best idea as my ankles and feet hurt afterwards (zero ankle support obviously).

Snacks: I always throw in an energy bar, some almonds, plantain chips (low salted), and/or dried fruit (I’m obsessed with the “just dried mango” from Trader Joes).

A Note on Cell Service

Cell service is pretty good on most of the Pacifica hiking trails, so I typically use my phone if for some reason we’re looking for a specific path. It’s kinda hard to get lost, I promise. And just FYI- I have T-Mobile, so this may not apply to you. 

I haven’t seen any paper maps or guides at the beginning of the trails, so just keep that in mind if you usually rely on those. 

Areas in particular that I’ve had little or no service were at Devil’s Slide and Sweeney Ridge. If you’re meeting up with friends make sure to communicate with them in advance. 

Walks and Hikes in Pacifica

Besides the beaches, hiking in Pacifica is one of the most popular things to do here. Or are the Pacifica trails more popular than the beach? Okay, I guess they both win as #1!

Since the town is practically on the Pacific Ocean (the Pacific Coast Highway runs right through it), it’s not hard to find plenty of hikes in Pacifica with panoramic coastal views. And they’re not hard, yay!

Expect to find the hikes in Pacifica to be gradual and on rolling hills (no crazy steep mountains over here!), overlooking the waves of the ocean, and nearby forested canyons. 

Here are my favorite Pacifica hiking trails, which I’ve been loving as of lately!

MORI POINT LOOP TRAIL

• Distance: 2.5 miles roundtrip (with the option to go further)
• Elevation Gain: 400ft
• Route Type: Loop
• Rating: Moderate
• Guide: Link

Ohhh, Mori Point – one of my all-time favorite hikes in Pacifica. A friend first took me to Mori Point a few years ago, and it was love at first sight. I was enamored with the oceanside bluffs, wildflowers, the numerous Pacifica hiking trails, and the sparkly-blue Pacific Ocean.

We’ve since been to Mori Point countless times, and it’s now one of our favorite things to do in Pacifica. I mean, I even dubbed it one of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, an area you won’t find on too many other PCH road trip guides. It’s worthy of an afternoon trip for sure! 

The main attraction here? Mori Point itself – which juts out into the Pacific Ocean. Hiking to Mori Point isn’t all that difficult (with numerous ways to reach the top, including a set of stairs), and the views – absolutely spectacular! 

Look for the Bootlegger Steps on the map (photo above) if climbing up the steep mountain isn’t your thing. And if you’d rather still hike (aka aren’t feeling the natural stairmaster), you can actually go around the mountain which eventually takes you to the top (that’s what I prefer to do).

My advice? Go during spring and early summer to see the wildflowers in bloom; they make such a striking scene against the blues of the Pacific Ocean.

Looking for only one or two hikes in Pacifica? I definitely recommend Mori Point!

If we’re feeling lazy (or have Kona – our new puppy – with us), we take a casual stroll on the boardwalk leading to the coast (photos below). But if you’re looking for the views found in the photos above, you’ll wanna do a bit of hiking in the bluffs.

Parking Tip: there’s a decent sized parking lot designated for Mori Point, but it fills up quite quickly. We typically find easy parking in the neighborhood right there. 

DEVIL’S SLIDE TRAIL

• Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 450ft
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Rating: Easy
• Guide: Link

Wanna walk on an old segment of Highway 1? You can over here! True story – this section was closed for driving a while back due to common accidents, frequent landslides, and erosion (it was quite treacherous to say the least). Hence the name “Devil’s Slide”…

It’s now been replaced with a much safer double tunnel for cars, giving us the path for walking and biking and tons of edge-of-the-world views!

The trail is relatively easy, being about a mile and a half each way, (making it one of the easiest hikes in Pacifica) meandering high above the Pacific along a steep cliff face. 

• Local Tip: start the hike on the southern side (there’s parking on both sides), so you get the slight inclines outta the way first!

There’s benches to take in the coastal views, and always keep your eyes peeled for whales! Don’t miss the scenic overlooks and observation points – the rocky waters below are a sight to see! 

Devil’s Slide is by far one of the best hikes in Pacifica to bring your dog, as it’s all paved and there’s no worry of sharp rocks/foxtail grass getting into their little paws.

You’ll commonly see bikers over here as well, so steer clear of them (thankfully the path is quite wide with separate lanes for walkers/bikers).

There’s lots of interpretive signs with info about the geography, flora, fauna, and history of the area (which is kinda interesting). And if you walk all the way to the southern spot, you can see the Devil’s Slide Bunker (a militarily bunker used in WWII).

• Fun Fact: The slide area is actually composed of what used to be the ocean floor! Shifting tectonic plates uplifted the mud and sand to where it is today! Whoa, science!

Do note that it gets quite windy over here in the winter, so you’ll wanna bundle up! I once took my parents to Devil’s Slide and we almost (literally) blew away, so be extra prepared if you visit in the winter months. 

Parking Tip: There’s two lots at Devil’s Slide, one north and one south. Arrange with your hiking buddies beforehand which to meet at since there’s very limited service over here. 

PAVED TRAIL NEXT TO TACO BELL

• Distance: ~1.5 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 200(ish) ft
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Rating: Easy

Looking for world-class views with minimal effort? Walk the paved trail next to Taco Bell (we actually did this on our anniversary and it’s now one of our favorite things to do in Pacifica). 

I’m not entirely sure if this short trail is one of the “official” hikes in Pacifica, but it’s a recreation trail for hikers, bikers, and walkers. And it’s easy enough to do in sandals – can’t beat that!

The path runs parallel to the 1, and once you reach the base of the little mountain, you can either take the short way up the dirt path or continue on the slightly longer paved trail (we typically prefer the latter, because, why not?). 

• Psst →  the trail actually starts a bit south of Taco Bell (close to Pedro Point firehouse), but we always just start from Taco Bell. 

And once you’ve had enough of all those views of Linda Mar Beach, you can continue down over the hill (with switchbacks) to Rockaway Beach. 

We love to grab some snacks from Taco Bell (Mountain Dew margaritas for the win!) and take Kona here! If you’re looking for one of the shortest hikes in Pacifica yet still long for picture-perfect coastal views, come here. It’ll take you minutes, tops.

Parking Tip: Unfortunately, if you start near Taco Bell and Pacifica State Beach, you’ll need to park in the paid beach lot (currently $7 for 4 hours). Parking at Taco Bell is free but we didn’t feel comfortable leaving our car there once we left for the walk. 

SWEENEY RIDGE TRAIL

• Distance: ~ 4.8 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 750ft
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Rating: Moderate
• Guide: Link

Okay, so some people don’t really consider this a true nature hike since it’s mostly paved, but the views are too good to pass up! And it’s definitely a workout, that’s for sure, being the longest in terms of mileage on this list of Pacifica hikes. 

Thankfully, the hike doesn’t get boring since the views are constantly changing. 

Just an FYI – there’s a decent amount of semi-moderate uphill hiking. BUT the views are worth the effort (with the Pacific on one side, and the SF Bay on the other)! It’s about a 1.5-2 mile uphill hike before you reach the ridge, and then voila – the entire Bay Area is there before your eyes!

You can even catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge and Mt. Tam on a clear day. You’ll probably hear a bunch of planes as SFO is nearby as well.

Do note that this is an out and back hike (not a loop), so you’ll have to come back the same way you came. You’ll wanna wear sunscreen and a hat as there’s not much shade over here. If you can, try not to go when it’s excessively hot. 

• Fun history fact → It’s over here that the San Francisco Bay was actually discovered by Europeans! There used to be an Old Nike Missile Site here but it’s been removed as of April 2019. You’ll see remnants of them at the summit.

Psst – if you wanna head up on actual earth (as opposed to a paved trail), start at the Notch Trailhead, which is another way to get to the summit of Sweeney Ridge. Do note it’s much more strenuous with much steeper inclines, but you’ll reach the same spot.

Parking Tip: There’s a few spots for cars, but you’ll likely have to park alongside the road or in the neighborhood. I found this to be the most popular Pacifica hike we did, so expect to walk a bit to the start of the trailhead. Once we started hiking it was pretty quiet and the crowds were super thin.

MILAGRA RIDGE TRAIL

• Distance: 1.5 miles (with the option to go further)
• Elevation Gain: 250ft
• Route Type: Loop
• Rating: Easy
• Guide: Link

Looking for some great views without any major uphill climbs? Milagra Ridge (one of the shortest hikes in Pacifica) may be just your answer! Since the park is on the smaller side, don’t expect much of a workout (the trail is 1.6 miles from one end to the other).

Don’t fret though – if you are in fact looking for a more strenuous afternoon, you can head all the way down the path towards the ocean. Meaning you’ll have to come back up again! We had anticipated doing a super short and simple trail, but I guess the universe had other plans for us since we just kept walking and walking. 

Milagra Ridge connects to the Milagra Spur Trail, which we hiked on too.

On our hike we came across a few worn out bunkers (covered in graffiti), which were used as part of the 11 Bay Area Nike sites. Fun Fact – none ever even filed a missile! And also a stone labrinyth, like the secret one at Land’s End in San Francisco.

Definitely bring a light coat or sweater – it gets super windy here and plus, there’s zero shade, so slather on that sunscreen!

Parking Tip: Unfortunately, parking can be kinda difficult at Milagra Ridge. There’s not really a parking lot, and only enough space for about 8 cars or so near the trailhead. We were able to find parking on College Road (although there’s not much) and in the neighborhood nearby.

Beaches in Pacifica

Phew! Once you’re done hiking in Pacifica, reward yourself with some beach time! That is, if the fog stayed away of course!

Pacifica boasts three main beaches, being Pacifica State Beach (Linda Mar), Rockaway Beach, and Sharp Park Beach. We typically end up at Linda Mar since it’s right next to Taco Bell, haha. Hopefully the weather cooperates so it’s actually sunny and warm for your beach day!

Bathe in the sunshine and go surfing at Pacifica State Beach

By far the most popular beach in Pacifica, and for good reason – the weather’s usually the best over here!

It’s also known as Linda Mar Beach, because, well, it’s located in the Linda Mar area of Pacifica.

Brave? Go swimming, but beware this is the Pacific Ocean, and we’re talking about Northern California here… meaning super chilly temps). Prefer to stay warm and dry? Sunbathe on the sand, do some beach yoga, read, people watch, make a sand castle (haha), etc. 

Psst- this is where my beloved Taco Bell Cantina is located (more on that below). And it’s even gotten the name “Taco Bell Beach” by locals because of that!

Regionally, Pacifica is an extremely popular surfing spot, and you’ll always see surfers strolling along with their boards. Beginner surfers will love the waves at Pacifica State Beach as they’re much milder than other nearby spots.

Parking at Linda Mar: $7 for 4 hours 

Eating and Drinking in Pacifica

Phew, after all that hiking in Pacifica, you deserve a treat or two! Thankfully Pacifica boasts plenty of spots to chow down in.

Drink a mountain dew margarita from Taco Bell

Yes, Taco Bell made this list of best things to do in Pacifica. Surprised? Haha – I don’t blame you. BUT hear me out – the Linda Mar Taco Bell (here in Pacifica) is known as the most beautiful Taco Bell in the world. Let me say that again. IN THE WORLD! It’s located riiiiight on the beach, and even has surfboard parking!

AND Mountain Dew margaritas, which are actually in fact, pretty amazing if you consider they come from Taco Bell. Don’t expect top shelf alcohol here (or much alcohol at all), but they sure are tasty and perfect on a warm afternoon!

You can grab your crunch wrap supremes and either take them to the back porch or out to the beach; watching the surfer dudes catch waves is highly recommended. (And there’s plenty of ‘em, although they’re all wearing wetsuits…)

Grab some cannolis from Mazzetti’s

Wanna treat yourself after all that hiking? You deserve it! Head on over to Mazzetti’s, an unassuming family-owned bakery known for their Derby cake, cannolis, neapolitans, and french pastries. And yes, the lines can be crazy-long, but that just goes to show just how awesome this place is. Ugh, now I’m craving a cannoli. :p

Eat fish-n-chips at Camelot’s

This legendary spot had to make the list of best things to do in Pacifica, because, well, who doesn’t love made-to-order fish-n-chips?! The inside is so funky with all the colorful British memorabilia.

We like to eat inside and then walk over to the water and just watch the waves crash on the shore.

Sip a pint at Pedro Point Brewing

Looking for a beer instead of a cookie? I feel you! There’s plenty of beers here with over a dozen on tap, all brewed on-site. And the place is extra fun – with 80s rock music playing and  even books and board games to play!

One of the coolest things about Pedro Point? The place is BYO Food, so you can get something from one of the local spots around and bring it in. And since it’s dog friendly, you’ll see lots of cute puppies around!

Picnic on the Beach with Colombo’s Italian Delicatessen

Wanna have a picnic on the beach? Grab some sandwiches from Colombo’s, an old-school deli with over 25 speciality sandwiches on the menu (no really). And the best part? They bake fresh loaves each and every morning. Mmmm… gimme some Dutch Crunch.

Go for Peruvian Food at Puerto 27

Pisco sours and sangria, anyone?! Puerto 27 specializes in Peruvian food, with an outdoor patio to feast on! It’s kinda on the expensive side, but hey, the views overlooking the ocean are probably the reason why. I think we’re gonna go here for a special occasion soon!

Hope this Pacifica hiking guide helps you plan your perfect trip this underrated surf town! Which of these hikes in Pacifica are you planning to do?!

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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On any PCH trip you’ll find rugged, wild beauty, small town charm, big city sights, sunbathed lifeguards, and obnoxious elephant seals.  There’s wild zebras, stunning coastline views, fresh oysters and lobster rolls, palm trees for days, and water so turquoise you won’t believe you’re in California. The list goes on and on.

It’s by far one of the most famous drives in the USA, and a classic American road trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list.  It’s what California dreams are made of!

I feel so lucky to live in California and be able to drive portions of the Pacific Coast Highway whenever I please! On a typical weekend you’ll find us hopping in the car driving down (or up!) the coast, sometimes to Mendocino, other times a quick day trip to Santa Cruz, and more recently all the way down to OC’s Huntington Beach and San Clemente. 

California is absolutely stunning, and after making these Pacific Coast Highway stops, you’ll quickly understand my obsession with the state. And I can guarantee you’ll be just as enamored – it’s hard not to! 

Instead of just sharing the most common stops on the Pacific Coast Highway in this PCH blog post, we’re getting super specific here. Most Highway 1 trip planners recommend the same exact stops while driving the Pacific Coast Highway, but I’m sharing a plethora of my own favorites as well as all those more popular ones. This way, you don’t miss anything!

From exact restaurants (and menu items) I love, scenic coastal trails and tide pools not everyone knows about, where to go winter whale watching, and oh so much more. 

And if you’re not sure how to start planning, this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary will surely help! Do them all or pick out your favorites – I promise you’ll have the most amazing time exploring California.

Common Questions about driving the Pacific Coast Highway: 

Where does the PCH start and end?

Technically, the Pacific Coast Highway starts near Leggett in Mendocino County and ends in Dana Point in Orange County. Many people (including my previous self!) assume the PCH spans the entire coast of California (from the California/Oregon border down to San Diego) – but that’s wrong information! Ya learn something new everyday, right?! 

And no, the Pacific Coast Highway does not include the coastal areas of Oregon or Washington, although you’ll find plenty of PCH resources covering them. They’re a great addition if you wanna extend your PCH trip, just know they are technically not part of Highway 1.

How long is the Pacific Coast Highway drive?

At just over 656 miles, the Pacific Coast Highway is the longest state route in California. To put that into perspective, it’ll take about 17 hours to drive the entire thing (without stops and traffic). 

With that being said, don’t rush it!

• Psst: Don’t make the mistake of driving inland. It’s much shorter to drive straight from Leggett (the starting point of the PCH) to Dana Point (the ending point), at around 10 hours. 

You don’t wanna do that as you’ll be missing out on the entire coast (since GPS will take you on completely different highways – the 101, 580, and the 5). In order to see all the best Pacific Coast Highway stops, you’ll need to make sure to drive down Highway 1, which hugs the coast.

Are the PCH and Highway 1 the same thing?

Yup! Highway 1 is literally the Pacific Coast Highway. It does get a tad confusing, as it’s also commonly referred to as “the California Coast”, California 1, State Route 1, California Highway 1, Coast Highway, PCH (the acronym for Pacific Coast Highway), and most simply, “The 1” (typically by locals).

And to make matters even more confusing, some parts of Highway 1 have other names as well (including the Cabrillo Highway and Shoreline Highway).

When’s the best time to complete this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary?

We’re blessed here in California – there’s never really a bad time to be driving the Pacific Coast Highway. However, if you’re looking for sun, make the trip during late spring (April/May) to early fall (September/October).

BUT do note that weather can be temperamental on the coast, no matter the month.  Don’t let that deter you – just keep a light jacket and sweater in the car. 

While checking out the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll most likely encounter a whole slew of different weather – fog, sunshine, overcast skies, misty mornings, marine layers, etc. You may even see all of these in the same day!

Skip the winter months (November to March-ish, although highly dependent on the year), as this is when California see’s it’s most rainfall. 

Also, skip May and June since they’re known for cloudy weather. Us locals actually refer to them as “May Gray” and “June Gloom”. You probably won’t get clouds all day everyday, but it’s hard to say if the clouds will burn off mid-day or if the clouds will persist until night fall. 

My favorite time for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip? I’d opt for early Fall if you can swing it – the weather will be near-perfect, summer crowds will have lessened, and high season hotel prices will be slowly dropping. It’s our favorite time of year for a Pacific Coast Highway drive. 

Which direction on the PCH should I drive in?

I like driving from North to South, since you’ll be on the coastal side of Highway 1, meaning better views of the ocean. Plus – many of the best Pacific Coast Highway stops have turn-offs/parking lots closer to the ocean (driving south will give easier access to these).

If you’re a nervous driver who doesn’t feel comfortable on cliffs, you may want to consider driving from South to North, as you’ll be on the inside lane of the PCH and further from crazy cliff droppings.

Since I’m typically coming from San Francisco, I’ve listed my favorite stops on the PCH from North to South, just FYI.

Can I really make all 75 of these Pacific Coast Highway stops in one trip?

It really depends how long you have for your PCH road trip and how jam-packed you want your days to be. 

If you want to follow this exact Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, I’d plan for at least a week. And a week is realllllly cutting it close. I’d aim for 10+ days or so. Thankfully, a lot of the stops are pretty close together, so if you start your days early and plan efficiently, you can see quite a lot each day.

If you’ve already been to the main cities on this list of PCH stops (San Francisco and Los Angeles), feel free to skip them so you have more time for other less discovered areas. BUT if this is your first time to California and you’ve never had a mission burrito in SF and haven’t marveled at the Griffith Observatory in LA, don’t miss those!

It’ll take approximately 17 hours or so driving down Highway 1 from Leggett to Dana Point. However, in order to save some time, your GPS may tell you to drive a bit inland on the 101 (depending on which PCH stops you make).

This is fine, just know you won’t be driving on the coast the ENTIRE way and will miss out on a few ocean views. Thankfully there’s SO much to see, a few missed scenic stops is ok – especially if you’re short on time!

What’s included on this list of the best Pacific Coast Highway stops?

I’ve listed out all my favorites – from semi-secret local stops to all those well-known tourist favorites. You’ll find a beach with a huge rock shaped like a shark fin, the best lobster rolls known to man, my all-time favorite place to watch the sunset, and even a glitzy castle and a kitschy pink hotel.

Food is a big thing for me (did someone say pie?), so I’ve also made sure to include my favorite foodie spots as well! We all gotta eat anyways, may as well make the meal a good one!

So, put on your seatbelt, plug in your GPS, and get ready for the ride of your life. Let’s get this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary started!

NORTHERN PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY STOPS

Leggett to Monterey

1. Pacific Star Winery (Fort Bragg)

Let’s start this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary with something everyone loves most – wine! And great views!

We just learned about Pacific Star Winery on our last trip to Mendocino and Fort Bragg, and I have to stay, it’s now one of our favorite Pacific Coast Highway stops! My suggestion – do the $10 tasting (you get to try 6 different wines!), and bring along some picnic supplies (we love some meat, cheese, and crackers). There’s tables and comfy adirondack chairs overlooking the rocky coastline to use.

2. Glass Beach (Fort Bragg)

The next stop on this list of best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway is one I’m sure almost everyone’s already heard of – Glass Beach!

I’m sure you’ve seen photos of it before (it’s commonly on lists of the most beautiful places in California). This rocky waterfront area is known for its colorful sea glass dotting the shore. And where did the smooth glass come from?? Years of dumping garbage on the coastline near the northern part of the town.

I remember collecting sea glass when I was a kid so I loved this spot when we were visiting Fort Bragg!

Unfortunately, the amount of sea glass is not as plentiful as it once was (mainly due to people filling up zip lock baggies and taking the glass from the beach). Because of this, you may be slightly disappointed and/or underwhelmed as the current beach does not look exactly like those stunning photos online. 

But, it’s still beautiful, and kinda fun to look through the sand and find little treasures! 

However, do your part and DO NOT TAKE ANY SEA GLASS FROM THE BEACH. I repeat – leave the glass at the beach. Don’t take any of it home. Sure, gather some up for photos (like I did), but leave the glass on the beach once you leave. 

• Local Tip: I’ve heard there’s more glass on the beach a bit south of the main beach. You will have to walk down a cliff to reach this area though (ever since a landslide took the stairs out a few years ago).

And if you don’t see much glass, look for creatures in the tide pools instead.

3. Cowlicks Ice Cream (Fort Bragg)

Figures that the second stop on this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary guide is for ice cream. That’s typical me. Typical, typical me (haha). 

Homemade ice cream AND homemade waffle cones? What could be better? I’m still dreaming about the raspberry chocolate chunk. You won’t miss it in downtown Fort Bragg- you’ll smell the cones being made before you even reach the shop.

• Psst: I asked to sample about 8 flavors and the staff didn’t even bat an eye. My kinda place!

Grab your (homemade waffle) cone to-to, and walk around the cute town of Fort Bragg for a bit! 

4. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (Mendocino)

I’m a sucker for any kinda botany, and the botanical gardens in Mendocino are no exception. The rhododendrons (and the carnivorous plants section) are just exceptional! As are the various sculptures and other pieces of art in the gardens. AND the garden paths go all the way down to the ocean!

To be honest, I was a bit underwhelmed at first considering the $15 admission price. But after walking through the gardens and admiring the sweeping, rugged ocean views out back (and realizing how much it must cost for upkeep of the place), I’d gladly pay again.

5. Mendocino Headlands State Park (Mendocino)

Move over, Big Sur! But really, this stretch of coastline on the California coast is jaw-droppingly 1100% stunning – and a lot less crowded!

If you’re looking for a hiking stop, you’ll wanna explore the headlands as it’s definitely one of the most beautiful and best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway for hikers.  But be careful on those million dollar cliffs, as it’s a steep drop down!

There’s miles upon miles of trails along a cliff, as well secluded beaches, towering redwood trees, cypress groves, and just ocean views for everyone. A great place to spot whales in the winter as well!

→ Lots more info about Fort Bragg and Mendocino right here!

6. Point Arena Lighthouse (Point Arena)

If you’re a sucker for lighthouses like me (you’ll see a few more scattered throughout this Pacific Coast Highway road trip post), you’ll fall in love with the historic lighthouse in Point Arena. And boy is it historic – it just celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2020!

And get this – It’s actually the tallest lighthouse in California you can climb, at 145 steps up! There are daily tours offered here (around $8), where you can climb up, explore the 1896 Fog Signal Building, and roam around the beautiful area – there’s over 23 acres!

• Entrance is only until 4pm, so plan accordingly if you really wanna climb up! 

And like other spots on the Pacific Coast Highway, this is one of the best whale watching areas in Northern California! Gray whales! Humpbacks! The occasional pod of killer whales! Just incredible!

7. Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy (Bodega Bay)

If you’ve never had fresh taffy, you’re really missing out. And Patrick’s is the best place to go!

Pick up a few bags of that sticky/sweet salt water taffy for the rest of your Pacific Coast Highway road trip! There’s soooo many flavors to choose from (a nearly endless selection), but I always opt for the orange vanilla creamsicle and raspberry lemonade.

The ultimate taffy heaven. And it’s cute and instagrammable (with it’s striped pink and white building). What else do you need to know?! Don’t miss out on one of the yummiest Pacific Coast Highway stops.

8. Spud Point Crab Company (Bodega Bay)

Clam chowder and crab sandwiches. Two of our favorite things on a windy trip driving down the PCH. And boy does Spud Point deliver. Yes, it’s kinda bare-bones, and the line is usually long, but a large cup of steaming, perfectly seasoned New England clam chowder makes up for anything. And plus, the views from the picnic tables are great!

• Make sure to stop by Bodega Head to look for whales afterwards (especially if you’re visiting in winter!)

9. Hog Island Oyster Co. (Marshall)

You cannot visit Northern California without slurping down a few fresh oysters, you just cannot. They’re kinda iconic to the area. There’s raw oysters of course, but I’ve heard the BBQ chipotle bourbon butter oysters are irresistible.

This hotspot does tend to get quite crowded. My advice – book ahead and reserve a grill (they consistently sell out). Bring your own wine and snacks and make a picnic out of it! 

If you’re lucky, you’ll be there on a “shuck your own day” – which is exactly like it sounds! Super fun and super messy! 

• TOO CROWDED? The Marshall Store and Tomales Bay Oyster Company are other great nearby options if you can’t get a table at Hog Island Oysters.

10. Cypress Tree Tunnel (Inverness)

This’ll be a quick stop, but a stop we love to make to admire the Cypress trees. And yup – it’s literally a tunnel formed by cypress trees! A bit secluded so keep your eyes open for deer grazing nearby. 

If you’re longing for that perfect instagram shot, plan to get here early in the morning as it gets kinda popular with photographers (and tourists).

• BONUS STOP: That famous shipwrecked boat you see all over IG is also here in Inverness. It’s kinda hard to find as it’s located behind a small grocery store. Put “Point Reyes Shipwrecks” into Google and you’ll find it no problem.

11. Muir Beach Overlook (Muir Beach)

Another quick stop, but well worth it for the Pacific Ocean views. This iconic staircase leads to a small overlook, and on a clear, sunny day, you can see for miles and miles! 

The weather highly affects this, so you won’t see too much if there’s a ton of fog of course! Skip it if the weather’s not cooperating. We’ve gone a few times and have always been blessed with near-perfect weather, but I think we were just lucky. :p

• Local Tip: Parking can be kinda difficult on the weekend, but just be patient and you’re bound to get a spot, eventually. :p
• History Fact: Soldiers used the bunkers here to watch out for future attacks after Pearl Harbor! Crazy!

→ Read about all these stops and more: Mendocino to San Francisco Road Trip Stops

12. Stinson Beach (Mill Valley)

Sure, Northern California isn’t really known for its beaches (the water’s a tad too chilly for most), but Stinson really takes the cake.

For starters, the sand is super soft and fine, the parking lot is large (but get there early to ensure a spot), and there’s lots of space to spread out (the beach is super long!). One of the best Pacific Coast Highway spots, especially if you’re longing for some beach time before getting down to SoCal (later on this PCH trip).

And plus – if you walk to the Northern side of the beach, there’s puppies! Oh so many of them! We love to bring Kona here and just relax on a blanket in the sun for a few hours.

13. Sausalito Waterfront (Sausalito)

One stroll in Sausalito and you’ll feel as if you stepped into a Mediterranean wonderland. No joke – the coastal town is full of nautical themed shops, sweeping bay views, and waterfront restaurants. I mean, some even dub it California’s Amalfi Coast.

Don’t miss a cone at Lappert’s – a favorite in the area (and known for their Hawaiian flavors!). Other top things to do include checking out the famous houseboats, walking along the Bridgeway Promenade and boardwalks, admiring the stunning sailboats, and taking a seaplane tour (needs to be arranged in advance).

• Be sure to check out my Sausalito guide with all my favorite things to do in this beautiful area!

14. Point Bonita Lighthouse (Marin Headlands)

Dramatic views, an interesting history, and hospitable docents! And it’s FREE!

The hike from the parking lot isn’t too bad (a half mile downhill on a paved road through a tunnel, although there are a few steep-ish parts). The pedestrian bridge to enter the lighthouse is spectacularly scenic, but it does get kinda chilly! My suggestion – bring a light jacket.

Honestly? It’s kinda like a secret jewel of the Bay, as many locals don’t ever even make it here. Shame on them!

You have to really plan your PCH road trip right if you wanna make it here though – the lighthouse is only open to visitors on Sundays and Mondays from 12:30-3:30pm. Call the Marin Headlands Visitors Center to confirm, as they tend to close if the weather isn’t great.

• Extra time? → make a quick stop by Rodeo Beach (it’s only 5 minutes away).

15. Muir Woods (Mill Valley)

You’ve gotta stop by to see the towering redwoods! I mean, it’s quintessential Northern California afterall. Muir Woods has numerous trails, some easy, some more challenging, but all within the forest of the majestic old-growth redwood trees. Don’t rush through – I recommend arriving early before it gets packed.

Do note that the National Monument has gotten so popular (with more than 1.5 million visitors each year) that you now need to make a parking reservation. No reservation, you’re not allowed in. :p

16. Battery Spencer (Sausalito)

Before crossing the bridge, I’ve got one more Pacific Coast Highway road trip stop for you – and it’s one of my favorites!

Looking for those panoramic postcard views of the famed Golden Gate Bridge? Yup, you’ll find that picture-perfect view of the crimson cutie (and the sparkling bay itself) over here. Parking can be rough, as the lot only holds about a dozen cars. Read all my top tips for visiting Battery Spencer here!

There’s lots of history in the area as well, so be sure to check out the old abandoned military buildings if that’s your thing.

• There’s another famous viewpoint right around here as well – The Golden Gate Bridge View Vista Point. I find the views more impressive from Battery Spencer though (and the latter’s much easier to get to when driving south over the bridge coming from up the previous stops). If you only have time for one, I choose Battery Spencer!

→ Check out all my favorite views of the Golden Gate Bridge here!

SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco is a major city along the PCH, so I just couldn’t leave it off this list. Sure, you could spend a week (or longer) and still not see everything SF has to offer, but it’d be a shame to skip it entirely on your Highway 1 road trip.

And yes, it’s where I live, so of course I dub it one of the best stops along the Pacific Coast Highway. I’m sharing a few of my favorites here!

17. Lyon Street Steps (San Francisco)

If you’re a sucker for pretty views like I am, don’t miss the Lyon Street Steps right outside the Presidio. You can either admire the view from the tippy top (park on Lyon Street) or get a grueling cardio workout on the 288 steps up. It’s not sooo bad – I’ve walked up numerous times.

Take a walk around the neighborhood as well, it’s where the seriously wealthy live and where all my dream homes in SF are located…

• BONUS STOPS: Lovers Lane (and Andy Gritth’s art installation – Wood Line) is only a few minutes walk away from the steps. It’s an easy one-mile walk through the peaceful eucalyptus forest. Aaaand you may as well walk over to the Palace of Fine Arts (it’s only a few minutes away from Lover’s Lane, haha).

18. Lands End (San Francisco)

Hey, another walk in San Francisco! Most of SF is just eating, and drinking, and walking (and eating again), so if that’s how you’re spending your time here, you’re on the right track.

This semi-moderate stroll in SF takes you along the rocky and windswept shoreline of the city, with views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge! We always take visitors to Lands End, and they’re just as wowed as we always are. 

It’s not difficult per say, with some of the path being paved in the beginning and the trail turning into rocks and dirt and a few steep stairways. Don’t miss the Sutro Baths and the Land’s End labyrinth (look on a map as it’s kinda hard to find if you don’t know where you’re going).

We like to walk around the Sea Cliff neighborhood first (the houses here are OMG), have a light lunch at the Cliff House (don’t miss the popovers), and then continue our walk along the Land’s End Trail.

19. Haight Ashbury Neighborhood (San Francisco)

Get ready to get your hippy on, because The Haight was historically home to famous singers like Janis Joplin, the Grateful Dead, and Jimi Hendrix in the 1960’s. Expect some major flower power vibes over here!

We love strolling along Haight Street, checking out the bizarre although brilliant treasures found at boutiques scattered around. Don’t miss the extravagant hats at Goorin Bros, vivid tie-dye apparel at Love on Haight, and plenty of spooky taxidermy at Love to Death. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in San Francisco, and there’s always something going on around here.

• FUN FACT: The Haight was one of the few districts in SF that wasn’t hit too hard by the 1906 earthquake, meaning you’ll find the highest concentration of Victorian homes here! If the hippy movement is of particular interest to you, you’ll really enjoy THIS tour we took a few months ago! It was so interesting, and we even saw where plenty of rockstars once lived.

20. Golden Boy Pizza and cannolis from Stella in North Beach (San Francisco)

Another neighborhood in SF you’ve gotta check out is North Beach, home to two more of my favorites: Golden Boy Pizza and Stellas.

Golden Boy Pizza is a funky little joint, with memorabilia everywhere you look. They serve sicilian slices (square pizza) here – from classic cheese and pepperoni to veggie pesto, clam & garlic, and Italian sausage. FYI – cash only, and not many seats. 

We tend to take our pizza to go, and sit in Washington Square in front of the landmark Saints Peter and Paul Church. I’m originally from NY and love Golden Boy, so you know it’s good (as my pizza standards are higher than average).

And while you’re in the area, may as well make a quick stop into Stella’s for a chocolate chip cannoli or two. Mmm I dream about that ricotta.

21. Murals and Mission burritos (San Francisco)

It’d be a shame to continue your Pacific Coast Highway drive without stopping for some Mexican food. I mean, this is California afterall, known for our authentic Mexican deliciousness. 

So before you leave my favorite city (SF of course), you’ve gotta make a stop in the Mission. And the two things the Mission is known for? Murals and Mission burritos. 

• For Mission burritos, stop by either El Farolito or La Taqueria – two local favorites. Get the carne asada, it’s droolworthy and then some. The burritos are larger-than-life (they really are – they last me 3 meals!). So beware – if you’re not 1000% starving, I recommend sharing.

• For murals and street art, head on over to Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley. The murals here are not just intricate works of art – the pieces have meaning, teaching about gentrification, modern politics, and the immigrant experience in SF.

22. Mori Point (Pacifica)

You won’t typically find Mori Point (and Pacifica in particular) on any list of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway. BUT this just isn’t any old list full of only the popular PCH spots. I’m here to truly show you my favorites!

Mori Point is actually a 110-acre park, but I’m talking about the point itself – a bluff jetting out into the Pacific Ocean. Come here for the moderate workout, stay for the sweeping views of the peninsula coastline. Just wear sunscreen on a hot day – there’s absolutely no shade over on these hills!

And if you’re kinda hungry, may as well check out the Taco Bell in Pacifica. I mean, there’s Mountain Dew Margaritas (and beer and wine and other frozen drinks sold), what could be better?

In all seriousness, the fast-food joint is literally right on the beach (giving it the title as the most beautiful Taco Bell in the world – yup, the WORLD!). So, reward yourself with a crunch wrap supreme and your drink of choice and watch the surfers while you eat on the beach.  My kinda afternoon. :p

23. Sam’s Chowder House (Half Moon Bay)

As you make your way down the coast, you’ll come across Half Moon Bay. It’s one of the most underrated stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, and one of my all-time favorites. 

I’m gonna say this loud and clear to make sure your PCH road trip itinerary includes this- MAKE SURE TO STOP AT SAM’S FOR A LOBSTER ROLL. You can order something else too (I recommend the clam chowder when it’s chilly), but promise me you’ll order a naked lobster roll too.

I’ve been gushing about this local spot for ages, and it’s where I bring practically everyone who visits me! Not only is the lobster so melt-in-your-mouth delicious, but Sam’s is literally on the beach, meaning you get phenomenal views from the outdoor patio.

• BONUS PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY ROAD TRIP STOP: The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail. If you wanna walk off those buttery lobster-induced calories, park by the Ritz Carlton (in one of their special “Coastal Walk parking spots” – a local secret), and walk on the nearby trail! You’ll see a beautiful golf course, sweeping views of the whole area, and plenty of puppies!

24. Pigeon Point Lighthouse (Pescadero)

Okay, so if you haven’t guessed by now, I kinda have a thing for lighthouses. I just think they’re absolutely phenomenal for some reason! And the Pigeon Point Lighthouse is probably one of my favorites OF ALL TIME.

Why? Well for starters, it’s set on the beautiful Norcal Coastline on a scenic oceanside cliff, with dramatic views all around. AND you can spot harbor seals on the nearby rocks and whales off in the distance! AND there’s even a hostel like 10 feet away if that’s your jam. Currently on my California bucket list.

25. Pie Ranch (Pescadero)

When you’re cruising down Highway 1 and feelin’ like some pie would be nice, make a pit stop at Pie Ranch in Pescadero. It’s a working farm/ranch selling not only organic pies, but farm fresh eggs, homemade jams and pickles, and an abundance of hot sauces. 

And plus, Pie Ranch is a nonprofit organization helping to cultivate a healthy food system – boom! Another reason to have some pie, right?

Do note that the mini pies tend to sell out on the quicker side, so if you can, get here at around opening (or before noon on weekends) for more options. 

26. Shark Fin Cove (Davenport)

Looking for one of the least discovered Pacific Coast Highway stops? Head on over to Davenport! And why’s this place called Shark Fin Cove anyways? Well, the large rock looks exactly like a shark fin! Unleash your inner mermaid (but don’t go swimming here – the sea is too rough)!

Be prepared to hike down a short, steep hill to get to the beach (with no designated path). And once you’re down, there’s tide pools and caves to explore! If you don’t feel like trekking down to the beach, don’t fret. You can see the view from above on the bluffs, only a few minutes from the small parking area.

Psst – there’s no signs here, so make sure you pop it into GPS, and be on the lookout for a small gathering of cars along the side of the highway.

→ READ NEXT: ALL these stops between SF and Santa Cruz are included (in more detail!) here! We’ve been LOVING exploring this region and I’ll be updating it as we find more cool spots!

27. Marianne’s Ice Cream or the Penny Ice Creamery (Santa Cruz)

If you’re in dire need of an ice cream break when driving the Pacific Coast Highway (I always am), you’ve got your options for you here in Santa Cruz. 

Marianne’s is an old-fashioned ice cream shoppe, with a crazy amount of flavors and oh so popular. The line moves exceptionally fast, I promise. 

The Penny Ice Creamery is just as delicious, boasting more artisanal-type ice cream with creative seasonal flavors. And whatever you do, opt for the toasted marshmallow fluff topping at Pennies. ALWAYS.

28. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (Santa Cruz)

Now this is what Santa Cruz is known for. When you picture Santa Cruz, you probably imagine a kitschy (in-all-the-right-ways), vibrant amusement park, long stretches of sand, and carnival snacks. Well, you’re not wrong! And  plus, it’s all free (well, not the rides or snacks, but there’s no entrance fee).

Don’t miss the famous Giant Dipper, the indoor/outdoor arcade, some salt water taffy, and a long stroll on the beach. We love to wander around, grab a cotton candy or corn dog, and just people watch.

29. West Cliff Drive (Santa Cruz)

If you’re looking to take a scenic stroll, West Cliff Drive’s your best bet. It’s by far one of my favorite places in Santa Cruz, especially on a warm, sunny day. Keep your eyes on the Monterey Bay, it’s absolutely epic.

The path is a full 3 miles (starting from Bay Street to Natural Bridges), but like the Coastal Walk in Half Moon Bay (above), you can just walk as much as you’d like!

30. Natural Bridges Monarch Trail (Santa Cruz)

Driving the PCH in winter? THIS is one of the must-see Pacific Coast Highway road trip stops. I mean, there’s butterflies! And tons of ‘em!

Imagine thousands upon thousands of these black and orange beauties flying about the Eucalyptus trees. It’s quite a sight to see. I couldn’t take my eyes off them – I probably stared in awe for over 30 minutes!

• Psst: Monarch migration season in Santa Cruz is from October to January. You won’t see butterflies in other months.

If it’s not butterfly season, I personally wouldn’t feel the need to walk the trail (there’s nothing too spectacular about it besides the monarchs). Insead, make a short pit stop at Natural Bridges State Beach Vista Point Overlook for some pretty cool views!

31. Colorful buildings in Capitola (Capitola Village)

Cute colorful beach town alert!

If you’ve already had your fair share of beach time for the day, just make a quick stop in Capitola! The colorful buildings next to Capitola Beach (which are actually vacation rentals, so yes – you can fulfill all your rainbow-colored dreams!) are what I come here for! You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a little town in Italy (ever heard of Burano?!).

• Looking for a great view? Grab a coffee at Mr. Toots and you’ll see what I mean!

CENTRAL STOPS ON THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

Monterey to Santa Barbara

32. Lovers Point Park and Beach (Monterey)

A great place to stretch your legs or just sit on a bench and watch/listen to the waves. In spring the ice plants bloom bright pink everywhere near the trail, which makes the whole area blanketed in pink (best in April and May)! Make sure to climb the rocks for some super-awesome views of Monterey Bay.

• COME FOR SUNRISE → Since the park is east-facing, it’s one of the only spots on the West Coast where you can watch the sunrise over the water!

And please oh please, DO NOT FEED THE ANIMALS (there are plenty of super-cute sand squirrels here, but let’s keep them wild)! And talking about animals, the Monarch butterflies migrate nearby every year as well!

33. Pavel’s Backerei (Monterey)

Authentic french treats, anyone?! Pavel’s is by far the #1 breakfast spot in Pacific Grove! They’ve got giant donuts, apple fritters, butter croissants, tons of danishes, cinnamon raisin brioche, cheddar sourdough loaves, and oh so much more. Mmmm, now I’m craving a bear claw! 

My suggestion? Grab a few pastries and bring them along on the 17 Mile Drive (the next recommendation on this list of Pacific Coast Highway stops!) If you’ve got time, check out the famous butterfly house nearby — it’s crazy eccentric and all kinda wacky!

34. 17 Mile Drive (Monterey)

Who’s up for a scenic drive? Expect mansions, golf courses, and of course that stunning CA coastline. We love driving the 17 Mile Drive, and have done so half a dozen times (it’s just that gorgeous)!

While there are 17 official places to stop (you’ll see them on the map), don’t feel like you have to stop at each and every one. My favorites are the Lone Cypress, Inn at Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, Restless Sea (huge waves!), Seal Rock, and of course, Pebble Beach.

Some people don’t think it’s worth the $10, but I do.

35. Carmel Beach (Carmel)

White sand. Golden sunsets. A scenic pathway just above the beach. And free parking (and restrooms!). What else could you want? 

And plus, dogs are welcome, which makes my heart exceptionally happy! We love to stay and watch the sunset (it’s absolutely mindblowing). Beach fires are also allowed, which I’m hoping to do next time!

Like the rest of NorCal and Central California, the water’s too cold for swimming (although perfect for walking and taking in the scenic beauty). You will however find plenty of surfers (in wetsuits) riding the waves!

36. Town of Carmel-By-The-Sea (Carmel)

If there’s one charming little town you shouldn’t miss when driving the Pacific Coast Highway, it’s Carmel-By-The-Sea. I mean, even the name itself sounds whimsical!

We LOVE wandering the European-style town, full of fairytale-style cottages and local restaurants. 

And get this – there’s no house numbers over here! Every house has its own name, like Birdsong, Sea Urchin, and Periwinkle. If you walk around you’ll see what I mean!

Another fun fact: You’ll need a permit if you wanna wear high heels (yes, really!). How wild is that?!

What to do? Go wine tasting, check out some art galleries and boutique shops, explore the Historic Carmel Mission, and just take in the scenery. And the town is literally dog heaven on Earth, as they’re allowed practically everywhere. YAY! 

37. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (Carmel)

Get ready for a coastal paradise! The water just sparkles over here!

Before you leave Carmel, don’t miss the stunning Point Lobos. There’s plenty of scenic trails here, and I love them all! But promise me you won’t miss the China Cove and Bird Island lookout points! There’s even a whaling museum if you’re into that kinda thing (confession – I’ve never been). And the tide pools are absolutely incredible, with tons of crabs, anemones, lizards, etc.

If you’re a nature fiend you can easily spend an entire day here, but you can see oh so much in just a few hours as well if you’d prefer to get your PCH trip moving along.

Psst: The parking lot will likely fill up by mid-morning. Full already? You can easily park along the road outside the park and walk over in about 10 minutes. 

BONUS STOP: Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail! We recently found this spot on the side of the highway as we were driving to Big Sur, and just knew we had to pull over! Kinda unknown and one of the best secret Pacific Coast Highway spots on this list! A short 15 minute walk along the cliffs with beautiful views of the coast and even a waterfall! I wanna go for sunset next time!

38. Bixby Bridge (Big Sur)

Ahhh, the gateway to Big Sur. 

When people say they can’t wait to visit Big Sur, they’re typically talking about getting that iconic shot of the Bixby Canyon Bridge. And why is it oh so famous? I mean, just take a look at it! There’s crashing waves and a golden beach on one side, and lush mountainous hills on the other, all spanning across a steep canyon!

It’s actually one of the most photographed bridges in all of California, and I can easily see why.

You’ll pass another bridge on your way south (right before the famed Bixby Bridge), so don’t get confused! That’s the Rocky Creek Bridge, FYI. It’s well worth a quick stop when it’s sunny – the water down below is reminiscent of Hawaii! 

39. Mcway Falls (Big Sur)

This is most definitely one of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, and rightfully so. McWay Falls is drop dead GORGEOUS! And how could it not be? It’s literally a waterfall flowing right into a small emerald cove of the Pacific Ocean.

And even better, it’s only about an 8 minute walk from the road (the mini trail is no more than half a mile). When people say they’re “hiking” to McWay Falls, they’re really just casually strolling down a paved path. Now you know!

The beach is inaccessible (it’s actually illegal to go down there), which just means you’ll always get that perfect photo!

• Psst: McWay Falls is actually located within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, but you can just park on the side of the highway and walk in.

More Big Sur tips and road trip stops here!

40. Nepenthe (Big Sur)

Whenever we’re in Big Sur, we always stop for a cocktail (or two) at Nepenthe! You are literally sitting on the cliffside, with the mountains and forest on one side, and ocean (and sunset) on the other. Talk about remote. And gorgeous.

There’s also classic California cuisine served here, but we typically come for drinks with a view. And plus, it’s pretty pricey, so we opt for liquid lunches instead. If you’re hungry for some food, I’ve heard the Ambrosia burger and homemade apple pie is top notch.

41. Purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach (Big Sur)

Huge rock formations. PURPLE SAND. And a pristine beach that’s typically not very crowded.

Just so we’re clear on expectations, the entire beach isn’t made up of purple sand, but you’ll find spots with some scattered throughout the beach. And unfortunately, the sand is at its most purple right after it rains. BUT the beach is stunning nonetheless. Even if you don’t get to witness the purple sand, the iconic keyhole arch at Pfeiffer Beach is worth the short detour!

Psst → you’ll need to drive down a winding 2-mile dirt road and pay a fee to access the beach, but it’s worth it! There’s no sign, so be sure to turn onto Sycamore Canyon Road (leading to the beach). Directions here. 

42. Elephant Seal Viewing Point (San Simeon)

Have you ever seen an elephant seal? They make the most ridiculous noises, have the strangest looking noses (trunks?), and are just wild and wacky all over. Don’t expect peace and quiet over here! Watch them waddle in and out of the water, throw sand over themselves, and brawl with each other – so fun to observe!

There’s a few places along the Northern Coast to see elephant seals (Ano Nuevo being another popular spot), buuuuut the viewing point in San Simeon is right off the highway. You literally park and walk for 5 minutes, and there are the seals. Can’t get much easier than that!

43. Hearst Castle (San Simeon)

Opulent, grandiose, and crystalline. Just a few words to describe the majestic Hearst Castle. You’ll need to make a reservation to explore, and I highly suggest the Grand Rooms tour if it’s your first time visiting (ohhh that Neptune Pool is my favorite).

And once the tour is over, go check out the manicured grounds! I wanna go back right now just thinking about it!

And where did this random castle (one of the best Pacific Coast Highway stops by far) even come from? Well, my history-loving friends, the castle was designed and constructed by William Randolph Hearst (the publishing tycoon) and his architect Julia Morgan. It took quite a few years to build, from 1919-1947, with Hearst passing away a few years later in 1951.

Be sure to look out for zebras on the side of the road (yup, you read that right). Hearst was a wacky man!

44. Moonstone Beach Boardwalk (Cambria)

More beach views – what can I say? But this is a list of the best Pacific Coast Highway road trip stops after all, so they’ll be lots of them! And don’t miss Moonstone Beach in Cambria — such a chilled out spot that I can’t wait to explore more of.

The boardwalk is roughly a mile, but we typically don’t walk the whole thing. Watch the waves crashing on the rocks dotting the coastline, relax on a bench, and/or just walk through the wildflowers surrounding the pathway!

You can hang at the beach for a bit, but it’s not our favorite beach on the coast (much better beaches a bit south in my opinion). Perfect for a stroll with some coffee in hand!

45. Linn’s Easy as Pie Cafe (Cambria)

I first visited this retro pie shop on the PCH not too long ago, and am kicking myself we hadn’t made it there sooner. I mean, PIE! Homemade olallieberry pie (a cross between a blackberry and raspberry). Not too sweet and not too tart, with a flakey buttery crust. Delicious isn’t a strong enough word.

Sit out back in the private garden patio – it’s so cute! The city loves their olallieberries so much there’s even a whole festival dedicated to the famous berry every year!

• You can also get pie at Linn’s Restaurant (same owners), but it’s more pricey (and fancy) over there.

46. DAOU Vineyards (Paso Robles)

Okay, so this spot is not technically on the 1, but it’s pretty darn close. And those cheese plates are really something else. 

While the tasting fees are a bit higher than most other wineries around (it’s more of a social club kinda feel), it’s a great place to relax for a bit. The entire space is just extraordinary with some of the best views of all of Paso Robles with rolling hills and lavender fields in the distance.

My suggestion – get a bottle (skip the pricey tasting) and just sit outside soaking up the scenery. Soul of a Lion is a crowd favorite!

• You’ll need to add about an extra hour of driving to this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary if you wanna check out Paso Robles. Highly recommended if you’re a wine lover!

If you wanna spend more time in Paso, check out Sculpterra Winery and Vineyard. We recently spent a lazy afternoon here, sipping rose while feasting on burgers from the on-location food truck and listening to live music. The entire area is full of ornate sculptures, manicured gardens, and lots of green space for DIY picnics! Calcareous is great too- we loved the views and lavender!

47. Cayucos Beach and Pier (Cayucos)

If you’re looking for a beach day on the Central Coast, Cayucos is where it’s at. The sand is oh so soft and the water is pretty clear; just watch out for the tiny sand flies. And make sure to seal up your food or the seagulls will come investigating!

And once you’re done lounging, take a relaxing stroll on the pier – the surfers are so fun to watch from above!

• If you’re in Cayucos, don’t miss a quick stop at Brown Butter Cookie Company. It was unfortunately closed when we visited, but I’ve heard this is an absolute must-stop on any PCH road trip. And who could say no to cookies?!

48. Morro Rock (Morro Bay)

As soon as you approach Morro Bay, you’ll quickly notice the 581-foot rock jutting out of the Pacific Ocean. And that, my friends, is Morro Rock (it’s kinda hard to miss as long as the weather’s clear as it dominates the landscape for miles). It’s an iconic landmark of the area so make sure to take some photos!

You can park right at the base of the Rock and walk alongside it. Don’t miss the cute little otters holding hands in the water (and yes, they actually DO hold hands – it’s the sweetest sight!).

And it was actually formed by ancient volcanic magma → pretty cool, right?!

• If you’re a fan of sand dollars (like myself), there’s a ton of them at Morro Rock Beach. I found over a dozen in less than 20 minutes!

49. Spooners Cove + Montana de Oro State Park (Los Osos)

These next two stops on the Pacific Coast Highway are literally a 5 minute walk away, so I included both here! 

Spooners Cove: A secluded rocky cove sheltered by high sea cliffs with tide pools and ancient layered sedimentary rock of all different colors. What could be wrong? And plus, it’s one of the only beaches in the area that dogs are allowed, so we love bringing little Kona here when we’re in SLO for the weekend. You can also find small chunks of jade in the sand if you look hard enough (I don’t have the patience for that though… haha).

Montana de Oro State Park: This is the place to come if you wanna get your hiking on. There’s a whole bunch of trails leading to views of super unique rock formations. The park also has caves and tidal pools with oh so many shells, snails, clams, and sea anemones. You might even see people biking here as the path is relatively flat!

50. Bubblegum Wall (San Luis Obispo)

Another quirky and quick spot for you, and not to be missed on any PCH road trip.

Imagine an alleyway filled with pieces of chewed gum covering the walls. ALL the walls. Yup, that’s Bubblegum Alley in a nutshell. It’s sticky, ooey, gross, and satisfyingly interesting all at once. 

My advice – grab some bubblegum from the old-fashioned candy shop a few blocks down and get blowing! (Psst: regular old minty gum just won’t do the trick – and yes, I’ve tried, multiple times).

51. Madonna Inn (San Luis Obispo)

It’s whimsical, it’s charming, and it’s kitschy all at the same time. This hotel is one of the most famous on the entire West Coast. You’ve just gotta stop by!

Each of it’s 110 rooms are all uniquely decorated, from prehistoric caves with matching leopard print bedding to lavish pink rooms with velvet sheets. Even if you don’t plan on spending the night, grab some cocktails, indulge in pink champagne cake (what the Madonna Inn is known for), and take some fun photos!

Read all about my stay at the Madonna Inn here — psst; there’s tons of pink photos in there!

52. Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe (San Luis Obispo)

Whatever you do, don’t leave SLO without a proper brunch at Sally Loo’s. Yes, the line is usually out the door and you’ll wait even longer for your food, but it’s worth the wait and then some. Being organic and homegrown, the dishes are cooked to perfection, alongside coffee, house-made pastries, and even speciality mimosas. 

We like the egg sando on sourdough, kale and sausage breakfast burrito, sweet potato quinoa bowl, coconut banana bread, and pistachio glazed scones. Sit outside in the sunshine, or take your pick of one of the cozy booths indoors – this place is the absolute cutest.

53. Oceano Dunes SVRA (Pismo Beach)

Sand dunes in California? Yup – you don’t need to go all the way to the Sahara for the epic experience. You can walk along the ripples (there’s over 5 miles to explore), rent ATVs and dune buggies to go off-roading, and even drive your car on the beach. It’s actually the only stretch of coastline in Central California where cars are allowed!

We rented ATVs with a few friends of ours last year and it was such a wild time! I don’t think I’ve ever smiled and screamed more (at the same time) than I did when we were off-roading. What a heart-pumping sand adventure (make sure to close your mouth, it does get windy at times!).

Just please be careful, as these large toys can be dangerous no matter who’s handling them.

SOUTHERN PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY STOPS

Santa Barbara to Dana Point (and beyond)

54. Santa Barbara County Courthouse (Santa Barbara)

You may be asking “Is a county courthouse really one of the best Pacific Coast Highway stops?” Yes, yes, and yes. Picture this: a distinctive four-faced clock tower, a red tiled Mediterranean-inspired roof, and manicured gardens all around. It has Santa Barbara written all over it! 

But the best part? The clock tower observation deck! One of my favorite views of Santa Barbara up here – and it’s all free! Next time I visit, I plan to bring a picnic to enjoy in the sunken garden!

• Just an FYI: the clock tower closes a bit earlier than the rest of the complex at around 4:45pm. Plan accordingly if you wanna go up!

I also love the hand-painted murals, all the elegant arches, and the wrought-iron chandeliers. Not your typical courthouse, that’s for sure!

55. State Street (Santa Barbara) 

Looking to take a scenic stroll? Historic State Street in downtown SB is lined with palm trees, and I never get tired of looking at the distinctive architecture.

There’s outdoor, open-air shopping (tons of cute boutiques), plenty of hip restaurants and cafes, and ICE CREAM!

Promise me you won’t leave without grabbing a cone at McConnells – I love nearly all the flavors, but salted caramel chip and double peanut butter are my two faves.

And if you walk the whole street, you’ll run right into Stearns Wharf, another one of the best places on the PCH!

56. Chromatic Gate (Santa Barbara)

Sure, this stop is purely for instagram, but it’s so colorful and happy so who cares?! Yea, it’s technically an art structure, but you’ll see plenty of people posing under the rainbow colored gate – and of course I was one of them. :p Whip out your camera – don’t be shy!

57. Brunch at the Belmond El Encanto (Santa Barbara)

If you’re looking for a luxe lunch, look no further than the Belmond. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea (as there are other great food spots in Santa Barbara for half the price), but if you’re here for a special occasion, I say go for it. And mmm, the brioche french toast (it’s stuffed with Nutella and bananas).

It’s pretty expensive, but the views make up for the high price tag. If you can, walk around the property for a bit before/after brunch – the pool looks absolutely TO DIE FOR and I’m trying to find an excuse to stay here for the night!

58. Butterfly Beach (Santa Barbara)

However you spend your day in Santa Barbara, make sure to head on over to Butterfly Beach for sunset. While the sun doesn’t set directly on the water (despite numerous sources saying it does…), the sky typically turns a soft pinkish color and it’s oh so mesmerizing. 

Bring a bottle of something yummy and some dinner – voila, the perfect date night! You’ll probably see a few couples doing the same. 

There’s a bike/walking path we love to stroll along above the beach – it’s full of flowers and so much beauty. 

If it’s high tide there won’t be much beach to see, but it’s still beautiful nonetheless. 

59. Point Dume (Malibu)

More coastal cliff hikes with more spectacular Southern California views. And you can reach the top in under a mile! Most of the hike is through sand though, which is always more difficult for me so take that into account (but hey, it’s a great workout!).

If you’re visiting in early spring, you’ll get to see the wildflowers against the blue water – absolutely stunning! And always be on the lookout for wildlife – there’s frequently sea lions and dolphins around, and even whales depending on the season!

• Fun Fact: A bunch of movies were filmed here, including Planet of the Apes and Iron Man!

Continue your workout by walking on the isolated beaches below to Paradise Cove – a friend and I did it and despite getting a tad wet (okay, a lot wet), it was an absolute blast!

60. Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park (Santa Monica)

A bit old-timey and a bit kitschy, but I love it nonetheless being a tourist trap. And it reminds me of the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk a bit! Expect to find street vendors, live music, a high-tech arcade, souvenir and ice cream shops, an aquarium (!!!!), fishermen, and plenty of places to eat (like PierBurger and Bubba Gump).

There’s even a mini amusement park here on the pier in Santa Monica, aptly named Pacific Park (makes sense, right?)! If you can time your visit right, go on the rollercoaster at sunset – you’ll be rewarded with the most amazing views of Santa Monica beach. 

61. Venice Canals (Venice)

Longing for a leisurely stroll before/after the chaos of Santa Monica/Venice Beach? Head to the Venice Canals! You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Europe- trust me! Walk around the man-made canals of the Venice Canal Historic District neighborhood (built all the way back in 1905!). There are 5 canals in total, with lavish houses lining the canals, many with boat docks, and bridges connecting the two sides of the canals.

Be sure to either ask for directions or look them up on the map (they’re a few blocks inland from Venice Beach) – you could easily walk right past them if you didn’t know where you’re going!

62. Abbot Kinney Blvd (Venice)

Trendy, sophisticated, and cool with a laid-back Venice vibe. Abbot Kinney is a mile long road full of chic boutique shops, hip eateries, and a bunch of galleries/colorful street art. It is known as the “coolest block in America”. 

And it’s one of my favorite places to go for a stroll in Venice Beach! You’ll find tons of one-of-a-kind local goods and the latest fashions (I love stopping by The Piece Collective, General Store, and BURRO flagship – such eclectic stuff in there!). 

Hungry? Grab some brunch from The Butcher’s Daughter, brioche donuts from Blue Star, and ice cream from Salt & Straw (mmm two of my favorite Portland eateries). There’s a Blue Bottle Coffee here, as well as the high-end Intelligentsia Coffeebar.

→ If you’ve never been to LA before, I suggest making the slight detour. But if you have, continue your Pacific Coast Highway drive down the 1 to Orange County. Sure, the next few aren’t technicallyyyy stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, but shhh… you’re close enough!

63. West Hollywood (Los Angeles)

The neighborhood of West Hollywood is one of my favorite areas in all of LA. It’s creatively eclectic, dons one of my favorite brunch spots, and oh so trendy. 

Don’t miss Melrose Avenue – a hip and sophisticated street with a whole slew of not-to-miss spots. Thirsty? Head to Alfred’s Tea Room (or Alfred’s Coffee) for a particularly delicious cup (the matcha latte is a popular favorite).

And it wouldn’t be a proper visit to Melrose with stopping at Paul Smith’s Pink Wall (8221 Melrose), the Made in LA Wall (8025 Melrose), and the Retna Wall (8826 Melrose). 

A few blocks over you’ll find Sunset Blvd, home to The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker. All the food is pretty good, but don’t leave without trying the bananas foster french toast, ricotta pancakes, and a rainbow cappuccino! 

64. Little Tokyo (Los Angeles)

LA is super varied, and there’s so many nooks and crannies to discover (if you’ve got the time), but I always seem to make it to Little Tokyo.  Sure, the performances and shops are fun, but I come for the food. There’s mochi ice cream! And udon! Loco moco! Yakitori! Instagrammable soft serve! Old-school sushi joints! Self-serve boba! Imagawayaki (red bean pancakes – my favorite)!

• Fun Fact: Little Tokyo is actually the heart of the largest Japanese-American population here in North America! 

Once you’re full, just take in all the culture. The neighborhood is bustling with it.

65. Griffith Observatory (Los Angeles)

You just can’t visit the city and not head to the Griffith Observatory, you just can’t. Oh the views, from every angle!

Besides boasting phenomenal views of the city, Griffith Observatory is the place to be when you want to get your science on. The inside of the facility has top-notch astronomy displays, including a full display of every element on the periodic table (if you’re into that kinda stuff) and a wide array of constellations and planets to ogle at.

I’m fascinated by the night sky, so this place was right up my alley.  

And plus, if you’re looking for views of the Hollywood Sign, you’ll find them here as well.

66. The Broad Museum (Los Angeles)

I’m sure you’ve seen those photos of the huge metallic-looking balloon animals. That’s at the Broad Museum in DTLA. Since I’ve already shared so much natural beauty on this list of the best Pacific Coast Highway stops, I figured I should add a museum or two into the mix!

Since it’s free to see the permanent collection galleries (yup, FREE!), the line’s usually pretty long. I recommend getting Egg Slut to go (more on that below) to eat while standing on line.  Make sure to check out Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room – it’s absolutely wild (although you’ll have to pay for that).

The contemporary art museum cost a cool $140 million to build, so you know it’s worth your time.

• Any Disney fans in the house? The Walt Disney Concert Hall is literally right across the street – go check it out! The architecture is striking!

67. Egg Slut (Los Angeles)

Sucker for breakfast sandwiches? Don’t miss Egg Slut located within Grand Central Market – it’s kinda an institution around here.

The line is always pretty long, but it goes fast – I promise! My order of choice? A bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich with a glass of freshly squeezed OJ (so refreshing on a hot day). Sounds simple (and it is), but they just make it to perfection. Try the chipotle ketchup if you wanna kick it up a notch!

• The Bradbury Building is right across the street if you’re interested in seeing some Victorian architecture, complete with wrought-iron stairs and birdcage elevators!

68. Huntington Beach and Pier (Huntington Beach)

The sunsets are pretty, the surfers are out and about, and it’s a great place to stretch your legs (it’s one of the longest piers in California!).

Walk to the very end and you’ll find Ruby’s Diner, a ‘40s-style chain and staple to OC. And make sure to order a milkshake!

And while you’re in Huntington Beach, you may as well make a quick stop at the largest surfboard in the world. I mean, HB is Surf City USA afterall!

BONUS STOP: Driving the Pacific Coast Highway with your pup (or just love watching dogs happily run on the beach)?! Consider making a stop at Dog Beach! This is one of the only beaches dogs are 100% allowed in Orange County. 

69. Frozen Bananas on Balboa Island 

You heard me right! This tiny (man-made!) island town has become known for their loaded frozen bananas – and we always make sure to get one (or two) whenever we’re in the area. I mean, what’s better than a chocolate-covered frozen banana dipped in sprinkles or peanuts (or your choice of topping) on a hot day?

And don’t fret; there’s numerous places on Marine Avenue to pick up a frozen banana. Popular spots include Dad’s Donut and Bakery Shop and Sugar ‘n Spice (essentially the same thing, but I prefer Sugar ‘n Spice since it’s the original celebrating over 75 years of frozen bananas).

The peninsula is super cute to walk around, but do yourself a favor and park on the main strip and then walk over the bridge to the island. It’s typically a madhouse (in terms of parking) over here. Put this on your OC bucket list; you won’t be disappointed.

70. Inspiration Point (Corona Del Mar)

Get ready, because the views have just gotten that much better. And Inspiration Point (the cute park overlooking Corona Del Mar beach) is where we’ll start. There’s sailboats going in and outta the harbor, multi-million dollar homes to gawk at, and that picture-perfect view of the beach. Doesn’t get much better than that.

Stay here as long as you want – you can either walk right on by and go down to the beach, or pull up a BYO-chair and hang out on the grass (what we like to do). 

71. Crystal Cove State Beach (Laguna Beach) 

Ok, so out of transparency, this is one of the Pacific Coast Highway stops we have yet to cross off this list (due to poor planning on my part, wah). BUT it’s been on my California bucket list forever, so I of course wanted to let you know about it! 

There’s a whole slew of trails to hike (with ocean views), plenty of caves and tidepools to explore, and you can even rent a cabin for a night (although they get booked up super far in advance so plan ahead!).

Do note it costs $15 to enter the state park/beach, and you’ll have to pay to park upon entering as well. 

72. Crescent Bay Point Park (Laguna Beach) 

A pretty small park located in a neighborhood of Laguna, and not on many lists of the best Pacific Coast Highway road trip stops. But it’s my favorite place in Laguna, and one of the best stops on the PCH (in my opinion, of course).

This will likely be one of the shortest stops on your trip- but the views! OHHH the views! We’ve been a few times and I’m amazed each and every time. The water of Crescent Bay looks like pure turquoise from above – we’ve even witnessed a proposal up here!

73. Heisler Park (Laguna Beach)

More million dollar views! Crazy, amiright?! I couldn’t get over the glistening turquoise water below! 

Get ready for a quiet walk, towering palm trees, and fresh ocean mist. Heisler Park is stunning and then some. Try and go in the morning; it’s so serene and peaceful (definitely more crowded in the afternoons). 

There’s a bunch of art pieces scattered around the park to check out as well (the whale’s my favorite)!

Beware – there’s not much shade, so come prepared with your sunscreen and water bottles! Or pick up a boba tea at Tippy’s to bring along (a family-run business within walking distance of Heisler Park and named after a dog they rescued!).

And since you’re already over here, head on over to Main Beach and snap a photo with the historic lifeguard tower!

74. Sunset at Strand Beach (Dana Point)

The sun setting on the wet sand with the green cliffs in the distance and multi-million dollar homes perched above. OMG. 

I can’t believe this is California. Absolutely remarkable. If you’re a sucker for sunsets like I am, PLEASE do not skip this.

The beach is located down a cliff, but thankfully, there’s an easy way to get down. You can either take the elevator (they call it a funicular but it looked like a regular elevator to me), or the gradual steps and pathway (which really wasn’t that hard at all). You miss some of the views via funicular, so I’d pick the path!

And ALWAYS stay a bit after the sun dips below the horizon – that’s when the colors really start to show off!

75. Maison Cafe & Market (Dana Point)

We were thoroughly impressed with this charming little cafe, and I just couldn’t leave it off this list of best Pacific Coast Highway stops. 

There’s loads of Italian and French-inspired dishes on the menu, but we personally loved the ricotta blueberry toast and the sweet potato sausage frittata. I’ll be trying The Dutch baby and the nut butter toast next time!

I even read somewhere that they collect pieces of china – so it’s all mix and match! So cute!

76. Dana Point Headlands (Dana Point)

The last of the last stops on this list of the best Pacific Coast Highway stops! Woo – you made it! 

The headlands are a protected marine nature preserve, with sandy beaches, sweeping ocean views, and yup – more tide pools! Take the 3 mile loop, it’s super easy and super scenic. I always love a good nature walk. Don’t miss the cave (only accessible at low tide!) and the interpretive center.

Psst – you can park at the huge lot at Strand Vista Park (for free!) and walk on over!

BONUS SPOT! Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens (San Clemente)

Okay, so the PCH drive technically stops at Dana Point, but we loved San Clemente so much I’d be silly not to include it. And plus, it’s only a few minutes away from Dana Point (about 10).

This nonprofit organization has preserved the building for over 90 years, and they’ve done a fantastic job! There’s lots of history to learn about, but don’t feel bad if you’re just here for the views of the beach and pier. And all that greenery in the gardens! Guilty!

And while you’re here in San Clemente, grab some brunch at Cafe Mimosa, take a walk on the coastal trail, and finish off the day with some ice cream bars from Southswell.

So there ya have it – the best Pacific Coast Highway stops, according to me! I hope this helps you plan your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary!

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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Get ready for misty mornings, dense redwood forests, and fern-covered canyons – it’s any nature lover’s perfect weekend getaway! There’s stunning shorelines, mushroom ice cream (yup – I said mushroom), secluded beaches, sleepy sea lions, and magical sea caves. All my favorite things to do in Mendocino and Fort Bragg, coming right up!

Before moving to California a few years ago, I had never even heard of Mendocino. After taking tons of day trips in the Bay Area, I set out to look for weekend trips in San Francisco instead (beyond the typical Yosemite and Napa Valley, because of course we’d been there already).

After some quick research and a nod of encouragement from my sister-in-law, we decided spending a long weekend in Mendocino was the perfect spot for our next mini getaway!

And a few weeks later, we were off on a road trip from San Francisco to Mendocino! [Be sure to check out our drive, as we made numerous stops you wouldn’t wanna miss as you venture up Highway 1.]  

I honestly hadn’t realized there were plenty of things to do in Mendocino to keep us busy, busy, busy. While you can plan to chill out and spend your weekend doing a little R & R, if you’re the more active type, dontchu worry – Mendocino will fulfill all your towering redwood dreams and then some. AKA – the hiking’s great here.

READ NEXT: San Francisco to Mendocino (all the stops to make along the way)

If you’re in the mood for some fresh ocean air, picturesque landscapes, snaking rivers, and giant redwoods, you’ll fall in love with these old mining towns just as fast as I did.

When to Visit/Weather in Mendocino

Mendocino is kinda a year-round destination. It’s never too hot (mid 80s at most) and never too cold (although it can get into the low 40s in winter mornings).  The weather’s pretty mild and temperate, making for great hiking weather and other outdoorsy things.

However, (because, yes, of course there’s a however), it’s kinda hard to predict the weather over here. 

Sometimes it’s clear and sunny and hot, sometimes it’s misty and chilly, other times the wind is all encompassing meaning you’ll need to bundle the F up, and sometimes, you’ll find 23 types of weather all in one day. There’s no snow over here, although I secretly wish there was because scenic Mendocino covered in the fluffy white stuff would be a sight to be seen.

But one thing’s for sure: you’ll 85% wake up to a dense fog blanketing the entire area. And then it’ll usually burn off by midday. If you’re lucky.

And to make matters even worse, just like in San Francisco (and other coastal areas nearby – like Pescadero and Half Moon Bay), there’s MAJOR microclimates on the coast in Mendocino. It can be windy and foggy in Little River (5 minutes south of Mendocino), super clear in Fort Bragg (a mere 20 minutes north), and then all of a sudden quickly change in 5 minutes. The fog rolls deep here, and moves fast!

One way to combat this – just bring a bunch of different clothing options and you’ll be fine! I usually like to throw either pants or shorts in the car – whatever I’m not wearing at the moment – so I can quickly change if need be.

We’ve visited Mendocino in summer and fall, and had mostly sunny days with some fog/misty mornings mixed in. I don’t do well in any kind of precipitation (besides snow when I’m choosing it), so if you’re like me, steer clear of the rainy winter and early-spring months. 

While you’ll see some people hanging at the beach, don’t necessarily expect beach weather in Mendocino (yes, even in summer). This is Northern California where the Pacific’s absolutely freezing, so leave your bathing suit at home (or bring it, but know you probably won’t be needing it).

How to Get to Mendocino

First of all, where is Mendocino exactly? Both Mendocino and Fort Bragg are located in Northern California in Mendocino County. The area is roughly 3 hours or so from San Francisco, making it the perfect weekend getaway for those in the Bay, like us!

From outta town? You’ll wanna get yourself to either San Francisco International (SFO) or Sacramento International (SMF), as those are the two major airports closest to the Mendocino area! From there, it’s not too long of a drive: 3 or 4ish hours from San Francisco (depending which route you choose – more below), or about 3.5 hours from Sacramento.

Driving to Mendocino from the San Francisco Bay Area? You basically have two options:

1. driving inland on the 101 and then 128 (~3 hours)
2. making your way up the coast via Pacific Coast Highway (~4-5 hours)

INLAND ROUTE (U.S. Route 101 and California 128)

If you take the inland route via the 101 and 128, expect to drive through tiny towns, orchards and farms, vineyards and wineries, and the Navarro River Redwoods (which are absolutely gorgeous!). You’ll pass some of our favorite NorCal towns, including Sausalito, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, and Healdsburg.

While all of these make for great weekend getaways from the Bay, if you’re short on time, I don’t recommend stopping there on your way to Mendocino. None are awfully far away (and all are on the 101), so save them for other trips.

Of course I have a few recommendations on the 128 (farther from the Bay Area and closer to Mendocino, meaning you probably won’t be venturing over this way any time soon).

Add the following to your list of must-stops while heading up for a weekend in Mendocino:

• Pennyroyal Farm for expensive cheese and wine tastings – still on my California bucket list (Boonville)
• a quick look around Farmhouse Mercantile for quirky treasures and wordy goods (Boonville)
• Hendy Woods State Park for some pre-redwoods vibes (Philo)
• Apple Farm for some fresh apple ciders and hard cider, apple cider syrup, jams, and chutneys to-go (Philo)
• a winery or two if you’re not in a rush – I’ve heard Lula Cellars and Navarro Vineyards are great! (Philo)

Any caffeine lovers in the house? Grab a coffee at Dutch Bros if you’ve never been (we usually stop at the one in Santa Rosa). My husband is obsessed with “The Annihilator”, and I totally get it – it tastes like chocolate coffee.

COASTAL ROUTE (Highway 1)

We typically take the 101/128 when heading up to Mendocino since it’s shorter, but if you’ve never driven this part of the Pacific Coast Highway, don’t miss it! It is a tad longer (okay, so more than a tad considering all the stops you’ll make), but well-worth it in my opinion.

If you’ve never ventured past the Golden Gate Bridge, the following stops are highly recommended:

• Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point for perfect views of the bridge (a miss if you live in SF obviously)
• a quick stop at Muir Beach Overlook
• Stinson Beach for a quick stop in the sand
• check out the Point Reyes Shipwreck (another quick stop)
• Hog Island Oysters if you’re in the mood for some fresh shellfish
• Patrick’s Saltwater Taffy and Wild Flour Bread Co. (get some taffy, scones, and a fresh loaf!)
• Point Arena Lighthouse and Museum – my personal favorite, but it does close kinda early so get a super early start from SF or leave out a few stops if you wanna make it to the lighthouse in time

I’ve actually written up an entire post detailing our entire drive from San Francisco to Mendocino via Highway 1 – find that over here! Tons more info on all these stops, I promise!

Note that driving up the 1 will take the better portion of the day, so don’t make any dinner reservations in Mendocino or plan to do anything of significance up there the first night. You’ll likely be tired from all the fun stops!

My recommendation if you have a FULL 3 days to explore: Drive up to Mendo via Highway 1, and drive back to SF via the 101 and 128. You’ll get back much faster.

Quick Facts about Mendocino:

+ Mendo is about a 3.5 hour drive from San Francisco if you’re driving inland, or about 5-6 on Highway 1, depending on which stops you decide to make.  If you’re driving up the coast, I highly encourage you to read more tips about our road trip.

+ Numerous state parks can be found here, and some require an entrance fee. Be prepared to pull out some cash every now and then. With so much natural beauty, it’s worth your morning Starbucks run.

+ Fort Bragg is only a few miles north, and a great way to spend a few hours.  You must wait in line for Cowlicks Ice Cream. So incredibly good.

+ There is a convenience store in town which basically has everything you need for a weekend away (minus clothes and all).  I forgot a toothbrush and was able to easily pick one up on our first night.  It’s also a great place to stock up on snacks.

+ Two days in the Mendocino/Fort Bragg area was perfect.  We had enough to do to keep ourselves busy, but feel an extra day or two would have been overkill.  A long weekend in Mendocino, 3 days at max, is perfect.

If you’re looking to take a much longer trip up/down the PCH, check out all my favorite stops on the Pacific Coast Highway – yes, all 75 of them!

How to get around Mendocino

You’ll definitely want a car when visiting Mendocino. While the actual town of Mendocino is super small and extremely walkable, the state parks and other things to do in Mendocino are actually located in Little River and Fort Bragg, too.

And plus, while cell service is typically okay in the towns (Mendocino and Fort Bragg), you’ll find it’s lacking in Little River and in the parks. AKA don’t plan on using Uber or Lyft to get around.  Your best bet if you’re carless – rent a car from San Francisco and road trip up highway 1 to Mendocino.

Little River vs. Mendocino vs. Fort Bragg

Okay, so I know this guide is focused on things to do in Mendocino, BUT you can’t visit the area without checking out nearby Little River and Fort Bragg.

Little River has a bunch of cute B&Bs and cottages (like our stay at Glendeven!), plenty of hiking trails at Van Damme State Park, and it’s only 2 miles south of Mendocino (you actually drive right through it to get to Mendo).

Mendocino boasts a cute, charming little coastal community, with a bunch of state parks and reserves. There’s plenty of restaurants in town, art galleries, Victorian homes (many in pastel-colored hues), and a bunch of chocolatiers.

Fort Bragg is the largest town on this list, and only 20 minutes or so north of Mendo. When you’re done checking out all the things to do in Mendocino, be sure to head up the coast to Fort Bragg! Some of my favorite spots are up here (including my favorite ice cream shop of almost all time… ohhh the homemade waffle cones…).

I apologize in advance for all the photos – I couldn’t help myself! Mendocino is such a hidden beauty! If you live in the Bay Area or have a few extra days in San Francisco, head up north for some much needed time in the forest. Literally.

Things to do in Mendocino and Fort Bragg

I’ve organized this list of things to do in Mendocino and Fort Bragg by location on the 1 (heading from South to North), but know that we kinda jump around a bit. Everything is within a 30 minute drive or so, so nothing’s too far from each other. Honestly? We choose what to do based on the weather, and make our way up and down the coast a few times stopping at wherever we see fit. 

Van Damme State Park (Little River)

Our B&B (The Glendeven) was actually surrounded by Van Damme on 3 sides, meaning we should have taken full advantage (whoops). I heard there’s a scenic beach, a lush fern-filled forest, and even year-round camping if that’s your style. 

If you’re looking for a day hike, check out the shady 9 mile Fern Canyon Scenic loop (with over 800 feet of elevation gain) – sure to help burn off those ice cream-induced calories. Add in the Pygmy Forest boardwalk if you wanna extend your walk a bit!

Explore the tiny town of Mendocino

For the record, downtown Mendocino is quite small.  Here you’ll find a bunch of restaurants and a few quirky shops, as well as the fire station and local church.  

What it’s lacking in size makes up in cuteness and quaintness though!  I couldn’t stop taking pictures!  So much character and charm!  I’d love to get a house here someday and continue exploring all the things to do in Mendocino.

Mendocino Headlands State Park (Mendocino) 

Ohhh, this is one of our favorite things to do in Mendocino and Fort Bragg, so don’t miss it! It’s just a few minutes from town, and there’s a bunch of trails through the meadow with plenty of photo opportunities of the wild Mendo coast. 

My advice: Go mid-morning just as the fog is starting to dissipate – you’ll appreciate the greenery of the bluffs and the blues of the water even more! And the fog actually adds to the scenery, believe it or not.

There’s a staircase heading down to the beach, but we just admired the views from the bluffs above.

If you’re visiting in winter, bring binoculars – there’s typically whales right off the coast!

Russian Gulch State Park (Mendocino)

One of Mendocino’s most popular parks, and for good reason. The entire area is absolutely stunning. After a foggy first day in Mendo, we left Russian Gulch for some sunny skies and were glad we did.

If you’re just looking for some easy walks along the ocean (like we were), head to the upper picnic area (make a right once you enter) for views of the bridge and the flat Headlands Trail. We kinda wish we brought along some food for a DIY picnic. Next time! 

The most popular areas of Russian Gulch are the Headlands Trail, Fern Canyon trail to the waterfall, the beach under the bridge, tide pooling, and Devil’s Punchbowl.

I’d love to go sea kayaking over here someday! I swear, the color of the water easily rivals Big Sur – it’s so super turquoise and gorgeous!

Do note there’s an $8 fee per car to enter, so be prepared to whip out some cash.

Point Cabrillo Light Station (Mendocino)

If you’re in the area, you absolutely must visit this light station.  How cute is it?!  Can you tell I’m just an absolute sucker for lighthouses?  I honestly don’t know what it is about them, but I feel the need to visit them all (visit the lighthouse in Pescadero if you’re a fan as well)!

The Point Cabrillo Light Station has been used for navigational purposes since 1909 (#wow!), and is now part of the California State Parks system.  There is a short trail to reach the lighthouse, but if you haven’t caught my drift yet, it’s worth it.  And really, it’s super short.   No excuses.  Get your coffee and go.

One of the most charming things to do in Mendocino for sure!

Jug Handle State Natural Reserve (Mendocino)

Something I love most about Mendocino and it’s parks is that anyone can access the natural beauty. And by that I mean, you don’t have to walk very far to see some of the most gorgeous spots on the coast. Enter Jug Handle! Another spot for some beautiful views of the rocky coastline. 

My advice? Do both walks from the parking lot – it’ll take you 45 minutes, an hour max for both. Here are the walks we did:

• Down to the beach (literally less than a 10 minute walk, although there are some overgrown sandy steps at the end, just FYI)
• The flat Headland Loop on the bluffs above the beach (you can go as far as you want; we walked around about 20 minutes with lots of stopping for photos).

If you’re looking for a longer hike, take the flat 5 mile (roundtrip) trail through the “ecological staircase” to the Pygmy Forest. I’m still convincing my hiking-hating husband to do this with me as I’ve heard it’s one of the best things to do in Mendocino for hiking lovers!

Mendocino Coastal Botanical Gardens (Fort Bragg)

47 whole acres of blossoming flowers, coastal bluffs, and sunshine.   Expect to find rhododendrons, camellias, fuchsias, dahlias, magnolias, maples, succulents, begonias and more. If you’re a plant lover like myself, this will be one of your favorite things to do in Mendocino – I promise you that!

The Mendocino Coastal Botanical Gardens are a good place to wander for 2 hours or so. Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed (taking into account the $14 admission fee), but the ocean views made up for the gardens.  A great place for nature buffs!  

Don’t miss the raspberry tea by the entrance at the garden cafe – I was skeptical at first because it’s unsweetened, but boy was it tasty.

Skunk Train (Fort Bragg)

You’ve probably heard of Fort Bragg’s world-famous historic Skunk Train before – the 130 year old rail line that weaves its way into the nearby lush redwood forests.

And through majestic stone tunnels. And over wooden trestle bridges. And alongside the Pudding Creek Estuary. Nature without the effort, anyone?!

And psst – the train doesn’t actually smell like a skunk, well, not anymore at least! In the past, they were powered by gasoline engines and burned crude oil to keep passengers warm, producing that strong icky smell. Be thankful for technology.  

And if that doesn’t sound thrilling enough, take a ride on a two-passenger railbike. It’s exactly as it sounds – you pedal with your partner in the open-air through the trees (sounds kinda magical if you ask me).  The bikes are still on my California bucket list (it seems kinda expensive, but maybe I’ll finally cross it off next time we visit Fort Bragg). (Fort Bragg)

Cowlick’s Ice Cream (Fort Bragg)

Yes, I listed this spot down below in the “Where to Eat” section, but I love it oh so much I’ve added it twice! Plus, I figure if I don’t shut up about it, you must think it’s worth your time. 

A few things to note:

• The portions are huge (aka a “small” comes with two outrageously large scoops).
• Get the black raspberry chocolate chunk (I’d honestly drive the 3 hours here just for a few scoops – ask my husband).
• Always opt for a waffle cone. ALWAYS.
• Prepare to wait 20-30 minutes or so. There’s always a line – it’s that good.

Glass Beach (Fort Bragg)

A visit to the Mendocino area wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Glass Beach.  Do you remember all those photos you’ve seen on Pinterest of the beach covered in sea glass?  Yea, that’s in Fort Bragg.  

Note that the actual beach does not live up to the photos, and if you go in expecting all colored glass, you’ll be wildly disappointed.  It’s more of a mixture of rocks, sea glass, and sand.  I picked out some glass for the photos – guilty!

The beach isn’t too sore on the eyes, either.

Walk on the Ten Mile River Bridge (Fort Bragg)

Kinda random, but we found it on the way to the winery and it looked pretty cool so we decided to stop! TBH, I wouldn’t head there just for that, but if you happen to pass it, it’s worth the quick 15-minute detour. There’s a pedestrian footpath on one side of the bridge with great views of the Ten Mile River and beach. (Fort Bragg)

Pacific Star Winery (Fort Bragg/Kibesillah)

We recently heard about Pacific Star from a friend (hey Caroline!), and I cannot believe it’s not on more lists of things to do in Mendocino and Fort Bragg.

I mean, not only are the views of the coastline absolutely stunning, but you can get a $10 tasting of 6 wines (!!!). And the wines were pretty good (with some classic reds as well as some more rare and unusual varietals from grapes from nearby vineyards).

We bought some cheese and crackers from the winery as a little snack to accompany our wine, but I would have loved to bring some stuff from home for a picnic lunch! Well worth the extra 20 minute drive from the town of Fort Bragg.

Other Things to do in Mendocino and Fort Bragg

Witness the Sunset

Out of all the things to do in Mendocino, promise me you’ll spend a bit of time admiring the sunset. It’s true. The sunsets in California can’t be beat, and Mendocino is no exception.  With the rugged coastline and the forest being so incredibly close together, you can get some great shots for sure.

Hang out by the water

These shots were taken at the botanical garden mentioned above, but basically everywhere on the coast offers views as good as these.  California, you are just too damn beautiful! And my mother wonders why I moved here.

Drive through the Forest

It’s literally impossible not to drive through the trees if you’re relying on a car to get around.  If you’re from the Bay Area and have visited Muir Woods or other redwoods, Mendo’s forest won’t be too shocking, but still impressive to say the least.

If you want to venture a bit north, halfway between Mendocino and Ukiah you’ll find Montgomery Woods, loaded with ancient redwood groves. Those are cool. Trust me.

Take in the Views

Can I just gush for a minute? When I saw these views (below) I could have sworn we somehow got teleported to SoCal or Big Sur. Um, hello, that water (!!!). Who knew Northern California had pacific ocean views like these?

I’m still in shock. The amount of times I made my husband pull over on the side of the road is kinda hilarious.  To me, not him. :p

My advice: pack a bathing suit, some wine, and go wild.  Yolo, right?

Star Gaze

Mendocino gets dark at night, yo. Like, really, really, really dark.  Can’t see anything without a flash light dark. There aren’t many lights in town, and we hardly saw any street lights (especially not on the windy roads through the forest — be careful!).

This sets up the perfect opportunity for star gazing.  No light pollution = billions of stars. Since we were staying at a private house through AirBnb (sign up here to get up to $100 off your first stay), we threw our sweatshirts on and feasted our eyes on the sky.

I even attempted to get some shots – but my star photography is not up to par and I couldn’t figure it out!

I think I even saw more stars than when we were in Hawaii (shhh… the Maui gods wouldn’t be too happy I shared that).

Where to Eat in Little River, Mendocino, and Fort Bragg

Frankie’s: This small restaurant is known for both their pizza and ice cream – what could possibly be better?  And plus, the patio seating is perfect on a bright sunny day!  

Don’t feel like waiting on line at Cowlicks? Frankies serves Cowlicks Ice Cream, so you can get the good stuff without the crowds.

Make sure to try the candy cap mushroom flavor (it doesn’t really taste like mushrooms, more like vanilla with a hint of brown sugar?), and Hokey Pokey (with honeycomb aka it’s super sweet).

Psst – Frankies is closed on Mondays, so plan to visit another day of the week

MacCullum House: I heard people raving about the atmosphere and food, but we sadly missed this place.  We ran outta time!  Definitely the spot to be for a cute brunch.  Kinda expensive, but kinda worth it.

Patterson’s Pub: A local favorite in the area.  Patterson’s is beaming from morning ’til night, and offers your normal pub fare.  Prices are good, beers are flowing, and you’re sure to find an interesting crowd at the bar.  The pub does not allow anyone under the age of 21 to enter, so keep this in mind if you’re bringing your kiddos along!

Don’t you just love how the green car matches that building so perfectly?  Oh, just me?  

Wild Fish: Wanna surprise your partner with an amazing meal and ocean views? Make a reservation (the place is super tiny) at Wild Fish, a super romantic fine-dining restaurant. And their speciality – fresh seafood! The pan-seared swordfish and cioppino were absolutely delicious. Get some local wine and sticky toffee pudding. (Little River)

Cowlicks Ice Cream: Possibly the best ice cream I’ve ever had.  And boy do I eat a lot of ice cream.  Be prepared to stand in a very long line – but trust me, this chilly treat is worth the wait.

Raspberry chocolate chunk, you have my heart.  Always and forever.  And those crispy handmade cones.  Pure perfection.  [If you look behind the counter, you’ll see them making each cone hand by hand. It’s a pretty cool process.]

Jenny’s Giant Burger: Another local favorite, and another place you’ll most likely wait in line.  But hey, a place must be good enough if people stand around waiting.  That, or it’s cheap, haha.  Jenny’s is a bit of both.  High on flavor, low on cost.  My favorite combination.

I was too busy stuffing my face I forgot to take a picture.  #sorrynotsorry.  Old fashioned burgers done right.  It’s a family run establishment that has been in the area for years and years – the locals even call ahead so they don’t have to wait in line.  Tiny place with about 5 tables inside and 5 outside.

Mendo Cookie Co: Warm, gooey, straight-outta-the-oven cookies, enough said.  Oh, and that they have tons of flavor combinations.  Oatmeal, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, walnuts, coconut, peanut butter, etc, you name it!

This is a must stop for locals, passersby and anyone visiting Fort Bragg/Mendocino.  They even have a walk up window or dine in cafe type shop. My suggestion: have one person wait in line for ice cream at Cowlick, the other get some cookies, and enjoy them on line.  That’s my kinda afternoon.

Goodlife Cafe and Bakery: Earthy and organic.  That’s how I would describe this breakfast joint.  Lots of breakfast options, some more healthy than others (beware of the pastries – they are delectable).  You can tell it’s a hip spot to hang out – they place was pretty packed even at 9am.

Little River Inn: A good place for a romantical dinner (yes, I made that word up, I kinda love it).  Service was a little lacking, and we were bummed we couldn’t see the sun setting.  

My recommendation: eat at the bar, arrive right before sunset, and you’ll be able to witness the entire spectacle while eating some Dungeness crab ravioli in sweet pea puree and sipping some vino.  Still pretty romantical to me.

Where to Stay in Mendocino:

Glendeven Inn & Lodge (my top pick)

If you’re looking for a romantic place to stay, look no further than the Glendeven Inn. I can’t stop gushing about our stay there, I really can’t!

From the in-room wood-burning fireplace and the homemade breakfast to its location surrounded by the lush Van Damme State Park on 3 sides and within minutes to Wild Fish (our favorite spot for a dinner date), our stay was nearly perfect.

And it wasn’t just any old ordinary breakfast – we had freshly baked zucchini breads, mediterranean quiches, fresh OJ, berry cobblers, etc delivered straight to our door at 9am each morning.

Get this – it’s literally farm-to-table as they get all their ingredients from their house farm; farm-fresh eggs, organic veggies, handpicked fruits (all vegetarian just FYI).

Our room faced the chicken coop and llama pasture so we watched the animals from our windows while we ate breakfast (we later fed the chickens and said hi to the llamas)! By far one of our most memorable hotel stays to date!

Choose one of their modern farmhouse rooms in the lodge – super upscale furnishings and large windows with tons of natural light! And ohhh the bed – memory foam and oh so comfy!

READ REVIEWS, FIND PRICES, and BOOK YOUR STAY HERE.

Sea Rock Inn: We also passed by the cottages at Sea Rock Inn after walking around the Headlands, and I think we wanna check that place out next time we visit! From the looks of it, I think they’d have great ocean views!

Heritage House: Looking for a romantic seaside escape in a historic Gold Rush farmhouse? We passed this spot numerous times as well, and I’ll be adding it to my list of places to stay in Mendocino.

AirBnB is your best friend around here. Sure, the bed and breakfasts look (and are!) cozy, but they come with a hefty price tag. My husband and I stayed at the cutest little cottage in the woods, which was literally on private land in the middle of the forest.  

The sweetest lady welcomed us to her home, and even treated us to her famous sour cream blueberry muffins (people rave about them in the comments on AirBnB, they’re that good).  

Unfortunately, she just sold the place, and is not taking any more Air BnB-ers. BUT don’t fret – there’s plenty of other notable spots on AirBnB. Have a look around and find your perfect stay!

And remember, Get up to $100 off your first stay with AirBnB here!

Have you ever spent a weekend in Mendocino/Fort Bragg? What was your favorite of all the things to do in Mendocino?

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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The post A Nature Lover’s Guide to Mendocino: A Coastal California Getaway appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

I love a good road trip. There’s no denying that. Even if it’s just a quick day trip down the coast of California. 

The stretch of coastline from San Francisco to Santa Cruz doesn’t get much love, but after living on the peninsula for the past few years, we’ve explored the area quite a bit. And lemme tell you, there are a-plenty of stops to make on any San Francisco to Santa Cruz road trip. From lighthouses and tide pools (complete with starfish, anemone, and sea urchins) to the best pie in the area and melt-in-your-mouth lobster rolls, we always find a good time. 

This trip from San Francisco to Santa Cruz can be done as a day trip (although you probably won’t be able to make alllll these stops), or on a much longer multi-day California coast road trip. I’ve put a star next to my favorite stops in case you’re short on time. 

How long does it take to get from San Francisco to Santa Cruz?

It takes less than 2 hours to get from the big city to the laid-back surfer town of Santa Cruz (with no traffic of course) on Highway 1, so you’ll be able to make a handful of stops in a short period of time. And thankfully, nothing is too far from each other!

However, of course you’ll plan to stop (as I’m guessing you came across this blog post to find some stops along the way), so while it’s not a lot of driving, the stops do of course add some time.

→ If you’re from SF and need to rent a car (the only way to do this mini Santa Cruz road trip), I typically find good deals here. 

Do note that if you wanna spend ample time in Santa Cruz (aka the majority of the day), maybe just pick 1-2 of these stops and save the rest for later. Also, it may be wise to skip Highway 1 altogether, and take the quicker route inland on US 101 and CA 17.

Santa Cruz deserves more than a fraction of a day, so if you wanna get to most of these stops from San Francisco to Santa Cruz AND do all the things in Santa Cruz itself, I highly recommend spending the night down there.

→ Lots more epic day trips from SF here and tons of awesome things to do in Santa Cruz here.

Weather along the Coast

The coast is known to be foggy, so be sure to bring a sweater/light jacket. However, the weather is super weird over here – as in one minute it could be super cloudy and windy, and the next, sunny and blue skies. Always come prepared with extra clothing in the car (I like to keep a jean jacket in the back seat just in case).

Expect a day full of mist, fog, sunshine, wind, overcast, warmth, and cold (haha, sorry, but that’s just the truth). The occasional clear, sunny day does happen, but that’s definitely not the norm. Late summer, early fall is your best bet for sunshine and clear skies.

So let’s get to it; all the best stops from San Francisco to Santa Cruz, coming right up (going north to south). 

BEST STOPS FROM SAN FRANCISCO TO SANTA CRUZ

1. *Mori Point (Pacifica)

Put on your hiking boots (actually, just sneakers are perfectly fine); we’re headed to the coastal bluffs! The first stop on this mini San Francisco to Santa Cruz road trip is Mori Point, located in Pacifica. It’s just about 15 minutes from the southern part of the city, but you’ll feel a world away from all the hustle and bustle.

Mori Point is actually 110 acres of coastline, beaches, and bluffs, complete with ocean views and hiking trails, but I typically just walk the wooden plank to the beach.

Thankfully, you can make the walk as easy or difficult as you want. There’s plenty of rolling hills and cliffs to climb making for semi-moderate hikes, or you can simply walk the wooden planks to reach the coast (what we typically do). 

And yay, it’s super dog friendly, so you’re bound to see a whole slew of playful pups along the way! Look out for wildflowers in the spring, and if you’re lucky, you may even see some whales in the distance come winter.

Do note that the parking lot is pretty small (and fills up fast on the weekend), so be prepared to park on a nearby side street (not usually a problem).

Psst: bring a light jacket as it’s typically pretty windy, especially at the top if you’re climbing some hills. 

2. Pacifica State Beach and Taco Bell (Pacifica)

If you need a bit of beach time after your sweaty hike, drive a few minutes south to Pacifica State Beach (also known as Linda Mar Beach and Taco Bell Beach in case you’re doing additional research for your day trip to Santa Cruz).

Thankfully, the crescent-shaped beach is rather wide, as it’s Pacifica’s most well-loved and definitely most-populated (so don’t expect to find the beach all to yourselves). And yes, dogs are welcomed over here as well!

Any bird lovers in the house? Lookout for the endangered western snowy plovers in winter; although they camouflage into the sand as a primary defence mechanism, so they’re kinda hard to spot.

There is a daily fee to park in the lot ($7 for 4 hours or less), so keep in mind if you’re just planning on “seeing” it for a few minutes. 

And ha – why did I put Taco Bell on this list of stops from San Francisco to Santa Cruz? Well, my crunchwrap-supreme-loving friends, you’ll find your favorite grubs here at the fanciest Taco Bell over here in Pacifica. It’s been newly remodeled into a Taco Bell Cantina, all shiny and new, now selling wine, beer, and frozen drinks – all overlooking the beach!

If Taco Bell’s not calling your name and you’re in the mood for some fresh seafood instead, try Camelot Fish and Chips (a tiny little place we thoroughly enjoy).

3. JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve (Moss Beach) 

Time to get tide-pooling on the California coast! The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a protected area for the tons of diverse marine life found over here. Starfish, crabs, barnacles, mussels, sea urchins, algae, and more can be found along the rocky seashore in the intertidal (the area between low and high tide). 

Do note that JV Fitzgerald is a no-take area, meaning you’re not allowed to take anything from the reserve, including shells, sand, rocks, driftwood, animals (obviously), etc. It makes my heart happy to see initiatives in place that really help preserve and protect the delicate creatures here (unlike when we visited Glass Beach in Fort Bragg).

Make sure you check the schedule for low tide and plan your visit around it– you won’t see anything (and I mean anything…) during high tide (the tide pools will be filled with water, making them completely inaccessible)! The best time to visit is during a zero or negative low tide (meaning the rocks are exposed), under 1 foot.

4. Half Moon Bay

I’m not gonna get into HMB too much since you can really spend an entire weekend there (and plus, I already have an entire post dedicated to the tiny town).

It’s one of our favorite spots between San Francisco and Santa Cruz, so don’t worry, I’ll list some of my Half Moon Bay favorites below for anyone wanting to make a quick-ish stop. Do note the suggestions below will take up the better portion of the day, so maybe just pick 1-2.

• *Sam’s Chowder House: Do not miss this spot. I repeat. DO NOT MISS SAM’S CHOWDER HOUSE. Known for their naked lobster rolls and creamy clam chowder, of course, it’s the place we take ALL our visitors. The views are phenomenal, so be sure to plan some time here to kick back and relax with some drinks on their outdoor patio (doesn’t make sense to come here and sit inside, in my opinion). Our all time favorite restaurant on the coast, as long as it’s a clear, sunny day! 

• Half Moon Bay Jetty (right near Sam’s): Yeah, technically it’s just a fishing pier, but if you’re waiting for a table at Sam’s (there’s typically a long-ish wait), you may as well take a walk over here! Go to the back of the restaurant, walk down the steps, and voila – the stunning Pacific Ocean! The jetty itself isn’t the attraction, but the spectacular views along this stretch of coastline is! And plus, it’s less than a 10 minute walk; may as well spend your time waiting for lobster rolls with your feet in the sand!

• Farmers Market: If you’re visiting Half Moon Bay during the spring and summer months, be sure to check out the farmers market full of a wonderful selection of fresh and local produce. Think flowers, honey, homemade pies, skincare products, pottery, tamales (yes – tamales!), granola, and more. Kinda small, so makes for a quick stop (and plus, the samples!).

• Main Street for Shopping and Eating: Check out the numerous galleries, independently owned shops, and quaint little restaurants over on Main Street in Half Moon Bay. The street isn’t too long, but it’s a great place to stop for an hour to grab lunch on your way from San Francisco to Santa Cruz if you’re feeling a bit peckish. 

• Poplar Beach: There are numerous worthy beaches all along the coast in Half Moon Bay, but we love Poplar the most. We just do. Mavericks (where you can watch the surfers ride thrilling waves) and Miramar come a close second.

• *Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail: Soooo, since the entire coastal trail is actually 11.5 miles (one-way!), I have a slight suspicion you won’t be walking the entirety of it. We like parking at the Ritz Carlton (there’s a free section in the garage for those walking the coastal trail), and walking left on the path from there. You’ll come across a beautifully manicured golf course, lots of poppies (and puppies!), and tons of ocean views. One of our favorite ways to spend an afternoon.

• *Ritz Carlton HMB: Ohhh, the Ritz. You better believe the fancy hotel chain is all that and more in Half Moon Bay. Visitors are encouraged to come for cocktails and to watch the sunset/indulge in late-night smores at the Ocean Terrace Bar. We had the opportunity to spend the night a few years back (I gushed all about it over here), and we’re STILL talking about our dinner at the on-site restaurant. Kinda pricey (c’mon, it is the Ritz), but great to check out even if you’re not planning on staying over.

5. Beaches along the Coastline

Yes, the entire drive from San Francisco to Santa Cruz is basically along the coastline, but hey, you can never have too much beach time (especially here in CA).

There are plenty of options between Half Moon Bay and the town of Pescadero (my next recommended stop), with some popular ones listed below:

• San Gregorio State Beach: A stunning, sandy beach on the mouth of a creek with driftwood and even caves and fossils to explore between the sandstone cliffs. There’s a big parking lot and a great spot for picnics on the bluffs above the beach, but do note that it costs $8 to park for the day. And yay, dogs are allowed! Be aware of a nearby clothing-optional beach (called San Gregorio Private Beach). There’s a separate privately-owned access point so you shouldn’t come across it unless you’re specifically looking for it.

• Bean Hollow State Beach: Significantly smaller than the others, but hey, dogs are allowed and it’s free, so you don’t get much better than that! Note that there are zero facilities here, so it’s not really the kinda place you stay all day (although fine if you’re just cruising by for a bit on your way from SF to Santa Cruz).

• Pescadero State Beach: Fishing, driftwood, sunbathing seals, large crabs, and a great place to just watch the world go by crashing on the rocks. And sandy coves to explore! Again, like other spots listed above, this is a great place for tide pooling if you happen to catch the beach at low tide. This is the beach I’d pick if we weren’t traveling with a puppy in stow. Yes, it’s – free (woo!), but no dogs are allowed. 

6. *Arcangeli Grocery Co. (Pescadero)

Please oh please do not pass by Pescadero without stopping at Arcangeli Grocery (also called Norms Market). The second you walk in, you’ll smell the locally-famous homemade artichoke garlic bread – grab a loaf or two! The loaves are filled to the brim with huge chunks of artichoke hearts; and trust me, carbs have never tasted so good.

True story – we’ve driven all the way down to Pescadero just for a loaf (and promptly ate ½ in the car heading home). We’re obsessed and I’d go down every weekend if I could.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more nourishment, grab some salami and cheese for a DIY picnic, or simply order some freshly-prepared to-go sandwiches from the back.

7. Harley Farms Goat Dairy (Pescadero)

Baby goats and fresh cheese? Don’t mind if I do.

Not many dairy farms still make cheese from milk produced on their own farm (this was surprising to me too), but the folks over at Harley Farms absolutely do! The farm shop carries their farmstead cheeses, farm honey (the habanero nectar sounds perfect), chocolate truffles, jams and jellies, and goat-milk scented soaps and lotions. Try the lavender goat cheese, just do it. 

Visiting during the early spring (March-April)? Don’t miss the baby goats – they’re too adorable and oh so much fun to watch! And be sure to check out the llamas over in the barn! Join a guided tour to learn all about the goats and Harley Farms in general (their story is pretty interesting).

If you’re lucky, you may even catch a reservation at the occasional farm-to-fork lunch or dinner (although the meals do sell out months and months in advance). The meals are served in the rustic hayloft of the working goat dairy barn, and I’ve heard the tablescape is downright fantastic. Always and forever on my California bucket list, although kinda pricey at about $200 a head.

8. *Pigeon Point Lighthouse (Pescadero)

You wouldn’t wanna miss California’s most photographed lighthouse, now would you? Built in 1871 to guide ships on the Pacific Coast of California, it remains the tallest lighthouse on the west coast and is surely a sight to be seen.

Be sure to walk around the grounds of the lighthouse on the boardwalks and trails, as there are dramatic, picturesque views on all sides! You can sometimes see harbor seals resting/playing on the rocks behind the lighthouse, and definitely look out for whales in the distance in the winter.

Although the lighthouse is still active, do note repairs are starting in Spring/Summer 2020 (possibly later), which will most likely last a few years. Thankfully, you can still visit and see the Fresnel Lens (weighing a whopping 2,000 pounds) temporarily housed at ground level in a nearby building on the grounds (until the tower is repaired)! Just note you cannot go inside the lighthouse at this time.

There’s even a hostel located next door to the lighthouse (converted from the old lighthouse staff housing) in case you wanna stay the night (but be sure to book in advance as they fill up).

9. *Pie Ranch (Pescadero)

Riiiiight off the side of the highway, so you literally can’t miss it. Here you’ll find sustainable and locally grown produce, preserves, fair-trade coffee, local goods, and you guessed it, homemade pies and pastries (#yumm). 

The pie menu changes seasonally, and actually each and every day, as items highly depend on what’s being grown and picked at that time. And yup, everythings fresh over here, from their lemon buttermilk pie and strawberry tarts to the orange blossom galettes and honey nut oat pies.

Unfortunately, the mini pies usually run out around 1:30pm (or there’s super slim pickings), so get there earlier in the day if you really want your choice of pie. 

And get this – all profits from the Farmstand go directly into their non-profit educational farm programs. Love this and an even better reason to buy all the pies! 

10. *Ano Nuevo State Park (Pescadero)

Yes, Ano Nuevo is a huge state park, but many come simply to see and hear the loud barks of the peculiar-looking elephant seals. And it’s a sight to see – Ano Nuevo holds the second largest mainland breeding colony of the northern elephant seal in the world.

What’s an elephant seal, you ask? Don’t worry, I had never heard of them before moving to California either. Think huge, blubbery mammals with long noses resembling those of elephants, making tons of noise – grunts, snorts, gargles, belches, and squeaks. Don’t expect peace and quiet over here!

These ocean giants are massive in size, with males being 14-16 feet long and weighing in up to 2 ½ tons.

If you’re visiting the area from December – March, you’re in for a treat.  Every year during these months, a large colony of elephant seals assemble on the beach to molt and give birth.  If you’re lucky, you’ll see some pups! The park offers docent-guided walks, taking roughly 2 and a half hours and 3-4 miles on varied terrain. However, if you’re just taking a day trip to Santa Cruz and wanna see and do all the things, I’d probably choose to skip the seals as they take up a good portion of the day. Save it for another time when you’ve got more than a day to explore the area.

Other times of year, remember to pick up a free permit from the entrance station, as they are now required to hike to the breeding site in order to protect the animals. 

Do note that a state fee applies to enter Ano Nuevo, so just be prepared with a bit of cash.

11. Swanton Berry Farms (Davenport)

Come for the strawberries, stay for the baked goods and hummingbirds (no really, there’s tons of them here). Famous for its soups, locally-made jams, fair trade coffee, and hot apple cider, and by far the BEST strawberry shortcakes, olallieberry cobbler, and berry cheesecakes in the Bay. Buy a few things and have a picnic out front!

Not only do they sell all the above, but in the late spring/summer months, you can go out into the field and hand pick your own berries. We missed it last summer, but will definitely be going this year.

12. American Abalone Farms (Davenport)

So, full disclosure – I’ve actually never been here before. BUT if you’re a fan of fresh shellfish (especially oysters and abalone), this is the place for you. I mean, you do get to shuck your own oysters and then eat them, of course.

I’ve heard only but good things about the spot, with friends raving about the fresh fish and an interesting experience with abalone. Kinda bare bones and a tad pricey, but hey – when in Rome! 

Hot tip: bring your bottle of wine, as there’s a nice deck area to enjoy your food with views of the ocean. Or grab a dozen oysters and head to the beach next door. The epitome of a Californian experience.

13. *Shark Fin Cove (Davenport)

A beach with a rock shaped like a shark fin? Sign me up. That’s Shark Fin Cove in Davenport for ya!

Do note that if you want to get down to the beach, it’s pretty steep, so good footwear is recommended (I was wearing sandals at the time so decided not to go down – I’m a pretty clumsy hiker even on a good day). Once you’re down at the beach, there’s caves and tidepools to explore. However, do NOT attempt to go swimming here; not a safe place for that as rip currents are known over in these parts!

However, if all you do is take a look from the top, it’s still worth a quick stop in my opinion (being it’s on the way to Santa Cruz and absolutely brilliant). There’s a short trail up on the bluffs with views of the beach and the unique rock formation below. 

Trust me, you won’t realize you get here when you do. It’s quite unassuming from the tiny parking area on the side of the street, so be sure to put it in Google Maps. There’s no sign for it, so just stop when you see other cars.

14. Last stop: Santa Cruz!

Woo – you made it all the way from San Francisco to Santa Cruz! And it’s either taken you 3 hours or 3 days (with all there is to do along the way), haha.

I won’t go into tons of detail since I have an entire post dedicated solely to Santa Cruz, but here are my favorites in town:

• Penny Ice Creamery: Homemade artisanal ice cream made from scratch in-house. The flavors change with the seasons, and feature locally farmed and organic ingredients. Get the gingersnap ice cream (if it’s available), and always add the marshmallow fluff on top (what they’re famous for!)! Try both Marianne’s (listed below) and Penny’s, and compare (never enough ice cream in my opinion).

• Marianne’s Ice Cream: Kinda an institution over in these parts (don’t worry, the line moves fast). Don’t leave Santa Cruz without a few scoops from this old fashioned ice cream shop; not hard to do considering there’s over 105 flavors to choose from. Think pistachio cardamom, oatmeal raisin cookie dough, snickerdoodle cookie, and German chocolate. Samples are highly encouraged! Psst – 1. portions are large and 2. it’s cash only, so bring a few bucks.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Now this is what Santa Cruz is typically known for. I mean, a kitschy amusement park right on a mile-long stretch of sandy beach? The tackiness just adds to the fun – trust me. It’s free to walk the boardwalk, but of course the rides and snacks cost a pretty penny. Don’t miss the famous Giant Dipper, the indoor arcade, the taffy, and of course a long stroll on the beach. You can’t forget some cotton candy and/or a corn dog, preferably once you’re done riding the coaster. One of our favorite spots to lounge around in the summer.

• Natural Bridges Monarch Trail: Interested in seeing the great migration of the monarch butterflies? Santa Cruz is an excellent spot! There are thousands and thousands of the orange and black beauties flying around and clustering together high up in the eucalyptus trees. Note that unless you’ve got a pretty heavy duty zoom lens, the butterflies are too far away to photograph, so put your phone down and take in this magical experience with your bare eyes. While butterflies are only seen from October to January (as they migrate south in the warmer months), the trail is open all year long and is beautiful in and of itself (butterflies or not). 

• Take a walk/drive on West Cliff Drive: If you’re looking to take a scenic stroll, West Cliff Drive’s your best bet. On my most recent day trip to Santa Cruz, this was quite possibly my favorite spot! Expect stunning views of the Monterey Bay, a surfer statue, Lighthouse Point, and tons of bike/walking paths. Be on the lookout for whales and dolphins as they’re frequently spotted off the shore. Although the entire path is a full 3 miles, you don’t have to walk the entire way – park and meader around for a bit.

Are you headed from San Francisco to Santa Cruz soon? What are you most excited about on your day trip to Santa Cruz?!

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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Close your eyes and picture California. I’m guessing you’re envisioning surfing on the southern sunny beaches, the crimson cutie that is the Golden Gate Bridge, celebrity spotting in LA, and maybe even the Gold Rush (if you’re into history and that sorta thing).  Oh, and of course riding a few coasters in Disneyland and stuffing your face with authentic Mexican food (all worthy things to add to any California bucket list!).

But California is more than that (way more). And for good reason; it’s even larger than entire countries we love (Italy), and around the same size as others (Japan), meaning it’s got lots of square miles for boasting about.

California is home to the world’s largest tree (General Sherman), the highest peak in the lower 48 states (Mount Whitney), and the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin). It’s got a lot going for it right off the bat.

It’s true – California has it all and then some – foggy forests, hip surf towns, craggy coastlines, boiling mud pots (yup!), and sprawling metropolises. There’s towering redwoods, fields of golden poppies, acres beyond acres of vineyards (how else could we produce 17 million gallons of wine each year?), pristine deserts, and stunning seaside bluffs. 

And it’s downright beautiful. Check out my list of 50+ beautiful spots in California (you won’t believe half of them!)

That’s just the beginning of what the Golden State has to offer. Being the 3rd largest state in all of the US, it’s no surprise that California is as varied and downright spectacular as they come. (And this California bucket list will show you just that!).

Oh – and then there’s the food. We’ve got the Mission burrito, freshly shucked oysters, delicious mint coffees (nobody does it better than Philz), fish tacos, Korean bbq, clam chowder (always in sourdough bread bowls), cruffins, garlic ice cream (yes, it’s a thing), etc.

And of course that fast food everyone knows and loves (In’n’out burger, I’m looking at you and you’re deliciously delish double doubles). We’re also fiercely proud of our incredible avocados, and will gladly pay the extra $3 for a few slices atop our burgers/toast/quinoa salads/you name it.

And even with the ongoing rivalry between SF and LA, we’ve got one thing in common: we’re all slightly obsessed with the state and everything it has to offer. Heck, there’s a reason I begged my husband to move out west just over 5 years ago (despite ridiculously disgusting rental prices and saying goodbye to our beloved NYC).

With spectacular weather the majority of the year and enough things to do in California to last a lifetime, I can’t see us leaving anytime soon (if ever). 

With all that being said, I’ve put together what I feel is the ultimate California bucket list – with things to see and do in all corners of the state. So grab your pen and take some notes; this list of things to do in California is more than 100 items long! Told you there was lots to do here. 

GENERAL THINGS TO ADD TO ANY CALIFORNIA BUCKET LIST

1. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway: A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer.  From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on a drive down the California Coast. 

FIND MY FAVORITE SPOTS ALONG THE PCH HERE! YUP, ALL 75 OF THEM!

Plan a few days along the popular route from SF to LA (Big Sur included), but if you’ve got more time, head north to Mendocino and south to San Diego. Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel (lucky you!), you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. ✓

2. Get a double double and animal fries at In n Out Burger: I’m sorry, but you absolutely cannot visit California without feasting on burgers, fries, and frosty milkshakes from this iconic staple, In n Out Burger. Even if you’re on that #lowcarbdiet, order it “protein style” (=no bun), and you’re good to go. Check out the secret menu, which includes a neopolitan shake, a 3×3, a root beer float, and of course a favorite, animal style fries. Because everything’s better with grilled onions, secret sauce, and cheese. ✓

3. Put a few National Parks on your California Bucket List: Ohhh, California’s just loaded with spectacular National Parks, and I highly encourage you to visit a few. While you probably won’t be able to see all 9 of them on one visit (they’re dotted all over the state), try your hardest to include 1 or 2.

If you find yourself in Northern California, your choices include Redwoods, Lassen Volcanic, Yosemite (my all-time favorite in winter), and Pinnacles (the newest one to the clan!). Southern California has Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Death Valley, Channel Islands, and Joshua Tree. ✓

4. Go wine tasting: California is loaded and loaded with vineyards, and yes, I promise it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere. Besides the usual suspects of Napa and Sonoma, we’ve also got Paso Robles, Calistoga, Healdsburg, Santa Barbara, St. Helena, Yountville, Lodi, Livermore, Oakville, Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Sebastopol, Temecula, and Hopland (plus even more, but my fingers are getting tired from typing). ✓

THINGS TO DO IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

1. Devour a Mission Burrito in SF: Let’s kick this northern California bucket list off on the right foot, with a bomb.com burrito, shall we (no one said I’m up to date on all the lingo)? What makes a Mission Burrito so tantalising and unforgettable? Besides it’s sheer size (the tortilla literally bursts at its seams), it’s actually quite simple, consisting of meat, beans (black or pinto), and Mexican rice. ✓

Get the carnitas burrito (make it a “super” with guac and sour cream) from La Taqueria (rice-free), Pancho Villa, or El Farolito and you won’t need to eat dinner.  Let’s just say I’ve eaten my fair share of burritos since moving to San Francisco. And while you’re here in the Mission, check out Clarion and Balmy alleys for unique street art and 24th street for shopping til-you-drop. ✓

2. See the Redwoods in Muir Woods: Standing a whopping 250 feet tall, the grand redwood trees will soar above and make you feel tiny. Hike the rustic, dirt pathways of Muir Woods, as the sun streams in from in between the sky-high leaves and paints patterned shadows on the rugged ground. Do note that a parking pass/reservation is now required, so do your homework in advance if you want to spend the day stress-free at the park. ✓

3. Stomp on grapes in Napa Valley: Hike your pants up to your knees and prepare to get down and dirty with some grapes, feel the juice between your toes, and giggle at the squelching sounds. We took some friends to Sterling Vineyards and loved climbing into the wine barrels and stomping the freshly harvested grapes. Something to add to your Napa Valley itinerary for sure!

While in Napa Valley (after you’ve cleaned yourself from the grape juice and skins), you can also relax in the Calistoga mud baths and tickle your taste-buds while olive-oil tasting. ✓

4. Hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park: California’s got some amazing redwoods, and Big Basin is one of the best spots to see them. Put on some comfy shoes and hike the mesmerizing Big Basin Redwoods State Park, where you’ll stumble upon soaring trees and whimsical waterfalls.

This is where I made the 11-mile roundtrip trek to Berry Creek Falls (the longest hike on this California bucket list). If you’re up for it, set up a tent, a campfire, and spend the night surrounded by nature. ✓

5. Get spooked at Alcatraz: Being the inspiration behind countless urban legends, television shows, and movies, Alcatraz is possibly the most famous thing to do in California.

Once home to the state’s most dangerous criminals, Alcatraz is now open to the public for guided tours and is sure to send a shiver down your spine (especially on the extra dark night tour, highly recommended I might add!). Keep your eyes peeled, as many believe this notorious prison is haunted by past wardens and felons… ✓

6. See the houseboats in Sausalito: Stumbling upon Sausalito is like wandering into a village upon the sea, with a myriad of houses floating upon the waters surface. If you’re looking for things to do in California, perusing the variety of waterfront shops and restaurants scattered along Sausalito’s main road is definitely a must. And don’t miss my favorite ice cream shoppe – Lapperts! ✓

7. Appreciate the views from Glacier Point (Yosemite National Park): I can guarantee that the picturesque views from Glacier Point will take your breath away… With vast, never-ending mountains and clear, crystalline skies, you’ll be witnessing a view straight out of a postcard. Note that you can either hike up (9.6 miles roundtrip) or take the easy way out and drive straight up to the viewpoint (which I’ll be doing next time).

8. Learn the history of the Sutro Baths: Found on the most western point of Lands End, the Sutro Baths hold a vast amount of history within their waters. Originally built in 1896, the baths used to be a privately-owned, salt-water swimming pool complex, and were at one point the world’s largest indoor swimming pool (whoaaaa).

However, the structure was ruined in a fire, and now all that is left are stone walls, accessible stairways, and deep tunnels, which visitors can explore. It’s especially spectacular at sunset on clear nights! ✓

9. Marvel at Giant Redwoods in Redwoods National Park: Trees, trees, and more trees! You won’t realize how impressive and breathtaking mere trees can be until you’ve visited Redwoods National and State Parks, where the trees are so tall that they seem to end when the sky begins. 

Don’t miss Avenue of the Giants and Founders Grove within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Fern Canyon within Prairie Creek Redwoods, and the Tall Trees in the National Park itself. ✓

10. Indulge in clam chowder in Bodega Bay: If you’re wondering what to in California as a food-lover, look no further as the clam chowder in Bodega Bay will leave you feeling stuffed and satisfied. I’m drooling just imagining it… I recommend getting your chowder from either Spud Point Crab Company or The Tides Wharf (and yes, get the bread bowl).

To make the most of Bodega Bay, be sure to to take a minute to admire the scenic views at Bodega Head and the Doran Regional Park. ✓

11. Hike sunrise at Mt. Tam: Make sure you’ve had a cup of coffee before you embark up Mt. Tamalpais, as the view at sunrise is truly out of this world. You’ll forget about the bags under your eyes as you watch the sky coming alive with color (ohhh those soft, golden hues over the Bay in the distance), as this is easily one of the most beautiful and worthwhile things to do in California. As long as you don’t mind waking up at 5am. ✓

12. Hike to Alamere Falls: Change into some comfy clothes, bring a big bottle of water, and make sure to stretch before you head off on this beautiful beach and mountain hike. The tiring leg workout may seem strenuous, but the awe-inspiring waterfall you’ll soon discover at the end makes all the hard work completely worth it. Do note that a decent amount of scrambling is involved to reach the falls, so expect to work hard for your waterfall views.

13. Scream on roller coasters at California’s Great America: Here’s one for those looking for adrenaline-pumping things to do in Cali! Wherever you look, you’ll find soaring high and winding roller coasters, so take your pick and hold on tight! Tons of thrill rides and water attractions, as well as special events for Halloween and Christmas. ✓

14. Drive down Lombard Street: Known as the “most crooked street in the world”, it’s a pain to drive down (do so for the iconic SF experience), but a wonder to gander at. Lombard Street is all steep turns, windy roads, blooming flowers, and colorful houses (yes, people live along the street, please be respectful).

You can either skip riding the dizzying street by walking alongside it, or admire the odd road from above/below in a cable car. Looking for the windy section of Lombard Street? You’ll see it right on the map! ✓

15. Eat Ramen in Japantown: There’s nowhere better to get a steaming bowl of ramen than Japantown (SF), with heaping servings and out of this world flavors. Head to the areas most popular spot, Marufuku, but be prepared to wait in a long line (one of the tastiest spots on this California bucket list).

Other tasty options include Hinodeya Ramen Bar and Waraku. While wandering the busy streets of Japantown with a belly full of ramen, be sure to check out the Peace Pagoda (a 5-tiered monument promoting unity), take kitchy Pika Pika photos, and eat all the things: mochi, sushi, yakisoba, takoyaki, udon, dango, and matcha ice cream (at either Belly Good Cafe & Crepes or Uji Time) included. ✓

16. Try oysters in Tomales Bay: If you’re a fan of oysters, you’ve gotta get yourself over to Tomales Bay – the oysters are fresh and scrumptious, and you’ll definitely be coming round for a second serving. Plan to visit either Tomales Bay Oyster Company or Bodega Bay Oyster Bay (or just do your due diligence and taste-test both).

Buy some oysters and a shucking knife, and head to the beach to enjoy your feast. I’m not a huge shellfish lover, so I pass on the experience (although I did try one… once). Tomales Bay is also home to Hearts Desire Beach and Hog Island, which are both perfect destinations to lounge while in a food coma… ✓ 

17. Drive around scenic Lake Tahoe: Make a splash in the expansive, emerald waters of Lake Tahoe in the short, summer months when the water finally gets warm enough for a quick dip (July-early September). From boats tours, to swimming, to intense water sports, there’s not a shortage of things to do.

A 72-mile scenic drive around the lake will bring you to all my favorite spots, including Sand Harbor, Inspiration Point, and Emerald Bay, and you’ll even venture into Nevada for a hot second. ✓ 

18. Wave hello to the bison at Golden Gate Park (SF): Say hi to the big, fluffy bison that hang around Golden Gate Park, and watch them wander around in their natural habitat. While there, you can also explore the beautiful Conservatory of Flowers and the impressive Japanese Tea Garden. ✓

19. Go cherry picking on Marsh Creek Road (Brentwood): Any lovers of sweet, juicy cherries in the house? Yes?! Then cherry picking is the perfect activity for you (we brought my 6-year-old nephew and he loved it, cherry-juiced faced and all!).

Scour the cherry fields and pick out your perfect basket of succulent fruits to take home, or pig out before you even get there (I’m not speaking from personal experience, not at all)… To make the most of your time in Brentwood, be sure to check out Thorndon Country Park and the Hopefield Animal Sanctuary. ✓

20. Go wine tasting in Sonoma: No California bucket list would be complete without at least a little bit of wine drinking; I just really can’t say no to a cold glass of wine in the blazing sun (I swear the grapes just taste better over here).  While Napa is much more ritzy, you’ll find that Sonoma has a more chill, laid-back country feel.

Tantalize your taste buds and enjoy the wonderful local wine. Plan to head to Roche Winery, WALT Wines, and Corner 103. If you have the time, make sure to visit Sonoma Plaza for a multitude of wining, dining, and shopping options. 

21. Find the Lands End labyrinth: Follow the winding pathway towards the edge of the continent, and you’ll find Land Ends Labyrinth hiding away on a cosy cliff corner. Created by artist Eduardo Aguilera, this maze is outlined by countless rocks and overlooks the Golden Gate Bridge. An amazing photo op and one of the best photo spots in San Francisco! ✓

22. Explore the Lost Coast: Remote and desolate are two words which accurately describe the Lost Coast. This area of California should be on every backpackers bucket list, with sandy coastlines as far as the eye can see and a glorious, wavy sea that stretches off into the horizon.

Widely untouched by humans (it’s actually named after depopulation occurred in the 1930’s), this natural and undisturbed sight is one of the most scenic things to do in California. Keep an eye out, as elephant seals are known to frequent the bay and lounge about! 

23. Cool off at Burney Falls: Oh my, I had no clue this collection of waterfalls in Northern California would be this spectacular. Once you make your way down from the parking area, dip your toes into the refreshing water of Burney Falls, and let the waterfall splash away the sweat from your strenuous hike to Burney Creek. Do note that the water is very powerful, so be extra careful if you do plan on venturing into the water. Observing from the sidelines is well worth the effort, too, I promise. ✓

24. Kayak down the Russian River: If you love a bit of adventure and are wondering what to do in California during the extended summer months, paddling down the 177km Russian River is the answer. Rent a canoe, chuck on a life jacket, and float down the breathtaking waters. Such a fun activity with friends – I can’t wait ‘til the weather warms up. Check out other things to do in nearby Guerneville here!

25. Go on a safari at Safari West: Graceful zebras, knobbly-kneed giraffes, bulky rhinos, sneaky lemurs, and colourful birds – Safari West is home to a multitude of extremely adorable exotic creatures that wander freely around the safari grounds.

Hop aboard a buggy and let your knowledgeable guide unload their vast amount of information onto you, and learn more than you could imagine about the creatures right in front of your eyes. And better yet, you can even spend the night at this wildlife and safari preserve, and wake up to animals grazing right outside your room! ✓

26. Find some sea glass at Glass Beach in Fort Bragg: Wander around this pebbly beach and be blown away as the sun gleams off each shard of sea glass! Though beautiful, do not remove any remnants from the glass beach, as the amount of sea glass has greatly decreased over the years, and you’ll need to pick out the pieces in order to form a full handful. Go explore nearby Mendocino and the rest of the surroundings while you’re in the area. ✓ 

27. Eat pizza and cannolis in North Beach: I can’t deny it, I’m partial to a good cannoli and slice of pizza (I’m only human after all and I did grow up in NY). There isn’t much great Italian food (especially pizza) in most of California, so if you want the good stuff, make sure you head to North Beach, considered the Little Italy of San Francisco.

My stomach rumbles just thinking about the focaccia pizza from Golden Boy (my absolute favorite spot) and creamy cannolis from Stella Pastry… To make the most of your time in North Beach, be sure to check out Coit Tower for unforgettable views of the entire Bay, and hang in the historic Washington Square right next to the landmark Saints Peter and Paul Church. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in San Francisco. ✓

28. Take a dip in the Travertine Hot springs: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and unique rock formations, the steaming waters of Travertine hot springs are sure to steal your heart. Once you’re submerged in the warm waters, you’ll be so relaxed that it’s almost impossible to convince yourself to get out. While in Bridgeport, be sure to take a trip down to the pier and coastlines. 

29. Admire the State Capital Building in Sacramento: Standing tall since 1860, this architectural wonder is home to the government of California. Colossal, creamy-white columns. High, peaked roofs, with the American flag flying high. Bushy palm trees scattered across the ground (living up to the California stereotypes, of course). This gorgeous structure deserves a definite spot on your California bucket list. And while in Sac, be sure to check out their thriving foodie scene, a must for anyone even a tad bit hungry after all their explorations. ✓

30. Check out the unique landscape of Mono Lake: There’s something so inexplicably captivating about the bizarre rock formations, known as tufa, scattered around Mono Lake. With stones standing without any pattern or reason, the natural rocks are ones you need to witness in person to comprehend. Beware – it’s kinda smelly here and you definitely won’t be swimming – the water is 2.5x saltier than the ocean! Take the South Tufa Trail to learn a lot more! A true oasis in the middle of the desert.

31. Drive along the Avenue of the Giants: Rolling through the Avenue of the Giants (a scenic highway running through Humboldt Redwoods State Park) is like something straight out of a movie, as you’re surrounded by colossal trees stretching towards the sky. You’ll be oohing and ahhing driving this 31-mile portion of Historic Highway 101, containing the largest remaining number of redwoods in the world. ✓

32. Witness the geothermal wonders at Lassen National Park: This unique National Park is home to Lassen Peak Volcano, and the geothermic wonders it has created. From steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pots, to piping fumaroles and remnants of volcanic activity, this place is sure to make you feel a little hot under the collar…I just couldn’t believe how bad certain parts of park smelled (sulphur, which smells juuuust like rotten eggs). ✓

33. Walk down Telegraph Ave (Berkeley): Berkeley is as quirky as it gets –  and you’ll see exactly what I mean after a quick stroll down Telegraph Ave. Psst – it still feels like the bohemian flower-power center of the 60’s, but with an elevated culinary and cultural scene!

And since you’re already here, you may as well walk around UC Berkeley’s campus (be sure to go up Sather Tower), stuff your face with Cheeseboard Pizza (#droolstatus), and try some potato puffs from Gregorie’s. ✓

34. Drink some tea at the Japanese Tea Gardens (SF): I love a good cup of tea (especially in the chillier months), and you aren’t going to find a better cup than at the Japanese Tea Gardens within Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Wander the fruitful gardens, with glistening ponds, bushy green trees, and traditional Japanese architecture.

When you’ve thoroughly explored the gardens, take a seat in the tea house and sip away on tasty concoctions to your heart’s content. ✓

35. Drift away on a hot air balloon in Napa: Forget the world for a while and relax while floating along with the breeze. Get an awe-inspiring, sky-high view of Napa from the comfort of a scenic hot air balloon. Make sure to wrap up, as it can get quite chilly while so high up! The perfect experience for a special occasion, as long as you don’t have a fear of heights! ✓

36. Hike the iconic Half Dome (Yosemite National Park): Yes, this is the hike that’s so well known (and popular) in Yosemite, yet an absolute b*tch to plan and conquer. This unique natural rock formation will have you turning your head, as it appears that a large rock has been chopped down the middle – and you’ll be climbing right on the side of it!

Watch your step as you hike up, as the journey is a precarious one! You’ll need to secure a permit for this oh-so difficult hike, so be sure to plan well in advance. 

37. Explore the ghost town of Bodie: If you’re looking for spooky things to do in California, you’re in the right place, as the deserted streets of Bodie are straight out of a horror movie. There’s something so unnerving about the old, isolated streets and abandoned, rickety homes… 

38. Watch the sunrise over Emerald Bay: As the sun rises behind the majestic Emerald Bay, the never-ending water comes alive with light and color. Vivid purple and flaming oranges dance across the horizon, and witnessing this unforgettable view is easily one of the prettiest things to do in California.

Google image it and see for yourself, although all of Lake Tahoe is stunning. If you can’t wake up early enough for sunrise, don’tchu worry – Emerald Bay is just as stunning come daytime. ✓

39. See a Giants game at Oracle Park (formerly AT&T Park): Californians are known to take baseball very seriously, and there’s no better way to witness this vivacious attitude than supporting the local team at a game. Grab yourself a foot long hot dog, slap on some face paint (orange and black), and holler every time the Giants score (or when everyone else is cheering, if you’re like me and not the best at following what’s going on). ✓

40. Walk to the lighthouse at the Point Reyes National Seashore: With magnificent cliffs and whipping winds, the national seashore is one ripped straight out of the scene of a fantasy romance novel. Concealed behind one of the many rolling cliffs, you’ll find a quaint little lighthouse straight out of a dream. If you can manage the steep walk down, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the coastline (just remember, you gotta come back up). ✓

41. Bike/walk the Golden Gate Bridge: There is absolutely no way a California bucket list would be complete without a trip to the Golden Gate Bridge (obviously – best views over here)! This impressive structure is one of the most famous attractions on the west coast, and with its stunning views and intricate infrastructure it’s not hard to see why.

Rent bikes and head across, or walk part-way – just remember the bridge is 2 miles long, each way. Before/after you make your way across, plan to spend some time in nearby Crissy Field. ✓

42. Ride a cable car in SF: San Francisco is home to the largest manually operated cable car system in the world, and if you want to live like a true Californian live out your tourist dreams, you simply cannot miss out on giving these historical cars a spin. With the tracks spanning over 17 miles, you could easily waste a day riding back and forth with the wind whipping in your hair… ✓

43. Smell the roses at the Municipal Rose Garden (San Jose): While wandering the rose garden, rainbow-painted flowers can be seen at every angle, as the gardens seem to stretch on endlessly. The Municipal Rose Garden is definitely not a stop that can be missed while in San Jose – unless you have hayfever, then you may need to sit this one out (or bring a pack of tissues)… Head to San Pedro Square afterwards for a tasty bite to eat. ✓

44. Drive through a tree in Leggett: If you’re heading to the redwoods up north, you’ve just gotta add driving through the Chandelier Tree at the Leggett Drive-Thru Tree Park onto your California bucket list! Do note the size of your vehicle, though! We saw a few SUVs and trucks attempt to go through, but didn’t fit! A must on any Northern California road trip itinerary! ✓

45. Be a tourist at Fisherman’s Wharf: Although one of the most touristy things on this California bucket list by far, a trip to Fisherman’s Wharf should be on any 3-day San Francisco itinerary! There’s clam chowder bread bowls from Boudin, mini donuts from Trish’s, colorful murals to take photos with, and of course, the sea lions to watch!

46. Walk through the lush Fern Canyon: The second I saw a photo of Fern Canyon I wanted to go — despite having NO clue where it was! Well, my California bucket list friends, it’s alllll the way up in Northern California, only a short distance from Oregon! The canyon is filled to the brim with seven different types of Ferns and oh so much greenery – you’ll feel like you’re walking in Jurassic Park.

THINGS TO DO IN CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

1. Visit the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea: This tiny little beach-side town is one ripped straight out of a fairy tale, with cosy cottages, cute coastlines, and extensive history. Home to stunning scuba spots, sweeping white sandy beaches (stay for a sunset at Carmel Beach), extensive libraries, and historic museums – no matter what you’re in the mood for, Carmel-by-the-sea has it all.

If you’re looking to add a bit of wildlife sightseeing to your time on the central coast, head 10 minutes south to Point Lobos (sea otters, harbor seals, and peregrine falcons included)! ✓

2. Marvel at jellyfish at the Monterey Aquarium: There’s something so oddly captivating about jellyfish; maybe it’s their translucent golden orange coloring, the way they pulsate throughout the water, or maybe it’s just all those crazy tentacles.

Whatever the answer is, you’re bound to lose track of time admiring these gelatinous beauties found at the Monterey Aquarium within the facilities “Jellies Experience”. Here you’ll find a whole assortment of them- box jellies, sea nettles, umbrella jellyfish, white spotted jellies, and more.

This wonderful sea life centre is also home to wiggly octopuses, adorable otters, and intimidating sharks! ✓

3. Hike in Pinnacles National Park: Lace up your boots, as hiking this gorgeous national park is one of the most scenic things to do in Cali. Littered with unique rock features, dusty pathways, and awe-inspiring views, you would be missing out if you didn’t explore the wonders Pinnacles National Park has to offer. And being the newest of California’s national parks, this spot remains relatively uncrowded, so you won’t find the masses here like you do in Yosemite. Talk about peace and quiet.

4. Ride the vintage Giant Dipper in Santa Cruz: First opened in 1924, this rattley, wooden roller coaster is a Santa Cruz classic. With it’s red and white paintwork and twisting tracks, this ride will leave butterflies in your stomach and a desire to go on again… And again… And again… The view from up top isn’t half bad either!

Be sure to thoroughly explore the rest of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for more adventurous rides and addictive fairground games. You can’t forget some cotton candy and/or a corn dog, preferably once you’re done riding the coaster! And make a pit stop at Surfrider Cafe for some fried avocado (I told we have a thing for avos over here…) <3

5. Sleep in a lighthouse in Pescadero: I mean, how many people can say they’ve slept in a lighthouse before? Psst- probably not many. Wander down to Pigeon Point and encounter the most unique hostel in California.

With affordable prices, unforgettable views, and comfy beds to rest your head, this quaint lighthouse hostel is the perfect place to stay if your looking for something a tad different. Make the most of your time in Pescadero, and explore Bean Hollow State Beach and Butano State Park for more gorgeous sights. 

6. Drive the Big Sur coastline: Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of coastline with the most breathtaking views. Trust me, you can easily waste an entire day driving down the coast and stopping at the astonishing sights along the way.

With this being said, Big Sur isn’t necessarily a specific spot on the map, but rather a state of mind – it’s a place to decompress, say goodbye to stress, and just enjoy nature. Be sure to stop and spend a moment at Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls, two absolutely stunning locations and the most famous tourist spots along the drive. ✓

7. Walk on purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach: While cruising down the Big Sur coastline, be sure to make a pit spot at Pfeiffer Beach, at its one of the most unique things to do in California. Because, hello, purple sand!!! You can thank the garnet and other heavy minerals for its deep purple color, which shows off even more after it rains.

Besides gawking at the distinctively colored sand, feel free to make a lilac sand castle, run through the chilly waters, and notice the Keyhole Arch. Parking is limited, as to ensure the beach is never too crowded, so be sure to get there early to avoid waiting or being turned away! ✓

8. Stand on the Green at Pebble Beach: If you’re looking for something adventurous to add to your California bucket list, wandering the greens at Pebble Beach is perfect for you. These famous golf greens are in close proximity to the local beaches, so they’re easy to access, though do so at your own risk – despite countless tourists wandering the greens freely, they are private property so doing so is technically illegal. Avid golfer and looking for a splurge-worthy course? Book yourself a tee time for countless hours on the greens. ✓

9. Spend a night at the iconic Madonna Inn: Found on California’s central coast in San Luis Obispo, this resort hotel is one of the most famous on the entire span of the west coast. It’s whimsical, charming, and kitschy all at the same time. Each of the 110 rooms are uniquely decorated, from prehistoric caves with matching leopard print bedding, to lavish pink rooms with velvet sheets. There’s even a ‘love nest’, for those who want to get a bit saucy… 

10. Whale watch in Monterey: Majestic whales frequent Monterey’s local waters, and this beach city has plenty of boat tours available that’ll take you out to sea to spot these massive creatures. The types of whales you’ll see highly depends on when you visit- you’ll commonly see humpbacks in the summer, while winter brings an abundance of migrating gray whales.

Interested in spotting a few orcas? Plan to visit in the springtime! If being out at sea isn’t your thing, sit on the coast with some binoculars or walk through the Monterey Bay Aquarium for a sneak-peak at California’s sublime sea-life. 

11. Drive the scenic 17 mile loop: If you’re stuck on what to do in California, a slow drive around the mesmerizing 17 mile drive is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. With many stops and sights to enjoy, from the beautiful Spanish Bay to the captivating restless sea, you’ll easily lose track of time on these winding roads.

Do note that you’ll be expected to pay a fee (per car), and motorcycles are not permitted, so be sure to roll up ready and prepared! Well worth the few bucks in my opinion. ✓

12. Marvel at majestic Hearst Castle: Yes, there’s even a castle over here! With majestic architecture and crystalline pools, this breathtaking castle is definitely one for your California bucket list. First time visiting the castle? Sign up for the Grand Rooms tour, where you’ll feel like a royal as you’re guided around the extravagant rooms that make up this opulent building.

To make this place even more magical than it already is (if that’s even possible), keep an eye out for the zebras that frolic around the local land when you enter/leave! Be sure to reserve a ticket ahead of time, as this beautiful castle gets busy quick… ✓

13. Feast on pie at Pie Ranch: Slap on some stretchy pants and get ready to stuff your face with the most delicious pie in America, as Pie Ranch is easily one of the tastiest things to do in California. With a multitude of flavors and options, made fresh with home-grown berries, I can guarantee you’ll be coming around for a second serving!

Be sure to arrive early, as these pies fly off the shelves quicker than you can imagine, especially on weekends – it’s a sentiment to their delicious nature! We love stopping here on our way to Pescadero! ✓

14. Check out the large monolith in Morro Bay: Endless, crystal waters. Vast stretches of golden sand. Boats bobbing along the horizon. Morro Bay is one of the most scenic places in California, and is not one to be missed.

To add to its beauty, Morro Bay is home to the most magnificent rock structure, with the most famous being a gigantic rock on the coastline, rightfully called Moro Rock. You can’t miss it- trust me. Head to the beach next door to search for some sand dollars (last time I was there, I found about 20!). ✓

15. Go dune bashing in Pismo Beach: Warm, white sand. Bushy, swaying palm trees. Endless, clear waters. Pismo beach is a dream. But this isn’t your average beach town. Relax by the bay, or cater to your thrill-seeking side and rent a dune buggy, where you’ll be able to race over the massive rolling sand dunes!

The Oceano Dunes are comprised of 5 miles of rippling sand, and it’s an off-roading adventure just waiting to happen. Just please be careful, as these large toys can be dangerous no matter whose handling them. And if you’ve got extra time, head on over to SLO, and check out the cute cafes and sticky gum wall! ✓

16. Surprise your taste buds with garlic ice cream in Gilroy: Hear me out, garlic ice cream may not sound particularly appetizing at first, but you need to at least give Gilroy’s speciality a chance (just be sure to have some mints handy afterwards).

The town dubs itself as the garlic capital of the world, even hosting an annual garlic food festival each July to celebrate their signature dish. Where else are you gonna find an entire event dedicated to all things garlic?! ✓

17. Treat yourself to a Spa Day in Ojai: If you’re wondering what to do in California and need to relax, treat yourself to a massage and a mud mask at one of the many spas in Ojai. Work out those tense muscles and forget about your worries with cucumbers on your eyes, and leave feeling like a different person.

Book some treatments at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, as it’s named one of the best spa destinations in the world. Ojai is also home to Los Padres National Forest and their own certified farmer’s market, so be sure to give these a visit to make the most of your time in the wonderful city. 

18. Drink some wine in Paso Robles: I couldn’t write a California bucket list without at least mentioning wine (a few times….), I just couldn’t. Paso Robles in famous for its endless wineries and love for a good, large glass of wine (my kind of city!), so be sure to have a glass or five in one of the local vineyards.

I recommend doing a tasting and ordering a cheese plate at DAOU, the views are just as spectacular as the food/wine. My other top picks are Sculpterra Winery (we love their outdoor seating area!) and Calcareous (mmm smell the lavender here!). ✓

19. Watch the butterflies along the Natural Bridges Monarch Trail: Wandering through crowds of vivid butterflies is one of the most magical things to do in California, and that’s exactly what you’ll encounter on this scenic trail. While butterflies are only seen from October to January (as they migrate), the trail is open all year long and is beautiful in and of itself (butterflies or not). ✓

20. Visit the Danish town of Solvang: Tired sick of California? How dare you! Haha, but really, head to Solvang – you’ll be wandering traditional Danish streets in no time. With the towering windmill and picturesque architecture it’ll feel like you’ve somehow been transported to the Netherlands. Explore the rural Rusack Vineyards, Hans Christian Andersen Park, and have a nibble on some mouth-water aebleskiver (a dutch, jam-filled donut) before you leave town… that was my favorite. ✓

21. Stroll around the seaside town of Capitola: Capitola is a seaside town ripped straight out of a postcard, with rainbow beach houses and bright colors littering the coastline. It’s truly a sight that’s sure to leave a smile on your face. Despite its small size, Capitola has plenty of things to do, from historical museums to wandering along the sandy shores. Grab an old fashioned ice cream cone from one of the many local shops around town and go explore.  ✓

22. Look up at the Giant Trees in Sequoia National Park: More towering trees over here in California (we’re lucky to have quite a bunch if you haven’t noticed)! With trees soaring 30 feet high, you’ll feel short in comparison while wandering through the redwoods and sequoias, no matter how tall you are. Don’t miss the General Sherman Tree while hiking through the forest, which is known to be the largest, single-stemmed tree in the entire world. THE WORLD. Whoaaaaaa.

23. Laugh at barking elephant seals in San Simeon: Do we have any animal lovers in the house? If so, (or you just want to enjoy a good laugh), visit the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery just south of Hearst Castle.

They’re huge, loud, ugly, wild, and cute all at the same time. Such odd creatures they are, and they make the most interesting noises. It’s something that must be heard to be believed, and is one of the most unique and hilarious things to do in California. ✓

24. Wander around State Street in Santa Barbara: There’s a reason Santa Barbara is dubbed the American Riviera – it’s downright gorgeous. Here you’ll find widespread beaches, Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, and a truly relaxed atmosphere.

If you want to shop, eat, or sip cocktails, the floral State Street is the perfect place to go! With divine little boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, you’re spoiled with choices on Santa Barbara’s most famous avenue. Before you leave town, climb up the Santa Barbara courthouse for the most beautiful, palm-tree ridden perspective of SB (it’s one of my favorite views in all of California). ✓

25. Feast on olallieberry pie at Linn’s in Cambria: What’s better than a warm slice of oozing berry pie on a chilly day on the coastline? Hint – not much. What’s olallieberry you ask? It’s a cross between a blackberry and a raspberry. Expect a flakey buttery crust filled with semi-sweet and semi-tart berry filling. Mmmm… one of my favorite snacks on this California bucket list by far.

While you’re here, why not spend an entire day on the coast checking out all the fun things to do in Cambria?! ✓

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

1. Witness science in action at the La Brea Tar Pits: Take a step back to the Ice Age and experience bubbling, inky tar in Hancock Park. Long, long, LONG ago, prehistoric animals would wander into the sticky tar and get stuck, which preserved their skeletons wonderfully, making the tar pits home to an impressive collection of ancient fossils. Located right in the heart of LA, it’s the only active, urban Ice Age excavation site in the world. Who knew California was so wildly unique?!

2. Stroll down the Venice Boardwalk: Perhaps one of the most famous boardwalks in all of America (yup, California’s got it all), this buzzing beach town has a bohemian spirit that’ll leave you feeling all kinds of wacky. Funky shops, captivating street performers, colorful murals, busy skate parks, savvy souvenirs  – there’s endless things to do. Rent some wheels and bike down the boulevard all the way to Santa Monica Beach. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on muscle beach, an outdoor gym swarming with muscular, shirtless men! ✓

3. Unleash your wild side at Disneyland and California Adventure: Slap on some Mickey Mouse ears and stroll on into the most magical place on earth! Feast on sugary cotton candy, fawn over your favorite characters, and be flipped upside down on one of the many exhilarating roller coasters. A trip to Disneyland is hands down one of the most iconic things to do in Cali; aka don’t leave the state without a proper visit! You’ll probably wanna grab a Disneyland Park Hopper ticket so you can move from Disneyland to California Adventure freely.

4. Cherish the views from Griffith Observatory: Providing the most unforgettable, panoramic views of the LA skyline, a trip to the impressive Griffith Observatory should definitely be on your California bucket list. Psst – you can even see the Hollywood Sign from up here! Be blown away by the stunning sights, and enticed by the wonderful world of telescopes and inter galactic discovery inside… It’s definitely something everyone should do on a trip to LA. ✓

5. Go museum hopping at Balboa park: You’re spoilt for choice in America’s largest urban park, with museums catering for all tastes and preferences. Be thrown back in time at the Natural History Museum, ponder over the masterpieces at the Museum of Art, or enter a different galaxy in the Air and Space Museum. If museums aren’t your thing, Balboa park is also home to the famous San Diego Zoo! ✓

6. Go sunbathing year round at Laguna Beach: Ohhh Laguna Beach – it’s what dreams are made of, as long as you’re made of a million bucks. Yeah, it’s expensive over here, but hey – if you wanna work on your tan and return home golden and glowing, look no further than this classic beach town. With a spectacular, sandy coastline, strong waves that are perfect for surfing, and hidden tide pools, you’ll never want to leave this quaint coastal town. ✓

15. Hop along a TMZ Celebrity Tour in LA: Travel through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the Sunset Strip on the famous red TMZ bus, where you’ll take in the sights (and perhaps a few famous faces). Celebrities such as Mariah Carey and Justin Bieber have been spotted by previous passengers, so keep your eyes peeled and be ready to swoon!

7. Walk the Santa Monica Pier: Found on the very end of Venice Beach, this iconic wharf is one of the most popular piers in the entire world. Get dizzy on the famous 1922 indoor merry-go-round, appreciate the views atop the towering big wheel, scream and shout while riding the twisting roller coasters – I can guarantee that the Santa Monica Pier will leave you coming back for more. Be sure to schedule a visit for the evening, where the rainbow fairground lights glow in the night. ✓

8. Spend a weekend in the desert at Joshua Tree National Park: Rugged rock formations, prickly cactuses, stark desert landscapes, and lots and LOTS of sand make up this unique national park. Oh, and of course the namesake Joshua trees, oh so twisted and bristled! Set up a tent on one of the many campgrounds and spend a few days submerged in the natural beauty around you (just be sure to clean up after yourself, as the land is protected by the government). Top sites include the Cholla Cactus Garden, Keys View, Barker Dam, and Skull Rock. ✓

22. See a glimpse of days past at the Salton Sea: Situated 235 feet below sea level, this “sea” is actually a lake, and as you may have guessed from its name, a pretty salty one at best. The lake is rather desolate, and actually pretty smelly, with an entire beach area full of dead fish, bones, and gills. You’ll also find broken down houses, abandoned TVs, tires, and other ruins from old mobile homes, making for some wacky photographs. What an interesting place, and for sure one of the oddest things to do in California, am I right?! ✓

9. Check out the funky sculptures at the Broad Museum: Found in downtown Los Angeles (DTLA to locals), this contemporary art museum is free (and crowded) to enter (hint – there’s usually a horrifically long line, just be aware). Take your time wandering through the seemingly endless artwork, and be sure to spend a moment amongst the balloon model dogs, rainbow tulips, and many, many more. You can easily spend a whole afternoon in this modern museum. ✓

10. Get artsy at Salvation Mountain: Ever wondered what half a million gallons of latex paint looked like splattered on the side of a mountain? This creative, man-made mountain (which took a whopping 28 years to build), painted by a local California resident, adorns a giant heart on its side and a cross standing up top.

You can even venture inside the mountain, where odd patterns and vivid colors will most definitely leave you as confused as ever. An utterly bizarre and beyond surreal experience in the middle of the California desert. Bring your camera – you’re gonna wanna photograph this. ✓

19. Go wine tasting in Temecula: Have a glass of wine (or five, I won’t judge) in one of the many incredible wineries scattered in and around the stunning Temecula Valley (there’s over 30 wineries nestled within 3,000 acres of picturesque wine country, so you’ve got lots to choose from)!

Temecula is famous for its red varietals, so be sure to try some of these local brands along the way (and perhaps even take a bottle home). You’ll also find championship golf courses, hot air ballooning adventures, and the Temecula Valley Museum.

11. Hike Runyon Canyon with celebrity dogs: Time to get your sweat on, with yup, celebrity dogs! It doesn’t get more LA than that! You’re bound to break a sweat as you hike along this long, steep trail (although it’s not so bad, my husband the #nonhiker even did it), so be sure to bring along a big ole’ bottle of water to keep you going.

Celebrities are known to frequent this hike with their cute pups, so keep an eye out as you may stumble upon a familiar face, and the only thing better than a celebrity is a celebrity dog! I only speak the truth… ✓

13. Search for colorful doors in Palm Springs: Home to perfectly groomed palm trees, airy, mid-century modern retreats, and scorching hot weather (this is the desert after all), Palm Springs is a natural stunner. And this little city is not only famous for its beauty and blue skies, but also for its popular doors.

If you’re like me and obsess over a cute door, walk around the Indian Canyons neighborhood on a DIY door-tour! You’re bound to find cotton-candy colored hues around each and every corner.  I’m sure you’ve seen the stunning #thatpinkdoor before (it’s a Palm Springs classic)- unfortunately photography is off-limits now, so please remember to be respectful. ✓

14. Spend a weekend in Catalina Island: Palm trees and cabanas. Awe-inspiring natural beauty. Unbeatable, sunny weather. Intoxicating art deco. Catalina Island will take your breath away, and make you feel like you’re in the Mediterranean (and thankfully only an hour away from the California coast).

With no cars on the island, 360 degree ocean views, and crystal clear ocean snorkeling, you’ll easily fall in love with this stunning island. Don’t miss the Trans Catalina trail and the romantic lover’s cove.

12. Find your favorite celebrity star along the Hollywood Walk of Fame: Perhaps one of the most iconic things to in Cali (and a bit overdone), the Hollywood Walk of Fame is not something you can skip out on, especially if it’s your first visit to the state.

With stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Micheal Jackson, Louis Armstrong, Anne Hathaway, and even Godzilla along the walk, you’re bound to find a few familiar names while wandering down this world-famous landmark street. ✓

16. Kayak in the Channel Islands: Looking for a bit of oceanic adventure and wondering what to do in California to fulfill this aquatic fantasy?! Look no further than the Channel Islands! Along the southern California coastline you’ll find these 5 islands, known for their sea caves, kelp forests, splendid hiking opportunities, and more.

Primitive, isolated, and outdoorsy. You’d be missing out if you didn’t make the most of these islands by jumping in a kayak, so hop aboard and get paddling! The ultimate California bucket list item for true adventurers!

17. Hike to the Hollywood Sign: I’m sure you’ve seen LA’s most recognizable symbol before, and there’s no way you can visit California and not visit the Hollywood Sign! I mean, did you really visit LA without a selfie with this famous landmark?

This iconic monument stands tall and proud atop Hollywood Hills, and seeing it up close and personal is easily worth the hike up. Plus, the views aren’t half bad from up top either! Just don’t forget your sunscreen and water, as some of the trails are quite steep and with little shade!

18. See a Dodgers game in LA: Americans love a good game of baseball, it’s undeniable, but you’ll never meet more dedicated fans than the Californians. Get yourself down to a local game and experience the craze first hand, where you’ll be in the middle of a whole lot of hollering, hot dog eating, and baseball-related chants.

Tickets are easy to score, as Dodger Stadium is the largest ballpark in the whole country, and all-you-can-eat seats are perfect for those hoping to stuff their faces with Dodger dogs, nachos, popcorn, and peanuts.

20. Snorkel alongside the sea lions and kelp forest in La Jolla Cove: As a snorkel enthusiast like myself, you’ll absolutely love swimming in this area – not only is the water warmer-than-usual, but it’s sheltered by high rise cliffs, meaning hardly any rough waves!

And better yet, the local sea lions may come for a swim with you as you explore the gorgeous underwater kelp forest. Psst – while each day brings different underwater creatures to the caves, you can commonly find sea turtles, leopard sharks, seals and sea lions, dolphins, and starfish. 

21. Traipse in the Carlsbad Flower Fields: Experience 50 acres of the most beautiful flowers you’ll ever encounter, with rows and rows of extraordinary color ready and waiting for you to discover. Think rainbow ranunculus, world famous Ecke poinsettias, an orchid greenhouse, artist gardens, and even tea in the garden.

You can only visit between March 1st and May 10th (when the flowers are in bloom), so be sure to plan appropriately ahead of time and don’t miss this annual burst of intense color. ✓

23. Stroll the Venice Canals: One wander throughout the Venice Canals and you’ll instantly feel like you’ve been transported to Italy. However, unlike Venice in Italy, there isn’t a man in a gondola ready to row you into the sunset (a girl can dream).

After being entranced by the multi-story, multi-million-dollar homes and vintage bungalows along the canals, head down to the trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard for some local boutique shopping and world-class dining. ✓

24. Drink butter beer at Hogwarts: Your Hogwarts letter may have gotten lost in the post, but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit the iconic Hogwarts Castle and delve into the wizarding world.

Find your perfect wand at Ollivanders, ride atop a state of the art Quidditch broom, sip on the iconic butter beer, and nibble away at a chocolate frog – this magical attraction within Universal Studios Hollywood brings the world of Harry Potter alive. 

25. Smell the flowers at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve: Did you know that the California poppy is the official state flower? And with poppies as far as the eye can see, wandering the poppy reserve is one of the most beautiful things to do in California (for those who love flowers of course).

You’ll want to visit after a wet winter, as this is when the poppies really flourish. But be sure to keep an eye on the bloom status before you visit to avoid disappointment, as wildflower season is not year round. And whatever you do, promise me you’ll stay on the trail and don’t even think about stepping on or picking any poppies! 

26. Get transported to another world at Red Rock Canyon: I hadn’t even heard of this spectacular state park until a good friend posted a photo on IG, and I swore it was taken in Utah or Arizona. Ahhh the powers of social media.

This national conservation site is home to some of the most fascinating rock formations in California, scenic desert cliffs, red sandstone peaks, and giant geological columns. You can either hike through the precarious canyon, enjoy the 13-mile scenic drive, or both. It’s even been featured in a whole slew of movies!

27. Take photos with the Cabazon Dinosaurs: Over 50 life-size vintage dinosaur replicas are scattered throughout the dusty Californian desert, from the terrifying tyrannosaurus rex to the breath-taking brontosaurus (which actually is also a gift shop!).

And located right off the highway between LA and Palm Springs, it’s well worth the short detour (every road trip needs a few quirky roadside attractions). You may even recognize these popular dinosaurs from their feature in Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure! ✓

28. Spend a relaxing weekend at Lake Arrowhead: This quaint town may be small, but it’s crawling with things to keep you occupied. Boat out onto the grand lake, fill the night with laughter at Lollipop Amusement Park, explore the mesmerizing Aztec Falls, or just kick back and relax in this serene town. And there’s no shortage of scenic views here, as the town’s perfectly located in Bernardino National Forest, and known as “The Alps of Southern California”.

29. Stand at the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin: Being able to say you’ve stood at the lowest point in North America is reason enough to visit Badwater Basin – though, if that doesn’t sell you, the vast and unique scenery sure will.

With a depth of 282 feet below sea level, the landscape of this expansive salt flat is absolutely surreal. While in Death Valley (one of the many National Parks in California), make the most of your time by visiting Zabriskie point and Dante’s View, where you’ll experience the most spectacular views of the area. 

30. Pan for gold at the Calico Ghost Town: Wandering the deserted streets of this eerie ghost town is surely one of the spookiest things to do in California. Formerly a mining town, now a country park, this abandoned town full of western architecture and traditional buildings will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Whack on a cowboy hat and pan for some gold, just as they would back in the 1800s!

31. Paraglide above Torrey Pines: Torrey Pines has vast green lands and stunning ocean views, and easily the best way to experience this heavenly area is by paragliding, of course! Cater to your adventurous side and admire the view from up above – I hope you’re not scared of heights! If you don’t want to partake in the fun, you can just sit and watch the paragliders at the Gliderport jump off the cliffs and soar along the bluffs instead.

32. Ski at Bear Mountain: Here in California we’ve got it all – 8,805 foot high mountains and all. Put on your skis and be blown away by the winding, snowy mountains. With over 200 acres of winter wonderland fun and 55 runs to have a go at, you can spend countless days rushing down the icy inclines. And since we’re talking about California here (meaning it never gets too cold), you won’t need to layer up on clothing too much. 

So there ya have it, a long, long list of some of the remarkable things to do in California. Which ones have you checked off your California bucket list already?!

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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The post 100+ Things to do in California: The Ultimate California Bucket List appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Ever since moving to California from NYC, I’m still pinching myself that I get to call this absolutely stunning state my home. #Westcoastbestcoast, am I right? And the more I learn about this fascinating state, my list of places to visit in California just keeps getting longer and longer.

California never fails to amaze me, and I become more enamored and downright floored by the beauty of this left-coast state every time I visit a new spot. From the gushing waterfalls, to the glistening lakes and sparkly, rocky beaches, to the snow-capped mountains, to the colorful wildflower fields, to the towering redwood forests, California really has it all and then some. Any nature lovers delight. 

And if you’re stumped on places in California to visit, just refer back to this post (miiiight be good idea to bookmark it or use that handy dandy pin-it button up there).   

Sorry New York, CA is my new home now. Tacos, palm trees, and sun? Yes, yes, and yes please!

You could easily spend weeks (and weeks!) exploring California and hardly see any of it. Thankfully, with the help of other west-coast lovers as well, I’ve compiled a (long) list of some of the most beautiful places in California to add to your California bucket list. Use this guide as help when planning your next California road trip, or just as itinerary inspiration for your next California adventure.

Or do as I do from time to time, and just gawk at the photos. I mean, c’mon, any list of the best places to visit in California will be some sort of eye candy, am I right?

So without further ado, and in no particular order (it’s more fun that way), let’s get to it > the most beautiful places to visit in California! Did I miss any must-see spots in California?

Let me know down below in the comments! I’m always looking for more places in this swoon-worthy state to visit! 

45 Most Beautiful Places in California

01 | Burney Falls, Shasta County

First up of the most beautiful places to visit in California – the absolutely stunning Burney Falls!

Located a short hour and a half away from Redding in Northern California within McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park, Burney Falls are a sight not to be missed! Every angle is just as stunning as the last, and it’s basically impossible to take an ugly photo here.

You can hike the trail to the bottom of the falls (more like a walk) and relax on a rock for as long as you’d life – though it does get super misty as you descend down the path! A cool respite from the usual heat in this area. And even better – you can swim here (albeit pretty chilly anytime of year), as long as you stay close to the rock outskirts.

Bring water shoes as the ground is rather rocky and downright slippery.

Read Next: A Weekend at Lassen Volcanic National Park + Burney Falls

02 | Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe

Ohhh, I’m absolutely enamored with all things Lake Tahoe, and can easily name it one of the best places to visit in California. Period. If you adore shockingly blue waters, snow-capped mountains, and water spots, I have a slight feeling you’ll agree as well.

Emerald Bay is a gorgeous inlet on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, one of my favorite road trips from San Francisco. Exploring this area will take you away from the cozy little towns of North or South Lake Tahoe down a scenic, winding road and through the rugged Desolation Wilderness (the name is misleadingly depressing).

One of the best ways to explore Emerald Bay is on foot, by hiking the 9-mile Rubicon Trail. The hike begins in D.L. Bliss State Park– camp there if you can – high up in the granite, pine-topped cliffs.  It winds through gorgeous lake vistas down to Vikingsholm, which was once some eccentric rich person’s Scandinavian style villa, and is now one of the most curious things to see in Emerald Bay.

It sits directly on the shore of Emerald Bay and visitors willing to hike the 1 mile trail from the parking lot are rewarded with a beach, tours, and a little gift shop which, you’ll be happy to know, sells ice cream.

Oh, and that island in the middle of the bay? That was their tea house. Rich people, amirite? In addition to camping and hiking and random viking villas, you can explore Emerald Bay by boat, kayak, or Stand-Up paddle-board – you’ll want to rent in South Lake Tahoe and cruise over. // Lia Garcia

03 | Sand Harbor, Lake Tahoe

Yup, another one of the best places in California is in Lake Tahoe! Sand Harbor is a gem in the Sierras with crystal clear water and magnificent boulders every where you look! The sand on the beach is perfect and the experience is magnified by the stunning nature all around.

The smell of the piney scent and the sound of birds and other wildlife around you makes it feel like a dream you don’t want to wake up from. It’s easily one of my favorite stops when driving around Lake Tahoe!

People with an appreciation for photography will definitely have plenty of opportunities to take breathtaking shots that will remember them of this paradise. Especially the combination of sand and rocks is picturesque beyond imagination. The water looks so clean that it makes you think that it’s drinkable and it feels so good that once you get in you won’t want to get out.

Boulders are perfect for jumping from them and if you are not an adrenaline junkie you can kayak and scuba dive as well. Sand Harbor on Lake Tahoe is definitely a place you should visit and it’s an experience you won’t forget. // Viktor Vincej

04 | McWay Falls, Big Sur

There are not many places like Big Sur in the world, and McWay Falls is a true testament to that!

Whenever heading down the coast, we always make a stop at McWay Falls – every single time. It’s just THAT beautiful, and easily one of the best views in California. I promise you – any California coast road trip needs to include McWay Falls, located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

So why is this waterfall just so mesmerizing? For starters, it’s 80 feet tall, and one of two waterfalls in California that flow right into the Pacific Ocean (with Alamere Falls near SF being the second). And secondly – you only have to walk about 8 minutes to see it (the mini trail is no more than half a mile). When people say they’re “hiking” to McWay Falls, they’re really just casually strolling down a paved path.

Do note there is no beach or ocean access, and it’s actually forbidden to go down there. There are plenty of other beaches to hang around, so do your part and just stay where you’re supposed to be.

05 | Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur

Purple sand? Say whattttt? Yup, Pfeiffer Beach most definitely wins the title for #1 of all exotic places in California. I mean, how could you compete with purple-hued sand?

Although quite hidden in Big Sur, once you make it there (after a few too many u-turns), you’ll be absolutely amazed.  The beach has streaks of purple sand from eroded crystals of garnet. Yes, you read that right – the sand is actually purple and marbled in with black and white sand. Spectacular rock formations are found here as well. Quite rare to say the least.

Psst – the best time to witness this purple sand is right after it rains – make sure you bring your camera.  

Don’t miss this lesser-known beach (it’s really easy to miss the turn off of CA 1 as there aren’t many signs pointing you in the right direction – only a small one at the turn off). Don’t confuse it with other “Pfeiffer” parks in the area, it’s its own separate spot! Put it in your GPS and you’ll be golden!

You’ll probably need a light weight jacket if you come after hours as it gets quite windy.  Windy and rocky yet downright beautiful. One of the rarest and most beautiful places in California, in my opinion!

Read Next: A Visitor’s Guide to Big Sur – What to See, Do, Eat, and Explore

06 | Valley View, Yosemite

Visiting California for the first time and not visiting Yosemite National Park is a crime. And thank god, I didn’t commit one. The Yosemite Valley, carved by glaciers, fenced by granite domes, watered by the Merced River, hemmed with pine trees, is a dream place for a landscape photographer like me. Inside the park, I visited almost all the vantage points to get that one postcard picture and all views were equally stunning.

However, out of all the spots in California, Valley View won my heart. I prefer this view over any other view as it is an ideal place to shoot mirror view postcard pictures. With the Merced River creating a flawless mirror reflection of El Capitan to the left and Cathedral Rocks to the right, the Valley View is a great spot to click that masterpiece either during the day or at the golden hour.

And if you come at the right time (during off-season, perhaps), I can assure you this will be one of the most peaceful places in California you’ll visit on your trip.

Add this to your list of must see places in California, you won’t be disappointed, I promise you that, even if the weather disappoints a bit! // Archana Singh

07 | Glacier Point, Yosemite

Gazing over the edge at Glacier Point is not an exercise in uncovering subtle beauty.  The obviousness of it can take your breath away.  It’s almost too beautiful, and your brain will struggle to take it all in. And that’s surely why Glacier Point is most definitely one of the must see places in California.

From this vantage point, the vast expanse of the Yosemite Valley stretches out below, but your attention will undoubtedly turn first to the majestic curving profile of Half Dome.  From there your eyes can follow Tenaya Canyon up and over the High Sierra or focus on the massive Nevada and Vernal Falls as they cascade to the valley floor.

The impressive view to the West can’t quite capture the full splendor of Yosemite Falls, but even that can be remedied by a short hike down the “Four Mile Trail”.  If you hiked or took the bus to the top, you might as well just keep going, the views are almost as spectacular on the way down. // Jessica Brown

08 | Avalon, Santa Catalina Island

Catalina Island is one of our favorite weekend or day trips from Southern California. There are three port options which makes it really convenient from LA and OC: Dana Point, Long Beach, and San Pedro. After just an hour ferry ride, it feels like you’re somewhere on the Mediterranean. Catalina Island is such a gorgeous location with mild weather year around.

There are SO many options of things to do; you can have almost any type of trip you’d like from romantic, adventurous, to relaxing. Here are some of our favorite activities:

• Walk along the waterfront, go from the beginning of the town to Lover’s Point
• Relax at Descanso Beach Club and grab a frozen drink
• Rent a golf cart to explore the island
• Go snorkeling or scuba diving at Lover’s Point
• Take a jeep tour to check out the Avalon backcountry and see the bison
• Try a water activity like parasailing, jet skiing or kayaking
• Take a zip line tour
• Go hiking at Garden to the Sky
• Go on a food tour

As you can see, there’s a great variety of activities available! We hope you enjoy this charming and magical island! // Photo and text by Lena Elzayn

09 | Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is possibly the most fascinating and the most opulent historic attraction in California. When William Randolph Hearst inherited the land from his father, he set about building his dream home: the 165 room Hearst Castle which is set upon 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools, and walkways.

Hearst Castle today is an incredible attraction where visitors can marvel at William Randolph’s eclectic taste of world treasures (it’s an absolute must-do on any California coast road trip). I don’t think there’s many places where you can walk upon ancient Italian mosaics whilst looking at Egyptian artifacts and medieval tapestries all in the same room. He collected what he liked and placed them where he thought they looked good rather than by eras.

In 1957, Hearst Castle was donated to the State of California and today the California State Parks manages the site. To visit, head to San Simeon on the coast of California and follow the signs. You may even notice the zebra on the side of the highway! It’s definitely one of the more popular places in California, so be sure to book a ticket ahead of time. // Leah Smileski

10 | Alamere Falls, Point Reyes National Seashore

Looking for a waterfall hike in the San Francisco Bay Area? Check out Alamere Falls, a 10+ mile round trip hike that takes you to the base of the waterfall (which flows right into the Pacific Ocean actually!) Don’t expect any peace and solitude as this hike is rather popular, but the views highly make up for it. Note that it’s usually pretty foggy in the morning, so dress accordingly and even though it could be a bit chilly, make sure to bring some water.  The gradual up-hill climbs will keep you warm.

Throughout the hike, you’ll get ocean views from atop a high cliff, walk in densely wooded areas, pass a big pond and some open meadow areas. Quite a long hike, and definitely not “easy”, but is worth it to see the falls pour directly onto the beach. One of the more active places to go in California, so be sure to wear your hiking boots and pack a backpack filled with necessities (including snacks)!

11 | Dana Point Harbor, Orange County

Dana Point Harbor has everything and then some. From whale watching and fishing to restaurants and bars, tourists shops to small local boutiques and yoga studios and a beach, this harbor is more than just a place where locals keep their boats. Grab a coffee, marvel in the view, and go window shop the magnificent yachts. A great place to get a fresh seafood lunch or dinner (with ocean views of course!). If you’re looking to chill and relax, this beautiful place in California is your spot.

12 | Hawk Hill, Marin County

Many visitors to San Francisco never make it over the bridge besides the obligatory Golden Gate Bridge drive-over. But look just how amazing this spot is! SWOON! Located on the other side of the bridge in the Marin Headlands, you get picture-perfect postcard views of that famous rust-colored San Francisco icon.

Not scared of raptors? This area is the best place to witness the fall raptor migration on fog-free autumn days (don’t worry, you still need binoculars – they’re not thaaat close), and provides habitat for the mission blue butterfly as well.

Make sure you venture on over to the other side of Hawk Hill as well. Although there’s no bridge view here (endless ocean views here instead), it’s just as splendid and much quieter, and one of the prettiest places in California in my opinion. And since you’re already over the bridge, may as well head to Sausalito and/or Muir Woods!

Psst: Visiting San Francisco? Here are the best places to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge.

13 | Napa Valley Vineyards

No list of beautiful places in California would be complete without the famous Napa Valley Vineyards. From home to the Patwin Native Americans in ancient times to the home to America’s finest wine, Napa Valley has come a long way. The process of cultivating vineyards in Napa started in the 18th Century when Europeans came to this part of the country and started making wine.

Today about 400 wineries dot Napa Valley and make some of the most sought after wine in the world, including the iconic Cabernet Sauvignon. Napa makes a wonderful day (or overnight) trip from San Francisco, and you’ll soon see why. But really, I recommend staying at least 3 days in Napa to get the full experience.

A few activities include wine tasting (of course!), tours of some old and iconic vineyards, great food, hot air balloon rides, mud baths, and more. There are beautiful resorts with spas, fine dining restaurants, as well as cool hangout joints to suit the needs of all types of travelers. Pro tip: Don’t miss the wine cellar at Beringer Winery as well as the The Rhine House there. // Siddhartha Joshi

Not into wine? Don’t fret >> Here are a bunch of Things to do in Napa Valley Besides Drink Wine.  Looking for the best views? I’ve got you covered >> Wineries with the Best Views in Napa (my favorites)

14 | Santa Cruz, Channel Islands

Not to be confused with Santa Cruz in Northern California, this island off the coast of Santa Barbara is one for the bucket lists.  Imagine taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, and spending a day cruising to what feels like a Mediterranean island. Yes, in California!

If you are in need of an escape from the frantic pace of the LA area, this is the perfect getaway for you. Located within the Channel Islands National Park, this island not only boasts spectacular views from it’s many vantage points, but also a wide array of hiking trails, kelp forests, tide pools, and seasonal whale sightings.

Note that the only way to reach the island is by boat (from several ports in Southern California), as there are no bridges which connect it to the mainland, and you’ll almost always see dolphins, whales, and sea lions on the way out.

15 | Point Lobos, Monterey

Point Lobos is one of those special places in Monterey County that is often overlooked when visiting Monterey and the Carmel Valley region. But for those that take a little effort, the short drive to the coastal state park is an incredible experience.

I would recommend taking some of the popular hiking trails along the coastlines dotted with beautiful annual blooms. The jagged rock islands and terrain is really breath taking to see and photograph even in cold or cloudy days, which tend to happen regularly along the Monterey coastline.

You will definitely enjoy the hikes here, but if you don’t have that much time, you can easily drive to the coastal parking areas for a shorter visit. Make sure to check out the smallish but cool visitors center and talk story with the ranger – there’s a lot of interesting photos, artifacts and other historic things to see and learn about the history of the area. // Noel Morata.

16 | Joshua Tree National Park

A visit to Joshua Tree National Park is a unique experience, which will let you explore the desert from a different angle. The Park is easy to navigate, so it is possible to see the main highlights in one or even half a day. If you want to stay longer, you will find several camping options within the park.

The most popular time for visiting the park is spring, but I am sure you will still find things to do at any time of the year. No matter what the length of your stay is, make sure that you put the Keys Views, Skull and Jumbo Rocks and Cholla Cactus Garden on your list. Full day trip itinerary here (including all the Joshua Tree highlights)!

Apart from admiring the Joshua trees, there are numerous other activities to do in the park, ranging from the usual hiking, cycling and bouldering to more unique, such as star-gazing, night festivals and wild flower walks in spring time. // Ana Rozanova

17 | Mount Shasta

Located 290 miles north of San Francisco, Mount Shasta is a 14,161-foot-tall volcanic mountain.  It last erupted in 1786, and it is the origin of the Sacramento River.  Many consider it the most beautiful mountain in the west, including poet Joaquin Miller who described it as “lonely as God and white as a winter moon.” 

Strange stories about it abound, including some about UFOs, and because it is said to have unusual energy fields, some think it is as mysterious as Stonehenge and the pyramids and others have ranked it as one of the world’s seven sacred mountains. 

All this, and it has some spectacular trails and waterfalls, too, and for the price of a hamburger you can sit in a comfy booth in the town’s Burger King and enjoy a million-dollar view.  // Carole Meyers

18 | Cypress Tree Tunnel, Point Reyes

While not an actual tunnel, the Cypress Tree Tunnel is made up of Monterey cypress trees, located on the Point Reyes Peninsula. It’s a very popular scenic driving location, so bring your camera and a friend, and test out some shots!

When the light is good, you’re bound to get a few Insta-snaps to make any friend jealous. Psst- come in the late afternoon for the best lighting.  With the sun shining and birds chirping, it’s an idyllic California spot not to be missed if you’re in the area.

19 | Painted Canyons, Mecca

Ready for a hike with some epic scenery along the way? The hike isn’t too difficult, as long as you’re not afraid of ladders or heights, and don’t mind some heat!  

Psst – make sure the ladders are stable before going up or down them!

Along the hike you’ll head through some crevices and down onto the canyon floor. Definitely a great day if you’re in the Palm Springs area! Remember to bring water! A lot of water! It’s the desert we’re talking about!

20 | Glass Beach, Fort Bragg

The glass beach at Fort Bragg is one of those special places worth visiting if you are driving around Mendocino County in Northern California. Once a dumping ground for early settlers in the area, all the bottles, glass, ceramics and other junk dump from early settlers is now a treasure trove of fun collecting along the shoreline of glass beach.

In between the sandy beaches are large swaths of polished and smooth glass pieces and ceramics that are fun to pick up as souvenirs of an earlier time. Now that the beach areas have been cleaned up and reclaimed as a natural coastal beach area, it is a perfect place to relax and also hunt for treasure at the same time. // Noel Morata.

21 | Point Cabrillo Light Station, Mendocino

If you’re in the area of Mendocino, you absolutely must visit this light station.  How cute is it?! Can you tell I’m just an absolute sucker for lighthouses?  I honestly don’t know what it is about them, but I feel the need to visit them all! Of course this would hold a firm spot on the list of most beautiful places in California!

The Point Cabrillo Light Station has been used for navigational purposes since 1909 (#wow!), and is now part of the California State Parks system.  There is a short trail to reach the lighthouse, but if you haven’t caught my drift yet, it’s worth it.  And really, it’s super short.   No excuses.  Get your coffee and go.

Want to make a weekend out of it?! Check out this fantastic 3-day Mendocino weekend itinerary!

22 | Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

If you appreciate and LOVE flowers, this is your place! Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is a state nature reserve within the Mojave Desert with tons of hikes and a wildflower season every March to May. So many orange flowers it looks like the hills are on fire!

Don’t just drive by – the place is too beautiful to miss and should hold a first spot on any list of places to go in California. The reserve is quite large so although it may be crowded at times (especially during wildflower season), you won’t be walking on top of everyone. Signs warn of snakes, so be careful. And remember where you parked your car as it is the desert and everything looks the same!

23 | Lone Cypress, Carmel

Prized for its beauty and rarity, the Lone Cypress stands on a rocky outcropping off Pebble Beach’s famous 17-Mile Drive. At 250 years old, it has stood in this postcard-worthy place longer than just about anything but the nearby surf and sand.

The Lone Cypress has weathered fog, fire, and the sometimes-unpredictable weather of Northern California. It is so important to the area that caretakers have held it in place with steel cables for the last 65 years.

For $10.25 per vehicle, visitors can cruise 17-Mile Drive (part of the Pebble Beach resort) to visit the tree, which is located between two of the best-known golf courses in the world. While you can’t get too close, you can certainly get close enough to appreciate the starkness of the lone tree against the horizon. // Laura and Lance Longwell

24 | Mono Lake, Sierra Mountains

Whoa, is this place in California even real?! You betcha! Like the purple sand at Pfeiffer, you’ll find another top contender of the most exotic places in California in on the eastern slope of the Sierra Mountains in Northern California. It’s just outside of the eastern boundary of Yosemite National Park, so easily accessed in the summer with the road is open.

The park became famous for its tufa formations which appeared when the level of the lake was dropped to provide water to the city of Los Angeles. The water began being diverted in 1941 and the amount of water being diverted to LA was greater than the amount replenishing the lake.

Over time the lake dropped 49 feet and lost over half its volume. An agreement was eventually reached with Los Angeles which would put a limit on how far Mono Lake could drop, preventing it from disappearing completely. // Photo and text via Gary Arndt 

25 | Salton Sea, Sonoran Desert

The Salton Sea is an anomaly in the California desert. Situated 235 feet below sea level, the “sea” is actually a lake, and as you may guess from its name, a salty one. It’s actually the largest lake in California, and truly a dream for moody photographers for its post-apocalyptic nature and desolation. 

If you choose to camp the night you may very well be the only person there. As you near the lake, you’ll notice the pungent smell, the abundance of crushed fish bones, and even a few dead birds littered around the shoreline. This is due to the combination of overly salty water and the agricultural run offs from nearby farms.

Without a doubt, it’s a unique stop to make on a California road trip, and a scenic spot for pictures or to simply be alone in nature. It’s a place to wonder how abandoned places like this still exist in as populated a destination as California, which just goes to show you how big of a state it really is. // Mimi McFadden

26 | Salvation Mountain, Slab City

Salvation Mountain is one of those little known gems in the middle of nowhere that you don’t really stumble upon, rather you seek out. It is awesome, inspiring, and a little nutty too!

Deep in the desert of Southern California, near the Salton Sea lies Niland, home of Salvation Mountain. Created as Leonard Knight’s tribute to God, it is covered with religious scriptures.

Apart from the religious aspects, it is filled with flowers, trees, waterfalls, beautiful patterns and wonderful vibrancy that will have even non-believers feeling the happiness and love of the space.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know for a Visit to Salvation Mountain!

Made of adobe clay, donated paint, and various recycled material, it is a sight to see – and photograph! One of the most colorful and beautiful places in California! // Karilyn Owen

27 | Zabriskie Point, Death Valley

Death Valley rewards lovers of a spare landscape. To some, it might look like an endless expanse of brown on brown. But to the discerning desert-lover, there a great subtlety in Death Valley’s landscape and nowhere is that more on display than at Zabriskie Point!

Zabriskie Point looms over Badwater Basin, the lowest spot in the United States. Right underneath the scenic overlook are wrinkled hills that roll away in waves toward the flat, dry lakebed and the Panamint mountains beyond.

Read Next: The Perfect 2 Day Death Valley Itinerary

The westward facing overlook and the rippled topography create stunning views at dawn. The emerging sun spotlights the distant mountains first and then as it rises higher, it begins to reveal the striated colors in the hills. Many visitors leave right after dawn…but you should wait. Because as the sun rises yet further, the hills light up with a corrugated play of light and shadow.

Pro tip: Visit Death Valley in the spring for the best weather and go down to the valley floor for equally stunning views at dusk.  // Carol Guttery

28 | Mesquite Sand Dunes, Death Valley

The Mesquite Sand Dunes of Death Valley are conveniently located in hell. Yes, you read that right – Hell!

Wondering how Death Valley got it’s name? During the pioneer migration, Death Valley essentially starved and dehydrated any wagon trains foolish enough to attempt transiting the desert. With a 140 mile valley floor bordered on both sides by mountains. The prevailing winds and the geology have created a wind funnel that has swirled up the old lake bed into dunes.

While Death Valley and the dunes were hard on the pioneers, they are a revelation for the modern photographer. If you position yourself in the middle of the dunes right before dawn, you will be treated to a subtle light and shadow show that is abstract and organic. There is something very peaceful about a quiet dawn in such a spare landscape. A must-visit during any trip to Death Valley.

Pro tip: Go in the spring or fall to avoid the worst of the heat and consider making a road trip out of it by visiting more dunes in Utah and Colorado. // Carol Guttery

29 | Bowling Ball Beach, Mendocino

Any trip up the coast of California should to include a visit to Bowling Ball Beach. Part of Schooner Gulch State Beach in Mendocino County, you won’t find many other natural formations like this one, making it one of the most beautiful views in California.

The beach is named for it’s spherical sandstone concretions which are found there at low tide (aka plan your visit around low tide!). A short hike across the bluff top and a scramble down a dirt path will take you to Bowling Ball Beach. The trail and the stairs down the cliff have eroded considerably in the past few winters so be careful.

Read Next: Must-Do Things in Mendocino and Fort Bragg

30 | La Jolla, San Diego

Known for its curving coastline and steep ocean bluffs, La Jolla is a charming seaside community just inside the San Diego city limits. Secluded beaches and scenic walking trails wind their way along the La Jolla coast, adjacent to ritzy restaurants, upscale boutiques and luxurious homes.

The best way to experience La Jolla is to spend a day strolling along the coast: walk along sandy stretches of beach, climb over massive boulders, peek into the many crystal-clear tide pools, and watch as the powerful Pacific Ocean crashes into the rocky shoreline.

Be sure to keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, pelicans, and other coastal wildlife! When you’re tired from walking, pop into one of the many cozy restaurants for fresh seafood and good California wine. // Kelly Borglum

Read Next: Top Day Trips from San Diego, my favorite way to spend a long weekend in San Diego, photo spots in San Diego, and the ultimate San Diego bucket list!

31 | Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a part of the US Highway 1 in the Golden State, California. This state route is one of the most scenic roads in the world. You get to cross stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches, beautiful green forests, cute tunnels, and quaint villages along the way. If going on road trips is your kind of fun, you would totally fall in love with this amazing drive!

A few stops to consider adding to your Pacific Coast Highway road trip: Montara State Beach, Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, Malibu, Los Angeles and San Diego. Every stop deserves its own day to explore. The Pacific Coast Highway is a destination on its own and is a must-added item to any California bucket list. Road trip, anyone?! // Priya Rejendran

Read Next: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

32 | Griffith Park, Los Angeles

Yes, LA does have some beautiful spots, haha. I mean, just look at that view from Griffith Park! It’s actually the second largest municipal park in California and one of the largest in the United States.

With its foundation in 1896 the park has grown to over 4,300 acres in size. The park contains a host of attractions for its visitors. The most popular of these being the Los Angeles Zoo and botanical gardens, following this in popularity is the Griffith observatory. This area provides one of the most stunning views of Los Angeles stretching from the Pacific Ocean up to the Hollywood hills.

Headed to LA soon?! Check out these other resources: 25+ Things to do in LA, The Tourist’s Guide to LA, Hip/Funky Long Weekend in LA + Santa Monica

Within the observatory itself are exhibits to Nikola Telsa, a planetarium and a host of other scientific and cultural memorabilia. In 2010 the Hollywood sign and its lands became an official part of the park. Other smaller attractions within the park include The Greek theatre and Autry museums along with other venues. A trip to Griffith park is a must do when visiting LA as it provides a stunning backdrop to the city. // Eoin Dolly

33 | Carlsbad Ranch Flower Fields

A dazzling display of color and nature, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are one of California’s most whimsical sights. If you love flowers like me, you’ll definitely agree that the Flower Fields are by far one of the prettiest places in California. More than 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers bloom each spring from mid-March to mid-May, during which time the ranch opens to visitors.

Guests are free to wander the fields, admiring the colorful blossoms and watching as they sway in the soft Pacific breeze. Snacks, lemonade and other refreshments are available to purchase, so picnicking with a floral backdrop is highly encouraged!

Welcome in the spring season by twirling through one of California’s most scenic flower fields (and snagging that perfect Instagram-worthy shot). // Kelly Borglum

34 | Mt. Whitney

Being the highest summit in the continental United States, Mt. Whitney stands tall at 14,505 feet (4,420m). Located within Sequoia National Park and the Inyo National Park, the best place to view the mountain is actually  at the Interagency Visitor Center on Highway 395 due to a chain of mountains blocking the views from the park roads.

Hoping to climb the tallest mountain? You’ll need a permit for that. All hikers entering the Mt. Whitney zone, including day-hikers, are required to obtain a permit. Don’t forget this as you’ll be turned around without prior permission. And make sure you bring your water – the shortest and most popular route to climb is 10.7 miles!

35 | Pismo Beach Sand Dunes

Pismo Beach in Central California is one of those typical beaches that you may have in your mind what the scene is all about in visiting the area. But what’s really cool about this beach is the fact that you can actually drive on the beach in very compact and solid ground even up to the water.

The sand dunes of Pismo Beach are quite impressive with large sand dunes covering a big area in the park and dotted with swaths of summer annual blooms and other colorful plants.

Pismo Beach is a fun place to explore with the dunes, driving on the beach and the beach culture is in full swing with the cool shops, galleries and eateries in the hip and funky coastal beach town which is a perfect spot to just hang out, enjoy the beach community and local vibe of the area. // Noel Morata

36 | Butterfly Beach, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is any beach lovers dream. With miles and miles of sun-drenched sandy coastlines, any beach visit will prove to be better than the last. Thirsty? Grab a cocktail at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara across the street from the beach.

You may even catch a celebrity sighting! Yes, this place is that good! Hoping to catch a spectacular sunset? Wait for a night with a few clouds for a more dramatic effect, and you’ll hopefully get to witness the sky changing from blue to yellow to pink to purple!

37 | Heisler Park, Laguna Beach

Heisler Park is a treasure located just up the road from central Laguna Beach. The beautifully manicured park is perched above the sea cliffs with picnic lawns, benches, and pathways perfect for an afternoon stroll. Everywhere are Bougainvillea, wild flowers, palm trees, various cacti and other exotic flowers I couldn’t name.

If you look westward you can see Catalina Island in the distance or watch the surfers down below navigating a treacherous surf spot. There are steps that will lead you to the beaches, coves and hidden tide pools. In my experience, Heisler Park is one of the most gorgeous places in Southern California and it’s a must visit if you’re ever in the Laguna area. // Asher Fergusson

38 | Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Perched on a cliff on the central California coast, the Pigeon Point Lighthouse is one of the tallest lighthouses in America.  It’s a stop we always make on our way to Santa Cruz (all my favorite stops from SF to Santa Cruz here).

And the lighthouse has quite a history – it’s been used to guide boats and other mariners since 1872, and you can even see the light showcased in a building nearby. Renovations are currently underway, but the lighthouse is still intact and such.

Don’t miss the area surrounding the lighthouse – the waters and nearby rocks are so rich with marine mammals (we typically see whales spouting water from their blowholes in the distance). Be on the lookout for harbor seals hanging out on the rocks as well.

39 | Morro Bay Rock

California’s famous coastal Highway 1 is known for its views from North to South of the State. However, very few people talk about Central California. Morro Bay is a small coastal city in Central CA that Highway 1 cuts through and in my opinion one of the pleasant surprise packages on the drive.

As you head to the lagoon where Morro Bay State Park is, first thing that will catch your eye is a gigantic volcanic rock formation in the middle of the bay. That’s the iconic Morro Rock after which the city gets its name.

There are plenty of activities to do at the State Park including hiking, fishing, sailing, and bird watching. Morro Bay Harbor is another great spot in the city to enjoy a chilled beer, fresh fish, and great view of Morro Rock. A combination of Morro Rock and sunset can be quite impressive. // Photo and text by Richa Joshi

40 | Shaver Lake

Shaver Lake is one of the best-kept secrets in California! Nestled in the Sierra National Forest, you will find snow capped mountains, crystal clear water, and green wooded forests but none of the crowds of Tahoe or Yosemite. On the lake, you can rent kayaks or motor boats and spend the day visiting each of the dozens of small beaches along the lake. Each beach is separated from the next by rock formations so it’s easy to find a private spot to relax or swim.

If you’re camping, you can walk to the lake from Dorabelle campground. Try to get a campsite further from the lake and at the end of the loop. You’ll have to walk farther to the lake, but your campsite will back up to enormous rocks and you won’t have many neighbors. Even if you can’t get your desired spots, Shaver Lake is one of the few truly desirable campsites in California where you can get reservations even at the last minute. // Jessica Covington

41 | Muir Woods

Just north of the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge, atop Mount Tamalpais, you’ll find the towering redwoods of Muir Woods National Forest. Though they lie a short distance from the city, hiking the trails here will transport you to a seemingly extraterrestrial realm.

Your eyes will be drawn up immediately as you enter the park. Your gaze will follow the trunks of the old-growth redwoods to what feels like an infinite length as they pierce into the sky above. Not only are these trees soaring in height (even thought to be the tallest of all living things!), their colossal trunks can reach a diameter wider than the length of a car!

Some of the enchanting forest trails even lead to peaks overlooking the mighty Pacific Ocean. Hikers can find themselves admiring the natural wonders in these woods for hours while getting a great cardio workout and then suddenly exit the portal of greenery to the beautiful blue vastness of the ocean below. // Taiss Nowrouzi

Read Next: 30 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco

42 | Fern Canyon

With 50 feet tall walls covered from top to bottom with ferns the aptly named Fern Canyon is one of the most iconic locations in California. Hiking back to the canyon is taking a step through time back to the time of the dinosaurs, and Hollywood agrees.

Fern Canyon has been in several documentaries about dinosaurs and was even in one of the Jurassic Park movies. The trail is incredibly easy to walk, though not wheelchair friendly. Be sure you have extra socks on hand as you will be walking through some very wet terrain. Fern Canyon is incredibly photogenic and usually not very busy. // Shannon Doyle

43 | Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Avenue of the Giants is a scenic redwood tree-lined highway in northern California located about 4hrs north of San Francisco. The main portion of the route runs through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park for approximately 20mi between Miranda and Redcrest. Key sights off of the road include the Immortal Tree, Founder’s Grove, the Dyerville Giant, the Rockefeller Forest Grove, the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree, Eel River, and South Fork.

Looking for more redwoods near San Francisco? Here’s a whole bunch of them!

Driving through the forest on this road is one of the most beautiful drives and my favorite thing to do in this area. But you can’t come to a Northern California redwood forest and not go hiking! For a leisurely walk, I highly recommend the Founders Grove Nature Loop; this trail takes you to the Founders Tree, a 346ft tall tree with a circumference of 40 feet, and the fallen Dyerville Giant, which was once a 370ft tall redwood believed to have been about 1,500 years old! // Constance

44 | Bumpass Hell, Lassen National Park

If you’re looking to escape the crowds at some of California’s National Parks, an ideal place to head to is Lassen Volcanic National Park. Located at the Northern tip of California’s Sierra Nevada range the park is a geothermal hotspot which hosts some incredible scenery. The majority of the geothermal areas within the park are found around Mount Tehama’s caldera, with the highlight being Bumpass Hell.

Aptly named, this geothermal area was named after an unlucky early pioneer named Kendall Vanhook Bumpass fell into these hydrothermal features in the 1860s. The largest fumarole in the park, Big Boiler, is also one of the hottest fumaroles in the world with temperatures measured as high as 322°F (161°C). The best way to explore the bubbling and gurgling of Bumpass Hell is to venture around the fumaroles on the 3 mile boardwalk trail. // Rand Shoaf

Read Next: A Weekend in Lassen Volcanic National Park (plus not-to-miss waterfalls!)

45 | Thousand Island Lake, Ansel Adams Wilderness

With hiking it often goes that the most beautiful places are not the easiest to get to. Thousand Island Lake falls in this category. This stunning alpine lake sits below massive Banner Peak in the high country of the Sierra Nevada mountains within the Ansel Adams Wilderness. The hike up to the lake offers magnificent scenery with towering snow-covered peaks, canyons filled with glistening waterfalls, and crystal clear lakes.

Filled with many tiny islands scattered throughout, Thousand Island Lake lives up to it’s name and although not the easiest to reach, it is well worth the effort of getting there. The lake can be reached via both the iconic Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail, but be sure you’re prepared for a very long full-day hike or better yet, pack along camping gear and enjoy a sunset dip at the lake! // Rand Shoaf

Which of these most beautiful places in California would you like to visit the most? Have any others to add to this list?!

Photos via  5 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 22 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36  | 39 | 40 | 41 | 42 | 43 | 45 

The post 45 Most Beautiful Places in California (Itinerary Inspiration) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer. 

From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on the California Coast. 

Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel, you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. Let’s get this Pacific Coast Highway road trip under way!

Being one of the most scenic drives in the world (and rightfully so), I advise you to take your sweet time to really savor all the charming beauty of this west coast road trip down California.

And before we go into it, if you’ve got even more time in California and you’d like to visit a few spots off the coast, check out my latest post: 45 (Extremely) Beautiful Places in California (opens in new tab, don’t worry!) << lots more itinerary inspiration for your California road trip!

Recommended Route down the California Coast

• Stop 1: San Francisco, California
• Stop 2: Half Moon Bay
• Stop 3: Santa Cruz
• Stop 4: Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Stop 5: Big Sur
• Stop 6: San Simeon
• Stop 7: San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach
• Stop 8: Solvang
• Stop 9: Santa Barbara
• Stop 10: Ventura → Channel Islands
• Stop 11: Malibu
• Stop 12: Los Angeles/Santa Monica
• Stop 13: Anaheim
• Stop 14: Orange County
• Stop 15: San Diego

ALL 75 of my favorite PCH stops RIGHT over here! There’s tons of ideas in this California coast road trip itinerary, but those are my absolute favorites.

Note that the number of stops you’ll be able to make highly depends on how much time you have allotted for this California road trip.

Suggested One-Week Itinerary: If you have a week or so for this drive down the California Coast, I recommend a day in SF (depending on whether you’ve been or not), a day in Carmel/Monterey, a day in Big Sur, stopping at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, dune-bashing (if that’s your thing) in Pismo Beach, a day in Santa Barbara, stopping in Malibu en route of LA, checking out the main sights of LA/Santa Monica, then some beach time in Orange County.

Yes, it’ll be pretty jam-packed, but highly doable if you plan your drives correctly. You can really spend an infinite amount of time on the California Coast, so it’s hard to say exactly how long this road trip will take. It highly depends on your interest, how much time you wanna spend in the cities, and how much driving per day you wanna do.

Note that you can drive directly from San Francisco to LA in roughly 6 hours, but this route (via Highway 101 and Highway 5) will take you inland, meaning you’ll miss out on so much of the Central Coast. 

If you’re planning to drive round trip, I highly recommend that you drive South down the coast via Highway 1 – the Pacific Coast Highway, and then venture back up North via Highway 5 and Highway 101. 

You can drive either way (from SF to LA/San Diego -or- LA/San Diego to SF), but I prefer driving South, starting in the SF Bay Area and making my way down to LA/SD.  Pssst: the views are better this way as the car will be closer to the water.

Renting a Car: Since this is in fact a road trip, you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this California coast road trip itinerary!

I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (it may be worth the extra 6 hour drive back to your original starting point to avoid this pesky fee).

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here!

WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA:

First things first, if you’re not a resident of San Francisco (or LA), you’ll of course need to get yourself there. Since SFO is a major international airport, and a hub for many airlines, you can easily find cheap airfare within the states. 

I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights, and always always always use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two. 

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas of the US with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found here.

If you’ll be following this  itinerary and heading south (without driving the direct 6+ hours back to San Francisco), you’ll want to book two one-way tickets. 1) HOME → SFO, 2) LAX→ HOME. Make sure to search for one-way flights when booking tickets.

Totally your call, but I suggest flying round trip from the same airport so you can avoid one-way drop off rental car fees.

When to Drive Down the California Coast

Keep in mind that the summer months (June, July, and August) are usually rather foggy in San Francisco and down the California coast.  Because of this, some mornings will be pretty damp and misty.  For best weather and best chance of sunshine, plan for a road trip in either late September or October. 

If summer is your only option, you may get lucky with clear skies, but don’t count on it.  However, with this in mind, the fog usually clears up by mid-morning/afternoon.  Normal summer temps are in the low-60’s to mid-70’s, so bring a jacket and reconsider that convertible!  “May Grey, June Gloom” is a real thing out here.

*All drive times are approximations.  Traffic can be heavy at some points along the drive, and you’ll likely be getting out of your car occasionally to take photos along the way.

Stumped on what to pack for a California road trip itinerary? Check out this ultimate road trip essentials packing guide (opens in new tab)!

What to Pack for your Pacific coast highway road trip (rotate sideways on Mobile)

Sunglasses	Floppy Hat	Headphones	Camera
Cocktail Kit	Maxi Skirt	Kindle	Fun Backpack
Mini Hair Brush	Sunscreen	Beach Tote	Back Up Battery Charger

Now let’s get this California coast road trip planning on it’s way!

California Coast Road Trip Itinerary:

1) Start in San Francisco

Ahhh, SF, my favorite city; although technically I’m biased because I chose to move to the city by the bay from NYC a few years ago.

A few San Francisco must do’s include either walking or driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, wandering around Fisherman’s Wharf (and stuffing your face with an ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli’s), getting spooked at Alcatraz Island (go on the night tour!), relaxing with some coffee in Union Square, walking down twisty Lombard Street, and riding a cable car. 

Get some great views at either Twin Peaks or the top of Coit Tower, check out the Painted Ladies, commonly known as the “Full House” houses, and nosh on some sourdough bread, fresh pasta in North Beach, and a burrito in the Mission District.

Other things to do in San Francisco include taking a panoramic night tour of city, cruise around the bay in a catamaran (champagne included!), see the Golden Gate Bridge from above on a seaplane tour, and taking a day trip to Napa Valley (not to be missed on any PCH road trip!)

Visiting San Francisco for the first time? Read THIS and THIS.  And make sure to check out this perfect 3-day SF itinerary!

Beware, parking is not the greatest (and garages are expensive), and public transportation is somewhat lacking.  I’ve lived here for 4 years now and still don’t love touring the city via car.

I recommend playing tourist and taking a full tour of the city instead of trying to do everything on your own.  Or rent bikes, electric bikes (!!!), or even a really fun (and kind of cheesy) goCar if you’d prefer to fly solo. Uber is always a good suggestion, and with my discount code (jessicak148), you can get a few bucks off your first ride!

Read More about San Francisco:

• A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco
• The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List
• Hiking in San Francisco: A Coastal Walk through Lands’ End
• 25 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco
• Best Places to Photograph the Golden Gate Bridge
• Best Desserts in SF (All my Favorite Spots)

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Intercontinental San Francisco (up-scale luxury and fantastic restaurant)
• Hotel Carlton (travel themed and around the block from Mr. Holmes Bakehouse)

2) Half Moon Bay (45 minutes from SF)

Your first official stop on your California coast road trip (unless you wanna make a few stops in Pacifica/Pescadero – I’ve got a whole road trip guide from San Francisco to Santa Cruz here)!  Say goodbye to the city and venture on over to Half Moon Bay, a cozy little seaside village right on the coast. 

You could easily plan a full day’s worth of activities here, but I suggest spending either a morning or afternoon, unless you want to take the plunge and stay at the ever-so-beautiful Ritz Carlton. 

A few must do’s: go for a stroll on one of the many beaches that dot this area of the coastline (my favorites: Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar), wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street, walk the coastal trail, and indulge in a lobster roll from Sam’s Chowder House.

Read More about Half Moon Bay:

• The Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay
• 12 Reasons to Love the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
• All My Favorite Beaches in Half Moon Bay

3) Santa Cruz (1 hour from Half Moon Bay)

Drive a bit further on Highway 1 and you’ll reach Santa Cruz, where I suggest stopping for a few hours.  Walk on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, ride the Giant Dipper and/or the Ferris Wheel right on the beach, and stop for a snack or two (churros and funnel cake are my favorites).  You can also head to Shark Fin Cove if you’re looking for a unique beach!

Also, don’t miss the Mystery Spot, which I won’t give away for obvious reasons, and make sure you try Marianne’s before heading out (the absolute BEST ice cream in the area).

Read More about Santa Cruz:

15+ Things to do in Santa Cruz

4) Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea (45 minutes from Santa Cruz)

Next up on our Pacific Coast Highway road trip – Monterey and Carmel! California is just full of sweet little seaside towns, and this area, despite being rather touristy, is definitely one to stop at. 

Monterey and Carmel are only a few miles apart, and I highly suggest spending the night in either of these towns (Monterey being the more affordable option) while on your California coast road trip.

A few recommended activities and bites: bundle up on a whale watching tour, indulge in clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s wharf, walk around Cannery Row, and spend a few hours at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (included in the San Francisco CityPASS if you’ve gotten it previously).

Don’t miss a walk around the charming little town of Carmel, cruising around the area in a Sea Car, watching the sunset at Carmel Beach Park, and stopping at the viewpoints along the 17 Mile Drive. 

On our most recent visit, I couldn’t stop raving about the food, with my favorites being the Monterey Crepe Company, Red’s Donuts, and The Poke Lab.  I really should make an-depth guide to Monterey soon!

Read More about Monterey/Carmel:

• Why I Want to Move to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
• Monterey and the 17 Mile Drive

Where to Stay in Monterey:

• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa (located on a golf course!)
• Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row (wonderful location)
• The Monterey Tides Hotel (right on the beach!)

5) Big Sur (50 minutes from Monterey)

Next up: Big Sur, famous for a reason and many people’s favorite stop on this California coast road trip itinerary. Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. 

It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the coast. 

With this being said, plan to drive down the coast and consider setting up camp/hotel in another location, unless you want to fork over some big bucks for a luxury hotel.  I recommend everyone spend a bit of time in Big Sur on a California coast road trip (at least half a day)– it’s too remarkable to miss!

You’ll be stopping on the side of the highway so many times you’ll lose count – the coast line is just that spectacular!  It’s known for its winding turns, seaside cliffs, and breathtaking views of the often misty coastline. 

A few must-do’s here in Big Sur: see McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, wiggle your toes in purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach (yes, parts of it really are purple, I was surprised too…), marvel at the Bixby Creek Bridge, and check out all the views from Point Lobos. OH, and if you’re visiting between February and April, definitely find the hidden blooms at Calla Lily Valley!

Read More on Big Sur

• A Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Big Sur (Super Duper Beautiful Luxury Spots)

• Post Ranch Inn (cliff-top hotel with a gorgeous spa)
• Ventana Inn (luxe wilderness resort, with lots of privacy)
• Hyatt Carmel Highlands (overlooking Big Sur)

6) San Simeon (2 – 4 hours drive, depending on how many stops you make in Big Sur)

Did you think you’d be stopping at a castle on your California coast road trip?  When I first learned about Hearst Castle, I was mesmerized.  Being a historic landmark on the coast, tours do fill up in advance, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time. 

First time visiting?  Sign up for the Grand Rooms Tour – and that’s exactly what you’ll see – plenty of spectacularly ornate rooms, plus lots of time to explore the absolutely stunning grounds. 

Non-negotiable on any California Coast road trip, in my opinion.  Be sure to look out for the zebra on the side of the highway as you enter/leave.  Bizarre, opulent, and oddly satisfying.

And while you’re in the area, make sure to stop at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, a popular spot to observe elephant seals with its own boardwalk and viewing areas. 

The best times to visit the rookery are in late January, late April, and late October, but visits are encouraged year round.  Have you seen an elephant seal use their large, inflatable noses to make noise?  It’s pretty wild!

7) San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach/Morro Bay/Paso Robles (45 minutes from San Simeon)

So there’s kinda a lot to do in this little area – so best to pick and choose your favorites (if not, you can easily spend a whole week here!). 

In SLO (what locals refer to as San Luis Obispo), sip pink drinks at the Madonna Inn, stuff your face with bbq are Firestone Grill, blow bubbles at the Bubble Gum Wall in downtown, and grab donuts at SLO Donut Company (SloDoCo). All my favorites, and I can’t image an afternoon not doing any of these.

Looking to stretch your legs?  Opt for the Bluff Trail at Montaña de Oro State Park, a 3.4 mile round trip relatively flat path with (better-than-okay) ocean views.

Thought Napa/Sonoma were the only wine countries in California? Winos – you’re in luck.  This part of your California coast road trip (in Paso Robles) features over 100 wineries, and deciding which to visit is the hardest part! 

The DAOU Vineyards gets constant praise, and with it’s wonderful wine, olive oil, and views, it’s hard to beat!

Want someone else to take you around? Probably a good idea if you’ll be drinking lots of wine! Hop on a full-day hop-on, hop-off wine tasting tour (yes, they exist!) and you can choose your own itinerary in Paso Robles Wine Country.

Or take the easy way out and let someone else decide for you on this Ultimate Wine Experience in San Luis Obispo (foodie lunch and 3-5 wineries included!).

You need to include a dune buggy ride on Pismo Beach on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip! One of the most epic things to do in this area! More info on that here. Nowhere else in California can you drive a vehicle on a public beach!

Before getting to SLO, you may as well make a pit stop in Moro Bay. If the weather cooperates (always a gamble over here), you’ll be rewarded with views of the giant monolith. Be sure to walk around the nearby beach to find sand dollars, and grab a cinnamon bun from one of the local bakeries.

If you’re thinking of stopping here for the night (or have had too much to drink…), consider staying at no other than the wildly famous Madonna Inn (we LOVED our quirky stay here!).  But be sure to save your breakfast appetite for SLO’s legendary Big Sky Café.  Oh, and there’s always beach time as well if the weather cooperates.

8) Solvang (1 hour from San Luis Obispo)

A bit in-land, but well worth the few miles off the highway.  This cute little area will feel as if you’ve been transplanted to a Danish village, with authentic Dutch bakeries and international cuisine.  Worth a quick pit stop, for the pastries alone (try the aebleskiver – pancake puffs).  

Stroll the village to spot Danish icons including the Little Mermaid Fountain, a handful of historic windmills, the giant red clog, and Round Tower.  There’s also two historic churches to check out, Old Mission Santa Ines and Bethania Lutheran.

Looking for something a bit more active? See the unique architecture of the only Danish city in The West via segway tour! They are so much fun and an easy way to get around!

9) Santa Barbara (45 minutes from Solvang)

An absolute must-stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip!  Here in Santa Barbara – dubbed the American Riviera – you’ll find widespread beaches and a truly relaxed atmosphere. 

Downtown you’ll find Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, which accurately reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage.

And the food! Oh, the food here! Consider joining a historic Santa Barbara Food Tasting Tour to get a true feel for what the locals love here (hint hint: includes Northern Italian dishes, gourmet cheese, local wine and handcrafted chocolates… yum).

Rather take a beer tour? Sign up for the Self-Guided Santa Barbara Lagoon Loop Craft Beer Trail (yes, it’s a thing down here).

Don’t miss Old Mission Santa Barbara, a historic church known for its beauty, a panoramic view of the city from the Clock Tower observation deck of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and the Santa Barbara Public Market. 

Save some time for Stearn’s Wharf and then beach it up, you deserve it!  If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m all about that ice cream – satisfy your sweet tooth at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams (worth the wait and then some).

And whatever you do, don’t leave Santa Barbara without taking a surf lesson (<– reserve your spot now, as they can fill up pretty quickly during the warmer months).

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara:

• Inn by the Harbor (romantic and Mediterranean two blocks from the waterfront)

Recommended Tours in Santa Barbara:

• El Paseo Wine and Photo Tour
• Santa Barbara Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• Santa Barbara Funk Zone: Food and Photo Tour

10) Ventura for Channel Islands National Park (40 minutes from Santa Barbara)

Usually not very common on a ‘traditional’ California coast road trip, but I couldn’t leave this destination off the list.  In Ventura, be sure to check out Mission San Buenaventura, Olivas Adoble, and Oxnard Beach Part. 

This vibrant town is the unexpected spot to make your way to Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast via ferry, plane, or private boat.

Take a break from the crazy urban life and go for a hike on the Channel Islands, literally!  The park is comprised of 5 islands and their surrounding mile of ocean, so it’s best to decide beforehand where and what to go/do. 

Head to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island for some of the best views of the National Park, and/or you can snorkel/dive/kayak in Landing Cove (Anacapa Island) or at Scorpion Anchorage (Santa Cruz Island).  If you’re on Santa Cruz Island, be sure to check out Cavern Point, which provides a spectacular view after a short hike.  You can even go whale watching around here!

FYI – there is NO transportation available on the islands – you have to either walk, kayak, or cruise around via private boat.  Bicycles are not allowed.  Plan a day trip here from Ventura to get your nature fix.

Recommended Channel Islands Tours

• Channel Islands Full-Day Private Sailing Trip

11) Malibu (50 minutes from Ventura)

Just the name “Malibu” sounds exotic and beachy to me.  Here on your California coast road trip you’ll find wide stretches of beaches, celebrity homes, and The Getty Villa (which is said to be absolutely stunning). 

But Malibu is more than just that, including stunning canyons, horse ranches, waterfront restaurants, acres of land, and lots and lots of hiking trails. You can also take a private surf lesson if you missed out in Santa Barbara!

A few spots not to miss: Paradise Cove (the only restaurant you can actually drink on the beach), Geoffrey’s Malibu for a wonderful lunch view (get some fresh seafood here!), Point Dume Beach (you’ll always see dolphins!), Malibu Pier, a tour of celebrity homes, and wide and sandy Zuma Beach, known for its excellent surf. 

Don’t leave without some gelato from Grom Gelateria, the absolute best of the best! And if you’re a sucker for fantastic views like me, don’t miss out on a Malibu scenic airplane tour! Your pictures will be epic, I promise!

12) Los Angeles/ Santa Monica (50 minutes from Malibu)

I highly suggest you spend at least 2-3 days here as there is just SO much to do.  You’ll want to divide your time between Downtown LA (DTLA) and Santa Monica/Venice Beach, with possible other stops to make as well.  

After checking out all the necessary tourist hot spots, you’ll have more time to envelope yourself in the “true” feeling of Los Angeles. Promise me you won’t miss a Warner Brothers Hollywood Studio Tour!

In DTLA, I highly suggest the Broad Museum (FREE, but usually a long wait time), getting an egg sandwich at Eggslut, The Last Bookstore, macaroons at Bouttega Louie, and culture and snacks in Little Tokyo.

Don’t feel like walking? Take a segway tour of DTLA! Don’t feel like figuring out public transportation? A hop-on, hop-off bus of the LA area is always the way to go!

In Santa Monica and Venice, be sure to check out the Santa Monica Boardwalk (ride the ferris wheel and/or the coaster during sunset), Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice Canals, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

In addition, you can’t miss the Urban Lights exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)!  You’ll find pretty cool murals all around the area as well if that’s your type of thing (it most definitely is mine)!

Hike in the Hollywood Hills, take an airplane tour of Santa Monica and the coastline, go on a tour of some movie stars’ homes,

Read More about Los Angeles/Santa Monica:

• The Ultimate SoCal Guide: 25 “Very LA” Things to do in Los Angeles, California
• The Perfect Way to Spend A Day (or Two) in LA
• The Cool Girl’s Guide to LA: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Los Angeles/Santa Monica

• The Orlando Hotel (middle of West Hollywood and lots of great Mexican nearby!)
• HI Hostel (perfect for solo travelers, and around the block from the beach)

13) Anaheim for Disneyland (45 minutes from LA)

Disney lovers will enjoy this spot for sure, but just for the record, Disneyland is not as large and/or “wow!!!!” as Disney World.  I had a Disney-fanatic-friend visit Disneyland a few months back and she was not impressed to say the least. 

Save this stop if you’ve never been to the location in Florida, or if you can’t stand not to check it out for yourself.  Regardless, you’ll have a grand ol’ time on the rollercoasters and indulging in all things Mickey.

A few parks to check out (click to buy tickets): Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Park, Adventure City, and Disney California Adventure Park.

I highly recommend getting these theme park tickets in advance to by-pass any super-long lines and spend more time in the parks. You’ll save yourself lots of time, that’s for sure!

• Universal Studios Hollywood 1-Day Ticket with Options
• Anaheim: Disneyland Resort 1-Day Entrance Ticket

14) Orange County: Huntington Beach/Newport Beach/Laguna Beach (35 minutes from Anaheim)

This stretch of coast is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and should not be missed if your itinerary has you driving down to San Diego (or even as an extra stop from the LA/Ahaheim area). 

Here you’ll find manicured beach towns, a hell of a lot of beautiful people, and even more beautiful stretches of sand with mesmerizing sunsets. 

The beaches are plentiful, but my favorites include Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach, all within a few miles of each other.  We recently spent a bit of time in San Clemente, and fell in love with the town! Don’t miss gelato at Gelato Paradiso and the views from Heisler Park and Dana Point.

You won’t want to skip “The OC” on your California coast road trip – I can promise you that!

Read More about Orange County/Southern California

• My Birthday in Sunny Southern California
• 4 Days in Huntington Beach: Everything You Need to Know
• The Complete Guide to San Clemente

Want to extend your PCH road trip?!

1) GO FURTHER SOUTH! You could choose to venture even further south to San Diego, as there’s lots and lots to do! Watch this space for updates and more information on California, including best things to do in San Diego as well!

2) START UP NORTH! Interested in starting this Pacific Coast Highway road trip a bit north of San Francisco? Check out the drive from San Francisco to Mendocino, highly recommended in my opinion if you’ve got a few more days to explore! A weekend in Mendocino is the perfect way to start your trip! And if you’re looking for some redwoods, you’ll find lots around here!

3) HEAD ALL THE WAY TO SEATTLE! Yes, it’s possible! If you have ample extra time, say another week (or more), check all these stops on a San Francisco to Seattle road trip! Crater Lake and donuts, anyone?!

Have you ever take a California coast road trip?!  Is taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway on your bucket list?!

The post The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Imagine scenic spring walks amongst wild flowers, all the locally grown produce you could want, golden sandy beaches beneath the bluffs, and fresh sea food for lunch. That, my friends, is Half Moon Bay in a nutshell.

Oh, plus lobster rolls, because no visit to HMB is complete without a visit to Sam’s Chowder House. And no one should leave Sam’s (or Half Moon Bay in general) off their California coast itinerary.

The first time we visited San Francisco (before moving to the Bay Area shortly there after), we had never even heard of this area. Let alone all the wonderful things to do in Half Moon Bay!  We drove the 30 minutes to the coast after a firm recommendation, and found ourselves giddy with excitement as we were shoving our faces with lobster rolls and clam chowder.

I have to be honest, I really didn’t get the hype at first. But now? I kinda wanna move there, haha.

We’ve been back dozens of times since that initial visit (for pumpkin picking in the fall, to see the wild mustard fields in early spring, for easy hikes on the coastal trails, to pick sunflowers, etc). We love spending our weekend mornings strolling by the beach, coffee in hand, feet in the sand.  

Who knew that a few years later we’d call the Bay Area our home, and be able to spend entire weekends in the cozy seaside village of Half Moon Bay (aka HMB)? We definitely didn’t see that coming!

So let’s get to it – I can’t wait to share all my favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay with you all! But first, answers to a few common questions:

Pre-Travel Guide to Half Moon Bay

Where exactly is Half Moon Bay?

This sleepy coastal city isn’t terribly far from anywhere in the San Francisco Bay Area. Although, always expect some traffic, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend.

• Palo Alto: 35 minutes (27 miles)
• San Francisco: 45 minutes (30 miles)
• Oakland: 50 minutes (40 miles)
• Santa Cruz: 60 minutes (50 miles)
• Napa Valley: 1 hour, 45 minutes (90 miles)

Because of it’s location, Half Moon Bay makes for the perfect day or weekend trip from San Francisco, Santa Cruz, or the SF Bay Peninsula.

BUT these estimated driving times are without traffic. And there’s sometimes a whole lot of it. This is primarily because there’s only one way in and one way out of Half Moon Bay, depending on where you’re coming from. And the streets get backed up, like really backed up.

Suffice it to say, plan to leave home for HMB on the earlier side to avoid any traffic mishaps. And to be on the safe side, just expect some traffic.

If you’ve never been here before, or don’t have access to easy transportation, I highly suggest you spend the night! Yes, you can most definitely knock a bunch of these things to do in Half Moon Bay off your HMB bucket list in one day, but why cram it all in?

Psst: Half Moon Bay actually spans along the Pacific Coast Highway from Montara to Pescadero (and inland), encompassing a bunch of small towns, but this post will be covering the coastal town of Half Moon Bay (and it’s parstituants) itself.

I have a separate post on my favorite spots between San Francisco and Santa Cruz which covers the entire area (including Pacifica, HMB, San Gregorio, and Pescadero — ohhh the artichoke bread).

If you’re looking to take a much longer trip down the PCH, check out all my favorite stops on the Pacific Coast Highway – yes, all 75 of them!

When To Visit Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is best visited during Spring and Fall.  The summer tends to be extremely foggy, and winter calls for storms and high surf.  

But the weather in Half Moon Bay tends to be temperamental at best. We’ve seen crazy clouds and fog at any time of year, as well as sunny, clear skies in the winter months. We even experienced 80 degree sun-filled days this past January! You kinda never know, so just plan for it all!

And then there’s the perpetual fog/marine layer. Thankfully, fog usually clears up by midday, but don’t be alarmed if the day turns out to be cloudy. The views are still glorious, I promise.

I always suggest bringing along a light jacket or sweater in order to deal with the crazy, constantly changing, California coastal weather. On a typical day, you’ll find temps between 58 and 67 degrees F, but remember, you’re basically at the beach, so it can get windy!

However, (of course there’s a however), it typically feels a lot warmer in the sun. So when my phone/car say it’s in the mid-60’s and the sun is shining, I usually don’t even need a jacket! We always dress incorrectly, so now we just keep layers in the car just in case.

Where to Sleep: Hotels in Half Moon Bay

There are a few accommodation options in Half Moon Bay, but I strongly suggest spending a night (or two) at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay. With beautiful coastline views of the Pacific Ocean, cozy well-appointed rooms, and exceptional service, there’s a reason this high-end spot is on so many California bucket lists.

Read about my stay at the Ritz Carlton HMB here! Psst – it was everything and then some.

Yes, it’s a more pricy option, so consider spending an anniversary or special occasion here! And make sure you get the s’mores kit. Oh my god.

Other hotels include The Beach House (right next to Sam’s Chowder House and free breakfast!), Seal Cove Inn (refined B&B with a pool and hot tub near tidepools to explore), and Oceano Hotel & Spa HMB (waterfront with balconies and fireplaces). I’ve never stayed at any of these so can’t vouch for them personally, but they’re places on my list for next time!

Things to Do in Half Moon Bay

1. Go to the beach!

This is an obvious choice — can’t visit Half Moon Bay without spending at least a little bit of time on the beach! And thankfully, there’s a whole bunch of beaches in Half Moon Bay (my favorites over there!). Some that are better for dipping your toes into, others which are awesome for tide pooling, some that are great for sunbathing, others with dogs running around, and some with awesome walks from atop the bluffs. Really something for everyone.

As noted, there are SO MANY worthy beaches all along the coast, so make a day out of it and explore as many as you can (or do as we do and just keep going back ).  A few of my favorites- Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar.  

Some of the more popular beaches include:

• Poplar: Popular is kinda your all-in-one beach. Parking’s pretty easy (expect to pay), it’s clean with lots of space, its fun for families with dogs, and a great spot for picnics. There’s also a great (easy) hiking trail up on the cliffs overlooking the beach with the best views! All in all, a great place for sunbathing!

• Montara State Beach: Beach is pretty sheltered, very scenic, and you can sometimes see horses here! Plus, the sunsets are legendary (when it’s not foggy or overcast of course) and there’s free parking! Super easy access as well, which I always appreciate!

• JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve: Come here for tide pooling! I had way more fun than I thought, and couldn’t believe just how many tiny hermit crabs and colorful sea anemone I saw! And the fact that I saw a bunch of starfish just hanging out below the surface really blew my mind! Just do your part and don’t remove any critters from their natural habitat. PLEASE and thank you! You’ll need to wait until low tide in order for the animals to be visible.

Read Next: The Best Beaches in Half Moon Bay (for tide pooling, sunbathing, and gorgeous coastal walks!)

The beaches of HMB are more for hanging out on. You’ll see groups of friends/families sitting on the sand having picnics. Bring a picnic blanket, some snacks, some beers, and you’re good to go.

Many visitors are surprised to hear this (especially out-of-towners), but you can’t really swim in HMB. Not only is the Pacific Ocean kinda too cold in Northern California (this isn’t Hawaii or San Diego!), but Half Moon Bay is known for strong rip and high tides. And all the surfers wear wetsuits, yes, year round.

Note that the beaches are located below some spectacular bluffs – beautiful, but that means you’ll need to trek down on rocky paths if you can’t find a set of steps nearby.

Visiting in winter? Look out on the horizon – you may be lucky to spot a few whales or pods of dolphins!

2. Visit the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay

I don’t typically recommend visiting hotels when traveling (ok, I do like my fair share of bougie spots), but the Ritz Carlton is unbeatable. There’s absolutely no better way to spend a chilly evening/afternoon in the area.  Head to the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay and enjoy their outdoor communal fire pits, perfect for roasting marshmallows and s’more making.

Or have a cocktail and watch the sunset at the Ocean Terrace Bar. Fancy a pile of Alaskan King Crab legs? You’re in luck – standard menu item on the Raw bar. (All more than acceptable options).

We once stayed the night at the Ritz and the views of the nearby golf course with the ocean in the distance more than made up for the (somewhat-significant-but-not-entirely-crazy) cost.

If you’re looking for a night of classy luxury away from the busy life of San Francisco, the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay is your best best. Just promise you’ll send me some s’mores! 

READ NEXT: Our beachy-chic stay at the Ritz Carlton!

3. Go Kayaking/Canoeing

If you’re up for a little adventure, paddle around Pillar Point Harbor on an organized tour in a kayak, or rent a stand up paddle board- wet suit and safety instruction included. Something still on my Half Moon Bay bucket!

4. Stroll along Pillar Point Harbor

Colorful fishing boats. Charming waterfront eateries. Commercial fisherman selling super fresh crab straight from the boat!!! Pillar Point Harbor is one of California’s last working fishing harbors. So, if you’re longing for a taste of New England but can’t make it over the east coast anytime soon, check out Pillar Point Harbor.

Don’t miss the following:

• Maverick’s Surf Company: A chill surf shop full of surfboards, surfing clothes, and surf accessories. Easily one of the best surf shops in all of Northern California
• Crab boats on the harbor: This place is hopping every morning! Expect to find King salmon, halibut, petrale sole, and even live sea urchin. Catches depend on the season, but that just means you’ll always get something new! And there’s Dungeness crab November through May!
• Princeton Seafood Company: Order a basket of fish & chips and a hearty bowl of creamy clam chowder. They have the absolute freshest seafood out of all the places in Half Moon Bay, in my opinion.
• Joanne’s Ice Cream Cafe: Hot day? Or just want something sweet? Choose from tons of flavors, and note that the portions are HUGE! We love sharing a cup, sitting on a bench, and watching the boats.

5. Horse Back Riding at Sea Horse Ranch

See the beauty of the coastline while on a guided horse back ride.  First time riding?  Don’t fret.  I went riding for the first time ever with them, and I felt very safe and comfortable with my helmet on!  Hoping to go again soon! Definitely one of the most unique ways to enjoy the beach, and something I recommend to everyone looking for things to do in Half Moon Bay.

6. Have a Lobster Roll at Sam’s Chowder House

Yes, you’ll find this in the “where to eat” section below, but lobster rolls at Sam’s are my absolute favorite! So of course I had to include it as many times as I could!

We love to get the “naked” rolls (fresh lobster in butter) and sit outside on the patio in the sun overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s by far one of our favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay, and a place we’ve been gushing about (to just about everyone) for years!

And psst – there’s beach access directly behind Sam’s. Just walk to the left of the restaurant from the parking lot, go down the stairs, and voila – beach!

If you’re reading this and can’t get down to HMB but I have you craving a lobster roll, there’s usually a Sam’s Chowder Truck in Golden Gate Park. Shhhhhh!!!

7. Watch the Surfers at Mavericks Beach

THIS is the spot to watch surfers on the west coast, as the biggest, best, most perfectly insane waves can be found here. And some are even as massive as 60 feet high (when the conditions are right); absolutely incredible.

How do the waves get so large? Winter storms and underwater geography combine to crease some of the most dangerous waves… in the world. So, if you’re just getting started, let the pros ride these massive waves, and save your board for another beach.

There used to be an international surfing competition over here, but it’s been cancelled the past few years (due to the waves not being large enough). Hopefully it returns! If you’re super into the sport and local, make sure to keep tabs on when the Mavericks Challenge will happen.

Being one of the largest one-day invitational surf competitions in the word, it’s definitely a bucket list item for any surfer dude. During the international competition, 24 big-wave surfers are invited ride the waves at the legendary Mavericks surf break.

8. Half Moon Bay Coastside Farmer’s Market

HMB is full of charming farms and nurseries, so there’s no better place to check it all out than at the Farmer’s Market! You’ll find fruit jams, fresh pies, locally sourced coffee, and a plethora of locally-grown fruits and vegetables. Think strawberries in the spring, sweet cherry tomatoes in summer, and orange squash in the fall.

You can even chat with the farmers and growers to learn exactly when your produce was planted and picked!

The market occurs on Saturdays from May through December, from 9am-1pm. If you’re visiting on a different day, check out Andreotti’s Farms – I’m dying to go their to see the sunflower fields!

9. Segway Tours along the Coastal Trail

Probably my favorite way to get around! Segways are just so much better than walking, and way more fun!  It’s takes a few minutes to get used to, but once you have it, you’ll never want to walk again!

10. Go Tide Pooling

I had no clue there was such fantastic tide pooling in Half Moon Bay until not too long ago! And now I’m hooked! While there’s lots of sea life along the coast, don’t miss these top two spots:

• JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
• Mavericks Beach

The JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a marine protected area, where you can see lots of different creatures, including starfish, crabs, barnacles, mussels, sea urchins, and more.  Make sure you check the schedule for low tide – you won’t see anything (and I mean anything!) during high!

As it should be, JV Fitzgerald is a no-take area, which means you’re not allowed to take anything (and I mean anything, not even a shell). Let’s do our part to help preserve and protect the delicate creatures who call the tide pools their home. <3

At Mavericks Beach, there are a few species you’re actually allowed to take, but be careful to read the signs. Last time we went we saw tons and tons of sea anemones, plenty of hermit crabs, and even a few sea stars (which I still cannot believe). Such a cool experience so close to San Francisco.

11. Wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street

Check out the numerous galleries, independently owned shops, and quaint little restaurants.  The street isn’t too long, but it’s a great place to stop for an hour or two to grab lunch or dinner in between activities or beach lounging.

12. Walk the Coastal Trail

The Half Moon Bay coastal trail is 3.5 miles of scenic beauty along the Pacific! You don’t have to walk the whole thing, so pick a spot to park and get moving.

We usually park at Poplar Beach, then choose a direction to walk in.  Some of it’s paved, some of it’s trail, but no matter which way you go, you’re promised unparalleled views of the Pacific ocean. My favorite’s in the early spring when the wildflowers start to bloom, known in Half Moon Bay as the “sea of yellow”.

Other times, we park at the Ritz Carlton which has free designated spots for Coastal Trail users (just tell them at the entrance). If you pick this way, you’ll walk past a few beautiful golf courses as well! Beware, it can get quite windy over here, especially in the cooler winter months.

13. Go Hiking

Just like in nearby Pacifica, there’s a whole bunch of hiking trails in Half Moon Bay! A few of my favorites:

• Pillar Point Bluff: I recently discovered this picturesque spot in Half Moon Bay and I’m kicking myself I didn’t make it here sooner. It’s got some of my favorite views in all of Half Moon Bay. And plus, it’s super dog friendly and you get to see an icon of HMB — the Pillar Point Air Force Base (which I swear looks like a giant golf ball from afar). The Pacific Ocean views are just too spectacular to miss. Be extra careful walking near the coast; don’t get too close to the cliffs, it’s a long, long way down.

• Purisima Creek Redwoods: Redwoods in the Bay Area?! Yup! Purisima offers 24 miles of trails through the redwoods for casual strolls or difficult hikes with gorgeous views of the Bay Area. I get you probably won’t hike all 24 (at least not on the same day), so thankfully there’s plenty of different trails of varying degrees of difficulty.

• Montara Mountain: A few miles north you’ll find Montara Mountain, which is a long uphill hike, but on clear days, provides some of the best views of the Pacific Coast.  You can even see the Golden Gate Bridge from a number of stops.  Definitely on my San Francisco Bucket List for sure.

14. Play Golf

Okay, so I know this isn’t for everyone, but if you’re an avid golfer, just know there’s a few courses here in HMB! By far the most special? The Half Moon Bay Golf Links. There’s 2 18-hole golf courses, a hotel (The Ritz Carlton, anyone?!), and a restaurant with bocce ball courts.

Talk about oceanfront, championship golf right here in the Bay Area. I’ve gotta get my husband a tee time! The green fees are pretty high though, at around $250 in peak season (they do go lower, so just keep on checking!). I recommend spending the night and making a weekend out of it.

15. Watch the Sunset

There’s absolutely nothing better than witnessing a beautiful sunset with the ones you love. And the one’s in Half Moon Bay are some of the best I’ve seen in the Bay Area. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Half Moon Bay on a clear day, MAKE SURE you stay to watch the sunset. Because there’ll be nothing to see if it’s a foggy/cloudy day. You’ve been warned, haha.

I especially love watching the sun go down near the Pillar Point Harbor — it’s absolutely stunning! And you’ll frequently see herons and other birds. Head to the fishing pier near Barbara’s Fishtrap (right near the harbor) and I promise you’ll wanna stay forever.

Seasonal Things to do in Half Moon Bay

Sure, Half Moon Bay is wonderful anytime of year. BUT if you happen to find yourself visiting during one of the months below, make sure to check out the seasonal activities! Half Moon Bay is SO MUCH FUN in the fall, and I keep finding myself going back year after year!

16. Wild Mustard Fields in February and March

You’re driving by and then BAM — huge fields of tiny yellow flowers. Those are the wild mustard fields, popping up every February in HMB. And you can freely wander throughout the fields and even make your own paths, unlike other flower fields.

Why? Because the wild mustard is actually a weed — a very pretty one indeed! Take lots of photos, have a picnic, and have fun frolicking! One of my favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay in early summer.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About the Wild Mustard Fields in Half Moon Bay!

The farm recently started letting visitors in with paid admission, after they’ve had problems with people unfortunately trespassing in the past for photos. Lots more info here!

17. Go Crabbing/Buy Fresh Crabs (November through June)

The last time we were tide pooling at Mavericks, people were filling up huge orange buckets of rock and Dungeness crab! Or at least I think they were, haha. Now, I don’t really know how to do this, but if that’s your thing, go for it!

If spending hours searching the tide pools for crabs really isn’t your thing (guilty — I wanna eat my crab not find it), you can visit the crab boats at Pillar Point Harbor and buy some fresh ones. Head over to Johnson Pier from November through June.

It’s THE place to get fresh fish and crab right off the boat from local fishermen! Still moving and alive. So wild and I love it! And for pretty good prices no less! Support your local fishermen! Look for the whiteboards near the ramp and you’ll see what fish is being sold.

Can’t find what you’re looking for on the boats? Buy some over at Princeton Seafood Market, only a few minutes walk from the pier.

You’ll probably also see and hear some sea lions over here!

18. Pink flowers in Montara (April through June)

Looking for one of the most unique things to do in Half Moon Bay? Go find the pink flower bloom at Montara Beach. You may have already seen these beautiful fuchsia blooms on IG, but now its time for you to go! Getting here is super easy, just park at Montara State Beach, walk down the steps, walk towards the southern part of the beach, and climb up the narrow trail on the bluffs.

It’ll probably be foggy (the weather is super temperamental this time of year), but those pink flowers will really add a lot of color to your photos. Psst — I’m not sure exactly what they’re called (some people say they’re Pink sea fig flowers, others say rodondo creepers, ice plants, or dew-flowers), but everyone I know calls them the pink magic carpet Montara flowers!

They bloom every year, and are such a sight to see! I already wanna go back next year and take more photos, preferably in a pink dress with a hat!

19. U-Pick Sunflower Fields in September and October

Always wanted to wander throughout a bright yellow sunflower field? Now’s your chance — at Andreotti Family Farms! This is one of my favorite fall activities in Half Moon Bay, and I can guarantee you’ll have oh so much fun. Plan to come in September or October before all the sunflowers have been picked through.

All my sunflower field tips here!

20. Pumpkin Picking in Half Moon Bay

Another great fall activity, and one of our favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay come October! You’ll find pumpkins of all different colors, shapes, and sizes, and I loved just reveling in the fall spirit for a while! There’s plenty of pumpkin patches to visit, but my favorites are easily Bob’s Vegetable Stand and Arata’s Pumpkin Farm.

Find all my favorite pumpkin patches and farms here (with of course tons of photos and tips!).

21. Lemo’s Farms for some Fall Fun

If you have young kids, or are undoubtedly a kid at heart, you’ll enjoy the frozen custard and other sweet treats.  It gets super crowded during the fall months, but worth it at least once.  The perfect spot to pick out your pumpkin!

We went with my then-2-year-old nephew a few years ago and it was so much fun! There’s even a small petting zoo for the kids! AND corn stalks to wander through!

Other Things to do Near Half Moon Bay

22. Take a Side Trip to Pescadero

Just about 30 minutes south of Half Moon Bay, you’ll find Pescadero, a charming little town with world-renowned artichoke bread.  Make a stop at Pie Ranch to pick up some fresh produce and a seasonal pie as well.  Pigeon Point Lighthouse (my favorite and where I take ALL visitors) and more tide pools are nearby too!

READ NEXT: All Favorite Stops in Pescadero (+ bonus Davenport!)

23. Watch the Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo State Park

If you’re visiting the area from December – March, you’re in for a treat.  Every year during these months, a large colony of elephant seals assemble on the beach to molt and give birth.  If you’re lucky, you’ll see some pups! Do note this access to see the elephant seals requires a moderate hike, so bring your sneakers and leave your sandals in the car.

Places to Eat in Half Moon Bay

24. SNACKS + DRINKS

• Moonside Bakery and Cafe: How can you go wrong with a little European-style bakery with homemade treats? A lovely neighborhood spot with tons of pastries, pies, cakes, cookies, danishes and deserts.  Basically a sugar sensory overload.  Not that I’m complaining!

• Half Moon Bay Bakery: A no frills bakery serving tons of different cookies, including black and white cookies, double chocolate mint, peanut butter, and extra large chocolate chip. Think I need to get back here sooner than later… :p

• Half Moon Bay Brewing Company: With handcrafted beer brewed right on site and a great view of the harbor, it’s safe to say that you’ll have more than a good time here. Come for the beer, stay for the band!  Even better, come during happy hour- 11am-6pm during the week!  Bring Fido, because the outdoor patio is dog friendly with complimentary dog treats!

25. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, + DINNER

• Sams Chowder House: Known for it’s lobster roll and clam chowder, of course.  The views are phenomenal, so be sure to plan some time here to kick back and relax with some drinks on their outdoor patio. Our all time favorite on the coast, as long as it’s a clear, warm day!

• Barbara’s Fish Trap: Promise me you’ll get the Dungeness Crab Sandwich.  My husband’s been dying to try it.  Cash only with ATM nearby.  Come here to watch the sunset over the water.

• It’s Italia: Rustic italian, good wine selection, speciality pizzas, and delicious bread.  I tried an Italian soda for the first time, and let’s just say it’s one of my new staples when dining out.  My homemade pesto chicken sandwich was pretty tasty too.

• Cafe Classique: They bake all their own items, including breads, muffins, and bagels.  Go for a meal or a muffin- you won’t be disappointed. Sit on the outside patio – you’ll get great views of the harbor.  Cool FYI – they open up at 4am to serve the local fisherman.  A TRUE local gem. Edit: Permanently Closed.

• 3-Zero Cafe: Located at the Half Moon Bay Airport, this great little diner is filled with toy replicas of model airplanes and lots of aviation paraphernalia.  Be prepared to wait about 15-20 minutes, the place gets busy on the weekend!  FYI- The banana walnut waffle was top notch. Edit: Permanently Closed.

• Pasta Moon: Contemporary, modern Italian, known for it’s house made pasta and butternut squash ravioli.  Better save room for dessert-wouldn’t wanna miss the tiramisu or the meyer lemon parfait. Sounds great a like fall meal to me.

• Navio at The Ritz Carlton: Oh my, what can I say about this first-class dining experience?  If you’re looking for a romantic place to spend a birthday or anniversary, Navio is the way to go. With exceptional seafood dishes and even better service, you’ll be glad you chose the Ritz Carlton.  Plus, the stunning views of the California coastline don’t hurt either. I’ve heard the buffet breakfast (albeit pricey), is worth trying at least once as well.  You can’t really go wrong with the Ritz Carlton.

Hope you enjoyed my personal favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay! Have you been before? What are you adding to your HMB bucket list?!

The post 25+ Things to Do in Half Moon Bay: The Ultimate Weekend Guide appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.