The Madonna Inn is an instagrammers paradise. Think whimsy gingerbread trim, bubblegum pink and fuschia accents, and eccentric and unconventional hotel rooms. The whole space is quirky, bizarre, and downright wacky — in the best kinda way!

After visiting SLO a handful of times, we decided it was finally time to spend the night at the famous Madonna Inn! So when we didn’t have any major plans for my birthday, we decided to drive down the coast, visit Hearst Castle, and spend the rest of the weekend at The Madonna Inn. It was definitely a birthday to remember!

We stayed in a super quirky hotel room (complete with glitter wallpaper), indulged in slices of over-the-top completely pink champagne cake, and admired its distinctive and unusual designs. 

It’s a historic hotel located in San Luis Obispo, California, known for its unique and hella quirky architecture and interiors. Think a pink stucco exterior, whimsical towers with intricate heart cutouts, lush gardens with water features, and oh so much more. Perfect for a birthday weekend!

It’s quite the ultimate imaginative escape! An ultra-glam hotel that’s way more than just a hotel stay! The Madonna Inn has everything you need for a chic weekend away, complete with bars and restaurants and even a pool and pink tennis courts. You really don’t need to leave the property if you don’t want to.

The hotel totally gives off Dolly Parton vibes (kinda like the Graduate Hotel where we stayed during our 3 days in Nashville), and it’s become a beloved icon of California’s central coast. An absolute must-do on any weekend trip to San Luis Obispo, even if you’re not spending the night.

So, let’s get to it – my completely honest Madonna Inn review!

Madonna Inn Review Logistics

Why is the Madonna Inn so famous?

It’s over-the-top, playful, and whimsical decor of course! But no really, hang out at the Madonna Inn for even a few minutes and you’ll instantly feel like a kid again – except with some booze in your hand, haha.

The hotel’s got a reputation for being super memorable and one-of-a-kind. I mean, where else would you find pink plush rose-covered carpet and floor-to-ceiling vibrant pink colors?! Kinda wacky, right?! 

It’s even got a cult following! I get it – the hotel is kinda like a destination in its own right. People from around the states (and even the world!) come here to check out the famous rooms and wild, over-the-top decor.

History of the Madonna Inn

This off-beat, eccentric hotel was built by Alex Madonna, a successful businessman and entrepreneur, and his wife Phyllis back in 1958. They wanted to create a one-of-a-kind hotel experience for guests – and that they did! It was originally opened as a simple roadside motel, but it quickly became known for its unique and over-the-top decor.

As the years went by, the Madonna Family continued to add to the inn, building new rooms and facilities, each with their own unique theme and design. He was known for his love of bright colors, bold patterns, and eclectic design elements, and these became hallmarks of the Madonna Inn’s style. 

Imagine staying there in the 1960s and 1970s when it was considered to be one of the most stylish and fashionable hotels on the West Coast! Makes sense that the Madonna Inn has been featured in plenty of magazines and television shows over the years. 

Today, the Madonna Inn continues to operate as a hotel, and it remains one of the most recognizable and memorable landmarks on the Central Coast. 

Where is the Madonna Inn

The Madonna Inn is located in San Luis Obispo, California. It’s not terribly far from other spots on the Central Coast, like San Simeon (where the famous Hearst Castle is), Pismo Beach, Morro Bay (with its adorable sea otters), and the wineries of Paso Robles (a bit inland).

It’s easy to reach from both San Francisco and Los Angeles since it’s located almost halfway between the two (about 3.5 hours from either). So, yes, making it the perfect half way mark on any Pacific Coast Highway roadtrip.

When to Visit SLO and the Madonna Inn

Since San Luis Obispo’s got a mild climate, there’s never a horrible time to visit. If you wanna take complete advantage of all the amenities at the Madonna Inn (pool area, hot tubs, tennis courts, etc), visit in spring, summer, or fall. Whatever rain the area gets typically comes in winter. A bit more info on each:

• Summer (June to August): With mostly warm and sunny weather, summer is the most popular time to visit San Luis Obispo. Expect warm, arid, and clear weather. Perfect if you wanna enjoy all the great outdoor activities SLO’s got to offer, like hiking, swimming, and biking! Plus all the nearby beaches on the coast! If you’re planning to explore further inland (like wine tasting in Paso Robles for example), know it can get pretty steamy – highs in the 100s°F are not super uncommon here.

• Spring (March to May): My favorite time of year to visit SLO! The weather’s super mild (pretty much perfect) with lots of wildflowers on the trails.

• Winter (December to February): We spent a night at the Madonna Inn in early February, and had very mixed weather! That’s what you get for going in the winter! Winters are typically pretty chilly (although it’s never freezing), sometimes wet, and usually partly cloudy. Definitely more gray days this time of year.

• Fall (September to November): Once the summer heat is gone (which sometimes lingers into September), you’ll love visiting SLO in the fall. Slightly cooler temps, clear skies, and hardly any rain!

Regardless of the season, visit during the week from Sunday to Thursday if you want cheaper hotel rates at The Madonna Inn. Prices are understandably higher on the weekend (Friday nights and Saturday nights).

Other FAQS and Info About the Madonna Inn

• Does the Madonna Inn have anything to do with Madonna? Nope, the hotel has nothing to do with Queen of Pop icon Madonna, although I can totally see why some would think there’s a connection!

• How far is the Madonna Inn from the beach? Pismo Beach is only about 10 miles away, so you’re not far from the coastline over here!

• Has the Madonna Inn been featured in any movies/TV shows? Yup, and quite a few! It’s been featured in a few older movies, Stunts (1977) and Aria (1987), as well as a bunch of TV series, including The Bachelor, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, and Little People, Big World. Plus a whole slew of music videos (including Lady Antebellum), as well the backdrop for plenty of media photoshoots.

• Have any celebrities stayed here?! Yes, a whole bunch. There’s been comedians, professional athletes, entertainers, reality TV actors, and social media mega-stars here. Macaulay Culkin once stayed in the Old-Fashioned Honeymoon room! Bette Midler, Steve Martin, Dolly Parton, John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, Dustin Hoffman, Reba McIntyre are among the many who visited! And even LUCILLE BALL! 

Staying at The Madonna Inn

Rooms at The Madonna Inn

Part of the fun of staying at the Madonna Inn is choosing which room to book! All of the 110 rooms are totally different and individually designed – no two rooms are the same! Check them out here. Each with their own unique theme and decor – like the “Caveman Room”, “Safari Room”, and the “Pink Champagne Suite”. 

Think different living spaces, wacky wallpapers, rock walls and waterfall showers, glitzy glittery bathrooms, and all-pink rooms, all evoking different atmospheres and moods.

The rooms at the Madonna Inn are known for their ultra-luxurious amenities, like plush bedding, spa tubs, and even fireplaces!

We stayed in the “Tall and Short Room”, which I thought was absolutely hysterical since my husband’s tall (ok, more like average) and I’m a shortie at only 4 ’10”. While the room wasn’t as “extra” as some of the others found on the property, I loved the antique gold mirrors and all-pink glitzy bathroom.

Since we booked kinda late, the rooms I REALLY wanted to stay in (The Clarin – perfect for lovebirds and girlfriends, Victoria Gardens – super kitsch and girlie, Merry – with sparkling glitter walls, etc) were already sold out. If you have your heart set on a specific room, definitely book early. Those rooms are popular for a reason!

Something I learned while researching is that you can actually stay in different rooms each night! How fun would that be?! Doesn’t sound like rocket science, but I hadn’t even thought of that.

Cost: Room prices vary greatly depending on size and amenities – we stayed a Saturday night and paid about $275 for our King size room.  Popular rooms run upwards of $600 a night.

Restaurants and Bars at The Madonna Inn

Told you leaving the property wasn’t necessary! There’s so much food here!

Gold Rush Steakhouse: The Gold Rush Steakhouse is the iconic restaurant here at Madonna Inn. With a huge wine list, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special celebration! 

We had dinner here for my birthday, which was right up my alley with the plush pink loveseats, pink napkins, pink tablecloths, and their famous Madonna Inn water goblets. There was also live music playing which we loved. Such an enchanting and opulent atmosphere! 

Since we visited in February, the whole restaurant was decked out in hearts and decorations for Valentine’s Day. SO. MUCH. FUN, and just added to the overall kitschy-ness, which I absolutely adored.

I had read that the food at Gold Rush Steakhouse was kinda bland and eh, so we weren’t expecting a Michelin Star level meal. They’re famous for their oak-pit barbecued steak, and have a good selection of seafood, chicken, and veggie entrees as well.

My halibut was cooked pretty well, while my husband said his steak was kinda salty. Overall, not a horrible meal, but not a place I’d run back to for the food alone. You go for the overall experience instead. 

Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying a slice of their insta-famous Pink Champagne cake (albeit pricey at $12 a slice)! To be completely honest, we found the cake to be pretty underwhelming — it looked better than it tasted. The flavors weren’t horrible by any means, but I couldn’t even taste any champagne in the recipe!

Copper Cafe: This space is super busy for breakfast, so you’ll 100% wanna make a reservation here. Expect classic American dishes in a cozy atmosphere, with fresh baked breads, breakfast hash browns, fluffy pancakes, and yummy sandwiches. 

While breakfast is served all day, you can also pop in for a casual lunch or dinner. It’s not decked out like the other spaces, so we decided to skip it despite the raving reviews. 

Bakery: Situated in the Copper Cafe, there’s a whole case of sweet treats to be enjoyed – like freshly-baked cakes, French and Danish pastries, giant cookies, and cream and fruit pies. If you’re a fan of German Chocolate Cake, get it here; I heard it’s legendary. I so wish we had saved some room for it!

Silver Bar Cocktail Lounge: Even if you’re not staying at The Madonna Inn, at least come by for a drink! The cocktail lounge is the perfect place for people-watching, with its funky wild decor, hand-carved wooden details, stained glass windows, and big comfy pink chairs. 

There’s lots of signature cocktails and your regular standard drinks, too. Go all out and try their signature claim-to-fame, the “Pink Cloud”. I felt like a movie star sipping on my blended strawberry vodka and puree, with whipped cream and a cherry on top. Very on-brand for The Madonna Inn.

Although it was a tad too sweet for our tastes, the drink definitely grew on me and I almost finished the whole thing. Whoops!

Activities at The Madonna Inn

Staying at the Madonna Inn is an experience in and of itself! There’s so much to do on the property!

Tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts: Of course the athletic courts at The Madonna Inn would be a decadent hot pink – how could they not?! Wanna play?! There’s equipment at the front desk. 

Since it rained overnight, we didn’t get to use the tennis courts since they were still kinda wet, but I still had fun taking pictures!

Explore the quirky corners of the hotel: I swear, everywhere you look, there’s something new to see here. Even if you’re not a guest of the hotel, you can have a full-on Madonna Inn experience. Just wander around! One of my favorite secret spots is the old-school phone booth hidden in a corner. 

And if any guys are reading this – use the men’s public restroom at the steakhouse. Why?! There’s a rock waterfall urinal! Ladies, don’t worry – our bathroom is decked out too, with red leather stalls, pink marble sinks, and even a chandelier. Even the toilet paper in some of the restrooms are pink!

Pool Area: With a year-round heated pool plus two jetted whirlpools (and gazebo and waterfall), you don’t wanna miss the pool! There’s fabulous views of the Central coast countryside and Madonna Mountain. Thirsty? Grab a cocktail at the Terrace Pool Bar! Pink umbrellas to boot!

Gift Shops: Head upstairs and you’ll find a few gift shops selling the kitchiest and most unique items! Think pink leather jackets with frills, tie dye sweatshirts, and wacky tee shirts. Plus signature Madonna Inn souvenirs – like those iconic goblets, signature printed robes, and glammed out bracelets.

Live Music and Dancing: Whenever you visit, expect nightly music and dancing on the Madonna Inn Dance Floor! From live big band music, to swing, salsa, and piano music, every night of the week features a unique entertainment experience.

Service at The Madonna Inn

We found the service at The Madonna Inn to be pretty standard – everyone was friendly and helpful, but nothing really stood out. Just keeping it real over here!

Things to do near The Madonna Inn

Explore Downtown SLO: We love wandering around Downtown SLO; it’s small and charming and best of all, easily walkable! There’s tons of cute cafes, leafy streets to stroll down, and parks to chill out in. Don’t miss Bubblegum Alley, the historic Spanish Mission, and the farmers market.

Go wine tasting in Paso: Any visit to California needs to include some wine – I mean, there’s vineyards all around the state! Closest to SLO, you’ll find Paso Robles, home to over 200 wineries and vineyards. 

My favorites are DAUO (cheese plates with a view), Sculpterra (super artsy with a great lawn space), Calcareous (sit amongst the lavender in the spring), and Niner Wine Estates (I love their iconic heart).

Tour Hearst Castle: About an hour away from San Luis Obispo in nearby San Simeon you’ll find Hearst Castle, a real-life castle and National Historic Landmark. Sign up for a tour of the grand rooms, and don’t miss checking out the opulent Neptune Pool and then the indoor tiled Roman Pool – my favorite! I’m blown away by it every time!

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway: While you probably won’t drive the entirety of the Pacific Coast Highway during your time in SLO, the stretch between San Simeon and Pismo isn’t far from the Madonna Inn and a great day trip with plenty to do.

Check out Morro Rock at Morro Bay: Endless, crystal waters. Vast stretches of golden sand. Boats bobbing along the horizon. Sea otters holding hands (true story – they actually do!). Morro Bay is one of the most scenic places in California, and is not l to be missed. When it’s not completely covered in a thick marine layer, haha.

Overall Impression

I’m glad we stayed a night at the Madonna Inn, but felt one night was completely enough! This may be because we’d already visited (although never stayed overnight) before though. I could see it being a fun place to spend a weekend with girlfriends, for a special birthday, bachelorette party, or anything else! 

Hope you enjoyed my Madonna Inn review! Are you staying at this iconic San Luis Obispo hotel soon?! Which type of room do you want to stay in?

The post Checking into the Madonna Inn: San Luis Obispo’s Quirkiest and Most Eccentric Hotel appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Whether you’re stopping in Cambria on a much longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip, or are making Cambria your one and only destination, you’ll absolutely love this cute little beach town.

We’ve driven the California coast plenty of times, always stopping on the central coast a bit!. We typically make stops in Santa Cruz (and Capitola!), Monterey Bay (for the 17 Mile Drive), Big Sur (you know you need to go!), Paso Robles (so much wine!), Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. But before this trip on the PCH, we had never ventured over to Cambria, admittedly because we didn’t know too much about it.

Well, after (finally!) visiting for a long weekend, I’m excited to share all the fun things to do in Cambria! Adventure meets relaxation over here, and you can really do both at the same time in this charming seaside village. It kinda feels like a mixture between Morro Bay (a tad south of Cambria) and Mendocino (a few hours north of San Francisco) — untouched yet still fun and happening.

There’s a super slow and relaxing pace here (yes, even slower than nearby SLO – San Luis Obispo), so don’t feel bad if you feel like doing absolutely nothing at all! That’s the beauty of this area – there’s enough things to do in Cambria for a weekend, but not too much that it feels absolutely overwhelming and you’re missing out.

Planning Your Trip to Cambria

Weather and When to Visit Cambria

Like other spots on the coast (Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, Big Sur), the weather is pretty fickle in summer. You never really know what you’re gonna get! We woke up to fog/clouds every morning, and while they typically burned off by late afternoon, it was kinda a bummer to have less-than-ideal beach weather for half the day. Especially since the main attraction is well, the beach! We visited in mid-June, FYI.

If you’re looking for the warmest possible weather, head to Cambria from July through September. May and June are still kinda chilly, especially on the coast by the beach. And you’ve got that marine layer that doesn’t always burn off… leaving you with fog and chilly weather.

HOWEVER, yes, of course there’s a however, if you wanna see the baby seals (oh so many of them), they’re born in winter, so late winter is best for the elephant seal rookery (although there’s seals year round – more on that below).

How to Get to Cambria

First of all, where is Cambria exactly? Cambria is a small town located on the Central Coast of California, nestled between the larger spots of San Luis Obispo and San Simeon in SLO county. 

The area is smack dab between San Francisco and Los Angeles, (roughly 4 hours or so from both), making it the perfect weekend getaway for those in the big cities. It’s also a great mid-way point between the two if you’re taking a much longer California coast road trip.

• From Paso Robles: 30 miles (~40 min)
• From San Luis Obispo: 35 miles (~45 min)
• From Big Sur: 75 miles (2 hours)
• From Santa Barbara: 130 miles (2 ½ hours)
• From San Francisco: 230 miles (~3 ½ hours)
• From Los Angeles: 220 miles (4 hours)
• From Napa Valley: 275 miles (4 ½ hours)
• From Lake Tahoe: 380 miles (7 hours)

From nearby San Luis Obispo, there’s AMTRAK and a bus which will take you directly to Cambria. Perfect if you don’t have a car or don’t feel like driving.

If you’re coming from the San Francisco Bay Area (like us!), there’s two popular ways to get to Cambria:

1. driving inland on the 101 and then cutting over to the coast via the 46 (~3.5-4 hours)
2. making your way down the coast via the Pacific Coast Highway (~5 hours)

INLAND ROUTE (U.S. Route 101 and California 46)

By far the fastest way to get to Cambria is directly down the 101, and then heading to the coast via the 46. If you take the inland route via the 101 and 46, it won’t be as scenic, but you’ll make it to Cambria much, much quicker.

While there isn’t a ton to see along the way (the 101 isn’t the most scenic), you’ll pass by orchards and farms,  tiny towns, and ultimately straight in Paso Robles, which is deserving of its own few days, but worth it to make a stop or two.

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

• Garlic World for a taste of chocolate garlic ice cream – it’s actually not too bad once you get used to it! (Gilroy)
• A quick stop at roadside farm stands for some fresh fruit (like cherries and strawberries!) for the drive (Gilroy)
• A winery or two in Paso Robles (my favorites being DAOU, Sculpterra, and Calcareous)
• An early lunch (or breakfast) at Brunch (get the s’mores french toast) and some Spearhead Coffee to-go

COASTAL ROUTE (Highway 1)

We typically take the 101/46 when heading to the Central Coast 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.

You’ll pass some of our favorite areas, including Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel, and the stunning Big Sur. However, as much as I love these spots, they all deserve their own long weekend getaway. Therefore, I don’t recommend stopping in them all, especially if you live in San Francisco. 

BUT since you probably don’t make it down here all too often, make a few stops! Especially in the farthest from home, Big Sur!

If you’ve never driven the rugged Central Coast of California, the following stops are highly recommended on your way to Cambria (from SF):

• Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail to stretch your legs and get picture-perfect views of the rocky coastline without much effort
• Take that iconic Big Sur photo at the Bixby Creek Bridge
• Stop along the coast at all the viewpoints you like, my favorites being Hurricane Point and Sea Otter Refuge View Point
• Indulge in flaky almond croissants (the best you’ll ever have) at Big Sur Bakery
• Grab drinks with a view at Nepenthe
• Stop at McWay Falls to see the waterfall flowing directly into the Pacific Ocean (a must!)

→ Read Next: ALL My Favorite Stops in Big Sur

Note that driving down the coast will take the better portion of the day (depending on how many stops you make). You may encounter some traffic in Big Sur, but just take it slow and admire the views. After Big Sur it’s about an hour or so of driving along the windy coastline, which, while absolutely gorgeous, gets a tad monotonous at times. You’ll get there, I promise!

Because of this, don’t make any dinner reservations in Cambria or plan to do anything of significance down there the first night. You’ll likely be tired from all the fun stops!

How Long to Spend in Cambria

A full two days will be sufficient for checking out all these fun things to do in Cambria, but if you wanna explore the areas nearby, add in an extra day or two! 

We drove down from San Francisco on a Friday morning, stopping in Big Sur along the way, making it to Cambria around 6pm or so. 

Here’s my recommendation for your weekend in Cambria if you’ve got a FULL 3 days to explore from the SF Bay Area or nearby:

• Day 1: spend the day driving down the coast via Highway 1, stopping at Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur
• Day 2: full day in Cambria and nearby
• Day 3: morning in Cambria, drive back to SF via the 46 and 101

How to Get Around Cambria

Well, if you got here via Pacific Coast Highway road trip, or even driving from SF or LA, I’m assuming you’ve got access to a car here in Cambria. With that being said, the tiny town is pretty walkable, but you’ll definitely want a car to get to spots a bit further away (like to see the elephant seals and Hearst Castle).

Don’t feel like doing much driving after getting here? Thankfully, there’s a free trolley from Thursday to Sunday (only runs in summer) to whisk you around.

Where to Stay in Cambria

There’s nothing quite like staying close to the beach when you’re on vacation, and Cambria definitely has no shortage of beachfront properties. My top picks are:

• White Water Hotel: If spectacular uninterrupted sea views, tranquil surroundings and getting a breakfast basket delivered right to your door each morning are your kind of thing (and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love that?), then a stay at the White Water Hotel on Moonstone Beach is for you. This place is a little piece of perfection, with a Scandinavian-inspired take on the Central Coast’s easygoing lifestyle.

• Fogcatcher Inn: Another oceanfront gem, the Fogcatcher Inn is a country style hotel located just across from the Moonstone Beach boardwalk. It might be the oldest inn in the area, but it’s been renovated to an incredibly high standard. With an outdoor pool and hot tub, a firepit and fireplaces in each room, this is the ideal spot to kick back and relax.

• Sand Pebbles Inn: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, this small boutique is a great choice. The rooms are tastefully decorated with treasures found on the beach – which is just across from its location – and the staff are renowned for their kindness and helpfulness.

• Little Sur Inn: This small family run inn is pretty intimate, with just 17 rooms, and feels more like staying in a friend’s home than a hotel. The décor is sophisticated and modern and each room comes with its own fireplace for those chilly nights. Sit in the jacuzzi tub that comes with the oceanfront rooms with a glass of wine and watch the sunset – you won’t regret it!

So let’s get to it – all the best things to do in Cambria, California, coming right up!

Best Things to do in Cambria

1. Stroll the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk

One of the best things to do in  Cambria?! To experience the natural beauty of its shoreline of course! And the Moonstone Beach boardwalk is the perfect place to start, with a mile long stretch that takes you from Cambria’s north end all the way down to Leffingwell Landing.

When you’re done with walking but not done with the views (not that you could ever be done with these views), there are some sweet little benches dotted around for you to sit on and take it all in. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and mischievous otters – they are oh so cute, especially when they hold hands!

I highly recommend skipping out on breakfast at your hotel and bringing it down to the boardwalk instead. There’s nothing like a fresh cup of coffee and some pastries from French Corner Bakery with the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Sounds like my kinda morning!

Some of the nearby hotels rent out bikes too so you can hop on and explore the boardwalk on wheels if you prefer. If your hotel doesn’t have any (or you were too late to grab one!), don’t fret – a bunch of companies in town have bikes for rent as well. Check out Cambria Electric Bike Company and VeloCambria.

2. Go Tidepooling at Moonstone Beach

Tidepooling is one of my favorite things to do on the Central Coast, which makes it one of my favorite things to do in Cambria! Luckily, Moonstone Beach is one of the best spots for it. Head to the northern end of the beach for some of the best tidepools on the central coast!

If you’re not familiar with tidepooling, get ready for some fun! It’s basically when you explore the small pools of water that are left behind when the tide goes out – and yes, this means you get up close and personal with some of the amazing marine life that call this stretch of coastline home.

Think crabs and anemones to mussels and periwinkle snails. It’s like a whole other world down there! Make sure to look closely as they’ll probably be hiding under some sea grass and beneath rocks.

Psst — live in the Bay and wanna go tidepooling closer to home? Make sure to check out some of the beaches in Half Moon Bay — there’s loads of sea critters over there!

The best time to go is an hour or two before low tide. Make sure to wear waterproof shoes (you’ll essentially be stepping right in the water for the most part), and clothes you don’t mind getting wet!

Remember – be careful where you step! Tide pools are teeming with wildlife, and you don’t wanna accidentally hurt any of the tiny creatures. Never walk right into a tide pool, and never touch or remove any sea life, shells, or sand.

3. Search for moonstones on Moonstone Beach

Who doesn’t love a treasure hunt! While the moonstones on this beach aren’t necessarily worth much (if anything, actually, haha), they’re still really pretty to look at and fun to search for!

Moonstone Beach is famous for these little gems hiding amongst the sand and rocks, and you’ll most definitely see others at low tide keeping their eyes peeled to the ground in the hopes of finding some too.

They get their name from the moon-like sheen that some of them have, and they range in color from white to gray to a deep blue. They’re actually a type of feldspar, called labradorite, and they have a beautiful iridescent quality to them.

Find a few on the beach and take them home as souvenirs or even get creative and make some jewelry out of them later on!

4. Wander Downtown Cambria

Cambria’s downtown area is small but mighty, with a great selection of shops and restaurants to explore. It’s made up of the East Village and the West Village, but it’s a super walkable town so you can get from one area to the other in no time.

You’ll find a concentration of art galleries, cute little eateries and the sweetest boutique shops – I loved the Cambria Nursery & Florist and the Red Moose Cookie Company!

If you’re interested in finding out more about the rich history of Cambria, head to the Cambria Historical Museum which documents the history of the town and the surrounding area. The architecture around this area is just like you see in old postcards too – it’s super cute and crazy  charming!

There’s also a few tasting rooms downtown if you’re interested in doing some wine tasting (but more on that later!).

5. Walk the Coastal Bluff Trail at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

If you know me at all, you’ll know I love a good hiking trail! So it’s no wonder the Coastal Bluff Trail at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve was one of my favorite things to do in Cambria.

The trail is around a mile long each way and takes you along the coast, with incredible views of the ocean (and if you’re lucky, some wildlife too!). It’s an easy trail that’s good for all skill levels, just some gradual inclines over gravel terrain.

If you visit in the Spring, the whole trail is blanketed with colorful wildflowers. It’s absolutely stunning – a wildflower heaven!

Oh but watch out for poison oak on the trail! Especially if you’ve got your dog with you (yes, they’re allowed!).

There’s some other great trails in the area too if you’re really keen to get out in nature, but the coastal bluff is the most scenic for sure.

6. Piedras Blancas Light Station

Like many other coastal cities in California, Cambria’s got its very own lighthouse! This iconic light station has been standing since 1875 (so yea, it’s been around for a while!) and marks the entrance to San Simeon Bay. 

It reminds me a bit of the lighthouse we love to visit in Pescadero, and also the one on the way to Mendocino. What can I say, I kinda have a thing for lighthouses, haha.

You might be wondering what happened to the upper section of the lighthouse, and why the torch doesn’t shine at night anymore. Well, that’s because back in 1949, there was an earthquake which damaged the building so these had to be removed. It’s still a beauty, although it doesn’t function as well as it used to!

These days, you can only enter the light station on a guided tour which lasts around 2.5-3 hours. Remember to buy your tickets in advance, as you can’t purchase them at the door. You’ll be able to check out the historic Fog Signal Building and the bottom level of the lighthouse.

While the building itself is a wonder to look at, it’s set on a stunning bed of wildflowers and surrounded by grassy areas (it’s a spot for the ‘gram for sure!). 

Further down the path is a great spot for whale watching (especially humpback whales in summer!) and if you’re lucky, you’ll see otters (and elephant seals!) basking in the sun. So cute and oh so weird! Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

7. Check out the Unique Nitt Witt Ridge

This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Cambria, and possibly all of California!

Nitt Witt Ridge is a man-made sculpture made out of junk, bottle caps, hubcaps, license plates, old stoves – basically anything you can think of! Even abalone shells! How wild! It was created by artist Arthur Harold Beal over the course of 50 years, and is now a registered Historic Landmark.

He used only a pick and a shovel to carve out all the terraces on the building. It really is a work of art! After Arthur died, the O’Malleys bought the property and they now offer tours of the house. You gotta go see it! The house is kinda like the poor man’s Hearst Castle, a must on any trip down Highway 1.

If you’re into weird and wacky creations, be sure to check out Salvation Mountain in Slab City and Bombay Beach at the Salton Sea. While they’re nowhere near these things to do in Cambria, add those two spots for your next Southern California road trip!

8. Indulge in a Slice of Olallieberry Pie at Linn’s Easy as Pie Cafe

Ok, we need to talk about Olallieberry Pie… because it’s just that good!

If you don’t know, an olallieberry is a cross between a loganberry, blackberry and a youngberry. And Linn’s Easy as Pie Café is famous for their Olallieberry pie, so, ya know, you gotta go at least once when you’re in Cambria (or twice, shh!). It’s seriously delicious, and a must-have when visiting Cambria!

Can eating pie be one of my favorite things to do in Cambria? I think yes, haha. This is your PSA to RUN to Linn’s and indulge! Totally fine to wear your stretchy pants here!

The Olallieberry Pie isn’t quite as sweet as a blackberry, but it’s still got a lovely sweetness to it. The pie crust is flaky and the whole thing just melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of pie you talk about for years to come…seriously (we’re still obsessing about it)!

Linn’s Easy as Pie Café gets pretty busy (did I mention how amazing the pie is?), so make sure you get there early if you want to snag a slice – or even better, order a whole pie to take home with you!

9. Relax at Leffingwell Landing Park

If you want to spend some time relaxing by the water, Leffingwell Landing is the place to go. It’s a small beach located at the north end of Moonstone Beach, and is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or an afternoon reading your book.

The best part about this beach is that it’s usually not too crowded. So if you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Cambria (like a more low-key beach experience), Leffingwell Landing is it!

Plan to get there for sunset and you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful colors as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s magical!

10. Sip some wine at Stolo Vineyards & Winery

Ah my favorite time of day: wine-o-clock! Cambria is home to some fantastic wineries, and one of the best around is Stolo Vineyards & Winery, nestled in the back hills of the town.

The vineyard is absolutely beautiful, and it’s the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine in hand. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable, and they offer a great selection of wines to choose from. My personal favorite is the Chardonnay, but they also make a delicious Syrah!

Feel free to bring your own picnic lunch to have with the wine. And don’t miss the chickens and goats in the gardens! Trust me, you’re going to love it here!

If you’d prefer to stay in downtown Cambria, there’s also Fermentations and Black Hand Cellars on Main Street – again, offering a great selection of wines to try. I still need to try these out next time.

11. Cuddle baby goats (and have some cheese) at Stepladder Ranch & Creamery

Did someone say baby goats?! This was definitely one of my favorite things to do in Cambria! I mean, baby goats!!! Plus cheese. Such a perfect combination, haha. Kinda like the place we love to visit in Pescadero up in Northern California.

Stepladder Ranch & Creamery is a working ranch and creamery, and they offer tours of the property where you can learn all about how they make their small-batch goat and cow’s milk cheeses. The cheese is all artisanal and very homemade, so yup, that means it’s extra delicious.

But the best part is getting to play with the baby goats! They have the cutest little goats that will climb all over you – it’s the best way to de-stress!

And did I mention they give out cheese samples? Heaven! If you’ve never had goat’s cheese, you need to try it. Don’t forget to buy some to take back home.

Where to Eat in Cambria

One of the main events for me when I’m on vacation is the food, so here are some of my top recommendations for where to eat when in Cambria. 

Now, it’s no Japan or Mexico City or even Hawaii (some of my fave foodie destinations), but yes, the California coast has its fair share of deliciousness.

1. Have some oysters at Sea Chest Oyster Bar

If you love oysters, Sea Chest Oyster Bar is the place to go in Cambria. It’s a quirky, nautical themed restaurant with an incredible selection of seafood. The oysters are super fresh and there’s always a ton to choose from.

Even if you’re not a fan of oysters, there’s plenty of other seafood (and non-seafood) dishes to choose from. The fish and chips are delicious – my absolute fave when I’m craving something fried.

Fair warning, they don’t take reservations due to popularity. Expect a long wait, so don’t come absolutely starving. But they have a gorgeous firepit to sit by while you anxiously await for your oysters.

2. Wake up at Cambria Coffee Roasting Company

For that early morning caffeine fix, Cambria Coffee Roasting Company is where you wanna be. Right on main street, this is one of the most popular coffee spots in town. They use locally roasted beans and make a mean cup of joe! 

And they make a lot of it! Some that I had never even heard of before (like Baja Mochas and Au Laits)! And it’s not just coffee either – they also have a huge selection of teas and iced beverages. 

You can customize your perfect drink on their website, and I soooo appreciate the fact that most of their drinks can be made iced! Much needed on a hot day. The perfect spot to start your day in Cambria!

3. Main Street grill for tri tip sandwiches

Any meat lovers in the house? You’ll love Main Street Grill! It’s got that all-American sports bar vibe, and they serve up some of the best tri tip sandwiches in Cambria! Along with burgers and ribs – perfect when you’re craving some meat!

The portions are huge, so be sure to bring your appetite (or just share an order or two)! The sandwiches come with all the fixings, and the BBQ sauce is to die for. I would come every day for it!

I didn’t have any seafood but people rave about their shrimp-n-chips and the calamari sandwich. There’s a reason the restaurant’s been a staple in the Cambria community since 1984!

4. Grab breakfast at French Corner Bakery

Is there anything better than a warm, flakey croissant for breakfast? No, no there is not.

French Corner Bakery is the best place to get your pastry fix in Cambria! They make all of their pastries fresh daily, and there’s so much to choose from. It’s easily the best little bakery on the Central California coast!

I have to recommend the chocolate croissant – it’s seriously the best I’ve ever had (okay, maybe not as good as the one’s I’ve had in Paris, haha)! The perfect mix of flaky and chocolatey goodness. Yum!

They also have other tasty treats like snickerdoodle cookies, key lime tarts, chocolate whipped cream eclairs, blackberry scones, cream cheese danishes, banana nut muffins….I’m drooling all over again reminiscing! Grab a few and bring them to the beach – but don’t wait too long; they’re best fresh!

5. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Red Moose Cookie Company

If you have a sweet tooth like I do, Red Moose Cookie Company is the place for you. It’s an adorable little shop on Main Street, and they make the most delicious cookies!

The highlight for me was Aunt Mona’s Moist Molasses – ok, maybe I just loved the name but it seriously didn’t disappoint. Other favorites are the Peppermint Patty Fudge Brownie, the Pumpkin Moose Pie and the Nutless Wonder.

The Red Moose Cookie Company’s slogan is ‘Baking people happy with love and butter’ – and it’s so true! So, really, don’t miss out on this one when in Cambria.

6. Soto’s True Earth Market for sandwiches

I love a good sandwich, and hidden in the back of the Soto’s True Earth Market is a small deli who make some of the best in Cambria.

The market itself is really cool – it’s all organic and sustainable, with a focus on healthy living and eating. They have a wide selection of groceries, as well as some great health and beauty products.

The deli is in the back, and it’s worth seeking out. The sandwiches are all made to order with fresh ingredients, and they have a good variety to choose from, no matter what your taste.

7. Madeline’s Restaurant & Wine Cellar

A wine tasting bistro by day and a restaurant with an amazing ambiance by night! 

If you’re looking for a nice dinner spot, this is the place to go. It’s a bit more upscale than some of the other restaurants but it’s perfect  for  date night.

They know how to cook a steak perfectly at Madeline’s, and the scallops melt in your mouth. They have an extensive wine list with wines from all over California, and it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a glass (or two, or three!) of wine.

Things to do Near Cambria

Sure, you could probably fill a weekend with only things to do in Cambria specifically, but it’d be a shame to miss out on other nearby spots! If you find yourself with a bit more time on the Central California coast, check out the following:

1. Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery (San Simeon)

If you’re not from California, I almost bet you’ve never seen (or even heard of) an elephant seal! And what wild and wacky creatures they are! Just look at their long noses – oh so weird! Their gigantic size makes them unique as well – the males can be up to 20 feet long (!!!), and weigh almost 9,000 pounds. WHOA.

One of the best places to see these massive elephant seals is just 12 miles north of Cambria in San Simeon. And best of all, it’s absolutely free to visit!

The guides there are super knowledgeable and will answer any questions you have about these magnificent marine animals.

During mating and pupping season (generally December to March), you’ll be able to see hundreds of elephant seals – including mothers with their newborn pups! It’s an incredible sight, and one that you won’t soon forget. 

Bear in mind that this is their territory, so please give them space and do not disturb them in any way! Bring binoculars if you wanna see them even closer, as you’ll need to stand above the sand where they rest on a viewing platform.

2. Hearst Castle (San Simeon)

A castle? In California? Yup! And it’s pretty spectacular… with majestic architecture, intricate tilework, lush landscapes, and crystalline pools!

Hearst Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in California, and it’s just a short 15 minute drive from Cambria, overlooking the town of San Simeon.The massive castle was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, and it’s now a State Historic Park.

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. You’ve also got your pick of the Upstairs Suites Tour and The Cottages and Kitchen Tour, among others. There’s also beautiful gardens to explore, and a stunning view of the coastline.

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 quickly…

3. Harmony Headlands State Park (Harmony)

Just a few miles south of Cambria in the tiny town of Harmony is the Harmony Headlands State Park. And it’s gorgeous – the state park is an undeveloped part of the California Coast that’s just begging to be explored! 

Think coastal prairie grasses, wildflower meadows, steep hills, and picture perfect views of the Pacific Ocean. Plus tons of wildlife (like the silvery blue butterfly, southwestern pond turtle, and even the endangered California red-legged frog). My kinda spot!

You’ll wanna take the Headlands Trail hike to the summit and back, totaling about 4.2 miles. It’s a little steep in places but is a relatively easy hike through the grasslands – once you make it to the coast you’ll be amazed by the views of the dramatic coastline and ocean!

Best to do this trail early in the morning or late in the evening as there’s no shade whatsoever. Sadly, you’ll have to leave the doggos at home as they’re not allowed on the trail. Boo!

Also, come prepared with everything you need (water, sunscreen, a hat, etc) – there’s hardly any cell service!

4. 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!

Take a stroll, fish (or watch others fish), try a spot of birdwatching, wonder how on earth surfers aren’t freezing out on the water! The pier is the main attraction in Cayucos (always fun to watch the surfers from up here), and make sure to stay around for sunset – always pretty legendary! 

There are some great little beach bars and restaurants around here too, as well as a couple of ice cream parlors (always a bonus!).

5. Brown Butter Cookie Company (Cayucos)

If you’re in Cayucos, don’t miss a quick stop at Brown Butter Cookie Company. It’s the epitome of a humble cookie shop, and you’d be downright silly for skipping it.

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re handed freshly baked cookie samples. I mean, who doesn’t love a good sample?! Especially when they’re cookies – that’s how they get you hooked! The cookies are absolutely scrumptious, and there’s soooo many different flavors to choose from. They even have gluten free options!

Their staple cookie (and the most famous) is the Brown Butter Sea Salt Cookie, so you’ve got to try this. But then again, they also have a range of other flavors like Lemon Sugar, Chocolate Chunk and Peanut Butter, so save room for loads of cookies! Or just share a few, haha. 

The shop itself is super cute, with a rustic vibe, and the staff are always happy to chat. Psst – they’ve also got locations in downtown San Luis Obispo and in Paso Robles.

6. Take a drive down to Morro Bay

A scenic drive down Highway 1 is a must-do when visiting Cambria, and one of the best stops is Morro Bay, just 21 miles south of Cambria.

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!

There are some beautiful beaches to relax on, some delicious seafood restaurants and a couple of cute shops to browse. Oh and the otters! THEY HOLD HANDS and it’s the sweetest sight! Keep your eyes peeled for these adorable little sea creatures that lounge around on the coast in the water!

Hope this helps you plan your trip to this little seaside town! Which of these things to do in Cambria are you most looking forward to?!

The post Things to do in Cambria, California (The Cutest Seaside Village on the Central Coast) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

The 17 Mile Drive is one of the most scenic drives in not only California, but the world. And for good reason! There’s spectacular coastal visitas (that’s obvious!), ancient cypress trees, million dollar mansions,  dramatic coastal cliffs, sunbathing seals and sea lions, and of course world-class iconic golf courses.

Yup – including the ritzy Pebble Beach Golf Links! It’s kinda like California’s own version of the famous Road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii!

Trust me, there’s a reason more than 1.5 MILLION people drive the 17 Mile Drive each and every year. And since the drive passes through an exclusive neighborhood, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee. But for all the scenic beauty you get, I feel it’s more than worth it. No wonder they’ve got the funds to maintain it!  

We first drove the 17 Mile Drive back in 2009 when we were visiting Noah’s sister in San Francisco. We made the 2-hour drive to Monterey/Carmel and back in just a day, and it was one of our favorite activities on our week-long trip.

Since that first visit, we’ve since moved to California (dreams do come true!!!). We now visit the Monterey Bay peninsula practically every year – yes, we love it that much!

I’m sharing everything you need to know about the 17 Mile Drive, including the best 17 Mile Drive stops and an honest account on which ones you can skip if you’re pressed on time.

Important Info on Driving the 17 Mile Drive

What is the 17-Mile Drive?

First off, what is the 17 Mile Drive anyways?! And what’s so special about it?! For starters, it’s one of the most scenic road trips you could possibly take in California (although all of California is just so damn pretty).

Plus, the 17 Mile Drive is one of the shortest California road trips at only 17 miles, haha (you can drive the whole thing in less than an hour if you really wanted). Yes, the 17 Mile Drive is just that – 17 miles of scenic road through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula in California.

Most of the privately owned 2-lane road hugs the coastline – passing famous golf courses (like the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links), cypress groves, rocky beaches, seabirds and marine life, exclusive homes, and more scenic vista points than you could ever imagine. Plus million-dollars views of Monterey Bay. It’s spectacular – just like the rest of California (can you tell I’m a tad obsessed with my new(ish) home state?!). 

Fun Fact: The 17 Mile Drive first opened in 1881 – to horse-drawn carriages! Things have definitely changed since then, but the beauty of the Monterey Peninsula remains the same. 

Where is the 17 Mile Drive?

The 17 Mile Drive is located in Monterey County in Central California. It connects the towns of Pacific Grove and Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s a great addition to any California coast road trip, and I declared it one of my favorite stops on the PCH (although it’s technically right off the 1).

Here’s approximate distances so you get an idea of how far it is from other popular spots in California:

• Monterey: 4 miles (~10 minutes)
• Carmel-by-the-Sea: 5 miles (~15 minutes)
• Santa Cruz: 45 miles (~50 minutes)
• San Jose: 75 miles (~1 hour, 15 minutes)
• San Francisco: 115 miles (~2 hours)
• San Luis Obispo: 145 miles (~2 ½ hours)
• Sacramento: 200 miles (~3 hours)
• Napa Valley: 175 miles (~3 hours)
• Los Angeles: 330 miles (~5 hours)

Entrances and Entrance Fee:

Yes, you need to pay to enter and drive the 17 mile drive. And rightfully so – with the number of people who make the drive, the county needs funds to maintain it! We wanna make sure everyone has the opportunity to see it in all its beautiful glory.

Cost: At the time of writing (June 2022), cars will need to pay $11.25 to enter the 17-mile drive. And while the drive is only open between sunrise and sunset to visitors, the gates are manned 24 hours a day. Sooo… don’t think about getting sneaky! 

• Psst – Bicycles can enter for free, but motorcycles are absolutely prohibited.

Unfortunately, don’t count on using any special passes here. The 17 mile drive is not a National or State Park, so those passes will not work for entrance here. 

Don’t worry, people with overnight hotel reservations along the route (The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay, and Casa Palmero) do not need to pay the fine – you’ll need to show confirmation of this, just FYI. Of course, residents who live there and their guests are allowed in free of charge. 

One of my favorite little local tips: If you spend $35 at one of the restaurants (which is, honestly, not hard to do… considering the high price of almost everything), you’ll get your $11.25 fee reimbursed! We did this last time – simply give your gate receipt to your server and they’ll deduct the entrance fee from your bill! It’s like getting that $35 cheeseburger/drink combo for $25 instead, woo!

Entrances:

There’s five different gates into the 17 Mile Drive:

1. Pacific Grove Gate (off Sunset Drive)
2. Country Club Gate (off Congress Avenue)
3. S.F.B Morse Gate (off Sunset Drive)
4. Highway 1 Gate (off Highway 1 and 68)
5. Carmel Gate (off San Antonio Avenue)

We typically enter via the Pacific Grove Gate (and exit via the Carmel gate), and you probably will too if you’re coming from either Monterey or Pacific Grove. It’s by far the most popular gate.  But there’s no wrong entrance; it may just be a bit more confusing to follow along if you don’t start at 17 Mile Drive Stop #1!

Other FAQS about the 17 Mile Drive

• How many stops are there? There are 17 marked stops on the 17 mile drive! Easy to remember, right!? There actually used to be 21 stops, but some stops have since been combined and Pebble Beach decided a few others weren’t worthy of making the list. 

• How long is the drive? 17 miles, haha! Well, actually it’s just short of 17 miles, at 16.78 miles. The road is fully paved, in wonderful condition, and is super easy to drive.

• Is it a loop? Nope! The 17 Mile Drive is a two lane road and you can drive either north to south or south to north. There’s no “right” way to drive it. You can either exit at the nearest gate once you’re done (what most people do), or you can drive the route again and exit through the gate you entered (not necessary unless you wanna see certain stops again). We like driving north to south and ending at Pebble Beach Links. Driving this way you’ll also be closer to the water (better views as you drive) and it’ll be easier to pull over for all the stops.

• How fast can you go? Max 25mph. Speed racers, you’ll need to slow it down!

• Where can I park? At all of the 17 Mile Drive stops, you’ll find parking lots/areas. Some are smaller than others, so just wait your turn and be patient. If nothing is available in a while, you can always come back later if you wish. DO NOT park on the main road – this is extremely dangerous. Only park in designated parking spaces.

• Can I bring my drone? Nope, sorry! Drones are not allowed here in Pebble Beach or anywhere along the 17 Mile Drive.

• Are there bathrooms along the drive? Yes, thankfully! Bathrooms are marked on the map you’ll get at the gate once you pay admission. Most bathrooms are at the golf courses, plus there’s one at the Bird Rock/Seal Rock stop as well.

• Are there restaurants/food available? Yes, again, mostly at the golf courses. But do note these restaurants are rather pricey, although most of them have gorgeous views! Remember – If you spend more than $35 at particular restaurants, you can get your $11.25 17-mile drive entrance fee reimbursed. Check out Roy’s at Spanish Bay, The Bench at The Lodge, or Stillwater Bar and Grill for lunch, and most definitely STICKS at Spanish Bay Inn for sunset (listen to the bagpipes)!

• Can I picnic instead?! Yes! If you want to eat along the drive and not at one of the restaurants, feel free to bring a picnic! There’s picnic tables at certain stops, including Spanish Bay and Seal Rock. Probably best to bring a cooler, especially in the warmer months.

• What wildlife can you see? Expect to see plenty and plenty of wildlife along the 17 mile drive! We always see harbor seals, sea lions, and a whole lotta birds. Sea gulls, cormorants, and pelicans fly over the coastline, while common murre, sooty shearwater, and sanderling are along the shore. You may also see blacktail deer and even an otter if you’re lucky (although you’ll have a much better chance of spotting them at Morro Bay – they even hold hands and it’s the most adorable thing ever). Oh, and whales! More on those below.

• Whale Season: No matter the time of year, it’s possible to see whales along this portion of the California coast! How exciting! December through March is prime time to spot California Gray Whales, while Humpback and Blue Whales are more commonly seen from April to December. I will say though, winter is definitely whale season, so be on the lookout for them then!

• Gas Stations: There are no gas stations along the 17 Mile Drive (hey, it’s only 17 miles, haha). If you need to fill up, you’ll easily find stations in nearby Carmel, Monterey, or Pacific Grove. Gas is typically pretty expensive (like the rest of California), and Carmel in particular is a very affluent area. 

When to Drive the 17 Mile Drive

Time of Day: Coastal Monterey Bay sees a thick marine layer in the morning, which usually burns off by afternoon. Again, the views along the 17-Mile Drive are best when the skies are clear, so… going in the afternoon will give you the best chances of clear skies!

Local Tip: There are live golf webcams online! They’re free – use them to check the current weather! The weather is finicky at best here, and I don’t recommend going when you can’t see much!

Time of Year: I’ll go into this in more detail below, but typically, the best time of year to visit the 17 Mile Drive is during Fall and Spring. Winter is usually the clearest, while the busiest time of year is from April to November. Whatever you do, pick a clear day. If you see it’ll be overcast or foggy, save the 17 mile drive for another day (and maybe go to the indoor aquarium instead).

Before visiting, check to make sure there aren’t any major festivals or large golf tournaments going on! The drive will be beyond packed (and it may even be closed depending on the event). Always check the Pebble Beach website ahead of time.

• Spring: The area is lush and green in the spring as all the plants thrive right after it rains. Expect to see wildflowers along the drive! This is probably my favorite time to visit Carmel/Pebble Beach and make all my favorite 17 Mile Drive stops. Psst — if you’re visiting mid-April to early June, don’t miss the Pacific Grove magic carpet, only 15 minutes away.

• Winter: Most people are generally very surprised to hear this, but winters usually have the greatest number of clear days! Weather in California is wacky, y’all! Especially on the coast. Winter sunsets are also pretty spectacular, since, ya know, it’s typically pretty clear. If you’re visiting in the winter, make sure to keep your eyes peeled on the ocean as you may get to spot a few whales!

• Summer: Unfortunately, if you’re looking for those clear days, you might wanna skip the summer. This is when that California coastal marine layer hits the northern and central coast, including Pebble Beach/Carmel/Monterey. And this foggy mist can completely obstruct the beautiful view! The fog may burn off by mid-day, but there’s no guarantees! Us locals even have a name for it – May Gray, June Gloom. What a bummer, I know!

• Fall: The Central coast experiences Indian summers like we do here in San Francisco, meaning summer just comes later than most! Meaning, fall is a great time to make the 17 mile drive. Temps will be warm, the mornings are not as foggy, and it’s typically less crowded!

How Much Time to Allow for the 17 Mile Drive Stops 

I’d give yourself at least 3 hours or so, which gives you plenty of time to drive and get out at about half the stops and take photos. While you can easily spend the whole day driving and stopping at every single stop, I don’t recommend it. Many of the stops are similar and the drive will feel monotonous if you get out all 17 times.

The best part of the 17 Mile Drive is you get to decide which stops to make! Kinda like a DIY adventure! It’s a great activity during your time on the Monterey Peninsula, or as part of a longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

If you don’t have that much time (1-2 hours), pick out a few stops you wanna check out and drive through the rest. My favorite stops are: Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach, Bird Rock, and Cypress Point Lookout. Although you really can’t miss The Lone Cypress as well – that’s one of the most iconic stops on the 17 Mile Drive! 

What to Bring and Wear

The weather can change quickly here on the coast, so I recommend wearing layers that you can easily strip off if need be. It can be pretty cool next to the water; keep a jacket in the car just in case.

A few other things to keep in the car:

• Binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens to better see marine life (there’s lots!)
• Picnic supplies if you’re planning to eat along the way (remember to dispose of garbage in bins – and if you don’t see any, please take your garbage with you and throw it out properly when you can). Lots of wildlife call this area home, and it’d be a shame to disturb their natural environment with our human trash.
• Sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat
• Reusable water bottle; there’s not many places to fill up, so make sure to bring enough for the drive
• Water shoes if you wanna explore the tide pools (the rocks can be slippery)
• Camera, of course!

Do you need a car?

Technically, yes… but… you can do the 17-mile drive via bike (although motorcycles are not allowed) or on a group tour.

If you wanna cycle the 17-mile drive, you can either bring your own bike or rent one in Monterey. OR you can join this guided e-bike tour, which includes an e-bike (woooo less pedaling!), a helmet, and your very own guide. Read reviews and book tour here!

If you’re visiting San Francisco and just wanna head down to Carmel/Monterey for the day, this tour with stops along the 17-mile drive looks super fun! It even includes time at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium! Read reviews and book your Monterey tour here!

Where to Stay Near the 17 Mile Drive:

Yes, you can stay right on the 17 Mile Drive itself, in Pebble Beach! There’s actually three options, although they’re all ridiculously pricey. But hey, you won’t need to pay the $11.25 entrance fee for the 17 Mile Drive, haha (anything helps, right?!). Hotels along the 17 Mile Drive include:

1. The Lodge at Pebble Beach
2. Case Palmero
3. The Inn at Spanish Bay

If you aren’t looking to break the bank (I hear you!), plan to stay in one of these small towns nearby. Although, it’s important to note this is an expensive area of California in general, so finding true budget accommodations may be difficult. You’ll have more luck during the week (weekend prices can be insane).

• Carmel-by-the-Sea: One of our favorite little areas on the Central Coast, with tons of delicious restaurants, shopping, and a gorgeous beach at sunset.
• Monterey Bay: Home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, plus Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf. Kinda touristy but always fun!
• Pacific Grove: Located right next to Monterey, this spot feels a bit more local with tons of seaside walks and charm. Another favorite of mine!

So let’s get started! Cruising down the California coastline we go – all the best 17 Mile Drive stops below! No one said I’m good with rhymes, haha.

Best 17 Mile Drive Stops

Pay your entrance fee and grab a map from the gate – the pamphlet gives a nice overview of the 17 stops on the 17 Mile Drive (and get this – there used to be 21 of them!).

When you get the map and pamphlet outlining each stop, I recommend deciding in advance which ones you wanna get out of the car for. This way you’re not tempted to get out all 17 times, which sounds ridiculously exhausting to me (especially if you have other things you want to do in Monterey/Carmel that day).

Once you’ve got your map and plan of action, we’re off to stop #1 of the 17 Mile Drive!

Stop #1 – Shepherd’s Knoll

Shepherd’s Knoll is the first official stop on the 17 Mile Drive! It gives great views of Monterey Bay and even the Santa Cruz mountains, but from kinda far away. To be completely honest, we typically skip this spot – it’s super underwhelming compared to most of the others (I’m all about transparency here!). So if you’re tight on time, keep on driving; you’re not missing much. 

Or, if you’re on a mission to visit all the 17 Mile Drive stops, this will probably just be a quick photo spot. It’s best on a clear day so you can really see the blues of the bay!

Stop #2 – Huckleberry Hill

Wait – huckleberries?! YES! This stop on the 17 Mile Drive was named after all the native huckleberry bushes in this area. Although unfortunately you won’t be able to try any.

Being one of the highest elevations in the forest, there’s more stunning scenic views here through the trees. If you look real hard (and maybe squint real tight), you can even see Santa Cruz off in the distance. But again, in all honesty, this is one of those stops on the 17 Mile Drive I’d skip if you’re in a time crunch.

There’s rumors that John Steinbeck (you know, that famous writer who wrote Of Mice and Men) strolled around Huckleberry Hill! How wild is that?! Maybe you’ll get some literary inspiration to write your first book over here.

There’s apparently a trail that goes down the hill, but I heard it can get quite overgrown so we skipped it. And my husband doesn’t like to hike, so, ya know… 

Stop #3 – Spanish Bay Beach and The Links at Spanish Bay 

This is kinda a two-in-one, and one of my favorite 17 Mile Drive stops. There’s the Links at Spanish Bay (the golf course) and Spanish Bay Beach (which is, you guessed correctly, a beach!). We typically visit the beach during the day, and then come back at night for some drinks at the course in-house restaurant.

Spanish Bay Beach: Ohhh, Spanish Bay Beach. Easily one of my favorite stops on the 17-Mile Drive, even when we aren’t driving the entire route!

Why’s it called Spanish Bay Beach you ask?! Spanish explorer Don Gaspar de Portela and his crew camped over here (in 1769!) when they were searching for Monterey Bay.

Walk on the beautiful boardwalk trail if you wanna get some steps in. It wraps around the shoreline all the way to Moss Beach to the south or Asilomar Beach to the north. Remember – you’ll need to walk back to get to your car for the next stop, so don’t go too far!

Prefer to relax? No problem! Spanish Bay is a gorgeous beach with soft, white sand. However, it’s better for sunbathing and playing in the sand – it’s typically too dangerous for swimming due to the strong currents and riptides. Also, it may be covered in cairns (rock piles) when you visit, which makes for some fun photography.

Links at Spanish Bay: My recommendation? Skip the course on your initial drive and come back for sunset. There’s a bagpiper who closes down the course each night (it’s tradition!), so when I learned that, of course we adjusted our itinerary to fit it in! 

Why a bagpiper? Spanish Bay is a Scottish-style golf course! When Tom Watson (one of the leading golf players in the world) proclaimed “Spanish Bay is so much like Scotland, you can almost hear the bagpipes.”, the rest was history!

We listened to the talented bagpiper and sipped our drinks as the sun went down. Stuffing a delicious burger into our mouths. Sitting around the fireplace. I can’t think of anything more serene than that night! Psst – a burger and drinks will put you over $35, so make sure to give your server your 17 Mile Drive entrance fee receipt to get reimbursed!

Some logistics: The bagpiper starts on the first tee at The Links at Spanish Bay in front of STICKS (the nearby Pebble Beach sports bar) and finishes 45 minutes later at the Spanish Bay fire pits (by the second green).

Plan to arrive at least half an hour before sunset during the summer to watch the nightly performance. Other times of year, the bagpiper starts around 5:45pm. Plan your day accordingly! It’d be a shame to miss out on this tradition!

Stop #4 – Restless Sea

This will be another quick stop on the 17 Mile Drive. And like its name implies, this is one of the most turbulent sections of coastline over here in Pebble Beach! Why? Most likely due to all the submerged rocks. 

It’s wild – if you visit on a particular windy day, the waves will be continuously crashing into each other. You definitely can’t swim over here, but it does make for some interesting photography.

Stop #5 – Point Joe

Point Joe, Stop #5 on the 17 Mile Drive, is a great place for photos and wildlife spotting! Use the small telescope to see the seals even closer on the rugged coastline. Look closely and you might even see crystals (hardened magma that eventually turns into granite)!

While Point Joe is pretty to look at (with great views of the water and rocks), unfortunately, there have been plenty of shipwrecks here back in the day. It was often mistaken as the entrance to Monterey Bay (it’s not!), and many ships crashed on its rocky shores.

Point Joe overlooks the 14th hole of the MPCC Dunes Course, an iconic par 3 course with crashing waves and pelicans overhead. Absolutely gorgeous. You can even see golfers teeing off!

A little backstory on the name: Back in the early 1900s, a man lived in a driftwood hut over here. He would sell trinkets to the tourists stopping by. Was his name Joe? We’ll never know! But regardless, this stop on the 17 Mile Drive is named for that man!

Stop #6 – China Rock

More history! Chinese fishermen lived over here in the 19th century, and China Rock is now a symbol for that tiny village. Look closely and you may be able to see black marks on the rocks from the smoke of their cooking fires! Wild!

Nowadays, it’s a good spot to stretch your legs along the 17 Mile Drive and/or relax on the rocks overlooking the water. And plus, that clean ocean air… If you visit in the spring, you’ll see plenty of wildflowers at the base of the rock. 

Stop #7 – Bird Rock

This is one of the best 17 Mile Drive stops for nature lovers! I sure love it! Tons of birds and boisterous sea lions. If you’re short on time, make Bird Rock a priority!

You’ll definitely wanna bring your binoculars or put a zoom lens on your camera to see the birds up close. The rock is actually just offshore in the water, so binoculars will definitely come in handy. You’ll see pelicans and cormorants swooping in the water, looking for a delicious seafood lunch. 

Bird Rock used to be covered in a few feet of guano (bird poop!) in the 1930s, but it’s since been removed and is now used as a fertilizer. For what, I’m not entirely sure, haha. 

And besides the birds, you can also usually see harbor seals sunbathing on the rocks, just lounging around. Visit in the winter or spring and you may even get to witness California Gray Whales out in the ocean during their migration down to Mexico! Look out for the spouts of water offshore!

Psst – if you live in the Bay Area, you’ll probably also see whales off the coast over here! Pacifica and even Half Moon Bay (if you look closely) have plenty!

Stop #8 – Seal Rock

Another spot buzzing with wildlife! Yes! With dozens among dozens of seals (probably more like hundreds), there’s a reason this spot is named Seal Rock!

You’ll know when you’ve arrived, trust me! That smell is absolutely horrid! Kinda like when we watched the sea lions in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego. Fun to watch but definitely very stinky!

Wanna see some tiny marine life? Check out the tidepools, where you can find sea anemones, sea urchins, sea slugs, crabs, and maybe even some starfish if you’re lucky.

It’s also a great spot on the 17 mile drive for a picnic. Before you head out, walk the boardwalk trail to the Gingerbread House – it’s super charming with a multi-colored roof.

Stop #9 – Fanshell Beach 

Here’s another one of my favorite stops on the 17 Mile Drive – Fanshell Beach. Why, you ask? Baby seal pups (eeee – that’s me screaming in delight)! Harbor seals come to Fanshell Beach to have their pups in late Spring. And they are oh so adorable.

The beach is actually closed from April 1 to June 1 for Harbor Seal pupping season. While you won’t be able to take a walk on the beach then (for their safety of course), you can thankfully still take pictures from the Fanshell Beach Overlook. Other times of year you can head down to the striking white beach and hang out/relax. The sand is easily accessible down a short flight of stairs.

Fun fact: This is as far west as the 17-Mile Drive takes you! 

Stop #10 – Cypress Point Lookout 

Looking to catch sunset? This is the best place for sunset in all of Pebble Beach – it’s got a southwesterly view, so that’s a main reason why!

But whenever you visit Cypress Point Lookout, expect dramatic views of the Pacific coastline. And of course you’ll find a whole lotta cypress trees! I recommend making a short stop here on your drive, and then heading back here for sunset depending on the weather.

This lookout is protected by a wire fence since it’s basically a sheer drop on the other side! Be extra careful if you’re with kids! And there’s million dollar mega-mansions built in the Roaring Twenties over here (with some selling for as high as $30 million – whoa!)

Stop #11 – Crocker Grove

What makes Crocker Grove so special? It’s one of only TWO spots in the WORLD you can find native Monterey cypress trees. Yes, I said the world (the other spot is in nearby Point Lobos Natural Reserve just a few miles south). Here you’ll find the oldest and largest Monterey Cypress trees, named for Charles Crocker (who established the original 17 Mile Drive in 1881).

Monterey Cypresses have been growing in this 13-acre nature preserve for over 300 years. I have to admit we typically skip this stop on the 17 Mile Drive… although now that I’m thinking about it, I kinda wanna check it out next time. I have a feeling it won’t beat the redwoods near San Francisco though, including Muir Woods National Monument.

If you have more time in the area, head south to check out the other spot with a Monterey cypress forest – Point Lobos!

Stop #12 – The Lone Cypress 

If you’ve done any research on the different stops on the 17 Mile Drive, I almost guarantee you’ve seen photos of The Lone Cypress. I mean, it’s one of the most photographed trees in the entire world! 

Best place to take this iconic photo? The viewing platform! Although we loved the views from the parking lot as well.

Important tip: Don’t try and sell your photos of The Lone Cypress – commercial photography is actually forbidden here. Why?! It’s basically owned by Pebble Beach, and is the official logo of Pebble Beach Resorts!

Why’s it so special anyways?! This little Monterey Cypress tree is believed to be at least 250 years old, and has stood on its rocky little perch all these years! It’s truly one of California’s most iconic landmarks. Unfortunately, the tree lost a large branch in 2019 during a massive rainstorm, but it’s still living and standing tall! That’s why it looks much smaller than it originally did.

So whatever you do, don’t miss The Lone Cypress. It’s definitely the most famous of all the 17 Mile Drive stops.

Stop #13 – Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point

These Monterey cypress trees are nothing like the ones you’ll see at Crocker Grove. Their bark was completely stripped and bleached white from harsh winds and rainstorms. Kinda eerie and kinda spooky, with no leaves at all. Basically ghosts of cypresses that have died! Definitely one of the most unique Monterey cypresses I’ve ever seen!

Visiting in winter? Check out the waves below – they’re massive. Makes sense that the area used to be a famous (albeit very dangerous) surfing spot. Besides the unique and spooky trees, the areas got great views of Carmel Bay and Stillwater Cove.

Stop #14 – Pebble Beach Visitor Center 

I was surprised to learn that the visitor center made it on the list of 17 Mile Drive stops. Am I the only one? But I mean, you’re here – may as well learn some history! There’s more than 20 exhibits about the history of the Pebble Beach golf courses and the 17-Mile Drive itself. Depending on the day, it may be nice to get indoors for a bit!

There’s also a gorgeous outdoor deck with views of Pebble Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Plus a shop with souvenirs and drinks (remember, stay hydrated!). And finally some restrooms!

Stop #15 – Pebble Beach Golf Links 

Ohhh – this is what everyone thinks of when they hear Pebble Beach. The world-famous golf course! Avid golfers from around the world come all the way to Monterey Bay to play at Pebble Beach; it’s that special – even Barack Obama has played a few rounds here. And the grounds are absolutely immaculate – I mean they better be for the price!

My husband is dying to book the “Stay and Play” package. You stay in one of their stunning hotel rooms overlooking Pebble Beach, and then play a round (or two… or three) at Pebble Beach Golf Links. It’s a pretty penny for sure, so we’re saving it for a special occasion! 

Wanna play? You’ll need to reserve wayyyy ahead of time (which thankfully gives you time to save up for it)!

If you’re not a golfer or just simply don’t have the time (or money) to play, you can watch players tee off at the first hole or finish up at the 18th. Just remember to be respectful and stay quiet as they’re hitting. Nobody wants to hear an obnoxious tourist as they’re playing one of their most expensive rounds in the world!

You used to be able to walk right onto the 18th hole, but now it’s understandably more controlled. You’re still able to take a photo right by the last hole, but in front of a wooden fence.

Stop #16 – Pebble Beach Equestrian Center

Horse lovers, you’re in luck! The Pebble Beach Equestrian Center offers guided trail rides – just make sure you call in advance and reserve your ride! Of course the views are to die for; you can assume anything with Pebble Beach in its name is top notch. Ride in the Del Monte forest and even along the coast with perfect Pacific Ocean views.

Even though we’ve driven the 17 Mile Drive plenty of times, we’ve never actually stopped at the equestrian center – whoops! We’re not huge fans of horses, so this never really intrigued us. But it’s a must for any horse lovers out there!

Stop #17 – Ford Meadow 

Woooo – you made it! Ford Meadow is the last official stop on the 17 Mile Drive (named in honor of Robert F. Ford).

Ford Meadow is particularly beautiful in the spring, when it’s super green and there’s wildflowers out and about. If you visit too late in the year the meadow will start to look blah and brownish (we unfortunately don’t get much rain over here in California).

Is the 17 Mile Drive worth it?

The short answer: YES!

The longer answer? I think so? Although I really only think half the stops are all that wonderful, considering a bunch are kinda underwhelming if we’re being completely honest here. While the entire coastline along the 17 Mile Drive is beautiful, the free stretches are just as if not even more gorgeous. And the famed Big Sur is only 30 minutes south. 

With all that being said, if it’s your first time visiting Monterey Bay and you’ve got time in your schedule, go for it! I think it also really depends on the weather – if it’s a foggy day I’d honestly skip the 17 Mile Drive altogether. But that’s your choice of course.

Other Things to do in the Area

• Hike in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: While the entire reserve is beautiful, don’t miss China Cove and Bird Island Lookout (on the southern part of the park). They’re my two favorite spots in Point Lobos, and you won’t find clearer waters. Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing! You may even see an orca and/or dolphin off the coast!

• Wander around Carmel-by-the-Sea: We never seem to get tired of Carmel (I even proclaimed to wanna move there a few years ago…). There’s gentle weather year round, rolling hills, powdery white-sanded dog-friendly (!!!) beaches, sea otters playing in the water, and the town’s just oozing with charm and character. Come here for a delicious lunch, to watch the sunset at the beach, and to check out all the cute architecture. 

• Day Trip to Big Sur: There’s a reason Big Sur is known as one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in California. It’s downright GORGEOUS! Imagine seaside cliffs. Winding turns. Miles of misty coastline. Purple sand (yup!). That’s just a few of the things Big Sur is well-known for. And just one reason it’s on every list of the most beautiful places in California. Big Sur is one of my favorite places, not just in California, but everywhere! If you’ve never been, don’t miss it! All my favorites in Big Sur here!

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: If you’ve done any research, you’ve undoubtedly come across the famous aquarium. While it’s not a spot I’d visit on every visit to the Monterey Peninsula (it’s kinda pricey), if you’re intrigued by the underwater world and marine habits of Monterey Bay, go check it out. Those jellyfish wow me every time. And you can even see a real-life kelp forest.

• Calla Lily Valley (in season): Visiting the Monterey Peninsula in early spring? You need to check out the secret Calla Lily Valley (in full bloom from mid-February to early-March). There’s gorgeous white calla lilies blooming right by the ocean! Don’t miss it!

Hope this helps you plan out which 17 Mile Drive stops you wanna check out! Are you headed to the Monterey Bay peninsula anytime soon?!

The post 17 Spectacular 17 Mile Drive Stops: Our Favorite Scenic Drive in Pebble Beach, Monterey (California) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

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!

Did you know that …

When you purchase something through our links, we earn a small fee (but you still pay the same)! Win-win! If you found this article useful, consider using the links within the article or below. Thanks for your support! 

• Book a hotel
• Best place to find tours
• Second favorite place for tours
• Favorite travel insurance
• Book a rental car
• My favorite packing items on Amazon
• Start your very own blog!

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

Looking for a fun escape from the SF Bay? Take the ferry over to Sausalito, a chic Mediterranean-feeling coastal town only a few minutes away from the bustling city. You could easily spend a whole day or weekend here! 

This quaint and historic area is full of exquisite restaurants and sweeping bay views (don’t miss the famous ice cream at Lapperts), and you’ll find numerous things to do in Sausalito any time of year. Whenever we’re looking for an easy day trip full of relaxation and scrumptious food, we always find ourselves driving over the bridge to Sausalito.

And now that I’m writing (and gushing) about this picturesque location, I think another return trip is in order!

In my opinion, Sausalito is one of the prettiest towns in the Bay Area.  

The area gets pretty busy, but for good reason. Here you’ll find waterfront restaurants (with fresh seafood), cute nautical themed shops, and the popular ice cream shop, Lapperts. Some even dub it California’s Amalfi coast, and while it IS downright beautiful, I’m not so sure anything can compare to that famous coastline in Italy.

I strongly urge you to pick up a cone of your favorite flavor and sit in Gabrielson Park watching the sail boats go by.  You can take a stroll along the historic waterfront, rent bikes, or even kayak around the bay. Sausalito surely is the place to be on warm, sunny days.

Make sure you stay for sunset – it’s absolutely amazing and like no other (but bring a sweater – it gets chilly at night)!  With views of the bridge and city skyline, it’s a nice place to unwind after a busy week. Longing for a day trip outta San Francisco? Head to Sausalito.

P.S. Visiting Northern California and looking for more activities/things to do in the area? Check out these links: A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco , 30+ Day Trips from San Francisco, Best Desserts in San Francisco, 25+ Long Weekend Trips from San Francisco, The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List

How to Get to Sausalito:

You basically have two options when figuring out how to get to Sausalito from San Francisco. Sausalito is located a bit north of the city in Marin County, on the northern end of the Golden Gate Bridge.

You can either 1) drive over the Golden Gate Bridge from SF or 2) take the ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito.

The drive should take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic and where you’re coming from within the city, while the ferry is roughly 30 minutes. If you’re taking one of the many Sausalito tours offered below, your transportation may be included so be sure to check that out!

More info on the two options below:

Option 1: Driving Over the Golden Gate Bridge

Due to its close proximity to the city, many visitors decide to drive over the bridge. Note that you’ll need to pay a hefty toll (currently $7 with FasTrack, $8 without), and cash is not accepted. If you’ve rented a car, be sure to ask your rental car company how toll are processed (read more information about this here).

• Psst: The Golden Gate Bridge toll is electronically assessed in the southbound direction (going into San Francisco), so you wont pay on your way over to Sausalito, but on your way back into the city.

Read Next: Where to Find the Best Views of the Golden Gate Bridge

Option 2: Taking the ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito

Not the proud owner of a sweet ride in this crazy expensive city? Aren’t planning on renting a car during your trip to San Francisco? Don’t fret. That’s where the ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito comes in!

There are several different companies (Blue and Gold Fleet, Golden Gate Ferry) that depart from San Francisco to Sausalito, with two departure location options (either the Ferry Building/Golden Gate Bridge or Pier 41/B&G). No matter which location you leave from, the trip will take approximately 30 minutes, and cost ~$10 each way.

And not only will the ferry get you from San Francisco to Sausalito quickly (and thankfully in a cost-effective manner), but the ferry route will also provide you with absolutely stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge! Note that most ferries will not operate during inclement weather, so don’t count on it if a storms a brewing.

• See the schedule for Golden Gate Ferry here. (sails to the Ferry Building at the end of Market St. )
• See the schedule for Blue and Gold Fleet here. (goes to Pier 39 / Pier 41 in Fisherman’s Wharf)

EXTRA OPTION: Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge!

Ready for a full day of exploring? Consider biking to Sausalito! Thankfully, recent updates on the Sausalito side of the bridge make it safer than ever to ride down the hill into town. Just FYI, the route is about 8 miles or so, including the bridge.

If you’re planning a full day of things to do in Sausalito, you may want to drive over as biking takes significantly longer. Paid and free bike racks are plentiful near the ferry in Sausalito, so plan on locking up your bike around there.

• Note that you can ONLY park and lock your bike in designated bicycle parking spots – if not, you may get a hefty ticket!

Worried you’ll be too tired after a fun day in Sausalito to bike back? No worries – you can head back to SF (to either the Ferry Building or Fisherman’s Wharf) by ferry, and yes, you can easily bring your bike along!

Note that you’ll need to rent a bike in either San Francisco or Sausalito itself, as there are no bikes for rent at the bridge itself. (Okaaaay, so I guess there’s actually three options of making your way from SF to Sausalito.)

Rent your bike in advance here.

Best Things to do in Sausalito: All My Favorites!

And once you get there, there’s tons of things to do in Sausalito, from shopping at the cutest boutiques, gawking at the unbelievable scenery and houseboats (!!!), and stuffing your face with all it’s yummies, you’ll be back before you know it.

And with Sausalito’s protected “banana belt” weather, there’s never really a horrible time to visit. You can bet that it’ll usually be way nicer over here than in SF itself.

1) Walk along the Bridgeway Promenade and Sausalito Boardwalks

Yes, Sausalito boasts numerous places to stretch your legs! Any visit to this charming seaside town calls for long waterfront walks on the Bridgeway Promenade and Sausalito Boardwalk. Besides all the locally owned shops and restaurants you’ll find along the way, there are absolutely fantastic views of the San Francisco Bay and Angel Island.

You’ll also most likely encounter a man balancing rocks (just FYI – he’ll demand a few coins if you take a photo), the bronze sea lion statue (only seen during low tide), and quite possibly a few seals swimming in the bay.

You have two directions to walk: north towards the marinas (hello, impressive yachts) with Mt. Tam in the distance, or south towards the bay with the city skyline in the background. Both are equally as stunning, but if you want to catch the perfect panorama of San Francisco, be sure to head past Excelsior Lane.

Be sure to walk far enough to take photos of the colorful houses in the distance in the nearby mountains – you’ll think you were transplanted to Italy (or another laid-back Mediterranean destination) for a hot second!

2) Grab an ice cream cone from Lapperts

No visit to Sausalito would be complete without a cone from the area’s famous Lappert’s Ice Cream. Since Lapperts is a true Hawaiian staple, you’ll find unique hawaiian-inspired island flavors on rotation, including ube, caramel coconut macadamia nut, horchata, and kona mocha chip.

Expect to shell out a bit more cash than you normally would for ice cream, but the scoop sizes are definitely on the generous side. Sure, you’ll wait on line (that’s a fact), but there’s nothing better than a cool frosty treat on a sunny day in the Bay.

• Local’s Tip: I usually get some ice cream and head to nearby Yee Tock Chee Park or Gabrielson Park to finish eating (if I haven’t finished stuffing my face already).

Read Next: The Ultimate List of San Francisco’s Sweets and Treats

3) Sit and Picnic in Gabrielson Park

Gabrielson Park is a nice little park on the water away from downtown Sausalito. Meaning way less crowds. Score!

Take along picnic supplies and set up shop on the grass – the views (of Angel Island!) can’t get much better! In the summer, Gabrielson Park is also the site of a weekly jazz festival; otherwise, it’s relatively quiet for those in the know to enjoy.

4) Check out the houseboats

You haven’t successfully explored Sausalito if you haven’t checked out the local houseboats. The area has some unique and high-end houseboat communities, which, you honestly won’t believe until you lay eyes on them.

They’ve been a part of Sausalito’s waterfront since the 1880s (used as regular boats in the warm summers), and then pulled to shore during the chilly winters. It was after World War II and the following era of peace and love in the 1960’s that first attracted the free-spirited Bohemian crowd, ultimately becoming vibrant artists’ colonies. You’ll still find artists living there today, as well as others who enjoy this unique and idyllic lifestyle.

You’ll need to make your way to the Marinship neighborhood (about a 40 minute walk or 8 minute cab ride away from downtown), but once there, it’s totally worth it.

You’ll find a bunch of communities made up of over 500 floating homes! Floating homes? What? The locals prefer to call their residences “floating homes” instead of “houseboats”. The floating homes are much like those on land, and are subject to property taxes, have all the amenities of a regular home, and some with decks and barbecues.

You can walk around the houseboat marinas any time of year (check out Galilee Harbor and Waldo Point Harbor), but in order to actually go inside a few, you’ll need to go on a public tour, below:

Take a Houseboat Tour!

If you’re visiting in late September, plan to get tickets to the Sausalito Floating Homes Tour in advance – you won’t want to miss it! On the tour you’ll learn all about this novel way of lifestyle that most haven’t even dreamed of. I mean, can you even imagine living on a boat?! Get a sneak peek into 15-20 floating homes, and ask all the questions you want!

5) Hang out in the Marinship neighborhood

And since you’re already in the area to see the houseboats, or should we say “floating homes”, you may as well explore the neighborhood a bit more. This area is Sausalito’s only industrial waterfront area, and is a bit funkier and grungier than other parts of the seaside town.

You’ll come across sailboats for rent, canoe and rowing rentals, all those boat docks with the floating homes I’m so eagerly stressing for you to visit, an unexpected beach (bring your bathing suit and go for a swim!), and Le Garage, an indoor-outdoor French Restaurant.

Many don’t even venture into the Marinship neighborhood when deciding which things to do in Sausalito, so make sure to add this into your itinerary!

6) Take a Seaplane Tour (!!!)

Itching to see Sausalito and San Francisco by air? Book yourself on a seaplane tour above the Bay, taking off from the lovely bayside village that is Sausalito!

In just 30 minutes, you’ll be able to see Baker Beach, the Pt. Bonita Lighthouse, the Golden Gate Bridge, Crissy Field, Downtown San Francisco, the prison of Alcatraz, where the Giants play – AT&T Park, and finally Angel Island!

And once the seaplane tour is over, if you book this package tour, a complimentary shuttle will whisk you back to the city (to grab some lunch), then then it’s off on the ferry to Alcatraz for a full guided tour. Book Seaplane Flight and Alcatraz Combo Tour here.

7) Plaza Viña del Mar Fountain and Park

Centrally located in downtown Sausalito, this small Spanish-feeling plaza boasts plenty of benches and grassy areas to just sit and relax. Enjoy the surroundings, people watch, admire the monumental fountain, and take a look at the iconic elephant statues.

The park and its surroundings are downright beautiful, with palm trees dotting the triangular-shaped square. Grab a snack, and just spend a few moments relaxing here.

8) San Francisco Bay Model

Located in the northern Marinship neighborhood (same area as the houseboats), you’ll find a 1.5 acre working pneumatic model of the San Francisco Bay. Yes, 1.5 acres. It’s enormous, and even better, it’s free to visit! The 3D representation of the bay was built for the army in 1957 in order to test the impact of suggested changes and its nearby waterways (all the way from the Pacific Ocean to Sacramento).

This impressive model can simulate currents, river inflows, and even tides. Since the model is not currently used anymore (they’re up to speed and working with computers nowadays), it acts as an interactive exhibit for visitors interested in learning more.

9)  Bay Area Discovery Museum

Wondering what to do in Sausalito with kids?! This suggestion is for all of you bringing along your kiddos! The Bay Area Discovery Museum is a one-of-a-kind indoor/outdoor facility that will offer tons of fun for kids 1-8ish.

The unique museum features hands-on art and science exhibits, workshops, cultural performances, and festivals. Other areas include nature labs (an impressive sand and rock area), design areas, research tools, musical instruments, and science tools – so definitely a unique space for kids who like to work with their hands! And plus, there’s great views of the Golden Gate Bridge!

10) Gallery 111 Art Studios

One of the most impressive items on this list of things to do in Sausalito has got to be the talent of local artists! And here at Galley 111, you’ll be able to admire oh so many of them – around 85 artists work in the studios here. From painters, photographers, and sculptors, to weavers and jewelry makers, you won’t leave without being blown away by the impressive collections of these Sausalito artists.

Remember reading about the artists living on the houseboats above – yeah, a handful of them work over here! You can visit the Gallery 111 building (with bright and spacious lofts acting as art studios) during normal business hours. Tours are available as well.

Address: 480 Gate 5 Road, Sausalito

Sausalito Combo Tours

If you’re visiting San Francisco (and unfortunately aren’t one of the lucky ones to call the Bay home), I strongly urge you to get outta the city even more!

Since you’re visiting this site it’s obvious you’re considering heading to Sausalito, but what about some of the other SF day trips! The tours I’ve picked out below go to not only Sausalito, but also some of my favorites – Muir Woods, Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Berkeley. Check out the tours below and promise me you’ll explore more of the Bay!

• Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Alcatraz Experience 
• Seaplane Flight from Sausalito and Alcatraz Tour Combo
• Wine Country and Sausalito Tour
• 2-Day San Francisco and Sausalito Tour

Where to Eat in Sausalito

Sausalito has an impressive food scene. Besides the ice cream that it is so well known for (Lapperts, I’m looking at you), there’s tons of options for when you actually want something a bit more billing. Sooo many of these restaurants have absolutely fantastic views of the bay, so plan to visit a few and get some drinks! A few hot-spots to check out below:

1. Napa Valley Burger
2. Sausalito Taco Shop
3. Fish and Chips Sausalito
4. Scoma’s of Sausalito
5. Sausalito Bakery and Cafe
6. The Spinnaker
7. The Trident restaurant

Where to Stay in Sausalito

Sure, Sausalito can be visited as an easy day trip from San Francisco (lots more day trip ideas from SF here!), but if you want to see the area in it’s best light without all the heaps of visitors, plan to spend the night in town. Yes, you’ll unfortunately pay top dollar, but we already knew this – much like the rest of SF, Sausalito isn’t a budget town.

The Gables Inn Sausalito: Polished lodging in a refind historic hotel offering free WiFi & continental breakfast, plus evening wine (and cheese!) receptions. Key features: 5 minutes from the Sausalito ferry terminal, designer toiletries, in-room fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, patios/balconies, and city skylines

Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa: Elegant modern lodging in an 1885 mansion with a full-service spa & an upscale Italian restaurant. Key features: ocean views, suites with separate living areas, fireplaces, balconies, full-service spa with steam room and fitness center, and classic Italian restaurant on-site

Hotel Sausalito & Suites: Luxe rooms & suites in a mission-style boutique hotel with harbor & park views, plus free WiFi. Key features: 1-minute walk from ferry terminal, stained glass windows, views of Vina Del Mar park and harbor, outdoor seating deck, complimentary coffee and breakfast pastries in cafe

The Inn Above Tide: Warm rooms & elegant suites, some with decks, in a posh bayside hotel offering free breakfast. Key features: 1-minute walk from ferry terminal, walk-in showers, designer toiletries, bay or skyline views from floor-to-ceiling windows or decks, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, in-room spa treatments, evening socials with wine and cheese, bikes for rent

Cavallo Point Lodge: Sophisticated upscale rooms & suites, plus a spa, yoga classes, a cocktail bar & an acclaimed restaurant. Key features: overlooks Golden Gate Bridge, fireplaces, suites with separate living areas, free shuttle to Sausalito Ferry Terminal and Francisco, cocktail bar with live music, fine-dining restaurant, gym, spa, and yoga classes. Cooking classes are available for a fee.

Find more hotels and accommodation options in Sausalito here.

– Other Attractions near Sausalito

Tiburon, Muir Woods. Fort Baker, Vista Point, Battery Spencer/Hawk Hill, Marine Mammal Center, & Rodeo Beach

– Visiting Northern California and looking for more activities/things to do in the area? Check out these links!

• A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco
• 30+ Day Trips from San Francisco
• Best Desserts in San Francisco
• 25+ Long Weekend Trips from San Francisco
• The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List

I hope this post has helped you figure out what to do in Sausalito for your first or next trip!

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

Did you know that …

When you purchase something through our links, we earn a small fee (but you still pay the same)! Win-win! If you found this article useful, consider using the links within the article or below. Thanks for your support! 

• Book a hotel
• Best place to find tours
• Second favorite place for tours
• Favorite travel insurance
• Book a rental car
• My favorite packing items on Amazon
• Start your very own blog!

The post My Favorite Things to Do in Sausalito, California (+ Tips from a Local) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Seaside cliffs. Winding turns. Miles of misty coastline. Purple sand (yup!). Just a few of the things Big Sur is well-known for. And just one reason it’s on every list of the most beautiful places in California.

Big Sur is one of my favorite places IN THE WORLD (hands down) and one of my favorite road trips from San Francisco. I mean, it’s absolutely GORGEOUS. I feel oh so lucky to only live a few hours north, which means we typically make it to Big Sur at least once a year! 

Whether you’re driving down the entirety of the California coast or just making the short drive from SF, you’re in luck. And I’m jealous of you already. With more ocean views than you ever thought possible, eco-friendly and luxurious hotel stays, wooded hiking trails and nature for days, I can never get enough of this stretch of the coastline.

This rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of California is just begging to be explored. And trust me, there’s enough things to do in Big Sur to fill an entire weekend and then some. Read on for the most perfect Big Sur road trip itinerary!

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!

BUT FIRST, THE BASICS

• Nearest City: Carmel (to the north, ~45 min drive) and San Simeon (to the south ~1.5 hour drive)
• Closest International Airport: San Francisco (SFO), ~2.5 hour drive
• Most Well-Known for: McWay Falls and the Bixby Bridge
• When to Visit: April through October, although my favorite time of year is early Fall
• How to Get Around: You’ll need (and want) your own car, 110%

Since the road to Big Sur is finally open again (after months of closure due to horrific mudslides), now’s the time to visit! Definitely don’t miss one of the most unforgettable stretches of majestic coastline in the world. It makes an excellent weekend trip from San Francisco, that’s for sure!

READ NEXT: 25+ Best Road Trips from San Francisco

How to Get to Big Sur:

Thankfully, getting to Big Sur is pretty easy, as long as you have a car. If you’re from outta town, and by that not within driving distance, you’ll need to get yourself to SFO (San Francisco) first. From SF, Big Sur is about 2.5 hours south. You’ll most definitely wanna make a few stops along the way (Half Moon Bay, Pescadero, Santa Cruz, and Carmel/Monterey are my favorites), so plan accordingly!

Renting a Car: Note that you’ll undoubtedly need a car for this Big Sur road trip (it is a mini road trip after all!) So if you’re visiting the area (or live in the city and don’t have access to a car), a car rental will be a necessity! I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. They check out all the major websites, and you can customize what you need as well! You’ll most likely be coming from the airport if you’re visiting, so aim to pick up your car rental from SFO.

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here!

When to Visit Big Sur:

Big Sur is most popular between April and October, when the weather is at it’s nicest. You’ll find plenty of sunny days over here! Of courseeee this is when it’s most crowded, so if you hoping to have McWay Falls all to yourself, think again. Not happening.

However, if you wait until the summer rush is over and visit during either September or October, you’ll experience less crowds and actually better weather! Not many out-of-towners know this, but coastal fog is another downside of a Big sur road trip during summertime; it can hang around as late as midday! The fog is usually gone by early Fall, and you can even witness whales and butterflies this time of year (yes, really, if you know where to look!)

Visiting between the months of November to March? It’s important to note that many businesses have shorter opening hours during the off-peak season.

Read Next: 25+ Long Weekend Trips from San Francisco

Temps are mild year round, ranging from a cool 60 degrees to a balmy 75 degrees F. It’s always wise to bring along a jacket no matter what month you’ll be frolicking around Big Sur, as it never gets particularly hot hot hot, and temperatures are always cooler on the coast than in the mountains nearby.

Where is Big Sur Exactly?

Many people don’t actually realize this, but Big Sur is not an actual city/town for that matter. It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the Pacific Coast Highway.

This mesmerizing stretch of coastline is located between Carmel (about ~45 min drive north) and San Simeon (roughly 1.5 hours drive south). 

Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. It’s so nice to just be surrounded by nature and kinda forget about the rest of the world for a little while!

How Long to Stay in Big Sur:

With that being said, you can easily see oh so much in even as little as one day. If this is your first time to the area —  don’t rush it! I recommend anywhere from 1-3 days in Big Sur, kinda depending if you wanna go on a few hikes or just see the typical tourist Big Sur road trip stops.

EXTRA BIG SUR ROAD TRIP TIPS

• Plan ahead. As you saw above, there’s lots to do within the 90 mile drive encompassing Big Sur. Sure, you can be spontaneous, but you’ll probably miss some of the best spots. I highly suggest to map out your Big Sur road trip in advance to ensure you’re seeing the best of the best of the area.

• A full day drive through can be enough time, but I don’t recommend it. You can definitely see a great deal of what the area has to offer, but to truly understand it’s captivating magic, you’ll want to stay the night. The area too expensive for ya? Try camping or make the short drive back to Carmel for less expensive accommodation options.

• Note that mudslides happen quite frequently in Big Sur and nearby. Check this site for current highway conditions before your drive.

• Bring binoculars to see the wildlife, especially in Point Lobos!

• Things book up fast, especially in the summer and fall. It’s best to make hotel and restaurant recommendations in advance.

• There is absolutely no cell phone service in Big Sur. At all. Don’t expect to be connected and/or be able to use Google Maps to get you from place to place. Download the map to your phone beforehand when you still have wifi/service, and may be able to use it for GPS purposes. You’ll find wifi at most popular restaurants, bars, and hotels — but, don’t keep your nose in your phone all day!

• Grab a free map of the area. With that being said, Big Sur’s free tourist newspaper has a fantastic detailed map. Pick up a copy of the newspaper at almost any establishment in the area.

• Keep a sweater or two in the car. One minute it’ll be warm and sunny, the next the fog will roll in dropping the temperature 15 degrees. Always better to be prepared!  It’s also a good idea to keep some hiking and/or beach clothing accessible in the car as well. It may not be beach weather when you set out for the day, but later in day who knows!

A FEW COMMON QUESTIONS

Is driving to Big Sur dangerous? Yes and No. There are twists and turns along the cliff, with most parts of the highway being only one lane in either direction. The road is narrow, so be extra careful when pulling over for the views (my advice – only pull off in designated spots, there’s plenty of them). Just take the drive slow, stay alert, and you’ll be ok.

How long does it take to drive the Big Sur coastline? It could take as little as 2 hours (if you don’t stop at all), or 2 days if you make all the stops for the views, foods, and hikes. Pace yourself – it’s all beautiful. There’s typically some traffic, so if you’re just driving through, expect it to take at least 3 hours.

Where does the Big Sur drive start? There’s no real “starting point”. Since Big Sur is located between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon, it’s best to start from either of these (and finish in the other) if you wanna experience the entire coastline of Big Sur.

Why is Big Sur famous? Have you seen the photos?! It’s known for it’s pristine scenery, full of turquoise water, beautifully-designed bridges, rustic hiking trails, and more. 

Can you swim in Big Sur? Yes and No. Despite all ocean views and beaches, there’s not many safe spots for swimming. The waves are unpredictable and pretty rough. And plus, the water is chilly over here! Head to Carmel, Monterey, or further south (Cambria, Cayucos, Morro Bay) if you wanna swim.

What to See and Do on Your Big Sur Road Trip:

Woooo – it’s finally time to get this Big Sur road trip itinerary under way!

You can drive all of these Big Sur road trip stops from either north to south (starting in Carmel) or south to north (starting in San Simeon) of course, but I prefer driving from NORTH to SOUTH. The scenic pull-offs are along the coast, and driving north to south provides the easiest access to these. And plus, I’m from San Francisco so I’m typically driving down the coast, not up.

With that being said, I’m planning out this Big Sur road trip itinerary from north to south. You can easily follow along the road trip stops, doing every single one (my recommendation) or picking and choosing a few if you only have part of a day. 

From North to South:

First things first, if you’ve never been to Carmel or Monterey, I highly recommend spending at least a day discovering both. My favorites in that area include: Carmel Beach, Lover’s Point Park, Pavel’s Bakerei, the 17 mile drive, and whale watching! The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a popular favorite as well!

1. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

As you start your Big Sur road trip down from San Francisco (after exploring Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea prior), you’re first official stop should be Point Lobos! There are a ton of walks and trails to choose from, with all difficulty levels. And thankfully, everything is laid out quite well with proper signage, so there’s no risk of getting lost.

While the entire reserve is beautiful, don’t miss China Cove and Bird Island Lookout (on the southern part of the park). They’re my two favorite spots in Point Lobos, and you won’t find clearer waters.

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the chance to go whale-watching, as this area is a haven for them! You’ll also be able to witness sea lions and harbor seals frolicking around on nearby rocks any time of year — listen and you’ll hear them no problem!

Go hiking, walking, bird watching (pelicans frequent the area), scuba diving (yes, really!), all while taking in the magnificent views! Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing! You may even see an orca and/or dolphin off the coast!

Note that parking costs $10 to enter the park, but you can easily park on the side of the road (if you don’t mind walking a far distance to get in).

2. Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail

Okay, so we just discovered this spot off the side of the highway on our last visit to Big Sur, and I cannot believe I never noticed it before! It’s pretty secluded and kinda secret (aka not on all the typical “things to do in Big Sur” posts), so I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

 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!

Psst: If you’re visiting in early spring, don’t miss Calla Lily Valley right near Garrapata Beach (different location than the Bluff Trail).

BONUS STOP! CALLA LILY VALLEY!

If you happen to be visiting Big Sur between February and early April, you NEED to make a short pit stop at Calla Lily Valley! It’s such a unique spot on the coastline, and it’s only a .25 mile hike to get there!

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Calla Lily Valley in Big Sur!

3. Rocky Creek Bridge

THIS is the bridge that everyone thinks is the iconic Bixby, but it’s not! Although I can definitely see why – it’s just as beautiful and even the same style! If you’re not in a rush on your Big Sur road trip, why not make the extra stop? The water was soooo extra beautiful when we were there – we actually felt like we were in Hawaii for a hot second!

4. Bixby Bridge

Any Big Sur road trip ain’t complete without a stop at iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in Big Sur (which I’m sure you’ve seen alllll over instagram and pinterest).

You won’t miss it, promise, as it’s just a short 15 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Bixby Bridge is the epitome of Big Sur and it’s everything you’d expect and more (but really, it’s the surrounding scenery that really steals the show).

Top tip: pull off at a turnout from the bridge’s south end at sunset. Absolutely spectacular and downright mesmerizing. The view from the entrance to Old Coast Road isn’t half bad either.

Be warned, traffic can slow along this stretch (especially south bound) during the summer, so it’s best to visit Bixby in the early AM!

5. Old Coast Road

This 11 mile road is what those back in the day had to use before the famed Highway One was complete! — and not many tourists know about it just yet! You’ll be driving on private land, so you can’t stop to take tooo many photos, but since it’s usually not crowded, feel free to stop in the middle of the road if you must for some shots. Just be careful to watch out for other vehicles coming and livestock roaming around! The entire road is comprised of redwood groves, babbling brooks, rolling hills, and lot’s of no trespassing signs. Basically, nature at it’s finest.

Tip: Driving it can be challenging, but well worth it. You’ll want an all-wheel drive for best mobility, but if all you’ve got is a regular sedan, go slow and you should be a-okay! The road is not paved. Don’t go during the rain or after it’s just rained as the road is all dirt and can get quite muddy at times.

6. Hurricane and Sea Otter Refuge Viewpoints

All the views all gorgeous on the coast, but these two have ample parking and suuuuuch great views of the coast all around!

7. Point Sur State Park and Lighthouse

Next up on this Big Sur road trip itinerary – the Point Sur Lighthouse! While the tours are quite long at three hours, the history and information is so interesting you won’t even notice the hours passing by. Be sure to check the website as tours are not offered every day. And get there early — the tours only accommodate 40 people! Take along some warmer clothes as it gets quite chilly up at the top of the lighthouse! Thankfully there’s hot chocolate, tea, and/or coffee waiting for you. Tours cost $15 per person.

There’s also some hiking in the state park, with sea lions and starfish in the tide pools nearby.

8. Big Sur River Inn

Hungry? This place is absolutely perfect for lunch! The menu’s pretty large, and you can even eat while dipping your toes in the river! They’ve got a manicured grassy lawn which is perfect for picnics, and a whole set-up on their outdoor patio with tables and umbrellas. 

Sure, the food is on the pricey side (like the rest of Big Sur), but it’s such a great place to stop and relax for a bit.

There’s a retro school bus selling ice cream right off the parking lot, which is perfect on a hot day. And plus, what’s cooler than a cone from a bus? :p

9. Pfeiffer Beach

Have you ever seen a beach with purple sand?! Yea, neither had I until I visited Preiffer Beach in Big Sur. After you finally find it (the road to get to Pfeiffer Beach is a bit hidden and narrow with no signs), you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the sand is actually truly purple in some spots on the beach. Note that the color of the sand realllly comes alive right after it rains.

You could easily spend a few hours admiring the keyhole and rock formations on the beach. You don’t really need your bathing suit here as the water is waaaay too cold. You can always put your feet in if you’d like!

How to get here: When you’re heading southbound (recommended), take the 2nd right after you see the Big Sur Station. You’ll see a big yellow sign that says “NARROW ROAD: NO RV’s OR TRAILERS.” Go down that road! It costs $10 once you make your way a bit, but it’s well worth it once you get to the beach. Use caution while driving as the road is rather windy and narrow!

10. Big Sur Bakery

Small and cozy and rustic and delicious. Big Sur Bakery is typically pretty crowded, but it’s worth the wait.

Our favorite thing to get: almond croissant. I repeat, the almond croissant is orgasmic. Sure, it’s the most expensive pastry I’ve ever bought (at a whopping $8.50), but my husband and I both felt it was worth the hefty price tag. And it’s large enough to split, for sure.

The banana bread is great too, but now that we’ve had the almond croissant, I don’t think we’ll ever be getting anything else. 

They’ve also got some wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and avocado toast if you’re still hungry after Big Sur River Inn. As well as (chive and cheddar) scones and strudels and coffees and cream-filled donuts.

Oh, and the bakery has public restrooms available, which is always good to know on a road trip without much service!

11. Nepenthe

Cocktails with a view? Yes please! We love to break up our Big Sur road trip with some cocktails and appetizers from Nepenthe.

I feel the need to say this since you’ll be getting back in the car to continue on the 1: if you’re the driver, please be responsible and limit yourself to one drink at most. 

• If the weather’s lousy (as in thick fog drastically impeding the views), I honestly wouldn’t bother with Nepenthe. While the food and drinks are good, you’re paying for the view.  

12. Henry Miller Memorial Library

Book lover? Head to Henry Miller Memorial Library, and you’ll be nothing less than impressed. From free coffee available and interesting and unusual titles for purchase, it’s worth spending a while here to soak up the Big Sur atmosphere.

Tranquil. Cozy. Quiet. Don’t miss it – it’s even surrounded by giant redwoods! They sometimes even host concerts, cultural events, and film nights as well.

13. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – McWay Falls

After Bixby Bridge, this is on everyone’s must see list during any Big Sur road trip. And there’s a reason for it — the 80-foot waterfall is absolutely stunning. In every way, shape, and form.

A short 10 minute walk from the parking lot will get you to a beautiful waterfall crashing directly into the Pacific Ocean’s emerald water. Psst: When people say they’re “hiking” to McWay Falls, they’re really just casually strolling down a paved path.

And if there’s still orchids and wildflowers out, you’ll think you’re in Hawaii. Absolute paradise, albeit rather crowded at times.

• LOCAL TIP: Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns in the afternoon when the sun is shining directly on the waterfall – it will be cast in shadows and difficult to see at other times of the day.

There is a $10 honor system daily charge, so bring some cash. You can easily park on the side of the road and forgo the paid parking, which is what most people do (I’m not saying it’s a-okay… just letting you know that’s an option if the parking lot is full). And thankfully, the parking lot has bathrooms! Yes!

Be aware that the trail is sometimes blocked off due to erosion, and you may not be able to get that picture perfect view. In addition, since California is still somewhat in a drought, the falls may be quite dry during the summer months.

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.

14. Limekiln State Park

Haven’t had enough of the great outdoors on your Big Sur road trip just yet? Limekiln State Park may be juuust what you’re looking for. The park offers a few short hikes, each offering their own thing, to waterfalls in redwood forests and access to the beach.

And thankfully, neither are too strenuous or long (perfect if you don’t have all day). Be sure to take along a sweater as the trails are shaded and can be very cool the entire time, which makes for a spectacular break on a super hot day!

Note that parking is rather limited and costs $10, with restrooms available.

15. Sand Dollar Beach

Being Big Sur’s largest beach, as long as the tide is low, you’ll find plenty of space to lay your towel down and relax. Do take note of the tide schedule though – high tide can essentially make the sandy beach disappear, making it difficult to find a place to sit.

Looking for sand dollars might result in a disappointment, but you’ll easily find muscles, crabs, sea anemone, and kelp beds while exploring the nearby rocks during low tide. Stay for sunset as the rock formations on the beach make for some epic scenery!

Note that you’ll have to walk/hike about 100 steps or so to access the beach. Which means you’ll ultimately need to climb back up! Just letting you know so there are no surprises! The parking lot is large and yes, you’ll need to pay $10 (a common theme to use the beaches/parks in/near Big Sur). Again, there’s a toilet here!

Animal Observations in Big Sur

DIY Whale Watching

No matter what time of year you’re visiting Big Sur, you’ll always want to be on the lookout for whales off the California coast. Patience is the only requirement, but binoculars are nice to have as well. Three types of whales frequent the Big Sur coastline:

• Gray Whales: December to February (migrating south to Mexico), and February to April (returning north; easier to spot as they are closer to the shore)
• Blue Whales: June to October
• Humpback Whales: late April to early December

Monarch Butterflies

If you’re visiting Big Sur in the winter months between October and December, you’re in for a real treat – tons of monarch butterflies! These little beauties return to Big Sur in October, and migrate north in January. Look out for them clustered in trees in the early morning, and flying around during the day. While you’ll see monarchs all around Big Sur, Andrew Molera State Park is the place to be to spot the most!

Where to Eat (and Drink!) on your Big Sur Road Trip

There are numerous places to eat and drink in Big Sur, although some are definitely better than others. I’ve already put my favorites up above throughout the Big Sur road trip itinerary, but here are some more! A girl’s gotta eat, am I right?

Here are my picks and notes, either personally tested by me, or recommended by fellow travelers:

• Nepenthe: drinks/appetizers right before sunset, stay for golden hour to get the best photos! An absolute must with the best ocean views!
• Big Sur Lodge Ice Cream: the perfect spot when it’s even a tad warm out!
• Big Sur Bakery: get an almond croissant and some banana walnut bread to share – it’s huge and heavenly. Pizza is great too if you want some “real” food!
• Cafe Kevah: serving brunch & light lunch in an outdoor setting. Located on a terrace just below Nepenthe with absolutely fantastic views
• Deetjens: cozy breakfast; delicious, homely food and great local wines. Be sure to make a reservation — the cozy dining room gets busy.
• Big Sur Roadhouse: stop here for a coffee and donut
• Sierra Mar Restaurant: Located in Post Ranch Inn serving a fine dining experience of inquisitive food creations. Pricey, but sounds worth it (I’ve never been).
• The Restaurant at Ventana: inventive coastal cuisine inspired by the sustainable ingredients of California’s Central Coast. The most beautiful views as well.

Be prepared to spend some big money for dining out in Big Sur. The entire area is pricey, so expect to pay big city prices (~$15ish for a cocktail, ~$20-30ish for an entree). Pick up snacks beforehand to have in the car during the drive so you don’t need to shell out an astronomical amount of cash at the Big Sur convenience stores every time you feel like noshing.

Where to Stay in Big Sur:

Accommodation in Big Sur is pricey. There’s really no way around it. If you can settle for not actually staying in Big Sur itself, consider heading up north to Carmel or Monterey for less-than-astronomical prices.

Recommended accommodation options in Monterey and Carmel that won’t break the bank:

• Briarwood Inn: Quaint B&B with bright rooms & suites, plus continental breakfast & free port/sherry receptions)
• Carmel Lodge: Cozy, casual rooms in a relaxed hotel offering free Wi-Fi & breakfast, plus parking)
• Hofsas House: Traditionally decorated rooms in a Bavarian-style hotel with ocean views, sundecks & a heated pool)

With that being said, the hotels in Big Sur really are quite special, and if you can splurge for one night on your California Coast road trip, these are the best places to do it:

Post Ranch Inn: Offering 3 pools, one being an infinity hot tub, you can spend the bulk of your time here overlooking the stunning California coastline. You betcha your night will be an unforgettable escape. Each room also boasts a private deck with those magicnicant coastline views, a wood-burning fireplace to get cozy during the chilly nights, and an indoor spa tub.

Ventana Inn & Spa: You’ll swoon the second you see this adults-only, rustically luxurious resort. Yes, it’s that impressive. And if the two resort pools with panoramic coastal views didn’t do it for you, I bet the spa treatments in outdoor cabanas overlooking the redwood forest will. You can also opt to stay in a luxury glamping site with safari-style canvas tents under the redwoods if you feel so inclined.

Treebones Resort: Looking for something a bit different? Treebones Resort features seven ocean view tent campsites, along with 16 yurts with great views of the Pacific at Cape San Martin! Not as expensive as the other two, so check out Treebones if you’d like to give your wallet a bit of a break!

AirBnB: Due to the higher-than-normal cost of accommodation in Big Sur, you may want to check out AirBnB for a less expensive option, many even with those ocean views we’re all swooning over (without the super hefty price tag). Sign up for AirBnB with my link and get up to $40 off your first stay!

Are you planning a Big Sur road trip anytime soon? What are you most excited about?!

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

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The post A Quick Trip to Beautiful Big Sur: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy 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?!

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Sweeping coastal views. Towering redwoods. Quirky downtown. Santa Cruz is the epitome of a surf town in Northern California. It’s got a cool hippy-dippy vibe, it’s a bit quirky, and a bit surfer-dude (actually, a whole lotta surfer-dude). And it’s a whole lotta fun. It’s also got some of my favorite ice cream around!  So check out these 15 things to do in Santa Cruz and design your own perfect beach vacation!

I live about an hour north of Santa Cruz in the San Francisco Bay Area, and am filled with glee whenever someone mentions a spontaneous weekend trip to Santa Cruz. We make the trip to this quintessential California beach town a few times a year, and are constantly finding new things to do in Santa Cruz! 

I’ve put together this Santa Cruz blog post with my friend, Carol of Wayfaring Views, who also makes the trip quite often as well! Enjoy, and lemme know how you like the ice cream. :p 

BUT FIRST, THE BASICS

• Closest International Airport: San Francisco (SFO), ~2 hour drive
• Most Well-Known for: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
• When to Visit: April through October, although my favorite time of year is early Fall
• How to Get Around: If you’re just staying downtown you can walk, but you’ll a car if you wanna get to other spots (highly recommended)

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!

PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE TO SANTA CRUZ

How to Get to Santa Cruz:

Thankfully, getting to Santa Cruz is pretty easy, as long as you have a car. If you’re from outta town, and by that I mean outta driving distance, you’ll need to get yourself to SFO (San Francisco) first. From SF, Santa Cruz is about 1.5 hours south (without traffic, and there tends to be a lot on the weekends).

You’ll most definitely wanna make a few stops along the way (Half Moon Bay and Pescadero are my favorites) so plan accordingly! Have a bit more time? Why not grab some artichoke bread and visit a lighthouse on this San Francisco to Santa Cruz itinerary here. I lay out all my favorite stops on the coast over there!

And plus, Santa Cruz is located right on the Pacific Coast Highway, so you can make a MUCH longer road trip outta it if you’re in the mood to travel. All my favorite PCH road trip stops over here!

Getting Around

Santa Cruz might be a small town but it spreads all over the place. If you’re staying at a hotel near/in the downtown area, you can easily walk to the Boardwalk and Pacific Ave (two of the most popular things to do in Santa Cruz).

But most of these things to do in Santa Cruz will require a car, so it’s a good idea to either rent a vehicle or plan to take Ubers/Lyfts.

I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. They check out all the major websites, and you can customize what you need as well! You’ll most likely be coming from the airport if you’re visiting, so aim to pick up your car rental from SFO.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz lodging ranges from basic beach motels to high end B&Bs. You’ll need to pick your price-point to find the best accommodation that’s right for you. Here are a few suggestions:

Four Stars: The Dream Inn will give you a modern mid-century room, a pool and fabulous sunset view from the balcony.

Three Stars: The Rio Vista Inn & Suites is a cute restored Victorian located conveniently between downtown and the boardwalk. They offer a generous breakfast buffet, helpful staff and cozy, well furnished rooms.

Two Stars: The Coastview Inn Santa Cruz isn’t fancy but it will do the trick. It has basic motel amenities and is located right across the street from the beach and boardwalk.

What to Pack

This section of California coastline is often foggy in the morning, warm at midday, and cool at night. With that being said, pack layers and be prepared for wardrobe changes!  If you are going to the beach, it might be worth your while to buy some cheap beach chairs and a small cooler. You can always discard them at your hotel when you go home.

When to Go

April/May and September/October are always the best times to visit the coast. The weather is usually warmer and you can avoid the summer vacation crowds. And if you can, any weekday will always be less crowded than the weekend!  Traffic is real here you guys, unfortunately! So grab a friend, ditch work, and head off for a fun day in Santa Cruz!

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT SANTA CRUZ

What can you do for free in Santa Cruz? There’s actually lots to do in Santa Cruz for free. Take a stroll on the boardwalk, look for whales, wander West Cliff Drive, and relax at the beach!

What is Santa Cruz known for? It’s hippy culture and laid-back vibe, beautiful natural environment (with redwoods and the beautiful Pacific Ocean), moderate climate, and all things surf. It’s classic California in a nutshell.

What is there to do in Santa Cruz besides the boardwalk? This post should definitely answer that question in muuuch more detail, but to summarize, there’s West Cliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach, the Mystery Spot, whale watching, butterfly admiring (in season), go wine tasting, 

What are the best day trips from Santa Cruz? Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur, Pescadero, Capitola, and Half Moon Bay are some of my favorites!

Is Santa Cruz safe? The area has unfortunately gotten a bad rep due to higher-than-average property crimes (stolen bikes, backpacks, etc). Always lock your car and never leave your stuff unattended. Other than that, it’s pretty safe! Violent crime is pretty rare here, thankfully! 

Top 15 Things to Do In Santa Cruz

Check out this itinerary for how you can combine some of the suggestions below into a chill weekend getaway in Santa Cruz.

1. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an old timey amusement park with arcade games, rides, and fried foods. They have rides at all thrill levels and the park is conveniently located on an expansive beach. There’s warm sand, hot rides, cool surf, and tons of free entertainment! And don’t forget to indulge in a deep fried Twinkie (or two or three). As they say, you only live once!

The beach boardwalk is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Santa Cruz, so expect crowds in the summer. It’s the top Santa Cruz attraction by far. You’ll see families with young kids, teens hanging out, couples holding hands, and locals strolling by.

From late May to late August, the boardwalk and all the attractions are open daily. During other times of year, the boardwalk is open on weekends and holidays, but note that the rides food vendors are closed during the off-season. The arcade and laser tag are still open though, yay!

2. Spot Sea Lions at Santa Cruz Wharf

Take a stroll from the boardwalk down to the wharf and check out the resident population of sea lions. While there, be sure to spend some time scanning the ocean. There are regular migrations of gray and humpback whales in the spring and fall. And the elephant seals and dolphins live in the area year round.

3. Go Sea Kayaking

If you would like to get closer to sea lions and otters, take a kayak tour with Venture Coast Santa Cruz. They offer two hour paddle tours that includes a guide and all of the necessary equipment. They even offer sunset and cave tours.

4. Visit Ano Nuevo State Park

If you are really into marine mammals, then Ano Nuevo should top your list of things to do in Santa Cruz. The park is located 20 miles north of Santa Cruz. They have a year-round population of resident elephant seals. The park is very popular and they have limited spots so make a reservation in advance if you want to go. And have you seen an elephant seal before?! What strange and intriguing looking creatures!

5. Take a slow coastal drive

After your state park visit, take a slow drive back south along Highway 1. The road follows right along the cliff and offers wide open sea views. There are many pull-outs where you can stop and see yet more seals and sea lions.

6. Watch the Sunset at Natural Bridges State Beach Park

Natural bridges has a fun beach any time of day, but it really shines at sunset. Grab some snacks, pull up a chair, and gaze at the ocean.  No better way to end the day in Santa Cruz!

7. Watch the Surfers

Santa Cruz truly is a surf town, attracting surfers from ALL OVER THE WORLD (whoaaaa). 

When the waves are up, you can watch the surfers catch the waves all along West Cliff Drive (more details below) and Pleasure Point. If you’re interested in learning, there’s plenty of surf schools around with beginner lessons.

Read Next: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

8. UC Santa Cruz Arboretum

The UC campus arboretum is a research and teaching facility. Not only do they have over 300 different plant species, including native California plants, but also rare species from around the world! They have botanical art, bird watching, a gift shop, and tours as well.

9. The Mystery Spot

The Mystery Spot is one of those quirky things to do in Santa Cruz that you should only attempt with your tongue firmly planted in your cheek. It’s located in the nearby redwood forest and allegedly sits upon a “gravitational anomaly”. The 45 minute tour will show you amazing feats that defy the laws of physics. It’s goofy fun and not to be missed during any weekend in Santa Cruz.

10. Hike the Redwoods

After you defy gravity, put your feet back on the ground and take a hike. The Nisene Marks State Park isn’t far from the Mystery Spot. Hiking there will take you through 30 miles of trails in the ancient, fragrant groves. There are also lush second growth redwoods in the Henry Cowell State Park. Or for coastal views, you can hike the trails at Wilder Ranch State Park.

11. Stroll Around Downtown

You can kill a lazy afternoon strolling down Pacific Ave in downtown Santa Cruz. Stop into Bookshop Santa Cruz for some excellent staff pics, have some coffee in Verve, and hit up one of the 12 stores selling shoes.

12. Eat Dinner Downtown

Spend a fun evening eating and drinking on Pacific Ave. For dinner, you can have your pick of cuisine at either the Surfrider Cafe (beach casual), Laili Restaurant (Greek) or Oswalds (New American). All delicious and extra satisfying!

13. Have a Post-Dinner Drink

After dinner, go to the Pour Taproom where you can pour your own from a wide variety of beers on tap. If you prefer your drinks with umbrellas, go to the Hula’s Island Tiki Room. But beware of the devil rum because they pour drinks with a heavy hand into a very large glass – aka don’t plan on waking up early the next morning!

14. Get Rid of Your Hangover with Breakfast

If you had the tiki bar rum drinks, then perhaps the next morning you’ll be wanting a big breakfast to tamp down the jitters. The Walnut Cafe and Zachary’s will fit that bill and fill your stomach. Both are right in the downtown area and helpful to cure any hangover!

15. Go Wine Tasting

Did you realize so many things to do in Santa Cruz involved alcohol?! Start all over again and go wine tasting! There are 62 wineries in the Santa Cruz mountains, including very tasty offerings from Ridge. There are also some tasting rooms right in the downtown Santa Cruz area.

Piece together your own itinerary with these top things to do in Santa Cruz and have the perfect beach getaway!  Now get planning, my friends!

Other things to do in Santa Cruz:

• West Cliff Drive
• monarch butterflies at Natural Bridges Monarch Trail
• ice cream from Mariannes and/or The Penny Ice Creamery
• surfing museum
• the Wharf
• take a day trip to Capitola

Have you ever been to this area of California?  What are some of your favorite things to do in Santa Cruz?

Thanks again, Carol! 

Photos via 0 | 00 | 3 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 14 | 15

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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?!

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