Cruising north with the top-down on the PCH brings you an unrivalled experience of American beauty oceanside – dramatic cliff-faces, mountainous forests, beaches, secluded coves and protected wildlife. Watch the sun come up and go down at Nepenthe’s near Big Sur; enjoy the bird lovers’ haven in Morro State Park, wild sea otters 30 miles further north, and sea lions at Point Lobos. Hearst Castle holds majestic mountaintop views, steeped in history and culture and situated atop La Cuesta Encantada (‘The Enchanted Hill’). Wonderful uncapped natural landscapes of Big Sur, particularly the view of the 50ft Pacific-bound waterfall at McWay Falls. Then on to Halfmoon Bay and Santa Cruz for a truly exceptional experience.
Written by
George Monkhouse.
If I rent a Jeep, is there anyplace along the way to do a bit of off-roading, just to add to the adventure?
yeah, and if you stay at Motel 6 along the way it makes it even cheaper. there are some great ones along the route which makes life easy if you dont want to worry about accomodation.
Spectacular route - best driven north-south so you have the coast on your driving side. First stop Monterey, for the world famous aquarium, and in season (spring and late autumn), a trip out to see the whale migration. A visit to Carmel is also well worth it. Then on to Big Sur, with its redwoods and beaches, and on down to Hearst Castle. Final stop Santa Barbara. Expect fog and rolling mist on some stretches at all times of year.
The Pacific Coast Highway stretches from San Francisco to Big Sur while passing through Santa Cruz and Monteray. This California highway is one of the most exciting in the country and it's easy to see why. The Pacific Coast Highway will take you through winding mountain passes, redwood forests, quaint farmland, and spectacular ocean views. You could easily take a week to drive along this intense road while stopping at the many attractions along the way.
Design & Boutique Hotels. Great Rates, Reviews, Special Offers & Direct Online Booking !
Cheap flights and the latest flights deals to New York
14 day East coast adventure tour for 18-38 yrs from New York to Miami. Explore historic cities, appalachian mountains, Disneyworld & Florida beaches.
Western USA travel includes painted canyons, national parks, ancient cliff dwellings, & pueblos, to fine art museums, vineyards, & Las Vegas.
Hooked on Walking specialise in European Walking & Hiking holidays & offer a complete range of itineraries from gentle walks to high alpine tours.

For beauty, stillness and serenity, the Alaskan Highway claims priority. With little to distract your attention, this drive fro…

With several forest and marine reserves, and offering snorkelling, scuba diving, boat trips to see dolphins, whales and sharks,…

From majestic glacial peaks of the Southern Alps to rainforest wildlife, turquoise sea and soothing waterfalls, New Zealand’s S…

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a seaside amusement park complete with carnival rides, arcades, mini golf and all the funnel cake…

Steamer Lane is a right hand wave suitable for advanced surfers. Cold water wetsuits are needed all year round. Conveniently …

The perfect adrenalin booster, a first skydive begins with near overwhelming apprehension and ends with something akin to an ad…