Any place for off-roading?

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.

Route 1

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.

San Francisco to Big Sur

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.