Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: San Francisco to Big Sur

A Pacific Coast Highway road trip in California is one of the most iconic drives in the US.

The PCH, also known as Highway 1, begins in Southern California at Capistrano Beach in Dana Point. It follows along the coastline all the way up to Leggett, a small city about 180 miles north of San Francisco.

The Pacific Coast Highway is 656 miles long and is considered the longest state route in California.

While the entire drive is beautiful, you’ll find the most scenic stretches of road between San Francisco and Big Sur.

Check out these 11 must-see stops on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Francisco to Big Sur!

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Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: 11 Stops From San Francisco to Big Sur

Table of Contents

• 1. San Francisco
• 2. Devil’s Slide
• 3. Half Moon Bay
• 4. Pigeon Point Lighthouse
• 5. Shark Fin Cove
• 6. Santa Cruz
• 7. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
• 8. Capitola
• 9. Monterey
• 10. Carmel-by-the-Sea
• 11. Big Sur

1. San Francisco

San Francisco is an alluring metropolitan city with a rich history that dates back to the California Gold Rush.

The maze of narrow streets winds through the city where you’ll find an eclectic mix of 18th-century Victorian homes and modern-day skyscrapers.

San Francisco is the perfect jumping-off point for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Plan to spend at least one day here.

Start your day off with breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square. Then head over to see the iconic Painted Ladies. These Victorian row houses were made famous by the 90s sitcom, Full House.

After snapping a few pictures, drive to the summit of Twin Peaks for one of the best views over the city and San Francisco Bay on a clear day.

Even on a foggy day, it is eerily beautiful to be up above the clouds.

Then drive across the Golden Gate Bridge to reach Battery Spencer. This scenic point offers a look into San Francisco’s military past as well as one of the best viewpoints of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The bay is often covered in a moody blanket of fog, but on a clear day, you can see across the water to the city skyline.

While you are north of the bridge, stop in Sausalito for lunch at a sidewalk cafe.

Make your way back to the city and stop at Presidio Park. Take a walk in the park along Lovers Lane to see the Wood Line art installation.

Spend the afternoon exploring more of the city and visiting popular attractions such as Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Lombard Street. Or, take a ferry to Alcatraz to explore the notorious prison.

End your day at Boudin Bakery with a crusty sourdough bread bowl filled with steaming tomato bisque soup.

Then get a good night’s sleep so that you can wake up refreshed and ready for your road trip!

For more details and recommendations, check out our guide How to Spend One Day in San Francisco.

2. Devil’s Slide

The first stop on your road trip as you head south will be at Devil’s Slide in Pacifica.

This abandoned stretch of road was once a popular route along the Pacific Coast Highway.

However, this area was prone to landslides so it was closed to vehicles and is now a 1.3-mile coastal trail.

Since 1940, the road had been closed on and off over the years due to erosion and safety reconstruction.

However, in 2013 the Tom Lantos Tunnels were built to divert traffic and this portion of Highway 1 was permanently retired. A year later it was reopened to the public as a coastal trail.

There is a parking lot at both the northern and southern ends of the trail.

The trail itself is on the old Highway 1. It is such a unique experience to walk, bike, or even skateboard right down the middle of such an iconic road.

The views along the way are absolutely breathtaking, but the sheer drop-offs make it easy to see why this drive would be so dangerous.

There have been at least 11 recorded deaths from vehicles plummeting over the steep cliffs.

On the northern end of the trail, you can even see the wreckage of a car that was never recovered. Keep your eye out for an arrow spray painted on the road pointing to the wreck.

The Devil’s Slide Trail is a great place to stretch your legs, enjoy the views, and get your first taste of the Pacific Coast Highway!

3. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is a dreamy little seaside town. It’s the perfect spot to grab some lunch.

I would recommend picking up one of the legendary sandwiches from San Benito House Garden Deli & Cafe.

Enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio, or take it to-go and enjoy a picnic at Redondo Beach.

You can also take in the views along the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail above the bluffs at Redondo Beach near the Ritz Carlton.

Other popular beaches at Half Moon Bay include Montara State Beach, Poplar Beach, and Gray Whale Cove.

I would also recommend taking the enchanting tree-lined trail through Fitzgerald Marine Reserve to Moss Beach.

You’ll also want to take time to walk along Main Street and check out the darling boutique shops.

Be sure to stop in at the Half Moon Bay Bakery to pick up their signature artichoke bread. The nearby town of Castroville just so happens to be the artichoke capital of the world.

And if you like seafood, Sam’s Chowder House serves up some of the best clam chowder with great ocean views.

Half Moon Bay is also home to the Mavericks, some of the biggest surf waves in the world.

The winter swell produces these monstrous 25-60 foot waves at a surf break about a half-mile offshore from Pillar Point Harbor.

If you are planning to visit Half Moon Bay, I would highly recommend watching the movie Chasing Mavericks. It is based on a true story and puts into perspective just how massive these waves are.

4. Pigeon Point Lighthouse

As you head south, take a quick stop at the Pigeon Point Lighthouse.

This historic 115-foot lighthouse was built in 1871 and is considered the tallest lighthouse on the west coast.

The lighthouse and cottage are currently undergoing renovations and closed for tours, but check the Pigeon Point State Park website for updated information.

However, the fog signal building and oil bunker are open to visitors every Thursday through Monday.

The grounds are also beautiful to walk around and take in the ocean views from the coastal lookout point.

5. Shark Fin Cove

This idyllic sandy cove is found just off Highway 1.

It is named for the massive shark fin-shaped rock jutting out of the water just off the shore.

There is a parking area and a dirt path leading to a lookout point. You can also continue down the rocky trail to reach the beach.

There is a strong undercurrent at Shark Fin Cove, so swimming is not recommended. However, it’s a beautiful secluded spot to sunbathe and listen to the waves crash.

6. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a laid-back beach town known for its surfing, its world-famous boardwalk, and the Santa Cruz logo that you can find on every t-shirt and sticker in town.

Your first stop should be at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest amusement park in California.

Here you’ll find a variety of midway games and rides, including the Giant Dipper roller coaster.

This vintage wooden coaster has been in operation for nearly 100 years and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Afterward, head over to Pacific Avenue for some shopping and to grab a bite to eat at one of the many outdoor cafes.

Be sure to save room for a scoop of homemade ice cream with toasted marshmallow topping at the Penny Ice Creamery!

I would recommend spending the night in Santa Cruz at the Beach Street Inn and Suites.

The rooms are spacious and clean and the prices are reasonable. It is also conveniently located just across the street from the beach and boardwalk.

For more recommendations, see our guide 7 Unique Things to do in Santa Cruz.

7. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Start your morning off with a 20-minute drive inland from Santa Cruz to visit Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

This state park is home to a 40-acre ancient coastal redwood grove.

There is a network of hiking trails that lead through the towering redwoods. You can even walk inside the hollow base of the Fremont Tree with a circumference of 46 feet.

One of the most popular things to do at Henry Cowell State Park is to take a ride on the Roaring Camp Railroad.

Guests will climb aboard an authentic 1890s steam locomotive and enjoy a narrated train ride through the redwood forest.

The train will embark on a 75-minute journey along a winding narrow-gauge railroad, over a trestle bridge, and through the heart of the redwood forest before reaching the summit of Bear Mountain.

It truly is a magical experience, especially in the morning when the sun slants through the trees.

8. Capitola

After your morning train ride, head to Capitola to grab a bite to eat.

Capitola is a vibrant waterfront community known for its colorful beach cottages that dot the shore of Capitola Beach.

In 1874, Camp Capitola was founded as the first beach resort in California.

The crowning jewel was the ornate Hotel Capitola, a Victorian-style hotel that was built in 1895 but sadly burned down in 1929.

While you’re in Capitola, grab some lunch at Paradise Beach Grille. This casual restaurant has delicious food and an outdoor patio that overlooks Capitola Beach.

The Shadowbrook Restaurant is also a great dining option in Capitola. This beautiful and unique restaurant was once a log cabin that served as a summer home back in the 1920s.

Take a cable car from the parking lot down to the restaurant where you’ll find an eclectic mix of indoor and outdoor dining rooms surrounded by lush gardens.

The food is decent, but the experience is what makes Shadowbrook one of the highest-rated restaurants in Capitola.

9. Monterey

Monterey is a picturesque coastal town tucked into the southern end of Monterey Bay.

Back in the 1900s, Monterey was a bustling port town in the heart of a thriving fishing industry.

A massive sardine cannery was built near the docks, which is now the location for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is considered one of the best aquariums in the world.

Spend a few hours taking in the exhibits, especially the 28-foot-tall Living Kelp Forest and the 1.2 million gallon Open Sea Exhibit.

Walk along Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf to visit the shops and appreciate the city’s early industrial era.

I would also recommend renting e-bikes and riding along the 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. This scenic paved trail hugs the coastline and offers spectacular views.

For more scenic views, drive along the famed 17-Mile Drive at Pebble Beach.

Here you’ll find the world-famous golf course, as well as notable stops along the drive including the Lone Cypress, the Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point, and China Rock.

For more details and recommendations, see our guide The Best Things to do in Monterey.

10. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea is love at first sight.

This walkable storybook town has an old-fashioned air about it, with a town bakery, cozy bookshop, neighborhood post office, and a cottage that sells homemade fudge.

Visit the shops along Ocean Avenue then follow the road until it dead ends at the pristine Carmel Beach.

Enjoy a meal at one of the many local eateries where you’ll find fresh locally sourced ingredients with a side of small-town hospitality.

Take a self-guided audio tour to see the Fairytale Cottages and learn about the history of these charming structures that are unique to this town.

I would also recommend spending the night at a cozy bed-and-breakfast in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s the perfect jumping-off point to exploring Big Sur.

For more details and recommendations, see our guide for the Best Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

11. Big Sur

The next morning, get an early start to your day.

You’re going to want to take in the awe-inspiring views of the Big Sur coast without all of the crowds.

And as an added bonus, the early morning haze gives off an ethereal beauty that is unmatched.

Your first stop will be at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve where I would recommend taking the South Shore Trail from Hidden Beach to Bird Island.

This 1-mile loop trail will take you past China Cove, which is arguably the prettiest spot at Point Lobos.

Your next stop is the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most iconic and photogenic stops along the Big Sur coast.

Next, head to Pfeiffer Beach. You’ll need to get here early before the lot fills up and closes for the day.

This remote beach is home to the famed Keyhole Arch, as well as sand dunes speckled with purple sand.

Stop for lunch at Big Sur Village and grab a bite to eat at Café Kevah while soaking in the coastal views.

Head a little further south to McWay Falls where you can find a sandy beach with an 80-foot waterfall spilling into the jewel-toned ocean below.

It truly is the crowning jewel of the Pacific Coast Highway and the best ending to your road trip!

For more recommended stops, see our guide to the Prettiest Stops on a Big Sur Road Trip.

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I hope this guide helps as you plan the best stops from San Francisco to Big Sur on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip!

And if you’re planning to continue your road trip down the coast, see our guide for the best road trip stops from Oceanside to San Diego.

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