California's Route 1, The Coast and Me
Last Updated: February 25, 2026
THINKING OF DRIVING CALIFORNIA'S ROUTE 1? JUMP IN THE DRIVING SEAT WITH US BEFORE YOU GO.
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The Lowdown on California's Route 1
California's Route 1, or Highway 1, has to be a contender for the most jaw-droppingly scenic driving roads in the world. Personally, it has everything, quirky little towns, sprawling in your face cities, cosy bays, wildlife and sunsets you could watch for eternity.
Furthermore, taking short detour's here and there you'll find activities from the weird and wonderful to the darn right astonishing. Some of which I visit in this blog.
Having driven another contender, namely The Great Ocean Road in Australia, the two do not compare. Whilst built within years of each other, California's Route 1 is over four times longer and dominates The Great Ocean Road in every category.
It's simply stunning.
So where and what is California's Route 1?
Route 1 is a 1055km (655 miles) highway that hugs the Pacific coast of California, USA. It runs from Capistrano Beach to the south, where it leaves the San Diego Freeway just north of San Clemente, to its northern tip in Leggett where it joins Highway 101, 3 hours north of San Francisco.
How Long is the drive?
If you were to drive continuously from tip to tip, you'd be looking somewhere in the region of 12 hours, depending on traffic. Obviously, I'd not recommend doing that. In brief, there are many famous and enchanting stops along the way, and I'd advise you see as many of them, as time and funds allow.
Hence, I would allow for a minimum of 3 nights, although, ideally you'd spend longer driving and exploring this fantastic coastal paradise.
Where to Join Route 1
For the most part, there is no right or wrong direction for driving Route 1. It's purely preference. Whilst officially, Cali's Route 1 starts (or ends) in Capistrano Beach, you don't have to start your journey there. Those who want to say "completed it mate" will do, others will lay back and pick it up where they see fit.
To put it differently, if you're flying in or out of LA, do you want to drive a few hours south, only to turn back? That's your call. I, however, didn't.
In this journey, I travel north, starting in South Los Angeles, ending my time on Route 1 by driving over the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
If, however, you decide to complete the full distance, you'll start an hour or so south of me, as you dive off the San Diego Freeway.
So, now you know a little bit about California's Route 1, I'll dive into my story, and for those starting in Capistrano Beach, this should be your first stop.
The city of Angels
Now that we'd picked up our rental, sadly nothing as fancy as the open-top Ford Mustang for our Hawaii road trip, we set out to explore LA.
Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, the end of Route 66 and Griffith Observatory, and now the first of many stops on your tour of California's Route 1. The city is widely known as the arts and entertainment capital of the world, and you soon see why. No journey along Route 1 would be complete with an overnight stop here in the city. After all, there is a lot to see and do.
Like most, our first destination was the Hollywood sign and a stroll along The Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard. Whilst in the area, we joined an open-top bus around Beverly Hills. After all, the house from our childhood favourite Fresh Prince of Bel-Air was part of the tour. If you know, you know. This lead to an exhilarating day around Universal Studios topped with a nightcap at the outstanding Griffith Observatory.
If you're looking to stay in the heart of the action, the wonderful Samesun Hollywood is for you. The Samesun is opposite the Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars, on the walk of fame, and only a short ride from the Hollywood Sign. It's an ideal location for your LA stay. Plus, I loved it, and am going to recommend it.
The following morning, head for the coast, more specifically, Santa Monica Pier, the official end of Route 66. Here you'll find the delights of Muscle Beach, where yes, I curled out a rep.
All in all, I think the 'big guys' were impressed. Nonetheless, I didn't want to show them up, so headed to the Bubba Gumps for a well-earned beer, and a bite to eat.
There's Always a Diversion on California's Route 1
Once watered and fed, we left the restaurant and hopped in the car for the next leg of our Route 1 adventure. Pulling out of the car park as the parking-meter hit zero, we headed north, leaving the panda mania of LA behind us.
Albeit, we didn’t get too far before the first issue reared its ugly head. A short stretch of Route 1 was closed just north of LA. This time, a storm felled a couple of trees blocking the route.
I should mention, this is not uncommon along Route 1. There are often short sections closed due to repairs, Mother Nature, or some form of accident. Be assured there are many diversions in place for such events. You have to accept that you cannot "complete it mate" all the time. There will always be little interruptions along the way.
We followed the diversion up into the mountains, where the roads became very dangerous. By now, the rain had come from nowhere and was lashing down. Neither of us could see more than a cars-length ahead. Yet, we decided to push on. Within 15 minutes of the diversion, we had witnessed our first accident, and it was brutal.
Eventually, the road of death gave way as we were taken back on to California's Route 1. Unfortunately, the weather hadn’t stopped and didn't show any signs of improvements. The views had become as limited out to sea, as they were on the road. I couldn’t see a thing, which wasn't how we had planned our drive up California's epic Pacific Coast.
A Night in Santa Barbara
As the carnival was wrapping up in the rain, we arrived in Santa Barbara at 7pm. On average, the drive is an hour and a half. Yet in this rain, and with the added diversion, we had spent 3 hours on the road.
There wasn't much to see or anything to do, due to the weather. So we found our little hostel, which looked more like a small house. We'd booked into the IHSP Santa Barbara. The staff were lovely, and couldn't do enough to help us out. IHSP had a chilled vibe and a calming ora. In general, I'd describe the hostel as basic, yet it met all of our needs.
The only real complaint would be with the poor excuse of a shower. Yet, I would happily stay there again. In fact, I'd go as far as saying it was brilliant.
As for Santa Barbara, it's a beautiful small city with a unique charm, especially down on the boardwalk. Beautiful tall palms line the thin beaches as they do the promenade. Moving inland the palm trees diversify, as does the architecture and style of Santa Barbara.
The wide-open roads with views up to the hills are phenomenal. The city centre is gorgeous, trees and exquisite lampposts don the pavements. Behind them, the shops and restaurants use large archways to draw your attention. As you can tell, I have a soft spot for Santa Barbara.
After exploring, enjoy a good night's sleep in preparation for your next leg of California's Route 1 tomorrow.
The following morning we were up bright and early, where choccy chip pancakes and a cuppa made for the perfect start to a day. Furthermore, blue skies greeted us, so we headed for a stroll on the promenade and around the city centre. Bliss.
Views Around Every Corner
Leaving the confines of the beautiful little city, we headed west for the next leg of the journey.
The first notable stop comes within the half-hour. Turning inland at Gaviota State Park, I suggest you look back (not the driver) to see a rickety old railway bridge that arches over the beach. The fantastic design lurches overhead as a few who brave the cold Pacific enjoy the crisp gold sands below.
Driving through Gaviota State Park is in complete contrast to the coast, as the scenery completely changes. The sea gives way to lush greenery, creeks and fantastic trails through the trees. For those interested in hiking, this is the perfect place for you.
As the road splits with the 101 heading northeast, you'll spill west as you continue on California's Route 1.
From here you won't see the coast again for an hour as you weave through stunning countryside and a couple of smaller towns. Your next view of the coast comes at Pismo Beach. Take a quick look as it soon vanishes once again until you come face to face with the monstrously beautiful Morro Bay.
I stopped for a stretch of the legs, and I suggest you do the same. Morro Bay is magnificent in many ways. Ideally, spend an hour or so wandering around the cascade of wooden 'warehouse-type' shops and restaurants. All of which back out on to the narrow channel with a flotilla of small boats. This small fishing village is beautiful, as is Morrow Rock.
Morro Rock rises from the shimmering calm waters held in this natural harbour. It turns out I spent so long here I ended up having lunch in the Dutchmans. The chowder with fish and chips was divine. Again, highly recommended.
The Wildlife on California's Route 1
Once we had stuffed our faces silly in the Dutchmans, watching the sea otter and seals in the bay, we rejoined Route 1.
Leaving the majestic Morro Bay, the road hugged the coast providing unbelievable views across the Pacific. Like us, you'll want to stop every 30 seconds to take pictures, or maybe only to admire the glistening seas. Be assured there are numerous stops and laybys for this, so do not worry if you miss one.
Yet, there is one stop you cannot afford to miss. About 40 to 50 minutes north of Morro Bay, you'll find the Elephant Seal Visitor Point. Make your way down the boardwalk, where an army of elephant seals bask in the heat of the sun's rays.
I'd never seen elephant seals in the wild before. Their size really surprised me. They're fucking huge.
It made me appreciate how the fish and squid must feel seeing the bigger lads coming for them on those David Attenborough documentaries. Scary stuff I'm sure.
Whilst adult males weren't something you'd want to piss-off, there were, adorable little wide-eyed pups playing along the shore. Like many others, we stopped and watched them for longer than we first thought. However, time-pressed on, and the sun was steaming overhead. We had to carry on north.
Killer Sunsets Over Big Sur
Shortly after experiencing life among the Elephant Seal's the road really starts to cling to the cliff-face. We saw numerous whales off the coast which rounded off a perfect day of wildlife on California's Route 1. Just make sure the driver isn't the main whale-watcher, or you could be joining them in the cold Pacific.
Even this isn't the pinnacle of the day. There's more.
Sunsets are as big of a deal in California as Ron Burgandy, and they're well worth planning your trip around. Big Sur is one of the most famous and memorable stops along Route 1. I'd recommend enjoying a sunset here if your timings allow. Big Sur's rugged coastline and iconic bridge provide an unusual backdrop, as the sun sets on the horizon.
There are many places around Big Sur to enjoy the sunset. Be it on the hill overlooking the town, a layby or the beach itself. No matter your choice, you'll be in for a treat.
Big Sur, Monterey and On To Santa Cruz
Unequivocally Big Sur is one of the magical moments of California's Route 1. However, this does mean it's become a tourist trap, which is a real shame. Its beauty shines through, and it is worth shortstop. Take it for what it is, and not what its become. Which, I can only describe as several small batches of houses hidden in the trees. Each cluster of buildings comes complete with a couple of camping sites, making accommodation plentiful. It's strange really but set amid a luscious green backdrop no one can deny its beauty.
Around half an hour up the coast, the impressive and famed Monterey looms. Having missed out on the city, I cannot recommend it. I have, however, only heard great things. Monterey is well-known fo this magical whale watching.
Honestly, after a short drive around, I wish I'd stayed here for the night. The small city centre around the aquarium looked delightful, as were the views. Next time, I'm coming for you Monterey.
I stayed on the other side of Monterey Bay in the city of Santa Cruz. Firstly, my wanting to stay in Monterey does not affect my feelings towards Santa Cruz. I loved the city, and would happily stay there again too.
Both towns have a different feel yet possess many similar traits, and there's plenty to do in each. Santa Cruz has a more youthful and family outlook with amusement parks and beaches. Whilst Monterey revolves more around whale watching, food and its history.
Luckily for the third night in a row, we found some fantastic accommodation. The HI-Santa Cruz Hostel on Main Street is easily the best-looking hostel I've stayed. The glamorous white wooden buildings and pretty hostel grounds instantly put a smile on our faces.
Another Night on California's Route 1
Sorry for the double photo but I felt the hostel deserved it. Similarly, it deserves your custom. During my stay, the hostel felt empty, meaning the atmosphere was lacking - not that it mattered. It had all the facilities, a reception, kitchen and computer room in one delightful hut. A massive lounge, toilet and washroom in another and a final smaller cabin complete with bedrooms, another lounge and a further smaller bathroom. Phenomenal.
In part, due to our late arrival, and the cosy feel to the hostel, we didn't even go out. We spent the evening relaxing with a few beers and some home cooking. Equally, I think we both needed it after a long day on Route 1.
In order to fit in another full-day, we woke early, starting the only way we Brits know - a good cup of tea. After, we strolled along Santa Cruz Wharf which jutted out into the bay. Whilst spectacular, it gave for views we weren't expecting, yep, another oncoming storm. As a result, we raced down the boardwalk, hoping to ride the rollercoasters before the deluge.
Suddenly the rain fell ferociously from the heavens, which ended our fun and games. So bravely, we dived into the Beach Street Cafe for a bite to eat. It meant a second breakfast and a surprisingly delicious omelette.
However, the rain only got harder meaning we never got to experience the thrills and spills of the rollercoasters. Reluctantly, we decided to press on, jumping back on to California's Route 1.
Besides, they do say you should always have a reason to return somewhere. Every cloud!
A Slight Detour From Route 1
And now for something completely different.
We'd heard stories about a weird and wonderful place that you wouldn't believe unless you'd seen it with your own eyes. Winchester Mystery House sounded too good to miss. To that end, we left Route 1 behind and headed north on Route 17 to San Jose. We arrived in the centre of San Jose and went for a visit.
In a word; bonkers.
Legend has it, that an elderly lady by the name of Sarah Winchester owned the house until she died, in 1922. She was part of the family that introduced Winchester guns if that helps picture the scene. After her son and her husband died, she couldn't cope and lost her way. She started attending a psychic, who told her to build a house, and to keep building. Winchester Mystery House was, said house.
There are over 160 rooms in the property. Stairs that led nowhere, other than to a wall or the ceiling. Stairs that rejoined themselves, and rooms with no doors at all. The builders did her over big time. They kept taking more and more money until they couldn't fake building any more.
The property was enchanting, the story interesting, and the grounds were spectacularly beautiful. Yet, the tour itself felt fake and was very overpriced. Even the original furniture had been removed, which was disappointing.
For this reason, I'd say whilst it's worth seeing, it's just as rewarding to save your money. To put it differently, give the story a quick read, check out a couple of pictures, and there you go.
The End of our Adventure on California's Route 1
After a morning of weirdness and madness, we left San Jose only to return briefly for a 49er's game a week later. Quickly, we re-joined Route 1 on the western fringes of San Francisco. Here we crossed the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge ending our time on California's Route 1.
It was now time to sit back and enjoy the hilliest city I'd ever been to; San Francisco. In contrast, it's also one of the most beautiful. If you're looking to stay in the city, I stayed at the Found Hotel. In spite of its name, it's more a posh hostel that a hotel. Furthermore, it's in a great location, well maintained, friendly and has all you'll need for your stay in the city.
Ordinarily, I'd have loved to have driven further on Route 1, but I had plans in the city. So sadly, this is where our journey ends. For those "completed it mate" people, enjoy the remainder of the drive. I bet it's beautiful.
Hopefully, you now feel you're in the driving seat with your newfound knowledge and can tackle Route 1. Let us know what you think with a quick comment below.
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