3 Day PCH Itinerary: Los Angeles to San Francisco

Planning Your Pacific Coast Highway Adventure A Comprehensive Guide

So, you're dreaming of cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), wind in your hair, sun on your face, and the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean stretching out beside you? Excellent choice! This iconic road trip is a bucket-list experience for a reason. But before you just hop in the car and go, a little planning can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a logistical headache. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan an amazing 3-day PCH road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco. We'll cover the best route, must-see stops, where to stay, and even some gear recommendations to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Let's dive in!

Day 1 Los Angeles to Santa Barbara Coastal Cruising Begins

Your PCH adventure begins in the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles. Before hitting the road, grab some coffee and a quick breakfast. Then, point your car north and prepare to be amazed. The initial stretch of the PCH from LA isn't always the most scenic, but it quickly transforms as you head towards Malibu.

Malibu Beaches and Coastal Views A Perfect Start

Malibu is your first major stop. Famous for its beautiful beaches and celebrity homes, Malibu offers a taste of Southern California luxury. Consider stopping at:

• Zuma Beach: A wide, sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• El Matador State Beach: Known for its dramatic rock formations and sea caves, perfect for photos.
• Malibu Pier: A classic pier with restaurants, shops, and stunning views.

Grab lunch at a beachfront cafe in Malibu for a truly Californian experience. After Malibu, the PCH starts to hug the coastline more closely, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Ventura and Oxnard Coastal Towns with Charm

Continuing north, you'll pass through the charming coastal towns of Ventura and Oxnard. These towns offer a more laid-back atmosphere than Malibu and are worth a quick stop if you have time.

• Ventura Harbor Village: A waterfront village with shops, restaurants, and boat tours.
• Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center (Oxnard): Learn about the unique Channel Islands and plan a day trip.

Santa Barbara The American Riviera A Day's Destination

Your final destination for Day 1 is Santa Barbara, often called the "American Riviera" for its Mediterranean climate, Spanish Colonial architecture, and stunning beaches. Check into your hotel and then explore the city.

• State Street: Santa Barbara's main street, lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
• Santa Barbara Mission: A beautiful historic mission with stunning architecture and gardens.
• Stearns Wharf: A historic pier with restaurants, shops, and ocean views.

Enjoy dinner at one of Santa Barbara's many excellent restaurants. Consider trying some fresh seafood or Spanish-inspired cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the sunset.

Day 2 Santa Barbara to Big Sur Coastal Majesty Unveiled

Day 2 is where the PCH really starts to live up to its reputation. This is a day of stunning coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking vistas. Be prepared to make frequent stops to soak it all in.

Solvang A Taste of Denmark in California

Before leaving Santa Barbara, consider a short detour to Solvang, a charming Danish village located a few miles inland. Solvang is known for its windmills, Danish bakeries, and unique shops. It's a fun and quirky stop that provides a nice contrast to the coastal scenery.

Highway 1 Scenic Drive Bixby Bridge and Beyond

The real adventure begins as you leave Santa Barbara and head north on Highway 1. This stretch of the PCH is incredibly scenic, with winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and stunning ocean views. Take your time and enjoy the drive.

One of the most iconic landmarks on this stretch of the PCH is the Bixby Bridge. This impressive bridge spans a deep canyon and offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Be sure to stop and take some photos.

As you continue north, you'll pass through several small towns and scenic viewpoints. Consider stopping at:

• Hearst Castle: A magnificent estate built by William Randolph Hearst, offering tours and stunning views. Book in advance!
• Elephant Seal Vista Point: Observe hundreds of elephant seals basking in the sun on the beach.
• Ragged Point Inn & Resort: A clifftop resort with stunning views and a restaurant.

Big Sur The Jewel of the Central Coast

Your final destination for Day 2 is Big Sur, a rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline known for its dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and stunning scenery. Check into your hotel or campsite and then explore the area.

• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Hike among towering redwood trees and enjoy the natural beauty of Big Sur.
• McWay Falls: A stunning waterfall that plunges directly onto the beach.
• Nepenthe: A legendary restaurant with stunning views and a bohemian atmosphere.

Enjoy dinner at one of Big Sur's unique restaurants. Nepenthe is a popular choice, but be prepared for a wait. After dinner, relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of Big Sur.

Day 3 Big Sur to San Francisco Golden Gate Awaits

Day 3 is your final day on the PCH. While you'll be leaving the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur behind, there's still plenty of stunning scenery to enjoy as you head north towards San Francisco.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Artistic Charm and Coastal Beauty

Before leaving Big Sur, consider a short detour to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming town known for its art galleries, unique shops, and beautiful beaches. Carmel is a great place to grab breakfast or lunch and browse the local shops.

17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach and Scenic Wonders

Just north of Carmel is the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic toll road that winds along the coast and past some of the most famous golf courses in the world. The 17-Mile Drive offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Pebble Beach, and the Lone Cypress, a famous landmark.

Monterey Bay Aquarium Marine Life Encounters

Monterey is another must-see stop on your PCH road trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the world, with a vast collection of marine life, including sea otters, jellyfish, and sharks. Allow at least a few hours to explore the aquarium.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Classic California Fun

As you continue north towards San Francisco, you'll pass through Santa Cruz, a beach town known for its surf culture and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic amusement park with rides, games, and attractions. If you have time, consider spending a few hours at the boardwalk.

San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge Arrival

Your PCH road trip culminates in San Francisco, one of the most iconic cities in the world. As you approach San Francisco, you'll catch your first glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge, a symbol of the city and a truly breathtaking sight. Drive across the bridge and take some photos to commemorate your PCH adventure.

Once you're in San Francisco, check into your hotel and explore the city. Some of the must-see attractions in San Francisco include:

• Golden Gate Bridge: Walk or bike across the bridge for stunning views.
• Alcatraz Island: Take a ferry to Alcatraz and tour the infamous former prison.
• Fisherman's Wharf: A bustling waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and sea lions.
• Chinatown: The largest Chinatown outside of Asia, with authentic restaurants and shops.
• Golden Gate Park: A vast park with gardens, museums, and attractions.

Enjoy dinner at one of San Francisco's many excellent restaurants. San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafes. After dinner, take a walk and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Essential Gear and Gadgets for Your PCH Road Trip

To make your PCH road trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible, consider investing in some essential gear and gadgets. Here are a few recommendations:

Dash Cam Car Camera Recording Your Journey

A dash cam can be a valuable tool for recording your PCH road trip. It can capture stunning footage of the scenery, as well as provide evidence in case of an accident. We recommend the Garmin Dash Cam 67W. It offers a wide 180-degree field of view, high-quality 1440p resolution, and features like automatic incident detection and voice control. Its use case is primarily safety and documenting your travels. Compared to the cheaper Rexing V1P Pro, the Garmin offers better image quality and more advanced features, but comes at a higher price. The Garmin Dash Cam 67W typically retails for around $250.

Portable Power Bank Staying Connected on the Road

With all the photos and videos you'll be taking, you'll want to make sure your phone stays charged. A portable power bank is a must-have for any road trip. The Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger is a solid choice. It offers a large capacity, allowing you to charge your phone multiple times. It also features multiple USB ports, so you can charge multiple devices at once. Its use case is simply keeping your devices powered. Compared to the smaller Mophie Powerstation PD, the Anker offers significantly more capacity but is also larger and heavier. The Anker PowerCore 26800 typically retails for around $60.

Car Phone Mount Navigation and Hands-Free Calls

A car phone mount is essential for navigating and making hands-free calls while driving. The iOttie Easy One Touch 5 Dashboard & Windshield Car Mount is a popular option. It features a strong suction cup that securely attaches to your dashboard or windshield, and a one-touch mechanism for easily inserting and removing your phone. Its use case is primarily safe driving and navigation. Compared to the magnetic Mpow CD Slot Car Phone Mount, the iOttie offers a more secure grip and is compatible with a wider range of phones. The iOttie Easy One Touch 5 typically retails for around $25.

Sunscreen Protecting Your Skin from the California Sun

The California sun can be intense, especially when you're driving with the windows down. Protect your skin with a good sunscreen. We recommend EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. It's a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that's suitable for all skin types. Its use case is protecting your skin from sun damage. Compared to cheaper sunscreens like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen, EltaMD offers better protection and is less likely to cause breakouts. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 typically retails for around $35.

Sunglasses Seeing Clearly on Bright Days

Sunglasses are another essential for driving in sunny California. Choose a pair that offers good UV protection and fits comfortably. Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses are a timeless and stylish choice. They offer excellent UV protection and a comfortable fit. Their use case is protecting your eyes from the sun and reducing glare. Compared to cheaper sunglasses, Ray-Bans offer better quality lenses and a more durable frame. Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses typically retail for around $160.

Accommodation Options Along the Pacific Coast Highway

Finding the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable road trip. The PCH offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts. Here's a breakdown of some of the best places to stay along your route:

Los Angeles Hotels Starting Your Journey in Style

In Los Angeles, consider staying near the coast in areas like Santa Monica or Venice Beach. This will give you easy access to the beach and the PCH. Some popular options include:

• The Georgian Hotel (Santa Monica): A historic hotel with stunning ocean views.
• Hotel Erwin (Venice Beach): A trendy hotel with a rooftop bar.
• The Huntley Hotel (Santa Monica): A stylish hotel with a rooftop restaurant.

Santa Barbara Hotels Relaxing on the American Riviera

Santa Barbara offers a variety of hotels and resorts, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Some popular options include:

• The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara: A luxurious resort with a spa and multiple restaurants.
• Hotel Californian: A stylish hotel in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara.
• The Upham Hotel: A historic hotel with a charming courtyard.

Big Sur Hotels Immersed in Natural Beauty

Accommodation in Big Sur tends to be more expensive and limited, so it's important to book in advance. Some popular options include:

• Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort: A luxurious resort with stunning views and a spa.
• Post Ranch Inn: A renowned resort with unique architecture and breathtaking views.
• Glen Oaks Big Sur: A rustic and charming hotel with cabins and cottages.

Monterey Hotels Coastal Charm and Marine Life

Monterey offers a variety of hotels and motels, ranging from budget-friendly to upscale. Some popular options include:

• Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa: A luxurious hotel with stunning ocean views and a spa.
• InterContinental The Clement Monterey: A stylish hotel on Cannery Row.
• Hotel Pacific: A charming hotel with a courtyard and fireplaces.

San Francisco Hotels Ending Your Journey in the City

San Francisco offers a wide range of hotels to suit all budgets and tastes. Some popular options include:

• The Fairmont San Francisco: A historic hotel with stunning city views.
• Hotel Nikko San Francisco: A modern hotel in the heart of downtown San Francisco.
• Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco: A quirky and stylish hotel with a rock and roll theme.

Budgeting Your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

The cost of a PCH road trip can vary widely depending on your travel style and preferences. Here's a breakdown of some of the key expenses to consider:

Transportation Costs Gas Tolls and Parking

Gas will likely be one of your biggest expenses. The cost of gas will depend on the distance you drive, the fuel efficiency of your car, and current gas prices. Tolls are minimal on the PCH, but you'll encounter them if you take the 17-Mile Drive (around $11). Parking can be expensive in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, so factor that into your budget.

Accommodation Costs Hotels Motels and Camping

Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Hotels and resorts can range from $100 to $500+ per night, while motels and campsites can be more affordable. Consider camping to significantly reduce your accommodation costs.

Food and Drink Costs Restaurants Groceries and Snacks

Food and drink costs can also vary widely depending on your dining habits. Eating at restaurants can be expensive, especially in touristy areas. Consider packing your own snacks and groceries to save money. A good balance is to pack breakfast and lunch items and then enjoy one nice dinner out each day.

Activities and Attractions Entrance Fees Tours and Entertainment

Entrance fees to attractions like Hearst Castle and the Monterey Bay Aquarium can add up. Factor in the cost of tours, entertainment, and any other activities you plan to do. Look for free activities like hiking and exploring beaches to save money.

Sample Budget Breakdown For a 3 Day PCH Trip

Here's a sample budget breakdown for a 3-day PCH road trip for one person, assuming a mid-range travel style:

• Transportation (Gas & Tolls): $200
• Accommodation (3 nights): $450 (average $150/night)
• Food and Drink: $300
• Activities and Attractions: $150
• Total: $1100

This is just an estimate, and your actual costs may vary. You can adjust the budget based on your own travel style and preferences.

Tips for a Memorable Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Here are a few extra tips to help you plan a memorable PCH road trip:

Book Accommodation in Advance Especially During Peak Season

Accommodation along the PCH can book up quickly, especially during peak season (summer and holidays). Book your accommodation in advance to ensure you have a place to stay.

Pack for All Types of Weather Coastal Conditions Can Vary

The weather along the PCH can be unpredictable. Pack layers so you can adjust to changing conditions. Even in summer, it can be cool and foggy along the coast.

Download Offline Maps and Music Limited Cell Service

Cell service can be spotty along some stretches of the PCH. Download offline maps and music to your phone so you can navigate and stay entertained even without a connection.

Take Your Time and Enjoy the Scenery Don't Rush

The PCH is all about the journey, not the destination. Take your time, stop at scenic viewpoints, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don't rush!

Be Prepared for Traffic Especially on Weekends

Traffic can be heavy on the PCH, especially on weekends and holidays. Be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.

Check Road Conditions Before You Go Closures and Construction

Check road conditions before you go to make sure there are no closures or construction delays. Caltrans (California Department of Transportation) provides up-to-date information on road conditions.

So there you have it! A comprehensive guide to planning an unforgettable 3-day PCH road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco. With a little planning and preparation, you can create a road trip experience that you'll cherish for years to come. Now get out there and explore the open road!