I have been on every mile of the PCH as a kid throwing up in the back seat of a white convertible caddie with the top down north of San Simeon where the road twist and turns like a corkscrew to later in life jamming gears in a 6 speed tricked out Miata around this same curves and others and barely holding onto the road.  Also road trips from where it hooks in at 5 in the south all the way to Legget at the 101.  As a California boy I lived for the coast so was on some part of the PCH all the time. I use to think of PCH just as in the south state since it's referred as that more down there. Not as much in NorCal. Usually just the 1 but still it is the Pacific Coast Highway. The south state it passes through most all the beach towns until south of San Simeon til you hit Carmel. There are a few more here but different vibe than the ones further south. Continuing north through San Francisco across the Golden Gate bridge into hipster old school hippie rich Marin and on to the north coast. This is probably the stretch I love the most. Insane views and great towns with some of the best unknown bars, beer halls and restaurants in the state. Traveling the PCH is not a destination it is a journey along the California coast and all it has to offer and you should take your time to enjoy and soak in the history. As a invertebrate biologist student and mycologist back in the day I have spent an insane amount of time on the coast at all hours of the night and day chasing low tides and camping along the way in designated campsites and usually some hideaway of the road so I know it well. Take your time and enjoy the beach towns and beaches in the south and the rugged coastline and establishments along the way. read more

The Pacific Coast Highway 1 is definitely a highway that is worth experiencing. The views of the breathtakingly beautiful coastline are absolutely stunning! The road twists and turns so drive slowly and soak in the views. There are lots of places to stop, stretch your legs, and soak in the views. You can sometimes see harbor seals from the side of the road where the Russian River meets the mouth of the ocean. There are plenty of restaurants and hotels/resorts you can stay at along the way if you are doing a road trip. Enjoy! read more

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Highway 1 is a perfect way to experience California's majestic coast, spanning most of the state's coastline, from Orange County in the South, all the way to Mendocino Co. in the North, over 600 miles. I have made quite a few trips on this road, primarily on the northern stretch between the Bay Area, through Point Reyes, and up to Mendocino County. My partner, the lifelong Californian, even more so. It's a two-lane road, one in each direction, for nearly the entire 600+ mile stretch, which is very cool. Unbeatable views of the Pacific. For all of California's human-inflicted problems, seeing the state's natural beauty reminds us how lucky we are to be here. The road is very windy in many spots, so if you suffer from motion sickness as I do, Dramamine is an absolute must. Be ready to use the turnouts to let other drivers pass by. Keep your eyes peeled and be ready to brake for deer and other crossing critters. On our most recent trip, there was a family of quail crossing. You never know what you're going to see. Be patient and respect all kinds. Be safe, and happy travels along CA-1! read more

Pacific Coast Highway 1 - Met this beautiful girl on our drive down from Pt. Reyes. Respect all kinds. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Amazing highway. you really have to appreciate living here, californians are really so lucky to have this beauty in their backyard. of course there's a price to pay, cost of living. anyway, get your mind off the stresses of life and take a drive. look out into the ocean. do some soul searching. single lane each side, so traffic speed may vary. it takes longer to drive than the inland highway, but totally worth it if youre down for the ride. read more

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I never thought I woken write a review for highway one, as I was looking through my old pictures from various road trips and I realize how much I have loved highway 1 most of my life so I decided to write a review. Being a native Californian as you love the coast and I love it, always have. I haven't been on this highway for over a year, and these photos are from 3+ years ago on various parts of the highway 1 It's a gorgeous highway with a lot of great pull out spots read more

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Highway 1, The Pacific Coast Highway. Yes, I drive on this roadway, so I'm qualified to comment on sections I have been on. I have not driven the entire length (655+ miles) of Hwy 1. Right now, my job sends me down to Half Moon Bay, so I drive hwy 1 from Daly City to El Granada. But I have driven from Monterey, north to San Francisco. Sections from Tomales Bay to Mill Valley. Oh yeah, and one time I drove south from Fort Bragg to Tomales Bay. Lessons learned? Driving on Hwy 1 isn't for everyone. I suggest daylight driving in fair weather. You will see incredible views, but at a price. Expect alot of curves, and narrow roads. Slow drivers, and you have to wait to pass. Do not speed! You know those "slow 25-mph" curve ahead yellow warning signs? They didn't put one on every curve on Hwy 1, so lookout. Now, what I pass all the time is the Devil's Slide Trail. Devil's Slide was a dangerous section of highway just south of Pacifica. It was prone to rock slides and road closures. Two tunnels, named the Tom Lantos Tunnels, bypass this section of Hwy 1, and create a much safer route. The closed roadway is now a walking and bike trail. Parking lots are on either end of the tunnels. So come out and enjoy the drive along California's beautiful coastline! read more

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Beautiful California Coastline We loaded up the getaway car with some snacks, filled up the gas tank, played our favorite tunes on the radio and off we went on our Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) road trip...miles and miles of breathtaking California Coastline! We drove from North to South and there was nothing obstructing our view of the mighty Pacific Ocean to our right. Our road trip started in Pacifica until we reached our destination at Pacific Grove and Monterey. It was filled with brief stops, secluded beaches, yummy food stops and little stories along the way. So many miles to cover but our road trip was just a piece of Highway 1 (a little over 100 miles)... Highway 1 runs from Mendocino County to Dana Point in Orange County (in SoCal)... some 655 miles. Love seeing cliffside views as we made stops at these viewpoints: * Devil's Slide and Devil's Slide Bunker [Pacifica] - that nerve-wracking windy road is now converted into a safer, car-less hiking path * Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve [Pescadero] - located on the eastern side of Highway 1 and is part of the Pescadero State Beach * Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park [Pescadero] - known for an important landmark, a tall picturesque lighthouse * John Denver Memorial Rock [Pacific Grove] - John Denver died when he crashed into the Pacific Ocean off this location of the California Coast. Took me awhile to find the memorial. * Bixby Bridge [Big Sur] - love the aesthetic design of this bridge... you better believe that people stop here to snap photos of this graceful architecture landmark * Pfeiffer Beach [Big Sur] - this beach is off the beaten path... I've been wanting to see its popular purple sand * McWay Falls [Big Sur] - located in a picturesque cove setting. The waterfall is not accessible to the public * Partington Cove [Big Sur] - behind the gate is a dirt road trail that leads down toward the cove. Short hike with rewarding views * Nepenthe [Big Sur] - I had the potato soup and the Ambrosiaburger while overlooking the views of the Pacific Ocean. Prepare for a long wait to be seated * Cannery Row [Monterey] - Monterey is one of the best stops along the coast. I used to frequent Monterey when I used to live in the South Bay... I love visiting Monterey and Carmel Happy Travels! Review #2460 read more

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I never thouget I'd leave a review on a highway. But this highway can't take one away from the hustle and bustle of city or even suburban life. It runs practically the whole north to south length of California and reminds you of how times can slow down a little bit. I am reminded of a YouTube video of a father and son who left SoCal to travel to the northwest point of Highway one. I believe it took them one week for these travel One can pass by old buildings abandon, or not as you trek up or down Highway one depending on what side you're on, you may have the ocean riding next to you or the mountains or farms or ranches. Definitely adhere to the suggested miles of speed as you step on the pedal. Occasionally you'll find the motorcycle that wants to pass you up. Definitely just let them pass you up so you you're so can you enjoy the scenery frame by frame. Whether you're a driver or a passenger on Highway one, it's still is a tranquil ride that seemingly forces you to just enjoy life and appreciate the natural beauty of the Cali Coast. Sorry no pics as I'm reviewing from memories. read more

As a California girl born & raised highway 1 has been woven into the fabric of my life... From a little girl in the backseat of my dad's car oohing and aahing at the beautiful scenery. To a teenager going to the beaches w/o adults for the first time. Over my lifetime I have seen almost every inch of it from the rough rocky northern coast to the white sands of southern Cal... The memories of 2 18 year old girls driving all the way to Oregon on highway 1 with the radio blasting and sunroof open... We had never heard of highway 5 back in the days before Google, Lol Driving my own kids to Hearst castle... Our most recent trip during the Covid19 lockdown I just wanted to see the ocean, I didn't mind not going on the beach. The beaches are all closed to protect dummies from themselves not socially distancing! It was a lovely drive on a beautiful day from Halfmoon Bay to Santa Cruz stopping for a snack and some pictures... Enjoy the drive if you go! read more

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Pacific Coast Highway 1 is the most beautiful drive in California. I drove from San Francisco to Los Angeles a few times. Naturally I stopped along the way to visit a city where I have friends or relatives. Other times I stopped to hike the cliffs looking down at the ocean below. Some hikes were rough but I was younger then. Heading South is better if I'm the passenger. Going back north isn't as hair raising a view. I'm going by memories. I don't have photos but it's always an unforgettable experience. You must travel that highway at least once in your lifetime. read more

A necessity for every Californian's road trip at some point in time or another. Winding roads, beautiful views, occasional slow drivers, and spots to pull over and take in the Pacific Ocean. Highway 1 has it all. My one issue with Highway 1 are the occasional slow drivers holding up traffic -- problematic because some folks will attempt driving into oncoming traffic to bypass them. At least go 55mph and no slower than that. The views are indeed gorgeous, but you can always pull over to take it all in at your leisure. :) There are many, many places to do so. Best spots for my fancy are Half Moon Bay and Pescadero, although I'm biased since these are the most recent locations I have visited. I think everyone should take a drive on Highway 1 at least once. You won't regret it. read more

We drove along the 1 while going to Big Sur. The highway is winding and hilly, but it is a beautiful scenic route that you have to do if in California area!! The Bixby Bridge was really neat to see! read more

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we only drove from Santa Cruz to Burlingame but what an amazing hour and a half of my life. Absolutely breath taking. Tons of views, many places to pull over and enjoy the scenery. Can't wait to take it a little further next trip, maybe to Big Sur read more

Pacific Coast Highway 1 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Dangerous, beautiful, curvacious...did I already say beautiful, yes I am referring to a highway, but not just any highway for those of you that knowm Highway 1 is a cool experience from one end to the next. Most locals or people in general have traversed Hwy 1 south which is pretty amazing in itself, but if you have ventured further up Hwy 1 North of Half moon bay you know its crazy outta this world views, narrow roads, and cliffs that make you cringe. Not for those weak of heart or afraid if heights you can achieve the thrills of a rollercoaster as you travel up Hwy 1. Between the fresh air, the views, and the anazing coast you wish Jesus would take the wheel so you can take in the views. Im a fan of dark, windy, cold days but even I can agree the trip up North on Hwy 1 is best when the sun is out and the ground dry as a California lawn. Beware the occasional rock slides, and forget the deer. This is a must see if you are able to experience this journey in the right conditions. Cheers to Coastal thrills on the 1!!!! read more

Pacific Coast Highway 1 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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love the beaches love the terrain don't love slow drivers w no passing lane which is a lot of it read more

Whew, that HWY 1 is no joke. I commute from SC to HMB about 4 times a week and it is a beautiful sight to take in each morning and afternoon. Mandatory stops at Waddell beach. I also like to just randomly park in a turnout, pop the chair out the back of my car and just gaze out into the open Pacific Ocean. What a sight, it never gets old. :) read more

Awesome. That's how I'd sum it up. Unfortunately, I chose to make the drive the day after there was a landslide, so I was forced to turn around at Big Sur. But, the section I was able to drive was breathtaking. read more

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Pacific Coast Highway 1 was such a nice drive! Especially if you are driving from Los Angeles and heading to San Francisco! It was a breathtaking experience seeing the coast in person. Be sure to pack food with you before you drive on the PCH. It can be a long drive depending on where you will be heading. Without exaggeration, it took us 12 hours from LA to SF with numerous pit stops. Therefore, packing food was definitely a great idea! Yes, take lots and lots of pictures when you stop, cherish the view and breathe in the fresh breezy air! read more

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Aren't you in love with California?!?!?! We are literally half way to our to destination....Morro Bay......so that meant 'Driver change'.. my stint is over for the day! Woo Hoo! Such a beautiful drive, with breathtaking views! We got lots of snacks to hold us over to our destination. Happy Trails... read more

After spending my birthday in Moss Beach, I wanted to take the long scenic drive home. I couldn't think of how to get from 1 to San Jose but we just drove until we landed in Santa Cruz. It was a really pretty drive for the most part. There's lots of towns and small beaches. Next time we'll try and start earlier to hit up some of the towns. Little to no traffic especially when you get further away from Half Moon Bay. After landing in Santa Cruz we decided to continue our long drive and went on Highway 9. I highly suggest taking this long but relaxing drive! read more

My favorite drive in the world! This is the drive that made us want to move to California! It is the best! Every turn is better than the last! Tips: Take food and picnic unless you want to pay a premium for food, gas, etc. If you do stop, there are fun places to stop and I recommend the Nepenthe on Big Sur. Also stop as many places as you can, but you might want to be out by dark unless you just like risking your life. A picnic at sunset would be perfect at any of the Vista Points, and it is worth the time to stop and walk down to the waterfalls, and other stops along the way. Take water with you, and be warned, you have NO CELL PHONE SERVICE on Big Sur for the entire length of it with very few exceptions. This drive is the best there is! Enjoy! read more

On the advice of locals I ventured on the Pacific Coast Highway. The view is breathtaking and can be scary too. Winding and going on for miles. I traveled the highway to Stinson beach which was crowded, lack parking and did not allow for a true visit. I basically turned around and headed back to San Rafael. Along the way there appeared to be horseback riding business and a Zen business of sort. I did like that there were turn outs along the way to take a break from all the winding roads. My advice is that I wouldn't travel this road at night. My 5 stars are for the sights while on the mountainside. Not sure I'd want to do this again but glad I survived this little adventure :) read more

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this ride! View is always spectacular and different depending on the day. The new rest stop and walking/biking path by the new tunnels is fantastic. Great stop to catch a breathtaking sunset....soak it all in before heading back home. read more

Beautiful place to visit, this drive was definitely on my bucket list of things to do in the next 5 years. I would most definitely do this again. Short story on how I ended up here. I had like a week off from work and didn't have a plan on what to do so one morning I packed everything and jumped in my pickup truck and drove to California to do the highway 1 drive. I started my trip in San Diego and drove up to San Francisco. Once I reached San Francisco I decided to do the drive back but I only made it back to Long Beach I was running out of time. Once I reached Long Beach I drove back home to Texas. I do agree this is most scenic drives you can ever do. read more

His place is the best. Seriously, game change. Joan's first day and she killed it! Definitely coming back.