Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: 15 Stops You Can’t Miss in 2025 (Free Map Included!)

Plan your dream Pacific Coast Highway road trip in 2025! Discover 15 must-see stops, insider tips, budget hacks, and a free interactive map for an unforgettable journey along California’s scenic Highway 1

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most scenic drives in the world, stretching from Northern to Southern California along Highway 1. Whether you’re a road trip veteran or a first-timer, this 2025 itinerary highlights 15 must-see stops that will make your journey unforgettable. Plus, we’ve included a free interactive map to help you navigate!

Imagine cruising past Big Sur’s cliffs with the windows down, salt spray in the air, and the Pacific shimmering under the golden sun—this is the PCH at its best.

1. San Francisco – The Golden Gate Gateway

Why it’s special: Start your trip in the City by the Bay with an iconic Golden Gate Bridge photo op. Insider tip: Sunrise at Battery Spencer offers the best view, with fewer crowds. Budget hack: Ride a free cable car from Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf using a transit day pass.

2. Half Moon Bay – A Coastal Gem

Why it’s special: Stunning cliffs, cozy seafood shacks, and dramatic waves. Insider tip: Stop at Sam’s Chowder House for the best lobster roll on the coast. Budget hack: Hike the free Bluff Trail for breathtaking ocean views.

3. Santa Cruz – Surfer’s Paradise

Why it’s special: Home to legendary surf culture and the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Insider tip: Visit the Mystery Spot, a gravity-defying local oddity. Budget hack: Enjoy free bonfires at Twin Lakes State Beach.

4. Monterey – Cannery Row & Marine Life

Why it’s special: Historic Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Insider tip: Kayak alongside sea otters in Elkhorn Slough. Budget hack: Skip the pricey aquarium and opt for Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can see marine life for free.

5. Big Sur – Bixby Bridge & McWay Falls

Why it’s special: Dramatic cliffs and waterfalls that drop into the ocean. Insider tip: Arrive at Bixby Bridge before 8 AM for the best light. Budget hack: Free camping at Kirk Creek Campground (arrive early!).

6. Pfeiffer Beach – The Purple Sand Wonder

Why it’s special: One of the only beaches with naturally purple sand. Insider tip: Visit at sunset for surreal colors. Budget hack: Park outside the entrance and walk in to save the parking fee.

7. San Simeon – Elephant Seals & Hearst Castle

Why it’s special: Massive elephant seals lounging on the shore. Insider tip: Hearst Castle is free on the first Sunday of every month. Budget hack: Stop at the Piedras Blancas Rookery—no ticket needed to see the seals.

8. Morro Bay – The Gibraltar of the Pacific

Why it’s special: A massive volcanic rock jutting from the ocean. Insider tip: Rent a kayak and paddle near Morro Rock. Budget hack: Walk the Harbor Walk for free sea lion sightings.

9. Pismo Beach – Dune Adventures

Why it’s special: The only place in California where you can drive on the beach. Insider tip: Try a classic Pismo clam chowder bowl. Budget hack: Camp at Oceano Dunes SVRA instead of expensive hotels.

10. Solvang – A Danish Delight

Why it’s special: Quaint Danish architecture and bakeries. Insider tip: Stop by Olsen’s Bakery for authentic Danish pastries. Budget hack: Free wine tastings in downtown Solvang (weekdays only).

11. Santa Barbara – The American Riviera

Why it’s special: Spanish-style architecture and pristine beaches. Insider tip: Visit the Santa Barbara Courthouse for the best city views. Budget hack: Free wine tastings at the Urban Wine Trail (select wineries).

12. Malibu – Secret Beaches

Why it’s special: Hidden beaches and celebrity homes. Insider tip: Visit El Matador Beach for stunning sea caves. Budget hack: Park along the highway to avoid the lot fee.

13. Santa Monica – Pier & Sunset Views

Why it’s special: Home to the famous Santa Monica Pier and Ferris wheel. Insider tip: Arrive at dusk for a magical sunset. Budget hack: Ride bikes for free on the 22-mile beach path using Metro Bike Share’s first 30 minutes free.

14. Venice Beach – Funky & Artsy

Why it’s special: Eclectic street performers and skate parks. Insider tip: Walk Abbot Kinney Blvd for boutique shopping. Budget hack: Free walking tour meets daily at Muscle Beach.

15. Los Angeles – The Grand Finale

Why it’s special: End your road trip in Hollywood’s glitz and glam. Insider tip: Griffith Observatory has the best free city views. Budget hack: Visit Runyon Canyon for free hiking and potential celebrity sightings.

Bonus: Free Interactive Map

To make your PCH adventure seamless, we’ve created a Google My Map with all 15 stops pinned

Monetization & Travel Essentials

Need a car rental? Check out budget-friendly options.
Book stays along the route with exclusive hotel deals.
Capture the journey with the latest gear.
Get a complete PCH guidebook with insider tips.

Final Thoughts

A Pacific Coast Highway road trip in 2025 is a dream adventure, with endless breathtaking views, hidden gems, and budget-friendly experiences. Whether you’re in it for the scenery, food, or outdoor thrills, this ultimate itinerary ensures you won’t miss a thing!

What’s your favorite PCH stop? Drop a comment below!