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Embark on a breathtaking journey along California’s Pacific Coast Highway. From San Francisco’s hills to the serene MacKerricher State Park, explore majestic cliffs, charming coastal towns, ancient forests, and dazzling seascapes on this unforgettable road trip.
The Pacific Coast Highway, known locally as Route 1 or simply “the One,” is a breathtaking journey along California’s North Coast. Stretching from the roller-coaster hills of San Francisco to the dazzling seascapes of the North Coast, this iconic route offers an array of scenic riches, from majestic cliffs and endless churning seas to workaday fishing towns set in tidy coves. Ancient forests nourished by moist ocean air and folded hills parade toward the shimmering blue waters of the Pacific. It’s no wonder residents consider this coastal strip one of the state’s most prized possessions.
This road trip guide takes you through 16 must-see stops along this magnificent highway, ensuring you experience the best sights, hikes, accommodations, and dining along the way.
Marin Headlands
Starting just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands offers stunning views of the bridge and the San Francisco skyline. The rugged coastline, rolling hills, and historic military sites make it a perfect introduction to the scenic wonders of Route 1. As you drive up Conzelman Road, the panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge against the backdrop of the city and the bay are breathtaking. Don’t miss the Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s Visitor Center, where you can learn about the natural and cultural history of the region.
Panorama of the San Francisco Golden Gate bridge in Marin Headlands, California.
Hiking enthusiasts will find several trails to explore. The Coastal Trail offers sweeping ocean views and a chance to spot migrating whales during the right season. The Rodeo Lagoon is another highlight, offering a tranquil spot for bird-watching and picnicking. For history buffs, the remnants of military installations like Battery Spencer and Battery Mendell provide a glimpse into the area’s strategic importance during World War II. The Marin Headlands Center for the Arts, located in a restored military building, offers contemporary art exhibits and programs, adding a cultural twist to your visit.
For an overnight stay, consider the charming Cavallo Point Lodge, which combines luxury with stunning views. Located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the lodge offers historic and contemporary lodging options, a full-service spa, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Dining at the on-site Murray Circle restaurant provides a gourmet start to your journey, with a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy dishes crafted from seasonal produce and sustainable seafood, paired with a selection of fine wines from the region.
Panorama of coastline from trail, Pirates Cove Trail, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California.
Muir Woods National Monument
A short detour from Route 1 leads to Muir Woods, home to ancient coast redwoods that tower over visitors. Walking through the serene forest on trails like the Main Trail Loop or the more strenuous Dipsea Trail, you’ll be immersed in nature’s grandeur. The cool, misty air and the sound of the creek add to the tranquil atmosphere. The park’s well-maintained boardwalks make it accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities, allowing everyone to experience the awe-inspiring presence of these giant trees.
The main trail offers an easy, flat walk that is perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely stroll. For a more challenging hike, try the Ben Johnson Trail, which offers a steeper ascent and connects with the Dipsea Trail, providing stunning views of the forest canopy and the surrounding hills. As you wander through the forest, look out for interpretive signs that offer insights into the ecology and history of the redwoods, as well as the efforts to preserve this unique environment.
After exploring the woods, head back to Route 1 and enjoy a meal at the Parkside Cafe in Stinson Beach. This local favorite offers a variety of fresh, organic dishes, including seafood, salads, and hearty breakfasts. The outdoor seating area is perfect for soaking in the coastal atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss their homemade pastries and desserts.
For accommodations, consider the rustic yet comfortable Pelican Inn, located nearby in Muir Beach. This charming inn, designed in the style of a 16th-century English country inn, offers cozy rooms, a pub serving traditional English fare, and a beautiful garden. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of hiking and exploring the majestic redwoods.
Muir Woods
Point Reyes National Seashore
Continuing north, Point Reyes National Seashore is a must-see destination offering dramatic coastal scenery, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities. Begin your visit at the Bear Valley Visitor Center, where you can gather information on hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and historical sites. The park is home to over 1500 species of plants and animals, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
The Point Reyes Lighthouse, perched on a rugged cliff, is a highlight of the park. The lighthouse, built in 1870, offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and is a prime spot for whale watching during migration seasons. To reach the lighthouse, be prepared for a steep descent of 300 steps, but the breathtaking views are worth the effort. The visitor center near the lighthouse provides historical exhibits and information about the area’s maritime history.
For hiking, the Tomales Point Trail offers stunning views of Tomales Bay and the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities to see Tule elk, wildflowers, and seabirds. The 9.7-mile round trip is moderately challenging but offers spectacular scenery along the way. Another great option is the Chimney Rock Trail, which provides dramatic coastal views and a chance to see elephant seals during the breeding season.
Dining options in the area include the renowned Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station, where you can sample and purchase artisanal cheeses made from locally sourced ingredients. For a more substantial meal, head to Osteria Stellina, which offers farm-to-table Italian cuisine with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients.
Accommodations in Point Reyes range from charming bed and breakfasts to rustic lodges. The Point Reyes Hostel offers affordable, comfortable lodging within the park, while the Point Reyes Seashore Lodge provides a more upscale experience with beautiful gardens, a creekside setting, and an on-site restaurant.
Point Reyes Lighthouse, Point Reyes National Seashore.
Tomales Bay State Park
Just a short drive from Point Reyes, Tomales Bay State Park offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the bay and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The park is divided into two main areas: Heart’s Desire Beach and the Jepson/Indian Beach area. Heart’s Desire Beach is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and kayaking. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for families, and the surrounding picnic areas provide plenty of space for a relaxing lunch.
For hiking, the Jepson Trail offers a moderate 2.3-mile loop through diverse landscapes, including coastal scrub, grasslands, and forested areas. The Indian Beach area features cultural exhibits that highlight the history and traditions of the Coast Miwok people, the original inhabitants of the region. Interpretive signs and a reconstructed Miwok village provide a fascinating glimpse into their way of life.
Kayaking on Tomales Bay is a popular activity, offering a unique perspective of the bay’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Rental kayaks are available at nearby marinas, and guided tours can take you to see harbor seals, sea otters, and a variety of bird species. The bioluminescent waters of Tomales Bay offer a magical experience on night paddles, where the water glows with every stroke of your paddle.
For dining, the Marshall Store is a must-visit. This rustic seafood shack on the shores of Tomales Bay is famous for its fresh oysters, clam chowder, and smoked fish. Enjoy your meal on the outdoor deck with stunning views of the bay. Another great option is Nick’s Cove, a historic roadhouse that offers fresh seafood, cocktails, and cozy waterfront cottages for an overnight stay.
Tomales Bay State Park, California.
Bodega Bay
Continuing up the coast, Bodega Bay is a charming fishing village known for its beautiful beaches, excellent seafood, and outdoor activities. The town gained fame as the filming location for Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film “The Birds,” and you can visit several filming sites, including the iconic Potter Schoolhouse.
The Bodega Head Trail offers a scenic 1.7-mile loop with stunning views of the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and abundant wildlife. It’s a great spot for whale watching, particularly during the gray whale migration season. Doran Regional Park is another popular destination, offering a long sandy beach, picnic areas, and a campground. It’s a perfect spot for kite flying, bird watching, and beachcombing.
For dining, head to The Tides Wharf & Restaurant, an iconic spot that offers fresh seafood with panoramic views of the bay. Their clam chowder is a local favorite, and the on-site fish market offers a variety of fresh seafood to take home. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy for a nostalgic treat.
Accommodations in Bodega Bay range from charming inns to seaside cottages. The Inn at the Tides offers comfortable rooms with stunning views, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. For a more intimate experience, consider a stay at Bodega Bay Lodge, which offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant with spectacular ocean views.
Iceplant flower superbloom, Bodega Bay.
Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve
A short drive inland from Route 1 brings you to Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve, a hidden gem that offers a serene escape into a majestic redwood forest. The reserve is home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world, including the Parson Jones Tree, which stands over 310 feet tall, and the Colonel Armstrong Tree, estimated to be over 1,400 years old.
The reserve’s well-maintained trails provide easy access to the awe-inspiring redwoods. The Pioneer Nature Trail is a flat, 1.5-mile loop that is perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely stroll among the giants. For a more challenging hike, try the East Ridge Trail, which offers stunning views of the forest canopy and the surrounding hills.
After exploring the redwoods, head back to Route 1 and enjoy a meal at the nearby Korbel Champagne Cellars. This historic winery offers tours and tastings, as well as a delightful deli where you can enjoy a picnic lunch in their beautiful gardens. For a more substantial meal, the Russian River Pub in nearby Guerneville offers hearty American fare and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
For accommodations, consider staying in Guerneville, a charming town along the Russian River. The Sonoma Orchid Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Applewood Inn, which offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant that focuses on local, seasonal ingredients.
Trail through the redwood trees in the Armstrong Redwoods State Park
Fort Ross State Historic Park
Continuing north, Fort Ross State Historic Park offers a fascinating glimpse into California’s early history. Established by Russian settlers in 1812, Fort Ross was a hub for the Russian-American Company’s fur trading operations. The park’s well-preserved buildings, including the stockade, chapel, and officers’ quarters, provide a unique window into this period of history.
The park offers several hiking trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The Fort Ross Trail offers stunning coastal views and a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, harbor seals, and migratory birds. The historic buildings are open for self-guided tours, and interpretive signs provide insights into the daily lives of the Russian settlers and the native Kashia people.
For dining, head to the nearby town of Jenner, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the Russian River meeting the Pacific Ocean at River’s End Restaurant & Inn. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious seafood dishes.
Accommodations in the area include the Fort Ross Lodge, which offers cozy rooms with ocean views, and the Timber Cove Resort, which combines rustic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views. Both options provide a comfortable base for exploring the park and the surrounding area.
Fort Ross State Park, California
Salt Point State Park
Salt Point State Park offers dramatic coastal scenery, unique geological features, and diverse ecosystems. The park’s rugged coastline is characterized by steep cliffs, rocky outcrops, and tide pools teeming with marine life. The park’s most famous feature is the Tafoni Sandstone, which has been sculpted by wind and water into intricate honeycomb-like patterns.
The park offers several excellent hiking trails. The Salt Point Trail follows the coastline for 4 miles, offering stunning views of the ocean and the chance to see harbor seals, sea otters, and a variety of seabirds. The Pygmy Forest Trail takes you through a unique ecosystem of stunted trees and shrubs that have adapted to the nutrient-poor soil.
For camping, the park offers two campgrounds: the oceanfront Gerstle Cove Campground and the more secluded Woodside Campground. Both offer beautiful settings and easy access to the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks. For dining, consider packing a picnic and enjoying a meal at one of the park’s many scenic picnic areas.
For a more substantial meal, head to the nearby town of Gualala, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean at Trinks Cafe. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches.
Salt Point State Park
Kruse Rhododendron State Reserve
A short drive from Salt Point, Kruse Rhododendron State Reserve is a hidden gem that offers a spectacular display of rhododendrons in the spring. The reserve’s trails wind through a lush forest of second-growth redwoods, Douglas firs, and tanoaks, providing a serene setting for a leisurely hike.
The reserve’s main attraction is the stunning display of rhododendrons, which bloom in vibrant shades of pink, purple, and white from April to June. The Kruse Rhododendron Trail is a moderate 2-mile loop that takes you through the heart of the reserve, offering stunning views of the blooming rhododendrons and the surrounding forest.
After exploring the reserve, head back to Route 1 and enjoy a meal at the nearby Stewart’s Point Store, a historic general store that offers delicious sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The store’s rustic charm and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax and refuel.
For accommodations, consider staying in the nearby town of Sea Ranch, which offers a variety of vacation rentals and lodges with stunning ocean views. The Sea Ranch Lodge offers comfortable rooms, a full-service restaurant, and easy access to the area’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
Point Arena
Continuing north, Point Arena is a charming coastal town known for its stunning lighthouse, dramatic cliffs, and abundant wildlife. The Point Arena Lighthouse, one of the tallest on the West Coast, offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse’s museum provides fascinating insights into the history of the area and the challenges faced by early lighthouse keepers.
For hiking, the Stornetta Public Lands offer stunning coastal views and a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, harbor seals, and migratory birds. The 2-mile Point Arena-Stornetta Trail takes you through coastal bluffs, grasslands, and rocky outcrops, offering spectacular views of the ocean and the chance to explore tide pools and sea caves.
For dining, head to the nearby town of Point Arena, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean at the Pier Chowder House and Tap Room. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious dishes, including clam chowder, fish and chips, and seafood pasta.
Accommodations in the area include the Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers’ Quarters, which offer comfortable rooms with stunning ocean views, and the Wharf Master’s Inn, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views. Both options provide a comfortable base for exploring the lighthouse and the surrounding area.
Point Arena Lighthouse
Van Damme State Park
Van Damme State Park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush fern-filled canyons to coastal bluffs and rocky beaches. The park’s unique combination of redwood forest, pygmy forest, and coastal scenery makes it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Fern Canyon Trail is one of the park’s highlights, offering a scenic hike through a lush canyon filled with ferns, wildflowers, and towering redwoods. The 2.5-mile round trip is relatively easy and provides stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding forest. For a more challenging hike, try the Pygmy Forest Discovery Trail, which takes you through a unique ecosystem of stunted trees and shrubs that have adapted to the nutrient-poor soil.
For camping, the park offers a beautiful campground nestled among the redwoods, with easy access to the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The park also offers several picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
For dining, head to the nearby town of Mendocino, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean at the Mendocino Cafe. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the Mendocino Chocolate Company, which offers a variety of handmade chocolates and confections.
For accommodations, consider staying in Mendocino, which offers a variety of charming inns and bed and breakfasts with stunning ocean views. The MacCallum House Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views.
Van Damme State Park
Mendocino
Mendocino is a charming coastal town known for its stunning Victorian architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant arts scene. The town’s picturesque setting on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean makes it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
The Mendocino Headlands State Park offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and abundant wildlife. The park’s well-maintained trails provide easy access to the dramatic bluffs, secluded beaches, and tide pools teeming with marine life. The Mendocino Art Center, located in the heart of the town, offers a variety of art classes, workshops, and exhibits, showcasing the work of local and visiting artists.
For dining, head to Cafe Beaujolais, a local favorite that offers a menu focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their dishes include a variety of delicious seafood, salads, and pasta, and their wine list features a selection of fine wines from the region. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the GoodLife Cafe and Bakery, which offers a variety of homemade pastries, cakes, and desserts.
For accommodations, consider staying in one of Mendocino’s charming inns or bed and breakfasts. The Joshua Grindle Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views.
Mendocino, California, USA, Fort Bragg, long exposure of the ocean by the Glass Beach on a cloudles blue sky evening
Russian Gulch State Park
Russian Gulch State Park offers a stunning combination of coastal and forest scenery, with dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush redwood forests. The park’s highlight is the Devil’s Punchbowl, a large sea cave that collapsed, creating a spectacular churning cauldron of water. The park’s well-maintained trails provide easy access to this natural wonder and other scenic spots.
The Fern Canyon Trail is one of the park’s highlights, offering a scenic hike through a lush canyon filled with ferns, wildflowers, and towering redwoods. The 2.5-mile round trip is relatively easy and provides stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding forest. For a more challenging hike, try the North Trail, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills.
For camping, the park offers a beautiful campground nestled among the redwoods, with easy access to the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The park also offers several picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
For dining, head to the nearby town of Mendocino, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean at the Mendocino Cafe. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the Mendocino Chocolate Company, which offers a variety of handmade chocolates and confections.
For accommodations, consider staying in Mendocino, which offers a variety of charming inns and bed and breakfasts with stunning ocean views. The MacCallum House Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views.
Russian Gulch State Park, California
Jug Handle State Reserve
Jug Handle State Reserve offers a unique combination of coastal and forest scenery, with dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush redwood forests. The park’s highlight is the Ecological Staircase, a series of five ancient marine terraces that have been uplifted over millions of years, creating a unique landscape that showcases the region’s geological history.
The park’s well-maintained trails provide easy access to this natural wonder and other scenic spots. The Ecological Staircase Trail is a moderate 2.5-mile loop that takes you through the heart of the reserve, offering stunning views of the terraces and the surrounding forest. For a more challenging hike, try the North Trail, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills.
For camping, the park offers a beautiful campground nestled among the redwoods, with easy access to the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The park also offers several picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
For dining, head to the nearby town of Mendocino, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean at the Mendocino Cafe. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the Mendocino Chocolate Company, which offers a variety of handmade chocolates and confections.
For accommodations, consider staying in Mendocino, which offers a variety of charming inns and bed and breakfasts with stunning ocean views. The MacCallum House Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views.
, Jug Handle Cove in Jug Handle State Natural Reserve.
Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene. The town’s picturesque setting on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean makes it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offer stunning views of the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and abundant wildlife. The park’s well-maintained trails provide easy access to the dramatic bluffs, secluded beaches, and tide pools teeming with marine life. The Mendocino Art Center, located in the heart of the town, offers a variety of art classes, workshops, and exhibits, showcasing the work of local and visiting artists.
For dining, head to Cafe Beaujolais, a local favorite that offers a menu focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their dishes include a variety of delicious seafood, salads, and pasta, and their wine list features a selection of fine wines from the region. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the GoodLife Cafe and Bakery, which offers a variety of homemade pastries, cakes, and desserts.
For accommodations, consider staying in one of Mendocino’s charming inns or bed and breakfasts. The Joshua Grindle Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views.
Seascape near Fort Bragg.
MacKerricher State Park
MacKerricher State Park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush fern-filled canyons to coastal bluffs and rocky beaches. The park’s unique combination of redwood forest, pygmy forest, and coastal scenery makes it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Fern Canyon Trail is one of the park’s highlights, offering a scenic hike through a lush canyon filled with ferns, wildflowers, and towering redwoods. The 2.5-mile round trip is relatively easy and provides stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding forest. For a more challenging hike, try the Pygmy Forest Discovery Trail, which takes you through a unique ecosystem of stunted trees and shrubs that have adapted to the nutrient-poor soil.
For camping, the park offers a beautiful campground nestled among the redwoods, with easy access to the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The park also offers several picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
For dining, head to the nearby town of Mendocino, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean at the Mendocino Cafe. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the Mendocino Chocolate Company, which offers a variety of handmade chocolates and confections.
For accommodations, consider staying in Mendocino, which offers a variety of charming inns and bed and breakfasts with stunning ocean views. The MacCallum House Inn offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Another great option is the Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites, which combines historic charm with modern amenities and spectacular coastal views.
MacKerricher State Park
Conclusion
From the stunning vistas of the Marin Headlands to the serene beauty of MacKerricher State Park, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a journey like no other. This scenic route takes you through some of California’s most picturesque landscapes, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and charming coastal towns. Whether you’re exploring ancient redwood forests, enjoying fresh seafood with ocean views, or discovering the rich history of the region, the Pacific Coast Highway promises an unforgettable road trip experience. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be mesmerized by the beauty of California’s North Coast.
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