California 1

Pacifica, California, United States

Driving down the California coast on Highway 1, also called the Pacific Coast Highway, should be on everyone’s bucket list. Arguably the most scenic drive in the United States, there are coastal bluffs, stunning beaches, and fresh seafood restaurants all the way down the coast. The stretch on The San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco down to Santa Cruz offers some of the best beaches and hidden gems in the Bay Area. We’ve rounded up the best spots to visit for your next road trip itinerary.

Mori Headlands Trl
Pacifica, CA

Start your road trip in Pacifica, which includes top beaches like Pacifica State Beach and gorgeous Mori Point. Be sure to save time to explore Devil's Slide Trail for one of the most breathtaking lookout points in the area.

Montara

Montara, California, United States

Keep heading south on Highway 1 until you reach Montara, where you can stop at the popular Montara State Beach. Nearby, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a beautiful marine sanctuary of tide pools filled with anemones, sea urchins, multicolored starfish, and much more.

1 Miramontes Point Rd
Half Moon Bay, CA

With year-round activities and special seasonal events, Half Moon Bay is always worth a visit. Here you’ll find Pillar Point Harbor, which is home to a commercial fishing industry and offers opportunities for kayaking, eating fresh seafood, and even purchasing your own fish fresh off the docks. For a high-end splurge, spend a night at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, which has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and a fine-dining restaurant, Navio.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Pescadero, California, United States

For dramatic scenery, head to Pescadero, with its mile-long shoreline, rocky dunes, cliffs, and sandy coves. Just across the highway, birdwatchers and nature-lovers can see all kinds of wildlife at the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve. While you’re there, take a trip to Pigeon Point Lighthouse. The 115-foot lighthouse is perched atop a cliff and offers incredible views. Also nearby is Año Nuevo State Reserve, an incredible park that is the breeding ground for up to 10,000 elephant seals each year!

9500 Pescadero Creek Rd
Loma Mar, CA

From Pescadero, you can head back to the bay through Pescadero Creek Road, stopping at Loma Mar Store & Kitchen for lunch among the redwoods and exploring the vast amount of parks and open spaces along the way. Alternatively, you can keep heading down Highway 1 toward Santa Cruz and Monterey to continue your adventures.

San Gregorio

San Gregorio, California, United States

For all of our favorite road trip stops on Highway 1, click "More Details" below!