(45 minutes to 1 hour) After departing from San Francisco, the picturesque town of Half Moon Bay is just 30 miles south. Known for its dramatic coastline, Half Moon Bay offers beautiful beaches, charming shops, and exceptional dining options.

A peaceful spot to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the rugged coastline, Pescadero State Beach is perfect for a short walk or to watch the waves crash against the cliffs. Famous for its big wave surf spots, Mavericks Beach is a great place for a quick stop to watch surfers or simply appreciate the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.

(1 hour from Half Moon Bay) Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city with a laid-back vibe that promises a fun stop. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a popular amusement park, is not to be missed, or take a stroll along West Cliff Drive for dramatic ocean views.

With its beautiful rock formations and migration of monarch butterflies during certain times of year, Natural Bridges State Beach is worth a visit for photos and a quick nature walk. For a snack or lunch, head down to the Santa Cruz Wharf for fresh seafood and stunning views of the coastline.

(1 hour from Santa Cruz) The drive south on PCH offers some of the most scenic stretches of coastline. Monterey is a charming town with a rich history, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is a fairytale-like village known for its galleries, boutique shops, and beautiful beaches.

Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see for lovers of marine life. Spend a few hours exploring the exhibits and taking in the coastal views. A gorgeous spot for a relaxing walk, Carmel Beach offers great views of the Pacific, especially at sunset.

(1.5 to 2 hours from Carmel) No drive along PCH is complete without experiencing Big Sur. Known for its rugged cliffs, towering redwoods, and sweeping ocean views, Big Sur is a world-renowned destination.

One of the most photographed landmarks along PCH, the Bixby Creek Bridge spans a deep canyon with dramatic ocean views on either side. It’s a great place to stop and take in the scenery. McWay Falls, located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades directly onto a small beach below. A short trail leads to an overlook of this popularly photographed spot. Pfeiffer Beach, known for its purple sand and massive rock formations, is another must-see in Big Sur.

(1 hour from Big Sur) While continuing down the coast, visit San Simeon, home to the legendary Hearst Castle. Built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, the estate is a fascinating piece of history, with grand architecture and sweeping views of the coastline. Take a tour of the castle, including its luxurious rooms, pools, and gardens, all perched high above the Pacific Ocean. Learn about local history and keep an eye out for the zebras that roam the adjacent fields, descendants of the wildlife that once lived in Hearst’s private zoo.

Just north of Hearst Castle, the Elephant Seal Rookery offers the chance to view thousands of elephant seals lounging on the beach. The large seals are fascinating to observe in their natural habitat.

(45 minutes from San Simeon) Before arriving in Pismo Beach, consider stopping in Morro Bay, famous for its distinctive Morro Rock, a massive volcanic formation that rises 576 feet above the bay.

Perfect for a relaxing walk or a boat tour, Morro Bay State Park offers panoramic views of the bay and Morro Rock, and is home to sea otters, birds, and other wildlife. Stroll along the Morro Bay Waterfront and enjoy the quaint shops, seafood restaurants, and ocean views.