Settings -
£
$
¥
$
¥
HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesWest USAPacific Coast
Highway 1

Pacific Coast Road Trip

Seattle - Olympia - Port Angeles - Aberdeen - Astoria - Florence - Bandon - Eureka - Mendocino - San Francisco - Monterey - San Luis Obispo - Santa Barbara - Los Angeles - San Diego

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Historical sites Historical sites
Pacific Coast Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages14 km2,954 h/stage3.0

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Pacific Coast Road Trip in West USA?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,170EUR drive & more 400EUR sleep & more 2,057EUR eat & more 1,872EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,329EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,499EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,404EUR drive & more 538EUR sleep & more 3,091EUR eat & more 2,808EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 6,437EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,841EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,340EUR drive & more 725EUR sleep & more 5,148EUR eat & more 3,744EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 9,617EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 11,957EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 5,850EUR drive & more 800EUR sleep & more 1,430EUR eat & more 1,872EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,102EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 9,952EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
Share this link.

Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary

The Pacific Coast Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the US West Coast. Starting in Seattle and ending in San Diego, the route takes you through Olympia, Aberdeen, Florence, Eureka and San Francisco, with a total distance of 2954 km. It is recommended to take 26 days to complete this road trip, so that you can properly enjoy the sights and attractions along the way. The best time of the year to drive is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are in excellent condition. The route offers a wide variety of experiences, from the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean to the unique UNESCO Heritage Monuments. There are also plenty of beaches to explore, and plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning natural beauty of the American West Coast. The Pacific Coast Road Trip is suitable for all drivers, and provides an experience that will remain with you for a lifetime. It is a road trip that requires a high budget, but the memories and experiences it provides are worth every penny.
number of days 26 number of days
route length 2,954 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Seattle

Distance 2,954 km Driving time 42.4 h Pace: fast 886.1 kWh Airports SEA
[detailsContainer]
Seattle is a vibrant and exciting city located on the west coast of the United States. It is the perfect starting point for an epic Pacific Coast Road Trip. With its many sights and attractions, there is something for everyone in Seattle. A great way to explore the city is to visit the iconic Space Needle, a towering 605-foot observation deck that offers spectacular views of the city. Other popular attractions include the Seattle Art Museum, the Pacific Science Center, and the Seattle Aquarium. There are also plenty of shopping and dining opportunities in the city. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (IATA: SEA). It is located just 15 miles south of downtown Seattle. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start your Pacific Coast Road Trip. Seattle is a great place to kick off your Pacific Coast Road Trip. From here, you can explore the many sights and attractions of the city, as well as take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're looking for a fun weekend getaway or a longer road trip, Seattle is the perfect place to start.

1 Seattle - Olympia

Distance 86 km Driving time 1.1 h Pace: fast 25.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site interesting cultural site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest? Then join us on our road trip from Seattle to Olympia! This 53mi journey will take you less than an hour, and you will be amazed by the stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Start your trip in Seattle, a vibrant city with a rich culture and plenty of attractions, such as the iconic Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Continue your journey to Olympia, the capital of Washington State. Here you can explore the Washington State Capitol Building, the State Legislative Building, and the Governor’s Mansion. On your way, make sure to stop at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, where you can observe hundreds of species of birds and other wildlife. Make sure to take some time to explore the charming towns and villages along the way. You will find plenty of opportunities to take pictures, enjoy the scenery, and take a break from the road. As you travel, take notice of the historical sites along the way. From forts and lighthouses to old churches and cemeteries, these sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road and explore the beauty of Seattle and Olympia!

2 Olympia - Port Angeles

Distance 254 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: fast 76.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Olympia to Port Angeles road trip stage! This amazing 158 mi journey will take you less than 4 hours, and you will get to explore some of the most remarkable sites in the Olympic National Park. Start your journey in Olympia, the capital of Washington State and the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here you can visit the Washington State Capitol, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, and the Hands On Children’s Museum. As you drive through the Olympic National Park, make sure to pay attention to the historical sites. Take a short hike to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center and take in the breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. Then, explore the Hoh Rainforest and marvel at the lush greenery. Finally, end your journey in Port Angeles. Here you can visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, the Elwha Dam, and the Olympic Game Farm. For more information on attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

3 Port Angeles - Aberdeen

Distance 278 km Driving time 4.1 h Pace: fast 83.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Port Angeles to Aberdeen, passing through the majestic Olympic National Park. Travel 173 miles and fewer than 4 hours, and take in the picturesque landscapes of the park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains to the lush Hoh Rainforest, the park offers a variety of breathtaking views. Stop at the Sol Duc Hot Springs for a relaxing soak, and don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's many trails and lakes. As you journey towards Aberdeen, take in the stunning views of the Pacific Coast and the breathtaking beauty of the Quinault Rainforest. With so much to explore, this is one road trip you won't want to miss! For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage.

4 Aberdeen - Astoria

Distance 143 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 42.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
[detailsContainer]
A road trip from Aberdeen to Astoria is an unforgettable journey! It's only 89mi and takes less than 2 hours so you can take your time to explore the best of what this route has to offer. Start your journey in Aberdeen and don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful Grays Harbor Lighthouse, a stunning sight situated on the harbor. Then, make your way to Long Beach, the "World's Longest Beach". Here, you can take a stroll along the beach, visit the World Kite Museum, and explore the boardwalk. Finally, end your journey in Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Here, you can visit the Astoria Column, a 125-foot tall structure offering breathtaking views of the city and the Columbia River. But that's not all! You can also explore the Astoria Riverfront Trolley, the Maritime Museum, and the Flavel House Museum. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, and recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

5 Astoria - Florence

Distance 293 km Driving time 4.1 h Pace: fast 88.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Astoria to Florence? This 182-mile journey will take you fewer than 5 hours of driving and will be an unforgettable experience. Start your journey in Astoria, a historic port city located at the mouth of the Columbia River. Here you can explore the Astoria Column, a 125-foot tower with amazing views of the city and the river, or take a stroll along the Astoria Riverwalk. Continue your journey to Tillamook, a charming coastal town known for its cheese and ice cream production. Take a tour of the Tillamook Creamery, where you can learn about the town’s history and sample some of their delicious products. Finally, end your journey in Florence, a picturesque coastal town with stunning views of the Oregon Coast. Take a stroll along the Historic Old Town district, which is full of quaint shops and restaurants, or explore the Sea Lion Caves, a natural sea cave filled with hundreds of sea lions. As you drive through these beautiful towns, keep an eye out for historical sites, such as lighthouses and old churches. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

6 Florence - Bandon

Distance 116 km Driving time 1.5 h Pace: fast 34.9 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Florence-Oregon Dunes-Bandon road trip! This 72-mile journey will take you less than two hours and will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting sites of the Oregon Coast. As you leave Florence, you will pass through the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Here you can explore the unique sand dunes, go for a hike, or take a scenic drive. Be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife that calls this area home. Once you reach Bandon, you can explore the charming old-fashioned downtown and visit the Bandon Historical Society Museum to learn about the city’s history. You can also take a stroll along the beach and admire the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, make sure to take in the beauty of the Oregon Coast. Keep an eye out for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and other attractions that make this route so special. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

7 Bandon - Eureka

Distance 312 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: fast 93.5 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Then you should consider the route from Bandon to Eureka! This 194mi journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete and offers you the chance to explore some of the most beautiful places the United States has to offer. Start your journey in Bandon, a small city located on the Oregon coast. Here you can visit the Coquille River Lighthouse and the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. As you continue your journey, you will come across the city of Brookings, home to the Azalea Park and the Harris Beach State Park. The final destination of this journey is Eureka, a city located on the coast of Northern California. Here you can explore the historic Old Town and visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites located in the area. Along the way, you will be able to admire picturesque landscapes and visit some of the most interesting places in the United States. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get your car ready and start your journey from Bandon to Eureka!

8 Eureka - Fort Bragg - Mendocino

Distance 229 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 68.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options attractive landscape camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing experience along the 142 miles that connect the cities of Eureka, Fort Bragg and Mendocino. This is one of the most beautiful stages of your journey, so don't forget to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the breathtaking views. Start your journey in Eureka, a city filled with historical sites and interesting museums. Make sure you visit the Carson Mansion, a Victorian-style house built in the late 19th century, and the Clarke Historical Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the region. Continue your drive to Fort Bragg, a city located on the Mendocino Coast. Here you can admire the picturesque landscapes and visit the Glass Beach, an area where the ocean has transformed glass into colorful pebbles. Finally, end your trip in Mendocino, a charming village located in the heart of the Mendocino Coast. Here you can visit the Mendocino Headlands State Park, a great place to take a stroll and admire the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The entire trip should take you fewer than 3 hours, so make sure you take your time to enjoy the sights along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!

9 Mendocino - San Francisco

Distance 273 km Driving time 4.7 h Pace: modest 70.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Mendocino to San Francisco? This drive takes you through the picturesque Point Reyes, where you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the West Coast. The 169 miles drive takes about 5 hours and you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes along the way. Start your trip in Mendocino, a small coastal town that is home to many attractions, from its redwood forests to its beautiful beaches. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Mendocino Headlands State Park. Continue your journey to Point Reyes, a charming town that is home to the Point Reyes National Seashore. Here you will be able to see some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, as well as its unique wildlife. You will be able to explore the Point Reyes Lighthouse, the Point Reyes Shipwreck, and the Point Reyes National Seashore. Finally, you will arrive in San Francisco, the most vibrant city in the region. Here you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. The city also has a vibrant nightlife and a variety of restaurants and cafes. This is just one stage of a much bigger tour, but it is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!

10 San Francisco - Santa Cruz - Monterey

Distance 190 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 56.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options interesting  historic site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting 118 mile road trip from San Francisco to Monterey, and discover the stunning beauty of California's Central Coast! Start your journey in the vibrant city of San Francisco and make your way to the charming coastal town of Santa Cruz. While in Santa Cruz, you can explore the famous Boardwalk, take a stroll on the beach, or even enjoy a ride on the Giant Dipper roller coaster. Continue your journey south to Monterey and take in the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Here, you can visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore the historic Cannery Row, or take a leisurely stroll along the Fisherman's Wharf. As you travel along this scenic route, be sure to keep an eye out for picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and other attractions. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. With a driving time of fewer than 3 hours, this road trip is the perfect way to explore the best of California's Central Coast!

11 Monterey - Big Sur - San Luis Obispo

Distance 219 km Driving time 3.2 h Pace: fast 65.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site interesting cultural site attractive landscape camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Monterey, United States? Get ready to drive 136 miles along the stunning Big Sur and end in San Luis Obispo. On this journey you will be able to observe the most incredible landscapes, from the rugged coast of Big Sur to the rolling hills of San Luis Obispo. Along the way, you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places such as the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, the Hearst Castle, and the Morro Bay State Park. You will be able to admire the beauty of the California coastline, its cliffs and its beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to take some amazing photographs of the panoramic views. This journey will take you fewer than 4 hours and it is part of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey and have the best road trip ever!

12 San Luis Obispo - Pismo Beach - Santa Barbara

Distance 185 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: fast 55.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Welcome on your road trip from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara! This 115-mile drive will take you less than three hours, so you can take your time and enjoy some of the most interesting places along the way. Start your journey in San Luis Obispo, a charming city with a pleasant climate and some interesting historical sites. Then, continue to Pismo Beach, a beautiful coastal town with a great beach and plenty of activities. Finally, you'll reach Santa Barbara, a gorgeous city with plenty of cultural attractions and amazing views. Make sure to explore the many galleries, museums, and restaurants that the city has to offer. As you plan your journey, remember to pay attention to the historical sites along the way. You can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites in the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the ride!

13 Santa Barbara - Malibu - Los Angeles

Distance 163 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: modest 42.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site attractive landscape interesting cultural site camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Then buckle up and join us on the Santa Barbara to Los Angeles journey! Our 101 miles route will take you through some of the most beautiful places in California. Start your trip in Santa Barbara and make sure to admire the stunning architecture of the city. Then, head towards Malibu, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Continue your journey to Los Angeles and don't forget to take some stops along the way. Pay attention to the historical sites and picturesque landscapes. You will be amazed by the beauty of this part of California. The entire route will take you no more than 3 hours to complete, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the ride. Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So what are you waiting for? Join us on this amazing journey and explore the beauty of Santa Barbara, Malibu, and Los Angeles!

14 Los Angeles - La Jolla - San Diego

Distance 213 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: modest 55.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options camper parking available camping sites
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Los Angeles to San Diego? This 132mi journey will take you through La Jolla, where you can explore its beautiful beaches and take a walk in the La Jolla Cove Ecological Reserve. Start your journey in Los Angeles and make a stop at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean. Then, drive to La Jolla, where you can explore the stunning La Jolla Cove and take a walk to the La Jolla Cove Ecological Reserve. Get ready to be amazed by the variety of marine life and the incredible views of the coast. Continue your journey to San Diego, where you can visit the stunning Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the Embarcadero and visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego. This journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, and you’ll be able to explore some of the most amazing places in California. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

  San Diego

[detailsContainer]
San Diego is an amazing destination at the end of the Pacific Coast Road Trip. The city is located in the southwestern corner of California, just north of the Mexican border. It offers a unique combination of breathtaking coastal views, vibrant city life, and a variety of natural attractions. Visitors can get a taste of the city's culture by exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which is full of restaurants, pubs and shops. For a more relaxed day, take a stroll along the Embarcadero waterfront, where you can take in views of the city skyline and the Coronado Bridge. For those looking to explore nature, San Diego has plenty to offer. Tourists can visit the San Diego Zoo, the world-renowned Balboa Park, or take a drive out to La Jolla Cove to experience the stunning ocean views. For a bit of adventure, a visit to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must. If you're traveling by air, the closest international airport is San Diego International Airport (SAN). And for those continuing the Pacific Coast Road Trip, the drive to Los Angeles takes about 3 hours. San Diego is a great destination for any traveler. It offers something for everyone, from the vibrant city life to its breathtaking coastal views. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, San Diego is the perfect place to end your Pacific Coast Road Trip.

Pacific Coast Road Trip at a glance

A road trip along the Pacific Coast from Seattle to San Diego is a journey that takes you through some of the most scenic and diverse landscapes in the United States, offering an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Facts for safer driving in West USA

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

Recommended trips

Colts and Arrows Road Trip Colts and Arrows Road Trip
Colts and Arrows Road Trip
North America - United States
3,745 km 87 km/h 21 days roadtrip
Highway 1 Road Trip Highway 1 Road Trip
Highway 1 Road Trip
North America - United States
794 km 68 km/h 10 days scenic
Kings Canyon Panoramic Road Kings Canyon Panoramic Road
Kings Canyon Panoramic Road
North America - United States
91 km 56 km/h 1 days scenic
Silverado Trail Panoramic Road Silverado Trail Panoramic Road
Silverado Trail Panoramic Road
North America - United States
49 km 56 km/h 1 days scenic
Ragged Point Panoramic Road Ragged Point Panoramic Road
Ragged Point Panoramic Road
North America - United States
94 km 79 km/h 1 days scenic
Iconic Seaside Panoramic Road Iconic Seaside Panoramic Road
Iconic Seaside Panoramic Road
North America - United States
174 km 58 km/h 1 days scenic