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.
26
number of days
2,954 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
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
[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!
Olympia - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
2
Olympia
- Port Angeles
Distance 254 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: fast
76.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Port Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
3
Port Angeles
- Aberdeen
Distance 278 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
83.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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.
Aberdeen - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Aberdeen
- Astoria
Distance 143 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
42.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Astoria - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
5
Astoria
- Florence
Distance 293 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
88.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Florence - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
6
Florence
- Bandon
Distance 116 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
34.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Bandon - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
7
Bandon
- Eureka
Distance 312 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: fast
93.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Eureka - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
8
Eureka
- Fort Bragg
- Mendocino
Distance 229 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
68.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Mendocino - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
9
Mendocino
- San Francisco
Distance 273 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: modest
70.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
San Francisco - United States - North America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
❯
❮
10
San Francisco
- Santa Cruz
- Monterey
Distance 190 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
56.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Monterey - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Monterey - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
❯
❮
11
Monterey
- Big Sur
- San Luis Obispo
Distance 219 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: fast
65.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
San Luis Obispo - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
12
San Luis Obispo
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Barbara
Distance 185 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
55.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Santa Barbara - United States - North America - Road Trip - Max Pixel
❯
❮
13
Santa Barbara
- Malibu
- Los Angeles
Distance 163 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
42.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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!
Los Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Los Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Los Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
14
Los Angeles
- La Jolla
- San Diego
Distance 213 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
55.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[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 - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
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.
San Diego - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
Pacific Coast Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Seattle
-
End:
San Diego
-
Distance:
2,954 km
-
Stay:
26 days
-
Getting there:
Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
-
When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a breathtaking journey down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 101 and Highway 1 in different segments, on a Road Trip that spans over 1,800 miles from the emerald city of Seattle to the sun-kissed beaches of San Diego. This quintessential American experience cuts through the diverse terrains and vibrant cities of the US West Coast, presenting a tapestry of ocean panoramas, lush forests, and iconic cultural landmarks.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Seattle: Start your adventure at the futuristic Space Needle for panoramic views, explore the historic Pike Place Market, and take in the vibrant displays at the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit.
- Olympia: Dive into history at the grand Washington State Capitol and venture into the Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse ecosystem.
- Aberdeen: Pay homage to the legendary Kurt Cobain with a visit to the memorial park dedicated to the Nirvana frontman's memory.
- Florence: Encounter the awe-inspiring Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a landscape reminiscent of a desert by the sea.
- Eureka: Marvel at Eureka's ornate Victorian architecture and set foot in the majestic Redwood National and State Parks, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth.
- San Francisco: Cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, uncover the history of Alcatraz Island, and soak up the charm at Fisherman's Wharf.
Best Time to Go:
Embarking on this coastal odyssey from April to October is ideal, as these months offer the most agreeable weather conditions and optimal Road quality. Enjoy long, sunny days and the vibrant colors of coastal flora.
Potential Risks:
While the journey is generally safe, drivers should be aware of the dense coastal fog that can reduce visibility, the serpentine nature of the coastal Roads, and the possibility of wildlife encounters. Vigilance and safe driving practices are essential.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Budget considerations should include accommodations, dining, and various activities, as costs can accumulate.
- Allocating around 26 days for this Trip allows for an immersive, unhurried experience, enabling you to savor every stop.
- Along the route, there are numerous points of interest including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic landmarks, and a myriad of natural wonders.
A good choice for:
The Pacific Coast Road Trip is more than a simple drive; it's a collage of unforgettable vistas, eclectic attractions, and profound experiences, making it a worthy investment for those seeking the ultimate Road Trip adventure.
-
