Pacific Coast Drive: San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego

Today you begin your journey along California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway, driving south towards the picturesque towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Stop in Monterey to stroll along Cannery Row and enjoy lunch at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where sea lions and ocean views set the scene.

Continue to the charming seaside town of Carmel, known for its art galleries, storybook cottages and beautiful white-sand beach. This area is also home to the legendary 17-Mile Drive, one of California’s most scenic coastal routes. Expect dramatic cliffs, windswept cypress trees, and famous landmarks such as the Lone Cypress and the world-renowned golf courses of Pebble Beach.

Continue south along the spectacular California Central Coast, one of the most scenic stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway. Along the way you’ll pass dramatic ocean views, rugged cliffs and historic landmarks including Hearst Castle near San Simeon.

As you approach Santa Barbara, the landscape softens into rolling hills and vineyards framed by the Santa Ynez Mountains. Often called the “American Riviera”, Santa Barbara is known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, red-tile roofs and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Before arriving, you may wish to stop in charming seaside towns such as Morro Bay or Ventura, perfect for a relaxed drink by the ocean before settling into Santa Barbara for the evening.

Today’s coastal drive brings you to Santa Monica, one of the most famous beach cities in Southern California. Start at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, home to the historic amusement park and the official end of Route 66. The wide sandy beach is perfect for a stroll, bike ride or simply relaxing by the Pacific Ocean.

Santa Monica is also known for its vibrant shopping and dining scene. Wander along the Third Street Promenade, an open-air shopping district filled with restaurants, boutiques and street performers. For a more upscale feel, head to Montana Avenue. With its ocean views, lively atmosphere and stylish coastal charm, Santa Monica offers a perfect introduction to Los Angeles.

Spend the next few days exploring Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world and one of the most exciting cities in California. Walk along the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, take photos of the Hollywood Sign, and visit world-class museums such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

For nightlife and LGBTQ+ culture, head to West Hollywood (WeHo), home to one of the most vibrant gay scenes in the United States, with lively bars, restaurants and clubs. You can also explore Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills or soak up the bohemian energy of Venice Beach, where street performers, Muscle Beach bodybuilders and colourful boardwalk vendors create a classic LA atmosphere.

Your Pacific Coast road trip ends in San Diego, a laid-back coastal city known for its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene. Explore Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural hub home to gardens, museums and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

For nature lovers, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers scenic coastal trails and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Spend time relaxing on the golden beaches of La Jolla, an upscale seaside neighbourhood known for its dramatic cliffs and wildlife. In the evenings, head to the lively Gaslamp Quarter for restaurants, bars and nightlife, or cross the bay to Coronado Island for a quieter beach escape.