The 4 best road trips in california
is a dream destination for those who love the open road and the discovery of new places and landscapes. The California coast is known for its spectacular beauty – from the rugged coastline of Big Sur to the idyllic beaches of Malibu. Road trips through California offer not only adventures on the road, but also a wealth of activities such as hiking, wine tours and visits to historic sites.
In this article we present you the best road trips in California. Each of these road trips offers a unique itinerary that ranges from majestic mountains and forests to scenic towns and coastlines.
Whether you’re an experienced road tripper or a newcomer to the area, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy. So, buckle up, turn on the music and get ready to have an unforgettable adventure on the road.
Highway 1 along the coast – A breathtaking road trip in California
The coastal highway, better known as Highway 1, is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world. A drive along the California coast takes travelers on a journey filled with breathtaking scenery and spectacular vistas. Highway 1 is considered a famous road trip that delights tourists and locals alike.
The route begins in San Francisco and travels along the Pacific coast through charming coastal towns like Monterey, Santa Cruz and Big Sur. The serpentine road offers travelers breathtaking views of the steep cliffs and deep blue sea. Highway 1 is also known for its numerous viewpoints from which to spot dolphins, seals and whales.
During a drive along Highway 1, you’ll find numerous attractions and points of interest. One of the most notable sites is Hearst Castle, which reflects the glamour and grandeur of the 1920s. Near Big Sur is Pfleger-Biggs Scenic Route, considered one of the best road trips in the world, where you can walk among giant redwoods.
If you have time, you can enjoy a trip along the coastal highway at a relaxed pace and visit more small coastal towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, which are scattered along the ocean. The pristine beauty of this area is unforgettable and makes Highway 1 one of the best road trips in California.
- Breathtaking landscapes along the California coastline
- Visiting charming coastal towns and landmarks
- Watching dolphins, seals and whales from numerous vantage points
Route 66 through the Mojave Desert
Route 66 is a legendary road that runs from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. One of the most spectacular sections of Route 66 passes through the Mojave Desert. Here you can experience the quiet beauty of California, amidst the breathtaking scenery.
The drive through the Mojave Desert is a dream for those seeking adventure. The landscapes seen along the way range from endless expanses of sand and rock to breathtaking mountains and deep valleys.
An absolute highlight of Route 66 in the Mojave Desert is the town of Barstow. Here you will find the famous Route 66 Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the road. It is also home to many stores and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat before continuing on toward Los Angeles.
- Route: Chicago – Santa Monica
- Length: in California 611 kilometers
- Scenery: Desert and mountain landscapes
- Highlights: Barstow, Route 66 Museum
Route 66 through the Mojave Desert is an unforgettable experience not to be missed. The numerous sights along the way and the impressive scenery will leave a lasting impression.
The Yosemite National Park Loop
If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip in California, the Yosemite National Park Loop is definitely worth a trip. The Loop takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in California and offers breathtaking views of the famous Yosemite National Park.
A highlight of the Yosemite National Park Loop is Yosemite Valley, one of the most picturesque places in the West. Yosemite Valley is known for its impressive cliffs and waterfalls and offers an incomparable scenery with many photo opportunities.
On your journey through the Loop, you also shouldn’t miss famous lookouts like Tunnel View and Glacier Point. These sites offer incredible views of the national park and are a must-see for any photographer.
Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Yosemite National Park Loop on your road trip. The national park offers some of the best hiking in the U.S. From easy trails to challenging summit hikes, there is something for everyone.
- Distance: approx. 300 km
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Best time to visit: Spring to fall
- Recommended Sights: Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View, Glacier Point, Hiking Trails
The most beautiful road trips in California: Big Sur to San Francisco
The coast of California is perfect for a road trip. One of the most famous routes is the drive from Big Sur to San Francisco. The coastal road leads through picturesque landscapes and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
A recommendation is to make a stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to visit McWay Falls. These 24-meter-high waterfalls plunge directly into the ocean and offer an impressive sight.
Another highlight is the Bixby Bridge. The ornate bridge is a California coastal landmark and offers stunning views of the ocean.
But there are many more places to discover along the way. The beautiful beaches of Carmel-by-the-Sea or historic Monterey are just a few of the possible stops on the way to San Francisco.
A road trip from Big Sur to San Francisco offers a perfect combination of stunning scenery and cultural attractions. It’s definitely worth the trip.