A road trip from San Francisco to Carmel by the Sea is the answer to nearly everything. And if you have not gone to Carmel yet, you will soon know why. It’s a quintessential California experience, trading cityscapes for dramatic scenery and fairytale villages. Here is the perfect guide to getting you to Carmel from San Francisco, covering everything you need to see and need to know.
Is the Drive from San Francisco to Monterey Scenic?
We like the drive from San Francisco to Monterey and think it is definitely worth the time and is very scenic to take the drive – it is different from the coastline south of Carmel.
This section of coastline is more open with sweeping views and accessible beaches, sand dunes, creeks that flow into the ocean, small farms, little towns, etc. Big Sur is very rocky and rugged, the route is very curvy, and most of the road is high above the water with few access points to the ocean.
When is the best time Best time to go to Carmel
California enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit for this road trip is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), specifically April to June and September to November. These months offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning wildflowers blooming along the coast.
How long does it take to drive from SF to Carmel
The distance from San Francisco to Carmel-by-the-Sea is roughly 120 miles. However, I recommend you take the more scenic route which will cover 135 miles and takes 3 hours.
In my experience, taking Highway 1 down the coast isn’t substantially longer than driving the inland route from SFO.
The difference is less than 30 minutes (not counting sightseeing stops). So by all means, do it. Even when there are unexpected delays, it sure beats the hectic San Jose freeway traffic.
What to Pack on a road trip from San Francisco to Carmel
- Layers: Pack light layers like t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and a light jacket.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Pack sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a wide-brimmed hat
- Swimsuit and Towel: Pack a swimsuit and towel for a refreshing beach break.
- Comfortable Shoes: Pack comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain and sandy beaches.
- Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and charming towns along the way. A good camera or a fully charged phone with a good camera app will do the trick.
- Snacks and Drinks: Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a reusable water bottle.
Best Places to Stop Between San Francisco and Carmel on Highway 1
Stop 1: San Francisco
Start your adventure in San Francisco, a vibrant city with iconic landmarks.
- Take a walk along Pier 39, grab a cup of delicious clam chowder
- explore the shops and cafes in Ghirardelli Square.
- Visit the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf
As you leave San Francisco, head south on Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This road will be your companion for the rest of the trip, offering unparalleled coastal views.
Read More: Unforgettable West Coast Road Trip from SF to San Luis Obispo
Stop 2: Pacifica (36 miles south of SF)
Continue south on Highway 1 and enjoy the dramatic cliffs and rock formations along the way.
- Stop at the Mori Point lookout in Pacifica for panoramic ocean views and a chance to spot whales during migration seasons (December to May and August to November).
Stop 3: Half Moon Bay (15 miles south of Pacifica)
Your next stop on this trip from SF to Carmel is Half Moon Bay, a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and surfing scene.
Half Moon Bay could also be your halfway stop.
- I recommend San Benito House, Café Capistrano for a delicious brunch, lunch or dinner depending on when you’re stopping by.
- Explore Half Moon Bay State Beach, a great spot for a walk, picnic, or trying your hand at surfing.
- Stop at Gray Whale Cove Beach for some seclusion and a chance to witness nature’s beauty. During the winter months, keep an eye out for migrating gray whales breaching offshore.
- Another great stop for a beach break is at Montara State Beach. Hike the trails along the bluffs for breathtaking views of the coastline or just sit along the cliffs
Stop 4: Pescadero (33 miles south of Pacifica)
Pescadero is a town super easy to miss, but check it out! This little town isn’t just a dot on the map, it’s a charming escape. The vibe here is pure California chill – think laid-back locals, sunshine streaming through cafe windows, and the salty scent of the ocean in the air.
- Make a stop at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, a picturesque lighthouse perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Climb the stairs to the top for stunning panoramic views. Admission and parking are free but an entrance fee applies to go inside
Stop 5: Ano Nuevo State Park (15 miles South of Pescadero)
If you just can’t get enough of elephant seals and sea lions, make a quick stop to Ano Nuevo State Park (reservations are required)
- This protected area is a breeding ground for thousands of northern elephant seals and sea lions.
- Año Nuevo State Park is one of the best places to see these fascinating animals safely at close range. I would want to go back again in November-December when the animals are at the peak of their breeding season. Make reservations in advance!
Stop 6: Davenport (25 miles south of Pescadero)
Davenport, a quaint coastal town with dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches, is our lunch stop. We needed a break from the road and we needed some food at this point
- After the lighthouse, head to Greyhound Rock Beach for a chance to spot harbor seals basking in the sun. Spread out your blanket, unpack your Pescadero feast
- Grab a delicious lunch at the nearby Whale City Bakery & Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and homemade bread and catch a window seat to watch the waves
Read More: Must do Weekend Getaways from San Francisco
Stop 7: Santa Cruz (20 miles south of Davenport)
Continue south on Highway 1 and you’ll arrive in Santa Cruz, a lively beach town with a laid-back atmosphere.
- Get a post lunch coffee from Cat and Cloud and if you are still hungry get their burritos. Solid, heart-clogging, breakfast burritos, just as God intended.
- Explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic California amusement park with rides, games, and arcades.
- If you have more time, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a world-renowned aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life of the California coast.
- Natural Bridges State Beach is one of my favorite beaches to look at and ponder. Explore the tide pools teeming with marine life or marvel at the natural arch bridge carved by the waves
- If you want to see more Redwoods, visit Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Hike among towering redwood trees, some over 1,000 years old, and breathe in the fresh forest air.
Stop 8: Capitola (7 miles south of Santa Cruz)
As you continue on Highway 1, make a stop at Capitola. This picture-perfect town boasts a charming seaside atmosphere with colorful Victorian-era buildings lining the beach.
- Stroll along the boardwalk
- Grab an ice cream cone
- Rent a kayak and explore the coastline from a different perspective.
Stop 9: Pacific Grove ( 40 miles south of Capitola)
Pacific Grove is a charming town bordering Carmel-by-the-Sea.
- Explore the historic downtown area with its art galleries, shops, and cafes
- Witness the incredible sight of thousands of Monarch butterflies fluttering around Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary during the winter months (November to February).
- Even if you’re not a golfer, the scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach offers breathtaking ocean views, cypress forests, and iconic landmarks like Pebble Beach Golf Links and Lone Cypress tree. (Entrance fee applies)
- Pacific Grove has designated fire pit areas on certain beaches – perfect for an unforgettable evening under the California sky, roast marshmallows over a crackling fire on the beach, and gaze up at a sky filled with stars.
- Can’t miss Lovers Point! This scenic beach with rolling waves and a charming park is a local favorite. Enjoy a stroll along the beach, have a picnic with a view, or even try your hand at surfing or beach volleyball.
- Check out another lighthouse, at Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast. Climb to the top (if it’s open) for breathtaking ocean views
Stop 10: Carmel By The Sea
Related Reads: If you love coastal road trips from SF, check out this road trip to Crescent City
Welcome to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a pedestrian-friendly village straight out of a storybook! Here’s how to spend your charming afternoon.
- Visit an Art Gallery. This town bleeds art. Galleries line the streets, each one bursting with unique finds. I was on a mission to find the perfect piece to commemorate this trip, and I found one
- Walk downtown Carmel. Carmel is famous for its secret courtyards, tucked away like little surprises. We wandered the streets, peeking through archways and down alleyways, hoping to stumble upon these hidden gems.
- No trip to Carmel is complete without a visit to Carmel Beach. Soft, white sand and bare feet… and the sound of waves…. Sunset here was legendary, so be sure to pack a picnic basket and claim your spot on the sand for a magical evening.
- Go window shopping. Carmel’s boutiques are like little treasure troves. From locally-made jewelry to whimsical home decor. Soak up some inspiration and grab a souvenir or two.
- Dinner in Carmel was special. We went to Anton and Michael. It was cozy and charming and fresh seafood caught that day was yummy
- Find a hike in Garland Ranch Regional Park boasts stunning ocean views and diverse wildlife.
- Rent a cruiser bike and bike around Carmel. Pedal past charming cottages, peek into hidden courtyards and breathe in the fresh ocean air.
- Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Hike through towering cypress trees, secret beaches and see unforgettable ocean vistas.
Pro- Tips
- Get to Point Lobos early, or you won’t be able to find a parking spot!
- Stroll the white sands of Carmel Beach in the evening when there aren’t that many people (bring a flashlight)
- In Capitola – take the first parking spot you find as parking is an issue
- The stretch between Half Moon Bay and Davenport is very beautiful, it is almost 100% unobstructed scenic ocean/shoreline views, soak it ALL in
Best Places to Stay in Carmel By the Sea
Indulge in a luxurious stay at one of Carmel’s charming hotels or relax on Carmel Beach, a picture-perfect stretch of white sand.
- Best Budget: Carmel Wayfarer Inn – comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. Plus, it’s located close to Carmel Beach and Ocean Avenue
- Best Luxury: Cypress Inn – stunning ocean views, fireplaces in many rooms, and an award-winning spa. Plus, their impeccable service will make you feel like royalty.
- Best Glamping: Anything on HipCamp or Airbnb
- Best Cozy: Carmel Mission Inn – located next to the Carmel Mission, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with cozy room fireplaces and a charming courtyard
