Guys and gals it is about that time you took a road trip along California’s Highway 1. The very name conjures up images of crashing waves, dramatic cliffs, and endless stretches of scenic coastline. And let me tell you, the reality is even better. We’re taking a four-day road trip from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo down this legendary highway 1. It was remarkable and its going to be remarkable for you.
Best Time to Take a Highway 1 Roadtrip
Spring (March-May) is an ideal time for this trip. The weather is warm but comfortable, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Wildflowers paint the hillsides in vibrant colors, and the chance of fog obscuring the views is lower.
Our primary companion on this road trip from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo will be the iconic Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). However, there will be a short stretch on Highway 101 to bypass a closure-prone section of Highway 1 near Ragged Point. Roads are set to open May 25th, 2024. Always be sure to check out current conditions.
Road Trip from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo
Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey
Mileage: 100 miles
Time: 2 hours
Stops to Make Between San Francisco and Monterey along Highway 1
Our road trip adventure started in San Francisco, and the first thing we did was grab coffee (of course). We then hit the road to our first stop Half Moon Bay
Stop 1: Half Moon Bay
Our first stop on this road trip from SF to San Luis Obispo was the charming coastal town of Half Moon Bay. Let me tell you, there is always something so special about this town that keeps drawing me back. We decided to stretch our legs and walk at Half Moon Bay State Beach. It was an easy beach to find and easier to park at!
Mavericks, a world-renowned big wave surfing spot, is located here – keep an eye out for daring surfers riding the monstrous waves during the winter months. They are pretty cool to watch. (November-March).
Stop 2: Pigeon Point Lighthouse
This historic lighthouse, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the ocean, offers stunning views. Take a tour of the lighthouse to learn about its history, or simply relax on the surrounding bluffs and soak up the scenery. It is another perfect stop to stretch your legs and slowly soak in the views.
Stop 3: Greyhound Rock
Before we reached Monterey, we stopped at – Greyhound Rock! Located between Davenport and Pescadero, this spot offers a rugged beauty unlike any other.
Park at the Greyhound Rock Coastal Access and embark on a short hike down a scenic trail. As you reach the shore, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the massive Greyhound Rock, a dramatic rock formation jutting out of the ocean.
We explored tide pools teeming with life, had a picnic on the beach, or simply relaxed and soaked in the breathtaking views.
Stop 4: Lunch in Santa Cruz
Continuing south, we reached the lively beach town of Santa Cruz.
This is a great spot to grab lunch – there are tons of options, from casual cafes to fresh seafood restaurants. If you have time, explore the Santa Cruz Wharf, ride the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, or catch some surfers shredding waves at Steamer Lane.
The Buttery has some great lunch options that are light and refreshing. They also have indoor and outdoor seating. We enjoyed their food.
Related Reads: 10 Road Trips from San Francisco You Need to Do This Summer
Stop 5: Point Lobos State Park
Just before reaching Monterey, we immersed ourselves in the beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. This stunning protected area boasts diverse marine habitats, tide pools teeming with life, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. While at Point Lobos:
The Bird Island Trail is an easy, short loop trail (under a mile) starts at the southernmost parking lot and takes you to Pelican Point, offering stunning views of China Cove.
Also China Cove is an absolute must see. A picturesque cove is famous for its brilliant emerald water, sea caves, and the wildlife that thrives there. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the beach or peeking out from the kelp beds – it’s pretty darn cute!
Stop 6: Monterey
From Point Lobos, it was a short drive to Monterey, our home for the night. This beautiful seaside town boasts a rich history and a world-famous aquarium.
No visit to Monterey is complete without experiencing the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Immerse yourself in the underwater world, marvel at the colorful kelp forests teeming with life, and witness the mesmerizing grace of sea otters.
Best Places to Stay in Monterey
Between the crashing ways and cozy stays, I am sure you will find the right place for you. I love a simple bed and breakfast or an airbnb, as they seem to be the most accommodating for one night’s stay.
Here is the Perfect Airbnb in Monterey
Choose the most beautiful hotel in Monterey
Some other places to stay in Monterey:
- Best Budget: Cannery Row Inn (Starts around $150/night)- historic hotel offers comfortable accommodations, on-site dining, and easy access to the waterfront action.
- Best Luxurious: Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay– nautical theme, with some rooms offering balconies and ocean views. It has a spa, a fitness center, and even an on-site brewery!
- Consider staying in an AirBnB outside of Monterey in Pacific Grove or Carmel-by-the-Sea for a quieter and potentially more affordable option.
Related Reads: Best Road Trip from San Francisco to Mammoth Lakes
Day 2: Monterey to Ragged Point
Well-rested and recharged, it’s time to continue our coastal adventure! Best to do this stretch of the road trip starting fresh and awake. You might want to be prepared with motion sickness remedies if you get easily car sick. There are a lot of ascents, descents and tight curves along the Big Sur coast that can wreak havoc on tummies, especially little ones.
Stops to Make Between Monterey and Ragged along Highway 1
Before you leave Monterey, it’s crucial to check for current road closures on Highway 1.
Highway 1 Open? Fantastic! If Highway 1 is open for business, proceed south and follow the itinerary below, taking in the stunning views and designated stops.
Highway 1 Closed? No Problem! Don’t fret! A detour on Highway 101 will get you back on track. While this route bypasses some of the dramatic coastal scenery, it still has its own charm. You’ll see rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint towns. You can rejoin Highway 1 further south near San Simeon.
Stop 1: 17-Mile Drive (Morning in Monterey)
Leave Monterey and embark on the world-famous 17-Mile Drive, a scenic route that winds its way through Pebble Beach, a prestigious golf course community. Cost is $11.75.
Stop 2: Bixby Creek Bridge
Continue south on Highway 1, with a stop to witness the architectural marvel – Bixby Creek Bridge .Imagine a majestic arch gracefully framing the ocean backdrop – that’s Bixby Creek Bridge.
Make sure to pull over at designated turnouts for safe photo ops and admire the engineering marvel.
Stop 3: Lunch at a Cliffside Restaurant
After the 17-Mile Drive and exploring the Bixby Bridge, we rejoined Highway 1 and continued south. Our next stop was a local favorite, Nepenthe. This cliffside restaurant boasts panoramic ocean views and a bohemian ambiance. Grab a burger or some fresh seafood and soak in the scenery.
Stop 4: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a must-do for nature lovers. Hike through towering redwoods, explore hidden waterfalls, or simply relax on one of the park’s many scenic beaches.
There are only 2 waterfalls in California that fall into the coast. McWay Falls in this state park is one of them (the other being Alamere Falls in Marin County). It is very easy to access from the parking lot, and it’s a spectacular site.
The waters are deep blue and the coastline seems to extend endlessly into the horizon. If you are in the area, visit this place, bring a lunch and camera, and take in the luxurious view of Big Sur
Stop 5 : Ragged Point
Our destination for day 2 of our road trip was Ragged Point, a secluded spot known for its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. We were on a mission to watch at least one sunset and we made it in time to Ragged Point to pull over and watch the sunset over the cliff.
We had enough time left in the day to do a mini hike. I needed to get out there and stretch. So we went on Black Swift Falls Trail. This steep path has a 400-foot elevation drop that leads to breathtaking views, a hidden waterfall, and a secluded black sand beach.
If you are looking for an easier hike, Salmon Creek Falls is a short, quarter-mile walk perfect for beginners. This accessible trail leads to a beautiful 120-foot waterfall, making it a magical experience for all ages.
Best Places to Stay in Ragged Point
If you are looking for a comfortable place to stay in Ragged Point, I would recommend Ragged Point Inn and Resort. It’s so charming and located on a cliffside, so you will wake up to fresh ocean air and a dramatic view of the Pacific Ocean. My room had a balcony overlooking the Pacific – the view was incredible!
Book your Stay at Ragged Point Inn Here!
The resort itself has a restaurant with stunning ocean views (perfect for a romantic dinner!), chairs to watch the sunset and even a fire pit where we roasted marshmallows under the stars.
In the evening, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at the Ragged Point Inn, where you can savor fresh, locally-sourced cuisine while gazing at the mesmerizing sunset
Now, the Ragged Point Inn isn’t exactly budget-friendly, but the location and amenities are definitely worth it for a splurge. If you’re looking for something more affordable, here are a couple of other options:
Perfect AirBnB in Ragged Point
Ragged Point Campground: This is a great option for nature lovers and budget travelers. Right on the ocean with stunning views, the campground offers tent sites and RV hookups. There are also basic camp cabins available if you want a roof over your head without breaking the bank.
San Simeon Lodge: Located a few miles north of Ragged Point, this lodge offers comfortable rooms at a more moderate price point. It’s not right on the oceanfront, but it’s still close enough to enjoy the coastal vibes.
Day 3: Ragged Point to San Luis Obispo
After getting coffee from the local coffee shop in Ragged Point, we hit the road at 6AM and headed for a lighthouse.
Stops to Make Between Ragged Point and San Luis Obispo along Highway 1
Stop 1: Piedra Blanca Lighthouse Station
Cruising down Highway 1, the California coastline throws endless beauty at you. But nestled between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon lies a hidden gem – Piedras Blancas Lighthouse Station. This was our first stop on day 3 of our road trip from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo.
The setting is simply stunning. The lighthouse itself sits on a point of land jutting out into the ocean, with dramatic white rocks (Piedras Blancas translates to “white rocks” in Spanish) flanking the coastline.
While here check out the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery. Witness these fascinating creatures up close as they lounge on the beach, bark at each other, and battle for dominance. There’s an observation deck with informative exhibits to help you learn more about these magnificent animals.
Stop 2: Hearst Castle
If you have extra time and want to splurge, consider a detour to Hearst Castle, an opulent mansion perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Tours are available, allowing you to peek into the extravagant lifestyle of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
Stop 3: Lunch in Cambria
Our next stop was the charming seaside town of Cambria. This town is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and delicious local eateries. Grab a bite to eat at a cute cafe, browse through the shops for unique souvenirs, or simply relax and enjoy the laid-back coastal atmosphere. I would highly recommend Redwood Cafe for a bite to eat and some tasty coffee.
Stop 4: Morro Bay
As we continued south, we reached Morro Bay, a picturesque town known for its iconic Morro Rock, a volcanic plug that juts out dramatically from the harbor.
They have a really nice waterfront, perfect to stretch your legs and explore the bay. Or simply enjoy the views from Morro Bay State Park , which is the perfect picnic location!
Stop 5: San Luis Obispo
Finally, we arrived at our final destination – San Luis Obispo (SLO). By this time it was 8 PM and super tired from the day. So we checked into our hotel and just passed out.
Best Places to Stay in San Luis Obispo
After a thrilling road trip down Highway 1, with stops at Bixby Creek Bridge and maybe even a peek at the wildlife at Piedras Blancas, San Luis Obispo (SLO) is a charming town to unwind and explore.
Splurge-worthy Stays $$$
Hotel Cerro: This swanky hotel boasts rooftop ocean views, a pool bar, and spacious rooms – perfect for those who like a touch of luxury. (This isn’t where I stayed, but it’s definitely on my wishlist for a future visit!)
Mid-Range Picks $$
Granada Hotel & Bistro: This historic hotel in the heart of downtown SLO offers a cool industrial-chic vibe, an acclaimed restaurant, and even art workshops. I actually stayed here, and it was a fantastic choice! The location was perfect for exploring the shops and restaurants, and the room was comfortable with a touch of historic charm.
San Luis Creek Lodge: This polished boutique hotel features airy rooms, some with fireplaces, and is located right on the creek. It’s a great option for those who want a stylish and relaxing stay.
Day 4: San Luis Obispo
This vibrant city has an historic downtown area, a lively farmers market, and a beautiful mission church.
We started our day with first coffee and then with a visit to Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, one of the oldest and best-preserved California missions. It was pretty cool to learn about history.
Walk along San Luis Obispo Creek and meander through the heart of downtown, this creek adds a touch of charm to the area. Stroll along the creek walk, have a picnic lunch by the water, or rent a kayak for a unique perspective.
If you’re here on a Thursday evening, don’t miss the vibrant night market in SLO. Local vendors showcase their crafts, artwork, and delicious food – a great way to experience the town’s creative energy and just spend the night. We ended up grabbing tacos here.
Do some outdoor adventures like hiking and biking at Montaña de Oro State Park, which you might have already visited on Day 1. They offer miles of hiking and biking trails for all skill levels. The views from the top are simply spectacular.
If you are into kayaking you can paddle the calm waters of the Morro Bay Estuary and spot a variety of wildlife, including otters, seals, and birds.
Check out Bubble Gum Alley, this quirky alleyway in downtown SLO is covered in discarded chewing gum. It’s a fun (and sticky!) stop for photos and a conversation starter.
Relax and recharge at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, this historic resort nestled amidst rolling hills boasts natural hot springs perfect for a relaxing soak. Enjoy a private soak in your room or unwind in one of the communal pools. It was great soaking in the hot springs after being on the road and after taking on several hikes. It was the conclusion of our road trip from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo.
**Foodie Find Alert**
Heading south on Highway 101 towards Pismo Beach from San Luis Obispo? You won’t want to miss Zorros, a popular Mexican restaurant just outside of town. While their entire menu is delicious, their claim to fame is their incredible clam chowder.
Here’s the kicker: I’m not exaggerating when I say this is the best clam chowder I’ve ever had. And for the ultimate experience, be sure to ask for it topped with lump crab – it adds a luxurious touch that takes it over the top! Yes, I went there, and yes, it’s even better than Splash Cafe’s famous chowder (sorry Splash Cafe fans!). Zorros is a must-stop for any seafood lover or chowder aficionado.
Conclusion
This 4-day itinerary is just a suggestion, of course. Feel free to adjust it to fit your interests and pace. There are countless other stops you could make along the way, from charming coastal towns to hidden beaches. The beauty of a road trip is the freedom to explore and discover at your own pace.
