Cliffs, Coves, and California Sunsets
Coastal

Cliffs, Coves, and California Sunsets

Cliffs, Coves, and California Sunsets

Davenport, CA 95017Los Angeles, CA 90027

5 days17 stops
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5
Days
17
Stops
3
Highlights
active
Region

Davenport, CA 95017Los Angeles, CA 90027

Embark on the ultimate California dream, a sun-drenched road trip down the iconic Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles. This journey winds along dramatic coastal cliffs, stops in charming seaside towns, and offers unforgettable views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

Trip highlights

Bixby Creek Bridge
Bixby Creek Bridge
McWay Falls
McWay Falls
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach

The route

  1. 1Davenport, CA 95017Start · 37.0343, -122.1648
  2. 2Shark Fin CoveStop · 37.0041, -122.1854
  3. 3Bixby Creek BridgeStop · 36.3714, -121.9018
  4. 4NepentheStop · 36.2234, -121.7675
  5. 5Big Sur LodgeStop · 36.2529, -121.7857
  6. 6McWay FallsStop · 36.1578, -121.6722
  7. 7Hearst CastleStop · 35.6852, -121.1680
  8. 8Madonna InnStop · 35.2638, -120.6508
  9. 9Stearns WharfStop · 34.4096, -119.6853
  10. 10Butterfly BeachStop · 34.4176, -119.6492
  11. 11Hotel CalifornianStop · 34.4133, -119.6900
  12. 12El Matador State BeachStop · 34.0379, -118.8752
  13. 13Malibu Farm Restaurant & BarStop · 34.0361, -118.6755
  14. 14Santa Monica PierStop · 34.0086, -118.4988
  15. 15The Georgian HotelStop · 34.0138, -118.4972
  16. 16Venice Beach BoardwalkStop · 33.9866, -118.4741
  17. 17GjelinaStop · 33.9905, -118.4650
  18. 18Griffith ObservatoryStop · 34.1185, -118.3004
  19. 19Los Angeles, CA 90027End · 34.1184, -118.3004

Day 2

Shark Fin Cove
Scenic Viewpoint

Shark Fin Cove

A stunning and easily accessible beach known for its distinctive shark fin-shaped rock formation rising from the sea. It's a perfect first stop to capture the dramatic beauty of the Northern California coast.

Photo by David Truong

Bixby Creek BridgeHighlight
Scenic Viewpoint

Bixby Creek Bridge

Pull over at the Castle Rock Viewpoint to photograph one of the most iconic and photographed bridges on the West Coast. This soaring concrete arch offers a breathtaking introduction to the engineering marvels and scenic grandeur of Big Sur.

Photo by Michael Palomino

Nepenthe
Dining

Nepenthe

Perched on a cliff 800 feet above the Pacific, this legendary restaurant offers world-class views alongside its famous Ambrosia Burger. It's an essential Big Sur experience, perfect for a memorable lunch with an unparalleled backdrop.

Photo by somkietr rojanasathit

Big Sur Lodge
Lodging

Big Sur Lodge

Nestled deep within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park among the redwoods, this lodge offers serene, rustic cottages. It's an ideal base for exploring the park's trails and the Big Sur River.

Photo by Big Sur Lodge

Day 3

McWay FallsHighlight
Scenic Viewpoint

McWay Falls

Witness a magical 80-foot waterfall cascading directly onto a pristine, inaccessible beach. The short, level Overlook Trail provides an iconic and unforgettable view of this natural wonder.

Hearst Castle
Historical Site

Hearst Castle

Explore the opulent estate of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. Perched atop 'The Enchanted Hill,' this lavish mansion is filled with priceless art and offers stunning views of the California coast.

Madonna Inn
Lodging

Madonna Inn

A whimsical and flamboyant hotel where each of the 110 rooms has a unique, elaborate theme. Even if you just stop for a peek or a slice of their famous Pink Champagne cake, it's a must-see kitsch landmark.

Photo by Madonna Inn

Day 4

Stearns Wharf
Local Experience

Stearns Wharf

Stroll along California's oldest working wooden wharf, browse the unique shops, and grab a bite at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company right at the end of the pier for fresh seafood with incredible ocean views.

Butterfly Beach
Outdoor Adventure

Butterfly Beach

A pristine, west-facing beach in the upscale enclave of Montecito, making it one of the few spots on this coast to watch the sunset directly over the ocean. It's a perfect place for a relaxing late afternoon walk.

Photo by Marshall Alexander

Hotel Californian
Lodging

Hotel Californian

A luxurious Spanish Colonial Revival hotel located steps from the beach and Santa Barbara's vibrant Funk Zone. It offers beautiful architecture, rooftop pool views, and is the perfect place to explore the city on foot.

Photo by Hotel Californian

Day 5

El Matador State BeachHighlight
Outdoor Adventure

El Matador State Beach

Descend a steep staircase to discover Malibu's most stunning beach, famous for its dramatic sea stacks, hidden caves, and massive rock arches. It's a photographer's paradise, especially during golden hour.

Photo by Thomas Green

Malibu Farm Restaurant & Bar
Dining

Malibu Farm Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy fresh, organic, farm-to-table cuisine at this iconic restaurant at the end of the Malibu Pier. The unbeatable views of Surfrider Beach and the Pacific Ocean make for an quintessential Southern California dining experience.

Photo by Malibu Farm Restaurant at the Pier

Santa Monica Pier
Entertainment

Santa Monica Pier

Experience the classic California beach scene at this historic landmark. Ride the Ferris wheel, try your luck at arcade games, and mark the symbolic end of the legendary Route 66.

Photo by uran wang

The Georgian Hotel
Lodging

The Georgian Hotel

Stay at this iconic, turquoise Art Deco hotel directly across from the Pacific Ocean. A historic gem, it offers classic Hollywood glamour, stunning sunset views, and easy access to the Santa Monica Pier and shopping districts.

Photo by Jessica P

Day 6

Venice Beach Boardwalk
Local Experience

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Immerse yourself in LA's most eclectic and vibrant subculture. Watch street performers, see bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, browse quirky shops, and observe the skateboarders at the famous skate park.

Gjelina
Dining

Gjelina

Experience one of LA's most celebrated restaurants on the trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Known for its rustic, vegetable-forward Californian cuisine, it's the perfect spot for a final, memorable meal.

Griffith Observatory
Scenic Viewpoint

Griffith Observatory

End your trip with a spectacular panoramic view of the Los Angeles basin, the Pacific Ocean, and the iconic Hollywood Sign. This landmark offers a perfect vantage point to reflect on your coastal journey.

Photo by Essential Viewfinder

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Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

A stunning and easily accessible beach known for its distinctive shark fin-shaped rock formation rising from the sea. It's a perfect first stop to capture the dramatic beauty of the Northern California coast.

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Pacific Coast Hwy