This itinerary is designed for a leisurely 5-day trip, with plenty of time to soak up the stunning scenery, charming towns, and unique experiences along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).
Travel
5 Days
Route
Los Angeles - Malibu - Santa Barbara - Carmel-by-the-Sea - San Francisco
Best Time of the Year
All year
Highlights
Point Dume
Santa Barbara
Hearst Castle
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Day 1: Los Angeles
Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can ride the Ferris wheel, enjoy street performers, and grab some fresh seafood for lunch. In the afternoon, head toStart ...
Read MoreDay 2: Malibu & Ventura
Take a scenic drive along the PCH, stopping at Point Dume for breathtaking ocean vistas. Visit the Getty Center, an art museum perched on a hillside with panoramic views. Continue up the coast to ...
Read MoreDay 3: Santa Barbara & Pismo Beach
Explore the charming Spanish colonial town of Santa Barbara, with its mission, beaches, and vibrant downtown. Take a walk along the Santa Barbara waterfront, stopping for lunch at Stearns Wharf. In ...
Read MoreDay 4: Hearst Castle & Carmel-by-the-Sea
Visit the opulent Hearst Castle, a hilltop mansion with stunning ocean views and opulent interiors. Continue up the coast, stopping at the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its art galleries, ...
Read MoreDay 5: Monterey & San Francisco
Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to a variety of marine life from the Pacific Ocean. Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive, a Pebble Beach route with stunning ocean views, golf courses, and ...
Read More