Recommendations on “must-see stops” on the Pacific Coast highway

Where are you starting and ending your trip?

It's been a while since we were there, but we've always loved and had wonderful experiences at the Jabberwock B&B in Monterey, from there you can walk to the aquarium, Cannery Row shopping & restaurants, etc. If it's open, be sure to book tours at Hearst Castle in San Simeon -- it's unlike anything else you'll ever see. Again, it's been a while, but the Simpson House Inn in Santa Barbara was always another top-notch B&B. In SB, you can hike around the Botanical Garden and explore shopping/restaurants/etc. on State St. All along the coast there are SO many wineries to visit -- those is Paso Robles (south of Hearst Castle) and Santa Ynez (north of Santa Barbara) are some of our favorites. Whatever you choose, you'll have a great time -- the central coast is unlike anyplace else you've ever been!

The town of Mendocino, I suggest McCallums for food. I also suggest booking an Air B and B on the coast there that has a private hot tub ocean side. There ain't nothing better than soaking and cuddling in a hot tub while listening to the ocean right there.

View Quoted Comment We weren’t sure if we should start in San Diego or LA. We’ll likely fly out of Eugene, OR. We’ve got 2 wks

Flying into LA will be cheaper than flying into SD, and you won’t miss much by starting in LA versus SD! Although there is some beautiful coastline between San Diego and LA, there is quite a bit of traffic if you don’t time it right. But, you can definitely start in SD to get the full experience! I would prioritize your night life excursions to be in LA and SF, and your nature/sight seeing excursions to be in places like San Luis Obispo/morro bay, Mendocino county, Monterey bay, humboldt county, Big Sur. You’ll get more redwoods/cozy “vibes” in the northern CA part of the coastline and beachy/laid back “vibes” in the southern/central CA part of the coastline.

View Quoted Comment

Thanks! I was leaning into flying into LA. You made the decision much easier for me!

Little river inn is adorable and so cute! I love Mendocino and fort Bragg. Lots of cute little places! What time of year? The redwoods are pretty stunning! Quite a few incredible fine dining places that are hidden on the Mendocino coast as well

Maybe this will help. I personally love the stretch from Big Sur north to San Francisco.
https://www.travelinusa.us/pacific-coast-highway-road-trip/

View Quoted Comment This is very helpful! Thank you!