Exploring coastlines is something many travelers have listed on their bucket list. While the option to enjoy beautiful coastlines is often available by riding a train, driving allows travelers the freedom to stop and explore anywhere and anytime they want. Coastal road trips are one of the more popular types of traveling trips people are choosing to take in 2019, with expectations that 2020 will be a time when travelers are taking even more coastal road trips.  

California’s Coastal Route

Also known as the California Coastline, the Golden Coast and Coastal California, California’s Coastal Route refers to the coastal regions located in the Golden State of California. The three main coastal areas include the South Coast, the Central Coast, and the North Coast. It also includes more than 20 different counties, of which all offer their own special sites. Travelers who decide to drive along California’s Coastal Route will take State Route 1, as this south-north coastal route runs side by side along most of the route. It is the longest route in California, as it is just shy of 660 miles long.

Must See Stops

The must see stops that every traveler should see when traveling along California’s Coastal Route are listed below.

• Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara is a must see stop for travelers who enjoy shopping for unique items, participating in outdoor adventures, appreciating gorgeous mountain views and participating in local wine scenes. Santa Barbara is a place that is known for its award winning wineries, making it a definite must see stop for wine lovers.
• Big Sur. Big Sur is a designated American National Scenic Byway, as the views found here are absolutely spectacular. Visitors can take a hike down a cliffside to access the beach area, which is right next to a remarkably impressive waterfall. While the scenery here is enough to warrant a stop, visitors also enjoy watching the wildlife, like seals and whales.
• Hearst Castle. Hearst Castle is located near the Los Padres National Forest and is a noteworthy site to see. William Randolph Hearst built the Castle 100 years ago in 1919, and it’s still a top touring site for those traveling California’s Coastline. There’s plenty to see here, including original art creations, water features, and spectacular gardens. The Castle sits on almost 130 acres, making it easy to spend half a day here.
• Muir Woods. Muir Woods is a force to be seen. It is located near San Francisco and is quite unique, as the redwood trees found here are more than 500 years old. This ancient forest offers views of trees that are hundreds of feet tall, making these woods a true must see stop when traveling along California’s Coastal Route.

Jody’s Travel Inc