Exploring the Best Coastal Road Trips on the West Coast
Are you looking for a fun and adventurous way to explore the stunning scenery of the West Coast? Look no further than a coastal road trip! With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, charming seaside towns, and plenty of outdoor activities, the West Coast offers some of the most spectacular road trip routes in the world. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best coastal road trips to help you plan your next adventure.
The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is likely the most famous and iconic California road trip route. Spanning nearly 655 miles from San Francisco to San Diego, the Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as access to some of California’s most beautiful beaches and charming coastal towns. Highlights of the route include Big Sur, with its stunning sea views and the Hearst Castle, a magnificent and historic estate.
Oregon Coast Road Trip
For a more laid-back road trip, consider driving the Oregon Coast. The route stretches over 363 miles, from the Washington border all the way to the California border, and showcases some of the most spectacular ocean views in the country. Along the way, visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities, as well as explore the quaint coastal towns such as Newport, known for its historic lighthouses.
California’s Highway 101
For those looking to experience the classic California beach culture, a road trip down the Highway 101 is a must-do. The route traverses over 800 miles from Los Angeles to Crescent City, offering visitors the chance to visit iconic surf towns such as Santa Barbara and San Diego and to take in magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Other highlights include the Redwoods National Park, the bustling city of San Francisco, and the charming beach town of Santa Cruz.
Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula
For those looking to escape the crowds, Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula offers a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path road trip experience. The 330-mile route takes visitors through stunning rainforests and offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can also explore the picturesque Victorian seaport of Port Townsend or relax on the unspoiled beaches of Olympic National Park.
Conclusion
A coastal road trip on the West Coast is an adventure you won’t soon forget. With stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and plenty of outdoor activities, the West Coast offers some of the best options for a road trip, from the famous Pacific Coast Highway to the quieter Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula. Whichever route you choose, come prepared with a sense of adventure, and be ready to experience some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
