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Take the wheel for your next adventure and plan your dream California getaway. Travel up and down the famous Highway 1, taking in some of the best sights not just in the state, but in the whole of the US – from migrating whales to towering redwoods and everything in between.
There’s plenty to see and do on your pit stops too, from beach days and hiking to exploring historic gems and shopping ‘til you drop. With 656 miles of highway to discover, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
Ready to get the show on the road? Let’s make your Highway 1 twin-centre holiday dreams come true!
Highway 1 Holiday Highlights
As the longest highway in California – and second longest in the US – you’ll find plenty of opportunity for adventure as you cruise along the scenic Highway 1. See the stunning Pacific Coast views, travel through towering redwood trees, and stop off in some of California’s most beautiful and inviting towns.
Stunning Views
Probably what Highway 1 is best known for; you’ll enjoy plenty of incredible vistas as you rack up the miles. See the sights from the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, overlooking Big Sur – a stunning 90-mile stretch of California coastline. Point Sur Lighthouse and Limekiln State Park are also worth stopping at for that photo-worthy moment.
Fascinating Nature
If you’re travelling at dawn or dusk, keep an eye out for the area’s incredible wildlife, which is at its most active during these times. Look out at the ocean to spot migrating whales and diving birds, or seals, dolphins, and otters in the bays. Listen out for songbirds too – the perfect soundtrack to your adventure.
Gorgeous Beaches
If you’re craving a beach day during your Highway 1 multi-centre holiday, you’re in luck; this stretch of Pacific Coast offers some of the best in the US. From popular beaches with locals and tourists alike to hidden coves accessed only by steep hikes, you’ll find the perfect spot to laze on the sand or catch some waves.
Wonderful Hiking
One of the best hiking destinations in the States, California’s Highway 1 offers plenty of opportunity to lace up your walking boots and explore. Choose from hidden mountain trails, rugged coastline walks, or strolls through wine country. Whatever your ability, you’ll find a route to suit your level – all with incredible views.
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Multi Centre Itineraries
Our bespoke multi-centre itineraries turn your daydreams into dream days. No matter whether you’re a sun chaser, nature lover or thrill seeker – we can help you find, design, and combine your favourite holiday experiences. Utilising our first-hand knowledge of destinations gained from over twenty years of award-winning service, we can deliver a free personalised itinerary within an hour or so. Better yet, you can make changes to your quote at any time before departure. Holiday your way by getting in touch today.
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Our Highway 1 Favourites
Hearst Castle, San Simeon
Known as the ‘Enchanted Hill’, Hearst Castle is the main residence of a historic San Simeon estate and is one of the top attractions close to Highway 1. Designed by California’s first licensed female architect, the Spanish cathedral-inspired castle is set amongst lush, landscaped gardens, and was once home to the world’s largest private zoo.
Embark on a tour of the castle, which at peak times feature living history reenactors who will escort you back to the castle’s 1930s heyday. You’re also free to explore the gardens without a guide, allowing you to spend as much time as you like enjoying the picturesque setting.
Bixby Bridge, Big Sur
Probably Highway 1’s most famous bridge, Bixby Bridge in Big Sur is not to be missed on your Highway 1 multi-centre holiday. The iconic landmark is one of the world’s tallest single-span bridges, set in the stunning Rainbow Canyon less than 15 miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Pull over on the bridge’s north side for the perfect photo op. There are also paths on both sides of the bridge that provide a great aspect of the impressive structure alongside unforgettable views. You may recognise the bridge from movies and TV shows, including the intro of ‘Big Little Lies’ featuring Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Enjoy taking in the history of one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic sites, Old Mission Santa Barbara. Not only is it one of the city’s most famous and beautiful landmarks, but it’s one of several can’t-miss attractions close to Highway 1.
Embark on a self-guided tour and discover the grand bell towers, manicured gardens, and amazing mountain and ocean views. Or enjoy an hour-long guided tour on the weekend. If you’re lucky enough to visit over Memorial Day Weekend, you’ll also enjoy stunning outdoor artwork as the annual I Madonnari Street Painting Festival takes place at the Mission Plaza, where you can see 150 vibrant and large-scale pastel chalk pieces of art.
Pebble Beach
The legendary Pebble Beach will be a familiar sight for keen golf fans, with four renowned courses at the coastal community – including three that rank in the country’s top 50 and another redesigned by Tiger Woods.
But there’s so much more to it than a picturesque spot in which to tee off. Explore the boardwalk at Spanish Bay, admire the legendary Lone Cypress tree, and enjoy annual events like the international renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance classic car competition and Pebble Beach Food and Wine festival. We also recommend renting a kayak and enjoying a voyage at Stillwater Cove for a peaceful afternoon out.
Pismo Beach
Situated halfway between the iconic California cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles, Pismo Beach offers long stretches of powder white sands for the ultimate beach day. Build sandcastles or laze with a good book, or perhaps go for a gentle stroll along the waterline. Feeling more active? You’ll find plenty of opportunities for adventure, too, from surfing and bodyboarding to horseback riding and even riding the dunes in a four-wheel ATV!
Take a walk on the award-winning boardwalk, adjacent to the Pismo Pier, or watch the kids as they play in the playpark. There are also volleyball courts to keep the whole family entertained.
Black Swift Falls Beach, Ragged Point
Some call the sand black; others say it’s purple. But one thing’s for sure, this picturesque Ragged Point beach offers a unique experience during your multi-centre holiday to Highway 1. The sand’s colour is thanks to ancient volcanoes, whose sediment is mixed into the beach sand – a striking and unforgettable sight.
It’s not an easy beach to get to, but the effort is well-rewarded. Hike down the short but steep 400 feet and you’ll discover a waterfall running down the towering cliffside, as well as a beach that’s often almost empty, making it your own private haven for the day.
Spooner’s Cove, Los Osos
Looking for a beach where you can kick back and relax? You’ve come to the right place. This protected cove is great for families, where little ones can enjoy a safe spot to play in the calm and shallow waters. There are tidepools to discover too, where you can spot the hermit crabs, starfish, urchins, and more. You can even watch the surfers in the distance, with popular surf spots on the other side of the cove.
What’s more, free parking is located on the beach just steps from the water’s edge, making this one of the area’s most accessible beaches – perfect for your on-the-go Highway 1 twin-centre holiday adventure.
Moonstone Beach, Cambria
Named after the abundance of ‘moonstones’ found on the beach, this is a popular spot for beachcombing, making it a fun destination for young families. Dig in the sand for sea glass – a great souvenir from your visit.
Although the sand is great for little ones, the waves can be large and strong here, so we wouldn’t recommend heading into the water. Instead, admire the rugged beauty from the safety and comfort of the shore. If you’re desperate for a dip, there’s a seasonal heated swimming pool to dive into, while other amenities include a kids’ playground and playing field.
Downtown Cayucos
With a huge array of boutique and antique stores lining the walkable main street, Downtown Cayucos is the perfect destination for an authentic Californian shopping spree. Find collectables at the antique mall or head to The Cayucos Collective – founded by local artists, surfers, and skaters – for unique artworks, clothing, and jewellery. There are plenty of family-run shops to explore, too, offering something for everyone.
Downtown Cayucos’ Ocean Avenue also sees many events throughout the year, including regular farmers’ markets where you can sample fresh, regional produce, and the Sea Glass Festival. And when you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve almost dropped, there are plenty of delicious local eateries to refuel at, including the Brown Butter Cookie Factory or Ruddell’s Smokehouse.
Pismo Beach Premium Outlets
Home to over 40 premium retail outlets, with brands including Coach, Mulberry, Kate Spade New York, and Calvin Klein, keen bargain hunters will want to plan a shopping day at Pismo Beach Premium Outlets during your Highway 1 multi-centre holiday. Situated halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, it’s easily accessible from Highway 1. Here, you’ll enjoy savings of between 25% and 65% off some of the biggest and best brands.
While Pismo Beach Premium Outlets doesn’t have any on-site restaurants, there are many nearby dining establishments within walking distance, from pizzerias and Thai restaurants to sushi and burgers.
Cambria
With two distinct shopping areas – East and West Villages – Cambria is a hub for shoppers from the world over. Home to a vibrant creative community, here you’ll find gems you won’t find elsewhere. In fact, the town is completely free of chain stores, instead offering a diverse mix of boutiques, specialty stores, and a weekly Friday Farmers’ Market.
East Village is packed with galleries and boutiques, offering gardening gear, gift shops, and the largest yarn shop on the Central Coast. You’ll find more art galleries and family-owned stores in West Village, as well as plenty of cafés and restaurants for those much-needed pit stops.
Arroyo Grande Valley
Arroyo Grande Valley isn’t just famed for its incredible scenic views, but it’s a popular shopping spot close to Highway 1, too. Stop off at the local wineries for souvenirs from your visit (and a delicious tasting experience, too), or head into the village that is lined with boutique shops and artisan stores.
Discover antique finds, vintage linens, artworks, and more at the many charming eclectic shops. You’ll also find fashion and furniture, offering something for almost everyone in this picturesque spot. The village’s quaint streets come alive during annual holidays too, from The Harvest Festival to Christmas, when you can sip spiced cider as you shop. There’s also a weekly farmers’ market to peruse at your leisure.
San Luis Obispo County
From the marshes, sage scrub, and rolling grasslands of the coast to the oak woodlands, savannas, and wetlands of the county’s interior, San Luis Obispo County has more than 18,000 acres of protected habitat. Home to bobcats, golden eagles, tule elk, and more, it’s a diverse landscape for a huge variety of native species, as well as those at-risk like the California condor.
Immerse yourself in nature in the county’s botanical garden, where you can enjoy either a self-guided tour or a guide-led walk that focuses on the birds or monarch butterflies. The garden displays incredible plants from the five major Mediterranean climate zones of the world, including California.
Limekiln State Park, Monterey County
Offering breathtaking views of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the rugged Big Sur coastline, Limekiln State Park is one of the best spots along Highway 1 for embracing California’s incredible landscape and wildlife. Hike through towering coastal redwoods, take a swim in Limekiln Creek, and spot the marine life on the coast – including, if you’re lucky, the migrating whales.
You can explore the ruins of the once booming limekiln operation, as well as visit the beautiful Limekiln Falls. To truly embrace nature, you can camp at this state park, with 29 campsites located beside the creek, on the beachfront, and in the depths of the forest.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Stretching from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a haven for nature lovers. Admire California’s famous redwoods and a stunning 80- foot waterfall that flows into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. From here, enjoy the incredible view over the sanctuary as well as miles of rugged Pacific coastline.
There are plenty of hiking routes to explore at this state park, including a short half-mile round-trip – the Waterfall Overlook Trail – which offers beautiful views of the McWay Falls. There’s also the one-mile round-trip Partington Cove Trail – a steep hike that takes you over a wooden bridge and through a 60-foot tunnel before you emerge on a picturesque rocky beach.
Calla Lily Valley
If you’re planning your multi-centre holiday to Highway 1 for spring, add a trip to Calla Lily Valley to your itinerary. Regarded as a ‘fluke of nature’, wild white lilies mark a path to the ocean at Garrapata State Beach.
You’ll find the trail to Calla Lily Valley on the west side of Highway 1, with a short-but-sweet hike taking you to the beach. Along the way, you’ll walk through hillsides covered in lilacs and wildflowers, adding to the otherworldly charm of the setting. And after your canyon walk, reward yourselves with a day on the beautiful Garrapata Beach.
Ragged Point Restaurant, Ragged Point
Heading north along Highway 1 from the charming town of Cambria, you’ll struggle to find food for miles. That is, until you reach Ragged Point. Savour a sophisticated menu with fresh, local ingredients, from dishes like clam chowder and California salads to creamy avocado gazpacho and delicious steaks and seafood.
But it’s the view that truly has the wow factor at Ragged Point Restaurant, offering one of the best ocean vistas from Highway 1. Dine on the heated patio and enjoy the cliffside views and rugged coastline, as well as the restaurant’s koi ponds and cosy fire pits. It’s a dining experience you won’t forget in a hurry.
Robin’s Restaurant, Cambria
One of Cambria’s most popular and celebrated eateries, Robin’s Restaurant fuses vibrant global flavours and fresh, locally sourced and seasonal ingredients for an incredible dining experience. Savour the tastes of Indonesia, Japan, Italy, and the Mediterranean, with stunning dishes that look (almost) too good to eat.
Robin’s Restaurant caters for all dietary requirements, too, including gluten-free diners, vegetarians, and vegans, making this a restaurant the whole family can enjoy without worry. Dine in the cosy dining room or al fresco on the picturesque, heated patio. We recommend the lobster bisque, which has achieved something of a cult status in Cambria.
Mersea’s, Avila Beach
Nestled at the end of Harfort Pier in San Luis Obispo Bay, in the Port San Luis Harbor District and just a short drive from Highway 1, you’ll find Mersea’s. Offering incredible ocean views, you can sit and watch the boats go by as you dine and soak up the fresh sea air. If the weather isn’t on your side, head indoors; there are portholes in the floor so you can spot the local harbour seals while you dine!
It’s no surprise that the menu is packed with fresh seafood delights, from clam chowder and crab cakes to oysters and calamari, as well as plenty of veggie dishes.
Schooners, Cayucos
Continuing the nautical theme is Schooners, overlooking Cayucos State Beach. With first- floor ocean views and a rustic wooden interior, you’ll feel like you’re at sea on a historic ship rather than at a beachfront restaurant. There’s a stunning beachside patio too, so you can drink and dine while soaking in that incredible vista.
Of course, no beachfront restaurant would be complete without a menu full of fresh seafood delights, and the crab cakes and calamari here are famous with locals and tourists alike. There’s a delicious lobster mac and cheese too as well as Alaskan cod, shrimp, and swordfish dishes. There are, of course, vegetarian and non-seafood dishes too, so you’re sure to find something everyone will enjoy.
Highway 1 FAQs
Highway 1 FAQs
Highway 1 FAQs
Generally, California is eight hours behind the UK on Pacific Standard Time (PST) or Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) depending on the time of year. However, if you’re planning your Highway 1 twin-centre holiday for March or November, be warned that US clocks go forward or backward an hour on different Sundays to the UK.
Unsure what the time difference will be when you travel? Ask our friendly team who will be more than happy to confirm.
We recommend hitting the road in springtime to avoid the summer rush and scorching temperatures. If you visit in April, you can expect average temperatures of 23°C in Los Angeles and a mild 17°C in San Francisco, with other Highway 1 towns and cities somewhere in between.
Another great time to visit is autumn, with October temperatures averaging at 26°C in LA and 21°C in San Francisco.
The best California airports to fly into from the UK for your Highway 1 adventure are Los Angeles International (LAX) and San Francisco International (SAN), which both offer direct flights from London’s Gatwick and Heathrow airports.
If you’re travelling from outside London, you can enjoy one-stop flights to both LA and San Francisco from Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Bristol. If you need flight advice for your multi-centre holiday, just ask our friendly USA experts who will be only too happy to help.
After all that driving and exploring, you’d be forgiven for wanting to kick-back and unwind, which is why a beach break is the perfect way to wrap up your twin-centre adventure. Stay in California or head to the East Coast and laze on some of Florida’s best beaches. Discover our multi-centre holidays here.
Or why not continue the iconic drives and hit the open road on Route 66? View our Route 66 holiday itineraries here.
In a word: yes! Renting a car is the best way to explore Highway 1, allowing you to stop off at scenic vistas, charming villages, and vibrant cities at your own pace. Travelling by car is not only the best way to access some of the area’s best gems, but it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy some of the US’ most picturesque views – especially of the iconic Bixby Bridge at Big Sur.
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