7-Day Pacific Coast Highway Adventure: Itinerary (2024)

Scenic Drive and Arrival

Morning

Start your journey from San Francisco and enjoy the scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Make sure to take in the breathtaking views of the coastline as you head towards Big Sur. This iconic route offers numerous photo opportunities and short stops to appreciate the natural beauty.

Afternoon

Arrive in Big Sur and settle into your accommodation. After a brief rest, head out for a leisurely hike at

Big Sur

. This area is renowned for its stunning landscapes, towering redwoods, and dramatic ocean views. Spend some time exploring the trails and immersing yourself in nature.

Evening

For dinner, visit Nepenthe, a highly-rated restaurant offering delicious food with spectacular views of the coastline. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you dine while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Bedtime

In Big Sur, California, travelers can find amazing hotels.

Exploring Big Sur's Natural Wonders

Morning

Begin your day with breakfast at Big Sur Bakery, known for its fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, embark on

Big Sur Highway 1 Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

. This tour will guide you through some of Big Sur's most iconic spots, providing interesting insights along the way.

Afternoon

Stop for lunch at Sierra Mar, located at Post Ranch Inn. The restaurant offers gourmet cuisine with panoramic ocean views. After lunch, continue exploring more scenic spots along Highway 1 or take another short hike to fully appreciate Big Sur's natural beauty.

Evening

Dine at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant for a cozy and charming experience. The rustic ambiance combined with hearty meals makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Bedtime

In Big Sur, California, travelers can find amazing hotels.

Hidden Gems of Big Sur

Morning

Have breakfast at The Sur House, which offers farm-to-table dishes with stunning ocean views. Post breakfast, visit McWay Falls – one of Big Sur’s most photographed spots – located within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch at Ripplewood Resort Restaurant before heading out for another adventure:

Big Sur California Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour

. This self-drive tour allows you to explore hidden gems and lesser-known viewpoints along the coast.

Evening

End your day with dinner at Big Sur Roadhouse, known for its creative menu featuring local ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place to reflect on your day's adventures.

Bedtime

In Big Sur, California, travelers can find amazing hotels.

More Scenic Views & Relaxation

Morning

Start your morning with breakfast at Fernwood Tavern, which offers hearty options in a rustic setting. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Pfeiffer Beach – famous for its purple sand and unique rock formations.

Afternoon

Have lunch at Post Ranch Inn Restaurant where you can enjoy exquisite dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from high above on cliffs.

Evening

For dinner, visit Big Sur Taphouse to enjoy casual dining with great food options and local craft beers. It’s a perfect way to end another beautiful day in Big Sur.

Bedtime

In Big Sur, California, travelers can find amazing hotels.

Continuing the Coastal Journey

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at Fernwood Tavern, enjoying a hearty meal in a rustic setting. Afterward, embark on a short hike to Partington Cove. This trail offers stunning coastal views and a serene cove to explore.

Afternoon

For lunch, visit Post Ranch Inn Restaurant where you can savor exquisite dishes while overlooking the Pacific Ocean from high cliffs. After lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Evening

Dine at Big Sur Taphouse for casual dining with great food options and local craft beers. It’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind after a day of scenic adventures.

Bedtime

In Big Sur, California, travelers can find amazing hotels.

Final Day in Big Sur

Morning

Big Sur

- Start your morning with another visit to Big Sur's beautiful trails. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of this iconic location.

Afternoon

Big Sur Highway 1 Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

- Continue exploring Big Sur's scenic spots with this self-guided tour. Stop for lunch at Sierra Mar, offering gourmet cuisine with panoramic ocean views.

Evening

Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant - End your day with dinner at this cozy and charming restaurant. The rustic ambiance combined with hearty meals makes it a perfect spot to reflect on your journey.

Bedtime

In Big Sur, California, travelers can find amazing hotels.

Departure from Big Sur

Morning

Big Sur California Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour

- Begin your final day by taking this self-drive tour along the coast one last time. Enjoy breakfast at The Sur House, which offers farm-to-table dishes with stunning ocean views.

Afternoon

Big Sur

- Spend some time revisiting your favorite spots in Big Sur or discover new ones before heading back on the road towards San Diego.

Evening

Nepenthe - For your last meal in Big Sur, dine at Nepenthe once more to enjoy delicious food paired with spectacular sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

Bedtime

In , travelers can find amazing hotels.

7-Day Pacific Coast Highway Adventure: Itinerary (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Aracelis Kilback

Last Updated:

Views: 6132

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Aracelis Kilback

Birthday: 1994-11-22

Address: Apt. 895 30151 Green Plain, Lake Mariela, RI 98141

Phone: +5992291857476

Job: Legal Officer

Hobby: LARPing, role-playing games, Slacklining, Reading, Inline skating, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Dance

Introduction: My name is Aracelis Kilback, I am a nice, gentle, agreeable, joyous, attractive, combative, gifted person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.