Top reasons to visit Pacific Coast Highway
- Breathtaking Coastal Views: The Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning panoramas of the coastline, perfect for photography and relaxation.
- Charming Towns: Explore picturesque cities like Monterey and Santa Barbara, known for their unique attractions and local cuisine.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking scenic trails to relaxing on beautiful beaches.
- Luxury Accommodations: Stay in exceptional hotels ranging from cozy motels to luxurious oceanfront lodges.
- Celebrity Hangouts: Discover popular spots frequented by celebrities along this iconic route.
Find great hotels near Pacific Coast Highway
Experience the stunning beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway with a stay in one of its exceptional hotels. From cozy motels to luxurious oceanfront lodges, you'll find a range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Enjoy pet-friendly options, golf-themed amenities, and a beach vacation atmosphere. Discover highly-rated hotels like Holiday Inn and Palihouse, ensuring a memorable getaway along California's picturesque coastline.
- Benbow Historic Inn: This charming 4-star hotel is steeped in history, situated 27km from the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. The Benbow Historic Inn offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort, featuring direct beach access and nestled in a national historic building. Known for its golf-themed experiences, guests can enjoy the lush surroundings and scenic views while indulging in a round of golf. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this inn is ideal for travelers seeking a distinctive beach getaway combined with a touch of history.
- Motel Garberville: Located 31km from the Pacific Coast Highway, Motel Garberville is a budget-friendly option that welcomes pet owners. This cozy motel allows pets on-site, making it a suitable choice for travelers who want to bring their furry companions along. The property features a pet-friendly policy with specific guidelines to ensure a pleasant stay for both guests and their pets. This no-frills accommodation provides essential amenities and is perfect for those looking for value without compromising on comfort.
- The Northern Inn: Situated 34km from the Pacific Coast Highway, The Northern Inn is a 3-star motel that also caters to pet lovers. With a welcoming atmosphere, this inn allows pets on the premises, offering a pet policy that includes deposits and fees for pet stays. It’s a great option for travelers who prioritize bringing their pets along for the adventure. The Northern Inn combines comfort with accessibility, making it a practical choice for those exploring the beautiful California coastline.
Where to stay near Pacific Coast Highway
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Pacific Coast Highway, where breathtaking coastal views and charming towns await. Experience the allure of California's central coast with its stunning landscapes, romantic sunsets, and family-friendly attractions. Explore picturesque cities like Monterey and Santa Barbara, where adventure meets relaxation. Whether hiking along scenic trails or enjoying local cuisine, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a perfect blend of outdoor fun and serene beauty, making it an ideal vacation destination.
- Leggett: Nestled 8km from the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Leggett is a charming city that offers a seasonal adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With visitor numbers peaking from April to July, Leggett's scenic beauty attracts those seeking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Explore the nearby national state park, where hiking trails wind through lush forests, or visit the local visitor center for insights into the area's natural wonders. For a fun-filled day, check out the arcade adventure zone and indulge in a relaxing body treatment at one of the local spas.
- Rockport: Located 10km from the Pacific Coast Highway, Rockport is a quaint village that beckons travelers with its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. The summer months from June to August see a surge in visitors, drawn by the village's recreational areas and beautiful beaches. Enjoy a day at the local recreation center, or take a stroll through the nearby national state park, where coastal vistas await. Rockport's serene parks provide the perfect backdrop for picnics and leisurely walks, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind in nature.
- Hardy: Situated 13km from the Pacific Coast Highway, Hardy is a delightful village that offers year-round charm and a welcoming atmosphere. With visitor numbers peaking during the summer months, Hardy is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Explore the nearby national state park and its breathtaking landscapes, or spend a day at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying water activities. The village's proximity to the river also invites opportunities for kayaking and fishing, making Hardy an excellent destination for adventure seekers.
Things to do in Pacific Coast Highway
Shopping
Along the Pacific Coast Highway, visit the vibrant Carmel Plaza, featuring upscale shops and local artisan boutiques. In Santa Monica, explore Third Street Promenade, a lively outdoor shopping district filled with a mix of brand-name stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, all just steps away from the beach.
Recreation
Along the Pacific Coast Highway, the Esalen Institute in Big Sur offers rejuvenating workshops and breathtaking ocean views, fostering personal growth and relaxation. In Santa Monica, the Calm Spa features holistic therapies and wellness programs, allowing visitors to unwind and rejuvenate in a serene coastal atmosphere.
Adventure
Explore the scenic beauty of Big Sur with a hike on the rugged trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can witness spectacular ocean views and majestic redwoods. For a thrilling experience, try surfing at Carmel Beach, known for its stunning coastline and vibrant surf culture.
Nightlife
The Pacific Coast Highway boasts vibrant nightlife, with Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade featuring lively street performers and trendy bars. In Malibu, enjoy beachfront lounges with stunning ocean views. Further north, Monterey's Cannery Row offers a mix of cozy pubs and upscale dining for a memorable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pacific Coast Highway
To save money during your visit to the Pacific Coast Highway, consider traveling between January and March when hotel prices are lower, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, for more affordable accommodations. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and filter for eco-certified options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings through package deals. Lastly, keep an eye out for last-minute booking opportunities to secure the best rates.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Pacific Coast Highway are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Pacific Coast Highway is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Pacific Coast Highway is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations along the Pacific Coast Highway with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure with its stunning coastline, charming beaches, and beautiful state parks. Travelers can immerse themselves in nature while exploring picturesque private gardens and enjoying scenic views. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beach or thrilling outdoor activities, this iconic route provides an array of experiences that showcase California's breathtaking landscapes.
- Drive-Thru Tree Park: Experience the wonder of giant redwood trees in a unique way at this private garden. Drive your vehicle through massive tree trunks and marvel at their towering heights, creating unforgettable photo opportunities along the scenic route.
- Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at this state reserve. Explore lush trails surrounded by ancient redwoods, where you can enjoy peaceful hikes and witness the beauty of California's diverse ecosystem.
- Usal Beach: Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes at Usal Beach, known for its stunning coastline and natural beauty. Relax on the sandy shores, take a refreshing dip in the ocean, or simply soak up the sun amidst picturesque scenery.