Top reasons to visit Pacific Coast Highway
- Stunning Coastal Scenery: The Pacific Coast Highway boasts breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, making it a visual delight for travellers.
- Outdoor Adventures: From hiking coastal trails to exploring national parks, there's ample opportunity for adventurous activities.
- Charming Towns: Discover picturesque towns along the route, each offering unique local culture and attractions.
- Celebrity Hangouts: Experience a touch of glamour by visiting famous spots frequented by celebrities.
- Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options from oceanfront lodges to charming motels tailored to various preferences.
Find great hotels near Pacific Coast Highway
Explore a variety of accommodation options along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, California. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly hotels or charming motels, you'll find the ideal spot for a beach or golf-themed getaway. Look out for highly-rated establishments like oceanfront lodges, the Holiday Inn, and the Palihouse Hotel, each offering unique experiences to enhance your stay. Read reviews to ensure you choose the perfect lodging for your Californian adventure.
- Best Western Plus Humboldt House Inn: This budget-friendly hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere for travellers seeking a pet-friendly experience. Located 31km from the Pacific Coast Highway, the inn allows certain pets on-site, making it ideal for those who wish to travel with their furry companions. Guests appreciate the convenience of amenities such as a pet policy that accommodates dogs, along with service animals being welcome without fees. The hotel features comfortable rooms and a range of facilities designed for a pleasant stay, ensuring that both you and your pet can enjoy your time in California.
- Benbow Historic Inn: A charming 4-star accommodation, Benbow Historic Inn is situated 27km from the Pacific Coast Highway and is steeped in history. This unique property occupies a national historic building, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s past while enjoying modern comforts. With direct access to the beach, it caters to those looking for a blend of beach and golf-themed experiences. Guests can indulge in golf on-site, adding a recreational touch to their stay. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, the historic charm and scenic surroundings make it a distinguished choice.
- Motel Garberville: Another budget-friendly option, Motel Garberville is also located 31km from the Pacific Coast Highway. This motel is well-suited for travellers who wish to bring their pets along, as it permits certain animals on-site. The property features a pet policy that allows dogs, with specific restrictions to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests. Motel Garberville offers a range of essential amenities, making it a practical choice for those seeking affordable accommodation while enjoying the beauty of California.
Where to stay near Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway offers a breathtaking journey along California's stunning coastline, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Discover charming towns and picturesque vistas, from the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Monterey. Experience family-friendly adventures and savour the gorgeous scenery of the West and Central Coast, making unforgettable memories along this iconic route. Whether hiking coastal trails or enjoying sunset views, the Pacific Coast Highway promises an enchanting holiday experience.
- Leggett: Nestled approximately 8km from the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Leggett is a charming city that draws in nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The town experiences seasonal visitor peaks, particularly in April and during the summer months of June and July. Leggett is renowned for its stunning outdoor scenery, offering access to national parks and lush forests. Visitors can indulge in various activities, from exploring recreational areas to enjoying some fun at the arcade adventure zone. For those seeking relaxation, body treatment venues provide a serene escape amidst the natural beauty.
- Branscomb: Situated around 23km away from the Pacific Coast Highway, Branscomb is a quaint city that offers a blend of adventure and scenic beauty year-round. While visitor numbers peak in the summer months of June to August, the town maintains a steady flow of tourists throughout the year. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in activities such as golfing and exploring the recreational area. The proximity to a national state park and a picturesque river further enhances the travel experience, making Branscomb an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
- Rockport: Just 10km from the Pacific Coast Highway, Rockport is a quaint village offering a delightful escape into the great outdoors. The village attracts visitors with its moderately seasonal appeal, peaking during the warm summer months of June to August. Rockport is beloved for its natural scenery and adventurous spirit, featuring recreational areas and a recreation centre for family-friendly fun. With a nearby national state park, inviting beaches, and serene parks, Rockport is the perfect spot for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
Things to do in Pacific Coast Highway
Shopping
The Pacific Coast Highway offers unique shopping opportunities. Visit the charming Carmel Plaza for upscale boutiques and local artisan shops. In Santa Monica, the Third Street Promenade features a mix of street performers and shops. Don't miss the quaint local markets along the route for distinctive souvenirs.
Recreation
At Esalen Institute in Big Sur, immerse yourself in soothing hot springs overlooking the ocean, complemented by holistic therapies and workshops. In Santa Barbara, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Four Seasons Resort, featuring tranquil gardens and wellness programmes designed to nurture body and mind.
Adventure
The Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking coastal views and thrilling activities. Explore the scenic Big Sur with its dramatic cliffs and hiking trails, enjoy water sports in Monterey Bay, or visit the enchanting Hearst Castle. Experience vibrant seaside towns and indulge in fresh seafood along the way.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy seaside dining and live performances. For a lively bar scene, head to Venice Beach and sample craft cocktails at a beachside pub while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
*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 on your trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, consider visiting between January and March for lower accommodation rates, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Avoid Saturdays for better deals. Use Expedia’s search tool to sort hotels by price and filter for eco-friendly options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings. Additionally, keep an eye out for app deals to snag further discounts. Enjoy free activities like beach visits and scenic hikes to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.
- 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 set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservations along the Pacific Coast Highway with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway offers a splendid blend of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking beach experiences. Explore stunning coastlines, tranquil private gardens, and picturesque national and state parks. With a variety of attractions and activities available, this region promises an unforgettable vacation filled with natural beauty and adventure.
- Drive-Thru Tree Park: Experience the wonder of towering redwoods as you drive through this unique private garden. The park features several ancient trees, allowing you to get up close and personal with nature while enjoying a leisurely drive.
- Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve: Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this pristine reserve, showcasing magnificent redwoods and diverse wildlife. The serene walking trails offer a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of California’s coastal forests.
- Usal Beach: Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes at Usal Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and soak in the stunning coastal views. This secluded spot is ideal for a peaceful day by the ocean, away from the crowds.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Pacific Coast Highway
Accessing the Pacific Coast Highway is convenient with several nearby airports. Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County) is 169km away, with top hotels like the 5-star Farmhouse Inn 6km from the airport. Eureka, CA (ACV-Arcata - Eureka), located 130km away, offers options such as Blue Lake Casino & Hotel, 13km from the airport, featuring limited shuttle services. Willows, CA (WLW-Willows-Glenn County), 138km away, has the Quality Inn & Suites a mere 322m from the airport, providing 24-hour shuttle services. Each location offers various hotels to ease your travel experience.