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Pacific Coast Paradise road trip
We’ve devised a stunning tour of America’s west coast that includes some of the country’s best driving roads, plenty of exciting scenery and some stunning sights. Our Pacific Coast road trip route from Seattle, WA, to Santa Barbara, CA, provides a sensational slice of west-coast landscapes, from snowy-capped Mount Rainier to the glorious surf of California’s Big Sur. See it all with a car rental from Hertz. Renting a car means you can travel freely, and it also allows you to control your itinerary, skipping a stop or replacing one attraction for another to suit your preferences.
Summary
- The Pacific Coast Paradise drive takes around 27 hours and 20 minutes; the direct route takes around 17 hours and 10 minutes.
- Start your journey in Seattle and stop at sites like the Museum of Flight and Old Town Eureka, before commencing in Santa Barbara.
- Hertz car rental makes it easy to explore the Pacific coast, with convenient pick up and drop off, and a range of different rental options.
The drive from Washington to California
Pacific coast paradise route
Approx time: 27 hours, 20 minutes
Distance: 1,458 miles
Route: via 5th Avenue North and Broad Street
Tolls: This route has tolls.
Starting point: Stop 1: Museum of Pop Culture
First up on our Pacific Coast Paradise road trip is the Museum of Pop Culture. The Museum of Pop Culture, or MOPOP, is a non-profit museum located in Seattle. Here you can browse a collection of legendary pop culture artifacts, including a Hendrix and Hip-Hop collection.
But before you visit MOPOP why not stop by Alki Beach? Just a 15-minute drive from MOPOP, this beachfront strip with fire pits, sand volleyball and picnic sites is the perfect place to relax before embarking on a long drive. A compact SUV is an excellent choice for navigating the narrow city lanes in Seattle.
325 5th Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
Find out more about car rental for this Road Trip route
Stop 2: Space Needle
Soak in the views from the top of Seattle’s landmark attraction: the Space Needle. This 1962 observation tower is 605ft high and the views are astonishing. Look out for Mount Rainier volcano, 54 miles southeast. A spacious SUV rental is a practical choice for family travel.
But before you soar the skies, make a pit stop at Pike Place Market. This public market center is home to a wide range of restaurants, eateries, and specialty food shops, perfect for fueling up before you hit the road. It also has a selection of retail shops, and a crafts market should you want to pick up something to commemorate your trip.
400 Broad Street, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
Stop 3: The Museum of Flight
Aviation buffs, this one is for you. Just a 15-minute drive in your rental car from the Space Needle is the Museum of Flight. Home to one of the largest air and space collections in the US, the museum features 130 aircraft and spacecraft, plus a large collection of rare photographs and a world-class library.
Before you explore the world-class collection of aircraft, a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel is a must. Standing 175ft tall, this is one of the largest Ferris Wheels in North America. Stop by Friday, Saturday or Sunday night to catch the colorful light show displays. A minivan rental is a practical choice for group travel.
Seattle, WA 98108, United States
Stop 4: Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve
There are many theories as to the cause of the intriguing Mima mounds found at this nature reserve – including glacial settlements, natural forces and even eager moles marking their territory – but the mystery of what happened to settle the soil remains just that.
Before you speculate your own theories, stop by Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls. Take a half-mile-long walking trail and enjoy views of cascading waterfalls, pools and striking rocks. There are also beautifully maintained lawns, picnic areas and a sand area for children to play. A saloon rental offers a smooth ride for the one-hour, 15-minute drive to Mima Mounds.
12315 Waddell Creek Road Southwest, Olympia, WA 98512
https://dnr.wa.gov/natural-areas/natural-area-preserves/mima-mounds-natural-area-preserve
Stop 5: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Make a pit stop along the one-hour, 45-minute drive to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Stop at Castle Rock, Washington, the Gateway to Mount St. Helens, renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. Then make your way to Oregon in a comfortable mid-size SUV rental.
The Museum of Science and Industry is the perfect attraction for families keen on combining education and entertainment. The museum features a range of interactive science displays for all ages. There’s also an immersive Titanic exhibition where visitors can witness history made tangible through real artifacts from the ship and its passengers. Stop by the planetarium to catch an immersive presentation before you leave. (Image credit: Robert Gaskin)
1945 Southeast Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214
Stop 6: Mount Hood National Forest
The beautiful wilderness of Mount Hood National Forest spans 1.1 million acres that extends from the Columbia River Gorge across miles of forested mountains, lakes and streams that meet Mount Hood. The area is perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping under the stars.
Before you pitch up for the night, stop by Hidden Falls Nature Park, Happy Valley, a beautiful, natural urban waterfall featuring a paved trail. At the base of the trail, there’s a scenic wooden bridge where you can enjoy a picnic and soak in the stunning waterfall views. An SUV rental is an excellent choice for driving to Mount Hood National Forest.
Sandy, OR 97055, United States
Midway Point: Stop 7: Cascade–Siskiyou National Monument
Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument is a vast protected area located at the crossroads of mountain ranges. It’s a great location for camping amongst nature or taking an adventurous walk. Other activities include climbing the prominent Pilot Rock, cross-country skiing or simply taking a scenic drive.
It’s around a 5-hour, 15-minute drive to Cascade–Siskiyou National Monument, so we recommend a pit stop along the way in Eugene, Oregon. This city on the Willamette River is home to a fantastic range of restaurants and attractions, including the Owen Rose Garden. A truck rental is an excellent choice for exploring the Cascade–Siskiyou National Monument.
Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, Ashland, OR 97520
Stop 8: Old Town Eureka
The next stop on our Pacific Coast Paradise road trip is Old Town Eureka. This charming old town is home to Victorian-era buildings, some housing restaurants and others housing stores. Browse quirky independent stores selling everything from artisan chocolates to vintage fashion. There are also several music shops for vinyl lovers.
Elevate your trip to Old Town Eureka with an open-air convertible rental, letting you fully connect with the beautiful, historic surroundings. But first, stop by Redwood National and State Parks, renowned for the world’s tallest[HL2] trees. Enjoy a peaceful woodland stroll along the forest trails or take a scenic drive along winding roads that take you beneath towering redwoods.
Eureka, CA 95501
Stop 9: Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks are two hills that rise almost 1,000 feet above San Francisco. At 9,222 feet in elevation, Twin Peaks offers spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay Area. From the viewing area, visitors can see many iconic San Francisco landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge.
Break up the 5-hour journey to Twin Peaks with a visit to Santa Rosa. This vibrant city in California is just 55 miles from San Francisco and there’s plenty to see and do. Children will love the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, dedicated to the works of the creator of the Peanuts comic strip. Travel in comfort in a large SUV rental.
501 Twin Peaks Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94114
https://www.inside-guide-to-san-francisco-tourism.com/twin-peaks-san-francisco.html[HL2]
Stop 10: Pier 39
Pier 39 is one of San Francisco’s biggest attractions. This busy waterfront area features a range of restaurants, attractions and shops. There’s also a 7D Ride Experience, with a giant 3D screen. Don’t forget to check out the wooden pontoons at the end of the pier, they’re a popular spot for sea lions to sunbathe.
But first, a visit to the Cable Car Museum. This museum houses a collection of historic cable cars, photos and displays. There’s also a gift shop on site where you can pick up a souvenir for yourself or your loved ones back home. Reserve a sustainable electric car rental for your time in San Francisco.
The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Stop 11: Point Sur State Historic Park
Driving the Big Sur section of Central California’s Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic treat. One of the highlights is the dramatic volcanic chunk of rock joining the sandy shore at Point Sur. It’s easy to join guided walking tours around Point Sur and its lighthouse. It’s also a perfect spot for watching whales.
Before you head to Point Sur State Historic Park, stop by San Jose, CA. Explore the colorful murals on buildings, streets and crosswalks Downtown, or head to the San Jose Museum of Art to explore an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. Reserve a sports car for your scenic coastal drive.
CA-1, Monterey, CA 93940, United States
Stop 12: Hearst Castle
Fabulously wealthy publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst and the pioneering architect Julia Morgan built this opulent and eccentric complex between 1919 and 1947. The Castle’s mix of Spanish and Renaissance architecture now forms a historic estate. Book a tour to admire the grandeur of the Castle. Visit the cottages and kitchen, the grand rooms and the upstairs suites.
Stop by the Baths, Esalen, along the way, a one-of-a-kind, sacred respite for the mind and body. Return to a more natural state with a range of healing art services, from astrology readings to forest baths[HL2] . Reserve a luxury car rental to elevate your experience.
750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452
Stop 13: Morro Rock Beach
Morro Rock Beach is the perfect place to enjoy some relaxation or surfing. It’s also an ideal spot to enjoy a peaceful stroll along the six miles of sandy coastline. Bring your own beach chairs and umbrellas along to make a day of it. There are also plenty of parking spots to leave your rental nearby. Speaking of which, a convertible rental is an excellent choice for beach days.
Along the way, make a pit stop at Harmony Headlands State Park, a 784-acre coastal park, three miles south of Harmony. The park offers a range of recreational activities, from hiking to birdwatching. You could even venture to Harmony, too.
Coleman Drive, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Finish Point: Stop 14: Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara
Our road trip ends in pretty Santa Barbara, where Spanish-style buildings lead to a palm-fringed waterfront with a backdrop of the mountains inland. Visit Stearns Wharf, the oldest working wood wharf in California, home to restaurants, shops, a Sea Center and more.
After a wholesome time at Stearns Wharf, why not keep the good times rolling with a trip to Arroyo Burro Beach County Park? Referred to as ‘Hendry’s Beach’ by the locals, this long stretch of beach is a local favorite and an ideal spot for families. Enjoy a cool swim, relax on the sands or make use of the BBQ grills. Rent a standard class car for comfort and practicality.
217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Pacific Coast Paradise road trip, let’s go!
Set to explore the Pacific Coast? It’s fun and easy to road trip with Hertz. Choose your ideal vehicle, then pick up your rental car from stop one in Seattle. Explore 14 extraordinary and must-see destinations along the way, from cascading waterfalls to beautiful beaches, all at your own pace.
FAQs
Is driving the Pacific Coast worth it?
Yes. Driving the Pacific Coast is a great way to explore amazing destinations on your own terms. Explore everything from beautiful, golden beaches and nature reserves to fun attractions like Pier 39.
What is the best month to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
September to October is an ideal time to drive the Pacific Coast Highway. During this time, temperatures remain mild and warm, allowing for comfortable travel. It’s also a good way to avoid the peak summer crowds.
What is the 3-second rule in California?
The three-second rule in California helps ensure a safe following distance and avoid a collision when driving. It helps drivers maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the one ahead, allowing enough time to stop safely.
What is the prettiest part of the Pacific Coast Highway?
The Big Sur coastline is often considered one of the prettiest parts of the Pacific Coast Highway. The rugged stretch of California’s Central Coast is renewed for its untouched beauty.
What is the prettiest place to visit in California?
California is home to a range of beautiful destinations. Some of the most scenic include Yosemite National Park, Big Sur and Joshua Tree National Park. California also has some pretty cities, including Santa Barbara with its Spanish-style buildings and a palm-fringed waterfront.
What is the rainiest month in California?
December, January and February are considered the rainiest months in California. As such, it’s best to avoid travelling during these seasons. However, if you don’t mind the rain, travelling during the wetter months may come with benefits, such as fewer tourist crowds and cheaper travel deals.
What kind of car is best for the Pacific Coast Highway?
A convertible or a sports car is a good option for the Pacific Coast Highway. A convertible car means you can drop the top and feel the warm California sun as you drive. A sports car offers responsive handling for effortless navigation along California’s winding coastal roads.
