Pacific Coast Highway
United States, north-america
1,055 km
370 m
easy
April to October
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), officially California State Route 1, is one of the most famous scenic drives in the world, running approximately 1,055 kilometers along the California coast. The most celebrated section stretches through Big Sur, a 145-kilometer stretch of rugged coastline between Carmel and San Simeon where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise steeply from the Pacific Ocean. The Bixby Creek Bridge, an elegant concrete arch spanning a deep coastal canyon, has become one of the most photographed bridges in California.
The road was first conceived in the 1920s and completed in segments over several decades, with the Big Sur section opening in 1937 after eighteen years of construction using prison labor. The engineering required building along crumbling coastal cliffs and bridging deep canyons in terrain that is in constant geological motion. Landslides periodically close sections of the road, sometimes for months at a time, as the unstable geology of the Big Sur coast continues to shift and erode.
Beyond Big Sur, the PCH passes through diverse landscapes and iconic California destinations. Starting from Dana Point in the south, the road winds through the surf towns of Huntington Beach and Malibu, past the sea cliffs of Santa Barbara, through the agricultural lands of the Central Coast, and along the misty redwood forests north of San Francisco. The drive offers countless opportunities to stop at beaches, tidepools, lighthouses, and charming coastal towns. The entire route can be driven in two to three days, but most travelers recommend at least a week to fully appreciate the varied scenery and attractions.
Where is it?
Pacific Coast Highway is located in California, United States (north-america). Coordinates: 36.2382, -121.8081
Driving Tips
Drive south to north to stay on the ocean side. Check for landslide closures before traveling. Big Sur has limited cell service. Book Big Sur lodging well in advance. Allow at least 2 full days for Big Sur alone.
Road Surface
Paved asphalt
Road Details
- Country
- United States
- Continent
- north-america
- Region
- California
- Length
- 1,055 km
- Max Elevation
- 370 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Surface
- Paved asphalt
- Best Season
- April to October
- Coordinates
- 36.2382, -121.8081
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