The Best Stops on California's Legendary Highway 1

A road trip on Highway 1 is truly a dream drive. The iconic highway offers endless sights, be they trees, wildlife, access to wonderful beaches and variety of physical features that will leave you yearning for more. Regardless of where your start or end point is on your Highway 1 journey make sure you pull over at these spots, there is something mesmerizing waiting at every stop, a view and experience that will be memorable. 

Santa Barbara Mission

Here you will see the lovely gardens, magnificent art and architecture in a place that was established more than two centuries ago. Take a walk through the lovely gardens and see a collection of plants that perhaps have never seen before. Visit the historic cemetery and while at it do it quietly as there is still an active mission work among the Franciscan friars. You can also take a guided tour and learn about the art and architecture among other things.

Pismo Beach

Whether you are headed north or south, a stop at Pismo beach will offer an unforgettable experience; the coastal hill which reveal turquoise waters, the long stretching coast line and the vintage beaches all awaits you. The Pismo Beach Pier is a structure that you can’t miss while here: take a stroll and if you have some time to spare, try fishing since you do not need a license.

Morro Bay

Check out the massive "Gibraltar of the Pacific," aka Morro Rock! Take a stroll down the beautiful Embarcadero and have some of Morro Bay's legendary Fish N Chips - and afterwards, stop by our retail store and pick up some California souvenirs :)

Charming Cambria

The gateway to Hearst Castle and a village by the sea; these are two phrases that describe Cambria, one of the irresistible places along the Highway 1. Cambria is a beautiful village framed by pine trees and the glittering ocean just off Highway 1.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

If you are looking for a short yet rewarding stroll, take a half mile round trip here. You will end up at the front beach where you will be overlooking the McWay falls where a plume of water drops down close to eighty feet. The above image is taken a few miles north, at Julia Pfeiffer State Beach. Also VERY worth a stop!

Limekiln State Park

Here you will go back in history where you will discover the 19th century history piece as you stroll through the towering coastal redwoods. Other activities that can be undertaken at the park include camping, swimming and whale watching.