Are you dreaming of hitting the open road and exploring some of the most amazing places in the USA? If so, then a west coast road trip is the perfect adventure for you. The west coast of America is a diverse and stunning region, with everything from vibrant cities to rugged coastlines, from ancient forests to sunny beaches. You’ll never run out of things to see and do on a west coast road trip, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to plan the ultimate west coast road trip, covering the best destinations, attractions, and tips along the way. We’ll also share with you our suggested itinerary, which spans from Seattle to San Diego, and takes you through some of the most scenic and iconic spots on the West Coast. Whether you’re looking for culture, nature, or fun, you’ll find it all on this epic journey.
So, are you ready to pack your bags and hit the road? Let’s get started!
Seattle Harbour
The best place to start your west coast road trip is Seattle, the largest city in the Pacific Northwest and a hub of innovation and culture. Seattle is famous for its harbour, which offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and the surrounding mountains. You’ll also find some of the most popular attractions in Seattle Harbour, such as:
Pike Place Market, the oldest and most famous farmers market in the USA, where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and crafts, and watch the famous fishmongers throw fish around.
Space Needle, the iconic 605-foot tall tower that offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. You can also visit the observation deck, the rotating restaurant, and the glass floor.
Chihuly Garden and Glass, a museum and garden that showcases the amazing glass art of Dale Chihuly, a local artist who has created stunning sculptures and installations around the world.
When you’re in Seattle, you’ll also want to check out some of the other attractions and neighborhoods, such as the Museum of Pop Culture, the Seattle Art Museum, the Fremont Troll, and the Capitol Hill. You’ll also find plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment in Seattle, ranging from budget to luxury. Just make sure to book ahead, as Seattle is a popular destination and can get busy, especially in the summer. And don’t forget to plan ahead for parking, as finding a spot in Seattle can be tricky and expensive. A West Coast road trip is a worthwhile experience.
La Push Beach
After enjoying the urban delights of Seattle, it’s time to hit the road and head to the coast. Your next stop is La Push Beach, a scenic and secluded spot on the Olympic Peninsula, about a four-hour drive from Seattle. La Push Beach is part of the Quileute Indian Reservation, and it’s one of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast. You’ll be amazed by the views of the Pacific Ocean, the rocky cliffs, and the driftwood logs that dot the shore.
La Push Beach is also a place of cultural and literary significance, as it’s the home of the Quileute tribe, who have a rich history and mythology, and it’s the setting of the Twilight saga, the popular vampire romance novels and movies. If you’re a fan of Twilight, you’ll recognize some of the locations and landmarks from the books and films, such as the First Beach, the cliffs, and the forest.
La Push Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the west coast. You can also do some activities, such as hiking, camping, and surfing. There are several trails that lead to other nearby beaches, such as Second Beach and Third Beach, which are also worth visiting. You can also camp at the beach or at the nearby campgrounds, which offer basic facilities and amenities. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try surfing at La Push Beach, which is known for its consistent waves and surf culture.
Cannon Beach
Your next destination is Cannon Beach, one of the most iconic and picturesque beaches in Oregon, about a three-hour drive from La Push Beach. Cannon Beach is famous for its stunning scenery, especially the Haystack Rock, a 235-foot tall sea stack that rises from the ocean and is home to various birds and marine life. You can see the Haystack Rock from the beach, or you can walk up to it during low tide and explore the tide pools and the wildlife.
Cannon Beach is also a charming and artistic town, with a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. You can visit some of the art galleries, shops, and cafes that line the main street, or you can join some of the events and festivals that take place throughout the year, such as the Sandcastle Contest, the Stormy Weather Arts Festival, and the Winter Whale Watch Week. You can also find some great places to stay and eat at Cannon Beach, from cozy cottages to elegant hotels, from casual diners to fine restaurants.
Cannon Beach is a must-see destination on your west coast road trip, as it offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural charm. You’ll love the views, the vibe, and the variety of Cannon Beach.
Portland, Oregon
From Cannon Beach, it’s a short drive to Portland, the hipster capital of the west coast and the largest city in Oregon. Portland is a city that prides itself on its creativity, diversity, and sustainability, and you’ll find plenty of attractions and culture to explore and enjoy. Some of the highlights of Portland include:
Craft breweries, which are abundant and diverse in Portland, offering a range of beers and styles to suit every taste. You can visit some of the famous breweries, such as Deschutes, Rogue, and Widmer, or you can join a brewery tour or a pub crawl to sample more of the local brews.
Food carts, which are a staple of Portland’s culinary scene, offering delicious and affordable food from all over the world. You can find hundreds of food carts scattered around the city, or you can visit some of the food cart pods, which are clusters of carts that offer a variety of options and cuisines.
Bike lanes, which are extensive and well-maintained in Portland, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in the USA. You can rent a bike or join a bike tour to explore the city and its sights, such as the Waterfront Park, the Pearl District, and the Hawthorne Bridge.
Portland is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re into art, music, history, or nature. You’ll also find plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment in Portland, ranging from funky to fancy. Just be prepared to embrace the quirky and the weird, as Portland is a city that likes to keep it weird.
Redwood National Park
After experiencing the urban and the hip of Portland, it’s time to get back to nature and visit Redwood National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects some of the tallest trees on earth. Redwood National Park is located in Northern California, about a six-hour drive from Portland, and it covers an area of over 130,000 acres, encompassing various ecosystems and habitats.
Redwood National Park is a place of awe and wonder, where you can marvel at the ancient and majestic redwoods, some of which are over 2,000 years old and over 300 feet tall. You can also see and learn about the diverse and abundant wildlife that lives in the park, such as elk, bears, eagles, and salmon. You can also enjoy some of the other features and attractions of the park, such as the Fern Canyon, the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, and the Gold Bluffs Beach.
Redwood National Park is a place of adventure and discovery, where you can experience the beauty and the power of nature. You can also do some activities, such as hiking, camping, and kayaking. There are over 200 miles of trails that range from easy to challenging, and that offer different views and perspectives of the park. You can also camp at one of the campgrounds or backcountry sites, which offer basic facilities and amenities. And if you want to explore the water, you can kayak or canoe along the rivers and the coast, and see the park from a different angle.
Redwood National Park is a place that you’ll never forget, and that will make you appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
San Francisco
From Redwood National Park, it’s a four-hour drive to San Francisco, the cultural and financial hub of the west coast and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. San Francisco is a city that offers a mix of history, diversity, and innovation, and that has something for everyone. You’ll find some of the most famous landmarks and attractions in San Francisco, such as:
Golden Gate Bridge
The iconic and majestic suspension bridge that spans the Golden Gate Strait and connects San Francisco to Marin County. You can see the bridge from various viewpoints, such as the Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, and the Crissy Field, or you can walk, bike, or drive across it and enjoy the views of the bay and the city.
Fisherman’s Wharf
The historic and lively waterfront district that offers a variety of attractions and activities. You can visit some of the popular spots, such as Pier 39, where you can see the sea lions, the Aquarium of the Bay, where you can see the marine life, and the Ghirardelli Square, where you can indulge in some chocolate. You can also enjoy some of the seafood, souvenirs, and street performers that are abundant in the area.
Alcatraz Island
The notorious and fascinating former prison that housed some of the most infamous criminals in American history, such as Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, and the Birdman of Alcatraz. You can take a ferry to the island and join a guided tour or an audio tour to learn about the history, the stories, and the escape attempts of the inmates and the guards.
Cable cars
The historic and charming transportation system that runs on three lines across the city. You can hop on and off the cable cars and enjoy the views and the thrill of riding on the steep hills and the sharp turns. You can also visit the Cable Car Museum, where you can see the original cars and the machinery that operates them.
San Francisco is a city that will keep you busy and entertained, as there are so many things to see and do. You’ll also find plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment in San Francisco, ranging from cozy to classy. Just be aware that San Francisco is a very expensive city, so plan your budget accordingly. And don’t forget to pack layers, as the weather in San Francisco can be unpredictable and chilly.
Big Sur
From San Francisco, you’ll follow the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the most scenic and spectacular roads in the world, to Big Sur, a stunning stretch of rugged coastline and misty beaches. Big Sur is a place of beauty and diversity, where you can see the dramatic contrast between the ocean and the mountains, and where you can experience the inspiration and the solitude that have attracted many artists and writers, such as Jack Kerouac, Henry Miller, and John Steinbeck.
It is a place to explore and appreciate, where you can enjoy some of the features and attractions, such as:
Scenic drives, which are the best way to see and admire the views and the landscapes of Big Sur. You can stop at some of the overlooks and points of interest, such as the Bixby Bridge, the McWay Falls, and the Point Sur Lighthouse.
Hiking, which is another way to experience the nature and the diversity of Big Sur. You can choose from various trails that range from easy to challenging, and that offer different scenery and destinations, such as the Ewoldsen Trail, the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, and the Sykes Hot Springs Trail.
Camping, which is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty and the tranquility of Big Sur. You can camp at one of the campgrounds or backcountry sites, which offer basic facilities and amenities. You can also rent a cabin or a yurt, which offer more comfort and privacy.
Big Sur is a place that will take your breath away, and that will make you feel connected to the earth and yourself.
Monterey and Carmel
Your next stop is Monterey and Carmel, two charming and historic coastal towns that are located about an hour drive from Big Sur. Monterey and Carmel are both rich in history and culture, and they offer a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. Some of the highlights of Monterey and Carmel include:
Cannery Row, the former sardine canning district that is now a lively and colorful waterfront area, where you can find shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels. You can also visit some of the attractions, such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can see the marine life of the bay, and the Cannery Row Museum, where you can learn about the history and the literature of the area.
Monterey Aquarium, one of the largest and most renowned aquariums in the world, where you can see and learn about the diverse and amazing creatures that live in the ocean. You can also join some of the programs and activities, such as the behind-the-scenes tour, the feeding show, and the sleepover.
Carmel Mission, the oldest and most beautiful of the 21 missions that were founded by the Spanish in California, where you can see and admire the architecture, the art, and the gardens of the mission. You can also learn about the history and the culture of the mission and the people who lived there.
Monterey and Carmel are both delightful and relaxing places to visit, where you can enjoy the scenery, the history, and the culture of the coast. You can also find some great places to stay and eat at Monterey and Carmel, from quaint to elegant, from casual to gourmet.
Santa Monica
From Monterey and Carmel, you’ll continue your road trip to Santa Monica, a lively and trendy beach city in Los Angeles County, about a five-hour drive. Santa Monica is famous for its beach, which is one of the most popular and fun beaches in California. You’ll also find some of the attractions and activities of Santa Monica, such as:
Venice Beach
The neighboring beach that is known for its eclectic and eccentric vibe, where you can see and join the street performers, the artists, the skaters, and the bodybuilders that populate the boardwalk. You can also visit some of the spots, such as the Muscle Beach, the Venice Canals, and the Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Third Street Promenade
The pedestrian-only shopping and entertainment district that offers a variety of options and experiences. You can shop at some of the stores, restaurants, and cafes that line the street, or you can enjoy some of the entertainment, such as the movie theaters, the live music, and the street performers.
Santa Monica Pier
The iconic and historic pier that extends into the ocean and offers a range of attractions and activities. You can visit some of the features, such as the Pacific Park, where you can ride the Ferris wheel, the roller coaster, and the other rides, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, where you can see the marine life of the bay, and the Santa Monica Pier Fishing, where you can rent a rod and reel and try your luck.
Santa Monica is a place that will keep you busy and entertained, as there are so many things to see and do. You’ll also find plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment in Santa Monica, ranging from funky to fancy. Just be ready to deal with the crowds, the traffic, and the parking, as Santa Monica is a very popular and busy place, especially in the summer.
San Diego
Your final destination is San Diego, the second-largest city in California and a sunny paradise, about a two-hour drive from Santa Monica. San Diego is a city that offers a mix of history, diversity, and innovation, and that has something for everyone. You’ll find some of the reasons and attractions to visit San Diego, such as:
Craft breweries
These are plentiful and varied in San Diego, offering a range of beers and styles to suit every taste. You can visit some of the famous breweries, such as Stone, Ballast Point, and Green Flash, or you can join a brewery tour or a pub crawl to sample more of the local brews.
Balboa Park
This the largest urban cultural park in the USA, where you can find over a dozen museums, gardens, and attractions. You can visit some of the popular spots, such as the San Diego Zoo, where you can see over 4,000 animals, the San Diego Air and Space Museum, where you can see and learn about the history and the future of aviation and space exploration, and the Botanical Building, where you can see and admire over 2,000 plants.
San Diego Zoo
This is one of the most famous and respected zoos in the world, where you can see and learn about the diverse and amazing animals that live in the zoo. You can also join some of the programs and activities, such as the guided tour, the backstage pass, and the safari park.
San Diego is a city that will make you happy and relaxed, as there are so many things to see and do. You’ll also find plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment in San Diego, ranging from cozy to classy. Just be prepared to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the surf, as San Diego is a city that loves the beach.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, the ultimate west coast road trip, covering the best destinations, attractions, and tips along the way. We hope you enjoyed this blog post, and that you’re inspired to plan your own west coast road trip. Whether you follow our suggested itinerary, or you create your own, you’ll have an amazing and unforgettable experience on the west coast of America.
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