It’s no secret that the United States is one of the foremost places in the world to enjoy a road trip. As you drive, you can be in beautiful mountains one minute and sandy beaches the next. One of the finest states in the country for the perfect drive-worthy experience is California, especially along the coast.
This is a long journey, so you’ll want to come prepared. Make sure you have the cash to cover the trip as well as everything you’ll need to stay safe along the way. It might even help to take out a term life insurance policy before you go just to cover the dangers of the open road. Here’s a guide to the best stops along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Laguna Beach
This gorgeous seaside resort city is located in Orange County, California. It boasts breathtaking beach-side cliffs, a mild year-round climate, delicious fresh foods, and a fascinating local artist community. If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, stop by Starfish Restaurant and nab some sushi.
Don’t pass up the Laguna Art Museum, which is over 3000 works all by local artists. Just make sure you take this stretch of road carefully or you’ll need the aid of these Costa Mesa car accident lawyers. It can be tempting to cruise through at high speeds, but stick to the speed limit.
Huntington Beach
If long, sandy beaches are more your style. You’ll want to check out Huntington Beach. Nicknamed, “Surf City, USA,” this beach offers endless possibilities for fun and beautiful sights. If you’re looking for relaxation, take it easy at the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort. Drop by in April and enjoy the Back To The Beach Music Festival, which hosts a ton of cool live bands.
Long Beach
Travel about fifteen miles north of Huntington Beach on the Pacific Coast Highway, and you’ll run into the laid-back Long Beach, California. Although the beaches are lovely, there’s so much more to see. Stop by the Aquarium of the Pacific and check out some water-loving creatures, such as sea otters, or join a paranormal investigation on the Queen Mary ocean liner.
Malibu
Located in Los Angeles County, CA, this beautiful beach-side city is known for being home to countless Hollywood celebrities. However, there’s so much more to experience. Slow down and enjoy a quiet sunset on the breath-taking Zuma Beach. If you’re in the mood to do some people watching, take a little stroll down the Malibu Pier and grab a bite to eat from Malibu Burger Co.
Santa Barbara
Located between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a stunning, modern-day renaissance city. Also known as the “American Riviera,” you could spend days just checking out the architecture and natural beauty. You might want to enjoy a glass of wine or grab some fresh oysters, but if you’re staying overnight check into Hotel California.
Santa Cruz
Known for its historic boardwalk, Santa Cruz is the perfect one-stop-shop. You can enjoy sightseeing, play games and ride a wooden roller coaster, and grab a bite to eat, all while checking out one of the coolest beach spots in California. The boardwalk is one of the oldest oceanfront amusement parks in the country, operating continuously since 1907.
San Francisco
You wouldn’t want to travel the pacific coast and not visit the “City by the Bay.” San Francisco is known for being a cultural, financial, and commercial hub of Northern California. Visit the Palace of Fine Arts or enjoy a phenomenal view of the 88-year-old Golden Gate Bridge from Crissy Field. You can visit the old Alcatraz Penitentiary or the Chinatown District. Endless possibilities