Lively cities, charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, rugged national parks, and more await.
Fact checked by Sarah Cahalan
Stretching from San Diego, California, to Blaine, Washington, the West Coast of the United States encompasses over 1,370 miles from top to bottom. With so much beauty lying in between, including striking mountains, stunning national parks, and of course, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this region is best experienced on the road, with a good number of detours to explore what lies inland, too.
However, planning a West Coast road trip can be intimidating, with a variety of options available, from a coastal California drive with plenty of stops at beaches along the way to a scenic journey from Seattle, Washington, to historic Astoria in Oregon.
Plus, you’ll have to consider more than just your route and destinations. For instance, will you rent a car or an RV? Many road trippers are looking into recreational vehicles from companies like Outdoorsy, offering a range of sizes and amenities depending on your travel needs. Renting an RV can also help save on lodging and meals, and enables you to experience the camaraderie at RV parks and campgrounds. Then comes the question of how long you’ll drive each day, and how much time you’ll spend at each stop.
To assist you in getting started, we’ve compiled a list of seven of the best West Coast road trips, all departing from major cities. Gas up the car and go.
Road Trips From Seattle
If it’s your first time visiting Seattle, spend a few days in this vibrant city. Don’t miss the spectacular view from the Space Needle or the lively atmosphere at Pike Place Market. Moreover, the Museum of Pop Culture is a fun stop, and art enthusiasts will appreciate the Seattle Art Museum and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Here are a few suggestions for road trips from Seattle.
Seattle to Astoria, Oregon
Head south from Seattle toward Tacoma on Interstate 5, or take State Route 509 for a scenic, yet longer, drive. From Tacoma, continue southwest on Interstate 5 toward Olympia, the state’s capital. After that, head west on State Route 8 to Aberdeen, then proceed on U.S. Route 101 (Oregon Coast Highway) heading south toward Raymond. If you have time and want to see the ocean, consider taking State Route 105 toward Markham to drive around the peninsula. From Raymond, continue south on U.S. Route 101 until you reach the striking Columbia River and the beautiful Astoria-Megler Bridge leading to the historical town of Astoria.
This scenic trip along the Oregon Coast Highway features rugged coastline views, charming towns, state parks, beaches, tide pools, and abundant marine life, including whales during their migration seasons. If you’re eager for more adventure, the Oregon coast road trip from Astoria to the California border via U.S. Route 101 is approximately 340 miles. Be sure to stop at beautiful locations like Cannon Beach, Tillamook, Depoe Bay, Newport, or any number of picture-perfect lookouts along the way.
Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia (With an Optional Side Trip Through Whidbey Island)
Head north on Interstate 5 toward Everett, Washington, where the Boeing manufacturing center is located. Continue on to Burlington, which is about halfway to Vancouver. Enjoy the tree-lined highway, passing Lake Samish and making your way toward Bellingham with magnificent views of Mount Baker to the east. Cross the border into Canada at Blaine, where you can see the Peace Arch, half in the U.S. and half in Canada. Then, continue north to reach Vancouver.
If your schedule allows, consider a scenic side trip that includes a ferry ride from Mukilteo to Whidbey Island, followed by a drive across the island that passes beaches and Deception Pass State Park. This route takes you to Fidalgo Island via State Route 20. After that, head east to the mainland and connect back to Interstate 5 to continue your journey to Vancouver.
Road Trips From San Francisco
You’ll want to spend a few days in San Francisco to see the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, snap a picture of the Painted Ladies Victorian mansions, and experience the city’s unique restaurants and attractions.
San Francisco to Seattle (Four-day Trip)
The road trip from San Francisco to Seattle is extensive, allowing for three overnight stays along the route, hence you might opt for just a portion of the trip if time is limited.
From San Francisco, drive north on Highway 1, passing through Point Reyes National Seashore before arriving at Bodega Bay. Continue this route, which hugs the coastline, ensuring plenty of opportunities for photography.
You’ll travel nearly 200 miles upon reaching Mendocino, so consider staying the night there or in nearby Fort Bragg. From Fort Bragg, proceed north on Highway 1, relishing the ocean views and majestic redwood forests. Highway 1 eventually ends, shifts inland, and becomes 101 (Redwood Highway). Stay the course as you navigate through the lush surroundings back to the coast. After a full day of driving, spend the night in Coos Bay or another one of Oregon’s charming seaside towns.
Remain on 101 for a remarkable trip up the Oregon coast. Consider spending a night in Cannon Beach or Astoria before completing your road trip to Seattle. Cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge into Washington and take 101 to Highway 12 east, then merge onto Interstate 5. Finally, head north into the bustling city of Seattle.
San Francisco to Napa and Sonoma
This sought-after northern California road trip leads travelers to Napa and Sonoma wine country, situated just about an hour from San Francisco. The region’s picturesque beauty, characterized by rows of lush grapevines, tree-lined roads, and gourmet dining, captivates visitors, even those who do not partake in wine tasting or tours.
From San Francisco, two direct routes lead drivers to Napa, the ideal starting point for exploring the valley towns and wineries. The slightly shorter journey begins with Interstate 80, which veers north on the eastern edge of San Francisco Bay, totaling around 60 miles. Alternatively, venture north on Highway 101, then northeast on State Route 37 to reach Napa. From there, take Highway 29 (or the parallel Silverado Trail) north through wineries, charming towns, and stunning scenery to Calistoga, at the northern end of Napa Valley.
If time permits to visit both Sonoma County and Napa, drive northwest from Calistoga to Geyserville on State Route 128. Afterwards, continue south to Healdsburg and then Santa Rosa before heading west to the coastal towns of Jenner and Bodega Bay, finally returning to San Francisco via Highway 1.
For a direct trip from San Francisco to Sonoma County’s top wineries, take 101 north for about 70 miles to Healdsburg.
San Francisco to Los Angeles (Two-day Trip)
This quintessential California road trip routes drivers south on Highway 1 along the scenic coast. While various inland freeways offer shorter and faster alternatives, they tend to be less picturesque.
Merge onto Highway 1 near the Presidio or Golden Gate Park and travel south along the coastline, passing beaches and quaint towns. Arrive in Santa Cruz, then drive slightly inland until you reach the beautiful Monterey Peninsula. A side trip along the renowned 17-Mile Drive through California’s renowned forests and coastline is surely worth the time. Continuing south, anticipate seeing the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge en route to the breathtaking Big Sur.
Having traveled nearly 230 miles with numerous stops for viewing the stunning landscapes, Highway 1 (Cabrillo Highway) intersects with U.S. State Route 101 and veers inland around Morro Bay. Unwind for the night in San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach, or Pismo Beach—wonderful stops along the Highway 1 Discovery Route, a celebrated portion of your California coastal road trip.
With less than 200 miles remaining, take your time enjoying wineries near San Luis Obispo, Edna Valley, and Santa Ynez Valley, with potential stops in Santa Barbara. Continuing along the coast, you will encounter Malibu, Santa Monica, and the South Bay area. Finally, upon reaching Los Angeles, you can choose to stay by the beach, downtown, or in one of the many charming surrounding towns.
Road Trips From Los Angeles
Los Angeles to San Diego
This delightful drive takes around two to three hours, depending on traffic conditions; however, numerous enticing stops along the way may extend your journey to a full day of leisurely exploration. The South Bay beach cities serve as pleasant pit stops, particularly for breakfast near the Strand, which stretches from Malibu to Torrance. Continuing further south, Long Beach presents an aquarium, waterfront dining, and the historical Queen Mary.
From Long Beach, proceed south on Highway 1, passing the iconic Huntington Beach Pier in Surf City, along with Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point, where Highway 1 transitions to Interstate 5 while remaining close to the coast. Upon entering San Diego County, pass through the beachfront towns of Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, and La Jolla—ideal locations for a refreshing break with scenic views and ocean breezes.
In San Diego, immerse yourself in the lively downtown area, stroll through Balboa Park, explore Mission Bay, or visit SeaWorld, or simply unwind on a sunlit beach.
West Coast National Parks Road Trip
The West Coast states of Washington, Oregon, and California are home to 13 national parks, along with countless state parks, national monuments, historical reserves, and designated wilderness areas. Embarking on a road trip through these areas provides wonderful opportunities to camp, explore, and appreciate the magnificent natural beauty of the country.
Planning a visit to one or more of these destinations is an exciting undertaking, certainly ranking among the best West Coast road trips. However, with numerous variables to consider, including starting point, time constraints, traveler ages, interests, and budget, the details are ultimately up to you. One standout option is Redwood National Park’s scenic Coastal Drive. This nine-mile journey initiates in Klamath on U.S. 101 and continues to the Klamath Beach Road exit. The narrow road curves and offers views of the Pacific Ocean and Klamath River estuary. Even better, wildlife like whales (during their migration), sea lions, and pelicans may be spotted along this remarkable route.
