The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), or State Route 1, is one of the most famous highways in California. It is the longest state route stretching 656 miles from Orange County to Mendocino County. It runs along the Pacific coastline and offers some of the most beautiful views in California. From oceans and beaches to small towns and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, it is an excellent route for a road trip.

The PCH is one of California's greatest charms and is a beautiful way to experience the Golden State's energy. Those lucky enough to drive from top to bottom are in for the adventure of a lifetime. Without stops, the drive takes about 10–12 hours; however, for those who put aside a few days and are ready to discover the beauties of California, these are the top ten stops to make along the Pacific Coast Highway.

10 Bixby Bridge - Big Sur

From redwoods to beaches to waterfalls - there are many bucket-list stops to make in Big Sur, California. The Bixby Bridge is one of the most picturesque bridges along the Pacific Coast Highway. It has a beautiful architectural design and is situated along some of the most mesmerizing scenery in California. This historic bridge is a must-see when driving along the PCH and will come with some of the most beautiful views of Big Sur. For those who have more time spending a few days in some of Big Sur's iconic forests and beaches is a must-do!

Related: 10 Top-Rated Attractions In Big Sur You Should Be Seeing

9 Lone Cypress

Get that camera out and experience the spectacular cypress tree atop rocks above the Pacific Ocean. Located in Pebble Beach, California - Lone Cypress has gained popularity for withstanding weather for over 250 years and is still standing. It is an iconic stop when road-tripping from Northern to Southern California and will offer breathtaking views.

  • Address: Pebble Beach, CA 93953, United States

8 Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a charming city in California known for its beaches, redwood forests, surf culture, and being home to the University of California, Santa Cruz. With so many incredible things to do in Santa Cruz, this is a perfect stop for those who can spend a day or two discovering Santa Cruz and seeing its breathtaking outdoors and beaches on the Pacific Coast Highway. One of the most beautiful beaches in Santa Cruz is Panther Beach which is an excellent location to relax and watch California's famed sunsets!

7 Malibu

For those who want to see the iconic Southern California beaches and sunset then, Malibu is a great stop to make along the way. The Pacific Coast Highway runs through Malibu, just west of Los Angeles. This city is a great stop to drive to see many attractions, from museums to shops to go-to restaurants available for any budget in Malibu. Discover its hiking trails or take a few hours on its gorgeous beaches on a drive along the PCH.

Related: Here's What You'll See On The 34-Mile Drive From Malibu To L.A.

6 Trees Of Mystery

While driving along the Pacific Coast Highway, parts can join the 101 freeway. The Trees of Mystery run along the 101 and is a park in Klamath, California. This park offers views of giant redwoods and is a beautiful way to see California's diverse landscapes. Stop at Trees of Mystery for amazing views and hiking opportunities outdoors. Visit the official Trees of Mystery website to plan a trip.

  • Address: 15500 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548, United States
  • General Admission: $25

5 Linn's Restaurant In Cambria

With some of the best dinner and drinks spots along the Pacific Coast Highway, picking where to stop for a bite may be challenging. Linn's Restaurant is in San Luis Obispo County and offers bakery goods and American country-style foods. From sandwiches to soups and salads and more - this is a great stop to see the charming town of Cambria and grab a snack for the road.

  • Address: 2277 Main St, Cambria, CA 93428, United States

4 Los Angeles

Los Angeles is famous for being home to Hollywood stars and some of the most iconic attractions in Southern California. It is visited by thousands of tourists every year. It is a great place to stop on a road trip to see historical landmarks and monuments, eat delicious food, or discover its beautiful beaches. Whether exploring the Santa Monica Pier for a perfect day in LA or hiking up the Hollywood sign, it will be anything but a dull moment to make a pit stop in the city.

3 Mendocino

In Northern California, Mendocino is a mesmerizing place to see the NorCal beaches, tall redwoods, and excellent cliffside trails. Mendocino is filled with some of the most beautiful views and is a perfect stop for all outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities to immerse in its breathtaking state parks. Mendocino is also known for its wine, so it's a beautiful place to go and taste wine!

Related: Planning A Road Trip? The Motels Pictured Here On The Pacific Coast Highway Look Cozy

2 Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is a historic castle on the Central Coast of California. Its breathtaking architecture and views make it one of the most picturesque stops on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. The Hearst Castle is a museum, and tickets are needed to enter. Visit the official Hearst Castle website for more details.

  • Address: 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, United States
  • Ticket Prices Starting At:

Adult - $30

Kids- $15

1 Morro Rock

Located in Morro Bay, California - Morro Rock is a Volcanic plug, an iconic landmark along the Pacific Coast Highway. It has been standing right off the Pacific Ocean for 23 million years and is a must-see for those looking to see nature's wonders. It is a great stop to take pictures and be immersed in some of the most beautiful views. The area offers various shops, restaurants, beaches, and more for enjoyment.