California’s Top 10 Scenic Drives

Published on April 20, 2024

California offers it all: mountains, valleys, old growth redwood forests, beaches, and bustling cities. And you can see many of these storybook scenes from the comfort of your own car. Along the Pacific Coast Highway, sites like Big Sur await. On the Avenue of the Giants, ancient redwoods tower overhead. Here are some of our favorite scenic drives in the Golden State. Pacific Coast Highway The Pacific Coast Highway—also known as the 101—is arguably California’s most scenic drive. This iconic route follows the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean from Southern California starting in San Diego to Crescent City, the northernmost city in the state. You don’t want to miss the stretch between Big Sur and Monterey, which is especially impressive for its breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, massive cliffs, waterfalls, and historic bridges....