As the days get longer and the temperature starts to rise, all we can think about is getting in a convertible and hitting the iconic 101 Pacific Coast Highway. 

Rather than simply flop and drop on a beach, Canadians love a good road trip and California has put together some incredible spots you just can't miss. From north to south, there are areas rich in outdoor adventure, beautiful beaches to walk, the perfect waves to surf and unforgettable sunsets to enjoy.

Here is Visit California's epic road trip!

Pacific Coast Highway to SoCal

Rent a convertible and let the warm wind whip through your hair as you smell the ocean breeze and take in the beauty of the scenic 101 Pacific Coast Highway through Southern California.

 

Stop 1: Santa Barbara

Start your adventure in Santa Barbara – America’s Riviera with a sunny climate all year round and plenty of outdoor activity on land and sea. Finish your day exploring contemporary artisans, sipping wine, and enjoying a 5-star dinner. Don’t forget to soak up your first Pacific coast sunset.

Stop 2: Ventura

Located just north of busy Los Angeles, this laid-back coastal town offers micro-breweries, hip clothing boutiques, an epic live music scene and is home to some of the best antique shopping around.  For dining, you can expect to find a mix of family-owned restaurants and , small cafes serving up cocktails and coffees by the ocean. From Ventura, you can catch a ferry that will take you to Channel Islands National Park.

Stop 3: Santa Monica

Santa Monica, the platinum certified sustainable city, boasts a 6km-long beach and a 35km bike path. The Santa Monica Pier has its own amusement park and the first and only solar powered Ferris wheel that was named one of the world’s best. There are over 150 street art murals throughout Santa Monica! As you bike, run, or walk through the town, count how many murals you can find. While here, be sure to graze through their notable farmers markets and snack on something local and delicious.

Stop 4: Long Beach

Long Beach is a marina-filled oceanfront town where you can expect sophisticated shopping and bustling dining experiences. Long Beach is big city vibes meets resort town fun. Tour the Queen Mary Ocean liner, have a cocktail atop the Observation Bar and step back in time as you explore the many historical exhibitions that are stationed on this ship. If you are looking for an edgier, more hipster vibe, make your way to the East Village and check out the Museum of Latin American Art.

Stop 5: Corona Del Mar

Corona Del Mar is an upscale coastal town known for its great waves, and abundance of oyster bars. Explore tidepools in Little Corona, or exquisite culinary venues nearby Fashion Island. Cap your day off with a sunset at the idyllic Inspiration Point.

Stop 6: Encinitas

Encinitas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of California. It is also known for some of the gnarliest waves and surfers from around the world gather for surf competitions each year. Encinitas is an unspoiled reminder of the historic 101 pacific coast beach culture that thrived in the mid 1900’s. Its eclectic downtown core draws hippies and surfers with its dynamic offering of coffee shops, record stores, and vegan eateries. Be sure to check out the San Diego Botanic Garden famous for the Poinsettia.

Stop 7: San Diego

Last stop, San Diego. You’ve made it to the most southern coastal city inCalifornia. The city’s diverse neighborhoods are endless. Start in the East Village and then make your way to iconic Little Italy where they have some of the best restaurants. San Diego’s districts are known for culinary movement, progressive art scenes, and noteworthy craft beers. Take a day trip to the coastal beach town of La Jolla where the sealions outnumber the residents and the sunsets make your jaw drop. Rent paddleboards or kayaks in Mission Bay to see the city from a different perspective and finish the night with lively dancing in the Gaslamp Quarter. Pro Tip: San Diego is home to some of the best Mexican street food and tacos in all of California.

Check out the full itinerary and hotel recommendations here:
Pacific Coast Highway South | Visit California.