Ultimate California Road Trips: Iconic Drives from Big Sur to Yosemite
For over 20 years, the Red Hot Chili Peppers' Road Trippin' has captured the spirit of adventure with its invitation to "get lost anywhere in the U.S.A." Yet, its inspiration shines brightest along California Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway, where the band famously drove to Big Sur amid endless blue horizons. This legendary route defines the Great American Road Trip—or as locals call it, "the Original Road Trip."
We've curated the highlights below, plus three more unforgettable California road trips. From pier-to-vineyard journeys to hot springs under starry skies or valley-to-peak escapes, there's a perfect itinerary for every traveler and timeframe.
Big Sur and Beyond
San Simeon to Monterey. 205 miles
Renowned figures like novelist Henry Miller and artist Francis McComas have long celebrated this coastal gem. Start at William Randolph Hearst's eponymous castle above San Simeon for panoramic views. Opt for the Cottages & Kitchen Tour at Casa del Mar for exceptional ocean vistas from this sprawling estate, construction of which began a century ago.
Next, observe the massive elephant seals at the Piedras Blancas Rookery, home to about 25,000 individuals, with males reaching 5,000 pounds. Visit in October for pups or November-December for breeding displays. Don't miss the nearby 19th-century lighthouse.
Beach highlights include Jade Cove for jade hunting and Sand Dollar Beach, the area's largest crescent. Chase waterfalls at Limekiln State Park and iconic McWay Falls, which tumbles into the ocean (view from roadside overlook during trail repairs).
Seek out dramatic Pfeiffer Beach via unmarked Sycamore Canyon Road. Refuel at cliffside Nepenthe with their Famous Ambrosiaburgers and stunning views; sample local wines if you have a designated driver.
Visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library for events, reading, or relaxation. For luxury, book an ocean-facing room at Post Ranch Inn. Late-night? Reserve same-day for public night bathing at Esalen hot springs (clothing-optional; bring towel, flashlight, shoes).
Continue to Carmel Beach for otters, views, and off-leash dogs, then explore quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea. End in Monterey at historic Custom House (California's oldest government building) or world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Southern Desert
Palm Desert to Joshua Tree. 60 miles
Known for wellness and vast landscapes, begin with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ascent to Mount San Jacinto State Park (8,516 feet, 50+ miles of trails; winter snow activities). Nearby, explore reopening trails at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve along the San Andreas Fault—consider a naturalist-led tour.
Soak in geothermal waters at Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs (up to 180°F aquifer; mineral springs, grotto, treatments). Embrace mid-century modern with an architecture tour or Shag Store visit; dine at Sherman's Deli & Bakery.
Detour to Pioneertown for 1940s Hollywood kitsch and live music at Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace. Conclude at Joshua Tree National Park: hike, climb, birdwatch (250+ species), stargaze, and spot desert tortoises.
Sierra Nevada
Bishop to Glacier Point. 206 miles
This 400-mile range boasts national parks, monuments, and wilderness. Start in historic Bishop on US Highway 395 Scenic Byway; catch the September Pow Wow or visit Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center and petroglyphs.
Marvel at 100,000-year-old basalt columns at Devils Postpile National Monument. Dine at Restaurant Skadi in Mammoth Lakes, then stay nearby in an Alpine lodge.
View tufa towers and 1-2 million birds at Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve. Finale: Yosemite National Park—hike to Glacier Point vistas, relax at historic Ahwahnee Hotel.
Central Coast Wine Country
Santa Barbara to Paso Robles. 125 miles
Inspired by Sideways, this idyllic route features perfect coastal climates. From Santa Barbara's State Street, head to Solvang for Danish charm and October's Sideways Fest.
Taste at Firestone Vineyard, Fess Parker Winery, dine at Los Olivos Cafe. Continue to solar-powered Foxen Vineyard, pick produce at Templeton Valley Farms.
Stay at Hotel Cheval in Paso Robles; taste at Parrish Family Vineyard, end with Bruce Munro Field of Light at Sensorio.
