AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Route 1 - Big Sur Coast Highway

California
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Hurricane Point · Public Domain. Photo by Martha Alejandre · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

Travel the route that hugs the California coast, providing access to austere, windswept cypress trees, fog-shrouded cliffs and the crashing surf of the Pacific Ocean. Views include rugged canyons, towering redwoods, sea lions, and other marine life.

The experienceAll-American Road
Start with this outlineCalifornia · Select an open coastal section between the Monterey and San Luis Obispo regions
Hurricane Point on the Big Sur Highway offers a splendid view of the deep azure waters and grand mountainsides of the Pacific coastline in spring.
Hurricane Point
Public Domain. Photo by Martha Alejandre · Photo credits
GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO STOP

Places and landscapes to consider

  • Coastal overlooks
  • Big Sur landscape
  • Pacific Ocean views

Before you drive

Landslides and repairs can interrupt the route. Check Caltrans before travel and do not assume the whole coastal road is open end to end.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.