Is there anything more summery than a journey along the open road under the sun? We didn’t think so, either.
This summer, experience these five awesome California road trips.
Coast along the PCH
If there’s one drive that will make you fall in love with California, it’s the Pacific Coast Highway. Also known as the 1, the PCH is the best way to get from San Francisco to L.A. if you’re looking for a scenic route. It hugs the Pacific Ocean all the way down, giving you ample time to see what makes the state so special. Along the way, you’ll pass the seaside towns of Monterey, Big Sur and Carmel. Plan on a stop at Hearst Castle as you make your way down, and don’t miss the shores of Morro Bay or Pismo Beach, either.
See California’s natural side
Escape the metropolis of San Francisco and head east toward Squaw Valley and Lake Tahoe, winter wonderlands that transform into summer playgrounds once the snow melts. Once you’re back on the road, work your way south to experience the larger-than-life trees at Calaveras Big Trees State Park, then plan on at least a day at one of the country’s most beloved national parks: Yosemite. Soak up the falls and towering cliffs of the park, then get lost among the giant trees of Sequoia National Park.
Fly on the 101
The 101 Freeway is a commuter’s nightmare when it comes to navigating Los Angeles, but don’t let that deter you — the drive is actually quite scenic between L.A. and San Francisco. Heading north from L.A., you’ll pass through the quiet country towns of Carpinteria, Santa Ynez and Paso Robles. The city of Gilroy also lies on the 101, and if you time it just right, you can experience the Gilroy Garlic Festival in July.
Quintessential SoCal
If anything defines the quintessential Southern California experience, it’s laid-back beaches and theme parks galore. Experience the best of both as you work your way from San Diego to Hollywood along the I-5 freeway. Start with the beaches of San Diego, then head up to LegoLand in Carlsbad. Farther north, the shores of Laguna Beach and Newport Beach are welcoming retreats. About half an hour away, you’ll find the thrills of Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm calling your name, and a little more than an hour from here, you can bring your Hollywood favorites to life at Universal Studios.
Drive through the deserts
Experience the extreme side of California with a road trip through the state’s desert regions. From San Diego, drive up to Anza-Borrego State Park to check out the bighorn sheep that call this desert home. Then, get a look at the twisted trees and alien-like boulders of Joshua Tree National Park. From here, head north to check out the limestone caves of the Mojave National Preserve, and cap off your trip with a drive through California’s most extreme environment: Death Valley National Park. Just make sure your car’s A/C is working before you hit the road.
(Main image: Dave_B_)
