The Ultimate Los Angeles to Big Sur Road Trip
Imagine driving along the shimmering Pacific Ocean with towering redwoods and lush mountains surrounding you. This can happen in Big Sur, one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world that's only a few hours away from Los Angeles.
The beautiful drive from Los Angeles to Big Sur will take you 7 hours and cover 350 miles of pristine Californian highway. Along the way, you can see iconic places like Malibu, Pismo Beach, Solvang, Sequoia National Park, Bakersfield, and McWay Falls.
Choose between driving along the coast or driving inland and discover endless Californian highlights, stunning nature, and vibrant communities full of culture and history. Continue reading below for our tips on the best routes, where to stay, best time of year to make your journey, and our top highlights to see along the way.
How far is Big Sur from Los Angeles?
This laid back road trip takes you through some of the best scenery in California, taking you from the City of Angels to the dramatic coastline of Big Sur, south of San Francisco. You can choose between taking the scenic ocean route via the Pacific Coast highway or the stunning inland route.
This road trip is perfect for those who love nature, fun communities, fine wine, and magnificent views. There are also some fun detours along the way including Kings Canyon National Park.
Our routes from LA to Big Sur cover either 300 miles or 485 miles, depending on what you want to see and do. Both routes can be done in under 9 hours of driving time.
How long is the road trip from Los Angeles to Big Sur, and how many days will it take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Recommended Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast Highway Route | 300 miles | 6 hours 20 minutes | 2 Days |
| Scenic Sequoias Route | 485 miles | 8 hours 40 minutes | 3 Days |
A road trip from Los Angeles to Big Sur will take you between 6 hours and 20 minutes and 8 hours and 40 minutes, covering a distance of 300 to 485 miles.
You should allow 2 days for the Pacific Coast Route to give you plenty of time to see the sights and relax on your way.
On the inland Sequoia Route, you'll want to allow 3 days to discover the endless forests, national parks, and historic cities on the way.
You'll also want to consider spending extra time at your destination. There's lots to see and do in Big Sur and plenty to experience, from epic sunsets to romantic dinners at the famous coastal restaurants and cafes.
Big Sur is home to redwood forests, towering mountains, and tons of wildlife. It's also famous for its cultural attractions and landmarks that have been made famous in movies, TV, books, and magazines.
What is the best road trip route from Los Angeles to Big Sur?
There is no best route when making a road trip from Los Angeles to Big Sur, just the best route for you and your specific needs and preferences. With that in mind, this is how our two routes stack up against each other.
| The Pacific Coast Highway Route | The Scenic Sequoias Route | |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Driving | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Scenery | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Facilities | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Things to do | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Traffic Flow | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Driving from Los Angeles to Big Sur via the Pacific Coast Highway
Head out on the open road along the famous Pacific Coast Highway to discover the California of movies and pop culture. From wine country to surf towns, the Pacific Coast Highway Route will take you through breathtakingly beautiful regions.
On the Pacific Coast Highway Route, you're taking one road pretty much the whole way. Navigation won't be a problem as you take one major highway. However, due to landslides, PCH can have closures, especially around the Big Sur area, so check before traveling.
You'll pass through many towns on this route, so there'll be plenty of options for dining, gas stops and anything else you need. What's more, this route is packed with things to see from galleries to restaurants, hiking trails and shopping.
Along the way, you'll pass a dramatic coastline on one of America's most-loved roads. From beautiful beaches to rugged cliffs and tall redwoods, this scenery is hard to beat.
As amazing as this route is, it has one downside: traffic. You're on the coast (and on one of America's favorite drives) so expect tourists. You're also on an undivided highway, so there may be congestion.
Driving from Los Angeles to Big Sur via Sequoia National Park
There is plenty of easy highway driving on the beautiful Sequoia Route. You'll encounter some traffic on the way, but with all the amazing sights along the way, you'll have a wonderful drive.
The road through Sequoia National Park in Three Rivers (Generals Highway) is incredibly scenic. You'll encounter towering sequoias, mountain vistas, and endless forests stretching for miles.
There is less to do along this route than the Pacific Coast Highway Route. However, there are plenty of relaxing hiking opportunities and quaint mountain towns full of fun places.
Along the way, there are plenty of restaurants and beautiful places to stop. If you love roadside cafes and quirky country dinners, you'll love this route.
The downside to this route may be the windy roads. If you get carsick, make sure to sit in front and look forward during some of the windier sections of the drive.
Driving Route from Los Angeles to Big Sur
Once you've decided the best route for you, it's time to start planning your adventure. Read on below to learn more about our recommended routes, where to stay along the way, and the best seasons to make the exciting drive.
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway Route
From Los Angeles, drive towards the coast to Santa Monica. After enjoying the pier and boardwalk, make your way up the coast to the famous beaches and A-List homes of Malibu.
Then, drive through Oxnard and its famous Auto Museum and into Ventura. From here, drive to Santa Barbara and Solvang.
Continue on to Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Then drive further to Hearst Castle and Ragged Point.
Finally, make your way into Big Sur. Stop off at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Driving the Scenic Sequoia Route
From Los Angeles, head to Mt Pinos, one of the most beautiful mountain destinations in California. Then, continue on north to Bakersfield.
After Bakersfield, make the beautiful and relaxing drive to Sequoia National Park. Then, drive to Kings Canyon National Park as a fantastic detour.
Then, drive to fantastic Fresno, one of the best small cities in America. After Fresno, make your way to San Juan Bautista.
Finally, continue on to Monterey. You'll get to stop by Carmel-By-the-Sea and enjoy the charming town before ending in beautiful Big Sur.
Where to stop overnight on a road trip between Los Angeles and Big Sur
With so much to see and do along the way, you'll want to make a stop in one of our recommended cities. There will be plenty of relaxation, fun restaurants, and safe activities.
See the famous windmill and wineries in Solvang
Around halfway on the Pacific Coast Highway Route is the beautiful town of Solvang. Situated in the heart of Santa Barbara's wine country, you'll feel like you're in Europe with the traditional Danish architecture and food.
You'll be able to walk around on foot and check out the plenty of restaurants, wineries, and museums that attract thousands of tourists every day.
If you love wine, you can drive around and visit any of the hundreds of wineries in the area. Many of them are world famous and worth a visit to see the beautiful properties.
Once you're in Solvang, you can't get better than a stay at the luxurious Hotel Ynez. This beautiful hotel is close to famous landmarks like the Old Mission Santa Ines (Spanish Mission from 1804), Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, and Rideau Vineyard just outside of town.
Every room features its own patio, giving you privacy to enjoy a lovely glass of local wine as you relax at sunset. Make sure you pick up a delicious pastry from Danish Mill Bakery while you're in Solvang.
The hotel is not situated in Solvang, but it is only a short drive down the road. This means you can still have access to everything on offer in the city, while enjoying a bit more peace and quiet.
See museums and music history in Bakersfield
One third of the way on the Scenic Sequoia Route, this city is full of historical places and small-town charm. Take a break once you've escaped the LA traffic in Bakersfield's charming cafes and restaurants.
You'll have plenty of museums and places to explore. If you love country music, make your way to Buck Owen's Crystal Palace, a vibrant music hall dedicated to the late singer songwriter.
When you reach Bakersfield, we recommend staying at the Padre Hotel. This luxurious and spacious hotel is full of amenities, friendly staff, and comfortable furniture.
The hotel features an Art déco design and plenty of beautiful artwork. After relaxing in your room, head down to the Prospect Bar to see live piano music and enjoy yourself.
The Padre Hotel is within walking distance from many of Bakersfield's top attractions, like the Crystal Palace, Kern County Museum, and the Fox Theater.
Our favorite place to stay at Big Sur
Once you reach your destination in Big Sur, you're going to want to relax in style. No where else allows you to do this more than the delightful Alila Ventana Big Sur.
This beautiful hotel features large double hammocks to relax in, spacious beds and furniture, and unbeatable views. You'll sit under the towering redwoods while getting lost in a book or listening to your favorite music.
On top of the incredible amenities and friendly staff, you'll be close to Big Sur's most famous attractions, like Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Beach, and the iconic McWay Falls.
Best time to go from Los Angeles to Big Sur on a road trip
California is known for its sunny skies and warm temperatures. It does, however, have seasons, and some may be better than others for a relaxing road trip. Below are our recommended times to visit and summaries of the good and bad aspects to traveling in each season.
Traveling to Big Sur from LA in summer
During summer, you'll enjoy the warmest weather, but not too hot. Big Sur usually experiences cool ocean breezes and thick fog which can lower temperatures along the coast.
However, driving up into the mountains and looking back over the fog is one of the most stunning and romantic things you can do in California. Most of the time, the thick fog retreats by the early afternoon, so you'll still have plenty of sun by the beach.
Another thing to keep in mind is that tourist numbers peak in the summer months, as do hotel prices. This also translates to more traffic, so make sure to book early and have more patience on the roads.
Traveling to Big Sur from LA in winter
Winter is cooler but still very pleasant when it comes to temperatures. Snow is very rare near the coast but does happen in the mountains, which can be stunning when the weather clears up.
The one thing to keep in mind when driving to Big Sur in the winter are the rain storms. Big Sur gets a lot of rain and most of it happens during the wintertime. It can be beautiful and the plant life will become green and lush, but make sure to plan ahead and pack plenty of rain gear.
Traveling to Big Sur from LA in the shoulder seasons
Spring can be really nice in Big Sur. After the winter rains, everything will go up in a wild array of colorful blooms and entire mountainsides may be full of colorful flowers.
You'll still find crowds, with California experiencing pleasant weather earlier in the season than most places. That said, it'll be calmer than in the summer.
Fall is also a pleasant time to visit Big Sur, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. The only thing to keep in mind is that it will be particularly hot and dry during this season.
If you're taking the Scenic Sequoia Route, you can add the Monterey Jazz Festival in September into your planning. This may make driving in autumn even more appealing.
The best things to see and do on a road trip from Los Angeles to Big Sur
California is a road-tripper's paradise, and these routes through the Golden State are full of exciting stops and things to see along the way. Below, we've chosen our favorite stops that are easy to find, relaxing, and guaranteed to be full of excitement and Californian charm.
On the Pacific Coast Highway Route
Santa Monica: This beautiful and famous coastal city is perfect for a quick stop or even longer. You'll see its iconic pier, historic amusement park, Muscle Beach, and one of the most beloved aquariums in the USA
Getty Villa: If you love ancient art, you've come to the right place. This heavy hitter in the museum world has displays from ancient Rome, Greece, and over 4000 years of ancient culture. What's more, are the amazing gardens and outdoor amphitheater.
Tuna Canyon Park: In the western Santa Monica Mountains is this superb state park that has plenty of wildlife and native plants and incredible hiking as well. Take a short hike on the grounds to see unbeatable views of the Pacific Ocean.
Mullin Automotive Museum, Oxnard: One for all the motor enthusiasts! This private museum showcases the personal car collection of businessman and philanthropist Peter W. Mullin. Marvel at beautifully restored vehicles from throughout the 20th century.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area: This mountain region is famous for its towering Sandstone Peak and the must-see Escondido Falls. If you love hiking, this is the place for you.
Malibu: Enjoy this famous city and its stunning beaches, world class hiking, and celebrity homes. If you love surfing or want to try, make your way to Malibu Point to see one of the most famous spots in the world.
Ventura: Visit this beautiful coastal city with a booming cultural scene. The popular Ventura pier and charming harbor attract tons of tourists . Take a visit to the beautiful botanical garden and the history-rich Mission San Buenaventura.
Pismo Beach: On California's Central Coast, Pismo Beach is famous for its stunning beaches and surf vibes. Aside from the fun in the sand, It is best known for excellent wineries. If you visit In the winter check out the Monarch Butterfly Grove, a must see for any nature lover.
Avila Beach: Visit this small coastal town that is home to the Avila Hot Springs & Geysers. Make your way down to the pier to enjoy whale watching and sunset or check out the Point San Luis Lighthouse.
Morro Bay: This stunning coastal city is famous for the landmark Morro Rock, delicious seafood, and its romantic harbor which features several popular restaurants and bars. Close by is the Morro Bay State Park, home to lagoons, relaxing trails, and marshes that have plenty of wildlife.
Cambria: This California town is an artistic hamlet famous for its forested hikes near the coast and quirky artistic exhibits. Here, where the ocean meets pine forests, you'll emerge yourself in historic architecture, art galleries, boutique shops, and an excellent local gourmet food scene.
Hearst Castle: Check out the mansion and property of the newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. This expansive property overlooks San Simeon and the Pacific Ocean from a tall hill. The building has over 100 rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a movie theater, tons of antiques, artworks, and sculptures, and wild animals like zebras roaming the grounds.
Ragged Point: This is known as the gateway to Big Sur and the 'Million Dollar View.' This lookout area has some of the most awe-inspiring views in the entire state.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Make sure to visit this famous state park in Monterey County known as the 'mini Yosemite.' The park is full of Redwood trees growing around the Big Sur River. The park spans roughly 1,006 acres of the Santa Lucia Mountains.
On the Scenic Sequoia Route
Santa Clarita: Visit this hub of Californian historical places like Pico Number 4, the world's longest running oil well in the world, and Mentryville, an oil town with plenty of history.
Mt Pinos: Popular (dog-friendly) hiking and camping spot, dotted with wildflowers and featuring striking and far-reaching views.
Bakersfield: This is a city of music and culture known as the “Nashville of the West.” Bakersfield has tons of fantastic museums and art galleries, like the California Living Museum and the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History. You'll also have lots of hiking opportunities, like the mountains of the Kern River Ranger District in Sequoia National Forest.
Sequoia National Park: This park is home to the world's largest trees by volume. Enjoy the beautiful forest scenery, hiking trails, and stunning wildlife.
Kings Canyon National Park: Next to Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon has jaw-dropping views and tons of relaxing to challenging hiking trails and camping.
Fresno: Known as "The Best Little City in the USA", Fresno is in the heart of Californian farm country. Check out Woodward Park's Shinzen Japanese Garden and the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and its famous sea lion exhibit.
San Luis Reservoir: A convenient spot for a break from the road. While there are few amenities here, it's a great place to sit and take in some great views with a picnic. It's also the largest off-stream reservoir in the United States!
Bixby Creek Bridge: This historic bridge in Big Sur crosses the Bixby Creek and is one of the most photographed bridges in the United States. You can gather several photos from the many vantage points so bring your camera!
Monterey: This town appears in the popular John Steinbeck novel, Cannery Row. It has stunning beaches, famous drives, a world-class aquarium, and famous whale watching tours.
Carmel-By-The-Sea: Enjoy this luxurious and artistic coastal city with famous architecture, tons of nature, and world-class dining options. This city once had Clint Eastwood as its mayor.
