Ultimate Airstream Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, is one of the most iconic road trip routes in the United States. Stretching over 600 miles along California’s stunning coastline, the PCH offers breathtaking views, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences. Embarking on this journey in an Airstream adds a touch of adventure and comfort to the trip. This is a road trip I could do over and over again as the places and weather never gets old. California really does have a lot to offer, so hitch the Airstream and get going!

Here’s your ultimate Airstream road trip itinerary for exploring the Pacific Coast Highway.

Day 1: San Diego to Laguna Beach

Distance: 80 miles

Highlights:

• Start your journey in sunny San Diego by walking around the Gaslamp District for a tasty bite, catch a Padres game, or spend the morning exploring Balboa Park.
• Head north and stop at La Jolla Cove to see sea lions and enjoy the scenic views.
• As you continue further north, make sure to check out Carlsbad Beach and the San Diego Safari Park.
• Arrive in Laguna Beach and set up camp at Crystal Cove State Park, which offers beautiful oceanfront sites.

Campgrounds:

• Sun Outdoors Chula Vista
• Crystal Cove State Park Campground

Day 2: Laguna Beach to Los Angeles

Distance: 50 miles

Highlights:

• Spend the morning exploring Laguna Beach’s laid-back environment by seeing the art galleries and tide pools.
• Continue to Huntington Beach, known as Surf City USA, for a stroll on the pier and a beachside lunch.
• Arrive in Los Angeles and of course, visit iconic spots like Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach.

Campground:

• Malibu Creek State Park Campground

Day 3: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Distance: 90 miles

Highlights:

• Spend the morning exploring Hollywood or Griffith Park.
• Head to Malibu for a scenic drive and lunch at a beachfront café.
• Arrive in Santa Barbara, known for its Mediterranean architecture and wine tasting rooms.

Campground:

• Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park

Day 4: Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo

Distance: 100 miles

Highlights:

• Visit the historic Mission Santa Barbara and stroll down State Street. Check out the Botanical Garden or catch a boat over to the famous Channel Islands if you get the chance.
• Drive through the scenic Gaviota Coast and stop at Pismo Beach for a dune buggy ride.
• Stop by Paso Robles and see the light show at night.
• Arrive in San Luis Obispo and explore the charming downtown area. There are also epic flower blooms in this area, so be sure to see them!

Campgrounds:

• El Chorro Regional Park Campground
• Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

Day 5: San Luis Obispo to Big Sur

Distance: 90 miles

Highlights:

• Visit Hearst Castle in San Simeon for a glimpse into opulent history.
• Continue north to Ragged Point for stunning coastal views and a relaxing evening.
• Arrive in Big Sur, where you can hike through towering redwoods and visit McWay Falls.

Campground:

• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

Day 6: Big Sur to Monterey

Distance: 45 miles

Highlights:

• Spend the morning exploring the scenic trails of Big Sur.
• Drive across the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge.
• Arrive in Monterey and visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row.
• Don't forget to take go on a walk along the coastline in Monterey

Campground:

• Monterey Pines RV Campground

Day 7: Monterey to Santa Cruz

Distance: 45 miles

Highlights:

• Start your day with a visit to the historic 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach.
• Head to Carmel-by-the-Sea for its quaint shops and beautiful beach.
• Arrive in Santa Cruz and enjoy the boardwalk and its classic amusement park. There are so many great places to eat at in Santa Cruz so come hungry!

Campground:

• Santa Cruz/Monterey KOA

Day 8: Santa Cruz to San Francisco

Distance: 75 miles

Highlights:

• Explore the Santa Cruz Mountains and visit a local winery.
• Drive north to Half Moon Bay for a scenic stop.
• Arrive in San Francisco. Visit iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Campgrounds:

• Pelican Point RV Park
• Marin RV Park

Day 9: San Francisco to Point Reyes National Seashore

Distance: 40 miles

Highlights:

• Spend the morning exploring San Francisco’s neighborhoods and parks.
• Head to Muir Woods National Monument to see the towering redwoods.
• Arrive at Point Reyes National Seashore for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Campground:

• Point Reyes National Seashore Campground

Day 10: Point Reyes National Seashore to Mendocino

Distance: 120 miles

Highlights:

• Enjoy a leisurely morning hike or beach walk at Point Reyes.
• Drive north along the rugged coastline, passing through quaint towns and scenic overlooks.
• Arrive in Mendocino, known for its picturesque scenery and charming village atmosphere.

Campground:

• Van Damme State Park Campground

Day 11: Mendocino to Redwoods National and State Parks

Distance: 150 miles

Highlights:

• Explore Mendocino’s art galleries and coastal trails.
• Continue north through the majestic redwood forests.
• Arrive at Redwoods National and State Parks, home to some of the tallest trees on earth.

Campground:

• Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground

Day 12: Exploring the Redwoods

Highlights:

• Spend the day hiking through the ancient redwoods.
• Visit Fern Canyon, made famous by the movie, Jurassic Park.
• Enjoy a scenic drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.

Conclusion

This Airstream road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is a journey filled with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and unforgettable experiences. If you have the time on your hands, you have to make sure to check out these spots and others I mention in other articles. From the sunny beaches of San Diego to the towering redwoods of Northern California, every stop offers something unique. With this itinerary, you’re sure to make the most of your Airstream adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Save travels!