Follow The Pacific Coast Highway Along This Scenic Drive Through Northern California

Editor's note: As of July 2023, portions of this drive are closed due to damage on the road. Visit the Big Sur Chamber of Commerce website for the most current information. 

Much has been written about the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1. Extending some 650 miles, it is simply marvelous and reveals so many wonderful aspects of The Golden State. For this scenic road trip, we’ll explore just a portion of this magnificent scenic highway from Morro Bay to Carmel-By-The-Sea, leaving you with another taste of what the California lifestyle has to offer.

The drive time from Morro Bay to Carmel-by-the-Sea is just under three hours long if you drive straight through.

But those who embark upon this glorious highway do so in order to explore all that Central and Northern California have to offer.

Morro Bay

Starting at the southern end of this road trip is beautiful Morro Bay. The Morro Rock is the most recognizable feature of this quaint coastal town. In truth, this boulder rising approximately 576 feet above the surface of the water is really what is known as a volcanic plug.

There are so many wonderful things to do here that it’s hard to choose what to do first.

Bird watching, whale watching, beach coming, dining, and shopping are just a few.

Cambria

About 30 minutes up the highway you’ll come to the stunning town of Cambria. The area is known as the home of Hearst Castle, but there is much more to it than that.

Cambria is a gastronomic haven and foodies come from all over the state for the most amazing knife-and-fork adventures.

With good eats like those served up at the Black Cat Bistro, it’s no wonder that Cambria was named as one of the best small towns in Northern California.

Nepenthe

Everyone knows about Big Sur but not many are aware of a little spot called Nepenthe. Just an hour and 40 minutes north of Cambria, Nepenthe offers spectacular views of the California coastline.

Although there is really not much to do here besides grabbing a bite to eat, you might consider staying a night or weekend “next door” in Big Sur.

If you enjoy camping, there is an amazing spot called Fernwood Campground and Resort that offers a wide array of accommodation options.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Continuing on another 44 minutes or so and you will arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Officially incorporated in 1916, Carmel-by-the-Sea is often regarded as the artistic capital of this area of the state.

Over 100 art galleries are dotted all over Carmel-by-the-Sea, each one offering a unique flavor and flair of the area and artisans who live and work here.

It’s no wonder that this beautiful seaside village draws so many art aficionados from all over the world to buy unique pieces for their homes and businesses.

Have you driven along the Pacific Coast Highway between these towns? If so, what did you enjoy the most? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.

If you love scenic road trips, be sure to check out these 10 Best Backroads in Northern California.