Tips for Driving the West Coast of USA (2025)

Driving the West Coast of USA can be an exciting, adventurous journey; we share what you need to know, where to go & route options for your trip.

There’s a certain magic to heading west. The horizon stretches farther, the sky feels bigger, and time itself seems to slow down. It’s where the road becomes a kind of meditation—an invitation to rediscover space, stillness, and wonder.

And when the open road calls, few ways to answer it feel as effortless as rolling through it all in a Midwest Sprinter Van—not for the flash, but for the freedom it offers.

There are few journeys in the world as iconic, liberating, and breathtaking as a drive down the West Coast of the USA. Stretching from the misty forests of Washington State, through Oregon’s rugged coastline, and down to the sun-soaked beaches of California, this legendary route offers a mix of dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re chasing surf, seafood, or sunsets, a West Coast USA road trip is an experience every traveler should have at least once.

Tips for Driving the West Coast of USA

Why Drive the West Coast USA

Driving the West Coast offers a freedom you can’t get any other way. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), US Highway 101, and Interstate 5 (I-5) connect some of the most stunning scenery in the country — from snow-capped peaks to coastal cliffs and charming seaside towns. You’ll cruise through diverse environments: rainforests, deserts, vineyards, surf towns, and bustling cities — all within a single journey; hitting up so many on your USA bucket list.

Beyond the scenery, it’s the diversity of experiences that makes the trip so special. One day you’re hiking through redwoods older than the Roman Empire, the next you’re sipping wine in Napa Valley or exploring Hollywood Boulevard.

How Long You Need

You can technically drive the West Coast from Seattle to San Diego in under 24 hours without stops, but that would miss the point entirely. To truly appreciate everything along the way, give yourself:

• 1 Week: Quick highlights — a taste of major cities and famous viewpoints.
• 2 Weeks: Balanced trip — time for nature, cities, and coastal relaxation.
• 3+ Weeks: The dream road trip — explore deeply, detour inland, and take your time.

For this guide, we’ll assume you’re driving north to south, which keeps you on the ocean side of the highway — perfect for scenic views and easy pull-offs.

The Journey Becomes the Destination

Out west, the drive isn’t just a means to an end—it’s part of the story. From the sage-dusted plains of Wyoming to the red sandstone arches of Utah, every mile is its own landscape painting in motion. A Sprinter lets you lean into that rhythm. You can linger at a roadside overlook, chase a golden sunset down a winding pass, or pull off under a sky thick with stars—no itinerary required.

There’s room to stretch out, read, nap, or watch the land change color through panoramic windows. Long days on the road begin to feel less like travel and more like time well spent.

Best Time to Drive the West Coast

The West Coast is beautiful year-round, but spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer ideal weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

• Summer: Perfect for beach days and long sunlight hours, but expect crowds and higher hotel costs.
• Winter: The northern coast can be rainy, but southern California shines with mild temperatures.

If you’re planning to camp or visit national parks, May to October is ideal for open roads and accessible trails.

The Route Overview

Here’s the general route most travelers follow:

Seattle → Olympic National Park → Portland → Cannon Beach → Redwood National Park → San Francisco → Big Sur → Los Angeles → San Diego

Let’s break it down by region and highlights.

Washington State: Evergreen Beginnings

Seattle

Start your journey in Seattle, the Emerald City. Framed by water and mountains, Seattle offers a vibrant mix of culture, coffee, and creativity.

Top things to do:

• Visit Pike Place Market for local produce, seafood, and iconic fish-throwing.
• Head up the Space Needle for panoramic city views.
• Explore Chihuly Garden and Glass for mesmerizing glass sculptures.
• Grab coffee at the original Starbucks at Pike Place.

Foodie travelers will love Seattle’s seafood scene — don’t leave without tasting clam chowder, salmon, or Dungeness crab.

Olympic National Park

Just a few hours west, Olympic National Park is one of America’s most diverse natural wonders. Drive along the Olympic Peninsula Loop to experience misty rainforests, alpine peaks, and rugged coastline.

Highlights:

• Hoh Rain Forest: A moss-draped wonderland straight out of a fairytale.
• Rialto Beach: Famous for its sea stacks and tide pools.
• Hurricane Ridge: Breathtaking mountain vistas on a clear day.

Spend a night near Port Angeles or Forks (yes, the “Twilight” town) before heading south.

Oregon: The Wild Coast

Once you cross into Oregon, the scenery becomes truly dramatic. Unlike California’s urban coast, Oregon’s coastline is raw, wild, and unspoiled — dotted with sea cliffs, lighthouses, and charming small towns.

Cannon Beach

Known for the towering Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is one of the most photogenic spots on the West Coast. Visit at low tide to explore tide pools filled with starfish and anemones.

Don’t miss:

• Ecola State Park for hiking trails and epic viewpoints.
• Pelican Brewing Company for craft beer with an ocean view.

Tillamook & Newport

Drive the Three Capes Scenic Route for unforgettable coastal views, then stop at the Tillamook Creamery for cheese samples and ice cream. Continue south to Newport, where you can walk along the historic bayfront, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium, or spot sea lions lounging near the docks.

Florence & Oregon Dunes

Just south of Florence, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers an entirely different landscape — massive rolling sand dunes stretching for miles. Rent a dune buggy for an adrenaline rush or go sandboarding.

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

As you approach the California border, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor steals the show. This 12-mile stretch features natural bridges, secret beaches, and hidden coves. It’s a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Northern California: Giants and Wine Country

Redwood National and State Parks

Crossing into California, the first must-see stop is Redwood National and State Parks, home to the tallest trees on Earth. Wander through the ancient forests along the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail or drive the Avenue of the Giants— a 31-mile scenic drive surrounded by towering redwoods.

Stay overnight in Eureka or Trinidad, charming coastal towns with Victorian architecture and cozy inns.

Mendocino & Fort Bragg

Mendocino feels like a step back in time — a cliffside village with white cottages and sea views. Nearby Fort Bragg is famous for Glass Beach, where smooth sea glass covers the shoreline.

San Francisco: The Golden City

Driving into San Francisco, you’ll cross the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Spend a few days exploring this eclectic, colorful city.

Top things to do:

• Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Visit Alcatraz Island for a glimpse of history.
• Ride the historic cable cars up the city’s steep hills.
• Wander through Chinatown and the Mission District.
• End the day with a sunset at Twin Peaks.

For food, try a sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf or indulge in seafood at Swan Oyster Depot.

California’s Central Coast: Scenic Highway 1 and Big Sur

The stretch between San Francisco and Los Angeles is the most scenic part of the entire trip. The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) winds along cliffs that plunge into the Pacific, with every bend offering postcard-worthy views.

Half Moon Bay & Santa Cruz

Stop at Half Moon Bay for coastal walks or Santa Cruz for a classic beach boardwalk experience. Surfers should hit Steamer Lane, one of California’s legendary surf spots.

Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea

Monterey’s Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium are must-visits, while Carmel-by-the-Sea enchants with fairytale cottages and art galleries. Take the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives.

Big Sur

This is the heart of the West Coast drive — where the ocean meets the mountains in dramatic fashion and one of the best USA Road trips.

Highlights:

• Bixby Bridge: One of the most photographed bridges in the world.
• McWay Falls: A waterfall that drops directly onto the beach.
• Pfeiffer Beach: Known for its purple sand and sea arch.

Book accommodations well in advance — Big Sur lodges and campsites fill up quickly.

San Luis Obispo & Hearst Castle

Continue south to San Simeon, home to Hearst Castle, a lavish mansion built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Nearby, visit the elephant seal rookery for a close look at these fascinating creatures.

San Luis Obispo (SLO) is a great overnight stop — a laid-back college town with a charming downtown, lively farmers’ markets, and nearby wineries.

Southern California: Sunshine and Surf

Santa Barbara

Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara blends Spanish-style architecture, palm-lined beaches, and upscale charm. Walk along State Street, relax at East Beach, and enjoy local wines in the Funk Zone.

Los Angeles

Love it or hate it, Los Angeles is a must-stop on a West Coast road trip. This sprawling city has something for everyone — film history, art, beaches, and world-class food.

Top things to do:

• Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the Hollywood Sign.
• Visit Griffith Observatory for city and stargazing views.
• Explore Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach for classic California vibes.
• Shop and dine in Beverly Hills or The Grove.

Food lovers can explore everything from taco trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants — LA’s food scene is as diverse as its people.

San Diego: The Final Stop

Finish your road trip in San Diego, a city famous for its perfect weather, laid-back lifestyle, and beaches that go on forever; there are so many reasons to visit San Diego.

Don’t miss:

• Balboa Park: A cultural hub with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo.
• La Jolla Cove: Great for snorkeling and seal watching.
• Old Town San Diego: For a dose of California history.
• Gaslamp Quarter: Vibrant nightlife and dining scene.

Grab one last sunset by the ocean — perhaps at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park — and take a moment to reflect on your journey. You’ve just completed one of the most epic road trips on Earth.

Where to Stay in the West Coast

You’ll find accommodation options for every budget:

• Budget: Campgrounds, motels, or hostels (especially in Oregon and Northern California).
• Mid-Range: Boutique hotels in cities like Portland, San Francisco, and Santa Barbara.
• Luxury: Beachfront resorts in Big Sur, Malibu, and San Diego.

For flexibility, consider a campervan or RV rental, allowing you to sleep by the sea and wake up to ocean views.

Road Trip Tips

• Plan gas stops: Some stretches (like Big Sur) have limited stations.
• Download offline maps: Cell service can be patchy on the coast.
• Book accommodations early: Especially in summer.
• Bring layers: Weather can vary drastically from north to south.
• Allow time for detours: The beauty of a road trip is spontaneity.

Hidden Gems Along the Way

• Cape Flattery (WA): The northwesternmost point of the continental U.S.
• Thor’s Well (OR): A natural ocean “drain” near Yachats — incredible at high tide.
• Point Reyes Lighthouse (CA): Windy, remote, and spectacular.
• Solvang (CA): A Danish-themed village with bakeries and windmills.
• Laguna Beach (CA): Artistic, scenic, and perfect for a final coastal stroll.

Driving the West Coast of the USA isn’t just a road trip — it’s an experience of contrasts. It’s where lush rainforests meet arid deserts, where wild ocean cliffs give way to urban skylines, and where each mile tells a new story.