Road Trip Guide to California's Highway 1: Part 2

Juliet Weller
15 minutes ago
3 min read

Coastal road winding along rugged cliffs of the California coast with a vast blue Pacific Ocean below. Sunlit hills in the background under a clear sky. Serene and scenic.

Last week's Part 1 was the start of the inspiration for your journey along this scenic highway. You've seen it many, many times in automobile commercials. especially, although you may not have recognized the location.

It may be time for you to take that trip yourself. The coastal towns along this scenic route offer a diverse array of experiences, from bustling arts scenes to tranquil beaches...something for every traveller.

Here are six more must-stop-and-see towns on your California Highway 1 road trip.

Cambria

Cambria is a coastal town where rugged beauty meets artistic charm.

The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve offers miles of trails with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, while Moonstone Beach is famous for its smooth, translucent stones that sparkle in the sunlight.

Stroll along the boardwalk that runs parallel to the beach, and enjoy the serene atmosphere that defines Cambria.

The town is also home to a thriving arts community, with local galleries and studios showcasing the work of talented artists.

Morro Bay

Sunlit Morro Rock, a volcanic plug, reflected in wet sand at sunset on tranquil beach. Rippling patterns in sand, calm sea, serene mood.

Morro Bay is one of the few remaining fishing villages along the California coast, and it offers a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of life.

The town’s iconic Morro Rock, a massive volcanic plug that rises from the ocean, is a striking landmark that dominates the skyline.

Explore the Embarcadero, Morro Bay’s waterfront district, where you’ll find seafood restaurants, shops, and galleries.

For a closer look at the local marine life, take a harbor cruise and watch sea otters, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat.

Oxnard

Oxnard may be more urban than some of the other towns on this list, but it offers its own unique coastal charm. The western side of town is home to sandy beaches and towering dunes, perfect for a day of exploration.

Hollywood Beach, so named for the celebrities who have made it their home, is a serene spot where you can enjoy the sun and surf in a more private setting.

Oxnard is also famous for its strawberry fields, which produce some of the sweetest berries in the country. A visit to one of the local farms is a must for any fruit lover.

Santa Barbara

Nicknamed the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is a sophisticated blend of Spanish colonial architecture and sun-kissed beaches.

Beyond its stunning Mission and palm-lined State Street, it boasts upscale shopping, and a thriving wine scene in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley — perfect for indulgent day trips.

Enjoy world-class spas, sail along the Channel Islands, or savor gourmet farm-to-table cuisine while soaking in endless ocean vistas.

The city’s temperate Mediterranean climate makes it an all-year-round luxurious escape.

Laguna Beach

An artist’s paradise famed for its coves, tide pools, and vibrant arts scene, lively art festivals, oceanfront dining, and secluded beaches where turquoise waves meet dramatic cliffs.

This coastal town pulses with creative energy, featuring numerous galleries, public art installations, and the famous Pageant of the Masters art festival during summer.

Travelers can explore tide pools by day, and enjoy seaside dining infused with fresh California flavors by night — all against the backdrop of spectacular sunsets that paint the sky orange and pink.

Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is where rugged natural beauty meets charming small-town warmth. Renowned for its vast sandy beaches and towering coastal bluffs, this destination is a sanctuary for surfers, horseback riders, and nature lovers alike.

In autumn, it comes alive with pumpkin patches and harvest festivals, offering a cozy yet elegant seasonal experience.

Fine dining with ocean views and boutique inns make Half Moon Bay an ideal blend of adventure and comfortable relaxation.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a vibrant beach town that perfectly combines surf culture with natural wonder.

The classic Boardwalk amusement park with its mid-century charm invites nostalgic fun, while nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers serene walks among ancient giants.

Santa Cruz’s eclectic dining scene ranges from casual beachfront eateries to upscale fusion restaurants, appealing to a variety of tastes.

This town is perfect for clients seeking a lively yet laid-back luxury retreat filled with both excitement and tranquility.

Parting thoughts

There’s nothing quite like driving along California’s legendary Highway 1's winding ribbon of breathtaking coastline, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences.

The artistic enclaves of Laguna Beach, the lush redwoods near Fort Bragg: every mile invites discovery, indulgence, and awe.

This isn’t just a road trip; it’s a curated journey of luxury, nature, and culture woven together against the backdrop of the Pacific’s endless horizon.

Embrace the adventure, savor every sunset, and let Highway 1 reveal the extraordinary details that turn a vacation into a once-in-a-lifetime escape.

We will create your road trip guide the way you dream it, so that your journey along this iconic route is nothing short of spectacular.