Are you ready to head west for an American coastal adventure?
The Pacific Coast of America combines wild untamed landscapes, a rich history, and vibrant cities. With its stunning landscapes, diverse coastline and access to some of the country’s great wildernesses, the Pacific Coast is classic American road trip territory. From giant redwood forests, through mountain ranges, to the laid-back surf of Big Sur, this is America at its grandest and most iconic.
Cheaper Than Cars makes it easy to find the right car for your road trip by the Pacific Ocean whatever your budget. With easy pick-ups across the whole Pacific seaboard from Seattle to San Francisco, your next adventure is just a few clicks away.
Here are ten of the best great ocean road trips to fire up your imagination!
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as State Route 1, is an iconic Californian road trip that winds along the rugged cliffs of the Pacific coastline. The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the leading great ocean road trips, beginning in Dana Point, southern California, and running to Leggett in the north. One of the most famous sections is the stretch between Monterey and Morro Bay, known as Big Sur, where the road meanders along towering cliffs and offers awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean.
The route winds its way through legendary coastal towns like Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. With their coastal attractions, waterfront walks, seafood restaurants and nightlife, they’re great places to relax and spend some time. The Pacific Highway also gives you access to several state parks including Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Hearst San Simeon State Park, giving you a chance to camp, hike, or even go whale watching. This epic journey along California’s most iconic route is not to be missed.
- Total Driving Distance: 655 Miles (1,055km)
- Driving Time: 12 Hours
Oregon Coast Highway, Oregon
U.S. Route 101 may not be as well known as California’s Pacific Highway, but this scenic route across the entire length of Oregon’s coastline is one of the great ocean road trips in North America. Beginning in Astoria situated by the mouth of Columbia River where it meets the Pacific Ocean, it then hugs the coastline southwards all the way to Brookings. Passing through notable destinations such as Cannon Beach with it vibrant arts scene and Newport with its historic bayfront, the route gives you plenty of opportunities to explore the natural environment along the way.
The coastal scenery on this route is rarely bettered, from the iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach to the dramatic cliff of Cape Perpetua. Photographers love the wild drama of these shorelines, and there’s an opportunity to explore sea stacks and tidal pools, or you can choose to turn inland into lush forests and state parks. Hike the trails, fish, climb or simply relax in beautiful surroundings, the Oregon Coast Highway gives you the space to follow your passion.
- Total Driving Distance: 363 Miles (585km)
- Driving Time: 7 to 9 Hours
Redwood Highway, California
In California, parts of Route 101 become the Redwood Highway. This is a spectacular road trip that travels through some of the most magnificent landscapes in the northern part of the state. It journeys through the ancient towering redwood forests, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. The route stretches from the southern part of the state, near the town of Leggett, and continues northward, passing through famous redwood groves like the Avenue of the Giants and the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Being up close to these giant trees is a humbling experience, as they seem to soar skywards.
Located in Leggett, the Chandelier Tree, is a giant coastal redwood with a tunnel carved through its base. Cars can pass through the tree, which has become a symbolic landmark on the Redwood Highway. Massive trees line the road at the famous Avenue of The Giants. Along the route, there is countless opportunities for hiking or taking a stroll through forests. Beyond the redwood forests, the Redwood Highway takes roadtrippers along the rugged coastline of northern California, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Towns like Eureka and Crescent City, provide places to eat, drink and overnight.
- Total Driving Distance: 200 Miles (322km)
- Driving Time: 5 Hours
Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/ Washington
Straddling the states of Oregon and Washington, this road trip through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. The Columbia River Gorge, carved by the Columbia River, serves as a natural boundary between the two states and is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, and lush greenery. The scenic route usually begins in Portland and travels along the Historic Columbia River Highway (U.S. Route 30) and Interstate 84 provides panoramic views of the Columbia River, meandering waterfalls, and the picturesque Multnomah Falls, the second-tallest year-round waterfall in the United States.
Along the way, you’ll encounter vineyards and fertile orchards, as well as the rocky cliffs and dense forests that define the gorge. The region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of hiking trails, windsurfing and kiteboarding on the river, as well as opportunities for birdwatching. The journey takes you to Vista House at Crown Point, an observatory offering unparalleled views of the gorge. In Dalles, you can learn more about the region’s Native American, pioneer, and industrial past. Hood River, Oregon where the route ends is a popular stop known for its craft breweries, and access to outdoor adventures like mountain biking. In Dalles, you can learn more about the region’s Native American, pioneer, and industrial past.
- Total Driving Distance:150 Miles (242km)
- Driving Time: 4 Hours
Pacific Northwest Loop, Washington
The Pacific Northwest Loop in Washington is a captivating road trip through the diverse and stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest region. This scenic loop typically starts and ends in Seattle, known for its vibrant musical scene, the iconic Space Needle, and proximity to Puget Sound. From Seattle, the route heads northwest towards the Olympic Peninsula, leading through lush temperate rainforests and the wild coastal scenery of Olympic National Park. As you continue along the northern coast you are treated to a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, there are seaside towns like Port Angeles and Forks to explore.
Eastwards lead to the majestic Cascade Range, passing through evergreen forests and mountain landscapes, including iconic peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount St Helens. This is a wilderness lovers’ dream, with endless opportunities to hike, camp, and connect with nature. The route turns south through the Columbia River Gorge, where the river winds its way through dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, before heading back to Seattle.
- Total Driving Distance: 600 Miles (965km)
- Driving Time: 12 Hours
Big Sur Coastline, California
Big Sur is California at its most laidback and beautiful. This legendary surf hub and key point on the hippy trail feels a world apart from the cities. A key feature on great ocean road trips along the Pacific coast, Big Sur is a place of untamed beauty and a haven for nature enthusiasts, photographers, surfers and anyone looking for an escape along the edge of the continent. Stretching between the coastal towns of Carmel and San Simeon, the Big Sur stretch of California State Route winds along rugged cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains.
Bixby Creek Bridge, spanning a deep canyon, is an engineering marvel that provides one of the most photographed views along the coast. McWay Falls, a dramatic waterfall cascading onto a secluded beach, is another highlight accessible from the highway. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers opportunities for hiking amid ancient redwoods, while the historic Nepenthe restaurant provides a panoramic dining experience overlooking the Pacific. Further south, the Point Sur Lightstation atop a volcanic rock outcrop gives you panoramic views of the coastline. Along the route, places to stay such as the Ventana Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn, or numerous campgrounds allow you to relax a while amid the laid-back charm and natural beauty of this stunning corner of California.
- Total Driving Distance: 90 Miles (145km)
- Driving Time: 2 to 3 Hours
Nappa Valley Wine Trail, California
California is one of the world’s most famous wine-producing regions. Located in Northern California, Napa Valley is synonymous with picturesque vineyards, lush landscapes, and exquisite wines. This road trip typically begins in the charming town of Napa, before heading out into the vineyard-covered hills beyond. From the opulent estates in St. Helena to the artisan wineries in Calistoga, each stop offers a unique wine-tasting experience. Wineries like Robert Mondavi, Beringer, and Castello di Amorosa combine architectural splendour and award-winning wines.
There’s more to Napa Valley than vineyards, with charming towns like Yountville and St. Helena boasting Michelin-starred restaurants, independent shops, and art galleries. The historic Napa Valley Wine Train provides a unique perspective as it winds through the valley, offering gourmet dining and scenic views. Hot air balloon rides over the valley at sunrise provide a magical and unforgettable way to appreciate the patchwork of vineyards below. A road trip through Napa Valley has something for wine connoisseurs and non-drinkers alike.
- Total Driving Distance: 70 Miles (113km)
- Driving Time: 3 Hours
Mendocino Coast, California
The Mendocino Coast along the rugged shores of northern California, attracts visitors all year round for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside villages. This journey along the Mendocino Coast offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is characterised by its wild, unspoiled landscape. Towering cypress trees, wind-sculpted bluffs, and secluded coves all contribute to the spectacle.
The charming village of Mendocino is a central gem along this coast stretch. With its relaxed atmosphere, artistic community and boutique B&Bs, this is a great place to unwind. The Mendocino Coast is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails taking you along the cliffs to discover hidden beaches. Popular spots like the Mendocino Headlands State Park and Russian Gulch State Park showcase the region’s stunning landscape. Along the way, be sure to visit Fort Bragg, with its historic Glass Beach and the famous Skunk Train.
- Total Driving Distance: 50 Miles (80km)
- Driving Time: 1.5 Hours
San Juan Islands, Washington
The San Juan Islands are a picturesque archipelago in the Salish Sea and this particular adventure begins with a ferry ride from Anacortes. As you island-hop between the main islands of San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes, charming coastal communities, and a wealth of outdoor activities.
Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is a historic seaport town, often featured in traditional songs. Lime Kiln Point State Park allows you to watch for whales, while the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park, showcases outdoor art against a stunning backdrop. Orcas Islands is the largest of the San Juan Islands and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Mount Constitution provides panoramic views of the surrounding islands and mainland, while the village of Eastsound has places to eat, drink and shop. With its laid-back vibe, Lopez Island is a rural idyll with hidden beaches that you can explore by bike. If you’re looking for solitude and tranquillity, then head to Shaw Island, but you’ll have to leave your car behind on Orcas. This is a great road trip if you want to spend more time relaxing and less time driving.
- Total Driving Distance: 30 Miles (48km)
- Driving Time: 2 Hours
Olympic National Park, Washington
Beginning in Port Angeles, this favourite among great ocean road trips takes you on a journey through one of the most diverse and scenic landscapes in the United States. Located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique combination of temperate rainforests, mountain peaks, rugged coastlines, and tranquil lakes.
The iconic Hurricane Ridge, accessible by car, offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and surrounding wilderness. The trailhead at Hurrican Hills provides opportunities for short hikes, before descending from the mountains to the Hoh Rainforest. The Hall of Mosses Trails allows you to gain a deeper understanding of rare temperate rainforests in a magical world of towering trees draped in vibrant green mosses. Continuing west, the route meets the Pacific Coast, where rugged sea stacks, hidden beaches, and tidal pools are all waiting to be explored. Ruby Beach and Second Beach are popular stops and make a stark contrast to the mountains and rainforest you’ve left behind.
- Total Driving Distance: 250 Miles (402km)
- Driving Time: 7 Hours
Are You Ready For A Great Ocean Adventure?
The US states of Washington, Oregon and California share a stunning coastline along the western seaboard of the continent. Vast areas of wilderness combine with creative cities and charming old towns where the way of life feels little changed in decades. It’s classic road trip territory and is waiting to be explored.
Cheaper Than Cars makes it easy to find the right car for great ocean road trips along the Pacific Coast whatever your budget.
