The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most scenic road trips in the world. Driving it in 2026 means better road conditions, improved viewpoints, and easier planning than ever. This 10-day Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for 2026 is designed for travelers who want iconic views, relaxed pacing, and time to actually enjoy each stop — not just rush through it.
This route runs north to south, which gives you ocean views on the right side almost the entire drive.
Why This 10-Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary Works
This 10-day Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for 2026 is ideal because:
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No long, exhausting driving days
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Time for coastal towns + nature
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Balanced mix of cities, beaches, and cliffs
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Flexible stops for weather and traffic
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Perfect for first-time PCH travelers
You’ll drive roughly 650–700 miles total over 10 days.
Day 1–2: San Francisco
What to do
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Walk or bike the Golden Gate Bridge
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Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
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Visit Twin Peaks for city views
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Enjoy sunset at Baker Beach
Where to stay
Stay near Fisherman’s Wharf or Union Square for easy access.
Why 2 days: San Francisco deserves time before you hit the road.
Day 3: Half Moon Bay → Monterey
Drive time
~3 hours (with stops)
Highlights
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Coastal cliffs along Highway 1
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Stop at Pigeon Point Lighthouse
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Explore Cannery Row
End the day with 17-Mile Drive, one of the most scenic coastal roads in the US.
Day 4: Big Sur
This is the heart of your 10-day Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for 2026.
Must-see stops
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Bixby Bridge
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McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park)
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Pfeiffer Beach (purple sand)
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Nepenthe for lunch views
Tip
Drive slowly and stop often — Big Sur is about views, not distance.
Day 5: San Simeon → Cambria
Highlights
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Elephant seal rookery
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Optional Hearst Castle exterior visit
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Walk Moonstone Beach
Cambria is quieter and more relaxed than busier coastal towns.
Day 6: Santa Barbara
Why stop here
Santa Barbara adds Mediterranean vibes to your PCH journey.
Things to do
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Walk Stearns Wharf
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Explore State Street
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Enjoy wine tasting in the Funk Zone
Perfect place to slow down and recharge.
Day 7: Malibu
Highlights
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Zuma Beach
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Point Dume lookout
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El Matador State Beach
Tip
Avoid peak traffic by driving early morning or late afternoon.
Day 8–9: Los Angeles
What to explore
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Santa Monica Pier
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Venice Beach boardwalk
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Griffith Observatory
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Hollywood sign viewpoints
Why 2 days
Los Angeles is huge — two days keeps it enjoyable, not stressful.
Day 10: San Diego
Final stop highlights
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La Jolla Cove
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Balboa Park
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Gaslamp Quarter
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Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
This is a relaxed, sunny finish to your 10-day Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for 2026.
Best Time to Do This Trip in 2026
Ideal months:
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May–June (best weather, fewer crowds)
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September–October (clear skies, calmer roads)
Avoid:
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Heavy summer weekends
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Winter storm months for Big Sur road closures
Driving & Planning Tips for 2026
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Rent a comfortable car (SUV ideal)
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Download offline Google Maps
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Fuel up before Big Sur
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Book coastal hotels early
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Keep plans flexible for fog
What to Pack
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Layers (coastal weather changes fast)
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Phone charger + car mount
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Light jacket for evenings
Quick Summary: 10-Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary for 2026
Route overview:
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San Francisco (2 days)
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Monterey
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Big Sur
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Cambria
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Santa Barbara
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Malibu
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Los Angeles (2 days)
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San Diego
This pacing keeps the trip scenic, relaxed, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
This 10-day Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for 2026 is designed for travelers who want views without burnout. You’ll see dramatic cliffs, peaceful beaches, lively cities, and charming coastal towns — all at a comfortable pace.
Take your time, stop often, and let the road lead you. The Pacific Coast Highway is not just a drive — it’s the journey of a lifetime.
