Introduction: There’s nothing quite like hitting the road with your significant other for a romantic getaway. And when it comes to scenic drives, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California is hard to beat. This iconic road stretches for over 600 miles along California’s coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coast. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, a romantic road trip on the PCH is the perfect way to experience California’s natural beauty with your loved one.

What to Expect: The PCH runs from the California-Oregon border all the way down to San Diego, passing through charming coastal towns, state parks, and beach communities. Along the way, you’ll experience some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in California, from rocky cliffs and sandy beaches to redwood forests and lighthouses.

One of the highlights of the PCH is the Big Sur section, known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning vistas. This stretch of the highway offers some of the most breathtaking views along the entire PCH, and is a must-see for any couple.

Another highlight is the 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, where you can see some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in California, including the famous Lone Cypress Tree, the Bird Rock and the Fanshell Overlook.

Activities for Couples: The PCH offers plenty of opportunities for romance and adventure. You can take a romantic hike to one of the many scenic overlooks, or enjoy a picnic on one of the many beautiful beaches. You can also visit the Point Sur Lighthouse, which offers a tour of the historic lighthouse and breathtaking views of the coast.

For couples who love water activities, the PCH offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. You can also take a romantic boat ride or a sunset cruise to enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

Where to Stay: There are plenty of romantic accommodations along the PCH, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the many charming coastal towns along the PCH, such as Monterey, Santa Barbara, or Malibu.

Conclusion: A romantic road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway in California is the perfect way to experience the state’s natural beauty with your loved one. From breathtaking views to romantic activities, this scenic drive offers something for every couple. So pack your bags, cue up your favorite playlist, and hit the road with your significant other for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Itineraries: For a Romantic Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Itinerary for a 3-Day Romantic Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway, California: Starting and Finishing in San Francisco

Day 1:

• Start your road trip by driving north from San Francisco to Monterey (approx. 2 hours)
• Stop at Pacific Grove for a romantic stroll along Lover’s Point and a picnic on the beach
• Continue on to Monterey and visit the famous Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Spend the night in Monterey at the Spindrift Inn, a charming bed and breakfast with ocean views

Day 2:

• Start the day by driving south on the PCH to Big Sur (approx. 2 hours)
• Stop at McWay Falls for a romantic hike and picnic
• Continue on to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for a hike to the Ewoldsen Trail and a picnic at Partington Cove
• Drive further down to Hearst Castle, where you can take a tour of the historic mansion and enjoy the beautiful coastal views
• Spend the night in San Simeon at the Pelican Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast with ocean views

Day 3:

• Start the day by driving south on the PCH to the 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach (approx. 1 hour)
• Stop at the famous Lone Cypress Tree and the Bird Rock
• Continue on to Carmel-by-the-Sea for a romantic stroll through the charming town and a visit to the Carmel Mission
• Drive back to San Francisco (approx. 2 hours)
• Spend the last night of the trip in San Francisco at the Argonaut Hotel, a luxurious hotel with views of the Bay

Note: The drive times and stops mentioned in this itinerary are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and personal preferences. Also, the hotel suggestions are based on availability and budget, you can also look for other options that suit your preferences.

Itinerary for a 3-Day Romantic Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway, California (Southern to Northern):

Day 1:

• Start your road trip by driving north from San Diego to La Jolla (approx. 1 hour)
• Stop at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for a romantic hike and picnic
• Continue on to La Jolla and visit the famous La Jolla Cove for a romantic stroll and a picnic on the beach
• Spend the night in La Jolla at the La Jolla Shores Hotel, a luxurious hotel with ocean views

Day 2:

• Start the day by driving north on the PCH to Santa Barbara (approx. 2 hours)
• Stop at the Santa Barbara Mission for a visit and a romantic stroll through the gardens
• Continue on to the Channel Islands National Park for a romantic boat ride or hike
• Drive further north to Solvang, a charming Danish-style town, where you can enjoy a romantic stroll and dinner
• Spend the night in Solvang at the Hotel Corque, a charming hotel with a Danish-style decor

Day 3:

• Start the day by driving north on the PCH to Big Sur (approx. 3 hours)
• Stop at the McWay Falls for a romantic hike and picnic
• Continue on to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for a hike to the Ewoldsen Trail and a picnic at Partington Cove
• Drive further north to Monterey and visit the famous Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Spend the last night of the trip in Monterey at the Spindrift Inn, a charming bed and breakfast with ocean views

Note: The drive times and stops mentioned in this itinerary are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and personal preferences. Also, the hotel suggestions are based on availability and budget, you can also look for other options that suit your preferences.

Itinerary for a 4-day round trip romantic road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway, California starting and ending in Los Angeles:

Day 1:

• Start your road trip by driving north from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (approx. 2 hours)
• Stop at the Santa Barbara Mission for a visit and a romantic stroll through the gardens
• Continue on to the Channel Islands National Park for a romantic boat ride or hike
• Drive further north to Solvang, a charming Danish-style town, where you can enjoy a romantic stroll and dinner
• Spend the night in Solvang at the Hotel Corque, a charming hotel with a Danish-style decor

Day 2:

• Start the day by driving north on the PCH to San Luis Obispo (approx. 2 hours)
• Stop at Pismo Beach for a romantic stroll on the beach and a picnic
• Continue on to Morro Bay for a romantic boat ride or kayaking
• Drive further north to San Simeon and visit the famous Hearst Castle
• Spend the night in San Simeon at the Pelican Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast with ocean views

Day 3:

• Start the day by driving north on the PCH to Big Sur (approx. 2 hours)
• Stop at McWay Falls for a romantic hike and picnic
• Continue on to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for a hike to the Ewoldsen Trail and a picnic at Partington Cove
• Drive further north to Carmel-by-the-Sea for a romantic stroll through the charming town and a visit to the Carmel Mission
• Spend the night in Carmel-by-the-Sea at the Hofsas House, a charming bed and breakfast with ocean views

Day 4:

• Start the day by driving back to Los Angeles on the PCH (approx. 6 hours)
• Make stops along the way to enjoy the views and take in the scenery.
• Return to Los Angeles and end of the road trip

Note: The drive times and stops mentioned in this itinerary are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and personal preferences. Also, the hotel suggestions are based on availability and budget, you can also look for other options that suit your preferences.