Big Sur travel guide and discussion

Some journeys are about the destination. Big Sur is all about the journey itself. Stretching along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Big Sur is a place where rugged mountains plunge dramatically into the Pacific Ocean, creating one of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in the world. Every mile offers a new view that makes you want to stop, admire the scenery, and take another photo. 🚗 Driving through Big Sur felt like moving through a postcard. Towering cliffs, winding roads, crashing waves, and endless ocean views create a sense of freedom and adventure that is hard to describe. 🌊 One of the highlights is watching the Pacific Ocean stretch endlessly toward the horizon while waves crash against the rocky coastline below. The contrast between the deep blue ocean and the dramatic cliffs is simply unforgettable. 🌲 Beyond the coastline, Big Sur is also home to beautiful forests, hidden beaches, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re exploring viewpoints or simply enjoying the drive, every moment feels special. 📸 Sunset is pure magic. As golden light paints the cliffs and ocean in warm colors, Big Sur transforms into one of the most beautiful places imaginable. ✨ What makes Big Sur unforgettable is not just its scenery but the feeling it gives you—a reminder of how powerful and beautiful nature can be. 📍 Big Sur, California, USA 🇺🇸 “Some roads take you somewhere. Big Sur makes you never want the journey to end.” ✨ #BigSur #California #PacificCoastHighway #Highway1 #RoadTrip #TravelPhotography #TripMoments #Tripcom #OceanViews #NatureLovers #BucketListTravel #Wanderlust #TravelMemories #ExploreCalifornia

Highway 1 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: San Francisco 📍Instagram-famous Magic Forest Half Moon Bay Pigeon Point Lighthouse - Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf 17-Mile Drive Carmel-by-the-Sea Day 2: Bixby Bridge Hearst Castle Elephant Seal Beach Pismo Beach Day 3: Solvang (Danish Village) Santa Barbara Santa Monica Beach Los Angeles 📸 Attractions] 📍 Instagram-famous Forest Seal Cove Cypress Tree Tunnel/ Fitzgerald Marine Ranger Station & Parking 🏖️ Half Moon Bay: Crescent-shaped beach Poplar Beach/California Coastal Trail Ritz-Carlton Golf Club 📍 Pigeon Point Lighthouse: Filming location for many movies Pigeon Point Viewpoint Parking Lot 🐠 Monterey: Lover's Point Beach Go whale watching? Old Fisherman's Wharf: A place to see seagulls, sea lions, and sea otters 🌲 17-Mile Drive: White sandy beaches and the Lone Cypress by the sea 🏡 Carmel-by-the-Sea: A fairy tale town 🌉 Bixby Bridge: The most healing scenery on Highway 1 🏖️ Big Sur Purple Sand Beach, Sunbeam through the Arch: Pfeiffer Beach 🌊 McWay Falls: McWay Falls View Point 🏰 Hearst Castle: Exquisite classical castle 🐘 Elephant Seal Beach: Herds of elephant seals basking in the sun on the beach 🇩🇰 Solvang (Danish Village): Architecture and cuisine, truly a little Denmark 🏛️ Santa Barbara: Ascend the County Courthouse for 360-degree panoramic views ☀️ Santa Monica: The beach with the most LA lifestyle vibe

Start: San Francisco Finish: Las Vegas (or drive back to San Francisco if you have extra time) 🌉 Day 1 – San Francisco · 🌁 Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge · 🚋 Ride the historic cable cars · 🦀 Explore Fisherman’s Wharf · 🦭 Visit Pier 39 to see sea lions · 🌅 Sunset at Twin Peaks Drive: None ⸻ 🌲 Day 2 – Yosemite National Park · 🚗 Drive about 4 hours · 📸 Tunnel View · 💦 Yosemite Falls · 🪨 El Capitan · 🌿 Valley Loop Trail Stay near Yosemite. Drive: ~190 miles (305 km) ⸻ 🌊 Day 3 – Yosemite → Monterey · 🚗 Scenic drive west · 🦦 Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium · 🌅 Walk Cannery Row Drive: ~4.5 hours ⸻ 🌴 Day 4 – Big Sur → Santa Barbara · 📷 Bixby Bridge · 💦 McWay Falls · 🏰 Stop at Hearst Castle · 🌴 Evening in Santa Barbara Drive: ~235 miles ⸻ 🎬 Day 5 – Los Angeles · ⭐ Hollywood Walk of Fame · 🎥 Universal Studios Hollywood · 🌴 Santa Monica Pier · 🏖 Venice Beach Stay in Los Angeles. ⸻ 🏖 Day 6 – Los Angeles → San Diego · 🐼 San Diego Zoo · ⛴ Embarcadero · 🌅 Sunset at La Jolla Cove Drive: 2.5 hours ⸻ 🌵 Day 7 – Palm Springs → Phoenix · 🌴 Explore Palm Springs · 🚗 Continue to Phoenix Drive: ~5.5 hours ⸻ 🧡 Day 8 – Sedona · ❤️ Red Rock Scenic Drive · Cathedral Rock · Chapel of the Holy Cross · Sunset viewpoints Stay in Sedona. ⸻ 🏜 Day 9 – Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon · 📸 Horseshoe Bend · 🌄 Tour Antelope Canyon · 🌊 Lake Powell Stay in Page. ⸻ 🌄 Day 10 – Grand Canyon · 🌅 Grand Canyon National Park South Rim · Desert View Watchtower · Mather Point · Rim Trail Stay near Grand Canyon. ⸻ 🎰 Day 11 – Las Vegas · 🎲 Explore the Las Vegas Strip · 🎡 High Roller · 🌋 Bellagio Fountains · 🌃 Fremont Street Experience Drive: ~4.5 hours ⸻ ✈️ Day 12 – Fly Home · Shopping at Premium Outlets · Relax before your flight from Las Vegas. ⸻ 🚗 Total Road Trip · 📅 12 Days / 11 Nights · 🚘 Approximately 2,200–2,500 miles (3,500–4,000 km) · ⏱ Driving time: 40–45 hours 💰 Estimated Budget (per family ) · 🚗 Rental car: $700–1,000 · ⛽ Gas: $300–450 · 🏨 Hotels: $1,300–2,200 · 🍔 Food: $1000 · 🎟 Attractions: $300–700 Estimated total: $3,000–5,000 USD per 3 family (depending on hotel choices and activities). This route combines famous cities, national parks, the Pacific Coast Highway, beaches, deserts, and iconic landmarks into one of the most memorable road trips in the United States.

🚗 True freedom in travel is not at the attractions, but on the road~ 🌊📍Great Ocean Road, Australia The road along the cliff is absolutely stunning! 🌊 Twelve Apostles + Lorne Town 🚗 Total length: 243 km Recommended rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🔥📍Ring Road, Iceland A route that will flood your social media! 📸 Volcanoes + Glaciers + Black Sand Beaches 🚗 Total length: 1339 km Recommended rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌴📍Pacific Coast Highway, USA Big Sur is perfect for couple photos! 💑 17-Mile Drive + Bixby Bridge 🚗 Total length: 105 km Recommended rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌉📍Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway A masterpiece! Truly a work of art! 🎨 8 Sea-crossing Bridges 🚗 Total length: 8.3 km Recommended rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏔️📍South Island, New Zealand Every snapshot looks like a Windows desktop wallpaper! 🖼️ Mount Cook + Lake Wanaka 🚗 Total length: 1100 km Recommended rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🐻📍Icefields Parkway, Canada An ultra-cool experience where you might encounter brown bears! 🐾 Jasper + Banff National Parks 🚗 Total length: 232 km Recommended rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💡 Self-driving Tips: ✔ SUVs are the way to go! Go wherever you want 🚘 ✔ Book accommodations along the way in advance 🏠 ✔ The most beautiful scenery is on the road, don’t rush 👌 ✔ Bring enough snacks and water for the wilderness

Big Sur is famous for its dramatic coastline, but is Bixby Bridge the most photogenic spot in California? 📸🤔 What other places would you put in the top 3?

If there’s one place in California that feels straight out of a movie scene, it’s Big Sur 💙🌿 Driving along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway with dramatic ocean cliffs on one side and towering redwoods on the other is pure magic. And right in the middle of this breathtaking coastline sits the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge — one of the most photographed bridges in the world 📸🌉 The atmosphere here is peaceful, wild, and deeply inspiring. You’ll hear crashing waves, smell the salty ocean breeze, and witness golden sunsets that make you want to stay forever 🌅✨ Whether you’re a road trip lover, photographer, nature enthusiast, or someone simply chasing unforgettable views, Big Sur is a destination that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. ✨ Must-Try Experiences 🌉 Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge Viewpoint The panoramic coastal views here are unreal. Arrive early morning or during sunset for the dreamiest lighting and fewer crowds. 🚗 Drive the Pacific Coast Highway This stretch of Highway 1 is considered one of the most scenic drives on Earth. Every turn reveals dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and epic ocean vistas 🌊 🥾 Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Walk among giant redwoods, enjoy peaceful hiking trails, and reconnect with nature 🌲 🏖️ Visit Pfeiffer Beach Famous for its purple sand and stunning rock formations. Sunset here feels magical ✨ 📸 Catch Sunset Over the Pacific Ocean Big Sur sunsets are unforgettable — glowing skies, crashing waves, and golden light everywhere. 💡 Top 3 Travel Tips 1️⃣ Start your drive early Parking areas near Bixby Creek Bridge fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. 2️⃣ Check road conditions before visiting Big Sur occasionally experiences road closures or landslides along Highway 1. 3️⃣ Bring layers & charge your camera The weather can shift quickly from sunny to foggy 🌤️ Plus, you’ll want plenty of battery for photos because every viewpoint is stunning 📷 🏨 Recommended Hotels 🛏️ Post Ranch Inn · Luxury cliffside retreat with jaw-dropping ocean views 🌊 · Perfect for romantic getaways and peaceful relaxation · Best feature: Infinity pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean 🛏️ Ventana Big Sur · Beautiful adults-only luxury resort surrounded by redwoods 🌲 · Known for wellness experiences, glamping, and incredible dining · Best feature: Stunning forest-meets-ocean atmosphere 🛏️ Big Sur River Inn · Cozy and charming stay for travelers wanting a classic Big Sur vibe ✨ · Great location close to major attractions and hiking spots · Best feature: Relaxing riverside seating right in the water 🌅 Final Thoughts Big Sur is more than just a road trip stop — it’s a feeling. From the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge to hidden beaches and towering coastal cliffs, every moment here feels cinematic 🎬💙 If you’re searching for one of California’s most unforgettable adventures, this is it. Pack your camera, roll down the windows, and let Big Sur steal your heart 🌊🚗✨ Who would you take on this dreamy coastal escape? 👀 #bigsur #californiadreaming #bixbybridge #pacificcoasthighway #roadtripusa #travelcalifornia #scenicdrive #travelmoments #naturelovers #luxurytravel #westcoastvibes #bucketlisttravel #oceanviews #exploreusa

Hey guys! Planning to visit the USA during National Day? This guide is all you need! Condensed highlights of California's Highway 1, you can take in mountain and sea wonders in just 3 days, explore a century-old castle, stroll through artistic towns, with romance and surprises all included. Quickly save this guide~ 🌼Route Overview: Day 1: Santa Barbara Pier → Old Mission Santa Barbara → Solvang (Danish Village) → Visitor Center → Solvang Amber Museum ✮ Starting point of the condensed California Highway 1 highlights, visit the quaint church, Nordic-style Danish Village, and explore amber art. Day 2: Hearst Castle (Century-old Castle) → Elephant Seal Rookery → Big Sur → McWay Falls → Carmel-by-the-Sea ✮ Visit the grand castle, encounter elephant seals, travel along the beautiful Big Sur coast, admire McWay Falls, and stroll through the artistic town. Day 3: 17-Mile Drive → Fisherman’s Wharf → Pigeon Point Lighthouse → Half Moon Bay State Beach ✮ Self-drive along 17-Mile Drive to enjoy seaside scenery, visit Fisherman’s Wharf for food, climb Pigeon Point Lighthouse for ocean views, and finally relax at Half Moon Bay Beach. End your trip with a heart full of memories! 🌼Must-Visit Attractions: ✮ Solvang: A miniature American town with Nordic charm, like stepping into a fairy tale world~ ✮ 17-Mile Drive: A circular road around residential areas with picturesque views, every frame is a painting! ✮ Fisherman’s Wharf: Food, shopping, and leisure all in one place, plus you can watch sea lions sunbathing 🦭 super relaxing! 🌼Travel Checklist: Essential Items for Visiting the USA in September ✮ Communication & Power: Buy a US SIM card or activate international roaming in advance, don’t forget a plug adapter (US standard two flat pins), and carry a power bank for on-the-go charging! ✮ Documents & Payment: Bring two copies of your passport and visa pages, credit cards (Visa/Master), and some cash for safer ticket purchases at attractions~ ✮ Clothing & Gear: Bring a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings, a windbreaker for the big temperature difference in the western US, sneakers for national park walks, and sunglasses for sun protection! · ----------------------------- 💭 Guys, for traveling in the USA, choose us👇 · -----------------------------

Welcome to California's most beautiful seaside town - Morro Bay 🎉 It's tucked right along California's Highway 1, not only boasting stunning ocean views but also tons of fun and delicious spots! Ladies, quickly save this nanny-level guide~ 🚗 Transportation: 🌟 Must for self-drivers: Drive along Highway 1, the whole way is like a Hollywood movie scene (Hearst Castle and Big Sur are nearby!) 🚃 Leisure by public transit: Hop on the vintage trolley, slowly enjoy the scenery—this is the right way to vacation~ 📍 Must-visit spots: 1️⃣ Morro Rock (581 Embarcadero) Amazing! The volcanic rock over 500 feet tall is truly breathtaking! It's also a birdwatching haven, often spotting peregrine falcons soaring~ 📸 Come at dusk for photos that look like masterpieces, the sunset gilds the rock edges so beautifully! 2️⃣ Morro Strand State Beach Honestly, this is one of the cleanest beaches I've ever been to! You can surf, collect shells, have bonfires... 🌅 Stroll along the beach at sunset, the atmosphere is instantly elevated! 3️⃣ Morro Bay State Park Promise me! You must visit the Natural History Museum here to learn tons of local cultural secrets! 🚴‍♀️ Sporty ladies can mountain bike through the dunes, super thrilling~ 🍽️ Food recommendations: · The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar (899 Embarcadero) Seafood lovers scream! Their fish is freshly caught, paired with veggies grown by the chef—absolutely fresh! · Morro Bay Oyster Co. (1001 Embarcadero) A paradise for raw oyster fans! Freshly shucked and eaten on the spot, you can't stop at just one! 🏨 Accommodation recommendations: · Estero Inn (501 Embarcadero) Lie in bed and enjoy the ocean view 🌊 Can't praise this heavenly location enough! · 456 Embarcadero (right in downtown) Turn left out the door for trendy restaurants 🍴 turn right for unique shops 🛍️ super convenient! 💡 Travel tips: 1️⃣ May to September is peak season; to avoid crowds, choose spring or autumn 2️⃣ Remember to bring binoculars 🔭! Great for whale and bird watching 3️⃣ Wear comfortable shoes 👟 The town is perfect for exploring on foot 4️⃣ Local outlets have tons of discounts, leave enough suitcase space!

#mytraveldiary Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is pure summer magic. Start in San Francisco, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, then hug the coast down to Monterey for an aquarium stop. Continue to Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs and Bixby Bridge are unforgettable photo spots. Santa Barbara offers wine country vibes before Los Angeles greets you with city lights. For those with extra time, extend to San Diego for beaches and tacos. The freedom of winding roads, ocean views, and roadside stops makes this a bucket-list trip. Which stretch would excite you most—the rugged Big Sur cliffs or sunny SoCal beaches?

🏝 California's Highway 1, stretching from San Francisco down to Los Angeles, winds through breathtaking coastal scenery between azure seas and skies. Although a small section in Big Sur remains under repair, it doesn't diminish the charm of other stunning coastal attractions along the way. Bookmark this guide to navigate around closed sections and still unlock the ultra-soothing coastal views! We’ll break down current road closures + smooth workarounds to avoid traffic and backtracking. 👷‍♀️【Latest Road Closure Updates】 🚗 Most attractions along Highway 1 are currently open. Starting from San Francisco, you can easily reach **Big Sur** and its popular spots. However, note that the **Rocky Creek Bridge** in Big Sur is still under repair, blocking southbound traffic. At this point, you’ll need to turn back to Monterey. 🗾 If you plan to continue south to Los Angeles, detour via **Highway 101** from Monterey to San Luis Obispo (SLO) to reconnect with the coastline, bypassing construction zones. The inland route offers equally stunning mountain and countryside views—perfect for scenic shots without retracing your steps! 🌁【Must-Visit Open Attractions】 Here’s a list of classic, fully accessible spots from San Francisco → Los Angeles (north to south) 👇 ✅ Half Moon Bay ✅ Pigeon Point Lighthouse ✅ Santa Cruz ✅ Monterey ✅ Old Fisherman’s Wharf ✅ 17-Mile Drive ✅ Carmel-by-the-Sea ✅ Bixby Creek Bridge ✅ Hearst Castle ✅ Elephant Seal Rookery ✅ Solvang (Danish Village) ✅ Santa Barbara ✅ Santa Monica Beach 🚗【Recommended Itinerary】 · *Day 1|Depart from San Francisco** San Francisco → Half Moon Bay → Pigeon Point Lighthouse → Santa Cruz → Monterey → Old Fisherman’s Wharf → Carmel-by-the-Sea · *Day 2|Big Sur Loop + Detour** Carmel → 17-Mile Drive → Bixby Creek Bridge (turn around here) → Detour via Highway 101 → San Simeon → Elephant Seal Rookery → Hearst Castle → San Luis Obispo · *Day 3|Arrive in Los Angeles** San Luis Obispo → Solvang (lunch at a Danish bakery) → Santa Barbara (waterfront + downtown) → Santa Monica Beach → Los Angeles ✅【Travel Tips】 ✔️ Download offline maps + fill up your tank (no service/gas stations in some areas)

#roadtrips If you want to experience beautiful scenic road trips in California follow the tips given through the video . California is perfect for road trips! Here are some awesome spots you should check out: 1. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) - This iconic route offers stunning coastal views from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Don’t miss Big Sur along the way! 2. Yosemite National Park - A must-visit for nature lovers, with breathtaking waterfalls, giant sequoias, and incredible hiking trails. 3. Napa Valley - If you’re into wine, this is the place to be. Gorgeous vineyards and fantastic wine tastings await. 4. Joshua Tree National Park - Known for its unique rock formations and desert landscapes, it’s a great spot for stargazing and hiking. 5. Lake Tahoe - Perfect for both summer and winter activities, with beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor fun. 6. Death Valley National Park - Experience the otherworldly landscapes of one of the hottest places on Earth. Each of these destinations offers something unique and unforgettable for your road trip adventure!

Big Sur, the first place in the 'Rural Landscape' section of the 50 classics recommended by National Geographic. Big Sur is not a fixed attraction, but a road about 90 miles long on Highway 1 in the United States, from Carmel to Hearst Castle, every place is worth stopping, and any casual shot is a blockbuster. Big Sur (Big Sur) is located in the middle of the California coastline, connecting Carmel Fish Saint Simon. The origin of the name Big Sur is Spanish, meaning 'Big South', but the south here refers to the southern part of the Monterey Peninsula. Half cliff, half ocean, this road that combines oddity, danger, and handsomeness, in addition to beauty, is also a test of the driver's skills. This winding road can definitely be called a charming, romantic, thrilling and exciting section in the American coastline, the magnificent Pacific Ocean, the beautiful sunset, the deep canyon, the deep forest, the rugged mountains Various natural landscapes are integrated into this section of the journey, just like a natural art gallery, and you will not feel tired of visiting 100 times. Big Sur✅Must experience ➡️Driving on the coastal highway Driving on California Highway 1 along the cliff, passing through the towering red shirt forest, stopping at the viewing platform, enjoying the beautiful scenery ➡️Feel the beautiful atmosphere of Nepenthe If you come to Big Sur and don't go to Nepenthe, the whole journey is incomplete. ➡️Hike to the secluded bay Go to the small road of Partington Cove, 3 kilometers back and forth, but 90 meters high, the vegetation on the road is rich, you can choose to go left or right halfway (the end point on the left is a small bay with few people), go to the right and pass the small bridge , There will be a tunnel (Paddington made, once walked S wine), pass through it, you can see the slag of Pa Gong Yang. 🧳Preparation before departure: Check the weather: Be sure to choose a sunny day, everything has two sides, how charming the sunny Big Sur is, how terrifying the rainy Big Sur is. Map: Download the offline map in advance, it is common to have no signal on the way. Refuel: Fill up the car before entering Big Sur, there are few gas stations in this area and the price is expensive. Driving time: It gets dark early in winter, it is recommended to play for 1 whole day, 7-8 hours in summer. Check-in point The two big bridges Rocky Creek Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge have been built for more than 90 years. The two bridges are close in distance, similar in construction style, but the latter has a more magnificent view and is easy to produce big shots. Beach purple beach This beach is not a romantic and leisurely style, it is more like a desert in the forest, an oasis in the desert, to get here you have to cross a forest, drive a very narrow road, we come for the purple, but the naked eye But I can't see the obvious purple. After peeling off the surface yellow sand, the shallow purple will be revealed underneath, so many bloggers take pictures of the purple so obvious, it is really confusing, although I didn’t see the purple beach, but the wild and unruly temperament here also attracts me very much. Smugglers Cave A charming treasure cave, quiet with few people, very filmable.

Big Sur was derived from the Spanish words ‘el sure grande’ which means ‘the big south’. The area is lightly populated and sits at the south of the city of Monterey. There are some stunning views to be had whilst you are in this small area which makes it very popular with tourists. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

The long coastline gives the United States a diverse range of coastal scenery, from bustling seaside towns to pristine, quiet coastal wilderness. An American coastal trip can offer both romance and freedom. The best time to travel is from June to September, when summer temperatures are comfortable, making it perfect for boating and strolling on the beach. However, popular beaches can be crowded, so it is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance. California Highway 1 is a coastal route not to be missed. Driving south from San Francisco, you will travel along the Pacific Ocean the entire way. The waves at Half Moon Bay are gentle, perfect for walking on the sand and watching the surf. The Big Sur section features towering cliffs where the blue sea meets the rocks, and every pull-off offers a magnificent view. In the evening, enjoy the sea breeze in the town of Monterey, savor some fresh clam chowder, and watch the sunset paint the ocean orange-red—it is incredibly atmospheric. If you prefer tropical beaches, head to Oahu, Hawaii. Waikiki Beach has fine sand, is suitable for beginner surfers, and is lined with cafes. If you want to escape the crowds, go to the North Shore, famous for its giant waves, where you can watch professional surfers perform. Go for a jog along the coastal trail in the early morning, catch a glimpse of sea turtles swimming in the shallows, and soak in the unique, laid-back island vibe. Miami Beach in Florida offers a completely different, vibrant style. Colorful Art Deco buildings line the beach. During the day, enjoy swimming and beach activities, and in the evening, take a stroll along the boardwalk where street bands perform. You can arrange a half-day trip to the nearby Everglades to take a boat tour, see mangroves and water birds, and experience a different kind of wetland coastal scenery. Travel tips: The UV rays at the beach are very strong, so high-SPF sunscreen and a sun hat are essential. When driving along the coastal highway, be aware of the many curves, and note that cell phone signals may be weak in some sections. Most public beaches in the U.S. are free, but parking requires a fee. Try to avoid going to remote beaches alone and pay attention to surf warnings. As for dining, coastal cities offer abundant seafood, but prices can vary significantly. This coastal trip allows you to experience the vastness of the cliffs and ocean along Highway 1, the gentleness of tropical islands, or the lively seaside atmosphere of Miami. Slow down your pace, listen to the crashing waves, watch the tides rise and fall, and enjoy a leisurely time by the coast.

I followed Trip.com's recommendation and booked this 2-day California guided tour—it's a total godsend for those who want a stress-free trip! I almost had a breakdown driving Highway 1 on my own before, but this time I just sat back and soaked up the California sun ☀️. Every stop along Big Sur was a perfect photo op, and every shot looked like a professional photo 📸. We skipped the line at Hearst Castle for a guided tour. It was ridiculously luxurious and packed with detail—it felt like stepping into a movie 🎬. On the second day, we hit the rides at the LA theme park without needing to plan a thing. Just following the itinerary was enough to have a blast without getting worn out. In just two days, we covered the scenery, the castle, and the theme park—hitting all the California highlights and getting enough photos to fill a 9-grid post on social media 😎. This trip was definitely the right choice. You really have to experience the joy of not having to think! If you're looking for a relaxing way to explore California, you should definitely consider this type of guided tour~ Tips: It gets windy along Big Sur, so remember to bring a jacket. For the theme park, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes so you can easily hit all the rides~

First time on the US West Coast? This 6-day itinerary is all you need! Explore the best of Highway 1, visit Santa Barbara, Solvang, Big Sur, Bixby Creek Bridge, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the Golden Gate Bridge. It's stress-free and perfect for photos~ · - The US has iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty 🗽, which carries a century of history, and breathtaking, magnificent landscapes like the Grand Canyon 🌄. You'll smell burgers on the streets and feel the cool cowboy vibes! · - 🛣️ Itinerary: D1: Santa Barbara Waterfront > Solvang Explore the coastal scenery at the start of Highway 1 and the fairytale charm of the Danish village D2: Bixby Creek Bridge > Big Sur > Carmel-by-the-Sea > 17-Mile Drive Immerse yourself in the best of Highway 1, discover the famous bridge, and explore the scenic seaside town D3: Monterey Bay > Stanford University Encounter the beautiful bay ecology and stroll through the campus of a top university to soak up the academic atmosphere D4: Golden Gate Bridge > Palace of Fine Arts > San Francisco City Hall > Lombard Street > Fisherman's Wharf > Union Square Visit iconic San Francisco landmarks for a one-stop experience of sightseeing, dining, and fun D5-6: Free time in San Francisco > Twin Peaks viewpoint > Airport transfer Relax at a hidden gem viewpoint, pack your bags, and get ready for your flight home · - Must-visit attractions: 🐋 Monterey Bay: You can catch the gray whale migration from December to May! Mid-January and mid-March are the best times to visit. Join a professional guide for a whale-watching tour, where you might also spot dolphins and seabirds, and immerse yourself in the healing power of the marine ecosystem 🌊 🌉 Golden Gate Bridge: A filming location for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes"! If you visit San Francisco in summer or autumn, you must catch the sunset 🌇. The orange-red glow wrapping around the silver-gray cables perfectly matches the shimmering sea. It's super romantic with the evening breeze at Fisherman's Wharf. Remember to bring a light jacket! 🌸 Lombard Street: The world's crookedest street! With 8 sharp turns and a 27-degree slope, it's covered in pink, purple, red, and white hydrangeas in spring and summer 📸. Photos taken on the pedestrian stairs come with a built-in romantic filter—every shot is a winner 🌷 Union Square: Don't miss Tulip Day in March! 80,000 imported Dutch tulips turn the square into a colorful sea of flowers. It's perfect for photos and lets you soak up the spring atmosphere in downtown San Francisco ✨ · - ✈️ Before you go: 🪪 First, bring your original US visa and a copy, plus your passport. Keep digital copies of your flight and hotel bookings handy 🔌 Next, bring a US-standard plug adapter. Don't forget your phone and camera chargers, and a power bank 🧥 In September, there's a big temperature difference between the north and south of the US, so bring a light jacket and short-sleeved shirts, plus comfortable hiking shoes for outdoor attractions · - Save this post! Following this guide makes traveling in the US super easy. Don't forget to like and save it~ ❤

This two-day California Highway 1 trip was absolutely worth it! Starting from San Francisco and heading south towards Los Angeles, the Big Sur coastline truly lived up to its reputation—cliffs against the azure sea, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. The tour guide knew exactly where to take photos, allowing ample time for every scenic view, avoiding a rushed experience. The itinerary was well-paced, saving us a lot of trouble by not having to research routes or find parking ourselves. The scenery changed dramatically along the way, and the sea breeze and ocean views were incredibly relaxing. Overall, it was a very comfortable experience, without any unnecessary gimmicks or charades. Anyone wanting to experience the California coastline should definitely give it a try!

For your first in-depth trip to the US, this 17-day itinerary helps you immerse yourself in the distinct urban landscapes of the East and West. Visit iconic spots like Twin Peaks, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. Enjoy a worry-free, fulfilling, and private trip with a dedicated car and guide throughout. / this guide is super practical. Scroll down for more travel details~ / 🗺️ Route at a glance: Day 1: Depart and arrive in Los Angeles. Enjoy free time after your private airport transfer. Day 2–3: Explore Los Angeles. Visit the Getty Center, Beverly Hills, and more. You can even catch an NBA Lakers game. Day 4–6: Travel along California Highway 1. Visit scenic spots like Santa Barbara, Solvang, Big Sur, and Carmel. Day 7–8: Immerse yourself in the urban landscape of San Francisco. Visit Stanford, the Palace of Fine Arts, Twin Peaks, and more. Day 9–16: Head to Washington, D.C., and New York. Visit iconic landmarks like the White House, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. Day 17: Trip ends. Return home. / must-visit attractions: The White House 🎖️🎖️🎖️🎖️🎖️ Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500 Opening hours: Tue–Thu 7:30 AM–11:30 AM; Fri–Sat 7:30 AM–1:30 PM; closed all day Mon and Sun Duration: 1–2 hours The office and residence of the US President. It stands tall and majestic. In December, there's the atmospheric National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony—it's a must-see! Rockefeller Center 🎖️🎖️🎖️🎖️🎖️ Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, USA Opening hours: 8:00 AM–12:00 AM Duration: 1–3 hours The Top of the Rock observation deck offers panoramic views of Manhattan. After the 2024 renovation, it added a cool beam experience and sky lift—perfect for photos! Central Park 🎖️🎖️🎖️🎖️🎖️ Address: New York, USA Opening hours: 6:00 AM–1:00 AM Duration: 1 day A healing oasis in the bustling city, featuring lakes and forests. Visit in autumn to see the stunning fall foliage—perfect for photos and walks! / travel tips: 1. Don't over-order food 🍴. Portions at some restaurants are huge, and you can always take leftovers to go. 2. Plan airport transportation in advance 🚇; public transport or official taxis are more worry-free. 3. Remember to adjust for time zones ⏰; the US has multiple time zones, so prepare your schedule in advance. 4. Carry a small amount of cash when going out 💵; some small shops only accept cash. / want to enjoy a private trip with a dedicated car and guide? Tap the card below to start your exclusive journey~

Hey everyone! Get ready for a stress-free 4-day deep dive into San Francisco and Highway 1! From the stunning Pacific coastline and the picturesque 17-Mile Drive at Pebble Beach to the magnificent waterfalls of Yosemite and the Golden Gate Bridge glowing in the sunset, we've got you covered. Enjoy door-to-door service in a Mercedes/Ford van or a 32-seat luxury coach. Stay in hotels in coastal towns along Highway 1 and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. From Silicon Valley and Stanford University to Apple Park, this trip covers everything from natural beauty to tech culture—all in one easy, worry-free package! . These hidden gems are worth every minute! Keep scrolling to check them out~ . 🌟 Itinerary: This route is packed with classic attractions, making the most of your limited time. We provide transfers in 15-seat Mercedes/Ford vans or 32-seat luxury coaches (the same type used by NBA stars) and arrange stays at fantastic coastal hotels for an incredible experience! Get ready for an adventure on the West Coast! · -- 📅 Day 1: Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens > Santa Barbara Pier > California Highway 1 > Solvang 🍷 A romantic start! Visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens to experience the blend of history and nature. After taking in the views at Stearns Wharf, drive along the dreamy California Highway 1 and arrive in the European-style village of Solvang. · -- 📅 Day 2: Big Sur > Bixby Creek Bridge > Carmel-by-the-Sea > 17-Mile Drive > Pebble Beach > Stanford University ⛰️ Embrace incredible natural scenery all day! Start from the magnificent Big Sur, pass by the Hollywood-famous Bixby Creek Bridge, experience the beauty of Highway 1 along the 17-Mile Drive, and end the day surrounded by the academic atmosphere of Stanford University. · -- ☀️ Day 3: Golden Gate Bridge > Palace of Fine Arts > Lombard Street > Fisherman's Wharf > San Francisco Bay Cruise > San Francisco City Hall 🏙️ An eye-opening city tour! Wander through the romantic sunset at the Golden Gate Bridge, get captivated by the quiet elegance of the Palace of Fine Arts, take endless photos at Lombard Street, enjoy the relaxing scenery at Fisherman's Wharf and on the bay cruise, and visit the grand architecture of San Francisco City Hall. · -- 🌲 Day 4: Yosemite Village > Half Dome > Yosemite Falls 💦 Discover natural wonders! Visit the heart of Yosemite National Park at Yosemite Village, admire the majestic Half Dome, listen to the sound of Yosemite Falls, and enjoy the breathtaking craftsmanship of nature—a perfect experience for outdoor enthusiasts. · -- ✈️ Return: End your wonderful California trip, board your flight home filled with memories, and look forward to the start of your next journey! 💡 Tips: We recommend bringing a camera in summer and autumn to capture the beautiful sunsets! There is a significant temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a light jacket. Come to San Francisco, Yosemite, and Highway 1 for a healing journey for your eyes and soul! . Must-visit attractions: California Highway 1 🌊🌴🌅🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍 Address: California ⏰ Opening hours: Open all day ⏱️ Recommended duration: 1–3 days A highway accompanied by blue seas, skies, and cliffs. Driving through it feels like being in paradise, with coastal towns and giant redwood trees along the way that will make you want to stay forever. · -- Golden Gate Bridge 🌉🌞🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍 Address: Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA, USA ⏰ Opening hours: Open all day ⏱️ Recommended duration: 1–3 hours A movie filming location. In the evening, you can watch the sunset bathe the bridge in light. It's as beautiful as a painting and lets you fully experience the romantic soul of San Francisco. · -- Lombard Street 🌸🌺🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍 Address: San Francisco, California, USA ⏰ Opening hours: Open all day ⏱️ Recommended duration: 20–45 minutes The world's most crooked street, with 8 turns lined with flowers. It's scenic whether you drive or walk, and especially beautiful in spring and summer! . 🌎 Travel preparation: ✈️ [Documents & Info] A passport and US visa are required. Print your flight tickets and hotel booking confirmations, and remember to add health insurance. Backup ID and emergency cash are essential! 📱 [Communication & Power] Bring a US SIM card or rent a portable WiFi device! Don't forget a US-standard plug adapter, and make sure you have your chargers, data cables, and power bank ready~ 👟 [Clothing & Footwear] It's cool in early autumn in September, so prepare a light jacket and a down vest. Casual sneakers will keep you comfortable all day. A flag T-shirt is great for photos, and don't forget sunglasses for sun protection! 🏞️ [Travel Gear] If you're going to a national park, bring hiking shoes, a thermos, and insect repellent. Travel light for city tours. Want to take great photos? Bring your camera and tripod! . Start your perfect journey. Tap the card below to book with one click and get ready to go!

My journey through Big Sur felt like one long cinematic moment. Winding roads hugged the rugged California coastline, with towering cliffs on one side and the vast Pacific stretching endlessly on the other. 🚗🌊 I loved stopping along the way to take in the ocean views, dramatic rock formations, misty horizons, and wild coastal landscapes. Every turn seemed to reveal another scene worth remembering, making the drive itself just as special as the destination. There was something incredibly freeing about standing above the Pacific, feeling the ocean breeze and watching the waves meet the cliffs below. Big Sur wasn’t simply a road trip—it was an experience that made me slow down and appreciate the beauty of the journey. One of those places I’ll always associate with freedom, open roads, and unforgettable coastal views. ✨ #bigsur #california #BigSur #California #CaliforniaCoast #BigSurCalifornia #PacificCoast #PacificOcean #CaliforniaRoadTrip #Highway1 #CoastalRoadTrip #ScenicDrive #NatureLovers #TravelMemories #USATravel #WestCoast #Wanderlust

Please save this California 17-Mile Drive road trip guide, which covers everything from tickets and routes to must-visit attractions and nearby excursions. 🚗 Road Trip Essentials Entrance fee: About US$12.25 per vehicle, collected directly at the entrance toll booth; cash and credit cards are accepted. If you spend US$35 or more at designated restaurants within the scenic area, you can get this fee reimbursed with your receipt. Route: The entire route is about 17 miles (27 km), one-way traffic, with a speed limit of 25 mph. The classic route is to enter from the Pacific Grove Gate in the north, follow the coastline south, and exit from the Carmel Gate. This allows for a seamless connection to Carmel without backtracking. Duration: We recommend reserving at least 2–3 hours. If you have extra time, you can slow down and spend half a day or even a full day enjoying it. Map: You will receive a paper map at the entrance toll booth, which marks the locations of all attractions. Be sure to keep it, as cell phone signal is poor in many places along the way. 📸 Top Attractions There are 17 viewpoints along the way, but the following are recognized as the highlights and should not be missed. The Lone Cypress: The absolute landmark of 17-Mile Drive, a cypress tree with over 250 years of history growing alone on a cliff rock, featured on countless postcards. It is especially photogenic at sunset. Travel attractions + 17-Mile Drive Lone Cypress Bird Rock: A gathering place for seabirds, sea lions, and seals. The rocks are often covered with animals, making it very lively. You can bring binoculars to observe these cute marine creatures up close. Spanish Bay: Features open white sand beaches and dunes, perfect for a walk. In the early morning, it is often shrouded in mist, creating a great atmosphere. Pebble Beach Golf Links: A world-class oceanfront golf course. Even if you don't play golf, it's worth visiting the observation deck to experience the coastal scenery from a luxury perspective. Crocker Grove: A rare grove of Monterey cypress trees. Sunlight filters through the trees, creating dappled light that feels like stepping into a fairy-tale forest. It's perfect for a short hike and breathing in the fresh air. 💡 Practical Tips Best time: The light is best after 2:00–3:00 PM on sunny days. The sunset dyes the sea surface gold, giving photos a natural soft-focus filter. In summer, morning sea fog is common, which can affect the view. Clothing advice: It is very windy by the sea, and there is a large temperature difference. Even in summer, be sure to bring a windbreaker! A long dress paired with a jacket looks great in photos and keeps you warm. Notes: Drones are prohibited in the scenic area. You can see many cute sea lions and seals along the way, but remember not to feed them. It is best to check the weather before setting off; the Monterey area is often foggy, so check the forecast to ensure you can take good photos. 🗺️ Nearby Excursions 17-Mile Drive is the heart of the Monterey Peninsula and is perfect for combining with nearby attractions. Classic day trip: Depart from San Francisco in the morning. Upon arrival, explore the town of Monterey, such as visiting Old Fisherman's Wharf for a bowl of clam chowder. In the afternoon, drive the 17-Mile Drive, exiting from the south gate in the evening. You will arrive in Carmel just in time to enjoy a magnificent sunset at Carmel Beach. Accommodation: Staying in Carmel after watching the sunset is convenient and allows for immediate rest. If you want more options or more affordable accommodation, you can choose to stay in Monterey, but you will need to drive back after the sunset. Extended trip: If you have extra time, you can continue south from Carmel to start a magnificent coastal journey along Big Sur, visiting Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls. ✨ Trip Highlights Route: Drive from north (Pacific Grove) to south (Carmel) to keep the ocean view on your right side throughout the trip. Time: Go on a sunny afternoon for the best light and a better chance of seeing the sunset. Clothing: A windbreaker is a must; it is very windy by the sea and feels quite cold.

Some. 🚗 20 Most Scenic Road Trips Around the World for 2026 For some journeys, the destination is only half the story. But the scenery along the way is so breathtaking you’ll want to stop and take photos at every turn. 🌍📸 🇮🇸 01 Iceland Ring Road | Iceland Reykjavík • Waterfalls • Glaciers • Black Beaches ❄️ Drive around the island to experience volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls. 🇺🇸 02 Pacific Coast Highway | USA California Coast • Big Sur • Monterey 🌊 A drive along the Pacific Coast featuring stunning cliffs and panoramic ocean views. 🇦🇺 03 Great Ocean Road | Australia Melbourne • Twelve Apostles • Otways 🌊 Coastal Drive + Rainforest + Limestone Cliffs 🇺🇸 04 Route 66 | USA Chicago • Arizona • California 🛣️ The legendary highway steeped in classic Americana. 🏴 05 North Coast 500 | Scotland Inverness • Highlands • Coastal Roads 🏔️ Mountains, lochs, cliffs, and charming small villages. 🇿🇦 06 Garden Route | South Africa Mossel Bay • Knysna • Tsitsikamma 🌿 Forest • Coast • Wildlife 🇮🇪 07 Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland Cliffs • Villages • Atlantic Coast 🌊 A long coastal route passing dramatic cliffs and small towns. 🇮🇹 08 Amalfi Coast Drive | Italy Amalfi • Positano • Ravello 🍋 A winding cliffside road with iconic Mediterranean views. 🇨🇦 09 Icefields Parkway | Canada Banff • Lake Louise • Jasper 🏔️ Glaciers • Turquoise Lakes • Rocky Mountains 🇨🇦 10 Cabot Trail | Canada Cape Breton Highlands • Atlantic Coast 🍁 Views of mountains, forests, and the ocean—breathtaking during autumn foliage. 🇳🇴 11 Atlantic Ocean Road | Norway Molde • Kristiansund • Ocean Bridges 🌊 A road spanning small islands connected by bridges over the open ocean. 🇳🇴 12 Trollstigen | Norway Mountain Roads • Waterfalls • Fjords 🏔️ Winding mountain passes set amidst fjords and steep cliffs. 🇳🇿 13 Milford Road | New Zealand Queenstown • Te Anau • Milford Sound 🌿 Mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, and fjords. 🇦🇷 14 Ruta 40 | Argentina Patagonia • Andes • Lakes 🏔️ A vast route stretching through the endless, rugged landscapes of Patagonia. 🇻🇳 15 Hai Van Pass | Vietnam Da Nang • Hue • Mountain Coast 🌊 A mountain road overlooking both the sea and the coastal ranges. 🇷🇴 16 Transfăgărășan | Romania Carpathian Mountains • Hairpin Curves 🏔️ A mountain pass featuring numerous hairpin turns and views above the clouds. 🇿🇦 17 Chapman’s Peak Drive | South Africa Cape Town • Hout Bay • Atlantic Coast 🌊 A cliffside drive along the Atlantic coast near Cape Town. 🇹🇭 18 Mae Hong Son Loop | Thailand Chiang Mai • Pai • Mae Hong Son 🌿 Mountains • Mist • Villages • Cafes 📍 Roughly 600 km, ideal for a 4–6 day trip (Government of Thailand) 🇲🇦 19 Marrakech → Sahara | Morocco Marrakech • Atlas Mountains • Sahara 🏜️ From ancient cities to the mountains and the deep desert. 🇧🇴 20 Bolivia Highlands Drive | Bolivia Altiplano • Salt Flats • Volcano Landscapes 🧂 High-altitude routes through Bolivia’s surreal and unique landscapes. 🧭 Choose Your Style 🌊 Coastal Road → Pacific Coast Highway • Great Ocean Road • Amalfi Coast 🏔️ Mountain Drive → Trollstigen • Transfăgărășan • Icefields Parkway ❄️ Glacier & Arctic Landscape → Iceland Ring Road • Icefields Parkway 🌿 Forest & Nature → Garden Route • Milford Road • Mae Hong Son Loop 🏜️ Desert Adventure → Morocco • Bolivia 🍁 Autumn Road Trip → Cabot Trail • Scotland 📸 Photogenic Views → Norway • Iceland • New Zealand • Canada 📌 Travel Note 2026 A great road trip isn’t just about driving the furthest distance. It’s about making time for viewpoints, small towns, local food, and the natural paths in between—because these moments are the heart of the road trip experience. 🚗✨ (Atlas Guide)

California Highway 1 road trip. This comprehensive guide takes you from San Francisco to Los Angeles, allowing you to take in the romance of the mountains and the sea. 🛣️ Route and direction It is best to drive from north to south, i.e., from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The advantage of this is that the viewpoints and parking spots on the ocean side will be on your right, allowing you to safely pull over to enjoy the scenery at any time without crossing traffic, which makes for a much better experience. Although the Big Sur section is fully open in 2026, some parts of Highway 1 may still be temporarily closed due to weather or maintenance. Before setting off, be sure to check real-time road conditions using Google Maps or the Caltrans website to avoid a wasted trip. 📅 3-day essential itinerary If you are short on time, you can complete the drive in 2 days, but it will be very tiring. 3 days is the most comfortable choice for experiencing the highlights. Day 1: San Francisco → Monterey/Carmel Depart from San Francisco, passing by Half Moon Bay and Pigeon Point Lighthouse along the way. Arrive at 17-Mile Drive in the afternoon. This is a private, toll-based coastline, but the Lone Cypress, reefs, and ocean views along the way are definitely worth the price of admission. In the evening, take a stroll through the fairytale-like town of Carmel to soak up the artistic atmosphere. For accommodation, we recommend Monterey or Carmel, which offer a full range of amenities. Day 2: Monterey → Big Sur → San Simeon This is the soul of the entire highway. Must-visit landmarks include the magnificent Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls, the only cliff waterfall in California that flows directly into the ocean. In the evening, you can head to the Elephant Seal Rookery near San Simeon to see these adorable giants up close. Choose accommodation in San Simeon for convenience for the next day's itinerary. Day 3: San Simeon → Los Angeles In the morning, you can visit Hearst Castle, which requires advance booking, and then stop by the Danish-style town of Solvang and the Spanish-style Santa Barbara on the way. Finally, arrive at the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, the end of Route 66, and conclude your journey with a perfect West Coast sunset. 🚗 Pre-trip preparation and tips Car rental and documents: You can rent a car with your original Chinese driver's license + a notarized translation; an international driver's license is not required. It is recommended to purchase full insurance because the cost of car repairs in the US is very high. When picking up the car, be sure to record a video to check the vehicle's condition and confirm the one-way rental fee. Fuel and supplies: Gas stations in the Big Sur section are very scarce and expensive. Be sure to fill up in Monterey or San Simeon before setting off. There are few supply points along the way, so it is recommended to bring enough drinking water and snacks. Signal and navigation: Many coastal sections have no mobile signal, so be sure to download offline maps in advance and save your hotel addresses. Safe driving: Do not drive at night. Many sections have no streetlights, and the mountain roads have many curves, which is very dangerous. California traffic police are very strict with tourists. It is strictly forbidden to park on the side of the road to take pictures; you can only stop at official viewpoints. Sections like Bixby Creek Bridge have 24-hour surveillance, and speeding or illegal parking will be captured 100% of the time. You must come to a complete stop when you see a STOP sign. You can turn right on a red light if there is no prohibition sign, but you must yield to pedestrians. ✨ Essential road trip tips Direction choice: Stick to driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Driving on the ocean side makes viewing and parking more convenient and safe. Essential focus: Don't feel pressured to drive the entire route; save your time for core sections like Big Sur and 17-Mile Drive. Safety first: Drive during the day, check road conditions in advance, refuel when the tank is half full, and do not drive at night.

If the previous post was mainly about how to plan and enjoy Highway 1, this one will share the actual 3-day route we took. This road is perfect for a road trip 🚗 Driving along the Pacific coast, you'll see nothing but cliffs and the ocean outside your window. Often, I felt that— Even before reaching the attractions, the road itself was already stunning. · -- 📆 DAY 1|San Francisco → Half Moon Bay → Pigeon Point Lighthouse → Monterey 🚗 The total drive is about 3 hours, excluding stops along the way. Half Moon Bay|Half Moon Bay 🌟 Lunch recommendation: The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay|Ocean Terrace If your budget allows, I highly recommend having a meal here. Don't leave right after eating; you can take a walk along the hotel's cliffside trail. What's most attractive here is the hotel's location— the coastline, grassy slopes, cliffs, and the Pacific Ocean all connect, and the scenery is truly amazing. Hotel rates can reach over $10,000 a night, but if you just want to see the coastal scenery, I personally think coming for a meal + walking along the trail is enough to experience a large part of it. Pigeon Point Lighthouse|Pigeon Point Lighthouse Driving from Half Moon Bay to Monterey, you can stop by Pigeon Point Lighthouse on the way. This stretch is really perfect for a road trip. It's basically: 🌊 The Pacific Ocean 🌿 Coastal grassy slopes ⛰️ Cliffside roads So don't just stare at the GPS; if you see a good viewpoint along the way, feel free to stop and take a look. Monterey|Monterey Arrive in Monterey in the afternoon, explore the town a bit, and get ready for the 17-Mile Drive the next day. 🌅 If the timing is right, you can also head to 17-Mile Drive to catch a quick sunset. · -- 📆 DAY 2|17-Mile Drive → Monterey Bay Aquarium → Carmel → Big Sur → Pismo Beach This day was the most "intense" day of the entire trip 😂 But it was also the day with the most concentrated scenery, in my opinion. 🌊 ① 17-Mile Drive|17-Mile Drive We spent the entire morning of the second day exploring 17-Mile Drive thoroughly. This place really isn't suitable for "driving in, taking one photo, and leaving." The scenery in the whole area is very beautiful, and there are many classic photo spots. We spent about 2–3 hours strolling through it. If it's your first time, I suggest leaving yourself enough time. 📸 In many places, you can see a beautiful coastline just by getting out of the car and walking a few steps. You don't need to go on a dedicated hike to take many great photos. · -- 🪼 ② Monterey Bay Aquarium|Monterey Bay Aquarium If you have plenty of time, you can explore the whole thing. But if you're on a tight schedule like us, you can really focus on the areas you're most interested in. I personally prefer: 🪴 Kelp Forest 🪼 Jellyfish Exhibit 🐟 Sardine Exhibit These areas are relatively easier to capture a great vibe.

👀P1-8 Bangkok Terminal 21 Asok 👀P9-18 Pattaya Terminal 21 I visited two Terminal 21 malls during this trip to Thailand. With an airport terminal theme, it opened in 2011, features world landmarks, and caters to tourists. Each floor has a different theme, such as the Caribbean, Rome, Paris, Tokyo, London, Istanbul, San Francisco, and Hollywood. The restrooms on each floor also have unique themes, like the bakery theme on the San Francisco floor. Compared to the EM District, the overall retail mix here feels a bit more modest. The Terminal 21 family also includes the Pattaya branch, which opened in 2018 and which we visited on this trip, as well as the Rama 3 branch that opened in 2022. Travelers visiting Thailand, don't miss out!

16‑day west coast road trip 🤌🗺️🚐 Roadtripping HWY 101 and HWY 1 across three states is the most epic road trip in the USA! We wish we could recommend a multi‑month road trip to you all but unfortunately, no one has the time off for that 😭 This 16‑day west coast road trip itinerary through Washington, Oregon, and California is fairly PTO friendly and stops at the best places along the route🤌 📍Day 1‑2: Olympic NP ‑See Marymere Falls and Sol Duc Falls ‑Hike Mount Storm King ‑Visit the Hoh Rainforest 📍Day 3‑5: Oregon Coast ‑See the iconic Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach ‑Hike God’s Thumb trail ‑Drive the scenic Samuel Boardman drive 📍Day 6: Redwood NP ‑See Fern Canyon ‑Drive Avenue of the Giants 📍Day 7‑8: Mendocino ‑Ride the Skunk Train ‑Explore the headlands trail ‑See Russian Gulch State Park 📍Day 9: San Francisco ‑See the iconic Golden Gate Bridge ‑Take a cable car ride through the city ‑See Lombard Street 📍Day 10‑12: Monterey & Big Sur ‑Hike at Point Lobos ‑See McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge ‑Visit Pfeiffer Beach 📍Day 13: Morro Bay ‑See Morro Rock & sea otters at the harbor 📍Day 14: Solvang 📍Day 15: Laguna Beach ‑See Pirate’s Tower ‑Go beach hopping‑ our faves were Heisler Park and Treasure Beach 📍Day 16: San Diego ‑Hike Annie’s Canyon ‑Stop by Coronado Island to see The Del #roadtrip #usatravel #usaroadtrip #travelguide #bucketlisttravel

The 2-day small group tour from San Francisco to Los Angeles was a fantastic experience! The Mercedes minivan, seating no more than 13 people, was spacious and comfortable, completely eliminating the cramped and hectic feeling of large group tours. The itinerary was well-planned, covering essential attractions such as California Highway 1, the magnificent Big Sur coast, Monterey, the fairytale-like town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Seal Bay, offering breathtakingly beautiful mountain and ocean scenery. The guide was excellent, providing detailed and attentive explanations. The ample time allowed for a relaxed pace, and the tour focused on the best sections of Highway 1 without detours, ensuring a smooth and photogenic experience. Perfect for those wanting to easily traverse the California coastline. The 2-day small group tour from San Francisco to Los Angeles was a fantastic experience! The Mercedes minivan, seating no more than 13 people, was spacious and comfortable, completely eliminating the cramped and hectic feeling of large group tours. The itinerary was well-planned, covering essential attractions such as California Highway 1, the magnificent Big Sur coast, Monterey, the fairytale-like town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Seal Bay, offering breathtakingly beautiful mountain and ocean scenery. The guide was excellent, providing detailed and thoughtful explanations. There was plenty of time to explore without rushing the itinerary. The tour included the best part of Highway 1 without any detours, making it worry-free and photogenic. If you want to easily traverse the California coastline, go for it!

🇺🇸 California Highway 1 | Only when you drive here will you understand what a world-class coastline is If you’re driving on the US West Coast, California Highway 1 is definitely worth driving once. It’s not just about “seeing the ocean” along the way, but a constant shift between cliffs, highways, forests, and the Pacific Ocean. Many times, even a random parking spot offers views like movie scenes. 📍 Big Sur | McWay Falls This photo captures one of my favorite moments. Between cliffs, a waterfall drops from the valley to the sea. Below is a small cove surrounded by rocks, and in the distance is the endless Pacific Ocean. The best time to visit is around sunset. As the sun slowly sets on the horizon, the entire sea and cliffs turn golden. It’s so stunning that no filter is needed. 🚗 The most enjoyable way to experience California Highway 1 Don’t rush. Stop whenever you see a beautiful viewpoint, feel the sea breeze, and watch the sunset. What really makes Big Sur addictive isn’t any single spot, but the feeling of driving along the Pacific Ocean. 📸 Photo tips ✔️ Arrive 1 hour before sunset ✔️ Use a wide-angle lens to capture cliffs, waterfall, and ocean ✔️ The golden hour offers the best light ✔️ If driving, allow plenty of time and don’t overbook your schedule 🌅 Travel impressions Some places look great in photos but feel ordinary in person. Big Sur is the opposite. Photos can’t capture its true vastness. Mountains on the left, the Pacific Ocean on the right, and a road ahead that you don’t know where it will take you. At this moment, you suddenly realize— The meaning of a road trip is probably never knowing what scenery you’ll find in the next mile.