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California Self-Drive Coastal Tour | Beaches, Big Sur & Coastal Towns
Trip Highlights
Experience a scenic California Central Coast road trip with a relaxed journey filled with nature, culture, and classic West Coast views.
Follow the iconic Highway 101 and experience California’s coast slowly unfolding, mile by mile, through beaches, cliffs, and small seaside towns.
Discover marine life at Monterey Bay Aquarium followed by a walk along Cannery Row and Monterey’s historic waterfront districts.
Explore Big Sur along the Pacific Coast with stops at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Andrew Molera State Park, offering dramatic cliffs, forest trails, and viewpoints.
Visit Channel Islands National Park with a ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island, featuring guided sea cave kayaking and time to explore the coastline and marine life.
Know Before You Go
- Traffic is a regular part of life, especially in and around Los Angeles. Avoid travelling during peak hours (roughly 7–10 AM and 4–7 PM) and always add buffer time for airport transfers, tours, or show timings.
- Weather varies dramatically from city to city. Coastal areas can be cool and windy, even in summer, while inland and desert regions can be extremely hot. Carry light layers so you can adjust comfortably throughout the day.
- Carry a valid photo ID or passport with you at all times. Alcohol consumption is strictly limited to those aged 21 and above, and ID checks are common regardless of how old you look.
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash is rarely required. Keep a small amount of cash only for tips or emergency situations.
- California is generally safe, but awareness is important. Avoid deserted areas late at night and never leave valuables visible inside parked cars, as break-ins can happen quickly.
- Quiet hours are taken seriously, usually starting around 10 PM. Keep noise levels low in hotels, residential areas, and Airbnbs to avoid complaints or penalties.
- Jaywalking is illegal in many areas and can result in fines. Always cross streets at designated crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals.
- Natural spaces are protected and treated with care. Littering, feeding wildlife, or stepping off marked trails can lead to fines and damage to the environment.
- Hotel and Airbnb rules must be followed strictly. Check-in and check-out times are enforced, unregistered guests are usually not allowed, and any damage may be charged immediately.
- Beaches can have strong currents. Always observe warning flags, swim only in designated areas, and never underestimate the ocean—even if the water looks calm.
- Hiking and outdoor activities require preparation. Wear proper footwear, carry water, check weather conditions, and follow marked trails. In national parks, permits may be required for certain hikes or activities.
- Wildlife encounters are uncommon in cities but possible in parks and natural areas. Do not approach or feed animals, and store food securely when travelling outdoors.
- Photography is generally allowed in public places, but some attractions, studios, and museums restrict cameras or video recording. Always check rules before shooting.
- Power sockets use flat-pin plugs, so international travellers should carry a suitable adapter. A local SIM card or eSIM is strongly recommended for navigation, ride-hailing apps, and real-time updates.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited in most public places, hotels, and near building entrances. Many accommodations are completely smoke-free, and violations can result in heavy fines.
Additional Information
Explore California’s Central Coast on this unforgettable 10-day family road trip from Ventura to Santa Cruz. Drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, discovering the coastal charm of Santa Barbara, the Danish-style town of Solvang, the relaxed beaches of Cayucos, and the lively streets of San Luis Obispo. Experience adventure at Channel Islands National Park, enjoy close-up wildlife encounters in the Santa Ynez Valley, and explore fascinating marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Take in the dramatic coastal beauty of Big Sur, then end your journey in Santa Cruz with classic boardwalk rides, games, and seaside fun. This self-drive family road trip offers a perfect mix of coastal scenery, adventure and memorable experiences.