Pacific Coast Highway follows the coastline of the Pacific Ocean in west-central California. It travels between Monterey and San Simeon on CA 1, a two-lane paved road suitable for all types of vehicles. The byway is 95 miles long and is usually open year-round. Fog in the summer can make driving hazardous.
The Pacific Coast Highway rides atop the rugged cliffs of California’s scenic coastline, offering the sights and sounds of ocean waves crashing upon rocky shores. Miles of state park land along the shore allow visitors to walk the beaches and watch playful sea otters or migrating gray whales in winter. On the northern end is Point Lobos State Reserve, which contains one of the few remaining native Monterey cypress tree groves. The area has walking trails and observation platforms. Other state park areas along the byway offer camping and picnicking.
Also of interest is Hearst Castle, officially named Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument. Publishing tycoon William Hearst built this magnificent estate that he called “The Enchanted Hill” in the 1920s. The estate houses 165 rooms, exquisite pools, a vast collection of art and antiques, terraces and walkways, and acres of gardens. Hearst Castle is open for tours year-round, reservations are recommended.