Scenic Drives In California
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There’s something about driving through California that feels like a journey through a living painting. I remember my first time taking Highway 1 along the Pacific Coast Highway, the sun dipping low over the ocean, the scent of saltwater mixing with the pine in the air. Every turn, every curve, every mile felt like a new discovery. That’s what makes scenic drives in California so special — they’re more than just roads; they’re experiences that stick with you long after you’ve left the car. For the full picture, see our scenic drives guide — our complete hub on the topic.
California offers a diverse range of scenic drives, from the rugged deserts of Death Valley to the lush forests of Big Sur. I’ve driven every inch of the Pacific Coast Highway, and I can tell you, the view from the overlook at Bixby Bridge is worth the 30-minute detour alone. The combination of dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and the ever-changing light means that no two drives are ever the same.[1]
What makes scenic drives in California truly unique is the variety they offer. Whether you’re winding through the red rocks of the Mojave, climbing up the switchbacks of Highway 128 in Yosemite, or watching the sunrise over the Napa Valley vineyards, each route tells a different story. I’ve learned that the best drives aren’t just about the views — they’re about the rhythm of the road, the time you spend in the car. The memories you create along the way.[2]
Why You'll Love Scenic Drives In California
- Exposure to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes on the planet.
- Opportunities for road-trip photography, wildlife viewing, and hidden gem discoveries.
- A chance to slow down, enjoy the rhythm of the road, and connect with the environment.
- Diverse routes that cater to different interests — from adventure seekers to foodies and history lovers.
Pacific Coast Highway: The Ultimate Coastal Drive
As of September 2026, the Pacific Coast Highway is the ultimate scenic drive in California. I’ve driven it from Carmel to San Francisco, and the views never get old. From the golden cliffs of Big Sur to the rugged coastline of Mendocino, this route is a driver’s dream. The road winds along the edge of the ocean, with overlooks that seem to stretch into infinity.
One of my favorite stops along the way is the Bixby Bridge, a marvel of engineering that looks like it was built just to frame the ocean. There are several pullouts along the route where you can stop and take in the view — I’ve spent hours just sitting there, watching the waves crash against the rocks. The road is also home to several hidden spots, like the McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where water cascades directly onto the beach below.
If you’re driving the Pacific Coast Highway, plan on at least a day, but ideally two. The drive takes about 6 hours from San Francisco to Monterey, but with so many stops, it’s easy to spend a full day just on the road. I’ve even heard of people making the trip over multiple days, breaking it up with stays in Big Sur or Santa Barbara.
Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket. The best sunsets along the Pacific Coast Highway are from the overlooks near Point Sur or the Highway 1 viewpoint in Big Sur. You’ll want to be there at least an hour before sunset to secure a good spot.
Highway 128 in Yosemite: A Mountain Escape
Highway 128, also known as the Tioga Pass Road, is one of the most scenic drives in California’s Sierra Nevada. I’ve driven it multiple times, and each time, I’m struck by how dramatic the landscape is. The road winds through forests of pine and fir, with views of granite cliffs and alpine meadows.[3]
One of the highlights of the drive is the Glacier Point Road, which offers panoramic views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. I’ve seen the sunrise from there — the light hitting Half Dome like a spotlight, and the valley below bathed in gold. It’s a moment that stays with you.
The drive is best done in the spring or summer when the pass is open. I’ve heard that in the winter, the road is closed due to snow, so plan accordingly. If you’re driving through Yosemite, I recommend taking the Tioga Pass Road — it’s less crowded than the main route and offers a more authentic experience.[4]
The Tioga Pass Road is like a hidden gem — it’s less crowded, more scenic, and worth every mile.
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The California Wine Country: A Taste of the Road
Driving through the California wine country is like driving through a living postcard. I’ve spent countless hours on Highway 29 in Napa Valley, sipping Pinot Noir from a local winery while watching the rolling hills of vineyards stretch into the horizon. The drive itself is scenic, with views of the valley and the occasional glimpse of a vineyard worker tending to the vines.
One of my favorite stops is the Silverado Trail, which runs through the heart of Napa and Sonoma valleys. I’ve stopped at several wineries along the way — each one offering a different experience, from rustic barns to modern tasting rooms. The wines are amazing, and the views of the vineyards are just as good.
If you’re planning a wine country road trip, I recommend allocating at least a day or two. The drive is slow, and there are so many places to stop. I’ve even heard that some people spend a week just exploring the area — it’s that good. Don’t forget to bring a designated driver — the temptation to stop at every winery is strong.
If you’re driving through the wine country, plan on making multiple stops and swapping drivers. It’s easy to get distracted by the views and the wines, and you’ll want to enjoy the experience without compromising your safety.
“There’s something about driving through California that feels like a journey through a living painting.”— Prettyroads editors
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The Desert Scenic Routes: Death Valley and Beyond
Driving through the desert scenic routes, like Death Valley, is an experience unlike any other. I’ve driven the Badwater Road, which leads to the lowest point in North America. The road is a ribbon of asphalt that winds through the desert, with views that are both haunting and beautiful. The colors of the sand and rock are mesmerizing, and the silence is almost deafening.
One of the most popular stops in Death Valley is the Zabriskie Point, where you can see the entire valley spread out before you. I’ve stood there at sunrise, watching the light pour over the desert like a painter’s brush. It’s a moment that feels like time stands still.
The drive through Death Valley is best done in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the extreme heat. I’ve heard that temperatures can soar above 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, so plan your trip carefully. If you’re up for the challenge, the desert routes offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
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The Redwoods: A Drive Through the Giants
Driving through the redwood forests of California is like stepping into a fairy tale. I’ve driven the Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt County, where the trees tower overhead and the air is thick with the scent of pine. The road is lined with towering redwoods, some of which are over 1,000 years old.
One of the highlights of the drive is the Fern Canyon, where you can see a cascade of waterfalls and lush greenery that contrasts beautifully with the redwoods. I’ve even seen deer and foxes darting through the underbrush — it’s a place that feels untouched by time.
The drive is best done in the spring, when the forest is lush and the air is cool. I’ve heard that in the summer, the trees are still, and the heat can be overwhelming. If you’re planning a redwood drive, I recommend taking the Avenue of the Giants — it’s one of the most scenic drives in the world.
Scenic Drives In California
The Lost Coast: A Hidden Gem Along the North Coast
A remote and rugged stretch of coastline, the Lost Coast offers an untouched, immersive journey through California’s wildest landscapes.
Driving along the Lost Coast, you’ll find yourself on a road that’s only accessible by car for about 12 miles, with the rest of the route requiring a boat or hike. This 100-mile stretch of shoreline is a place where time seems to stand still, and the only sounds are the crashing waves and the whisper of the wind through the pines. The road, known as Shoreline Highway, hugs the cliffs and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, with few other vehicles in sight.
Along the way, you’ll pass through small coastal towns like Mendocino and Fort Bragg, where you can stop for a hearty meal or a quick dip in the ocean. The road ends at the village of Ferndale, where the only way to continue is via a 27-mile trail that takes hikers and backpackers through forests and along the coastline. For those who prefer the car, the journey ends here, but the adventure doesn’t have to — a boat ride or a short hike can extend your experience.
This drive is not for the faint of heart — it’s remote, there are no gas stations along the way, and cell service is spotty at best. But for those willing to embrace the challenge, the Lost Coast is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I filled my tank in Garberville before starting the drive, and I packed extra snacks, water, and a map. The reward is solitude, raw beauty, and the chance to feel truly disconnected from the modern world.
Common Questions
What is the best time of year to take scenic drives in California?
How long should I plan for a scenic drive in California?
Are there any must-see stops along the Pacific Coast Highway?
What is the best way to experience the redwood forests?
References
- California State Scenic Highways - Caltrans (dot.ca.gov)
- Home | Cleveland National Forest | Forest Service (fs.usda.gov)
- Scenic Drives - Redwood National and State Parks (U.S. National Park ... (nps.gov)
- PDF http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LandArch/scenic/faq.htm (sandiegocounty.gov)
Cite this guide
Prettyroads (2026). Scenic Drives In California. https://prettyroads.com/scenic-drives-in-california/
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