If you’re lucky enough to live in California, you have easy access to one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the world. The famous Highway 1, officially called State Route 1, in California is 656 miles of scenic oceanside road. It stretches from Leggett all the way to Dana Point in Southern California. You’ll never forget the views on this scenic drive along the Northern California coast.
Driving from Carmel-by-the-Sea all the way to Rockport in the north takes a total of eight hours and is a stunning drive. But if you don't have time to road-trip the entire length of the highway, consider hopping on for a stretch.
From Jenner (west of Santa Rosa), it’s a three hour drive north on Highway 1 all the way to Rockport. If you drive this stretch of the highway, consider stopping at least a couple of the following sites: Fort Ross State Historic Park to learn about Russian-American history; the small and sandy Stump Beach, Stewarts Point Store for saltwater taffy, the large and often secluded Black Point Beach. There are more beaches, little shops, and scenic viewpoints that we can list here, but be sure to make time for at least several stops along the way.
To explore the portion of Highway 1 that meanders past Point Reyes National Seashore, drive from Jenner to Pacifica. This 3-hour route also takes you through San Francisco.
We could spend hours exploring Point Reyes National Seashore, but you also might want to stop in Bodega Bay, Point Reyes Station, Stinson Beach, and even Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.
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If you love sleepy, secluded NorCal beaches, drive the two-hour route from Bodega Bay to Manchester.
This often foggy drive passes by the towns of San Gregorio and Half Moon Bay. There are tons of beaches to explore along this route, including the famous surfing beach, Mavericks Beach.
Stretches of this highway run through rural coastal areas, connecting small communities and beach towns.
No matter which stretch of Highway 1 you choose to explore, there are picturesque views and secluded beaches along the Northern California coast at every turn. With each mile, this road unveils scenic landscapes, from rugged cliffs to pristine beaches. Traveling on Highway 1 is one of the most unforgettable journeys the Golden State has to offer.
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