Half Moon Bay to Monterey
Pacific Coast Highway 1
Visiting the San Francisco Bay Area, or living in the Bay, a must drive is at least part of the Pacific Coast Highway 1.
Much of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) winds next to a cliff right on the Pacific Ocean. Breathtaking views and beach access are all along the coast.
The drive on Highway 1 can be done in segments to fit into your holiday schedule. Also, the PCH can be plagued by mud/rockslides and subject road closures, so planning shorter trips may be the best option to assure your passage.
I recommend starting in Half Moon Bay, a small beach community with many great restaurants. Depending on your time schedule: for a great view (and usually a wait for a table) Sam’s Chowder House, known for clam chowder and lobster rolls is a great stop. For fast service and lots of available space along the highway, Joe’s is an excellent breakfast stop.
Along the drive south, there are many public beaches and pull-out view opportunities.
Ano Nuevo California State Park is known for its elephant seal population (rangers at the gate will inform you if the seals are on the beach). A short hike out to the beach during several months of the year will provide up- close viewing of these amazing creatures.
During the early winter months witness males fighting for their harem, a real National Geographic spectacle!
Continue south and stay at the Tides in Seaside, a beachfront property with Deluxe Oceanfront rooms (pay extra for the deluxe oceanfront as it’s on upper levels.)
Eat at the hotel, as the restaurant offers ocean views, and the menu/food quality are worth staying on site.
Enjoy a campfire on the beach or sit around a gas fire pit on-site.
From Seaside, visit Monterey (only a few miles away). Carmel is also easily reached from this location.
The next stretch of Highway 1 is also amazingly beautiful as you continue to Big Sur.
I prefer to do short drives and spend more time in each section of the highway. If you’re visiting from out-of-state, your trip should include going further south, but check for road closures before heading out.
Happy Travels,
Carol
