Pacific Coast

Destination information

Highway One, the road that runs between Los Angeles and San Francisco is jam-packed with treasures and well worth spending a leisurely holiday exploring. As well as scenic vistas, there is an abundance of outdoor activities to tempt you, including opportunities for hiking, surfing and golfing. Classic Californian towns such as Cambria, Carmel and Monterey attract artists of every kind, lending a bohemian quality to the atmosphere. Santa Barbara is just a short detour and features wide expanses of golden beach and some fine Spanish Revival architecture. If you can spare the time, venture off the beaten track to Hearst Castle, the former home of publisher William Randolph Hearst and one of the most extravagant houses in the world. Other highlights include the glorious 'Seventeen Mile Drive' and 'Big Sur' for ocean views. But that's not all, there are first-class wineries to visit, colonies of sea otters and elephant seals to spot, miles and miles of unspoiled coastline and elegant restaurants in which to sample delicious local cuisine with grilled seafood the order of the day.

Eats & drinks

Next to the ocean you'll enjoy delicious, freshly caught seafood served in stylish restaurants that can be found along the coast. Much of the region is Spanish influenced - you'll find mouth-watering tapas dishes, spicy salsa, nachos and tortillas, which can all be washed down with exquisite local wines.

Sightseeing ideas

Redwood National Park
Home to some of the world's tallest trees - redwoods which can live to be 2,000 years old and grow to over 300ft tall. Spruce, hemlock, Douglas-fir, berry bushes, and sword ferns create a multiple canopy that towers over all visitors.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The only major seaside amusement park on the US West Coast. There are over 30 rides to choose from including the classic 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster.
Point Sur Lighthouse
Established in 1889 and is the only complete lighthouse in California. It's located in the scenic Point Sur State Historic Park and is open to visitors on Wednesdays and weekends.
Chateau Julien Wine Estate
One of many vineyards around the Carmel/Monterey region. Located across 16 acres of the majestic Carmel Valley, this estate produces Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio, Zinfandel and Syrah for you to taste! For more on the vineyard, explore their website