When you think of open roads, ocean views, and the freedom of riding, the Pacific Coast Highway, a legendary coastal route stretching along California’s western edge. Also known as Highway 1, it’s not just a road—it’s a ride that pulls you into the rhythm of the sea and the rhythm of the open road. This isn’t a highway you drive to get somewhere. It’s one you ride to feel something.
People talk about the Pacific Coast Highway like it’s a movie scene: cliffs dropping into the Pacific, winding turns past Big Sur, sunsets over Malibu, and the smell of salt in the air. But if you’ve ever tried to ride it on a bike, you know it’s not all postcards. The road is steep, narrow in places, and sometimes busy. You need the right bike, the right gear, and the right timing. Summer brings crowds. Winter brings fog and landslides. Spring? That’s when the wildflowers bloom along the cliffs and the air is crisp enough to keep you alert. It’s not just about the scenery—it’s about preparation.
What makes this route special isn’t just the views. It’s the towns you pass through—Carmel-by-the-Sea with its art galleries, Santa Barbara’s Spanish architecture, Monterey’s aquarium and Cannery Row. Each stop has its own vibe, its own food, its own reason to pull over. And if you’re riding a rented bike across India and wondering if a place like this even exists outside the US—yes, it does. But you won’t find it in a guidebook unless you know where to look. The posts below cover real rider experiences: how to pack for a coastal ride, where to sleep without overspending, which sections are too risky for beginners, and why some riders swear by starting in San Francisco instead of Los Angeles. You’ll also find stories from people who rode it on scooters, on vintage bikes, and even in the rain. This isn’t a fantasy. It’s a route real people have taken, survived, and loved. And if you’re thinking about riding it, the answers you need are here.
Discover why Route66 is the ultimate iconic road trip in the USA, with history, must‑see stops, planning tips, and a side‑by‑side comparison with the Pacific Coast Highway.