Why the Pacific Coast Highway Is a Must-Do RV Trip
Few drives in North America match the drama and beauty of California's Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), officially known as Highway 1. Clinging to cliffsides above the Pacific Ocean, winding through redwood groves, and rolling past charming coastal towns, this route is the gold standard of American road trips — and it's spectacular in an RV.
This guide covers the full route from San Diego to Crescent City near the Oregon border, approximately 1,100 miles of coastline, and helps you plan stops, campgrounds, and driving logistics.
Planning Your Trip: Key Logistics
How Long Does It Take?
Most RVers budget 10–14 days to enjoy the route without rushing. A week is doable but leaves little time to explore. Three weeks is leisurely and highly recommended if your schedule allows.
Best Time to Go
- Spring (April–May): Wildflowers, green hills, mild temperatures, fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August): Peak season — beautiful weather, but expect full campgrounds and traffic near Big Sur.
- Fall (September–October): Often the best time — summer crowds thin, weather stays warm, and skies are clear.
- Winter (November–March): Possible, but Highway 1 can close due to landslides near Big Sur.
RV Size Considerations
This is critical: Highway 1 through Big Sur is NOT suitable for RVs over 40 feet. Many pullouts, tunnels, and campgrounds have strict length limits. Class B vans and smaller Class C motorhomes have the most freedom. Larger rigs should research specific segments before committing.
Top Stops Along the Route
1. San Diego (Starting Point)
Stock up and get fueled up. Explore Mission Bay, visit Balboa Park, and spend a night at a full-hookup campground before heading north.
2. Los Angeles & Malibu
Malibu's coastline offers stunning cliff-side driving. The Leo Carrillo State Park campground puts you right on the beach — book well in advance.
3. Santa Barbara
A gorgeous Spanish-colonial city with excellent campgrounds nearby. Don't miss the Santa Barbara Mission and the waterfront Stearns Wharf.
4. Big Sur
The crown jewel of the PCH. The Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park campground is legendary, though spaces fill up months in advance. The drive itself — with the Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls — is unforgettable.
5. Monterey & Carmel
Visit the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium and stroll Carmel's fairytale village. Campgrounds at Marina Dunes and Laguna Seca offer good access.
6. San Francisco
Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and park at one of the campgrounds in Marin County. The city is best explored by bike or transit from your campsite.
7. Northern California Redwoods
End your journey among the tallest trees on Earth. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and Jedediah Smith Redwoods are awe-inspiring final stops.
Campground Booking Tips
- Book Big Sur campgrounds 6+ months ahead on ReserveAmerica.com or Recreation.gov.
- Keep a mix of booked sites and flexibility for spontaneous stops at first-come, first-served spots.
- Have backup plans — California state park sites fill extremely fast.
Packing Checklist for the PCH
- Detailed paper maps (cell signal drops in Big Sur)
- Fog lights — marine layer is common in the morning
- Layers for coastal temperature swings
- Binoculars for whale watching and wildlife
- National Parks pass if you plan to visit multiple parks
The Pacific Coast Highway is more than a drive — it's an experience. Take it slow, stop often, and let the Pacific work its magic.