Road Trippin’ in California
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
Recently, I had the privilege of packing up my car and going on a spontaneous road-trip from my home base in Southern California up the coast of the most beautiful state in the country! Stopping leisurely along the way through central gems of lush hills and valleys (we have been fortunate to have lots of rain this winter which means the superbloom of wildflowers and a multitude of green hues throughout the sprawling countryside) on one side, and the azure expanse of the Pacific Ocean on the other. Dotting the vast coast are quaint cities and towns such as Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea just to name a few. These seaside conclaves harken visitors back to the maritime charm of boardwalks, saltwater taffy, and the endless sound of crashing waves over golden sand and jutting rocks.
There have been times when I have been traveling in different countries around the world and have been blown away by the beauty that was around me. However, it sometimes takes a trip into your own backyard to realize that the California coast is one of those places that is second to none, where I am sure people from other locations arrive and say the same thing – it is truly one of a kind.
Santa Barbara: If I could choose a place in the world that I would love my future house to be modeled after – it would be Santa Barbara. Creeping vines blooming with vibrant colors contrast against warm stone in colors or white and tan, all sitting happily under sunny skies of a near perfect California climate. The inherent tones of its Mexican heritage mingle seamlessly with the laid-back coastal vibes of the sunshine state, creating an idyllic utopia reminiscent of an endless summer, where a beach day can exist not only in summer – but year-round in this haven for sun-worshipers and surfers alike. Meander down State Street (main drag through town) and enjoy its hidden pockets where you can discover trickling fountains and bright mosaics, its an extremely pleasing location to all of the senses.
A short drive north of Santa Barbara finds travelers winding their way through rolling hills of neatly spaced vineyards bursting with some of the best grapes in the state. An underrated dream stretch of land from Paso Robles to San Luis Obispo is a wine-lovers paradise, and the highways that cut through this fertile land are perfect for a weekend road trip where salty air rushes through lush canyons as it travels inland making for an unbelievably beautiful drive.
San Luis Obispo: This quirky, eccentric college town has a small and cozy feel, while staying true to its weird and fun heritage. Beloved for its craft beer scene, gum wall, and quaint downtown area of high end stores intermixed with up-and-coming eateries, SLO as the locals call it has something for everyone! Although spending a night here is definitely encouraged, if you don’t have the time, at least make this a stop on your road trip to reset and recharge with its local libations and delicious culinary offerings; it is a city that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and it is a good reminder to enjoy the journey through this amazing area of the world.
Big Sur: Perhaps the most renowned stretch of rocky cliffs and magical ocean in not only California but the entire US is located a short drive up the iconic Highway 1 from San Luis Obispo in an enchanting location called Big Sur. The fresh air scented with the cypress and pines that hug the winding two lane road whips pasts you as you navigate your way through some of the most breathtaking vistas in the world as promontories plunge hundreds of feet into the multi-hued ocean below. There are outstanding stops along the way, and I have listed some below that i truly believe cannot be missed:
Bixby Bridge: Impossible to miss along the way and entirely blasphemous to not stop and take it all in. The Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most beloved and photographed in California, not only for its awe-inspiring arch design, but for the outstanding panoramas available for visitors to enjoy. This bridge lies just south ion the Carmel Highlands, and regardless of the direction you may be heading, you will have the opportunity to drive right over this stunning piece of road.
McWay Falls: Located in the heart of Big Sur’s Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is the most unique natural wonder on the central coast. McWay Falls is an 80 foot tidefall, a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean – one of only 2 in the entire state. Seeing the McWay Creek spill directly onto the sand below of a secluded beach is an image I will not soon forget, and it is a stop along Highway 1 that one would regret not making. Keep a note if you are driving solo, this incredible phenomenon creeps up quickly, so be on the lookout for a spot to pull over to soak in this masterpiece. The soothing sound of the ever-flowing water and the smell of the salt and floral landscape is enthralling, sure to captivate anyone in its path – I could have sat here for hours enjoying the peace and serenity it offers.
Must Share Experience: Driving south on Highway 1 in springtime could give drivers a glimpse into a unique phenomenon – whale watching! I was enjoying a quick break at Grimes Point Scenic Overlook, and to my fortune, a fellow roadtripper (with a camera much more powerful than mine) had me peer through the lens to see a whale splashing in the shallower water below. It was such a stroke of luck to be in the right place at the right time, and I definitely will never forget this moment where I was able to watch an animal as magnificent as that in its natural habitat, which in my estimation is perhaps the most spectacular in the world.
Carmel-by-the-Sea: If there was a storybook town that couldnt have been placed more perfectly in California, it would be Carmel. This little village hideaway that is nestled along the jagged coast overlooking the sapphire sea is one of the most charming places in the state. Quaint fairytale cottages sit among amazing art galleries in one of the most stunning settings on the Monterey Peninsula, and it will capture both yours and your cameras heart. Carmel offers a place to relax, breathe in the salty air and just appreciate the beauty that is currently surrounding you. One of my favorite walks I have experienced was along Scenic Road, where one side you can witness some of the whimsical architecture that the city is known for, and on the other side is that jaw-dropping body of water that reflects the unobstructed, picture-perfect sunsets that look as if they belong painted on a canvas in one of the numerous art galleries just steps away.
Monterey: Only a short cruise north from Carmel will find travelers in Monterey, the main city for which the peninsula is named after. Monterey and its neighboring town of Pacific Grove form a beautiful duo for a long weekend getaway. Famed for its renowned aquarium, championship golf courses and of course its unmatched scenery, Monterey truly is a haven for leisure seekers. My favorite tip for those visiting this incredible little town is to do the “17 mile drive” that winds its way under canopies of Pacific cypress trees, through emerald fairways and greens of famous golf clubs such as Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill, and along rugged outcrops overlooking the ocean, this loop through some of California’s most gorgeous landscapes cannot be missed. If you are lucky, you will be able to see Monarch butterfly migration as the bursts of orange and black float through the air, or keep a close eye in the foamy waves to see seals or otters slipping through the restless sea at vantage points such as China Rock and Fanshell Beach.
Sometimes the idea of making a last second decision to travel somewhere can be a little nerve-wracking (as it was for me), it was a very liberating experience. Having no agenda (other than what song or podcast to play next) and being able to take my time driving up this insanely mesmerizing coast was both calming and transformative, and I encourage anyone who needs a small break from reality to either clear your head or just escape for a three day weekend to choose California’s central coast. It is a choice I will do again many times in the future!
