Explore The Ultimate Pacific Coast Journey

Road trips are an integral part of the American vacation experience. Whether you have a few days and a limited budget or several weeks to cross the entire country, road trips are an amazing way to get up close and personal with the U.S.A.

While there are literally thousands of potential itineraries to choose from, veteran travel industry experts know that California’s Highway 101 is one of the ultimate options.

Read on to learn more about where to stop and what to do along the way on this unforgettable journey along one of the most beautiful highways in the world.

About the California 101

California’s most popular and longest highway is officially known as Highway 101, but parts of it are also known as the Pacific Coast Highway or Highway 1.

The ultimate road trip starts near the southern border of the state in Los Angeles and heads north until reaching Eureka.

Roughly 700 miles, it is possible to make the journey in as little as two days or as long as two weeks simply because there are so many incredible places to stop along the way.

Whether you are traveling with kids who want frequent stops at amusement parks and the beach or as a couple in search of romance and wine tasting, California’s 101 really does have it all.

Top Destinations Along the Way

One of the great things about a road trip along California’s Highway 101 is that each traveler has the freedom to choose from countless destinations along the way.

Los Angeles, of course, is an entertainment capital with no shortage of museums and shopping malls worth exploring. A few hours north, stopping off in Santa Barbara gives you the opportunity to stroll on the white, sandy coastlines along the Pacific Ocean.

The historic San Luis Obispo offers a charming, low-key atmosphere and one of the best farmer’s markets in California.

As you get closer to Big Sur, the road officially becomes the Pacific Coast Highway, and you’ll pass breathtaking scenery along Monterey, Carmel’s art colony, Hearst Castle and the winding roads that lead along the cliffs over the Pacific.

Finish off by driving through San Francisco and ending at the enormous redwood forests in Eureka.

Where to Dine on the California Road Trip

A focal point of a California road trip is often the food, and for good reason. Offering some of the freshest ingredients in the country, plenty of upscale restaurants, and a blend of ethnic and traditional American dishes, California is a great place for a foodie to vacation.

In San Fransisco, dig into a bowl of seafood chowder from Fisherman’s Wharf. Enjoy fresh sushi in L.A., Korean fare in Santa Clara, Tuscan favorites while wine tasting in Healdsburg and vegan cuisine in the college town of Arcada.

Planning an Unforgettable Road Trip in California

As travel industry experts, you should be able and willing to help customers plan the ultimate road trip.

Having the resources of a host agency at your disposal can go a long way in helping you know the best accommodations along the way, the top places to eat and what attractions will appeal most to your customers.

After a successful road trip in California, your customers will likely be back next year for more suggestions!

Becoming a travel agent vacationers trust means knowing about all kinds of getaways. From luxury business trips to road trips in California, travel can encompass many different adventures.