Pacific Coast Highway Holidays

Drive this beautiful coastal-hugging road from San Francisco to Los Angeles while you stop off at stunning lookout points, discover hidden coves and beach towns, look for sea otters and other marine life from the shore or even get up close at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

As well as the long golden sands of beaches such as Pismo or Ventura to name a few; the crashing surf has created rugged but beautiful sea cliffs that stretch along the Pacific Coast, however this means there are many hidden coves and beaches to explore.

Located right at the ocean's edge, Monterey Bay Aquarium is a fun day out for all ages. Head to the penguin enclosure at feeding time, watch the playful sea otters, learn about what hides among the rocky shores and be mesmerised by the jellyfish.

Stretching out over 6 miles of beach, the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery is well worth a visit. The best viewing areas are located in San Simeon, around 5 miles north of Hearst Castle State Historical Monument. Peak season is December through March but they come to the beaches year round - even if you can't see them, you will definitely hear them.

This luxury epicurean event sees celebrated chefs and sommeliers gather at Pebble Beach on the Monterey Peninsula to host cooking demonstrations, renowned dining experiences, wine tastings, food sampling and wine and spirit seminars. Unfolding over 4 days each April, the Pebble Beach Food & Wine event is the pinnacle of indulgence. 

For two days and three nights in September, the Monterey Jazz Festival sees thousands gathering to delight in wonderful jazz music. Across the event, hundreds of musicians perform to crowds on eight stages spread over the Monterey County Fair and Event Center. There’s also great food, international shopping, exhibitions and children's activities, with exclusive hospitality experiences available as well. 

The Taste of Carmel event gives visitors and locals the chance to come together and enjoy a sample of incredible wines from the Monterey County area while they sample food from some of the best local restaurants. Hosted for one night by the Carmel Mission Courtyard, the event also features live music, culinary experiences and a silent auction. 

Though you’ll find incredible taco stands all along the Pacific Coast Highway, San Diego is the real hot spot known for its fish tacos, where a Mexican influence can be seen all around. Fresh seafood is fried up and, along with delicious accompaniments like avocado, pico de gallo, cabbage, cheese and crema, is wrapped up in a fresh tortilla. 

From Morro Bay to San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, the villages, towns and cities along the Pacific Coast Highway are generously scattered with seafood shacks and restaurants serving up delicious creamy Clam Chowder.