Road trip through Monterey

Question

Family of four (2 adults, 2 teens) looking to fly into SFO on our way to LAX. Planning to hit the PCH, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and any little small town in between. We like exploring downtowns, marinas, and markets. Breweries are a plus. Wondering if anyone has recommendations for stops on our trip.

Answer

Your planned road trip along the California coast sounds fantastic! The drive from San Francisco down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers incredible scenery, charming towns, and plenty of family-friendly stops. Here’s a detailed guide with recommendations for your family of four, focusing on Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and interesting spots along the way.

Starting in Monterey:

Monterey Downtown & Cannery Row: Explore historic Cannery Row, boutique shops, and family-friendly attractions. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the bay.
Monterey Bay Aquarium: One of the top aquariums in the country, perfect for teens and adults alike. Plan at least 2–3 hours here.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf: Great for a quick lunch, souvenir shopping, and watching sea lions. There are also local breweries nearby for adults.
Monterey State Historic Park: Offers a glimpse into California’s history and short walking tours through preserved adobe buildings.

Driving along Big Sur:

Bixby Creek Bridge: Iconic photo stop along the PCH. Perfect for a scenic pause.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Short hikes, tide pools, and wildlife viewing. Highly recommended for a family-friendly adventure.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: See McWay Falls, a waterfall that drops directly onto the beach. Easy access and incredible views.
Big Sur Village: Stop for a snack, coffee, or local art shops. Consider Nepenthe for its terrace views and casual dining.

Heading toward Santa Barbara:

Carmel-by-the-Sea: Quaint downtown with unique boutiques, art galleries, and bakeries. Walk around and enjoy the village charm.
Pacific Grove: Explore Lovers Point Park, a small but scenic beach area, and local cafes.
Cambria & San Simeon: If you have extra time, consider visiting Hearst Castle or Moonstone Beach for a scenic stroll.
San Luis Obispo: Check out the downtown farmers’ market if your schedule aligns. Great food, local music, and a lively atmosphere.

Santa Barbara Area:

Santa Barbara Downtown & State Street: Walkable area with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Don’t miss the historic courthouse for panoramic views.
Santa Barbara Harbor & Stearns Wharf: Fun for families, with boat rentals and seafood restaurants.
Local Breweries: Santa Barbara has several, including Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. and Santa Barbara Brewing Company.

General Tips:

Plan for frequent stops—especially along Big Sur—for views, photos, and short walks.
Parking in popular areas like Monterey’s Cannery Row or Santa Barbara’s State Street can fill quickly; arrive early if possible.
Consider starting early from SFO to maximize your first day along the coast.
Bring snacks and water for stretches of the PCH with fewer services.

This itinerary balances scenic coastal drives with cultural, historical, and family-friendly stops, giving you a variety of experiences along California’s central coast. Your teens will enjoy interactive attractions like the aquarium, short hikes, and quirky coastal towns, while adults can enjoy the local breweries and charming downtowns.