Table of Contents

Route: Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
Highlights: Olympic National Park, Cannon Beach, Redwood National and State Parks, Golden Gate Bridge, Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Malibu, La Jolla
Theme: Coastal Beauty and Scenic Drives

---

Introduction

Embark on the ultimate road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, starting from the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington. This journey will take you through breathtaking coastal landscapes, lush national parks, and iconic landmarks. Join William and Hui Cha Stanek as they share their personal experiences and expert tips for an unforgettable adventure down the Pacific Coast.

---

Personal Insights from William Stanek

"The Pacific Coast Highway is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the majestic Olympic National Park to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, every mile offers something spectacular. Hui Cha and I have captured countless memories along this route, and we're excited to share the magic of the Pacific Coast with you. This journey is not just about the destinations, but the stories and histories that weave through the landscapes and communities along the way."

---

Day 1: Seattle, WA to Olympic National Park, WA

Morning: Departure from Seattle

Overview: Start your adventure in Seattle, Washington. Known for its vibrant culture, iconic Space Needle, and beautiful waterfront, Seattle is the perfect launching point for your epic road trip.

Tips from William: "Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Pike Place Market. The variety of fresh, local food will energize you for the day ahead."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Seattle, take in the urban scenery and watch as it gradually transforms into the lush forests and rugged coastlines of Olympic National Park.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Head west towards Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to alpine peaks.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Bainbridge Island: Take a ferry from Seattle and explore this charming island with its quaint shops and scenic views.
• Hurricane Ridge: Offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and opportunities for short hikes.

Photography Tips: "Capture the panoramic views from Hurricane Ridge. Early morning light works best to avoid harsh shadows."

Immersive Experience: Stop at Hurricane Ridge for a short hike and take in the breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains.

Lunch: Olympic National Park, WA

Dining Recommendations:

• Lake Crescent Lodge: Offers a cozy atmosphere with beautiful views of Lake Crescent.
• Kalaloch Lodge: Known for its hearty meals and stunning ocean views.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Lake Crescent Lodge. The serene setting and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Olympic National Park

Overview: Arrive in Olympic National Park in the afternoon. Known for its diverse landscapes, the park offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Hoh Rain Forest: A lush, temperate rainforest with moss-covered trees and scenic trails.
• Ruby Beach: A rugged beach with sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools.
• Sol Duc Hot Springs: Natural hot springs perfect for a relaxing soak.

Photography Tips: "Ruby Beach is best photographed at sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and dramatic sea stacks."

Immersive Experience: Hike through the Hoh Rain Forest and take in the lush, green surroundings. The combination of dense vegetation and tranquil atmosphere creates a magical experience.

Evening: Overnight in Olympic National Park

Accommodation Options:

• Lake Crescent Lodge: Offers charming accommodations with lakeside views.
• Kalaloch Lodge: A rustic lodge with oceanfront cabins.
• Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort: A resort with access to natural hot springs.

Immersive Experience: Stay at Lake Crescent Lodge and enjoy the cozy accommodations and stunning lakeside views. The lodge's proximity to the park allows for easy exploration.

---

Day 2: Olympic National Park, WA to Cannon Beach, OR

Morning: Departure from Olympic National Park

Overview: Leave the diverse landscapes of Olympic National Park and head south to the picturesque Cannon Beach in Oregon. The drive will take you along the scenic Pacific Coast.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day at Cannon Beach. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Olympic National Park, the landscape gradually changes from lush forests to the rugged coastline of Oregon.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Cannon Beach, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Astoria, OR: A historic town known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful waterfront.
• Ecola State Park: Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and hiking trails.

Photography Tips: "Ecola State Park is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the coastline."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Astoria for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Cannon Beach, OR

Dining Recommendations:

• Wayfarer Restaurant: Offers delicious seafood with stunning views of Haystack Rock.
• EVOO Cannon Beach Cooking School: Known for its interactive dining experiences and fresh, local ingredients.
• Public Coast Brewing Company: A local favorite with a variety of menu options and craft beers.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Wayfarer Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and stunning views provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Cannon Beach

Overview: Arrive in Cannon Beach in the afternoon. Known for its iconic Haystack Rock and charming coastal town, Cannon Beach offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Haystack Rock: A massive sea stack and a popular spot for tidepooling and birdwatching.
• Cannon Beach Downtown: Explore the shops, galleries, and restaurants in this vibrant coastal town.
• Hug Point State Recreation Site: A scenic area with a waterfall, sea caves, and a historic road carved into the rock.

Photography Tips: "Haystack Rock is best photographed at low tide and sunset. Use a tripod for long exposure shots to capture the movement of the waves."

Immersive Experience: Walk along Cannon Beach and explore the tide pools around Haystack Rock. The combination of natural beauty and vibrant town life creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Cannon Beach

Accommodation Options:

• Hallmark Resort & Spa: Offers charming accommodations with oceanfront views.
• Stephanie Inn: A luxurious option with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
• Surfsand Resort: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of Haystack Rock.

Immersive Experience: Stay at Hallmark Resort & Spa and enjoy the charming accommodations and oceanfront views. The resort's proximity to the beach allows for easy exploration.

---

Day 3: Cannon Beach, OR to Redwood National and State Parks, CA

Morning: Departure from Cannon Beach

Overview: Leave the picturesque Cannon Beach and head south to the majestic Redwood National and State Parks in California. The drive will take you along the scenic Oregon and California coasts.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in the Redwoods. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Cannon Beach, the landscape gradually changes from rugged coastline to towering redwood forests.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Redwood National and State Parks, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Tillamook Creamery: A popular stop for cheese lovers, offering tours and tastings.
• Cape Perpetua Scenic Area: Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and hiking trails.

Photography Tips: "Cape Perpetua is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the coastline."

Immersive Experience: Stop at Tillamook Creamery for a tour and tastings. The delicious cheeses and charming setting provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Redwood National and State Parks, CA

Dining Recommendations:

• Palm cafe & Motel: Offers hearty meals with a cozy atmosphere.
• Steelhead Lodge: Known for its fresh seafood and friendly service.
• Hiouchi cafe: A local favorite with a variety of menu options.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Palm cafe & Motel. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Redwood National and State Parks

Overview: Arrive at Redwood National and State Parks in the afternoon. Known for its towering redwoods and diverse ecosystems, the parks offer endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Avenue of the Giants: A scenic drive through towering redwoods.
• Fern Canyon: A lush canyon with ferns covering the walls.
• Tall Trees Grove: A remote grove with some of the tallest trees in the world.

Photography Tips: "Fern Canyon is best photographed in the early morning light. Use a tripod for long exposure shots to capture the movement of the stream."

Immersive Experience: Hike through Fern Canyon and take in the lush, green surroundings. The combination of dense vegetation and tranquil atmosphere creates a magical experience.

Evening: Overnight in Redwood National and State Parks

Accommodation Options:

• Redwood National Park Cabins: Offers charming accommodations with rustic elegance.
• Requa Inn: A luxurious option with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
• Elk Meadow Cabins: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the redwoods.

Immersive Experience: Stay at Redwood National Park Cabins and enjoy the charming accommodations and rustic elegance. The cabins' proximity to the park allows for easy exploration.

---

Day 4: Redwood National and State Parks, CA to San Francisco, CA

Morning: Departure from Redwood National and State Parks

Overview: Leave the majestic redwoods and head south to the iconic city of San Francisco. The drive will take you along the scenic Northern California coast.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in San Francisco. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave the redwoods, the landscape gradually changes from towering trees to the iconic cityscapes of San Francisco.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to San Francisco, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Mendocino, CA: A charming coastal town known for its beautiful scenery and historic architecture.
• Point Reyes National Seashore: Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and hiking trails.

Photography Tips: "Point Reyes is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the coastline."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Mendocino for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: San Francisco, CA

Dining Recommendations:

• Ferry Building Marketplace: Offers a variety of delicious foods in a vibrant market setting.
• Boudin Bakery: Known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.
• The Slanted Door: A local favorite with a variety of menu options.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Ferry Building Marketplace. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring San Francisco

Overview: Arrive in San Francisco in the afternoon. Known for its iconic landmarks, diverse culture, and beautiful waterfront, San Francisco offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Golden Gate Bridge: An iconic landmark offering stunning views of the city and bay.
• Alcatraz Island: A historic prison with fascinating exhibits and tours.
• Fisherman's Wharf: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the bay.

Photography Tips: "The Golden Gate Bridge is best photographed at sunrise or sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views of the bridge and city."

Immersive Experience: Walk along Fisherman's Wharf and explore the local shops and restaurants. The vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks create a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in San Francisco

Accommodation Options:

• The Fairmont San Francisco: Offers charming accommodations with historic elegance.
• The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco: A luxurious option with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
• Hotel Nikko San Francisco: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the city.

Immersive Experience: Stay at The Fairmont San Francisco and enjoy the charming accommodations and historic elegance. The hotel's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.

---

Day 5: San Francisco, CA to Big Sur, CA

Morning: Departure from San Francisco

Overview: Leave the iconic landmarks of San Francisco and head south to the breathtaking Big Sur. The drive will take you along the scenic California coast.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in Big Sur. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave San Francisco, the landscape gradually changes from urban cityscapes to rugged coastline and scenic cliffs.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Big Sur, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Monterey, CA: A charming coastal town known for its beautiful waterfront and historic sites.
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and hiking trails.

Photography Tips: "Point Lobos is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the coastline."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Monterey for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Big Sur, CA

Dining Recommendations:

• Nepenthe Restaurant: Offers delicious food with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Big Sur Bakery: Known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.
• Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn: A local favorite with a variety of menu options and breathtaking views.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Nepenthe Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and stunning views provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Big Sur

Overview: Arrive in Big Sur in the afternoon. Known for its rugged coastline, scenic cliffs, and breathtaking views, Big Sur offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Bixby Creek Bridge: An iconic bridge offering stunning views of the coastline.
• McWay Falls: A picturesque waterfall that flows into the Pacific Ocean.
• Pfeiffer Beach: A unique beach with purple sand and beautiful rock formations.

Photography Tips: "McWay Falls is best photographed at sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and dramatic lighting."

Immersive Experience: Walk along Pfeiffer Beach and explore the unique purple sand and rock formations. The combination of natural beauty and serene atmosphere creates a magical experience.

Evening: Overnight in Big Sur

Accommodation Options:

• Post Ranch Inn: Offers charming accommodations with stunning ocean views.
• Ventana Big Sur: A luxurious option with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
• Big Sur River Inn: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere and beautiful views of the river.

Immersive Experience: Stay at Post Ranch Inn and enjoy the charming accommodations and stunning ocean views. The inn's proximity to the coast allows for easy exploration.

---

Day 6: Big Sur, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Morning: Departure from Big Sur

Overview: Leave the breathtaking landscapes of Big Sur and head south to the vibrant city of Los Angeles. The drive will take you along the scenic California coast.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in Los Angeles. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Big Sur, the landscape gradually changes from rugged coastline to the bustling city life of Los Angeles.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Los Angeles, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Hearst Castle: A historic mansion offering stunning views and fascinating tours.
• Santa Barbara, CA: A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites.

Photography Tips: "Hearst Castle is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the architecture and landscape."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Santa Barbara for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Los Angeles, CA

Dining Recommendations:

• The Ivy: Offers delicious food with a cozy atmosphere and celebrity sightings.
• Grand Central Market: Known for its variety of food vendors and vibrant atmosphere.
• Gjelina: A local favorite with a variety of menu options and a trendy vibe.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at The Ivy. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Los Angeles

Overview: Arrive in Los Angeles in the afternoon. Known for its iconic landmarks, diverse culture, and beautiful beaches, Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: An iconic landmark with stars honoring celebrities.
• Griffith Observatory: Offers stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
• Santa Monica Pier: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

Photography Tips: "Griffith Observatory is best photographed at sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views of the city and Hollywood Sign."

Immersive Experience: Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and explore the local shops and restaurants. The vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks create a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Los Angeles

Accommodation Options:

• The Beverly Hills Hotel: Offers charming accommodations with historic elegance.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles: A luxurious option with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
• Shutters on the Beach: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the beach.

Immersive Experience: Stay at The Beverly Hills Hotel and enjoy the charming accommodations and historic elegance. The hotel's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.

---

Day 7: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Morning: Departure from Los Angeles

Overview: Leave the vibrant city of Los Angeles and head south to the beautiful city of San Diego. The drive will take you along the scenic Southern California coast.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in San Diego. The drive is relatively short but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Los Angeles, the landscape gradually changes from bustling city life to the beautiful beaches and coastal towns of San Diego.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to San Diego, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

• Laguna Beach, CA: A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and art galleries.
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and hiking trails.

Photography Tips: "Torrey Pines is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the coastline."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Laguna Beach for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: San Diego, CA

Dining Recommendations:

• The Marine Room: Offers delicious food with stunning views of the ocean.
• Hodad's: Known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.
• George's at the Cove: A local favorite with a variety of menu options and breathtaking views.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at The Marine Room. The cozy atmosphere and stunning views provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring San Diego

Overview: Arrive in San Diego in the afternoon. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and historic sites, San Diego offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

• Balboa Park: A beautiful park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo.
• Old Town San Diego: A historic area with shops, restaurants, and exhibits.
• La Jolla Cove: A picturesque beach with stunning views and opportunities for snorkeling and kayaking.

Photography Tips: "La Jolla Cove is best photographed at sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and dramatic lighting."

Immersive Experience: Walk through Balboa Park and explore the museums and gardens. The combination of history and beauty creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in San Diego

Accommodation Options:

• Hotel del Coronado: Offers charming accommodations with historic elegance.
• The US Grant: A luxurious option with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
• La Valencia Hotel: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the ocean.

Immersive Experience: Stay at Hotel del Coronado and enjoy the charming accommodations and historic elegance. The hotel's proximity to the beach allows for easy exploration.

---

Conclusion - Personal Reflections from William Stanek

As our 7-day epic road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway comes to an end, I am reminded of the incredible beauty and diversity of this region. From the lush forests of Olympic National Park to the serene beauty of Big Sur, the vibrant energy of San Francisco to the rich cultural heritage of Los Angeles and San Diego, every stop offered something unique and unforgettable. Hui Cha and I have been fortunate to experience and capture these moments, and we hope that our insights inspire you to embark on your own adventure. Travel responsibly, embrace the natural beauty, and let the spirit of the Pacific Coast elevate your journey. Safe travels!