7-Day RV Itinerary for the Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) stands as one of America's most breathtaking road trips, offering 655 miles of stunning coastline, charming seaside towns, and unforgettable vistas. This carefully crafted 7-day RV itinerary takes you from the sunny beaches of Southern California to the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, balancing scenic drives with ample time to explore each destination.
Overview: Your Week on the PCH
This itinerary covers approximately 450 miles of California's Highway 1, allowing you to experience the best of the Pacific Coast without rushing. We've designed this route specifically for Class C and Class A RVs, accounting for narrow roads, limited turnarounds, and RV-friendly campgrounds. Each day averages 60-100 miles of driving, leaving plenty of time for beach walks, lighthouse visits, and seaside dining.
Best Time to Travel
The ideal window for RVing the PCH is September through early November, when summer crowds have thinned, weather remains mild (60-75°F), and coastal fog is minimal. Spring (April-May) offers wildflower blooms but can be windier. Summer brings crowds and higher campground prices, while winter sees occasional road closures due to landslides.
RV Considerations
Before embarking, ensure your RV meets these specifications:
- Maximum length: 35 feet (some sections restrict vehicles over 40 feet)
- Working engine brake for steep grades
- Full propane tanks (some campgrounds lack hookups)
- Tow vehicle disconnected at certain viewpoints
- GPS updated with RV-specific routing
Day 1: Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach (95 miles)
Start: Santa Barbara RV Resort End: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort Driving Time: 2.5 hours Route: US-101 North to CA-1 North at Las Cruces
Morning Departure (8:00 AM)
Begin your journey at Santa Barbara RV Resort (2225 Andersen Dr), topping off fresh water and dumping tanks before departure. Take US-101 North for 45 miles through the Gaviota Pass, where morning fog often creates mystical mountain views.
Scenic Stops
Gaviota State Park (Mile 33): Pull into the day-use area for panoramic ocean views. The parking lot accommodates RVs up to 35 feet. Walk the 0.5-mile beach trail to stretch your legs.
Jalama Beach County Park (Mile 48): Take Jalama Road (14 miles west) for a dramatic detour. The narrow road requires careful driving but rewards with wild beaches and potential whale sightings (December-April).
Afternoon Activities
Lompoc Flower Fields (June-September): Exit at Highway 246 for a 10-mile detour through vibrant flower fields. Several pullouts allow photo stops without unhitching.
La Purisima Mission (Mile 65): This restored mission offers RV parking in the lower lot. The 1-hour self-guided tour provides California history without overwhelming travel schedules.
Evening Arrival: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort
Address: 165 S Dolliver St, Pismo Beach, CA Check-in: 2:00 PM Sites: Premium oceanfront sites 301-315 accommodate big rigs Amenities: Full hookups, heated pool, beach access Rate: $95-150/night (seasonal)
Dinner Recommendation: Walk to Splash Café (0.3 miles) for their famous clam chowder served in sourdough bowls.
Day 1 Practical Notes
- Fuel up in Santa Barbara (cheaper than coast stations)
- Reserve Pismo site 3-6 months ahead for ocean views
- Pack layers - evening temperatures drop to 55°F
- Download offline maps before Jalama Beach detour (no cell service)
Day 2: Pismo Beach to Morro Bay (15 miles)
Start: Pismo Beach End: Morro Bay State Park Campground Driving Time: 30 minutes Route: CA-1 North
Easy Morning (Sleep in until 9:00 AM)
Today's short drive allows for beach exploration. Start with breakfast at Old West Cinnamon Rolls (RV parking available before 10 AM) before strolling Pismo Pier. Watch surfers tackle consistent breaks while pelicans dive for fish.
Monarch Butterfly Grove (November-February)
Location: Pismo State Beach North Campground RV Parking: Day use lot at entrance Experience: Walk the 0.25-mile boardwalk through eucalyptus groves where 25,000+ monarchs overwinter. Peak viewing: 10 AM-2 PM when sun warms clusters.
Midday Drive to Morro Bay
The 15-mile coastal route passes through:
- Avila Beach (Mile 5): Detour possible but tight turnaround for RVs over 30 feet
- Montana de Oro Bluffs Trail (Mile 12): Park at Spooner's Cove (RV accessible) for dramatic cliff walks
Morro Bay State Park Campground
Address: 60 State Park Rd, Morro Bay, CA Sites: Choose sites 85-100 for bay views Hookups: Water/electric only (no sewer) Wildlife: Morning visits from deer and wild turkeys Rate: $50/night
Afternoon Activities
Morro Rock: Drive the causeway for close views (no climbing allowed - protected nesting site). The parking lot handles any size RV.
Embarcadero: Park at the public lot (Embarcadero & Marina) to explore waterfront shops. Try Giovanni's Fish Market for fresh catches.
Kayaking: Rent from Rock Kayak (3 hours/$45) to paddle among sea otters. Launch from state park marina.
Day 2 Practical Notes
- Dump station at park entrance if needed
- Farmers market Thursdays 2-5 PM in downtown
- Book bay-view restaurant tables for sunset (The Galley recommended)
- Fog common until noon - plan outdoor activities accordingly
Day 3: Morro Bay to San Simeon (42 miles)
Start: Morro Bay End: San Simeon State Park Driving Time: 1 hour Route: CA-1 North through Cayucos and Cambria
Morning Departure (9:00 AM)
Fill up at Chevron on Main Street (last affordable gas for 50 miles) before heading north. The route immediately rewards with dramatic coastline views.
Cayucos Stop (Mile 8)
Cayucos State Beach: Free RV parking along Ocean Avenue. Walk the 953-foot pier or browse antique shops on Ocean Avenue. Brown Butter Cookie Company offers perfect road trip treats.
Harmony Population 18 (Mile 15)
Harmony Cellars: This quirky town accommodates RV parking. The pottery shop and glassworks studio welcome browsers. Historic creamery provides Instagram-worthy photos.
Cambria Lunch Stop (Mile 25)
Moonstone Beach Drive: Follow this scenic loop with multiple RV-friendly pullouts. Linn's Restaurant (Main Street location) offers farm-fresh pies and tri-tip sandwiches with dedicated RV parking.
Afternoon: Elephant Seal Vista Point (Mile 35)
Location: 7 miles north of San Simeon Parking: Large paved lot with RV spaces Best Viewing: December-March for birthing season Experience: Walk the boardwalk to observe 15,000+ elephant seals. Docents provide free education daily.
San Simeon State Park
Address: 500 San Simeon-Monterey Creek Rd Campground: Choose San Simeon Creek (more sheltered) Sites: 33-68 best for RVs Amenities: Restrooms, water (no hookups) Rate: $35/night
Optional: Hearst Castle Tour
Reservations: Book 30+ days ahead RV Parking: Visitor center has oversized spots Tour Options: Grand Rooms tour best for first-timers (60 minutes) Cost: $25-30/adult
Day 3 Practical Notes
- Wind picks up afternoon - secure awnings
- No cell service between Cambria and Big Sur (45 miles)
- Pack lunch if not stopping in Cambria
- Piedras Blancas lighthouse tours Tuesdays/Thursdays only
Day 4: San Simeon to Big Sur (Rest Day)
Location: Big Sur/Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Driving Time: 2 hours (60 miles) Route: CA-1 North through Big Sur
Early Morning Start (7:00 AM)
Today's drive features the PCH's most dramatic scenery but demands full attention. Fill water tanks and check brakes before departing - no services for 60 miles.
Scenic Highlights
Ragged Point (Mile 15): Last services before Big Sur. Restaurant has RV parking. Walk the cliffside trail for 300-foot waterfall views.
Salmon Creek Falls (Mile 25): Small pullout fits 2-3 RVs. Short but steep trail to waterfall (0.5 miles round trip).
Bixby Creek Bridge (Mile 45): Icon of the PCH. North-side pullout accommodates RVs for photos. Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds.
Hurricane Point (Mile 47): Highest point on PCH. Use designated viewpoint - shoulders too narrow for RV stops.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Address: 47225 Highway 1, Big Sur Check-in: Park entrance on east side of highway Sites: River sites 81-100 fit big rigs Amenities: Restrooms, water, no hookups Stay: 2 nights for rest day Rate: $50/night
Afternoon Exploration
Pfeiffer Beach: Take Sycamore Canyon Road (2 miles, sharp turn). RVs under 24 feet only due to narrow road. Purple sand and keyhole rock worth the effort.
McWay Falls: Park at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (2 miles south). Easy 0.5-mile trail to 80-foot waterfall viewpoint.
Day 4 Practical Notes
- No gas in Big Sur proper - fill in San Simeon
- Groceries at Big Sur Deli (limited, expensive)
- Dinner reservations essential (Nepenthe for views)
- Generator hours: 8 AM-8 PM only
Day 5: Big Sur Rest Day
Morning Hikes
Valley View Trail: Depart from Pfeiffer Big Sur campground. 2-mile loop through redwoods with minimal elevation gain. Perfect for families.
Pfeiffer Falls Trail: 1.5 miles round trip to 60-foot waterfall. Moderate difficulty with wooden footbridges.
Afternoon Options
Henry Miller Library: Quirky bookstore/venue 3 miles north. Check events calendar for live music. Small parking area - arrive early.
Ventana Wildlife Society: Book condor watching tour ($50/person). Guides use spotting scopes to view North America's largest birds.
Big Sur River: Wade in swimming holes behind campground. Water cold year-round (55°F) but refreshing after hikes.
Evening
Sunset at Pfeiffer Beach: If staying for sunset, bring flashlights for dark return trail. No overnight parking allowed.
Campfire Program: Rangers offer astronomy talks on clear nights. Check visitor center for schedule.
Day 6: Big Sur to Monterey (65 miles)
Start: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park End: Marina Dunes RV Park Driving Time: 2.5 hours Route: CA-1 North to Monterey
Morning Departure (9:00 AM)
Continue north through Big Sur's remaining highlights before descending to Carmel.
Point Lobos State Reserve (Mile 30)
Entry: $10/vehicle (RVs welcome) Parking: Whaler's Cove lot accommodates RVs Trails: Sea Lion Point (0.5 miles) and Bird Island (0.8 miles) Wildlife: Sea otters, harbor seals, migrating whales Time needed: 2 hours minimum
Carmel-by-the-Sea (Mile 35)
RV Parking: Junipero Street lot (4th & Junipero) Restrictions: 2-hour limit, no overnight Experience: Walk Ocean Avenue galleries and Carmel Beach Lunch: La Bicyclette offers European bistro fare
17-Mile Drive (Optional)
Cost: $11.25/vehicle RV Friendly: Yes, but no stopping at some viewpoints Highlights: Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links Time: 1.5 hours without stops
Marina Dunes RV Park
Address: 3330 Dunes Dr, Marina, CA Sites: Premium sites 1-20 closest to beach Amenities: Full hookups, spa, beach access Rate: $65-85/night Bonus: Miles of undeveloped beach for sunset walks
Evening in Monterey
Cannery Row: Park at Foam Street lot (oversize spaces). Walk among Steinbeck's historic sardine canneries now housing restaurants and shops.
Dinner: The Fish Hopper offers harbor views and fresh seafood. Make reservations for window tables.
Day 6 Practical Notes
- Cheaper gas at Costco Marina (3 miles from RV park)
- Tuesday is free admission day at Monterey Bay Aquarium for locals (ID required)
- Morning fog common - afternoon usually clears
- Strong winds at Marina Dunes - stake down awnings
Day 7: Monterey to Santa Cruz (45 miles)
Start: Marina Dunes RV Park End: Santa Cruz / Journey's End Driving Time: 1.5 hours Route: CA-1 North through Moss Landing
Morning: Monterey Bay Aquarium
Opening: 10:00 AM (arrive 9:30 for entry) RV Parking: Cannery Row Garage (height clearance 7'2") Alternative: Park at Fisherman's Wharf, take free trolley Tickets: $49.95/adult (book online to skip lines) Must-see: Kelp forest, sea otter feeding (11:30 AM)
Coastal Route North
Moss Landing (Mile 20): Stop at Phil's Fish Market for cioppino and artichokes. Ample RV parking makes this a perfect lunch break.
Zmudowski State Beach (Mile 25): Often empty beach with RV-friendly parking. Short boardwalk leads through dunes to pristine sand.
Afternoon: Santa Cruz Arrival
Natural Bridges State Beach: Time your arrival for low tide to explore tide pools. Monarch butterflies October-February. RV parking in main lot.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Park at Main Beach lot (oversized spaces available). Classic seaside amusement park with 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster.
Final Night Options
Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
- Address: 4890 CA-9, Felton, CA
- Sites: Pull-through sites under redwoods
- Amenities: Full hookups, cable TV
- Rate: $75-95/night
Seacliff State Beach
- Address: 201 State Park Dr, Aptos, CA
- Sites: Beachfront sites (reserve far ahead)
- Feature: Concrete ship pier
- Rate: $65/night
Celebrating Your Journey
Sunset: West Cliff Drive offers multiple pullouts for final Pacific sunset Dinner: Crow's Nest at Santa Cruz Harbor - dock and dine ambiance Morning departure: Highway 17 to I-280 returns to Bay Area (90 minutes)
Essential Planning Information
Budgeting Your Trip
Campground Fees: $350-500 total (varies by season) Fuel: $400-500 (assuming 8-10 mpg) Food/Dining: $500-700 for mix of cooking and restaurants Attractions: $200-300 for tours and parks Total Estimate: $1,450-2,000 per RV
Booking Timeline
- 6 months ahead: Pismo oceanfront sites, Big Sur campgrounds
- 3 months ahead: Hearst Castle tours, aquarium tickets
- 1 month ahead: Restaurant reservations in Carmel/Big Sur
- 2 weeks ahead: Confirm all reservations, check road conditions
Packing Essentials
Navigation: Garmin RV GPS or RV Life app for height restrictions Safety: Road flares, emergency triangle (required in California) Comfort: Windbreaker jackets, beach chairs, binoculars Kitchen: Stock up in Santa Barbara - limited shopping en route Entertainment: Downloaded movies/music for areas without cell service
Weather Preparedness
Marine Layer: Morning fog below 70°F - burns off by noon Wind: Afternoon gusts 20-30 mph common - secure loose items Temperature Range: Days 65-75°F, nights 45-55°F Rain: Unlikely June-September, possible October-May
RV-Specific Challenges
Narrow Roads: Big Sur section has no shoulders - maintain steady speed Limited Turnarounds: Miss a viewpoint? Continue to safe turnaround Gas Stations: Not all accommodate large RVs - call ahead Dump Stations: Available at most state parks, some rest areas Cell Service: Verizon best coverage, AT&T spotty, T-Mobile limited
Alternative Routes
Weather Closures: Highway 1 occasionally closes near Big Sur
- Detour via US-101 through Paso Robles
- Adds 2 hours but passes wine country
- Check CalTrans before departure
Time Constraints: Shorten to 5 days by:
- Skip San Simeon overnight
- Drive directly Big Sur to Monterey
- Eliminate rest day
Final Tips for Success
- Drive During Weekdays: Weekend traffic doubles travel times
- Book Fuel-Efficient RV: Gas prices 20-30% higher on coast
- Pack Patience: Narrow roads mean following slow traffic
- Embrace Fog: Creates mystical photography opportunities
- Stay Flexible: Weather/crowds may require itinerary adjustments
This 7-day Pacific Coast Highway RV adventure balances must-see attractions with hidden gems, providing adequate driving time and rest. The memories of crashing waves, towering redwoods, and coastal sunsets will inspire future RV adventures long after you've returned home. Safe travels, and enjoy every magnificent mile of California's crown jewel highway!
