Five Favorites on the California Coast

from SF to LA on the PCH of CA (lol)

Before we dive in — a bit about me, the person writing this: I’m a California girl.

Born and raised in a small Northern California Gold Rush town, I went to school in Los Angeles and then lived in Santa Barbara before making my way to San Francisco. In short — I’ve spent most of my life here, I love this state, and I think it’s one of the greatest places on the planet.

There is so much diversity in people, culture, and landscape. We have mountains, deserts, beaches, islands, volcanoes, lakes. We have the most national parks in any single state. Not to mention some of the country's most beautiful and interesting urban areas. Yes, it’s expensive. It’s also worth it.

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Heads up! Most of this week’s travel edition is for paid subscribers only. Why, you ask? Travel writing includes more of my direct experience and expertise. Plus, you have my commitment that travel guides will be personally written and always ad and affiliate link-free.

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Whether you’re a fellow Californian or visiting for the first time, the best way to see the state is on a road trip along the coast. Based on your votes, I’m sharing my stops on a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles (or the reverse) with bonus add-on routes, either north of SF or south of LA.

First up, San Francisco.