Driving California's coast on Highway 1 is one of America's classic road trips: cliffs, beaches, redwoods and small coastal towns. Here's how to do it without overspending.
Pick your stretch
The full coast is long. Popular sections include Big Sur, the Central Coast and the stretch north of San Francisco. Doing one or two sections well keeps fuel and lodging costs down.
Check the road first
Parts of Highway 1, especially around Big Sur, sometimes close because of landslides. Check the state transportation department's road conditions before you go.
Fuel
California fuel prices are often higher than the national average, and stations in remote coastal areas can cost more still. Fill up in larger towns before remote stretches, and compare prices in an app.
Sleep for less
- State park campgrounds along the coast are popular and cheaper than hotels. Reserve early.
- Stay a few miles inland, where hotels usually cost less than oceanfront.
- Travel midweek and outside summer.
Free stops
Scenic pullouts, public beaches, tide pools, lighthouses viewed from outside, and walking trails. Some state parks charge day-use fees, so a pass may pay off if you plan many visits.
Prices, fees and rules change. Check official sites before you travel.