California Highway 1 is fully open again, including the Big Sur section, after nearly three years of closures. You can now drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles without detours.
California Highway 1 is finally fully open again, and after nearly three years of closures and detours, the iconic Pacific Coast Highway can once again be driven end to end, including the legendary Big Sur section.
This coastal road trip is one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding past dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, misty headlands, and charming seaside towns. We’ve driven Highway 1 on two separate road trips – from San Francisco to Los Angeles, and north of San Francisco toward Mendocino and beyond – and if you’ve been waiting to experience this route properly, this is your sign.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the California Highway 1 reopening, including must-see stops, practical tips, and realistic itineraries you can actually follow.
Is California Highway 1 Fully Open Again?
Yes – California Highway 1 is fully open again, including the long-closed Big Sur section, meaning you can once more drive the Pacific Coast Highway end to end without detours.
After nearly three years of intermittent closures caused by landslides and storm damage, the reopened stretch finally reconnects San Francisco and Los Angeles via the coast, restoring one of the most iconic road trips in the world. For the first time in years, travelers can experience Highway 1 the way it was meant to be driven: continuously, slowly, and scenically.
What This Means for Big Sur
Big Sur was the most impacted section during the closures, often forcing drivers to turn around or reroute inland. With the reopening, all major highlights – including Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, Garrapata Bluff, and Point Lobos – are once again accessible in a single drive. This is a huge win for anyone who has postponed their California road trip waiting for full access.
Important Disclaimer:
Check Conditions Before You Go
While Highway 1 is officially open, it’s still a mountain coastal road, and temporary closures can happen after heavy rain, storms, or landslides.
Before starting your drive, always check:
- Caltrans road conditions (official California highway updates)
- Local weather forecasts, especially in winter and early spring
Road conditions can change quickly, and checking ahead ensures you won’t run into unexpected closures or delays.
What You Need to Know Before Driving California Highway 1
Driving California Highway 1 is very different from a typical road trip. This route rewards patience, flexibility, and a slower pace, and knowing what to expect makes all the difference.
How Many Days Do You Need?
While it’s technically possible to drive Highway 1 in a single day, doing so misses the entire point of the journey.
- Absolute minimum: 2–3 days
- Recommended: 4–7 days if you enjoy photography, short walks, and spontaneous stops
The road is full of viewpoints, beaches, and pullouts you’ll want to stop for, often unexpectedly. Planning extra time turns this drive from stressful to unforgettable.
Best Time of Year to Drive Highway 1
Highway 1 is drivable year-round, but each season offers a different experience.
- Late spring to early fall (May–October):
Best overall conditions, longer days, and more reliable weather - Summer:
Mild coastal temperatures but frequent fog, especially around Big Sur - Fall:
Fewer crowds, clearer skies, and excellent light, one of the best times to go - Winter:
Dramatic scenery and fewer visitors, but higher risk of rain and temporary closures
If you want the best balance of weather and fewer crowds, September and October are ideal.
Fog, Weather & Safety Tips
Fog is part of the Highway 1 experience – and often part of its magic.
- Expect fog in the early mornings and evenings
- Visibility often improves by midday
- Coastal weather can change quickly, even in summer
Safety tips:
- Drive with headlights on in fog
- Watch for cyclists and wildlife
- Pull over only in designated areas
- Avoid driving this route at night if possible
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Gas Stations & Services
Gas stations are limited, especially in the Big Sur region.
- Fill up before entering remote sections
- Don’t rely on seeing a station “soon”
- Food options can be sparse outside towns
Downloading offline maps and saving key stops in advance is highly recommended.
California Highway 1 – Route Breakdown & Driving Times (North → South)
| Section | Route | Road | Approx. Driving Time* | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional Extension | Redwood Coast → Leggett | US-101 | 4–5 hrs | Redwood National & State Parks, Klamath Coast, rugged ocean views |
| 1 | Leggett → Mendocino | CA-1 | 2–3 hrs | Mendocino village, coastal cliffs, foggy viewpoints |
| 2 | Mendocino → San Francisco | CA-1 | 4–5 hrs | Point Arena Lighthouse, Bodega Bay, Marin Headlands |
| 3 | San Francisco → Monterey | CA-1 | 3–4 hrs | Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz coast |
| 4 | Monterey → Big Sur | CA-1 | 1.5–2 hrs | 17-Mile Drive, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Point Lobos |
| 5 | Big Sur → San Simeon | CA-1 | 2–3 hrs | Bixby Bridge, Garrapata Bluff, Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls |
| 6 | San Simeon → San Luis Obispo | CA-1 | 1–1.5 hrs | Elephant Seal Vista, Cambria, Morro Bay |
| 7 | San Luis Obispo → Santa Barbara | CA-1 | 2–3 hrs | Pismo Beach, Gaviota Coast, undeveloped coastline |
| 8 | Santa Barbara → Los Angeles | CA-1 | 2–3 hrs | Malibu coast, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica |
| Optional Extension | Los Angeles → Orange County | CA-1 | 2–3 hrs | Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente |
Top 10 Best Stops Along California Highway 1
If you’re short on time and want to experience the very best of California Highway 1, these are the 10 must-see stops that define the route – from wild Northern California coastline to iconic Southern California scenery.
1. Mendocino
Dramatic cliffs, moody fog, and one of the most atmospheric coastal towns in California. A perfect introduction to Highway 1’s wild northern character.
2. Goat Rock Beach
A rugged Sonoma Coast stop where the river meets the ocean. Famous for its rock formations, wildlife sightings, and untamed scenery.
3. Point Reyes National Seashore (Detour)
A worthwhile inland detour with windswept beaches, coastal cliffs, and lighthouse views. One of the most scenic areas near San Francisco.
4. San Francisco
The urban heart of Highway 1. Don’t miss coastal viewpoints like Lands End, Baker Beach, and Ocean Beach before heading south. Read the full San Francisco blog post.
5. Shark Fin Cove
One of the most unique beach formations on the route, just south of San Francisco. Best visited at low tide for the full effect.
6. Monterey & 17-Mile Drive
Classic California coastal scenery with rocky shores, cypress trees, and ocean views. A must-stop for first-time Highway 1 drivers.
7. Bixby Creek Bridge
The most iconic bridge on Highway 1 and a symbol of the Big Sur coast. Short stop, huge visual impact.
8. McWay Falls
An 80-foot waterfall flowing directly onto the beach – one of the most photographed natural landmarks in California.
9. Cambria & San Simeon
A quieter stretch south of Big Sur, known for coastal charm and the famous elephant seal viewpoint.
10. Malibu Coastline → Los Angeles
The final iconic stretch of Highway 1, where rugged coast gives way to long beaches, cliffside homes, and classic SoCal vibes before reaching LA.
More California Highway 1 Stops (Worth Adding If You Have Time)
California Highway 1 is more than just a scenic drive – it’s one of those rare routes where the journey truly matters more than the destination. From wild northern coastlines to iconic Big Sur cliffs and sun-soaked Southern California beaches, the road connects some of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in the state.
Now that Highway 1 is fully open again, it’s finally possible to experience the route as it was meant to be driven: continuously, slowly, and without detours. Whether you choose to explore just one section or plan a longer end-to-end road trip, the key is to take your time, stop often, and let the coast set the rhythm.
If you’re planning a California road trip, save this guide for later and use it as a starting point to build an itinerary that fits your travel style. California Highway 1 isn’t about checking off sights – it’s about the moments in between, the unexpected viewpoints, and the feeling of being right there on the edge of the continent.
