Welcome to the Pacific Coast Highway & Big Sur Self-Drive Tour
Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) is probably the most iconic and scenic route left in America, and it’s a dream destination for avid road trippers, car lovers, and travel geeks in general. The tour is both Northbound & Southbound, so you can start from either SF or LA.
About the Tour
You can begin the tour in bustling SF. You’ll reach Monterey in no time, which epitomizes California living with world-famous Pebble Beach, famous golf courses, and a prestigious aquarium.
Farther south along Highway 1 is the artsy enclave of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then, the sound of barking sea lions carries inland at Point Lobos State Park, where rocky headlands are interspersed with jewel-like coves.
That’s when you hit Big Sur, the most scenic part of an already scenic road. Enjoy the views, waterfalls, and bridges as you drive and hear some fantastic stories!
At Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, an 80-foot waterfall cascades from the granite cliffs onto the beach. Before you get to San Simeon on the Pacific Coast Highway self-drive tour, pull off at Piedras Blancas Beach, where enormous elephant seals pack the beach in the winter months.
Before cutting inland to San Luis Obispo, stop to admire Morro Bay Rock and hunt for anemones in the tidal pools. Enjoy Santa Barbara’s quintessential downtown and then continue down to Ventura and Malibu.
Wrap up the tour in Los Angeles at the famous Santa Monica Pier.
Bonus Tour
Along the route, we recommend doing the San Luis Obispo Tour. Experience lush scenery, history, and laid-back vibes with 30+ entertaining audio stories on this self-guided, self-paced walk.
Note:
Please be informed that Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) is currently closed between Big Sur and Ragged Point due to ongoing repairs from the Regent’s Slide. This closure affects a 6.8-mile segment of the highway, rendering it impassable to all traffic.
For the most current information and updates on road conditions, please refer to the official Caltrans website: https://roads.dot.ca.gov/?
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Route Map
Where To Start?
The tour begins on Ocean Avenue. As you approach the starting point, you’ll pass by the Santa Monica Pier Arch on your left, along with the Santa Monica Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Please note this is only a suggested starting point. We’re not affiliated with any nearby businesses, and their staff will not have information about the tour.
The tour begins on Shoreline Highway, along Junipero Serra Boulevard, with the golf course to your right. From here, start heading south on Shoreline Highway (Highway 1) to follow the scenic coastal route. Please note this is a suggested starting point. We’re not affiliated with any nearby businesses, and their staff will not have information about the tour.
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
