9 Most Scenic Drives in California

California's rich natural diversity features everything from beautiful beaches and rugged mountains to sprawling deserts and towering redwood forests. This is an invitation to explore the stunning landscapes that make the Golden State a top destination for road trips. With its iconic coastlines, breathtaking national parks, and charming small towns, California offers an array of scenic drives that capture the essence of its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Each of the nine most scenic routes in California presents a unique perspective, whether winding along the Pacific Coast Highway with panoramic ocean views, traversing the Sierra Nevada mountain range, or meandering through wine country’s picturesque vineyards. These scenic drives in California not only showcase the state's breathtaking vistas but also provide access to outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, and vibrant communities that welcome discovery in the United States.

Cordelia To Calistoga

This easygoing hour-long trip in Northern California meanders through the state's wine country, promising multiple stops to explore beautiful vineyards and sample sweet-tasting wines. From Cordelia, the drive heads northwards to Napa, allowing you to shop for supplies and tasty food at the Oxbow Public Market. Take a wine tour in Rutherford at the Staglin Family Vineyard, an excellent opportunity to learn about its over-century heritage and taste various homegrown wines. For a break from monotony, delve into local heritage in St. Helena by visiting the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. The facility exhibits a collection of treasures the famous author left behind. When you get to Calistoga, wind up the tour with an escape to Castello di Amorosa. This isolated winery boasts a rustic 13th-century Tuscan castle surrounded by the western hills, known for producing award-winning wines.

Pismo Beach To Cambria

This exciting trip unfolds in the SoCal region, granting road-trippers a taste of the famous Pacific Coast Highway. The route straddles several miles of the rugged California coastline, spoiling drivers with picturesque sea views as it traverses famous waterfront towns. Notable stops include San Luis Obispo, whose rich historical heritage shows through the 18th-century Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Carry a camera for when you get to Morro Bay to capture the dramatic Morro Rock while strolling along the sandy shores of Morro Rock Beach. You can take a meal break in Cayucos at Duckies Chowder House and replenish with savory fish and chips or fish tacos. At the end of the drive, head to Moonstone Beach in Cambria to revel in its secluded, serene setting and watch the shorebirds against the spectacular backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

North Fork To Jackass Meadow

Embark on a riveting two-and-a-half-hour drive through the High Sierra region, with an opportunity to experience the mystery of the Sierra National Forest and the allure of several heritage towns. Start at the Sierra Mono Museum & Cultural Center, which exhibits California's largest collection of Mono Indian baskets. Other significant points of interest include Tollhouse Rock, where you can find hiking and rock-climbing opportunities. Meanwhile, the scenic shores of Huntington Lake provide an ideal spot to take a breather and enjoy the peaceful environment. The setting is just as gratifying as Mono Hot Springs, conveniently isolated and perfect for hiking, birding, fishing, and relaxing. Finally, Jackass Meadows looks stunning in summer when its colorful wildflowers start to blossom.

Camptonville To Auburn

California's Gold Rush history comes alive during this hour-long drive through the Sierra Nevada corridor. The route passes some of the most well-preserved gold-mining towns, exposing you to a trove of period treasures. Notable attractions on the journey include Nevada City's historic downtown district, which impresses with Victorian storefronts and old-world architecture. Stop at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum to uncover local mining and railway heritage or catch a stage performance at the rustic Nevada Theatre. You'll also want to spend a few minutes in Grass Valley exploring an intimate part of its mining heritage at the Empire Mine State Historic Park. When you get to Auburn, head to Knee Deep Brewing Company to unwind with a refreshing glass of craft beer.

Cajon Pass To Big Bear Lake

This exciting drive lets you discover the Rim of the World Scenic Byway and treats travelers to exotic panoramas of the San Bernardino Mountains. The route offers numerous vistas to soak up, starting with the Cajon Pass Overlook. Visitors can enjoy the Cajon Pass and trains on the BNSF Railroad from the vantage point. More spectacular views await along the section between Onyx Summit and Mill Creek, highlighted by the Sand to Snow National Monument. Other worthwhile attractions to stop for include the Heaps Peak Arboretum, which provides a cool spot for lazy hikes as you discover beautiful tree species in the San Bernardino National Forest. Lastly, Big Bear Solar Observatory is a must-see and is home to what for many years was the largest clear-aperture solar telescope on Earth.

Phillipsville To Fortuna

Many road-trippers consider this route among the most scenic drives in California, a credit to the gigantic redwood trees that sandwich the road. Popularly known as the Avenue of the Giants, it is a popular forest drive open to tourists all year round. Vacationers are usually intrigued by the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree in Myers Flat, where vehicles drive through a tunnel carved out of a massive redwood tree. However, the highlight for most people is the sprawling Humboldt Redwoods State Park. This vast wilderness features a network of old-growth coast redwoods that serve as a hub for fishing, hiking, and camping. Meanwhile, you can replenish your dwindling energy reserves in Rio Dell at the Patron Kitchen. The quaint eatery serves delicious comfort foods, including hamburgers and tacos.

Del Mar To Elmore Desert Ranch

This fun drive takes you from the delightful shores of the Pacific Ocean to the heart of California's desert country. Along the picturesque route, you can witness the diverse landscapes across the state unfold. Take a nonchalant walk on the shores of Powerhouse Park before bidding farewell to the beachfront scenery. The journey passes through exciting inland attractions, including Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve. You'll want to stop in Julian and take advantage of the hiking trails through Volcan Mountain County Preserve. This is also an excellent time to grab a meal at the Julian Cafe & Bakery, which serves delicacies like chicken pies and waffles. The next stop to look forward to is Anza-Borrego State Park, which introduces you to the diverse wonders of the California desert.

Malibu To Lompoc

Starting in the coastal town of Malibu, this popular drive cascades through the Santa Monica Mountains foothills on its way to Lompoc. It is jam-packed with points of interest along the way, stationed in several beautiful seaside locations. These include Emma Wood State Beach in Ventura, where you can briefly pause for a fishing or surfing expedition. Consider stopping for savory seafood at Zookers Restaurant in Carpinteria before downing it with a refreshing craft beer bottle from Island Brewing Company. Meanwhile, don't miss out on the various attractions in Santa Barbara, starting with uncovering over two centuries of history at Old Mission Santa Barbara. Another must-visit site in the city is the Santa Barbara Zoo, which provides a refuge for over 500 animals.

Palm Springs To Joshua Tree

This fantastic 40-minute drive weaves through the California desert, allowing you to explore its dry landscapes. Begin your itinerary at the Palm Springs Art Museum to admire a world-class art collection in a regional cultural hub. Take a break in Morongo Valley to witness native wildlife species that call the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve home. It has scenic nature trails for explorers and an adorable butterfly garden. Learn more about the California desert flora and fauna when you get to Yucca Valley with a tour of the Hi-Desert Nature Museum. Finally, the trip ends in the small town of Joshua Tree, which provides a gateway to the Joshua Tree National Park. Here, you can immerse in the great outdoors to discover its picturesque desert landscapes while hiking.

Final Thoughts

Whether visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of its stunning landscapes, California’s nine most scenic drives introduce visitors to the state's natural allure. Each journey tells a distinct story and provides a unique opportunity to experience the state’s diversity, from Big Sur's rugged coastline to the Sierra Nevada's serene majesty. These scenic drives in California invite you to connect with the rich history and vibrant communities that define the state. So, grab your map, hit the open road, and immerse yourself in the unforgettable sights and experiences that await you on California's scenic routes.