The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, stretching over 1,700 miles along the West Coast of the United States. Starting from Seattle, Washington, in the north and ending in San Diego, California, in the south, this epic road trip offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and an abundance of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
One of the most common questions that travelers ask is which direction is the best way to travel: northbound or southbound? Which Pacific Coast Highway direction is better? The answer depends on your travel preferences and goals. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned road tripper, it’s essential to choose the right direction that matches your needs and interests.
In this blog, I’ll explore the different factors that can help you make an informed decision. I’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of traveling northbound versus southbound, the must-see attractions along the way, and the best time of year to embark on this unforgettable journey.
Starting in Seattle, Washington, and ending in San Diego, California, the PCH can be driven in either direction: northbound or southbound. Both directions offer their own unique charms and challenges. So, whether you’re planning to start your trip in Seattle or San Diego, get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime! The Pacific Coast Highway is a road trip that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Driving Northbound on the PCH: Pros and Cons
Starting in San Diego and driving northbound on the PCH means you’ll not be driving on the side of the road closest to the ocean, offering unparalleled views of the coastline. However, driving in this direction means you’ll be on the outer lane, which can be a little nerve-wracking for some drivers, especially those not used to driving on the right-hand side of the road.
Driving northbound on the Pacific Coast Highway offers a different but equally spectacular experience as driving southbound. One of the biggest advantages of driving northbound is that you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning coastal views without worrying about the sun in your eyes. With the sun behind you, you’ll have a clear view of the ocean and the coastline, and you won’t have to deal with the challenges of driving into the sun.
Another benefit of driving northbound is that you’ll be able to experience the famous Bixby Bridge from a different perspective. Instead of approaching the bridge from the north, as you would when driving southbound, you’ll be able to see the iconic structure from the south, providing a new and unique perspective of this architectural wonder.
Driving northbound also offers a different pace and experience than driving southbound. While the southbound drive offers a gradual transition from the rugged coastline of Washington and Oregon to the more tranquil countryside of California, driving northbound provides the opportunity to experience the reverse. Starting in California and ending in Washington allows you to see the changing scenery and landscapes in a different order, giving you a fresh and exciting perspective.
Furthermore, driving northbound is often less crowded than driving southbound, as most travelers tend to drive the Pacific Coast Highway in the opposite direction. This can be an advantage for those who want to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy a more relaxed pace, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the stunning views and roadside attractions.
In conclusion, driving the Pacific Coast Highway northbound provides a unique and unforgettable experience, with breathtaking coastal views, iconic landmarks, and the opportunity to experience changing landscapes in a different order. With the sun behind you and fewer crowds, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the scenery at your leisure, making it the perfect road trip for those looking for a slower, more relaxed pace.
Pros:
- Spectacular and better ocean views.
- Easier to see oncoming traffic when making left-hand turns into pullouts and parking lots.
- You can watch beautiful sunsets
- The outer lane closest to the ocean can be less nerve-wracking for some drivers.
- Less crowded
Cons:
- It can be harder to pull off the road and park at viewpoints, as you’ll need to make left-hand turns across traffic.
Driving Southbound on the PCH: Pros and Cons (more popular)
This is a more popular direction. Starting in Seattle and driving southbound on the PCH means you’ll be driving on the inner lane closest to the mountains, offering views of the rolling hills and rugged mountains. However, this means you’ll be on the opposite side of the road to most other drivers, which can be a little disorienting for those not used to driving on the left-hand side of the road.
If you choose to drive the Pacific Coast Highway southbound, you will have a slightly different experience than those who drive northbound. While you will be in the lane closest to the sea, you will still have access to pullouts and stunning views of the coastline. Plus, you won’t have to worry about driving into the sun for much of the day, which can be a significant advantage.
One of the advantages of driving southbound is that you’ll be able to see the ocean on your right side, allowing you to enjoy the incredible coastal scenery without worrying about traffic.
As you drive southbound, you’ll also be able to appreciate the changing landscape as you leave the rugged coastline of Washington and Oregon and enter the more tranquil countryside of California. The scenery will gradually shift from towering cliffs and crashing waves to rolling hills, quaint towns, and vineyards. This makes the southbound drive perfect for those who want to take their time and soak in the beauty of the entire coastline.
If you’re planning to rent a car for your road trip, don’t forget to check out my other blog post on that topic: Pacific Coast Highway – How to Rent a Car for a PCH Journey? Car Rental in 5 EASY Steps!
Another benefit of driving southbound is that you’ll be able to end your journey in Los Angeles or San Diego, two vibrant cities that offer a wide range of activities, dining options, and cultural attractions. Both cities are known for their beaches, museums, and nightlife, making them perfect destinations to relax and unwind after a long road trip.
In conclusion, driving the Pacific Coast Highway southbound offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Plus, you’ll be able to end your journey in some of California’s most exciting cities, making it the perfect road trip for those who want to combine natural beauty with urban excitement.
Pros:
- Easier to pull off the road and park at viewpoints.
- Spectacular ocean views
- Ends in Los Angeles or San Diego
- More popular
Cons:
- Can be more nerve-wracking for some drivers, as you’ll be on the inner lane.
No matter which direction you choose to drive the PCH, there are countless sights and activities to enjoy along the way.
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the PCH in my travel guide, “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all West Coast travelers. Visit 202 places on the PCH with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles motorcycle club and an avid traveler. He has completed seven full journeys along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway on his Harley-Davidson and is passionate about promoting this historic drive to others. Mark has also explored the Alaska Highway and Route 66, and has authored three bestselling travel guides on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places,” “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops,” and “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops.”