The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the California coastline. From rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, from charming seaside towns to vibrant cities, this iconic highway has it all. It’s no wonder that the PCH is a popular destination for photographers and Instagrammers alike, who are looking for that perfect shot to share with their followers.
What are the best places to take Instagram-worthy photos along the Pacific Coast Highway? In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the top 15 best Instagram-worthy photo spots along the Pacific Coast Highway. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just an amateur with a smartphone, these spots will provide you with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos and memories that will last a lifetime. So grab your camera, hop in your car, and get ready for a scenic adventure along the West Coast!
1. Hoh Rain Forest
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 237 MI/ 381 KM FORKS, WASHINGTON
GPS: 47.86088, -123.93483
ADDRESS: 18113 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331
The Hoh Rain Forest is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located on the Pacific Coast Highway in Washington State, USA. It is known as one of the best Instagram spots on the Pacific Coast Highway due to its stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes.
The Hoh Rain Forest is part of the Olympic National Park, and it is characterized by its lush green trees, moss-covered branches, and crystal clear streams. The forest is home to several hiking trails that take visitors through different parts of the forest, offering varying perspectives of its natural beauty.
One of the most popular trails is the Hall of Mosses Trail, which is a short and easy hike that takes visitors through a magical world of moss-covered trees and ferns. This trail is a favorite among photographers who are looking for the perfect shot to post on Instagram.
2. Haystack Rock
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 454 MI/ 731 KM CANNON BEACH, OREGON
GPS: 45.88450, -123.96823
Haystack Rock is a magnificent sea stack located off the coast of Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA. This natural wonder stands at 235 feet tall and is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Pacific Coast Highway, attracting photographers and Instagrammers from all over the world.
Haystack Rock is a popular destination for nature lovers and beach-goers alike, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The area around the rock is a protected marine sanctuary, providing visitors with the opportunity to see a variety of marine life, including sea stars, crabs, and anemones.
For photographers and Instagrammers, Haystack Rock offers endless opportunities to capture stunning photos. The rock itself is a popular subject for photos, with its rugged texture and towering height making it a standout feature in any shot. Additionally, the surrounding beach provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, with its wide expanse of sand and rolling waves.
The best times to visit Haystack Rock for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and warm. The changing colors of the sky and the reflections in the water create a stunning visual display that is perfect for capturing on camera.
3. Thor’s Well
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 590 MI/ 950 KM YACHATS, OREGON
GPS: 44.27836, -124.11347
ADDRESS: 44.27836, -124.11347
Thor’s Well is a breathtaking natural wonder located along the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon, and it’s no wonder that it has become one of the best Instagram spots in the area. This stunning geological feature is a collapsed underwater volcanic cave that creates a mesmerizing sinkhole on the rocky coastline, surrounded by the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean.
The well is located in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, just south of Yachats, Oregon. The area is known for its rugged beauty, and the stunning landscape surrounding Thor’s Well only adds to its allure. The well itself is approximately 20 feet deep, and at high tide, it appears as if the ocean is swallowing the earth whole, creating a mesmerizing display of water and rock.
Visitors can access Thor’s Well by hiking along the Captain Cook Trail, which provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. However, visitors should exercise caution when approaching the well, as the waves can be unpredictable and dangerous. It’s important to stay a safe distance from the edge of the well and always be aware of the changing tides.
Despite the potential dangers, Thor’s Well has become an incredibly popular spot for tourists and photographers alike. Its unique and mesmerizing display of the power of nature is truly awe-inspiring, and it’s no wonder that it has become a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
4. Secret Beach
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 757 MI/ 1218 KM BROOKINGS, OREGON
GPS: 42.19497, -124.37189
ADDRESS: 42.19497, -124.37189
Secret Beach, located along the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon, is a hidden gem that has become one of the best Instagram spots in the area. This stunning beach is tucked away in a secluded cove, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Oregon coast.
To access Secret Beach, visitors must first find the unmarked trailhead located off Highway 101, just south of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. The trail descends through a dense forest, providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The hike is relatively easy, but visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some uneven terrain.
The secluded location and stunning scenery of Secret Beach make it a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just looking for a unique travel experience, Secret Beach is a destination that should not be missed.
So, pack your camera and head out to Secret Beach along the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon, and capture the beauty of this hidden gem to share with your followers on Instagram.
5. Drive-Thru Tree Park
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 968 MI/ 1558 KM LEGGETT, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 39.85857, -123.71902
ADDRESS: 67402 Drive Thru Tree Rd, Leggett, CA 95585
Drive-Thru Tree Park, located along the Pacific Coast Highway in California, is a unique and unforgettable destination that has become one of the best Instagram spots in the area. This stunning park features a giant Sequoia tree with a tunnel carved through its trunk, providing a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.
The tree, known as the “Chandelier Tree,” is estimated to be over 2,400 years old and stands at a height of 315 feet. The tunnel, which was carved in the 1930s, allows visitors to drive their cars through the tree, providing a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to be a hit on Instagram.
In addition to the Chandelier Tree, the park also features stunning groves of towering redwoods and a picturesque creek that winds through the forest. The natural beauty of the park provides endless opportunities for photographers to capture stunning shots and create unique and captivating content for their followers.
Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just looking for a unique travel experience, Drive-Thru Tree Park is a destination that should not be missed. So pack your camera, hit the road, and capture the beauty of this incredible park to share with your followers on Instagram.
6. Glass Beach
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1011 MI/ 1627 KM FORT BRAGG, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 39.45261, -123.81349
ADDRESS: W Elm St and Glass Beach Dr, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Glass Beach is a stunning instagram location situated along the Pacific Coast Highway in California, known for its sparkling shoreline covered in colorful glass pebbles. The beach is located in Fort Bragg, which is a small coastal city in Mendocino County, California.
Glass Beach is a popular destination for Instagrammers and photographers, who come to capture the beauty of the colorful glass pebbles against the backdrop of the ocean. The contrast of the clear blue water against the colorful glass is truly stunning and makes for an amazing photo opportunity.
It’s important to note that Glass Beach is a protected area, and visitors are not allowed to remove any of the glass pebbles from the beach. It’s important to respect the environment and leave the glass in its natural state for others to enjoy.
Overall, Glass Beach is a must-see destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway in California. Its unique beauty and vibrant colors make it one of the best Instagram spots along the coast, and its peaceful and serene surroundings make it a great place to relax and unwind.
7. Muir Beach Overlook
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1171 MI/ 1601 KM MUIR BEACH, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 37.86327, -122.58567
ADDRESS: Muir Beach Overlook, Muir Beach, CA 94965
Muir Beach Overlook is undeniably a great Instagram spot. Its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge, combined with its pristine beach and rugged cliffs, make it a picture-perfect destination.
Visitors can capture stunning photos from the overlook, with the vast expanse of the ocean and the iconic bridge providing a dramatic backdrop. The golden light of sunset or the soft light of sunrise can create a magical atmosphere that photographers love to capture.
The beach at Muir Beach Overlook is also a great spot for Instagram photos. The pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and natural surroundings create a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for capturing beautiful beach shots. In addition, the hiking trails at Muir Beach Overlook offer endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos. The trails wind through stunning landscapes, including forests, hills, and meadows, providing ample opportunity to capture the beauty of nature.
Whether you’re an amateur photographer or an Instagram influencer, Muir Beach Overlook is a destination that should not be missed. Its stunning views and natural beauty make it an incredible backdrop for photos that are sure to garner likes and comments on social media.
8. Golden Gate Bridge
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1183 MI/ 1904 KM SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 37.81996, -122.47855
ADDRESS: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA 94129
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic landmark in San Francisco, California, and is one of the most photographed and Instagrammed locations in the world. The bridge is a marvel of engineering and architecture, and its distinctive orange color makes it instantly recognizable.
There are many great Instagram photo spots for capturing the beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge. One of the most popular spots is Battery Spencer, which provides an incredible panoramic view of the bridge and the San Francisco Bay. The vantage point also allows you to capture the city skyline in the background, providing a stunning and unique shot.
Another popular spot for Instagram photos is the Fort Point National Historic Site. This location allows you to capture the bridge from a different angle, with the historic brick fort in the foreground. The juxtaposition of the old fort and the modern bridge creates a unique and interesting contrast that is perfect for Instagram.
Overall, the Golden Gate Bridge offers countless opportunities for capturing Instagram photos. Whether you’re looking for a panoramic view, a moody and atmospheric shot, or a casual beachfront photo, there is a perfect spot for you.
9. Shark Fin Cove
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1250 MI/ 2012 KM DAVENPORT, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 37.00408, -122.18542
ADDRESS: 37.00408, -122.18542
Shark Fin Cove is a hidden gem located along the Pacific Coast Highway in California. It’s a small cove nestled between the cliffs and offers a unique and stunning landscape that is perfect for Instagram photos.
The cove gets its name from a rock formation that juts out of the water, resembling a shark’s fin. This iconic landmark provides a unique and interesting subject for Instagram photos, and the cove itself provides a stunning natural backdrop.
The beach at Shark Fin Cove is small, but its rugged cliffs and rocky shoreline create a dramatic and picturesque landscape. The cove is surrounded by tall cliffs that offer unique and creative angles for photography, and the ocean waves crashing against the rocks provide a powerful and dynamic element to any photo.
One of the most popular photo spots at Shark Fin Cove is the cave that leads to the beach. The cave provides a dramatic entrance to the cove, and the sunlight streaming through the opening creates a magical and atmospheric effect that is perfect for Instagram photos.
10. Bixby Creek Bridge
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1320 MI/ 2124 KM MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.37150, -121.90176
ADDRESS: 27494 Cabrillo Hwy, Monterey, CA 93940
Bixby Creek Bridge is an iconic bridge located on the Pacific Coast Highway in California. It is one of the most photographed and Instagrammed locations in the state, thanks to its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the coastline.
The bridge is a marvel of engineering and design, with its distinctive arches and sweeping curves. It spans 714 feet across a deep canyon and is situated high above the rocky coastline below. The bridge is painted in a stunning shade of light green, which contrasts beautifully against the blue sky and the ocean.
One of the best Instagram photo spots at Bixby Creek Bridge is the pullout on the south side of the bridge. This location provides a stunning panoramic view of the bridge and the surrounding coastline, with the ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see. This vantage point is particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset, when the golden light creates a warm and magical atmosphere.
For those who love hiking, the trails around Bixby Creek Bridge offer endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos. The trails wind through stunning landscapes, including forests, hills, and meadows, providing ample opportunity to capture the beauty of nature.
11. McWay Falls
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1344 MI/ 2163 KM Slates Hot Springs, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.15783, -121.67217
ADDRESS: -121.67217
McWay Falls is a stunning waterfall located along the Pacific Coast Highway in California. It is considered one of the best Instagram spots on the highway, thanks to its picturesque location and breathtaking scenery.
The waterfall cascades down a steep cliff into a small cove, where it meets the ocean in a turquoise-blue pool. The cove is surrounded by tall cliffs and lush greenery, providing a stunning natural backdrop for Instagram photos.
The best vantage point for capturing the beauty of McWay Falls is from the overlook located on the north side of the cove. From this viewpoint, visitors can see the waterfall and the cove in all their glory, with the ocean stretching out into the distance. This location is particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset, when the colors of the sky reflect off the water and create a magical atmosphere.
Another great photo spot at McWay Falls is from the beach located below the overlook. Visitors can walk down a steep trail to the beach, where they can capture unique and stunning photos of the waterfall and the cove from a different angle. The beach itself is also a beautiful location for Instagram photos, with its rugged shoreline and crashing waves.
12. El Matador State Beach
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1611 MI/ 2593 KM MALIBU, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.03803, -118.87467
ADDRESS: 32350 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
El Matador State Beach is a hidden gem located along the Pacific Coast Highway in California. It is considered one of the best Instagram spots on the highway, thanks to its stunning rock formations, secluded coves, and beautiful sunsets.
The beach is located down a steep staircase and has a rugged shoreline that is dotted with dramatic rock formations. The rocks are carved into interesting shapes by the sea, and they provide a stunning natural backdrop for Instagram photos.
One of the best Instagram photo spots at El Matador State Beach is from the overlook located on the bluff above the beach. From this viewpoint, visitors can see the beach and the rock formations in all their glory, with the ocean stretching out into the distance. This location is particularly beautiful during sunset, when the colors of the sky reflect off the water and create a magical atmosphere.
Another great photo spot at El Matador State Beach is from the beach itself. Visitors can explore the rocky coastline and the secluded coves, which provide a unique and stunning backdrop for Instagram photos. The beach is also a popular spot for surfers, who ride the waves created by the rocky shoreline.
13. The Getty Villa
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1630 MI/ 2623 KM PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.04589, -118.56486
ADDRESS: 17985 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
The Getty Villa is a beautiful museum and cultural center located in Pacific Palisades, California. It is considered one of the best places for photographers and photo opportunities in the area, thanks to its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and world-class art collection.
The Getty Villa was designed to replicate the ancient Roman villa, and its architecture is a stunning mix of classical and contemporary design elements. The building features beautiful courtyards, gardens, and sculptures, all of which provide an ideal backdrop for photographers and Instagrammers looking to capture stunning photos.
The gardens at the Getty Villa are another major attraction for photographers. The gardens are designed in the ancient Roman style and feature fountains, waterfalls, and beautiful foliage. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and capture stunning photos of the architecture and surrounding scenery.
Inside the museum, visitors can find an extensive collection of ancient art and artifacts from Greece, Rome, and other ancient civilizations. The museum’s galleries provide a unique opportunity for photographers to capture stunning photos of ancient art, architecture, and artifacts up close.
14. Santa Monica Pier
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1635 MI/ 2631 KM SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.00830, -118.49875
ADDRESS: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Santa Monica Pier is a world-famous landmark and attraction located in Santa Monica, California. It is considered one of the best photo places in the area, thanks to its colorful architecture, stunning ocean views, and vibrant atmosphere.
One of the best spots for Instagram-worthy photos at Santa Monica Pier is the Ferris wheel. The Ferris wheel is an iconic landmark that provides stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area. Visitors can capture breathtaking photos of the pier, the beach, and the ocean from the top of the Ferris wheel.
Another great photo spot at Santa Monica Pier is the Pacific Park amusement park. The park features a variety of colorful rides, including a roller coaster, a swing ride, and a carousel, all of which provide an ideal backdrop for photographers and Instagrammers.
The pier also features a variety of colorful buildings and signs, including the historic Merry-Go-Round building, which was built in 1922. These colorful buildings and signs provide an ideal backdrop for Instagram photos, particularly during sunset when the sky turns a beautiful shade of pink and orange.
15. Venice Beach
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1636 MI/ 2633 KM VENICE, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 33.99325, -118.48059
ADDRESS: Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291, United States
Are there any specific locations along the Pacific Coast Highway that are particularly popular among Instagrammers for capturing beautiful photos? YES! Venice Beach is a popular destination in Los Angeles, California, known for its vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. One of the best places to take Instagram photos at Venice Beach is the iconic lifeguard tower, which is an instantly recognizable landmark and a popular spot for photos.
The lifeguard tower at Venice Beach is a classic symbol of Southern California beach culture, and it provides a unique and colorful backdrop for photos. Visitors can capture stunning photos of the tower with the beautiful blue ocean in the background, or with the vibrant and eclectic boardwalk in the foreground.
In addition to the lifeguard tower, Venice Beach offers a variety of other great photo opportunities. The beach is home to a variety of street performers and vendors, as well as colorful murals and street art that provide a unique and artistic backdrop for photos.
The boardwalk at Venice Beach is also a popular spot for Instagram photos, thanks to its vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. Visitors can capture photos of street performers, skateboarders, and roller skaters, as well as colorful shops and restaurants.
If you’re interested in discovering other interesting spots to visit along the Pacific Coast Highway, I recommend checking out my other blog post: Pacific Coast Highway – The 20 BEST STOPS Along the West Coast – Must-see places!
👍 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.”