San Francisco to Monterey Drive [Best Stops on Pacific Coast Highway]

Do you want to go on a scenic San Francisco to Monterey drive?

Then this post is for you.

Driving from San Francisco to Monterey is no less scenic than any other stretch off of the Pacific Coast Highway.

The 2-hour coastal drive between the two can easily turn into a whole day trip or extend to at least a couple of days, as there are tons of beautiful sights to see and spots to explore along the way.

We have included several stops for you to choose from so you can customize your SF to Monterey road trip. 

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How far is Monterey from San Francisco?

The distance from Monterey to San Francisco is approximately 120 miles, which would take about 2 hours of driving under normal traffic conditions.

This is assuming you don’t make any stops along the way, which is highly doubtful considering all the beautiful viewpoints and charming towns littered along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Driving from San Francisco to Monterey Bay

• Direct Route via 101 S: 113 miles, 2 to 2.5 hours
• Scenic Drive via Highway 1 (PCH): 120 miles, 2.5 to 3 hours

When driving from SF to Monterey, you can choose the more direct route via US-101 S through Silicon Valley (San Jose) or take the scenic option via Highway 1. 

However, we recommend you take the scenic drive along the coast, as there’s only a marginal difference between the drive times for each route.

This San Francisco to Monterey coastal route features stops in larger towns such as Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. 

You will find several viewpoints, some that require a bit of hiking, some state beaches with cool rock formations, and a couple of stops just a little beyond Monterey Bay. 

Take note that while most of these stops won’t require too much of your time, others on this list may need more than just an hour to explore.

How to use this SF to Monterey Bay Road Trip Itinerary

This road trip itinerary includes not only the highlights you will see along the way but also recommendations for places to eat, coffee shops, and where to get gas.

These were written so you’ll have the best idea of which stops to definitely take and which you can maybe skip for some other time. 

Choose whichever works best for you and your timetable, but check the operating hours of the local business you plan on visiting before leaving the Bay area.

Best Stops between San Francisco and Monterey 

San Francisco

This is the starting point for your San Francisco to Monterey road trip via Highway 1 or Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). 

We’re assuming you’ve spent some time here and experienced the best things the city has to offer, either by exploring on your own or by taking the best tours.

From walking on the Golden Gate Bridge to eating world-class cuisine to enjoying views of the San Francisco skyline to seeing the coastal redwoods in Muir Woods, you can easily spend a week or two here and not see it all.

Pacifica

Pacifica is well known for its surfing and great beaches and is a wild departure from the large metropolis of San Francisco to its north. 

It’s hard to imagine that this charming beach town is only a fifteen-minute drive from the big city. 

This small town is also a great place to kick back and enjoy watching the surfers battle the waves at Rockaway Beach from the top of Mori Point. 

As you are south out of town, make a stop and stretch your legs at Devil’s Slide and take in the gorgeous views of the coastline.

RELATED: Check out more San Francisco beaches here.

Half Moon Bay

This seaside town, frequented by tourists, especially surfers, is the next stop for this itinerary. 

If you happen to leave the city with an empty stomach and perhaps a near-empty fuel tank, this is an ideal place to fill up on both. 

Half Moon Bay has plenty of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants you can explore on Main Street, where you can buy your breakfast and maybe even stock up on a few road trip essentials.

Park for free at the Alsace Lorraine neighborhood and check out the Skull of A Blue Whale before heading out for a beach stroll at Francis Beach or any of the other Half Moon Bay beaches lined up along the shore.

There is a beautiful redwood forest nearby if you want to make the extra stop.

🍴 WHERE TO EAT IN HALF MOON BAY

• Sam’s Chowder House – This restaurant near Surfers’ Beach is known for its lobster rolls and creamy New England clam chowder.

• Dad’s Luncheonette – This place is well known for its hamburger sandwich and its mushroom sandwich. They are called sandwiches because they are served on griddled sliced bread instead of a bun.

• Gulino Gelato – If you’re looking for something cold and delicious, this ice cream shop prides itself on making only the freshest gelato from scratch using high-quality ingredients.

☕ COFFEE: Dawn Patrol Coffee

⛽ GAS: multiple options

Pescadero

Continuing your way down south, add a quick detour a little bit inland to the historic town of Pescadero. 

Compared to its bustling neighbors, San Francisco and Half Moon Bay, this farming community is very laidback and quiet. 

You can stretch your legs and take a short stroll at the Pescadero Marsh Trail where you can spot ducks and other birds or explore the town’s tiny main street.

Drop by Harley Farms Goat Dairy for a visit with farm animals and purchase some of their award-winning farmstead cheese. 

If you’re doing this day trip from San Francisco to Monterey Bay during berry picking season, visit R&R Fresh Farms for a fun u-pick harvesting experience. 

Make sure to call the farm ahead to confirm availability.

🍴 WHERE TO EAT IN PESCADERO

• Duarte’s Tavern – Serves American country-style food with Portuguese influence. Make sure to order a serving of their Olallieberry Pie.

• Arcangeli Grocery – Drop by this place for some epic artichoke garlic bread. Make sure to buy extra for the road as well.

☕ COFFEE: Downtown Local

⛽ GAS: multiple options

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

From the highway, turn right to Pigeon Point Road and you won’t miss California’s most photographed lighthouse – Pigeon Point Lighthouse. 

First used in 1872, it has since been updated from its original Fresnel lens to an automated LED beacon so it remains functional to this day. 

Take a selfie with the lighthouse or hike around the grounds to look for the perfect angle to take a shot of the lighthouse sitting atop the ocean bluff. 

Admission to the Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is free, and if you have time you can book a guided tour around the area or explore the trails near the reefs for a chance to spot some whales and seals.

If the tides are out when you visit, you can even check out some tidepools.

Pie Ranch

Be careful not to miss the turn for Pie Ranch’s parking lot just off Cabrillo Highway, or you might miss it altogether. 

Open from 10 AM to 5 PM, this food bank is a great stop for some delicious homemade pies and pastries. 

Their pie menu changes frequently, and they do sell out fast, so make sure to arrive here as early as you can and just grab a slice of whatever pie’s available.  

Año Nuevo State Park

Less than a mile from Pie Ranch, Año Nuevo State Park is the perfect stop to burn some of the pies you’ve eaten. 

Known as the largest mainland breeding colony for the northern elephant seal, the 4-mile hike to see them is worth it, especially if you want to quietly observe how these marine creatures are in their natural breeding habitat.

If you don’t have the time for the hike or if you want to avoid paying the $10 park entrance fee, continue down south of the reserve to Cove Beach. 

Parking along the highway is free, and you can view the abandoned light station on Año Neuvo Island, watch a few surfers braving the waves, and spot some wildlife, all from this public access beach.

Swanton Berry Farm

Summer is berry-picking season, and if you’re driving from SF to Monterey during this time, drop by Swanton Berry Farm and have fun picking your own berries.

Of course, you can purchase from their pre-picked berries, but wouldn’t it be fun to spend a couple of minutes picking your own? 

Also, make sure to try their freshly made strawberry shortcake – it’s divine.

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove was aptly named for the large rock formation resembling a shark fin that’s sticking out of the ocean. 

Pull out at the dirt parking lot at the side of the highway and walk across the train tracks to several viewpoints that offer great views of the cove from above. 

If you want a more imposing snap of this prominent rock feature or you want to check the sea cave below, look for the small trailhead located just beside the tracks and make your way down the steep and rocky path to the beach below. 

Panther Beach (Hole in the Wall Beach)

Disclaimer, in case you plan on making this stop, both Panther Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall Beach are clothing optional, so if you have kids with you, you might want to skip these two beaches.

That said, Panther Beach is a sandy beach just north of Santa Cruz and can be accessed via a steep path down a trail on the north end of an unmarked parking lot off Hwy 1. 

Hole-in-the-Wall Beach can only be accessed during low tides by passing an opening in a rock wall on the south end of Panther Beach.

Four Mile Beach

Also known as Baldwin Creek Beach, this sandy beach, located at the northern edge of Wilder Ranch State Park, is only about a mile long – contrary to what its name may initially suggest. 

This beach, in truth, got its name because of its parking lot’s distance, along Hwy 1, from Western Santa Cruz. 

The most accessible public beach at the park, Four Mile Beach, is frequented by local surfers looking to catch the right waves, as well as beach lovers looking for a place to picnic.

If you just want to check the views and stay away from the crowd, take the short hike to the Four Mile Beach Vista Point. 

Here you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the beach below and the surrounding rocky cliffs.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach was named after the wave-hewn arches found in the sandstone cliffs in the area. 

Over time, many of the cliffs caved in so that now there remains only one such bridge in existence – this is that same ‘bridge’ you see in all of the park’s famous photos. 

There’s a free public 20-minute-only parking lot near an overlook where you can take photos and view the bridge from a conservative distance – ideal for a quick in and out. 

If you want a more close-up look at this rock feature, as well as access to the state beach, you will have to pay a $10 park entrance fee.

Santa Cruz

You’re now way past the halfway mark and have reached one of the most iconic stops along the Pacific Coast Highway – Santa Cruz. 

Famous for its Boardwalk that’s located right on Santa Cruz Beach, it’s easy to spend an extra hour or two at this stop just exploring this landmark and the nearby wharf alone. 

This is the perfect midday stop. Grab some lunch downtown before enjoying carnival games at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

Ride the Giant Dipper, a 1924 wooden roller coaster, before trying out a few carnival eats. 

If you want to relax and unwind for a bit, Santa Cruz County has over 29 miles of beaches you can choose from to get away from the noise and crowd of the main beach and its boardwalk.

🍴 WHERE TO EAT IN SANTA CRUZ 

• Zoccoli’s Delicatessen – A local favorite, this is a recommended spot to grab some delicious sandwiches. 

• Hula’s Island Grill – California setting with Hawaiian hospitality, this restaurant serves Hawaiian fairs with an American spin. This is also the place for some great-tasting tiki drinks.

• Companion Bakeshop – This community-centered bakeshop is a wonderful place to get some freshly baked goodies for the road as well as delicious-tasting coffee. 

• Penny Ice Creamery – After sweating at the Boardwalk, cool off with a serving of their delicious ice cream. This shop completely makes its ice cream from scratch in-house using only the freshest ingredients.

☕ COFFEE: 11th hour Coffee, Cat & Cloud Coffee, Verve Coffee Roasters

⛽ GAS: Multiple options

Note: The food and coffee options are not located at the beach boardwalk but off Hwy 1.

Capitola

Spare a few more minutes and visit Santa Cruz’s neighbor and home to West Coast’s oldest beach resort – Capitola. 

This small resort town has an artsy Village lined up with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants that you can easily stroll through. 

Take pictures of the colorful tiles at the sea wall in Esplanade Park near the beach, as well as the brightly colored houses that lined up the beach shore.

If you’re traveling through here during the summer, expect crowds gathering for the many activities that Capitola hosts at the beach.

Local Tip: It can be hard to find parking in the Village in the summer, but you can find parking on the hill along Cliff drive.

🍴 WHERE TO EAT IN CAPITOLA 

• Reef Dog Deli – This place serves gourmet sandwiches as well as grab ‘n go foods from scratch.

• Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria – Offering a rotating menu, check their website ahead to know just what you can order before dropping by.

☕ COFFEE: Zizzo’s Coffeehouse

⛽ GAS: Multiple options

Monterey Bay

You’ve finally reached your destination. 

Monterey Bay is a beautiful coastal town that you can visit year-round.

Aside from the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, breathtaking views of the rocky shorelines, and delicious seafood, this town is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Grab a cup of coffee and watch the sunset at Asilomar Beach, or head over to one of their local craft breweries for a pint or two.

Despite this being the last stop, we’ve added a few nearby destinations that are worth checking out especially if you plan on staying in Monterey for a couple of days.

Fun Things to do in Monterey

• Cannery Row

This historic district was made famous by the novel of the same name, written by award-winning American novelist John Steinbeck. 

Though it’s now a shadow of the bustling canning industry it once was, the buildings in this area were preserved and now house charming shops, boutique hotels, cafes, and other attractions.

• Monterey Bay Aquarium

Located in Cannery Row, this is one of the country’s most popular aquariums. With over 45 interactive exhibits featuring over 600 different marine animals and plants, this is a must-visit when you’re in Monterey.

• Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Another historic Monterey location once served as the town’s wholesale fish market. Today, this is your go-to spot for the best seafood restaurants offering only the freshest catch bought from local fishermen at the nearby new wharf.

Aside from great seafood, there are also several shops here that you can visit to buy some unique souvenirs.

• Whale Watching Tour

This is best done during the morning, so for a better chance to spot some whales, you might need to stay for the night and launch off during the earliest tour available the next day. 

Whale-watching tours are offered year-round, and depending on the season, you might spot different species of whales and dolphins as well as other marine mammals and seabirds.

🍴 WHERE TO EAT IN MONTEREY

• Vivolo’s Chowder House – Serves high-quality fresh seafood dishes as well as creamy New England clam chowder.

• Parker-Lusseau Pastries – They make stunning artisan laminated pastries and other desserts you can enjoy while strolling around town or hanging out by the beach.

• Compagno’s Market & Deli – Great selection of huge deli sandwiches perfect to fill anyone up for the road. Perfect for your trip back to SF.

• Cafe Guarani – This cafe serves a traditional herbal tea called Yerba Mate, as well as Cocide (smoked tea) and Terere (a cold version of Yerba Mate)

• Revival Ice Cream – Make handcrafted small-batch ice cream using locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients.

☕ COFFEE: Tidal Coffee, Captain + Stoker

⛽ GAS: Multiple options

17-mile Drive

The 17-mile drive is a beautiful stretch of road along the coast that passes through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove.

The best entrance to use is the one on Pacific Grove, then you can exit at the Carmel Gate. 

You will need to pay an $11.25 fee per car, which is nominal given the breathtaking views of the coast and the Pacific Ocean, it’s absolutely worth it. 

On the road trip map you’ll get with your entry fee you’ll find 17 marked stops you can check out while driving through here to Carmel. 

However, if you don’t want to make those many stops, we recommend not missing the 250-year-old Lone Cypress and Seal Rock to spot some harbor seals.

🚲 One of the best ways to explore the 17-mile drive is by taking this electric bike tour. This fun small group tour is led by a very knowledgeable guide which makes for a richer experience as you learn about the history and fun facts of this area. ▶️BOOK THIS TOUR

Carmel-by-the-Sea

This town is after Monterey but given that it’s only about a 10-minute drive away, it’s worth including in this itinerary, especially with what it has to offer. 

This charming coastal town is Monterey’s much wealthier cousin and is well-known for its beautiful beach, high-end boutique shops and restaurants, and fairytale cottages. 

Stroll through its cobbled streets and tree-lined Main Street and explore its many secret passageways that lead to outdoor patios and beautiful gardens.

Check out some cute coffee shops or sample local vintages at wine-tasting rooms just walking distance from each other.

This one-square-mile town sure packs a lot of attractions and activities that you can even opt to make an entire trip just exploring this place.

There are different lodging options available, from ocean view boutique hotels to glamping in one of the campgrounds in Carmel.

🍴 WHERE TO EAT IN CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

• Bruno’s Market & Deli – This is a local specialty market that whips out some amazing tri-tip sandwiches.

• Rise + Roam – This is a great food place to buy freshly made pizza that you can enjoy while walking through town or taking with you on the road.

• The Cheese Shop – This shop offers a carefully curated selection of imported and local wines and cheeses. This is a cool store for those who love gourmet cheeses, wines, caviar, and countless other gourmet ingredients.

• Carmel Bakery – Grab some delicious freshly baked goodies from Carmel’s oldest-running retail business.

☕ COFFEE: Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Co

⛽ GAS: Multiple options

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is less than 20 minutes away from Monterey and is another great spot to check out, especially if you have extra time. 

A year-round stopping point for orcas, you can hike the trails that run along the coast and try to spot these majestic marine mammals.

For an easier, relatively less time-consuming hike, you can check out the hiking trail that leads to China Cove viewpoint, where your can relax and take in the breathtaking views. 

If you’re lucky enough, you might even spot some seals and sea otters nearby.

The park requires a $10 per car entry fee though you can try to look for free parking along Hwy 1 if you want to avoid paying it.

San Francisco to Monterey Drive Itinerary Map

Where to eat between San Francisco to Monterey

1. Half Moon Bay – Sam’s Chowder House, Dad’s Luncheonette, Gulino Gelato
2. Pescadero – Duarte’s Tavern, Arcangeli’s Market, Pie Ranch
3. Santa Cruz – Zoccoli’s Delicatessen, Hula’s Island Grill, Companion Bakeshop, Penny Ice Creamery
4. Capitola – Reef Dog Deli, Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria
5. Monterey Bay – Compagno’s Market & Deli, Cafe Guarani, Vivolo’s Chowder House, Parker-Lusseau Pastries, Revival Ice Cream
6. Carmel – Bruno’s Market & Deli, Rise + Roam, The Cheese Shop, Carmel Bakery

When is the best time to visit Monterey?

The best time to visit Monterey is late Summer to early Fall.

The weather on the California Coast tends to vary a lot though it’s common knowledge that Summer’s usually overcast and foggy especially early in the morning and late in the afternoon. 

Winter tends to be amiable though still a bit cold. More consistent weather of sunshine and clear skies usually happen during Springtime, late Summer, or early Fall. 

Can you do a day trip to Monterey from San Francisco?

Yes, since Monterey is only a 2-hour drive from San Francisco, you can easily do this as a day trip.

However, there is plenty to see and do in Monterey Bay, so you might want to consider spending an extra day or two.

How many days should you spend in Monterey?

It is best to spend at least 2-3 days in Monterey to thoroughly enjoy what it has to offer, as well as explore its surrounding areas.

This way, you don’t feel rushed and tired from your trip.

Planning your San Francisco to Monterey Drive

1. Time of the Year

You would think Summer brings sunny blue skies, but unfortunately, the weather along the coast is different at this time of the year.

There is a high probability of overcast and fog during Summer so its best to plan your trip just before summer ends or around early Fall for the best coastal weather. 

You can also go during the off-season (November-March) if you’re trying to avoid the crowds altogether.

2. Get a California State Park Pass

If you’re planning on visiting other California State Parks throughout the year, it might be worth it to get a Golden Poppy Annual Pass instead. 

This allows convenient access to state parks without having to pay individual entry fees. 

It’s worth noting that several stops found in this itinerary are located in state parks covered under the Golden Poppy Annual Pass.

• Half Moon Bay SB
• Ano Nuevo SP
• Natural Bridges SB
• Point Lobos SNR

3. Download some music

For uninterrupted music streaming, download your favorite playlists on Spotify to access them even on portions of the trip with no cell service.

4. Don’t forget to pack these items

This California road trip may only take a couple of hours, but it’s always best to be ready and have these basic items on hand. 

• Light Jacket – the weather can change anytime so having layers with you is a good idea.
• Portable Charger – you will be taking lots of photos and maybe even using your phone as GPS, so keep this in hand.
• Dramamine – if you get motion sickness, make sure to take this so you’re not miserable on this scenic ride.

Getting to Monterey

Although there is an airport in Monterey, it is only serviced by three airlines, and the flights are a bit expensive compared to flying to a major airport like SFO or SJC.

The best way to get to Monterey is by car, which gives you the most flexibility with your time and travel plans.

If you don’t have a car, you can check out Rentalcars.com to find the best deals. If you’re under 21 and renting a car, read our guide here.

How to get from San Francisco to Monterey without a car

If you need to get to Monterey Bay from San Francisco without a car, the best way is through this full-day tour which includes pick-up from select hotels in San Francisco.

This tour will take you through the Pacific Coast Highway and stop at Monterey and Carmel, as well as drive through the 17-mile drive. 

This is also a great way to enjoy the coastal views without having to worry about driving or which stops to take.

We loved the scenic drive down PCH 1! The stops at Monterey for lunch, viewing the Lone Cypress in 17-mile drive, Carmel by the Sea, & the Pebble Beach Lodge were great. Long day but worth it.

– KEITH (READ REVIEWS)

San Francisco to Monterey Tour

If you want to visit Monterey from San Francisco without being in a big tour bus with other passengers, then this private tour is the best option for you.

The best thing about this tour is not only will you get full flexibility to go at your own pace, and stop wherever you want, you can even explore all the way to Big Sur!

Fred did an amazing job all day. He was very informative and made the trip top level. We thought about driving ourselves but Fred knew every stop, every photo op, every bathroom, etc. Lunch suggestions in Carmel, no parking hassle. Very laid back yet thorough. I can’t say enough about how spectacular the day was and I would use him again vs driving myself.

– SETH (READ MORE REVIEWS)

San Francisco to Monterey Shuttle

If you don’t mind taking public transportation to Monterey from San Francisco, then you can take the Monterey Airbus.

The 2:45-hour shuttle ride leaves every hour but pick-ups are only available from the San Francisco airport (SFO).

However, it will be tricky to get around Monterey without a car.

Other Road Trips from San Francisco

There are so many fun road trips ideas from San Francisco depending on your preference.

If you want to stay on the coast, you can explore Big Sur, which is fairly close to Monterey.

Another road trip idea from San Francisco is to Lake Tahoe, a beautiful alpine lake worth visiting over and over again.

For those who want a long road trip, you can drive to Las Vegas from SF and see multiple top sites in California.

FAQs: San Francisco to Monterey by Car

Is the drive from San Francisco to Monterey scenic?

Yes. The drive from SF to Monterey Bay is one of the most scenic drives in California. 

If you choose to drive on Highway 1 or the Pacific Coast Highway, you will pass through several charming beach towns and stunning stretches of the California coastline.

Is Monterey worth visiting?

Yes, Monterey is worth visiting. 

This historic seaside town offers its visitors several beautiful attractions, unique activities such as year-round whale watching tours, and exceptional seafood dishes.

Is Monterey close to San Francisco?

Yes, Monterey is only a 2-hour drive from San Francisco each way, with no stops. 

What is the distance from San Francisco to Monterey Bay?

The distance from San Francisco to Monterey is around 120 miles. 

With normal traffic conditions and provided that you don’t make any stops along the way, aside from restroom breaks and gassing up, you can cover this distance in two hours.

Wrap-Up: San Francisco to Monterey Drive

The coastal drive from San Francisco to Monterey is packed with so many beautiful stops to see along the way.

We hope this guide has given you everything you need to plan your road trip to Monterey Bay.

Looking for more road trip ideas? Check these out:

• SF to Yosemite Road Trip
• Lake Tahoe to Yosemite Road Trip
• Yosemite to Sequoia Road Trip
• Sacramento to Portland Road Trip