Going back to Los Angeles from San Francisco was the last leg of our USA West Coast road trip. We chose to extend this part of our trip by taking the Pacific Coast Highway and staying overnight in Carmel by the Sea. For a good reason, because the views along our way were stunning!
Part 1 - San Francisco to Carmel by the Sea
Just before leaving San Francisco, we had to take one last picture with the Golden Gate bridge. This time we took it from the Fort Point National historic site. We then continued our way to the CA-1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway.
Leaving the highway to park your car is the best way to fully take in the beautiful landscapes you will come across. Here are a few of the spots where we stopped on our way to Carmel by the Sea:
Part 2 - Carmel by the Sea to Los Angeles
We left Carmel by the Sea early so that we could take our time and enjoy the very last part of our road trip. On our way to Los Angeles, we stopped at the Bixby Creek bridge and the Piedras Blancas State Marine Reserve.
At the Piedras Blancas Marine reserve, we saw lots of elephant seals at the beach. As the name suggests, these animals are enormous so you should watch them from a safe distance. The park is open all year, but the population of the seals varies depending on which month you’re visiting. You should check out the calendar of the elephant sealsΒ hereΒ before your visit.
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If you prefer to visit the Pacific Coast Highway with a tour, check outΒ ViatorΒ for organised group and private tours:Β
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