California dreamin’ of a summer getaway?
With ocean coastlines, desert valleys, and forested wilderness, the West Coast paradise of Cali is the top destination for Vancouverites looking to embark on an adventure to the other side of the 49th parallel.
For those planning on driving down Highway 1 this summer, these will open your senses up to the sandy beaches, pounding waves, rolling hills, lush forests, and other quintessential and picturesque scenery that make the Golden State shine.
Cruisin’ through Orange County
Southern California’s Orange County boasts some of the world’s most iconic beach towns and theme parks. Starting at the southern end of the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) at Dana Point, the first recommended stop along this part of the route is Laguna Beach, where you can take a walk on the beach at Crystal Cove State Park. Next, head to Newport Beach and treat yourself to a delicious Balboa Bar as you peer at the yachts in the harbour. Finally, cruise through Surf City, USA, or Huntington Beach, and watch as the surfers attempt to catch a wave—or try it yourself! From here, you can continue along up the coast or take a detour to Anaheim, which is home to both Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm.
A warm welcome to wine country
Constructed in 1852 to connect the towns of Napa and Calistoga, the 29 mile Silverado Trail runs parallel to Highway 29, with easy access to some of California’s best wineries.
The best way to navigate this route is to work your way north, starting in the town of Napa in the Napa Valley wine region, which features hundreds of hillside vineyards. Must-visit wineries along the Silverado Trail include Joseph Phelps, ZD Wines, Signorello Estate, the Stags Leap District (for their collection of world-class cabernet wines) and Mumm Napa (for a sip of sparkling wine on their elegant patio).
The best of both surf and sip
Embark on the stretch of Highway 101 and Highway 1 between Malibu and Lompoc to gain access to both beach county and wine country for 120 miles.
Begin your journey in Malibu, where the highway runs along the base of the Santa Monica Mountains before passing through Oxnard, Ventura, and Santa Barbara, where you can walk on the sand along one of these regions’ local beaches. The highway then turns inland through the rolling ranchlands of Lompoc, known for its summer flower fields and excellent Pinot Noir wines.
A journey into the woods
An epic adventure awaits inland along South California’s Rim of the World scenic byway. For over 100 miles, the narrow Highway 18 winds around the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains and through small towns on the way to Big Bear Lake for hiking, tree climbing and water sports.
Key stops on the Rim of the World route include the deep-blue mountain water of Lake Arrowhead, the Sequoia Trail at Heaps Peak Arboretum, and the expansive views of the mountains, lakes and the Pacific Ocean from Keller Peak Fire Lookout.
Explore California’s natural wonders
For a breathtaking road trip that’s more off the beaten path, follow Highway 395 from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park. Running parallel to the Sierra Nevada mountain range, this 215 mile route is filled with a multitude of scenic wonders—from volcanic rock fields and rushing waterfalls, to a stone castle situated in the middle of the lake at the idyllic Emerald Bay State Park.
The northern parts of Yosemite, accessible through the Tioga Pass, offer chances to see Tuolumne Meadows and Wapama Falls, as well as hike the Tuolumne or Merced groves, which are both lined with giant sequoias. From here, you can continue on to explore the quaint Gold Rush towns of Groveland and Coulterville.
Once you’ve mapped out your road trip routes, roll the windows down and say hello to that sweet California summer breeze as you embark on your next great adventure.
Go to to plan out your next California adventure and check out for the ultimate Golden State road trip guide.
