Possibly the Best Scenic Drive in America

by Scott

What do you think of when the words "scenic drive" come to mind? Driving the famous Route 66 from Los Angeles to Chicago? The hairpin route between Nice, France and Monaco? Well I have some news for you! Try the fabled Highway 1 between Santa Barbara and Monterey, California.

This amazing drive encompasses the true California lifestyle. Starting in Santa Barbara, you will find the famous "California Riviera". Much like it's French cousin, white sand beaches, million dollar villas, and breath taking views abound in this area. Surfers from around the world come to the famous beaches here. Santa Barbara is a true gem on the California coast.

Going further north, you will come upon the sleepy communities of Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo. Pismo Beach is famous for it's pier and clam chowder. Foggy summer days make this a great getaway for both San Francisco and Los Angeles natives, as it is the middle ground between the two metros. San Luis Obispo is a small college town famous for it's Cal Poly campus. You will find the famous Mission San Luis Obispo here along with a great downtown, which contains nice shopping and eateries.

Going further north on Highway 1, the beach towns of Morro Bay, Cambria, and San Simeon come into view. This is where the famous Hearst Castle resides and attracts millions of tourists each year. Don't let this fool you though; this area is some of the most quiet and laid back spots in the world. Isolated beaches meet pine forests embedded with sleepy towns and quaint bed and breakfast inns make this stretch of coast a favorite for many scenic drivers. Leave your briefcases at the office, you won't need them in these places. These spots are truly made for relaxation and to getaway from it all!

After leaving San Simeon, the true adventure starts. Highway turns into a two-lane road and the entire rest of the drive is a slow, vista filled adventure. Some parts of the highway are just steps away from the shear cliffs that drop to the icy Pacific Ocean. Looking down the cliffs, you will truly see the splendor and beauty of the land. Pine trees abound on the right while a vast ocean to the left. Pulling over at the vista points offers great camera shots, and once in a lifetime views. This is a long drive and it is recommended to get your gas before embarking, as there are only one or two gas stations between San Simeon and Big Sur. And drive slowly too; this stretch of Highway 1 is notorious for accidents.

In closing, this is the best scenic drive in America if not the world. If you love scenic drives and have not done this one, you are missing out. People say California has it all and after doing this drive you will see it truly does.

Scott writes for briefcases direct, a website that offers luxury briefcases direct from the manufacturer. Scott lives in Los Angeles with his wife Gwen and three dogs.