Three must-visit stops for the ultimate California road trip

Collaborative Post | Adventurers far and wide have long descended on the Golden State in search of exhilarating drives and world-class stop-offs. Whether you indulge in the inimitable charm of Route 66 or take on the Pacific Coast Highway, California is home to some of the most heavenly stretches of road on the planet – making it a road-tripper’s dream. Although it’s very much about the journey here, the destinations are just as special.
 
If you’re looking for itinerary inspiration, here are three of the most spectacular stops to consider.

Photo by anna breaux on Unsplash

Carmel-by-the-Sea

California and beaches go hand in hand, so it’s only right you take a little detour to a sandy stretch or two when exploring this stunning state. One of its most beautiful beaches can be found in the city of Carmel in Monterey County. Time it right and you’ll be treated to one of the most dramatic sunsets in the region – but quite honestly, there isn’t a bad time to park up and explore this seaside gem.
 
There are plenty of activities to be enjoyed: surfing is a particular favourite amongst locals. Or, you can simply kick back on the silvery sands and soak up the sun – exactly how California was made to be enjoyed. There is free street parking along nearby roads, so put the handbrake on and let yourself go in this truly spectacular setting.

Death Valley

California is home to nine of the country’s most beautiful national parks. From the ancient trees of Sequoia to the raw, wild beauty of Yosemite, these natural wonders are impossible to ignore. These areas are often best enjoyed on foot, but if you’re looking to discover one of America’s best natural attractions from the comfort of your car, head to Death Valley – the biggest national park in the contiguous United States. 
 
With over 300 miles of paved roads laid out across the expansive landscape – which includes plenty of twists, turns and steep drop-offs – driving through Death Valley is truly an experience like no other. While the name shouldn’t be a deterrent, you certainly need to take note of the potential hazards here, and make safety a top priority when visiting. For the unprepared, it can be a dangerous place – not least due to the exceedingly high temperatures often felt here. Expert advice suggests bringing two spare tyres and plenty of food and water when visiting this scorching corner of the country.

Photo by Markus Lauff on Unsplash

​Alcatraz Island

Swap out the car for a ferry and head across San Francisco Bay to one of the world’s most infamous prisons. With plenty of exhibits, presentations and tours, you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring this fascinating place.
 
It’s worth noting that – in true San Francisco style – parking for the ferry can be difficult. The NPS advises heading to one of the 15 commercial parking lots within a five-mile radius of Alcatraz Landing. It’s important to also remember that the daily timings for the last ferry change with the seasons, and tickets to the island go on sale 90 days in advance – so make sure you’re organised to avoid disappointment.

A sun-soaked drive

This stunning state is undoubtedly one of the best road trip destinations in the world. With so much variety at every turn, you’ll never be short of places to take a well-deserved break from the driving. Plan your itinerary carefully, but allow some room for spontaneity too, and you’ll be left to enjoy the road trip of a lifetime in this jewel of the west coast. 

Get more road trip inspiration by visiting my other travel blog posts!

Photo by Christian Garcia on Unsplash

Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.