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There’s nothing quite like driving the California coast with the windows down. As a lifelong resident of the Golden State, I can confidently say it’s a great way to explore the beach towns. But while the drive is iconic, it’s just one layer of what California has to offer. The real magic happens when you park the car, tie your boots, and step onto a trail.
The farther you climb, the more the coastline opens up, and you start to see the California coast from a new perspective. From above, the layers of the landscape come into focus: the sun’s shimmer on the ocean, the sway of the grasslands, the quiet rhythm of waves meeting the shore far below. Sure, passing through seaside towns is part of the charm, but out on the trail is where the landscape really shows off. From the golden cliffs in San Diego to the redwoods up north, these hikes reveal the coast in its most stunning light.
Bayside Trail, Point Loma, San Diego
Start your journey with this breezy out and back at Cabrillo National Monument. The Bayside Trail winds along the cliffs below the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which was built in 1855, making it one of the first lighthouses on the West Coast.
The path is wide, gently sloping, and dotted with signs about native plants, such as black sage, lemonade berry, and prickly pear. Year-round, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, and in winter, it’s a prime spot for whale watching. Admission is $10 per person for walk-ins, or $20 per vehicle for those arriving by car. Although only service animals are allowed on the trail, the endless horizon and historic setting make it well worth the stop. Bonus: If you time your hike right, you can explore the tide pools on the shoreline.
El Moro Canyon Loop Trail, Newport Beach
Crystal Cove State Park makes a perfect stop as you continue north on your road trip, not just for its easy access off Highway 1, but for its scenic loop through El Moro Canyon. The route winds through canyon floors and up to ridges that reveal views of the Pacific. For the best ocean views, take the loop clockwise. The hills light up with black mustard each spring, though the plant’s cheerful appearance hides its invasive nature. You’ll find restrooms and a water fountain at the El Moro Visitor Center, the trail’s starting point. There is a $15 parking fee during the week and $20 on weekends.
Sostomo and Deer Valley Loop Trail, Santa Monica Mountains
After driving through one of the most scenic stretches of the California coast, you’ll reach the Sostomo and Deer Valley Loop north of Malibu. This trail winds through shaded canyons and chaparral-covered ridgelines and past vast Pacific views. You’ll pass creek crossings, rocky switchbacks, and depending on the season, wildflowers that blanket the hillsides. To secure a parking spot and avoid the heat, start this trail early and be prepared to climb. Unlike many trails in the region, dogs are allowed here. Just be sure to bring plenty of water for both of you, as the trail is exposed in many areas.
Gaviota Wind Caves Trail, Gaviota State Park
Drive about 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara on Highway 101 to reach Gaviota State Park. There’s a $10 fee to park in the main lot, but limited free parking is sometimes available along the road just up the hill. The Wind Caves Trail begins with a half-mile paved stretch before turning into a dirt path that climbs toward the sandstone caves.
Don’t let the low mileage fool you: It’s only 1.2 miles to the summit, but it’s a steep climb up over 800 feet of vert. At the top, you’ll reach sandstone caves naturally sculpted by coastal winds over time. Although the caves are a striking sight, you’ll unfortunately see evidence of vandalism, including graffiti and carvings in the rock. Remember never to deface natural formations or wildlife areas.
Discovery Trail, Pismo Beach
Just off the Pacific Coast Highway in scenic Pismo Beach lies the Pismo Preserve, an 880-acre stretch of land with 11 miles of picturesque trails managed by The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County, a local nonprofit land trust. The Discovery Trail is a 5.4-mile loop that winds through open terrain shared with grazing cattle, so expect to cross cattle guards and keep an eye out for cow patties.
While the preserve boasts sweeping ocean views, most trails offer little to no shade, so come prepared for sun exposure. After parking, visitors scan a QR code to register their vehicle and can choose to park for free or contribute a donation. Restrooms and a trail map are available at the trailhead. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Dipsea Trail, Marin County
Lace up in Mount Tamalpais State Park, best known as the route of the Dipsea Race, the oldest cross-country trail race in the country, dating back to 1905. This 9.8-mile point-to-point trail stretches from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach. Want to hike from one end to the next? The Marin Transit 61 bus can take you back to your car for only $2.
The Mill Valley starting point begins with an ascent of almost 700 steps. If you prefer to skip the climb, you can hike the trail in reverse, starting from Stinson Beach. If you want to add a detour to explore Muir Woods itself, keep in mind that the John Muir Visitor Center requires a reservation and a $15 entrance fee per adult. While you’ll have to leave your pup at home, seeing the ancient redwood giants in all their glory will be a worthy trade-off.
James Irvine Trail, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Nestled within the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, the James Irvine Trail offers an out-and-back hike that immerses you in some of Northern California’s most breathtaking old-growth redwood forests. Parking and hiking from Prairie Creek Visitor Center via Newton B. Drury Parkway are both free, but driving in from Davison Road requires a $12 vehicle day-use fee and a reservation from May 15 to September 15. The standout feature of this trail is its ending at Fern Canyon’s lush, mossy walls, which feel plucked from a different era. It’s the perfect ending to your coastal road trip.
