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What if getting to Monterey became one of the best parts of your trip? California’s Highway 1 offers a memorable drive along the Pacific, with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, wildlife habitats, and inviting coastal towns along the way. Instead of heading straight to your destination, plan a few Monterey road trip stopovers to enjoy the scenery. From Pacifica to Moss Landing, these stops give you plenty of reasons to slow down before arriving in Monterey.
Must-Visit Monterey Road Trip Stops on Iconic Highway 1 Route
Highway 1 is known for its close-up views of California’s coastline. These stops are easy to work into your drive and offer something different without requiring an entire day.
Pacifica and Devil’s Slide Coastal Trail
Start near Pacifica at the Devil’s Slide Coastal Trail, a paved 1.3-mile route overlooking the Pacific. The trail follows a former section of Highway 1 that was closed to vehicles after the Devil’s Slide tunnels opened in 2013.
Walk or bike the trail for cliffside views and opportunities to spot seabirds, seals, and migrating whales. Interpretive signs provide information about local history, geology, and wildlife. Parking is available at both ends, but it can fill quickly, so an earlier stop is helpful on busy days.
Half Moon Bay
Continue south to Half Moon Bay, a laid-back coastal community known for beaches, seafood, farms, and surfing. The area is also home to Mavericks, where powerful winter swells attract experienced big-wave surfers.
For a short visit, walk a section of the California Coastal Trail or stop at one of the nearby beaches. If you have extra time, explore downtown Half Moon Bay and grab lunch before returning to Highway 1.
Davenport
Davenport offers a quieter stop between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. This small coastal community is surrounded by dramatic bluffs and beaches, making it ideal for travelers who want scenery without a long detour.
Pause for coffee or a casual meal, take in the coastal views, or visit a nearby beach. Some coastal areas have steep terrain, so use designated access points and follow posted safety signs.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is one of the most entertaining Monterey road trip stopovers, especially if you are traveling with family. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk dates back to 1907 and is known for its classic seaside amusement-park atmosphere.
Take a walk along the beachfront, enjoy a Boardwalk treat, or ride the historic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. Nearby, the Santa Cruz Wharf provides another easy place to enjoy ocean views and look for sea lions. Allow an hour or two if you want to explore without rushing your road trip.
Moss Landing
Your final stop before Monterey can be Moss Landing, a small harbor community near Elkhorn Slough. The surrounding wetlands support sea otters, harbor seals, and a wide variety of birds.
Kayaking is a popular way to experience Elkhorn Slough, but a quick harbor visit can also be rewarding. Bring binoculars for wildlife watching, then stop for fresh seafood before continuing toward Monterey.
Tips for a Relaxed Highway 1 Drive
Give yourself more time than your navigation app suggests. Fog, traffic, weekend crowds, and scenic stops can extend your drive. Start early, dress in layers for changing coastal weather, and check current Highway 1 road conditions before leaving. Choosing three or four stops instead of trying to see everything can also make the journey more enjoyable.
Keep exploring the coast. These Monterey road trip stopovers make the journey part of your California getaway. After arriving in Monterey, continue your Highway 1 adventure toward the iconic Bixby Bridge in Big Sur, where dramatic coastal scenery makes the drive south well worth the extra miles.
