7 Most Scenic Drives in Southern California
Southern California isn't just about beaches and Hollywood glamour - it's also home to some truly breathtaking road trips that offer a whole different kind of adventure. If you're looking to escape the city hustle and soak in some serious natural beauty, grab your keys, because we've rounded up seven of the best scenic drives this region has to offer. Whether you're craving ocean views, mountain air, or desert solitude, there's a route for you.
Imagine cruising the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, where every turn reveals a postcard-perfect vista, or winding through the San Gabriel Mountains on Angeles Crest, feeling miles away from everything. Whichever path you choose, get ready to hit the road and discover the epic landscapes that make SoCal so special!
The Southern Pacific Coast Highway
Ready for some iconic California coastline? The southern stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, is an absolute classic. This drive offers everything from dramatic cliffs to sandy beaches, roughly spanning from Leggett in the north all the way down to Dana Point in the south. For this southern portion, imagine cruising from San Simeon down towards Malibu. It's an unforgettable journey that truly shines in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are a bit thinner.
You'll definitely want to make time for some stops. Near Cambria, take a slight detour to marvel at the opulent Hearst Castle - it's a piece of history that's well worth the extra drive. Further south, don't miss the striking Morro Rock in Morro Bay, a giant volcanic plug rising out of the ocean. As you continue your southward journey, the charming city of Santa Barbara welcomes you with its distinctive Spanish Colonial architecture and the historic Stearns Wharf pier. Finally, you'll hit Malibu, famous for its beautiful pier, old-school surfer vibes, and awesome body surfing at Zuma Beach. This drive is all about those quintessential California views.
Angeles Crest Highway
Swap the ocean breeze for crisp mountain air on the Angeles Crest Highway, a fantastic escape right outside Los Angeles. This roughly 66-mile stretch (State Route 2) winds its way through the rugged San Gabriel Mountains, connecting La Cañada Flintridge with Wrightwood. It's a spectacular drive year-round, though parts can close due to snow in winter, so check conditions if you're planning a cold-weather trip. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers cool relief, and fall boasts changing leaves. The journey provides stunning views of forests, deep canyons, and expansive valleys, feeling a world away from the urban sprawl below.
Along the way, there are plenty of spots to pull over and soak it all in. You absolutely have to stop at the Mount Wilson Observatory for incredible panoramic views that stretch for miles. For those who enjoy a little leg stretch, the Switzer Falls Trail offers a relatively easy hike to a seasonal waterfall - perfect for a picnic. If you’re feeling more ambitious, consider tackling the hike to the summit of Mount Baden-Powell for an even more rewarding vista. And when hunger strikes, the cozy Mountain Top Cafe is a great lunch stop. This highway delivers big on mountain grandeur and fresh air.
Mulholland Drive
For a taste of Hollywood glamour and jaw-dropping cityscapes, Mulholland Drive is your go-to. This legendary road snakes for about 21 miles through the Hollywood Hills and Santa Monica Mountains, offering a unique perspective on both the sprawling city below and the tranquil valleys beyond. It's best enjoyed in the late afternoon or early evening, when the setting sun paints the sky and the city lights begin to twinkle. The drive itself is fairly short, making it perfect for an impromptu cruise to clear your head.
You’ll find plenty of overlooks to pull off and capture some incredible photos. The Jerome C. Daniel Overlook is a popular spot for classic views of the Hollywood Bowl and Downtown LA, while the Universal City Overlook gives you a fantastic panorama of the San Fernando Valley and the famous studio lots. For a slightly less crowded experience with equally stunning views and even some picnic facilities, check out the Nike Missile Control Site. This site was once part of a network of Cold War-era anti-aircraft missile bases designed to protect Los Angeles, and now it offers a unique historical backdrop to those incredible vistas. If you're hungry after all that sightseeing, consider starting or ending your drive at Neptune's Net, a longtime casual spot known for fresh catches, burgers, and beer served at picnic tables overlooking the ocean.
Death Valley Scenic Byway
Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and unique beauty of Death Valley National Park. While it's one of the hottest places on Earth, the Death Valley Scenic Byway (which encompasses several roads within the park) is best experienced in the cooler months, ideally from late fall to early spring. During springtime, particularly after a good winter rain, the desert floor can even burst into vibrant wildflowers, creating a truly surreal landscape. This drive reveals a stark, powerful beauty that feels otherworldly.
You'll hit some incredible geological wonders here. The Badwater Basin is a must-see, marking the lowest point in North America. For truly epic panoramic views of the entire basin, head up to Dante's View. Another highlight is Zabriskie Point, famous for its sculpted badlands that glow in golden hues, especially at sunrise or sunset. Don't miss Artist's Drive/Palette, a one-way scenic loop showcasing hills painted with natural mineral colors - it’s like nature’s own art gallery! And for a bit of adventure, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are perfect for photography or even trying your hand at sandboarding.
Rim of the World Scenic Byway
Escape to the mountains of Southern California on the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. This stunning route, part of State Route 18, takes you through the majestic San Bernardino Mountains, offering sweeping views that truly live up to its name. Starting near Cajon Pass and stretching towards Big Bear Lake, it’s a winding drive that's incredible year-round. Fall offers stunning foliage, winter brings snow-capped peaks (check for road closures!), and spring/summer are perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
As you navigate this high-altitude highway, you'll encounter a string of beautiful alpine destinations. The glistening waters of Big Bear Lake are a major draw, perfect for boating, fishing, or just relaxing by the shore. Nearby, the equally picturesque Lake Arrowhead offers a more quaint, European village feel. For nature lovers, the Heaps Peak Arboretum provides easy walking trails through diverse plant life. If you're up for a hike with incredible views, the Castle Rock Trail is a popular choice. And for families, SkyPark at Santa's Village offers a unique themed adventure park experience nestled in the forest.
Joshua Tree's Park Boulevard
Dive into the surreal landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park by driving along Park Boulevard. This main artery, about 25 miles long, connects the park's West and North entrances, making it easy to hit all the major highlights. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild, and the unique Joshua Trees truly stand out against the blue sky. It's a drive where every turn brings a new, otherworldly vista of desert flora and fascinating rock formations.
Along Park Boulevard, you'll encounter iconic sights. The instantly recognizable Skull Rock is a favorite, with erosion carving a giant rock into a skull-like shape. Take a detour into Hidden Valley, a popular hiking spot with a short loop trail that showcases the park's diverse plant life and climbing areas. The easy walk to Barker Dam (when it has water) offers a glimpse into the park's vital water sources and attracts various wildlife. Don't miss the striking Cholla Cactus Garden, a dense concentration of a unique succulent ("jumping" cholla) that glows golden in the sunlight. For an even grander perspective, head up to Keys View - on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Coachella Valley and the Salton Sea.
17 Mile Drive
Experience pure coastal luxury on the world-renowned 17 Mile Drive, a private scenic route through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. While there's a small toll to enter, every penny is worth it for the stunning ocean vistas, pristine golf courses, and iconic landmarks. This drive is spectacular any time of year, but a clear day with sunshine truly makes the Pacific sparkle. Give yourself a couple of hours, as you'll want to stop frequently for photos and to simply take it all in.
This drive is packed with memorable sights. The Lone Cypress, a Monterey Cypress tree standing solitarily on a granite outcrop, is probably the most famous and photographed spot. You can also walk the white sand beach at Spanish Bay, a perfect place to launch a kayak into the calm waters. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife at Bird Rock, where you can often spot seals, sea lions, and various seabirds. The Cypress Point Lookout offers dramatic, expansive views of the rugged coastline. And of course, no mention of 17 Mile Drive is complete without acknowledging the legendary Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of the state's best golf courses - even if you don't play, seeing this iconic course against the ocean backdrop is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Time to Hit the Road!
So there you have it - seven incredible scenic drives that prove Southern California is so much more than just its major cities. From the dramatic coastal beauty of the Southern Pacific Coast Highway, where you can practically taste the ocean air as you cruise past Santa Barbara and Malibu, to the otherworldly desert landscapes of Death Valley, offering a stark and beautiful contrast to the bustling urban areas. Each route promises unique adventures and unforgettable views.
Whether you're a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor wanting to see a different side of SoCal, these drives are calling your name. Which one will you explore first? Pack your bags, fuel up the car, and get ready to discover the open road!
