I've Taken 20+ Road Trips in California-This Is the One I Keep Coming Back To for the Best Food, Wine, and Scenic Views

"I may be a bit biased, but I consider the California coastline to be the most scenic and diverse route in the U.S. As a native to the state, I've taken more than 20 road trips over the years, traversing desert terrain, budding vineyards, and cliff-hugging highways that tower above the Pacific Ocean. And though I love the colossal redwood forests in northern California and the gleaming coastline that cradles the state's southern end, there's one road trip I always return to for its access to some of the state's best wineries, restaurants, and charismatic hotels."

"The route begins in Los Angeles and goes through the Central Coast, with stops at charming seaside eateries, whimsical towns without streetlights, family-owned wine tasting rooms, and shorelines dotted with hiking trails, playful otters, and towering cypress trees. Also of note: A major stretch of scenic Highway 1 along the Central Coast is projected to fully reopen by March 2026 after a landslide closure, making one of California's most iconic coastal drives accessible again. Below, I've shared some of my favorite places to stop along this route, guaranteed to satiate any palate and fulfill any sense of wonder along a coast that's full of possibility."

The route begins in Los Angeles and travels up the Central Coast, showcasing seaside eateries, whimsical towns without streetlights, family-owned wine tasting rooms, and shorelines with hiking trails, playful otters, and towering cypress trees. A major stretch of scenic Highway 1 along the Central Coast is projected to fully reopen by March 2026 after a landslide closure, restoring an iconic coastal drive. Day 1 moves from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara with dining at Manifattura and The Lark and wine tasting in the Funk Zone at rooms like Margerum and Pali Wine Co. Montecito offers quiet luxury, coveted beaches, small shops, and Paraiso Collection vacation rentals.

Read at Travel + Leisure