The famous trip down Route 1 along the US West Coast is one of the most scenic road trips America has to offer. Our recommended route includes great scenery and some of the best luxury hotels on the west coast. Beginning just north of San Diego, the coastal route takes in the sights of Long Beach, beautiful Santa Monica, and surfers in Malibu before reaching Santa Barbara. Here you can enjoy an overnight stop at the Travel and Leisure Gold Listed Bacara Resort and Spa with its Spanish-influenced architecture and two golf courses. This luxury hotel also offers elegant dining with stunning views of the rugged Pacific coastline.
To the north, the coastal scenery of the Big Sur coast becomes increasingly impressive with cliff peaks sloping down to sandy beaches and crashing waves. Hearst Castle is a must-see, and visitors can easily spend a day there touring this opulent home and gardens. A couple of nights in Big Sur should be spent exploring the area while staying at some of the best luxury hotels on the West Coast. The Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Inn and Spa in Big Sur sound pretty low-key, but they are actually luxury hotels listed on Conde Nast Traveler’s 2008 Gold List and are sure to please.
Continuing along this stunning coastline, San Francisco is only a 3-hour drive away, where a selection of excellent West Coast luxury hotels awaits. The Ritz-Carlton is well located with magnificent views from its elevated Nob Hill location, or choose one of the luxury hotels around the Union Square shops, such as the cutting-edge Hotel Diva.
You can choose to end your road trip here with a few days exploring Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, and Golden Gate Bridge Park while enjoying one of these great hotels. Alternatively, head inland to the well-known Napa Valley wine country for more incredible experiences and some more charming luxury hotels, like the Calistoga Ranch or the Auberge du Soleil. These are two of the best, most relaxing hotels in the area with their rustic charm and boutique hotel atmosphere.