There are places in the world that you simply have to see. Highway 1 and Route 101 on the west coast of America is such a place. Imagine 2500 kilometers of rugged coastlines, winding roads, epic views, misty forests, and an endless ocean at your side. This is not just any roadtrip. This is an experience that will stay with you, an adventure that will make you realize how beautiful the world can be.
During our once in a lifetime camper trip through America and Canada, this route was high on our list bucketlist.. And believe me, it exceeded all our expectations. From driving through the giant Redwoods to seeing whales at sunrise – this trip has it all.
Why this route belongs on your bucket list:
Highway 1 and Route 101 are not just roads. They are an experience of constant wonder. Here you will find:
- The tallest trees in the world.
- Breathtaking views around every bend.
- Infinite starry skies without light pollution.
- Epic wild camping spots right on the ocean.
- Whales waking you up in the morning
- The famous Golden Gate Bridge.
This article will take you on this iconic route, past the absolute highlights that you should not miss. But we will also give you useful tips to make your roadtrip unforgettable and stress-free. Will you travel with us?
This article is part of a large one-year tour the United States en Canada, with a Dutch 4×4 camper that we shipped ourselves… It is a bucket list worthy and a once in a lifetime experience that will never be forgotten.
We wrote almost 100 articles about this ultimate tour. Visit our North America page for more information.
Highlights: What to see and do on Highway 1
1. Driving on the beach
America is one of the few countries where you are allowed to drive onto the beach with a car, and you simply have to experience that. As the proud owner of a 4×4 camper, I could not pass up this opportunity. I had already done this before on Amelia Island in Florida, and now I found my next adventure on Sunset Beach State Recreation Site in Washington.
Sunset Beach is a wide, endless beach where you have the freedom to drive and park wherever you want. It almost feels like you are in a roadtripmovie. But the driving itself is just the beginning.
Here's how to make it an unforgettable day:
- First explore the sand. Before you drive the car onto the beach, walk ahead to see how deep and loose the sand is. This prevents you from getting stuck.
- Park directly on the water. Once parked, you can enjoy a day at the beach like the locals do: with a cold beer in hand and a barbecue next to the camper. Take a dip in the sea and then rinse the salt water off in the camper.
- Wash your car afterwards. Salt and sand can really damage your vehicle. Find a car wash nearby (for example here) and give your car a thorough cleaning, especially the underside.
Driving on the beach was not only an exciting experience but also an ultimate feeling of freedom. This is really something you can roadtrip must add.
2. Epic sunsets
The west coast of America offers one of the most beautiful natural spectacles you can imagine: sunsets where the horizon changes into a painting of red, orange and pink hues. Highway 1 and Route 101 are the perfect roads for this, because you drive along the coast all the time.
During my roadtrip I often chose spontaneous spots to enjoy the sunset. Sometimes it was on top of a cliff, with the waves crashing against the rocks far below. Other times I parked right on the beach, with the doors of the camper wide open.
Why every sunset is unique:
- The peace and beauty. It may sound cliché, but every sunset along the coast gave me a moment of pure relaxation. The golden light, the sound of the sea, and the disappearing sun created a tranquility that you won't find anywhere else.
- Pelicans and wildlife. As the sun set, I often saw pelicans flying in groups over the shoreline. I also regularly saw feathers and tails of whales above the water. It added a magical element to the scene.
- Easy places to stop. Along Highway 1 there are literally thousands of 'pullouts', small parking areas where you can stop and enjoy the view. A great advantage for spontaneous plans!
Personal tip: Stop each evening around golden hour and take your time to find a nice spot. No matter where you are, the sunset along this coastline never disappoints.
It may sound silly, but I always felt so incredibly good after sunset. Whether it had to do with the peace I experienced or whether the colours on the horizon had something to do with it, I dare not say. I do know that these were moments to never forget.
3. Whale watching
Did you know that the west coast of America is one of the best places in the world to spot whales? These impressive animals migrate along the coast of Washington, Oregon and California almost all year round. Think of humpbacks, gray whales and even orcas swimming in the open sea. During my trip I heard and saw them regularly, even while I was sleeping in my camper!
Along Highway 1 and Route 101 there are numerous places where you have a great chance to spot whales. Often you will also see other animals such as sea lions and birds such as pelicans. This is a paradise for wildlife lovers!
Tips for whale watching along the coast:
- Visit famous spots. Some popular locations for whale watching include Boiler Bay in Oregon (where I saw several) and various viewpoints along the California coast. At these locations you can often book a Whale Watching Tour for an even greater chance of success.
- Take your time. Sit quietly at one of the many viewpoints along the coast. Focus your gaze on the sea and look for white plumes of water that suddenly appear above the surface. This is when a whale breathes.
- Keep binoculars or a camera handy. Whales usually only surface briefly, and if you are lucky you will see their tails before they disappear again. A good zoom lens or binoculars will make it easier to follow them.
A magical moment:
One morning during my trip I woke up to the sound of whales blowing near my camper. Still half asleep I opened the window and saw it! Two whales less than 50 meters from the shore. It was such a special moment that I just had to sit still for a moment to let it sink in.
Although I’ve seen whales multiple times, it’s really a matter of patience. Some days I’ve had less luck, while other times it seems like they’re everywhere. But that’s part of the magic of nature—you never know what to expect.
Why you shouldn't skip this:
Seeing whales in the wild is not only impressive, but also a reminder of how special our planet is. And along the west coast of America, you’re likely to see them. So pull over your camper, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy nature in its purest form.
4. Driving among Giant Redwoods
Driving through the giant Redwoods of Northern California is an experience you won’t soon forget. Imagine driving through an ancient forest, surrounded by trees that are over 100 feet tall and have been on this earth for thousands of years. This is not just a drive, this is a dive into nature that makes you realize how small you really are.
The Giant Redwoods are located in Northern California, where Route 101 runs through a collection of national parks collectively known as Redwood National and State ParksHere you get a unique opportunity to see these impressive trees up close.
Highlights of the Redwoods:
- Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. This is an alternate route that runs parallel to Route 101. Here drive literally through the heart of the Redwood forest. Take time to stop at the Corkscrew Tree, Big Tree Wayside of Atlas Grove, where the largest trees are close together.
- Cal Barrel Road. Are you adventurous and do you have a 4×4? Then you may this off-road route not to be missed. It is a rough path that takes you through a remote part of the forest. Here you experience nature in its purest form. But beware: the path can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
Personal tip:
Be sure to get out of the car and take a short walk. Only then will you really feel the immense size of these trees. Even the younger Redwoods, about 60 meters high, are impressive. Do you want to see the largest specimens? Then walk to one of the famous trees such as the Big Tree WaysideThe idea that this tree has been on this earth for 1500 years is almost unimaginable.
My experience: off-road driving among the giants
With our 4×4 camper I ventured onto the Cal Barrel Road. It was exciting: narrow paths, deep holes and steep slopes. But the reward was more than worth it. I parked the camper for a moment, got out and looked up. The trees towered far above me, to the point where you can barely see their tops. It felt like I had landed in another world.
Why you shouldn't miss this place:
The Redwoods are more than a tourist attraction; they are a symbol of the power and beauty of nature. Whether you drive through the forest, take a short hike, or choose an adventurous off-road route, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. Make sure your camera is fully charged, because this is a place where you’ll want to take as many photos as you can.
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5. Beautiful beaches, mist banks and wild seas
The West Coast of America has a rugged beauty that you won’t find anywhere else. Beautiful beaches with impressive rock formations, fog banks that suddenly roll over the mountains, powerful waves that crash against the rocks and an ocean that is constantly in motion. This dynamic coastline is one of the reasons that Highway 1 and Route 101 are so unique.
During my roadtrip I experienced how nature knows how to surprise you again and again. One moment you are driving under a clear blue sky, the next moment the sun and the horizon disappear in a thick, mysterious mist. And all this while the wild sea is constantly pounding against the coast. This natural phenomenon is an important part of what makes this route so special.
What makes this experience so unique?
- The unexpected. Fog banks come and go in the blink of an eye. Sometimes you enjoy clear visibility, and within a few minutes you can barely see 50 meters in front of you. This can produce dramatic, almost surreal images.
- A changing landscape. As the mist moves, the colors and atmosphere of the surroundings change. One moment it feels melancholic and mysterious, and the next everything is illuminated by the sun.
- Perfect for photography. Mist banks and a wild ocean provide a spectacular backdrop. This is the time to get your camera or smartphone out and capture some unique images.
It is amazing how quickly this can change the entire experience of driving this beautiful coastal road. From grey, dark and depressing you sometimes go back to sun, warmth and colour in a matter of minutes.
My experience: a landscape that is constantly changing
I remember a special moment: Just south of Ecola State Park in Oregon I drove through a landscape that seemed to be constantly transforming. Within thirty minutes I saw a thick bank of fog stretch over the sea and the mountains, only to suddenly dissolve into sunlight. The contrast was almost unreal. Above the coast the sun was shining, while the sea beneath the fog was still gray and mysterious. It felt like I was driving in a painting, with constantly new colors and compositions. The four photos below were taken in a period of 30 minutes:
The fog and clouds moved at a rapid pace towards the sea. Suddenly there seems to be some color in life again and I take the photo below in the north direction where I came from.
However, what I saw 5 minutes later (looking south) I could hardly believe. Suddenly I saw the end point of the thick fog bank that went out to sea. It was a bizarre sight. Under the thick fog at sea it was still gray and dark, while the sun shone on the coast from the east. What a contrast!
Practical tips to enjoy the mist and sea:
- Photograph smart. Try to capture the mist and the play of light and shadow. Use a slow shutter speed for dramatic waves or a fast shutter speed to freeze the movement.
- Stop regularly. There are numerous viewpoints along Highway 1 and Route 101 where you can take the time to admire the dynamics of the coastline.
- Dress for different types of weather. The constant alternation between sun and fog can cause the weather to change quickly. A windbreaker and layers of clothing are a must.
Why you shouldn't miss this:
The mist and relatively warm wild seas provide an experience that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. The unpredictability makes it exciting, while the rugged coastline surprises you every time. This is the west coast of America at its best – and a memory that will stay with you forever.
6. Check off hundreds of viewpoints
Driving along Highway 1 and Route 101 is a series of amazing views. From long sandy beaches to steep cliffs and impressive rock formations in the sea - you never know what awaits you around the next bend. This is what makes this route so special: you remain curious and want to stop every now and then to take in the view.
During my roadtrip I drove about 1800 kilometers along the coast and made countless short stops. One viewpoint was more impressive than the other, and each place offered a completely different vibe. The variation and the constant possibility to stop for a while make this route perfect for roadtripenthusiasts.
The most beautiful viewpoints along the west coast:
- Neahkahnie Viewpoint, Oregon. Enjoy a panoramic view over Nehalem Bay. The colours here are especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
- Bandon Beach, Oregon. This beach is known for its striking rock formations that rise from the ocean. A dream spot for photographers.
- Big Lagoon, California. Op this place the calm waters of the lagoon meet the rough ocean. The contrast between the two is beautiful.
My experience: stop until you can't anymore
Driving along Highway 1 and Route 101 feels like discovering the coastline at your own pace. I hadn’t planned how many stops I would make, but I quickly found it impossible to just keep driving. The views are simply too beautiful. Sometimes I would park the RV, get out, and just stand there and take it all in—the ocean, the wind, and the vast surroundings.
Tips to make the most of the viewpoints:
- Stop regularly. The many pullouts along the way are ideal for spontaneous stops. You won't miss anything if you take it easy.
- Use your time wisely. Because there are so many places to stop, it's better to opt for a few longer stops than to hop on and off in quick succession.
- Make sure you have a charged camera or drone. This landscape is perfect for capturing. You will be happy with the memories you take home.
- Alternate breaks and driving. Due to the winding nature of the road, it is advisable to take short breaks regularly.
Why these stops are worth it:
Highway 1 and Route 101 are not routes that you drive quickly. It is precisely the charm of the many viewpoints that these roadtrip unforgettable. Take your time, enjoy nature, and discover why this coastline is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
7. Stargazing (Galaxy Spotting!)
On a clear night at Devonte Lookout I parked my camper and started photographing the stars. I didn’t have much experience with night photography, but with some experimentation I managed to capture the Milky Way. The result was stunning: a thick band of stars and colorful star clouds that dominated the sky. It felt almost unreal.
As I sat there with a beer, I saw twenty shooting stars in an hour. The sound of the waves below me made the experience complete. This was one of those moments when I really realized how special this trip was.
Tips for stargazing along Highway 1 and Route 101:
- Choose a remote place. Locations such as Devonte Lookout of Silver Point Interpretive Overlook are perfect because of their remote location. Use apps like Star Walk 2 to find the best stargazing locations.
- Plan your evening. Make sure the moon is not too bright (or not visible) and choose a clear night for the best starry sky. In the Star Walk 2 app you can see exactly where and when the moon rises and sets.
- Bring the right stuff. Think of a warm coat, a comfortable chair, a good camera and a tripod if you want to take pictures.
- Experiment with your camera. Use a long shutter speed and high ISO to capture the stars. Try different settings and don't be afraid to make mistakes - the results will reward you.
Tip:: Curious what we shoot with? Then view the display below.
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Why you don't want to miss this experience:
Stargazing along the West Coast is an experience that you won’t find anywhere else of this quality. It gives you a moment of peace and wonder, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re enjoying the view with the naked eye or trying to capture the perfect photo, this is an experience that you’ll never forget.
8. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is without a doubt one of America’s most iconic landmarks. This majestic bridge connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County and marks a key point on Highway 1 and Route 101. Whether you’re driving across the bridge, sailing under it, or visiting a viewpoint, the Golden Gate Bridge is a place that will leave you speechless.
During my roadtrip I made a night stop at Battery Spencer, an old fort that is known as one of the best viewpoints for the bridge. Here I had the chance to admire both the sunrise and sunset—an experience I would recommend to anyone.
Why the Golden Gate Bridge is so special:
- Architectural perfection. With its recognizable red color and impressive construction, the bridge is not only a functional structure, but also a work of art.
- Spectacular views. From Battery Spencer you can look out over the bridge, the San Francisco skyline and the vast bay. In clear weather the view is phenomenal.
- A unique experience at any time of the day. Whether you come at sunrise, midday or sunset—the atmosphere around the bridge is constantly changing.
My experience: sleeping with a view of the bridge
During my visit I decided to 'secretly' spend the night at the parking lot of Battery Spencer. Although it is a busy place, especially in the evenings with young people enjoying the view, I was left alone by the park rangers. The tolerance policy gave me the chance to spend the night at one of the most unique places on the west coast.
The next morning I got up early, made a cup of coffee as usual with the kettle en EcoFlow Power Station in the camper and walked to the viewpoint. It was still dark, but the horizon was already starting to color. As the city and the bridge were slowly lit by the first rays of sun, it felt like the world was just mine for a moment. I even let my drone take off for a panoramic view of the bridge, the city and the surrounding nature.
Tips for your visit to the Golden Gate Bridge:
- Bring warm clothes. The wind around the bridge can be treacherously cold, especially in the early morning and late evening.
- Visit Battery Spencer. This is the place to get the best views of the bridge and the city. Make sure you get there around sunrise or sunset for a magical experience.
- Be prepared for crowds. The bridge attracts thousands of visitors every day, so come early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
- Take a walk across the bridge. The Golden Gate Bridge is over 2,7 miles long and offers great views of the bay and the city on foot.
Why you shouldn't miss the Golden Gate Bridge:
The Golden Gate Bridge is much more than a stopover—it’s a symbol of the West Coast and a place to pause and contemplate the grandeur of man and nature. Plan your visit well, take your time, and let the views overwhelm you.
9. Wild camping in epic places
Wild camping along the west coast of America is an experience that can't be matched anywhere else. With the ocean as a backdrop, remote places without light pollution, and the ultimate tranquility of nature, it feels like you're completely away from the world. During my roadtrip Along Highway 1 and Route 101 I discovered some fantastic wild camping spots that I will never forget.
What makes wild camping here so special is the variety. One night you're on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean, the next you wake up to the sound of whales. This freedom is exactly why this roadtrip is so unique.
Below is a selection of my favorite wild camping spots on the West Coast of America, including the corresponding locations or coordinates via Google Maps so that you can find them quickly and easily. can save for your own use. Use it to your advantage!
Location name: Devonte Lookout, Northern California.
Google Map link: Click here.
This is the ultimate wild camping spot: remote, quiet and with a spectacular view of the wild sea. Here I saw whales in the distance while enjoying the starry sky. The lack of light pollution makes this a perfect place for stargazing and pure relaxation. This is the location where I took the beautiful night photos of the starry sky. There is room for several campers. Towards evening two more 'overnighters' came to stand next to me.
Location name: Coast Highway 1, 3 hours north of San Francisco
Coordinates: 38°29’20.6″N 123°11’31.4″W
google map link: Click here.
This simple pullout offers panoramic views of the winding coastal road and the ocean below. The sense of freedom and fresh sea air make this a perfect place to catch your breath and enjoy the tranquility.
Location name: Port Orford Visitor's Center, Oregon
Coordinates: 42°44’35.8″N 124°29’32.9″W
google map link: Click here.
This place is close to a town, ideal if you want to do some shopping or go out for dinner. The charm of this location is the large beach directly below the camping spot, perfect for a morning walk while breathing in the fresh air.
Location name: Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint, Oregon
google map link: Click here.
This is a great place to spend the night, with a beautiful view over the ocean. I woke up here to the sound of whales close to the shore – a magical moment that you won’t soon forget (read more about this in chapter 3).
Location name: Silver Point Interpretive Overlook, Washington
google map link: Click here.
A quiet viewpoint with a beautiful panoramic view in both north and south direction. The huge beach below is ideal for a long walk and offers a serene atmosphere for a relaxing night.
Each location has its own charm, but all offer the perfect balance between nature, tranquility and impressive views. Wild camping at these locations will really complete your journey along the west coast.
10. Take it easy and enjoy!
A roadtrip along Highway 1 and Route 101 is an adventure full of breathtaking views and unique experiences. But let's be honest: it is not a route that you drive quickly. With the winding roads, elevation changes, and the many places where you simply have to stop, it can be quite intensive. That is why it is important to give yourself time and not to travel in a hurry.
During my journey I noticed that it is sometimes tempting to just keep driving. The coastline keeps calling you further and further, and you are curious about what lies around the next bend. But the real magic of this route is in the moments of rest. It is those moments when you get out, look around you, and take in nature that make this journey unforgettable.
How do you get the most out of your trip?
- Plan enough time. If you rush, you will miss the best this route has to offer: the views, the nature, and the relaxation. Count on at least a week, but preferably more, to really enjoy it.
- Take short trips. Try not to ride too many kilometers in one day. This is not a race, but a journey full of small discoveries.
- Stop regularly. There are numerous pullouts and viewpoints along the route. Use these moments to pause, take a photo, or simply enjoy the view.
- Take longer breaks at beautiful places. If you find a spot that appeals to you, stay a little longer. Park your camper, take a walk, or enjoy a sunset.
My experience: enjoying the moment
During my roadtrip I often stopped earlier than planned. Sometimes I just needed a break, or I found a viewpoint that was too beautiful to just drive past. Once I parked my camper on top of a cliff and sat there for hours, listening to the sound of the waves and watching the birds circle above the shoreline.
It is that space to slow down that makes this route so special. You are almost forced to adjust your pace to nature, and that is actually exactly what you need. For that reason I ultimately decided to Big Sur to skip. I found it too crowded there and there was hardly any freedom to camp wild.
Conclusion: Your ultimate west coast adventure
Highway 1 and Route 101 are much more than just a few roads along the coast – they are a route full of unique experiences, impressive nature and moments that will stay with you forever. This roadtrip combines everything a traveler could wish for: spectacular views, relaxing moments in nature, and the freedom to travel at your own pace.
During my 1800-mile journey along this iconic coastline, I experienced why this route is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the world. Whether it was the magical starry skies, the winding roads, the whales I heard as I woke up or the epic sunsets I watched from a clifftop – this roadtrip has surprised and inspired me time and again.
Why this route belongs on your bucket list:
- The versatility. From rugged coastlines and serene beaches to dense forests and picturesque villages – you'll find it all along this route.
- The freedom. Stop wherever you want, stay longer in your favorite places, and enjoy the feeling that you don't need to be anywhere else.
- The unique experiences. Whether you're wild camping under a starry sky or watching the mist roll over the ocean, every day offers something new. Read our blog with Practical tips and information, if you want to know more.
Start your adventure today
A roadtrip along Highway 1 and Route 101 is a journey that you not only see, but feel. It is an experience that brings you closer to nature and lets you enjoy the simple, but oh so precious moments. So book your (rental) camper, make your planning, and let the west coast of America surprise you.
Are you thinking of following in our footsteps and renting a camper(...
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
