San Fransisco to Los Angles in August 2025

Question

Hello all you helpful people.

We are visiting California in August this year and plan to do as much of the Big Sur as we can. I have read a lot about Regents Slide and know that this section will still be closed when we are there, so I have tried to plan our trip accordingly.

So far, my plan is for the following:

Leave San Fransisco Saturday morning and drive down on Highway 1 to Esalen Institute, then turnaround and drive back to Monterey to stay the night.

Leave Monterey Sunday morning and drive to Cambria via the 101, then up Highway 1 to Plaskett. Turn around at Plaskett and return to Cambria to stay the night.

Leave Cambria Monday morning and drive to Los Angeles where we will be staying for 3 nights.

Is this a sensible plan or do I need to rethink?

Any advise and recommendations for must see attractions to stop at on final routes would be much appreciated.

Thank you all in advance!

Answer

Your plan is generally sensible, but there are a few considerations that can help you maximize your time and enjoyment along the California coast, especially given the closures and the long distances involved.

Driving from San Francisco down to Big Sur and Esalen is feasible, but the route is long and winding, so leaving early on Saturday morning is essential. Since the planned route involves a turnaround at Esalen and returning to Monterey, you will spend a significant portion of the day driving. Be aware that some viewpoints along Highway 1 require short hikes or careful timing for parking.

For Sunday, taking the 101 to Cambria and then looping up Highway 1 to Plaskett is reasonable. This approach avoids the closed sections around the Big Sur landslides while still allowing you to see many iconic coastal views. Plaskett offers a nice viewpoint and some quiet areas for photography and short walks.

Monday’s drive from Cambria to Los Angeles is straightforward along the 101, giving you the opportunity to explore a few coastal towns along the way if time allows.

Saturday – San Francisco to Monterey via Big Sur: Consider stops at Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and Capitola for a quick walk or coffee break before reaching Big Sur. Note that your Esalen visit will need prior booking if you plan to use the hot springs or participate in any activities.
Sunday – Cambria to Plaskett: Stops along Highway 1 can include Ragged Point, McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (iconic waterfall into the ocean), and Bixby Creek Bridge for photos.
Monday – Cambria to Los Angeles: Consider brief stops in Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, and Pismo Beach for views, snacks, or short walks on the beach.

Additional recommendations:

Check real-time road conditions for Highway 1, as closures or delays are common in Big Sur.
Plan meal stops ahead, as options are limited along Big Sur; packing snacks is advisable.
Allow flexibility for photography, quick hikes, and enjoying viewpoints, as the scenery along this route is some of the best on the West Coast.
Driving in August can bring heavy traffic, especially on weekends, so start early and avoid peak mid-day driving if possible.

Overall, your plan is workable, but expect long driving days and limited time at some stops. Prioritize the viewpoints and experiences most important to you and be prepared for the slower pace along the winding coastal roads.

San Fransisco to Los Angles in August 2025

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