Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: Things to do and see along Hwy 1
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Trees of Mystery
Taking a gondola ride through the Redwood Trees is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be added to everyone’s to do list! Trees of Mystery is a quirky tourist attraction located in Klamath, CA, near the Oregon border. It’s one of those tourist attractions that is actually not a rip off as it is quite affordable and the views are incredible. You’ll also get to learn a lot of interesting facts about these incredible trees. Some say that it is too gimmicky and touristy, but I actually loved it. It’s a fun break from driving and the scenery is beautiful.
It’s a bit cheesy, however, a fun experience that is very memorable just for the cheez factor alone. For just 30 bucks you can take a scenic gondola ride ~1500 feet up above the redwoods. It’s amazing to gaze down at these historic towering trees. From the observation deck, you will be able to take in more gorgeous views of the redwoods.
The walking trail is an excellent way to learn more about the various Redwood Trees. I learned a lot of tidbits i never knew before. This is also the location of the famous 49 foot tall statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.
Other points of interest
Big Sur – Big Sur is the name for a gorgeous stretch of California coastline known for its’ dramatic cliff scenery and gorgeous coastal views. It’s a very unpopulated area with not much business. This portion of the drive is a bit scary as you will be driving along a very narrow 2 lane road, but also the most beautiful. For those who have the extra time, a day hike is recommended.
The drive-thru redwood tree – The Shrine drive-thru tree is located on the gorgeous Avenue of the Giants scenic drive which is loaded with towering redwood trees. Entrance is just 10 bucks a vehicle, so it may be worth the small detour. Another drive thru tree called the Chandelier tree is located in Legett.
The Santa Cruz Beach boardwalk – This historic oceanfront amusement park is the oldest in California (founded in 1907). If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy some old-fashioned entertainment, then plan for a stop on the historic wooden coaster featured in films such as The Lost Boys (I love this movie!) and the Looff Carousel, a National Historic Landmark. For classic California beachside fun, a stroll along the Santa Cruz boardwalk is a must!
Attraction Address & Pricing Info:
Laguna Beach
Address: Coast Hwy and Broadway Laguna Beach, CA 92652
Price: Free!
Crystal Cove State Park
Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Price: Free!
Huntington Beach State Park
Address: 21601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Price: Free!
Manhattan Beach
Address: 2 Manhattan Beach Blvd Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Price: Free!
Santa Monica Pier
Address: 100 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401
Price: Free to enter the pier, various prices for amusements.
Seaside State Beach
Address: Hwy 218 Seaside, CA 93955
Price: Free!
Golden Gate Bridge (pedestrian walk)
Address: 201 Fort Mason San Francisco, CA 94123
Price: Free! (to walk across – parking meters will run a tiny fee)
SeaGlass Beach
Address: Elm Street & Old Haul Rd. Ft. Bragg, CA 95437
Price: Free!
Redwood National Forest
Address: 1111 Crescent Street Crescent City, CA 95531
Price: Free!
Trees of Mystery
Address: 15500 US 101 Klamath, CA 95548
Price: $30 per adult
UPDATE: I recommend taking a look at my Southern California tourist guide for more recommendations. We have found so many fun things to do in this area. My guide includes a few great mountain hikes, beautiful beahces and bike paths, as well as some bigger attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Disneyland.
