Touch down in LA and let the road do the talking. With a LAX car rental, the Pacific Coast Highway becomes your stage—sunsets, sea cliffs, and classic towns. This three‑day sketch is flexible enough to fit a long weekend yet detailed enough to help you plan stops without stress.
Day 1: LA ➜ Santa Barbara / Pismo
Pick up at Los Angeles Airport and cruise north. Lunch in Santa Barbara, then continue toward Pismo Beach or San Luis Obispo. Leave time for a golden‑hour stroll at the pier and an early night to maximize Day 2.
Day 2: Pismo / SLO ➜ Big Sur
Roll past Morro Bay and San Simeon. Consider pausing for coastal lookouts and short bluff trails. As curves tighten in Big Sur, drive unhurriedly—this stretch is about views, not speed.
Day 3: Big Sur ➜ LA
Head back with an early start and brunch en route. Traffic thickens near Ventura and Malibu; plan fuel and rest stops before you hit city density.
Packing & prep
Comfortable shoes, layers for cool coastal evenings, and a spare battery pack for phones and cameras. Download offline maps in case reception dips along the cliffs.
Pick the right car
For comfort and luggage, many travelers choose an SUV rental or a minivan rental. If you’re loyal to a brand, browse Alamo at LAX or Enterprise at LAX. Compact classes also work well if you prefer easy parking in town centers.
Why renters love Hola Car Rentals
All‑Inclusive+ coverage, Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up, no additional fees (save up to 60%), and optional maximum liability coverage on selected itineraries.
FAQs
Is this drive suitable for first‑time U.S. visitors?
Yes—stick to the main highway, plan rest stops, and give yourself extra time on scenic sections.
Any tips for photos without crowds?
Aim for sunrise pullouts or late‑afternoon light. Keep safety first and use designated turnouts.
Detours worth considering
Wine tasting in Edna Valley near San Luis Obispo, elephant seal viewpoints near San Simeon, or a coffee run in Cambria. If conditions allow, plan a short redwood walk in Big Sur to stretch your legs.
Driving etiquette on the PCH
Use designated turnouts to let faster cars pass and never stop in travel lanes for photos. Pull fully off the road for viewpoints and keep your eyes on the curves—passengers can narrate the scenery.
Mileage, fueling & lodging
Distances can be deceiving on curvy stretches. Keep the tank above half, book lodging with on‑site parking, and confirm check‑in windows so you’re not rushed on arrival.
What you get booking with Hola Car Rentals
Beyond great rates, you’ll find clear filters for luggage, doors, and mileage, plus cancellation flexibility up to 48 hours before pick‑up. That means less time comparing and more time ocean‑watching.
Optional Monterey add‑on
If you have an extra day, extend to Monterey and Carmel. Aquarium tickets, 17‑Mile Drive viewpoints, and tide‑pooling at low tide are popular—just confirm hours and conditions before you go.
Map your perfect coastline escape—find your vehicle at LAX with Hola Car Rentals.
