Road-tripping on California’s Pacific Coast Highway

Any great road trip begins with a spark of inspiration, and then quite a bit of planning. One of the best ways to save along the Pacific Coast Highway is by choosing affordable lodging such as staying at the budget hotel, Best Western. The California Travel and Tourism Commission also offers packages, making it even easier to book rooms ahead of schedule. However, if you like having ultimate freedom, camping is always an affordable and fun option.

(Photo: PhotoDisc)

The rural coastal community of Half Moon Bay attracts visitors with its historic main street, scenic lighthouses, unique shops, and a slew of outdoor activities, including horseback riding on the beach, award-winning golfing, bird-watching, and sportfishing.

This quaint little town is also a nice getaway from the high prices and hustle-and-bustle of San Francisco, as it's only 30 miles from the city. To save a little extra cash, stay in one of the town's motels or hostels while visiting the bay area.

(Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour)

California boasts some of the finest wines in the U.S., and the movie Sideways confirmed this by highlighting Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo's vineyards. You can tour many of the wineries for free or a small fee, and most include tastings. It's also quite economical to skip dining at a restaurant and simply purchase a bottle of wine and some basics for a picnic.

(Photo: Index Open)

Walk along the 100-year-old boardwalk, feel the sand under your toes, or visit one of the many art galleries in Santa Cruz.

The city, lovingly referred to as "Surf City," is a great place to dive in and experience the culture, with a range of fun activities from whale watching by kayak to art bus tours. Find deals on packages through the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council.

(Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour)

San Luis Obispo offers a nice break from the road with activities such as browsing boutique shops, dining at one of the outdoor eateries, or strolling along the San Luis Creek walkways.

About 45 minutes outside the city on San Simeon's Enchanted Hill sits Hearst Castle, where you can tour the castle's interior, gardens, terrace pools, and library for the off-peak price of $20 per adult ticket.

Discounts may be available on lodging and dining through the Chamber of Commerce.

(Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour)

Santa Barbara, or the American Riviera, has been a top destination along Highway 1 for years. However, just a few miles north of the city in Lompoc, you will encounter brightly colored fields of flowers that are a feast for the senses. The Santa Barbara County Vintner's Festival starts on April 20, so stop for a quick sip before traveling on.

Santa Barbara Conference & Visitors Bureau offers specials on hotels and attractions.

(Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour)

Traveling along Highway 1 isn't just about the small towns and big cities you may encounter, because those places are just as easily reachable by the fast-paced interstate roads. The real reason to travel along this slower byway is to witness some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, as most of the road is perched over crashing waves and treacherous cliffs. Point Reyes National Seashore, which only costs $15 to camp per night, is just one of the many places to stop and enjoy the views.

(Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour)

With spring temperatures, blooming landscapes, and less traffic, April is the perfect time to hit California's roads, especially along the Pacific Coast Highway. Starting in the palm-tree-lined streets of Southern California and winding its way along the ocean to the giant redwood forests of the north, this route is one of the most scenic and diverse byways in the country. You can spend weeks exploring the towns, attractions, vineyards, and beaches, so allow at least two full days for a quick trip.

And don't let the rise in gas prices discourage you, because there are plenty of other ways to pay less at the pump and save along the road.

(Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour)

San Francisco is a big city, but also one of the prettiest in the country. Built on several steep hills overlooking the blue waters of the bay, visitors can explore the many different cultures located in the city's neighborhoods, and Chinatown is probably the most famous of these. For tips and ways to save, read our San Francisco guide.

(Photo: San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Northern California is revered for its majestic redwood trees, and there's nothing quite like bragging about driving through one. Once Highway 1 and 101 merge, you will find three different drive-thru trees to choose from, and each is just as impressive as the next. However, if you're looking for something a little less gimmicky, you can always explore the redwoods by foot at one of the many national or state parks. Most parks are free to enter, and camping is usually a small fee.

(Photo: Hillary Hartley/HCCVB)