7 Best Coastal RV Routes in California

Embark on an unforgettable journey along California's stunning coastline with our guide to the 7 best RV routes. Discover breathtaking views, charming towns, and hidden gems perfect for your next RV adventure. From iconic highways to scenic byways, we'll help you plan the ultimate California coastal road trip.

California Coastal RV Adventures Unveiled

California, the Golden State, beckons with its promise of sun-kissed beaches, towering redwood forests, and vibrant cities. But perhaps one of the most rewarding ways to experience California's diverse beauty is by RV, allowing you to explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes. This guide unveils seven of the best coastal RV routes in California, each offering a unique blend of natural wonders, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences. So, buckle up, grab your map (or your favorite GPS app!), and let's hit the road!

Highway 1 RV Road Trip The Iconic Pacific Coast Highway

No list of California coastal RV routes would be complete without mentioning Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This legendary stretch of road hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and secluded coves. While the entire highway spans over 650 miles, a popular section for RVers is the drive between Monterey and Morro Bay.

What to Expect: Expect winding roads, stunning vistas, and plenty of opportunities to pull over and soak in the scenery. You'll encounter iconic landmarks like Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

RV Considerations: Highway 1 can be narrow and winding in places, so RVers should be comfortable navigating challenging roads. Some sections may have restrictions on vehicle length, so it's essential to check before you go. Also, be prepared for potentially heavy traffic, especially during peak season.

Recommended RV Parks:

• Monterey Pines RV Park: Located near Monterey, this park offers full hookups and convenient access to attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground: Nestled among redwood trees, this campground provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of Big Sur. Reservations are highly recommended.
• Morro Bay State Park Campground: Overlooking Morro Bay, this campground offers stunning views and easy access to hiking trails and water activities.

Product Recommendation: WeBoost Drive Reach RV Cell Phone Booster

Staying connected on Highway 1 can be challenging due to the remote locations and mountainous terrain. The WeBoost Drive Reach RV Cell Phone Booster is a lifesaver for RVers who need reliable cell service for navigation, communication, or entertainment.

Use Case: Imagine you're driving along Highway 1 and need to make an important call, but your cell signal is weak or nonexistent. With the WeBoost Drive Reach RV, you can boost your signal and ensure clear communication, even in remote areas. This is especially crucial in case of emergencies.

Product Comparison: Compared to other cell phone boosters on the market, the WeBoost Drive Reach RV offers superior performance and coverage, making it ideal for RV travel. It's also easy to install and use, with a simple setup process.

Detailed Information: The WeBoost Drive Reach RV works by capturing existing cell signals, amplifying them, and rebroadcasting them inside your RV. It supports all major US and Canadian carriers and is compatible with 5G devices. Pricing typically ranges from $499 to $599.

Avenue of the Giants RV Exploration Redwood Majesty

For a truly awe-inspiring RV adventure, head north to the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic 31-mile stretch of old Highway 101 that winds through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Here, you'll be surrounded by towering redwood trees, some of the tallest and oldest living things on Earth.

What to Expect: Prepare to be amazed by the sheer size and majesty of the redwood trees. You'll find numerous pullouts and hiking trails along the Avenue, allowing you to explore the forest up close.

RV Considerations: The Avenue of the Giants is generally RV-friendly, but some sections may be narrow or have low-hanging branches. Be sure to check the height clearance of your RV before entering the park. Also, be aware that cell service can be spotty in this area.

Recommended RV Parks:

• Humboldt Redwoods State Park Campgrounds: Several campgrounds are located within the park, offering a variety of amenities. Reservations are essential, especially during peak season.
• Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin: Located just outside the park, this RV park offers full hookups and a convenient base for exploring the Avenue of the Giants.

Mendocino Coast RV Getaway Rugged Beauty and Charming Towns

The Mendocino Coast, located north of San Francisco, offers a more rugged and less crowded alternative to Highway 1. Here, you'll find dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming Victorian towns like Mendocino and Fort Bragg.

What to Expect: Expect stunning coastal scenery, opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and whale watching, and a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.

RV Considerations: The Mendocino Coast can be windy and foggy, so be prepared for changing weather conditions. Some roads may be narrow and winding, so RVers should exercise caution.

Recommended RV Parks:

• Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground: Located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this park offers stunning views and easy access to the beach.
• Van Damme State Park Campground: Nestled in a forested valley, this campground provides a peaceful retreat near the town of Mendocino.
• Westport Beach RV Park: Located right on the beach, this park offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Product Recommendation: Dometic CFX3 55IM Portable Refrigerator

Keeping your food and drinks cold on the Mendocino Coast is essential, especially if you plan on spending time off the grid. The Dometic CFX3 55IM Portable Refrigerator is a reliable and efficient way to keep your perishables fresh, no matter where you are.

Use Case: Imagine you're camping at a remote campground on the Mendocino Coast, far from any grocery stores. With the Dometic CFX3 55IM, you can keep your food and drinks cold for days, without having to worry about ice or melting coolers. The integrated ice maker is a fantastic bonus for those cocktails at sunset.

Product Comparison: Compared to traditional coolers or other portable refrigerators, the Dometic CFX3 55IM offers superior cooling performance, energy efficiency, and durability. It also features a user-friendly digital display and app control.

Detailed Information: The Dometic CFX3 55IM uses a powerful compressor to cool its interior down to -7°F (-22°C). It can be powered by 12V DC or 110V AC and features a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of RV travel. Pricing typically ranges from $999 to $1,199.

Channel Islands National Park RV Basecamp Ventura

While you can't take your RV directly to the Channel Islands (they are only accessible by boat), Ventura makes an excellent basecamp for exploring this unique national park. Ventura offers a variety of RV parks and campgrounds, and from there, you can take a ferry to the islands for a day trip or overnight camping.

What to Expect: The Channel Islands offer a diverse range of activities, including hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales.

RV Considerations: Be sure to book your ferry tickets and camping reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Also, be aware that the islands have limited facilities, so you'll need to pack everything you need.

Recommended RV Parks in Ventura:

• Ventura Beach RV Resort: Located right on the beach, this resort offers full hookups and a variety of amenities.
• Waypoint Ventura Vintage Trailer Hotel & RV Park: A unique RV park with vintage trailers available for rent. They also have standard RV sites.
• Emma Wood State Beach Campground: A more rustic campground located on the beach, offering stunning ocean views.

Santa Barbara to Solvang RV Wine Country and Coastal Charm

This route combines the beauty of the California coast with the charm of wine country. Start in Santa Barbara, known for its stunning beaches and Spanish architecture, and then head inland to Solvang, a Danish-style village located in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley wine country.

What to Expect: Expect beautiful beaches, opportunities for surfing and kayaking, charming towns, and world-class wineries.

RV Considerations: The roads between Santa Barbara and Solvang are generally RV-friendly, but some wineries may have limited parking. Be sure to designate a driver if you plan on wine tasting.

Recommended RV Parks:

• Carpinteria State Beach Campground: Located just south of Santa Barbara, this campground offers direct access to the beach.
• Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground: Located in Buellton, near Solvang, this resort offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool and a water park.

Product Recommendation: Garmin RV 890 GPS Navigator

Navigating the winding roads and finding RV-friendly routes can be challenging, especially in wine country. The Garmin RV 890 GPS Navigator is specifically designed for RVers, offering features like custom routing, campground directories, and points of interest.

Use Case: Imagine you're driving through the Santa Ynez Valley and want to find a winery with RV parking. With the Garmin RV 890, you can easily search for wineries with RV-friendly facilities and get turn-by-turn directions. The custom routing feature will also help you avoid low bridges and other obstacles.

Product Comparison: Compared to standard GPS navigators, the Garmin RV 890 offers features specifically designed for RVers, such as custom routing, campground directories, and points of interest. It also has a large, easy-to-read display.

Detailed Information: The Garmin RV 890 features a large 8-inch display and provides custom routing based on your RV's size and weight. It also includes a directory of campgrounds and RV parks, as well as points of interest like gas stations, restaurants, and attractions. Pricing typically ranges from $499 to $599.

San Diego Coastal RV Tour Southern California Sunshine

San Diego offers a variety of coastal RV routes, from the beaches of Coronado to the cliffs of La Jolla. Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, visit world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park, and soak up the Southern California sunshine.

What to Expect: Expect beautiful beaches, a vibrant city atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

RV Considerations: San Diego can be crowded, especially during peak season, so be sure to book your RV park reservations in advance. Traffic can also be heavy, so plan your travel accordingly.

Recommended RV Parks:

• Mission Bay RV Resort: Located on Mission Bay, this resort offers full hookups and a variety of amenities.
• Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve: Located just outside of San Diego, this preserve offers a variety of campsites around seven lakes.
• Campland on the Bay: A large resort on Mission Bay with numerous amenities and activities.

Big Sur to Hearst Castle RV History and Natural Beauty

Combine the stunning scenery of Big Sur with a visit to the opulent Hearst Castle on this unforgettable RV route. Explore the rugged coastline, hike among redwood trees, and then step back in time at William Randolph Hearst's magnificent estate.

What to Expect: Expect breathtaking coastal views, challenging roads, and a glimpse into the life of a media mogul.

RV Considerations: This route includes a portion of Highway 1, which can be narrow and winding. Be sure to check the height clearance of your RV before visiting Hearst Castle, as some parking areas may have restrictions.

Recommended RV Parks:

• Kirk Creek Campground: Located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this campground offers stunning views. Reservations are essential.
• San Simeon State Park Campground: Located near Hearst Castle, this campground offers a variety of campsites and easy access to the attraction.

Product Recommendation: LevelMatePRO Wireless Vehicle Leveling System

Finding a level campsite can be a challenge, especially on uneven terrain. The LevelMatePRO Wireless Vehicle Leveling System makes it easy to level your RV quickly and accurately, ensuring a comfortable and safe camping experience.

Use Case: Imagine you've arrived at your campsite near Hearst Castle, but the ground is uneven. With the LevelMatePRO, you can use your smartphone to determine exactly how much you need to raise each wheel to achieve a perfectly level RV. This eliminates the guesswork and saves you time and effort.

Product Comparison: Compared to traditional leveling methods, the LevelMatePRO offers a more accurate and convenient solution. It's also easy to install and use, with a user-friendly app interface.

Detailed Information: The LevelMatePRO uses Bluetooth technology to communicate with your smartphone or tablet, providing real-time leveling information. It's compatible with most RVs and trailers and can be installed in minutes. Pricing typically ranges from $149 to $199.

California's coastal RV routes offer something for everyone, from stunning scenery and charming towns to world-class attractions and unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags, grab your keys, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!