The Ultimate Road Trip: Must-Visit Spots Along Highway 101 from San Francisco to Seattle
- makoklu33
- Feb 5
- 12 min read
Updated: May 23
I spent around 10 days on the road, driving from San Francisco to Seattle along Highway 101. This route is one of the most scenic and diverse stretches of road in the USA, offering everything from towering redwoods to breathtaking coastal views. Below, I’ll share some of the must-see locations from south to north, letting you choose which spots best fit your interests. Stay tuned for a separate article on some 'highway-only' experiences.
Sea Ranch Chapel
The Sea Ranch Chapel, located in Sea Ranch, California, is a unique and serene architectural gem along the Northern California coast. Built in 1985, it’s known for it's distinctive A-frame design, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding coastal landscape. The chapel's interior is minimalist yet warm, with wooden beams and natural light flooding the space through large windows that offer sweeping views of the ocean.
This is the highest lighthouse in the Pacific Ocean. You can visit the lighthouse for $5, and climbing it costs an additional $5. I think it's totally worth it to check it out. There is a small tour in-side you can get a little information about the lighthouse as well.
It’s nothing major, but it’s a nice spot for a picnic or if you plan to hang out for a couple of hours. I entered just to see it, but I don’t think it’s worth the $8 entry fee if you’re only staying for a few minutes or an hour.
While driving along the Avenue of the Giants, I encountered some road closures in certain areas. However, the rest of the route was still fantastic. This is a drive where you can simply relax and enjoy the journey. Don’t forget to stop and pull over at some of the scenic spots along the road. Take a moment to sit in silence and listen to the stillness of the forest—whether it’s the birds chirping, the sound of rain, or just the quiet. It’s a peaceful experience that lets you fully connect with the surrounding nature.
To be honest, driving on this road is already pretty cool, but what makes it even better is the stunning view. On the right, you have the road and a serene lake, while on the left, the ocean stretches out beautifully. I’d recommend checking out this road from a different location for a unique perspective. The spot I’m talking about is along the old state highway, where you can get a fresh view of the road and its surroundings. I really enjoyed it, and I hope you will too!
This is one of the many drive through location in the Oregon. You can go any one of them. It’s one of those unforgettable experiences you should try at least once in your life. It is not just going through but it's that you can see how big these trees can be. Even your huge!! car can go through and you can see that actually you are small in this world. Compared to the rest of the world.
Redwood national Park
This trail is a must-do for anyone visiting the redwood forests. It’s located within the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest trees in the world. The hike is approximately 8 miles round-trip, but it’s worth noting that part of the road leading to the trailhead was closed during my visit. As a result, I had to walk an extra 2.5 miles to reach the start of the trail. Despite this, the hike itself was spectacular, offering a serene walk among ancient, towering redwoods. Be prepared for a moderate level of exertion, but the natural beauty of the area makes every step worthwhile. Note that this is the specific location that you need to hike.
I also hiked the Big Tree Wayside Trail during my visit to the Redwoods National Park, and it was another incredible experience. This trail tends to be less crowded, although it could just have been my luck. Regardless, the peacefulness of the trail made it even more special. The views along the way are absolutely spectacular, offering a chance to take in the grandeur of the towering redwoods up close. It's a wonderful trail for anyone looking to escape the more popular spots while still enjoying the beauty of the park.
There are a couple more trails that I’d recommend, though I didn’t have the chance to hike them myself. These are suggestions I received from other hikers during my time in the park. While I didn’t get to experience them firsthand, they were highly recommended by fellow visitors, and I’ve heard nothing but great things about them. If you have the time, they might be worth checking out!
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
I believe the Oregon Dunes are a must-see when driving through this area. The sand dunes stretch for miles, creating a breathtaking, otherworldly landscape. There are several spots where you can take in the dunes, and I'll mention a few of those locations here as well. Whether you’re walking along the sand or simply stopping to admire the view, it’s a great place to enjoy nature. The area offers not only scenic beauty but also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking to dune buggy rides. It’s definitely worth making time for!
It wasn’t the best season for me, as you can see in the video, but I still had a great time. Even though I wasn’t able to rent an ATV myself, I found a spot where you can rent one. This is just one rental location—there are several others nearby. Renting an ATV is a fun and adventurous way to explore the dunes, and I highly recommend giving it a try!
The Cape Lookout Trail is about 2.6 miles round-trip, but due to the muddy conditions on the trail, it definitely felt longer. Despite the challenging terrain, the reward at the end is well worth it. The view from the viewpoint is absolutely stunning, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great hike for those who don’t mind a bit of a muddy adventure!
Tunnel Beach definitely has some of the coolest rock formations and a unique vibe that sets it apart from other beaches in Oregon. The beach feels more secluded, and the rocks create dramatic views that make it stand out. You can also walk through a small tunnel that leads to the beach, adding an adventurous touch to the experience. The landscape here is truly something special, with it's rugged beauty and peaceful atmosphere. I highly recommend checking it out, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I did!
Cannon Beach is one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal destinations, known for it's stunning scenery and unique rock formations. The standout feature here is Haystack Rock, a massive sea stack that rises 235 feet above the ocean, making it a photographer’s dream. The beach itself stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for a relaxing walk, beach combing, or just taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific.
Here are a few last things I’d like to mention—these are activities or things to see which I wasn’t able to do due to weather, the season, or simply not feeling up to it at the time. However, they’re worth checking out, and if they interest you, If you do check them out, let me know how they are!
The Skunk Train is a historic railroad located in Northern California, offering a unique and scenic ride through the beautiful redwood forests of Mendocino County. Originally built in the late 19th century, the train has become a popular attraction for those looking to experience the breathtaking views of towering redwoods, wildlife, and lush landscapes.
Rail bikes pedal-powered bikes allow you to ride along the same tracks used by the Skunk Train, giving you a more hands-on, interactive way to explore the area.
I stopped at Glass Beach, but unfortunately, due to the strong current, I wasn’t able to see the glass as I had hoped lol. However, it’s definitely worth trying your luck, as it can be a great experience! The funny part is, I spent about an hour walking around before I realized that all the glass pieces are actually under the water.
This is definitely one of the location I would like to visit one day. The only reason I didn’t visit was because the last few miles were unpaved and because of rain slippery to drive safely. It was raining too heavily on the road. Thats why I was not able to drive in there. If the weather is good when you visit there you should visit this location and let me know what do you think.
These are activities that I didn’t enjoy as much, but I still wanted to mention them. Everyone has different tastes, so you might find them enjoyable, or you may be close to the area and want to check them out for yourself!
To be honest, I didn’t find it very impressive. If you’re nearby, it’s worth a quick visit, but personally, I found it underwhelming.
I visited here you can't get really close to the bridges because they don't want you to fall in the ocean and die. Which makes sense; however, seeing it only from the top wasn’t very exciting. It is next to the road so if you would like to visit it you can just stop here.
Because it was foggy I didn't get the best experience however I still like this spot. I don't think you should visit this place but you can visit it if you are close or if you are interested in.
If you found this guide helpful, please like the post and share it with your friends so they can also discover these amazing locations. If you know of any spots I missed or think should be added, feel free to share them in the comments or reach out to me on Instagram. I’d love to update the article with your suggestions!
Best Time to Hit the Road on Highway 101 (Cali to Seattle)
When to Go:
Spring (March to May):
Why It’s Awesome: The weather’s just right—not too hot, not too cold—making it perfect for a road trip. Plus, the coast is looking gorgeous with spring blooms and fewer crowds.
Heads Up: You might get a little rain here and there, especially as you head into Oregon and Washington, but it’s still totally manageable.
Summer (June to August):
Why It’s Great: Warm, sunny days, and plenty of time for beach stops and outdoor adventures. You’ll get the most out of your trip, especially with all the attractions open and long daylight hours.
Heads Up: Summer is peak tourist season, so some of the more popular spots (like the Redwoods or Cannon Beach) can get crowded. If you plan on visiting the bigger cities, book your stays ahead of time.
Fall (September to November):
Why It’s Ideal: The weather stays nice, but the summer crowds are gone. The Oregon and Washington coastlines look especially stunning with the autumn foliage. It’s a great time for a peaceful trip with perfect fall vibes.
Heads Up: The weather becomes more unpredictable as you head north, with occasional rain—still manageable if you’re prepared.
When to Avoid:
Winter (December to February):
Why You Might Want to Skip It: It’s rainy, chilly, and sometimes snowy in the north. The Pacific Northwest especially can get a bit gray and damp, which means not so ideal hiking or beach weather.
Why It’s Not Great for a Road Trip: Some places might be closed or not as fun to visit in the winter (who wants to hike in the rain, right?). The roads can also be slick, and visibility can be poor with all the fog.
West Coast Road Trip FAQ (San Francisco to Seattle Edition)
Where should I stop between San Francisco and Seattle?
If you're hitting the road from San Francisco to Seattle, you're in for an epic adventure! Some must-stop spots? Definitely Fort Bragg for that dreamy glass beach, Redwood National and State Parks to feel tiny among giants, and of course the stunning Oregon Coast — it’s pure magic. Keep cruising up to Portland for good food and cool vibes, then maybe detour to Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Park if you’re into jaw-dropping nature. This route is seriously packed with gems.
Is it worth driving the 101 in California?
Absolutely. Highway 101 is a vibe. Think ocean views, dramatic cliffs, coastal towns, and that classic road trip feeling. If you're driving through California and have the time, skip the fast lane and take the scenic route — it’s 100% worth it. Bonus: you’ll get to see the Golden Gate Bridge as you roll out of San Francisco. Can’t beat that.
How long does it take to drive from San Francisco to Seattle along the coast?
If you go straight through without stopping (but why would you?!), it’s around 15–17 hours. But honestly, you’ll want to stretch this out over a few days — maybe even a week — to soak in the views, explore beach towns, and hit all the cool stops like the Oregon Coast, Portland, and the parks along the way. This is a road trip made to be savored.
What cities are between San Francisco and Seattle?
There are a ton of cool cities and cute towns between San Francisco and Seattle. Some favorites include Fort Bragg, Eureka, Coos Bay, Newport, Portland, and Olympia. Each one has its own personality — from beachy to artsy to foodie heaven. And of course, don't miss those off-the-beaten-path spots along the Oregon Coast or up in Washington State.
Is 101 better than the I-5?
Depends on your vibe. If you’re in a rush and just want to get from A to B, I-5 is faster. But if you’re all about the journey, amazing views, and cool stops, 101 wins — no contest. The road trip itinerary along 101 is full of photo ops, good eats, and unforgettable scenery. It might take longer, but the memories? So worth it.
What’s the best way to explore the Oregon Coast on a road trip?
Take your time, stop often, and don’t skip hidden beaches or local seafood spots!
Is Mount Rainier National Park open year-round?
Parts of it are, but summer’s the sweet spot if you want to hike and catch the wildflowers.
Can I visit Olympic National Park and still have time for Portland?
Totally — just plan a few extra days into your road trip itinerary and you'll be golden.
Is Fort Bragg worth a stop or should I keep going north?
It’s 100% worth it — quirky town, glass beach, and awesome coastline views.
How long should I spend in San Francisco before starting my road trip?
Give yourself at least 2 days to explore the city, snap a pic at the Golden Gate Bridge, and fuel up on great food.
Safety Tips & Things to Keep in Mind
Weather:
Rain & Fog: Especially in Northern California and Oregon, weather can be a bit tricky. Fog can roll in, making driving a little nerve-wracking. Just slow down and keep an eye out for signs. Also, rain might pop up unexpectedly. Make sure to check the weather before you head out!
Windy Conditions: The coast can be pretty windy, especially near cliffs and coastal roads. Keep a firm grip on the wheel if it’s gusty out!
Wildlife:
Keep Your Eyes Open: As you cruise down the highway, watch for deer, elk, and maybe even a bear or two (especially in the quieter parts of the road). They might wander onto the road, so be cautious, particularly at dawn or dusk.
Roadside Stops: If you spot a bear or a wild animal, remember—look, but don’t get too close! Always give wildlife plenty of space.
Narrow Roads & Bridges:
Tight Turns: Some areas of Highway 101 have narrow roads, especially along the coast. If you're driving a bigger car or RV, just take it slow and watch out for those sharp curves.
Road Closures: Landslides and fallen trees can happen, especially in the winter and spring. Always check for any road closures before you start driving, just to avoid surprises.
Limited Cell Service:
Spotty Signal: Some remote spots on Highway 101 might not have great cell service (especially in places like the Redwoods or hidden beach spots). It’s a good idea to have a backup map or download offline maps to avoid getting lost.
Navigation Hiccups: GPS can sometimes be a little spotty in the more isolated areas, so just make sure to pay attention to signs and landmarks.
Trail Conditions & Hiking:
Muddy Trails: If you plan to hike (and you totally should!), be ready for muddy and slippery trails, especially in places like the Redwoods. Wear good shoes and be cautious, particularly after rain.
Landslides: Some spots along the road, especially after heavy rain, can experience mudslides. Keep an eye on local news and check conditions before heading out.
Parking & Scenic Stops:
Pull-Out Areas: Highway 101 has a bunch of scenic spots, but they can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Don’t be afraid to take a little extra time to find parking—these views are worth it!
Leave No Trace: Be kind to nature! Pack out everything you bring in and leave spots as beautiful as you found them.
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