The Ultimate Road Trip: Must-Visit Spots Along Highway 101 from San Francisco to Seattle
- makoklu33
- Feb 5
- 10 min read
Updated: Feb 6
I spent around 10 days on the road, driving from Fresno 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 its 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. Site visit is 5 dollars and climbing on the lighthouse is 5 dollars as well. I think its 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.
Nothing major but it is a nice spot if you are having a picnic or want to stay here for couple hours. I just wanted see it thats why I enter but I dont think it worth 8 dollars to enter if you are going to spend couple min or just like 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 thru location in the Oregon. You can go any one of them. I think this is one of the moment you need to live once in your life time. It is not just going through but its that you can see how big these threes can be. Even your huge!! car can go thru and you can see that actually you are small in this world. Comparing 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 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. Here’s one of the locations, but there are definitely other places you can check out as well. Renting an ATV is a great way to explore the dunes more thoroughly, and I’m sure you’ll have a blast if you get the chance!
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 its 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 its 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 definetly one of the location I would like to visit one day. Only reason I was not able to drive here because of the last couple miles are dirty road and it is too narrow. 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 didnt find it that amazing. You can go ahead and look for it but my opinion is meh.
I visited here you cant get really close to the bridges because they dont want you to fall in the ocean and dye. Which make sense. However seeing from top. Is not make too much fun. It is next to the road so if you would like to visit it you can just stop here.
Because it was foggy I didnt get the best experience however I still like this spot. I dont 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 starts getting a little more unpredictable, especially the further north you go. Expect some rain, but it’s still totally doable 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.
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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