Los Angeles is famous for its stunning coastline. The city offers beautiful drives along the ocean with breathtaking views. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these drives are a great way to explore LA’s coastal beauty. Here’s a guide to the best scenic coastal drives in LA, featuring top coastal destinations in LA that you’ll love.
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
The Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, is one of LA’s most famous drives. This road runs along the coast and offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Starting in Santa Monica, you can head north to Malibu. Along the way, you’ll pass several coastal destinations in LA.
Malibu’s beaches, like Zuma Beach and El Matador, are easy to reach from the PCH. The drive is perfect for a day trip full of scenic views and beach stops.
Tip: Try to drive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic and enjoy the golden hour along the coast.
Mulholland Highway
Mulholland Highway offers both coastal and mountain views. This road takes you through the Santa Monica Mountains. It leads to stunning overlooks of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll see panoramic views of the ocean and the rugged landscape.
As you approach Malibu, you can connect to the PCH. Nearby coastal destinations in LA, like Leo Carrillo State Park, are great for hiking or beachcombing.
Sunset Boulevard to Pacific Coast Highway
Sunset Boulevard is a classic LA drive. Starting in the city, this route takes you through West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The road winds through Brentwood and Pacific Palisades before reaching the coast.
Once you reach the PCH, you’ll see the Pacific Ocean. From there, you can head north toward Malibu or south to explore Santa Monica and Venice Beach. This route combines city sightseeing with stunning coastal destinations in LA.
Palos Verdes Drive
Palos Verdes Drive is a hidden gem for coastal views. This road is located in the South Bay area. The drive offers ocean views, rocky cliffs, and lush hills. You can stop at scenic pull-offs for pictures or simply enjoy the views.
One of the highlights is the Point Vicente Lighthouse. This scenic spot offers amazing views of the ocean. Along the way, you’ll also pass coastal destinations in LA like Abalone Cove and Portuguese Bend.
Topanga Canyon Road
Topanga Canyon Road is a beautiful route that connects LA’s inland areas with the coast. The drive takes you through Topanga Canyon. You’ll see lush trees and wildlife before the road leads to Malibu.
Once you reach the PCH, you can continue exploring the beaches of Malibu. The coastal destinations in LA along this route, like Surfrider Beach, are great for relaxing by the ocean.
Malibu Canyon Road
Malibu Canyon Road is a scenic route from inland LA to the coast. This road cuts through the Santa Monica Mountains. You’ll see rocky landscapes and ocean views as you approach Malibu.
Once you reach the coast, you can easily visit top coastal destinations in LA like Paradise Cove. Malibu Canyon Road is less crowded than the PCH, making it a great option for a peaceful drive.
Vista Del Mar and Dockweiler Beach
Vista Del Mar is a short but scenic coastal drive. The road runs parallel to Dockweiler Beach. The beach offers wide sandy shores and beautiful sunsets. This drive is perfect for a quick coastal escape.
You can stop at Dockweiler Beach for a picnic or enjoy watching the planes take off from LAX. Though short, this drive offers access to one of LA’s most laid-back coastal destinations.
Santa Monica to Venice Beach
For a classic LA beach drive, head from Santa Monica to Venice Beach. Start at the Santa Monica Pier, with its famous Ferris wheel and lively atmosphere. Follow Ocean Avenue south toward Venice Beach.
Along the way, you’ll pass Santa Monica State Beach and Venice Beach. These are two of the most popular coastal destinations in LA. You’ll see ocean views, palm trees, and Venice’s famous street art.
Explore the Coastline With a Rental Car
Los Angeles offers some of the best coastal drives in the country. From the famous Pacific Coast Highway to hidden gems like Palos Verdes Drive, there’s a scenic route for everyone. These coastal destinations in LA are perfect for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway. If you’re planning to explore these routes, Value Rental Car, with convenient locations in Inglewood near LAX and Pasadena, offers reliable rental options to help you enjoy the journey. Grab your keys and experience the beauty of LA’s coastline!