California Coast Guide: Best Places to RV

Have you always dreamed of visiting California, but are never sure when the right time to go will be? Take this as your sign—it’s time to take your RV and head west! From exploring different national parks in California, such as Yosemite National Park and Channel Islands National Park, to tasting wines straight from wine country, there’s no place like Cali. If you’re ready to venture here in your RV, then here is your guide on the best places to go along the California coast.

1. California Beach Wineries

California, also referred to as “wine country,” is home to several small coastal towns where the wine tastes just right. If you plan on making your way down the Pacific Coast Highway this summer, then stop at one or more California beach wineries for some pinot noirs, chocolate, cheese, and more. Enjoy views of the Santa Monica Mountains at Malibu Wines before hitting the beach. If you are interested in a more intimate experience, then check out the boutique, family-owned Harmony Cellars for some budget-friendly tastings.

2.  San Francisco 

Known for being home to Lombard Street, which is the “crookedest street in the world,” the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and the setting  for the famous show Full House, there are so many reasons to stop in San Francisco while driving down California’s coast.  The San Francisco Bay can be spotted from Lombard Street, which is where Alcatraz Island is. This island was once home to Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, which was once a maximum security prison. Before leaving the city, be sure  to try an iconic mission burrito or grab a few slices at Golden Boy Pizza with your family.

3. Channel Islands National Park

If you are willing to detour 22 miles off the coast and take a boat, then it’s worth checking out Channel Islands National Park. This park is a beach lover’s paradise—it includes five islands full of wildlife, such as sea lions, dolphins, and gray whales. You can also experience the park more closely by going scuba diving, boating, or kayaking in the water. To explore the park by foot, complete the 1.7-mile Cavern Point Loop for incredible views of Santa Cruz Island. After a long day of adventuring, you can camp in your RV outside of the park at places like Carpinteria State Beach.

4. San Diego 

Not only does San Diego offer 75-degree days most of the year, it’s also an awesome place to go to skate, surf, and sunbathe on local beaches. This southern California town is home to the iconic Balboa Park, which is where the famous San Diego Zoo is located, as well as gardens and museums. Surfers will love catching waves at La Jolla Cove, a small beach located within stunning sandstone cliffs. RVers can stay overnight at Campland on the Bay with their family, which is located right on the beach.

5. Malibu Beaches

Stretching 21 miles along the California coast, the beautiful beaches of Malibu are worth stopping at for one or more days. Head to Zuma Beach with your family, which is so big that it almost seems endless—play beach volleyball, catch a few waves, or relax in a beach chair. You can also visit Malibu Lagoon State Beach, which is a great spot for bird watching and observing art formations. There are also many more Mediterranean-like beaches in Malibu to check out, such as Paradise Cove Beach, Puerco Beach, and many more. 

From exploring the beautiful wine country to relaxing at different beaches, there are several types of places to stop at on California’s coast. There’s nothing quite like cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway with your favorite road trip playlist on blast. We hope you’re excited to explore the California coast after reading this guide.

See you on the road!