If you’re planning a trip to the U.S. west coast, prepare to be dazzled!
From its southern tip at the border of Mexico to its northern tip that borders Canada, there is a wealth of diversity.
Whether you’re hitting the coast for amazing scenery, or planning to settle for a few days in one of the many cities full of sites and culture, you’re bound to leave with some great memories.
There’s Much to See on the U.S. West Coast
As such, we couldn’t possibly cover all that territory in this post.
But we’ll give you a peek at some of the cities, towns, and areas that are not to be missed. You’ll want to plan on at least two weeks!
1. Salvation Mountain, California
This amazingly unique and artistic landscape is not technically on the west “coast”, but rather in the California Desert.
What makes it so unusual?
It was initially built from salvaged materials, trees and a ton of donated paint. But it’s an ongoing project that is always changing and evolving.
Essentially, each year the murals and the scope of the mountain changes. New items and salvaged goods are added almost weekly by varying visitors. So chances are, if you come back again next year, it will look quite different.
2. Los Angeles, California
Of course, no trip to the west coast would be complete without a visit to the huge and sprawling Los Angeles. Hit the Getty Center or Griffith Observatory. Surf the waves of the Pacific. Stroll down Rodeo Drive or pop into Mann’s Chinese Theater.
And then there’s Hollywood. So be sure to sign up for the best Hollywood sign tours available. It’s a must-see.
3. Big Sur, California
Further north on the central coast of California is Big Sur. To say that the rugged rocky coastline in Big Sur is impressive would be an understatement.
This small town offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and there are plenty of guided tours. But many people would recommend just sitting back and doing nothing except taking in the jaw-dropping beauty of this place.
Visiting in the spring affords you the addition of wildflower blooms.
4. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is easily as renowned as Los Angeles but is a very different city.
Although not as sprawling and not as warm and sunny as L.A., San Francisco is always abuzz. You can visit Haught Street, dine in the Castro district and explore Fisherman’s Wharf.
Take a break to lounge in Golden Gate Park in the shadow of the famous bridge. And if you want to venture out of the city to get an eyeful of massive redwood trees at Muir Woods, it’s just a short drive over the bridge.
And don’t forget a visit to Alcatraz. If that’s your thing.
5. Seattle, Washington
When people around the world hear the name Seattle, many of them think of Starbucks.
This large city was where it all began. So it makes sense that a town with such a rich coffeehouse culture would have an amazing art and music scene.
Seattle experiences far more rain than the above destinations, which makes it especially lush and green. And a trip to the famous Pike Place Market could land you with some of the best sourdough and clam chowder in the country.
Head West!
We hope you enjoy your trip to the U.S. west coast. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to digest it all!
And keep checking back with our travel hacks blog for more great articles on how to travel with style and savvy.
