The Pacific Coast Highway
By Sandra Simmons, August 2022.
Travelling with my family, we flew to San Francisco in early August and picked up a rental car. After a few days exploring the city, we drove the iconic and beautiful coastal route through Monterey, Carmel and Santa Barbara to Hollywood and the city of angels.
Alcatraz
The former Federal Penitentiary on “The Rock” is now a unique museum, which we explored with a fascinating audio guide, narrated by former officers and inmates. The prison is smaller and less creepy than in the movies. I was surprised to learn that families of guards lived on the island, where there was a great sense of community.
The ferry to Alcatraz Island is also a nice way to admire the coastline of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Muir Woods
After some busy days in the city, it was good to drive over the bridge north to Muir Wood, a gorgeous peaceful place to wander below majestic coastal redwood trees.
The wood is well maintained with paths and places to relax and enjoy the trees. On the hillside trail I could sit and appreciate the immense height of the trees, which are hundreds of years old.
Pfeiffer Beach
The famous Pacific Coast Highway hugs the cliffs along Big Sur. On the day we drove the route the weather started rather misty, giving us an interesting experience, making the views more dramatic and mysterious.
Our favourite stop on the journey was Pfeiffer Beach, only accessible by driving down a narrow 2 mile toll road. On the beach, we paddled our toes and watched as huge waves crashed through the rock formations.
