Vancouver to Los Angeles Road Trip

Head to the City of Angels for an unforgettable road trip and warmer weather! The city of Los Angeles is filled with year-round attractions and things to do. The direct drive from Vancouver to Los Angeles is approximately 2044 km and has a drive time of 19 hrs 47 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re looking for a shorter vacay, you can follow our One Week Pacific Northwest Itinerary all the way down to Portland and just keep cruising the I-5. But, it would be a shame to take the I-5 all the way down, so after San Francisco, head west onto the Pacific Coast Highway for some amazing scenery. 

Our recommended way of travel for the most epic road trip is to start in Victoria, B.C. and then hop the ferry to Port Angeles and drive the Pacific Coast Highway all the way to Los Angeles. The Pacific Coast Highway is arguably one of the most famous drives in the entire world. These are just a few of the pretty towns and nearby attractions you’ll want to check out. 

Hoh rainforest

In this forest, you’ll find amazing old growth trees and an incredibly vibrant, lush green environment. Throughout the winter season, rain falls frequently, contributing to the yearly average of 140 inches of precipitation each year. The result is a lush, green canopy. It’s a great spot for a short hike to stretch your legs.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a beautiful city, known as the official gateway to Washington’s scenic Olympic Peninsula. The city is a popular stop for visitors to journey to Olympic National Park. Also known as the “Birthplace of Grunge” and is the hometown of rock music icon Kurt Cobain.  If you’re a fan, stop in Aberdeen to see the house where he grew up!

Astoria

Astoria, like Aberdeen, is a great destination for lovers of pop culture. From Kindergarten Cop to Short Circuit, Oregon’s North Coast has been host to a number of great films. However, only one has gained cult status – The Goonies. The Goonies not only was filmed in Astoria and Cannon Beach, but within the movie they state it takes place in Astoria! Give yourself a self-guided tour of popular Goonies spots and be sure to stop in Cannon Beach to admire Haystack Rock.

Long Beach

The Long Beach Peninsula is an easy, scenic drive and a classic Highway 101 destination. The Long Beach Peninsula is a storm watching wonderland! Storm season (November – February) brings dramatic skies, strong winds, dazzling sun breaks, and vivid rainbows. It’s one of mother nature’s finest shows.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Eventually, the Pacific Coast Highway starts to navigate in and away from the coast, which allows chances to experience California’s natural wonders: the Redwoods. It’s easy to make a stop in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, so take the opportunity!

San Francisco

When in San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is a must visit. Here you will find plenty of souvenir shops and stalls selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. This area also offers postcard views of the bay, Golden Gate and Alcatraz. As well as a colony of sea lions to see and historic ships to tour. 

Monterey

Monterey is a city on California’s rugged central coast. It’s a popular strip of gift shops, seafood restaurants and bars in converted factories. Monterey is home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, with thousands of marine animals and plants on display in underwater and interactive exhibits. 

Hearst Castle

The former home of publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst, this “castle” is formally known as La Cuesta Encantada (the enchanted hill). The construction of Hearst Castle began in 1919 and continued for nearly 30 years. A magnificent 115-room main house plus guesthouses, pools, and 8 acres of cultivated gardens. The whole estate is massive and even has its own private zoo.

Pismo Beach

This lovely city is the exemplary surf town and offers great beachfront shops. The beach itself is beautiful and expansive. The pier is the perfect vantage point for watching the surfers catch what are some of the best waves along the California coast.

Santa Barbara 

This beautiful city is known for its lively energy and beautiful seaside setting. You can take the time to stroll down State Street and pop into the countless shops and eateries or stroll along the main beach. 

Malibu 

Malibu is known for its gorgeous coastline, beautiful beaches and massive celebrity homes. There are countless incredible views that you can take in in Malibu that you’re sure to enjoy  just outside of urban Los Angeles.

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