Research the PCH and determine which sections you are interested in exploring. Late spring and summer are the best times to visit Washington, Oregon and Northern California to avoid rainy weather.
Begin planning your trip by deciding what you want to see, and plan your trip around these destinations. For example, you might want to visit the aquarium in Monterrey or the boardwalk in Santa Cruz.
Make reservations for lodging or campsites before setting out, especially in the high tourist season. Consider camping in places such as Redwood National Park or Big Sur, two sections of the highway that are particularly picturesque.
Purchase and bring a road map and guidebook. Use the guidebook to learn about other attractions along your route.
Look for special places to eat along the way. Sample local cuisine such as seafood. Oysters and Dungeness crabs are two of the delicacies found along the Pacific Coast.
