Driving through L.A., you will experience everything from glitz and glamour to rugged mountains and valleys. Cruise down classic thoroughfares, such as Sunset Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, or enjoy the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Palos Verdes Drive. No matter which route you take, you’ll experience breathtaking views and beautiful scenery. So, grab your keys and fill up the tank, ’cause it’s time to roll out!
The Best Scenic Drives in L.A.
Santa Monica to Malibu on the PCH
Put the top down and crank up your California playlist, because coastin’ on the PCH is a scenic drive you won’t want to miss—the PCH is a quintessential road trip. As you whip around twists and turns, admire the picturesque views of the glimmering ocean on your way up to the rugged terrain of the canyons.
Start your drive at the end of Interstate 10 in Santa Monica. From there, turn north onto the PCH. On your way from Santa Monica to Malibu, you can hop off the highway to visit the Getty Villa, a stunning recreation of an Italian villa. Home to an extensive antiquities collection, this L.A. landmark is an absolute must-see (if you have the time for it, of course), but be sure to reserve a timed-entry ticket in advance. There’s no admission fee, but you’ll have to pay for parking.
Once you arrive in Malibu, there’s plenty of opportunities to take photos and to admire the hillside homes and dazzling views. If the incredible beaches are calling your name, stop by the areas marked “Beach Access” and stretch your legs by taking a stroll along the shore. The most beautiful part of the drive is the section between Malibu and Point Mugu State Park. It’s impossible not to admire the jaw-dropping scenery unfolding in front of you.