When travelers speak about their journey to the West Coast, they often pertain to Los Angeles. However, L.A. is not the only attraction that people should visit on the West Coast. In fact, there is an incredible amount of destinations that are both amazing and easy on the checkbook. The following list includes four great stops for your next West Coast road trip.
Olympic Peninsula
Stretching over seventy-three miles along the coastline of Washington state, the Olympic Peninsula is, without a doubt, a must-stop for any traveler visiting the West Coast. This beautiful site cannot only provide you with a place to hike and camp out, but the Olympic Peninsula is also home to a variety of legends, myths, and stories from both the past and the present. If you are only here for a short time, make sure to stop at these three locations. First, it is an absolute must to locate and witness the tallest trees in the world, many of them located on the Olympic Peninsula. Second, are the Sol Duc hot springs and, finally, the Hoh Rainforest, where you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the Hall of Mosses.
Along California State Route 1
California State Route 1, or as it is more commonly known, the Pacific Coast Highway, is a must-visit area of the West Coast. You’ll be traveling across different roads for most of your trip, and although it doesn’t exactly go through the coastline the whole way through, it still does provide plenty of scenic views. Much of these will be found along Santa Monica, Malibu, and Oxnard. Of course, it’s not a complete road trip without visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, and luckily for you, the route to take you there is provided to you by California’s Route 1.
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Napa Valley
Wine lovers rejoice, the West Coast is home to one of the best wineries and vineyards in the world. If you’re in a hurry, make sure to visit some of the smaller wineries, as they often provide a more personal experience. Napa Valley also includes plenty of restaurants where you can taste the wines of the valley without having to travel too far.
Salvation Mountain
Salvation Mountain, California is a unique destination, to say the least. The site, with its painted landscape, provides visitors with the ability to truly immerse themselves. Salvation Mountain was erected by Leonard Knight around thirty years ago in an effort to spread the message of love, acceptance, and happiness. It is full of messages about God and verses from the Bible. One interesting thing about it is that anyone can add their own personal message to the mountain. Not only do you get to visit an incredible spot, but you can also include your name in history.
There you have it, four great stops for your next road trip. So, what are you waiting for? Pack up the car and get your camera ready to capture some of the most beautiful spots on the West Coast.
