Great Ocean Road vs. Pacific Coast Highway: Which Scenic Drive Is Better?
Few road trips in the world compare to Australia’s Great Ocean Road and California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Both routes offer stunning coastal views, dramatic cliffs, and unforgettable stops along the way, making them bucket-list experiences for travelers who love the open road.
If you’re dreaming of ocean views, winding roads, and iconic landmarks, the question is—which scenic drive should you choose? Here’s how the Great Ocean Road and Pacific Coast Highway compare.
Great Ocean Road: Australia’s Coastal Wonder
Stretching 243 kilometers (151 miles) along the southeastern coast of Australia, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous road trips in the world. Built as a tribute to fallen soldiers of World War I, this route winds through rugged cliffs, lush rainforests, and charming seaside towns.
Best Time to Drive & How to Get There
Best Time to Visit the Great Ocean Road
The best time to explore the Great Ocean Road is between November and April, when the weather is warm, and the ocean views are at their best. However, spring (September to November) brings wildflowers and fewer crowds, making it a great alternative.
Getting There
The journey starts in Torquay, just 1.5 hours from Melbourne. You can rent a car or join a guided tour, though self-driving allows for spontaneous stops at scenic lookouts.
Top Stops & Must-See Landmarks
The Twelve Apostles
One of Australia’s most iconic sights, these towering limestone stacks rise from the ocean, creating a breathtaking coastal view, especially at sunset.
Loch Ard Gorge & London Arch
A short drive from the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge features dramatic cliffs and a golden-sand beach, while London Arch (formerly London Bridge) is a striking rock formation.
Great Otway National Park
For a break from the coast, this lush rainforest is home to waterfalls, fern-filled gorges, and the famous Cape Otway Lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia.
Who Is the Great Ocean Road Best For?
This drive is perfect for adventurous travelers, photographers, and nature lovers who want a mix of stunning coastal landscapes, hidden beaches, and unique rock formations.
Pacific Coast Highway: California’s Ultimate Road Trip
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) stretches over 1,000 kilometers (600+ miles) along California’s coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views, charming towns, and dramatic cliffs. The most famous section runs from San Francisco to Los Angeles, passing through Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara.
Best Time to Drive & How to Get There
Best Time to Visit the Pacific Coast Highway
Spring and fall are the best seasons to drive the PCH, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer offers sunny skies but also heavy traffic, while winter can bring rain and occasional road closures in Big Sur.
Getting There
Most travelers start the drive in San Francisco or Los Angeles, depending on their itinerary. Renting a car allows for flexibility, but convertibles are a popular choice for that true California road trip vibe.
Top Stops & Must-See Landmarks
Big Sur & Bixby Bridge
One of the most breathtaking stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway, Big Sur features rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and the iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the world.
Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea
Monterey is home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, while nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming coastal town with fairytale cottages and scenic beaches.
Hearst Castle & Elephant Seal Rookery
Near San Simeon, Hearst Castle is an opulent mansion once owned by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Further south, Piedras Blancas Beach is home to hundreds of elephant seals, making for a unique wildlife stop.
Who Is the Pacific Coast Highway Best For?
This drive is ideal for travelers who love classic road trips, coastal cities, and diverse landscapes, offering everything from charming beach towns to dramatic cliffside views.
