Ever dreamed of cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway, where rugged cliffs meet rolling waves and every turn reveals another postcard-perfect view? Whether you’re escaping the snow for California sunshine or chasing alpine air in British Columbia, a one-way road trip between Los Angeles, California and Vancouver, British Columbia is the ultimate West Coast adventure.
And the best part? You don’t have to make the long drive twice. With US Canada Auto Transport, you can plan the scenic drive of your dreams in one direction—then ship your vehicle back home safely and affordably. This means more time enjoying coastal sunsets, mountain trails, and world-class restaurants, without worrying about the return leg.
If you’re planning to drive north, you can easily ship a car to California from British Columbia or arrange car shipping from British Columbia to California for the reverse route. Either way, you’ll enjoy a flexible, worry-free experience from start to finish.
Why a One-Way West Coast Road Trip is the Ultimate Adventure
Few drives in North America rival the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Coast route. Stretching from Southern California’s sunny beaches to British Columbia’s lush forests and snow-capped mountains, this journey captures the very best of the western landscape.
You can travel in either direction—northbound (California to BC) for a gradual escape from warm beaches to cool alpine air, or southbound (BC to California) if you’re chasing the sun during winter months.
Either way, a one-way road trip lets you savor every stop instead of rushing back the same way. With us handling your return shipping, you’re free to focus on exploration, not logistics.
Route Overview: Los Angeles, California to Vancouver, British Columbia
This road trip follows the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) and U.S. Route 101, with some inland segments for speed and variety. It’s about 1,400 to 1,500 miles (2,250 to 2,400 kilometers) of pure adventure. Expect a mix of beachside towns, redwood forests, vineyard valleys, and mountain passes along the way.
Whether you plan for 7 days or stretch it to 10, this route rewards slow travel and spontaneous detours—perfect for couples, friends, or solo explorers.
Day-by-Day Highlights: 7 Days of Coastal Romance and Adventure
Below is a suggested seven-day itinerary that avoids major cities while spotlighting romantic and nature-rich destinations. You can reverse the order if you’re heading south.
Day 1 – Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (Approx. 2–3 Hours)
Start your road trip with one of California’s most scenic stretches: the Pacific Coast Highway through Malibu. Stop at Neptune’s Net, a legendary seafood shack overlooking the surf, and enjoy fresh fish and ocean air before continuing north.
Arrive in Santa Barbara, known for its Spanish-style architecture, wineries, and beachfront charm. Take a romantic sunset walk along Stearns Wharf or sip wine in the Funk Zone.
Lunch: Neptune’s Net (Malibu).
Dinner: Toma Restaurant & Bar, for oceanfront Italian seafood.
Overnight: The Milo Santa Barbara – a boutique mid-range hotel near the beach with cozy Mediterranean-style rooms.
Travel Tip: Santa Barbara’s downtown is walkable and romantic—grab ice cream at McConnell’s before strolling State Street under the palm trees.
Day 2 – Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach (Approx. 3 Hours)
Continue north through rolling hills and coastal vineyards. Take a short detour to Solvang, a Danish-inspired village where you can sample pastries and visit wine-tasting rooms.
Arrive at Pismo Beach, a laid-back surf town famous for clam chowder and oceanfront sunsets.
Lunch: Splash Café for their award-winning clam chowder bread bowls.
Dinner: SeaVenture Restaurant, right on the sand, serving fresh seafood and local wines.
Overnight: SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel, with ocean-view balconies and hot tubs overlooking the beach.
Spend the evening watching the sun dip below the horizon—a classic Central Coast experience.
Day 3 – Pismo Beach to Big Sur (Approx. 4–5 Hours)
The coastline ahead is jaw-dropping. Drive through San Simeon to visit the opulent Hearst Castle, then stop by Piedras Blancas to see elephant seals lounging on the shore.
As you wind into Big Sur, the scenery becomes dramatic—towering cliffs, crashing waves, and hidden coves around every bend.
Lunch: Ragged Point Inn Café—a cliffside spot with panoramic views.
Dinner: Nepenthe, a legendary restaurant perched high above the Pacific. Enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sun sink into the sea.
Overnight: Glen Oaks Big Sur, featuring romantic cabins tucked into redwood groves.
Detour Idea: Stop at McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park—one of California’s most photographed natural wonders.
Day 4 – Big Sur to Carmel-by-the-Sea (Approx. 1.5 Hours)
This short drive allows you to linger in Big Sur’s redwoods before heading north to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a fairytale coastal village known for its art galleries and quiet beaches.
Along the way, pause at Bixby Bridge and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for world-class photo opportunities.
Lunch: Big Sur Bakery, where you can dine under redwoods on fresh pastries and wood-fired dishes.
Dinner: La Bicyclette, a European-style bistro in downtown Carmel that’s both cozy and romantic.
Overnight: Carmel River Inn, offering tranquil garden cottages ideal for couples.
Local Secret: Walk the soft sands of Carmel Beach at sunset—it’s peaceful, pet-friendly, and unbelievably scenic.
Day 5 – Carmel to Mendocino (Approx. 6 Hours)
Today’s drive takes you through some of California’s most beautiful terrain. Follow Highway 1 through Sonoma Coast and Mendocino County, where towering cliffs meet misty redwoods and quaint coastal villages.
Lunch: Stop at Bodega Bay or Elk for fresh-caught crab sandwiches or clam chowder.
Dinner: Café Beaujolais in Mendocino, a romantic fine-dining spot in a Victorian home.
Overnight: Stanford Inn by the Sea, a sustainable eco-resort with cozy fireplaces and ocean views.
Traveler Tip: Mendocino is also wine country—don’t miss local vineyards like Navarro or Pacific Star Winery.
Day 6 – Mendocino to Crescent City (Approx. 5–6 Hours)
Head north into Redwood National and State Parks, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. Drive through Avenue of the Giants, walk the Fern Canyon Trail, or have a picnic among ancient redwoods.
Lunch: Picnic beneath the redwoods with local cheese and wine from Mendocino.
Dinner: Chart Room Restaurant in Crescent City for oceanfront seafood and sunset views.
Overnight: Oceanfront Lodge, with waves crashing right outside your window.
Romantic Moment: Try stargazing on the Crescent City shore—the lack of city lights makes it magical.
Day 7 – Crescent City to Vancouver (Approx. 9–10 Hours via I-5)
Your final day leads through Oregon’s lush forests and Washington’s stunning landscapes. For a shorter route, merge onto I-5 toward Portland and Seattle, then cross into British Columbia via the Peace Arch Border Crossing.
Lunch: Stop in Eugene or Portland for farm-to-table cuisine and great coffee.
Dinner: Celebrate your journey in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour at Cardero’s or The Sandbar, both offering romantic waterfront dining.
Overnight: The Loden Hotel or a North Vancouver inn if you prefer a quieter finale.
You’ve now driven one of North America’s most iconic coastlines—a trip you’ll remember for life.
Border-Crossing Tips
- Documents: Bring valid identification, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration.
- Timing: Avoid crossing during peak rush hours to save time.
- Shipping: If you’re using US Canada Auto Transport for your return trip, we’ll help you handle all necessary customs paperwork.
- Currency: Keep both U.S. and Canadian cash for tolls, parking, and smaller vendors.
- Phone Plans: Check roaming options to stay connected across borders.
Customize Your Trip with the Road Trip Planner
Every traveler’s perfect route looks different. Some prefer wine country detours; others want hot springs, mountain cabins, or small fishing towns. That’s why US Canada Auto Transport created the Road Trip Planner—a free tool that helps you:
- Visualize your one-way route between California and British Columbia
- Add scenic stops, restaurants, and local attractions
- Calculate driving distances and estimated costs
- Plan both the driving portion and your vehicle shipping
Use our Road Trip Planner to customize your route and map out must-see stops. It’s ideal for long-term travelers, snowbirds, or anyone who wants full control of their adventure.
Optional Side Trips Worth Adding
- Napa Valley & Sonoma County: A wine lover’s paradise with world-class vineyards and Michelin-star dining.
- Crater Lake National Park (Oregon): A breathtaking volcanic lake with sapphire-blue water.
- Olympic Peninsula (Washington): Explore rainforests, waterfalls, and rugged beaches before crossing into Canada.
- Whistler, BC: Just two hours from Vancouver, perfect for mountain scenery, spa retreats, and hiking.
If you’re interested in moving from Canada to the US, check out our guide to moving your belongings from Canada to the US, for useful cross-border tips.
Why Use US Canada Auto Transport for Your One-Way Journey
US Canada Auto Transport takes the stress out of cross-border vehicle logistics. Whether you’re a vacationer, snowbird, or relocating long-term, our professional service ensures your car gets to its destination safely and on time.
Here’s why thousands of customers choose us:
- Door-to-Door Service: Pick-up and delivery right at your home or chosen location.
- Cross-Border Expertise: We handle customs documentation, insurance, and all necessary paperwork.
- Flexible Scheduling: Ideal for one-way trips, relocations, and seasonal moves.
- Fully Insured Transport: Your vehicle is protected every step of the way.
- Competitive Rates: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
With our help, you can drive in one direction, fly home, and reunite with your car later—simple, safe, and efficient.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re heading north from California to British Columbia or driving south toward California sunshine, this one-way road trip delivers unforgettable scenery, culinary delights, and unmatched freedom.
From the beaches of Malibu to the redwoods of Northern California and the mountains of British Columbia, you’ll experience every side of the West Coast’s natural beauty.
So plan your dream journey today. Use our road trip planner to map your perfect route, and let US Canada Auto Transport handle your vehicle shipping—so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Here’s a Google Maps link covering the major stops for your California ⇄ British Columbia road-trip.
