When it comes to exploring the popular West Coast, there is a vast expanse to choose from, even if you limit your adventures. A typical route for USA vacationers starts from Los Angeles and heads up to San Francisco, often veering north inland to include Las Vegas and a few national parks along the way. The return journey to L.A. usually follows the scenic Pacific coast. Despite covering many miles on such a road trip, you only scratch the surface of what the west coast has to offer. If you were to continue north along the coast from San Francisco, you would be driving for an astonishing 8 hours before reaching the northern tip of California. And beyond that, two more states (Oregon and Washington) entice with their impressive roads and landscapes.
On the flip side, it's a mere 2.5 hours south from Los Angeles. The route is lined with beautiful beaches all the way down to the Mexican border, with plenty of thrilling motorcycle routes in the inland areas.
Overall, the west coast is a fantastic destination all year round. During the summer months from June to September, you can explore the area north of San Francisco. The temperatures are pleasant even in summer, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of migrating whales on the beaches of Oregon. Conversely, the region around Los Angeles and further south is perfect for exploring from October to May. It's worth noting that the winter months bring snowfall to the mountains. California boasts some excellent ski resorts, so in December and January, it's best to avoid the high peaks when planning your route or stick to the southern regions.