Quick Getaway: Road Trip from Carmel-by-the-Sea to Garden Grove

If you're looking for a quick getaway, road tripping from Carmel-by-the-Sea to Garden Grove is a great option! With plenty of scenic views, charming towns, and delicious eats to discover, this drive is definitely worth it. But before getting on the road, let's take a look at the different routes and drive times.

Route 1: The Coastline Adventure

Driving down the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a must-do when traveling in California. From Carmel-by-the-Sea, take Highway 1 South towards Santa Cruz, passing by Big Sur and San Simeon on your way. Once you reach Pismo Beach, take Highway 101 South until you reach Garden Grove.

This route covers a distance of 430 miles and takes around 8 hours without any stops. However, we highly recommend taking your time to soak in the views and stop by places like the Bixby Bridge in Big Sur or the Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon.

Route 2: The Scenic Shortcut

If you're short on time or not in the mood for a long drive, take Route 2 instead. From Carmel-by-the-Sea, take Highway 68 East and merge onto US-101 South. Keep following US-101 until you reach Garden Grove.

This route covers a distance of 340 miles and takes around 6 hours. While not as scenic as Route 1, this route still offers some glimpses of California's beautiful countryside.

Route 3: The Central Valley Cruise

For a different kind of scenery, take Route 3 which cuts through California's Central Valley. From Carmel-by-the-Sea, take Highway 101 South until you reach Salinas. Then, take Highway 68 East and merge onto Highway 99 South. Follow Highway 99 until you reach Garden Grove.

This route covers a distance of 375 miles and takes around 6 hours. Along the way, stop by charming towns like Gilroy, known as the Garlic Capital of the World, or Bakersfield, home to some delicious Basque cuisine.

Regardless of the route you choose, driving from Carmel-by-the-Sea to Garden Grove is a great way to experience the diverse beauty of California. Just make sure to plan some stops along the way to fully enjoy the journey!