The Ultimate Guide to the Top Places to See When Driving From Berkeley, California to Los Gatos, California
Are you planning an exciting road trip from Berkeley, California to Los Gatos, California? Well, you're in for a treat as this journey offers some of the most incredible California sights you will ever see. From beautiful beaches to stunning parks and historical landmarks, there's something for everyone.
To help you plan your journey, we've compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Berkeley to Los Gatos. Gas up your car and tune in to your favorite driving playlist as we explore the best sights California has to offer.
Explore the Scenic Route on Highway 17
Highway 17 is an incredible scenic route that is a must-see when driving from Berkeley to Los Gatos. With stunning views of Santa Cruz Mountains, it stretches 26 miles from Santa Cruz to Los Gatos. This road will take you through dense redwood forests, picturesque vineyards, and stunning crystal-clear lakes.
If you love scenic drives, then you'll definitely want to stop and capture some of these epic sights on camera. Make enough time for this drive to enjoy the changing landscapes and rolling hills.
Hit the Beach at Santa Cruz
When driving from Berkeley to Los Gatos, a visit to Santa Cruz is a must. This beach town attracts countless visitors every year, and for good reason. The beautiful sandy beach, warm sunshine, and the relaxing ambiance make it the perfect place to unwind and have an adventure.
Santa Cruz is home to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a century-old seaside amusement park that features thrilling rides, games, and delicious food. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try out surfing or paddleboarding at the beach or enjoy the sea air on a scenic cruise along the coastline.
Enjoy Spectacular Views at the Castle Rock State Park
If you're up for a little bit of hiking, Castle Rock State Park should be on top of your list. Just a short drive from Los Gatos, it offers some of the most spectacular views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
The park features a network of multi-use trails ranging from easy to moderate, which makes it perfect for families and couples who want a fun and exciting outdoor escape. It's also home to Castle Rock Falls and other stunning waterfalls, which you can admire from the scenic viewpoints.
Visit the Mystery Spot
If you're looking for something a little bit different, you should make a stop at the Mystery Spot. This is an optical illusion that defies the laws of physics. It's an amazing place where the laws of gravity seem to be reversed. Balls roll uphill, and people lean at impossible angles without falling over.
The Mystery Spot has been attracting visitors for over 70 years and is still a popular attraction today. It's a perfect stop for people of all ages who love quirky and unusual attractions.
Get Stunned by the Winchester Mystery House
If you're interested in supernatural and mysterious places, then the Winchester Mystery House is a must-see when driving from Berkeley to Los Gatos. The house is famous for its many staircases, doors, and rooms that lead nowhere. Many people, to this day, speculate that the place is haunted.
This spooky mansion once belonged to the famous firearm heiress Sarah Winchester. She spent over 38 years and millions of dollars to build and remodel the house. In the end, the house had over 160 rooms, 13 bathrooms, and 47 staircases, making it one of the most bizarre and unusual places in the world.
Conclusion
The journey from Berkeley to Los Gatos is a true California adventure that offers countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. From the serene beaches at Santa Cruz to the spooky Winchester Mystery House, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Stop off at one or all of these incredible places on your drive to Los Gatos, and you'll have a journey that you'll never forget. So, buckle up, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to make a road trip that you'll cherish forever.