Road Trip! From Calistoga to Carmel-by-the-Sea

If you're looking to hit the open road and explore California, a drive from Calistoga to Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent option. Not only will you see some incredible scenery, but you'll also get a taste of small-town charm and big-city adventure along the way. In this article, we'll go over some of the different routes you can take, the distance for each route, and how long each one will take.

Route 1: Taking Highway 101 South

The first option for getting from Calistoga to Carmel-by-the-Sea is to take Highway 101 South. This route covers 185 miles and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, you'll pass through Santa Rosa, Petaluma, and San Francisco. We highly recommend stopping in San Francisco for a bit to see the Golden Gate Bridge and explore Fisherman's Wharf.

Route 2: Going Through The Wine Country

Another option is to take the scenic route through the wine country. This route is a bit shorter at 177 miles but takes a bit longer at approximately 4 hours. You'll drive through the stunning Napa and Sonoma valleys, so make sure to stop at a few wineries and enjoy some tastings. After that, you'll drive along the coast, taking in the amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Route 3: Highway 1 All The Way Down

If you're in the mood for a more adventurous drive, try taking Highway 1 all the way down. While this route is the longest at 234 miles, it's also one of the most beautiful. You'll see stunning coastal vistas, pass through quaint little towns, and have the chance to stop at several state parks. Make sure to stop at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur for a photo opportunity.

Route 4: Coastal Route Through Highway 116 and 1

Another scenic route that you can take is through the coastal route. This route covers 187 miles that can be covered in approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, and it passes via CA-116, which gives the enchanting view of beautiful flower farms and through the small town of Guerneville. Then through 1, it gives the most staggering view of the Pacific Ocean.

No matter which route you choose, the journey from Calistoga to Carmel-by-the-Sea is sure to be a memorable one. We recommend stopping at several spots along the way to take in the scenery, grab a bite to eat, and stretch your legs. Some great places to check out include Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Half Moon Bay, and the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Safe travels, and don't forget to pack your camera!