Driving the California coast is out of this world. With spectacular ocean views, winding coastline, and landscapes changing from beach-y to desert to forest to wineland, there is so much to see and do as you explore the California coast.
We hit the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) eaaaarly in the morning with the intention that we'd stop in Santa Barbara on the way back. It was a LOT of driving but still plenty of fun.
If you're looking to do a similar drive yourself I'd recommend spending the night up north to allow yourself more time for stops along the way.