Very different stops. Moonstone Beach In Cambria is a hwy 1 bypass strip along the ocean whereas SLO is a city away from the ocean off hwy 101 a little less than 2 hours further after taking hwy 46 east to Paso Robles then south on 101 over the grade.

I don't think that the drive would warrant an overnight, unless you are wanting to really take your time and relax. Highway 1 is unforgettable and has fantastic views. it is a two lane highway with lots of tight turns that will slow down your travel time so don't be in a rush. There are usually a few drivers that think they should be able to speed ahead, so just take advantage of the pull outs and let them pass. If you do decide to stay over night somewhere, Cambria is a good place to stop (only about an hour from SLO). The offer a number of hotels and restaurants. A room on Moonstone Beach road will provide wonderful views.

Highway 1 can not be beat for it's beauty.....best you take 101...or even 5 it's very ugly....you won't be making any stop to look around like on 1.....

i agree 2-3 hours, the sights are pretty amazing which will add time to our drive.

Check with California road updates, the LA times has published some openings. If you do have to drive up to Salinas, the road to the beach,the road will take you by the Arroyo Seco Races at. Also,I would try and stay in Caramel by the Sea. Smaller town, more picturesque, more to see. Also,please drive down to Point Lobos State Park.Michneir wrote it is the most beautiful place in the World where the seas meets the shore. It is a short drive South of Carmel. Your plans are perfect. Enjoy!

Have fun on your trip. That's going to be a long trip for just two days. I recommend getting to Monterrey Ca. Instead of Napa. to strart your trip. The most scenic trip is Highway one from Monterrey to Morro Bay, CA. However the road is closed about halfway down from Monterrey due to a major med slide last spring 2017. The road won't completely open until late summer 2018. Jf it was me, I'd explore Pebble Beach and 17 mile drive through Pebble Beach Golf Club after a night in Pacific Grove, CA. Then take HWY 68 to HWY 101 south to Hwy 46 just south of Paseo Robles, back over to the coast. Then HWY 1 again, Make reservations now for The Shoreline Inn in Cayucos, CA. From Cayucos you can continue south to Morro Bay ( nice quick stop) then pick up HWY 101 again and on to Santa Barbara ( nice quick Stop), Ventura along the coast again and onto LA. Plan your time and trip with good local info from CalTrans. We used to live in Richester NY and now Henderson NV for 23 years. Spent many days sailing to Toronto, Port Credit and Kinston.Ont. It's almost as good as the Pacific Coast Highway. Hope this helps. Scott M

Only road closure we've heard lately is at Big Sur,south of Monterey

Highway 1 is officially open in all of San Luis Obispo County, but there are still closures along the route in Monterey County.. As of June 24th the south end of the closure, originally at Ragged Point, has been moved five miles north to Salmon Creek, just past the ranger station. From Monterey, southbound travelers are encouraged to take Highway 68 East at Monterey, and proceed to Highway 101 South. Access is still possible by following our easy guide. Visit the Highway1DiscoveryRoute website for a map of the detour and sights to see along the way!

Hi there! Your drive time will depend on where exactly you hop on Hwy 1. There is a road closure in the south that will re-route you. You can drive Highway 1 from Ragged Point north to San Luis Obispo (about an hour). If you want to access Highway 1 before Ragged Point, be mindful of the closures in Monterey County. Sites to see along the detour and additional maps can be found on our website.