Road trips are the perfect way to explore new places, soak in scenic landscapes, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re craving coastal views, mountain adventures, or cultural experiences, there’s a perfect route out there for you. Here are the top 5 road trips you should take to fuel your wanderlust and hit the road with purpose.
Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)
Winding along the stunning California coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers jaw-dropping views of cliffs, beaches, and ocean waves. Start in San Francisco and cruise down to Los Angeles, stopping at hotspots like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. Ideal for a coastal road trip, the PCH combines natural beauty with charming towns and foodie stops.
Must-see stops:
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- Hearst Castle
- Pfeiffer Beach
Great Ocean Road (Victoria, Australia)
If you’re in Australia or planning a trip there, the Great Ocean Road is a must. This iconic route stretches over 240 kilometers along the southern coast of Victoria. Enjoy the dramatic cliffs, beach towns, and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Must-see stops:
- Bells Beach
- Otway National Park
- London Arch
Garden Route (South Africa)
For a mix of wildlife, ocean views, and mountain passes, South Africa’s Garden Route delivers. This drive from Mossel Bay to Storms River offers everything from safaris to surfing. You’ll experience incredible biodiversity, beautiful lagoons, and national parks teeming with life.
Must-see stops:
- Knysna Heads
- Tsitsikamma National Park
- Wilderness Beach
Ring Road (Iceland)
Experience the wild, otherworldly beauty of Iceland on its Ring Road, a full loop around the island. This epic road trip is filled with volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Ideal for adventurous travelers looking for unique landscapes and unforgettable detours.
Must-see stops:
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
Route 66 (USA)
No list of the best road trips is complete without Route 66. This legendary American highway stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a nostalgic glimpse into vintage Americana. Think quirky diners, roadside attractions, old motels, and desert landscapes.
Must-see stops:
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas)
- Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
- Santa Monica Pier (California)
Final Thoughts: Top 5 Road Trips You Should Take
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a month-long journey, these top 5 road trips offer something unforgettable. Don’t forget to pack your essentials, plan your stops, and make room for spontaneity. These routes aren’t just drives—they’re epic travel experiences waiting to happen.
