24 West Part 1: Along the Coast
Introduction: A Journey Between Jobs
Sometimes life gives you those unexpected moments of pause - a gap between jobs, a shift in life, or a chance to take a step back and explore. This was one of those times for me. Between leaving my last job and starting a new chapter, I was given a few weeks to travel and reconnect with friends, family, and the vast open road. So, I packed up and embarked on a four-week road trip that would take me from the beaches of Santa Monica up the stunning Pacific Coast to Vancouver, BC, before turning east to Calgary and then winding south through the rugged American West. This adventure would bring me face-to-face with some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America, eventually looping back to where it all began in Santa Monica.
This is the first installment of that story - a journey from the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles to the towering redwoods of Crescent City. Along the way, there are old friends to catch up with, coastal trails to wander, and plenty of local spots to explore. Part 1 ends here in Northern California, but much more is to come.
From LA to SF: Old Roommates and New Favorites.
The trip began as many do: with the hum of tires on asphalt and a long stretch of road between Los Angeles and San Francisco. It’s a drive I know well, but this time, there was the excitement of something different. After hours on I-5, I arrived in San Francisco’s SoMa (South of Market) district, where I had the luxury of crashing with my old roommates. It felt like a full-circle moment, having once lived in this vibrant part of the city myself.
That night, we made our way to Fermentation Lab in Japan Town, a favorite spot of mine for craft beer, creative cocktails, and great conversation. The friendly owner, Jakub Przybyszewski greeted us with his usual warmth, making me feel like a regular again after being gone for so long. Jakub has a curated selection of beers on tap that are perfect for anyone looking to explore new flavors, and the laid-back atmosphere made it the ideal spot to catch up with my old crew.
The next morning, I wandered down to Cafe Suspiro (formerly known as Vega Coffee), a small cafe that holds a special place in my heart. Raul, the owner, still remembered me from 2018 when I used to grab a coffee here during my first job just around the corner. The decor may have changed but the familiar smell of fresh espresso and the quiet hum of the early morning brought back all the memories. It was the perfect start to the next leg of my journey.
San Francisco to Sea Ranch: Coastal Beauty & Family Ties
Leaving the city behind, I headed north along US 101 until Petaluma when I cut out toward the coast and Highway 1. My destination? Sea Ranch, where my aunt and uncle live with their adorable white labrador, Darwin. Much of this stretch of road hugs the coast, offering endless views of the Pacific crashing against the cliffs. But the real magic begins when you reach Sea Ranc. There you find groves of Monterey Cypress trees lining the coastal trails, their branches arching overhead like natural canopies. I’ve walked these trails since I was young, and every time I return they feel both familiar and new.
There’s something special about walking these paths with Darwin at my side, her boundless energy a reminder to enjoy the sights and smells that surround us. With as much time as she takes to sniff around she certainly enjoys it!
After spending a couple of days drinking up the views and the cool sea air I continued on my way North, with a quick stop at Trinks Cafe in Gualala, a local spot known for its great food and cozy atmosphere. If you’re ever in the area, the fresh baked goods and hearty sandwiches are a must-try.
Darwin the dog - #thefearfulfluff
Sea Ranch to Fort Bragg: Coastal Towns & Brewery Stops
From Sea Ranch, the journey took me further up the coast, with a quick stop in the small town of Elk. It’s a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of place, but the view of Elephant Rock from the cliffs is worth the short detour. The giant rock formation, shaped like an elephant emerging from the water, is a striking contrast to the calm, expansive ocean around it.
Elephant Rock - Elk, CA
The next major stop was Fort Bragg, a small coastal town known for its rugged beauty. One of the highlights of this leg was stopping by the North Coast Brewery. Their beers are served all along the West Coast and beyond, and after a long drive, there’s nothing better than relaxing with a glass of their Pranqster Belgian Ale while soaking in the local vibe.
Fort Bragg to Crescent City: Wine with a View & Towering Giants
Continuing up Highway 1, I made sure to stop at Pacific Star Winery, perched right on the edge of the coast. This is more than just a place for wine lovers; it’s a destination. With sweeping views of the Pacific and a glass of their Charbono in hand, it’s hard to not feel completely at peace. The winery’s location, high on the cliffs, makes it one of the most picturesque spots along the entire route.
Pacific Star Winery
The drive from Fort Bragg to Crescent City also offers a quirky pit stop at Confusion Hill, a roadside attraction known for its optical illusions and hearty snacks. The kind of place you stop to stretch your legs and leave with a full stomach and a smile on your face.
As I neared Crescent City, the landscape transformed. Towering redwoods took over, and I found myself on the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic drive that winds through some of the most majestic trees I’ve ever seen. There’s a certain magic to this stretch of road. The trees are so tall they block out the sun, casting the whole forest in a serene, green glow. Among them is Rockefeller Redwood Forest, a place filled with delicate beds of redwood sorrel and the calming hush of nature.
Avenue of The Giants
Once in Crescent City, I was eager to explore Redwood National Park and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Both parks offer some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the region, and if you’re an outdoor enthusiast like me, you’ll want to take the time to fully immerse yourself. In Jed Smith, I recommend starting at Bertsch-Oceanview and taking Howland Hills Road toward the Nickerson Ranch Trailhead. The narrow road is an adventure in itself, winding through the thick forest with barely enough space for two-way traffic. A four-wheel drive vehicle is almost a necessity here, as is a little patience for the occasional stop-and-go. But trust me, it’s worth it. The trails off this road are stunning, with towering redwoods and plenty of peaceful spots to stop and admire the natural beauty.
Conclusion: More to Come
As the first leg of my road trip comes to a close in Crescent City, I can’t help but reflect on the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Coast. From reconnecting with old friends in San Francisco to wandering the serene trails of Sea Ranch, every moment has been a reminder of how special this little corner of the world truly is.
And this is just the beginning! There’s so much more to explore as the journey continues. Stay tuned for Part 2, where I head north toward Vancouver, BC, and into the stunning Canadian Rockies.
Have you ever driven the Pacific Coast? What were your favorite stops along the way? Let me know in the comments!
