Coastal Road Trips to Take With Your Family

A road trip along one of America’s many coastal highways can bring fun for the whole family. Several popular routes run right along the shore, offering amazing water views and access to beaches, water sports, wildlife preserves, historical sites, and much more.

Travel the Cape Cod Peninsula

Just an hour or so from Boston, the Cape Cod peninsula has long been a favorite tourist and summer destination. The most scenic route runs from the town of Orleans to Provincetown at the tip of the cape, about 25 miles along U.S. Route 6 through the Cape Cod National Seashore. You can drive right on the beach in some areas, with a permit, or enjoy swimming, fishing, or hiking the trails to see wildlife.

History buffs will want to visit the Three Sisters Lighthouse and Penniman House in Eastham. Provincetown has many art galleries, restaurants, and shops. There are also many well-maintained hikes and walks that can be enjoyed in any season. Make sure to bring along your Piggyback Rider so you can enjoy some of the longer trails without having a grumpy little one getting tired on the way.

Take the Pacific Coast Highway

A popular starting point on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is San Francisco. After viewing the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and other popular attractions, hop on State Route 1 and head south. The PCH extends all the way down to Dana Point in Orange County, California.

Although you can drive it in a day, there’s so much to see and do, you’ll want to plan on several days to make the trip. You’ll find numerous hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation home rentals. Some popular attractions along the PCH include Muir Woods, Half Moon Bay, Venice Beach, and Dana Point. The Hearst Castle in San Simeon, once the home of the millionaire newspaper mogul, is now a museum.

Drive the Outer Banks

If you love the ocean, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway is the route for you. The 138-mile highway travels down the narrow barrier islands of North Carolina, offering beautiful views of oceans, beaches, lighthouses, and more. Load your car on the ferry at Cedar Island and relax for the two-hour cruise to Ocracoke Island. Then head north and drive through a dozen small towns, taking in the coastal culture, seafood restaurants, and shops. End your visit at the popular tourist destination of Nags Head.

Wherever you decide to go, enjoy the beautiful natural views and incredible diversity of cultures that America has to offer along its coastlines. Plan your itinerary, however, because you’ll want to see and do as much as you can.

Are you prepared for your next trip? Don’t forget your Piggyback Rider!