<p>Soaring 260 feet above Bixby Creek, this iconic bridge overlooks <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/graphics/big-sur-creativity-jean-jullien" target="_blank">Big Sur</a>’s precipitous cliffs and canyons. While <a href="http://www.visitcalifornia.com/attraction/bixby-bridge" target="_blank">Bixby Bridge</a> is one of the most photographed sites along the Pacific Coast, lesser known stops pepper the route.</p>

Soaring 260 feet above Bixby Creek, this iconic bridge overlooks Big Sur’s precipitous cliffs and canyons. While Bixby Bridge is one of the most photographed sites along the Pacific Coast, lesser known stops pepper the route.

Photograph by Christian Heeb, laif/Redux

9 Must-See Stops on California's Pacific Coast Highway

This iconic route is known for its mountains, forests and beaches, but there are plenty of man-made wonders hidden among the flora and fauna.

California’s Pacific Coast Highway is known for its stunning ocean views set against a backdrop of mountains, forests and beaches, but there are plenty of man-made wonders hidden among its flora and fauna. While most travelers who have driven down State Route 1 know about Bixby Bridge and Pea Soup Andersen's, the road is full of lesser known gems. An explosively bright vintage dining room, tree cocoon lodging, and a train ride through redwoods are just the beginning of the many unexpected sights along the West Coast’s most breathtaking drive.

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