Going all the way down from Beaverton, Oregon to Monterey in California will take you at least 4 days if you would like to see some of the most remakrable spots along the highway
ou got to have the right car for this trip
I went down from Beaverton to Monterey in early summer and avoided always the busy interstates. However, highway #1 I entered near Eureka and then I went along the coast line. You will see beautiful spots and nature reserves which are really worthwhile to visit. On your way down to Monterey you will pass a lot of nice cities. Just to mention the most important such as Eureka, San Franzisko, San Jose. I recommend to stay at least 2 days in Del Norte County with the redwood forest.
Favourite spots:
The Del Norte national park and Redwood forest with the tallest trees on earth is really a place to see. Also San Francisco is a city to visit. If you follow highway #1 in San Francico you will be surprised of how little traffic you see while you are en route. Best time for travelling is spring or fall. Avoid July and August because it can become very misty and also somehow chilling.
What's really great:
Golden Gate Bridge
One of my favourites is before I cross Golden Gate is a visit to my favourite restaurant Scoma's in Sausalito. The best seafood of the bay area. Simply unbeatable. Also the seafront restaurant in Monterey is a place to go after a long days whale watching or whatever you decided to do.
Sights:
Jelly Fish in the Montery aquarium
I recommend whale watching depending on the season. This year I was at all luck because I saw the rare Bluewhales, Spermwhales and Humpbacks beside of hundreds of Dolphins. Absolutely great. The only downer was that my digicam was not charged and I missed the best shots because of a flat batttery! So be prepared better... The aquarium with all the local sea life is certainly the most impressive spot to see.
Accommodations:
A nice spot at Pebble Beach
In Monterey you find many lodges and hotel because it is a very touristic town. I recommend also the city of Salinas for accomodation where once John Steinbeck used to live (the famous author also lived in Monterey).
Unfortunately parking is for american standards quite difficult in Monterey and you better drop your wheels in a safe place in order to avoid to be towed away :-(
Nightlife:
A look at the busy Montery waterfront.
All at the waterfron in Monterey. You certainly find many spots to go.
Other recommendations:
A nice look at the lone cypress behind the ghost trees, Pebble Beach
Drive down the 17 mile drive in Carmel. That's a reserver where you have to pay an entry fee but the beauty of the sea side, and the mansions which are located there are a spot to be seen. Some famous movie stars are also living in this area. Beside of nature and places the 17mile drive is famous for Pebble Beach, one of the worlds most exclusive golf links.