California isn’t just a dream for surfers and sun-seekers — it’s also car heaven. From winding coastal roads to mountain passes that test your driving skills, the Golden State is packed with routes that every car enthusiast should experience at least once.
Whether you drive a Porsche 911, a Miata, or just love the open road, here are 6 legendary drives that combine curves, views, and pure driving pleasure.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
From San Francisco to San Diego, this iconic route hugs the coastline with dramatic ocean views, cliffs, and bridges. The Big Sur section, in particular, offers tight turns and epic scenery — ideal for a morning drive with your club.
Best for: Scenic views, GT cars, weekend cruises
Don’t miss: Bixby Creek Bridge, Carmel, Hearst Castle
2. ANGELES CREST HIGHWAY
Just outside of LA, this mountain road offers more than 60 miles of pure twisty joy through the San Gabriel Mountains. Elevation changes, long sweepers, and hairpins make it a favorite for local car groups.
Best for: Spirited drives, group runs
Watch out: Fog and cyclists on weekends
3. mulholland drive / the snake
A classic LA experience. While part of it is now closed to through traffic, car enthusiasts still gather around “The Snake” section to test their skill and show off rides.
Best for: Short, technical drives
Pro tip: Early mornings = less traffic
4. Highway 33 (Ojai to Pine Mountain)
One of the most underrated mountain drives in SoCal. Perfectly paved switchbacks, elevation gains, and minimal traffic make it a true hidden gem.
Best for: Driver-focused routes
Ideal car: Lightweight sports cars
5. ROUTE 2 TO MOUNT BALDY
Winding up into the mountains from the outskirts of LA, this road offers technical turns and stunning alpine views — especially in spring and fall.
Best for: Dynamic elevation + corners
Watch for: Gravel on edges
6. SKYLINE BOULEVARD (HIGHWAY 35)
A Bay Area favorite that runs along the ridge above Silicon Valley. It connects with Alice’s Restaurant, a known meetup spot for car and bike enthusiasts.
Best for: Smooth corners, morning drives
Bonus: Easily combined with Highway 9
Why These Routes Matter to Real Drivers
These aren’t tourist traps. They’re roads loved by drivers. Whether you’re planning a club run, a spirited solo drive, or a social event with your crew, they offer the kind of connection between car, road, and scenery that makes the journey as exciting as the destination.
Find These Routes and More on RoadStr APP
Want to see these routes on a map? Know where to stop? Join upcoming events or find local car clubs that drive them?
👉 All of these roads — and hundreds more — are available inside the RoadStr app.
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Discover routes shared by fellow enthusiasts
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Organize or join events right from the app
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Track your crew in real-time with shared location
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Use CarPlay, offline maps, and even in-app walkie talkie during your drive
Your California Drive Starts Here
California has some of the world’s best roads. But to truly enjoy them, you need the right crew, the right tools, and the right app.
Download RoadStr today and turn your next California drive into a memory.
