A Royal Roadtrip Fit for a King (and His Subjects)

Now that the end of the school year is peeking over the horizon, it's time to trade backpacks for beach bags and plan for the free-flowing days of summer. And if the phrase “kids with free time” feels more like a warning label than a gift, consider corralling the crew for an epic road trip up California’s historic King’s Highway—better known as El Camino Real.

This legendary route, first carved out by Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century, originally linked 21 missions along the California coast. Once a dusty wagon trail, today’s version of El Camino Real hugs the scenic Highway 101, with cast-iron mission bells lining the path like breadcrumbs from the past. The bells, shaped like Franciscan walking sticks, have been guiding travelers north since 1906.

Modern-day El Camino Real offers more than a history lesson—it’s a coastal adventure filled with vineyards, foodie finds, charming towns, and mile after mile of jaw-dropping ocean views. So grab your favorite people, toss a weekender bag in the trunk, and get ready to rediscover California’s central coast in the best way possible: slowly, with snacks.

First Stop: Ventura's Laid-Back Cool

Ventura remains a must-stop, and in 2025, it’s still delightfully under the radar. The San Buenaventura Mission is still standing proudly downtown, welcoming guests with a small museum and daily services. But Ventura’s charm isn’t just historic—it’s in the salty breeze, indie coffee houses, and newly revitalized Ventura Harbor Village. With paddleboarding tours to the Channel Islands, weekend artisan markets, and the ever-popular Ventura Pirate Festival each June, there’s more than enough to keep all ages entertained. Pro tip: Grab fresh seafood at Brophy Bros. and enjoy it dockside with pelicans as your lunch dates.

Santa Barbara: The American Riviera Shines On

Santa Barbara continues to live up to its nickname, “The American Riviera,” with its Spanish colonial architecture, upscale boutiques on State Street, and a food scene that’s hotter than ever. At Old Mission Santa Barbara, visitors still flock to admire the rose gardens, artfully preserved church, and the sweeping views of the Santa Ynez mountains. But don’t skip the Funk Zone—this once-industrial pocket now buzzes with wine tasting rooms, craft breweries, and street art. And yes, Oprah still has a home here. And yes, we’re still jealous.

Solvang & Santa Ynez: A Danish Dream Meets Wine Country

Take Highway 154 inland and watch the scenery shift from beach to bucolic hills dotted with horses, olive groves, and vineyards. You’ll arrive in Solvang, the Danish town that time forgot—in the best way possible. The windmills are still spinning, and the pastries are still worthy of a detour. In 2025, Solvang has upped its wine game, too. Boutique tasting rooms now pour wines from Santa Ynez and Ballard Canyon AVAs. Just outside of town, be sure to visit the newly expanded Elverhøj Museum of History & Art or enjoy an open-air show at Solvang Festival Theater.

Nearby, Santa Ynez has blossomed into a wine lover’s paradise with luxe accommodations, like the boutique Genevieve Inn and the high-style, low-stress atmosphere at Skyview Los Alamos. Expect farm-to-table dining, horseback rides through vineyards, and pinot noir that tastes like summer.

Pismo Beach: Dunes, Dolphins, and Drama

Back on Highway 101, cruise toward Pismo Beach. You’ll know you’re close when you see ATVs zipping toward the Oceano Dunes. It’s still the only beach in California where you can drive right onto the sand, but do note: in 2025, off-roading zones have been reduced to preserve the coastline. Rentals are still available, and so is the adrenaline.

Stay at Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, perched dramatically on a bluff with ocean views that stretch for days. Spacious suites with full kitchens make it a family favorite, while the on-site Lido Restaurant delivers refined coastal cuisine for grown-up palates. For a fun detour, head north to Shell Beach, where surfers and dolphins share the waves. You might even spot a local sea otter doing backstrokes near the cliffs.

Avila Beach: Where the Boardwalk Meets the Vineyard

Avila Beach still feels like a secret worth keeping. Tucked between the hills and sea, it offers a sunny microclimate (warmer than foggy Pismo), a walkable main drag, and an impressive wine scene. Stroll along the renovated Avila Pier, grab a locally roasted espresso, and then treat yourself to saltwater taffy and wine from Peloton Cellars.

Kids can romp at the Central Coast Aquarium or splash in the tide pools, while adults head a bit inland to Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards. It’s still delightfully unpretentious in 2025—peacocks roam freely, and beanbag tosses happen between sips of crisp chardonnay. You’ll likely leave with a bottle... and a story.

By evening, Mr. Rick’s lights up with karaoke and beachy vibes, though the “No kids allowed” policy still applies. If you're traveling with littles, head to Avila Valley Barn instead. Fresh fruit pies, hayrides, and goats eager for a snack await.

The Modern-Day Royal Road

The King’s Highway may be rooted in history, but this California road trip feels refreshingly current in 2025. You’ll find EV charging stations at most stops, farm-to-fork menus just about everywhere, and even mission tours that now include interactive AR apps. But the magic is the same: slow travel, scenic views, and the freedom to stop wherever the breeze takes you.

So this summer, skip the airport chaos. Instead, follow the bells up the coast, crank the windows down, and take the royal route home.