Northern Cal To Santa Barbara - Best Route?

[johntelling]

Hi,

We will be going to Santa Barbara in August, driving our 40 ft motor home down from Northern California.

We will be traveling down Hwy 101, but it looks as if it might be better to get off 101 and onto Hwy 154 just South of Los Alamos - or is it

twisty and hilly?

Does anyone have any knowledge of the best route?

Thanks,

JT

[shields]

Hi JT,

Highway 101 is an easy drive through gently rolling hills all the way from San Luis Obispo to Ventura. You won't have any troubles on 101 either north or south of Santa Barbara. There are road repairs going on in Santa Barbara, so expect delays in the city itself.

The coast road (Highway 1) is another story. It is very challenging south of Monterrey through Big Sur and south to Morro Bay. That road is NOT recommended for large motorhomes.

If you don't have reservations in the Santa Barbara area, let me suggest Ocean Mesa RV Park. Its about 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara, has a wonderful view of the ocean, is clean with full hookups, and a nice cafe. There are also good view spots (without hookups) at El Capitan State Beach in the same area.

Happy travels,

Tim

[johntelling]

Thanks Tim!

We actually will be staying at the Earl Warren Showgrounds, so we are O.K. for a place to park.

Here is where I am confused; last time we went down, we stayed on 101. However, Microsoft Streets & Trips is saying to take Hwy 154, which splits off just below Los Alamos. It looks as if it would save about 12 miles compared to taking 101 and going through Buellton.

Have you tried that route?

Thanks,

JT

[rmcobb]

Don't go Hiway 154. It is twisty 2 lane road and takes you over the mountains. If you're staying at Earl Warren, it will be best to stay on 101 anyway.

[johntelling]

Thanks for that info - that's what I was afraid of!

JT