By: Maria Vital
What better way to drive down SoCal’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway than in a brand new Lexus LS500? The Western Area Lexus Team organized a lovely drive down PCH that includes views, bites, and history.
Starting at the luxurious, waterfront Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, the Lexus LS500 awaits with extraordinary GPS navigation that will take you on the most efficient route. An added bonus: if you get too caught up in the views you’re driving past, state-of-the-art technology will keep you and your Lexus in your lane at all times. Safe and sleek– two things everyone should want in a car.
With the engine running, the first stop on the drive down PCH is Top of the World in Laguna Beach. During this drive, you’ll pass stunning views of the Pacific and downtown Laguna areas where locals and tourists alike shop around art galleries and sit out in the sun.
Top of the World is also known as Alta Laguna Park. Here, you can see stunning views of the city and the beach. It is the perfect place to appreciate SoCal’s true beauty. People can drive by for a quick stop, or they can hike all the way up to see the views.
Address: W Ridge, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
The next stop is further down the coast in San Clemente. A beautiful beach town, San Clemente is home to stunning viewpoints, an outlet mall, and Spanish-inspired architecture.
Linda Lane Park in San Clemente is a small city park with a play area for children and an absolutely breathtaking panoramic view of San Clemente’s beach. Palm trees, clear blue waters, and happy beach goers make for the perfect SoCal vibe. This stop is great for pictures, and you can go to the beach with easy access.
Address: 239 W Marquita, San Clemente, CA 92672
Taking in these views will work up an appetite. Drive further south to San Juan Capistrano where you will find a plethora of food options mixed into the iconic history of the old Mission town. Get some coffee before your lunch at Ellie’s Table. This coffee joint is at the Egan House, a lovely brick building that blends in perfectly with the historic vibe of the town. Inside, you will find a hipster’s paradise with rustic gold accents, cute pastries and a beautiful tiled floor.
Address: 31892 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
With your iced coffee in hand, Trevor’s at the Tracks is merely a short walk away. Walking through this area is a must, if you like to get up close and personal with history. All of the buildings have a historic background, and they are great backdrops for photos.
Once you hit the train tracks, you are at your lunch spot. The train does pass through every so often, but it adds to the atmosphere. Sit in the patio to take in the beauty of San Juan Capistrano. The menu here is packed with variety, so there’s no need to worry if you have a picky eater tagging along on the ride.
Address: 26701 Verdugo St, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Once your meal is done, head back to the Lexus LS500. Whether you are driving or if you are a passenger, this car puts comfort as a priority. Each seat feels as if it’s customized just for you as it hugs you in all the right places. You can adjust your seat in an insane amount of different combinations, or, if you’re sitting in the back, you can make your seat a recliner. Yes, you can comfortably take a nap in the back seat after your feast!
On your way back from San Juan Capistrano to Newport Beach, you’ll definitely want to satisfy your sweet tooth at Crystal Cove Shake Shack. Right on Coast Highway, this literal shack is always bustling with people trying to get their hands on a famous shake. Thick and creamy with an endless amount of mix-in options, you won’t be disappointed. There’s also an epic view of the Pacific and Crystal Cove State Beach. Watching a SoCal sunset while sipping on a milkshake is the perfect way to end your day.
Address: 7703 E Coast Hwy, Newport Coast, CA 92657
