{"id":5787,"date":"2024-10-17T16:13:36","date_gmt":"2024-10-17T23:13:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/?p=5787"},"modified":"2026-03-25T00:10:11","modified_gmt":"2026-03-25T07:10:11","slug":"san-diego-scenic-roads","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/","title":{"rendered":"Take the Scenic Route: San Diego\u2019s Top Drives"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"ItemList\",\n  \"name\": \"San Diego's Best Scenic Drives\",\n  \"description\": \"15 scenic drives and roads across San Diego County, from coastal cruises to mountain passes and desert overlooks.\",\n  \"itemListElement\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 1,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Del Dios Highway\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 2,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Palomar Mountain Road (South Grade Road)\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 3,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Sunrise Highway (S1)\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 4,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Highland Valley Road\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 5,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Wildcat Canyon Road\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 6,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Skyline Truck Trail & Lyons Valley Road\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 7,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Couser Canyon and Rice Canyon Roads\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 8,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Highway 94 to Tecate\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 9,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Old Julian Highway & Mesa Grande Road\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 10,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Point Loma Boulevard to Cabrillo National Monument\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 11,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Coronado Bridge\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 12,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Sunset Cliffs Boulevard\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 13,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Highway 101 (Pacific Coast Highway)\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 14,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Neptune Place (Windansea)\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n      \"position\": 15,\n      \"item\": {\n        \"@type\": \"TouristAttraction\",\n        \"name\": \"Mount Soledad Road\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script><\/p>\n<p>San Diego has some of the most diverse driving scenery in California \u2014 and that&#8217;s not an exaggeration. Within an hour of downtown, you can go from ocean cliffs to alpine forests to desert overlooks to backcountry ranch roads with zero traffic and nothing but rolling hills in every direction.<\/p>\n<p>We put together 15 of the best scenic drives in San Diego County, from quick coastal cruises you can do on a lunch break to full-day mountain adventures. Whether you&#8217;re a gearhead who wants twisty roads, a photographer chasing golden hour, or just someone who needs to get out of the house and clear their head, there&#8217;s a drive here for you.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Most of these drives are best on weekday mornings or weekend sunrises \u2014 less traffic, better light, and you&#8217;ll feel like you have the whole road to yourself. And bring a full tank of gas for the backcountry routes \u2014 some of these roads are 30+ miles from the nearest station.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Del_Dios_Highway\" >Del Dios Highway<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Palomar_Mountain_Road_South_Grade_Road\" >Palomar Mountain Road (South Grade Road)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Sunrise_Highway_S1\" >Sunrise Highway (S1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Highland_Valley_Road\" >Highland Valley Road<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Wildcat_Canyon_Road\" >Wildcat Canyon Road<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Skyline_Truck_Trail_Lyons_Valley_Road\" >Skyline Truck Trail &amp; Lyons Valley Road<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Couser_Canyon_and_Rice_Canyon_Roads\" >Couser Canyon and Rice Canyon Roads<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Highway_94_to_Tecate\" >Highway 94 to Tecate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Old_Julian_Highway_Mesa_Grande_Road\" >Old Julian Highway &amp; Mesa Grande Road<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Point_Loma_Boulevard_to_Cabrillo_National_Monument\" >Point Loma Boulevard to Cabrillo National Monument<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Coronado_Bridge\" >Coronado Bridge<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Sunset_Cliffs_Boulevard\" >Sunset Cliffs Boulevard<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Highway_101_Pacific_Coast_Highway\" >Highway 101 (Pacific Coast Highway)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Neptune_Place_Windansea\" >Neptune Place (Windansea)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#Mount_Soledad_Road\" >Mount Soledad Road<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/#More_San_Diego_Guides\" >More San Diego Guides<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Del_Dios_Highway\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Del_Dios_Highway\"><\/span>Del Dios Highway<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Del Dios Highway connects Escondido to Rancho Santa Fe along the shores of Lake Hodges, and it&#8217;s one of those drives that makes you forget you&#8217;re 20 minutes from a Target. The road winds through the Elfin Forest with lake views on one side and rocky hillsides on the other \u2014 it&#8217;s genuinely beautiful, especially in spring when everything is green.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 11 miles, 20-25 minutes without stops. Start in Escondido heading south on Del Dios Highway (S8) and end up in Rancho Santa Fe. The road eventually becomes Paseo Delicias, which takes you through one of the wealthiest zip codes in America \u2014 the homes are insane.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t miss:<\/strong> The <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/best-hikes-in-san-diego\/\">Elfin Forest hiking trails<\/a> are right off the highway if you want to stretch your legs. Lake Hodges is also open for fishing and kayaking seasonally (Feb-Oct). And if you&#8217;re hungry at the end, the little restaurants in RSF are pricey but worth it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"377\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Del-Dios-Highway-View-1024x377.webp\" alt=\"Scenic Del Dios Highway view in San Diego County\" class=\"wp-image-5811\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Del-Dios-Highway-View-1024x377.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Del-Dios-Highway-View-300x111.webp 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Del-Dios-Highway-View-768x283.webp 768w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Del-Dios-Highway-View.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d53499.38692245995!2d-117.19214306100015!3d33.064056610090375!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d33.0978055!2d-117.1108754!4m3!3m2!1d33.0301839!2d-117.1909278!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730692776701!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Palomar_Mountain_Road_South_Grade_Road\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Palomar_Mountain_Road_South_Grade_Road\"><\/span>Palomar Mountain Road (South Grade Road)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>South Grade Road up Palomar Mountain is the drive in San Diego County. Period. It&#8217;s 21 hairpin turns climbing nearly 5,000 feet in elevation, with views of the valleys below that will make your passenger grip the door handle. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean from the upper switchbacks.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 20 miles from Highway 76 to the top, 45-60 minutes depending on how many times you pull over to take photos (you will). The road is well-maintained but narrow in spots \u2014 watch for cyclists and motorcyclists, especially on weekends.<\/p>\n<p><strong>At the top:<\/strong> Palomar Observatory is worth the stop \u2014 you can do a self-guided tour of the 200-inch Hale Telescope dome daily from 9am-3pm (you can&#8217;t look through it, but seeing the sheer size of it is impressive). Guided dome tours run weekends from April through October. There&#8217;s also Mother&#8217;s Kitchen in the campground area for a surprisingly good burger after the drive.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"648\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/S-Grade-Road-Map-Trail-1024x648.jpg\" alt=\"S Grade Road hiking trail map near San Diego\" class=\"wp-image-5814\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/S-Grade-Road-Map-Trail-1024x648.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/S-Grade-Road-Map-Trail-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/S-Grade-Road-Map-Trail-768x486.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/S-Grade-Road-Map-Trail-1536x971.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/S-Grade-Road-Map-Trail-2048x1295.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sunrise_Highway_S1\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sunrise_Highway_S1\"><\/span>Sunrise Highway (S1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Sunrise Highway is the scenic drive that most San Diegans don&#8217;t know about, which is criminal. It runs along the spine of the Laguna Mountains through Cleveland National Forest, with one side dropping off into the Anza-Borrego Desert thousands of feet below. The contrast between alpine forest and desert floor is surreal.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> 24 miles from I-8 (exit at Laguna Summit) north to Highway 79 near Lake Cuyamaca. About 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. From there, you can continue to Julian for apple pie \u2014 which you absolutely should.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> The Desert View Picnic Area has an overlook where you can see the Salton Sea on clear days. Come at sunrise (the highway earned its name) or sunset for the best light. <strong>Important:<\/strong> There are no gas stations on Sunrise Highway \u2014 fill up before you get on I-8. The Mt. Laguna general store has snacks and coffee if you need a break.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d140623.2866002266!2d-116.48895824991905!3d32.913592723326445!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d33.0107937!2d-116.5608723!4m3!3m2!1d32.811939599999995!2d-116.5100398!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730170124719!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highland_Valley_Road\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highland_Valley_Road\"><\/span>Highland Valley Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Highland Valley Road near Ramona is the Sunday drive you didn&#8217;t know you needed. It winds through vineyards, horse ranches, and rolling countryside that looks more like Tuscany than San Diego. No dramatic cliffs or switchbacks here \u2014 just peaceful, beautiful driving.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 8 miles of winding road between Highland Valley Rd and Bandy Canyon Rd. Takes maybe 20 minutes but you&#8217;ll want to go slow. The curves are gentle enough to enjoy with a coffee in the cupholder.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Combine it with:<\/strong> Hit up one of the Ramona Valley wineries on the way \u2014 Turtle Rock Ridge and Milagro are both solid. Then loop back through Rancho Bernardo for dinner. Makes a perfect lazy afternoon.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d51072.22049932476!2d-117.00283825837452!3d33.03769498168359!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d33.0329686!2d-116.955782!4m3!3m2!1d33.053006499999995!2d-117.06687799999999!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730692918088!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Wildcat_Canyon_Road\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Wildcat_Canyon_Road\"><\/span>Wildcat Canyon Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Wildcat Canyon Road connects Lakeside to Ramona through some of the prettiest rolling hills in East County. It&#8217;s a fun road with sweeping curves and enough elevation change to keep things interesting, but it&#8217;s not white-knuckle like Palomar.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 12 miles, 20-25 minutes. The road passes near Barona Resort &#038; Casino, so you can combine the scenic drive with a buffet or a few hands of blackjack if that&#8217;s your thing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Heads up:<\/strong> This road is popular with cyclists on weekend mornings, so give them space. There&#8217;s also occasional wildlife \u2014 we&#8217;ve seen deer, turkeys, and the occasional coyote trotting across the road like they own it.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3348.5465467076956!2d-116.86796720000001!3d32.9365768!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80dbe1389b29ec11%3A0xd864110bc35a5c43!2sWildcat%20Canyon%20Rd%2C%20California!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169162887!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Skyline_Truck_Trail_Lyons_Valley_Road\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Skyline_Truck_Trail_Lyons_Valley_Road\"><\/span>Skyline Truck Trail &amp; Lyons Valley Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>These connected East County backroads are the definition of &#8220;off the beaten path.&#8221; Twisty sections, open straightaways with ranch views, and scenic overlooks where you can pull over and hear nothing but wind and birds. If you want solitude, this is your drive.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> Start on Skyline Truck Trail off Japatul Valley Road and connect to Lyons Valley Road heading toward Alpine or Jamul. The full loop is about 25-30 miles, roughly 45 minutes. Traffic is minimal \u2014 you might see five cars the entire time.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Best for:<\/strong> Motorcyclists, car enthusiasts, or anyone who just needs to get away from screens and people for an hour. Bring water \u2014 there&#8217;s nothing out here.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3356.3360589385416!2d-116.85631889999999!3d32.7302661!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80d95cef79c6d587%3A0x449e95679171ef5d!2sLyons%20Valley%20Rd%20%26%20Skyline%20Truck%20Trail%2C%20California%2091935!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169231062!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Couser_Canyon_and_Rice_Canyon_Roads\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Couser_Canyon_and_Rice_Canyon_Roads\"><\/span>Couser Canyon and Rice Canyon Roads<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>These North County backroads between Valley Center and Escondido are the ones car people whisper about. Tight curves, elevation changes, and beautiful views of rolling hills covered in chaparral and the occasional avocado grove. They&#8217;re technical enough to be engaging but not dangerous at normal speeds.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 10-15 miles depending on your route. You can loop Couser Canyon Road into Rice Canyon Road and back to Valley Center in about 30 minutes. The roads are narrow in spots, so keep your speed reasonable.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Fair warning:<\/strong> These roads attract spirited drivers on weekends. If someone&#8217;s riding your bumper, just pull over and let them pass. The views are better at a relaxed pace anyway.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"510\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/rice-canyon-and-couser-canyon-1024x510.webp\" alt=\"Rice Canyon And Couser Canyon\" class=\"wp-image-5912\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/rice-canyon-and-couser-canyon-1024x510.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/rice-canyon-and-couser-canyon-300x150.webp 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/rice-canyon-and-couser-canyon-768x383.webp 768w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/rice-canyon-and-couser-canyon-1536x766.webp 1536w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/rice-canyon-and-couser-canyon-2048x1021.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d66820.45679828325!2d-117.15460011876775!3d33.321003159887894!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d33.2987351!2d-117.0855057!4m3!3m2!1d33.379622499999996!2d-117.1431138!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730693486358!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highway_94_to_Tecate\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highway_94_to_Tecate\"><\/span>Highway 94 to Tecate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Highway 94 heading east is the backcountry drive that reminds you San Diego County is massive. Once you pass Jamul, the road opens up into wide mountain passes with expansive views of the borderlands. Minimal traffic, sweeping curves, and a sense of being genuinely far from civilization \u2014 even though you&#8217;re technically still in the county.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> From the 125\/94 junction to the Tecate border crossing is about 40 miles, roughly 50 minutes. You can turn it into a loop by coming back on Highway 188 through Barrett Junction.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Make a day of it:<\/strong> If you have a passport, cross into Tecate for lunch \u2014 the town is chill, the food is authentic, and it&#8217;s a completely different vibe from crossing at Tijuana. Or just enjoy the drive and turn around whenever you feel like it.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d97532.37115250905!2d-116.90454566405306!3d32.67323502686843!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80d969380a5569ad%3A0xd99e7d9cd8efd26f!2sCA-94%2C%20California!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169407538!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Old_Julian_Highway_Mesa_Grande_Road\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Old_Julian_Highway_Mesa_Grande_Road\"><\/span>Old Julian Highway &amp; Mesa Grande Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This backroad near Santa Ysabel is the quietest drive on this list. Open meadows, farmland, old stone walls, and basically zero traffic. It feels like driving through a painting of the California that existed before the freeways.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> Pick up Old Julian Highway off Highway 78\/79 near Santa Ysabel. Mesa Grande Road branches off and takes you deeper into ranch country. The full exploration is about 20-30 miles, 40+ minutes at a relaxed pace.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pair it with:<\/strong> This drive is best combined with a Julian trip \u2014 hike Volcan Mountain in the morning, drive these backroads in the afternoon, and grab apple pie before heading home.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d69636.54308753576!2d-116.83740125583114!3d33.04439316106334!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80dbc4a41e92731d%3A0xe1b709d76f8e4a9!2sOld%20Julian%20Hwy%2C%20California!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169655324!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Point_Loma_Boulevard_to_Cabrillo_National_Monument\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Point_Loma_Boulevard_to_Cabrillo_National_Monument\"><\/span>Point Loma Boulevard to Cabrillo National Monument<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The drive through Point Loma out to Cabrillo National Monument is one of the most underrated scenic routes in the city. You pass through a charming neighborhood, get harbor and bay views, and end up at one of the best viewpoints in all of San Diego \u2014 with panoramic views of downtown, the bay, Coronado, and on clear days, all the way to Mexico.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 5 miles from the Point Loma neighborhood to the monument, 15 minutes. Cabrillo charges $20\/vehicle (valid for 7 days) and is open 9am-5pm daily.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t miss:<\/strong> The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, the tide pools (accessible until 4:30pm), and the Bayside Trail for a short hike with bay views. This is a killer <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/best-places-to-watch-the-sunset-in-san-diego\/\">sunset spot<\/a> if you time it right \u2014 just remember the gate closes at 5pm.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d53712.31096265615!2d-117.27985052445194!3d32.712111264564314!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e0!4m5!1s0x80deaa44fbcf79a3%3A0x653726d40d05327!2sW%20Point%20Loma%20Blvd!3m2!1d32.7519802!2d-117.23460019999999!4m5!1s0x80deac405f87c57f%3A0xfea22d335a64608c!2sCabrillo%20National%20Monument%2C%201800%20Cabrillo%20Memorial%20Dr%2C%20San%20Diego%2C%20CA%2092106!3m2!1d32.6722558!2d-117.2416094!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169693626!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Coronado_Bridge\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Coronado_Bridge\"><\/span>Coronado Bridge<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The Coronado Bridge is one of those drives where the scenery is so good it&#8217;s almost dangerous \u2014 you have to resist the urge to stare at the San Diego skyline rising up on your left as you curve across the bay 200 feet above the water. It&#8217;s short, it&#8217;s free, and it never gets old.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> The bridge itself is about 2 miles, but the real move is making it part of a bigger loop \u2014 cross to <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/things-to-do-in-coronado\/\">Coronado<\/a>, drive Ocean Boulevard past the Hotel del Coronado, and come back via the Silver Strand. The full loop is about 30 minutes and hits bay views, beach views, and downtown skyline views.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Best time:<\/strong> Sunset heading westbound toward Coronado, or early morning heading eastbound back to downtown when the sun lights up the skyline. Either way, the views of the bay and city are unbeatable.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"660\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/coronadobridgeviewbay-1024x660.webp\" alt=\"Coronado Bridge view across San Diego Bay\" class=\"wp-image-5790\" style=\"width:547px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/coronadobridgeviewbay-1024x660.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/coronadobridgeviewbay-300x193.webp 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/coronadobridgeviewbay-768x495.webp 768w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/coronadobridgeviewbay.webp 1206w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3357.8721333702088!2d-117.15592522383788!3d32.689445588455406!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80d954ab32bc3307%3A0xe91957119413cd3c!2sCoronado%20Bridge!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169743696!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sunset_Cliffs_Boulevard\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sunset_Cliffs_Boulevard\"><\/span>Sunset Cliffs Boulevard<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Sunset Cliffs Boulevard in <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/top-things-to-do-in-ocean-beach\/\">Ocean Beach<\/a> is the coastal drive that every San Diego visitor should do at least once \u2014 and every local probably does once a week. It follows the ocean along dramatic sandstone cliffs with surfers below and one of the most reliable sunset shows on the West Coast.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 1.5 miles from Voltaire Street south to Ladera Street, plus the neighborhood streets above. You can drive it in 5 minutes, but you&#8217;ll end up parking and walking. Everyone does.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Park along the boulevard and walk the informal coastal trail that runs along the cliff edge. The views change every 50 feet. On winter evenings, the cliffs light up orange and gold \u2014 it&#8217;s legitimately one of the prettiest spots in the city. Green Flash sightings are real here if conditions are right.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/driving-on-sunset-cliffs.webp\" alt=\"Hotel del Coronado beachfront resort in San Diego\" class=\"wp-image-5899\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/driving-on-sunset-cliffs.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/driving-on-sunset-cliffs-300x168.webp 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/driving-on-sunset-cliffs-768x431.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d13425.73285703315!2d-117.26600708354039!3d32.727685580294114!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d32.719709!2d-117.25676519999999!4m3!3m2!1d32.7355912!2d-117.25546779999999!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169840420!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highway_101_Pacific_Coast_Highway\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highway_101_Pacific_Coast_Highway\"><\/span>Highway 101 (Pacific Coast Highway)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Highway 101 is the classic SoCal coastal cruise \u2014 La Jolla to Oceanside, beach town after beach town, with the Pacific on your left the whole way. It&#8217;s not wild or remote, but it&#8217;s the drive that makes people fall in love with San Diego.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 30 miles end to end, 50-60 minutes without stops (but you&#8217;ll stop). You&#8217;ll pass through Del Mar, Solana Beach, <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/things-to-do-in-encinitas\/\">Encinitas<\/a>, Carlsbad, and Oceanside \u2014 each with its own vibe, restaurants, and beaches worth exploring.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Best stops:<\/strong> Swami&#8217;s in Encinitas to watch the surfers, Pipes Cafe in Cardiff for breakfast, the Cedros Design District in Solana Beach for shopping, and the Oceanside Pier at sunset. This is a full-day drive if you let it be.<\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d4950.181443022499!2d-117.26992861245505!3d32.982846880759496!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80deabd51ed0cab3%3A0xe62e36cf39ab1733!2sU.S.%20Route%20101%20-%20Pacific%20Coast%20Highway!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730169934193!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Neptune_Place_Windansea\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Neptune_Place_Windansea\"><\/span>Neptune Place (Windansea)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Neptune Place in La Jolla is a short residential street that runs along the coast above Windansea Beach, and it&#8217;s one of the most scenic half-miles in the county. Palm trees, million-dollar homes perched on cliffs, turquoise water, and the iconic Windansea surf shack (a San Diego Historical Landmark since 1998). It&#8217;s gorgeous.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> Technically only about 0.5 miles \u2014 this isn&#8217;t a road trip, it&#8217;s a scenic cruise. Take Nautilus Street to Neptune Place and drive slowly. You&#8217;ll want to park and walk around. The <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/things-to-do-in-la-jolla\/\">La Jolla<\/a> tide pools are a short walk south.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Best for:<\/strong> A sunset stroll, showing out-of-town guests why you live here, or just reminding yourself that San Diego is absurdly beautiful when you&#8217;re having a bad week.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/neptuneplace-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"Neptuneplace\" class=\"wp-image-5904\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/neptuneplace-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/neptuneplace-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/neptuneplace-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/neptuneplace-1536x1152.webp 1536w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/neptuneplace-2048x1536.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d10982.27857545108!2d-117.28452064167638!3d32.826891984533795!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d32.833233799999995!2d-117.2813443!4m3!3m2!1d32.8189376!2d-117.2760964!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730670287731!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mount_Soledad_Road\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mount_Soledad_Road\"><\/span>Mount Soledad Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The drive up Mount Soledad ends at one of the best viewpoints in San Diego \u2014 a 360-degree panorama that takes in the Pacific Ocean, downtown, Mexico, the mountains, and everything in between. The Veterans Memorial at the top is worth walking around, and on clear days the visibility is staggering.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drive:<\/strong> About 2 miles of winding road from La Jolla Village Drive up to the summit. Takes 5-10 minutes. Free parking at the top. The memorial is open daily from 7am to 10pm.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Best time:<\/strong> Sunrise is magical here \u2014 you get the whole coastline lit up while the city is still quiet. Sunset works too, but it&#8217;s busier. If you want <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/best-places-to-watch-the-sunset-in-san-diego\/\">a sunset spot<\/a> with a 360 view and no crowds, come on a Tuesday evening.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/top-of-mt-soledad-1-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"Panoramic view from top of Mt Soledad San Diego\" class=\"wp-image-5902\" style=\"width:740px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/top-of-mt-soledad-1-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/top-of-mt-soledad-1-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/top-of-mt-soledad-1-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/top-of-mt-soledad-1.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m24!1m12!1m3!1d20045.29332872059!2d-117.25727604381014!3d32.834848495476756!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m9!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d32.8059706!2d-117.22413449999999!4m3!3m2!1d32.8400207!2d-117.24479389999999!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1730670480101!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More_San_Diego_Guides\"><\/span>More San Diego Guides<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Looking for more things to do? Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/best-hikes-in-san-diego\/\">best hikes in San Diego<\/a>, or our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/best-places-to-watch-the-sunset-in-san-diego\/\">the best sunset spots in San Diego<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>San Diego has some of the most diverse driving scenery in California \u2014 and that&#8217;s not an exaggeration. Within an hour of downtown, you can go from ocean cliffs to &#8230; <a title=\"Take the Scenic Route: San Diego\u2019s Top Drives\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Take the Scenic Route: San Diego\u2019s Top Drives\"> <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5789,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"","_yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Best Scenic Drives in San Diego \u2014 Routes Locals Love","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best scenic drives in San Diego \u2014 from coastal Highway 101 to mountain backroads. These are the routes locals actually take on weekends.","_yoast_wpseo_linkdex":"","_yoast_wpseo_content_score":"90","nf_dc_page":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[45,46],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5787","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-insights","category-san-diego","infinite-scroll-item","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-33","no-featured-image-padding"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>7 Best Scenic Drives in San Diego \u2014 Routes Locals Love<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The best scenic drives in San Diego \u2014 from coastal Highway 101 to mountain backroads. These are the routes locals actually take on weekends.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/sandiegohumor.com\/san-diego-scenic-roads\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"7 Best Scenic Drives in San Diego \u2014 Routes Locals Love\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The best scenic drives in San Diego \u2014 from coastal Highway 101 to mountain backroads. 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