Following the entire route is highly recommended (even if it does take a whole day), because every inch is gorgeous, though of course you can pick a portion if you’re short on time (or the kids are short on patience). Highlights include pretty Santa Barbara, Morro Bay (look out for otters floating on their backs), the Madonna Inn – a pink palace of a hotel just outside San Luis Obispo – and Big Sur, home to arguably the route’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Its soaring cliffs and honey-hued beaches should keep everyone quiet, at least for a minute or two.

These are the ultimate stops on the Pacific Coast Highway

Family-friendly US road trips you have to try