“Ride Like The Locals Do”

Embark on an epic motorcycle adventure down Hwy 1 to Monterey, where every mile offers a new thrill and breathtaking views. Start your journey at Lands End, where the Pacific Ocean crashes against rugged cliffs and the Golden Gate Bridge peeks out from the fog. This scenic kickoff sets the tone for today's ride.

Your first major stop is Half Moon Bay, home to the legendary Mavericks Festival. This isn’t your average beach – it’s a gladiatorial arena where surfers tackle waves that can reach up to 60 feet. The raw power of the ocean here is enough to get your adrenaline pumping, even if you're just a spectator. It’s a fitting prelude to the adventure ahead.

Next, onto Skyline Blvd, a road that seems tailor-made for motorcycles. Here, you’ll find yourself weaving through towering redwoods, with each twist and turn offering a new thrill. This stretch is a favorite among local riders who know the curves like the back of their hand. The camaraderie among bikers here adds an extra layer of excitement to the ride. 

Roll into the charming town of Davenport and treat yourself to a stop at Whale City Bakery before heading down to Santa Cruz which awaits with its iconic Boardwalk.

Finally, you’ll arrive in Monterey, a coastal city rich in beauty and history. Cruise down Cannery Row, immortalized by John Steinbeck, and visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. The stunning marine life and coastal views are the perfect culmination of your ride. Don’t miss the chance to ride 17-Mile Drive, a ribbon of asphalt that hugs the coast and offers breathtaking vistas at every turn.
This ride down Hwy 1 is more than just a trip – it’s a journey filled with thrilling roads, fascinating stops, and unforgettable scenery. From the camaraderie of local riders on Skyline Blvd to the raw power of the ocean at Half Moon Bay, every moment is designed to make you crave the open road. So, gear up, hit the throttle, and let the adventure of a lifetime unfold. Happy riding, and see you on the open road!

Laguna Seca - A Motorcyclist’s Mecca

Nestled among the undulating hills of Monterey County, California, lies a serpentine strip of asphalt that has become the stuff of legend in motorcycling and racing circles. Welcome to Laguna Seca, or more formally, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, where the turns are tight, the lore is rich, and the thrills are guaranteed.

So, why does Laguna Seca hold such a revered spot in the hearts of motorcyclists? First, let's paint the picture of this iconic track. With 11 turns crammed into its 2.238 miles, Laguna Seca is not just a track; it's a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma, all set on a high-speed stage. But it’s the track's signature turn, the infamous "Corkscrew" at Turns 8 and 8A, that really gets the adrenaline pumping. Imagine diving down a six-story drop while navigating a hard-left, hard-right combination turn. It's like a rollercoaster for motorcycles if the rollercoaster were designed by a mischievous gremlin with a flair for drama. No image of the Corkscrew actually reflects how steep the drop actually is. The hillclimb leading up to the Corkscrew only offers one reference point to initiate your turn once you actually see pavement again and not just sky: a tree.

Motorcyclists flock to Laguna Seca not just to witness this spectacle, but to experience it. The track offers a unique blend of challenges that test both skill and courage - qualities every rider likes to think they have in spades. For professional racers, conquering Laguna Seca is a badge of honor, akin to a knight slaying a dragon in ye old tales of yore. For amateur enthusiasts, just a few laps around this track can offer a thrilling insight into the world of professional racing.

But Laguna Seca is more than just its turns. It's a cultural hub, drawing in a motley crew of motorcycling aficionados, speed junkies, and anyone else who appreciates the ballet of high-speed competition. The track has played host to a plethora of events that span the spectrum of motorsports, including the MotoGP (unfortunately no longer…), Superbike World Championship, and various car racing events. Each event sprinkles its own brand of magic dust on the track, contributing to its mythos.

And let's not forget the sensory overload. The roar of engines, the smell of burnt rubber and hot engines, the sight of bikes leaning into curves at physics-defying angles - it’s a carnival for the senses. Plus, the surrounding area offers its own charms with scenic views and exquisite local wines (for after the track day, of course).

The Locals Aren't Happy...

The tension between the roar of engines and the tranquility of local life around Laguna Seca has brewed a somewhat complex relationship between the racetrack and its nearby residents. As iconic as the racetrack is within motorcycling and racing circuits, it hasn't always been the apple of the eye for those who call the surrounding area home.

Local residents have raised concerns primarily due to the noise pollution that accompanies the track events. Laguna Seca is situated near residential areas, and the sound of high-revving engines can be quite pervasive. This has led to restrictions on the number of events per year, as well as strict sound regulations that the track must adhere to in order to minimize disruption.

Additionally, there's the matter of environmental concerns. Some locals worry about the potential impact of the track on the nearby wildlife and natural habitats. Monterey County, where Laguna Seca is located, is known for its natural beauty, and there is an ongoing debate about balancing this with the economic and cultural benefits brought by the racetrack.

To address these concerns, track management and local authorities have implemented measures such as sound monitoring systems and specific event scheduling to reduce the impact on the local community. They've also engaged in dialogue with residents to better integrate the racetrack's operations with the community's needs.

Despite these efforts, the relationship remains a delicate balancing act - highlighting the challenge of maintaining a globally recognized racing venue while preserving the quality of life for its neighbors.

For motorcyclists, Laguna Seca is not just a racetrack; it’s a pilgrimage site. It's a place where legends are born and personal limits are tested. Whether you're there to watch the masters at play or to take a spin yourself, Laguna Seca promises an unforgettable experience. So, grab your helmet and maybe a little bit of bravado and head to Laguna Seca, where every turn brings a story, and every lap etches a memory. Just remember: respect the Corkscrew!

Here's a full and detailed list of great places to eat along the way. The blue “thumbs up” dots state our top recommendation(s).

PS: since we don’t know when you’re feeling peckish, we have included an “along the way list” - pick your poison…

Congrats! You have successfully mastered Day 8 of Highway 1.