8 Annoying Things About Driving in California and 6 Reasons It’s Still the Best State for Road Trips

California offers some of the most varied and scenic driving experiences in the United States. Travelers can explore beaches, deserts, forests, and mountain ranges within a single journey, making it a state that feels built for road trips. Still, the reality of driving here can be frustrating. Congestion, costs, and unpredictable conditions often test drivers’ patience, especially those visiting from out of state.

This guide looks at eight common annoyances that come with driving in California, followed by six reasons the state remains one of the best places for road trips.

1. Heavy Traffic in Major Cities

Caught in the rhythm of daily life, drivers in Los Angeles and San Francisco often adjust their schedules to navigate the notorious congestion. According to INRIX and the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, these cities consistently rank among the most gridlocked in America, with commuters losing dozens of hours each year to delays.

Visitors frequently find that even brief drives can stretch on unexpectedly during peak hours. Weekends and holidays may see some respite, but special events, accidents, or minor roadwork can cause significant slowdowns, sometimes without advance notice.

Many locals rely on real-time navigation apps to bypass bottlenecks, yet even these tools can’t always outsmart the unpredictable ebb and flow of California’s traffic. Newcomers might be surprised that what appears to be a short distance on the map can take much longer to traverse in reality.

2. High Gas Prices

Sticker shock at the pump is a familiar part of the California driving experience. For many years, the state’s average gas prices have led the nation, sometimes by a considerable margin. Taxes, environmental regulations, and market factors all contribute to higher costs per gallon compared to other states.

During summer travel season, prices can rise further due to increased demand and costlier summer fuel blends required for air quality. Road trippers planning a long journey across California often budget for significantly more on fuel than in neighboring regions.

For those venturing into remote areas, it’s also wise to factor in even steeper prices at isolated stations. Many travelers discover that fuel costs can become a significant line item in the road trip budget, especially for larger vehicles or those exploring the state’s rural highways.

3. Limited Parking in Urban Areas

A hunt for parking in cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles often feels like a game of chance. Drivers sometimes circle blocks multiple times seeking an elusive open spot, especially near popular landmarks, beaches, or sporting venues.

Rates for parking garages and lots can be steep, particularly in high-demand neighborhoods or during peak periods. Street parking may also involve navigating complex signage or metered restrictions that add to the challenge.

Local residents often rely on resident permits or alternative transportation to sidestep the parking crunch. Visitors, however, should be prepared to factor both time and cost into their plans, as the search for a legal, affordable space can easily become a trip’s most persistent inconvenience.

4. Wildfire-Related Closures

A sudden road closure can reroute an entire trip, particularly during California’s wildfire season in late summer and fall. Wildfires, sometimes sparked far from the road itself, can lead authorities to limit access due to smoke, hazardous air, or the need for emergency vehicles.

Scenic byways in Northern and Central California are especially susceptible to abrupt shutdowns, and closures might remain in effect for days or even weeks. Travelers often need to consult Caltrans updates or local news for the latest information before setting out.

For tourists unfamiliar with wildfire patterns, these disruptions can come as a surprise. While safety measures are necessary, they do require flexibility and sometimes a change in travel expectations.

5. Bridge and Toll Fees

Crossing the iconic bridges of the San Francisco Bay or using toll roads in Orange County introduces drivers to California’s system of electronic payments. Gone are the days of tossing change into a basket – most tolls now require transponders or online payment.

For visitors, this shift can mean a learning curve, as rental agencies sometimes charge extra for toll processing. Unfamiliar drivers may accidentally use express lanes or toll crossings without realizing the payment requirements, resulting in mailed invoices or added fees.

While these costs are typically modest per trip, they can add up over a multi-day journey, especially for those exploring different regions. Planning ahead helps avoid surprises and ensures smooth passage across California’s waterways and express routes.

6. Slow Traffic on Scenic Routes

Few drives are as visually rewarding as California’s coastal highways, but beauty often comes at the price of patience. On routes like Highway 1, traffic slows not just due to curves and narrow lanes, but also because of frequent photo stops and sightseeing detours.

Tourist seasons bring even more vehicles, from RVs to rental cars, all moving at a careful pace to enjoy the views. Passing opportunities are limited, and occasional roadwork or landslides can bring unexpected delays.

While the scenery makes the slower pace worthwhile for many, those on a tight schedule may find the leisurely progression challenging. Planning extra time into itineraries ensures that the journey remains enjoyable, no matter the speed.

7. Strict Driving Rules

A visitor’s first drive in California might feel different due to the state’s focus on strict and consistently enforced driving laws. From hands-free phone regulations to distinctive car seat standards, local rules are designed with safety and environmental concerns in mind.

California also enforces emissions standards more stringently than most other states, affecting vehicles at purchase, registration, and even during roadside checks. Speed limits are monitored by both highway patrol and camera systems, catching some out-of-state drivers off guard.

Adjusting to these regulations requires careful attention to signage and an understanding of unique practices, such as yielding to pedestrians in all crosswalks. While these policies foster safer roads, they can leave visitors feeling scrutinized or caught unprepared.

8. High Insurance Costs

Many drivers are taken aback when they see the insurance premiums in California. Due to factors such as higher accident rates, expensive vehicle repairs, and dense urban populations, auto insurance here routinely ranks among the nation’s costliest.

Insurance companies consider California a high-risk state, especially in large metropolitan areas. Urban drivers may face premiums significantly higher than those in rural locations, and even safe drivers can see increases based on where they live or park their car.

For those planning an extended stay or relocation, it pays to shop around and compare rates from different providers. Exploring discounts for safe driving, bundling policies, or maintaining a clean record can help manage these recurring expenses over time.

The flip side? Hitting the road here also comes with experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

9. Variety of Landscapes

Winding along California’s roads offers an ever-changing backdrop, making every journey distinct. Where else can travelers experience towering redwoods, sprawling desert valleys, dramatic coastal cliffs, and alpine lakes within a single state?

The diversity of ecosystems provides countless opportunities for exploration, whether you’re photographing wildflowers in spring or seeking snowy peaks in winter. Each region presents its own palette of colors and textures, creating memorable drives at any time of year.

This variety draws people from around the world, eager to see so many landscapes without crossing state lines. It is this blend of scenery that transforms even routine trips into memorable adventures, rewarding curiosity and flexibility.

10. Scenic Highways

California’s scenic highways are destinations in their own right, connecting travelers with both natural beauty and the state’s colorful history. Routes such as Highway 1 and Highway 395 deliver panoramic vistas and access to charming small towns along the way.

Many of these roads, including the legendary Tioga Pass in Yosemite, are celebrated for their engineering as much as for their surroundings. Each turn can reveal a new perspective on the landscape, from coastal bluffs to high desert plains.

Travelers often find inspiration in the blend of road and region, with countless opportunities for photography, hiking, or simply pausing to enjoy the view. These highways embody the spirit of California’s great open-road tradition.

11. Access to National and State Parks

Families and solo explorers alike are drawn to California’s national and state parks, easily accessed by well-maintained roads. With nine national parks – the most of any state – and over 200 state parks, the options for adventure seem endless.

Driving routes through parks like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Redwood National and State Parks showcase some of North America’s most iconic scenery. Many visitors design trips around these destinations, knowing they are reliably accessible year-round, except in severe weather.

The convenience of driving to trailheads, campgrounds, and scenic overlooks means that even brief visits can be deeply rewarding. California’s commitment to conservation ensures that future generations will continue to experience its natural wonders.

12. Mild Driving Weather

Few states can match California’s reputation for agreeable driving weather. The Mediterranean climate along the coast keeps roads dry and temperatures moderate for most of the year.

Outside of higher elevations, storm-related closures are relatively rare, and snow is mostly confined to mountain passes during winter. Travelers planning road trips from spring through autumn are met with clear skies and minimal disruption.

This steady weather pattern allows for flexibility in travel dates, encouraging spontaneous exploration and extended journeys. Whether navigating city streets or rural byways, drivers appreciate the predictability and comfort that California’s climate provides.

13. Roadside Attractions and Stops

Unexpected discoveries are a hallmark of California’s byways. Roadside attractions range from classic diners to quirky museums, and farm stands overflowing with fresh local produce line many rural highways.

Wineries, historic missions, and Gold Rush-era towns offer diversions that can break up long stretches of driving. These stops provide insight into California’s varied agricultural, culinary, and cultural traditions, giving travelers a richer sense of place.

For many, the journey becomes as rewarding as the destination, thanks to these accessible and memorable waypoints. Collecting stories, snapshots, and local treats is part of what makes road travel in California uniquely engaging.

14. Flexible Itineraries

Every road tripper values options, and California delivers with flexible routes and endless combinations. It is possible to start a day surfing in Santa Monica and end it hiking in the Sierra, all within a single itinerary.

The state’s network of highways and scenic byways enables travelers to blend city adventures with natural escapes. Planning becomes a creative endeavor, as you adjust destinations based on weather, interests, or spontaneous discoveries.

This adaptability ensures that even repeat trips across California reveal new possibilities and perspectives. Whether you’re chasing culinary experiences or scenic vistas, there’s always a route that matches your mood and travel style.