Hello all! My husband and I are planning a trip down the PCH in CA this month and need some advice. We are leaving from SF on 8/27 and need to arrive in San Diego on 8/29 (anytime). We'd like to visit as many interesting places along the way and camp both nights. I'd love any info. on the following:

1) Suggestions on where to visit within this relatively short time period. We're thinking Monterey, Big Sur, La Jolla...we're really driving for the sights along the coast (we're from NY) and a taste of California life.

2) Is there a place to see the Redwoods between SF and SD? Is Big Basin a reasonable trip from the PCH?

3) Where can we camp along the way without reservations? We'll be driving a mini-van and will be sleeping in the back, so we really just need a place to pull over and sleep when needed for the 2 nights we're driving. How strict/accessible are the state beaches?

Any other information anyone can give regarding driving the PCH from SF to SD is greatly appreciated. This website is SO useful!

PS- Our personal tastes include hiking, biking, microbrews and enjoying the journey/scenery/local taste.

THANK YOU in advance!
~Heather