Road Trip From Seattle To Los Angeles

What to See on Your Way to a FIFA Game

With 48 teams and matches spanning 16 cities, and three countries, FIFA 2026 promises to be the biggest, most epic Soccer World Cup yet. Being there in person during this global celebration will be exhilarating on its own, but if you’re going to one or matches in the Western region, you can dial up the excitement with a road trip along one the most iconic routes in the world – the Pacific Coast Highway. 

The easiest way to plan your world cup trip is to pick up your Ascent Car Rental at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport and hit the road from there. 

How Long Does It Take to Drive from Seattle to Los Angeles?

There’s the direct route, the I-5, that takes about 18 hours non-stop. If you’re doing that, you might as well fly. The best road trip to get to your FIFA game in Los Angeles from Seattle is along the PCH. Stretch it over five nights or an entire week (or longer) to savour the sights and let the anticipation build, mile after mile. 

Here are our recommendations on where to stop between Seattle and LA.

Night One: Astoria, Oregon

Driving to Astoria, Oregon instead of the more popular Portland means you get the coastal vibes immediately. It also means less stress from traffic after your flight. Astoria, the historic port town, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific, offers great riverfront breweries and Victorian architecture. It’s a laid-back teaser of what the rest of the trip has in store for you. 

Night Two: Newport, Oregon

Considered one of the best coastal towns in Oregon, Newport is a lively seaside town with plenty to offer travellers of all ages. A bonfire at the beach with some smores is a great way to spend an evening, a visit the Sea Lion Docks will give you a taste of what soccer fans sound like in the wild and shake off the drive as you explore tide pools at Yaquina Head. 

Night Three: Mendocino, California

Cross into Northern California and aim for Mendocino, a clifftop village that feels like a movie set. White wooden houses overlook dramatic bluffs, wildflowers spill across headlands, and art galleries line the main street. Take a walk through coastal trails or explore nearby redwood groves for a preview of California’s towering forests.

If you’ve had enough of seafood, there are plenty of gorgeous farm-to-table restaurants to satiate your appetite. 

Night Four: Big Sur

If there ever was an earthly paradise, it’s called Big Sur. Drive along hairpin turns that cling to the cliffs and see the waves crashing hundreds of feet below, if the marine fog isn’t touching the horizon that is. Give yourself time here. Stay at Deetjen’s buy a book from the Henry Miller Library that’s nestled in the Redwoods, enjoy a meal at Nepenthe, and breathe deeply before you hit the urban world again. 

Night Five: Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a great way to ease back into the city life and crowds again. Visit the iconic zoo (it’s worth it even if you’re an adults only group!), enjoy the views of the harbour, and get some food and drink a the Funk Zone. If you want to get in one last hike before the matches in LA, a hike to Santa Barbara hot springs lets you have a walk and a soothing dip.

The Grand Finale: Los Angeles & Match Day

When you roll into Los Angeles, you’ll have created a whole bunch of memories to add to your World Cup 2026 story, that go beyond the ninety minutes on the pitch. So, gather your crew, load up your flags, create your playlists, and go! 

Remember, since it’s going to be a really busy time, it’s a good idea to book accommodation well in advance of your travel, including any campsites!

FIFA Car Rental Made Easy

When you’re travelling long distances on the road, you need cars that are reliable, comfortable, and spacious. You also want to be able to get to your vehicle after a long flight without tiresome lines.  Ascent Car Rental offers seamless, contactless pickups at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport so you can skip the paperwork and get moving.

Whether you want a sporty sedan, a comfortable SUV, or a passenger van for your FIFA road trip, we’ve got it. Book your rental car today!