Pacific Coast Highway in a 720S: the perfect one-day loop

There is a stretch of Highway 1 just past Point Mugu where the mountains drop straight into the Pacific and the road follows every curve of the coast. In a McLaren 720S, with the roof panel tinted against the morning sun, it is the closest thing Los Angeles has to a private racetrack — minus the racing.

06:30 — Leave Beverly Hills before the traffic

We deliver the car the night before so you can be on Sunset by half past six. Take Sunset all the way to the coast; at that hour the bends through Pacific Palisades are empty and the twin-turbo V8 barely needs to work.

08:00 — Breakfast in Malibu

Park nose-out at Point Dume and walk to the bluff. On a clear day you can see Catalina. Breakfast burritos from the shack at Zuma are non-negotiable.

“Keep it in Comfort mode along the coast. The car is quicker than the road — enjoy the sound, not the speedometer.”

12:30 — Santa Barbara for lunch

Lunch on the Funk Zone, a stroll down State Street, and then inland over the San Marcos Pass. This is the part of the day where the 720S earns its reputation: long, sweeping climbs with perfect visibility.

What it costs

• McLaren 720S, one day: $1,890 including 150 miles
• Extra 100 miles (you will need them): $120
• Fuel: around $95 for the full loop

Total distance is roughly 240 miles. Want a co-pilot who knows every lay-by with a view? Ask about our guided drive add-on when you reserve.