Driving from LAX to Monterey

[KCmike]

We would like to see Big Sur and Carmel by the Sea but our real destination is Monterey. Here's the scenario...we arrive at LAX on a Saturday morning (10:05am) and probably get in our rental car by 11am. Is it worth it to drive up through big sur and carmel by the sea or should I take the fastest route straight to Monterey?

If I did drive through that area Mapquest says it will take approx 5 and a half hours. Any thoughts?

 

[lisah0711]

I would take that route out of LAX and use the quicker route for the return -- when you'll be heading to DL hopefully.