i came back from California before 1 month, i drove in highway 1 in the end of Feb, the weather is amazing. no wind no rain. what a wonderful experience, really worth it the 14 hours flight from home to the US.. i stopped in most of places pple suggested here.
the highway is so easy to drive on, once you r in it you wont loose your way. i started the highway from Pacafica beach then half moon bay then going down to santa cruz monterey etc...