Looking for fun, family-friendly beach activities on the California coast? Embark on an unforgettable road trip along picturesque Highway 1. This sunny coastal route promises happy moments filled with sandcastle building, gentle waterplay and strolls along the shore. From the charming surf town of Cayucos to the serene vistas of San Simeon Beach, find crowd-pleasing adventures like kite-flying, family-friendly dining, tidepooling and more. Truly, there’s wonderment for all ages along Highway 1’s best beaches. Check out these great kid-approved beach activities for your next Highway 1 family road trip:
1. Swimming in Cayucos
Nestled along Highway 1 between Cambria and Morro Bay, Cayucos Beach boasts clean, sandy shores perfect for families seeking a relaxed day of sun and surf. With ample space for play and gentle waves ideal for beginner swimmers or surfers, this laid back beach town offers a chill vibe sure to charm kids, tweens and parents alike. Plus, find Cayucos’ cozy business district nearby, chock full of casual eats, antique stores and unique finds. Need to get those wiggles out? The beach area near the historic pier features a popular playground, providing extra entertainment for little ones. Additionally, Cayucos Beach is equipped with public bathrooms, outdoor showers and easy parking, ensuring your “day at the beach” remains just that.
2. Playtime in Cambria
Just a short drive north from Cayucos lies the quaint town of Cambria. Although best known for its famous Moonstone Beach, kids will adore Shamel Park—a hidden gem for families exploring Highway 1 by car. With an enticing play structure right on the beach, Shamel Park invites children to frolic in the sand while parents stretch their legs and take in the stunning coastal views. Plus, a quick jaunt to downtown Cambria offers a welcome fuel-up, as playtime stokes big appetites. Stop in to Linn’s Restaurant for a classic kid’s menu followed by a slice of iconic olallieberry pie à la mode.
3. Sandcastles in San Simeon
For those seeking easy beach access and picturesque surroundings, San Simeon Beach is a must-visit destination along Highway 1. Located north of Cambria just off the route, find ample parking and uncrowded surroundings. Depending on the time of year, you may be one of just a handful of families lounging on this pristine stretch of coastline! San Simeon Beach is characterized by gentle waves and expansive sandy bluffs, providing the perfect natural stage for children to play, explore and even spot local wildlife. Whether building sandcastles or collecting seashells, San Simeon Beach promises hours of wholesome family fun.
4. Tidepooling in Los Osos
Located near Morro Bay, the quiet coastal community of Los Osos offers a unique family-friendly activity: tidepooling. Savor a leisurely stroll along the coastline during low tide and discover an enchanting world of marine life thriving within rocky pools. Kiddos are sure to enjoy spotting sea stars, snails, barnacles, mussels, anemones, urchins, crabs and small fish. Much like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get when exploring Los Osos tide pools! For families who’ve never experienced this coastal activity, be sure to bring appropriate shoes (rocks can get slippery). All in all, this is an educational and exciting experience sure to captivate all ages.
5. Lunch in Avila Beach
No Highway 1 family road trip is complete without delicious food. Thankfully, Avila Beach delivers with an irresistible pairing: scenic views and kid-friendly culinary delights. Grab a piping hot pizza from Mission Pizza and enjoy it on the sandy shores of Avila Beach—the perfect way to refuel after a day of Highway 1 road trip adventures. While some family members might prefer cheese, pepperoni or vegetarian toppings, the whole family can agree on Avila’s gorgeous ocean views. After the meal, enjoy a sunset stroll along the white sand or explore Front Street’s menagerie of seaside businesses, where vendors offer ice cream cones, candy and colorful souvenirs.
Kite Flying in Oceano
Let’s go fly a kite! In Oceano, let their imagination soar as high as the seabirds dotting the horizon. Kite-flying is a timeless Highway 1 beach tradition that brings joy to both children and adults alike. Been a while since you’ve unspooled this activity? All you’ll need is a kite, some string and a little faith in Mother Nature. With wide-open beaches and consistent ocean breezes, Oceano is the ideal Highway 1 destination for kite enthusiasts of all ages. Even the older kids are sure to enjoy hours of free-wheeling fun. With rolling sand dunes as far as the eye can see, discover an enchanting storybook setting where imagination truly takes flight.
See Ya at the Beach!
Exploring Highway 1’s family-friendly beach activities promises countless opportunities for adventure, relaxation and fun. Whether learning to surf at Cayucos Beach, tidepooling in Los Osos, building sandcastles in San Simeon, enjoying meals in Avila Beach or flying kites in Oceano, each stop along the route offers its own unique charm and memories to treasure. So, pack your sunscreen, beach towels and hit the road for an amazing road trip worthy of a new family tradition. For more great family-friendly Highway 1 beach activities and travel ideas, including info on Highway 1’s best dog-friendly beaches, check out our Best Beaches list.
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