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Your ultimate guide to the best things to do along the iconic Highway 1. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the California coast, from the grandeur of Hearst Castle to lazy beach-side hamlets. Discover hidden gems, encounter diverse wildlife, and indulge in the region’s vibrant art and culture. Let this comprehensive resource be your compass for an unforgettable road trip adventure.

Featured Attractions

Hearst Castle

Cayucos Pier

Oceano Dunes

Piedras Blancas Lighthouse

Activities

Best Things to Do

Arts & Culture

Beaches

Biking

Fishing

Golfing

Hiking

Shopping

Surfing

Wildlife Viewing

Farmer’s Markets

Spas & Wellness

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Destinations

Oceano & Nipomo

Los Osos & Baywood

San Simeon

Ragged Point on Highway 1

Edna Valley & Arroyo Grande Valley

Cayucos

Avila Beach

Cambria

Other County Locations

93 results found.

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4th of July in Cayucos

Cayucos

Cayucos has perfected its patriotic festivities over the course of several decades. Visitors even plan their year around the 4th of July in Cayucos, to connect with friends who do the same, year after year.
Art and Culture of Cayucos

Cayucos

The sunny beach town of Cayucos boasts a wide array of arts and culture to explore and enjoy. The common thread between it all? The presence of the mighty Pacific Ocean, just steps from downtown Cayucos. The influence of the sea can be found in nearly every artistic…
Art and Culture of Highway 1

Get ready for an artistic adventure along Highway 1. This breathtaking coastal route isn’t just about stunning vistas—it’s a living gallery where creativity, history and natural beauty collide. From the world-class opulence of San Simeon’s Hearst Castle to charming Cambria art galleries, the Highway 1 art and culture scene is…
Beach Weddings on Highway 1

Beach weddings along Highway 1 offer up the perfect combination of sunny weather, gorgeous coastal scenery and oceanfront hotels and vacation rentals perfect for hosting your big day and guests. With miles of pristine coastline and untouched alcoves, you can say “I do” backdropped by crashing waves, glittering…
Beer Gardens, Craft Breweries & Taverns of Highway 1

Whether you prefer lagers, wild ales, IPAs or porters, our stretch of Highway 1 has beer for every kind of palate. This is home to pioneering brewers who have helped usher the craft beer movement to the nation and the world. They also inspired younger brewers to start…
Best Beaches on Highway 1

Visitors can find a spectrum of options, with ideal beaches for sunbathing, beachcombing, wildlife viewing, surfing, tidepooling, doggie fun or even dune-driving.
Best Central Coast Farmers Markets

Avila Beach

Central Coast farmers’ markets bring more than fresh fixings ― they often bring prepared food, live music and entertainment, too. Grab your bag and join us.
Best Coffee on Highway 1

Ragged Point

Fuel your Highway 1 road trip with a freshly-brewed cup of coffee. From bold beans to specialty lattes, find an array of energizing offerings served daily at a range of coastal coffee shops. With bright, modern coffee houses and cozy cafes perfumed with the scent of just-made pastries, there’s something…
Best of California Coastal Wine Region

Edna

Sip, swirl and savor award-winning wines beneath a warm sun, sometimes just one mile from the ocean. Come visit Highway 1 for culture and wine.
Best of Holiday Activities on Highway 1

The holidays shine brightest on Highway 1, where you can find ways to celebrate in every season of the year. From the beaches to the vineyards, the farmland to the coastland, this section of Highway 1 offers a unique blend of events and festivals for locals and visitors alike. Every…
Best Parks in Cayucos

Cayucos

This charming seaside town is a family-friendly destination with multiple parks and open spaces. Settle into one of Cayucos’ parks and let the kids burn off some energy — or the pets, for that matter!
Best Places to Eat on Highway 1

San Simeon

Dining is a major attraction along our stretch of Highway 1 for good reason: the food, the views, and the ambiance are world-class. And not just in one or two towns — options abound in every destination here.
Best Wine, Beer, and Food Festivals on the Central Coast

Cayucos

Coastal San Luis Obispo County indulges in any excuse to throw a party. These festivals get to the heart of what the Central Coast is all about: good food, good friends, and good vibes.
Biking Pacific Coast Highway 1

San Simeon

An all-time favorite cycling route, Highway 1 offers spectacular views and challenging climbs with great restaurants, wineries and attractions along the way.
Bird Watching on the Central Coast

Los Osos

Ideal climate, terrain, and proximity to the Pacific Flyway makes the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 one of the finest birding regions in the world.
Cayucos Activity Map

Cayucos

Cayucos is a throw back to the original, laid-back California beach town with its relaxed vibe and Western influences. Time still moves a little slower in Cayucos.
Cayucos Cycling

Cayucos

Montaña de Oro has some of the best mountain biking on the central coast, with multiple trails ranging from beginner to expert.
Cayucos Kayaking

Cayucos

You Oughta Play with Otters
Cayucos Pier on Cayucos Beach

Cayucos

The Cayucos pier was constructed in 1872 by Captain James Cass, the founder of Cayucos, and was then rebuilt and lengthened to 982 feet in 1876.
Cayucos State Beach

Cayucos

The sandy beach offers mild weather, watersports such as surfing and swimming, tidepooling.
Cayucos State Parks and Beaches

Cayucos

Sunshine, shoreline, surf and even starfish — these are just a few treasures to be found in Cayucos State Beaches and State Parks.
Cayucos Veterans Hall

Cayucos

The Cayucos Veteran's Hall is a meeting and rental hall facility available to the public.
Central Coast Polar Bear Dips

Cayucos

The SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 boasts two “polar bear dips” on the first day of the year, both of which are beloved traditions.
Day Spa and Massage Retreats on Highway 1

Rejuvenate mind and body with relaxing Highway 1 spa and wellness experiences to suit every need. Whether you seek a refreshing facial or therapeutic massage, there’s countless ways to boost wellbeing along Highway 1. From soothing Big Sur spa and massage treatments to natural hot springs in Avila Beach, discover…
Day Spa and Wellness in Cayucos

Cayucos

Day spa and wellness opportunities abound in Cayucos, where many modes of relaxation unfold steps away from the Cayucos Pier and beautiful downtown. Whether you desire a casual spa day to unwind from everyday stressors or seek a romantic couple’s massage for two, you’ll find a plethora of…
Day Trips on Highway 1

Welcome to California’s quintessential coastal journey, where Highway 1 unfurls an enviable collection of seaside escapes perfect for day trips from San Francisco, Los Angeles, or the Central Valley. While each destination charms visitors into staying longer, we’ve crafted flexible two-day itineraries that showcase the best experiences along this iconic…
Dog Friendly Activities Along Highway 1

California’s Central Coast provides a fun and safe playground for both dogs and their humans. Stay in dog-friendly lodging, dine in dog-friendly restaurants, and frolic on dog-friendly beaches, hikes and parks.
Downtown Cayucos

Cayucos

The quaint downtown of Cayucos boasts field-to-table restaurants, antique stores, public art and cafes ― all just steps from the beach.
Downtown Stops Along Highway 1

Cambria

Who doesn’t love the hustle and bustle of an active downtown? Town greens and plazas provide a gateway to the best attractions a destination can offer, from historic landmarks to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Estero Bluffs State Park

Cayucos

The majestic Estero Bluffs State Park allows visitors to explore the landscape and beaches on the northern end of Cayucos.
EV Road Trips Along Highway 1

Highway 1 is an excellent destination for electric vehicle drivers. With several electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on the route, explore ten small towns on a single charge. Planning ahead is important for any electric vehicle road trip and can add time onto your travel itinerary. For this reason, Highway…
Family Friendly Things to Do

Avila Beach

For easy-breezy family fun, nothing beats a hike. Lace up your walking shoes, grab a hat and a water bottle, and head out any of coastal San Luis Obispo County’s hundreds of hiking trails.
Fishing California’s Highway 1

San Simeon

Plentiful waters invite fishing of all sorts here on our special stretch of Highway 1. Find yourself on an uncrowded white sand beach, surf fishing any one of our 100 miles of coastline.
Fishing Cayucos

Cayucos

Fishing in Cayucos is one of the best ways to explore our unique section of Highway 1. You can see the historic Cayucos Pier, the shoreline of Cayucos State Beach or Morro Strand.
Highway 1 is Dog-Friendly

Highway 1 loves its four-legged visitors! With one of the mildest, most temperate climates in the West, the great outdoors of our stretch of Highway 1 beg to be discovered. That means outside restaurant patios, parks, beaches, wineries, hiking trails and more, just right for quality time with Fido. The…
Hiking in Cayucos

Cayucos

Sweeping coastal views and a temperate climate make hiking the trails in and around Cayucos a must-do. Ready to hit the trail?
Hiking On Highway 1

Highway 1

Hiking along the Highway 1 Road Trip showcases the diversity of this abundant place. From Ragged Point to Nipomo, each corner of coastal SLO CAL has its own distinctive flora, fauna, and history.
Historic Piers and Lighthouses on Highway 1

Avila Beach

Take in all the piers and lighthouses of coastal San Luis Obispo County, or choose just one or two to explore. Either way, you’ll witness the impact of how this region’s coastal position shaped its history.
Live Music on Highway 1

Highway 1’s dynamic live music scene plays out at a multitude of unique venues. From cozy bars to renowned stages, Highway 1 offers an eclectic array of live musical experiences to suit every preference. Visitors find that Highway 1 concerts transcend traditional spaces, unfolding at lighthouses, beer gardens, vineyards…
Morro Bay Beach and Morro Rock

Morro Bay

This beach is a coastal frontage park featuring outstanding picnic sites.
Nightlife on Highway 1

Nightlife unfolds at every turn along Highway 1’s scenic coastline. While Highway 1 may be renowned for its breathtaking ocean views and picturesque landscapes, its after-hours offerings are equally captivating. Travelers can expect a laid back ambiance and a mix of local and national talent. Don’t be fooled by the…
Pacific Coast Wine Trail

Cayucos

Enjoy hand-crafted wines from six small producers along the scenic coast
Romance on Highway 1

Ignite romance on Highway 1, where coastal ambiance meets idyllic experiences for two. Explore oceanfront dining, secluded beaches and awe-inspiring sunsets all along this scenic coastal byway. Stroll along the sand, discover local wildlife, wine taste or indulge in a relaxing couple’s massage—Highway 1 is your oyster. Whether planning an…
San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway – Route 1

The San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway provides an extraordinary experience.
Scenic Drive: Your Highway 1 Road Trip

San Simeon

If you want the inside scoop on the best places to stop while driving the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll need inspiration from a knowledgeable guide. Take your road trip on Highway 1 now.
Sea Otter Spotting

Morro Bay

Cute, furry, and playful, Southern Sea Otters make their homes just offshore along the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1. Sea otters are native to the north Pacific Ocean, with Monterey Bay, Big Sur, and the Central Coast as hubs of activity.
Seaweed Foraging Tours

Cayucos

This is an intimate and educational experience that is always family friendly.
Shopping on Highway 1

Cambria

Find locally-made art, ceramics, cheeses, wine, furniture, surfboards, herb and spice blends, soaps, candles, glasswares, jewelry, breads, books, souvenirs, clothing and more.
Skate Parks of Highway 1

Ready to roll? Skate Parks can be found all along Highway 1, providing a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors on four wheels. Whether you’re a beginner to the sport or lifelong skateboarder, you’ll find plenty of half-pipes, handrails, vert ramps and bowls to explore along the…
Solo Travel Highway 1’s Wide Open Spaces

With the need for social distancing, there’s never been a better time to dream about your next party-of-one trip.
State Parks and Beaches of the Central Coast

Highway 1

From Ragged Point to Nipomo, you’ll find unspoiled beaches, quiet woodlands, marine protected areas, art, antiquities, and driveable dunes.
Stores in Cayucos

Cayucos

The main thoroughfare of Ocean Avenue cruises through downtown Cayucos, which boasts several unique shopping opportunities.
Surfing Cayucos

Cayucos

The Cayucos Pier is a decent spot for beginners, and it's great for families who want the quintessential surf town experience that is quiet, uncrowded and laid back.
Surfing Spots on Highway 1

San Simeon

Once called “The Lost Coast” by Surfer Magazine, this rugged stretch of coastline boasts some of the best-kept secret surf spots in California.
The 10 Best Parks on Highway 1

In a land of natural splendor, it’s no surprise that the public has access to breathtaking, fun, and fascinating parks. On this special stretch of Highway 1, the wild and the wonderful conspire to bring kids and their grownups closer to nature — and to each other. Here,…
The Best Restaurants in Cayucos

Cayucos

Aside from delicious dishes and diverse flavors, places to eat in Cayucos are special because most are within walking distance of the pier.
Things to do in Cayucos

Cayucos

Looking for fun things to do in Cayucos? This beautiful coastal town features plenty of exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy. From hiking and dining to antique shopping and pier fishing, Cayucos is a relaxing coastal escape with laid back charm to spare. Whether you’re a surfer, hiker…
Things to do on Highway 1

Looking for things to do and on Highway 1? With serene beaches and historic piers, farm-fresh dining and ocean views, this iconic scenic route offers an array of unforgettable coastal experiences. Explore sun-drenched dunes, hidden waterfalls and cultural gems on this iconic stretch of California roadway. With boundless things to…
Tide Pools and Sea Life of Cayucos

Cayucos

With 100 miles of Pacific coastline, our stretch of Highway 1 boasts abundant sea life including marine mammals, tide pools, and kelp forests.
Tide Pools and Sea Life of Highway 1

Wherever you roam along Highway 1, the ocean never lies far away. In the 57 miles of coastline between Ragged Point and Nipomo, the Pacific Ocean defines the landscape.
Whale Watching on the Whale Trail

When it comes to whale watching, the Central Coast boasts an embarrassment of riches, especially along the Highway 1 Road Trip. Here, whales, dolphins, sea otters, seals and seabirds play within full view of the shoreline.
Wildflowers on Highway 1

Cambria

Brittlebrush, poppies, bluebells, lupine, sand verbena, and evening primrose are just a handful of the incredible wildflowers that bloom on the Central Coast.
3rd Street Park

Cayucos

Cayucos has three playgrounds with the park at 3rd Street housing the former town jail.
Activity Map ~ Highway 1 Road Trip

See the sights and highlights along the Highway 1 Road Trip! Featuring 101 miles of adventure, the route stretches from the scenic coastline in Ragged Point south through the agricultural communities of Oceano and Nipomo.
Arcadian Adventures

San Luis Obispo

Our mission is to provide our guests with bespoke itineraries of outdoor activities led by our dedicated guides.
Be an iNaturalist with the Cayucos Land Conservancy

Cayucos

Did you know that the Cayucos Land Conservancy sponsors a Citizen/Scientist Project on iNaturalist to catalog all plant and animal life found at Estero Bluffs State Park?
Brown Butter Cookie Company

Cayucos

Featured in the New York Times, this sister-owned cookie company is nationally known for its signature sea salt cookie: a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread morsel with just a touch of sea salt.
Cambria Christmas Market

Cambria

The Cambria Christmas Market features open-air stalls selling glühwein (hot mulled wine), traditional German foods, local vendors, and live entertainment.
Cass House (Captain James Cass House)

Cayucos

Still standing as a restored inn and restaurant, Captain James Cass’s House is in downtown Cayucos.
Cayucos Antique Shops & Art

Cayucos

Enjoy antiquing and art collecting? San Luis Obispo County is chock-full of great antique shops, memorable art galleries and fun antiquing events!
Cayucos Beach Playground

Cayucos

There are picnic tables, play equipment, restrooms, and outside showers available.
Cayucos Farmers Market

Cayucos

Friday Morning Market next to the beach