Things To Do

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

All Things to Do

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  • Best Central Coast Farmers Markets

    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.
  • Activity Map ~ Highway 1 Road Trip

    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.
  • Montaña de Oro State Park

    Montaña de Oro State Park

    Los Osos
    This park features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak.
  • Downtown Cayucos

    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.
  • 4th of July in Cayucos

    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.
  • Best Beaches on Highway 1 Stewardship Travel Logo

    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.
  • Dog Friendly Activities Along Highway 1

    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.
  • San Simeon Pier

    San Simeon Pier

    San Simeon
    Before the advent of the railroad and easily traversed highways, most of the commerce in central California was conducted by ship and piers and wharfs were vitally important.
  • Pacific Coast Railway Union Oil Pier “Cal Poly Pier”

    Pacific Coast Railway Union Oil Pier “Cal Poly Pier”

    Avila Beach
    In 1914 the Pacific Coast Railway Company constructed a pier at Port San Luis for commercial shipping.
  • Avila Beach Murals

    Avila Beach Murals

    Avila Beach
    The towers have become a popular “must-see” for both residents and visitors.
  • Paddle Back In Time to Historic Lighthouse Stewardship Travel Logo

    Paddle Back In Time to Historic Lighthouse

    Avila Beach
    Paddle back in time with professional kayak guides to the 125 year old fully restored and quite beautiful Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach, California
  • Pacific Valley Bluff Trail

    Pacific Valley Bluff Trail

    Big Sur
    Highway 1 is most famous for its coastal views, so you'll definitely want to take the chance to hop out of your car and stroll along the Pacific Valley Bluff Trail.
  • Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center

    Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center

    Oceano
    This facility provides our community and park visitors with new educational opportunities.
  • Boucher Trail at Piedras Blancas

    Boucher Trail at Piedras Blancas

    San Simeon
    The Boucher Trail runs from the paved elephant seal viewing parking for 1.9 miles, to a half mile north of the Piedras Blancas Light Station.
  • Morro Bay Estuary

    Morro Bay Estuary

    Morro Bay
    Morro Bay was designated a state estuary in 1994 and an “estuary of national significance” in 1995 as a result of a tireless community-based effort to protect this precious resource.
  • SeaPhoto App

    SeaPhoto App

    San Simeon
    Teachers, students, beachgoers, researchers and others can now view a wealth of information about central California marine life
  • Cayucos Tide Pools

    Cayucos Tide Pools

    Cayucos
    This little known town in central California has some great tide pool locations to explore.
  • Central Coast Outdoors

    Central Coast Outdoors

    Morro Bay
    From the serene protected waters of Morro Bay to the rocky cliffs along Shell Beach, kayaking is a sport that can be enjoyed by all.