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

Activities

All Things to Do

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  • 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.
  • Hiking Los Osos Stewardship Travel Logo

    Hiking Los Osos

    Los Osos
    A hiker’s paradise, Los Osos lies in a valley at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Trails of all lengths span beaches, creeks, mountains, and bluffs.
  • Montaña de Oro State Park
    This park features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak.
  • Downtown 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
    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
    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
    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.
  • Pacific Valley Bluff Trail
    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.
  • Boucher Trail at Piedras Blancas
    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.
  • San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway – Route 1
    The San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway provides an extraordinary experience.
  • Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Docent Nature Walk Stewardship Travel Logo
    The Ranch is far from the largest of coastal ecosystems, but packs more biological diversity into a confined area than many larger properties. 
  • Harford Pier

    Harford Pier

    San Luis Obispo
    A small town relic, the Harford Pier is a historic monument to the bygone eras of sea commerce 
  • Ontario Ridge Trail

    Ontario Ridge Trail

    San Luis Obispo
    Ontario Ridge Trail is a rugged, sometimes-steep track crossing a 700-foot hill above the Shell Beach bluff, with spectacular ocean views.
  • San Carpoforo Creek

    San Carpoforo Creek

    San Simeon
    The San Carpoforo Creek Beach Access is the northernmost portion of the state-owned properties in Hearst San Simeon State Park.
  • Oceano Park Campground & Lagoon
    Oceano Park and Campground was once a favorite hunting and fishing ground of the Chumash Indians.
  • Pasadena Drive Beach Access
    Hiking, kayaking and a labyrinth!
  • Arroyo Laguna Beach

    Arroyo Laguna Beach

    San Simeon
    Arroyo Laguna Beach is a windsurfing and kiteboarding spot along the northern San Luis Obispo Coast.
  • Hazard Canyon Reef
    Hazard Canyon Reef, located within Montaña de Oro State Park, is a gorgeous beach with tide pools and scenic views.