Highway 1 Road Trip - Free Things To Do

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.

Avila Beaches and Piers

Avila Beach

With its long stretches of white sand, boardwalks, pet-friendly spots, wildlife and bustling harbor, Avila Beach has attracted visitors for centuries.

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.

Gateway to Big Sur

Ragged Point

Big Sur represents the best of the West. As one of the nation’s top attractions, Big Sur sparkles with vast views of the Pacific.

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.

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.

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.

Cambria Scarecrow Festival

Cambria

The annual Scarecrow Festival includes plenty of fall festivities, including a trail of handmade scarecrows displayed throughout the town’s East and West Villages.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.