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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  • 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.
  • Hiking On Highway 1

    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.
  • The Hoosegow Jailhouse

    The Hoosegow Jailhouse

    Arroyo Grande
    The tiny one-room jailhouse over-looking downtown Arroyo Grande from Le Point Street is known as the Hoosegow.
  • 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.
  • The Place on PCH Arts Co-Op

    The Place on PCH Arts Co-Op

    Oceano
    Creative inspiration runs wild at “The Place” - Oceano’s arts co-op on Hwy 1.
  • Free Online Trail Maps & Trail Work Volunteer Days Stewardship Travel Logo

    Free Online Trail Maps & Trail Work Volunteer Days

    San Luis Obispo County
    Visitors and local residents alike are invited to download free trail maps throughout the San Luis Obispo and the HWY 1 Discovery Route
  • Avila Beach Murals

    Avila Beach Murals

    Avila Beach
    The towers have become a popular “must-see” for both residents and visitors.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Avila Beach Bird Sanctuary

    Avila Beach Bird Sanctuary

    Avila Beach
    Avila's fresh water stream micro estuary and salt water coastline provide a perfect place to eat and rest before continuing on their journey.
  • Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center

    Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center

    Oceano
    This facility provides our community and park visitors with new educational opportunities.
  • SeaPhoto App

    SeaPhoto App

    San Simeon
    Teachers, students, beachgoers, researchers and others can now view a wealth of information about central California marine life
  • 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.
  • Salmon Creek Falls

    Salmon Creek Falls

    San Simeon
    Salmon Creek Falls is a natural, beautiful waterfall found on the Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway 1 located 3 miles north of Ragged Point Inn.
  • Cayucos Tide Pools

    Cayucos Tide Pools

    Cayucos
    This little known town in central California has some great tide pool locations to explore.
  • Main Street in Cambria

    Main Street in Cambria

    Cambria
    People come from around the world to visit the shops in Cambria. Our vibrant artist community includes designers, artists, craftspeople and you will find special treasures you will not see anywhere else.