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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  • Point San Luis Lighthouse Stewardship Travel Logo

    Point San Luis Lighthouse

    Avila Beach
    Founded in 1890, Point San Luis Lighthouse has saved many lives in its time, and remains a beacon over San Luis Bay. Visit a piece of history on Highway 1.
  • Avila Beaches and Piers

    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

    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.
  • Dana Adobe Stewardship Travel Logo

    Dana Adobe

    Nipomo
    The historic Dana Adobe in Nipomo transports visitors back to the time of vaqueros, ranchos and Mexican land grants.
  • Oceano Train Depot Stewardship Travel Logo

    Oceano Train Depot

    Oceano
    A critical historic site for the development of San Luis Obispo County, the Oceano Train Depot now stands as a museum and community center.
  • Historic Piers and Lighthouses on Highway 1

    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

    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.
  • Hearst Castle Holidays

    Hearst Castle Holidays

    San Simeon
    Hearst Castle brings to life his love of all things Christmas, and invites you to join in the spirit of the season!
  • Cambria Christmas Market

    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.
  • Cambria Scarecrow Festival

    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

    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

    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.
  • Arroyo Grande Village

    Arroyo Grande Village

    Arroyo Grande
    The quaint, historic, and lively, Village of Arroyo Grande (Downtown), charms visitors with its one-of-a-kind shops, dining, and community events.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Harmony Glassworks

    Harmony Glassworks

    Harmony
    Set in the heart of rural San Luis Obispo County, California lies Harmony.
  • Toast Tours

    Toast Tours

    Paso Robles
    An exciting, fun filled full-day experience making the most of your time in California’s stunning Central Coast.