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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  • 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.
  • Avila Beach Murals

    Avila Beach Murals

    Avila Beach
    The towers have become a popular “must-see” for both residents and visitors.
  • 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
  • Big Fish, Little Fish at Central Coast Aquarium Stewardship Travel Logo

    Big Fish, Little Fish at Central Coast Aquarium

    Avila Beach
    Join us for kids activities and storytime with hands-on interaction with tide pool animals and aquarium exploration.
  • 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.
  • Mystery Thrill Seekers

    Mystery Thrill Seekers

    Cambria
    A "who did it" scavenger hunt played on a smart phone.
  • 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.
  • Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center

    Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center

    Oceano
    This facility provides our community and park visitors with new educational opportunities.
  • Cambria Pickleball by the Sea

    Cambria Pickleball by the Sea

    Cambria
    Our club is growing and we invite you to come out and give this easy-to-learn, fun game with the funny name, "Pickleball," a try.  
  • 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.
  • 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
  • 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.
  • Cayucos Tide Pools

    Cayucos Tide Pools

    Cayucos
    This little known town in central California has some great tide pool locations to explore.
  • Santa Maria Raceway

    Santa Maria Raceway

    Nipomo
    Enjoy a fast and loud Saturday night at the track!
  • Sebastian’s General Store & Old San Simeon Village

    Sebastian’s General Store & Old San Simeon Village

    San Simeon
    Built in 1852 at the peak of the whaling industry, the Sebastian Brothers provided goods and services to whalers, fishermen, miners and neighboring ranches.
  • Brown Butter Cookie Company

    Brown Butter Cookie Company

    Cayucos
    Featured in the New York Times, this sister-owned cookie company is nationally known for its signature sea salt cookie: a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread morsel with just a touch of sea salt. 
  • San Simeon Visitor Center

    San Simeon Visitor Center

    San Simeon
    Need help planning your San Simeon escape? Have questions about everything there is to see, do and experience here?