Hit the waves (or the sand) at Cayucos State Beach. With six miles of white sand beach that stretch to the famous Morro Rock, Cayucos State Beach starts in the charming seaside town of Cayucos and is one of the best in California for surfing, swimming, tidepooling, and soaking up the sun. The beach boasts nearby parking, picnic facilities, outdoor showers and restrooms, as well as easy access. The Cayucos Pier was constructed in 1872 by Captain James Cass, and is a remnant from the days when Cayucos represented an important commercial port for ships sailing from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Rebuilt in 2015, the 982-foot pier remains a favorite spot for fishing, taking in epic Pacific Coast sunsets, and even whale-watching.
The population of Cayucos is about 3,000. Despite its small size, Cayucos has an eating establishment to meet everyone’s palate, from a chowder house to five-star dining. You’ll also find fabulous antique stores, surf shops with handcrafted boards, and locally owned gift stores. For children, there are three play areas designed just for them including, picnic tables, barbecues, and a paid lifeguard during the summer. There’s even a fresh water swimming pool in the summer near Hardie Park and two lighted tennis courts, located a short walk away from the pier. Grownups looking for a bit of “spice” will find that “in spades” if you’ll forgive the pun, at The Old Cayucos Tavern, a historic bar with card-playing rooms, pool tables, dancing, and some of the best live music around.
Things to do in Cayucos
Come experience Cayucos like the locals.
where To Stay in Cayucos
Plan your stay at one of the many hotels or vacation rentals in Cayucos.
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Custom Cayucos CasaCustom Cayucos CasaCayucos
The Custom Cayucos Casa is an architectural gem of a vacation rental with expansive views of Morro Rock and Cayucos Pier.
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Cayucos Beach JewelCayucos Beach JewelCayucos
The Cayucos Beach Jewel vacation rental is a beachfront beauty, perfect for families, with unmatched views of the Pacific.
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Cayucos HideawayCayucos HideawayCayucos
Feel like you have your own private Cayucos Hideaway at this roomy vacation rental near the beaches of Highway 1.
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Blue Door RetreatBlue Door RetreatCayucos
The Blue Door Retreat is a roomy, oceanview vacation rental in California’s Central Coast. This Highway 1 house welcomes you!
Cayucos travel videos
events in Cayucos
Plan your next roadtrip to Cayucos around events and happenings.
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Barefoot Concerts on the Green
Sea Pines Golf Resort is thrilled to offer locals and visitors alike the best outdoor music experience available on the Central Coast.
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Sunday Concerts on the Patio
Immerse yourself in a relaxing atmosphere as you enjoy our delicious food and drinks while tapping your feet to some amazing tunes from local musicians.
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Mind Walks with the Central Coast State Parks Association
Our Mind Walks series offers lectures on topics of interest to residents of the Central Coast, including cultural history, natural history, and current issues. Stewardship travelers are invited to join…
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Central Coast Arthritis Bike Classic
The ride takes place each fall and aims to raise over $1 million dollars. Approximately 350 arthritis patients, families and supporters who are recruited by our staff will cycle over 525 miles raising…
Can’t Miss activities in Cayucos
Make sure to experience these activities in Cayucos. You won’t be disappointed!
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4th of July in Cayucos4th of July in CayucosCayucos
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.
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Hiking in CayucosHiking in CayucosCayucos
Sweeping coastal views and a temperate climate make hiking the trails in and around Cayucos a must-do. Ready to hit the trail?
travel articles about Cayucos
Read about why Cayucos is the perfect California Highway 1 road trip for those seeking a special California beach town experience.
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Cayucos CyclingCayucos CyclingCayucos
Montaña de Oro has some of the best mountain biking on the central coast, with multiple trails ranging from beginner to expert.
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Cayucos Farmers MarketCayucos Farmers MarketCayucos
Friday Morning Market next to the beach
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Central Coast Polar Bear DipsCentral Coast Polar Bear DipsCayucos
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.
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Seaweed Foraging ToursSeaweed Foraging ToursCayucos
This is an intimate and educational experience that is always family friendly.
where to eat in Cayucos
Check out all the restaurants and good eats in Cayucos.
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Cayucos Candy CounterCayucos Candy CounterCayucos
Stop in for a selection of new and classic candies including Jelly Belly, Whistle Pops, taffy, truffles and more. They also have ice cream and gelato that will leave you wanting more.
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Bijou BakeryBijou BakeryCayucos
Jeniece Grimshaw, owner and operator of Bijou Bakery, is a classically trained pastry chef with a Californian approach fused with French technique.
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Cayucos CoffeeCayucos CoffeeCayucos
Cayucos Coffee is passionate about good coffee and love supporting their community, which is why they’re stoked to serve local Jobella Coffee, a small batch, organic, local roasting company based out of Atascadero.
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Cayucos Sausage CompanyCayucos Sausage CompanyCayucos
In addition to quality deli sandwiches and meats, they have a wide selection of rotisserie and barbecue cooked foods available for takeout.
connect With Cayucos
Official travel map and social media for Cayucos.
More to Explore on Highway 1
Check out these other amazing places on the Highway 1 Road Trip in San Luis Obispo County.
Explore the Highway 1 Road Trip
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