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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Beach Front ParadiseBeach Front ParadiseCayucos
Enjoy your personal Beach Front Paradise at the gorgeous custom vacation rental on Cayucos beach in California.
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Exclusive Oceanfront Cayucos Loft
The Exclusive Oceanfront Cayucos Loft vacation rental has amazing views of the Cayucos shoreline and sunsets.
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Historic Saltbox HouseHistoric Saltbox HouseCayucos
The Saltbox House is a historic vacation rental in the quaint town of Cayucos, California. This property is made up of three separate rentals.
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Harbor HomeHarbor HomeCayucos
This wonderful beach house is located just a block away from the 24th Street beach access!
Cayucos travel videos
events in Cayucos
Plan your next roadtrip to Cayucos around events and happenings.
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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Ocean Front PizzaOcean Front PizzaCayucos
Come to Ocean Front Pizza for some of the best slices in San Luis Obispo County!
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Luna Coffee BarLuna Coffee BarCayucos
Not just a specialty coffee shop set back in a lush garden ambiance, Luna offers specialty cakes and desserts that will have you over the moon!
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Lunada Garden BistroLunada Garden BistroCayucos
Lunada Garden Bistro is located in the historic Way Station, a property that dates back to the founding of Cayucos.
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Honey Girl CafeHoney Girl CafeCayucos
A small beachside Cafe in Cayucos named after their Kupunawahine, Honey Girl. Stop in to this tucked away hideout for breakfast or lunch, seven days a week. Local favorites include their fresh sandwiches, Mexican mocha, acai bowls and mango smoothies.
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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