[…]the trails of the Pismo Preserve The Dunes Beach hiking is elevated to new heights of wonder at the Dunes located just south of Pismo Beach. A staggering expanse of white, undulating sand dunes create a stunning backdrop for hikers of all ages. The Oceano Dunes Preserve walking trail is […]
[…]just stopping by for a photo op and to stretch your legs, spending the afternoon exploring the trails, or even staying the night at the Ragged Point Inn, this is one place that really highlights why Highway 1 is so special. Everything, from the trails to the Inn, is meant […]
[…]in Cayucos and experience top tier accommodations along the coast. The historic four-room Cass House blends traditional and contemporary comforts complete with onsite bakery and event venue. With both intimate boutique stays and relaxed family friendly options, it’s easy to wake up to Cayucos. Directions to Cayucos Pier Looking for […]
[…]A prime location for fishing and whale watching along Highway 1, this historic pier is an official Whale Trail stop, complete with educational signage to help you along your way. Nestled at the end of Cayucos Drive on Cayucos’ scenic sandy beach, the pier is easily accessible to the Veterans […]
[…]the Cambria coast, be sure to keep one eye on the horizon, too. A popular stop on Highway 1’s Whale Trail, Cambria is a prime location for whale watching, especially December-February. Perhaps today is the day you’ll catch a massive fluke or spout emerge from the waves. Don’t blink, you […]
[…]The Castle overlooks the Pacific Ocean and coastal cliffs and beaches from its perch in the the Santa Lucia mountain range 1600 feet above. Visitors can still find wild zebras roaming freely over the hillsides as though they were part of the original zoo at the castle from back in […]
[…]1 Discovery Route to the cute little surf town of Cayucos, which is known for being part of the Whale Trail as well as its numerous local festivals. (Hello, sea glass!) We decided on house-smoked fish sandwiches topped with a garlicky local favorite, Cayucos Hot Sauce, at Ruddell’s Smokehouse near […]
[…]Delight in thousands of Monarch butterflies fluttering in unison in Pismo Beach. Travel an otherworldly trail from forest to dunescape or walk among ancient pygmy oaks treasured by ancient tribal inhabitants. Yes, you should always expect the unexpected on Highway 1. Never stop learning—and be sure to come back soon […]
[…]remote, this beautiful little beach doesn’t see many visitors. But those who venture out on the trail off Highway 1 get the reward of a quiet surfing hideaway. Start from the tiny pull-out between a call box and a sign that reads “No Campfires.” You’ll also see a Private Property […]
[…]bring you right to the heart of Highway 1. To fall in love with the MBNMS, discover resources like the Whale Trail, the Coastal Discovery Center, and seaweed foraging tours. These and many more opportunities for eye-opening moments can be found on our Stewardship Travel For Good list. Explore the […]
[…]area around Avila Beach sees a large proportion of these otherworldly creatures (plus, if you miss the whales that day, you’ll still have lovely scenery to shoot). Win win! #5 Shake up your family photosReady for a better closeup? We suggest avoiding the urge to say “cheese,” which pretty much […]
[…]robust Northern Elephant Seal Rookeries in the world, with 25,000 seals migrating there annually. The Northern Elephant seal is the second-largest seal in the world, and the largest in the northern hemisphere. Come witness these majestic creatures as they mate, spar, birth and molt, just off Highway 1. The seals […]
[…]myrtles, lupine, and paintbrush conceal and reveal seabirds, mammals and reptiles. At its end, the trail opens to the ocean, pounding the shore and sending sandpipers skittering. Bring a picnic and poles for surf fishing, or just enjoy the peace of this quiet corner of SLO CAL. Just up the […]
[…]magic is atop a Clydesdale. These well-trained giants give rides gentle enough for beginners, but the trail is unique enough to appeal to experienced riders, too. Be sure to bring your camera for all the incredible photo opportunities along the way. #4 Explore Hearst CastleHearst Castle is the best-known landmark […]
[…]pygmy oaks, views of seabirds from a comfortable platform, and coastal panoramas. Entrance to the trail is free, and dogs are welcome on leash. Benches, trail guides and interpretive displays are provided, but restrooms, drinking water, and other facilities are not. The park is open year-round, every day, from sunrise […]
[…]scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Alternatively, embark on a journey to Los Osos by taking the 58, then merging onto the 101 before finally reaching Highway 1. Nestled amidst stunning coastal landscapes, Los Osos promises unforgettable beaches, hiking trails and […]
[…]and tasting rooms nested in quaint, seaside towns dotted along scenic Highway 1 Discovery Route. The Trail offers travelers a wine experience as unique as the coastal communities themselves. From Coastal Burgundian varieties grown on vineyards minutes from the Pacific Ocean to robust Bordeaux and Rhone varieties grown in Paso […]
[…]flanking the Edna Valley Backroads Trail or cruise from Edna Valley to the beach with the Core of the Coast Trail. Along the way, say hello to the peacocks on display at Kelsey See Canyon Winery, enjoy a seated flight at Claiborne & Churchill Vintners or enjoy Friday night tunes […]
[…]Aquarium Recurs daily, except on Mondays Whale Watching on the Whale Trail Recurs daily Wildflowers on Highway 1 Wine Country Biking Lodging Specials Book Now Stewardship Travel Learn More Free Movie at Hearst Castle Theater History & Heritage Trail Learn More Highlights of the Coastal Discovery Celebration For seven weeks, […]
[…]and ranch roads twisting through oak woodlands and coastal ridges. Many of the lookouts along these trails are ideal for whale watching, as whales migrate just off the shoreline. Views also reach to the Irish Hills to the north and past The Oceano Dunes to point Sal State Beach in […]
[…]to do. Staying at the beach means you are close to all the coastal wildlife. Be sure to check out the Whale Trail spots throughout the area. The signs detail more than just the whale you are likely to see here. You can also get up close and personal with […]
[…]to do. Staying at the beach means you are close to all the coastal wildlife. Be sure to check out the Whale Trail spots throughout the area. The signs detail more than just the whale you are likely to see here. You can also get up close and personal with […]
[…]important that creatures remain undisturbed in their natural habitat; do not touch, move, or bother them in any way. For ideas of how best to view wildlife throughout our stretch of Highway 1, have a look at our Wildlife Viewing Tips page. Explore Sea Life and Tide pools Tide Times […]
[…]nearby hills. Back in the trees a great horned owl hoots. With no sign of civilization, except for the trail I’m on, this seascape feels unchanged from a century ago.Leaving the park, I drive just north of Cayucos, and by mid-morning I find myself knee-deep in the Pacific Ocean. As […]
[…]action-packed family fun with the thrill of the great outdoors. This one’s for those who crave the wind in their face and their pulse at a quicker pace, so don’t say we didn’t warn you. 2. The All Terrain-Er Whether by steed or by dune buggy, you’re all about the […]
[…]and fires are not permitted. Also be aware that the reserve offers no facilities.Trailhead locationThe trailhead can be found at 1813 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, CA 93402. From San Luis Obispo, drive west on Los Osos Valley Road for 10 miles. Cross traffic and pull into the free […]
[…]Jones, etc)Avila Beach is home to many hiking trails that afford spectacular ocean views. Touch the sky with the challenging Ontario Ridge Trail, or trek among the trees on the Sycamore Crest Trail behind Sycamore Mineral Springs. The resort also connects via a bridge to the beloved Bob Jones Bike […]
[…]to beat the summer heat. Most hiking trails at Lopez Lake are also equestrian trails, including the Cougar Trail and Marina Trail. Equestrian amenities include water and a water trough. Campers must clean up after their horses.Madonna Inn Trail RidesAll levels of experience are welcome to take a guided trail […]
[…]place tucked back from the Bob Jones Bike Trail in the Avila Valley. The cafe is accessible from the trail, and can also be reached via the Green Sycamore Bridge at Sycamore Mineral Springs. Wander into the lush, natural landscape to discover a clearing where a food trailer crafts snacks, […]
[…]family friendly dining options alongside historical sites of interest. For visitors interested in the latter, the old Hoosegow jailhouse and Swinging Foot Bridge are both a few minute’s walk from the station. Oceano Monarch Butterfly Grove Butterfly viewing is a common activity for travelers utilizing the electric vehicle charging station […]
[…]that you’ll have to make more frequent stops than you would if you were traveling solo but, in the end, these stops are good for you too. You’ll stretch your legs, nourish and hydrate your body, and notice all of the green grass and nature along the way just like your furry […]
[…]Each 2 ½ hour narrated tour explains the history, habits, and other interesting information about the whales that frequent the central California coast. You will also experience many types of sea life found here and enjoy the scenic California coastline. The waters off Morro Bay are home to an incredible […]
[…]California attraction stood at 1,740 feet long before it was decimated by a 1905 storm. Since then, the famous pier has undergone dramatic changes: it was rebuilt in 1924 and once again in 1984 following an El Nino storm. Most recently, the pier has been completely revamped to include a […]
[…]the Pacific. Spot whales from the piers or book a whale watching tour. Everything is close by and the weather in Avila Beach is unmatched. Layout Endless Summers is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom condo that sleeps up to 8 guests. This two story unit features an open floor plan […]
[…]moment of pure joy at the the Cayucos Beach Playground 4. Hardie Park in Downtown Cayucos Named after a family of Scottish immigrants who settled here in Cayucos’s early days as a town, Hardie Park is another multi-faceted public space with a lot to offer. Just a few minutes’ walk […]
[…]out all the restaurants and good eats in San Simeon. 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 Click each image for more […]
[…]is the gray whale that passes town on the way north every spring, often with a calf in tow. Follow the Whale Trail into Cayucos, then step out on the famous Cayucos Pier, paddle from shore in a kayak, or ascend Estero Bluffs for the best scoping perspectives. Should you […]
[…]of dolphins! For those wanting to truly get an experience out of the pier, keep an eye out for the Whale Trail interpretative sign. The Whale Trail follows species of whales along the California coast, and Cayucos falls right on the path! Gray whales are most often seen in March […]
[…]of Highway 1—the wildlife stop by, too! Each fall, whales can be seen offshore with the help of the Whale Trail, which highlights the best places for peeping a fin, flipper or tail in the distance. The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon also invites the public to […]
[…]including Edna Valley’s award-winning pinot noir and chardonnay. Located just a few miles from the Pacific, the SLO Coast Wine region is as diverse as it is delicious: Visit welcoming Edna Valley tasting rooms surrounded by lush vineyards, discover the quaint wineries of Arroyo Grande and meet a band of […]
[…]The 1,400 square feet of this upstairs unit are designed to take advantage of its proximity to the coast. The open layout features a high end kitchen with a large eating counter that opens onto the living area. The adjacent dining area takes advantage of the natural light from French […]
[…]and is open to the kitchen and dining area. The two-sided fireplace adds to the coziness of the space. The kitchen includes stainless steel appliances and a breakfast counter. The master suite has a Cal king bed with canopy and seating area. The second bedroom has a queen size bed […]
[…]rent a kayak and paddle the bay. If you prefer to stay on dry land, there are many great hikes in the area. The nearby Bob Jones Trail is a popular path for walking, jogging and cycling. Layout There are 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms to accommodate up to 4 […]
[…]of sand to enormous pine forests. And, Cambria’s artists capture it all. Meet the locals as they take the stage at the local theaters or perform live music nightly, and many venues feature al fresco dining and musical entertainment! #10: Nothing…nothing at all… Cambria is the perfect place to be […]
[…]to answer your questions at the Paulding House by appointment. The house is also open to the public the first Saturday of the month from noon to 3 p.m. Call 805-473-3231 for more information. CASS HOUSE IN CAYUCOS Kick back in SLO CAL’s original coastal hangout. The Captain James Cass House, located in downtown Cayucos, […]
A 3.3 mile trail runs through parts of the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Washburn Campground. The trail includes scenic overlooks, rest-stop benches and interpretive panels with information on wildlife and habitat. A portion of the trail along the seasonal wetland is wheelchair accessible. The boardwalk is a good […]
[…]less traveled is rewarded with a challenging climb and jaw-dropping ocean views. It also means the trail is uncrowded, if not empty. After spring rains, hear and see several small waterfalls flowing in the brush beside the trail. On a clear day, views stretch south to Piedras Blancas Light Station, […]
[…]Society has made special efforts to rehabilitate the Morro shoulderband snail; check signs on the trail for more information. Other endangered species at Sweet Springs Nature Preserve include the Cooper’s Hawk, silvery legless lizard, and Morro blue butterfly. Check our Wildlife Viewing Tips for ways to enjoy your visit while […]
[…]SLO CAL Coast as it existed during the time of native tribes: raw, rugged and untamed. Located at the Southern tip of Cambria, the Kenneth S. Norris Rancho Marino Reserve extends from the frothy sea to a towering 700-foot-tall ridge. With rocky shoreline, freshwater ponds, coastal grasslands, and a mix […]
[…]here, too. At Shamel Park, on the eastern edge of Moonstone Beach, find an interpretive sign from the Whale Trail. This national organization identifies the best places to see whales, and the lookout from Moonstone Beach is one such spot. Gray whales are commonly seen from here, as well as […]
