[…]out the tide pools, which are most active at high and low tides. Or for an easier option, the Whale Trail has spots all along this section of Highway 1. Layout Ocean Front Lookout is a vacation rental with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, accommodating up to 6 guests. The […]
[…]life spotting is always a popular activity, with plenty of variety. You will find more than just whales migrating along the Pacific so check the Whale Trail signs for what is in season. Whatever you choose, be sure to check out our Wildlife Viewing Tips before heading out. You can […]
[…]viewing tips to make sure everyone is safe, including the animals. Not sure what to do? Try the Whale Trail for an easy route with great scenery. Or visit the area’s tide pools which are guaranteed fun for all ages. Layout The Dunes Vacation Getaway rental is a 3 bedroom, […]
[…]and aahs. Hanging out at the coast to watch for sea life will always provide great entertainment. Whales aren’t the only creature migrating along the Pacific. Find the nearest Whale Trail sign to learn what is in season. Be sure to download our Wildlife Viewing Map to plan ahead. And […]
[…]include checking out the historic Oceano Train Depot and nearby Dana Adobe. Or travel along the Whale Trail to see marine life from shore. Wherever you are along Highway 1, you will have no trouble finding great dining options. Layout The Away From Home Beach House has 4 bedrooms and […]
[…]where sun-dappled terraces, ancient statues and gold-flecked pools await. From elephant seals and whale watching to discovering the magic of Ragged Point and the Gateway to Big Sur, all of this wonder can be easily accessed and experienced during your visit to Morro Bay Beach and Morro Rock. Simply stay […]
[…]of the state’s marine life, habitats, and ecosystems. At Piedras Blancas, observe migrating whales, seabirds, sea otters, dolphins, and tide pool marine life – all from the lighthouse grounds. In addition, Piedras Blancas Point boasts one of the most robust Northern Elephant Seal Rookeries in the world, with 25,000 seals […]
[…]toads, butterflies and deer are common, as well. Hikers may even spy dolphins, seals or migrating whales offshore. The landscape here includes majestic dunes, coastal scrub, shoreline, creeks, a lake, and eucalyptus groves, not native to California, but iconic nonetheless.For those interested in tackling Oceano and Nipomo hiking trails, a […]
[…]of this Avila Beach remains unchanged over the years, found in its historic piers, lighthouse and whale-watching opportunities. Custom House Custom House in Avila Beach is a beachside family-friendly restaurant serving American classics like burgers, nachos and salads. Spread out on an expansive patio with breathtaking beach views. Open for […]
[…]vessel that reveals an undersea peak at the murky depths below. Youngsters will especially love watching the skipper throw food overboard, which attracts all manner of underwater friends to this unique, clear-bottomed boat.With mesmerizing schools of jellyfish and lush kelp forests viewable below deck and playful harbor seals, sea lions, […]
[…]Hikes take about an hour to reach the light station, and offer views of the ocean perfect for whale watching during migration. The two-storey keeper’s building harkens back to Victorian Gothic design atop windswept bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Tours are available Wednesdays and Saturdays at noon, 1pm, and 2pm, […]
[…]the rest of the Central Coast. The beach itself features white sand and piers for strolling, whale watching, and fishing, while San Luis Bay’s small town square is full of boutiques and restaurants to explore.Meanwhile, Moonstone Beach in Cambria is rugged and renowned for its tide pools. Due to the smooth colorful […]
[…]visit and check out the Season of Coastal Discovery. This is when many animals, including birds, whales and butterflies, are migrating through the area. If you come during the busier summer season, Cayucos hosts an all-out bash for the Fourth of July. It’s complete with a parade, sandcastle contest and […]
[…]plenty of sunny days, Avila Beach is a SUPer’s dream. Gracefully skim the surface of the ocean watching for curious seals and otters in your wake. Our fave paddle? Travel back in time when you SUP from Avila’s Harford Pier to the San Luis Lighthouse, a 125-year-old relic restored to […]
[…]February. That’s when the area hosts the Season of Coastal Discovery; animals, including birds, whales and butterflies are migrating through the area. Layout A World Away vacation rental has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It can easily accommodate 6 guests and is pet friendly. Sleeping arrangements include a California King […]
[…]when you can explore the Season of Coastal Discovery, a time when many animals, including birds, whales and butterflies migrate through the area. If you come during the busier summer season, Cayucos hosts an incredible party for the 4th of July. Plan well in advance to enjoy the parade, sandcastle […]
[…]The hike over land is 9.3 miles, but is considered easy and can be done in about 3 hours. Dogs are watching and bird watching is […]
[…]largest kelp beds. This makes an ideal habitat for sea otters, but sea lions and gray whales have also been spotted here.Like so much of coastal California, this land was once home to the Salinan and Chumash people. Their middens can be found here dating back 5,000 years, containing red […]
[…]wide-lens ocean views, and an encyclopedia of native plant species and wildlife, including whales, dolphins and otters. In addition to restrooms and water at the Point San Luis Lighthouse, restrooms are available at mile 3.5 of the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail.Bear in mind that both trails cover varied terrain including some […]
[…]Trail in San Simeon State Park offers views of up to 34 species of marine mammals, including gray whales, orcas, humpback and blue whales, as well as seals, sea lions and sea otters. Birders from far and wide who have visited the Sweet Springs Nature Preserve in Los Osos, maintained by the Morro […]
[…]miners and neighboring ranches. San Simeon Bay was the significant shipping point for barrels of whale oil, cheese, butter and other commodities on the Central Coast. Today, Hearst Ranch Winery hand harvests grapes to produce bold and balanced Cabernet Franc, Petite Sirah and Late Harvest Zinfandel as well as several […]
[…]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 and April, and during this period you […]
Since 1954 Virg’s Landing in Morro Bay has been an icon for sportfishing, whale watching and private charter on the Central Coast. Offering four boats, ranging from 55 to 90 feet. The Admiral is the flag ship and is rigged for half day, full day or overnight excursions. All boats […]
Since 1954 Virg's Landing in Morro Bay has been an icon for sportfishing, whale watching and private charter on the Central Coast. Offering four boats, ranging from 55 to 90 feet. The Admiral is the flag ship and is rigged for half day, full day or overnight excursions. All boats […]
[…]watching is what you are here for, there is an excellent chance of spotting grey and humpback whales up close throughout the year. Humpback whales come to the Central Coast every summer to feed on huge schools of sardines and anchovies and stay through late fall. California Grey whales pass […]
[…]coastal towns including elephant seals, sea otters, starfish, and many unique fish. Plus there is whale watching and sport fishing. Many beach towns encompass something different, so you’ll want to check everything out! The North Coast in San Luis Obispo County is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, […]
[…]elephant seals, sea otters, starfish, sharks, hundreds of unique fish and let’s not forget whale watching and sport fishing. Many beach towns encompass something different, so you’ll want to check everything out! The North Coast in San Luis Obispo County is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which […]
[…]elephant seals, sea otters, starfish, sharks, hundreds of unique fish and let’s not forget whale watching and sport fishing. Many beach towns encompass something different, so you’ll want to check everything out! The North Coast in San Luis Obispo County is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which […]
[…]coastal towns including elephant seals, sea otters, starfish, and many unique fish. There is also whale watching and sport fishing. Many beach towns encompass something different, so you’ll want to check everything out! The North Coast in San Luis Obispo County is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, […]
[…]of Highway 1 between Ragged Point and Edna Valley is popular among cyclists, wine tasters and whale watchers alike. Explore William Randolph Hearst’s famous hilltop mansion, stroll along a historic pier at WR Hearst State Beach and wine taste at Hearst Family Winery in San Simeon. Farther south, visit charming […]
[…]dramatic ocean bluffs, a grassy marine terrace and a forested ridge showcasing views of migrating whales, birds, and playful otters. Yes, the effort is truly worth the view. Tour Stepladder Creamery Tour Stepladder Creamery in Cambria and find out where happy goats come from. Nested atop a lush hillside planted […]
[…]people who are willing and able to hang on tight. Local tip: Wildlife lovers can book a two-hour whale watching excursion off the Avila coast with SLO Tours as well. Grab lunch on the Harford Pier If you’re not in the mood for the hustle and bustle of Avila Beach […]
Los Osos is home to the majestic Montaña de Oro State Park. A geologist and/or naturalist’s playground, Montaña de Oro is defined by its rugged cliffs, tucked-away sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, with spectacular scenery produced through millions of years of volcanic activity, plate tectonics and erosion. […]
[…]Beach and take a stroll on the mile-long boardwalk. There are numerous benches for breaks and whale watching. Closer to Dreydon House, you will find the charm of the East and West Villages of Cambria. Visit the galleries full of handcrafted gifts, paintings, and other treasures from local artisans and […]
[…]also takes advantage of the Pacific views. In front of the house is a deck that’s perfect for whale watching or catching a sunset. Amenities There are plenty of top notch amenities at the Beach Cottage vacation rental. This property includes WiFi and smart TVs with cable and premium channels. […]
[…]sign at the Oceano Dunes observation deck that will help you learn when and how to look for gray whales, dolphins, otters, and seals! Steve’s ATV Rentals Calling all adrenaline junkies! Steve’s ATV rentals has everything you need to satisfy your need for speed. The shop has ATVs for solo […]
[…]beds. Standing on a bluff above the Pacific and looking 200 yards out to sea, I watch a humpback whale, then a second one, surface and submerge. Several coyotes serenade me from the nearby hills. Back in the trees a great horned owl hoots. With no sign of civilization, except […]
[…]sightings, unique wine experiences and more. Tuck into a bespoke picnic for two, spot otters, whales and zebras in their natural habitat, forage for seaweed along secluded tide pools or uncover uncommon historical sights that you’ve just got to see to believe. Happy adventuring! Download the Hidden Secrets […]
[…]View playful sea otters in Morro Bay, peer into otherworldly tide pools in Los Osos or watch for whales and seabirds along the shore in San Simeon. Wherever you roam along Highway 1 this winter, you’ll be sure to meet a few new creatures. Happy […]
[…]forget to bring the camera and binoculars along to spot wildlife on the preserve or migrating whales along the coastline. Layout Bristol by the Sea is a 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom house that is designed for up to 8 guests. The living room has an oversized sectional and a stone […]
[…]from the point reveals miles of deep blue ocean, waves crashing on remote beaches, and seasonal whale watching.At the bluff’s edge look for a steep trail called the Black Swift Falls Trail which begins at the Ragged Point Inn and Resort on the southern Big Sur Coast. One of the […]
[…]enjoy dining at Tognazzini’s Dockside which is owned by a commercial fisherman. You can go whale watching, shopping, paddle boarding or just watch the seals and sea otters float by your hotel. Find your perfect getaway in California Your next stop should be Cayucos where you can still find ranchers […]
[…]sailing, windsurfing, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, canoeing, bird watching, and so much more. Many visitors to the Central Coast make Lopez Lake their staging area for visits to wineries, golf courses, historic sites, and Hearst […]
[…]passengers, with several hoists and a large warehouse. Today, the pier welcomes visitors who enjoy watching surfers, waders, whales and other sea life.Cal Poly PierIn 1914, between the Harford and Avila Beach Piers, the Pacific Coast Railway Co. built a pier for commercial shipping, later leased by Union Oil Co […]
[…]Grasshopper Sparrows, California Quail, and Warbling Vireos. (For best practices when birding or watching any kind of wildlife, see our Wildlife Viewing Tips page.) Events The Dana Adobe hosts its own special event series, including annual seasonal favorites. Some previous events have included NatureFest, a celebration of the Dana Adobe’s […]
[…]it. For a great simple pleasure, buy a scoop or two of ice cream and walk the Cayucos Pier, watching for whales in the distance. Honey Girl Cafe If you’re looking for a cozy place with soul-warming food and drink, this itty-bitty cafe will hit the spot. Named after the […]
[…]to retreat. During your visit, you can plan to relax in a number of ways. Spend a day bird watching – birders especially love this area in winter when hundreds of species migrate through. Outdoor lovers can find a favorite trail or beach at Montana de Oro State Park. And […]
[…]for true respite. During your visit, you can plan to relax in a number of ways. Spend a day bird watching – birders especially love this area in winter when hundreds of species migrate through. If you love the outdoors, exploring Montana de Oro State Park can introduce you to […]
[…]table seats 10-12 people. There is a media room with blackout shades for ultimate TV and movie watching. The front yard has a cozy seating area with fire pit to enjoy the evening. There is also a rooftop balcony, a great spot for watching sunsets with a glass of wine. […]
[…]There was a zipline, an ATV ride, fantastic farmers markets and restaurants, golf, surfing, bird watching – you name it. We could hardly wait.” “Plus, we could bring our dog!” says Josh Donovan, who says they were grateful for the region’s plentiful pet-friendly hiking trails and parks and beaches, and […]
