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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  • Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS) — South End Stewardship Travel Logo

    Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS) — South End

    San Simeon
    Vast and teeming with life, the Pacific Ocean impacts nearly every part of life on the Central Coast, from wildlife to wine. But if not for the protection of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, this landscape might not be so pristine or majestic.
  • TripSavvy: 10 Tips to Go Road Tripping With Your Dog

    TripSavvy: 10 Tips to Go Road Tripping With Your Dog

    From TripSavvy Travel Tips:Getting behind the wheel and setting out for a road trip is a classic American experience, made even better with your hound by your side. You’ll find that you’ll have to make more frequent stops than you would…
  • USA Today: 10 great places to road-school your kids

    USA Today: 10 great places to road-school your kids

    From USA Today’s 10 Great Places:From the California coast to Cape CodWhile many schools offer remote learning this year, a growing number of families plan to “road school,” which has children attending virtual classes while on extended family trips. Others home-school – parents teach children while families…
  • Best Places to Eat on Highway 1

    Best Places to Eat on Highway 1

    San Simeon
    Dining is a major attraction along our stretch of Highway 1 for good reason: the food, the views, and the ambiance are world-class. And not just in one or two towns — options abound in every destination here.
  • Bird Watching on the Central Coast

    Bird Watching on the Central Coast

    Los Osos
    Ideal climate, terrain, and proximity to the Pacific Flyway makes the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 one of the finest birding regions in the world.
  • Gateway to Big Sur

    Gateway to Big Sur

    Ragged Point
    Big Sur represents the best of the West. As one of the nation’s top attractions, Big Sur sparkles with vast views of the Pacific.
  • Sea Otter Spotting Stewardship Travel Logo

    Sea Otter Spotting

    Morro Bay
    Cute, furry, and playful, Southern Sea Otters make their homes just offshore along the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1. Sea otters are native to the north Pacific Ocean, with Monterey Bay, Big Sur, and the Central Coast as hubs of activity.
  • Historic Piers and Lighthouses on Highway 1

    Historic Piers and Lighthouses on Highway 1

    Avila Beach
    Take in all the piers and lighthouses of coastal San Luis Obispo County, or choose just one or two to explore. Either way, you’ll witness the impact of how this region’s coastal position shaped its history.
  • Family-Friendly Things to Do on Highway 1: Best Activities for Kids From Ragged Point to Nipomo

    Family-Friendly Things to Do on Highway 1: Best Activities for Kids From Ragged Point to Nipomo

    Avila Beach
    For easy-breezy family fun, nothing beats a hike. Lace up your walking shoes, grab a hat and a water bottle, and head out any of coastal San Luis Obispo County’s hundreds of hiking trails.
  • Best Central Coast Farmers Markets

    Best Central Coast Farmers Markets

    Avila Beach
    Central Coast farmers’ markets bring more than fresh fixings ― they often bring prepared food, live music and entertainment, too. Grab your bag and join us.
  • Best Wine, Beer, and Food Festivals on the Central Coast

    Best Wine, Beer, and Food Festivals on the Central Coast

    Cayucos
    Coastal San Luis Obispo County indulges in any excuse to throw a party. These festivals get to the heart of what the Central Coast is all about: good food, good friends, and good vibes.
  • Best of California Coastal Wine Region

    Best of California Coastal Wine Region

    Edna
    Sip, swirl and savor award-winning wines beneath a warm sun, sometimes just one mile from the ocean. Come visit Highway 1 for culture and wine.
  • Best Beaches on Highway 1 Stewardship Travel Logo

    Best Beaches on Highway 1

    Visitors can find a spectrum of options, with ideal beaches for sunbathing, beachcombing, wildlife viewing, surfing, tidepooling, doggie fun or even dune-driving.