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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  • 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.
  • Golf Courses of Highway 1

    Golf Courses of Highway 1

    Our unique stretch of Highway 1 boasts mild year-round weather, picture-perfect ocean views, sandy beaches and wine country — ideal conditions for golf.
  • Travel + Leisure’s 7 Best West Coast Road Trips in the U.S.

    Travel + Leisure’s 7 Best West Coast Road Trips in the U.S.

    From Patricia Doherty at Travel + Leisure, the best West Coast road trips:Stretching from San Diego, California, to Blaine, Washington, the West Coast of the United States encompasses over 1,370 miles from top to bottom. With so much beauty lying in…
  • 5 Road Trips to Help You Ease Back Into Travel

    5 Road Trips to Help You Ease Back Into Travel

    From Nerd Wallet Whether you like to travel near or far, domestic travel closer to home may be the first opportunity we have to venture out. When restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic start to lift, shorter road trips might be the perfect stepping stone to ease your…
  • Wine Country Biking Stewardship Travel Logo

    Wine Country Biking

    Arroyo Grande
    The most scenic way to experience wine country is from the saddle of a bicycle. In the Edna Valley, enjoy the ride of your life.
  • Biking Pacific Coast Highway 1

    Biking Pacific Coast Highway 1

    San Simeon
    An all-time favorite cycling route, Highway 1 offers spectacular views and challenging climbs with great restaurants, wineries and attractions along the way.
  • Solo Travel Highway 1’s Wide Open Spaces

    Solo Travel Highway 1’s Wide Open Spaces

    With the need for social distancing, there’s never been a better time to dream about your next party-of-one trip.
  • Preserves, Estuaries and Sanctuaries on Highway 1

    Preserves, Estuaries and Sanctuaries on Highway 1

    Avila Beach
    Find thousands of acres of protected open space, both on land and at sea. These estuaries, preserves, and sanctuaries are home to abundant wildlife.
  • Pismo State Beach

    Pismo State Beach

    Oceano
    With nearly 17 miles of Pacific coastline, Pismo State Beach has been a destination for sun and sand for generations.
  • Preserves, Sanctuaries and Secluded Pleasures along Highway 1 Stewardship Travel Logo

    Preserves, Sanctuaries and Secluded Pleasures along Highway 1

    Find your sanctuary (and preserve your sense of well being). If solitude and serenity is what you seek, allow SLO CAL to ease your mind as you stretch your legs. Dreamlike hills, untouched cliffs, vibrant wildlife and endless uncrowded beaches and hiking trails await travelers along pristine Highway 1. Finally:…
  • State Parks and Beaches of the Central Coast

    State Parks and Beaches of the Central Coast

    Highway 1
    From Ragged Point to Nipomo, you’ll find unspoiled beaches, quiet woodlands, marine protected areas, art, antiquities, and driveable dunes.
  • 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.
  • Horseback Riding

    Horseback Riding

    Oceano
    Riding a horse amidst the beauty of coastal San Luis Obispo County can be a transforming experience. Get saddled up and discover a whole new perspective on our special stretch of Highway 1, from equestrian trails to vineyards.
  • 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.