[…]Tours meet at the former Piedras Blancas Motel, located 1.5 miles north of the light station. The Whale Trail (Land-Based Whale Watching) There are over 50 Whale Trail sites up and down the west coast, but the six locations in Coastal San Luis Obispo County are the biggest cluster anywhere. […]
[…]on the beach. Overlooking one of our nation’s most spectacular marine protected areas, The Whale 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 […]
[…]for moonstones along Moonstone Beach, where gnarled remnants of sun-bleached driftwood add to the ethereal atmosphere. Whether you cruise uncrowded backroads dotted with ancient farmhouses or explore the nearby artist’s hamlet of Harmony, you’ll hit the “re-set” button in Cambria without encountering too many people. Want even more safe traveling […]
[…]some of the most popular wildlife along this stretch of coastline. Within San Luis Obispo County, the Whale Trail has 10 viewing spots – the most of any other county in California. At each spot, visitors will find interpretive signs with details about the whale species that may be seen, […]
[…]3: Whale Watching & Hiking “As much as we focus outward to the ocean, the coastline comprises historic ranchland. Fortunately, many of these once massive spreads have been saved from development and most also pay homage to the indigenous Chumash people, who’ve lived throughout the region for more than 10,000 […]
[…]Cultural Preserve. The next stop is the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk with the option to start at either the north or south end. For either option, return to Highway 1 south and turn left onto Moonstone Beach Drive. For those looking to start at the north end of the boardwalk, the […]
[…]marine giants who continue to call Highway 1 home. Responsible operators in Avila Beach prioritize the whales’ wellbeing while giving you front-row seats to one of nature’s greatest shows. Plus, the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery offers free viewing of these remarkable animals from safe observation decks.Eco-Tip: Visit the elephant […]
[…]to Highway 1’s famous elephant seals. With unique, trunk-like noses, they’re fun to observe at the The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon. Get your wiggles out and watch these captivating creatures from a free, accessible viewing point. Depending on the season, you might see males challenge each […]
[…]and California sea lions; and if you go during whale season you might spot a mother and calf as they make their way north. The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is where the beautiful northern elephant seals migrate thousands of miles twice each year from the open ocean to this […]
[…]wildlife. Get inspired by the beauty that surrounds you, learn from locals and connect deeper to mother nature. Your actions (including family fun “leave-no-trace” beach time) along with the park donation fees all go to help preserve, protect, and restore our natural resources. Connect to nature, connect to yourself – […]
[…]their Highway 1 adventure. San Simeon beckons wildlife enthusiasts with two prime locations along the Whale Trail, a collection of the best viewing spots on the West Coast. Seven miles north of Cambria, visitors can utilize an interpretive display and telescope for whale watching at the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort. Another […]
[…]enjoy some of the best whale and elephant seal viewing available on the Central Coast. Look for the Whale Trail sign at the south end of the parking lot located at Santa Rosa Creek on Moonstone Beach Drive. This interpretive sign will help identify what to look for while whale […]
[…]your ride, walk the historic Cayucos Pier and learn about Captain Cass and his wharf. Then find the Whale Trail sign at the base of the pier to learn about which whales can be spotted from shore, when they can be seen, and what to look for. All of these […]
[…]or even a breech. For more information and tips on how to identify the different species, look for the Whale Trail sign on the main Avila Beach Pier. And, thanks to its position along the Pacific Flyway, Avila Beach is also a terrific place for bird watching. Migratory species and […]
[…]Simeon. At the Cavalier Resort in San Simeon you’ll find a sign for the Whale Trail, an organization that identifies the very best whale-watching spots along the West Coast. Why did they choose to post up here? Because San Simeon sees an overwhelming number of whales offshore throughout the year, […]
[…]to top notch spa services. Whether you indulge in a couple’s massage or enjoy a yoga class together, there’s plenty of ways to share some much-needed TLC. Soothe sore muscles in Highway 1’s natural hot springs, a centuries-old remedy. At Sycamore Hot Springs in Avila Beach, natural mineral spring tubs […]
[…]hospitality industry. They sought to design a place that would not just feed people but delight them. The menu features a variety of pizza styles, from basic styles like Hawaiian and Margherita, to the Brightside’s signature pie, The Brightvibe, with white sauce, bacon, pineapple and jalapenos. In addition to draft […]
[…]dishes! Experience the Farm-to-Table Magic of Highway 1 From field to fork, Highway 1 serves up the authentic flavors of the Central Coast. Whether you’re savoring a meal at one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in California, chatting with farmers at local market stands about this season’s best, or participating […]
[…]elegance. From the gothic library where William Randolph Hearst conducted his daily business to the plush theater that once ushered in famous Hollywood guests, there’s much to discover throughout the late great publishing mogul’s hilltop escape. Choose from plenty of different tours, including seasonal twilight offerings that allow visitors to […]
[…]with seaglass, driftwood, and broad views of the Pacific. Grab coffee in Cambria’s West Village, then make the short drive to Shamel Park, gateway to Moonstone Beach. Shamel Park features a playing field, barbecue facilities, shaded picnic tables, a seasonal swimming pool, and extensive children’s play area. Ready for family […]
