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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  • Avila Beach Activity Map Stewardship Travel Logo

    Avila Beach Activity Map

    Avila Beach
    On those rare days when it's gray and gloomy anywhere else, count on the clouds to part and the sun to shine down on glorious Avila Beach
  • Beach Weddings on Highway 1

    Beach Weddings on Highway 1

    Beach weddings along Highway 1 offer up the perfect combination of sunny weather, gorgeous coastal scenery and oceanfront hotels and vacation rentals perfect for hosting your big day and guests. With miles of pristine coastline and untouched alcoves, you can say “I do” backdropped by crashing waves, glittering tide pools…
  • Beer Gardens and Craft Breweries on Highway 1: Where to Drink, Eat, and Hang Out

    Beer Gardens and Craft Breweries on Highway 1: Where to Drink, Eat, and Hang Out

    The craft beer scene along Highway 1 is built for going with the flow: an open afternoon, a post-hike reward, a sunset pint with nowhere to be. This coastal craft beer guide covers the best beer gardens, taprooms and craft breweries on Highway 1, from cliffside patios to harbor-side pints…
  • Best Beach Vacation Rentals on Highway 1

    Best Beach Vacation Rentals on Highway 1

    Want to know the best way to enjoy the beach on your visit to Highway 1? Look no further than an oceanfront vacation rental. There are plenty of options along this iconic stretch of roadway, each with all the comforts of home and access to local living. We’ve curated a…
  • 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 Coffee on Highway 1

    Best Coffee on Highway 1

    Ragged Point
    Fuel your Highway 1 road trip with a freshly-brewed cup of coffee. From bold beans to specialty lattes, find an array of energizing offerings served daily at a range of coastal coffee shops. With bright, modern coffee houses and cozy cafes perfumed with the scent of just-made pastries, there’s something…
  • 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 Outdoor Activities on Highway 1 Stewardship Travel Logo

    Best Outdoor Activities on Highway 1

    California’s Central Coast beckons travelers seeking the best outdoor activities Highway 1 has to offer. This diverse and picturesque stretch of coastline consistently ranks among the nation’s top destinations for outdoor activities—and for good reason. Whether you’re craving coastal hikes with panoramic ocean views, peaceful kayaking through protected waters, or…
  • 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.
  • Best Places to Stay Along Highway 1

    Best Places to Stay Along Highway 1

    Lodging along Highway 1 offers more than just a room — it’s your key to California’s most magnificent coastline. From San Simeon’s dramatic cliffs to Cambria’s enchanting streets, the best places to stay on Highway 1 combine dreamy coastal vibes with unexpected delights. Fall asleep to ocean waves and rise…
  • Best Restaurants & Dining in Avila Beach

    Best Restaurants & Dining in Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    With sunshine, surf, sand, and salty air, Avila Beach feels a lot like a perfect, tucked-away paradise. Sweeten the deal — literally! — with delicious cuisine, and Avila Beach becomes downright irresistible. Fortunately for travelers of all tastes and budgets, Avila Beach offers some of the freshest dining around. Splurge…
  • 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.
  • Day Spa and Massage in Avila Beach

    Day Spa and Massage in Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    Health and wellbeing have been hallmarks of Avila Beach since the 19th century, when hopeful oil drillers discovered natural hot springs there. The Avila Beach hot springs attracted visitors to “take the waters” as a way of healing ailments of many kinds. Celebrities, politicians, and VIPs — as…
  • Day Spa and Massage Retreats on Highway 1

    Day Spa and Massage Retreats on Highway 1

    Rejuvenate mind and body with relaxing Highway 1 spa and wellness experiences to suit every need. Whether you seek a refreshing facial or therapeutic massage, there’s countless ways to boost wellbeing along Highway 1. From soothing Big Sur spa and massage treatments to natural hot springs in Avila Beach, discover…
  • Day Trips on Highway 1

    Day Trips on Highway 1

    Welcome to California’s quintessential coastal journey, where Highway 1 unfurls an enviable collection of seaside escapes perfect for day trips from San Francisco, Los Angeles, or the Central Valley. While each destination charms visitors into staying longer, we’ve crafted flexible two-day itineraries that showcase the best experiences along this iconic…
  • Downtown Stops Along Highway 1

    Downtown Stops Along Highway 1

    Cambria
    Who doesn’t love the hustle and bustle of an active downtown? Town greens and plazas provide a gateway to the best attractions a destination can offer, from historic landmarks to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
  • Farm to Table Near Highway 1 Stewardship Travel Logo

    Farm to Table Near Highway 1

    Nipomo
    The stretch of Highway 1 between Ragged Point and Nipomo owes much of its magic to remarkably authentic farm-to-table abundance.
  • Highway 1 is Dog-Friendly

    Highway 1 is Dog-Friendly

    Highway 1 loves its four-legged visitors! With one of the mildest, most temperate climates in the West, the great outdoors of our stretch of Highway 1 beg to be discovered. That means outside restaurant patios, parks, beaches, wineries, hiking trails and more, just right for quality time with Fido. The…