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.

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Activities

All Things to Do

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  • 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…
  • Beer Gardens, Craft Breweries & Taverns of Highway 1
    Whether you prefer lagers, wild ales, IPAs or porters, our stretch of Highway 1 has beer for every kind of palate. This is home to pioneering brewers who have helped usher the craft beer movement to the nation and the world. They also inspired younger brewers to start…
  • Best Central Coast Farmers Markets
    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
    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
    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 Parks in San Simeon and Ragged Point
    With their many miles of untouched coastline, beaches, forests — even a castle! — San Simeon and Ragged Point offer a wealth of spectacular family-friendly destinations. The parks here are wide-open for exploring and discovery. Ascend the “enchanted hilltop” of Hearst Castle to follow the footsteps of media…
  • Best Places to Eat on Highway 1
    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
    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 in San Simeon and Ragged Point
    Restaurants in San Simeon combine fresh Central Coast ingredients with locally-caught seafood, stunning Pacific Ocean views and a diverse array of cuisines. Enjoy a variety of flavors in San Simeon, including fresh-caught fare, farm-to-table, pub grub, Mexican dishes and more. Home to world famous Hearst Castle, a visit to San…
  • Best Wine, Beer, and Food Festivals on the Central Coast
    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 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
    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…
  • Farm to Table Near Highway 1 Stewardship Travel Logo
    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 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…
  • Live Music on Highway 1
    Highway 1’s dynamic live music scene plays out at a multitude of unique venues. From cozy bars to renowned stages, Highway 1 offers an eclectic array of live musical experiences to suit every preference. Visitors find that Highway 1 concerts transcend traditional spaces, unfolding at lighthouses, beer gardens, vineyards…
  • San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway – Route 1
    The San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway provides an extraordinary experience.
  • San Simeon Activity Map Stewardship Travel Logo
    The stunning natural beauty of San Simeon Cove; the enchantment of a hilltop castle - what a beautiful way to start the day! 
  • Shopping on Highway 1
    Find locally-made art, ceramics, cheeses, wine, furniture, surfboards, herb and spice blends, soaps, candles, glasswares, jewelry, breads, books, souvenirs, clothing and more.