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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  • 4th of July in Cayucos

    4th of July in Cayucos

    Cayucos
    Cayucos has perfected its patriotic festivities over the course of several decades. Visitors even plan their year around the 4th of July in Cayucos, to connect with friends who do the same, year after year.
  • Air Sports of Oceano and Nipomo

    Air Sports of Oceano and Nipomo

    Oceano
    Air Sports abound in Oceano and Nipomo, the perfect place to take to the skies. Whether you’re looking to land your plane at an airport that claims the coveted title of “closest to the Pacific” or dream of taking to the skies in a…
  • Arroyo Grande Village

    Arroyo Grande Village

    Arroyo Grande
    The quaint, historic, and lively, Village of Arroyo Grande (Downtown), charms visitors with its one-of-a-kind shops, dining, and community events.
  • Art and Culture of Arroyo Grande & Edna Valley

    Art and Culture of Arroyo Grande & Edna Valley

    Arroyo Grande
    The beauty and bounty of Highway 1 inspires a wealth of art and culture in each of its communities, Arroyo Grande and Edna Valley among them. In Arroyo Grande, find a lively sense of history inside impeccably-preserved buildings like the Santa Manuela Schoolhouse. This quaint spot and others…
  • Art and Culture of Avila Beach

    Art and Culture of Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    The culture and art found in Avila Beach has its roots in the beauty and proximity of the ocean itself. From art galleries and art shows to public art, historic architecture and jewelry classes, everything is influenced by the calm San Luis Bay. Find a wealth of fine…
  • Art and Culture of Cambria

    Art and Culture of Cambria

    Cambria
    The charming hamlet of Cambria lies along a stretch of Highway 1 so picturesque, it can’t help but foster creativity and culture. This historic town sets the stage for some of Highway 1’s most beloved and meaningful artistic endeavors. Visit the Cambria Center for the Arts, where locals…
  • Art and Culture of Cayucos

    Art and Culture of Cayucos

    Cayucos
    The sunny beach town of Cayucos boasts a wide array of arts and culture to explore and enjoy. The common thread between it all? The presence of the mighty Pacific Ocean, just steps from downtown Cayucos. The influence of the sea can be found in nearly every artistic…
  • Art and Culture of Highway 1

    Art and Culture of Highway 1

    Get ready for an artistic adventure along Highway 1. This breathtaking coastal route isn’t just about stunning vistas—it’s a living gallery where creativity, history and natural beauty collide. From the world-class opulence of San Simeon’s Hearst Castle to charming Cambria art galleries, the Highway 1 art and culture scene is…
  • Art and Culture of Oceano and Nipomo

    Art and Culture of Oceano and Nipomo

    Oceano
    Art and culture come alive in Oceano and Nipomo, providing enriching opportunities for the whole family to enjoy. From exploring California’s early Rancho history at the Dana Adobe & Cultural Center to discovering local art galleries and studios, experience a captivating mix of historical and creative offerings. Whether…
  • Art and Culture of San Simeon

    Art and Culture of San Simeon

    San Simeon
    The cultural landscape in San Simeon is dominated by Hearst Castle, the rambling estate built in 1919 by media magnate William Randolph Hearst. A passionate art collector, Hearst’s love of antiquity was influenced by childhood travels with his educator mother, Phoebe Hearst. The 90,000-square-foot home and gardens set…
  • Avila Beaches and Piers

    Avila Beaches and Piers

    Avila Beach
    With its long stretches of white sand, boardwalks, pet-friendly spots, wildlife and bustling harbor, Avila Beach has attracted visitors for centuries.
  • 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…
  • Beer Gardens, Craft Breweries & Taverns of Highway 1

    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 Beach Hotels on Highway 1

    Best Beach Hotels on Highway 1

    Looking for the best beachfront hotels on Highway 1? From luxury beach hotels on the Central Coast to the most romantic beach hotels Highway 1 has to offer, the rugged beauty of this unspoiled area invites travelers to linger where ancient pines and rolling hills meet sapphire seas. Unlike many…
  • 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.
  • 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.