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 list of the best beach vacation rentals on Highway 1 in a variety of styles, from hidden gems and cozy escapes to multi-bedroom homes and oceanfront cottages. Best of all, this list of beachfront homes for rent on the California coast is compiled from a local’s perspective, with lots of tips for how to make the most of your time here. You’ll find our favorite properties below, along with the best locations to explore if you want to find other options through our stay locator.
Stay Right on the Sand
Beach Rentals in Ragged Point & San Simeon
Often called “the gateway to Big Sur,” the unspoiled coastline of Ragged Point treats travelers to sweeping vistas and spectacular sunsets. As for getting to beaches, however, access points can be limited in this area, as are steps-from-the-sand vacation rentals. (A few blufftop homes can be found overlooking the Pacific, though, and are worth seeking out if you want an unparalleled view.) Instead, head to the newer section of San Simeon, where the majority of rentals lie. This area, north of the serene San Simeon State Park, offers a number of homes with direct access to the beach and unobstructed ocean views. Explore opulent Hearst Castle, meet the locals at the Elephant Seal Rookery, or stop at Sebastian’s General Store for local treats and souvenirs—then come home to your comfortable private retreat. The following rental properties provide direct access to the sand as well as these attractions and more.
Seaside Escape
Travelers seeking wide-open ocean views and private beach access will love this property in picturesque San Simeon—and that includes Rover! Bring your pup and the whole family for time on the beach, where everyone can play in the surf and sand for miles. Indoors, the home offers two queen bedrooms with a separate full bath for each. Additionally, find a wood-burning fireplace, flat-screen TV with DirecTV, a DVD player, and Wifi included. Enjoy a glass of local wine on the deck (where a propane BBQ is also located) and listen to the waves crash against the sand, just feet away.
Striking Ocean-Front
This beachfront condo delivers the ultimate stress-relieving escape with a private deck positioned directly on the sand. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms accommodate up to four guests, featuring a queen bed in the master and twin beds in the second room. The living area showcases a wall of windows facing the Pacific plus a cozy fireplace for chilly evenings. The galley kitchen includes a pass-through window to the dining area with seating for four. Step outside to your private deck where beach chairs await for soaking up expansive ocean views. Full amenities include a complete kitchen with modern appliances, flat-screen TV with satellite service, washer and dryer, and all linens. This retreat requires minimum week-long stays, ensuring ample time to truly disconnect and recharge.
Beach Rentals in Cambria
Cambria’s charm lies in its perfect blend of artistic community and coastal beauty. Most vacation homes here with ocean views are located in the blufftop neighborhoods adjacent to the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, many within easy walking distance of tide pools and scenic boardwalks. These elevated positions offer dramatic sunset views while maintaining quick access to sandy shores. The Moonstone Beach Boardwalk beckons with sunset strolls and tidepool exploration, while the Cambria Dog Park welcomes four-legged friends. Infused with a cozy village atmosphere, Cambria boasts antique shops, local galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Hiking trails on the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve provide ocean overlooks and wildlife viewing opportunities. Choose from seaside cottages for a romantic getaway, large homes for family reunions, and much more.
Pura Vida
Live la pura vida at this expansive custom home that entices with simple luxury along Highway 1. This two-story retreat sleeps six guests across three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, featuring premium finishes like marble counters and natural wood floors. The first-floor master suite includes an oversized tub, gas fireplace, and French doors to the back deck. Upstairs, one bedroom offers two single beds with ocean views and another fireplace, while the third bedroom features a queen bed overlooking the backyard. A gourmet kitchen features a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range with double ovens, wine fridge, and Nespresso coffee maker. Vaulted ceilings and Pacific views define the spacious living area. Pet-friendly amenities include an enclosed patio for pups to enjoy their coastal getaway, too.
Ocean Ranch Villa
This spacious retreat in Cambria’s Seaclift Estates offers high-end touches with Pacific views that will wow any traveler. The multi-level home accommodates eight guests across three bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, ideal for small groups or multi-generational families. The Tuscan-inspired primary bedroom on the main floor features a queen bed, fireplace, and soaking tub in the en suite bathroom. The great room offers plenty of seating around a large fireplace, connecting to the dining area and generous kitchen. An entertainment room next to the kitchen provides perfect kid supervision space, while the backyard and patios maximize ocean views. Premium amenities include WiFi, televisions, DVD player, washer and dryer, two-car garage, and a gas barbecue.
Beach Rentals in Cayucos
Cayucos delivers quintessential California beach town vibes with the best concentration of beachfront rentals along Highway 1. This laid-back community offers true steps-to-sand access from numerous vacation homes. The entire stretch from the historic Cayucos Pier to the designated Dog Beach features rental properties where you can literally walk out your front door onto pillowy white sand. Surfers appreciate the consistent breaks while families love the gentle waves for swimming and boogie boarding. The town’s Old West heritage adds character to modern beach living, creating a unique atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere. Shopping Cayucos reveals charming antique stores and local boutiques along the main street, while surfing lessons and board rentals are available for those seeking to catch a wave or two.
Dodson’s Dock
An oceanfront retreat located directly on Cayucos’ soft sand, this single-level home accommodates up to six guests across two bedrooms and two bathrooms, featuring an open layout designed to maximize ocean views. The European-style kitchen flows seamlessly into the living area, while the primary bedroom includes a private patio positioned right on the sand for waking up to waves. A large oceanfront patio provides tables and chairs positioned for sharing meals and soaking up sunshine. The front area features a paved space with picnic table and barbecue grills for additional outdoor dining options. Pet-friendly amenities welcome four-legged friends, while practical touches include a modern, well-equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, small fenced yard, and ample parking for stress-free arrivals.
Gorgeous Oceanfront
Nothing stands between you and the sand at this stunning beachfront property where the road trip of your dreams can become a reality. This single-story home welcomes up to eight guests across four bedrooms and three full bathrooms, featuring flexible sleeping arrangements with one king bed, one queen bed, and four twin beds. The open floor plan showcases walls of windows in the living area, providing Pacific views while you relax or prep meals in the kitchen. The primary bedroom includes an ensuite bathroom, while bedrooms two and three share a jack-and-jill bath. The fourth bedroom serves as a convertible den area. Multiple lounge chairs await on the private oceanfront patio, while outdoor amenities include barbecue grill, dining area, and outdoor shower for washing away beach sand. Other amenities include a cozy fireplace plus garage and off-street parking.
Coastal Coziness
This uniquely styled beachfront retreat blends European influence with beach house charm that the whole family will enjoy. Perched atop a bluff, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom home sleeps up to eight guests with two queen beds and four twin beds for flexible arrangements. Panoramic Pacific views define the living area, which opens directly onto the oceanfront patio for seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The adjacent kitchen showcases ocean views and European-style efficiency with stacked washer and dryer included. The large patio provides plenty of seating for relaxing with a good book or enjoying dinner al fresco, while a firepit creates the proper setting for late-night conversations with friends and family. Modern amenities include WiFi, flat-screen TV with cable and DVD player, plus a well-outfitted kitchen.
Touching Surf & Sand
An aptly-named beach house, this rental sits just feet from where the Pacific meets the shore. The stunning 2,500-square-foot property designed by local architect George Nagano accommodates up to ten guests across four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Sleeping arrangements include one king bed, two queen beds, two twins, and a bunk bed, with all bedrooms except the primary suite located downstairs. Unobstructed Pacific views define this mid-century retreat, featuring original wood paneling and walls of windows designed to merge indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor atrium and double-sided fireplace create unique gathering spots. Modern conveniences include WiFi throughout, televisions with cable service, washer and dryer, plus outdoor barbecue and patio dining. Garage and street parking complete this Highway 1 dream where slower-paced living meets stunning oceanfront location.
Beach Rentals in Los Osos & Baywood
Los Osos and Baywood offer a different sort of coastal experience with bay-front homes overlooking the tranquil Morro Bay estuary. While traditional beach rentals are limited in this area, the bayfront properties provide one-of-a-kind opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in protected waters. Notably, these homes offer watercolor-worthy sunset views across the bay toward Morro Rock each night. The back bay location provides calm conditions ideal for families with young children or those seeking peaceful water activities. This area serves as the gateway to Montaña de Oro State Park with its dramatic coastline and hiking trails, while Tidepools at Spooner’s Cove beg to be explored in depth. The Baywood Park Pier provides fishing and crabbing access, and Sea Pines Golf Course offers challenging play with bay views for those seeking land-based recreation.
Pelican Cove
Ready to get some rest? This hidden treasure along Morro Bay provides an opportunity for true respite on your Highway 1 getaway. Accommodating up to four guests, the retreat showcases spectacular views of the famous Morro Bay from your private patio where morning coffee or evening wine tastes better with bay breezes. Watch kayakers paddle by and fishing boats come and go throughout the day. Evenings become pure relaxation as you unwind in the hot tub with sunset views painting the sky. The location serves as your gateway to outdoor exploration, from bird watching in winter when hundreds of species migrate through the area to memorable trails and beaches at nearby Montaña de Oro State Park. This lesser-known spot creates the kind of memories that make you wish you never had to leave, providing an exceptional escape from daily routines in a setting designed for unwinding and recharging.
Bayfront Home
Unmatched Morro Rock views define this special waterfront retreat with an enviable Los Osos location. The property accommodates up to six guests across two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, but works ideally for four people seeking bayfront luxury. The spacious living room features a fireplace and connects to a dining room with ocean views and adjacent kitchen. The primary bedroom includes an ensuite bathroom, king bed, and deck access, while the second bedroom offers a queen bed with sliding glass door to the front deck. For overflow, the office space is outfitted with a twin daybed and trundle. The massive deck sits directly on the sand for a nice spot to lounge by the bay. Amenities include WiFi, televisions with satellite service, DVD player, well-equipped kitchen, wheelchair accessibility ramp, and generous parking for easy arrivals and departures.
Green Cottage
Part myth, part legend, this 900-square-foot retreat extends a special opportunity to escape big city hustle and relax into small town life. Situated right on Morro Bay with views of the famous rock, the one-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage accommodates up to three guests with an open-concept living area designed to maximize the surrounding scenery. A small but well-equipped kitchen provides meal preparation options, while laundry and pantry areas add convenience. The private deck on the bay becomes your bragging-rights backdrop for morning coffee or sunset cocktails. Top-rated amenities include WiFi, free off-street parking, and propane grill for outdoor cooking. The location serves as your gateway to Montaña de Oro State Park’s beautiful trails and beaches, local golf at the nine-hole ocean view course, or ultimate relaxation at area day spas. Plan to spend lots of time soaking up bay views from this charming waterfront haven.
Beach Rentals in Avila Beach
Avila Beach blends small-town charm with resort-style amenities, featuring homes and condos directly on the Promenade or just steps away. This protected bay location provides consistently warmer weather and calmer waters compared to other coastal areas. Paralleling the shoreline, the pedestrian-friendly Promenade connects rental properties to restaurants, shops, and the historic pier. Families appreciate the gentle waves that are safe for children, while couples enjoy the romantic atmosphere and nearby spa services. Within walking distance, Olde Port Beach welcomes dogs for family-friendly fun, while the Avila Beach Pier invites for fishing and sunset viewing. The area’s thermal hot springs add a unique element to the typical beach vacation experience, while the Bob Jones Hiking and Biking Trail winds through scenic creek valleys.
Avila Grocery Condo
Located above the historic Avila Beach grocery store, this luxury oceanfront condo welcomes you to a coastal California getaway you won’t soon forget. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms accommodate guests with a queen bed in the master and twin beds in the second room, plus sofa sleeper and twin air bed for additional space. The fully equipped luxury kitchen connects to unbeatable balcony views with dining for six. Luxury touches and finishes elevate the experience throughout. Step downstairs to the Avila Promenade with boutique shops and restaurants, or cross the street for sand between your toes. Modern amenities include WiFi, streaming-ready flat-screen TVs, cozy fireplace, ceiling fans, washer and dryer, and balcony barbecue grill. The sand wash station helps clean up after beach days, while gated carport parking adds convenience.
Beach Front Luxury
Live a life of luxury at this unmatched beachfront property where vacation means steps to sandy beaches and sunset views. Four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms accommodate up to eight people across 1,500 square feet of beachfront deck featuring multiple sitting areas, outdoor kitchen, and dining tables. Three bedrooms include queen beds while the fourth has two doubles. The indoor kitchen opens to dining and living areas with beautiful ocean views. Entertainment abounds with a media room and bar for movie nights, plus game room with ping pong and shuffleboard. Five plasma TVs, WiFi, well-stocked kitchen, beach chairs, towels, kayak, and bicycles complete the luxury experience. Garage parking for four vehicles, elevator access, and wheelchair accessibility (except rooftop deck) ensure comfort for all guests.
Casa Azul
Breathtaking beachfront views define this beautiful condo destined to become your favorite home away from home. Three bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms accommodate up to eight guests with two master bedrooms featuring ocean views and soaking tubs (one queen, one king), plus a third bedroom with queen bed and nearby shower bathroom. The adjoined living and dining areas showcase ocean views through French doors opening onto a balcony for catching sea breezes. Top-of-the-line kitchen appliances satisfy any chef, while the rooftop deck features outdoor kitchen and dining table for al fresco meals. Comprehensive amenities include WiFi throughout, TV service in all rooms, drawer microwave, drip and Keurig coffee makers, rooftop firepit, garage parking, high chair, portable crib, and elevator access with wheelchair accessibility (except to the rooftop deck).
Beach Rentals in Oceano & Nipomo
Oceano offers a wild, expansive beach experience with multi-level homes positioned on the dunes or beach-access roads. This area provides the most dramatic beachfront setting along Highway 1 with towering sand dunes creating a desert-meets-ocean landscape. The wide, sandy beach stretches for miles, inviting for long walks, kite flying, and beach bonfires (with proper permits, of course). The Oceano Dunes provide off-road vehicle access for those seeking outdoor thrills and sandboarding opportunities. These rentals typically offer more space and value compared to other coastal areas while maintaining direct beach access. The Monarch Butterfly Grove showcases seasonal migrations and nature walks, while Melodrama Theatre offers family entertainment with audience participation. Dog-friendly accommodations make this area ideal for large families traveling with pets who appreciate the expansive beach space.
Escape to the Coast
Modern flair defines this aptly named retreat with a great rooftop deck for year-round lounging close to Oceano’s sand. Four bedrooms and three bathrooms across almost 2,500 square feet accommodate up to twelve people with flexible sleeping arrangements: master and second bedroom each feature queen beds, third bedroom includes twin and double bed, while fourth bedroom has twin, double, and bunk beds. The open-concept living area connects to a well-equipped kitchen with breakfast bar for four, plus dining table seating 10-12 people. A media room with blackout shades creates the ultimate TV and movie watching experience. The front yard features cozy seating with fire pit for evening relaxation, while the rooftop balcony provides the ideal sunset viewing spot with wine in hand. Entertainment abounds with WiFi, satellite TV, gaming consoles, ping pong table, and outdoor shower for beach cleanup.
Oceanfront
Vast ocean views define this large beachfront home sleeping up to eighteen guests across four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with fifteen total sleeping options. The primary bedroom features a king bed and three twins, second bedroom includes queen and child-size bed, third bedroom has queen and three twins, while fourth bedroom accommodates queen, two twins, and two futons. Comfortable sofas surround a large stone fireplace extending into the kitchen area. Dining seats six easily with additional kitchen counter seating. The fourth bedroom includes a second sitting area with large windows capturing ocean views. Located where you can drive on the beach, this SVRA destination welcomes ATV adventures on the dunes or relaxing strolls to nearby Oso Flaco Lake boardwalk. High-speed internet, cable TV, books, sand toys, washer and dryer, plus parking for four cars complete the amenities.
Beachfront Vacation
Classic beachfront elegance meets modern comfort in this 2,336-square-foot home accommodating twelve guests across four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Three bedrooms feature luxury king beds while the fourth includes two twin trundle beds, plus queen sofa sleeper in the living room. The large master bathroom showcases a soaking tub and separate stall shower. Walk straight onto the beach from your deck or enjoy gorgeous ocean views while barbecuing. The updated, fully equipped kitchen connects to a comfy large living room ideal for movie nights with the whole group. Located at Oceano Dunes State Park where vehicles drive on the beach, this unique destination welcomes surfing, swimming, surf fishing, horseback riding, and bird watching. Amenities include WiFi, cable TV, both regular and Keurig coffee makers, dishwasher, washer and dryer, central heating, firepit, and garage parking for two vehicles plus driveway space.
Plan Your Stay on Highway 1
Your beachfront rental becomes the launching point for exploring everything Highway 1 has at your fingertips. Wake to ocean views, then venture out to discover coastal hikes with panoramic vistas, scenic drives through wine country, and local seafood that tastes better with sand between your toes. Each town along this route showcases unique character, from Cambria’s artistic community to Cayucos’ laid-back surf culture.
Consider pairing your beach stay with tastings at nearby wineries where ocean breezes influence grape growing. The Coastal Wine Region is home to dozens of intimate tasting rooms and vineyard tours with sweeping views. Explore tide pools during low tide, take surf lessons from local instructors, or simply master the art of doing nothing while watching waves roll in. Wildlife experiences range from elephant seal viewing to whale watching, while unspoiled beaches serve as both secret hideaways and popular gathering spots.
In a hurry? That’s not going to work here. These coastal communities celebrate the slow pace that makes Highway 1 special. Start your day with coffee on the deck, spend afternoons exploring hidden coves along scenic drives on Highway 1, and end each evening with sunset views that never get old. Your beach rental serves as the ideal base for Things to Do Along Highway 1, whether seeking active pursuits or peaceful relaxation.
The beauty of staying directly on the beach means experiencing both excitement and tranquility without leaving your temporary home base. Sample fresh catches at waterfront restaurants, then return to your deck for stargazing. Why not consider one of these oceanfront locations for a beach wedding? Here, couples exchange vows with the Pacific as their backdrop, creating memories that bring them back, year after year.
