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 route. Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or a leisurely exploration, these curated adventures invite you to savor every moment—but as always, feel free to adjust the timing to suit your mood.
Discover Day Trips on Highway 1
Ragged Point and San Simeon Day Trip (North Highway 1)
For travelers seeking day trips from San Francisco and the Bay Area, the dramatic northern stretch of Highway 1 delivers untamed beauty and historic grandeur. Perched atop towering cliffs where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific, Ragged Point serves as a majestic Gateway to Big Sur. Just south, San Simeon beckons with things to do that range from exploring palatial architecture to witnessing remarkable marine wildlife displays. These neighboring coastal havens provide an ideal blend of natural splendor and cultural richness.
Day 1
Begin your journey with lunch at Ragged Point Restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic ocean vistas. Fresh farm-to-fork cuisine and locally-sourced ingredients complement the breathtaking setting, making dining in San Simeon and Ragged Point an unforgettable experience. As the afternoon unfolds, venture to Hearst Castle for a guided tour through opulent historic rooms, striking gardens, and past shimmering pools. This architectural masterpiece showcases media mogul William Randolph Hearst’s vision brought to life by pioneering architect, Julia Morgan. Each room reveals priceless artworks and antiquities collected from around the globe, while outdoor terraces offer commanding views of the Pacific coastline stretching endlessly north to south. Cap your evening with dinner at Manta Rey Restaurant, renowned for expertly-prepared seafood and premium steaks, served in an elegant setting with sparkling ocean views. Their chardonnay-poached salmon and coconut shrimp have earned many local devotees and followers. After dinner, stroll to the Hearst Ranch Winery tasting room, where estate wines pair perfectly with sunset views of San Simeon Bay. End the night with a moonlit walk along Hearst State Beach, where gentle waves provide a soothing soundtrack and starlit skies stretch overhead.
Day 2
Rise early for breakfast at Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, where hearty portions and handcrafted espresso drinks fuel the morning’s activities. The restaurant’s elevated coastal position offers spectacular views of rolling waves and rugged shoreline while you savor freshly-prepared omelets, French toast, and signature breakfast burritos. Next, head to the Elephant Seal Vista Point, where thousands of these fascinating creatures lounge, play, and interact along the shore. Watch bulls engage in dramatic territorial displays while mothers nurse their pups on sandy beaches. Friendly docents share insights about these remarkable marine mammals while you observe from safe viewing platforms. Before heading home, savor lunch at Sebastian’s Cafe, where artisanal sandwiches showcase Hearst Ranch beef and locally-caught seafood. Try their signature “Hot Rancher,” featuring house-made meatloaf and caramelized onions, or the fresh shrimp sandwich, enhanced with zesty Cayucos Hot Sauce. The outdoor beachside seating area provides one final chance to soak in coastal views while enjoying sustainable, regionally-inspired fare. Between bites, scan the horizon for migrating whales or watch fishing boats bob gently in the harbor as pelicans soar overhead, creating lasting memories of your coastal getaway. Consider picking up fresh-baked treats or local craft items from nearby shops before departing this enchanting stretch of Highway 1.
Cambria Day Trip (North Highway 1)
On the northern end of Highway 1’s SLO CAL stretch, the artistic hamlet of Cambria presents an intimate blend of pine-covered hills and Pacific shores. Independent galleries, boutiques, and eateries abound in this seaside hamlet that’s known for blending a relaxed vibe with plenty of culture.
Day 1
Launch your journey with lunch at Robin’s Restaurant, where a verdant garden patio welcomes guests. Savor globally-inspired plates crafted from farmers market ingredients. Try Vietnamese spring rolls, North Indian curry, or Mediterranean pasta while lounging beneath the patio’s leafy canopy. Afterward, meander through the East Village, where Victorian-era structures house eclectic treasures. Browse handcrafted jewelry, original paintings, and vintage collectibles in family-owned establishments. Step into Rich Man, Poor Man Antiques, a rambling wonderland containing 60 vendors’ discoveries. Find Depression-era glassware, retro auto memorabilia, and countless other hidden gems. Nearby, visit Spellbound Herbs, an 1870s homestead transformed into a whimsical apothecary. Browse aromatic potions, fairy garden accessories, and mystical curios. Aas twilight approaches, indulge at Madeline’s Restaurant, known for exquisite French-inspired cuisine. For an idea of their signature dishes, think truffle mousse cake and pan-seared quail. Wrap the evening up with a sunset walk along Cambria’s famous Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, where wooden benches invite visitors to sit and listen to the waves. Watch for migrating whales, playful otters, and soaring pelicans against the golden-hour sky.
Day 2
Greet sunrise at Lily’s Coffeehouse, tucking into fresh-baked pastries beneath a glass-covered courtyard. Climbing vines drape overhead while you sip hand-pulled espresso drinks. Then head to the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve for an invigorating trek across 437 protected acres. Want the best ocean views? The 0.9-mile Bluff Trail follows the coastal bluff and is part of the 1,100 Mile California Coastal Trail System, with ADA-accessible paths and hand-crafted benches. Otherwise, try the Marine Terrace Trail for more sweeping panoramas, or the Forest Loop Trail, which travels through towering Monterey Pines. Look for grazing deer, wild turkeys, and Monarch butterflies fluttering among the eucalyptus groves, and bring binoculars to spy countless bird species year round. Before your departure, settle into the cozy comfort of the Cafe on Bridge Street, a local favorite tucked into downtown’s historic district. Their house-made soups and fresh sandwiches highlight regional ingredients, ideal for savoring while snuggling up in sunlit window seats. Still hungry? Don’t miss the chance to nab a slice of ollalieberry pie from Linn’s flagship bakery, right around the corner. It’s a delicious and iconic sweet-tart treat with an irresistibly flaky golden crust. You can also pick up jams, preserves, and coastal keepsakes to remember your getaway when you return home.
Cayucos Day Trip (North Highway 1)
Situated on the north end of the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1, Cayucos charms with refreshing laid-back cool. This surf-loving hamlet delights visitors with its historic pier, vibrant antique shops, and pristine beaches. For those seeking a serene escape from Bay Area bustle (or anywhere, really), Cayucos offers an authentic slice of California coastal life where time slows to match the rhythm of the waves.
Day 1
Start your trip at The Sea Shanty, where robust portions and homestyle cooking define the authentic dining scene. Got an early sweet tooth? Their dessert menu dazzles with towering pies and indulgent sundaes, perfect fuel for a morning of shopping and exploring downtown. Visit Remember When Antique Mall to discover three floors of fascinating collectibles. Next door, Main Street Antiques showcases vintage furniture and rare finds. After all that treasure hunting, walk to the historic Cayucos Pier, constructed in 1872, which offers prime photo opportunities and excellent whale watching along the Whale Trail. (Gray whales frequent these waters December through April, while humpbacks appear in spring and summer months.) As dinnertime approaches, head to Schooner’s where fresh seafood and craft cocktails complement the stunning ocean vistas from their rooftop deck. After the sun dips below the horizon, secure one of the fire rings on the north side of Cayucos State Beach (available Memorial Day through Labor Day) to enjoy the crackle of a fire along with the lapping of the waves.
Day 2
Wake up to breakfast at Hidden Kitchen, where delectable corn waffles offer a unique twist on morning classics. Their organic ingredients and creative sweet and savory preparations provide sustenance for exploring Estero Bluffs State Park. This pristine coastal preserve rewards visitors with gentle trails winding above dramatic cliffs, with elevated vantage points for spotting marine life. Don’t forget to pack binoculars to enhance wildlife viewing along this remarkable stretch of coastline. Keep watch for spouting whales, playful otters, and soaring seabirds against the backdrop of untamed coastline. You may even spot harbor seals basking on offshore rocks as the waves crash below. Complete your itinerary at Ocean Front Pizza, a casual beachside spot where locally-sourced toppings crown perfectly-crafted pies. Their patio is an ideal setting for savoring both lunch and beachy views before heading home—or just take your slice straight to the sand and soak up a few final rays.
Los Osos Day Trip (South Highway 1)
It isn’t difficult to find things to do in Los Osos-Baywood Park, a natural wonderland that captivates visitors with rare wildlife, fresh sea breezes and coastal hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Montana de Oro State Park’s dramatic cliffs and the ancient oaks of the Elfin Forest invite exploration along some of Highway 1’s most spectacular landscapes. Love rugged landscapes but still want to dine well? Don’t worry: Los Osos and Baywood have plenty of excellent eats, too.
Day 1
Start your day trip at Sylvester’s Burgers, one of the best restaurants in Los Osos and known for massive, sauce-laden creations that require multiple napkins. Their sun-soaked patio buzzes with hungry locals tackling burgers that tower with fresh toppings. After lunch, roll over to Montana de Oro State Park where the gentle Bluff Trail traces ocean cliffs to reveal hidden coves perfect for tide pooling. Look for hermit crabs, limpets, sea anemones and even sea stars, all thriving in their tiny intertidal worlds. For those who love a good sunbathing beach, Spooner’s Cove presents soft sand, a protected inlet, and lots of dramatic rock formations to climb and explore. As evening comes around, indulge in upscale coastal dining at Mirazur Restaurant, where an upscale menu, fresh seafood and globally-inspired dishes complement stunning bay views. End your night with a peaceful sunset stroll along the Elfin Forest boardwalk, where ancient pygmy oaks frame the glowing waters of the Morro Bay National Estuary. The wooden walkway loops through the forest canopy, creating a magical setting for watching the sky transform.
Day 2
Begin day two with perfectly-pulled espresso drinks and obsession-worthy pastries from master baker Tim Veatch at Wayward Baking. Here, buttery croissants, vanilla-rum canelés and rustic sourdough loaves start mornings right. Take your treats to the water’s edge at the Baywood Pier or Sweet Springs Nature Preserve, where early light transforms the back bay into liquid gold. Then, take that meditative mood out to Sea Pines Golf Resort for a run through its 9-hole executive-style course, where coastal breezes and bay views accompany every swing. The course welcomes players of all skill levels with its approachable layout and coastal setting. After your round, unwind with a therapeutic massage at the Tranquility Spa, choosing from Swedish, deep tissue, or hot stone treatments in a serene setting. By that time, you should be hungry for lunch at La Palapa Mexican Restaurant. Their breezy patio frames panoramic views of the back bay to accompany fresh south-of-the-border delights. Try the fresh fish tacos or Chile Verde with house-made tortillas. Before your departure, take a final walk along the bay, watching shorebirds wade in shallow waters and otters floating lazily in beds of swaying eelgrass.
Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valleys Day Trip (South Highway 1)
When it comes to finding things to do in Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valley, fun and flavor are the name of the game. This California coastal wine region enchants with rolling vineyards and intimate tasting rooms that radiate from a historic township. From famed vintages to treasured landmarks, this slice of Highway 1 reveals authentic small-town life in one of the state’s most celebrated wine growing regions.
Day 1
Start your day with lunch at the Gourmet Deli within Sextant’s historic Old Edna Township, considered one of the best restaurants in Arroyo Grande and Edna Valley for its wine country cuisine. Their seasonal menu features artisanal sandwiches, cheese boards and fresh salads perfect for fueling an afternoon of exploration. Then take a tour to discover some of the acclaimed Edna Valley wineries, made famous by cool ocean breezes that lend themselves to crisp Chardonnay and expressive Pinot Noir. Along the way, stop at Edna Valley Vineyard’s stunning glass-walled tasting room with panoramic views of ancient volcanic peaks, then savor premium single-vineyard wines at Tolosa Winery’s state-of-the-art facility, just down the road. As the day winds down, make your way to Ember for exceptionally-prepared wood-fired cuisine and creative preparations using local ingredients. End the evening with a stroll through the Village of Arroyo Grande to uncover antique treasures, local crafts, and sweet treats. Test your nerve on the historic swinging bridge suspended above the creek, and peek into vintage storefronts illuminated by twinkling lights.
Day 2
Day 2 begins with creative breakfast dishes in the industrial-chic Mason Bar and Kitchen, like Crab Cake Benedict or Steak and Egg Quesadillas. Once you’re ready to take on the morning, drive out to Lopez Lake Recreation Area, where 22 miles of unspoiled shoreline set the stage for plenty of outdoor fun and relaxation. Rent a powerboat from the marina to explore hidden coves, cast a line for bass in quiet fishing spots, or tackle the Vista Lago Adventure Park’s six aerial courses suspended in the trees. Alternatively, follow the Big Falls trail to an impressive 80-foot waterfall cascading over rock outcroppings, or simply park your beach chair on the water’s edge to soak in shimmering views. Before heading home, hit Branch Street Deli on your way out of town for Italian-inspired classics that shine through generations-old family recipes. Their sunny patio makes a great spot for savoring house specialties like seasonal pizzas, fresh salads, and hearty sandwiches, right in the heart of the Arroyo Grande Village.
Avila Beach Day Trip (South Highway 1)
This charming coastal haven offers the perfect blend of seaside adventure and laid-back luxury. With its pristine white sand beaches, historic piers stretching into the sparkling Pacific, and soothing natural hot springs, Avila Beach treats visitors to quintessential California moments that unfold at their own perfect pace. Here, you’ll discover a refreshing change of pace where life’s best moments aren’t rushed, but savored one sunbeam at a time.
Day 1
The Custom House is an excellent place to kick off a day trip in Avila Beach. With its fresh seafood and wide ocean views, this historic eatery has been delighting locals since 1971. Try their famous Bloody Mary, considered the best in the area, alongside fresh-caught fish tacos or their signature clam chowder. After lunch, embrace cycling in Avila Beach along the Bob Jones Trail, an enchanting 3-mile path that winds through a canopy of sycamore trees, alongside a peaceful creek, and past the scenic Avila Beach Golf Resort. Take your time exploring, perhaps stopping at Woodstone Marketplace for a refreshing drink. When your stomach starts to rumble, make your way to Blue Moon Over Avila, where French coastal cuisine meets California cool in an intimate bistro setting. The extensive European wine list and fresh local ingredients make for a dinner to remember. Finish the evening with a walk or a drive along the length of the Harford Pier, one of the last driveable piers in California. Watch fishing boats return with their daily haul while the sun paints the sky in brilliant hues over Avila Beach. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like seals, sea lions, and even whales.
Day 2
This day begins with the rooster’s call at the Avila Valley Barn, a rambling farmstand with farm-fresh pastries, coffee, and local produce. This beloved local institution has grown from a simple side-of-the-road operation to a complete farm-to-table experience, including a petting zoo where kids can feed friendly goats, a sweet shop with homemade treats, and seasonal activities like hayrides through the orchards. Next up, experience the natural healing waters that have drawn visitors here for generations: hot springs in Avila Beach offer a rejuvenating soak in mineral-rich pools beneath the leafy canopy of ancient sycamore trees. Choose between the family-friendly Avila Hot Springs, with its thermal soaking pool and heated swimming pool with waterslides, or the more secluded experience at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, where private hillside hot tubs offer peaceful forest views. Complete your coastal getaway with a lunch of wood-fired pizza or salad at their Secret Garden food and beverage truck, just across the bridge, for a sweet and serene ending.
Oceano and Nipomo Day Trip (South Highway 1)
What to do in Oceano and Nipomo? Think coastal thrills meet countryside charm. Here, the vast Oceano Dunes create nature’s playground with rolling sand hills perfect for off-road excitement, while Nipomo’s ranching heritage offers a glimpse into authentic California living. These neighboring towns blend wild coastal landscapes with small-town warmth, making them ideal spots for visitors seeking hidden delights along the Central Coast.
Day 1
Start the day’s exploration at the Rock & Roll Diner, housed in two restored 1950s railroad cats in Grover Beach. Right there on the tracks, classic American fare gets a creative twist, with juicy burgers and hand-spun shakes served with a side of nostalgia. After lunch, head to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, where you can rent ATVs or join a Hummer tour across 1,500 acres of sweeping sand dunes—the only place of its kind in California. The rush of racing up and down these massive sand hills creates pure adrenaline-pumping fun. As evening approaches, make your way to Jocko’s Steak House, a Nipomo institution since 1926. This no-frills steakhouse grills its famous Santa Maria style-steaks over red oak, delivering bold flavors that capture the essence of Central Coast cooking. Finish your day at the Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville, where live performances blend comedy, music, and old-fashioned fun in a historic theater that will have the whole family laughing.
Day 2
Giddyup for day two with breakfast at Cowgirl Cafe in Nipomo, where hearty plates of huevos rancheros and fluffy pancakes offer the sustenance you’ll need for the day ahead. The warm service and local crowd give you a true taste of Nipomo before you venture into one of two natural wonders: the Pismo Beach State Monarch Butterfly Grove or Oso Flaco Lake. Watch thousands of Monarch butterflies cluster in their eucalyptus sanctuary (between October and February) or explore the tranquil environment at Oso Flaco Lake by cruising the ADA-accessible boardwalk. Here, you’ll spot countless bird species gliding over the freshwater lake while native plants frame your path through the dunes. Conclude either visit with lunch at Willow Nipomo for a menu that showcases fresh local ingredients. Their easygoing patio provides the perfect setting to reflect on your coastal explorations before heading home.
