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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Best Restaurants & Dining in Avila Beach
Avila BeachWith 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… -
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.
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Biking Avila Beach
Avila BeachFor a beginners path, great for kids, try the Bob Jones Trail. Or visit Central Coast Outdoors for more recommendations. -
Biking Pacific Coast Highway 1
San SimeonAn all-time favorite cycling route, Highway 1 offers spectacular views and challenging climbs with great restaurants, wineries and attractions along the way. -
Bird Watching on the Central Coast
Los OsosIdeal climate, terrain, and proximity to the Pacific Flyway makes the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 one of the finest birding regions in the world. -
Bob Jones Trail
San Luis ObispoThe Bob Jones Trail is the "City to the Sea" bike trail -
Central Coast Polar Bear Dips
CayucosThe SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 boasts two “polar bear dips” on the first day of the year, both of which are beloved traditions. -
Day Spa and Massage in Avila Beach
Avila BeachHealth 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… -
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…
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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…
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California’s Central Coast provides a fun and safe playground for both dogs and their humans. Stay in dog-friendly lodging, dine in dog-friendly restaurants, and frolic on dog-friendly beaches, hikes and parks.
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Downtown Stops Along Highway 1
CambriaWho 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. -
Highway 1 is an excellent destination for electric vehicle drivers. With several electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on the route, explore ten small towns on a single charge. Planning ahead is important for any electric vehicle road trip and can add time onto your travel itinerary. For this reason, Highway…
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Family Friendly Things to Do
Avila BeachFor easy-breezy family fun, nothing beats a hike. Lace up your walking shoes, grab a hat and a water bottle, and head out any of coastal San Luis Obispo County’s hundreds of hiking trails. -
Farm to Table Near Highway 1
NipomoThe stretch of Highway 1 between Ragged Point and Nipomo owes much of its magic to remarkably authentic farm-to-table abundance. -
Fishing Avila Beach
Avila BeachAvila Beach consistently lands on anglers’ bucket lists for good reason: the fishing and the views are excellent here. For those without a watercraft, two piers invite anglers of all ages and abilities to drop a line. Rockfishing in this area is also particularly good, for those willing… -
Fishing California’s Highway 1
San SimeonPlentiful waters invite fishing of all sorts here on our special stretch of Highway 1. Find yourself on an uncrowded white sand beach, surf fishing any one of our 100 miles of coastline. -
Our unique stretch of Highway 1 boasts mild year-round weather, picture-perfect ocean views, sandy beaches and wine country — ideal conditions for golf.