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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  • Biking Pacific Coast Highway 1

    Biking Pacific Coast Highway 1

    San Simeon
    An 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

    Bird Watching on the Central Coast

    Los Osos
    Ideal 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.
  • Cayucos Activity Map Stewardship Travel Logo

    Cayucos Activity Map

    Cayucos
    Cayucos is a throw back to the original, laid-back California beach town with its relaxed vibe and Western influences. Time still moves a little slower in Cayucos.
  • Cayucos Cycling

    Cayucos Cycling

    Cayucos
    Montaña de Oro has some of the best mountain biking on the central coast, with multiple trails ranging from beginner to expert.
  • Cayucos Kayaking

    Cayucos Kayaking

    Cayucos
    You Oughta Play with Otters
  • Cayucos Landing (formerly Cayucos Veterans Hall) Stewardship Travel Logo

    Cayucos Landing (formerly Cayucos Veterans Hall)

    Cayucos
    Step into downtown Cayucos and you’ll find a beautifully restored 1870s landmark that’s just come back to life—weathered redwood siding worn smooth by salt air, fresh lumber creaking underfoot and salty breeze rolling off the Pacific. Cayucos Landing—known for generations as the Cayucos Veterans Memorial Hall—reopened in August 2025 with…
  • Cayucos Pier on Cayucos Beach

    Cayucos Pier on Cayucos Beach

    Cayucos
    The Cayucos pier was constructed in 1872 by Captain James Cass, the founder of Cayucos, and was then rebuilt and lengthened to 982 feet in 1876.
  • Cayucos State Beach

    Cayucos State Beach

    Cayucos
    The sandy beach offers mild weather, watersports such as surfing and swimming, tidepooling. 
  • Cayucos State Parks and Beaches Stewardship Travel Logo

    Cayucos State Parks and Beaches

    Cayucos
    Sunshine, shoreline, surf and even starfish — these are just a few treasures to be found in Cayucos State Beaches and State Parks.
  • Cayucos Veterans Hall

    Cayucos Veterans Hall

    Cayucos
    The Cayucos Veteran's Hall is a meeting and rental hall facility available to the public. 
  • Central Coast Polar Bear Dips

    Central Coast Polar Bear Dips

    Cayucos
    The 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 Retreats on Highway 1

    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 Spa and Wellness in Cayucos

    Day Spa and Wellness in Cayucos

    Cayucos
    Day spa and wellness opportunities abound in Cayucos, where many modes of relaxation unfold steps away from the Cayucos Pier and beautiful downtown. Whether you desire a casual spa day to unwind from everyday stressors or seek a romantic couple’s massage for two, you’ll find a plethora of unique wellness…
  • Day Trips on Highway 1

    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…
  • Dog Friendly Activities Along Highway 1

    Dog Friendly Activities Along Highway 1

    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.
  • Downtown Cayucos

    Downtown Cayucos

    Cayucos
    The quaint downtown of Cayucos boasts field-to-table restaurants, antique stores, public art and cafes ― all just steps from the beach.
  • Downtown Stops Along Highway 1

    Downtown Stops Along Highway 1

    Cambria
    Who 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.
  • Estero Bluffs State Park Stewardship Travel Logo

    Estero Bluffs State Park

    Cayucos
    The majestic Estero Bluffs State Park allows visitors to explore the landscape and beaches on the northern end of Cayucos.