Things To Do

The site is in the final stages of being restored to a native botanical garden which will feature native plant communities endemic to the Nipomo Mesa and dunes complex.

Paddle back in time with professional kayak guides to the 125 year old fully restored and quite beautiful Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach, California

The secluded beaches, rugged cliffs and broad coastal terraces of the Pecho Coast have been privately owned and inaccessible to the public since the Spanish Mission Period. 

Go back in time to the lonely and blustery life of the lighthouse keeper with a visit to the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse.

Docent-led Lighthouse tours arriving via the historic trolley are held every Wednesday and Saturday

Find thousands of acres of protected open space, both on land and at sea. These estuaries, preserves, and sanctuaries are home to abundant wildlife.

A Living History Lesson

The mission of the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is to display the diverse plant life of the Mediterranean climate zones of the world and to provide opportunities for education, recreation, conservation and research. 

Cute, furry, and playful, Southern Sea Otters make their homes just offshore along the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1. Sea otters are native to the north Pacific Ocean, with Monterey Bay, Big Sur, and the Central Coast as hubs of activity.

In 1892, Alden B. Spooner, Jr. built this ranch house overlooking the sea.

Located at the meeting of freshwater run-off and the saltwater ocean, the Sweet Springs Nature Preserve is a jewel of natural Los Osos. At 32 acres, the preserve is owned by the Morro Coast Audubon Society and includes hiking trails, interpretive signs, footbridges, and memorial benches. Local and migratory…

Arroyo Grande and Edna Valley offer a range of activities across a landscape of vineyards, farmland and rugged wilderness. From world class wine tasting and family friendly lake sports to historic sites and antiquing, you’ll never run out of great things to do in this pastoral California playground. If you’re…

Looking for a good time in Avila Beach? You’re in luck: this beachside community has a wealth of things to do for families, couples, solo travelers and dog travelers. For thousands of years, Avila Beach has attracted visitors looking to relax by its calm waters and experience the beauty of…

The coastal town of Cambria blends seaside fun with elegant appeal. Nestled along Highway 1 where pine trees meet the Pacific, you’ll find a range of activities to enjoy, from wine tasting to horseback riding. Top things to do in Cambria include hiking, sightseeing, dining and shopping—but there’s…

Looking for fun things to do in Cayucos? This beautiful coastal town features plenty of exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy. From hiking and dining to antique shopping and pier fishing, Cayucos is a relaxing coastal escape with laid back charm to spare. Whether you’re a surfer, hiker…

Looking for fun things to do in Oceano/Nipomo? Home to scenic dunes and great casual dining, this serene coastal oasis is one of Highway 1’s best kept secrets. Motor across the beach by day and take in live theater by night—It’s all on the roster. Ready to get out there?…

The Volunteer Program at the Dunes Center is crucial to its ability to fulfill its mission. 

Visitors and locals alike enjoy the self-guided walking tour that visits 26 historic structures throughout the small and welcoming town.