Things To Do

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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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  • Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS) — South End Stewardship Travel Logo

    Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS) — South End

    San Simeon
    Vast and teeming with life, the Pacific Ocean impacts nearly every part of life on the Central Coast, from wildlife to wine. But if not for the protection of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, this landscape might not be so pristine or majestic.
  • Morro Bay Beach and Morro Rock

    Morro Bay Beach and Morro Rock

    Morro Bay
    This beach is a coastal frontage park featuring outstanding picnic sites.
  • Piedras Blancas Light Station Stewardship Travel Logo

    Piedras Blancas Light Station

    San Simeon
    The Piedras Blancas Light Station stands as a monument to maritime days gone by. The lighthouse, built in 1875 and still in operation today, offers 2-hour tours of its interior and grounds, year-round.
  • Preserves, Estuaries and Sanctuaries on Highway 1

    Preserves, Estuaries and Sanctuaries on Highway 1

    Avila Beach
    Find thousands of acres of protected open space, both on land and at sea. These estuaries, preserves, and sanctuaries are home to abundant wildlife.
  • Romance on Highway 1

    Romance on Highway 1

    Ignite romance on Highway 1, where coastal ambiance meets idyllic experiences for two. Explore oceanfront dining, secluded beaches and awe-inspiring sunsets all along this scenic coastal byway. Stroll along the sand, discover local wildlife, wine taste or indulge in a relaxing couple’s massage—Highway 1 is your oyster. Whether planning an…
  • San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway – Route 1

    San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway – Route 1

    The San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway provides an extraordinary experience.
  • San Simeon Activity Map Stewardship Travel Logo

    San Simeon Activity Map

    San Simeon
    The stunning natural beauty of San Simeon Cove; the enchantment of a hilltop castle - what a beautiful way to start the day! 
  • San Simeon Cycling

    San Simeon Cycling

    San Simeon
    Whether you like to race, mountain bike or just cruise and admire the scenery, you’ll find a bike path to enjoy!
  • San Simeon Kayaking/Boating

    San Simeon Kayaking/Boating

    San Simeon
    Go out and explore the wonders of the Central Coast from the best seat in the house, your kayak!
  • San Simeon Pier

    San Simeon Pier

    San Simeon
    Before the advent of the railroad and easily traversed highways, most of the commerce in central California was conducted by ship and piers and wharfs were vitally important.
  • San Simeon Surfing

    San Simeon Surfing

    San Simeon
    San Simeon is reliable and popular in the spring among local surfers, with wide beach breaks and chest-high swells.
  • San Simeon Wind Sports

    San Simeon Wind Sports

    San Simeon
    The winds around San Simeon beaches offer an excellent chance to take part in wind sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.
  • Scenic Drive: Your Highway 1 Road Trip

    Scenic Drive: Your Highway 1 Road Trip

    San Simeon
    If you want the inside scoop on the best places to stop while driving the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll need inspiration from a knowledgeable guide. Take your road trip on Highway 1 now.
  • Sea Otter Spotting Stewardship Travel Logo

    Sea Otter Spotting

    Morro Bay
    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.
  • Seaweed Foraging Tours Stewardship Travel Logo

    Seaweed Foraging Tours

    Cayucos
    This is an intimate and educational experience that is always family friendly.
  • Shopping on Highway 1

    Shopping on Highway 1

    Cambria
    Find locally-made art, ceramics, cheeses, wine, furniture, surfboards, herb and spice blends, soaps, candles, glasswares, jewelry, breads, books, souvenirs, clothing and more.
  • Solo Travel Highway 1’s Wide Open Spaces

    Solo Travel Highway 1’s Wide Open Spaces

    With the need for social distancing, there’s never been a better time to dream about your next party-of-one trip.
  • Spa & Wellness Experiences in San Simeon and Ragged Point

    Spa & Wellness Experiences in San Simeon and Ragged Point

    San Simeon
    Looking to pamper yourself with a Big Sur spa day? Revitalize your body and calm your mind in scenic San Simeon and Ragged Point. With spa and wellness retreats nestled along scenic Highway 1’s Gateway to Big Sur, you can enjoy an array of spa and wellness…