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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  • 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.
  • Shopping in Avila Beach

    Shopping in Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    Avila Beach feels like paradise, and not only for its white sand beaches and other natural wonders — it’s a shopper’s paradise as well. Though downtown Avila Beach comprises just a few square blocks near the Avila Pier, these contain a wide assortment of storefronts. Deep into the…
  • 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.
  • Surfing Avila Beach

    Surfing Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    Our Central Coast beach towns offer waves suitable for surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing and boogie boarding.
  • Surfing Spots on Highway 1

    Surfing Spots on Highway 1

    San Simeon
    Once called “The Lost Coast” by Surfer Magazine, this rugged stretch of coastline boasts some of the best-kept secret surf spots in California.
  • The 10 Best Parks on Highway 1

    The 10 Best Parks on Highway 1

    In a land of natural splendor, it’s no surprise that the public has access to breathtaking, fun, and fascinating parks. On this special stretch of Highway 1, the wild and the wonderful conspire to bring kids and their grownups closer to nature — and to each other. Here,…
  • Things to do in Avila Beach Stewardship Travel Logo

    Things to do in Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    Splash into a world of sun-soaked wonder in Avila Beach. With a protected cove, iconic pier and friendly locals, there’s something truly magical about this crescent of white sand tucked between Port San Luis and rolling green hills. Just 30 minutes south of San Luis Obispo (about 6 miles from…
  • Things to do on Highway 1

    Things to do on Highway 1

    Highway 1 isn’t just a drive — it’s where the coast invites you to slow down, breathe deep and just coast. Along this iconic stretch of California, you’ll discover countless things to do on Highway 1: from waterfalls and historic piers to whale watching, wine tasting, tidepooling and kayaking. Around…
  • Tide Pools and Sea Life of Avila Beach

    Tide Pools and Sea Life of Avila Beach

    Avila Beach
    Imagine a seaside community surrounded by a wealth of wildlife in its own habitat, and you’ve probably imagined a place like Avila Beach. The sound of waves crashing, birds singing, and seals barking is the soundtrack to any day spent here. All creatures great and small inhabit and…
  • Whale Watching on Highway 1: Your Guide to the Whale Trail Stewardship Travel Logo

    Whale Watching on Highway 1: Your Guide to the Whale Trail

    When it comes to whale watching, the Central Coast boasts an embarrassment of riches, especially along the Highway 1 Road Trip. Here, whales, dolphins, sea otters, seals and seabirds play within full view of the shoreline.
  • Activity Map ~ Highway 1 Road Trip

    Activity Map ~ Highway 1 Road Trip

    See the sights and highlights along the Highway 1 Road Trip! Featuring 101 miles of adventure, the route stretches from the scenic coastline in Ragged Point south through the agricultural communities of Oceano and Nipomo.
  • Alapay Cellars

    Alapay Cellars

    Avila Beach
    Meaning "above the world" or " heavenly" in Chumash, this winery focuses on the experience of wine tasting, making it fun and enjoyable for anyone.
  • Arcadian Adventures

    Arcadian Adventures

    San Luis Obispo
    Our mission is to provide our guests with bespoke itineraries of outdoor activities led by our dedicated guides.
  • Avila Bay Club Spa

    Avila Bay Club Spa

    Avila Beach
    The Avila Bay Club Spa offers a wide array of treatments, each of which is designed to relax, rejuvenate, and restore.
  • Avila Beach Bird Sanctuary

    Avila Beach Bird Sanctuary

    Avila Beach
    Avila's fresh water stream micro estuary and salt water coastline provide a perfect place to eat and rest before continuing on their journey.
  • Avila Beach Farmers Market

    Avila Beach Farmers Market

    Avila Beach
    Celebrate the beginning of the weekend with live entertainment, fresh fruits and vegetables, and artisan products ― all with a stunning ocean view.
  • Avila Beach Paddlesports

    Avila Beach Paddlesports

    Avila Beach
    Explore the pristine waters, sea caves, and secret beaches of Avila Beach - the hidden gem of San Luis Obispo County - with Avila Beach Paddlesports.