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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  • State Parks and Beaches of San Simeon

    State Parks and Beaches of San Simeon

    San Simeon
    Visit Hearst Castle along with its neighboring San Simeon state parks and beaches, and experience the very best of the Central Coast.
  • State Parks and Beaches of the Central Coast

    State Parks and Beaches of the Central Coast

    Highway 1
    From Ragged Point to Nipomo, you’ll find unspoiled beaches, quiet woodlands, marine protected areas, art, antiquities, and driveable dunes.
  • Surfing San Simeon to Ragged Point

    Surfing San Simeon to Ragged Point

    San Simeon
    While San Simeon surfing definitely has its hot spots, there’s excellent surf everywhere you look along this stretch of unspoiled coastline. Seriously: endless opportunities, if you have the will to reach them. Often the best spots are tucked back in tiny, remote coves, but if you’re up for the challenge…
  • 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 Ragged Point

    Things to do in Ragged Point

    Ragged Point
    There is no shortage of incredible things to do in Ragged Point. This beautiful Highway 1 destination offers up spectacular scenery, serene hiking trails and unique lodging overlooking California’s pristine Pacific coastline. Known as the Gateway to Big Sur, there are few places that can boast a more stunning landscape.
  • Things to do in San Simeon

    Things to do in San Simeon

    San Simeon
    Looking for things to do in San Simeon? This beautiful seaside town offers up exceptional wildlife viewing, hiking, dining and sightseeing. San Simeon is home to historic Hearst Castle, a must-see attraction that combines impressive architecture, museum-worthy works of art and stunning coastal views. Roadtrippers should plan on staying overnight…
  • Things to do on Highway 1

    Things to do on Highway 1

    Looking for things to do and on Highway 1? With serene beaches and historic piers, farm-fresh dining and ocean views, this iconic scenic route offers an array of unforgettable coastal experiences. Explore sun-drenched dunes, hidden waterfalls and cultural gems on this iconic stretch of California roadway. With boundless things to…
  • Tide Pools and Sea Life of Highway 1

    Tide Pools and Sea Life of Highway 1

    Wherever you roam along Highway 1, the ocean never lies far away. In the 57 miles of coastline between Ragged Point and Nipomo, the Pacific Ocean defines the landscape.
  • Tide Pools and Sea Life of San Simeon

    Tide Pools and Sea Life of San Simeon

    San Simeon
    The stretch of coastline along San Simeon sees some of the most diverse sea life of all of Highway 1. Here, whales spout and breach within full view of the San Simeon Pier at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach. Dolphins’ dorsal fins dip in and out of the…
  • W.R. Hearst State Beach Stewardship Travel Logo

    W.R. Hearst State Beach

    San Simeon
    William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach provides the scenery, sand, and surf for an ideal beach day on Highway 1. This beach once bustled as a whaling outpost, and later as a port for receiving antiquities to adorn W.R. Hearst’s hilltop estate.
  • Whale Watching on the Whale Trail Stewardship Travel Logo

    Whale Watching on 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.
  • 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.
  • Arroyo Laguna Beach

    Arroyo Laguna Beach

    San Simeon
    Arroyo Laguna Beach is a windsurfing and kiteboarding spot along the northern San Luis Obispo Coast.
  • Big Sur National Scenic Byway

    Big Sur National Scenic Byway

    Big Sur
    Travel the route that hugs the California coast, providing access to austere, windswept cypress trees, fog-shrouded cliffs and the crashing surf of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Boucher Trail at Piedras Blancas

    Boucher Trail at Piedras Blancas

    San Simeon
    The Boucher Trail runs from the paved elephant seal viewing parking for 1.9 miles, to a half mile north of the Piedras Blancas Light Station.
  • Cambria Christmas Market

    Cambria Christmas Market

    Cambria
    The Cambria Christmas Market features open-air stalls selling glühwein (hot mulled wine), traditional German foods, local vendors, and live entertainment.