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

195 results found.
View:
Standard Card
Mini Card
  • Horseback Riding

    Horseback Riding

    Oceano
    Riding a horse amidst the beauty of coastal San Luis Obispo County can be a transforming experience. Get saddled up and discover a whole new perspective on our special stretch of Highway 1, from equestrian trails to vineyards.
  • Live Music on Highway 1

    Live Music on Highway 1

    Highway 1’s dynamic live music scene plays out at a multitude of unique venues. From cozy bars to renowned stages, Highway 1 offers an eclectic array of live musical experiences to suit every preference. Visitors find that Highway 1 concerts transcend traditional spaces, unfolding at lighthouses, beer gardens, vineyards…
  • 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.
  • Moonstone Beach

    Moonstone Beach

    Cambria
    Considered one of the Central Coast’s best beaches, Moonstone Beach is an ethereal outpost where waves meet a shoreline perfect for beachcombing.
  • 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.
  • Nightlife on Highway 1

    Nightlife on Highway 1

    Nightlife unfolds at every turn along Highway 1’s scenic coastline. While Highway 1 may be renowned for its breathtaking ocean views and picturesque landscapes, its after-hours offerings are equally captivating. Travelers can expect a laid back ambiance and a mix of local and national talent. Don’t be fooled by the…
  • Oktoberfest on Highway 1

    Oktoberfest on Highway 1

    Templeton
    The fun and festivities of a traditional Oktoberfest celebration can be had right here in coastal San Luis Obispo County.
  • 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 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.