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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  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Cliffside Trail

    Cliffside Trail

    Ragged Point
    The Ragged Point Inn and Resort is located at the northernmost corner of San Luis Obispo County, 18 miles north of Hearst Castle on Highway 1, at the base of the Big Sur National Scenic Byway.
  • Diva Day Spa

    Diva Day Spa

    San Simeon
    We are a welcoming, understated spa and salon located oceanfront
  • Hearst Castle Evening Tours

    Hearst Castle Evening Tours

    San Simeon
    The Hearst Castle Evening Tour allows you to view  this historic California mansion in the twilight hours
  • Hearst Castle Holidays

    Hearst Castle Holidays

    San Simeon
    Hearst Castle brings to life his love of all things Christmas, and invites you to join in the spirit of the season!
  • Hearst Ranch Winery

    Hearst Ranch Winery

    San Simeon
    Coastal tasting room inside the Historic Sebastian's Deli, down the hill from Hearst Castle.
  • Highway 1 Zebra Viewing

    Highway 1 Zebra Viewing

    San Simeon
    Traveling the winding ranch road to Hearst Castle, guests once passed through fenced fields populated with many species of exotic wild animals
  • Junge Ranch Trail

    Junge Ranch Trail

    San Simeon
    Junge Ranch Trail - Hearst San Simeon State Park is a 2.2 mile out and back trail located near Cambria
  • Pacific Valley Bluff Trail

    Pacific Valley Bluff Trail

    Big Sur
    Highway 1 is most famous for its coastal views, so you'll definitely want to take the chance to hop out of your car and stroll along the Pacific Valley Bluff Trail.
  • Paso Wine Country

    Paso Wine Country

    San Simeon
    Halfway between the two main California metropolises of Los Angeles and San Francisco is Paso Robles Wine Country.
  • Pico Creek Surf Spot

    Pico Creek Surf Spot

    Cambria
    Longboard, short board or kite surfer...all are welcome at Pico Creek Surf Spot
  • Piedras Blancas Light Station Historical Tours

    Piedras Blancas Light Station Historical Tours

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