[…]sports bars and classic dives to upscale lounges. Whether travelers are craving the excitement of watching the big game or a fancy craft cocktail, Highway 1 bars and taverns are always pouring up a great time. Mozzi’s Saloon in Cambria Established in 1866, Mozzi’s Saloon stands as the last vestige […]
[…]Castoro Cellars Winery often features live music on weekends. Looking for more music? Come for the Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival held each September in the vineyards, where a lineup of world-famous musicians take the stage. Castoro Cellars also offers regular yoga classes, as well as a disc golf […]
[…]route. Plus, keep an eye out for frolicking sea otters, basking elephant seals and migratory gray whales with calves in tow mere yards from the rocky shoreline. Cherish these once-in-a-lifetime interactions by allowing wildlife a respectful buffer and following our handy viewing tips (oh, and be sure to bring those […]
[…]and fields of wildflowers. Check the horizon for sea lions, pelicans and perhaps even a migrating whale. Plus, the trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. Easier still is the family-friendly Bob Jones Trail, which famously leads from SLO forest to Avila Beach sand. […]
[…]performance. Whale Rock Music Festival Music fans will appreciate the multifaceted energy of Whale Rock Music Festival, located off the beaten path in pastoral Templeton. Held each September at Castoro Cellars’ Whale Rock Vineyard, this colorful festival combines music, art and community, attracting diverse music fans from around the country […]
[…]ancient sea caves, Highway 1 is equally breathtaking from sea level. Plus, popular Highway 1 whale watching tours provide the added promise of spotting a magical breech along the horizon! 3. Savor Wine and Food Experiences Taste freshness in every sip along Highway 1. With several renowned wine regions accessible […]
Embark on a journey through nature, spanning over a 100 miles of captivating history, pristine beaches, majestic bluffs, protected preserves, and abundant of wildlife. Get inspired by the beauty that surrounds you, learn from locals and connect deeper to mother nature. Your actions (including family fun “leave-no-trace” beach time) along […]
[…]to watch the daily sunsets. Our front lawn has comfortable seating areas for ocean viewing, people-watching, or a rousing game of bean bag toss. Walk along the beach and discover the amazing tide pools teeming with sea life, enjoy gorgeous vistas from the Leffingwell Landing Park, or take a stroll […]
[…]in 1852 at the peak of the whaling industry, the Sebastian Brothers provided goods and services to whalers, fishermen, miners, and neighboring ranches. In its earliest days, Sebastian Brothers General Merchandise in San Simeon Bay was the significant shipping point for barrels of whale oil, cheese, butter and other commodities […]
[…]in Morro Bay and watch for whales spouting along the horizon in Cambria. Couples can also enjoy whale watching from Highway 1’s many piers, hiking trails and lookout points, all promising the chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime breach. When it comes to animal sightings, couples should expect the unexpected along […]
[…]wanderers alike. Several coastal lookout spots can be found along the gently rolling terrain, with whales spotted offshore during migration season. More than a scenic escape for visitors, this peaceful preserve is a true sanctuary for wildlife: Among the flora and fauna, spy fluttering butterflies, bashful deer and a vibrant […]
[…]View playful sea otters in Morro Bay, peer into otherworldly tide pools in Los Osos or watch for whales and seabirds along the shore in San Simeon. Wherever you roam along Highway 1 this winter, you’ll be sure to meet a few new creatures. Happy […]
[…]preserving the magic of the Highway 1 experience. Download your free Wildlife map from highway 1 Whale Watching One of the most majestic experiences in the heart of Highway 1, whale watching is possible along nearly every section of our 80 miles of coastline. In fact, the Whale Trail—a national […]
[…]them). 21. The Excitement of Whale Watching There’s nothing like observing a massive fluke emerge from the depths. Gray whales can usually be seen in October and again mid-February through May, while Blue whales (including humpbacks) are known to visit the Central Coast each summer in search of krill. If […]
[…]isn’t only locals who love this section of Highway 1—the wildlife stop by, too! Each fall, whales can be seen offshore with the help of the Whale Trail, which highlights the best places for peeping a fin, flipper or tail in the distance. The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery in […]
[…]trash grabbers can come in handy, too. A pair of binoculars is always nice to have on hand for whale watching and birding when the moment strikes. Our handy wildlife viewing tips are great for best practices habitat conservation. See you out there on the sand—and thanks for all you […]
[…]the rhythmic sound of the waves beneath. The pier offers benches for sitting, as well as excellent whale watching, fishing, and opportunities to watch surfers hang ten. For other things to do in Cayucos, don’t miss free samples of sea-salted Brown Butter Cookie Company cookies, or walking the Estero Bluffs […]
[…]along the coast, inspiring awe in even our littlest visitors. Follow our handy Highway 1 Whale Trail for the best places to catch a massive fluke, breach or spout!See the sealsSay hello to Highway 1’s famous elephant seals. With unique, trunk-like noses, they’re fun to observe at the The Piedras […]
[…]San Simeon you’ll find a sign for the Whale Trail, an organization that identifies the very best whale-watching spots along the West Coast. Why did they choose to post up here? Because San Simeon sees an overwhelming number of whales offshore throughout the year, particularly gray whales, minke whales, and […]
[…]ensure that you’re well prepared for every pleasurable pull-off. Whether you’re interested in whale watching, mountain biking and kayaking or oceanfront dining, spa treatments and antique shops, there’s a route as individual as you are. Yes—daydreaming in detail can make all the difference between an amazing adventure and a not-so-satisfying […]
[…]botanical splendor, visit during peak wildflower viewing season, April-May. Watch for seabirds and whales while trekking more than a dozen distinct trails (some ADA-accessible). A popular spot for the whole family, bring your leashed pup and enjoy the colorful scenery. Traverse a wooden boardwalk meandering through wildflower blooms or hit […]
Cayucos wildflowers Whale […]
[…]on the horizon, too. A popular stop on Highway 1’s Whale Trail, Cambria is a prime location for whale watching, especially December-February. Perhaps today is the day you’ll catch a massive fluke or spout emerge from the waves. Don’t blink, you might miss it! Ready to hit the road? Now […]
[…]has it! Amenities This house is designed to delight visitors. Entertainment options include watching streaming TV on the 80” flat screen, or grab a board game and settle in for family fun. There is a portable crib for any little ones and plenty of children’s toys. There is also beach […]
[…]people who are willing and able to hang on tight. Local tip: Wildlife lovers can book a two-hour whale watching excursion off the Avila coast with SLO Tours as well. Grab lunch on the Harford Pier If you’re not in the mood for the hustle and bustle of Avila Beach […]
[…]kingsnakes and the occasional Western Snowy Plover, a near-threatened species of shorebird. Whale Rock Reservoir Want a hike with extracurricular benefits for you and your pup? Take the 3.8-mile trail around Whale Rock Reservoir, located in the hills just above Cayucos. At 40,662 acre-feet, this serene reservoir supplies water to […]
[…]precious landscape. The 24-acre Audubon Sweet Springs Nature Preserve offers up exciting bird watching opportunities, scenic hiking trails and stellar views of Morro Rock. Nearby, a docent led hike through Morro Bay’s Elfin Forest reveals a curious world of ancient pygmy oaks. Plus, an accessible, flat boardwalk makes the excursion […]
[…]for decades, you’ll find many reasons to walk the pier. A prime location for fishing and whale watching along Highway 1, this historic pier is an official Whale Trail stop, complete with educational signage to help you along your way. Nestled at the end of Cayucos Drive on Cayucos’ scenic […]
[…]Elephant Seal Rookery, participate in a beach cleanup in Cambria or embark on an exhilarating whale watching adventure in Cayucos. From Ragged Point Inn’s dramatic backdrop to Nipomo’s undulating dunes, you’ll make lasting memories as you Travel for Good on your next Highway 1 Road Trip. Avila Beach A sunny […]
[…]dramatic ocean bluffs, a grassy marine terrace and a forested ridge showcasing views of migrating whales, birds, and playful otters. Yes, the effort is truly worth the view. Tour Stepladder Creamery Tour Stepladder Creamery in Cambria and find out where happy goats come from. Nested atop a lush hillside planted […]
[…]visitors are invited to learn about the local environment and San Simeon wildlife. For whale watching opportunities, check-out a pair of binoculars from the center and walk down to the pier. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the pier itself, one of the primary points of interest for the region’s popular […]
Whale tail Cayucos Photo by Danna […]
Watching a juvenile Humpback whale blow, show tail and splash last week from the shore on Morro Strand Beach between Cayucos and Morro Bay. Photo by Danna […]
Whale blows from the Bouchard Trail toward the Piedras Blancas Light Station by Danna […]
[…]of Highway 1 between Ragged Point and Edna Valley is popular among cyclists, wine tasters and whale watchers alike. Explore William Randolph Hearst’s famous hilltop mansion, stroll along a historic pier at WR Hearst State Beach and wine taste at Hearst Family Winery in San Simeon. Farther south, visit charming […]
[…]toys and books make this a family-favorite stop. Berry picking at Avila Valley Barn Whale Watching Avila Beach offers prime opportunities for whale sightings, allowing visitors to witness the grace of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The optimal time for whale watching in Avila Beach is during the […]
[…]to its bright yellow open cockpit. Enjoy a scenic flight for two over the Oceano Dunes—or even whale watch from above! Seeking something a little more exhilarating? Book one of Banner Airways’ exciting thrill rides and feel the roar of a 450 horsepower Pratt & Whitney radial engine in action. […]
[…]animal sightings come standard. From elephant seals in San Simeon, sea otters in Morro Bay and birdwatching in Nipomo, you’re never far from your next awesome animal encounter along Highway 1. In fact, this pristine landscape is home to a surprising cast of wildlife characters: Check out the Monarch Butterfly […]
[…]home. You can even spot Bald Eagles if you’re lucky (up your chances with the help of Eagle Watching Tours). With more than 500 campsites, pitch your tent among the oaks or along the water’s edge. Lake San Antonio remains one of the only places in California where shoreline camping […]
[…]miles fom the Paficic.” Day 3: Whale Watching & Hiking “As much as we focus outward to the ocean, the coastline comprises historic ranchland. Fortunately, many of these once massive spreads have been saved from development and most also pay homage to the indigenous Chumash people, who’ve lived throughout the […]
[…]plenty of sunny days, Avila Beach is a SUPer’s dream. Gracefully skim the surface of the ocean watching for curious seals and otters in your wake. Our fave paddle? Travel back in time when you SUP from Avila’s Harford Pier to the San Luis Lighthouse, a 125-year-old relic restored to […]
[…]July 4th parade and sand sculpture contest in laid back Cayucos. Trust us: There’s nothing like watching those magical fireworks explode above crashing waves! 4. Make a Move Music to your ears: Whether you consider yourself a stellar shaker or more of a wallflower, you’re sure to tap your toes […]
