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.

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Cycling in Edna Valley Vineyards
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Things to Do in Arroyo Grande and Edna Valley

Arroyo Grande

Some corners of California’s Central Coast especially reward the people who get off Highway 1 and go looking. Arroyo Grande…

Aerial views Libertine Avila Beach
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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…

Moonstone Beach Boardwalk Cambria
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Things to do in Cambria

Cambria

Where pine forests meet the Pacific, Cambria rewards the slow wander over the quick stop. Lean into the town’s tranquil…

Walking along the Cayucos Pier
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Things to do in Cayucos

Cayucos

Cayucos beckons as a classic California surf town. Here, mornings start with coffee and cookies, days drift between pier strolls,…

A couple walking on sand dunes at the Oceano Dunes
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Things to do in Oceano/Nipomo

Oceano

Where coastal dunes roll into oak-studded farmland, Oceano and Nipomo unfold as Highway 1’s quieter thrill—the kind of place where…

Santa Barbara Downtown
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Things to Do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara rewards wanderers who look beyond the postcard. Where the Santa Ynez Mountains meet the Pacific, Spanish-style architecture and…

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Wine Country Biking

Arroyo Grande

The most scenic way to experience wine country is from the saddle of a bicycle. In the Edna Valley, enjoy…

Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach
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Big Fish, Little Fish at Central Coast Aquarium

Avila Beach

Join us for kids activities and storytime with hands-on interaction with tide pool animals and aquarium exploration.

Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach
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Central Coast Aquarium

Avila Beach

The mission of the Central Coast Aquarium is to cultivate a community dedicated to ocean stewardship. 

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El Moro Elfin Forest Docent-Led Nature Walks

Los Osos

The Elfin Forest supports more than 200 species of plants, as well as 110 kinds of birds, 22 species of…

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Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Docent Nature Walk

Cambria

The Ranch is far from the largest of coastal ecosystems, but packs more biological diversity into a confined area than…

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Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Monthly Work Day

Cambria

The Ranch is far from the largest of coastal ecosystems, but packs more biological diversity into a confined area than…

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Nipomo Native Garden Volunteer Days

Nipomo

The site is in the final stages of being restored to a native botanical garden which will feature native plant…

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Paddle Back In Time to Historic Lighthouse

Avila Beach

Paddle back in time with professional kayak guides to the 125 year old fully restored and quite beautiful Point San…

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Pecho Coast Trail Docent Hikes to Point San Luis Lighthouse with PG&E

San Luis Obispo

The secluded beaches, rugged cliffs and broad coastal terraces of the Pecho Coast have been privately owned and inaccessible to…

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…

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Point San Luis Lighthouse History Tours

San Luis Obispo

Docent-led Lighthouse tours arriving via the historic trolley are held every Wednesday and Saturday

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Rancho Nipomo Historical Dana Adobe Visit

Nipomo

A Living History Lesson

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Volunteer at Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Natural History Center

Guadalupe

The Volunteer Program at the Dunes Center is crucial to its ability to fulfill its mission. 

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Walk Back in Time: Cambria Museum & Historic Buildings Self-Guided Walking Tour

Cambria

Visitors and locals alike enjoy the self-guided walking tour that visits 26 historic structures throughout the small and welcoming town.

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Watch the Sharks Feed at the Central Coast Aquarium

Avila Beach

Visit the shark tank during feeding time at the Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach for an unforgettable experience and…

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