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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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…

Fern Canyon Cambria
Fern Canyon Henry Kluck Memorial Trail

Cambria

This trail passes through Fern Canyon, crosses Fern Drive and dead ends in a chaparral near Highway 1.

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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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Free Online Trail Maps & Trail Work Volunteer Days

San Luis Obispo County

Visitors and local residents alike are invited to download free trail maps throughout the San Luis Obispo and the HWY…

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center Docent-Led Walks

Guadalupe

The Dunes Center hosts a wide variety of events and activities for members, students, volunteers, and the general public.

Hazard Canyon Reef

Los Osos

Hazard Canyon Reef, located within Montaña de Oro State Park, is a gorgeous beach with tide pools and scenic views.

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…

hiking trail
High Ridge Trail

Arroyo Grande

High Ridge Trail passes a series of steep canyons east of Lopez Lake along a fire ridge. 

Edna Valley
Horizon Hike over Edna Valley

San Luis Obispo

Enjoy a mild hike, learn about the vines as you walk through them and take in a 360-degree view of…

Jade stones
Jade Cove

Monterey

Take the trail to the beach and explore this geologically diverse stretch of coast.

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

Lampton Cliffs Park

Cambria

Lampton Cliffs Park is a 2.1-acre park with trails and benches overlooking the sea.

Leffingwell Landing

Cambria

Leffingwell Landing is a scenic spot to sit and enjoy the scenery.

Mallagh Landing

Avila Beach

Mallagh's Landing in Avila Beach is commonly referred to as Pirate's Cove, but the Mallagh Landing name is more accurate…

Oceano Campground Nature Center

Oceano

Oceano Campground, located within Pismo State Beach, offers all kinds of attractions

Mallard duck
Oceano Park Campground & Lagoon

Oceano

Oceano Park and Campground was once a favorite hunting and fishing ground of the Chumash Indians.

Avila Hiking
Ontario Ridge Trail

San Luis Obispo

Ontario Ridge Trail is a rugged, sometimes-steep track crossing a 700-foot hill above the Shell Beach bluff, with spectacular ocean…

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…

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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…

Pismo Dunes Natural Preserve

Pismo Beach

Towering, wind-sculpted sand dunes, a large pocket lake and unique freshwater wetland

Quarry Trail

Los Osos

The Quarry Trail skirts the southern flank of Cerro Cabrillo, past the rubble piles of an abandoned quarry site used…

Salmon Creek Falls

San Simeon

Salmon Creek Falls is a natural, beautiful waterfall found on the Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway 1 located 3 miles…

San Carpoforo Creek Trail, Cambria
San Carpoforo Creek

San Simeon

The San Carpoforo Creek Beach Access is the northernmost portion of the state-owned properties in Hearst San Simeon State Park.

San Simeon Cove, Point and Pier

San Simeon

One of the most ethereally beautiful spots on the planet, San Simeon Point can be seen from Highway One as…

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