central california cities to visit

11 Best Central California Cities To Visit in 2023

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Central California is a region made up of the Central Valley and the Coastal Mountain Range. This area has historically been agriculturally rich, with fertile soils and a Mediterranean climate.

Central California is now becoming increasingly popular as a tourist destination, thanks to its natural beauty, diverse landscape, and plenty of things to see and do. It also has numerous   affordable California cities   that you can add to your road trip bucket list!

Here are some of the best central California cities to visit in 2023.

Best Central California Cities To Visit in 2023

The best way to visit Central California cities is to rent a car and drive. You can drive north to south if you’re starting from San Francisco .

However, if you are visiting from Los Angeles, you would be driving south to north like most of the cities listed in this article.

Here are some of the best Central California cities to visit by car!

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1. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is home to some of the best beaches, wineries, and art galleries in Central California. It’s a wonderful destination if you like the outdoors, yet it also offers plenty of culture and dining options with amazing restaurants like Satellite , Oliver’s Montecito and Modern Times .

While in Santa Barbara, book a  walking food tour , where you will walk around the downtown area sampling cheeses 🧀 chocolates 🍫 desserts 🍨 and other local specialties! For a wine-tasting experience, book one of the  wine tours in Santa Barbara .

👉 Check other popular road trips from Los Angeles 🚘

Best wine tours in Santa Barbara

One of the best things to do in Santa Barbara is visiting the Funk Zone – a former industrial area that has been transformed into an arts district with murals, music, and hipster vibes. At night, you’ll find delicious drinks and plenty of fun!

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A great stay in Santa Barbara is  Inn by the Harbor , a quaint hotel nearby City College of Santa Barbara and a 20-minute walk from Stearns Wharf . The best part? You’ll be a 10-minute from West Beach!

✅ What is San Diego known for ?

2. San Luis Obispo

Where to stay: Madonna Inn

Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, San Luis Obispo is one of the most charming Central California cities known for its laid-back charm, unique culture, and stunning countryside views.

One of the best things to do in San Luis Obispo is to walk around the downtown area and explore the unique boutiques and restaurants. You can also visit Bubblegum Alley , which is a smaller version of the one in Seattle. It is covered in bubblegum and makes for a perfect Insta spot! 📸

Read: Best gifts from San Francisco

For more of a nature experience, visit the Oceano Dunes on Pismo Beach. Oceano Dunes are the coastal dunes in the United States and are a great place to   rent ATVs for four-wheeling , camping, or simply admiring the scenery.

Best tours of San Luis Obispo

One of the best places to stay in San Luis Obispo is the  Madonna Inn , a unique hotel known for its over-the-top design and food. Be sure to check out the Bakery & Pastry 🥮 shop in the inn.

Where to stay: Shoreline Inn on the Beach

Cayucos is a small, laid-back beach town along California’s Central Coast. Cayucos offers some of the best ocean views in Central California and is a fun destination for those looking to surf 🏄‍♂️ or relax.

The pier in Cayucos is one of the most scenic spots, perfect for watching the sunset or fishing for perch. Take a stroll along the beach and visit the unique shops and eateries dotting the area.

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Grab lunch at brunch at the Hidden Kitchen , where they serve delicious gluten-free waffles 🧇 and blue-corn tacos 🌮 You can also sip on a healthy smoothie while listening to the waves on Cayucos Beach🏝

For the treasure hunters, check out the antique shops lining the main street, Remember When and Remember When Too .

The best place to stay in Cayucos is  Shoreline Inn on the Beach , the only hotel that leads directly to the coast.

Where to stay: Cambria Pines Lodge

Cambria is a small coastal central California city off the Pacific Coast Highway. It is known for its mild climate and picturesque setting, with rolling hills and a rugged coastline dotted with tide pools.

Cambria is one of the most   charming places to visit  in Central California if you’re looking to escape city life. The main attraction here is Moonstone Beach , with a long boardwalk, perfect for watching the sunset 🌅 or checking out the tide pools.

You can also check out Hearst Castle 🏰 the former estate of William Randolph Hearst. It is now a popular tourist attraction, which offers tours of its sprawling grounds, gardens, and grandeur rooms.

👉 BOOK AN AMAZING PRIVATE TOUR OF THE CALIFORNIA COASTLINE

You also cannot miss out on Linn’s Easy as Pie Cafe , which offers some of the most delicious desserts on the Central California Coast. The most popular dessert is Olallibery Pie 🥧 made from raspberries and blackberries at the Linn family farm!

If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out the  Cambria Pines Lodge , which looks like a big cozy cabin, but is filled with beautiful 😍 views. The lodge is conveniently located near the town’s main attractions!

Where to stay: Big Sur Lodge

Big Sur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California, and for good reason. Its stunning coastline, lush redwood forests 🌳 and inviting campsites 🏕 make Big Sur a great destination for those looking to explore the best of the Central California Coast!

One of the most popular things to do in Big Sur is to stop by the well-photographed Bixby Bridge and snap a picture. You can also drive down the Big Sur Coast Highway and admire its breathtaking views.

Don’t miss out on a local favorite, Pfeiffer Beach. It’s known for its purple sand and surreal rock formations, like the Keyhole Arch . Swimming is not typically allowed at Pfeiffer Beach because of the strong waves 🌊 but you can certainly dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean and enjoy a picnic 🧺

Best tours of Big Sur

To get the best hiking trails, visit Andrew Molera State Park and hike popular trails like Bluff Trail for some stunning views of Molera Beach.

For Big Sur camping, check out  Plaskett Creek Campground  or  Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground , both of which offer stunning views of the coastline.

6. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Where to stay: Briarwood Inn

Just past Big Sur lies the idyllic central California town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This charming town is home to galleries, small shops, and a variety of restaurants.

Be sure to take a stroll along the white sandy beaches of Carmel Beach while admiring its iconic cypress trees. You can also walk around the city and view the eccentric homes found in this small town.

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Take a break from walking by driving the iconic and scenic 17-mile drive, which winds through Pebble Beach Golf Links and the Del Monte Forest.

Best guided tours of Carmel by the Sea

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, check out the homely   Briarwood Inn , within a 12-minute walk of Carmel Village and Carmel Beach 🏖

7. Monterey

Where to stay: Portola Hotel & Spa

A popular tourist destination for its picturesque coastline and exciting tourist attractions, Monterey is a must-visit city on any trip to Central California because it provides you with the best of both nature and small-town vibes!

Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf provides plenty of great restaurants, such as Abalonetti Bar and Grill’s Gnocchi with Two Sauces dish is delicious! You’ll also want to stop by Carousel Candies and grab a handful of salt water taffy.

Best Monterey whale watching tours

After checking out Fisherman’s Wharf, walk along Cannery Row, a street lined with shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Our favorite shop in Cannery Row is the Troya Turkish Delight and Baklava–when you walk in, look up and see the gorgeous mosaics 😀

✔️ CHECK MORE POPULAR DAY TRIPS FROM SAN FRANCISCO

For some beach views, stroll along the 18-mile Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail , which pops you right into Monterey State Beach . The trail will also provide plenty of shade with the gorgeous Monterey Cypress trees. It’s a scenic walk, so don’t forget to bring your camera. 

For the best stay in Monterey, book a room at the  Portola Hotel & Spa , located right on the beach, and offers stunning views of the bay.

8. Sacramento

Where to stay: Sheraton Grand Sacramento

The capital of California, Sacramento has a wealth of attractions and activities and is one of the best central California cities to visit.

In the heart of downtown is Capitol Park, home to the state capitol building and other historical monuments like the old City Hall, which now houses the California State Railroad Museum .The park also features one of the most impressive rose gardens in all of California.

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For some outdoor recreational fun, visit the Sacramento River and rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard! You can also check out the nearby American River Parkway, which spans miles of trails, forests, and creeks.

Catch a movie at the historic Crest Theatre 🎭 if you are looking for a fun evening activity. This art-deco movie palace offers classic films and live performances in an intimate setting.

If you’re in Sacramento over the weekend, check the schedules for local farmer’s markets, where you can find anything from locally grown fruits and vegetables to beautiful flowers and bouquets.

Where to stay: Double Tree by Hilton

The sleepy town of Fresno is a unique destination in the Central California region. Take a walk or bike ride around the city to explore its sights, sounds, and cultures.

If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, head over to Woodward Park , which is home to many plants like wild irises and redbud trees. You can also find miles of trails, perfect for a morning jog or an afternoon stroll.

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Enjoy some retail therapy at Riverpark, an outdoor shopping mall filled with stores and restaurants. One delightful find in Fresno is a small restaurant called Little Fat Dumpling , which is some of the most authentic Chinese food 🍲 you can find in the California’s Central Valley!

For an overnight stay in Fresno, check out  DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center  a short distance from Riverpark and Woodward Park.

10. Mariposa

Where to stay: The Monarch Inn

Mariposa is a charming Gold rush mountain town in Central California, surrounded by Sierra Nevada foothills and located just south of Yosemite National Park.

The main attraction in Mariposa is the majestic Yosemite National Park – one of the most popular national parks in California . For the best experience, book a guided tour of Yosemite to explore natural waterfalls, towering sequoias, and granite cliffs.

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In the center of town, snap a picture of the Old Mariposa County Courthouse, the oldest courthouse in California and west of the Rockies still in use.

Best rated private tours of Yosemite National Park

Once a year (typically in May), Mariposa holds a Butterfly Festival where visitors can watch a parade, join in the festivities of spring, and witness the release of hundreds of monarch butterflies!

When you get hungry, visit the locally owned 1850 Restaurant, known for its salads 🥗 and craft beers 🍻

For a memorable stay in Mariposa, book a room at  The Monarch Inn  where you can enjoy the grandeur of nature, and also be within walking distance of the California State Mining and Mineral Museum.

11. Yosemite National Park

Where to stay: Yosemite Valley Lodge

Although it’s not a city, Yosemite National Park is a must-see in Central California. From the iconic Half Dome to the majestic Yosemite Falls, this stunning national park with incredible sights and activities for all travelers.

One of the best, but also strenuous hikes in Yosemite, is the Mist Trail accessible from Yosemite Valley, which leads to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.

Best tours of Yosemite National Park

On the south entrance of Yosemite National Park, you can see giant sequoias on the Mariposa Grove Trail for a strenuous hike or take the easy Big Trees Loop Trail. Either way, don’t miss out on seeing this grove of spectacular giant sequoias!

Besides hiking, you can also explore the deep valley floor by bike or take a dip in Mirror Lake.

When you’re done exploring for the day, relax in the comfort of  Yosemite Valley Lodge  and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants.

For accommodations in the park, check out Yosemite Valley Lodge (but you’ll need to book 12 months in advance). If staying in Yosemite National Park isn’t what you’re looking for, you can always book a stay in Mariposa.

Best Central California Cities To Visit in 2023: FAQs

What cities are in Central California?

Though the cities listed here are in central California, the whole region is made up of several more cities, including Modesto, Stockton, Tulare, and more.

What is considered Central California?

Central California includes the areas south of Sacramento, north of Los Angeles, and east of the San Francisco Bay Area. This region boasts lovely coastal towns, wine country, and agriculture.

Is Bakersfield Central California?

Bakersfield is located in the southern portion of Central California, near Kern County, and is considered part of Central California. It is known for its rich culture, diverse population, and energy production.

Although Bakersfield is not one of the most popular Central California cities, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Is Sacramento in the Central Valley?

Sacramento is the capital of California located in the Central part of the state. It’s also notable for being the political center of the West Coast . Besides this, Sacramento is also known for continuously developing culture and has been dubbed a “hipster” city.

When is the best time to visit Central California?

The best time to visit Central California is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild, and there are fewer crowds. On the coast, you may find that temperatures can be cooler and windier during the summer months.

Best Central California Cities To Visit in 2023: Final thoughts

Central California has something for everyone: great food, stunning beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities that make your trip one to remember.

Don’t wait any longer – start planning your road trip down Central California and explore all the beauty and wonders of the region. You won’t regret it!

Have you been to Central California? What are some of your favorite places in this region? Let us know in the comments!

More resources for planning your Central California road trip

• Agoda.com  – a great website for budget hotels in Central California cities
• WorldNomads  – Great service for insurance coverage that will keep you safe on the road.
• Safety Wing  – Excellent insurance plan for long-term travelers that offers competitive rates is you are planning to stay on the road several weeks in a row. 
• iVisa  – the best website for getting help with your visa for the U.S. if you are visiting from another country.
• DiscoverCars.com  – There’s nothing like exploring Central California at your pace. Rent a car at Discover Cars if you want to spend more time along the Central California Coast.
• GetYourGuide.com  – This is one of the best platforms for finding best tours in Central California. Get Your Guide is my favorite platform that offers awesome tours and top-notch guides in many cities in Central California.
• CheapoAir.com  – One of the best platforms for saving money on flights to California and beyond. 
• Booking.com  – a popular website with tons and tons of options for accommodations of all sorts.

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20 Things to Do in Central California That You Can't Anywhere Else

Whether you’re exploring Big Sur or meandering through swoon-worthy beach towns, a trip to the Golden State’s heartland is long overdue.

March 05, 2024

Longing for the ultimate getaway? Head to Central California, where unspoiled coastlines and towering hills pop up at every corner. Whether you’re exploring Big Sur or meandering through swoon-worthy beach towns , a trip to the Golden State’s heartland is long overdue.

Spend your days swimming in the inviting sparkling blue waters of the Pacific. Drive inland from the water’s edge to discover mountainous peaks and desert-like landscapes. We can go on and on with all the things to do in Central California, so here’s a list of our favorites.

Unique Things to do in Central California

1. Cruise through Capitola Village in Santa Cruz County

Get a slice of pedestrian paradise in seaside Capitola, one of the most charming Central California getaway destinations. The colorful Santa Cruz County neighborhood brims with fabulous boutiques and galleries, making for the perfect opportunity to window-shop. Whether you hop aboard a vintage car shuttle or shop for new home decor, you’ll be cruising the area in style. 

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The Forestiere Underground Gardens consist of 65 rooms and three levels. Stroll through the many passageways that take you to different areas and feast your eyes on the many native and exotic fruit trees on the premises.

2. Visit Cannery Row in Monterey

Literary giant John Steinbeck was so enchanted by Cannery Row , he wrote a whole novel about how great it is. Don’t believe him? Check it out for yourself. Monterey’s legendary sardine-canning street is now filled with restaurants and turn-of-the-century buildings. Check out the boutiques, dine at the restaurants, and soak up the culture of Monterey at Cannery Row— Central Coast getaways don’t get any better than this. 

3. Have an Offshore Adventure at Old Fisherman’s Wharf 

When thinking of places to visit in Central California, a trip to the area’s fishing hub is a must. Lined with unique stores and restaurants, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is the best place for cruises and whale watching. Scout for the freshest seafood, then sign up for a whale watching tour with Monterey Bay Whale Watch —a typical Tuesday at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. 

4. Watch the Sea Lions at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Opt for a day trip in Central California and visit a beautiful coastal park miles away from tourist attractions. Scuba divers, hikers, and photographers flock to this place that’s been nicknamed the “Crown Jewel” of the State Park System. Walk the poppy-trimmed paths at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to a limestone overlook. Bring your binoculars and scan the water for sea lions clumsily flopping about in the waves— only locals know about this spot in Monterey .

5. Tour Hearst Castle

Lavishly designed by Julia Morgan—California’s first female architect — Hearst Castle was the private residence of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1947. Now, it’s an eye-popping extravaganza of opulence, towering palms, and wraparound views of the Central Coast. This 165-room castle is one of the top things to see in Central California—the terraced gardens and sparkling fountains are the cherries on top.

6. Visit the Tiny Town of Harmony

A perennial fixture of California’s Central Coast, the quirky town of Harmony is home to only 18 residents. What it lacks in population, it makes up in charm and rich heritage. Explore the local artisans and buy a scoop of Harmony’s signature ice cream from Harmony Valley Creamery . If you're a fan of glass art, head over to Harmony Glassworks , one of the most unique places in Central California .

Things to do on California’s Central Coast

7. Take a Helicopter Tour in Ventura

Soar through the skies on a luxurious helicopter ride with Channel Island Helicopter Tours . Fly over Ventura’s beautiful coast and watch the whales frolic from up above—not too shabby, we must say. This is one of the most memorable and fun things to do in Central California but, thanks to its affordable rates, it won’t break the bank.

8. Kayak in San Simeon Cove

San Simeon Cove is located in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary , the nation’s largest protected marine area. A popular spot for surfers, San Simeon Cove is covered with wildlife and natural beauty. Paddle a kayak and get closer to sea life than anywhere else in the region. For more water-related activities, check out the boogie board rentals and deep-sea fishing charters. 

9. Watch the Sunset at Pismo Beach

While a visit to Pismo Beach is one of the top things to do on California's Central Coast , the 60-acre sun-kissed showstopper never feels too crowded. With plenty of room to spread out and hit the waves, the beach serves as your refuge from the city buzz. Hang around to watch the sunset from the towering pier and observe the last bits of light as they disappear—it’s worth it, we promise.

10. Have a Picnic at Moonstone Beach

Moonstone Beach is home to a one-mile boardwalk brimming with sensational views—a must-see on your Central California vacation. The Moonstone Beach Boardwalk stretches all the way to Santa Rosa Creek Day Use Area. Pack a picnic and drive to the beach in Cambria, where brown sandy coves glisten under the scorching sun. Linger until the sun goes down and share a kiss with your loved one. 

11. Drive along Big Sur Coast Highway

Driving along Highway 1 through Big Sur is one of those road trips that never gets old . The two-hour drive quickly turns into a Central California day trip thanks to all the lookouts and hiking opportunities along the way. Drive past the scenic Bixby Creek Bridge and make a short detour to see the gorgeous McWay Falls. 

12. Walk along the California Coastal Trail 

Make your date swoon by taking them on an outdoor date on the California Coastal Trail. Spanning across the 1,200-mile California coastline, the trail is an unforgettable Central Coast adventure waiting to happen. Whether you spend a weekend in San Luis Obispo, Monterey, or Ventura, you can still find yourself walking hand-in-hand along a segment of this gorgeous trail.

13. Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove 

As one of only five places in California that hosts over 10,000 butterflies, Monarch Butterfly Grove ought to be at the top of your list of things to see in Central California. The lively orange-and-black showstoppers make their way to Pismo Beach every year to escape the freezing winters of the north. They seek refuge at the grove from October to February—the best time of year for you to visit as well.

Things to do in California’s Central Valley 

14. learn about the animal kingdom at fresno chaffee zoo.

Spread across 39 acres, Fresno Chaffee Zoo is one of Central California’s best attractions. Traverse the countless winding trails to find yourself in the presence of elephants, cheetahs, and roaring lions. Take your kids back in time at the "Zoorassic Park'' exhibit to see how life was when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

15. Check out the Historic Silver City Ghost Town

Travel back in time to Bodfish and pay a visit to Silver City Ghost Town . This Central California attraction consists of old-mining-era buildings dating back to the 1850s. As you explore the grounds of Silver City, you’ll come across a number of artifacts and spooky mannequins that make your adventures even more memorable. Rumor has it that the town jail is haunted—see for yourself and experience the paranormal at this ghost town. 

16. Get a Sugar kick at Bravo Farms 

Founded in 1995, Bravo Farms is the family-friendly Central Valley attraction you’re looking for. With three locations across the state—Traver, Tulare, and Kettleman City— entertainment overflows wherever you go. Spend the day climbing treehouses, feeding animals, eating ice cream, and playing miniature golf because there’s no time like family time. 

17. Get a History Lesson at the Tulare County Museum

Tucked away in Mooney Grove Park, the Tulare County Museum is the best way to get to know the region’s farming history. Featuring an abundance of Native American agricultural displays, the museum offers the unique opportunity to travel back in time and learn about Central Valley’s cultivation. Examine artifacts from the pioneer era, marvel at the agriculture equipment, and explore the restored buildings that help you uncover Tulare County's history.

18. Hike the Revis Mountain Ridge Trail

A can’t miss among Central Valley's hiking trails , the Revis Mountain Ridge Trail is a nature lover’s paradise. Starting off steep, the trail continues swiftly downhill through fields, offering breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Lakes Park. The Revis Mountain Fire Road Trail signifies the end of your journey, providing a chance to change course for a new adventure.

19. Trek Aimee’s Loop Hiking Trail

A Tehachapi showstopper, Aimee’s Loop invites both beginners and advanced hikers to explore nature’s bounty. The hike is fun and easy—the path connects to the neighboring Mifflin and Jane’s Loops in case you want to extend your trek further. Get everyone to join you on this easy hike and spend quality time with your family and friends.

20. Watch The Trout at San Joaquin Hatchery

Nestled along the San Joaquin River, San Joaquin Hatchery is an excellent addition to your Central California road trip. This prime producer of trout and inland salmon offers you plenty of space to admire the fish. While you're here, enjoy a picnic on the hatchery’s grounds which are filled with California native plants. Don’t forget to take a picture in front of the colorful trout sculpture and practice your fishing skills at the nearby San Joaquin River.

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30 Best Central California Coast Attractions For Visitors

With warm weather year-round, the California coast is an ideal location for exploring any time of the year . If you’re planning a trip to the coast, in this guide we share first-hand knowledge of all the best Central California Coast attractions!

As California locals, these are all places that we have personally visited and keep returning to over and over again. From charming beach towns to rugged landscapes and endless hiking trails, there is so much to see and do in this region.

This list covers all the best locations on the Central California Coast from Malibu all the way to Santa Cruz (in order from south to north). Let’s get started!

Thinking of renting a campervan or RV to travel around California? We recommend using our favorite van rental company Outdoorsy . Outdoorsy offers thousands of recreational vehicle rentals from popular cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more. Check out Outdoorsy here !

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, may I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!

30 Best Central California Coast Attractions:

1. el matador state beach.

Located just north of the bustling Los Angeles city, Malibu offers a peaceful getaway on the coast. This wealthy beach town is known for mega-mansions, lots of outdoor hiking trails, and the scenic El Matador State Beach .

El Matador State Beach is a public beach located off Highway 1 that travels next to the coast. This stunning beach features ocean cliffs with jagged, towering rocks scattered along the sandy shoreline .

The unique setting makes this beach an excellent place for photography, especially around sunset and sunrise!

I use the Sony a7c camera for my travel photos. This is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera available on the market – perfect for traveling, hiking, and road trips – while still maintaining the same incredible image quality as Sony’s full-frame cameras.

Ventura is a cozy Central California Coast town and happens to be our home for the past several years. Despite being a small beach city, there are so many incredible things to do in Ventura !

Ventura is best known for having beautiful beaches, a charming downtown area with lots of restaurants & breweries, scenic hiking trails, and of course world-class surfing. Some of the best surfing spots in California can be found in Ventura County.

Ventura also boasts excellent day picnic sites at the San Buenaventura State Beach . At this beach, you can head on a walk or a bike ride along the Ventura Beach Bike Trail down to the Ventura Pier and beyond. Be sure to stay for an epic sunset at Surfers Point at Seaside Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf, book this Ventura Surf Lesson ! During the surfing lesson, the experienced instructors will teach you how to stand up on the surfboard, find your balance, and ride waves to the shore.

3. Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park is the place to go if you’re seeking epic outdoor adventures away from the busy tourist crowds. Planning a trip to the Channel Islands does take a bit of effort as you will need to make boat reservations ahead of time .

Channel Islands National Park consists of five islands:

• Santa Barbara

These islands can only be reached by a private boat or by booking a ride through Island Packers Cruises . Anacapa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa are the most popular islands for visitors.

I’ve been to Santa Cruz Island as a day trip before and it was truly a remarkable experience! We rented kayaks through Channel Islands Kayak Center in Ventura that we brought on the boat with us to kayak around the sea caves.

After, we spent a couple of hours hiking along rugged cliffside trails with stunning views all around. If you’re looking for incredible California Central Coast day trips, it doesn’t get better than this!

4. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of the best attractions in Central California. This beach town draws big crowds year-round for its charming boutique stores, delicious restaurants, pristine beaches, and top-rated hotels.

You can spend the day walking down the Stearns Wharf , visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786 , go shopping along State Street and grab food & drinks in the Funk Zone .   

Santa Barbara County is also home to over 280 wineries and produces some of the best wines in California. It’s the perfect place to take a wine-tasting tour of the Santa Barbara wine country to sample some of the wines made here!

5. Los Olivos

Visiting the small town of Los Olivos is one of the most romantic things to do in Central California. This charming town is home to over 25 wineries and tasting rooms offering the perfect place to relax and unwind for couples on a weekend getaway.

Most of the wine-tasting rooms are located within a couple of city blocks so you can easily walk around and try out a few different spots. Some of the most popular wineries in Los Olivos are:

• Carhartt Family Wines
• Saarloos and Sons
• Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard (10 minutes north of town)

Solvang is an interesting Central California tourist attraction. This little town is situated between Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach so it’s a great stop for those on a road trip along the Central Coast.  

Solvang is a unique town with Danish-style houses and businesses . From picturesque windmills to fun Octoberfest events, pastry stores, and charming boutique shops, the entire town focuses on attracting tourists and visitors.

Not sure where to start? Book this Solvang Food and Photo Tour that will take you to all the best foodie spots in town while learning more about Solvang’s history!

7. OstrichLand USA

Stopping by OstrichLand USA is a unique thing to do on the Central California Coast, especially for families with kids. At this destination, you can pay a small fee and see ostriches and emus up close in a ranch setting .

For an additional $1, you can even purchase bird food to feed the big guys. Just be sure to watch your fingers as some of the birds can get a bit aggressive when eating!

OstrichLand is open to visitors every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entrance costs $7 for adults, $3 for kids (under 12), and $5 for military. After your visit, you can stop by the gift shop where you can check out souvenirs to bring back home.

8. Oceano Dunes

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a few hours, head over to the OHV Open area – Oceano Dunes SVRA just south of Pismo Beach town! This open space allows off-roading in cars and ATVs amongst giant oceanfront dunes .

If you don’t have a car that you feel comfortable taking into the dunes, we recommend renting an ATV or UTV from one of the rental companies in Pismo Beach. This is what we did on a previous visit and had such a blast riding a 2 seater UTV up and down towering sand dunes!

We rented a UTV from the popular Steve’s ATV Rentals on Pier Avenue nearby. You can also check out availability and pricing from Arnie’s ATV Rentals and Sun Buggie Fun ATV Rentals across the street.

9. Pismo Beach

As California locals, Pismo Beach is a place that we keep returning to over and over again!

This coastal town has an array of fun outdoor adventures including camping, hiking, surfing lessons , and ocean kayaking. Pismo Beach also offers lots of opportunities for relaxing and lounging on the sunny shoreline.

A few of the top places to visit in Pismo Beach include:

• Pismo Beach Pier . Here you can walk down the wooden pier and watch surfers catch waves in the ocean.
• Pismo Preserve . This outdoor space has beautiful oceanfront hiking trails. Our favorite hike is the 3.4-mile-long Spring To Spring Trail At Pismo Preserve .
• Meadow Creek Trail . This short trail follows a wooden boardwalk next to the ocean dunes with stunning views along the way. It’s flat and easy making it a great place to go for a leisurely stroll for families with kids and dogs.
• Old West Cinnamon Rolls . I can’t visit Pismo Beach without stopping by Old West Cinnamon Rolls . This family-operated bakery has been selling THE BEST cinnamon rolls since 1972 (the long lines out the door speak for themselves!).

Read Next: 20 Top Things To Do On a Weekend Trip To Pismo Beach

10. Monarch Butterfly Grove

Pismo Beach offers some of the best opportunities for viewing Monarch Butterflies on the California Coast. At the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove , you can stroll around and explore a eucalyptus grove where butterflies seek shelter in the winter months.

We recommend visiting Monarch Butterfly Grove grove from October to December when you might see thousands of butterflies resting together in the eucalyptus trees. This is one of the few groves in California that often receives over 10,000 butterflies per season!

11. Dinosaur Caves Park

Dinosaur Caves Park is one of the top things to do on California’s Central Coast with kids. This 11-acre oceanfront park features a playground, easy walking paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities making it a great spot to visit for families.

Take a walk along the bluffs, enjoy the scenery, and see a variety of bird species that live on the jagged ocean rocks just off the shore. This location also features restrooms and is dog friendly, so it’s a great stop for those on a road trip along the coast.

12. Avila Beach

Situated slightly north of Pismo Beach, Avila Beach is another wonderful location for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular attractions in Avila Beach include the oceanfront Smugglers Cave , Cave Landing , and Pirates Cove Beach (clothing optional).

If you have extra time on your hands, I highly recommend hiking the Ontario Ridge To Shell Beach Bluff Trail . This loop is only 3 miles long with stunning coastal views from up top. There’s even a picture-perfect swing that hangs off an oak tree with the sparking ocean as the background!

After, stop by the Avila Valley Barn to browse through local products, grab a sandwich for lunch, and pet the adorable farm animals.

13. San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo (or SLO) is a wonderful Central California Coast city for relaxing getaways. SLO is situated slightly inland between Pismo Beach and Morro Bay so it’s a little less crowded than the nearby beach towns.

San Luis Obispo is a great place to visit for the day as a stop on a road trip or as a weekend mini-vacation. A few of the most popular attractions in the city include Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa 1772 , the famous Bubblegum Alley , and Irish Hills Natural Reserve .

SLO is also home to the quirky Madonna Inn where each of the unique rooms is decorated with a different theme!

Just a short drive from the city you can visit charming local wineries including:

• Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards
• Edna Valley Vineyard
• Tolosa Winery and many more!

Read Next: 12 Best Hikes In San Luis Obispo County, California

14. Montaña de Oro State Park

Montaña de Oro State Park is a hidden gem just south of Los Osos town near Morro Bay. This oceanfront State Park offers quiet campsites at the Islay Creek Campground along with beachfront hiking trails.

Covering over 8000 acres of land, Montaña de Oro is one of the biggest State Parks in California yet it’s very much under the radar for most travelers. Here you can enjoy solitude away from the crowds, beautiful seaside scenery, and miles of hiking & mountain biking trails.

15. Morro Bay

Morro Bay is the perfect Central California coastal destination for those who want to be close to the beach, yet get away from big tourist crowds. This low-key town is a great place to head for beachfront camping, hiking, and mountain biking enthusiasts.

Whenever we come to spend a few days in Morro Bay, we like to stay at the Morro Bay State Park Campground . There are also lots of great hotels in Morro Bay with ocean views if camping is not your thing!

A few of the top things to do in Morro Bay include hiking the Black Hill Trail , visiting the towering Morro Rock , and indulging in fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants situated along the Embarcadero shopping strip.

A few of the most popular seafood eateries in Morro Bay are:

• Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant
• Great American Fish Company
• Giovanni’s Fish Market And Galley

16. Morro Bay T Pier

Popular for its stunning views, Morro Bay also offers some of the best places for viewing wildlife in California!

Morro Bay T Pier is situated along the Embarcadero road and extends like a T shape out into the ocean creating a calm habitat for wildlife, especially sea otters . Sea otters typically stay near marinas and nature preserves where they can find plenty of kelp forests and seafood to munch on.

Depending on the time of year, you can see from a few to several dozen sea otters floating in the Morro Bay marina. Due to calm water and abundant food options, the Morro Bay T Pier has become a popular place where you can observe sea otters with their young pups resting on their bellies ( is there anything cuter than this?! ).

17. Cayucos

Cayucos is a hidden little gem of a town that most people don’t even know about in California! Here you can visit the Cayucos Pier , hike at Estero Bluffs State Park , and swim, surf & layout in the sand at Cayucos State Beach .  

If you want to get away from the crowds while enjoying stunning ocean views, we recommend hiking the Cass Hill Trail in Cayucos . We’ve done this hike a couple of times and the views from the summit are just gorgeous!

18. Cambria

Cambria is a picturesque area on the Central Coast with stunning landscapes. Charming boardwalks, rugged ocean views, and diverse ecosystems make Cambria a great place to enjoy nature and observe wildlife in California.

For first-time visitors, I highly recommend spending a few hours hiking at the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve . Here visitors can often spot whales, seals & otters, and head down to the beach to explore tide pools from the trails that travel next to the bluffs.

Cambria also has a small, charming downtown filled with cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and wineries.

Read Next: 17 Best Places To Stay In Cambria CA Near The Beach

19. San Simeon

San Simeon is a charming area that offers lots of outdoorsy things to do for families and couples .

Here you can spend the day lounging in the sand next to the San Simeon Pier, go on a hike along the San Simeon Bay Trail to see elephant seals, and enjoy wine tasting at the Hearst Ranch Winery set next to the ocean.

If you are a fan of camping, you can book a campsite at the Hearst San Simeon State Park which features spacious campsites close to the beach. For hotels and vacation rentals, check out our guide that covers 18 best places to stay in San Simeon, California!

20. Hearst Castle

When looking for places to visit on California’s Central Coast, be sure to add Hearst Castle to your list! This grand estate is located on a hilltop near San Simeon and allows visitors with guided tours .

Hearst Castle consists of 165 rooms, a spacious garden, terraces, and outdoor swimming pools, all filled with artwork and historic artifacts. Visitors can book a variety of Hearst Castle daily tours that showcase different parts of the estate.

On your way to Hearst Castle, be sure to keep an eye out for wild zebras that reside in the hills surrounding the property. The zebras were originally brought over by William Randolph Hearst as part of his private zoo and were later released into the wild.

21. Elephant Seal Vista Point

If you love animals, you’ll want to visit Elephant Seal Vista Point just north of San Simeon!

This is one of the most popular sightseeing stops along California’s Central Coast for families and little kids. This vista point is located just north of Hearst Castle and consists of walkways and viewing platforms where you can giant elephant seals lounging on the shoreline from a safe distance.  

Elephant Seals were once nearly hunted to extinction, but have made a miraculous recovery. The best time to visit this lookout point is in the winter months from November to January when the elephant seals congregate on the beach for mating.

22. Big Sur

Big Sur is a place that you have to see at least once in your life! This rugged stretch of California coastline has some of the most pristine landscapes in the world that are hard to believe exist.

The entire Big Sur drive is around 90 miles long starting in San Simeon in the south and ending in Carmel-By-The-Sea in the north. It’s best to set aside 2-3 days to explore Big Sur and see all of its top attractions at a comfortable pace.

If you’re short on time, you can drive the entire stretch of Big Sur in one day. We’ve done both and either way, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views along the way!

Before heading into Big Sur we recommend downloading a Big Sur Self-Driving Audio Tour   that comes with a map of the route and all the best attractions. There is no cell reception in Big Sur so this will help you keep a lookout for popular stops!

23. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a beautiful destination on California’s Central Coast. This is an easy attraction to access while driving along Highway 1 in Big Sur so many people stop here on their road trips.

The most popular trail at this State Park leads to a viewpoint of McWay Falls , a stunning beachfront waterfall in California . Visitors are not allowed to go down to the sandy shoreline but can see and photograph the waterfall from a designated viewing platform.

Visitor Tip: It costs $10 to visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for the day. The visitor parking lot is located just north of Pacific Coast Highway 1.

24. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a beautiful hidden gem along the Big Sur coast. This stop offers epic views of rugged ocean cliffs, a sandy beach where you can lay out, and a unique rock formation called the Keyhole Arch .

To reach Pfeiffer Beach you will need to turn off from Highway 1 and follow the narrow Sycamore Canyon Road to where it ends at the Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area.

Visitor Tip: It costs $12 to visit Pfeiffer Beach for the day which you can pay upon arrival. Dogs are allowed on the beach which is great for those traveling with their furry four-legged friends!

25. Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is a Central Coast attraction that can be a quick stop or you can turn it into a several-hour adventure. This gorgeous State Park consists of beachfront hiking trails that start at the coast and travel into the nearby canyons.

If you’re looking for quick road trip stops, there are several turnout points along Highway 1 where you can park your car and walk down to the rugged ocean cliffs. A few of the most popular viewpoints are:

• Garrapata State Park Vista Point
• Painters Point
• Soberanes Point

In the spring months, you’ll see lots of blooming wildflowers along the trails adding to the beautiful scenery. Keep an eye (and ear) out for sea lions that you might see and hear lounging in the rocks nearby.

26. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

At Point Lobos State Natural Reserve you’ll find lots of short day hikes, rugged cliffs, wildlife viewing opportunities, and gorgeous ocean views. Two of the most popular hikes here are the Cypress Grove Trail and Sea Lion Point Trail which travel next to stunning ocean cliffs and turquoise beach coves.

Visitor Tip: It costs $10 to visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for the day. You can pay the visitor fee at the entrance booth that’s located at the beginning of the park off Highway 1. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed anywhere within this nature reserve (including cars).  

Want to see the best of this nature reserve in a short amount of time? Then book this Guided 2-Hour Point Lobos Nature Walk where an experienced guide will take you to all the top landmarks and wildlife viewing spots in just 2 hours ( rated 5/5 stars )!

27. Carmel By The Sea

Right next to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, you can visit the small coastal community Carmel-By-The-Sea. We often stay here on road trips because you can find plenty of charming hotels and inns while still being close to the Big Sur drive.

Within the town, you can explore Carmel Mission Basilica Museum , spend a few hours at Carmel River State Beach , and dine at a cozy café in downtown Carmel.

28. Monterey

One of the most fun things to do in Central Coast of California is visiting Monterey City just north of Big Sur! Known for its laid-back vibe, its proximity to the coast, and the incredible scenery, Monterey is a must-see location.

For starters, we recommend driving the loop around the Monterey peninsula and stopping at some of the most popular attractions including:

• Old Fisherman’s Wharf
• Lovers Point Park
• Spanish Bay
• Lone Cypress
• Pescadero Point

Monterey is also home to thriving marine life. If you have kids, set aside a few hours to explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium where you can see different exhibits and wildlife viewing stations.

From Monterey, you can also head on an exciting Half-Day Whale Watching Tour . During this tour, you’ll be able to see migrating grey whales along with humpbacks, blue whales, dolphins, and sea lions – a true bucket list experience!

29. Santa Cruz

For a unique and memorable vacation, head over to Santa Cruz situated just slightly south of San Jose. This eclectic beach town offers fun attractions such as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , Natural Bridges State Beach , and the Santa Cruz Wharf .

From this coastal town, you can head on many amazing redwood trails near Santa Cruz to hike amongst giant redwood trees.

Within a short drive, you can also reach The Mystery Spot – a fun tourist attraction where you can take a tour of a ‘slanted cabin’ and be entertained for an hour by the quirky tour guides displaying various gravity-defying objects.

Read Next: 12 Top Places To Stay In Santa Cruz On The Central Coast

Felton is located just slightly north of Santa Cruz and offers a wonderful place to escape into the forest. The scenic drive along Highway 9 is an adventure of its own with towering redwoods, viewpoints, and narrow, twisty turns!

At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton, you can visit some of the oldest redwood trees in California that were protected from logging. Nowadays only 5% of the original redwood forests remain on the West Coast after most of these gentle giants were logged during the 1800s.

Within this redwood park, you can marvel at 270+ foot tall redwood trees, hike the mile-long Redwood Grove Loop Trail and cool off at the San Lorenzo River. As a fun adventure, you can book a train ticket at Roaring Camp to ride a historic steam train through towering redwood trees – an unforgettable experience of a lifetime!

Looking for more information on Felton? Check out these guides next:

• How To Hike The Lime Kiln Trail In Fall Creek Unit, Felton
• 10 Top Rated Vacation Rentals & Hotels In Felton, California
• Staying At The Fern River Resort In Felton

We hope this guide has helped you discover a few new places to add to your Central California travel bucket list. With pristine landscapes, sandy shorelines, fun outdoor activities, and charming beach towns there are plenty of adventures to discover on the coast!

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Be sure to check out these guides next:

• 25 Best Beaches On The Central Coast In California
• 20 Best Waterfalls In Central California (By a Local)
• 15 Top Rated Catalina Island Tours
• 16 Best Places To Stay In Carpinteria CA On The Coast
• 15 Wonderful Places To Stay In Oxnard Near The Beach
• 13 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels In Ventura, California

This post is written by Laura . Hi, I’m a California local and the founder of the California Wanderland travel blog. I currently live in Ventura County and help 30,000 readers a month discover things to do in Central California! Read more about me here .

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30 Awesome Things to Do & See on a Central California Road Trip

One of the most thrilling road trips I’ve experienced is cruising  Highway One  along the  Central California Coast . The scenic coastal regions of Monterey Bay, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, food and wine tours, and cultural celebrations. Whether you’re camping your way south or hopping from one beachfront resort to the next, consider these 31 amazing activities and attractions sprinkled along the Central Coast.

Monterey Bay-Area Highlights      

For pacific beauty & a classic boardwalk.

Known as the “Coney Island of the West,” the  Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk  is a go-to destination for seaside attractions and adventure. I love the vintage vibe of the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the Loof Carousel . Funnel cakes and kettle corn are definitely on the menu.

Beyond the beach, Santa Cruz offers a warm community of arts and culture. Celebrate local flavours with small-batch organic spirits at  Venus Spirits . Or explore the  Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History  for a glimpse into local history. Tip: First Friday Festivals offer free admission.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience :  Kristin from CamelsAndChocolate.com Jess from APassionAndAPassport.com

Capitola Village

For pedestrian charm.

The Mediterranean-inspired seaside town of  Capitola Village  shares a charming, vibrant neighborhood perfect for boutique shopping and gallery exploration. You’ll find one-of-a-kind home accent pieces, cute beachwear, and more in this fabulous stretch of shops. Summer is always hopping with  marathons ,  classic car shows , and the annual  Jay Moriarity Memorial Paddleboard Race .  

Travel blogger who has lived the experience :  Laura from OurNextAdventure.co

To eat up its signature Gilroy Garlic Festival

Known as the  Garlic Capital of the World , Gilroy welcomes thousands of visitors each July to this annual festival. Sample regional menus in Gourmet Alley, and add some spice to your step dancing to music at three festival stages. Here are two more great reasons to visit Gilroy . 

Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail

Because....wine.

Each January, as part of California Restaurant Month,  Gilroy Restaurant Week  celebrates local culinary champions where guests can savour regional dishes. Year-round, experience an abundance of family-owned wineries and tasting rooms along the  Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail . 

For sips and Steinbeck

Start in Old Town Salinas at the National Steinbeck Center  to admire "Steinbeck Country" through the lens of this influential American novelist.

From here, venture up the   River Road Wine Trail . Whether cruising through the vineyard on ATVs at Hahn , admiring the barrels stored in a 100-year-old barn at Ventana , or enjoying a fresh picnic lunch at Pessagno paired with some absolutely amazing Zinfandel, there is a lot of fun to be had at each and every one of the 13 wineries on this tour. The valley is also playfully know as the "Salad Bowl of the World," so visitors are sure to get some of the freshest produce around.

Cannery Row

For a classic monterey experience.

Visit legendary  Cannery Row  for more than 25 restaurants, several unique shops in turn-of-the-century buildings, and the  Monterey Bay Aquarium . For additional family adventure, challenge yourself in the  Mirror Maze , and then cozy up in the evening by a  seaside fire pit .

Travel bloggers who have have lived the experience :  Jessica from HejDoll.com Julie from JulieBlanner.com Leslie from TripsWithTykes.com 

For offshore adventure

Find fresh seafood at  Old Fisherman’s Wharf  in Monterey, then sign up for a  whale watching tour.  Schedule a kayak or bicycle tour along the waterfront with  Adventures by the Sea , or set out for a day of adventure on the  Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail .

Pacific Grove

For oceanside charm.

 For a quaint Main Street USA vibe with unique shops, eateries, and pristine beaches, visit  Pacific Grove . The town features one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the country and the annual  Feast of Lanterns  is a tradition dating back more than a century.

Travel blogger who has lived the experience :  Ruth from TanamaTales.com

For beach vibes & birding

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve  is a wonderful park for observing thousands of seabirds, listening to the call of sea lions, and exploring archeological sites. Spend the day hiking trails and then head to  Carmel Beach  for stunning sunsets.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience : Katherine and Romeo from Travel the World CarolineInTheCityBlog.com Kara from WhimsySoul.com

Pebble Beach

For classic cars, golf and gourmet bites.

Cruising classic cars along the coast is a time-honored tradition.  Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance  is an internationally renowned classic car event showcasing an award-winning collection. For culinary connoisseurs, the annual  Pebble Beach Food and Wine  festival celebrates fine wine paired with world class cuisine.  

For waves, waterfalls, woods and that famous bridge

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience :  Ana from TheCitySidewalks.com Jenna from ThisIsMyHappiness.com Meraki from TravelWithMeraki.com

San Benito County

For wine and wildlife.

Imagine rolling hills and endless sunshine and you’ll get an idea of what to expect in San Benito County . Around  Pinnacles National Park , visitors may catch glimpses of prairie falcons, magpies, and wild turkeys. The same hilly landscape home to wildlife offers ideal grounds for wine growers, so you’ll find an exceptional  wine route  to tour.

San Luis Obispo-Area Highlights

To tour the famous Hearst Castle

A part of the California State Park system,  Hearst Castle  was originally built by art collector W.R. Hearst. The estate offers guided tours and a grand garden, along with a theater sharing castle history. Tour reservations are recommended at this popular attraction.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience :  Ana from TheCitySidewalks.com Julia from ALadyinLondon.com

To visit a tiny town

You’ll notice the town of  Harmony   boasts 18 residents, but the town is packed full of charm and big on welcoming visitors. Enjoy a scoop of Harmony Valley Creamery ’s signature craft ice cream, then explore the local artisans in town including Harmony Glassworks and Harmony Pottery .

Paso Robles

To rev your engine.

A fun family favorite,  Estrella Warbirds Museum & Woodland Auto Display  shares impressive exhibits of Navy and Air Force vehicles, planes, and memorabilia. The auto display focuses on historic racing cars, classic cars, and other artifacts.

For classic Cars & kites

San Luis Obispo

For wine tasting, culture and history.

For a relaxing afternoon, spend time exploring  Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa , built in 1772 and surrounded by Mission Plaza . Here you’ll find two blocks of restaurants, galleries, and more downtown attractions perfect for a casual stroll.

For an award-winning dining experience, make reservations for   Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House . With hot pink decor and twinkle lights adorning the dance floor, you’ll love the blend of fine dining in a playful atmosphere.

While in SLO wine country, you’ll want to enjoy  SLO vineyards  and festivals, including  Flavors of SLO  and  Harvest on the Coast .

If breweries and beer are more your taste, you’ll want to explore members of the  Central Coast Brewers Guild .  Use the interactive  beer trail map  to guide you through Central California’s craft breweries. 

Travellers who have lived the experience :  Scott and Megan from BoboAndChichi.com

Pismo Beach

To choose your own active adventure.

One of the Central Coast’s best places to boost your adrenaline is  Pismo Beach , a gorgeous stretch of sand perfect for horseback riding. If you love water sports, this is a great spot for kayaking, kite boarding, and surfing. When hunger strikes, you’ll find a vast assortment of dining and beverages in this seaside town.       

Santa Barbara-Area Highlights

For murals and makers.

Take a mile walk along the Old Town Lompoc Heritage Walk and enjoy sites that date back to the 1870s. 36  Lompoc Murals  throughout the historic heart of downtown will delight and surprise with the assortment of artistic expression. Wrap up your exploration with downtown  food and wine  and a little boutique shopping.

Travel writers who have lived the experience :  Dave from CanadianTraveller.com

To eat up some tasty food festivals

The annual  Buellton Wine & Chili Festival  hosts a chili and salsa contest, along with area wine tastings, entertainment, and more. Local favorite  Buellton Brew Fest  features more than fifty breweries and wineries with live entertainment and food trucks. Or,  visit downtown Buellton  for year-round culinary celebrations, wine tastings, and brewery tours.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience :  Katherine from CanadianTraveller.com   Dan and Lindsay from FollowYourDetour.com  

To get local in Santa Ynez Valley

Visit  Olive Hill Farm  for an amazing sensory experience of tasting local artisan oil. Or satisfy your sweet tooth at  Stafford’s Famous Chocolates , a Los Olivos tradition since 1987. For unique hand-crafted goods, visit  Artisans Gallery  for handmade leather goods.

For a slice of Denmark in America

I immediately fell in love with  Solvang’s Danish village  of Scandinavian bakeries and cafes. Just 35 miles north of Santa Barbara, this quaint town features European-style architecture, windmills, and wineries.  Annual events  include food lover’s Taste of Solvang , while weekly  3 rd  Wednesday  festivities include wine tastings and entertainment.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience : Andrea from SaltyCanary.com Micah and Moani from TheWanderingDragons.com

Santa Barbara

To taste the taco trail.

Considered “The America Riviera” for its romantic  Spanish architecture  and culinary culture, you’ll find a mouthwatering assortment of venues in the Santa Barbara  Taco Trail . Combine tacos with  margaritas  year-round and the annual  Old Spanish Days Fiesta , and you’ll see why Santa Barbara is a food enthusiast destination.

For seafood, shopping, and sunshine

Visit the  Saturday Fisherman’s Market  for fresh  seasonal seafood  and a vibrant waterfront community. Continue your seaside stroll at  Stearns Wharf  for souvenirs and specialty shops, and a visit to Great Pacific Ice Cream Company. With 300 hundred days of sunshine, Santa Barbara is a coastal paradise bursting with  history and culture .

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience : Jessica from BowsAndSequins.com Alyssa from TheAList.me   Lauren from AFabulousFete.com

Ventura-Area Highlights

To bliss out in nature

Ojai - pronounced "Oh-hi" is the Chumash word for "moon" - which pretty much sums up the ethos of this blissed-out stronghold. Ojai caters to a relaxed crowd looking to pamper, meditate, tap into the spiritual, or simply escape the franchise trappings of bigger cities. Shop boho threads and lifestyle goods at In the Field , sleep in an Airstream at Caravan Outpost , shop vintage at Summer Camp , and indulge in a communual  Kayum (traditional Chumash) treatment at  Ojai Spa and Resort.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience :  Andrea from SaltyCanary.com Archana from MySocaldLife.com

To surf, sip and SUP

For a leisurely drive, be sure to cruise along the  Ventura County Coast . Here you’ll find charming towns stretching across the coastline, whale watching and championship golf, and access to  Channel Islands National Park .

Explore history and architecture at  Mission San Buenaventura , but save time to explore  Ventura Harbor Village , a pet-friendly dining and shopping destination with stunning coastal views.

Pop into  Seaward Surf & Sport  for board rentals or to schedule surf lessons. Then visit  Surf Brewery  for a remarkable small-batch tasting experience.

To fully experience the vibrant culinary community of Ventura County , mingle with locals and visitors alike with  Ventura Food Tours .  

Channel Islands National Park

For an off-grid detour into nature.

If you can believe it, just off the coast of America's most populous state, one national park manages to escape widespread attention.  Channel Islands National Park  ranks around the eighth-least *  visited in the contiguous United States. The Islands can thank their remoteness for their hidden-gem status, and also the rich biodiversity that thrives in their isolation. Visit on a day trip or camp overnight . 

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience :  Christy and Scott from OrdinaryTraveler.com Cassie from EverInTransit.com

For coastal cuisine and adventure

Marvel at the annual  Tall Ships  celebration or spend the day  sport fishing  sea bass, halibut, and other Pacific catches. Experience the longest model railroad train layout at  Murphy Auto Museum .  For food and fun, celebrate seasonal treats during the annual  Oxnard Tamale Festival , savor sweet specialties during the annual  California Strawberry Festival , and spice it up during the  Oxnard Salsa Festival .

Old Town Camarillo

To eat up farm-fresh gourmet.

With year-round sunshine and a charming downtown perfect for pedestrians, Old Town Camarillo is a delight to visit. From local  breweries and bistros  to a Saturday  Farmers' Market , you’ll find plenty of tasteful temptations celebration the local agrotourism. 

Keep reading:  10 Reasons to Escape Winter in Camarillo

Simi Valley

For presidents & parades.

Explore more than 100 acres of collections at the  Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum . Board Air Force One or tour the kids around a Secret Service Exhibit. Then experience the culinary culture of  Simi Valley  at the  Cajun & Blues Music Fest  or the annual  Simi Valley Days  carnival and parade.

Travel bloggers who have lived the experience : 

Melody of WhereverIMayRoam.com Ashley of WanderlustInTheCity.com

Ready to road trip California's Central Coast? Let TheOriginalRoadTrip.com lend a hand : 

Maps & Itineraries | Places to stay | Food & Wine

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12 Best Coastal Towns in Central California

Central California spans from San Francisco down to Ventura County and it holds some of the most beautiful landscapes, gorgeous beaches , and impressive views you’ll find anywhere. Packed into this 350 miles of coastline, you’ll find dozens of towns and cities to visit, each with their own unique charm, but all with a wonderful coastal vibe.

If you’re looking for a great place to spend a weekend, consider one of the best coastal towns in Central California. These beach towns offer everything from stunning natural scenery and delicious seafood to vibrant nightlife and plenty of activities. Here are some of the best coastal towns in Central California to check out.

If you’d like to plan a longer trip, check out our Northern California road trip itinerary, and you can tack onto it some of these lovely Northern California coastal towns to lengthen it any way you want.

Not every town can boast an ocean view, but you’ll find endless sea views in these Central California dream towns.

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco , Los Angeles , Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey , waterfalls in Southern California , and national parks.

» Get a sneak peek of these coastal towns with this web story .

Table of Contents

Best Coastal Towns in Central California

One of the more famous northern California coastal cities, Santa Cruz is a juxtaposition of old and new. Historic and old-fashioned buildings are the backdrops to a vibrant University youth culture and thriving brewery scene. 

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is home to an old-fashioned funfair, complete with kettle corn, rollercoasters, arcades, and a carousel. It’s open from late May until late August, so if you’re visiting during the summer months make sure to attend this staple Santa Cruz attraction. 

While you’re near the beach, why not take a surfing lesson and be one with the waves? It’s a world-famous surfing spot, after all. Natural beauty is also very precious to this ecologically-minded city though, so hiking through the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a must. 

Cayucos is a small beach town in Northern California that packs a big punch. It’s a living time capsule where antique fairs are held in May and October, and artistic murals of the Old West line the walls of the town. 

The town is only about 5-square miles, so it’s easy enough to take yourself on a walking tour of this quaint location if you have a great pair of walking shoes . If a sea breeze is what you crave, head to the 950-foot pier and stroll along its wooden planks past the fisherman competing for their daily catch. 

It’s also an ideal place to grab some tubular waves (or a surf lesson or two if you’re a beginner). 

With a protected harbor and marine sanctuary, Morro Bay is quite possibly one of the best Northern California coastal cities for wildlife encounters. Depending on the season, you’ll find Humpbacks and giant Blue Whales passing through on their migratory routes. Orcas and dolphins can generally be seen year-round. 

Bring your binoculars, because it’s also recognized as a top spot for bird-watching. Gorgeous peregrine falcons nest on the prominent Morro Rock, an old volcanic plug that protrudes 576 feet from the mouth of Morro Bay. 

But a trip to this bay isn’t complete without visiting the Embarcadero, a waterfront strip replete with restaurants, cultural attractions, and retail stores. You’ll even catch sight of otters and sea lions walking along its lengths. 

Summer brings many tourists to the area, but the laidback vibe of the town is pervasive throughout the seasons. Experience the best of the area on a guided e-bike tour.

» Try this tour: Private Surf Lesson in Morro Bay

Monterey is one of the oldest city in California, having been founded in 1770. It’s one of the most gorgeous seaside towns you’ll ever visit. In my opinion, the best way to visit Monterey is by car. Just driving through the Monterey Peninsula, with all of its beautiful scenery, dramatic ocean beaches, and old Spanish architecture, can be an experience of a lifetime.

There are so many other great things to experience in Monterey, like:

• Discover Old Fisherman’s Wharf with its great restaurants, seafood, unique shops, and whale watching.
• Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium with over 200 award-winning galleries and exhibits and approximately 550 different species of marine life.
• Cannery Row is an unforgettable experience. Visit it’s many shops, restaurants, and picturesque coastal views. Learn about it’s history and how it influenced John Steinbeck’s book by the same name.
• Play golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links which has repeatedly been ranked the No. 1 Public Course in America.
• Take one of the numerous whale watching boat cruises to see Grey and Killer whales, dolphins, turtles, porpoises, sea lions and more.
• Take the incredibly scenic  17-mile drive  past Pebble Beach
• Go wine tasting in nearby  Carmel by the Sea , one of the cutest little towns you’ll ever visit.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel is a beautiful area, with beaches, vineyards, and lovely ocean views. The entire area around Central California coast is a sight to see. That’s what makes traveling there in an RV so fantastic. You can set up in an RV park near the beach, then set out for day trips to  Monterey  and Carmel-by-the Sea.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small European-style village that is well loved and maintained by the community. They don’t allow big-box stores or chain hotels, so wherever you choose to stay will be a locally owned inn. There are many adorable shops and restaurants to visit, in between tastings.

If you’re in town for a wine tasting weekend, visit the downtown tasting rooms for a charming weekend activity. See our full guide to  wine tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea  for winery recommendations.

» Try this tour: Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour in Carmel by the Sea

Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is situated about midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. You can get there by car or fly into San Luis Obispo. If you’re considering taking a trip to Pismo Beach, you can find all kinds of fun things to do.

There are no large amusement or theme parks, just 23 miles of beautiful, uncrowded beaches and sand dunes surrounded by golf courses, wooded areas, and small towns.

Accommodations are plentiful, with everything from campgrounds and RV parks, to inexpensive motels to hotels in various price ranges to luxury beachfront resorts and spas. There is no dearth of restaurants, you can find coffee shops, family restaurants, excellent seafood restaurants and fine steakhouses.

Lie on a white sand beach soaking up the sun during the day and go for long moonlit walks along the oceans edge at night. Go whale watching, see huge colonies of giant elephant seals up close, dig your own clams for lunch or dinner, visit one of the most spectacular Monarch Butterfly Groves in the country, or spend a leisurely day fishing off the 1200 foot pier.

The city of Santa Barbara, which includes Hope Ranch and Montecito, has a population of approximately 90,000, and it receives millions of visitors per year thanks to its proximity to the beach and its upscale, laid back vibe.

We like to spend a day in Santa Barbara every once in a while, popping into wine tasting rooms in the Funk Zone, relaxing on the beach, and dining out with friends at one of the many excellent restaurants (many with outdoor dining).

State Street – the main street through town – is now pedestrianized, which makes it a true pleasure to walk along, stopping for a drink or a coffee while shopping at the high-end and boutique stores along the way. Tour the Mission, go sport fishing or whale watching, visit the Farmer’s Market, rent a bicycle and ride the bike paths along the ocean.

» Try this tour: Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour

Ventura is at the southern end of what is considered the Central Coast of California. It’s a lovely beach town that is often overlooked for the more well-known Santa Barbara. But just 30 minutes south of Santa Barbara is this great laid-back, low-key beach where you can actually find plenty of space to spread out on the sand.

Starting with the Ventura Pier, which is the centerpiece of the waterfront in the city. The pier is the oldest pier in California. There’s a brewery (one of 11 breweries in Ventura ) and beach taco restaurant at the start of it, before you wander out to the end. To the southeast is the sprawling beach and San Buenaventura Park, perfect for picnics and long afternoon BBQs.

The Ventura downtown area is a great place to stroll around, with cocktail bars, restaurants, and boutique shops along the pedestrianized Main Street.

Pacific Grove

Pacific Grove is a charming and historic town located on the Monterey Peninsula. It’s known for its beautiful Victorian homes, as well as its close proximity to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and other attractions in the area. Pacific Grove is also a great place to go whale watching, and during the winter you can often see whales breaching just offshore.

With just about 15,000 residents, the town is small and quaint – a great place to visit when you’re looking for a laidback place to hang out. The best way to enjoy the area when you first arrive is to start at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, drive Oceanview Boulevard to Lovers Point Park – one of our favorite parks for a picnic in the area.

Then continue on Sunset Drive to Asilomar Beach, where you can walk along the rocky coastline and enjoy the dunes. In Pacific Grove, there’s a monarch butterfly grove, some great tidepools to examine, and a Museum of Natural History.

San Simeon is a small town located on Highway 1 in central California. It’s well known for its proximity to Hearst Castle , one of the largest and most famous estates in the United States. You’ll want to get tickets in advance (Adult $30, Child $15) and plan to spend about 2 hours exploring.

When you come back into San Simeon, stop by Hearst Ranch Winery for a wine tasting, take a walk out on the San Simeon pier, and along the gorgeous William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach. If you’re up for it, hike out the San Simeon Point for a spectacular view.

San Simeon is also a great place to go whale watching, and during the winter you can often see whales breaching just offshore. There’s also a Friends Of The Elephant Seal Visitor Center and Gift Shop where you can observe elephant seals from the boardwalk and viewing areas.

Pacifica is a beautiful coastal town located halfway between San Francisco and Half Moon Bay. It’s known for its rugged coastline and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Pacifica is also home to some of the best beaches in Northern California, and it’s a great place to go surfing or whale watching.

With the 100+ miles of hiking and biking trails, and views like you wouldn’t believe over the Pacific Ocean, Pacifica is a great place for outdoorsy types who want to spend their time exploring. Rockaway Beach is one spot not to miss, with many restaurant and shopping venues, plus trails to the bluffs on either side. Be sure to stop at Nick’s Rockaway restaurant for some local seafood.

There are also some great hiking opportunities including Mori Point, Milagra Ridge, and Sweeney Ridge. You can also find great surfing and snorkeling opportunities if you’re properly prepared to get in the water.

Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is a small town located on the coast just south of San Francisco. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Half Moon Bay is also home to some of the best surfing in Northern California, and it’s a great place to go whale watching.

Half Moon Bay State Beach is a lovely destination along the bay. The Coastline Drive goes north to Pillar Point, which is near Mavericks, California’s biggest waves. Montara Mountain rises in the protected Rancho Corral de Tierra region, and nearby is Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve on the slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Being located along the  Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary , you’ll also enjoy plenty of marine biodiversity. At many of the local beaches, you’ll see all kinds of birds and wildlife, you can spread out on the sand for a picnic, or explore the tide pools.

These are just a few of the best beach towns in Central California. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the beach life or you’re looking for a place to explore and experience some of the best that California has to offer, these towns are definitely worth checking out.

Once you’ve had your fill of cooling off at the beach, why not head to these amazing places for a dip in some Northern California hot springs ?

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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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Welcome To California's Central Valley

Food and wine is abundant in this region filled with orchards, vineyards and farms. Home to many of California's finest museums and galleries, the valley offers a wide variety of live entertainment, events and attractions welcoming visitors year-round.

Yolo County is like a breath of fresh air, perfectly situated in Northern California just a short distance away from Sacramento, Napa and the San Francisco Bay Area. The area is historic, charming, and quaint with small towns that leave a big impression, offering a range of experiences that are home grown and rooted in authenticity. So come savor the seasons with us and gather year-round to discover where good times grow.

Nestled in the rolling hills just west of Sacramento Valley -- an hour from San Francisco, and within minutes of the Napa and Sonoma wine countries – Vacaville, California is a special place to live, work, play, and visit. Our pastoral setting, charming and vibrant downtown, and world-class shopping make Vacaville a perfect getaway or home base to your Central Valley California vacation experience.

Nestled in the heart of Northern California, less than an hour from both San Francisco and Sacramento and just 15 minutes from Napa Valley, Fairfield is best known for being home to the world-famous Jelly Belly Factory.

As proud as Fairfield is of its iconic attraction, there is so much more to see and do. The picturesque Suisun Valley, home to over a dozen tasting rooms, is a place for visitors searching for world-class wines and calm and beautiful country roads. If you're looking for a different flavor of fun, check out our locally-owned breweries and taprooms. 

Look around and discover there is so much to see and do in Fairfield. Spend the day wine tasting, sample award-winning olive oils, kayak on the Suisun Marsh or enjoy a round of golf at one of our championship courses. The travel opportunities in and around Fairfield are endless! 

Centrally located in northern California’s Central Valley, Stockton is the county seat for San Joaquin County. Stockton is currently the 13th largest city in California with a dynamic, multi-ethnic and multi-cultural population of about 300,000. It is situated along the San Joaquin Delta waterway, which connects to the San Francisco Bay and the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers. Stockton is home to California’s most inland seaport and is located just 83 miles east of San Francisco, and 45 miles south of Sacramento, the capital of California.

Surrounded by rich agriculture and the award-winning Lodi wine appellation, Stockton is home to year-round farmers’ markets, fruit stands and nearby wine tasting. Be sure to request our new San Joaquin County Farm Guide and Map . Stockton is also home to dozens of multi-cultural, family-friendly festivals year-round; pair that with a variety of great dining and shopping, and it’s a weekend!

Nestled along Highway CA-120 between San Francisco and Yosemite Valley, Oakdale, California, is a charming embodiment of small-town America. Embraced as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Oakdale proudly boasts the highest number of PRCA Rodeo champions per capita, a testament to its rich cowboy culture. Explore our town's western-themed attractions, attend thrilling rodeos, or immerse yourself in history at our two museums and numerous murals, showcasing our vibrant local culture.

Oakdale's agricultural heritage thrives through its local specialty businesses like SONS Farm Fresh, Oakdale Cheese, Sconza Chocolates, and Roberts Ferry Gourmet, offering a delectable taste of authentic California flavors. Whether you're savoring farm-fresh cheeses or hiking scenic trails in Historic Knights Ferry, Oakdale invites you to experience its unique charm. Discover the allure of Oakdale, where small-town hospitality meets cowboy flair, promising an unforgettable California adventure.

Modesto offers visitors distinctive hotel accommodations, a variety of restaurants, and a great selection of shopping. Modesto is packed with unique visitor attractions along with a year round schedule of intriguing events and festivals. With a rich mix of Farmers ’ Markets, produce stands and tours, we provide numerous ways to enjoy a diverse agricultural experience. We encourage you to come stay in Modesto!

Yosemite Mariposa County, home of Yosemite National Park, welcomes you to experience majestic Yosemite in all four seasons. Explore all the things to do in Yosemite, such as seeing awe-inspiring vistas, granite icons, breath-taking waterfalls, and discovering fascinating history, while staying in Mariposa County. 

Whether it’s your first time visiting Yosemite National Park or you’re a seasoned veteran traveler, you’ll always find something new to do here. Search for events, lodging, dining, directions and more here.

Madera County is known as California's Gateway to Yosemite.

As you drive to Yosemite, you'll find that Madera County has much to offer; restaurants with amazing menus featuring fresh locally grown ingredients, award-winning wineries along the Madera Wine Trail and Yosemite Sierra Wine Road, incredible art galleries and inspiring museums throughout the region. It’s possible you may spend more time outside Yosemite than you ever imagined. Add in the outdoor fun and beauty of Bass Lake, and you'll see Madera County, combined with Yosemite, makes for a perfect vacation. 

No matter where you're coming from, Yosemite's southern entrance takes you through some of Yosemite's most iconic spots - The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, Tunnel View, Glacier Point and more - all accessed via the Southern Entrance.

 So, come for Yosemite, stay for the wine, the food, the arts & culture and the fun.

Fresno County boasts approximately 300 days of sunshine a year. It is the only metropolitan hub in California centered between three national parks—with Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia only a 90-minute drive from Fresno and Clovis. Known for its agricultural bounty, it is home to 1.88 million acres of the world’s most productive farmland, making it a foodie paradise!

Experience a getaway packed with adventure, whether you choose to explore the national parks, tour the Forestiere Underground Gardens (a home created underneath the earth’s surface, with tunnels, and trees planted underground!), run wild at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, peruse antique shops in Old Town Clovis, sip award-winning wines along the Fresno County Wine Journey, attend a Triple-A Baseball game in Downtown Fresno, relax in one of California’s chilliest beer gardens, marvel at locally made masterpieces at ArtHop, or dine in a nearly 100-year-old brick schoolhouse serving up modernized American cuisine at Schoolhouse Restaurant & Tavern.

Whatever type of travel your wanderlust spirit is in search of, soul-stirring adventure awaits in Fresno County.

This 'Jewel of the Valley' city and gateway to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks is home to a friendly and charming downtown while nestled in the nation’s most productive agriculture and farming region. Stroll along vibrant Main Street for restaurants, shops, arts and entertainment. Here you can find a perfect craft brew and seasonal menus at our locally owned restaurants. Enjoy a Rawhide baseball game, shop at the farmers market, attend one of the many festivals, and explore hundreds of outdoor excursions including Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, just 40 minutes from Visalia.

Real Adventure Starts Here.

Off I-5 and on CA 99, 58 and 178.  Belly up to the bar and sample the local brews on tap on the Bakersfield Kern County Brewery Trail , where you will find their quality sets them apart from the national brands.  Pose at some of Bakersfield’s most unique spots when you explore the Bakersfield Selfie Trail , including   the only shoe-shaped building in America with shoelaces. Explore the Bakersfield Museum Trail, a 15-mile route connecting the city’s four main museums: the  Kern County Museum where you will can visit the restored childhood home of country music legend Merle Haggard; the  California Living Museum (Bakersfield Zoo),  featuring many   endangered California animals and plants in natural settings; the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science where you can explore the world of fossils and dinosaurs, and the Bakersfield Museum of Art,  where a diverse variety of paintings and sculpture by California and international artists await you. Visitors can enjoy the all-American Bakersfield Sound   at Buck Owens’  Crystal Palace  featuring the country music star’s memorabilia, a restaurant and a live country music performance theater where top acts perform today. Other dining choices in the city include the largest collection of Basque restaurants in the nation, seven eateries that Guy Fieri featured on his “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” and many others regularly noted in the national food press.  And work off that genuine grub with our many outdoor choices, such as the Kern River Parkway Trail  with more than 30 miles of scenic bike trails and whitewater rafting tours on the Kern River.   Go to:  VisitBakersfield.com .

The River Fox Train, a sister of the world-famous Skunk Train, traverses the countryside of Yolo County just 15 minutes west of downtown Sacramento with multiple rail adventures offered weekly.

Railbike rides; relaxing beer and wine trains; and holiday-themed outings–like Pumpkin Express and magical holiday trains–allow passengers to enjoy activities while becoming immersed in nostalgic railroad charm.

Additionally, guests sightsee Sacramento from a unique perspective: ivy-covered woodlands, expansive acreage, and glistening riverfront views with every traveled mile. RiverFoxTrain.com; (800) 866-1690.

Tour, taste, shop and eat! Hilmar Cheese Company produces more than 1 million pounds of cheese each day! Free tours. See employees package the “big cheese,” a 640 lb. block! Explore hands-on exhibits and taste complementary cheese and gourmet food. Browse the beautiful gift shop. Enjoy famous cheese chowder, fresh salads, and gourmet sandwiches in the Deli-Café. Ice cream and espresso counter. Beautiful park.

CENTRAL VALLEY IN THE NEWS

Almond orchards will be blossoming across the state over the next few weeks, including in Modesto.

California's alt bloom is just as pretty as Washington, D.C.'s cherry blossoms.

The Almond Blossom Cruise is making waves, check out the article in the New York Times Travel by Elaine Glusac, The Frugal Traveler

Lodi, the unassuming wine region south of Sacramento, with its 100,000 acres of wine grapes , boasts over 85 wineries, and the country’s highest concentration of old vines.

Experience one of California's coolest sights by visiting Modesto for the annual almond blossom bloom.

California ’s agricultural heartlands are often eclipsed by their snazzier coastal counterparts , but pause to consider a trip to the Central Valley, home to some of America’s finest farmland—and in particular, almond groves.

Stockton Restaurant Week is a 10-day dining extravaganza that gives local eateries the chance to show-off some of their most popular, curated, and newly introduced dishes at a unique fixed price. In 2024, we are expecting over 30 menus to showcase and they will all be available here!

See what's new in Mariposa County for 2024

Modesto, California, a hidden gem in the state's breadbasket, boasts a remarkable culinary scene.

Unsure where to go and what to do this Veterans Day? Read our blog and find out which top fishing destinations we've chosen for you.

THIS was not the California I was expecting. I thought of beaches, palm trees and celebrities. I think that’s what everyone pictures when they think of California but I learned there is much more t…

Modesto, Fresno, Bakersfield and Stockton all made this list! A ranking of the Best American Cities with metro populations of 500,000 people or more.

Lodi, California, during the fall season, is a picturesque and inviting destination that charmingly captures the essence of autumn.

These beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain towns in California are perfect for those looking to embark on an epic adventure in the Golden State's wilds.

Today, we're highlighting and ranking the best national parks in California

Berryessa Gap Vineyards ’ (BGV) received top awards in the 2023 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest wine competition in North America. 

Join the CVTA

The Ultimate Central California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Ready to explore the best Central California Coast road trip itinerary? As a California native, my love runs deep for an epic road trip that showcases California’s unique landscapes.

My love for creating itineraries is well-documented here on Bon Traveler, and while I’ve shared my ultimate Northern California Coast road trip itinerary in the past, I’ve never shared one for another area of the coast that I love: the Central California Coast.

Navigate Central California Like a Local!

Unlock the best-kept secrets of Northern & Central California with my curated Google Map, showcasing 600+ accommodations, eateries, coffee shops, and unique experiences. Get the map here!

But take it from someone who’s had the opportunity to really dig into the Central Coast. It’s not a destination you should be sleeping on. There are stunning natural landscapes, design-focused hotels, and noteworthy food and wine scene.

Particularly over the last few years, a number of hotel openings have drawn attention in the travel world with locales like Paso Robles and the Santa Ynez Valley. The Central Coast has grown in popularity as a bustling destination. It’s been exciting to see small businesses pop up and offer new things to do in areas I love so much.

The best part? When on a Central California road trip, the journey is as important as the destination. There’s so much to see and so many incredible views along the Pacific Coast Highway. You’ll have an amazing time whether you drive the whole thing or just do a small slice.

With that, here is my preferred Central California Coast itinerary and a guide to the region. As you go through, remember that your own ideal trip doesn’t need to include all of these things. Pick and choose what appeals to you and you’ll have a great experience.

Short on Time? Here’s How I Would Spend 1-2 Weeks Road-Tripping the Central California Coast:

Stop 1: carmel-by-the-sea — 2 nights.

• Hotel Carmel ,  for the best village hotel
• Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave ,  for the best new hotel
• Villa Mara ,  for the best boutique hotel
• Carmel Mission Inn ,  for the best design-for-dollar hotel
• La Playa Carmel ,  for the best larger hotel
• L’Auberge Carmel ,  for the best luxury hotel
• Carmel Valley Ranch ,  for the best luxury resort

Stop 2: Big Sur — 1-2 nights

• Alila Ventana ,  for the best all-inclusive hotel
• Big Sur Lodge , for the best family-friendly hotel
• Big Sur River Inn ,  for the best budget stay
• Glen Oaks ,  for the best design-for-dollar-hotel

Stop 3: Cambria and Cayucos — Pass Through During Drive

• White Water Cambria , for the best overall hotel

Stop 4: San Luis Obispo — 2-3 nights

• San Luis Creek Lodge ,  for the best overall hotel
• Granada Hotel & Bistro ,  for the best downtown hotel
• Edna Farmhouse ,  for the best private homestay

Stop 5: Santa Ynez Valley — 2-3 nights

• Hotel Ynez ,  for the best overall hotel
• The Inn at Mattei’s ,  for the best luxury hotel
• Fess Parker Wine Country Inn ,  for the best-located hotel

Stop 6: Santa Barbara — 2-3 nights

• El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel ,  for the best luxury hotel
• The Ritz-Carlton Bacara ,  for the best beachfront hotel
• Kimpton Canary ,  for the best downtown hotel
• Hotel Californian ,  for the best family-friendly hotel

What to Know Before Choosing Your Itinerary

Where to start or fly into.

Luckily, there are many options for where to begin your trip. Monterey Regional Airport and San José Mineta International Airport both make great choices for those wanting to drive north to south. You can even start farther north such as San Francisco International Airport if you’re looking to avoid a connection.

You can also start your trip from the southern part of the Central Coast depending on where you’re coming from. Santa Barbara Airport works well, and even Hollywood Burbank Airport will put you within striking distance.

Amount of Time

In my opinion, one week is really the optimal amount of time to get the most out of the Central Coast and take in the varied experiences this region has to offer. Everything from stunning nature in Big Sur to city culture in Santa Barbara.

That said, you could easily spend more time on the Central Coast if you want to see it tip to tip or linger in places that resonate with you. This itinerary taken in full will take you up to 12 days.

Weather and Time of Year

I’d avoid the winter if possible since it’s normally a rainier season. May and June tend to bring gloom and fog. Later in the summer, however, can be a great time to go, and it’s typically not as crowded as other, beachier areas of the coast during this time.

Spring and fall are also both gorgeous, with spring bringing abundant wildflowers and fall bringing harvest season to the wineries.

Stop 1: Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Recommended time: 2 nights, things to do in carmel-by-the-sea.

The fairytale village of Carmel has always had my heart, with its charming architecture, twisting trees, and quaint streets to explore. You can easily spend half a day or more wandering aimlessly, popping into galleries, shopping the boutiques, and taking it all in. Afterward, make your way to Carmel Beach to watch the surfers and take in the scenery.

Away from the town, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a beautiful place to explore and view wildlife. Carmel Valley also has great wineries, including Folktale Winery , a favorite of mine.

Helpful Carmel-by-the-Sea Guides to Plan Your Trip

• This guide is perfect for first-timers
• These are my top picks for things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• These are the 20 best restaurants in Carmel
• This guide details the best restaurants in the area
• Here’s a guide to the surrounding Carmel Valley

Carmel by-the-Sea Hotel Recommendations

For a modern stay in the heart of the village, you can’t beat the Hotel Carmel . It’s just a stone’s throw from the many shops, galleries, and restaurants Carmel has to offer and less than a mile to the beach as well. Rooms are charming, with great design around every corner, and the exterior spaces are special too, with firepits and a jacuzzi available for guest use. Daily happy hours with wine take place on the terrace, and the room rate comes with breakfast. Book the best rates here .

Stop 2: Big Sur, California

Recommended time: 1-2 nights, things to do in big sur.

Big Sur might just be the star of your Central Coast road trip. It’s all about nature here, and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park —referred to as a “mini Yosemite”—is one of my favorite places to experience it, with ample redwoods and creeks to explore. Andrew Molera State Park and Garrapata State Park are two great options for hiking.

The well-known and busy Big Sur Bakery is an attraction in itself, with people lining up well before opening to sample its baked goods. I’ve been here countless times and love grabbing pastries to go on the way to the beach. Big Sur provides a very nature-focused experience with jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean.

Helpful Big Sur Guides to Plan Your Trip

• Here’s the ultimate guide to Big Sur .
• This is my complete guide for where to stay .
• These photos will inspire your road trip .

Big Sur Hotel Recommendations

• Big Sur Lodge ,  for the best family-friendly hotel

I’ve stayed at Alila Ventana multiple times and can’t say enough good things about the property. It’s visually stunning, perched among the trees and featuring an ocean view, and its mountainside Japanese hot baths are a standout feature. Rooms are luxurious but cozy, with some suites featuring outdoor showers or hot tubs, and the hotel has a library of vinyl you can borrow to play in your room. In addition, Alila’s all-inclusive format makes things easy in terms of dining. There’s lots of optional programming included, too, such as guided nature walks, stargazing, and beekeeping. Book the best rates here .

Stop 3: Cambria and Cayucos, California

Recommended time: pass through during the drive or consider 1 night in cambria, things to do in cambria and cayucos.

Cambria makes a perfect stop to break up your drive between destinations. The Harmony Headlands hike is a must for nature lovers and sports California poppies in the spring. Moonstone Beach is another great place to get outside, and you can admire its many moonstones and jade rocks during a morning walk.

San Simeon, home to the famous and eclectic luxury estate Hearst Castle , is also just 15 minutes up the road. And consider stopping in the town of Cayucos for lunch at Hidden Kitchen . This coastal spot is known for its delicious blue corn waffles.

Helpful Cambria and Cayucos Guides to Plan Your Trip

• Here’s a full guide to Cambria , with enough for a weekend getaway
• This itinerary is perfect for design lovers

Cambria Hotel Recommendations

Stop 3: san luis obispo, california, recommended time: 2-3 nights, things to do in san luis obispo.

This laid-back town provides several great ways to get outside, from wine tasting in the Edna Valley to hitting Avila Beach for a picnic or soaking at Sycamore Hot Springs. And you can’t skip Montaña de Oro State Park , which is an amazing place to hike or spot wildlife, including whales and sea otters.

Downtown is also vibrant, with plenty of places to dine or grab craft coffee or cocktails. Ambiance , Wilde House Paper , and Blackwater are some favorite local shops in the area.

Helpful San Luis Obispo Guides to Plan Your Trip

• Here’s how to spend 48 hours in the city
• This guide outlines the city’s best hotels

San Luis Obispo Hotel Recommendations

• Edna Farmhouse ,  for the best private vacation rental

San Luis Creek Lodge is a beautifully restored motor lodge with impeccable design and thoughtful touches throughout. The interior décor style combines California chic and laidback farmhouse, making for cozy, inviting settings. Each room is outfitted with Aesop bath products and plush Fili d’Oro bed linens. But the best part about this property may just be the breakfast delivery: Each morning, fresh pastries and coffee are placed in a cloth bag hung on your door for when you wake up. Book the best rates here .

Stop 4: Santa Ynez Valley, California

Things to do in santa ynez valley.

One of the main attractions of this area is wine, and you can’t leave without popping into a tasting room or visiting a vineyard. Sunstone Winery and Brave and Maiden are two stunning spots where the wine and views are equally incredible, and Bodega Los Alamos is a popular and aesthetically pleasing tasting spot in Los Alamos.

There are also several towns within the valley, including Santa Ynez, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, and Solvang, and each offers something different and special. Solvang is known for its Danish architecture and culture, while Santa Ynez and Los Olivos each offer excellent boutique shopping (don’t miss Santa Ynez General , Forage Florals , or the Los Olivos General Store ).

Helpful Santa Ynez Valley Guides to Plan Your Trip

• Check out the ultimate guide to the Santa Ynez Valley
• Here’s my full list of the best hotels in the Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Ynez Valley Hotel Recommendations

Don’t let the casual and bohemian feel of Hotel Ynez fool you: It’s still quite elegant and cozy. This beautiful boutique hotel sits on two lush acres of land and is perfect for a trip any time of year. In the warmer months, the pool is a convenient way to cool off, and fire pits offer a place to warm up and enjoy a glass of local wine on chilly evenings. Its Solvang location off the main strip of restaurants and tasting rooms provides for a more quiet and private experience, so it’s a great place to stay for a more relaxing getaway. Book the best rates here .

Stop 5: Santa Barbara, California

Things to do in santa barbara.

Santa Barbara, also known as the American Riviera, really has it all in terms of things to do. There’s tons of natural beauty along the coast and in the mountains, along with tons of history and culture. Shopping, dining, and drinking opportunities are all abundant, and the Funk Zone is the perfect neighborhood to do all three.

For me, the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens is a can’t-miss; you can stroll through several different garden types and even see some redwoods. The Red Tile Walking Tour downtown is also a major draw, and it will take you around all the city’s most important historic sites. Santa Barbara, thanks to its location, is also the best place on this road trip itinerary to hit the beach, and my recommendation is Butterfly Beach .

Helpful Santa Barbara Guides to Plan Your Trip

• Here’s a roundup of the best things to do in the city
• This guide to the 20 best restaurants will help you plan your dining experiences
• Here’s a guide to Santa Barbara that includes side trips to Ventura and Ojai

Santa Barbara Hotel Recommendations

On a recent trip to Santa Barbara, the Kimpton Canary provided a great home base for exploring the city. You’re just steps off of the city’s main street, making the location hard to beat. Rooms have the beautiful Spanish-inspired architecture that Santa Barbara is known for, and the rooftop—which has a pool, hot tub, and bar—is the perfect place to catch the sunset. Book the best rates here .

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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This is a very detailed and helpful guide for planning a road trip along the Central California Coast. You have covered everything from the best hotels and restaurants to the most scenic and fun activities. I love how you categorized the itinerary by different stops. Your photos are also beautiful and show the diversity and charm of this region.

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Everything You Need To Know For The Ultimate Central California Road Trip + Six Day Itinerary

You can spend months exploring Central California and all the natural beauty it has to offer. From small seaside surf towns to the major tourist destinations that everyone knows about, you could easily extend your vacation indefinitely. Though Central California can get over-shadowed by NorCal and SoCal , it’s a region that offers incredible landscapes ranging from jagged cliffs and crashing waves to vineyards and rolling farmlands. Moreover, Central California has an incredible bounty of farm-fresh produce, fruits and meats which make dining exceptional at many restaurants. Exploring this region of California will be worth while whether seeking adventure or relaxation, or simply a memorable getaway.

One Week Exploring Central California: Travel Guide + Itinerary

There’s never really a bad time to explore Central California. But in my opinion, the best time would be sometime during the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and it’s not too hot. We went at the beginning of April and lucked out with perfect weather.

Also , always keep a jacket or sweater in hand, a s it will always cool way down come sunset. Another thing to keep in mind? In case you stumble upon the perfect spot on the coast to dip your toes in the water, keep flip flops and a beach towel handy.

Keep cash on hand for when you inevitably run in to farmer markets and fresh produce stands on the side of the road.

Central California Destinations

We started our trip in San Francisco and proceeded to Carmel-by-the-Sea, San Luis Obispo, Solvang, Cambria, Monterey and back to San Francisco.

Carmel-By-The-Sea

This European-style town offers visitors quaint old world vibes and sophistication that will have you quickly falling in love with the picture-perfect town. Certainly it’s is one of the most quaint, seaside villages you’ll ever come across. Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its fairytale cottages, art galleries, and storybook-looking boutique shops that ooze romance and whimsy. In other words, it’s a one-of-a-kind destination.

Check out my complete Forbes piece on the Monterey Peninsula here.

What to Do in Carmel-By-The-Sea

Bikes, Bites, & Bevs tour with Carmel Food Tours

Stop by  Mad Dogs & Englishmen  and rent one of their shiny, top-of-the-line e-bikes or classic bikes for a tour of the coast. Popular, incredibly stunning routes include the Scenic Drive in Carmel, 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach and Point Lobos. You can start right at the bike shop and take a number of routes, each one featuring turquoise blue waters, white sand beaches, windswept cypress tress, cliffs and more.

Landmarks include Butterfly House, Carmel River State Beach, and Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch. On your way to the highway, you’ll pass the Carmel Mission which is celebrated its 250th anniversary last year.   Your guide will also lead you on a couple lovely mini-hikes in Point Lobos on foot.   Perfect for all ages, it’s a great activity to take in the beauty of the coast. Not to mention, it’s suitable for those who don’t love biking (like me!). Be sure to bring your camera and secure your belongings before you take off!

After the e-bike tour with Mad Dogs & Englishmen, part two is a food tour with Carmel Food Tours. This is a two hour tour that includes five locations and a guide who gives excellent insight on the history architecture and culture of Carmel!

See below for the Bites & Bevs part of this fun tour!

Carmel Beach

When in town, stop by Carmel Beach , one of the most iconic spots on the Central California Coast. This stunning beach has white sand, plenty of space for picnicking and taking in the views and is dog friendly. While here, take a stroll on the Scenic Bluff Path, a manicured pathway that parallels Scenic Road just above Carmel Beach. The trail is shaded by the Monterey cypress takes you to the landscaped gardens to Carmel Point. Meander along the coastline from Carmel Beach to Carmel River Beach with views from iconic Pebble Beach to Point Lobos.

Carmel Village

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a one-square-mile seaside village that effortlessly exudes charm. Its unique European-feel blends seamlessly with a casual, laid-back Central California vibe, making for an ideal weekend getaway. There are no chain restaurants, parking meters or street addresses, but rather cozy cottages, boutique shopping, wine tastings, quality dining, sweet shops and cafes, countless art galleries and more.

Check out my complete Forbes piece on the Carmel Village & Hofsas House Hotel .

Where to Eat in Carmel-By-The-Sea

When it comes to dining, there’s an endless amount of options.

Rise + Roam

Start your day off with breakfast at this spacious and modern cafe for some high-quality pastries, savory morning treats and coffee. Afterwards, grab something indulgent to-go like the cinnamon sugar morning bun, kougin-amann or bread pudding for a treat later.

Treehouse Café  

This restaurant combines global flavors like those of Thailand and Mediterranean in a variety of dishes.

Lucia Restaurant and Bar

For a special occasion, make a reservation at this Forbes Four Star fine dining destination located at the Bernardus Lodge & Spa. This menu is inspired by seasonality and locally sourced seafood, meat and produce. Set on 28 stunning Carmel Valley acres lush with vineyards, flowers, lavender, olive orchards, culinary gardens and more, Lucia showcases the best this area has to offer. In short, it’s a worthwhile culinary experience.

Check out the below video for our dining experience at Lucia!

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5th Ave Deli  

This is a casual deli for gourmet sandwiches on the go. Once you have your food take it to the beach or nearby Point Lobos State Park for a picnic al fresco.

The Cottage of Sweets

This British-style sweet shop has been around since 1959. For example, it offers homemade fudge, imported licorice, gummies, chocolates and more. It has what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Scheid Vineyards  

If wine is your thing, why not do a tasting at this lovely tasting room? While there, try out the 2015 Late Harvest Riesling if you’re into sweet wines. It’s divine.

Brophy’s

For a pre-dinner cocktail and bite stop by this casual spot located alongside Hotel Carmel. Pub fare includes braised short rib fries; fish and chips with fresh halibut; Brophy’s burger with cremini & king trumpet mushrooms; and the crispy calamari.

Popular Carmel Food Tour spots include:

Grasings Restaurant

This a upscale bistro in situated right in the downtown area and features an impressive array of grilled USDA Prime steaks and seafood dishes.

Bud’s at La Playa

This upscale watering hole located in La Playa Carmel offers classic libations and elevated contemporary comfort fare in a historic, sleek lounge. They offer a selection of signature cocktails that include the Bud’s Martini with Gin, Vodka, and Lillet; and The Mayor with Whisky, Bitters, Orange, and Bourbon Cherry. Meanwhile, munch on popular bites such as the Prime Rib French Dip; Salmon Nicoise Salad; and Bud’s Burger.

Check out the below video for all the spots we ate at!

Alvarado Street Brewery

A brewery and New American restaurant is in a vibrant, open aired shopping area. Known for it’s lively bar scene, this spot has a great selection of beers and craft cocktails and barbecue that includes St. Louis ribs, smoked brisket, and half chicken served with a special house porter barbecue sauce.

Pescadero Carmel

A lively Mexican restaurant offers Baja-inspired fare with local ingredients. Must-try items include the Tacos Baja Norte; Chile Relleno with Mexican squash “ratatouille”; and the Burrito “El Naufrago”. Afterwards, wash it all down with a refreshing cocktail or Jaranitas soda.

Where to Stay in Carmel-By-The-Sea

Hotel Carmel

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend the night, check in to Hotel Carmel. This boutique property is located just steps away from boutique shops, galleries, restaurants, and the beautiful Carmel Beach. Moreover, it features a fire pit, pool and ocean views.

Hofsas House Hotel

For a different vibe, check in to the historic, family owned boutique inn, Hofsas House Hotel. This property has a delightful pretty, light pink exterior and features distinctive Bavarian-inspired décor. Examples of this decor include a playful mural along with various enhancements at the front of the building painted by artist Maxine Albro.

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is a charming town that flies under the radar of many tourists, especially those traveling Central California. It’s a great midway point between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Furthermore, it’s just 15 miles away from some absolutely incredible beaches including the classic California beach town, Pismo Beach. Not to mention, this part of Central California boasts hundreds of farms which cater to year-round daily farmer’s markets selling the freshest produce, meats and more to local chefs and their restaurants.

In addition, as a town in close proximity to the coastline it has plenty of fresh seafood to impress diner with. To add to its top notch culinary scene, this area is also now for producing some of the country’s best wine thanks to its temperate Mediterranean climate and high quality soil. Scenic, nearby wine tasting areas include Paso Robles.

What to Do in San Luis Obispo

Enjoy miles of pristine, stunning beaches on the coast, as well as water sports that are available at any given beach town. Why not try surfing, kayaking or paddle boarding? While on the boardwalk, enjoy bites like fish and chips and take in beautiful views no matter where you end up on the icon Highway 1. Meanwhile, keep your eyes open for wild life, even whales depending on the time of the year!

Wine Tasting

SLO is home to three wine regions—Paso Robles, Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande— each producing award-winning wines in laid back luxury. Furthermore, Edna Valley alone is home to over 27 tasting rooms. Exceptional wineries include Edna Valley Vineyard, Tolosa Vineyard, Chamisal Vineyard, Biddle Ranch Vineyard and more. Paso Robles is another incredible wine tasting region. Because of its 11 viticultural areas and Mediterranean climate, high quality wines are what this place is known for.

Boutique Shop

SLO is buzzy university town with lots of great boutique shopping in its cute downtown area, which also has plenty of great eateries, bars and cafes. Retail therapy anyone?

Avila Beach Hikes

Avila Beach is another area home to countless hikes and trails that offer beautiful coastal views from Point Sal to Point San Luis. Great hiking places include the 5 mile roundtrip Bob Jones Trail, which includes a tidal estuary to explore; clothing-optional Pirates Cove’s Mallagh Landing Trail; Sycamore Crest Trail; the paved Shell Beach Bluff; Avila Ridge Trail and more. Make sure to bring picnic goodies, pack your camera and wear good hiking shoes!

Where to Eat in San Luis Obispo

Park 1039 is an upscale eatery and market that offers guests a taste of fine French living through fine dining, wine tasting (they have over 2000 bottles!) and artisanal shopping. Chefs Brendan Collins and Sarah Carlisle are extremely passionate about using local ingredients. For instance, they forage for every item they can, even sea water for the best finishing salt you’ll ever taste. Because of this, it’s quite a unique dining experience.

Brasserie SLO

Situated next to Hotel Cerro is Brasserie SLO which is a chic spot serving modern coastal cuisine with an emphasis on the quintessential French dining experience. Above all, dishes use ingredients from both the abundant agricultural life on the Central Coast, along with produce from its own Edible Gardens.

SLO Provisions

This lively spot offers all-day take-away and dine-in options with house-roasted rotisserie meats, family-style dinners, specialty sandwiches, farm-fresh salads, and rustic-style baked goods. They also offer local ingredients for sale from small-batch purveyors; local wines; fancy salts; coffee beans and more.

Check out my complete Forbes piece on the where to eat in San Luis Obispo, California here .

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

Hotel Cerro

Hotel Cerro is a relatively new property in the heart of the downtown area with modern, cozy, accommodations; a stylish, chic rooftop pool and bar; and a recently opened Central California coast-inspired day spa and private gym.

Solvang is one of the most memorable, one-of-a-kind towns in Central California. It had been on my bucketlist for as long as I can remember! With one stroll through town, you feel like you’ve left the states and transported to an adorable, peaceful town in Denmark. In short, from unique architecture, traditional Danish bakeries and history to its own wine country and a top-notch culinary scene, there’s lots to appreciate.

Old-world European architecture; looming windmills, boutique shops that include places to buy specialty items like coo coo clocks, kitschy souvenirs and clogs; and more make this “Danish Capital of America” worth the visit.

Check out my complete Forbes piece on Solvang, California here .

What to Do in Solvang

Danish Bakeries

One of the best parts of this town is the fact that Solvang is home to a number of unparalleled, traditional Danish bakeries that offer the freshest, most indulgently delicious pastries you’ll find. Don’t let the lines deter you. A short wait is worth biting in to a flakey, soft, freshly baked almond custard kringle or a rich cream cheese, fruity raspberry or apple danish. Not to mention, each bakery has it’s own vibe and charm, try to check out each one!

Danish Mill Bakery

This bakery was established in 1960 and some of their most popular items include the Æbleskiver; Flødeboller; and the classic Danish cakes and Danish butter cookies. Another good thing to know? It has fun automated robot “bakers” in their storefront, be sure to grab a video!

Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery

This is Sovang’s most popular Danish bakery known for a variety of authentic, delicious Danish pastries, breads, cookies and cakes including Danish custard kringle, almond tarts, butter rings and an authentic RundsTykker Danish Continental Breakfast. Olsen’s uses the recipes of four generations of Olsen Bakers and because of that it’s super authentic.

Mortensen’s Danish Bakery

Located in Petersen Village Square is Mortensen’s Danish Bakery, a quaint cafe featuring everything from almond paste thumbprint cookies and bear claws to pistachio squares and pretty little petite four cakes. Due to its variety, making a decision on what to buy is tough!

Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe

This old-timey bakery offers tubs of Birkholm’s fresh Danish butter cookies, which come an assortment, and of course a huge selection of fresh Danish pastries that include cherry-cheese pastries, chocolate Barvarian cream-filled danishes and more.

Solvang Bakery

This namesake bakery is so incredibly cute! It’s also one of the most photogenic, thanks to being next to one of the town’s iconic windmills. Founded back in 1911, this bakery offers all the Danishes specialties from strudel and butterings to Danish pastries and cinnamon crispies. It also sells impressive cakes and a selection of gingerbread houses for any occasion.

Where to Eat in Solvang

Sear Steakhouse

This restaurant features reclaimed wood accents, two fireplaces, and wood tables and banquettes that have all been hand-built. As a result, this this steakhouse has a warm, upscale ambiance and modern ranch flair. Moreover, what separates itself from most other steakhouses is the fact that the establishment sources many, if not most, ingredients from the restaurant team’s very own farms. Specifically, Sear Farm and Roblar Farm are just minutes away from the steakhouse. 

Read my full review of Sear Steakhouse here .

Check out the below video for our dining experience at Sear Steakhouse!

pesants FEAST

This eatery offers diners seasonal, scratch-made food, made possible through the direct relationships with local farmers and purveyors of artisanal foods and beverages in the area. Above all, peasants FEAST menus honor every part of each plant and animal destined for the restaurant’s tables, through beautiful dishes that highlight the local agricultural community.

Where to Stay in Solvang

The Vinland Hotel & Lounge

Book a stay at  The Vinland Hotel & Lounge , which is conveniently located in the heart of Solvang’s Mission Drive in walking distance to all the fun in the area. This relatively new hotel features 82 modern, sleek rooms and both a hot tub and heated pool, (both of which aren’t too common here).

Cambria is a lovely seaside town known for its coastal landscape that combines both the ocean and weathered pine forests. It’s an artsy place with tons of gorgeous, rugged scenery; places to appreciate nature; as well as areas for cycling and hiking trails. The town offers art galleries; boutique and antique shopping; and moreover, great spots to indulge and imbibe.

What to Do in Cambria

This pretty beach a scenic, preserved area that’s ideal for watching marine life include whales, dolphins, sea otters and elephant seals. Because the boardwalk is a mile-long, it’s ideal for stroll at anytime of the day to take in the lovely ocean views.

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve features 437 acres of forest, grasslands and meadows. In other words, it’s ideal for hiking, biking, or bringing a furry friend to explore this sprawling natural landscape. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy epic views of wildlife, birds, otters, migrating whales and more from the rocky coast, which drops down a dramatic 400 feet.

Where to Eat in Cambria

Hidden Kitchen

Start your day off this laid-back Cambria gem that offers a one-of-a-kind menu of both sweet and savor waffle creations and a variety of smoothies. They offer blue corn waffles which serve as the perfect, uniquely flavored vehicle for delicious piles of toppings.

Robin’s Restaurant

Robin’s Restaurant offers diners a menu of internationally inspired dishes made with local farmer’s market-fresh ingredients. Moreover, the restaurant has a spacious, garden setting which showcases live music. It’s known for have the largest selection of vegetarian dishes on the coast.

Linn’s Of Cambria

Linn’s Restaurant known for its famous olallieberry—a cross between a blackberry with a raspberry—pies and desserts. But before dessert, order a hearty one of Linn’s signature pot pies with a flaky, hand rolled double crust filled with chicken and veggies. After that, finish your meal with Linn’s olalliberry pie a la mode—it’s divine. Other examples of desserts include the olalliberry bread pudding almondine; cream puff with ollaliberry custard; and the olallieberry cream cake with vanilla cake, berries and a vanilla Swiss meringue buttercream frosting. In other words, you can’t go wrong!

Where to Stay in Cambria

Cambria Pines Lodge

Check in at Cambria Pines Lodge, a relaxing coastal retreat nestled in the hills of Cambia. Minutes from Moonstone Beach and the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, it also offers 25 acres of grounds, lush gardens to explore and an organic kitchen garden. Cambria Pines Lodge Restaurant also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a range of dishes featuring steak, seafood, and pasta made with organic, hand-picked herbs and produce from their culinary garden. They also have on property the rustic Fireside Lounge which features nightly entertainment

Monterey is an absolutely gorgeous Central California destination. It’s most famous for its rugged scenery, including cliffs, state parks, tide pools and more. Moreover, it’s known for its wild marine life, think whales, otters and seabirds; as well as, one of the top aquariums around, The Monterey Bay Aquarium. For foodies, there are wine tasting rooms and world-class dining, meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate the story behind Cannery Row and the historic buildings here. The area also is home to a number of unique boutiques on Cannery Row and outdoor activities like kayaking and paddle boarding.

What to Do in Monterey

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The aquarium is literally one of my all time favorite places to spend a day at! Firstly, the amount of sea life they have on display is absolutely unreal! I’ve always been obsessed with tide pools and the ocean wildlife, so if you’re like me this place will equally blow you away! Secondly, its enormous variety of marine life includes a rainbow-colored kaleidoscope of fish; penguins, jelly fish and a variety of sharks, and exhibits which currently include the giant pacific octopus; the kelp forest; open sea; rocky shore; and sea otters.

Cannery Row

Cannery Row is one of the most popular tourist spots on the coast thanks to its nautical charm, history, and eclectic shopping. Beautiful waterfront hotels, restaurants, candy shops and boutiques, it’s a must when experiencing Monterey.

Pebble Beach + 17-Mile-Drive

For the most outrageous panoramic views, you’ll need to experience the iconic 17-Mile-Drive. Before you do, stop by the iconic  Pebble Beach Club  and test out a top-of-the-line Lexus. What better place to do it than the also iconic 17-Mile-Drive? You’ll certainly revel in taking your Lexus for a spin through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula, hugging tight turns on the coastline, wind in your hair, and enjoying the sights.

Be sure to make stops at points of interest including the Lone Cypress, the extremely popular 250-year-old tree which is also the logo for Pebble Beach Company; Harbor Seals; Bird Rock; the 5,300-acre Del Monte Forest of Monterey Cypress trees; and more.

Where to Eat in Monterey

Schooner’s Coastal Kitchen

Start your day off right with a luxurious breakfast spread overlooking the bay at Schooner’s Coastal Kitchen. Stunning views and incredible coastal fair? Yes, please! Start with oysters on the half shell and mimosas, followed by heartier specialities such as the Dungeness crab Benedict or the oak smoked salmon & avocado toast. Meanwhile revel in the incredible views that surround you.

Tidal Coffee

Before you leave your hotel, satisfy your morning sweet tooth try these out-of-this-world pastries including almond, chocolate croissants and cinnamon rolls from Tidal Coffee.

The Bench at Pebble Beach Resort

While at this ritzy place, Take a seat at The Bench at Pebble Beach Resort. Overlooking the 18th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links, The Bench delivers an eclectic menu inspired by global styles and uses the innovative technique of wood roasting and open-flame cooking.

The Sardine Factory

Established in 1968, the restaurant offers an epic wine cellar that holds over 20,000 bottles and more history than you could imagine. For instance, there are arched brick catacombs; wrought iron-gated wine vaults; antiques; and rare, historical artifacts which are just a few of the authentic elements of this cellar. The menu offers fresh, sustainable seafood and usda prime beef. Surf and turf; diver scallops; grilled wild abalone medallions; filet mignon and more await diners.

Where to Stay in Monterey

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

While in town, check into the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, which is ideally located on the historic beachfront property within Monterey Bay’s Cannery Row and walking distance to all the fun cafes, restaurants and boutiques.

As the only Forbes four-star rated hotel in Monterey, the Plaza also offers a penthouse-level Vista Blue Spa; Schooners Coastal Kitchen, and the property’s newest addition, The Helmsman Lounge, perfect for imbibing on artisan spirits and delicious small plates.

Six Day Itinerary Of Central California From San Francisco

Arrival at Carmel-by-the-Sea

Bikes, Bites & Bevs tour

Check-in at Hotel Carmel

Brophy’s Tavern for Drinks

Lucia for Dinner

Overnight at Hotel Carmel

Breakfast at Rise + Roam

Drive to San Luis Obispo

Shopping/ Explore Downtown

Check in at Hotel Cerro

Dinner at Brasserie SLO

Overnight at Hotel Cerro

Breakfast at SLO Provisions

Hike or Beach afternoon

Drive to Solvang

Check-in at Vinland Hotel and Lounge

Dinner at Sear Steakhouse

Cocktails at V Lounge at Vineland Hotel

Overnight at Vinland Hotel

Explore downtown Solvang – Danish Bakeries

Lunch at pesants FEAST

Drive to Cambria

Check-in at Cambria Pines Lodge

Olalliberry Pie at Linn’s

Moonstone Beach

Dinner at Robin’s

Overnight at Cambria Pines Lodge

Breakfast at Hidden Kitchen

Drive to Monterey County

Lunch at The Bench at Pebble Beach

Pick up Lexus for a self-guided tour of 17-Mile Drive at The Lodge Concierge

Check-in at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Explore Cannery Row

Dinner at The Sardine Factory

Overnight at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Breakfast at Schooner’s Coastal Kitchen

Depart for San Francisco

Planning a Central Coast road trip? Pin this for later!

Chelsea is a San Francisco-based journalist whose passion revolves around exploring the world, immersing herself in foreign cultures, and of course, eating and drinking everything delicious.

Her work can be found in TravelPulse, Forbes, INSIDER, SF Gate and more. She covers all things food, drink and travel and is always up for an adventure, whether that means an adrenaline-pumping excursion or trying a new cuisine.

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50+ Fantastic Things to Do on the Central California Coast

The California Central Coast is one of my favorite places to visit. It is a stunning stretch of coastline full of incredible sights and activities. From breathtaking beaches to scenic vineyards, there’s something special to find around every corner. Whether you plan to visit one town or take your time exploring them all along iconic Highway 1, this region will not disappoint.

Read on for 52 amazing things to do on a Central California Coast adventure!

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The Four Regions of California’s Central Coast

The furthest north, Monterey Bay is known for its famous bay and marine life. Visitors enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, whale watching, and hiking. As you move south, San Luis Obispo features rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns. Santa Barbara boasts an upscale vibe and beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing or surfing. And finally, Ventura features incredible scenery with plenty of opportunities for adventure.

This article is organized from north to south by region. From exploring the depths of Monterey Bay to basking in the Santa Barbara sun, the Central Coast features the best of California .

Map of Central Coast CA

Incredible Things to Do on the Central California Coast

California is one of best places to visit in the United States . This is coming from someone who has spent a lot of time in California!

Best Things to Do in the Monterey Bay Region

• Take a ride on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. Constructed in 1924, this classic wooden roller coaster offers a chance to ride on a National Historic Landmark. The coaster features exciting drops, twists, and turns with beautiful beach views to boot.
• Nature enthusiasts will love a peaceful kayak ride through the Elkhorn Slough where you can get up close to sea otters, herons, harbor seals, and more. The reserve is home to more than 100 species of fish and 135 species of birds, including six listed as threatened or endangered. If kayaking isn’t for you, take a peaceful ride on the Elkhorn Slough Safari to learn more about this special habitat. Check reviews adn prices for the best Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tours
• A whale-watching tour in Monterey is a must-do experience, with more than 30 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises living in or passing through the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Monterey Bay is a critical feeding ground for these magnificent animals, and seasonal sightings of humpback whales, blue whales, and killer whales make it one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Check reviews & pricing for the best Half-Day Whale Watching Tours From Monterey
• A Central Coast highlight is the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium , which is home to more than 35,000 animals representing over 550 species. Visitors enjoy immersive exhibits featuring sea otters, penguins, sharks, and jellyfish, and learn about ocean conservation efforts and research being conducted at the aquarium. The aquarium also offers special experiences such as behind-the-scenes tours making it a must-visit destination for all ages.
• The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a great place for diving. Thousands of people come from all over the world to dive here. The kelp forest and underwater canyon are beautiful and the clarity of the sanctuary’s healthy water makes it easy to see. There are beach dives for people of all levels, leading Scuba Diving Magazine to name Monterey as the best beach dive spot in America!
• Back on land, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town with picturesque streets, storybook cottages, and world-class galleries and restaurants, making it a perfect destination for art and food lovers. The town also allows wine and champagne on its gorgeous white-sand beach, making it the perfect location for a sunset toast.
• The 17-mile Drive is a breathtaking destination due to its stunning coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs and beautiful blue waters. A popular stop is a visit to the iconic Lone Cypress tree, which has been standing on its rocky perch for over 250 years and has become a regional mascot. The drive takes you through the exclusive gated community of Pebble Beach, where you can glimpse parts of some of the world’s most famous golf courses. End your tour by the fire pits outside the Inn at Spanish Bay’s Lobby Lounge, where you’ll hear the music of the famous bagpiper who plays here every evening at sunset. Learn about the Coastal Pebble Beach 17 Mile Drive Guided E-bike Tour

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is considered to be the “Crown Jewel of California State Parks” due to its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the reserve’s rugged cliffs, explore tide pools teeming with marine life, or hike through wild Monterey cypress groves covered in soft orange algae. Point Lobos is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• South of Carmel, the magnificent 90 miles of mountainous coastline known as Big Sur begins. This stretch of Highway 1 has many parks with beautiful scenery, and Garrapata State Park is a favorite. It features two miles of stunning beachfront and easy hiking trails that offer amazing views. Soberanes Point is one of the most popular spots on the park’s spectacular coastal headlands. During spring, explore Calla Lily Valley. Although it has easy access to the highway, finding this hidden destination feels like discovering a secret.
• Enjoy a meal with unforgettable views at Nepenthe . This iconic restaurant overlooks the coastline and offers panoramic views where the stunning Santa Lucia Mountains meet the sparkling sea. This renowned restaurant has been a popular destination for artists, writers, intellectuals, and Highway 1 road-trippers for over 70 years.
• Spend an afternoon browsing through the well-curated selection of books at the Henry Miller Memorial Library . Bibliophiles will love picking books from the trees and browsing among sun-dappled tables. Events and performances like poetry readings and musical concerts make this a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of the breathtaking Big Sur wilderness.
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is home to California’s southernmost redwood groves. Visitors love playing along the river, taking a dip in the Big Sur River Gorge swimming hole, enjoying a hike to Pfeiffer Falls, and cooling off with some ice cream at the Lodge.
• Snap a photo of the iconic Keyhole Arch with your toes in purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach . A bucket list destination, the beach is a popular destination for photographers aiming to capture a photo of the setting sun framed by the beach’s large rock formation. Minerals seep into the sand from the surrounding hills creating the effect of purple-streaked sand. The small parking lot means fewer crowds than other popular Big Sur family friendly sites …if you can find a spot!

• Make a stop at McWay Falls , one of California’s two tidefalls. Though just a short and easy walk from the parking lot, the falls merit a visit due to their spectacular beauty. Water drops 80 feet from the surrounding cliffs onto a pristine white-sand beach. You can’t go down to the sand, but you can take in the breathtaking views of turquoise waters surrounded by lush vegetation from the viewpoint above.

Best Things to Do in the San Luis Obispo Region

• Smell the seals at Piedras Blancas . Elephant Seals love the California Coast, and Piedras Blancas is one of their favorite rookeries. Visitors can walk along a long boardwalk to see them bickering, courting, molting, and nurturing their young. Informational material about their behavior and breeding seasons is posted near the parking lot.
• Imagine yourself in a bygone era at Hearst Castle . Visiting Hearst Castle means stepping back in time to the opulent era of the early 20th century as a guest of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The estate features lush gardens and stunning views of the surrounding hills and coastline, an enviable Roman-style Neptune Pool, and an indoor Roman pool decorated with intricate mosaics. A variety of guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and glamour of this iconic American landmark. Take a Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco
• Take a stroll along Cambria’s Moonstone Beach . The beach’s name is derived from its smooth stones with intricate patterns that attract many rockhounds. The road along the beach has hotels and restaurants with impressive views, drawing tourists looking for a fun break on their Highway 1 road trips.
• At Covell Clydesdale Ranch , visitors enjoy a rare trail ride experience on a majestic Clydesdale horse. The family-run ranch has over 40 years of experience breeding Clydesdales and sharing them with the public. If a trail ride is not your cup of tea, opt for a vehicle-based tour of the ranch and its horses.
• Don’t leave Cambria without trying a slice of Linn’s Olallieberry Pie . Olallieberries are a blackberry-raspberry hybrid that thrives on the Central Coast. The Linns have been building a devoted following for their berry-featured baked goods for decades. To taste a sample, visit their farm store, Linn’s Restaurant on Main Street, or Linn’s Easy as Pie Shop & Cafe.
• A worthwhile detour from Highway 1 is just 30 minutes east of Cambria. Paso Robles is one of California’s latest wine hot spots. Some even compare this small agricultural town to Napa’s early days. Expect a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere at the local wineries. Stay until dark to experience the immersive art installation, Light at Sensorio where you can walk through a 15-acre field filled with over 58,000 illuminated spheres.

• Further south along the coast, Harmony is a small but charming one-block town. It has a population of 18, which includes cows! In the past, it was famous for being a popular rest stop for the wealthy on their way to visit Hearst. Nowadays, people visit this unique and charming destination to taste Harmony Valley Creamery’s ice cream on weekends. 
• Morro Bay’s claim to fame is Morro Rock, a 576-foot volcanic plug located by the ocean. But the protected Bay is also known for its calm waters, natural beauty, and wildlife, making it an ideal location for beginner kayakers. To see it all up close, join a beginner-friendly tour with Central Coast Outdoors.

• When visiting Morro Bay, don’t miss the Estuary Preserve in Morro Bay State Park . This 800-acre wetland is home to many animals. A highlight is the Heron Rookery, where you can see and hear double-crested cormorants, great egrets, and great blue herons nesting in trees from February to June. If you want to capture the area’s beauty, bring a proper camera lens because phone photos and videos don’t do it justice.
• For those seeking breathtaking natural vistas, Montaña de Oro State Park is a must-visit destination, featuring over 8,000 acres of rugged coastal terrain, including pristine beaches, jagged cliffs, and rolling hillsides teeming with native flora and fauna. This hidden gem of the Central Coast offers countless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, tide pooling, and even horseback riding, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests.
• Don’t miss the Thursday night Farmers Market in San Luis Obispo , an essential way to experience this popular Central Coast college town. Farmers is not your average farmers market. Students, locals, and tourists alike crowd the town’s main streets, which are closed to cars. The lively atmosphere with food, entertainment, and people-watching is unmatched in the region. Perhaps even the state.
• Opulent and kitschy, Madonna Inn is a one-of-a-kind California road trip stop. It’s always an experience, whether you’re stopping for a meal or spending the night. Whatever you do, don’t pass up an opportunity to taste a slice of their famously fluffy pink champagne cake. And check out the lower-level men’s restroom before you hit the road again.

• Avila Beach is a hidden gem located between the college town of San Luis Obispo and the beach resort town of Pismo Beach . In addition to the namesake beach, visitors enjoy feeding animals and indulging in treats from the Sweet Shoppe at Avila Barn . The shop is also a great place to pick up a road trip souvenir.
• If you’re looking for an exciting Central Coast boating experience, SLO Tours has a variety of small-craft zodiac tours to choose from. These tours depart from the quaint seaside town of Avila Beach and include options like a 45-minute adventure tour through sea caves and Pirates Cove or a 2-hour whale-watching tour. The fast boat tour accommodates up to 6 passengers, making for an exciting way to see the sea.

• Pismo Beach has much to offer, starting with its beautiful beach. But don’t leave town without trying some of the area’s tastiest treats. Old West Cinnamon Rolls is a popular spot that is not to be missed if you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls. They make them huge and seriously delicious! And if you enjoy clam chowder, you must try Splash Cafe in Pismo. It is known for serving the best clam chowder on the Central Coast and is especially tasty when served in a sourdough bread bowl with a seafood topper. But beware, it may just ruin other clam chowders for you!
• For an epic road trip memory, take a drive on the Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area. This is the only beach in California where you can drive on the sand. Just be sure to bring a 4WD, as you want to avoid getting stuck. You can access the beach for a $5 fee from Grand Ave or Pier Ave. If you’d rather not risk your vehicle, there are rentals available for ATVs, dirt bikes, and dune buggies nearby.
• About 18 miles south of Pismo, the Oceano-Nipomo Dunes are the largest coastal dune ecosystems on Earth! Some are over 500 feet tall. Explore the Guadalupe-Nipomo dunes further south for a quieter experience. At the Dunes Center, you’ll find help planning your route or you can join a naturalist tour.

Best Things to Do in the Santa Barbara Region

• Head to Ostrichland USA in Buellton where you can feed the resident birds and watch them run. Family photo ops abound, and the gift shop offers unique ostrich-themed souvenirs.
• Solvang , the “Danish Capital of America,” was founded in 1911 by Danish Americans who wanted to escape the cold midwestern winter for the California sun. Their efforts to recreate a traditional Danish village have evolved into a charming, slightly kitschy, village with delicious bakeries that attract thousands of tourists each year.
• Lovely Los Olivos is an ideal place to stroll and taste in Santa Ynez Valley. With over 30 wineries in this small town, you can spend the day tasting various vintages while taking in the beautiful scenery of rolling vineyards and rustic buildings. Notable wineries in the area include Fess Parker, Carhartt Vineyard, and Epiphany Cellars.
• Carrizo Plain National Monument is a hidden gem in California where visitors can immerse themselves in nature without crowds. Some visitors claim the area is so quiet you hear the silence. You’ll find many different types of plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species. The one time you might experience some crowds around here is during a wildflower bloom, as this is one of the most spectacular sites for wildflowers in the state. 
• Clairmont Farms opens its fields of vibrant purple lavender to a curious public. Smell the scent of lavender wafting through the air, and pick from an abundance of lavender-based products. This working farm is known for high-quality lavender which is harvested on-site to create essential oils and other products.

• Explore the charming town of Santa Ynez , known for its cowboy culture and rustic buildings that pay homage to the area’s rich Western history. You’re still in Santa Barbara County, so the tiny town still offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in wine tasting and great restaurants, of course! Read reviews and check prices for the best Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tours
• Once in Santa Barbara proper, you’ll likely be pulled to the water. Get to know this gorgeous city with a guided kayak tour of the harbor or a quick spin on the charming Lil’ Toot water taxi for a scenic trip around the waterfront. Both offer opportunities to spot sea lions, dolphins, marine birds, and the well-known yachts of the rich and famous. 
• For a quintessential Santa Barbara lunch, head to Stearns Wharf for fish and chips or, for the more adventurous palate, a taste of fresh sea urchin. With panoramic views of the ocean and mountains, as well as a variety of shops and attractions, the historic wharf is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. This is the oldest working wharf in California, with a rich history dating back to 1872. Today, it offers visitors the chance to stroll along the wooden planks, take in some sea air, and savor the flavors of the coast.
• State Street in Santa Barbara is a bustling outdoor shopping promenade that is home to hundreds of shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. From high-end designer stores to unique local boutiques, there is something for everyone on this vibrant street. Take a break and relax in one of the many cafes or grab a bite to eat at one of the trendy restaurants that line the street.
• One of Santa Barbara’s main attractions is the Santa Barbara Zoo , home to more than 500 animals across its 30 acres of beautiful gardens and exhibits. Visitors can get up close with the animals, including feeding a giraffe, riding a train through the zoo, and taking a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the zoo’s conservation efforts. The zoo offers educational programs for all ages, from summer camps to overnight stays, and is a fun-filled activity for the whole family.

• Milpas Ave in Santa Barbara is the go-to destination for taco lovers, with authentic Mexican eateries serving up mouth-watering tacos filled with everything from juicy carne asada to succulent shrimp, all accompanied by homemade salsas and refreshing aguas frescas. Take your tacos to go and enjoy a picnic in the rose garden in front of the Santa Barbara Mission nearby.
• A visit to Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone offers a unique and eclectic experience, with a variety of tasting rooms, art galleries, and boutique shops showcasing the area’s vibrant cultural scene. This trendy neighborhood is home to over 20 wineries and breweries, each with a distinct character and flavor. With its vibrant atmosphere and creative energy, a trip to Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone is a one-of-a-kind experience you don’t want to miss.

• One of the best ways to enjoy the stunning coastline of Santa Barbara is by taking a beachfront bike ride. As you pedal along the palm tree-lined path, enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities to watch surfers carve the waves and spot pods of dolphins dancing in the surf. With several bike rental vendors located nearby, it’s easy to spend a leisurely afternoon exploring all of the beachfront attractions, from Stearns Wharf to Santa Barbara Harbor. Check prices for the best Electric Bike Rental in Santa Barbara
• A truly unforgettable experience near Santa Barbara is a horseback ride along the beach . Los Padres Outfitters offers tours for individuals, groups, and families. Sunset, sunrise, and picnic adventures can be arranged any time of year and for any number of people. This is truly a bucket-list activity for those seeking a remarkable and unique adventure in Santa Barbara.
• For the perfect beach day, head to Carpinteria which boasts the “world’s safest beach.” This wide stretch of soft sand is a must-visit with its calm waters and playful seals and dolphins that can be spotted from the shore. This family-friendly beach offers amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and a nature trail, making it an ideal destination for a day of sun, fun, and relaxation.

•  If you happen to be visiting Santa Barbara in early October, stop by the Carpinteria Avocado Festival , an annual event celebrating California’s favorite fruit and the local agricultural industry. The festival features food, beverage, and craft vendors, live music, and events such as the Best Guacamole Contest. Don’t skip special treats like avocado ice cream! With attendance reaching upwards of 100,000 people over the weekend, it’s a fun-filled event that truly captures the spirit of this charming coastal community.

Best Things to Do in the Ventura Region

• Book lovers will find a visit to Bart’s Books in Ojai well worth the inland detour. Bart’s is the largest outdoor bookstore in the world with over 100,000 books available for purchase, ranging from vintage classics to contemporary bestsellers, all arranged in an open-air maze of bookshelves that provide a unique and charming ambiance for browsing and reading.
•  Ventura is known for its excellent surf conditions, so it’s no surprise that several surf schools offer lessons for beginners and advanced surfers alike. You can learn from experienced instructors who teach the proper techniques for catching waves at popular surf spots like Mondos Beach, and experience the thrill of riding the waves in one of the best surf destinations on the West Coast. Ventura is a must-visit destination for surf enthusiasts looking for a true California experience. Check reviews and prices for the best Ventura Surf Lessons
• Ventura is home to Patagonia’s headquarters. Yvon Chouinard chose this location in 1973 due to its proximity to the ocean and stunning natural scenery, offering easy access to both mountains and water adventures. Pay a visit to Patagonia’s original store, the Great Pacific Iron Works , and purchase a long-lasting souvenir.
• Another must-do activity in the Ventura region is a ferry ride to the Channel Islands. One of the state’s least-visited National Parks due to its remote location, the Channel Islands are a group of five beautiful pristine islands located off the coast. Visitors can hike, snorkel and dive in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the islands. With daily departures from Ventura and Oxnard, a day trip or overnight camping adventure to the Channel Islands is well worth your while.
• For an exhilarating adventure, explore the Channel Island Sea Caves by kayak. These cave systems offer a unique and magical experience as you paddle through the twisting passages, surrounded by soaring cliffs and turquoise waters. Keep an eye out for the abundance of marine life, such as sea lions, seals, and dolphins that call these caves home. With guided kayak tours available, this is a can’t-miss highlight of any trip to the Ventura region.

Best Central California Bike Tour

Embark on a six-day cycling expedition with Escape Adventures , journeying along California’s Central Coast, meandering from Santa Barbara to the enchanting Big Sur.

This trip includes the legendary Highway 1, the Piedras Blancas Light Station, the Monarch Butterfly Grove, the Harmony Headlands State Park, McWay Falls, Point Lobos, Carmel-by-the-Sea, a visit to the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, and a ride through the renowned 17-Mile Drive. Your comfort is ensured with inclusive lodging, delectable meals, snacks, and a treasure trove of experiences throughout this epic adventure.

Best Central Coast Towns for an Overnight

Carmel makes an ideal home base for the Monterey Bay Region, with hotel options that range from quaint and budget friendly to bucket-list luxury. Book a hotel on Ocean Avenue such as Hotel Carmel that offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and the beach.

Check Hotel Carmel reviews on TripAdvisor and find best rates at Hotels.com or Booking.com

The San Luis Obispo Region is filled with small charming towns, each of which make a great home base for exploring the region. One of our favorite options are the hotels along Moonstone Beach in Cambria. The Sea Otter Inn is pet-friendly and their breakfast options include breakfast burritos that you can take across the street to enjoy on the beach in the morning.

Check Sea Otter Inn reviews on TripAdvisor and find best rates at Hotels.com or Booking.com

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a great home base for exploring the best of the region. The Santa Barbara Inn is a lovely boutique hotel across the street from the beach and within easy walking distance to the Funk Zone.

Check Santa Barbara Inn reviews on TripAdvisor and find best rates at Hotels.com or Booking.com

In the Ventura Region, look for fun and funky options like Waypoint Ventura . This unique glamping option features restored vintage travel trailers from the 1940’s to the early 1970’s, situated within walking distance of the beach and downtown Ventura.

Check Waypoint Ventura reviews on TripAdvisor and find best rates at Hotels.com or Booking.com

Best Time to Visit the Central Coast

Though California has much to offer year-round, the best seasons to visit the Central Coast are fall and spring. Fall has the most consistent sunshine, but it’s also become known as fire season. Be sure to stay informed about events across the state because a fire in one location can affect air quality for miles around.

Spring might have cooler weather and some rainy days, but that rain brings the state’s natural beauty to life. You might find hills carpeted with gorgeous emerald green, and with luck, bright gold, orange, and purple wildflowers.

No matter when you visit, expect fog and cool weather in the mornings and evenings. Always pack layers for a Central Coast visit, even in the height of summer.

Recommended Travel Resources

* World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads or any other travel insurance company. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.  

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads *.
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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Kristy Esparza runs the California family travel site, JJ & The Bug. She loves California road trips and planning itineraries that everyone in the family can enjoy. Though Kristy has always enjoyed traveling, she started JJ & The Bug when spending time outdoors as a family kept everyone from climbing the walls of their little Bay Area house. She loves sharing the family’s favorite places and challenging experiences in the hopes of making it a bit easier for fellow travelers to get on the road.

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I can see why this region is among your favorites. The photos are stunning and make me want to pack my bags and hit the road 🙂 If only I were closer!

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Central California Attractions – Your guide of fun things to do

Central California Attractions

Central California attractions   – there are many fun and interesting things to do and places to see here on the California Central Coast. There are natural wonders, such as Big Sur or the Carrizo Plains as well as man-made splendors highlighting nature ( Monterey Bay Aquarium ), historic places such as the missions and adobes and much, much more…

While others might disagree, I think the best attractions in California are to be found right here in Central California and not those further south.

The numbers might show that the “mouse place” is number one, but I truly don’t think it can compare with places like Hearst Castle , the Big Sur coast or the Monterey Bay Aquarium . These are the real “E ticket” places .

You can find 8 of the 21 California missions here as well as the first stone building in California and a number of historic adobe buildings

There are museums like the Steinbeck Museum in Salinas, the Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum in King City and the Warbirds Museum at the Paso Robles Airport. There is also a Space and Missile Heritage Center at the Vandenberg Air Force Base – nothing like that anywhere else in California.

Just take a look at the photo from Hearst Castle above…what can compare with the sight of the ocean from 1500 feet with a flotilla of clouds passing by? William Randolph Hearst may have had his peccadilloes but he sure knew how to pick a site for a house. Check out this page for a view to spending a Christmas at Hearst Castle .

South of Hearst Castle, between Cambria and Cayucos is the little town of Harmony , population 18. Wine tasting, pottery and glassblowing are the main features here.

There are many sorts of attractions here in Central California: natural, man-made, historical, cultural, entertainment, and just plain fun.

Use the list below to find out more about those Central California attractions which can fill out your “things to do” agenda.

Hearst Castle

Also called “La Cuesta Encantada” or “The Enchanted Hill”, this was for years the home of newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. He spent many years traveling through Europe and purchasing artifacts and shipping them back to the United States. “Artifacts” for Hearst was a big concept, since he even bought a complete monastery and had it disassembled and shipped here.

The complex is so large that there are several tours since taking in the entire estate would take days. An evening tour is also available and special functions throughout the year.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Opened in 1984, the Aquarium is built around the nucleus of the old Hovden Cannery which closed in 1972 after the sardine population collapsed from overfishing.

The exhibits are fascinating and draw the visitor in like no other aquarium or zoo or museum that I have ever seen.

It is a beautiful building, set in a beautiful location right on Monterey Bay. Thinking about the numerous visits I have made here, comfortable is probably the best word to describe those visits. Sounds rather silly, but you never feel rushed. There are no long lines where everyone gets cranky waiting for the “ride”. Everyone seems to be engaged and interested in learning more about the little-known world that exists beyond the water’s edge.

Cannery Row

The Aquarium is right on the famous Cannery Row, made famous by the novel by John Steinbeck. Lots of great restaurants , shopping and views of Monterey Bay.

Chumash Painted Cave

A State Historic Park; Please read this page before heading there as there are some serious considerations about the road.

While you’re in the area there, be sure to check out the Cold Spring Tavern and the Cold Spring Arch Bridge .

The Gilroy Gardens Theme Park

California’s only horticulturally themed amusement park . In the heart of Garlic country. Just north of Monterey.

The James Dean Memorial

This California attraction is a bit different, yet it has a draw for those of any age group.

East of Paso Robles, in the very small town of Cholame, you’ll find the James Dean Memorial on the grounds of the Jack Ranch Cafe and a few hundred yards down the road is the James Dean Memorial Junction where the actual crash occurred. There is a makeshift memorial with items left by fans.

The Morro Bay Area

There are numerous attractions here, most are of the natural variety:

• The Rock is only one of a chain of “ Nine Sisters “
• Morro Bay Marina Boardwalk
• Los Osos Elfin Forest
• Sweet Springs Nature Preserve
• Montana de Oro State Park

Carrizo Plains National Monument

A vast expanse of open ground that on the surface seems to be a desolate wasteland, but the Carrizo Plains has many wonders, not the least of which are great springtime displays of wildflowers. Wildflowers are on of everyone’s favorite on the list of California attractions.

Pinnacles National Park

The newest of the national parks, the Pinnacles is best explored by foot and richly rewards those who take the backroad to find this beautiful area.

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The Best Towns to Visit on a Road Trip Down California's Central Coast for Incredible Food, Wineries, and Hotels

A food and drink expert charts the perfect course from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Los Angeles and San Francisco are two of the most celebrated cities on the planet. Often overlooked by those doing the celebrating, however, are the 350 miles of stunning shoreline separating the two. Don’t make the same mistake. The central coast of California is a dynamic slice of culture, wildlife, and topographic wonder. It is best enjoyed slowly and surely on a week-long road trip between its world-famous bookends. And while you undoubtedly have heard the greatest hits — names like Santa Barbara and Big Sur — that’s just the tip of the scenic spear. It’s time for the deep cuts.

Below you’ll find the ultimate guide to coastal California. If this doesn’t inspire you to pack up your car and head for the Pacific Coast Highway, nothing will. The only thing that’s missing is a full tank of gas. This one starts in LA and heads northbound toward the Bay Area. But feel free to reverse it and leave from SF — or even wash, rinse, and repeat once you get to the other end.

Santa Barbara

Sandwiched between sea and the Santa Ynez peaks , Santa Barbara is a sight to behold. You’ll feel its calming effects immediately upon rolling into town — which, if you started at LAX would require almost exactly 100 miles on the US-101. Although its status as a weekend retreat for city-weary Angelenos was enshrined ages ago, it has only more recently asserted itself as a global destination in its own right. The abundance of luxury hotels certainly helps. 

Book your stay at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel , and you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of all the beauty from the comfort of its country-style cottages. The main building includes a veranda with a bar and restaurant stretching out toward the sea, some thousand feet below. And yet it’s still easy to get downtown: the city’s primary pedestrian thoroughfare, State Street, is just a 10-minute drive. 

When you arrive there, Santa Barbara’s signature Spanish revival architecture will be on full display. Go for an afternoon winery crawl, beginning at Frequency Wine Company where independently produced wines express a special focus on single-vineyard selections. If you’re not afraid to get some steps in, it’s just under a mile down to an oenophile’s delight in the aptly named Funk Zone. The former industrial area on the opposite side of the highway now features a cluster of innovative wine shops. 

S. Greg Panosian /Getty Images

As the evening approaches, explore the varied storefronts as the sky glows orange and amber with the setting sun. When it’s time to dine, your options will be robust. Vegetarians won’t want to miss the natural wine–backed offerings at Satellite . The hot spot is a quaint bottle shop and bar, which doubles as a restaurant.

Meat-eaters can get their fill at the many Mediterranean standouts befitting the scenery. Loquita is a long-running hit for Spanish fare and Toma for Italian. But this scene is increasingly devoted to eclecticism, as evidenced by the popularity of Bibi Ji — a State St. favorite for contemporary Indian. 

If you’re looking to get outdoorsy — beyond the obvious surf and sand activities — start your morning with some birdwatching at Andrée Clark Bird Refuge near East Beach. You can also rent some kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from the SB Sailing Center within the harbor. Or if you’re here in between the high season of late spring through early fall, book a whale-watching excursion with Condor Express . You’ll have a good chance of spotting humpbacks or even blue whales on their migratory path up and down the Pacific Coast. 

Santa Maria Valley 

Venture northward out of Santa Barbara and you’ve got an immediate choice to make; both of them fantastic. You can keep hugging the coastline on Highway 1 to Gaviota State Park — at which point you stay with US-101 up to Los Alamos. Or you can crest the Santa Ynez ridge line on highway 154 and then connect with highway 246 for a drive through the Danish wonderland known as Solvang, with perhaps a stopover to feed the massive flightless birds populating Ostrichland USA . 

Either way, you’ll eventually want to break off the highway just before Santa Maria and beeline straight to the charming Wine Stone Inn at the edge of downtown Orcutt. Spacious rooms with balconies start at just $169 per night. This hidden gem is a fantastic springboard from which to dive into the under-explored magic of the greater Santa Maria Valley. And yes, there will be wine. 

In fact, there’s a whole dedicated wine trolley to take you around the local producers of the AVA. Beginning each May and running through to the fall, the $15 shuttle carries drinkers to a half a dozen destinations continually throughout weekend afternoons. Hallmark varieties in this part of the world include chardonnay, pinot noir, and syrah.

For a markedly more rugged way to explore the vines, saddle up to Presqu'ile Winery’s estate tour by horseback . The $250 experience includes an hour-long ride through the 400-acre property, during which you learn all about the grape growing heritage of the region. You’ll marvel at sweeping panoramas of the neighboring San Rafael Mountains before heading back to the tasting room for a flight of the local juice, paired with garden-fresh appetizers from chef Julie Simon.

At sunset, make your way to the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve. The sloping sand forms an ideal vantage point from which to admire the open sky as it fractures into pigments of pink and purple. When it’s dinner time, you’ll find a bevy of options to suit any culinary desire. The Hitching Post in Casmalia is as classic a California barbecue experience as you’ll find anywhere. Prime cuts of filet and sirloin sizzle atop an open flame, directly adjacent to a boisterous, Western-themed dining room. Head back to downtown Orcutt and you’ll encounter some flavorful options within an easy stroll of the hotel. The Cubanissimo Cafe is a local favorite focusing on artfully rendered Cubanos and puerco frito from husband and wife co-owners, Arqui and Chrystal Trenado. If you want to keep it even more casual, you can grab some pints of heavily hopped IPA over at Naughty Oak Brewing and BYOP from Pizzeria Bello Forno directly across the street.

Meanwhile, on the northern side of downtown Santa Maria, there’s a whole other set of wineries worth checking out on the following day. Laetitia Vineyard holds pole position on that list. “I lived here all my life and am still in awe of everything we have to offer in a 10-mile radius,” observes Eric Hickey, chief winemaker for the 40-year-old producer. “We have hiking trails, beaches, water sports, fishing, and great food and drink. It doesn’t hurt that the microclimate — cool in the mornings, warmer during the day and cool again when the fog rolls back in — is ideal for methode champenoise sparkling wine, which we’ve made at Laetitia for over 40 years. Visit the winery and enjoy the bubbles and the ocean view.”

Highway 1/Big Sur

Barry Winiker/Getty Images

And speaking of ocean views, no assortment of adjectives could possibly oversell what comes next. As you continue north past the Santa Maria Valley, through San Luis Obispo (if you’re into sour beer, stop here for a pint or flight at Libertine Brewing ), you’ll eventually be welcomed by the stunning seascape of Morro Bay. From here, you’ve got just over 120 miles of coastline to call your own, as it clings to California’s craggy western edge. 

Pull off Highway 1 into Cambria — an idyllic village of less than 6,000 residents. The downtown strip is speckled with cute gift shops and cozy eateries. Linn’s Restaurant is a popular place to start. Part souvenir store and part country cafe, you can load up on postcards and olallieberry pie. Just outside of town, you can hike the hills of Stolo Family Vineyards to work up a slight sweat before cooling down with their sensational estate-grown syrah. Do dinner at Robin’s : a down-home kitchen lifting inspiration from every corner of the globe. From the property’s quaint garden, you can pair local wines with international flavors — crispy Vietnamese spring rolls, Brazilian seafood stew — all of it as robust as it is faithfully recreated. Overnight at the beachfront cabins of Oceanpoint Ranch . Rates at the three-star hotel can go as low as $145 a night when it’s not the peak of the summer high season. S’mores for the on-site fire pit aren’t included in the price but are easily worth the up-charge.

Next up is the world-famous Hearst Castle , just 6.5 miles north on Highway 1. Tours of the sprawling 165-room mansion begin at $30 — though there are a number of longer and more in-depth surveys which range up to $100 per ticket. It’s worth the cost of admission just to come up and admire the view from the crest of its massive ridgeline frontage. 

Back down below in San Simeon, Hearst Ranch Winery is offering tasting flights to pair with local charcuterie just steps from the windy beach. Continue five more miles north after lunch and pull over at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery . In the peak months of January, April, and October, there are up to 17,000 eponymous pinnipeds crowding these shores. This is the only rookery of its kind in the world that’s easily accessible and free to the public every day of the year.

Now it’s time to kick things into the scenic stratosphere. You’re about to climb up into Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This is the California coast of postcard fame, where arched bridges traverse corrugated river valleys. Endless ocean aligns along the left side of the vehicle, mountains soar skyward on the right. Everything about this region exists on a higher plane, even the hospitality — especially if you happen to be staying at the Post Ranch Inn .

What many seasoned travelers consider to be the most luxurious lodge in all of the U.S. owes its exalted status to a few key factors. For one, its positioning is flawless: 100 acres of dense redwood forest suspended 1,200 feet above the Pacific shores. Secondly, the villas here are at once cozy and opulent, affording unimpeded views of the ocean clouds rolling in from the incomprehensibly distant edge of the horizon. Finally, the execution of the food and beverage at Sierra Mar is nearly as awe-inspiring as the scenery. Executive chef Il Hoon Kang plates farm-driven California cuisine that changes weekly and is enhanced by selections from an expansive wine cellar which holds some 3,200 different labels. 

When you’re ready for adventure, Big Sur boasts enough hiking trails to keep you occupied for years. But if you only have one day, head down the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, which recently reopened after 13 years of closure. Those with keen Googling skills ought to head down the unmarked road leading to Pfeiffer Beach — it’s home to purple sand and a massive rock protruding from the waves. In the middle of the outcropped earth is Keyhole Arch, and if you arrive during the winter months, you can actually spot the sun setting through the hole. Beware: the car park can get super busy during the day, and you’re not allowed to leave your vehicle along the side of the small road. 

Rent an e-bike from Big Sur Adventures , however, and you can pedal to parts far less frequented. The easy-to-use equipment is available for $75 per day. You can arrange delivery to a fabulous trailhead — ascending toward the heavens — across from the dirt road entrance to Andrew Molera State Park. (Alternatively, you can head 30 minutes up the road to their shop in Carmel to grab a bike in person.)

Monterey County/Carmel

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It’s time to head back into civilization for the last leg of your coastal California excursion. Thankfully, you are ending on a serious high note. Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the Golden State’s most charming, pedestrian-friendly villages. So secure your overnight at the Vagabond’s House Inn and ditch your car in their complimentary parking lot. The cozy cottages here feature fireplaces, soaking tubs, and a verdant vantage point right in the heart of downtown. King rooms start at $324 per night. 

Stroll the streets in search of fine art and vintage antiques, or pull up a stool at one of the town’s 16 wine-tasting rooms. You don’t have to have any specific destination in mind. Though, when mealtime arrives, you’ll want to have reservations at Toro Sushi to enjoy the eatery’s creative rolls of raw fish and outsized list of sakes sourced from up and down Japan. Then, make your way to Carmel Bakery for dessert. The legendary confectioner has been serving up snacks here since 1899. 

On your final day, take a leisurely ride along 17-Mile Drive to explore famed Pebble Beach, snap photos of the Lone Cypress , and breathe in the briny ocean air of the Monterey Peninsula. The experience will cost you — it’s an $11.25 toll per vehicle to access the exclusive enclave, but that fee is refunded with a purchase of $35 or more at any of the Pebble Beach resorts . 

The opposite end of the drive spits you out in Pacific Grove, not far from Cannery Row and downtown Monterey. Peruse the historic storefronts of Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, book an instructive tour with Sail Monterey — located right next to the Crab House. For $150, you’ll receive a two-hour-long lesson from a seasoned pro. It’ll provide all the basics you need to learn how to sail on your own. And, of course, you’ll get to take in the maritime wonder of Monterey Bay along the way. If that’s too ambitious, they also offer $85 sunset cruises where you won’t have to do anything except enjoy your complimentary adult beverage. 

When you’re back on dry land, book dinner at Cella . The hip dining den offers imaginative craft cocktails, a masterful mushroom gnocchi and the best gourmet burger in all of Monterey. For dessert, mosey your way a few blocks down to The Whisky Club . As its name suggests, this inviting parlor specializes in aged brown spirit. In fact, it holds more than 300 expressions of scotch and bourbon — much of it lined up against a soaring backbar, with even more available for takeaway purchase in an adjoining bottle shop. Grab a bottle and pour yourself something special to savor when your trip winds to an end.

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Mario Reyes

• June 5, 2023
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Best Central California Coastal Towns 🌊 | 14 Central Coast Cities & Towns to Visit & Live

Last Updated on: 25th July 2023, 01:28 pm

The California Central Coast is famous for its agriculture and wineries as one of America’s most fertile farming regions. It’s also home to what is arguably California’s most beautiful and dramatic coastline. Unlike Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area, the Central California Coast is dotted mostly with tiny, picturesque towns and small cities with long stretches of pristine shoreline.

If you’re planning a visit to the Central Coast region or even thinking about moving to the area, here are just some of the best Central California beach towns you should see for yourself.

Table of Contents

What Is the Central Coast of California?

The Central California Coast is a large region stretching from Point Mugu in Ventura County to Monterey Bay. The Central Coast California area includes about 350 miles of coastline ranging from sandy beaches to dramatic, rugged cliffs.

There are six Central Coast counties: Ventura, Santa Barbara, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, and San Benito, although San Benito is slightly inland and has no coastline.

There are four main regions of the California Central Coast:

• Santa Barbara
• San Luis Obispo (SLO)
• Monterey Bay

Central California Coastal Towns – Monterey Bay Area

The Monterey Peninsula and surrounding bay area is home to some of the most iconic California coastal towns, the famous Big Sur region, and a famous aquarium that was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest and the only one in the world to successfully display a great white shark. Here are the best Central Coast California cities and towns in the Monterey Bay region.

The Central Coast of California isn’t all charming beach towns and wide-open stretches of beaches. The Big Sur area is a rugged, 90-mile stretch of the Central Coast with steep seaside cliffs and dramatic views. Catch glimpses of the ocean through the mist as you drive through giant redwoods along Highway 1. Stop at Big Sur Village, a collection of homes and businesses, for essentials if you’re planning on hiking or surfing in the area.

Don’t miss McWay Falls, just half a mile from parking, at one of the most stunning beaches in Central California . This 80-foot waterfall becomes a tidefall during high tide and empties right into the Pacific.

One of the most visited Central California coastal cities, Monterey is home to the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and Old Fisherman’s Wharf, two popular Central Coast attractions. Whether you’re just visiting or thinking about living in Monterey , you’ll fall in love with the city’s fresh seafood and family-friendly attractions.

The iconic Monterey State Beach is one of the most famous Central California beaches and stretches from Monterey to neighboring Seaside. Enjoy everything from fishing to surfing to paragliding!

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, better known as Carmel, is one of the best Central Coast California towns in the Monterey area. Carmel is famous for its artist colony history, picturesque European-style village atmosphere, and the Carmel Mission . Built in 1797, it’s one of the best restored California missions.

One of the highlights of this Central California coastal town is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve , an exceptionally stunning state park with scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching, and hiking.

Art lovers won’t want to skip the Carmel Art Association Gallery, the oldest art gallery in Carmel with work by 100+ local artists.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by See Monterey (@seemonterey)

Pacific Grove

One of the largest Central Coast cities on the Monterey Peninsula, Pacific Grove is a great place to spend the night if you’re exploring the Monterey area . This charming city is known for its Victorian homes, many of which are converted bed-and-breakfast inns and pristine coast.

Take a drive along main street to enjoy the ocean view, visit Point Pinos Lighthouse – the oldest continually operating on the Pacific! – and pay a visit to the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History and the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary between October and March when the butterflies migrate back to the area.

Our Pacific Grove living guide covers everything you need to know about this coastal community.

Marina is one of the largest Central Coast California cities near Monterey. This Monterey Bay city, just 9 miles north of Monterey, is a windswept beach community known for the Fort Ord National Monument and Marina State Beach. The beach stretches below high dunes and offers great paragliding and hang gliding. This coastal city is also home to Skydive Monterey Bay, one of the top Central Coast things to do for thrill-seekers.

Find out more about what it’s like visiting or living in Marina CA with our complete guide.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Skydive Monterey Bay 🪂 World’s Highest Skydives (@montereyskydive)

California Central Coast Cities & Towns Near San Luis Obispo

The San Luis Obispo area is known for its wineries, historic architecture, and famously charming Central Coast California towns. There are several small towns on the shore an easy drive from SLO, including two of the state’s most famous coastal towns: Pismo Beach and Morro Bay.

One of the smaller Central California beach towns, Cayucos is often overlooked but offers the quintessential Central Coast atmosphere. Take in more than six miles of white sand beaches and the iconic 950-foot pier at Cayucos State Beach . Swim and surf during the day, then hit the pier for night fishing. Mackerel, skate, halibut, white croaker, and more are often caught here.

Avila Beach

One of the best beach towns near San Luis Obispo , Avila Beach is a charming town that’s home to the Avila Hot Springs with a heated pool and hot mineral soaking pool plus water slides.

The town is just 10 miles from SLO on the San Luis Obispo Bay. It’s one of the top Central Coast beach towns to visit with kids with plenty to see and do. Shop for produce and pet the animals at Avila Valley Barn then stop by the small, nonprofit Central Coast Aquarium. Avila Beach is home to Pirate’s Cove Beach, a well-known Central California clothing optional beach popular with locals for nude volleyball. The nearly 1700-foot Avila Beach Pier is a more family-friendly destination. One of three piers in Avila Beach, it’s just across from downtown.

One of the most iconic Central Coast cities, Morro Bay is home to the famous Morro Rock volcanic formation at Morro Rock Beach . A visit to Morro Bay State Park is one of the best things to do in Central Coast California near San Luis Obispo . Enjoy camping at well-equipped seafront Morro Bay campgrounds, hiking around the lagoon, fishing, and more. The park is also home to a marina, golf course, and the Museum of Natural History.

Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is one of the most famous Central California coastal cities that’s known for not only its gorgeous beaches but also its wineries. You’ll find many tasting rooms near downtown Pismo Beach like Tastes of the Valleys and the Monarch Grove Winery Tasting Room.

Outdoor recreation is what makes this one of the best Central California beach towns . Visit the shore and dig for your own Pismo clams and catch the major Pismo Beach Clam Festival held every year. Dinosaur Caves Park is one of the best places to visit in Central California for families. This unique park is located on the bluffs with a playground and breathtaking ocean views. Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove during the cold months to see the butterflies flock.

Pismo State Beach stretches across Pismo Beach, Oceano, and Grover Beach with a 1,200-foot fishing pier, surfing, and kayaking.

One of the smallest Central Coast California towns, San Simeon is also one of the most interesting places to visit along the coast. It’s best known for the striking Hearst Castle , a Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean-style mansion built over 28 years for William Randolph Hearst on a hill overlooking the village.

This small coastal village also boasts one of the most unique things to do in Central Coast California: spot a large herd of wild zebras! Hearst, a newspaper tycoon, once had the world’s largest private zoo with everything from grizzly bears and chimpanzees to giraffes and leopards. Most of the animals were donated or sold to zoos and preserves when Hearst’s fortune faded, but the zebras (along with Barbary sheep and some others) remain.

There are more than 120 zebras roaming the land below Hearst Castle. You may spot them while driving along Highway 1.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by WildlivePlanet (@wildliveplanet)

Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco is Cambria, one of many picturesque Central Coast California towns in SLO County . Cambria is best known for Moonstone Beach with its brown sand, ocean-polished smooth stones, and boardwalk running parallel with Moonstone Beach Drive. The village also has a charming main street with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants to explore.

For outdoor lovers, Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a can’t-miss destination with an extensive network of scenic trails, including the Bluff Trail which winds along the bluff high over the ocean.

Other Central Coast California Cities to Visit

There are many other great California Central Coast towns to visit or settle down outside the Monterey Bay and SLO areas. Here are just a few more beautiful destinations to check out.

One of the largest California Central Coast cities, Santa Cruz is just 35 miles north of Monterey and 70 miles south of San Francisco at the north end of Monterey Bay. Santa Cruz is among the best Coastal California cities for families, millennials, and young professionals. The city is home to a thriving arts community, fantastic food scene, historic architecture, and some of the top attractions in the region.

Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz features towering rock bridge formations and easy access to tide pools. The Santa Cruz Wharf is an iconic destination for fishing, sea lion viewing, and boat tours. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the only remaining seaside amusement parks on the West Coast and the state’s oldest . Visit the boardwalk to ride the roller coasters, play games, and enjoy fun events like Free Movies on the Beach or Live Music on the Colonnade.

Ventura is the most southern of Central Coast cities, just 70 miles north of downtown Los Angeles and 28 miles south of Santa Barbara. Officially known as San Buenaventura, Ventura is also the largest of California Central Coast cities with more than 110,000 people.

Ventura is home to dozens of fun things to do on the Central Coast . The iconic San Buenaventura State Beach is a popular draw with the wooden Ventura Pier while Surfer’s Point is an iconic spot for windsurfing and surfing. The downtown area is home to the 1782 Mission San Buenaventura , one of the original California missions. One of the most unique things to do in the city is take a boat to Channel Islands National Park with sea caves, rare Torrey pines, and island fox that only live on the islands.

Carpinteria

One of the small Central California Coastal towns in the Santa Barbara area, Carpinteria is a quiet seaside community known for its great surfing and unique natural attractions. Visit the town to explore everything from a salt marsh and coastal bluffs to the Carpinteria Tar Pits , one of just five natural asphalt lake regions in the world along with the more famous La Brea Tar Pits.

Central Coast California Map of Towns & Cities

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California's Central Coast: The Complete Guide

California's Central Coast: The Complete Guide

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California’s famous central coast stretches from just north of Los Angeles in Ventura County to south of San Francisco in Santa Clara, encompassing the spectacular regions of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur, and Monterey. Its 350 miles of beautiful coastline incorporates stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean from 400-foot sea cliffs and acres upon acres of vineyards and California farmland  . This special division of the Golden State offers one of the most quintessential and underrated road trip routes in the country, along unparalleled Highway 1.

Spot playful sea otter and massive elephant seals at nature preserves near Hearst Castle or experience authentic California beach towns with unique microclimates in Cambria , Avila Beach, and Cayucos. Across the street from Hearst Castle at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach, a moderate trail known for its wildflowers and birdwatching leads you out to the tip of San Simeon Point.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime drive along Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve , one of the only beaches in California that allows driving. Go camping at Pismo Beach State Park or discover the black sand beaches and waterfalls at Ragged Point. Hike to mountainous Morro Rock at Morro Bay or check out the infamous Gum Wall in San Luis Obispo . Sightsee on the Bixby Creek Bridge, which is perhaps the most iconic landmark on California’s Central Coast, or take a ride on the coastal bike path between Ventura and Ojai. Pull over to take a photo at McWay Falls, the 80-foot-tall waterfall on the coast of Big Sur that flows year-round from McWay Creek directly into the Pacific Ocean.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Depending on what types of activities you’re looking for, it's hard to go wrong in California’s Central Coast (no matter what the season). Fall or winter are the best times for surfing, and springtime offers far less crowds for wine tasting and road-tripping. Summer offers slightly more crowds but much warmer weather .
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. Dollars
• Getting Around: Hands down the easiest way to get around California’s Central Coast is by car. If you want to save gas money or spend time enjoying the sights rather than driving, opt for a wine tour or the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner.
• Travel Tip: Although this coastal region sits right between bustling San Francisco and crowded Los Angeles, don’t expect to see any big cities here. This area is known for its small coastal surfing towns and quiet beaches, so get ready for a relaxing getaway full of good food, plenty of wineries, and scenic hiking trails.

Things to Do

Famous destinations such as Hearst Castle and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to California’s Central Coast. While most visitors come to the area for the food, wine, and beaches, they shouldn’t discount the incredible hiking trails, museums, whale watching , and boutique surf shops either. To get a real feel of the seaside region, book a lighthouse tour, like the ones at Piernas Blancas and Point San Luis.

• Beaches : The best reason to travel to the coast: beaches! California’s Central Coast is no exception, with some of the most peaceful and gorgeous stretches of sand in the state.
• Camping: Camping is one of the greatest ways to experience the California Central Coast, especially for road trippers. You can find a great portion of California’s amazing acreage and campgrounds at Los Padres National Forest.
• Wine Tasting : Two of the most recognized wine regions in the area can be found in Santa Barbara and Paso Robles, though there is certainly no shortage of fantastic wineries.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on Central California tourism , the best destinations on California’s Central Coast , and our guide to the entire coast of California .

What to Eat and Drink

Whether you're tasting local wine in Santa Barbara or slurping clam chowder in Pismo Beach, the Central Coast of California offers truly exceptional and diverse dining experiences. An abundance of rich, fertile soil and entire generations of specialty farmers, fishermen, and ranchers have gifted this region with wonderful farmer’s markets. Another important staple of coastal California, fruit stands, can also be found throughout the area. Casa de Fruta , between Hollister and Gilroy, has been serving the community for more than 100 years (if you see it, pull over!).

Coastal California is a mecca for fresh fruits, produce, and, of course, seafood, so it’s no surprise that much of the state’s most talented chefs and restaurateurs chose the central coast to congregate. There is a great mixture of warm, budget-friendly local hangouts that have gained a following but remained humble, and pricey award-winning restaurants with vibrant cocktails and lengthy wine lists. Splash Cafe in Pismo Beach is one of the area’s oldest and most popular seafood joints. Restaurants, nightlife, and shops along Cannery Row in Monterey Bay are designed for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Make sure you hit up one of the bakeries (and pay your respect to Hans Christian Andersen) in Solvang , a historic Danish village in the Santa Ynez Valley.

The greatest part about having so many wineries around is that there is something for everyone, whether you’re a casual wine drinker or an expert. Great wineries are easy to come by in California’s Central Coast, but you’ll find the biggest concentration in Santa Barbara and Paso Robles  .

Explore more of California’s food and beverage scene with articles on California’s best food travel experiences , the best ocean view restaurants , and the best restaurants near Monterey . 

Where to Stay

Score a quaint hotel along the coast, especially near iconic beaches like Moonstone Beach in sleepy Cambria ; Not to mention, you’ll get first dibs on some spectacularly epic sunsets. For a truly unique experience, check in to the world-famous Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo. Known for its 110 completely distinctly themed and totally whimsical suites, guests can take their pick from rooms such as the Jungle Rock with a stone waterfall shower to the Austrian Suite with an outdoor spiral staircase. (Tip: Madonna Inn is equally famous for its bakery, so don’t leave without getting your hands on a pastry or slice of pie).

Explore the best places to stay in the area with our guide to charming bed-and-breakfasts along the California Coast , the best hotels in Santa Barbara , and campgrounds around Monterey and Carmel .

Getting There

A car is the best way to travel in California’s Central Coast, but if you don’t want to drive the entire way, grab a seat on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner for the portion of the road between Ventura and San Luis Obispo with Santa Barabara in between. Tickets will cost under $40, and the high-quality trains are equipped with Wi-Fi and onboard power so you can charge your devices while enjoying the scenery. You can also look into wine tours that will not only take you to the most incredible wine tasting spots along the coast, but also provide you with a guide and professional driver. Take scenic Highway 1 to drive nearest to the ocean (highly recommended) or Highway 101 to stay more inland. Some of the airports nearby include Monterey Regional Airport , San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport , and Santa Barbara Municipal Airport , but you can even take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train ($23 per person) to the Ventura train station from LAX .

Money Saving Tips

• Try camping or vacation rentals instead of hotels. It gives you a real feel of the natural environment without breaking the bank with fancy hotel rooms. Plus, you’ll likely get access to amenities such as electricity, Wi-Fi, fresh water, restrooms, showers, laundry room, and maybe even a swimming pool. 
• If you do choose to stay at a hotel for all or part of the trip, book accommodations in advance so that you can get the lowest price.
• Don’t miss out on the lovely hiking trails along the California Central Coast. The best part of the scenery is that it's free!
• Santa Barbara County’s affordable Santa Maria Wine Trolley runs from late May through mid-October and costs about $10 per person.
• In San Luis Obispo, the SLO Railroad Museum and the SLO Children’s Museum both offer exhibits and activities for kids 10 and under for about $10 per person. There is free admission at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, and the History Center of San Luis Obispo County, as well.
• Start your day with a visit to one of the region’s many visitor centers, such as the Santa Cruz County Visitor Center for a map of free walking tours.
• Admission-free museums include the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center.
• It's no secret that eating out is a costly component of vacation, and California prices can cause serious sticker shock to first-time visitors. Save money by making a portion of your meals in your hotel or rental home rather than going out to restaurants. That way, you’ll save money while spending more quality time cooking with your travel companions.
• Chances are, you’ll be road-tripping most if not all of the way along the coast, so opt for a car with better gas mileage and fuel-efficiency. An electric car is even better, especially since California is very electric car-friendly with charging stations easier to come by than other states. Use a GPS to steer clear of tolls and make sure to inspect the car before hitting the road to avoid breakdowns and tickets.

Central Coast California. "Welcome to California's Central Coast." July 9, 2020.

Visit California. "Central Coast Wine Country." July 9, 2020.

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25 Central Coast Towns for an Outstanding Weekend Escape

Beautiful Central Coast towns line the California coast between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Each has a unique character, but one thing that unites the towns of California’s central coast is a laid-back vibe. This makes them perfect for a quick escape from the bustling metropolises that anchor either end. 

Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura make up the four Central Coast regions from north to south. The towns highlighted below have everything you need for a relaxing family-friendly getaway. You’ll find beaches that are perfect for swimming or surfing, gorgeous views of the pacific ocean, trails, opportunities to connect with nature, and attractions that range from quirky to adventurous. 

Though most of the towns listed below are on the coast, I’ve also included a few that are a quick drive inland but are well worth a visit during your exploration of this fantastic section of the state. It’s also important to know that many of these towns are not far from each other. Pick a home base, and have fun exploring.

Things are always changing! Make sure to double-check schedule changes and closures before your trip.

Also, we use affiliate links to keep our blog free for you to read and to pay for the occasional pizza night. If you purchase through a link on our page, we might receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Where is the Central Coast of California?

The Central Coast is located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, but it has a unique character. The unofficial capital of the Central Coast is the San Luis Obispo region, known by its acronym SLO.

Unlike the pace of life in San Francisco and Los Angeles, Central Coast towns embrace slowing down. Whether you’re passing through or are heading to the Central Coast as a destination in its own right, driving along the coast is part of the fun. Slow down and enjoy the journey.

Map of Central Coast Towns by Region

The Central Coast towns included on this list are mapped out below and color-coded by region. 

If you already have a region in mind, skip ahead through the following links: 

• Monterey Bay Region Central Coast Towns 
• San Luis Obispo Region Central Coast Towns 
• Santa Barbara Region Central Coast Towns
• Ventura Region Central Coast Towns

When is the best time to visit the Central Coast?

The Central Coast towns mentioned here span a big chunk of the California coastline. Weather patterns will differ depending on whether you’re at the northern or the southern end, but it’s safe to say that all the towns have a mild climate year-round. I’ve enjoyed sunny winter afternoons in Big Sur and cool summer mornings in Avila Beach.

Like much of California, the best time to visit is fall or spring. Fall was once my favorite time to travel, but now you have to be aware of what has become the fire season. Be in the know on what’s going on throughout the state. A fire anywhere can impact air quality hundreds of miles away. 

Spring might have more rainy days than fall (or so we hope!), but that rain brings the state’s natural beauty to life. When we visited Solvang in early spring one year, I almost didn’t recognize the area. The hills were carpeted with gorgeous emerald green. You might even get to catch the sight of an unforgettable wildflower bloom. 

No matter what time of year it is, expect some fog and cool mornings and evenings. Pack layers, even in the summer.

Central California Coast Towns in the Monterey Bay Region

The northernmost section of California’s Central Coast towns, the Monterey Bay Region offers spectacular natural beauty, from Big Sur’s rugged beaches to some of California’s best surfing in Santa Cruz.

Families can enjoy everything from purple sand beaches to one of the country’s best aquariums to the Garlic Capital of the World in the Monterey Bay Region. There is no shortage of family fun and adventure here!

An environmentally conscious surf town with wide sandy beaches, Santa Cruz also happens to be home to one of California’s most iconic roller coasters. With a thriving creative scene downtown and majestic coastal redwoods in the mountains, Santa Cruz is a wonderful home base for exploring Central Coast towns in the Monterey Bay Region.

If you want more details on a family getaway to Santa Cruz, click here for the full post .

• Spend the day at the vintage seaside amusement park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . Known for the landmark Giant Dipper Roller Coaster constructed in 1924, this uniquely Californian amusement park is fun for all ages. 
• Enjoy a family bike ride along West Cliff Drive, with stops at the Wharf, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum , and the tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach .
• Explore coastal redwoods by foot or by train. The one-mile Redwood Grove loop hike at Henry Cowell State Park is an easy stroll that makes a big impact. It’s also a great place to spot the city’s mascot: banana slugs. Next to the park is Roaring Camp Railroad , a family favorite for steam train rides into the redwoods or even back to the Boardwalk. 
• Experience Santa Cruz’s trippy and silly side at the Mystery Spot . Said to be a gravitational anomaly, the spot’s many visual illusions will keep you laughing and head-scratching. 
• Anxious to get in the water? Learn to surf at the birthplace of surfing in North America.

Where to Stay

• If you want to stay in the middle of the action, consider staying at the landmark Dream Inn . Each of the 165 guest rooms has ocean views and the hotel pool is steps from the sand. The Dream Inn is located on the site of Jack O’Neill’s first surf shop and is an easy walk to the Wharf, Boardwalk, and West Cliff Drive.
• Seascape Beach Resort in the neighboring town of Aptos offers more space and a quieter beach experience. Every room in this all-suite resort has kitchens, fireplaces, and access to 17 miles of beach. Families love the two-bedroom villas. In addition to more rooms, they come with a washer and dryer, full kitchen, living room, and outdoor space. If your room is further from the beach, the resort has golf carts for guests so you don’t have to worry about dragging your gear to and from the sand.

A little less than an hour inland from Santa Cruz, Gilroy is known as the Garlic Capital of the World. You can smell the garlic in the air as you drive in from the coast. If someone in your family loves garlic, this little town is worth a stop.

• Discover 40 rides, a splash park, and over 10,000 trees at Gilroy Gardens , a wonderland for families with young kids. 
• Shop for Garlic Ice Cream and other novelties at Garlic World and the Garlic Shoppe .
• Enjoy fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and other inland water sports at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park .
• Time your visit with one of Gilroy Gardens’s Family Camp Nights . Enjoy movies and other special experiences in the park after hours. Dinner, breakfast, and park admission are included. All you have to bring is your tent and some clothes.

San Juan Bautista

Just over half an hour inland from Monterey, San Juan Bautista was the first California settlement not on the water. Today it remains anchored by its Mission and its role in California history.

• The Mission and the State Historic Park are central to the town of San Juan Bautista. For a small entrance fee, you can explore the four main buildings, a blacksmith shop, a jail, and the cabin of a settler. Hear stories to learn about the good and the bad of life in early California. 
• Wander down 3rd street which retains the town’s wild west feel to imagine years gone by while browsing local shops and grabbing a bite to eat.
• Though more of a motel than a hotel with doors facing the inner courtyard, travelers love Hacienda de Leal for its beautiful grounds and clean, relaxed vibe. Enjoy a fire pit in the evening surrounded by courtyard trees all aglow with lights.

A visit to the Central Coast town of Monterey offers special magic. Most come for the famous aquarium, but there is plenty to keep families exploring beyond those mesmerizing jellyfish. Stay awhile and meet local whales and otters, take a family bike ride along the coast, and explore one of California’s oldest cities. It’s a fascinating place to wander, on land and by sea. 

If you want to read more about what there is to do in Monterey and other nearby towns on the Monterey Peninsula, click here for a full post and a four-day itinerary.

• No visit to Monterey is complete without time spent at the famous aquarium! Take your time ogling sardines, leopard sharks, wolf-eels, and many more. There are also plenty of hands-on ways to immerse yourself in the Monterey Bay Aquarium experience. 
• Embark on a whale-watching tour or hop in a kayak to get a glimpse of the Bay’s fascinating animals up close.
• Enjoy a family bike ride along the 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail.
• Let the kids go wild in El Estero Park and the Dennis the Menace Playground
• Shop and stroll historic Cannery Row with stops at the Monterey Mirror Maze and the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory to keep the kiddos energized.
• The Portola Hotel is welcoming to kids but still a nice getaway for grown-ups too. Families enjoy the outdoor pool, kid-friendly eats, and a library with materials for all ages. Monterey vendors like Adventures by Sea and Sea Car Tours also have locations here, making it a convenient home base.
• If you are up for a splurge, the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa offers a welcome Discovery Kit and a Plaza Explorers Program designed to engage families with fun and educational experiences customized to your interests. The hotel also features suites with bunk beds and is only a 10-minute walk to the Aquarium.

Pacific Grove

This beautiful little town with its trademark Victorian-style homes sits right next to Monterey on the peninsula. It is known as “Butterfly Town, USA” for its annual monarch butterfly sanctuary and migration site. It makes a great home base for Monterey Peninsula explorations.

• If you’re visiting between November and February, check out the town’s beloved Monarch Sanctuary . After a few quiet winters, the butterflies returned during the winter of 2021-22, with a count of about 14,000! It’s a short walk but take your time. Many clusters look more like leaves than butterflies.
• The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is one of the oldest in the country, having opened in 1883. It’s a great place to learn about the flora, fauna, and stories of the Central Coast.
• At Lovers Point Park you’ll find green grass for running, BBQs for grilling, rocks for climbing, two small sandy beaches, clean bathrooms, and good coffee shops. Located in a protected cove, this is one of the safer places for kids to splash in the ocean.
• Asilomar State Park and Conference Grounds make for convenient and budget-friendly lodging in Pacific Grove. Rooms are rustic and no-frills but are steps away from a gorgeous state beach on grounds filled with nature trails and historic architecture. 
• Pacific Grove also has some great vacation rentals. Sanctuary Vacation Rentals offer good options for character-filled and comfortable homes that are the perfect landing pad after a long day of sightseeing. One of my favorites, Villa by the Sea , is about a 10-minute walk to the aquarium.

Carmel-By-The-Sea

Dog-friendly Carmel-by-the-Sea is the most upscale of its neighbors, known for boutique shopping and fine dining. It has an artistic soul with many galleries, music festivals, and theater productions. And then there’s the whimsical architecture of the village that opens onto one of the most beautiful beaches of these Central Coast towns. Though this one might be more appealing to parents than kids, there is still something for everyone to explore.

• Enjoy gorgeous Carmel Beach’s white sand beach and adjacent tide pools. This is a magical spot to catch a sunset and is known by some as Sunset Beach. 
• Stroll through downtown Carmel with its picturesque shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Wander through the labyrinth of side streets with their small garden courtyards and passageways. Reward patient kids with stops at Thinker Toys and Cottage of Sweets . 
• Explore the natural wonders of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, just south of Carmel. Known as the “crown jewel of the California State Park system,” this is one of my favorite spots to explore with the boys. Check out our favorite trails and resources for kids here . 
• Catch a performance at the outdoor Forest Theater. Every August and September features a family musical followed by the annual Carmel Shakespeare Festival in October.
• The Normandy Inn offers multi-room cottages located on Ocean Avenue and is just three blocks from Carmel Beach. Parking is limited, but at this location, there’s plenty to see and do by foot.
• Comfort Inn Carmel-by-the-Sea is an affordable option in a pricey location. Rooms are clean and comfortable and breakfast and limited free parking are included.

Carmel Valley

Less touristy than its coastal neighbors, Carmel Valley offers rustic beauty and sunnier skies than the often fog-covered coast. This is a place to get away from it all, with plenty of opportunities to simply relax and explore the idyllic atmosphere.

• Hang out in laid-back Carmel Valley Village. Picnic in the Village Community Park or relax at the family-friendly Cowgirl Winery . While grown-ups sample a new wine, the whole family can have fun playing corn-hole and spying on the resident chickens. 
• Enjoy the Earthbound Farms Farm Stand . A pioneer in the organic food movement, Earthbound Farms now has a year-round cafe and seasonal visitor experiences that are fun and educational for all ages.
• Explore Garland Ranch Regional Park by foot, bike, or horse. Historic buildings can be found throughout the park providing a glimpse of Carmel Valley’s past.
• The 500-acre Carmel Valley Ranch is a destination in and of itself. This all-suite hotel features fireplaces and decks in every room and a wide range of onsite adventures, including experiences just for kids. The whole family will enjoy fireside chats with the resident naturalists (and s’mores), disc golf, falconry, a day at the family pool and splash pad, and much more.
• At the Camp at Carmel Valley , visitors can choose to glamp in rustic cabins (no electricity and BYO bedding) or enjoy a full-service house rental. Once a children’s camp, they offer a range of classic camp activities from swimming, yard games, and board games to group campfires, tie-dye sessions, and guided hikes. All meals are included, so all you need to do is sit back, relax, and play.

In remote and rugged Big Sur, all of the best things to do lead outdoors. You can go from redwood forest hikes to waves crashing onto a purple sand beach within minutes. Though Big Sur is a popular spot for romantic getaways and wellness retreats, it’s also a wonderful place for families to unwind and connect. Your phone won’t work much of the time and many lodging options come without televisions. But you can get outside and enjoy family fun while immersing yourself in the area’s natural beauty.

For more on our favorite family-friendly Big Sur stops, click here for a full post and a four-day itinerary.

• If you are visiting the area between February and April, make time to wander through Garrapata State Park’s Calla Lily Valley. This surreal little hidden valley full of wild Calla Lilies is hidden just off of Highway 1. Walk back via the beautiful beach before hopping back into the car.
• Hike up to Pfeiffer Falls, one of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park’s most family-friendly trails. Stop by the lodge to treat the kids to post-hike ice cream. 
• Stop for lunch at the Big Sur River Inn & Restaurant , where your to-go order comes in a cooler that you can bring down to the river. Relax in the restaurant’s Adirondack chairs with your toes in the river while the kids play nearby. 
• Play on a beautiful beach with purple sand and the Keyhole Arch, one of the region’s most photographed natural bridges. Click here for a full post on planning a family day at Big Sur’s purple sand beach.
• Take a family photo by McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park . McWay Falls is one of only two tidefalls, a waterfall that pours into the ocean, in California. The walk to the overlook is quick and easy. You’ll be viewing with plenty of others, but the good news is that you’ll easily find someone willing to snap your family photo. 
• The Big Sur Lodge may not be fancy, but it has comfort, convenience, and a great location in the park. You won’t have TV or WiFi, but you have hiking trails, a heated pool, the river, and good eats right outside your door. Accommodation fees include admission to three state parks: Pfeiffer Big Sur, Andrew Molera, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns. 
• Kirk Creek campground is known for its dramatic ocean views. If you’re ok with bringing fresh water and using vault toilets, you’ll love this gorgeously situated campground.

Central California Coast Towns in the San Luis Obispo Region

The San Luis Obispo Region is the unofficial capital of the Central Coast. It’s the area that comes to mind for most people when they think of Central Coast towns. SLO is both an acronym and a way of life here. The cities and towns that line this section of the coast range from vintage Main Streets to classic California beach towns. Expect to find quirky shops, great local restaurants, sandy beaches, and gorgeous hiking trails.

San Simeon is best known as home to the over-the-top mansion built for one of the richest men of his time. But when you’re done with your Hearst Castle tour, there’s still plenty for families to see and do in this sleepy beach town.

• Hearst Castle looms high on the mountain above San Simeon. It is a mansion-turned museum that asks guests to imagine what it would have been like to be a guest of media baron William Randolph Hearst in the 1920s and 30s. The experience is best for families with kids 5+. We last visited when the boys were 2 and 4 years old. They loved the bus ride, and JJ was impressed by the grand scale of the house. But tour sizes are large, and they aren’t designed for kids. We enjoyed the outdoor spaces more because I could walk with Bug at the edge of the group when he got antsy. 
• Elephant seals love the California coast! San Simeon is home to the Elephant Seal Preserve at Piedras Blancas . You can view the seals from a wide boardwalk without a tour or hike. Visit in late January during pupping season, early May at peak molting season, and in late October when the juvenile elephant seals return from the ocean.
• San Simeon’s favorite stretch of sand is the William R. Hearst Memorial Beach . Dogs on leashes are welcome. San Simeon’s Coastal Discovery Center provides educational exhibits and activities nearby.
• San Simeon Lodge is a family-friendly motel with a pool that is a short walk from the ocean and local restaurants. The Lodge is a great value option given its location. 
• If you’re looking for a place to camp with an RV, the San Simeon Creek Campground offers 134 sites in Hearst San Simeon State Park , 5.5 miles south of the Castle. The sites in the lower section have more shade and trees, but the upper section has much better views.

Stretched between towering pines and the Pacific Ocean, this quintessential Central Coast town harkens back to simpler times. Visitors love to stroll its walkable downtown with artsy shops and boutiques, wine tasting, history, and amazing restaurants. Active families will want to venture out to explore natural wonders as well.

• A trip to Cambria isn’t complete without a visit to Linn’s Restaurant . Make sure to leave room for dessert to sample a slice of Linn’s famous olallieberry pie. 
• Spend a day relaxing on Moonstone Beach. Whether you want to sink your toes in the sand, stroll down the boardwalk, try to spy on some whales, or play at Shamel Park on the beach’s south end, there’s something for everyone on Moonstone Beach. 
• Get up close and personal with majestic Clydesdale horses at the Covell Clydesdale Ranch . The ranch is home to about 100 Clydesdale horses of all ages and sizes. Anyone who is 7 years old or older will enjoy a guided tour where you can bond with a Clydesdale horse while taking in the beautiful views and learning about ranch history. All ages are welcome on a ranch tour by UTV or trailer.
• The Sea Otter Inn is located across the street from Moonstone Beach. In the morning, they leave you a breakfast basket outside your door, and one of the options is breakfast burritos. Does it get any better than waking up with breakfast burritos on the beach? It’s also a pet-friendly property with a pool, hot tub, and fire pits with ocean views.
• The Cambria Pines Inn is a comfortable place for families to stay in town. Wander through 25 acres of gardens, soak in the outdoor pool and hot tub, and take a walk downtown (though the trail to town takes you on a steep downhill that is not stroller-friendly, something we learned the hard way!). This is the perfect place to be if you’re in town for the amazing annual Christmas Market , located on-site.

Paso Robles

A little less than an hour inland, Paso Robles is emerging as one of California wine’s latest hot spots. Folks often say it’s like Napa in the early days. It’s still unpretentious and fun, and you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly places to taste. Paso is also home to the fairgrounds where you can enjoy the Mid-State Fair, annual rodeos, and other family-friendly events.

• Relax at a family-friendly winery like Sculpterra . On weekends enjoy a tasting or a glass outdoors with great music and rotating food trucks. If you’re interested in more family-friendly wineries, check out this list by Paso Wine . 
• Play at the Paso Children’s Museum , which embraces the region’s wine culture with its grape stomp ball pit exhibit. 
• Visitors rave about the immersive art installation, Light at Sensorio . What was supposed to be a temporary art installation continues to be extended. The original work, Bruce Monroe’s Field of Light, is a 15-acre walk-through experience with more than 58,000 glowing spheres illuminating the landscape. 
• Because it’s located further inland, Paso Robles is hotter than other Central Coast Towns. To cool off head to the Ravine Water Park , which features fun attractions like a wave pool and the 7-story-high Thunder Run family raft ride. 
• At Zoo to You , Conservation Ambassadors provide a safe and caring home for displaced, abused, abandoned, or permanently injured wild and exotic animals. They use their unique program to educate visitors about wildlife conservation. Meet the animals up close on one-of-a-kind animal encounters with animals from around the world, including kangaroos, eagles, and lemurs.
• The Adelaide Inn is a family-owned hotel known for great service, clean rooms, and welcome amenities including an outdoor space with a pool, lawn, BBQ area, and putting green.
• Accommodations at Cava Robles luxury RV resort include spacious RV sites as well as some fully furnished glamping cottages, each with a fire pit. You’ll also enjoy swimming pools, a splash pad, a hot tub, and an onsite restaurant for when you want to relax at the end of the day. 

We have friends who moved to California from Texas. They are always in search of a town with the ideal mellow California Beach vibe, and Cayucos is their favorite find so far. This central California town is often described as having a “relaxed cowboy” beach town feel, which is the perfect combo for our Texan friends… and many others.

• Hit the beach! With six miles of white sand beach stretching to Morro Rock, Cayucos State Beach is one of California’s best for surfing, swimming, tide-pooling, and soaking up the sun. 
• Wander along the Estero Bluffs Trail which follows along the coastline with grasslands and seasonal wildflowers. Depending on the time of year, you might spot gray whales migrating or otters and harbor seals playing closer to shore. Scramble down to the beach near San Geronimo Creek where you can explore tidepools in the peaceful waters. 
• Cayucos locals find fun ways to celebrate throughout the year. The town is known for its festivals, from the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Dip at the Pier (costumes encouraged) to a month of celebrating Sea Glass in March. Check out their calendar of events before you go. 
• Shoreline Inn on the Beach is located directly on the beach. And when you’re not on the sand, you’re close to downtown and the pier. Rooms have balconies or open up to a communal green space and picnic area.
• Beachside Rentals is the place to go for a comfortable and homey oceanfront vacation rental. Book a place like Laurie’s House and enjoy spending time outdoors with a dining table and firepit on the deck overlooking the beach and a private stairway to the sand. 

This Central Coast town is best known for the landmark Morro Rock, a 576-foot tall volcanic plug perched at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Formed 23 million years ago, it’s now home to nesting Peregrine Falcons and has California Historical Landmark Status. Drive to the base of Morro Rock for a closer look, or simply enjoy the views from throughout town while munching on fresh seafood or enjoying your next outdoor adventure.

• Calm Morro Bay is full of natural beauty and wildlife and is a great spot for beginning kayakers. Join a family-friendly nature tour with Central Coast Outdoors to get a closer look at the water. 
• Stroll the Embarcadero to visit shops and restaurants along the waterfront and say hello to sea lions and otters. The dock outside the Great American Fish Company is a big hang-out spot for the otters in particular.
• Morro Bay State Park’s Estuary Preserve is an 800-acre wetland that creates rich habitats for animals who call Morro Bay home. The Heron Rookery is one of the coolest wildlife experiences we’ve had. You can see and hear double-crested cormorants, great egrets, and great blue herons roosting in trees between February and June.
• If your kiddos are curious to see what’s beneath the surface of Morro Bay but aren’t quite ready for a dive, check out the SSV Seaview Sub Sea Tour . This 21-passenger vessel has an underwater viewing room so passengers can see the fish, jellyfish, kelp, and other marine life from the boat.
• The Beach Bungalow Inn & Suites may not be on the waterfront, but this modest hotel is a great value. Spread out in one of the family suites and leave the car behind while you stroll to restaurants, shops, and many Morro Bay attractions. Breakfasts are included and will be delivered to your room. Beach cruisers are also available if taking a bike ride around the Bay is on your list. 
• If you’re looking for the quintessential California waterfront getaway, look no further than this gorgeous Bayfront Beach House on Airbnb. Greet sea otters in the morning, experience true waterfront dining in the evening, and stroll to the Embarcadero or Morro Rock if you can tear yourself away.

When you want to get away from it all, spend a day or two in Los Osos. This sleepy town attracts more nature lovers than beach vacation tourists. Come here for natural beauty and rejuvenating outdoor adventures. 

• Los Osos is home to beautiful Montaña de Oro State Park with its rugged cliffs, quiet sandy beaches, streams, and canyons. Families enjoy Spooner’s Cove beach with a seasonal lagoon that flows to the ocean. The 3.4-mile out-and-back Bluff trail takes you past wonderful ocean vistas to tide pools near Corallina Cove
• The Elfin Forest is an ancient oak grove with trees that only grow 4 to 20 feet tall. There is a one-mile boardwalk loop trail that guides visitors through these amazing oaks where adults often stand a full head taller than the trees. On the third Saturday of the month at 9:30 am, docents lead “Nature Walks in the Elfin Forest.” Walks are free, there is no need to sign up in advance. 
• Try your hand at birding, and maybe nature journaling, at the Sweet Springs Nature Preserve . The preserve’s 32 acres have been owned and managed by the Morro Coast Audubon Society since 1989. Enjoy a quiet hike, beautiful views of Morro Bay, and a great introduction to Central Coast birding. 
• Relax and recharge at this beautiful bayfront vacation home just steps from the bay. Enjoy views of Morro Bay and Morro Rock from every room.

San Luis Obispo

Slightly inland, San Luis Obispo is sunnier and a bit busier than neighboring Central Coast towns. Home to Cal Poly, SLO, it’s half college town and half farm town. I went to school here myself, and though the town has grown since my graduation, it still retains the easy-going, friendly vibe that I recall.

• Visits to San Luis Obispo almost always involve a stroll downtown. Shop unique local stores, savor one of Firestone’s famous tri-tip sandwiches, and soak in the bustling Thursday night Farmers Market . There are two main landmarks in downtown SLO: the beautiful Mission de San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and the Bubble Gum Alley, which will likely draw you in no matter how gross you think it is!
• The most popular hike in the area for families will take you to Bishop’s Peak. The tallest of the Nine Sisters, the 1.559-foot summit offers views of San Luis Obispo and the surrounding Los Osos valley. The trail starting at Highland Drive is 3.5 miles round trip with 950 feet of elevation gain, making it a challenging but rewarding day hike.
• If you prefer to explore by horseback, the famously gaudy Madonna Inn offers trail rides for visitors ages 7 and up. Enjoy stunning views of the mountains and surrounding area, and celebrate with a slice of one of the Inn’s yummy cakes. 
• Engage with the Cal Poly ag department at one of Cal Poly’s U-Pick Days . Our boys had a great time running up and down the citrus fields. Student fields are located off the Highland Drive entrance. Drive north up Via Carta for the Plant Shop and lovely Arboretum. 
• If you’re traveling with younger children, make a stop at the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum . Three floors and an outside play area are filled to the gills with hands-on exhibits for kids ages 1-10. 
• Hands down, my favorite place to stay in San Luis Obispo is Petit Soleil . A cute little bed and breakfast, with a seriously good breakfast and evening wine tasting, you can count on a comfortable stay with great service. As a bonus, the San Luis Obispo outpost of the delicious Splash Cafe is so close that they share a parking lot. Can’t get any better than that. 
• For a central location, you can’t beat Hotel San Luis Obispo . Located a block from the Mission, this is a great home base for visitors who want downtown at their doorstep. Rooms have small balconies or patios for some extra space to relax at the end of the day. 

Avila Beach

Avila Beach is one of my favorite destinations for families looking for a low-key beach getaway. The beach is just steps from the center of town, and the surrounding hills shelter it from the wind. You’ll find that the weather is overall warmer and sunnier than other Central Coast towns, making Avila perfect for long days playing on the sand. More laid-back than its popular neighbors, San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach, it’s close enough for easy visits to either.

For more details on what to do nearby, click here for our full Avila Beach post with a four-day itinerary.

• It’s no surprise that going to the beach tops the list of things to do in a town called Avila Beach! Of the six main beaches in Avila, three are great for family beach days and can be easily accessed along Avila Beach Drive. Avila Beach / City Beach is a large sandy beach that runs along the town waterfront. Families with young children enjoy hanging out along the shores of San Luis Obispo Creek at the north end. There is also a fun little park with a pirate-themed playground for when you need a break from the sand. The shops and restaurants of Avila Beach are just up the stairs near the pier.
• Avila Barn is a popular spot to pick up some farm-fresh fruit, delicious baked goods, and cute gifts and souvenirs. This once little farm stand has grown into a tourist destination in its own right. It’s got a great family-friendly vibe, quality goods, a BBQ, and a sweet shop. Depending on the season, you may be able to extend your visit with hayrides, pony rides, pumpkin patches, and hay mazes. 
• For a unique whale watching experience, check out Avila Beach Whale Watching . They offer one-hour coastal wildlife viewing tours and two-hour whale watching excursions most of the year. The small boat only takes 6 passengers at a time, ensuring that everyone has a great view. 
• If you’re looking to turn your beach getaway into a family adventure try a family surf lesson with Van Curaza Surf School . The school welcomes everyone of every ability level to come out and give surfing a try. Book a group lesson for the whole family and build some unforgettable memories together. Lessons are tailored to your group to make the best experience possible for your family.
• It’s hard to find a better hotel option for families than the Avila Lighthouse Suites . Not only is it steps from City Beach and all of the fun and convenience of downtown, but every room is also a suite with a living room, bedroom, and private balcony or patio. The owner’s suites include a small kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave, so you can easily make some meals in your home away from home. When you tire of the ocean, you can splash in the hotel pool and hot tub with ocean views.
• We love this cute little 2-bed, 1.5-bath cottage from the early 1900s. It comes with beach views and a patio with a fire pit and BBQ for relaxing outside “at home.” The beach is only a half-block away, so you can easily come and go as you please. Book directly with Seven Sisters for the best rates.

Pismo Beach

Billing itself as a classic California beach town, Pismo Beach is more overtly touristy than its Central Coast neighbors. When people think of Pismo, most think of the Pismo Pier Plaza with its new, and very Instagrammable, illuminated seven-foot-tall letters that spell out Pismo Beach. But while this is a must-see part of town, there’s plenty more adventure to be had in Pismo. 

• Chow down on delicious eats. Pismo is known for some famous eateries. The line for Splash Cafe , with its famously rich and creamy clam chowder in a bread bowl (I highly recommend ordering it with the seafood topper), often snakes around the block. And you don’t want to leave town without tasting incredible Old West Cinnamon Rolls . 
• Dinosaur Caves Park is fun for the whole family. An 11-acre, ocean-front, bluff-top park hosts community and entertainment events in addition to a fun and unique play structure. Take your Old West Cinnamon Rolls there for breakfast and let the kids play off the sugar!
• Families traveling with tweens and teens might enjoy a different view of Pismo: that of the Sea Caves from a kayaker’s POV. This Cave Excursion offered and guided by Central Coast Kayaks , leads participants through a series of arches, caves, and rock gardens. It’s a challenge, but this popular tour is exciting for kayakers at all levels. 
• A favorite activity of many Pismo visitors is riding ATVs and dune buggies along the sand. Outfitters like Sun Buggy Fun Rentals have all you need to get started. 
• South of the Pismo Pier, Pismo State Beach becomes much quieter. You can relax on the beach with fewer crowds and, during the migration season, wander into the Monarch Butterfly Colony via the adjacent campground. This is a wonderful part of Pismo that feels worlds away from crowded attractions. 
• The Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is an all-around wonderful choice for visiting families. Set along the bluffs, each room is a 1 or 2-bedroom suite with a living and dining room, kitchen, and balcony or patio. The gorgeous grounds include a pool overlooking the ocean and an expansive fire pit and BBQ area.
• Like their sister property in Avila Beach, Pismo Lighthouse Suites offers a great option for families. This all-suite hotel has a newly upgraded Play Deck with a pirate-themed play structure, mini golf, giant Connect 4 and Chess, and more. At the end of a busy day, it’s great to be able to unwind with a glass of wine while the kids have plenty of room to run around outside a hotel room.

Central California Coast Towns in the Santa Barbara Region

The Santa Barbara Region has a Mediterranean feel and some of the most breathtakingly beautiful landscapes on the California Coast. Like Big Sur, it’s often thought of as a popular place for romance and wellness, but this region is also a wonderful place for families to get outside and adventure together.

Charming Los Olivos was founded in the 1880s. Its historical Victorian homes and buildings now house art galleries, tasting rooms, and shops, but it retains an unpretentious vibe. 

• Gab fresh-squeezed lemonade at Los Olivos Lemons, a stand that’s shaped like a giant lemon! 
• Visit Clairmont Farms , where visitors are welcome to stroll through the fields and picnic at one of California’s most important sources of lavender. Essential oils and other goods can be found in the onsite boutique.
• Enjoy the region’s wine at Coquelicot’s family-friendly tasting room in the middle of downtown Los Olivos. The large garden space has picnic tables, a bocce ball court, fountains, corn hole, and winding pathways to explore together. 
• This charming craftsman cottage has a great downtown location and reflects the Los Olivos character. 

When I was a kid, Buellton was synonymous with an Andersen’s Pea Soup stop on the way to Disneyland. But it’s worth more than just a lunch stop. Buellton’s family-friendly playgrounds and outdoor adventures make it a fun and convenient home base for families looking to explore the Santa Ynez Valley.

• The 0.8-mile round-trip trail to Nojoqui Falls is fun for all ages and worth a visit. The trail ends at a viewing platform where you can admire the 70-foot falls. The park is free to enter and offers picnic tables, grills, and a playground so you can enjoy a picnic after your walk.
• Buellton is home to the Santa Ynez Botanic Garden which makes education and family-friendly fun a top priority. We love visiting Botanic Gardens with our boys, especially those that offer interactive programs to help families understand and appreciate nature. 
• Families who love a road trip may want to make an appointment to view unusual Mendenhall’s Museum of Gasoline Pumps and Petroliana . The museum features an unusual collection, including gasoline pumps, road signs, race cars, and racing memorabilia.
• Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground is a great choice for families. Visitors who are not traveling by RV can “glamp” in one of the resort’s safari tents, trailers, cabins, or cottages. Many of the accommodations come with furnished private patios and BBQs. When you’re not out and about exploring, on-site amenities include a pool, hot tub, a splash ground, playground, bocce ball courts, and more. There are scheduled programs for family fun and the Campfire Cafe to keep you comfortable and stocked with all you’ll need during your stay.

A “sophisticated cowboy town,” Santa Ynez embraces its 19th-century style with old western building facades, saloons, and feed stores. Modern shops and galleries line streets with horse-shoe embedded crosswalks, while local restaurants serve up a delicious local favorite, waffles.

• Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Parks-Janeway Carriage House to learn about local history in the form of the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles in the west.
• Stroll downtown to pick up breakfast or lunch at The Baker’s Table, and keep your eyes peeled for the occasional horse hitched to a post. 
• If you have a little one hoping to go on a ride, Seein’ Spots Farm is on a mission to educate the public about miniature donkeys. Located about 5 minutes away in nearby Ballard, the farm offers rides to small children. All are welcome to meet the donkeys and the many other animals on this one-of-a-kind rescue farm.
• Immerse yourself in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley with valley views from every room of this Santa Ynez cottage . The owners live nearby with their family and may share the inside scoop on a local’s perspective for the best family-friendly activities in the area.

Known as the “Danish Capital of America,” this charming little town will delight at first sight. Visitors love its Danish architecture, authentic Danish bakeries, and even family-friendly wine tasting options for mom and dad. Solvang has more amenities than neighboring Central Coast towns in the Santa Ynez Valley, so it makes a good home base for families looking to explore this wonderful region. 

For more details on what to do nearby, click here for our full Solvang post with a four-day itinerary.

• A highlight of any Solvang visit is sampling the baked goods from the Village’s Danish bakeries. Enjoy traditional butter cookies, aebleskivers, Danish waffles, and more. Taste your way through town and then bring home some butter cookies as a way to remember your delicious Solvang visit. 
• Fans of The Little Mermaid will want to stop by the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to learn more about the life and work of this celebrated Danish author. The museum is conveniently located above The Book Loft if you’d like to pick up a story on your way out.
• Hans Christian Andersen Park is located within walking distance of the center of Solvang Village. Enter through the castle arch and let the kiddos enjoy the playground’s tall slides. The park also features a music-making station and a rock-climbing wall. Plenty of trees and picnic tables are scattered throughout the park.
• Just five minutes outside of Solvang Village is Ostrichland, USA . A one-of-a-kind destination, Ostrichland houses over 100 ostriches and emus. Visitors can get up close to feed them or watch them roam. The large enclosure allows the birds to get up to impressive speeds. 
• If you’re looking to stay in a central downtown Solvang location with a pool, check out the Vinland Hotel and Lounge . Rooms were thoughtfully designed for families and groups, with vanities separated from the bathroom so everyone can get ready and out the door as quickly as possible. For larger families, there’s even a loft room with three beds on two floors.
• For a unique Central Coast lodging experience, stay at Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort . Rates include breakfast and dinner, and families can choose from a range of suite and cottage accommodations. Only 6 minutes from downtown Solvang, the ranch feels a world apart given its location on over 10,000 acres of hiking or riding trails. The property also has a 100-acre spring-fed lake, two golf courses, tennis courts, a pool, and a spa. Visitors will find a range of family-friendly activities to participate in around the ranch. 

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has been a favorite California family vacation destination for decades. More urban than its neighboring central coast towns, the city is easy to explore with plenty of activities and attractions that are perfect for kids of all ages. You’ll find coastal luxury, gorgeous natural wonders, and rich cultural history. From kayaking and hiking to the Santa Barbara Sea Center and Zoo, there are endless opportunities for family adventures in this slice of California paradise.

For more ideas on things to do in Santa Barbara with kids, plus some other details and recommendations, click here . 

• Newly renovated in 2018, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History sits on 17 acres of oak woodland along Mission Creek. Visitors learn about Santa Barbara’s unique cultural history and explore nature in the Museum Backyard. You might encounter a naturalist eager to share his or her expertise, a nature mystery box, the backyard creek exploration zone, a sensory garden, and more. Also outdoors is the prehistoric forest, where visitors will venture out for a stroll and encounter their favorite dinosaurs in the wild.
• Stearns Wharf is the oldest working wood wharf in California. The wharf is a great stop for visiting families spending a long weekend in Santa Barbara. Just the drive onto it was exciting for my kiddos! On the wharf, you can explore the Santa Barbara Sea Center , hop on the Lil’ Toot Water Taxi , and even try your hand at fishing. 
• Known as the zoo with a view, the Santa Barbara Zoo houses animals representing 160 species, including giraffes, gibbons, snow leopards, and gorillas.
• Santa Barbara has some great playgrounds, and Kids World is one of the most loved. Built in 1993, the 8,000-square-foot playground features a castle, swings, slides, bridges, and even sharks and whales to climb. The park is located across the street from the Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, a lovely botanical garden with a koi pond, sensory garden, and butterfly garden that’s a joy to visit in its own right. 
• For a family-friendly hike, check out the Douglas Family Preserve. A local favorite, the 70-acre property was once the site of a well-known nursery. One of the most popular trails in the park is a one-mile flat loop hike that half traces the coastline and half looks back to a park where you can watch paragliders taking off from the surrounding mountains. Time your walk near low tide so you can head down to popular Arroyo Burro beach after and explore the tide pools.
• The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront offers traditional hotel room options, but many come with a patio or balcony for a bit of outdoor space. There are two-room suite options as well. Families enjoy the large onsite pool and the location right across the street from popular East Beach. You’re a quick walk to the Santa Barbara Zoo, Stearns Wharf, and State Street.
• Set north of downtown Santa Barbara near the University, the Ritz-Carlton is set on 78 acres. Amenities include a two-mile beach, three zero-edged saline heated pools, and water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The resort is also home to Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program. Participants of all ages can join classes and workshops to discover the Gaviota Coast’s natural wonders through memorable adventures.

Carpinteria

Carpinteria is loved for its small-town vibes, beautiful not-too-crowded beaches, mountain views, and hiking trails. Hidden in plain sight just off 101, it’s a somewhat under-the-radar destination, and there are plenty of folks who’d like to keep it that way.

• Carpinteria state and city beaches top many “best of California” lists. Because the shore is sheltered by the Channel Islands, it’s known for gentle swells, making it one of California’s safer beaches to swim.
• What’s the difference between a harbor seal and a sea lion? How did the Chumash build their housing? How does an eagle build its nest? What is a tomol? Find answers to these questions and more at the innovative Tomol Interpretive Play Area, which encourages learning about the region’s pre-European cultural and natural history through play. 
• Further inland, Canzelle Alpacas is nestled in the foothills above the beach. Families can make reservations to see what alpaca life is all about on the farm. Explore multiple pastures as you meet and feed the resident alpacas, llamas, and other amazing farm animals. 
• In early October, there’s no better place to be than at Carpenteria’s Avocado Festival. I can’t imagine anything more classically California. And delicious!
• This two-bedroom condo is just steps to the beach. Very family-friendly, it comes with cruiser bikes for parents and Huffy bikes for kids. You’ll keep your packing light and rental costs low with included boogie boards, a surfboard, wetsuits, beach chairs, sand toys, a cooler, and an umbrella. When you need a change of pace from the beach, enjoy the property’s hot tub and pools. One is shallow for little ones. You’ll be set for the perfect beach getaway. 

Central California Coast Towns in the Ventura Region

The Ventura region is the smallest and southernmost section of California’s Central Coast. Though this region feels more SoCal than other Central Coast towns to the north, you’ll still find mellow beaches and quaint inland farm towns. We feature two of them below. 

Thirty minutes inland from the Ventura coast, Ojai is a beautiful mix of old-school artists and hippies and new-school foodies and winemakers. It’s also the gateway to the Los Padres National Forest, meaning that there’s plenty to see and do for those looking to relax in the valley or take on an outdoor adventure.

• Established in 1964 by Richard Bartinsdale, Ojai’s Bart’s Books is the largest outdoor bookstore in the world. It has over 130,000 mostly used books creatively displayed in and around what was once a house. Pick up a new cookbook in the kitchen or peruse the poetry section in the living room. They are known for an extensive collection of volumes on the great outdoors and environmental studies conveniently sorted next to each other. A picture book from the kids’ section would make for a perfect Ojai souvenir. 
• If you’re in town on a Sunday, make time to peruse the weekly Ojai Farmers’ Market . Come hungry to sample some of California’s finest fruits, veggies, bread, jams, chocolate, honey, and more. Make sure to sample one of the Friends’ Ranch pixies while you’re there!
• Take a hike in the Los Padres National Forest . A popular family hike near Ojai is Rose Valley Falls. Generally considered an easy route, it takes about half an hour to complete the out-and-back trail. It is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
• Opened in 1923, the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa is the town’s famed luxury resort. The gorgeous grounds include three pools, including the Pixie Pool designed for families, and nine restaurants which range from casual to formal. The Inn is also one of the few Ojai lodging options that caters to families. Keep them busy with a kids’ camp, family crafts at the artist cottage, s’mores roasting, kids cooking classes, and more. And if you ever want to leave the resort, you can rent bikes and take the beautiful resort pathways downtown or hop on an old-fashioned trolley. 

It’s hard to think of Ventura without thinking of Patagonia. Drawn to the surf, beautiful surroundings, and quick access to mountain and river experiences, Yvon Chouinard established Patagonia’s headquarters here in 1973. As you might imagine, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to experience near this iconic Central Coast town.

• Snap a photo on Ventura Pier, the city’s main landmark. This is an ideal spot for a sunset stroll. Extending from the Pier is the Ventura Promenade, a popular pedestrian pathway that leads to Surfer’s Point. San Buenaventura State Beach is about a mile and a half walk in the opposite direction. 
• Pick up a useful souvenir at the Great Pacific Iron Works , Patagonia’s very first store. 
• Ventura is the gateway to Channel Islands National Park . The park encompasses five unique islands and their ocean environment, preserving and protecting a wealth of natural and cultural resources. To get there, book your tickets through Island Packers Cruises which is located in Ventura Harbor Village. The park’s visitor center is a five-minute walk from Island Packers near Harbor Cove Beach. 
• Marina Park is a family-friendly spot where kids can run around the lawn or play on the big pirate ship in the sand. Soter’s Point is an easy walk that can be accessed by a nearby trail that leads out to the jetty where you can watch boats leave the Harbor and head into the ocean. There are picnic tables with beautiful views all along the way.
• For a unique travel experience, glamp in a lovingly restored vintage trailer at Waypoint Ventura . Not only will you have your own space and private patio, but you are also welcome to enjoy the common firepits, swings, lawn games, and more. Not only is this a fun kid-friendly place to stay, but it’s only about a mile walk to the beach.
• Located midway between Ojai and Ventura, the Ventura Ranch KOA offers camping and glamping opportunities for those who want to experience both the mountains and the ocean. If you don’t want to pack your tent, you can book a teepee, Conestoga wagon, safari tent, or cabin. The 76-acre property will keep the whole family entertained with a playground, lawn games, arts and crafts, rock climbing, the Bigfoot Watering Hole, and a beautiful pool. There’s even a combo zip line/ropes course for the family to try. 

Time to pick your favorite Central Coast town (or towns!)

Phew! I hope one or more of the above magical places strikes your fancy. The great thing about the Central Coast is that you only have to pick your home base, as many of these towns are only 10-15 minutes apart. And you can always stop a time or two on the drive to and from your destination!

Road Trip Planning Basics

These are our go-to resources when planning a California road trip!

Rent a Car ↗

Compare car rental deals to find the best price with Discover Cars . All fees and taxes are included in your quote.

Book Your Stay ↗

Booking.com is our first – and often last – stop for finding great deals throughout the Golden State.

Cover Your Trip ↗

Easily compare and buy travel insurance with TravelInsurance.com , our go-to site for travel coverage.

If you enjoyed this post about the best 25 Central Coast towns for a getaway, you might like these too:

• Highway 1 with Kids: The Ultimate Guide to 50 Family Adventures
• Family Road Trip Essentials
• Pinnacles National Park: A Day Trip Guide

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Solar eclipse thrills crowds in California as it darkens swath of countryside

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Bhavini Lad’s three children were so fired up to experience their first solar eclipse on Monday that standing in line to pick up protective eyewear at the California Institute of Technology campus was almost too much to bear.

The 7-year-old twins and their 5-year-old brother buzzed and jumped, chatting with people in the line around them. They spoke with great enthusiasm about their space-themed bedroom that features a replica solar system hanging from the ceiling.

“They love to learn about it because they have the stuff in their room,” said Lad, an aerospace engineer, adding that they’ve talked about how to view the phenomenon without risk of eye injury.

“You don’t look without the glasses because what will happen?” Lad asked her son.

He shouted his response: “You’ll get blind!”

Photos: Solar eclipse draws crowds of viewers in L.A. area

Millions of people across the U.S., including in Southern California, looked up at the sky to witness a rare total solar eclipse Monday.

April 8, 2024

The sense of excitement was mirrored in the rest of the crowd of roughly a thousand revelers, who donned protective eyewear to witness the scientific wonder of a partial solar eclipse at the athletic field near the Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics. It was just one of numerous eclipse-watching events, formal or otherwise, held Monday morning across the Southland.

Whereas more than a dozen states were able to experience a rare total solar eclipse, in which the moon completely blocks the face of the sun, viewers in Los Angeles saw the moon take a roughly 50% bite out of the bright mass.

Unlike elsewhere in the country, where cloudy skies risked spoiling the eclipse chasers’ view, it was a sunny, clear day in Los Angeles, with temperatures in the mid-70s. And because L.A. didn’t experience totality, the sky didn’t go dark and temperatures didn’t drop by several degrees, as they did for those places in the moon’s complete shadow.

In Los Angeles, it cooled slightly at the peak of the eclipse “because we were only receiving about half the energy from the sun,” said Kenneth E. Phillips, curator for aerospace science at the California Science Center.

Monday’s eclipse began over the South Pacific Ocean and moved diagonally across Mexico, the United States and Canada. More than 30 million Americans from Texas to Maine lived in the path of totality.

Monday’s celestial event was the last total solar eclipse that will be seen from the contiguous United States until 2044. Los Angeles will experience another partial solar eclipse in 2029, according to NASA.

World & Nation

A total eclipse is more than a spectacle. So I’m on the road to see it — again

Why would someone journey across the country to watch a total eclipse? Because it’s more than just an astronomical rarity: It may be the best show in the universe.

April 6, 2024

The buzz leading up to the total eclipse was significant, for both the scientific possibilities and the rarity.

“It’s an opportunity to see firsthand our place in the universe,” said Paul Robertson, an associate professor of physics and astronomy at UC Irvine. “We’re sitting on the surface of this rock that’s careening through space at a speed of 30 kilometers per second, and we’re doing this sort of gravitational dance with these other giant bodies.”

It’s not something that people often pause to think about, Robertson said.

Nancy Castellanos and her 5-year-old daughter, Camilla, sat on a striped picnic blanket outside the California Science Center with their eyes fixed on the sky.

Camilla smiled and pointed up to the sun, prompting her mother to remind her not to look up without her protective glasses. It was Camilla’s first eclipse and she wasn’t quite sure what to expect. They waited and watched as the moon moved in and out of partial sun-blocking position.

“It’s such a memorable event, especially for the children,” Castellanos, 39, said as Camilla cuddled in her lap. “She can remember this later on and watch the next one too.”

At Caltech, some families brought chairs and laid out blankets to relax and munch on snacks while they waited for the show to begin.

Ryan Rudes, a freshman at Caltech, skipped his math class to take photos of the eclipse, using a makeshift eclipse filter for his Canon T6 camera crafted from duct tape and lenses from his orange eclipse glasses. He had hoped to view the eclipse from Niagara Falls this year, but cloudy skies in the forecast for that region dashed his plans.

The crowd erupted in cheers as the eclipse reached its peak around 11:12 a.m. Some quickly began packing up their belongings to leave while others opted to wait in line to watch the eclipse begin its reverse journey through a large telescope set up on campus.

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These scientists think an ‘awe’-some eclipse could help unite Americans in troubled times

Awe is a serious topic among psychologists, including one at UC Irvine investigating whether awe-inspiring solar eclipses can help unite Americans.

April 7, 2024

Across the region, people’s creativity and scientific prowess were on display.

Zak Graff, manager for Pasadena City College’s Center for the Arts, viewed the eclipse through a makeshift pinhole camera he made using a recycled Honey Nut Cheerios box and aluminum foil.

A few times kids ran up to Graff hoping to snag a bite of the cereal, but they left disappointed. The box was for science, not snacks.

Graff also brought a spaghetti strainer he used to filter sunlight. The light reflecting on people’s clothes mirrored the eclipse happening in the sky in dozens of little crescent shadows. “Super low tech but highly effective,” Graff said.

Dani Ortuño Gudiño, a photographer working on his master’s degree in media studies, lay on the ground on his back outside the California Science Center to watch the eclipse reach its peak. He held a pair of paper glasses up to the lens of his camera, a Sony Alpha 7 III. The result was a crisp, stunning photo of the moon overlapping with the sun. The visible part of the sun was in a crescent shape overhead.

Nearby, Dalton Cantor, 16, held his glasses against his face as he gazed up at the sky.

“My family and I decided to come here to experience something unique,” he said. “It’s powerful. It pauses everything you’re going through.”

Dalton lives near the Science Center and used to visit nearly every weekend when he was younger. He was excited to be there Monday with his mother and grandmother.

“It’s a rare opportunity,” said his grandmother, Ana Rodriguez. “We couldn’t miss it.”

Edwin Lopez took advantage of the moment of calm after the eclipse’s peak to meditate.

He sat cross-legged and placed his hands on his heart as he listened to an eclipse-themed guided meditation in his earbuds. Lopez traveled to Oregon for the 2017 eclipse and has been looking forward to witnessing the event again. He took slow, steady breaths with his eyes closed as the crowd around him began to thin.

“This meditation is about finding the light inside your heart and letting it radiate through you like fire,” he said. “The eclipse is a very special moment and I wanted to feel connected to it.”

More to Read

OK, the eclipse was cool, but those glasses aren’t. Now what?

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Ramadan is ending this week. How communities decide when to celebrate

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Many eclipse visitors to northern New England pulled an all-nighter trying to leave

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Hannah Fry covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. She most recently covered Orange County for The Times and has written extensively about criminal trials, housing, politics and government. In 2020, Fry was part of the team that was a Pulitzer finalist for its coverage of a boat fire that killed 34 people off the coast of Santa Barbara. Fry came to The Times from the Daily Pilot, where she covered coastal cities, education and crime. An Orange County native, Fry started her career as an intern at the Orange County Register.

Jireh (they/them) is the 2023-24 fellow at the Los Angeles Times and a queer Asian American writer and filmmaker born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

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Maps show where trillions of cicadas will emerge in the U.S. this spring

By Caitlin O'Kane

Updated on: April 11, 2024 / 4:30 PM EDT / CBS News

Trillions of periodical cicadas will emerge from the ground this spring, bringing with them their loud buzzing and molted exoskeletons. Here's where you will be able to see cicadas in the U.S. 

When are the cicadas coming in 2024?

There are two groups of periodical cicadas — those that emerge every 13 years and those that emerge every 17 years. For most of their lives, cicadas live underground and then emerge once the soil reaches 64 degrees. 

Because they are temperature-dependent, their emergences may vary depending on the location. In 2024, they are expected sometime in May or early June, according to Ken Johnson, a horticulture educator at the  University of Illinois.

Since it may warm up faster in southern states, such as South Carolina, the cicadas might emerge as soon as April, while in cooler states, such as those in the upper Midwest, they might not emerge until June. 

This year, both the 13-year and the 17-year cicadas will emerge, arriving in numbers that have not been seen in generations.

They mate, molt and then die, leaving behind their offspring to bury themselves into the soil and lay dormant until their brood's next cycle. They only last about a month above ground, and no, they aren't dangerous. Unlike locusts, which eat plants, cicadas get their nutrients from small branches. Most trees, however, will remain unharmed. 

Still, Johnson advises not planting any new trees ahead of a periodical cicada emergence. You can put netting around small trees and shrubs to keep them away, making sure openings are no larger than 1/4 of an inch so the bugs can't get in. 

Where will cicadas be in 2024?

The 13-year cicadas, called  Brood XIX , will emerge in Georgia and the Southeast. The 17-year cicadas, called  Brood XIII , will  appear in Illinois . This will be the first time since 1803 that two broods emerged at the same time. The next time this happens will be 2037.

The overlap of these two broods has been dubbed by an expert as "cicada-geddon" — but it won't be the biggest cicada event. In 2076, the two largest broods –XIX and XIV – will come out together. "That is the cicada-palooza," University of Connecticut  cicada  expert John Cooley said.

The broods will emerge peacefully, but Cooley said hundreds of trillions, or even quadrillions, of cicadas are expected. That's an average of 1 million per acre over millions of acres. 

Some of the cicadas, however, may have come in contact with a fungal pathogen called  Massospora cicadina, which makes them hyper-sexual. The sexually transmitted fungal infection turns them into so-called "zombie cicadas," with a chalky, white plug erupting out of their bodies and making their genitals fall off. Cicada expert Matthew Kasson says it's not yet clear how the fungus impacts other wildlife, animals or humans.

"The cicada continues to participate in normal activities, like it would if it was healthy," Kasson, an associate professor of Mycology and Forest Pathology at West Virginia University, told CBS News. "Like it tries to mate, it flies around, it walks on plants. Yet, a third of its body has been replaced by fungus. That's really kind of bizarre." 

Maps show where in the U.S. to see cicadas

The dual cicada brood emergence will primarily be seen in parts of Illinois and Iowa, as well as parts of Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. 

The two broods will co-emerge in north-central Illinois for the first time since 1803.

A map from the U.S. Department of Agriculture  tracks the emergence of both the 13- and 17-year cicada broods from 2013 to 2029. 

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region.

Emily Alfin Johnson

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine.

On Monday, a solar eclipse will cross from Texas to Maine, putting over 30 million people in the path of totality , with a partial eclipse visible briefly for millions more.

Monday's weather forecast for the path of totality

Totality in the U.S. starts around 1:30 p.m. CT/2:30 ET and continues until 2:30 p.m. CT/3:30 p.m. ET, lasting for a few minutes in each location.

The folks at NASA have a detailed breakdown for anyone in the U.S. Just pop in your ZIP code .

If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality, you can also find a minute-by-minute breakdown of when totality begins in your area, here.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans?  Check out these  kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides  from Vermont Public's  But Why,  and this great explainer from KERA Kids on  the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse .
• Feeling whimsical?  Here are three ways to  sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view?   Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye  on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

See how the eclipse transformed America, city by city

For weeks, if not months, those who have seen one repeated to anyone who would listen: There’s nothing like experiencing the totality of a solar eclipse.

For some of them, this was a second time in six and a half years experiencing the eerie calm when the moon passes in front of the sun, at least for a few minutes. And yet, they were just as awestruck.

For others, it was a likely last opportunity to witness such a celestial phenomenon for two decades. It inspired gasps and smiles, solemnity and excitement.

Here is how it looked as the moon’s shadow crossed three countries and 13 U.S. states, with the time of totality in Eastern time.

El Salto, MX

2:10 — 2:14 p.m.

Uvalde, tex., 2:29 — 2:33 p.m., russellville, ark., 2:50 — 2:54 p.m., carbondale, ill., 2:59 — 3:03 p.m., bloomington, ind., 3:04 — 3:08 p.m., tiffin, ohio, 3:11 — 3:15 p.m., littleton, maine, 3:32 — 3:35 p.m..

Time of totality

El salto, mexico.

A group of professors and students traveled from the United States to El Salto to conduct the most thorough experiment ever using an eclipse to test Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity. Einstein’s idea held that the massive sun would bend the light of surrounding stars more than previously estimated, proving that matter can pull and warp space and time.

The researchers used five telescopes to measure that effect more closely than ever, measuring stars that appear so close to the sun’s edge they can only be viewed during an eclipse.

After a countdown in Spanish, the sun darkened, and the data collection began. “TOTALITY,” yelled Sam Jeffe, a third-year physics major at Willamette University as it appeared in the telescopes’ lenses. “And it’s clear!”

Researchers will feed the data into the computer program, which will analyze the position of the stars and determine how the sun bent the light around them. But, for now, more than half the battle was done.

2:27 — 2:31 p.m.

Eagle pass, tex..

On U.S. soil, totality first came into view in the border city of Eagle Pass, Tex., where a crowd gathered at a football field erupted into cheers as the skies darkened above them.

A singer crooned, “I’m walking on sunshine!” People put on protective glasses and craned their necks toward the sky. Many began to clap.

Vita Garza Flores, 76, traveled from Northern California to see the eclipse in the city where she was born. She brought her daughter and brother along with her.

She grabbed her eclipse glasses, positioning them across her sunglasses: “Wow!”

Students from Uvalde High School were also among the citizen scientists using the eclipse to learn more about the sun and its effects on Earth.

They joined Southwest Texas Junior College’s STEM club in participating in a program known as the Citizen Continental-America Telescope Eclipse. Called Citizen CATE, it will combine short videos of the eclipse taken via telescope into an hour-long movie that NASA says will detail magnetic structure within the sun’s corona and reveal its density. That will help scientists to measure the strength of the solar wind — charged particles that can disrupt electricity grids and produce auroras when they reach Earth.

In Russellville, NASA gathered scientists and broadcast the eclipse’s progress live online. Tourists gathered there, too, wearing T-shirts that declared, “I got mooned at the eclipse.”

A jazz band from Arkansas Tech University played. NASA hosted workshops and Q&A sessions with scientists, at least one of whom has been to space: Among the visitors were Mike Massimino, a veteran of NASA space flight missions to upgrade the Hubble Space Telescope in 2002 and 2009.

Carbondale, Ill., earned the title of “eclipse crossroads of America,” having fallen in the path of totality for a 2017 solar eclipse as well as the event on Monday. This time, at least, the skies were clear for totality, and a full stadium of eclipse fans burst into collective screams when the moment came.

“This is so much better than 2017,” a one commentator on NASA’s live broadcast noted. “It’s so much darker than 2017.”

To many of those who experienced it, the eclipse was a spiritual event. In Bloomington, Buddhist monks marked it with a puja ceremony, a “ritual honoring and promoting inner and planetary healing,” according to the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center.

Eclipse watchers flocked to Yellowwood Lake where they could experience the eclipse in nature.

When the last pulses of the sun’s rays make their way to Earth before an eclipse enters totality, they appear like a brilliant diamond set on a golden ring. In Tiffin, that meant a chance for some “unforgettable” weddings at an event called “Elope at the Eclipse.”

3:18 — 3:21 p.m.

Niagara falls, n.y..

Crowds flocked to landmarks across the path of totality for a memorable view. At Niagara Falls, despite a thick blanket of clouds, people gathered on the banks of the Niagara River and trained their phone cameras toward the sky. Streetlights turned on, if only briefly, when darkness descended.

The moon’s shadow reached North America at the beaches of Mazatlan, Mexico, just after 2:07 p.m. Eastern time. Just about 90 minutes later, it crossed the wilderness of northern Maine, on its way toward Canada, and then, the North Atlantic.

A total solar eclipse will next dim communities in the contiguous United States in 2044, but only in parts of Montana and the Dakotas. The country will have to wait one more year for the next coast-to-coast phenomenon, a total eclipse that will stretch from California to Florida on Aug. 12, 2045. It will be a Saturday.

About this story

Design and development by Stephanie Hays. Photo editing by Olivier Laurent. Design editing by Chloe Meister and Matt Callahan. Text editing by Katie Zezima. Graphics by Emily Eng. Video editing by John Farrell and Josh Carroll. Text by Scott Dance, Kasha Patel, Arelis R. Hernández and Joel Achenbach.

Millennials are leaving New York and California for these cities. Here's how Arizona ranks

Despite Arizona's increase in housing costs, a new study shows that more millennials are moving to Arizona than leaving the state.

Hire A Helper revealed that 37% more millennials, which includes anyone born from 1982 to 2000, moved into Arizona than moved away, ranking ninth overall.

Arizona ranked behind Montana, Connecticut, Maine, Oklahoma, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Texas, Florida and Tennessee, with the last two having the same percentage at 38% and, thus, the same ranking.

Phoenix, Mesa and Scottdale, which were categorized as one region, also ranked within the top ten for metro cities millennials are moving to. It ranked seventh, seeing 39% more millennials move into the region than move away.

Want to buy a typical home? It takes a six-figure salary in Arizona

Where are millenials moving?

Here's the full list of where millennials are, according to Hire A Helper.

• Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Florida
• Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, Nevada
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Nashville-Davidson-Franklin, Tennessee
• Austin-Round Rock, Texas
• Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, Connecticut
• Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, Arizona
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Richmond, Virginia
• Raleigh, North Carolina

Where are millennials moving from?

The study also found that previous hot spots for new and middle-age adults have lost millennials significantly.

• New York-Newark-Jersey City, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
• San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California
• Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, California
• Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, Michigan
• San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California
• El Paso, Texas and Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Wisconsin
• Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, Florida
• Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin
• Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, Connecticut

More: What's the average salary in Arizona? Here's what we know

Millenials are moving less

Hire A Helper also found that only 11% of millennials moved in 2023 compared with approximately double a decade ago at 21% in 2013. The most repeated reasons for these moves, however, were “new or better housing,” “new job” or “establishing own household.”

Additionally, the highest percentage of millennials since 2011 said they were moving for “cheaper housing.” This reasoning still did not top the rankings of why millennials were moving.

As of 2023, 50% of millennials owned their own home, while 16% still live with their parents, the study showed. According to Hire A Helper, “2023 had the highest mortgage interest rates in recent history, with the worst home sales record in 28 years.”

Rental housing rates are 22% higher than pre-pandemic, Hire A Helper said. In the same timeframe, average real earnings have risen by only 3.2% in comparison, the U.S. Treasury noted in a December 2023 report.