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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)
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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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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.

One Comment

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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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

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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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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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6-Day California Central Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Plan a California coast road trip from Ventura to Cambria with this itinerary packed with outdoor adventure, amazing food, and unique places to stay.

A California Coast road trip is a rite of passage for any outdoor adventure traveler, and the central coast of California is particularly iconic. This stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway provides incredible ocean views, beautiful sights, easy access to quaint California beach towns, and of course, endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

A few years ago, I joined forces with Visit California in search of the best adventures along the Central California Coast. I’ve compiled what I discovered into this itinerary along with recommendations from the rest of the Bearfoot Theory team who have spent lots of time exploring this region.

This itinerary combines outdoor adventures with top-notch opportunities to experience the local culture of the Central California Coast from Ventura to Cambria, with information on visiting additional destinations like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Cruz if you have the time.

From sea-to-spoon and farm-to-fork meals to hikes with sweeping views, boutique hotels, and hidden gems that are just off the beaten path, this itinerary will not disappoint.

Be sure to check out the video of my Central California Coast Road Trip below as well.

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Central California Coast Road Trip Basics

What is the central california coast.

Most people are familiar with Northern California (San Francisco and above) and Southern California (Los Angeles south), but what is the Central California coast?

While there’s no exact definition of what makes up the Central California Coast, it’s commonly accepted that this section stretches between Ventura County in the south to Santa Cruz in the north .

In between Ventura and Santa Cruz, there is an amazing array of stunning beaches, wild mountainsides, small coastal towns, great restaurants, the famous Big Sur , and so much more.

Here are the top destinations on the central coast of California at a glance from south to north:

• Santa Barbara
• Avila Beach
• Pismo Beach
• San Luis Obispo
• Montaña del Oro State Park
• Cambria/San Simeon
• Carmel by the Sea

How much time do you need to road trip the Central California Coast?

This itinerary is for 6 days, which is a good amount of time to get a feel for the region, although if you have more time you can certainly dive deeper. If you only have a weekend, I recommend picking one area to explore – like Ojai, Santa Barbara, or Big Sur for example.

My biggest tip – don’t rush it. The Central California Coast operates at a slower pace and is meant to be enjoyed at a slower pace as well. Use the information here to customize your own trip based on your priorities and the amount of time you have.

Best Way to Explore the Central California Coast

You’ll definitely want a car or campervan for any central California coast road trip. If you plan on staying in hotels or accommodations, a car will be fine. A rental car can be picked up in Ventura or the Los Angeles area if you’re going south to north or in San Francisco if you’re going north to south.

If you want to experience some of California’s best campgrounds, I highly recommend renting a campervan. Not only will this allow you to be more flexible, but you really can’t beat camping on the beach! Check out our list of campervan rental companies for ideas.

Best Time for a California Central Coast Road Trip

California is known for its sunny weather and mild climate, so you can really plan a road trip any time of the year. Here are a few considerations based on the season:

Spring is a great time to plan a California Central Coast road trip, especially if you want to see California’s beautiful springtime wildflower blooms. Temps can still be a bit chilly, though, so pack layers and be prepared for windy days.

Summer is typically the busiest time of year for California, so you’ll see lots of crowds and will need to make camping or hotel reservations in advance. The weather tends to be great, though, with temperatures in the 70s and little to no rain.

Fall in central California brings fewer crowds and cooler temps, making it a great time to visit. Days are often clear as well whereas in summer you may experience “June gloom” where the coast is often shrouded in clouds.

Winter on the California coast can be really nice if you enjoy cooler temperatures and a more laid-back vibe. Some places do close for the winter and the days are shorter so you’ll have less daylight to explore, so that’s something to keep in mind when you plan your trip.

Read next: Best Time to Visit California’s Central Coast.

Central California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

There are infinite ways to explore the central California Coast with so many things to see and do. Below is my 6-day itinerary with a few options for extending or customizing your trip.

• Day 1: Arrive in Ventura
• Day 2: Ventura
• Day 3: Ojai
• Day 4: Santa Barbara
• Day 5: Avila Beach and Cambria
• Day 6: Morro Bay

If you have more time, continue on to Big Sur , Monterey Bay, and Santa Cruz which I’ll touch on below as well.

Day 1: Explore Downtown Ventura & Hit the Beach

We started our California road trip in the energetic beach town of Ventura. Ventura is known for its iconic beach boardwalk where you can walk, pedal, or skate past bustling shops, restaurants, and wide-open sandy beaches that lead right down the Pacific Ocean.

There is no shortage of things to do in Ventura, but here’s how we spent our days exploring this iconic coastal town:

Grab a quick bite and morning coffee at Palm & Boy Coffee in the center of downtown Ventura. This cozy indoor and outdoor café is a great spot for people-watching as you slowly perk up and begin your day.

With coffee in hand, walk a couple of blocks towards the beach to the Visit Ventura Visitors and Convention Center . Here you’ll find lots of inspiration and ideas to plan out your day. We suggest chatting with one of the super-friendly folks who work at the Tourism Center.

The morning and early afternoon in coastal California can be a bit overcast depending on the time of year, which makes it the ideal time to pop in and out of Ventura’s unique and colorful shops. Check out Passport Habits , an eclectic travel-themed shop, located on East Main Street in downtown Ventura, Jockamo Records , Iron & Resin , and the Patagonia Flagship store to name a few.

For lunch, chow down some tacos at Beach House Tacos at the historic Ventura Pier. If the weather is nice, head to the beach in the afternoon. Alternatively, Grant Park is a great place to spot wildflower blooms and get a city-wide view if you aren’t keen on heading down to the water.

If you’re into beer tasting, walk back into town and cool off with a round of beers at the Ventura Coast Brewing Co. , a cool, laid-back brewery with indoor/outdoor seating and a friendly local crowd. The beers and tacos will hold you over until it’s time for a late dinner – after sunset, of course.

Surfer’s Point is a prime beachfront spot to watch the sky shift to shades of pink, orange, purple, and blue over the horizon line. I recommend scoring a seat on the rocks near the estuary. You might even be rewarded with a show from local surfers taking on the world-class waves.

After watching the sunset, head to Rumfish & Vino for dinner. This gastropub serves Central American-inspired food with several vegan options and a great outdoor patio. If you want something a little more casual, check out Fluid State Beer Garden , which serves pizza and creative bar food.

Where to Stay in Ventura

Faria Beach Campground: This campground is situated in a quiet and scenic beachfront spot off the Pacific Coast Highway. Many of the sites have unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands National Park . You’ll want to book in advance to score sites 6-13 which have the most space and the best views (although there are no hookups at these specific site numbers). This campground is best for camper vans and truck campers because it’s on pavement and campsites are more like parking spaces.

Waypoint Ventura Vintage Trailer Hotel & RV Park: If you want a unique experience, book a vintage trailer at Waypoint Ventura Vintage Trailer Hotel & RV Park . These trailers have been impeccably remodeled for a luxurious vintage stay. You can also bring your own camper, but they have criteria for what vans and campers they accept.

Day 2: Ventura Area Activities

After getting a taste of what Ventura has to offer, it’s time to really explore!

If you’re looking for a place to grab a tasty and nourishing breakfast, head to Harvest Cafe . They serve delicious vegetarian and vegan food as well as a variety of coffee drinks.

After you’ve eaten breakfast, fill your backpack with snacks, water, and sunscreen to get ready for a day of biking on the local bike paths. You can rent bikes at Bike Depot , which is located right on the outskirts of downtown Ventura.

The friendly staff at Bike Depot can give you suggestions on where to ride. Ventura is an extremely bike-friendly city with well-marked paths that lead in and out of town, connecting you to must-see sights around Ventura.

Ventura bike route suggestions

Ventura River Trail to Ojai : This 17-mile one-way paved path runs all the way from downtown Ventura to Ojai. It’s a nice way to get some exercise and see a different side of Ventura, especially in the spring when everything is green.

Of course, you don’t have to pedal the full 34 miles out and back to enjoy it! If you’re looking for a fun stop along the way, check out Ventura Spirits Company. The tasting room is open for drop-ins Monday through Friday 12 pm – 5pm and by reservation on the weekends.

Directions to the Ventura River Trail start

Ventura Coastal Bike Trail : During the warmer months when the River Trail gets too hot, you’ll be better off riding the Ventura Coastal Bike Trail to catch a cooling ocean breeze. Take a bike map with you from the Bike Depot, since the coastal trail has some sections that are on the street.

Directions to the Ventura Coastal Bike Trail start

When you return from your ride, make time to visit the Art City Studios , located right around the corner from Bike Depot for a taste of Ventura’s local character and culture.

This world-famous sculpture studio and garden is owned by sculptor Paul Lindhard whose mission is to support and bring together local and global artists in an inspiring outdoor space.

You can walk around the artist studios, chat with the sculptors about their work, and browse the gallery. If you get the chance, go see if Ramon is around to check out his incredible stonework!

By this time, you’ll be ready for a cold drink, so quench your thirst at Topa Topa Brewery for happy hour drinks. Then head to one of Ventura’s lively restaurants like Social Tap or Rice By Mama , two eateries that the locals rave about.

Tip:  If you’re looking to expand your vacation with another day of sightseeing I recommend heading out to the Channel Islands National Park . Anacapa & Santa Cruz Islands are the most popular for day trips to hike, kayak, and/or snorkel. Check out the Channel Islands Adventure Company for sea cave kayaking tours on Santa Cruz Island. Camping is also available on both islands.

Day 3: Explore Ojai

Leaving the coastal vibes of Ventura, head inland for a day to the charming SoCal town of Ojai.

Downtown Ojai is quaint, unique, and easy to explore with many shops and restaurants in walking distance. Outside the downtown area, you’ll find beautiful open spaces for hiking plus olive oil tasting in local olive orchards, wine tasting, and more.

The 30-minute drive from Ventura to Ojai is very scenic as it transitions from beach town to bucolic landscapes filled with farms, wineries, and mountains.

Whether it’s a sunny day or not, you’ll have fun exploring Ojai. I loved it for the local flavors and handmade culture that thrives in this town.

Stores like  FiG Curated Living , Bungalow by FiG , and Bart’s Books provide a quintessential Ojai vibe that is a must-see while you’re there.

For lunch, take a break from browsing the shops and refuel over at Hip Vegan for a nourishing meal made from 100% vegan ingredients. It’s a little off the main drag but has a phenomenal menu that’ll hit the spot when you’re craving classic California health food.

If you’re just looking for a little energy kick don’t miss Revel Jun Bar . Jun is like Kombucha but made with green tea & honey instead of black tea & sugar.

Tip:  If you’re in town on Sunday don’t miss the bountiful  Ojai Farmer’s Market . It’s from 9-1 pm rain or shine at 300 E. Matilija Street. Grab picnic supplies and head out on a picnic hike , visit a local winery, or go olive oil tasting at Ojai Olive Oil Co .

After lunch, drive to the outskirts of town to spend your afternoon at the beautiful Lake Casitas .

There are plenty of hiking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, and view points . You can also rent a boat or bring your own kayak or SUP. There’s a $10 entry fee for vehicles, however, it does vary depending on holidays and weekends — check the Lake Casitas website for updated information.

There’s also camping at Lake Casitas if you want to spend more time there.

After visiting the reservoir, drive back into town so you can hit up some of Ojai’s best wineries. Our favorites were the Majestic Oak Winery and Tasting Room and The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room .

Beer lovers can sip on some pours at the Ojai Beverage Company , or as the locals call it, OBC, or at the Ojai Valley Brewery . 

For dinner, check out Ojai Rotie ,  The Nest , Ojai Pizza , or Nocciola .

Where to Stay in Ojai

Emerald Iguana Inn: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Ojai. It has a relaxed yet upscale vibe and beautiful rooms decorated in a tranquil, Southwestern style. I highly recommend enjoying a soak in their hot tub or a swim in the pool. Their sister hotel, the Blue Iguana Inn , is equally wonderful and is located on the bike path so you can bike right into town on one of their rental bikes.

Caravan Outpost: For a unique stay that matches Ojai’s eclectic vibe, book an Airstream at Caravan Outpost . Each Airstream is beautifully decorated and surrounded by lush gardens.

More Road Trip Inspiration

Day 4: head to santa barbara.

The next stop on your central California coast road trip is sunny Santa Barbara, California where there are tons of things to do depending on your interests.

Important: It is illegal to park oversized vehicles – including vans and RVs – on the streets in Santa Barbara. Learn more about where to park your oversized vehicle here.

In the morning, grab breakfast near where you’re staying. The options are endless but a few favorites include The Daily Grind , Handlebar Coffee Roasters , and Alessia Patisserie & Cafe . Then walk or bike on the beachfront coastal path from Butterfly Beach , where the famous Biltmore Hotel is, all the way to the West Beach/Marina area.

Next, head downtown to the Santa Barbara Public Market and sample some of the Asian fare at Empty Bowl . Get the curry soup, you won’t regret it! Or for those craving tacos, hit one of the many taquerias near Milpas Street, including Julia Child’s favorite taco stand, La Super-Rica Taqueria.

Wash down lunch with a stop at one of Santa Barbara’s many urban wineries or breweries in the Funk Zone . A few Bearfoot Theory team favorites for wine tasting include Carr , Pali , and Municipal Winemakers (locally known as Muni). For local beer, check out Topa Topa , Figueroa Mountain , and Rincon Brewery .

After sampling Santa Barbara’s eats and treats, make sure you save some time to get to Hendry’s Beach before sunset. It’s a dog-friendly spot with towering seaside bluffs and plenty of space to meander along the shoreline with your furry friend.

Here you’ll also find the Boathouse Restaurant which is pretty much the best place in Santa Barbara to grab happy hour.

While you’re over in the Mesa neighborhood, you’ll also want to get a different viewpoint of Hendry’s Beach from above at Douglas Preserve . This is a prime spot to watch the sunset over the Pacific.

If you’re looking for a great atmosphere, try Zaytoon  (Lebanese & Middle Eastern cuisine) for dinner where you can sit around fire pits while listening to live music.

Tip:  If you’re looking to expand your stay in the Santa Barbara area I recommend checking out the town of Los Olivos which is in the Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours offers biking & van tours to the valley for a day of wine tasting and exploration.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara: A historic hotel located right downtown, Hotel Santa Barabra is definitely a splurge, but worth it if you want to be within walking distance of everything.

Camping : Refugio State Beach is 25 minutes north of Santa Barbara and has a small campground along oceanfront cliffs. Carpinteria State Beach is 20 minutes south of Santa Barbara and has a nice beachside campground along the sand. These are your best bets if you want to camp.

Day 5: Avila Beach + Cambria

Located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles is San Luis Obispo County, otherwise known as SLO Cal.

Many people love this part of the Central Coast for its picturesque California beach towns that are more laid back than those closer to city life.

On your way out of Santa Barbara on Highway 154, take a quick detour up  Painted Cave Road . Follow the winding road up to a scenic lookout where you can pull off the road into a dirt parking lot. Soak up the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coast from this unique vantage point.

From Painted Cave Road, it’s only a short drive to Cold Springs Tavern , a divey local favorite tucked away in the hills. This biker bar is famous for its BBQ Tri-Tip Sandwich and live music on the weekends.

If you have time, the area surrounding the tavern is full of great hikes. I recommend using All Trails or another hiking app  to look up a well-rated hike that suits your experience and preference.

As you continue north on Highway 101, I highly recommend grabbing a bite at Bob’s Well Bread Bakery in Los Alamos, which is known for its artisan baked goods and mouthwatering sandwiches. Stop and eat in their courtyard or take it go.

Continue your drive for another 40 minutes up the 101 to get to the colorful town of Avila Beach. Take some time to scope out the vibrant downtown scene and then head straight over to Avila Beach Paddle Sports , situated right outside of town.

Get set up with a kayak or paddleboard for the afternoon, but before you get going, chat with the staff to get some insight on how to best scout out the seals and sea otters that live in the bay.

I recommend paddling all the way out to see the Port San Luis Lighthouse . This is a historic area right above a sandy beach that has wildflowers, eucalyptus trees, old maritime structures, and most importantly, a wooden swing!

If you’re hungry when you get back, head to Fat Cats Cafe . It’s a local favorite and conveniently located across the parking lot from the Paddle Sports storefront.

Hop back in the car and coast up Route 1 to Cambria. Time your arrival to catch the sunset in Cambria at Moonstone Beach where you can walk along the beach boardwalk. You can also continue a few miles up the Pacific Coast Highway to San Simeon for a good chance to see elephant seals bask in the rookeries.

Cap off your day with dinner at Robin’s , which offers mouthwatering comfort food in a restored adobe home. It’s a favorite spot among locals and visitors.

Tip:  If you have an extra day, Montaña de Oro State Park has amazing beachfront hiking and a great campground or you can head north to San Simeon to see elephant seals and Hearst Castle (be sure to make a reservation). The historic town of San Luis Obispo is also a stone’s throw away.

Where to stay in Cambria

Cambria Beach Lodge: I highly recommend staying at Cambria Beach Lodge – a beach-inspired boutique hotel with a low-key vibe and elevated minimalist design that’s located on the scenic Moonstone Beach Drive with beautiful views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean from the hotel. I loved the natural aesthetic, the soothing colors, and the small details that made a big impact. Spend as much time here as you can! It’ll leave you feeling relaxed and inspired.

Day 6: Morro Bay + Tin City

Make the final day of your central California coastal road trip an adventurous one that’s full of exploration in Morro Bay and Tin City in nearby Paso Robles.

Drive 30 minutes back down from Cambria to Morro Bay on the Pacific Coast Highway where you can soak in the coastal views and get a glimpse of famed Morro Rock as you make your way into the downtown area.

Stop at Frankie & Lola’s for a hearty and classic breakfast. Don’t fill up too much, though, because whale watching is next. Depending on the time of year, swells can get big and the boat ride can be a bit rocky.

Morro Bay Whale Watching offers guided tours on the open water to give you a glimpse of SLO Cal’s most famous visitors.

If you time it right, you can catch:

• Humpbacks on their northbound migration from late March through April into May
• Blue Whales from April through the summer
• Gray whales from March to May

Or catch them all going southbound from December through February.

Once you’ve made your way back to land, grab a nourishing California-style vegetarian lunch to go at Shine Café and head out for a short but scenic hike at Black Hill Trail in Morro Bay State Park.

This is a moderate 2.5-mile hike that can be cut short if you want to drive up to the parking lot near the hilltop instead.

It’s an enjoyable and moderate hike with just over 500 feet of elevation gain that ultimately has you topping off with 360-degree views of the coast, city, and hills behind you.

Eat your lunch here and snap a few pics. Make sure you bring sunscreen, bug spray, sun protection , and plenty of water as there is very little shade.

To wrap up your road trip, cruise out to Tin City in Paso Robles. Located in Central California Wine Country, Tin City is a cool and eclectic place to walk around and sample the local brews, wine, and food that the region is known for.

Check out Barrelhouse Brewing Co. (where they also have live music in the summer!), Tin City Cidery , and a variety of food trucks.

When you’re ready to eat dinner, grab a bite from one of the food trucks at Tin City, or go to the historic downtown of Paso Robles to scope out the different restaurants this vibrant city has to offer.

You can dine al fresco and enjoy the night, as many of the restaurants have outdoor seating and a view of the square.

Fill up on something tasty and take your time as you enjoy the last night of your central California coast road trip before your return home.

Extending Your California Central Coast Road Trip

If you want to extend your trip, you can easily make your road trip a one-way adventure and drive all the way to San Francisco. This will allow you to check off even more of California’s coastal gems like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Cruz.

Here’s an extended itinerary:

• Day 7: Head up Highway 1 to Big Sur, stopping to see the famous McWay Falls and do some hiking (see our full Big Sur guide for more).
• Day 8: Start the morning with a hike at Big Sur River Gorge before driving up the coast to Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey. Be sure to stop for photos!
• Day 9: Explore the many hiking and biking trails and sights around Monterey, including the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. If you want to get out on the water, book a whale-watching tour or go kayaking with sea otters .
• Day 10: Drive north through Santa Cruz, stopping for a walk and lunch along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Continue on to the cozy town of Half Moon Bay where you can stretch your legs on one of the many beaches.
• Day 11: Finish in San Francisco! You could spend another week exploring San Fran, but if it’s your first time, you’ll definitely want to take a picture at the Golden Gate Bridge and stroll around Golden Gate Park. Find more of our favorite outdoorsy things to do in San Francisco here .

What to Pack for Your Central California Coast Road Trip

What you pack will really depend on what kind of trip you’re planning. To start, be sure to check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List .

If you want to car camp or stay in a camper van, here are some camping resources:

• Car Camping Essentials + Packing List
• Car Camping 101: A Beginners Guide
• Van Life Essentials

If you plan on hiking or doing a lot of outdoor activities, check out these gear guides for our favorite gear recommendations:

• What to Wear Hiking
• Best Women’s Hiking Daypacks
• Best Women’s Hiking Boots & Shoes
• Best Women’s Hiking Shirts
• Best Women’s Hiking Pants & Leggings
• Best Women’s Sun Hats for Hiking

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Make the most of your visit to California. Use these related posts to help plan your epic road trip:

• Best California Beach Campgrounds
• Best California Road Trip Stops
• Best Bodega Bay Campgrounds
• Best Things to do in Yosemite National Park
• Best Joshua Tree Hikes
• Best Things to do in Big Sur

Got any questions about doing a California Central Coast road trip? Do you have any tips or favorite stops to add? Let us know in the comments below.

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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I live in Ventura (lucky me!) and you have hit on a lot of the great spots in town…even the Emerald Iguana in Ojai that we love to stay at for a quick weekend getaway. I would also recommend to your readers to check out the Visit Ventura website’s calendar of local events, because there is always something going on in this town! Concerts, music and art festivals, the wine walk and lots of street festivals. Great job on capturing some of the best places about Ventura!

Thanks, Christine! Great additional ad for finding local events.

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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 12 Best Destinations on California's Central Coast

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Stretching south from Ventura County, north to Monterey County, and covering much of the land between Los Angeles and San Francisco, California's Central Coast is truly one-of-a-kind. Not only does it boast a wonderfully warm climate, fabulous beaches, hundreds of wineries, and iconic attractions, it's also home to Highway 1's most legendary coastal stretch and some of California's most alluring small cities and towns. Add to this amazing wildlife, delicious eats, and incredible California history, and you've got yourself one heck of a destination. Ready to explore? Here are 12 spots to get you started:

Hearst Castle

Built as a home for publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst and designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan (who also designed Mills College in Oakland and Hearst's cattle rancho and retreat in Chihuahua, Mexico), the enormous Hearst Castle took more than 30 years to build and attracted a variety of Hollywood luminaries such as Cary Grant and Jean Harlow. This Mediterranean Revival-style mansion, perched upon a hilltop above Highway 1 north of Cambria , is best known for its extreme opulence, which is on full display in the mansion's Neptune Pool, its private library, and the wealth of international antiquities that Hearst acquired largely through Sotheby's auction house. At one time Hearst Castle was even home to the world's largest private zoo. Today the property is part of the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, and castle visitors have a bevy of tours to choose from, such as the “Art of San Simeon” and “Designing the Dream.” The larger San Simeon monument includes some of Central California's most alluring beaches, as well as the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery —where you can view the unique mammals from free-to-access observation platforms—and the Piedras Blancas Light Station.

  © www.stefanbock.de /Getty Images 

Rugged, mysterious, and incredibly eye-catching, Big Sur is one of Central California's most impressive coastal regions, a 90-mile stretch between San Simeon to the south and Carmel to the north that straddles the Pacific Ocean on one side, and the Santa Lucia Mountains on the other. The area is home to plenty of campsites, towering redwood trees, hidden beaches surrounded by cliffs, and ample hiking trails in parks like Pfeiffer Big Sur and Julia Pfeiffer Burns . Highway 1 provides some of Big Sur's most outstanding views, as does the landmark Nepenthe Restaurant. From 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. nightly, you can also soak in the healing hot springs of Big Sur 's Esalen Institute , a perk that's typically reserved for guests of the long-running New Agey retreat.

Paso Robles

 Jack Mohr/EyeEM/Getty Images 

Often referred to as the “Wild West of America's wine regions,” Paso Robles is an inland city on the southern edge of California's Salinas Valley that's also home to diverse restaurants, olive groves, and a trio of hot springs that are ripe for relaxing. Drury James, the uncle of famed outlaw Jesse James, was one of the city's three founders, and to this day Paso Robles retains a bit of an edge.

The Pioneer Museum highlights the bygone days of the 19th and 20th centuries and the city's rich agricultural history with everything from a one-room prairie schoolhouse to one of the world's largest collections of antique barbed wire. The Estrella Warbird Museum has dozens of military aircraft on full display. Greater Paso Robes houses hundreds of wineries, scenic vineyards, and plenty of olive oil tasting facilities to boot.

San Luis Obispo

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Situated in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, San Luis Obispo, or “SLO” for short, is known for its sunny days and laid-back vibe. This university town (home to Cal Poly) is also the center of Central California's Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande viticultural areas, meaning you'll find wine tasting opportunities at every turn. The city's Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa—one of the most accessible buildings along California's Mission Trail —is located right in the center of town, and smack in the middle of some incredible restaurants and cultural attractions that include Bubblegum Alley and the must-see Madonna Inn .

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes

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The Central Coast's Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes is one of California's largest dune stretches. and, in places, a jaw-dropping sight. It's a 22,000-acre spread of rolling dunes that is a playground for off-road vehicles and a burial ground for Hollywood's 1923 epic drama, "The Ten Commandments." You can camp here, horseback ride, or go hiking, birding, and whale watching. A community of freethinkers known as “Dunites” even made their home in these sandy hills during the 20th century.

Santa Barbara

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With its white-washed Spanish-style architecture and the Santa Ynez Mountains as its backdrop, the city of Santa Barbara is a sight to behold. Its coastal perch attracts endless surfers drawn by its strong winter swells, and the palm-lined State Street is where you'll find boutique shopping and incredible eats. Hop on a beach cruiser to take in this “American Riviera” on two wheels, or watch the sunset from Stearns Wharf. The Mission Santa Barbara, on a hilltop overlooking the city, offers tours of its on-site museum, as well as its lush fruit-filled garden and historic cemetery—burial spot for the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island, the last surviving member of California's Native American Nicoleño tribe.

 Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography/Getty Images 

Standing on the southern edge of Monterey Bay, Monterey is a hub of marine mammal life and was once the heart of the sardine packing industry. Tourists still travel in droves to the city's Cannery Row (immortalized in a Steinbeck novel of the same name) for seafood and to visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium . Historic sites, including adobes, still dot the town, including California's oldest church, the San Carlos Cathedral, and the former home of "Treasure Island" author Robert Louis Stevenson.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Known for its many art galleries, pristine beach, and storybook cottages, Carmel-by-the-Sea is the stuff of fairy tales. It's one of California's most iconic spots, and for good reason: dogs can roam freely on its coastal sands, beach bonfires are encouraged, and the sunsets are extraordinary. Spend a night or two in this seaside village to really get a feel for its enchanting offerings, which include boutique shopping along Ocean Avenue, wine tasting, and spots like Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, with its hidden coves and migrating whales. The nearby 17-Mile Drive is one of the most scenic driving routes on the planet.

Channel Islands National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Encompassing five of the eight California Channel Islands and their surrounding waters, Channel Islands National Park is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Whether it's camping a night on the rugged Anacapa Island, diving among Santa Cruz Island's kelp beds or kayaking among its sea caves, or embarking on a hike on San Miguel Island, there's plenty to keep you busy. Sea lions, California moray eels, and migrating whales make good use of the marine park, and seabirds, including bald eagles and western gulls, use the islands for breeding.

Pismo Beach

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Immortalized in the words of Bugs Bunny, Pismo Beach was once known as the world's “clam capital” and remains a legendary surfing locale. This classic California beach town boasts a 1,200-feet-long ocean pier and neighboring oceanfront promenade that serve as its central hub, attracting strollers, kite-flyers, and fishers who come to catch lingcod and red snapper from the cool local waters. The city's 11-acre Dinosaur Caves Park provides spectacular ocean views . From late October through February, the town's eucalyptus trees house thousands of migrating monarch butterflies who bed down in the branches for a long winter's rest.

 John Elk/Getty Images 

Danish-Americans founded the city of Solvang in 1911, and today it retains that same Danish heritage and then some! Solvang is like a slice of Copenhagen dropped along California's central coast, complete with Danish-style architecture, replicated windmills, and even a statue of "The Little Mermaid" perched right in the city center. Stroll among half-timbered houses, dine on Danish kringle and cinnamon crisp pastries, or peruse Solvang's Elverhøj Museum of History & Art to learn more about Danish history, both its local roots and abroad (think topics like Scandinavian Vikings and American's Danish migration).

  Lauren Ferszt / EyeEm /Getty Images 

A chill Ventura Country spot along California's southern Central Coast, Ojai is a wonderful spot for a calming weekend getaway. This small scenic town is filled with artisan galleries and New Age shops. It' an ideal place to indulge in spa services, set out on a horseback ride, or take in a festival: annuals events here run the gamut from June's Ojai Wine Festival to November's Ojai Film Festival. The surrounding Ojai Valley offers supreme hiking opportunities and phenomenal mountain views.

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Explore Top Things to Do in Central California

Welcome to the heartland of the Golden State! Central California offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that will captivate and delight visitors of all interests. From the stunning coastlines of the Central California coast to the cultural hotspots in the Central Valley, this region is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or indulging in delicious food and wine, Central California has it all.

In this article, I will be your guide as we explore the top things to do in this captivating region. Get ready to discover the hidden gems, must-see landmarks, and unique attractions that Central California has to offer.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

• Central California is the perfect destination for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights.
• Be prepared to be wowed by the stunning coastlines, charming towns, and historical landmarks that define Central California.
• Explore the unique attractions such as Capitola Village , Forestiere Underground Gardens , Cannery Row , Old Fisherman’s Wharf , and Hearst Castle .
• Immerse yourself in the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of Central California.
• Central California offers endless opportunities for exploration and unforgettable experiences.

Cruise through Capitola Village in Santa Cruz County

Located in Santa Cruz County , Capitola Village is a charming seaside town that exudes Mediterranean-inspired charm. With its colorful buildings, picture-perfect views, and numerous boutiques and galleries , it’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely day.

When visiting Capitola Village , be sure to take a cruise through the town in a vintage car shuttle and soak in the delightful coastal scenery. As you leisurely explore, you can also indulge in some window-shopping at the fabulous boutiques and galleries that line the streets.

Home decor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Capitola Village, with its array of unique shops offering stylish and one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re looking for coastal-themed accents or modern designs, there’s something to suit every taste.

Capitola Village is truly a hidden gem among Central California getaway destinations. Its relaxed and picturesque atmosphere, coupled with its boutique shopping and stunning beach views, make it a must-visit when exploring the region.

Explore the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno

One of the most unique places to visit in Central California is the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno . This underground maze of patios, gardens, and grottos was created by Baldassare Forestiere, an Italian immigrant who settled in Fresno .

Over the span of four decades, Forestiere meticulously built this underground oasis, which consists of 65 rooms and three levels. Visitors can stroll through the intricate passageways and marvel at the native and exotic fruit trees that thrive in this subterranean setting.

The Forestiere Underground Gardens are truly a hidden gem in Central California, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking to explore the region’s rich history and unique attractions. This underground maze showcases the creativity and determination of Baldassare Forestiere, providing visitors with a glimpse into his remarkable vision and craftsmanship.

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno are sure to captivate and inspire. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover this remarkable hidden treasure during your visit to Central California.

Visit Cannery Row in Monterey

A must-visit destination in Central California is Cannery Row in Monterey . Made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name, this historic sardine-canning street has transformed into a vibrant hub of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions .

Take a leisurely stroll along the row and soak up the charming atmosphere, admire the turn-of-the-century buildings , and explore the boutiques and galleries . Cannery Row is the perfect representation of the laid-back and cultural vibe that the central coast getaways are known for.

Exploring Cannery Row

• Indulge in delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants
• Discover unique boutiques offering local artwork and trendy fashion
• Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the sardine-canning industry
• Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a world-renowned marine sanctuary
• Take a scenic bike ride along the beautiful coastline

Whether you’re a fan of John Steinbeck or simply want to experience the charm and history of Cannery Row, this iconic destination in Monterey is a must-see on your Central California itinerary.

Have an Offshore Adventure at Old Fisherman’s Wharf

For a true Central California experience, head to Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. This fishing hub is lined with unique stores and restaurants , offering a delightful blend of shopping and dining experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the freshest seafood or sign up for a thrilling whale watching tour with Monterey Bay Whale Watch. Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit attraction in Central California for seafood lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Shop and Dine at Unique Stores and Restaurants

Old Fisherman’s Wharf is home to a variety of unique stores and boutiques, perfect for finding souvenirs or treating yourself to something special. Explore the shops and discover locally made crafts, artwork, and gift items. After a day of shopping, satisfy your cravings at one of the world-class seafood restaurants that line the wharf. Indulge in the freshest seafood dishes, from succulent crab and shrimp to mouthwatering clam chowder.

Embark on an Unforgettable Whale Watching Tour

One of the highlights of visiting Old Fisherman’s Wharf is the opportunity to go on a whale watching tour. Join Monterey Bay Whale Watch, a reputable tour operator, and set sail on an unforgettable adventure in the Pacific Ocean. Marvel at the majestic sights of whales breaching and dolphins dancing in the waves. With its rich marine biodiversity, Monterey Bay is a premier destination for whale watching, offering sightings of humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, and more.

Sample the Freshest Seafood

While at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, be sure to treat yourself to the freshest seafood Central California has to offer. From succulent Dungeness crab to pristinely grilled salmon, the local seafood restaurants at the wharf are known for their culinary expertise and commitment to serving the best seafood dishes. Whether you prefer a casual seafood shack or an upscale dining experience, you’ll find a wide range of options that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular attraction in Central California, beloved by locals and visitors alike for its unique blend of dining, shopping, and natural beauty. So grab your camera, appetite, and sense of adventure, and discover the treasures that await you at Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey.

Tour Hearst Castle

No visit to Central California is complete without a tour of Hearst Castle in San Simeon . This opulent mansion , designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan , was the private residence of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. With its lavish design, terraced gardens, and breathtaking views of the Central Coast, Hearst Castle is a true architectural marvel. Explore the 165 rooms, wander through the stunning gardens and fountains , and immerse yourself in the grandeur of one of Central California’s most iconic landmarks.

As you step into Hearst Castle, you’ll be transported back in time to an era of immense wealth and luxury. Each room showcases intricate craftsmanship, stunning artwork, and opulent furnishings, providing a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of the Hearst family. Marvel at the Gothic Study, with its intricately carved woodwork, or the Neptune Pool, a stunning outdoor oasis complete with Roman-inspired sculptures.

The gardens and fountains that surround the castle are equally impressive. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush grounds, adorned with vibrant flowers and meticulously designed landscaping. The breathtaking views of the Central Coast serve as the perfect backdrop for a peaceful and serene experience.

Highlights of a tour at Hearst Castle:

• Explore the 165 rooms of the opulent mansion .
• Admire the intricate craftsmanship and stunning artwork.
• Marvel at the terraced gardens and beautiful fountains.
• Take in the stunning views of the Central Coast.
• Learn about the history and legacy of the Hearst family.

A visit to Hearst Castle is a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you have a passion for architecture, history, or simply enjoy immersing yourself in grandeur, this Central California landmark is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Central California offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. With its charming seaside towns like Capitola Village and the vibrant Cannery Row in Monterey, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the underground marvels of the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno to the opulent Hearst Castle in San Simeon , Central California never fails to captivate and delight.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing vacation, Central California has something for everyone. Experience the thrill of whale watching tours off the Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, indulge in the freshest seafood, or take a leisurely stroll through terraced gardens, all while basking in the stunning views that this region has to offer.

So why wait? Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through Central California. Discover the hidden treasures, enjoy the vibrant attractions, and get ready to create lasting memories. Explore Central California and let its charm and beauty leave you mesmerized.

What are some things to do in Central California?

Central California offers a plethora of attractions and activities, including exploring the charming beach towns of Capitola Village and Cannery Row, touring the underground oasis of Forestiere Underground Gardens, visiting the historic Hearst Castle, and enjoying an offshore adventure at Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Where is Capitola Village located?

Capitola Village is located in Santa Cruz County , Central California.

What can I do in Capitola Village?

In Capitola Village, you can take a cruise through the charming seaside town in a vintage car shuttle , browse the boutiques and galleries, and shop for new home decor.

What is unique about the Forestiere Underground Gardens?

The Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno are a maze of underground patios, gardens, and grottos created by Italian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere. Visitors can stroll through the passageways and marvel at the native and exotic fruit trees that thrive in this subterranean setting.

Where is Cannery Row located?

Cannery Row is located in Monterey, Central California.

What can I do in Cannery Row?

In Cannery Row, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historic sardine-canning street , admire the turn-of-the-century buildings , explore the boutiques and galleries, and indulge in the local restaurants and cultural attractions .

What can I do at Old Fisherman’s Wharf?

At Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, you can explore unique stores and restaurants , enjoy the freshest seafood, and sign up for thrilling whale watching tours with Monterey Bay Whale Watch.

Where is Hearst Castle located?

Hearst Castle is located in San Simeon , Central California.

What can I do at Hearst Castle?

At Hearst Castle, you can tour the opulent mansion designed by Julia Morgan , explore the 165 rooms, wander through the stunning gardens and fountains , and enjoy breathtaking views of the Central Coast.

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Welcome to Paradise

Your insider guide to the central coast of california. follow us for current events, activities, attractions and more....

Explore our regions

Discover everything you expect from a California vacation in the Central Coast’s four distinct regions. Get help planning your own road trip from the people who know the region best — you’ll find local visitor services dedicated to bringing you the best of each region.

Ventura , Santa Barbara , San Luis Obispo , and Monterey Bay make up the four regions of the Central Coast. Here, you’ll find everything you expect from the California coast: miles of rocky shoreline, beaches ideal for swimming and surfing, and panoramic views out over the Pacific. And the enchantment of the Central Coast doesn’t end at the water’s edge: drive inland to discover towering mountains, rolling wine country hills, and even desert-like landscapes.

Looking for some discounts? Check out what deals we have for your Rest, Refuel, Retail, and Recreation!

Monterey Bay Region

MONTEREY BAY region

PICTURESQUE

Here you’ll discover towering sea cliffs and fog-cloaked redwood forests in Big Sur, a ballet of ever-shifting sand dunes in Fort Ord National Monument, and maybe even a rare California condor among the ancient volcanic formations at Pinnacles National Park.

FAMOUS SITES

Linger a while to visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Monterey’s historical waterfront, which preserves a bit of the colorful waterfront life John Steinbeck vividly portrayed in the novel Cannery Row.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

Head to Carmel-by-the-Sea, where a small village feel provides a welcoming haven for a rich arts scene. Farther north, spice up your trip and stop by Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World. And visit bohemian Santa Cruz, famous for its vintage seaside amusement park and its reputation as the birthplace of mainland surfing in the U.S.

Downtown Morgan Hill Wine Stroll

Pleasure point: annual logjam longboard competition, san luis obispo region, small island big song, come from away, forbes organ series: alcee chriss.

UNIQUE APPEAL

With over 16 different cities and towns, each destination has its own appeal—from the vintage Main Street-style downtown of Arroyo Grande to the classic California beach town of Pismo Beach, and the legendary Hearst Castle near San Simeon. Quaint Cambria is set among its namesake pines, while tiny Harmony is a onetime dairy community that’s now home to artists.

Blessed with numerous state parks and beaches, this is a region for escapes into nature, including kayaking in Morro Bay and hiking the coastal bluffs north of Cayucos or the inland hills of San Luis Obispo or Atascadero.

With car-sized elephant seals (the world’s largest) on the beaches north of San Simeon and creative wine-country cuisine in Paso Robles’ historic downtown, there’s no end to the discoveries awaiting you in the San Luis Obispo Region.

santa barbara region

WINE COUNTRY

Spend the day sipping and strolling along the path forged by more than a dozen leading winemakers on the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail. Then hit the road again and head to Santa Barbara’s bucolic wine regions, home to world-class wines and small-town charm.

Find your own “American Riviera” in the Santa Barbara region. Let the spirit of exploration lead the way: Bask in the sunny beaches of Carpinteria, let the romantic Spanish architecture of Santa Barbara woo you, and embrace the wild North County coast.

CULTURE+HISTORY

Pause at the crossroads of culture, wine, and history in downtown Santa Barbara, where you can visit cultural institutions like the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, then discover California history on a Red Tile Walking Tour. Santa Barbara woo you, lose yourself in the wine making enclaves of Santa Ynez Valley, and discover the western spirit of Santa Maria Valley.

THE BIRDS AND THE BEES AND MORE: POLLINATORS

37th annual solvang datsun roadster classic, buellton brew fest.

ventura region

30th annual casa pacifica angels wine, food & brew festival, 45th annual ventura county greek festival, heritage days midsummer fiesta.

escape the rat race

Just an hour north of the busy urban world of Los Angeles, discover a more relaxed way of life. Welcome to the Central Coast’s Ventura Region, where ocean panoramas dominate and world-class surprises await.

From the beach cities of Oxnard and Ventura to the soulful Ojai Valley and the farmlands of Heritage Valley, you’ll find a refreshing mix of sophisticated urban destinations and small-town escapes.

so much to do

A region whose riches include Channel Islands National Park—known as the Galápagos of North America—and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum.

Developed by Destination Innovate

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.

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…

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.

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

11 Best Central California Cities To Visit in 2023

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.

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!

👉 BOOK SANTA BARBARA TROLLEY TOUR FOR THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE 💛

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.

✅ BOOK A WINE TASTING TOUR FROM CAYUCOS 🍷

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.

✅ BOOK AN AMAZING PRIVATE TOUR OF THE CALIFORNIA COASTLINE

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.

💛 BOOK THIS FUN FOOD TOUR IN DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO

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.

🎒 GET A PRIVATE GUIDE FOR YOUR HIKING TRIP IN YOSEMITE

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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• Stockton Metro Airport Lands $26M For Upgrades

Stockton Metro Airport — just over 3 miles from Manteca’s northern most city limits — is undergoing $26 million in upgrades. The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors approved $26.2 million Tuesday to fund what county leaders called “transformative improvements” at the airport. The funds will support revitalization of key facilities, increase capacity for commercial airline service and attain future economic development goals.

Allegiant Airlines currently non-stop flights to Las Vegas and Phoenix. It is also a key airport in Amazon’s Prime network with a number of flights daily delivering cargo that is headed for one of 11 distribution facilities they operate in the region including in Stockton, Manteca, Tracy, Patterson, and Turlock. Amazon has more than 13,000 people working at its nearby fulfillment centers. The airport’s role in San Joaquin County’s future is two-fold. There are 1.2 million residents in San Joaquín and Stanislaus counties alone that could access airline service.

It also playing a role in snagging business park tenants due to its ability to serve both cargo and corporate travel. Stockton has business park projects — or are zoned for such use — on three sides of the airport. Manteca’ business park expansion in the northwest corner of the city is just three miles from the airport. In addition. Manteca’s the general plan calls for the development of hundreds of more acres north of Roth Road that would be even closer to the airport. Given Manteca’s proximity to the airport — downtown Manteca is 8.3 miles away while downtown Stockton is 6.8 miles away — what occurs there can have a big impact on the Family City.

“This funding is a huge step to help attract prospective airline carriers and cargo operators to our region and contribute to jobs, economic development, and overall quality of life,” said San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors Chair, Miguel Villapudua.

“We foresee a time in the near future where we are transporting thousands of passengers each day on multiple airlines to destinations across the U.S. SCK already serves a market of over 1.2 million residents from San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties alone.  The addition of an updated terminal with a competitive scheduled airline service would greatly enhance the economic vitality of the County and Central Valley.”

The funding will be used for the following infrastructure projects:

*$8 million in terminal investments. Construct a new five gate, at-grade hold room designed to comfortably accommodate 400 peak hour passengers. Remodel parts of the existing baggage claim, Transportation Security Administration security area and ticket counter portions of the existing terminal. Add new baggage conveyors, provide space for rent-a-car counters and update restrooms.

*$7 million for west ramp restoration/redesign. Restore and redesign the west ramp to accommodate new hangar construction.

*$5.8 million in new hangars/awnings. Construct new aircraft storage hangars (38 units), aircraft sunshade awnings (10 units). Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) awning, and replacement commercial hangar.

*$4.5 million in commercial hangar acquisition. Acquire an existing commercial hangar to update and repurpose portions, or all, of the building and its site.

*$600,000: to construct a pilot center and self-serve fueling facility.

*$325,000 for an AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TOWER STUDY. Complete a siting study for a new FAA-operated/County-owned air traffic control tower.

“These improvements are much needed and a long time coming,” said SCK’s Airport Director, Richard Sokol.

“SCK’s current air carrier terminal building is more than 60 years old. Over the years, some basic mechanical systems of the building have been repaired, but the layout and functionality of the building has gone essentially unchanged. In addition, aircraft size and passenger load has increased, and the way airlines use airport facilities has substantially changed since the 1960s. The existing building must be updated to successfully meet the needs of air carriers who wish to grow the airline market at SCK.”

Sokol noted that the building was originally designed for airplanes seating 50 passengers, while today’s operators feature aircraft seating 138 passengers or more.

He also said the existing passenger hold room was added in 2011, but its size cannot support concurrent operations of multiple aircraft used by today’s airlines.

In addition, security rules and procedures did not exist in 1965 and the way outbound bags are processed has also changed dramatically.

https://www.mantecabulletin.com/news/local-news/stockton-metro-airport-lands-26m-upgrades/

Merced airport terminal project to usher in new transportation era, city says

City leaders and community members gathered to break ground on a $17 million terminal replacement project at the Merced Yosemite Regional Airport on Thursday. The new airport terminal is planned for the site of the former Hanger BBQ, according to Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero. It will have a dedicated TSA area, updated passenger areas, aviation and airport administration offices as well as upgrades to services in an effort to enhance the overall experience for airline passengers. The project will also include updates to the existing terminal built in the 1940s.

“Our airport is a diamond in the rough, said Quintero. “It’s a gem that has really not been appreciated but now we’re calling attention to it because we want to take it to the next level and that’s what this project is going to do.”

The total cost of the project is expected to be about $17 million for the 11,000 square-foot facility. According to Quintero, roughly $14 million comes from a Federal Aviation Administration grant. The project will introduce an energy-efficient and sustainable facility while meeting current and future demands and addressing the need for modernization, according to the city.

Merced Mayor Matthew Serratto called the project important saying it was one in a big line of really good city projects that are coming. According to Serrratto, the project is a step toward longer economic development, allowing Merced to truly live up to its name and to become a better gateway to Yosemite. “We’ll have planes, trains and automobiles coming here, people getting to Yosemite,” Serratto said.

According to Regional Airport Authority Chairman Bob Scoble, Merced’s airport was originally certified in 1932 and operated as an airport until about 1941-42 when the United State Army Air Corps used it as well as surrounding airports to conduct training for World War II pilots.

The airport was then returned to the City of Merced in 1945 and has continued to operate until today. The existing terminal was built by United Airlines in 1947.

Essential Air Service Provider Advanced Air, currently operates out of the airport, which is owned by the city. The airport offers daily flights to Harry Reid Airport in Las Vegas and Hawthorne Municipal Airport in Los Angeles County.

] https://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/local/article283416583.html

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon Breaks Ground

Hard Rock International and the Tejon Indian Tribe celebrated the groundbreaking of the long-awaited hotel and casino located at Hwy. 166 and Sabodan Road West in the community of Mettler, California on Tejon Tribal land. The celebration featured a commemorative shovel groundbreaking with Hard Rock representatives, Tejon Indian Tribe leadership and general membership plus statewide and local community leaders.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon will be more than 700,000 square feet of which 150,000 square feet will be gaming space, featuring 2,500 of the most popular slots, 48 table games, and video poker, and will be the second closest class III casino to Los Angeles.

“This is an exciting day for the state of California, Kern County and the Tejon Indian Tribe,” said Octavio Escobedo, III Chair of the Tejon Indian Tribe. “This groundbreaking is a symbolic ceremony for the Tribe, which was landless for more than 150 years and has been a priority for us since we were reaffirmed as a federally recognized Indian tribe. From the start of our relationship with the United States government in 1851, our Tribe has fought for a homeland for our people. Today we are one major step closer to the dream of self-determination through economic development. The Tribe would like to thank local community support, the support from Kern County government, the entire California State Legislature, our federal delegation in Washington DC, and especially Governor Gavin Newsom. Including all the non-governmental organizations, SSCR LLC, Hard Rock International and the Seminole Tribe of Florida who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us to help make our dream of restoring our land base and this groundbreaking possible.”

The project is expected to create approximately 2,000 construction-specific jobs and will be managed by the Penta Building Group, a southern California Company. Once both phases are completed, the project is expected to create approximately 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, both full-time and part-time.

Multiple dining options, including a signature Hard Rock Cafe and fine dining restaurant Council Oak Steaks and Seafood, a Rock Shop, and much more will be included in phase one. Rounding out the second phase will be a 400-room hotel, additional fine dining, pool, spa, cigar lounge and 2,800-seat Hard Rock Live event venue that will draw attractions like concert performances, comedy acts and sporting events to name a few. In addition, Hard Rock’s signature memorabilia will be on display throughout the property. The anticipated completion date of phase one is expected to be 22 months after the first shovel in the ground. Phase two is expected to be another 20 months and will complete the entire hotel and casino.

“Hard Rock is proud to partner with the Tejon Indian Tribe on creating a world-class entertainment destination,” said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International. “The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon property will be another incredible offering in our West Coast portfolio, and we are committed to supporting the local community and creating a lasting positive economic impact for the State of California.”

https://www.latimes.com/b2bpublishing/business-announcements/story/2023-12-20/hard-rock-hotel-casino-tejon-breaks-ground

Modesto Children’s museum opens, kids enjoy interactive space

What was once one of Modesto’s hottest nightclubs has been turned into a brightly colored education play zone. Four years in the making, the museum was led by a grass root group of parents and business who raised $9 million dollars to make it happen.

https://www.modbee.com/news/local/article279265189.html

Merced Named One of the Coolest Small Cities in the U.S.

Merced, california.

Population:  89,308 Imagine you wanted to visit Yosemite, but along the way, you get a chance to live out your retro road trip dreams. Enter Merced, a town just an hour from the national park, with a selection of vintage eras to choose from, spanning old western saloon vibes, 1920s art deco architecture, 1950s neon signs, vinyl or cassette tape shops, and a theater suitable for  Back to the Future  screenings. Everything here is in with the old and in with the new, since modern remodeling awaits on the insides.

Dig for treasures in the Merced Antique Mall or at Second Time Around. If you’re into old machines, check out the  Grapes of Wrath -style farming equipment and old railway machinery at the town’s Agriculture Museum. Or head to the Castle Air Museum in nearby Atwater for retro aircraft. All you’ll be missing at that point is your DeLorean.

Must eat & drink:  Merced’s central-California location means you’ll have all your Napa and Sonoma wines in easy reach at Hi-Fi Wine or Vinhos, but kick things up a notch by visiting Vista Ranch, where you can see (and taste!) the magic as it’s happening. Chase it down with cocktails from Native Son and craft beer from 17th Street Public House. Get high-end, seasonal farmers produce turned into clever dishes at Rainbird, or go for traditional Mexican cuisine with vegetarian options at J&R Tacos.

Don’t leave without:  Lighting up fresh buds grown right in the valley. In fact, there’s even a convent of nuns in Merced who grow their own cannabis, and are you really gonna pass up a chance to ask a sister to pass the bowl?  —Danielle Hallock

https://www.thrillist.com/amphtml/travel/nation/best-small-cities-in-america

Great Wolf Lodge Resort, Waterpark to Break Ground Near Visalia Next Year

A new Great Wolf Lodge luxury resort planned for the south valley is expected to generate nearly $2 billion in economic output, Tulare County officials say. The nationwide family attraction is scheduled to break ground in late 2023 and open in the fall of 2025 at the southeast corner of Highway 99 and Caldwell Avenue. It would be the third GWL in California, following Garden Grove (near Disneyland) and Manteca, which opened in 2021. The proposed 35-acre, 525-room hotel would include an indoor water park — a GWL signature. County planners tell GV Wire “the project is on track. Great   Wolf  is working on financing for the project. GWL is working with the city of Visalia on a sewer agreement which is expected to be approved by the end of the year.”

$33 Million Economic Impact

Tulare County officials say the resort hotel will generate 995 new jobs and 600,000 annual visitors. One-time economic output from construction is estimated at $1.7 billion, with labor earnings adding another $149 million. The county estimates revenue for the first 15 years at $33 million. That figure includes total economic output and labor earnings. An economic analysis — paid for by the county — also expects retail to expand in the area around the resort in the years ahead. “Retail spending is attracted to locations where other retail spending occurs because of the gravitational pull generated by existing successful retailers,” an analysis from Economic & Planning Systems, Inc. said. That could be as high as $28 million for Visalia and the surrounding area.

The county agreed to some incentives to seal the deal with Great Wolf Lodge last July, including sharing room tax revenue and deferral of development impact fees. For the first five years, GWL will keep all room tax revenue. The split is 75/25 for years 6-10, then 50/50 for years 11-15. The county also agreed not to give financial incentives to another large water park for 10 years. “Without these incentives, Great Wolf Resorts would not be able to move forward with financing the construction of the proposed development project,” a county staff report said.

Tulare County Wins Over Other Locations

The county said Great Wolf Lodge was also looking at locations near Bakersfield and the High Desert area of Kern County. “Tulare County reached out to see if they would also consider going up the road.  Great   Wolf took the meeting as a courtesy and ended up finding the infrastructure associated with the Sequoia Gateway Development was further along than any sites in Kern County and that Tulare County staff was ready to begin working on its own incentive plan,” the county said. “We processed the plan much quicker and were able to secure them coming to Tulare County instead of Kern County,” said Mike Washam, associate director of the county’s Resource Management Agency.

https://gvwire.com/2022/12/07/great-wolf-lodge-resort-waterpark-to-break-ground-near-visalia-next-year/?mc_cid=1bb6a60dee&mc_eid=d813f251f8

State senate passes Gaming Compact Agreement for Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tejon

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KERO) — The California State Senate passed the Gaming Compact Agreement for the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tejon on Wednesday night in Sacramento.

The hotel and casino, which will be built just south of Bakersfield, are expected to bring 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, adding over $60 million in payroll every year, as well as making the area a tourism hub for the region. The project is expected to create 400 guest rooms, several restaurants, and entertainment venue, and a convention center. The land on which the resort will sit will become the Tejon Indian Tribe’s first reservation. The Tejon Indian Tribe says 52 acres of the site will be devoted to the resort hotel and casino, while 22 adjacent acres will be designated for an RV park. The remainder of the property will be used for other tribal purposes including administrative offices, a health facility, housing and supporting infrastructure.

The tribe, in partnership with Kern County and Hard Rock International, will also build a joint substation for the Kern County Fire Department and Kern County Sheriff’s Office next to the hotel in order to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the area. No taxpayer money will be used to operate the hotel or any supporting infrastructure. Governor Gavin Newsom signed off on the Gaming Compact Agreement on June 14, 2022, paving the way for the approval of the state senate.

https://www.turnto23.com/news/local-news/state-senate-passes-gaming-compact-agreement-for-hard-rock-hotel-and-casino-tejon

County board moves ahead with Great Wolf Resort development

The Tulare County Board of Supervisors took a step on Tuesday to bringing North America’s largest water park resort in the county. The board approved a request from the Tulare County Resource Management Agency to receive an Economic Impact Analysis for the Great Wolf Resort. Great Wolf plans to place the resort at Highway 99 and Caldwell Avenue just west of Visalia where the Sequoia Gateway Commerce Center is being developed.

The 35-acre resort would include a 525-room hotel with an indoor water park, restaurants, meeting space and a family activity center. There are 19 Great Wolf Resorts located throughout the U.S. And Canada. Great Wolf Resort is billed as “a cruise ship that’s permanently parked” as virtually all of the features of the resort are indoors. As part of the Economic Impact Analysis the board approved an agreement between the county and Great Wolf in which the county and resort would share the revenues from the transient occupancy taxes that are charged to guests who stay at the hotel.

Great Wolf and the county would share the TOT taxes for the first 15 years. Great Wolf would receive 100 percent of the TOT proceeds over the first five years. Over the next five years the county would receive 25 percent of the proceeds and the resort would receive 75 percent. Over the final five years the split would be 50-50. After 15 years, the county would receive all of the TOT proceeds. In addition the county would also agree not to provide any financial incentives to an indoor water park that would be 5,000 square feet or larger for 10 years.

In addition Great Wolf would use a portion of its TOT revenue to pay for some of the impact fees it will be charged for the project. County staff reported the revenue sharing agreement with the TOT taxes was necessary for Great Wolf to move ahead with the project. The company that manages the resort will officially be known as GWR Tulare LLC. “To assist with the significant investment associated with the development, GWR Tulare LLC has requested to share a portion of transient occupancy tax revenues that are generated by the project and the deferral of certain impact which will be recaptured through TOT revenue,” county staff reported. “Without these incentive Great Wolf Resorts would not be able to move forward with financing the construction of the proposed development project.”

County staff also stated the incentives provided are similar to what other areas have provided to Great Wolf and similar large-scale resorts. It’s anticipated the final map and development agreement will be completed by the end of the year. Once construction begins its estimated it will take two years. The construction project alone is expected to create 1,255 jobs while the resort once its operating is expected to create 660 jobs.

County staff stated it anticipated the resort would draw more than 600,000 visitors a year. “Hotel water park guests are typically families and can include extended families and groups of friends and family,” the county staff report stated. County staff added those who visit the resort will typically stay for 2-3 days or more and will travel a few hours to come to the resort. “Visitors to the proposed resort would likely come from throughout the San Joaquin Valley and beyond,” county staff stated.

County staff also reported the resort should also benefit the area as a whole economically as some who visit the resort will also go to other businesses to make retail purchases and may eat at other restaurants as well. County staff stated those who don’t state at the hotel who visit the resort will mostly come from Tulare County.

https://www.recorderonline.com/news/county-board-moves-ahead-with-great-wolf-resort-development/article_8d0e9a56-0e8f-11ed-910a-df33d2bb2a76.html

New Hampton by Hilton Opens Near Yosemite National Park

Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite welcomed its first guests on Thursday, May 19. The property is among a complement of three hotels owned and operated by OTO Development, part of The Johnson Group, near Yosemite National Park.The hotels — this Hampton by Hilton, a Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott and a Holiday Inn Express & Suites — are adjacent to each other along CA-41, just 13 short miles from Yosemite’s south gate.Noteworthy for its easy proximity to Yosemite National Park, Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite is an hour closer to the 1,169-square-mile natural attraction than any other Hilton property. It combines convenient access with the consistent service, accommodations and amenities guests have come to expect from the Hilton brand.“People are drawn to all the many natural wonders of Yosemite National Park,” says Corry Oakes, CEO of OTO Development. “They want to be surprised and delighted by the outside world, but they don’t want any surprises inside their hotel. That’s the value Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite brings to the market: a reliable, best-in-class experience every time, backed by the 100% Hampton Guarantee.”

Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite comprises 111 guest rooms intuitively designed for both function and comfort. On-site amenities include an indoor pool, a well-equipped fitness room, a 24/7 market and a guest laundry facility. For business travelers, there’s a business center and boardroom. A hot, complimentary breakfast is served every morning.“We are pleased to offer three popular brand options to the 4.5 million people who come to Yosemite every year,” Oakes says. “Visitors can make the most of the park’s activities and attractions, such as two wild and scenic rivers, waterfalls, granite cliffs and ancient giant sequoias, then relax back at their favorite, familiar hotel.”

The leadership team at Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite includes Stephanie Casillas and Richard Garwood, Assistant General Managers; Steve Tarn, Regional Director of Operations; Jennifer Mooradian, Director of Operation Support; Carla Tenenbaum, Regional Director of Sales; Lauren Hartman, Area Director of Sales; and Maygen Brown, Complex Sales Manager.OTO Development purchased Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite from a family of independent hoteliers while the property was still under construction. OTO previously acquired Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Oakhurst Yosemite and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst-Yosemite Park Area, which are next door to the new Hampton by Hilton. The seller was represented by Stanley Wang of Marcus & Millichap.

Hampton Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite is located at 40740 CA-41 in Oakhurst, California.

https://sierranewsonline.com/new-hampton-by-hilton-opens-near-yosemite-national-park/

Great Wolf Lodge could be coming to Tulare County

Tulare County’s very own Sequoia Gateway Commerce Center could be the new home of a destination hotel ― the Great Wolf Lodge ― best described as a “cruise ship that’s permanently parked.” At the start of the year, the Tulare County planning commission listened to updates surrounding the project, something that has been in the works for years, Project Manager Stephen Peck said.  “You go there (the Great Wolf Lodge), park your car… the rooms are large and everything is indoors,” Peck said during the Jan. 12 meeting. “It fits the tourism model for the county very well.”

The 700-room, seven-story resort includes plans for an indoor water park, family entertainment center, as well as an outdoor pool area.   “It creates an element of international, national presence,” Peck said. “For people coming to California, now there is a stronger attraction to have them travel 99 and stop here and visit our county rather than traveling up I-5 visiting other counties and destinations.”

The Tulare County Board of Supervisors voted to move forward with the Sequoia Gateway Commerce Center project in 2018, which will include a Valley Children’s pediatric specialty care clinic, a visitor center, gas stations, fast-food restaurants, hotels, office space, and retail stores. Kaweah Health is also looking at space in the area. Peck said during the Jan. 12 meeting that construction on the Tulare County Great Wolf Lodge location could start as early as next year.  “We are currently exploring the prospect of developing one of our signature indoor water park resorts for the Central California region and are in early stage discussions with local officials about a promising location in Tulare County,” Jason Lasecki, Great Wolf Lodge vice president of corporate communications, said.

Great Wolf Resorts is North America’s largest family of indoor waterpark resorts with 19 locations throughout the United States and one in Canada.   Great Wolf Resorts can be found in Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, Kansas, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, Massachusetts, North Carolina, California, Colorado, Minnesota, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland and Canada. We are appreciative of the support for this endeavor from both Tulare county and city of Visalia officials,” Lasecki continued, “and look forward to continuing discussions as we further evaluate this opportunity.”

https://www.visaliatimesdelta.com/story/news/2022/02/21/great-wolf-lodge-could-coming-tulare-county/6831503001/

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Travel | Top 10 U.S. vacation destinations from Men’s…

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Travel | top 10 u.s. vacation destinations from men’s journal includes a california charmer.

Looking for vacation inspiration? Men’s Journal recently ranked the best vacation destinations in the country, including everything from beach towns to gastronomic treasures and adventure-packed gems. It’s a coast-to-coast, border-to-border array of 50 tempting spots, complete with tips on when to go, where to stay and what to do — and eat — while you’re there.

The top spot goes to Ouray, a Colorado mountain town the magazine editors say feels “like you’ve stepped foot in a live-action REI commercial.” But California gets several sensational shout-outs, starting with the coastal town of SLO — San Luis Obispo — at No. 3, thanks to its balmy temperatures, small town vibe and proximity to surfer-friendly beaches, rolling vineyards and winery tasting rooms.

San Francisco comes in at No. 14, with a must-see list that hits all the biggies — the Golden Gate Bridge, the California Academy of Sciences, Alcatraz and all the other places tourists congregate, snap photos and chatter about “San Fran,” the SoCal sobriquet that makes locals shudder. (Hmm, do the denizens of Los Angeles — No. 11, by the way — roll their eyes when we refer to “SoCal”?)

Also on the SoCal list: San Diego, with its 70 miles of soft, sandy beaches and lush, museum-packed Balboa Park, sits at No. 21.

You’ll find all 50 destinations, complete with restaurant and sightseeing tips, at www.mensjournal.com/travel/. Meanwhile, here’s a peek at the top 10:

10 Best Vacations in the U.S.

1 Ouray, Colorado

2 Chattanooga, Tennessee

3 San Luis Obispo, California

4 New Orleans, Louisiana

5 Bend, Oregon

6 Boise, Idaho

8 Sedona, Arizona

9 Washington, D.C.

10 Portland, Maine

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Transportation | Caltrans works around the clock to stabilize Highway 1 at Rocky Creek slip-out