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Visitor's Magazine

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2025 Visitors Magazine Cover
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Visitor's Magazine

Plan Your Adventure Today

Get My Guide
Map of the Highway 1 Roadtrip in San Luis Obispo County, California

Highway 1 Road Trip

Cruise Highway 1 through SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County), where 90 miles of breathtaking coastline unfolds from Ragged Point's towering cliffs to Nipomo's sweeping dunes. Experience world-famous vistas, charming coastal communities and lush vineyards along this nationally recognized scenic byway. Here, historic lighthouses perch above crashing waves, wildlife lookouts reveal migrating whales and pristine beaches stretch endlessly. On Highway 1, natural wonder awaits at every turn.

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Popular Things to Do 

Behold Ragged Point Inn's clifftop lookout, then drive on, pausing for Whale Trail stops along the way. Climb Piedras Blancas Light Station in San Simeon where nearby Elephant seals bask along a sandy cove. Marvel at Hearst Castle's opulence, hunt for moonstones in Cambria and splash through tidepools in Cayucos. Kayak Morro Bay's otter-rich estuary, explore Oceano's dunes, then roll up your sleeves to earn a Stewardship Traveler for Good badge in tranquil Nipomo. 

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is back open! Ticket reservations can be made online. Hearst Castle is extraordinary!…

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All the things to do along Highway 1

Relax, Indulge & Play

As you cruise along Highway 1, treat yourself to the flavors and comforts of SLO CAL. Enjoy fresh-caught seafood and farm-to-table fare at cozy restaurants boasting breathtaking ocean views. Wine lovers won’t want to miss a stop at Hearst Ranch Winery, perfectly perched along the San Simeon shoreline. When it’s time to unwind, choose from charming bed-and-breakfasts, coastal inns, or elegant resorts. With seasonal events like wine festivals and outdoor concerts, this stretch of the coast offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

Highway 1 Road Trip Up Close 

To truly experience the charm of a SLO CAL Highway 1 road trip, it helps to know a few local secrets. Whether you're looking to find hidden gems or get great views, these insider tips will ensure you make the most of your family time in this stunning stretch of road. From the perfect times to visit popular spots to local dining favorites, we've gathered a few expert suggestions to help you enjoy a more authentic and memorable getaway.

family of four exploring the tidepools near the beach
Family Fun

Family Friendly Fun Along Highway 1 in SLO CAL

The whole crew can get excited for these family-friendly coastal excursions Brake for fun in SLO CAL! When the fam's ready for adventure, head to the SLO CAL coast, where kids of all ages can explore, play and giggle in…

Discover More SLO CAL Insider Tips

Slow Down & Explore 

Take a break from the fast lane and discover the charm of the coastal towns along Highway 1 in SLO CAL. From the artistic vibes of Cambria and the historic allure of San Simeon to the laid-back beaches of Cayucos, the surfer's paradise of Pismo Beach and the vibrant harbor of Morro Bay, each stop offers its own unique flavor. Stroll through local shops, savor fresh-caught seafood, and soak in the relaxed pace that makes this stretch of the Central Coast truly unforgettable.

The boardwalk on Moonstone Beach in Cambria, San Luis Obispo County, California

Cambria

Minutes from Hearst Castle, Cambria enchants visitors with its dreamy blend of forest and sea along…

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Wildflowers in the foreground of Town of Harmony, San Luis Obispo County, California

Harmony

Step into the storybook hamlet of Harmony, nestled between Cambria and Cayucos in SLO CAL (San Luis…

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People walking on the Cayucos Pier in Cayucos, San Luis Obispo County, California

Cayucos

Catch the laid-back rhythm of Cayucos, a hidden surf gem tucked between Cambria and Morro Bay in SLO…

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Far view of a couple walking on the Morro Strand Beach in front of Morro Rock in Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County, California

Morro Bay

Meet Morro Bay's iconic 576-foot rock—your new favorite selfie backdrop and last of the…

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Seagulls flying over the Pacific Ocean at sunset in Grover Beach, San Luis Obispo County, California

Grover Beach

Fly your kite as afternoon winds dance across Grover Beach's broad coastline in southern SLO CAL…

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Walking on the Oceano Dunes

Oceano

Feel the sand shift beneath your feet in Oceano, where California's largest coastal dunes create…

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The historic Dana Adobe at sunset in Nipomo, San Luis Obispo County, California

Nipomo

Bask in year-round sunshine on Nipomo's elevated mesa, perched at SLO CAL's (San Luis Obispo…

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