Advertisement
Find Your Ultimate Playground

Central Coast

  • Summary
  • Stories
  • Gallery
  • Events
  • Places to Eat & Drink
  • Videos
  • Podcasts

From the epic grandeur of Big Sur to the scenic Santa Barbara coastline nicknamed “the American Riviera,” this region of picturesque hamlets, jagged sea cliffs, and rolling wine country has long mesmerized visitors with dreamlike beauty. A drive along Highway 1 is an absolute must—be sure to leave time for stops at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, and a San Luis Obispo County beach town or two. Cowboy culture still permeates Paso Robles and environs, and so does the low-key wine scene. Discover hidden gems in the Santa Ynez Valley, Ventura County, and pretty much everywhere else.

Featured Central Coast

Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.

Travel Stories

Events In:

Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.

Places to Eat & Drink

Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
  • Secret California Bars

    Secret California Bars

    Discover these hidden spots to sip

  • August 2025 Events in California

    August 2025 Events in California

    Plan a trip to hear music, sample unique cuisine, or watch dogs surf

  • July 2025 Events in California

    July 2025 Events in California

    Make summer memories while enjoying fairs, comic book culture, and craft beer

  • 12 California Beaches for Kids

    12 California Beaches for Kids

    Make lifelong memories at these family-favorite beaches in the Golden State

  • 12 Great Dog Beaches

    12 Great Dog Beaches

    Whether your pup wants to ride the waves or lounge in the sand, there’s a Golden State beach calling

  • Great U-Pick Farms in California

    Great U-Pick Farms in California

    Enjoy the best of California’s berries, apples, mandarin oranges, and more at these local farms

  • The Funk Zone

    The Funk Zone

    Get edgy in this oh-so-hot spot for tasting rooms and food

  • Don't-Miss City Farmers' Markets

    Don't-Miss City Farmers' Markets

    Local produce, amazing finds

  • How to Spend a Perfect Day in Paso Robles

    How to Spend a Perfect Day in Paso Robles

    Go for the world-class wine experiences but don’t miss the walkable downtown, the great shopping, and an unforgettable art installation

  • Dine at a Michelin-Star Restaurant in California

    Dine at a Michelin-Star Restaurant in California

    Choose from dozens of acclaimed restaurants across the Golden State

View All Restaurants

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get weekly travel inspiration, offers, contests, and more!

Plus, receive communications from California Grown and their exclusive ebook 'Iconic California Dishes to Celebrate California Wine Month' FREE.