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Central Coast
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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
So You Think You Know Santa Barbara?
Explore unique restaurants, quirky boutiques, rugged hikes, and private wineries
How to Explore the Channel Islands
Spend a day—or a week—in this idyllic national park off the Central Coast
California Welcome Centers in the Central Coast
Find the perfect balance between urban and rural on California’s Central Coast.
So You Think You Know San Luis Obispo County?
Visit these under-the-radar spots to experience the slower side of this beautiful region
Craft Breweries of the Central Coast
Where to find the best local beer in San Luis Obispo other Central Coast locations
Bernardus Lodge & Spa
This Carmel Valley escape revels in its surroundings with wine, wellness, and lots of fire pits
Kiler Ridge Olive Farm
A cycling tour of Tuscany inspired owners to start this ranch near downtown Paso Robles
Santa Maria Barbecue
Head to California’s Central Coast to try this distinctive regional cuisine at its source
More Resources
Places to Visit
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Travel Stories
Things to do
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How to Celebrate the First Annual California State Parks Week
This June, join in activities and events that pay tribute to the Golden State’s amazing parks
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Take It Outside: A Guide to Fresh-Air Experiences in California
Restaurants, wineries, and shops expand operations outdoors this summer
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A Discussion About Wellness Experiences in California
Learn how the right kind of trip can nourish you long after you go home
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Summer 2022 Begins at California Theme Parks
Kick off your summer now with new rides, shows, and deals
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Where to Travel in California Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Can’t decide where to go in the Golden State? Let the stars guide you…
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California Report: Here’s What’s New in 2022
Check out the most exciting openings and launches across the Golden State
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So You Think You Know California’s Urban Centers?
Even if you’ve visited these popular cities dozens of times, there are exciting new and hidden things to discover
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13 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas From California
Send her some wine, goodies, or even a future spa day
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Rodeos in California
Experience an Old West tradition at these action-packed competitions across the Golden State
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Central Coast
Hearst Castle
Once the home of William Randolph Hearst, this stunning hilltop estate along the Central Coast is a marvel of opulence and engineering
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San Francisco Bay Area
California Questionnaire: Tyler Florence
Chef, TV host, oenophile, motorcycle enthusiast—Tyler Florence truly is living the dream
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Top Places for Whale Watching in California
See a few amazing wonders of the sea first-hand
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10 Amazing Coastal Preserves
Commune with California’s diverse marine life along the shores of the Pacific
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Central Coast
Highway One’s Most Scenic Stops
Pull over along California’s classic road trip route—also known as the Pacific Coast Highway—for these essential spots
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California's Top Performance Spaces
Striking, state-of-the-art venues for taking in world-class entertainment
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California's Classic Wine Roads
Follow celebrated routes to iconic vineyards and tucked-away surprises
Traveler Photos
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