Highway 1 Discovery Route

Overview:

Take a breathtaking tour of California’s pristine Central Coast by visiting 10 of its most renowned destinations—beginning with San Simeon and Rugged Point’s Million Dollar View in the north, down to Nipomo’s lush landscape in the south and plenty of award-winning wineries, unmatched recreation, and rolling coastline in between.

The Highway 1 Discovery Route will take you along the historic Highway 1 through the heart of California’s scenic wine coast country to a series of distinctive regions recognized for their serene beauty and relaxation, all of which are not more than a half hour’s drive apart.

San Simeon is the perfect place to start your Highway 1 Discovery Route tour and experience over 100 miles of the best that the Central Coast has to offer, including beautiful beaches, luscious vineyards, outdoor excursions and endless sunshine.

 

Learn what each of the 10 amazing destinations has to offer:

Ragged Point
See the breathtaking Million Dollar View atop rocky cliffs, and the largest waterfall on the Big Sur coast.

San Simeon 
Experience premier whale-watching and tour the legendary, historic Hearst Castle.

Cambria
Explore a picturesque village with a vibrant art community, fabulous restaurants and seaside vistas.

Cayucos
Visit the ultimate white sandy shore paradise that was voted 2009’s “coolest small town in America”.

Baywood Park/Los Osos
Discover Montana de Oro State Park, one of the most spectacular oceanside parks in the country.

Avila Beach
Relax at this nearly always sunny beachside wonder complete with a bounty of outdoor activities.

Oceano
Ride a dune buggy through 1,500 acres of natural sand dunes at the only California beach that allows vehicles.

Nipomo
Play on lush golf courses and view acres of gorgeous flowers in this nationally ranked “best climate” town.

Arroyo Grande Valley
Immerse yourself in the heart of wine country, and enjoy water sports at the Lopez Lake Recreation Area.

Edna Valley
Tour countless vineyards with rich history amidst Tuscan-style countryside and picturesque farms.

Getting There
Starting out from San Simeon, travel north on Highway 1 (CA-1) to Ragged Point, the northernmost destination on the Discovery Route. From there, head south on CA-1 and US-101 to visit Cambria, Cayucos, Baywood-Los Osos, Avila Beach, Oceano, and the southernmost destination, Nipomo. Turn around and travel north on US-101 to reach the last two destinations, Arroyo Grande Valley and Edna Valley.

Planning Your Stay
With an array of activities catered to every interest, your tour of the Discovery Route is sure to be an unforgettable vacation. Find the perfect places to stay for families, couples or groups of friends for every magnificent stop along the way.

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Features and Amenities
  • Beaches
  • Cycling
  • Dog Friendly
  • Farmers Markets & Agriculture
  • Free Things To Do
  • Hikes, Guided Walks & Boardwalks
  • History & Culture
  • Kid Friendly
  • Motorsports
  • Must-See Spot
  • Outdoor Activities & State Parks
  • Picnic
  • Relaxation, Spas & Wellness
  • Stewardship Donation Opportunities
  • Stewardship Travel Activities
  • Wine, Craft Beer & Culinary
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