Things to do in Central Coast California
Activities, attractions and tours
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Most popular experiences in Central Coast California
Tours & day trips
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Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Private & custom tours
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Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
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Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Adventure & outdoor
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Dune Buggy, UTV or quad bike Experience at Pismo Beach
Classes & workshops
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Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
What to do in Central Coast California
Popular places to visit
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Hearst Castle
You can learn about the history of San Simeon with a stop at Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Have a fun-filled day with the family at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk during your visit to Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.
Cannery Row
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
17-Mile Drive
Discover palatial mansions, lush golf courses and a wild stretch of coastline inhabited by sea lions on a road often dubbed one of the world’s most scenic drives.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
Carmel Beach
Spot birds or catch waves, then spread out a picnic by a campfire and enjoy the views at this picturesque beach.
Pismo Beach Pier
Watch whales from the benches that flank this long pier offering unobstructed vistas of the ocean and the hilly environs.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Enjoy a round of golf in Del Monte Forest at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.
Areas of Central Coast California
Montecito
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach might round out your trip.
Santa Barbara Beach
Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.
Downtown Santa Barbara
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.
Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.
Westside Santa Cruz
Travellers to Westside Santa Cruz praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Monterey Bay and Pacific Avenue.
Golden Rectangle
While visiting Golden Rectangle, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach.
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