Top Ten Lists

California's Central Coast

 
California's central coast is easily one of the most gorgeous areas in the country. The entire region is loaded with natural beauty in the form of parks, beaches, and vineyards. Not surprisingly, many of my top things to do in this region revolve around health and nature, making it the perfect vacation destination for fitness & nature buffs. Check out my list of ten fun things to incorporate into your next trip to the Central Coast.
 
 
  • 1. Take a scenic drive
    Take a scenic drive
    Hwy 101, , 93401
    A bike or car ride, whichever suits your interest, is the best way to take in the natural beauty of the area. The portion of scenic Hwy 101 (one of the most gorgeous drives in the world) that travels San Luis Obispo and Monterey County is particularly beautiful.
  • 2. Visit River Oaks Hot Springs
    Visit River Oaks Hot Springs
    800 Clubhouse Dr, , 93446
    Hot springs are fairly inexpensive and enable the body to absorb trace minerals and elements and have been reported by many to cure various ailments. River Oaks Hot Springs, located in beautiful Paso Robles, offers the perfect setting for soaking up the benefits of natural mineral springs. Relaxing in one of their outdoor tubs is a fantastic way to soak up the gorgeous vineyard scenery, while also enjoying a health enhancing mineral bath.
  • 3. Visit a local winery
    Visit a local winery
    Various, , 93401
    Central California is home to a multitude of wineries. Paso Robles is a popular vacation destination for those looking to tour/do tastings at local wineries, many of which offer complimentary samples.
  • 4. Enjoy an Italian dinner on the coast at Distasio’s on the Bay
    Enjoy an Italian dinner on the coast at Distasio’s on the Bay
    781 Market Street, , 93442
    This coastal Italian restaurant in Morro Bay offers fantastic home cooked food and incredible views of the coast.
  • 5. Relax on a beach
    Relax on a beach
    Various, , 93446
    The central coast of California is well-known for being home to some incredible beaches. Due to the mild year-round temps, anytime of the year is a great time to visit one of the numerous beaches spread throughout the region. Check out Morro Strands and Pismo State Beach.
  • 6. Tour the gorgeous Hearst Castle
    Tour the gorgeous Hearst Castle
    750 Hearst Castle Rd, , 93452
    This stunning estate features 165 rooms, 127 acres of gardens, and magnificent views of the Pacific.
  • 7. Enjoy the beauty of the area with a pinic in the park
    Enjoy the beauty of the area with a pinic in the park
    Various, , 93401
    The scenery in the area makes an ideal setting for a picnic. Grab a picnic basket and some local wine and head out to a quiet, secluded location
  • 8. Take a bike ride in scenic Templeton
    Take a bike ride in scenic Templeton
    Various, , 93465
    This small town is perfect for a relaxing afternoon of leisurely biking due to the lack of traffic and congestion and the natural beauty of the area.
  • 9. Spend the day sightseeing and relaxing in Monterey Bay
    Spend the day sightseeing and relaxing in Monterey Bay
    Various, , 93940
    Monterey is a gorgeous coastal town with amazing beaches, a great aquarium, plenty of trails, and lots of great restaurants. You can easily spend a full day here exploring all the sights. Monterey State Beach is a great place to start. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is another must-see.

    For fitness buffs, the Monterey Bay Recreational Trail is a scenic place to take a bike ride or walk with its' stunning views of the rocky coastline. To keep your trip more relaxing, look into a dolphin or sightseeing cruise.
  • 10. Treat yourself to a massage
    Treat yourself to a massage
    800 Clubhouse Dr, , 93446
    A massage goes hand in hand with the relaxing atmosphere of San Luis Obispo county. A deep tissue massage at River Oaks Hot Springs, followed by a relaxing soak in the natural mineral springs, is the ultimate in relaxation!