The Central California Coast is home to many charming towns and small cities. Individually, or in combination, they make for fun getaways

The towns of Monterey Bay, San Luis Obispo County, and the Santa Ynez Valley offer a plethora of activities and great food and drink.

Monterey is a great place to go on a whale-watching tour. The submarine canyon here provides the ideal habitat for whales and other marine life. 

In charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, the village offers boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, eateries, and art galleries in one square mile. 

Pacific Grove boasts a beautiful rocky shore for tidepooling and a coastal hiking trail. It also has historic homes you can tour, and colorful murals to admire

San Luis Obispo has a lively walkable downtown, several small museums, and diverse food and drink options. There's also a wine district to discover. 

In Morro Bay, you will find excellent marine life viewing and birding opportunities. The Embarcadero offers shopping and dining by the water. 

Charming Cambria is known for its black-sand Moonstone Beach. It is also a great base from which to tour Hearst Castle.  

Paso Robles is the heart of Central California wine country. You can also tour farms, ranches, and olive groves

Solvang is home to charming Danish architecture and authentic Danish bakeries. It has a vibrant, walkable downtown

Los Olivos features views over surrounding vineyards. It is known for its artisanal eateries and tasting rooms

Whichever part of the Central Coast you choose to explore, you will likely find something of interest.

Swipe up to start planning your Central California Coast trip!