Central Coast California Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Coast California
Where to stay in Central Coast California
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.
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.
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 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
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 Monterey State Beach or Golden State Theatre might round out your trip.
Downtown Pismo Beach
If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo State Beach and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are top sights worth seeing.
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Great hotel
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
There was a septic smell coming from the bathroom.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Staff very friendly. Less expensive than Carmel. One night stay on the way to Big Sur.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Casa Riviera
We loved our stay at Casa Riviera. The room was clean, parking was easy, check in and out was easy and our hosts thought of every little detail for what we may need during our stay. We couldn't be happier with choosing to stay there.
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Tide Pool Villas
Would have given more stars, everything was great except for two areas. First, the food is very basic, but we had heard that and there is great dining nearby. However, we were there for two nights and NEVER received maid service, even after going to the office (across the street btw) THREE times ...
Reviewed on 9 Apr 2026
Caravan Outpost
Clean room. Staff responsive. Loved the free bike rental and right next to the bike path.
Reviewed on 9 Apr 2026
Check Central Coast California hotel availability
Popular places to visit
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium, and find out why this is a top attraction in Pacific Grove. Stroll along the area's pebble beaches or simply savour its seafood restaurants.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the exciting rides at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and see why everyone loves this theme park in Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.
Hearst Castle
You can learn about the local history of San Simeon during your trip to a top site such as Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Carmel Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Carmel Beach during your travels in Carmel? Take in the entertainment choices and sunsets in the area.
Cannery Row
During your trip to Monterey, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Cannery Row. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Enjoy the student vibe at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo during your visit to San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
- Monterey Bay
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Hearst Castle
- Cannery Row
- California Polytechnic State University
- Pismo Beach Pier
- Moonstone Beach
- Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
- University of California
- Chumash Casino
- Avila Hot Springs
- Moonstone Beach Park
- Morro Rock
- Santa Barbara Zoo
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
- Lovers Point
- Pinnacles National Park
- Mystery Spot
