Central Coast California Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Coast California
Where to stay in 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.
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 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay.
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 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 Santa Barbara County Courthouse might round out your trip.
Downtown Pismo Beach
If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo State Beach are top sights worth seeing.
The Monterey Hotel
Reviewed on 20 Aug 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Reviewed on 26 Aug 2025
SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel
Reviewed on 25 Aug 2025
Flying Flags Avila Beach
Reviewed on 12 Aug 2025
Channel Island Shores
Reviewed on 18 Aug 2025
Caravan Outpost
Reviewed on 14 Aug 2025
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 Monterey. Stroll along the area's beautiful 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.
17-Mile Drive
After visiting 17-Mile Drive, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Skyline Forest. Wander the beaches and seaside while you're 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 family-friendly area.
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.
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.
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Monterey Bay
- Cannery Row
- Hearst Castle
- California Polytechnic State University
- Pismo Beach Pier
- Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
- Santa Barbara Zoo
- Chumash Casino
- Mystery Spot
- University of California
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
- Avila Hot Springs
- Pinnacles National Park
- Moonstone Beach Park
- Lovers Point
- Moonstone Beach
- Pfeiffer Beach