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.
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.
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.
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 Beach Pier and Pismo State Beach are top sights worth seeing.
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Breakfast menu was good, cooked well and quality was awesome.
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Cute hotel, very helpful staff
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
Spyglass Inn
Loved when you walk in the room is super clean. Love that I had acces to fire pit outside and enjoyed it. Reception very friendly gave me a list of restaurants to enjoy. My stay was wonderful.
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
Casa Riviera
Everything was great! From the room to the staff — thoughtfully done and beautiful in every way!
Reviewed on 20 Nov 2025
Flying Flags Avila Beach
We came to celebrate my husband’s birthday and instantly fell in love with this campsite—we didn't want to leave after just two days! The experience was incredibly peaceful and restorative, offering stunning views of the bay covered in gorgeous ocean fog, set to the sound of birds singing. The facilities ...
Reviewed on 9 Nov 2025
Channel Island Shores
The property is ideally located for the fabulous beach, there are a couple of dining places within walking distance however the harbours and supermarket are a very short drive away. Our accommodation was roomy, clean and comfortable but shabby and really needed new furniture and a bit of a spruce ...
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fisherman's Wharf
Explore the waterfront of Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, and enjoy activities such as golfing. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.
- Monterey Bay
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Hearst Castle
- Cannery Row
- Pismo Beach Pier
- Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
- California Polytechnic State University
- Chumash Casino
- Avila Hot Springs
- Santa Barbara Zoo
- Mystery Spot
- University of California
- Moonstone Beach Park
- Lovers Point
- Moonstone Beach
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
