About California

California's spectacular Central Coast is an area of undiscovered secrets and unexpected delights.
Whether you travel by plane, by car or as part of an organized tur, you'll find your visit - and opportunities for uncovering some of our treasures - will be enhanced by using the Central Coast Visitors Guide.

Make advance reservations at one of the area's fabulous luxury resorts or a charming bed-and breakfast inn.  Or plan to stay at a hotel or motel where everything you need is within walking distance. Whatever you're sure to find it on the Central Coast.

A wide variety of recreation options are also available:   surfing at Santa Cruz or Santa Barbara, diving in Monterey Bay, horseback riding or four-wheel driving at Pismo Beach or walking on Pacific Grove's oceanfront recreation trail.  Boating is available at many sites, including Lake Casitas in Ventura County, Lake Nacimiento near Paso Robles and the San Justo Reservoir in Hollister. Other choices include hiking through the majestic redwood groves of Big Sur, sport fishing in the waters off Morro Bay, bicycling through the rural countryside surrounding Solvang and beachcombing, Carmel's famous white-sand beach.

Also on the Central Coast are major attractions such as Hearst Castle. the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Many of California's historic missions are located on the Central Coast and can be toured during your visit.  Museums, art galleries, shopping that ranges from Farmer's markets to chic boutiques to large factory outlet centres, wineries, historic centres and "U-Pick" farms can also be incorporated into your itinerary.

When you pack, remember to bring along a sweater or light jacket for those days when you wake up to morning fog, or afternoons when a breeze comes in off the ocean.  In general, the Central Coast enjoys a mild, even Mediterranean climate, with the most spectacular weather occuring from November through April, when coastal fog is at a minimum and temperatures are mild.

When driving our scenic highways, particularly Highway One along the Big Sur coast, remember - your're on vacation.

Take your time, and enjoy