- Summary
- Stories
- Gallery
- Places to Eat & Drink
- Videos
- Podcasts
From the epic grandeur of Big Sur to the scenic Santa Barbara coastline nicknamed “the American Riviera,” this region of picturesque hamlets, jagged sea cliffs, and rolling wine country has long mesmerized visitors with dreamlike beauty. A drive along Highway 1 is an absolute must—be sure to leave time for stops at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, and a San Luis Obispo County beach town or two. Cowboy culture still permeates Paso Robles and environs, and so does the low-key wine scene. Discover hidden gems in the Santa Ynez Valley, Ventura County, and pretty much everywhere else.
- So You Think You Know Santa Barbara?
- How to Explore the Channel Islands
- Central Coast Wine Tour
- So You Think You Know San Luis Obispo County?
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Know Before You Go: Pinnacles National Park
- Craft Breweries of the Central Coast
- Bernardus Lodge & Spa
- Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo
- Kiler Ridge Olive Farm
- California Welcome Center - Pismo Beach
- Santa Maria Barbecue
- California Welcome Center - Salinas
- Find Instant Bliss on This Central Coast Road Trip
Travel Stories
Find More Things To Do
Kid-Foodie Guide to California
These family-friendly eateries will make the whole clan happy
Discover the Golden State’s Taco Trail
Up and down the coast you’ll find the taco of your dreams, from Cali-Mex diners to authentic street trucks, the choices are mexcellent!
Renoda Campbell Puts Area’s Top Spots in Focus
The San Luis Obispo wedding photographer puts positive energy into the world—including a collection of essential experiences in the region
Fall 2024 Deals in California
Score free hotel nights, gift cards, spa treatments and more when you know where to book
8 Perfect Places to See Fabulous Fall Colors
Where to go to see leaves as autumn unfurls in California
How to Toast the 2019 Holiday Season in California
Taste Christmas-themed cocktails, seasonal brews, and more at these Golden State locales
2019's Stunning Holiday Lights Displays
Marvel at these huge installations, twinkling boat parades, and a record-breaking Christmas tree
2018's Great Holiday Lights Displays in California
The season twinkles at hotels, boats, missions, and more
2021 Only-in-California Holiday Gift Guide
Find something for everyone on your list with this collection of Golden State gifts from every region of the state
How to Experience the Ultimate Veganuary in California
California Dream Eater
The Ultimate Foodie Road Trip: Ventura + Santa Barbara
California 101
California’s Highway One Road Trip
Luxury Minute
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara: California Luxury Minute Resorts
Luxury Minute
Post Ranch Inn: California Luxury Minute Resorts
California Pop
California Pop: Central Valley
California Dream Eater
3 Fabulously Fancy Meals in California
California Dream Eater
3 Must-Try Beach Eats in California
California Dream Eater
3 Must-Visit Sweet Tooth Stops in California
California Dream Eater
3 Scrumptious Bowls of Soul in California
California Dreamers
Bandaloop Troupe Redefines Dance Through Daring Performances
Culinary Gems, Hidden Beaches, Napa Valley Wine
37min
Craft Spirits, California Cheese Trail, Asian Cuisine
41min
Celebrate California Farmers and Farmworkers
37min
California Curiosities, Architecture, East Bay
37min
Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland
23min
Pattie Gonia’s California
29min
Anderson Valley, L.A. Music Venues, Family Travel
35min
Wine Tasting in California
49min
Rock Climbing, Best Campgrounds, L.A. Shopping
35min
Ways to Play in California
52min
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Get weekly travel inspiration, offers, contests, and more!
Plus, receive communications from California Grown and their exclusive ebook 'Iconic California Dishes to Celebrate California Wine Month' FREE.