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Central Coast

Central Coast

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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.

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  • 9 Ways to Celebrate California Surfing Day

    9 Ways to Celebrate California Surfing Day

    September 20 offers a mandate to catch a wave—or just embrace surf culture all along the coast

  • 33 Amazing Free Things to Do in California

    33 Amazing Free Things to Do in California

    The Golden State offers plenty of bucket-list experiences, and you don’t have to spend a lot–or, sometimes, anything–to do many of them

  • May 2025 Events in California

    May 2025 Events in California

    Kick off your summer with wine tasting, classic cars, and quirky festivals

  • 12 California Beaches for Kids

    12 California Beaches for Kids

    Make lifelong memories at these family-favorite beaches in the Golden State

  • Experience Central California Like a Local

    Experience Central California Like a Local

    Explore local hotspots in Santa Barbara, Monterey, Mammoth, and more

  • California Vacations for the Star Wars Icons

    California Vacations for the Star Wars Icons

    Here’s where Yoda, Darth Vader, and their friends would go to relax

  • 13 Earth Day Events in California in 2025

    13 Earth Day Events in California in 2025

    Eco-friendly adventures await—here’s a guide to some of the top ways you can help protect the planet while exploring the Golden State

  • 6 California Restaurants That Serve Epic Fried Chicken

    6 California Restaurants That Serve Epic Fried Chicken

    From San Diego to Oakland and beyond, Golden State chefs know how to honor National Fried Chicken Day

  • 21 Unique California Events

    21 Unique California Events

    These regional celebrations show a quirky, diverse side of the Golden State

  • 10 Super-Scenic California Road Trips

    10 Super-Scenic California Road Trips

    Follow these classic routes for magical scenery and worthy stops

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