Exploring the California Coastline

Whether you are driving, hiking, or on a cruise, exploring the California coastline offers beauty, dining, entertainment, and history. You can drive along most of the coast on Highway 1, which runs from San Luis Obispo to Monterey alongside the coast. (Traveling south to north is the safest route because you are always in the inside lane!) The California Coastal Trail allows hikers an amazing vantage point of the coast and the opportunity to witness wildlife firsthand. Cruising is a third option of travel to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the California coastline. However you may get there, the California Coastline has something for everyone.


Of course, there are always the beaches. From the popular, crowded locales to private, more intimate spots, the California coastline has beaches galore. Carlsbad in southern California features seven miles of beaches, known especially for excellent surfing.



For the family, Carlsbad features LEGOLAND® California, the SEALIFE Aquarium, and the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Four areas comprise the Central Coast—the Channel Islands, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey Bay.

The Channel Islands are rugged yet refined, offering vineyards and fine dining. Santa Barbara has beautiful beaches and offers a taste of Europe along with many world-renowned vineyards. San Luis Obispo is home to the famous Hearst Castle and is filled with history. Monterey Bay features Big Sur, Carmel, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Santa Cruz.

You won’t want to miss the cities on the California coastline. The San Diego Zoo, Wild Animal Park, and Sea World San Diego are must-sees for the family. The fabulous San Diego beaches, where the climate is always right, are great for everyone. San Francisco is home to the Golden Gate Bridge and the Big Basin Giant Redwoods. Exploring the California coastline is an undertaking of giant proportions, but one well worth it.