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Central Coast

Central Coast Vacations

California’s storied Central Coast spans from Point Mugu in Ventura County, just north of Los Angeles, to Monterey Bay. Along this approximately 350-mile stretch, you will find a string of secluded beaches, rugged coastline, picturesque rolling hills, Spanish missions, vineyards reminiscent of Tuscany, and some of California’s most historic cities including Santa Barbara, located on the “American Riviera” and home to the “Queen of the Missions.” 

Region: California

Central Coast Destinations:

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Featured Central Coast Hotel

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

  • AAA Four Diamond Hotel
Our 4-Star classification designates those properties with well-appointed, deluxe accommodations, extensive amenities and comprehensive guest services. Expect attention to detail and a warm and hospitable staff ready to cater to your needs. These superb properties offer a truly refined getaway.
Waterfront

Located on the beautiful Southern California coastline, this beachfront resort offers spectacular ocean views and is just minutes away from downtown Santa Barbara.

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Overview

Must-see Central Coast sights include Pismo Beach, a classic California beach town; Paso Robles, renowned for its wineries and olive groves; San Luis Obispo, a quaint college town known for its historic architecture; Carmel-by-the Sea, a fairytale-like hamlet on the Monterey Peninsula; and Monterey, home of world-renowned Cannery Row, where you will find the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fisherman’s Wharf. 

What to See

Old Mission Santa Barbara – See the “Queen of the Missions” in Santa Barbara. Old Mission Santa Barbara, situated on 15 acres overlooking the city and Pacific Ocean, was founded in 1786 by Spanish Franciscans. In fact, it is the only California mission continuously operated by the Franciscans. 

Hearst Castle – William Randolph Hearst’s California castle overlooks the village of San Simeon and the Pacific coastline of San Luis Obispo County. This National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark is open to the public. Here you will find the 115-room main house, guest houses, pools, expansive gardens, and more. 

Big Sur – Take legendary Highway 1, one of the most scenic drives in California, to awe-inspiring Big Sur. This rugged and picturesque stretch of coast boasts picture-postcard beaches, rocky cliffs, coastal mountains, state parks, national forests, camping, hiking, and the iconic Bixby Bridge. 

Cannery Row – Monterey’s world-famous Cannery Row, situated along the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, is home to waterfront hotels, a cornucopia of restaurants, and shops. Cannery Row, immortalized in the John Steinbeck novel of the same name, is also home to the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.