Things to do in Central Coast California

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Central Coast California Attractions

If you're ready to discover the best of Central Coast California, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a local expert show you the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {34 fun activities in Central Coast California fun activities in Central Coast California} are also worth browsing through.


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Most popular activities in Central Coast California

What to do in Central Coast California

Free Things to Do in Central Coast California

They say the best things in life are free. Make sure you visit the following around Central Coast California:

Nipomo Regional Park - Let the kids play or be a big kid again yourself — this place was built for fun.

Bitter Creek Western Railroad - Stroll around this historic attraction and learn a couple of secrets from the past.

Oceano Lagoon - Simply being beside the water will leave you feeling rejuvenated and calm.

Nipomo Swapmeet & Fleamarket - If you're eager to check out some of the more important or interesting places in the community, this is a great place to start.

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area - Contemplate the stark contrast between the big city and nature's beauty at this awe-inspiring place.

Pismo Dunes Natural Preserve - Grab your rug, throw together a quick snack and find a shady spot to be at one with nature.

Things to Do in Central Coast California with Kids

Central Coast California is an excellent destination for a family vacation. Bring the little ones along and enjoy these fun family friendly experiences together:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Central Coast California? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Central Coast California on a sunny day?
What to do in Central Coast California on a rainy day?
There’s no need to splish, splash and splosh your way through a rainy day when there are loads of excellent indoor activities like these to enjoy:


What is Central Coast California famous for?
Bring comfy shoes because there are loads of remarkable attractions that simply beg to be explored:

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Hearst Castle
  • University of California-Santa Barbara

What should I not miss in Central Coast California?
You’ll want to put these things at the top of your sightseeing list to get the most out of your visit:

  • Carmel Beach
  • Pebble Beach Golf Links
  • Santa Barbara Zoo
  • WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Are there cheap things to do in Central Coast California?
What can you do in Central Coast California for free?
Your trip to Central Coast California needn’t cost a bundle with free things like these to enjoy:

  • University of California-Santa Barbara
  • University of California Santa Cruz
  • Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse


Discover the most popular places to visit in Central Coast California

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Central Coast California

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Santa Barbara Beach

4.5/5(1,188 area reviews)

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

Santa Barbara Beach
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Montecito

4.5/5(179 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach might round out your trip.

Montecito
Santa Cruz which includes watersports

Westside Santa Cruz

4/5(2,586 area reviews)

Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.

Westside Santa Cruz
Santa Barbara showing a coastal town

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Santa Barbara Museum of Art might round out your trip.

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
Carmel featuring signage, a city and street scenes

Downtown Monterey

4.5/5(251 area reviews)

The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.

Downtown Monterey
Carmel featuring autumn leaves, a house and a sunset

Golden Rectangle

5/5(186 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Golden Rectangle, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Golden Rectangle

Popular day trips from Central Coast California