Getting here & Things to do
THings to DO
Located on the beautiful Central Coast of California, Cayucos is half-way between San Francisco and Los Angeles and due west of Bakersfield and its surrounding communities. Whether you come to Cayucos from the north or the south, what you see from Highway 1 is a small town nestled in the pristine setting of Estero Bay. Here you will find plenty to do whether you come for a day, a week, or even a month.
While strolling through town, be sure to explore our many antique stores, including Main Street Antiques, Remember When, and Remember When Too. You'll also find charming boutiques and gift shops like Maison Chabot and Cayucos Pharmacy, offering everything from artisan goods to unique gifts and beach essentials.
During your walk, stop by the beautifully renovated Cass House, the original home of Capt. James Cass, the founder of Cayucos. Nearby, admire the iconic dolphin statue at the foot of the pier—a favorite photo spot for visitors.
Families will enjoy our three playgrounds, including the one at 3rd Street Park, which houses the former town jail. Hardie Park offers tennis courts, as well as community swimming and wading pools open during the summer months. A third playground sits adjacent to the pier, and skateboarders can head to the skate park next to the Cayucos Veteran’s Hall.
For those staying overnight, we have motels, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals – lodging possibilities to suite everyone’s needs. A few motels and restaurants also allow dogs. Shopping is always fun in Cayucos. We’re not a big town, but our stores will keep you busy for hours. If you like browsing through antique stores and art galleries, we have you covered in that department too. As far as dining, Cayucos’ eating establishments offer a variety of menus from hamburgers to five star dining.
Our wonderful beach and pier will draw you to the water’s edge where you can walk, beach comb, build sandcastles and explore the tide pools. Runners and walkers can make it to Morro Bay (5 miles) at low tide. Of course, dogs are welcome on Cayucos beaches; please remember California does have a leash law. Water enthusiasts can surf, boogie board and kayak. Our surf shops provide lessons and rentals. If you’re a kiteboarder, look no further than Cayucos. The beach at 24th Street is a most popular spot. Fishermen can enjoy fishing off the pier which does not require a license or surf fish from the beach which does require one. Virg’s Landing in the neighboring city of Morro Bay offers deep sea fishing trips.
Hikers can delight in the trail along the bluffs north of Cayucos or the hills along the east side of town. Whale Rock Reservoir offers a scenic path around much of the lake (note: no swimming or boats allowed), and nearby Montana de Oro provides even more trails to explore. Or, for a more mindful way to unwind, take in a yoga class at Cayucos Yoga or enjoy a creative break with a hands-on class at Cayucos Makers.
From several viewpoints in Cayucos one cannot help but notice a monstrous rock 5 miles to the south. That would be Morro Rock, after which the city of Morro Bay is named. Morro Rock, also known as the “Gibraltar of the Pacific,” is a volcanic plug. Although climbing the rock is not allowed, it is well worth a visit to see it up close and take a stroll. Keep your eyes open for otters and the Peregrine Falcons which are the fastest creatures on earth.
Wine tasting has become very popular on the Central Coast. Don’t leave Cayucos without tantalizing your taste buds at our very own tasting establishments, then, if you like, take a drive along country roads that will surely bring you by several wineries in Paso Robles, Templeton and Atascadero (15 to 30 miles). For those who would prefer not to drive, there are tours and limousines available.
Hearst Castle is one of the most sought after tourist attractions in California. Choose from four tours to relive and see the great home and guest houses of William Randolf Hearst, the famous newspaper tycoon. The castle in nestled 23 miles north in the hills of San Simeon with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. If you don’t have time for a tour, take advantage of the tourist center and museum.
While you’re taking a drive north of Cayucos, take the time to drive a few miles north of San Simeon (19.5 miles). The giant elephant seals are worth observing from the bluffs above the beach where they live. If you’re here in January, maybe you’ll see one being born!
Piedras Blancas Lighthouse (28 miles north) can only be visited on a tour and it is definitely worth the effort to make a reservation. It began service in 1875 and is one of three tall seacoast lighthouses built in California. It is spectacularly located on the rugged pacific coast.
