California Bucket List ~ Central Coast Region

Today we head further up California’s coast and begin to explore more of the central area of the state.

Big Sur

• Andrew Molera State Park: Take in majestic views of the Pacific coast.
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: This park is located above the Big Sur River Gorge.

Carmel

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Take in the views of clear blue coves below the hiking trails.

Carpinteria

• Carpinteria State Beach: Great place to explore the tide pools.

Lompoc

• Gaviota State Park: Hike to Gaviota Peak for a great view of the Channel Islands.

Monterey

• Montery Bay Aquarium: Amazing aquarium with hundreds of exhibits.

Morgan Hill

• Henry W. Coe State Park: Filled with steep ridges and canyons, this park is filled with rugged hiking trails.

Morro Bay

• Morro Rock: This is fondly known at the “Gibraltar of the Pacific.”

Pacific Grove

• Monarch Grove Sanctuary: Explore the monarch butterfly’s winter home.
• Point Pinos Lighthouse: The oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the west coast.

Salinas

• National Steinbeck Center: Celebrate the creativity of this famed author.

San Juan Bautista

• Mission San Juan Bautista: Largest of California’s missions.

San Simeon

• Aramark Hearst Castle: Offers a variety of guided tours.

All attractions can be found in the 2019 California Travel Guide.

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