Hit the waves (or the sand) at Cayucos State Beach. With six miles of white sand beach that stretch to the famous Morro Rock, Cayucos State Beach starts in the charming seaside town of Cayucos and is one of the best in California for surfing, swimming, tidepooling, and soaking up the sun. The beach boasts nearby parking, picnic facilities, outdoor showers and restrooms, as well as easy access. The Cayucos Pier was constructed in 1872 by Captain James Cass, and is a remnant from the days when Cayucos represented an important commercial port for ships sailing from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Rebuilt in 2015, the 982-foot pier remains a favorite spot for fishing, taking in epic Pacific Coast sunsets, and even whale-watching.
The population of Cayucos is about 3,000. Despite its small size, Cayucos has an eating establishment to meet everyone’s palate, from a chowder house to five-star dining. You’ll also find fabulous antique stores, surf shops with handcrafted boards, and locally owned gift stores. For children, there are three play areas designed just for them including, picnic tables, barbecues, and a paid lifeguard during the summer. There’s even a fresh water swimming pool in the summer near Hardie Park and two lighted tennis courts, located a short walk away from the pier. Grownups looking for a bit of “spice” will find that “in spades” if you’ll forgive the pun, at The Old Cayucos Tavern, a historic bar with card-playing rooms, pool tables, dancing, and some of the best live music around.
Things to do in Cayucos
Come experience Cayucos like the locals.
where To Stay in Cayucos
Plan your stay at one of the many hotels or vacation rentals in Cayucos.
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Paula’s Beach HousePaula’s Beach HouseCayucos
Make Paula’s Beach House your own during a stay at this cozy Cayucos, California vacation rental.
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Cozy Cayucos HomeCozy Cayucos HomeCayucos
In search of a Cozy Cayucos Home for your Highway 1 vacation destination? This charming one story house has you covered.
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Ocean Front LookoutOcean Front LookoutCayucos
Pretend you’re a pirate and keep an Ocean Front Lookout at this beautiful vacation rental in Cayucos, California.
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Ocean View, 3 BedroomOcean View, 3 BedroomCayucos
Panoramic Ocean Views are on the menu at this cozy three bedroom vacation rental in Cayucos, California.
Cayucos travel videos
events in Cayucos
Plan your next roadtrip to Cayucos around events and happenings.
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Wine 4 Paws
Pet loving wine drinkers can help our four-legged friends by visiting ANY of the participating wineries throughout the weekend, when a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Woods Humane Society!
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Cayucos 4th of July
Find that special spot on the beach and enjoy the show. Cayucos rocks on the 4th of July!
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Central Coast Arthritis Bike Classic
The ride takes place each fall and aims to raise over $1 million dollars. Approximately 350 arthritis patients, families and supporters who are recruited by our staff will cycle over 525 miles raising funds and awareness for the Arthritis Foundation along Highway One. This event is marketed and publicized nationwide, with a focus in the […]
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Spartan Ultra Weekend
Spartan Trail, scheduled to be held in San Luis Obispo County at Santa Margarita Ranch, is a trail race with distances of 10k, 10k Night Run, Half Marathon and 50k.
Can’t Miss activities in Cayucos
Make sure to experience these activities in Cayucos. You won’t be disappointed!
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4th of July in Cayucos4th of July in CayucosCayucos
Cayucos has perfected its patriotic festivities over the course of several decades. Visitors even plan their year around the 4th of July in Cayucos, to connect with friends who do the same, year after year.
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Hiking in CayucosHiking in CayucosCayucos
Sweeping coastal views and a temperate climate make hiking the trails in and around Cayucos a must-do. Ready to hit the trail?
travel articles about Cayucos
Read about why Cayucos is the perfect California Highway 1 road trip for those seeking a special California beach town experience.
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Cayucos CyclingCayucos CyclingCayucos
Montaña de Oro has some of the best mountain biking on the central coast, with multiple trails ranging from beginner to expert.
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Cayucos Farmers MarketCayucos Farmers MarketCayucos
Friday Morning Market next to the beach
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Central Coast Polar Bear DipsCentral Coast Polar Bear DipsCayucos
The SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 boasts two “polar bear dips” on the first day of the year, both of which are beloved traditions.
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Seaweed Foraging ToursSeaweed Foraging ToursCayucos
This is an intimate and educational experience that is always family friendly.
where to eat in Cayucos
Check out all the restaurants and good eats in Cayucos.
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Cayucos Sausage CompanyCayucos Sausage CompanyCayucos
In addition to quality deli sandwiches and meats, they have a wide selection of rotisserie and barbecue cooked foods available for takeout.
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Brown Butter Cookie CompanyBrown Butter Cookie CompanyCayucos
Featured in the New York Times, this sister-owned cookie company is nationally known for its signature sea salt cookie
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Luna Coffee BarLuna Coffee BarCayucos
Not just a specialty coffee shop set back in a lush garden ambiance, Luna offers specialty cakes and desserts that will have you over the moon!
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Cafe Della ViaCafe Della ViaCayucos
Fabulous Italian cuisine paired with yummy Central Coast and rare find wines
connect With Cayucos
Official travel map and social media for Cayucos.
More to Explore on Highway 1
Check out these other amazing places on the Highway 1 Road Trip in San Luis Obispo County.
Explore the Highway 1 Road Trip
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