Hotels in Central Coast California

Dramatic cliffs plunge into the Pacific along Highway 1, where sea otters float lazily in Monterey Bay and elephant seals sprawl on remote beaches. The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases local marine life in tanks that make you forget there's glass between you and the sharks. Wine tasting in Paso Robles offers a less crowded alternative to Napa, with tasting room staff who remember your name. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk delivers old-fashioned amusement park thrills with ocean views. Don't miss Hearst Castle's absurdly opulent pools and art collections. For the perfect day, grab fish tacos from a coastal shack, then watch surfers battle waves while sea mist cools your face.