Highway 1 Through SLO County

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As far as historic American highways go, the Pacific Coast Highway is second only to historic Route 66.

Originally started in the 1930’s, the Pacific Coast Highway extends from the tip of Baja, California to the 

Olympic Peninsula in Washington. Since its completion, the Pacific Coast Highway has become a favorite 

destination for RVers, and photographers alike. 

Along its trek from southern California to northern Washington, the Highway winds along the coast. 

In many places a traveler may be bordered on one side by the Pacific Ocean and on the other side by 

majestic redwood trees. One of the most beautiful stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway is San Luis 

Obispo county. There are several beautiful man-made and natural sights on this stretch of the Pacific 

Coast highway.


Tourist Attractions

Morro Rock is a gigantic rock that rises from a peninsula in the Pacific Ocean. Many people refer to it as 

the Gibraltar of the Pacific.

Pismo Beach is a great place to stop and play. There is something for the whole family. You can rent a 

surf board and catch some waves or a beach bike. Atv rentals are also possible for those wishing to play 

in the sand dunes.

Hearst Castle is a castle that was built in 1919. It rests in the northern part of San Luis Obispo County. 

Originally built for newspaper magnet William Randolph Hearst, the property was turned over to the 

state of California in 1957. It has become a popular tourist attraction, bringing in more than one million 

guests a year.

Piedras Blancas Light Station is a lighthouse that was built in 1875. The structure is still in use today and 

tours are available 6 days a week from June 15 to August 31.

Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is only a mile south of the lighthouse. There is a large parking 

area and boardwalk that allows easy access for visitors to see the seals.

Best Places to Eat 

Splash Café has three different locations in San Luis Obispo County. The café has some of the best Clam 

Chowder in the United States. It has won numerous awards and has been featured in Gourmet and Bon 

Appetit Magazines. It’s not uncommon for people to drive 145 miles just for their clam chowder. When 

you are passing through its definitely worth a visit.

Petra is a Mediterranean delight. In addition to great hummus and pita bread, they have an amazing 

pizza. Most travelers would be best to stop by before 9pm when happy hour starts.

Fish Bonez in Morrow Bay is a great stop for seafood lovers. If you are in the area checking out Morro 

Rock complete your day with some shrimp nachos or barrumundi with sherry lobster sauce. Top it off 

with a serving of banana fritters.

Unique Places to Stay

Heritage Inn is a perfect place for a romantic weekend. Built in the early 1900’s the house brings 

modern design and historic architecture together into a perfectly romantic atmosphere. Outside 

the property features a creek side garden with plenty of flowers and magnificent views of the local 

landscape.

Petit Soleil brings European charm to San Luis Obispo. This Bed and Breakfast is only a few blocks from 

downtown San Luis Obispo. Relax in the cobblestone courtyard or fine French wines on the backyard 

patio.

San Luis Creek Lodge is perfect if you are traveling with your family. Each room is decorated with its 

own unique charm. With 25 separate rooms it is a great place for families to stay on your drive up the 

Pacific Coast Highway. The beach is only 15 minutes away.

For more places to eat and stay along the Pacific Coast Highway please check out the following 

references www.yelp.com and www.finduniquelodging.com.