Take a Day Trip to the Charming Seaside Town of Cayucos

Located on California’s Central Coast along Pacific Coast Highway, Cayucos is a small coastal town home to old-timey saloons, fabulous antique stores and surf shops, quaint restaurants, and miles of white sand beaches and beautiful hiking trails.

Day travelers will enjoy spending time in Cayucos relaxing and enjoying a variety of seaside adventures in this beach town, which transports visitors back to a simpler time.

Fill your Cayucos itinerary with a variety of fun excursions!

Visit the Iconic Cayucos Pier

Constructed in 1872 by Captain James Cass, the Cayucos Pier was an important commercial port for ships sailing from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Rebuilt in 2015, the 982-foot pier is still a favorite place for a stroll, fishing, and taking in beautiful beach sunsets. The jumping dolphins statue situated at the base of the pier is a favorite spot for photos.

Lounge at the Beach

One of the most picturesque beaches along the Central Coast, Cayucos State Beach welcomes visitors. Enjoy sunbathing and swimming or a long walk. At low tide, you can walk all the way from Cayucos to Morro Bay along the beach or explore the tidepools at the rocky sections of the beach. Cayucos Beach is also a great spot to fly a kite.

Go Surfing or Paddleboarding

Known for its surfing, Cayucos State Beach is six miles long and the entire length of the coastline is known for its swell. The Pier is a popular surfing spot, especially for beginners. If you visit in wintertime expect waves that can be as tall as you are or come in the Fall, the best time to hit the water on your board with warmer water.

If surfing isn’t your thing, hop on a paddleboard and check out the hidden coves and bays. You may be lucky to see some marine life as you paddle about. Kayaking, boogie boarding, and kiteboarding are other popular activities among visitors.

Take In the Cayucos Murals

Cayucos is known for its street art with its many murals adding to the charm of the town. There are nine incredible murals for travelers to admire, including the mosaic sculpture on B Street, the Wild West scene outside Old Cayucos Tavern, and the Cayucos scene mural at the elementary school. Download a map and embark on a self-guided tour so you don’t miss anything.

Go Antiquing

Antique hunters will be drawn to Cayucos with its variety of eclectic shops and semi-annual antique fair. Stop by Main Street Antiques on North Ocean Avenue to browse everything from vintage furniture to collectibles or visit the malls, Remember When and Remember When Too, to shop a variety of antique vendors selling kitchenware, apparel, jewelry, décor, and more.

Enjoy Hiking in Estero Bluffs State Park

Hiking enthusiasts will have fun exploring Estero Bluffs State Park. The area boasts breathtaking views of the ocean and Morro Rock, as well as a variety of habitats and a small cove and beach at Villa Creek. Hike the Estero Bluffs Trail, which runs parallel to the water for four miles and follows flat terrain suitable for hikers of all levels or explore one of the other many trails that run from Highway 1 to the main Estero Bluffs Trail.

Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Brown Butter Cookie Company

The original shop and flagship location of the Brown Butter Cookie Company is located in Cayucos on North Ocean Avenue, just steps from the beach. Cookie lovers must stop in the shop for a taste of their original brown butter sea salt cookie made by hand right in the store.

The wonderful town of Cayucos may be small but has lots more to offer visitors. Make plans to spend a day in Cayucos the next time you visit the Central Coast. Just a short drive away, Cobbo’s Beach House in Avila Beach is the perfect home base for a trip to Cayucos and a vacation to California’s gorgeous Central Coast.

Book your spring or summer vacation today!