San Luis Obispo Coast District

Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along the central California coastline is a meeting of land and sea that is an integral part of the California State Parks system. Beaches, waterfalls, natural and cultural preserves are all part of the Central Coast State Parks. In this breathtaking region, redwoods march down to the sea, wildlife thrives along the rugged coastline, and sand dunes protect endangered plants and animals as part of this natural treasure. Dream-like Hearst Castle floats ethereally above the clouds and historic buildings in San Simeon take us back to California's Spanish heritage.

Cayucos State Beach - Is known its beautiful sandy shoreline, pier fishing, surfing, and swimming.  This quaint little town has something for everyone.

Estero Bluffs State Park - This park has a variety of natural resources that include inter-tidal areas, native grasslands, wetlands, low bluffs and coastal terraces with 3-miles of beach along Villa Creek.

Los Osos Oaks State Reserve - This State Park Reserve was created to protect stands of 700-year-old oaks with the help of the Small Wilderness Area Preservation (SWAP) Foundation.

Montaña de Oro State Park - This is one of California's largest state parks with 8000-acres of hiking, biking, equestrian trails, seven miles of coastline, cliffs, tidepools and camping.

Morro Bay State Park - One of the most famous landmarks, Morro Rock is home to peregrine falcons. The park has a marina for boating, kayaking and fishing. The bird estuary is next to this 135-site campground. Also enjoy bird watching, hiking and golfing.

Hearst San Simeon State Park - Its location along scenic Highway One, just a few miles from Hearst Castle, access to the beaches, tidepools, trails, and rocky coastline. Day-use areas include Leffingwell Landing, Santa Rosa Creek, San Simeon Nature Preserve and Washburn.

W.R. Hearst Memorial State Beach - This day-use park offers 24 picnic sites, barbeque grills and easy beach access. Recreational activies include swimming, kayaking, pier-fishing and sun bathing.