TOP 10 California coastal tours in California

Neary Lagoon Park is a charming urban oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This serene park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its tranquil lagoon, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and relaxing by the water's edge. The park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Located at 110 California Street, Neary Lagoon Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Whale Point is a popular tourist attraction located at 2002 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the opportunity to spot whales and other marine life. The institution offers educational programs and guided tours to enhance the visitor experience. Come and experience the beauty and wonder of the ocean at Whale Point.

Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach is a stunning natural rock formation located in Big Sur, California. This tourist attraction is known for its unique keyhole-shaped opening in the rock, which frames the beautiful Pacific Ocean in the background. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset through the arch, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The beach itself is also a hidden gem, with its pristine sand and turquoise waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the scenic beauty of Big Sur.

Point Sur State Historic Park is a must-visit tourist attraction located in Monterey, California. Situated along California 1, this park offers a unique experience for visitors to explore the Point Sur Lightstation, which stands 361 feet above the Pacific Ocean on a volcanic rock. This historic lighthouse, first lit in 1889, is the only complete turn-of-the-century Lightstation open to the public in California and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to the lighthouse, the park also features the former Point Sur Naval Facility, which was part of a network of defensive listening stations tracking Soviet submarines during the Cold War. Today, the Naval Facility is one of the few remaining Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) facilities open to public interpretation on the West Coast.

Carmel Walks is a popular tourist attraction located on Ocean Avenue in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Offering guided walking tours of the picturesque coastal area, visitors can explore the town's unique architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant art scene. Led by knowledgeable guides, Carmel Walks provides an enriching and immersive experience for those looking to discover the history and culture of this quaint seaside destination. With its stunning views and relaxed atmosphere, Carmel Walks is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in the beauty of the California coast.

Elephant Seal Vista Point, located in San Simeon, California, is a must-visit landmark and tourist attraction for anyone looking to witness the incredible annual return of the Northern Elephant Seals to the California coastline. This natural wonder is comparable to some of the most famous animal migrations in the world and is right in California's backyard. The Elephant Seal Vista Point is just 5 miles north of Hearst Castle along the coast of San Luis Obispo County, making it easily accessible for visitors from all over. From mid-November to mid-January, visitors can witness the dominant bull elephant seals returning to the beach, displacing the sub adult males who have been practicing their skills in hopes of competing for the females' affection.

Ocean Vista Point is a breathtaking tourist attraction located in San Simeon, California, United States. Situated along the stunning California coastline, this institution offers visitors panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged cliffs that line the shore. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the ocean while taking in the fresh sea breeze and listening to the sound of crashing waves. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or simply someone seeking a peaceful escape, Ocean Vista Point is the perfect destination for a memorable experience by the sea.

San Carpoforo Creek Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located in San Simeon, California, United States. This picturesque beach is known for its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and even surfing at this idyllic spot. The surrounding natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make San Carpoforo Creek Beach a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or an active day by the sea, this beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Morro Bay National Estuary Program is a renowned institution located at 601 Embarcadero in Morro Bay, California, United States. This institution serves as a school and tourist attraction, offering educational programs and resources focused on the preservation and restoration of the Morro Bay Estuary. Visitors can explore exhibits, participate in guided tours, and learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that call the estuary home. The Morro Bay National Estuary Program is dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and raising awareness about the importance of protecting our natural resources.

Palo Corona Regional Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Covering over 10,000 acres of rugged, spectacular countryside, this park is a haven for wildlife and plant species. The park was created through a major land conservation effort involving various organizations, ensuring that this beautiful landscape will be protected for generations to come. Visitors to Palo Corona Regional Park can explore diverse habitats, from the Carmel River to the mixed hardwood forests at the 3,000-foot Palo Corona Peak. The park is home to over 500 plant species, making it a botanist's paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts will also be thrilled by the chance to spot coastal trout, steelhead, rare amphibians, and protected raptors like the California condor.

Montaña de Oro State Park, located at 3550 Pecho Valley Road in California, United States, is a stunning park and tourist attraction spanning over 8000 acres with seven miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, fresh ocean breezes, and the sound of crashing waves. The park features various landscapes including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, streams, canyons, and hills, including the 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Nature enthusiasts can explore the park's backcountry trails on foot, mountain bike, or horseback, while admiring the diverse wildlife such as black-tailed deer, bobcats, raccoons, and California quail. The park's most popular beach, Spooner's Cove, offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and exploration.

Channel Islands National Park is a unique and stunning destination located off the coast of California. This park encompasses five extraordinary islands and their surrounding ocean environment, showcasing a diverse range of natural and cultural resources. The isolation of the islands has led to the development of unique plants, animals, and archaeological sites that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Visitors to Channel Islands National Park can experience the beauty of coastal southern California in its natural state, away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. The park offers a range of activities, from hiking on scenic trails to camping under the stars. Transportation to the islands is available year-round, allowing visitors to explore this pristine wilderness.

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5775 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers visitors the opportunity to explore a unique and diverse ecosystem, including salt marshes, wetlands, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Come visit Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park for a peaceful retreat into nature.

Tide Pool Climb is a unique and exciting institution located at 500 Sea World Drive in San Diego, California. Our facility offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the fascinating world of tide pools. With interactive exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on activities, visitors of all ages can discover the diverse marine life that inhabits these dynamic ecosystems. Our knowledgeable staff are passionate about marine conservation and are dedicated to educating and inspiring visitors to protect our oceans. Come visit Tide Pool Climb and embark on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of the tide pools.

Visit Santa Barbara is a premier tourist attraction located at 500 East Montecito Street in Santa Barbara, California, United States. The institution offers a unique experience, showcasing the stunning beauty of the California coast with its breathtaking beaches, majestic mountains, lush vineyards, and charming communities. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of outdoor adventures, arts and culture, and indulge in the local food and wine scene. Explore the natural wonders of Santa Barbara without breaking the bank, as the institution offers a list of free activities for visitors to enjoy. From picturesque parks and gardens to scenic hiking trails, Santa Barbara provides endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

The Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center is a must-visit tourist attraction and travel agency located at 113 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California. Offering the best views in Santa Barbara seven days a week, this center is free to visit and explore. Visitors can enjoy two floors of historical and maritime art exhibits, as well as guided virtual museum tours with SBMM's Executive Director Greg Gorga. Additionally, visitors can download a printable map of the Maritime Museum and exhibits, and the museum is available for private and corporate events for Navigators Circle members. The center is a partnership between NOAA, CINP, SBMM, and the City of Santa Barbara, providing information about the Channel Islands National Park, the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, and the Los Padres National Forest.

Located at 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, the Point Vicente Interpretive Center is a must-visit museum and tourist attraction. Established in 1984, the center aims to showcase and interpret the unique features and history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. With a special emphasis on the Pacific gray whale, the center's exhibits provide insights into the natural and cultural history of the area. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the annual migration of the gray whales from December through April. The Interpretive Center, which was newly expanded in 2006, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The adjacent Lower Point Vicente Park, part of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, offers recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy from dawn to dusk. The park is also available for events such as weddings and receptions, with a picturesque ocean backdrop. For those interested in volunteering, Los Serenos de Point Vicente is the docent volunteer organization that offers training for leading tours and hikes in the area. To learn more about becoming a docent or to book a tour of the Sunset Room for an event, contact the center at 310-544-5375.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

1000 Steps Beach, also known as the Thousand Steps, is a popular tourist attraction located at 1429 Shoreline Drive in Santa Barbara, California. This unique beach can be accessed by a 157-step stairway that leads visitors from the cliffs down to the sandy shore below. Originally built in 1925, the steps feature a gazebo structure that adds to the charm of the area. Situated along the California Coastal Trail, 1000 Steps Beach offers stunning views of the Santa Barbara Channel and offshore islands. The trail is part of a network of paths that connect coastal communities and provide opportunities for walking, biking, horseback riding, and wheelchair use. With over six miles of paved paths and dirt trails through open space parks, visitors can enjoy the coastal breeze and sounds of the waves while exploring the area.

Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in Redwood City, California, United States. This expansive preserve offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and coastline. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. With its diverse wildlife and plant species, Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is a luxurious lodging institution located on a bluff overlooking the rugged Sonoma Coast in California. Owned and operated by passionate local professionals, the lodge offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy bayside rooms to spacious suites with ocean views. Each room is elegantly designed with plush beds, fireplaces, and luxurious amenities. Guests can indulge in refined coastal luxury in the Ocean Club Suites or relax in the romantic Whirlpool Room with stunning views of Bodega Bay. The lodge also offers a variety of dining options, from casual coastal fare to upscale artisanal cuisine, all with a focus on local seafood and farm-fresh produce. Guests can enjoy coastal favorites from Drakes restaurant without leaving their rooms, or start their day with a hearty breakfast at Drakes with a daily breakfast credit.

Point Arena Liquors is a charming liquor store located at 190 Main Street in the picturesque coastal town of Point Arena, California. As a one-stop shop for all your beverage needs, this store offers a wide selection of spirits, wines, beers, and mixers. Whether you're looking for a bottle of fine wine to pair with dinner or a six-pack of craft beer to enjoy with friends, Point Arena Liquors has you covered. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to help you find the perfect drink for any occasion. Stop by and explore their extensive collection of libations today!

Sonoma Coast Vineyards is a charming institution located at 555 California 1 in Bodega Bay, California. This picturesque vineyard offers a unique experience for visitors, combining a food and liquor store with a store selling locally made products. The stunning views of the Sonoma Coast make it a popular tourist attraction for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, sample some of their award-winning wines, and pick up some delicious treats to enjoy during your visit. Sonoma Coast Vineyards is the perfect destination for a relaxing day out in beautiful wine country.

Located at 3100 Gravenstein Highway North in Sebastopol, California, Dutton-Goldfield Winery is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Founded in 1998 by Steve Dutton and Dan Goldfield, this institution is dedicated to producing wines that showcase the distinct characteristics of the cool-climate vineyards in the region. At Dutton-Goldfield Winery, visitors can shop for a variety of character-driven wines from locations such as Marin, Sonoma Coast, and Mendocino. The tasting experiences offered here allow guests to explore the unique flavors of the coastal neighborhood with every sip.

Banshee Wines is a unique institution located at 5110 California 128 in Geyserville, California, United States. This establishment is a combination of a food, liquor store, and store, offering a wide variety of wines for every palate. At Banshee Wines, they pride themselves on defying conventions to create distinctive and authentic wines that cater to the unique soul. Their mission is to provide affordable luxury wines that exceed expectations in terms of quality, balance, purity, and depth of flavor. Specializing in pinot noir from the cool, rugged coastal areas of the Western Sonoma Coast & Sonoma County, Banshee is known for producing some of the best pinot noir in Sonoma County. In addition to pinot noir, Banshee also offers a range of other wines including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnays, Rosé, Cabernets, and exciting varietals and red blends from Sonoma County.

The Bike Hut is a charming and cozy food and store institution located at 1045 Tunitas Creek Road in Half Moon Bay, California. This hidden gem offers a unique selection of delicious food items and a variety of biking accessories and gear for enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or need to stock up on supplies for your next biking adventure, The Bike Hut has you covered. Stop by and experience the warmth and hospitality of this local favorite in the beautiful coastal town of Half Moon Bay.

Located in Santa Cruz, California, Big Basin Vineyards Tasting Room & Wine Bar offers handcrafted wines from ocean-influenced mountain vineyards. Each bottle is made with minimal intervention to showcase the unique characteristics of the vintage, vineyard, and varietal. Wine Club members receive special perks such as priority allocations, exclusive access to limited-edition releases, price discounts, and complimentary tastings. The estate vineyard, established in 1998, focuses on Syrah and other varietals with the help of renowned viticultural consultant John Alban. Despite challenges like wildfires and the pandemic, the vineyard continues to thrive. Visitors can enjoy monthly art tours, featuring artists like Ceramic Sculptor Brad Burkhart, along with a glass of Big Basin Vineyards wine. Wine Club members can also celebrate the changing seasons with events in the vineyard.

Reefside is a trendy store located at 1104 Ocean Street in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in all things related to the ocean and beach lifestyle, Reefside offers a wide range of apparel, accessories, and home decor items inspired by the sea. Whether you're looking for stylish swimwear, beach towels, or unique gifts for ocean lovers, Reefside has something for everyone. Stop by and browse their selection of high-quality products that will help you embrace the laid-back coastal vibe of Santa Cruz.

Estero Adventures-Morro Bay Electric Boat Rentals is a charming store and travel agency located at 501 Embarcadero in Morro Bay, California. Here, visitors can rent electric boats to explore the stunning waters of Morro Bay in a fun and eco-friendly way. Whether you're looking for a peaceful afternoon on the water or a unique way to experience the beauty of the bay, Estero Adventures has everything you need for a memorable adventure. With convenient location and top-notch customer service, this institution is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural wonders of Morro Bay.

Surf Liquor and Wine is a charming liquor store located at 2522 Main Street in the vibrant beach city of Santa Monica, California. Known for its extensive selection of wines, spirits, and craft beers, this store is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for a bottle of fine wine to pair with dinner or a six-pack of local brews to enjoy on the beach, Surf Liquor and Wine has you covered. The friendly staff is always ready to help you find the perfect drink for any occasion. So stop by and experience the laid-back atmosphere and top-notch selection at Surf Liquor and Wine.