At certain times of the year, whole fields are bathed with colorful flowers in bloom. In the spring, summer and early fall, roadside stands offer fresh produce.
After about 9 miles, you'll enter the quiet community of Los Osos. Pass through town and continue another 6 miles to Montaña de Oro State Park, known for its spectacular ocean vistas and sweet-smelling eucalyptus groves. Once you've soaked in your fill, leave the same way you entered.
Turn left on South Bay Boulevard and follow this road past the back bay, home to many species of waterfowl. Stick to the left and you'll find yourself in Morro Bay State Park
The road is sandwiched between spectacular views of the sand spit and Morro Rock on the left, and a lush 18-hole golf course on the right. The road eventually becomes Morro Bay Boulevard which takes you into the heart of Morro Bay.
Morro Bay is a quaint fishing village featuring many unique shops, great seafood restaurants, and a waterfront with all kinds of colorful character and characters. During mid-winter months, it is home to whale-watching excursions.
North again on Highway 1 you'll pass through Cayucos, a small beach town, then through the tiny hamlet of Harmony which is home to artisans and craftspeople. At population 18, Harmony remains one of our smallest communities.
A few miles north along the coast and yet nestled among Monterey pines is Cambria, known for its wonderful art galleries, eclectic shops and fine dining.
Continue further north to Hearst Castle, the spectacular mansion of powerful newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst. The State Monument is filled with opulent art treasures gathered from around the world. Return to SLO on Highway 1 in about 45 minutes.
