TAKE. YOUR. TIME.
At roughly 13,000 square miles, the Central Coast would take 8-10 hours to drive straight through. In order to experience everything the charming coastal and rural communities have to offer, we recommend spending at least 2-4 days in each region. With abundant outdoor activities, the Central Coast is about taking the time to enjoy. And it’s worth every second.
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San Luis Obispo Region
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Santa Barbara Region
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Ventura Region
Central Coast Road Conditions & Highway Information
HIGHWAY 1 – BIG SUR STATUS
A small segment of Highway 1 is closed in southern Big Sur for ongoing repairs at Regent’s Slide. Visitors are able to access Big Sur hotels, restaurants and businesses by traveling from Monterey County, as far south as Esalen Institute. Access to the southern part of Big Sur is available by traveling from San Luis Obispo County, as far north as Lucia Lodge. At this time, travel via Highway 1 from San Luis Obispo County to Monterey County is not possible due to the closure at Regent’s Slide.
While part of Highway 1 is closed, alternative routes take travelers around the closure, offering an opportunity to explore Central Coast gems—from the charming town of Soledad and the historic town of Salinas, to the spectacular scenery of Pinnacles National Park, to name just a few of the compelling detours along Highway 101.
Road conditions are subject to change with seasons and closures.
Please check the Cal Trans map for current status and find more information here.
CALTRANS QUICK MAP
Getting to the Central Coast
Getting to California’s Central Coast is a breeze, with multiple airports offering convenient access to the region’s stunning landscapes and charming coastal towns. Whether you’re flying into San Jose, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, or Santa Barbara, you’ll find yourself just a short drive away from wine country, scenic beaches, and unforgettable experiences.
Major International Airports (For Long-Haul and Domestic Flights)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – The largest and busiest airport in Southern California, offering global and domestic connections.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – A major hub for international and domestic travel in Northern California.
San Jose International Airport (SJC) – A convenient option for Central Coast travelers, with a range of domestic and international flights.
Regional and Mid-Sized Airports (For Direct Flights to Central Coast Cities)
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) – A convenient gateway to the Central Coast with flights from major West Coast cities.
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) – Offers direct flights from cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, and Phoenix.
Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) – Provides access to the Monterey Peninsula with flights from cities including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, and Dallas.
