Whales, Wine & Wildflowers
Spring has sprung on the Central Coast! The days are getting longer, the wildflowers are emerging and the open road is calling. It’s time to choose your spring break adventure, whether you’re an outdoor explorer, family traveler or culinary excursionist. From California history and marine life to festivals, wine walks and concerts, big fun awaits.
Calling Explorers!
Find inspiration for your next Central Coast road trip. Designed for travelers seeking unique tours and getting off-the-beaten-path, experience a mix of surf culture, the western lifestyle, hyper-regional cuisine and more authentic local flavors on this 9-day journey.
The Mission Trail
Did you know that the Central Coast is home to 11 of California’s 21 missions? Step back in time and learn more about Golden State history on a road trip following the “Royal Road” from Ventura and Santa Barbara to SLO CAL, Carmel and Santa Cruz.
In Bloom
‘Tis the season for wildflower viewing—from poppies growing amid the Santa Ynez Valley vines and the purple carpet of ice plant in Pacific Grove, to the colorful hillsides of Carrizo Plain National Monument and lupine and mustard along Ventura County Coast.
A Whale Tale
Book a whale watching cruise to see the massive, majestic marine mammals up close in the wild. Charters head out to sea year-round, with departures from harbors in Santa Cruz, Monterey, Morro Bay, Santa Barbara (a designated Whale Heritage Area), Ventura and Oxnard.
By Shannon Brooks
