Ragged Point, California
For those seeking the best trails and outdoor activities, Ragged Point, California is a must-visit. The Ragged Point Cliffside Trail is a top choice for hikers of all levels. This one-mile round trip trail offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the striking Black Swift Falls. The trail's moderate difficulty makes it accessible for most, with rock formations and a steep descent adding to its appeal. In addition to hiking, the area is known for bird watching and whale spotting. Nearby, the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is a unique attraction where you can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. For a blend of adventure and natural beauty, Ragged Point is a top pick for outdoor adventures.
Top Spots in and near Ragged Point
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Big Sur, CaliforniaTimber Top and Boranda Trail
5.05.67 mi / 2690 ft gainTucked deep in the Ventana Wilderness of Los Padres National Forest, the Timber Top and Boranda Trail is one of Big Sur's most underrated — and demanding — backcountry hikes. The 5.67-mile out-and-back packs 2,690 feet of elevation gain into its short distance, climbing through chaparral and fo...Read more -
Paso Robles, California
Bike Peachy Canyon
10.5 mi / 2200 ft gainPeach Canyon is the *the* iconic cycling road in the Paso Robles area, beginning downtown and connecting with many other roads in the mountains west of town making for numerous beautiful loops through vineyards, orchards, and black oak groves. Peachy Canyon Road begins at Olive and 6th Street and...Read more -
Paso Robles, California
Bike the Salinas River Trail
2 mi / 200 ft gainThe Salinas River Walk in Paso Robles is one of the first sections of a planned 30 mile river trail extending from Santa Margarita in the south to San Miguel. The trail can be accessed at several places, primarily at the south end at Lawrence Moore Park at the end of Riverbank Lane where there i...Read more -
Morro Bay, California
Photograph the Rock at Morro Bay
4.8Morro Bay is located west about 13 miles of San Luis Obispo. Typically Pismo Beach and San Luis are the go to spots when traveling to that area, but after spending the day there I would highly recommend giving it a visit! The first thing you'll see when pulling into downtown Morro Bay is the mas...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Big Sur River Gorge
4.00.36 mi / 56 ft gainIf you are in the Big Sur area during the summer, exploring the Big Sur River Gorge is a must! The gorge is located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and your closest parking will be day use parking lot 3. The trailhead to the gorge can be found at the northeast end of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park C...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Sykes Hot Springs via Pine Ridge Trail
4.318.96 mi / 7339 ft gainThe trek to Sykes Hot Springs is about 10-miles one way along the Pine Ridge Trail. This is a great backpacking trip, but can be done as an out-and-back hike from the campgrounds at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park if you're really moving. The trail is moderately challenging, you'll cross the river t...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Pine Ridge, North Coast Ridge Loop
2.033.45 mi / 11388 ft gainIf you are looking to do some backpacking in the Big Sur area, you've come to the right place. This post shares a suggested 4-day backpacking loop in the Ventana Wilderness that will offer a bit of everything - challenging hiking with a healthy does of elevation, beautiful primitive camping amon...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Camp at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
5.0The campground at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers a spectacular variety of natural settings to enjoy. Each of the 189 tent and RV sites is located within the redwood groves, oak woodlands, grassy meadows and they even have riverside camping.Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, access to dr...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Pfeiffer Falls
4.21.39 mi / 341 ft gainThis trail is a staff favorite at Big Sur. This family-friendly waterfall trail provides only a moderate challenge for young children and older family members. There are two starting points for this hike depending on where you stashed the car. If you’re parked near the gift shop, the head up the ...Read more -
Morro Bay, California
Quarry and Park Ridge Trail Loop
4.03.04 mi / 961 ft gainPark Ridge is a double peaked ridge, elevated at 911ft, which stands next to Cerro Cabrillo, one of the Nine Sisters. The stunning 360* degree views at the top of Morro bay, Los Osos and San Luis Obispo, make this hike worth exploring. There are two ways to access the top. Park Ridge Trail takes...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Pfeiffer Beach
4.10.81 mi / 75 ft gainPfeiffer Beach located in Big Sur may truly be one of the most awesome beaches in California...if you can find it. I lived within 40 miles of this beach for over 20 years and just discovered it recently. This beach is located on an unmarked road called Sycamore Canyon Road. On Highway 1, this roa...Read more -
Baywood-Los Osos, California
Baywood Park & Pier
5.0A quiet little beach front, with a raised boardwalk and beautiful views all around. A great place to walk the dog or take small children. Amazing sunsets and A+ for bird watching. Excellent spot to launch a kayak, canoe, or SUP. But watch the tides before you do. The water is usually glassy when ...Read more -
San Luis Obispo County, California
Spooner's Cove
5.0Spooner’s cove is one of those small hidden beaches where you can watch stunning sunsets in a peaceful environment. Located in Montana De Oro State Park, the small gem is surrounded by countless hikes and camping spot. It is also one of the only areas of the park that is dog friendly. If you are ...Read more -
San Luis Obispo County, California
Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail
5.04.02 mi / 302 ft gainThe Bluff Trail is a simple walk that takes you along the coast in Montaña de Oro. The trailhead is located just past Spooner's Cove and has parking on both sides of the road. The path is paved, making it easily accessible for anyone who wants to enjoy these incredible views. If you're feeling a...Read more -
San Luis Obispo County, California
Camp at Montaña de Oro State Park
5.0Located about 7 miles south of Morrow Bay, follow Los Osos Valley Rd into the state park. Watch for the signs to park, as you will be cited after 10pm.The campground is located just across the road from the famous Spooner's cove, but there are any number of trails and hikes you can enjoy (check ...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Camp at Ventana Campground, Big Sur
4.6This campground is a gem when it comes to Big Sur camping, book here. Each site includes a parking spot, a campfire ring with grill, a picnic table, and plenty of space for 1-2 tents. There are multiple immaculate restroom facilities with showers, clean trash enclosures (emptied and sanitized dai...Read more
