Maps & INFORMATION
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.
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.
Central Coast Road Conditions & Highway Information
HOW 2 HWY 1
Your Guide to the Ultimate Highway 1 Adventure
Highway 1 is more than a scenic drive—it’s one of California’s most iconic journeys, known for its dramatic coastlines, charming seaside towns, and unforgettable experiences. While the highway is anticipated to fully reopen in March 2026, some sections remain temporarily inaccessible. Even so, many of the route’s legendary stops are open and ready to welcome travelers.
Plan wisely, travel responsibly, and enjoy the very best of California’s Central Coast, no matter current conditions. There’s so much to discover along this legendary route.
Learn HOW 2 HWY 1 and explore the iconic destinations along the way, regardless of closures or detours. https://www.seemonterey.com/plan-your-visit/how2hwy1/
