If you are feeling pummeled by the summer heat, California's Central Coast beaches can be a welcome respite.
Despite news that a landslide and a bridge collapse have closed parts of California's Pacific Coast Highway, some of the best beaches along its scenic coast are open, accessible and still welcoming visitors.
From the southern parts of San Luis Obispo to the northern gateway to Big Sir, there are a number of coastal stretches perfect for cooling off this summer.
Ragged Point
Right now, Ragged Point is as far as you are going to be able to travel on PCH without detouring to Highway 101. The beautiful coastal overlook is home to a general store, ice cream stand, a restaurant and hotel-all with incredible views of the Pacific.
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It's the perfect place to stop and rest after a long drive. When you do swing by, make sure to stroll the path along the rugged coast that begins just behind the restaurant and hotel. There are some great photo ops along the way as well as a path that takes you down to the beach below.
San Simeon and Cambria
Home to Hearst Castle and the gorgeous San Simeon Cove, the small coastal town of San Simeon is the perfect place to stay the night.
There are a number of hotels that line the rugged coast, offering beautiful ocean views. And for those desiring a more rugged experience (#vanlife), there is also a large campground that offers ocean access as well as access to a number of hiking trails winding through cypress forests and providing vistas over lands owned by the Hearsts.
If you keep your eyes peeled, you can possibly see zebras, which still roam these coastal plains after the closing of the Hearst Castle zoo.
The nearby town of Cambria, just south of San Simeon, is also a stunner and offers its own crop of seaside hotels. Don't miss a stroll on the famous Moonstone Beach, or a walk along its meandering boardwalk just above the sand.
Hearst Castle is another must in the area. Be sure to book ahead as these tours, especially in summertime, often fill up. There are also a number of different tours to choose from that visit various areas within the castle.
After you see how the other half lives, a stop at the San Simeon General Store is a good bet. In addition to a delicious grill that serves up enormous burgers made from Hearst Ranch beef, there is a Hearst Winery tasting room. It's pretty much impossible to escape without buying a burger and a bottle.
Pack your kayaks and fishing gear and head over to San Simeon Cove after you eat (or better yet, bring some food for a beachside picnic).
Last but not least, San Simeon is home to a colony of elephant seals. North of the town is a viewing point, and there's a short hike along the boardwalk to see them playing in the water and sunning themselves on the beach. (If you see two of the seals fighting in the water, the act of brutality is nothing to worry about. It's a mating ritual of the males.)
Bring your binoculars, and if the timing is right, you may be able to see whales migrating along the coast as well.
Cayucos
Just south of San Simeon is the charming beach community of Cayucos. The Cayucos State Beach is a three-mile stretch of sand that offers uncrowded access to the Pacific-perfect for beach combing and sandcastle-building. It's an ideal place for a family vacation with a number of rental properties and a few motels and inns.
Cayucos is also home to one of the area's most popular dog beaches.
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Los Osos/Baywood Park
If you are into coastal hiking, this is the place. There are amazing walks along the seaside as well as secluded beaches and beautiful bluffs. There's not a lot in the way of accommodation, but if you are up for camping, be sure to score a spot in Montana de Oro State Park before you arrive.
Avila Beach
This hidden cove is a charming seaside retreat. Visitors will find an abundance of activities, dining, accommodations and restaurants for such a small place.
There's the popular beachside Avila Lighthouse Suites as well as the La Fonda hotel. A boardwalk is home to restaurants, coffeehouses, bars and a general store.
There's a pier for fishing and, if you go out on the water, there is a great likelihood that you will see some otters playing in the kelp beds just off the shore.
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