Cayucos

Known as one of the “coolest small towns in America,” Cayucos is a mellow beach town sitting on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Cayucos, just a stones throw from Morro Bay, has a similar eclectic mix of homes from single-family, condominiums, townhomes and a few ranches nestled in the foothills. The pristine beaches, open ranchland, and casual laid-back style are part of what make this Central Coast town so unique.

Captivating white sand beaches and tide pools will draw you in and make it very hard to leave.  You’re sure to see seals entertaining themselves in the waves or sunbathing on rocks. Most Cayucos residents are avid surfers, boogie boarders and kayakers. If you’re a beginner, there are several companies happy to give you lessons or take you on a guided kayaking tour of the coastline.

The rolling hills that sit behind the town are covered in rich soil ideal for farming and raising cattle. Cayucos is home to several ranches and farms that serve the local community. Old Creek Ranch has been family owned since 1949 and provides the area with high quality grass-fed meats and delicious pesticide free oranges and avocados.

When it comes to eating out, Cayucos is not limited by its size, and in fact has some of the best restaurants on the Central Coast. The Cass House, named after the founding father of the town, James Cass, was built in 1867. The beautiful Victorian was restored into the luxury inn and restaurant it is now. The restaurant features an outstanding seasonally inspired prix fixe menu with service that makes you feel like a celebrity.

Hoppe’s Garden Bistro and Wine Bar is an excellent place for Sunday brunch or a Friday night wine flight. For a more casual setting, Ruddell’s Smokehouse claims to have the best fish tacos on the planet and we are certainly not going to argue with them.  The fish is smoked to perfection, dressed in greens and a delicious sauce, with the surprising crunch of crisp apples and celery that put their unique tacos over the top.  Hungry yet? Just one more tidbit to tempt you…the Brown Butter Cookie Company right downtown has the most amazing melt-in-your-mouth brown butter sea salt cookies you’ve ever tasted.  Now, a write up about Cayucos wouldn’t be complete without mentioning The Cayucos Tavern, or just “The Tavern” as known by locals. The Tavern, built in the 1800’s, could be straight out of the Wild West and helps gives the town some of its lively character. Across the street and overlooking the beach is Schooner’s Wharf, a hidden treasure and quintessential small town restaurant. The upstairs bar and deck are the perfect place for casual conversation, a great Bloody Mary, and the best ocean view in town. Schooner’s is must stop!

Being right off of the Pacific Coast Highway, there are numerous places to explore from San Simeon to Big Sur. If you’re driving up the PCH and happen to see a zebra casually grazing in a field, don’t worry you didn’t make a wrong turn. You must be close to San Simeon and the famous Hearst Castle. Built by William Randolph Hearst, the castle is now a state park and offers guided and self-guided daily tours. It is absolutely spectacular and a must see for everyone.

If you’re looking to lose yourself in peaceful beachy bliss, Cayucos is the place.