4 Best Sights in Avila Beach, The Central Coast

At the edge of a sunny cove next to downtown shops and restaurants, Avila's ½-mile stretch of white sand is especially family-friendly, with a playground, barbecue and picnic tables, volleyball and basketball courts, and lifeguards on watch in summer and on many holiday weekends. The free beachfront parking fills up fast, but there's a nearby pay lot ($8 for the day, $3 after 4 pm). Dogs aren't allowed on the beach from 10 to 5. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards (seasonal); parking; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

An old-fashioned country store jam-packed with local fruits and vegetables, prepared foods, and gifts, Avila Valley Barn also offers the chance to experience rural American traditions. You can pet farm animals and savor homemade ice cream and pies daily, and on weekends ride ponies or a hay wagon out to the fields to pick your own produce.

You'll learn all about local marine plants and animals from the hands-on exhibits at this science center next to the main beach.

Docents lead hikes along scenic Pecho Coast Trail (3½ miles round-trip) to see the historic 1890 lighthouse and its rare Fresnel lens. If you'd prefer a lift out to the lighthouse, join a shuttle tour. Hikes and tours require reservations.