Coastal San Luis Obispo County along with California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary welcome visitors to immerse themselves in the local marine culture, coastal heritage and natural attractions along the iconic Highway 1 Discovery Route through a series of Coastal Discovery & Stewardship events from January 13-February 28, 2017. Enjoy special marine focused events, unique wine and food tastings and festivals and participate in award-winning Stewardship Travel activities that will enhance your connection to the CA Central Coast.

Highlights include a Free Film Festival at Hearst Castle Theater, the 3^rd annual BlendFest on the Coast, the Bird Sanctuary & Wildlife Day, elephant seal docent-led educational walks, hands-on citizen science programs at San Simeon Cove and many others. These special events and activities are designed to connect visitors with the land, wildlife, history, people and culture along the Highway 1 Discovery Route.

Learn more about Coastal Discovery & Stewardship events and activities by clicking here! And be sure to check out the fantastic lodging packages!

Event Highlights

Free iWERKS Film at Hearst Castle Theater
The FREE Coastal Discovery & Stewardship Film Festival, featuring Ocean Giants: Giant Lives, will be held at the Hearst Castle Theater, which is an iWERKS large-format theater with a five-story screen. Event Dates: January 14th, January 21st, January 28th, February 4th, February 11th, February 18th and February 25th.

Bird Sanctuary & Wildlife Day
Join with knowledgeable birders, residents, and visitors on February 18th to celebrate Avila Beach’s special designation as an official California Bird Sanctuary. Avila Beach’s Bird Sanctuary & Wildlife Day is a free event during Coastal Discovery & Stewardship and is led by the Sanctuary’s founder and avid birder, Shirley Goetz.

Special Wine Events, Tastings & More
During the Coastal Discovery & Stewardship celebration, delight in special wine tasting room pairings from 11 wineries located along the Pacific Coast Wine Trail, and numerous Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley and Avila Beach wineries as well.

Elephant Seal Exploratory Tours
The Exploratory will feature a presentation on Northern Elephant Seals, followed by a Q&A period with a panel of experienced guides. Then, guests will head to the outdoor viewing area to witness live events and even have the opportunity to see baby seals being born! Tours will be held every Saturday from January 21st – February 25th. No reservation or fee, donations will be accepted.

Wildlife Viewing and Heritage Tours and Events
SLO County is known for its abundant wildlife and visitors won’t want to miss watching the sharks feed at the Central Coast Aquarium or experiencing the Piedras Blancas Light Station Historical Tour in San Simeon. In Oceano and Los Osos, watch migrating Monarch Butterflies climb the limbs of a Eucalyptus grove all clustered in black and gold.

Whale Trails
The Whale Trail makes it easier for visitors and residents alike to know where and when to look for gray whales, dolphins, otter and seals. The six new locations in Coastal San Luis Obispo County are the biggest cluster of Whale Trail sites out of our 50 sites along the Pacific Coast from Canada to Mexico.