Life in San Luis Obispo County, California

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Once I was a few feet from the dock, I slowly rose to my feet, wobbling as I tried to catch my balance. I began steering the paddleboard to face the bay and out of the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of what looked like a gray buoy, drifting a couple feet away. I did a double take and nearly fell off the paddleboard when I saw two, huge sparkling eyes gazing at me the same way a puppy would.

The two of us held eye contact for about 30 seconds until he slipped beneath the surface, the water too murky to track where he went. I sat there and watched the gentle ebb and flow of the bay’s waters, peering in the distance where I saw a forest of seal heads bobbing up and down.

This magical place is Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo County, where you have the freedom to paddleboard and explore a world of marine life up close. Sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, whales, marine birds and my personal favorite, seals, all make Avila Beach their home. This is one of many charming spots in San Luis Obispo County along Highway 1 on California’s central coast.

San Luis Obispo County (SLO CAL)

Highway 1

Highway 1 winds along California’s Central Coast, making it one of the best routes for a laid-back road trip. Along the way, you’ll find everything from wineries and farms to outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and paddleboarding—all with stunning coastal views.

The wineries here feel refreshingly unpretentious compared to other parts of California, making it a great spot for casual tastings. Or, if you’re more into adventure, you can take advantage of the region’s trails and water activities. Life moves a little slower in SLO CAL, making it the perfect escape, whether you’re sipping wine or exploring the coastline.

Along Highway 1, I visited three coastal towns: Avila Beach, Cambria, and San Luis Obispo. Each offers plenty to do and great restaurants to try, making it a perfect way to experience a different side of California.

What to Do Along Highway 1

Wine Tasting

Talley Vineyards

Talley Vineyards, family-owned and operated since 1966, has been crafting wines on the San Luis Obispo Coast for generations. The estate spans 150 acres of sustainably grown grapes, taking full advantage of the region’s diverse microclimates.

During the Rincon Adventure Wine Tasting, I tried grapes straight off the vines and sampled their aging Cabernet straight from the barrel. I tasted several other wines while enjoying local cheeses, meats, and freshly harvested vegetables from the property. Talley’s commitment to quality, from native yeast fermentation to barrel aging, makes it a standout in the region’s wine scene.

Sinor-Lavalee Tasting Room

​​Sinor-Lavallee Tasting Room features small-batch wines from within the SLO Coast AVA. Family-owned since 1997, they produce just 1,000 cases a year, with a focus on quality and creativity.

I learned how to shuck an oyster here, which took me an embarrassing 15 minutes to figure out. But it gave me a whole new appreciation for people who do it regularly. I’m not even a big oyster fan, but I doused that bad boy in Mignonette and ate it with pride—food just tastes better when you’ve worked for it. Alongside the oysters, I enjoyed a spread of charcuterie snacks like caviar, meats, and cheeses, all paired perfectly with their wines.

Fun fact: The only other wine region with similar characteristics is Margaret River in Australia—both offering the rare experience of enjoying wine from the region right on the coast.

Sidecar Wine Tour

If you want to go wine tasting in style, I highly recommend trying a Sidecar Wine Tour. Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. You zoom through rolling vineyards in a sidecar attached to a motorcycle, with a guide driving and stopping at different wineries along the way. It adds an extra layer of thrill to wine tasting—one you may have never considered.

My guide, Greg, had been riding motorcycles for most of his life and loved it so much that he made it his job. Keeping all your limbs inside the sidecar is crucial, and even at just 20 miles per hour, it feels fast. It’s breezy, bumpy, and a little loud, but there’s something incredible about soaring past vineyards with the wind in your face. Along the way, Greg pointed out landmarks, answered questions, and even made short stops when we wanted to snap photos.

I personally loved it, but some others on the tour weren’t as thrilled—it’s a bit precarious. But if you’re up for an adventure and a little adrenaline rush, this is a unique and exciting way to go wine tasting and see the region from a whole new perspective. As Greg put it best, “Now you know how dogs feel.” And honestly, there’s nothing quite like that pure joy of feeling the wind in your face as you ride through scenic rolling hills.

Sidecar Tours operates all over California and even in parts of Hawaii. The tour lasts about three hours and is customizable if there are specific wineries or routes you’d like to explore.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking & Biking

Highway 1 is lined with plenty of hiking and biking trails, whether you’re up for a long coastal expedition to iconic viewpoints or a laid-back nature ride.

For an easygoing option, the Bob Jones Trail is a great choice. This paved, 3-mile path starts from the parking lot on Ontario Road and ends at Avila Beach, following San Luis Obispo Creek. Along the way, you’ll pass charming spots like Avila Valley Barn (more on that later), making it perfect for a scenic ride with stops.

For a more challenging adventure, check out the Sea to Summit Trail, a 28.9-mile route popular among bikers. It overlaps with the Bob Jones Trail at one point before ramping up in intensity. The steep climb is worth it once you reach the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. The trail winds through vineyards and orchards, fully immersing you in the best of Highway 1’s scenery.

Kayaking & Stand-up Paddleboarding in Avila Beach

This was hands down the highlight of my Highway 1 adventure. As a lover of both paddleboarding and marine life, it felt like a dream come true. You can spend time leisurely exploring the bay or paddle around the bend to Point San Luis Lighthouse, the only surviving Prairie Victorian model lighthouse on the West Coast. If you’re up for it, you can even beach your watercraft and hike up for a closer view.

I, however, got completely distracted by the sea otters and seals and never made it all the way to the lighthouse. No regrets—I’d trade a historic building for quality time with adorable marine life any day.

I rented my paddleboard from Avila Beach Paddlesports, which also offers both single and tandem kayak rentals. You can explore at your own pace on a self-guided tour, or opt for their Guided Adventure Tour, which includes tidepool viewing, wildlife insights, and even some fun team-building activities.

Harvest Tour at Avila Valley Barn

Avila Family Barn, a family-run farm since 1985, offers a charming, seasonal experience with something for everyone. During my fall visit, I was blown away by the fresh cider and the impressive selection of pumpkins, gourds, and 112 apple varieties. The petting zoo and orchards provide a perfect setting for leisurely strolls, adding to the farm’s welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

Open year-round, the farm features all-season tractor rides. In the fall, excitement peaks with apple season, complete with cider, pies, and apple pressing. The farm spans 46 acres (22.5 of which are cropped), with a focus on U-pick operations offering fruits like peaches, berries, and flowers.

Seasonal events, like summer music and caramel apple pop-ups, make for a fun visit, with everything from apples to cider crafted right on-site.

Exploring Downtown Cambria

Once you work your way up the coast and encounter the beautiful town of Cambria, I highly recommend strolling around its downtown, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes and parks. In the fall, the town hosts a quirky scarecrow festival, where businesses showcase funny and spooky to downright adorable scarecrows in the area. It’s a unique and playful event that adds to Cambria’s charm, making it the perfect place to soak in the local vibe while enjoying some seasonal fun.

Tour Stepladder Creamery

One of my favorite aspects of the Highway 1 region is the abundance of unique culinary experiences. Thanks to the many small local businesses contributing their homegrown products, farm-to-table restaurants thrive.

The Stepladder Creamery was one of my top stops not just because the cheese was incredible, but also because of the experience. I had the chance to tour the facility, learn about the cheesemaking process, and, of course, meet the goats—who are consistently proven to be the funniest animals on Earth. It’s a bit of a trek from Cambria, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Read More: San Francisco Peninsula Coastal Road Trip

Where to Eat Along Highway 1

Gardens of Avila at Sycamore

Located within the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa is the restaurant Gardens of Avila. Everything on their menu is organically sourced, with many of the fruits and vegetables coming from their two-acre garden on the premises. I tried the Pacific Halibut, which was topped with a tropical salsa and served alongside broccolini and coconut jasmine rice. The flavors blended together beautifully—it was one of the most creative takes on halibut I’ve ever had.

While I was there, I also had the chance to visit the garden, which is next to a charming gazebo area adorned with string lights. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, they also have an outdoor pizza oven and seating area where you can enjoy the Chef’s Garden Pizza, made Italian style with a recipe passed down through the chef’s family.

Chicken Shack at Avila Valley Barn

After wandering around Avila Valley Barn, a stop at their Chicken Shack is a must. They specialize in decadent sandwiches, with the Nashville Fried Chicken Sandwich being the star of the show. This sandwich is an absolute masterpiece—crispy fried chicken, slathered in their homemade chicken sauce (available in varying spice levels), pickled onions, and creamy coleslaw, all piled onto a garlic-toasted bun.

The chicken was thick, juicy, golden, and fried to perfection. The sauce was rich and perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of heat. This is one of those indulgent meals that becomes a euphoric experience, made even better with the rustic setting.

Sea Chest Oyster Bar & Restaurant in Cambria

If you’re a seafood lover, Sea Chest Oyster Bar & Restaurant is well worth the wait. They don’t take reservations, but there’s a cozy outdoor fire pit by the ocean where you can relax with a view of the ocean while waiting for your table. Once inside, the atmosphere is laid-back and beachy, with soft lighting that creates a warm, inviting energy.

They specialize in seafood—think scallops, crab, oysters, calamari, shrimp scampi, and a variety of seafood pasta dishes. I had the Scallops a la Sea Chest, which featured scallops sautéed in wine, butter, and garlic, served over pasta. The meal was decadent, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. And of course, you can’t go wrong pairing it with some classic Cambrian wine.

The restaurant is just a short walk from the Cambria Beach Lodge, which is a great place to stay in the area.

Lily’s Coffee House

When exploring Cambria, be sure to stop by Lily’s Coffee House on the east end of town. The cozy deck with colorful umbrellas and the aroma of fresh espresso will draw you right in. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic gift shop and an espresso bar serving up great coffee, tea, and homemade treats like brownies, cookies, scones, and their famous carrot cake.

Where to Stay Along Highway 1

Avila Lighthouse Suites

Cambria Beach Lodge

If you’re after a laid-back spot in Cambria, Cambria Beach Lodge is a great choice. It has that tucked-away motel vibe with separate entrances, and it’s right on the ocean, so you can breathe in the salty sea air.

Right across the street, you’ve got the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, a peaceful one-mile path along the shore—I walked it at sunrise, and it was an amazing, quiet moment. Depending on the season, you might even catch glimpses of whales or sea otters. It’s a perfect place to soak in the beauty of the California Central Coast and embrace the spirit of wandering and exploration.

If You Go:

Per Season

Fall

Winter

Spring

Summer

Summer on the Central Coast is lively, with sunny days perfect for beach trips, wine tastings, and festivals. It’s a busy season, so if you like action and long, warm days, it’s the time to experience everything this area has to offer.

How to Get to San Luis Obispo County

There are direct flights to San Luis Obispo from several major cities, including Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, San Francisco, San Diego, and Seattle. If you’re flying from somewhere else, connecting flights are easy to find.

Once you’re in San Luis Obispo, I highly recommend renting a car or hiring a chauffeur to make the most of your visit. Having a car gives you the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace, whether you’re hopping between wineries, checking out coastal spots, or wandering through charming towns.

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Isabella Miller is a travel journalist and editor at Go World Travel Magazine. She is a passionate world explorer with an appreciation for the vast range of the human experience. She wants to live it all, from backcountry camping in the Great Sand Dunes to marinating in a saltwater geothermal pool in the Italian Alps. She loves the yin and yang of cities and nature, celebrations and peace, adventure and relaxation. The best kind of trip is when all of the above coexist. This world is nuanced and delicate, filled with infinite stories to tell. She takes great pride and joy in sharing her discoveries with the world.

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