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Places
Morro Bay (20 min from SLO):
Avila (12 min from SLO):
Paso Robles (35 min from SLO):
Pismo (15 min from SLO):
Edna Valley (Starts at 8 min from SLO):
The landscape is sprinkled with vineyards, wineries, and farms, making it a really pretty little valley just south of town. It’s more convenient than Paso and you’ll find wines that are equally as good.
Shell Beach (12 min from SLO)
If you’re looking for the quintessential grassy park overlooking the ocean, this is your spot! Typically warm.
Hikes
Ontario Ridge trail hike (or called Avila Ridge)
Amazzzzzing views! It takes an hour or so to do the full loop, or shorter if you just go up and down. You need good shoes with at least some traction (it’s steep going up and down, but flat on top.). You have stunning views of the ocean the entire time. You can park at Pirates Cove, or park on the road outside of Avila Hot Springs and find an easier, slower, shady walk up. Message us for details on that.
Terrace Hill
Our first date spot! Located in our neighborhood, it’s a great spot for sunsets and views of SLO. It only takes about 7 min to hike up (straight up). Then it’s flat at the top. When it’s warm, we bring blankets, wine and cheese to watch the sunset.
Madonna Mountain
Technically called Cerra San Luis Mountain, a volcanic plug. It’s a moderately easy hike that takes about 1.5 hours roundtrip and gives you stunning views. Well trafficked and popular, but a great hike with plenty of space.
Bishop’s Peak
It is very similar to Madonna Mountain, but taller and slightly further away by 10 min. They are both in a line of old volcanic mountains. You can get to the very tipy top by scrambling on boulders and then see the ocean off in the distance.
Montana de Oro State Park
About 25 min from SLO with dramatic cliffs above the ocean. There are many big hikes, like Valencia Peak, or relaxed flat hikes along the bluffs. Stop by the park ranger house for suggestions or ask us! It’s also just a beautiful drive.
Black Mountain
If you’re in Morro Bay with limited time, this is a great short hike that gives you 360 views of the estuary, Morro Rock, and the ocean. Park at the base by the estuary for a longer 40 min hike up, or drive up to a small parking lot (with its own great view) and enjoy an easy 10 min walk to the peak.
We suggest All Trails Hiking app for more details and many additional options.
The walking and hiking trails are honestly endless.
The Tourist
Mission San Luis de Tolosa
A California landmark, in the heart of downtown next to the creek. It is still a functioning Catholic church and the plaza in front hosts city events, like Pride and Concerts in the Plaza.
Sycamore Hot Springs
It’s a hotel but they also have hot spring tubs up on the hill among the trees which you can rent by the hour. (~25/hr pp) Peaceful. *Note they also have chlorine.
Beach day in Avila!
A pretty cove with a nice sandy beach. If you want something more secluded, turn left when you get to the beach. If it’s low tide, you can go around the rock to where less people are. If weather is good, rent SUPs or kayaks! Paddle out to the light house (where we’re getting married)! The water is calm and the rental facility has instructions. Kraken Coffee on the main strip has good coffee and ice cream. The Avila Market is good for massive sandwiches and quick drinks/snacks.
Drive up to Big Sur
The famous coastal HWY 1. It’s one of the most beautiful drives in the country. It starts at Ragged Point, which is about 1 hr away from downtown SLO, but the ocean views start 20 min. away and the entire drive is stunning. Ragged point is a great stop for snacks and views.
Hearst Castle
San Simeon is about 45 min. away. While you can see the castle atop the ridge from afar, a tour is required to see the grounds and go inside. It’s a big investment of time, but really a sight to see. This is on the way to Big Sur.
Visit wineries
See our recommendations.
The Foodie
Ok. We’ll be honest. This isn’t known as a foodie town, but there are some good spots. We’ve included our favorite places, based on ambiance and quality. Just think of us as your Yelp guide.
Restaurants
Granada – Fine dining with intimate outdoor seating
Flour House – The wood-fired pizzas really are so good! Enjoy the intimate hidden back patio with twinkly lights or sit at the bar facing the street for great people watching.
Novo – A little bit for everyone with lots of creekside patio dining. Good for lunches and dinners.
Giseppe’s – Italian tastes. Fantastic ambiance (especially on back patio). Look for the old bank safe! Sometimes long waits.
Goshi – Very, very good sushi. Incredibly fresh.
Sally Loo’s – Quintessential neighborhood coffee shop and eatery by the train station. Good outside seating; known for lots of vegan and healthy options.
Luna Red – Fantastic outdoor patio looking at the Mission. Great if you can snag fireplace.
*Farmhouse – Located by the airport. Very good lunch and dinners. Everything is “Instagrammable” with its creative design elements. Perfect for after or before wineries tastings in Edna Valley.
High Street Deli – Fantastic sandwiches (they are HUGE, so great to split) and nice outdoor seating. Go before noon rush. Very popular.
The Broad Street Giant Grinder – Good, simple sandwiches (they are HUGE, so great to split). If you’re looking for something fast, inexpensive, close and easy to take with you on your adventure, this is a great option.
Bars
High Bar at Hotel SLO – Enjoy views of the mountains and town from the rooftop bar. Go for the view and a drink. Food available.
Sidecar – Great cocktail bar with great creekside views. Good bites available.
Nightcap – Swanky, underground vibe. Very good cocktails.
Cider House – In the old Creamery building (a historic Creamery turned cutesy shops and restaurants). Specializes in farmhouse ales, ciders, and sours.
Bulls – NO!!! We’re too old for this, but some of you will go anyways.
*Everything listed is in downtown or walking distance from our house with the exception of Farmhouse.
The Winest
What we lack in foodie spots, we make up for in wineries. There are 250 in the region, many of them a 10-15 min. drive from downtown SLO. Here are a few of our favorites based on the experiences. Click links for more info on types of wine.
Edna Valley Wineries
Baileyana – Perched on a hill in a historic school house. It also has bocchi ball.
Biddle Ranch – Stand out wine. Located in a stylish white barn surrounded by olive trees.
Edna Valley – A local favorite for many. It has views down the whole valley with mountains in the distance.
Wolff Winery – A stunning view atop the hill. The wine can be hit or miss, but the experience and staff is always amazing.
Chamisal – Picturesque setting.
Saucelito Canyon – Views of farmlands and nice shaded trees.
Everything listed above is located about 10 minutes from downtown.
Tally Vineyards – Located at a beautiful estate, located about 30 min. from downtown.
Kelsey Vineyard – Located outside of Avila in Sees Canyon, a uniquely cool microclimate where you’ll find apple farms nearby. It’s a laid back atmosphere with peacocks wandering the ground. Make a stop at Gopher Glen down the road for fresh apples and apple juice.
Cass Wines – It’s much further away, but a unique experience and we’re friends with the owners. They specialize in grape varietals that you won’t find elsewhere. They also have a brand new container hotel!
If you’re interested in visiting Paso Robles, you’ll find many, many more options.