Family fun is everywhere in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County). Bypass the typical and explore the unexpected right here on the Central Coast of California. Be ocean bound as you learn to surf in Pismo Beach. Climb the ladder and conquer your fears on a ropes course. Saddle up and kick-up some sand on horseback while watching for a passing pod of whales. No matter your lifestyle, SLO CAL has 10 unexpected, kid-approved adventures to add to your next vacation itinerary.
1. Surf Lessons in Pismo Beach
Nothing says classic California like surfing in Pismo Beach. The water may be a bit colder but nothing will stop you once you pop up on that board for the first time. Learn from some of the best instructors around and hang 10 but watch out, you might get addicted.
2. Hummer Ride on the Oceano Dunes
Dunes near the ocean? You read that right! Oceano has one of the only drive-on beaches in California and is also where visitors are able to ride atvs, dune buggies and Hummers over towering sand dunes until their heart's content. Book a Hummer tour and take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean while learning about the local area and points of interest.
3. Tandem Zipline at Margarita Adventures
Ziplining over vineyards is fun for the whole family (especially if mom and dad get to go wine tasting afterwards). At Margarita Adventures you'll learn all about the Manhattan size property that prehistoric oyster shells, acres of vineyards, various wildlife and six awesome ziplines call home. Let the kids race on the new double-barrel, tandem zipline then soar over pinot noir vineyards and through a replica gold mining camp. Make the memories last and rent a GoPro helmet cam!
4. Kayak the Dinosaur Caves in Pismo Beach
Explore a truly unique and hidden gem in SLO CAL. Book a tour with Central Coast Kayaks to traverse the waters of Pismo Beach and experience spectacular grottoes, scenic vistas, beautiful arches and breathtaking coves. These tours are for the novice and experienced paddler. You'll get a knowledgeable guide, learn the basic strokes and be geared up with everything you'll need to enjoy a morning paddle.
5. Horseback riding in Paso Robles Wine Country
There's nothing quite like horseback riding through the beautiful California setting of Santa Margarita Ranch. Located between San Luis Obispo and Atascadero, explore the Historic Santa Margarita Ranch with Central Coast Trailrides. Ride through the bountiful nature of vineyards, ranch life and a lush creek-bed crossing to see the plentiful wildlife abound. Saddle up and explore SLO CAL with the whole family.
6. Go deep sea fishing in Morro Bay
Morro Bay is a premier fishing site where local fisherman bring in everything from oysters and crab to lingcod and halibut. Don't let them have all the fun though, book a deep sea fishing excursion with Sub Sea Tours and catch your dinner yourself. If you're really lucky, you may even see a passing pod of whales or dolphins.
7. Plan your ranch itinerary at Lazy Arrow Outdoor Adventures
Get a feel for the country life in Santa Margarita. Whether you spend the weekend at Lazy Arrow Outdoor Adventures (Camatta Ranch) or just go for the day, you'll be able to spend your time exploring this 32,000 acre cattle and exotic animal ranch until the buffalo come home (yes they have free roaming buffalo). Experience a ranch life tour or simply go on a wildflower hike.
8. Hike the Ragged Point Fire Trail
You don't have to drive all the way up to Big Sur to experience beautiful hiking trails. Ragged Point, located along California Highway 1, offers up gorgeous views, coastal wilderness and an outdoor experience you'll only get on the Central Coast. To get to this hike, travel north on Highway 1 until you see a gate and fire road on the right hand side of the road about .2 miles south of the Ragged Point Inn.
9. Hit the ropes!
What happens when you combine a thrilling ropes course and ziplining? A fun, kid-approved day at Vista Lago Adventure Park in Arroyo Grande near Lopez Lake. Choose from four different courses in the Upper Park offering things for beginners, intermediate adventurers, advanced thrill-seekers and high-intensity adventures, or go straight for the ziplines and Quick Jump. Or if you're not quite sure about heights, check out their Beginner Park for a closer-to-the-ground experience.
10. Check out the Central Coast Aquarium then strike up a bonfire in Avila Beach
Learn about SLO CAL's coastal aquatic life at the Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach. Get hand's-on with creatures found in local tide pools just steps from the Aquarium. Afterwards, grab a picnic table and bbq grill down on the beach for an evening full of fun with the family.