Ways to Beat the Summer Heat in SLO CAL

Nothing says cool down like a nice glass of wine and a walk through a wine cave. Insulated by a thick layer of rock, these spaces are extremely cozy and unique while keeping you cool. Several Paso Robles wineries such as Eberle, Justin, L’Aventure and Robert Hall offer tours of their caves and some even have special barrel-tasting experiences. Learn about this traditional wine storage method while enjoying some modern glasses of vino. If cave wine tasting isn't in the cards, air conditioned tasting rooms throughout the north wine region allow you to enjoy a red, white or sparkling no matter what the weather is like outside. Or head to the coast and drink in the wine along with those cool ocean breezes at outdoor laid back tasting "rooms."

Everyone has to eat and the migrating blue and humpback whales love to stop off along the Central Coast to grab a little nosh. Whether you choose to view from the beach or on a boat, March-August is the best times to get a glimpse of these giant creatures. Getting on the water is always a good way to cool down, time to book a whale watching tour in SLO CAL! 

Missions, adobes and historic tours, there's a lot to see while feeling like you're stepping back in time. SLO CAL is home to two California Missions, three Adobes, the iconic Hearst Castle and a whole host of other historic houses, buildings and markers. Exploring these historic stops is a great way to explore the region while keeping cool. But the biggest question is, where to start? 

Here in SLO CAL we don't just take our wine seriously, we take our craft beer and, most recently, our distilling quite seriously as well. Explore the SLO CAL Brewery Trail where you can indulge in a variety of locally crafted brews no matter your pallet. Whether you're up in Paso Robles at Firestone Walker or down in San Luis Obispo SLO Brew, you'll be very 'hoppy' with your choices. And nearly all stops offer food to pair with your favorite brew so you can refuel to continue on to the next stop. 

Not only can you escape the heat in SLO CAL, you can do so while also enjoying world class live music with Festival Mozaic! The San Luis Obispo Music & Arts Festival happens every summer and offers dozens of opportunities to see blends of classical music, orchestra performances and more throughout SLO CAL. Don't miss some truly spectacular musical performances at equally stunning venues. 

If it's too hot on land, hop into a kayak, onto a paddleboard or grab a surfboard and explore the beautiful coastline. Both Pismo and Avila Beach are famous for their sea caves, while Morro Bay and Cayucos are perfect for the budding surfer in all of us. Cool off with a paddle and a splash. The coast is also the perfect spot for some wildlife viewing: expect sea otters, seals, sea lions, fish and more. Don't forget to visit the Morro Bay National Estuary for incredible bird watching.

One surefire way to avoid the high temperature of any day is to get up before the sun. And lucky for you, SLO CAL is a hiker's haven with trails that range from nice and leisurely to advanced and strenuous. Whether the skies are clear or the morning marine layer is still in tact, you'll experience SLO CAL in a new light from a new vantage point. You're sure to be rewarded with an amazing color display as the sun rises higher and a cool day in SLO CAL begins.

Coastal breezes, the smell of eucalyptus and crustaceous creatures await at Montaña de Oro State Park. The best part, this State Park is a bit off the beaten path and has free entry and parking. Whether you opt for a day of hiking or an hour of tidepool peering, Montaña de Oro will certainly keep the heat a memory of the past. Spooner's Cove is the perfect spot to take a dip in the protected cove. The water here is almost always chilly perfect for a rejuvenating plunge. 

Antique malls and vintage stores abound in SLO CAL. Whether you're looking for coastal finds in Pismo Beach or rustic country chic in Paso Robles, you'll be able to find treasures from north to south on the Central Coast. Review the SLO CAL Antiques Trail and make a plan for your treasure hunt. Pick up something cool to remind you of your trip to SLO CAL and escaping the heat.

Pack up the kiddos and watch a double-feature movie under the stars at SLO CAL's very own drive-in. Whether you opt for a cozy nest made in the back of a truck or lounging in a lawn chair, the Sunset Drive-In in San Luis Obispo is fun no matter your age. And as the sunsets, the temperature drops quickly, so don't forget layers to stay warm, while a crisp drink from concessions will keep you cool.