24 Hours in Avila Beach

Fuel your day like a local with these SLO CAL favorites! 

Start your Avila Beach vacation with a delicious breakfast at a local favorite! Located at Port San Luis Harbor, Fat Cat’s Cafe has a classic diner vibe with a view of the harbor. Known for hearty breakfast plates, you cannot go wrong with their classic eggs benedict with lobster or crab. Sit indoor or outdoor to watch the fishermen gear up for their day or take your breakfast to go and enjoy it on the beach!

If you are craving a lighter breakfast or need a quick caffeine fix, Kraken Coffee is for you. This small yet charming coffee shop serves fantastic espresso drinks and freshly baked pastries. Their chai latte and the morning bun are perfectly accompanied by the morning ocean air. Kraken offers indoor loft seating and outdoor tables located directly across the street from Avila’s main beach. 

Explore early Avila Beach gems to start your day 

After breakfast, head out for some morning adventure. Avila Beach offers options for both water enthusiasts and those looking for a more laid-back experience. 

For those feeling adventurous, paddleboarding is a unique way to reach the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse. Paddle rentals are available at Avila Beach Paddlesports, and the trip itself is scenic, offering views of the coastline and interactions with marine life, if you are lucky!  

Once you reach the end of Avila Bay, take the stairs up the side of the mountain to reach the lighthouse. There, you will have the most breathtaking view of the endless ocean, and you can even swing over the cliff edge! Docent-led tours of this historic site are available every Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to 2pm. This is also the site of Avila’s summer concert series, occurring Saturday afternoon! 

If you would prefer a more relaxed activity, take a short drive to Avila Valley Barn. This family-friendly spot has something for everyone, from fresh produce and homemade pies to petting farm animals. Seasonal attractions like pumpkin picking in the fall or hayrides in summer add to the charm. Make sure to pick up some local jams or fresh-baked bread for later! 

Grub on the green while taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean 

For lunch, head back to Avila Beach to Mulligan’s Bar & Grill. Nestled near the Avila Beach Golf Resort, Mulligan’s offers a casual lunch experience with lovely views of the greens and surrounding hills. Their menu features classic American fare, perfect for a midday break after the morning’s activities. Try their fish and chips or tri tip tacos to enjoy the locals’ favorites. The open patio seating provides a relaxing spot to rest and recharge for the afternoon. If you are a golfer, the 18-hole course is playable with clubs, carts and balls available for rent.

Enjoy a secret garden and some SLO CAL sipping alongside local oysters 

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll down the Bob Jones Trail. This picturesque pathway is an easy, shaded walk that stretches 3 miles from the trailhead down to Avila Beach, winding through oak groves, over bridges and alongside the scenic San Luis Obispo Creek. Along the way, you will find a charming spot perfect for a mid-walk refreshment. Sycamore’s Secret Garden is located just off the path and provides the perfect pick-me-up for your Bob Jones journey. The Secret Garden serves local craft beer, wine & beverages as well as an artisan cheese plate and wood-fired pizzas. The outdoor patio is perfect to enjoy solo or with your family or furry friend.  

If you are in the mood for something bubbly, stop at the Shuck Shack at Sinor LaVallee, where you can shuck and enjoy fresh oysters and drink some delicious wine. Sinor LaVallee is an Avila Beach winery that harvests from Bassi Vineyard, just one mile from the Pacific coast! The winery’s newest addition, Shuck Shack, serves Pacific Gold oysters from Morro Bay, along with caviar and bread service. This spot is perfect for wine lovers or those looking for a more luxurious stop!

Breathtaking ocean views with a side of delicious eats 

As the day winds down, choose between two wonderful dinner options to complete your Avila Beach experience.   

Known for its French seafood-focused menu and upscale coastal ambiance, Blue Moon Over Avila offers a memorable dining experience. The views from the deck are spectacular, making it an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset. Their pan-seared scallops and Coq au Vin are popular choices, and the restaurant also offers great options for wine pairings.   

Located on Harford Pier near where you enjoyed breakfast at Fat Cats, Mersea’s has a more laid-back, seaside feel with outdoor seating right over the water. Known for its fish tacos and clam chowder, Mersea’s also offers unbeatable views of the ocean and passing sea lions. The drivable pier location and friendly locals, who often spend time at Mersea’s, add a special touch to the meal as you dine with the waves beneath you.  

End your night with a beach sunset at the tidepools or the local farmer’s market 

As dinner wraps up, make your way back to the beach for a peaceful evening under the setting sun.  

Take a leisurely walk along the shore to catch the sunset. Avila Beach's shoreline comes alive in the evening, with golden hues reflecting off the water. For a bit of adventure, explore the tide pools at the far north end of the main beach. Here, you will discover small marine life like starfish, sea anemones and crabs in the pools left by the receding tide. It is a magical experience for nature lovers and a fantastic way to appreciate Avila's coastal ecosystem. If you’re traveling with your furry friend or are wanting to see some cute pups, Olde Port Beach allows dogs 24/7.   

During the summertime, Avila Beach offers a wonderful evening farmer’s market complete with fresh produce, local cuisine, artwork, live music, and so much more! The farmer’s market is on Fridays from 4-8pm beginning in May and running through the end of August. 

Indulge in a sweet treat - available for all ages!

End your perfect day in Avila Beach with a sweet treat from Reimer’s Candies & Ice Cream. This charming candy shop has an old-fashioned feel and offers an extensive selection of handmade chocolates, truffles and caramels. If you are in the mood for ice cream, Reimer’s has you covered with a variety of flavors. A scoop of their salted caramel or classic chocolate ice cream is the perfect way to end the evening, leaving you with sweet memories of Avila Beach. If you prefer a nightcap, Mr. Ricks is located directly across from the pier and offers delicious cocktails. Enjoy your drink indoors or outdoors with a great ocean view accompanied by some live music!