Accessible Adventures in SLO CAL

It's time for an epic outdoor adventure, no matter how you move. Check out these accessible SLO CAL trails:

Bob Jones City to Sea Trail

Picture six miles of smooth, paved path stretching from SLO CAL’s famous hot springs to the white sands of Avila Beach. This trail offers scenic views, tranquil creekside spots and inviting picnic areas all the way to the shoreline. It's an easy, picturesque ride that's perfect for a beachside adventure!

More info: Find the Bob Jones City to Sea Trail trailhead and parking lot on Ontario Road in Avila Beach, parallel to the 101 freeway. Along the way stop at Woodstone Marketplace, a great spot for stocking up on water, snacks and provisions.
 

Railroad Safety Trail

Looking for a unique urban trail? Discover the Railroad Safety Tail, a flat, paved journey alongside the historic rail lines of San Luis Obispo. This 1.9-mile trail provides a flat, easy ride with glimpses of trains passing by. It's split into two parts (soon to be adjoined), running alongside active train tracks. You can explore from the Cal Poly campus down to the heart of downtown, passing cool spots like the Railroad Museum. It's a perfect blend of local history and accessible adventure! Feel free to bring Fido, too.

More Info: The northern portion extends from Cal Poly's football stadium, while the southern segment connects southeast neighborhoods to downtown and the Amtrak station. Official parking is limited, street parking is available near the southern segment.

 

Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail

Looking for a well-maintained path with the breathtaking coastline as your backdrop? This one's for you. The Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail is your ticket to stunning ocean views and rugged beauty, all on a 4.1-mile loop. Though the trail mixes dirt and gravel, it offers plenty of scenic spots to take in the fresh sea air. Note: You may require all-terrain wheels or motorized equipment for wheelchairs. While mostly gentle, some steeper sections exist.

More Info: This oceanside bluff trail is located at Pecho Valley Road in Los Osos. Find a van-accessible parking space and wheelchair-accessible restrooms at the trail's end.
 

Cloister Walk

Embark on a picturesque journey along the Cloister Walk, where a 2-mile paved path leads you through the northwestern coast of Morro Bay. With ocean views, this accessible trail offers multiple access points and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh coastal breeze.

More info: This paved pathway starts at Azure Street in the northern part of the city, nestled between residential areas to the east and the beach to the west. As you travel south, pass Cloisters Community Park, featuring a wildlife-rich pond and wetlands. Interpretive signs along the way provide local habitat information.
 

Go Green at the Nipomo Native Garden

Love learning about SLO CAL’s native plants? This 0.6-mile loop trail offers an accessible route for wheelchair users, those with limited mobility and nature lovers. Discover the plant communities endemic to the Nipomo Mesa and Guadalupe/Nipomo Dunes, all year long.

More info: The Nipomo Native Garden is a twelve-acre site located at 999 Osage St #927 in Nipomo. Look for Information kiosks informing visitors about the garden. There are no restroom facilities available at this time, so plan your visit accordingly.
 

Find Trail Freedom on Any Terrain

Ready to take your adventure off the beaten path? Positive Ride is revolutionizing outdoor accessibility in SLO CAL. This nonprofit organization offers adaptive adventures using Freedom Trax, a device that temporarily converts manual wheelchairs into all-terrain powerhouses. Whether you're yearning to feel sand between your toes, explore rugged trails or attend local festivals, Positive Ride's mission is to ensure everyone can experience "the positive ride of life."

Get Going: Pack a picnic and plenty of water for your journey, or plan to hit a local lunch spot along the way, like 1865 Craft House & Kitchen Restaurant in San Luis Obispo, known for elevated American eats.

Longing for a good beach day? In SLO CAL, the sand and surf are for everyone:
 

Surf's Up!

Ever dreamed of hanging ten? AmpSurf is making waves (pun totally intended) with adaptive surfing programs at Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Their awesome instructors and specialized gear mean you'll be riding those waves in no time!
 

Beach Wheelchair Rental in Pismo Beach

Sand and wheels don't usually mix, except in SLO CAL. Snag a beach wheelchair in Pismo Beach and cruise the coastline like a boss. Those balloon tires are sand's worst enemy. There are currently two beach wheelchairs available to the public and visitors of Pismo Beach at no charge—reserve yours by calling Sandcastle Hotel.
 

Beach Wheels in Avila

Enjoy Avila Beach’s wheelchair-friendly promenade or take it to the sand with a free beach wheelchairs. Choose from manual push chairs or motorized beach buggies to cruise the sand. Reserve in advance from Avila Lighthouse Suites by calling ahead and get ready for sun, sea and fun!
 

Perfect Day in Morro Bay

Start your adventure at Morro Rock Beach, where miles of sandy shores await your exploration. Thanks to the City's Beach Wheelchair Program, this stretch of ocean is more easily accessible. These mobility chairs are available for free – just contact the Harbor Department for all the details!

Get Going: The Morro Bay Harborwalk is a 0.5-mile asphalt trail perfect for a quick, refreshing escape. Whether you're rolling, strolling or using a mobility aid, you'll be treated to sparkling surf, sandy beaches and the iconic Morro Rock in the distance. Note: Keep an eye out for adorable sea otters who call the bay home.

SLO CAL wine country escapes where everyone can raise a glass:
 

Dark Star Cellars

Smooth sipping starts with a smooth entry at this Paso Robles wine destination. A wide open 3,000-square-foot tasting room perfect for stretching out is combined with helpful staff and amazing wine! Meet the winery dog, taste at your own pace and enjoy the rustic vineyard surroundings.

More info: Dark Star is a rustic working winery and vineyard in Paso Robles, located just off Highway 46 West 46 at 2985 Anderson Road, two miles off Highway 101. There is plenty of parking available and local ride services are only minutes away.
 

Halter Ranch Vineyard

Raise a glass to awesome wine. The historic 2,700-acre property combines a sprawling ranch with estate vines and onsite restaurant, Alice. From easy parking to an accessible tasting room, Halter Ranch in Paso Robles offers the VIP treatment for every guest. Go on, enjoy incredible sit-down food and wine pairings.

More info: Halter Ranch Vineyard’s wheelchair accessible tasting room is located at 8910 Adelaida Road in Paso Robles. Note: Vineyard tours via a Land Rover Defender allow folks of all abilities to move through the landscape with ease.
 

Claiborne & Churchill

With a disability-friendly website and a cheerful, eco-conscious “straw bale” tasting room staffed with folks ready to serve, Claiborne & Churchill embodies the belief that wine tasting should be an inclusive experience. Savor wines in their beautiful cellar tasting room or the garden, backdropped by rolling green hills.

More info: Experience Claiborne & Churchill's unique wines in the heart of Edna Valley at 2649 Carpenter Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo. Just minutes from San Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande and Pismo Beach, this cozy tasting room is the perfect springboard for a great day exploring SLO CAL.
 

Tablas Creek Vineyard

Wine enthusiasts rave about Tablas Creek Vineyard’s commitment to both sustainability and accessibility – it's as impressive as their wine list! Their thoughtfully designed tasting room offers select wheelchair-friendly seating, ensuring everyone can savor the flavors of Paso Robles comfortably.

More info: Tablas Creek Vineyard tasting room is located at 9339 Adelaida Road, about 15 minutes north-west of the town of Templeton via Vineyard Drive. Reserve an accessible table by including a note in the “special instructions” section of your reservation.
 

Beer and Whiskey Tastings

Cocktails, casual smokehouse cuisine and plenty of room to maneuver around a lush outdoor beer garden? Cheers to Rod & Hammer in San Luis Obispo. Discover unique and flavorful California whiskey offerings from bourbon to rye and ready-to-drink cocktails. This must-visit hotspot is more than happy to accommodate service animals, too.

More info: Located at 855 Aerovista Place in San Luis Obispo, Rod & Hammer The Rock features wheelchair-accessible indoor and outdoor seating with several dog-friendly tables.

Get Going: When planning your accessible SLO CAL trip, don't hesitate to reach out to tasting rooms directly. Many wineries, breweries and distilleries are happy to discuss specific accessibility needs and ensure a comfortable, enjoyable visit.

Don't about snagging a ride in SLO CAL. These friendly services are here to take the wheel:
 

SLO Safe Ride: Your Designated Driver

Call SLO Safe Ride for the ultimate SLO CAL wine tour experience. Their accessible transit vans are ready to whisk you through Paso Robles and Edna Valley. Sip, savor and never worry about designated driving.
 

Ride Happy with Runabout Paratransit!

This cheerful, county-wide transit service is at your beck and call. With wheelchair-accessible vehicles and helpful drivers, Runabout makes getting around SLO CAL a breeze. Just remember to get your ADA certification before your visit, as it's your ticket to stress-free travel.
 

Ride-On: Accessible SLO CAL Adventures

For decades, Ride-On has provided locals and visitors inclusive transportation to scenic vineyards, beautiful beaches and everywhere in between. These accommodating buses and jovial drivers ensure stress-free journeys for individuals and groups alike. With 24-hour advance booking, Ride-On saves the day with affordable, round-the-clock shuttle options.

SLO CAL's rich culture is open to all. Here are some must-visit spots:
 

See it All at San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

Get your art fix with SLOMA (San Luis Obispo Museum of Art). They offer tactile tours for the visually impaired and staff is trained in assisting visitors with various disability needs. Audio guides and large-print materials are available upon request.

📍 Address: 1010 Broad Street San Luis Obispo, CA
 

Explore the Cal Poly PAC

A world of wonder awaits visitors to the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center (PAC). Wheelchair accessible seating is available for all of the PAC’s shows, which include a range of music, comedy and awe-inspiring dance performances.

📍 Address: Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
 

Cheer and Boo at the Melodrama

Looking for theatrical fun for the whole family? The Great American Melodrama in Oceano offers up a rollicking blend of song, dance and audience participation. Note: Wheelchair seating is limited, so be sure to call ahead to reserve.

📍 Address: 1863 Front St, Oceano, CA
 

Hello Hearst Castle

Live out your Great Gatsby dreams at Hearst Castle with accessible tours of this iconic San Simeon mansion. Ramps and shuttle buses? Check and check! Audio descriptions are also available for visually impaired visitors, and assistive listening devices for those with hearing impairments.

📍 Address: 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA
 

Illuminate the Way to Point San Luis Lighthouse

A bright spot: The historic Point San Luis Lighthouse is known for going above and beyond in terms of accessibility. Enjoy a range of lighthouse tour accommodations, from wheelchair access to resources for visitors with sensory sensitivities. It's a shining example of inclusive seaside fun in SLO CAL!

📍 Address: 1 Lighthouse Rd, Avila Beach, CA

 

Make Memories at Madonna Inn

Discover accessibility with a side of whimsy at this iconic SLO CAL road stop, aptly dubbed “the pink palace.” With five spacious ADA-compliant rooms with well-designed roll-in showers and a pool with a lift, Madonna Inn is where accessibility meets eccentricity for an unforgettable stay.

📍 Address: 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA
 

Get Glowing at Sensorio

Experience a dazzling symphony of lights at Sensorio! This accessible art experience glows with fiber optic LED lights, painting the Paso Robles landscape in a breathtaking array of colors. Wheelchair-friendly paths, strategically placed benches and audio descriptions allow everyone to immerse themselves in this magical wine country spectacle. Visit just before sunset to watch the transition from day to night — it's like seeing two shows in one!

📍 Address: 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles, CA

Go Wild at the Charles Paddock Zoo

Tigers, monkeys and so much more: This Atascadero wildlife haven is committed to ensuring everyone can visit SLO CAL’s most exotic residents. With accessible grounds and handy accommodations for various disabilities, the Charles Paddock Zoo is a family-friendly destination for all animal lovers.

📍 Address: 9100 Morro Road, Atascadero, CA
 

Everyone Loves the Elephant Seal Rookery

Witness nature’s grandeur at this free San Simeon attraction featuring wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms and informative audio tours. Here, massive elephant seals sunbathe, nurse and nap. No reservations required for this real-life nature program – just come as you are and enjoy the show at the Elephant Seal Rookery.

📍 Address: 200 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA
 

Set Sail on Sub Sea Tours and Kayaks

Dive into an oceanic adventure you’ll never forget! This Morro Bay boat tour can accommodate visitors with various mobility challenges, ensuring a comfortable and exciting whale-watching experience. Note: The Sub Sea Tour can handle a wheelchair easily, while the whale watching excursion requires traversing a few steps—better suited for folks who walk with a cane or crutches.

📍 Address: 699 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA