Live music in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) is around every turn. Conveniently located between major tour stops in Los Angeles and San Francisco, the region regularly benefits from an added stop for major artists. However, keep reading this music guide and you’ll see why SLO CAL is also a hub of local musical talent. Discover the music and musicians inspired by SLO CAL’s places and people.
To start, watch the series SLO CAL Spotlight: Where the Music Takes You. Then use this live music guide to plan your concert itinerary. From where to stop for a pre-show ritual, to learning about the top venue and where to hang out after, you’ll find that SLO CAL is in every note.
Featured SLO CAL Artists
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Michael Venia
“The music scene is beyond just the music, it’s how I’ve cultivated best friends and people that have become family.”
About: Michael is a local mastering engineer and musician, whose credits include Netflix, CBS Sports and Showtime and whose work has touched more than 5,000 artists. Venia is frontman for Carbon City Lights and appeared on Season 21 of The Voice.
Watch: Episode 1, “The Healing Sound” with Carbon City Lights
Dan Curcio
“Connecting people from all different backgrounds, from all different age ranges, different economic backgrounds, different religions…Bringing people [together] from all walks of life is the most beautiful power that music has."
About: Dan had dreams of being a touring musician from a young age. Curcio turned those dreams into a reality and is a multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter and also the frontman of California based musical project Moonshine Collective.
Watch: Episode 2, “The Collective Spirit” with Moonshiner Collective
Nico Larson
“My inspiration comes from all of the diverse landscapes around this county—ocean to mountain to city—and all the beautiful people that live here."
About: Nico is the pianist, guitarist and lead singer of the world touring band Próxima Parada. Since the early days playing in the dorms at Cal Poly to today, Larson has called San Luis Obispo home.
Where to Explore Pre-Show
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Before the doors open, SLO CAL offers tons of entertainment and activities to keep everyone happy up until opening act. Below are a few recommended spots, or create your own mix with all the things to do in SLO CAL.
Oceano Dunes
Play and explore these expansive dunes by foot, board or vehicle. Hours of entertainment packed with inspiration and adventure.
“Can’t beat the ocean views from the Oceano Dunes! It’s really special because it takes me back to growing up in the Middle East and spending time in the desert. There was a similar spot I used to go to in Saudi Arabia that had a view of the Persian Gulf.”– Michael Venia
Highway 1
Explore from Ragged Point to Cayucos pulling off along the way to take in the epic coastline and roadside attractions. Grab a drink at Cayucos Coffee, walk the pier and enjoy the day at the beach.
Downtown San Luis Obispo
"If my voice would allow ice cream before the show, I’d get a scoop...10 times out of 10."– Nico Larson
Walkable and filled with local shops and treats, build your own path, or follow Nico’s stroll starting at Splendor for a scoop (or two), then relaxing on the back patio of Linnaea’s with a tea before strolling along the creek walk.
Live Music Venues in SLO CAL
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In SLO CAL, you’ll find traditional venues with top tier light and sound engineers, down the road from the quirky and unusual spots for stripped back performances. Outdoor venues are popular, while indoor spots are booked year-round. And don’t forget to check out the local music festivals such as Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival at Castoro Cellars and indie-electronic Shabang.
The Siren
📍900 Main Street, Morro Bay
Located in downtown Morro Bay, The Siren has it all. Sports bar and grill, dancing, billiards and of course, live music. Concerts are booked every weekend, and they always have a mix of local and touring acts. The venue is intimate and versatile, a recipe for a great listening experience.
SLO Brew Live at The Rock
📍855 Aerovista Lane, San Luis Obispo
A venue built for live music, there’s always an exciting show to catch at The Rock. 500-person venue capacity, dedicated concert space, over 30 years of experience booking bands and one of the largest LED display walls on the Central Coast, this is a big city venue without the hassle (including plenty of on-site free parking).
Performing Arts Center (PAC)
📍1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo
On Cal Poly’s campus, live music events at the PAC range from musicals to musical ensembles and everything in between. The home to performing arts in San Luis Obispo, this complex encompasses multiple venues, including 1,286 seat Harold Miossi Hall. Hosting over 150 public performances annually, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.
More venues to discover:
Popular Post-Show Hangout
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Looking for a spot to grab a bite after the show? Or wondering where you can keep the good times flowing? These are some favorites, where you might even find the band hanging out after the show.
“It’s been a minute, but Tonita’s in SLO is definitely the OG for late night, post-show munchies.” – Dan Curcio
Plan Your Music Journey
Now all that’s left to do with this live music guide, is to book your trip and create music memories of your own. And music is just the beginning of a journey to SLO CAL. Between shows, outdoor adventures, unique culinary experiences and small-town charm are at your fingertips. Then until your next visit, add a song or two to your playlist and each time you hear it, be transported back to SLO CAL.
