SLO CAL Wellness Weekend Itinerary

Morning: a mindful start to your wellness weekend

A.M. Yoga: Begin your SLO CAL wellness weekend with a deep stretch and sun salutation. SLO CAL yoga studios offer drop-in wellness classes, so take your pick! In San Luis Obispo, partake in a restorative yoga class at The Center, hot pilates at Spark Yoga or connect with grounding outdoor classes at Yoga Standard. Tip: With “goat yoga” offered at Madonna Inn and even “beer yoga” hosted at Ancient Owl in Atascadero (everything in moderation, right?), discover countless unique ways to improve your practice.

Breakfast: Start your wellness weekend with a nutritious, energy-packed breakfast at one of SLO CAL’s popular plant-based breakfast spots. Make a beeline for Bliss Cafe in downtown San Luis Obispo for zesty vegan “karma asada” breakfast burritos served with fresh tomatillo guacamole. Feeling that sweet tooth? Go for a stack of vegan, gluten-free pancakes topped with organic berries.

Hike Cerro San Luis: Climb higher toward your wellness goals while enjoying views of SLO CAL and the rolling hills beyond. Winding along Madonna Mountain, Cerro San Luis is a 3.9-mile out-and-back trail popular for hiking, running and walking. Prepare for a moderately challenging trek with 1,500 feet of elevation (note: dogs are welcome on leash). You’ll work up a sweat, but the views are a sweet reward.

Cruise Prefumo Canyon Drive: Joyride along SLO CAL’s stunning Prefumo Canyon Drive. As you wind along the elevated road from San Luis Obispo to Avila Beach, take in panoramic views of the coast and iconic Morro Rock. Tip: An epic turnoff spot perched at a high point of the route is sure to inspire quiet reflection.

Afternoon: gentle journey from forest to sea

Bike the Bob Jones Trail: Let the good times roll. In Avila Beach, embark on a peaceful, low-impact bike ride that winds from creek to sea. Encompassing three miles roundtrip, this flat, gentle ride meanders through sycamore forest, a pristine golf course and ends at Avila Beach’s white sand shore. Tip: At the start of the ride, stop at Woodstone Market for water, SPF and local provisions.

Lunch: Refuel with a hearty lunch at Avila Market, where the vibe is seriously fresh. Overlooking Avila Beach’s coveted coastline, there’s no better place to grub down on sandwiches, fish and chips and more. For a refreshing meal, be sure to check out the market’s popular acai bowls, laden with toppings like berries, banana, pineapple, coconut, almonds, granola and peanut butter.

Sauna away stress: Find refuge at Avila Beach Spa & Massage, located at the Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa. This charming spa is open to the public without membership—which means you can take full advantage of the pool, Jacuzzi and FAR infrared sauna.

Stroll Harford Pier: An afternoon walk along historic Harford Pier is uniquely meditative. Watch fishermen cast a line as harbor seals lounge in the sun. For those with energy to burn, hop in a kayak at Avila Beach Paddlesports and paddle back in time to the historic Port San Luis Lighthouse, a fun, scenic loop frequented by seabirds and playful otters.

Evening: soak, savor and sleep in SLO CAL

Hot tub soak: SLO CAL’s soothing mineral spring waters have been attracting visitors for centuries. With private and group tubs situated on a scenic hillside shaded by peaceful oak branches, Sycamore Mineral Resort in Avila Beach provides endless relaxation in a naturally restorative environment. Tip: Find local wine available for sipping as you soak.

Dinner: In downtown San Luis Obispo, discover a vibrant and diverse restaurant scene filled with global cuisines and plant-based options. Dive into farm fresh flavors plated nightly at Novo and Luna Red. For more fresh ideas, stroll to The Creamery, home of exquisite Peruvian fare at Mistura and top shelf sushi at Goshi Japanese Restaurant.

Check-in to great sleep: With plush amenities like private balconies, soaking tubs and crackling fireplaces, self care soars to new levels in SLO CAL. At downtown San Luis Obipso’s Hotel Cerro, hit the onsite gym, take a plunge in the rooftop pool or simply sink into super-soft luxury bed linens for some world class shut-eye. Tip: Many SLO CAL lodging accommodations are proudly dog-friendly. Be sure to ask about your furry friends when booking. Just remember: whether or not they’re allowed to hog the bed is up to you.

Breakfast: Wake refreshed and renewed in SLO CAL. In preparation for your second day of wellness-centered adventures, grab a quick, nourishing nosh at Julia’s Juice Bar in Grover Beach. Choose from cold-pressed juices, wellness shots and enticing grab-and-go eats like vegetarian breakfast sandwiches and sweet cashew-chia pudding. Tip: The smoothies at Julia’s are famously good, packed with everything from kale and tropical fruit to dark chocolate and dates.

Experience Nipomo: Cruise to nearby Nipomo, where undulating dunes cascade into infinity. Amidst this awe-inspiring sight, find fascinating local history on display at the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center. Learn about the Dunites, pioneering bohemians who came to SLO CAL in search of  mindful, intentional living (sound familiar?).

Golf and glow: Combine a chill round of golf with rejuvenating bodywork. Nestled within Nipomo’s Trilogy Golf Resort, Sandalwood Spas offers Swedish, deep tissue and CBD-enhanced massages, plus purifying wraps, scrubs and mud baths. Tip: If you wish, choose from couple's and prenatal options, too.

Hike Oso Flaco Lake: Savor a slice of SLO CAL solitude in Nipomo. At Oso Flaco Lake, wander along the flat boardwalk which leads from a secluded forested area to sand dunes and the ocean beyond (prepare for an easy 2.2-mile out-and-back trail). Along the way, stop at Oso Flaco Lake, a watering hole for coastal seabirds, deer and turtles. Tip: Don’t forget those binoculars for spectacular birdwatching!

Pause for pedicure: Carve out a little extra “me-time” in nearby Oceano or Grover Beach. With dozens of laid back nail salons to choose from, sink into a comfortable massage chair and allow the pampering to begin. Tip: Signature Nails and Spa in Grover Beach is sure to get your toes twinkling in no time.

Pismo Beach Butterfly Preserve: Cultivate a renewed sense of wonder as you observe hundreds of orange-and-black Monarch Butterflies fluttering along Eucalyptus branches. The Pismo Beach Butterfly Preserve is especially awe-inspiring during October-February, when migrating butterflies hit peak numbers.

Afternoon - find bliss on a board and beyond

Get active in Pismo: Hit the surf or the turf in SLO CAL. Hike the Pismo Preserve, surf the Pier or rent a standup paddle board and test your balance. Feeling extra adventurous? Book a tour of Pismo’s mysterious Dinosaur Caves, ancient rocky sea caverns only accessible by kayak.

Lunch: Break for a mindful bite in Pismo Beach, where Y'Not Organic offers all things organic, vegan and local. Dine on veggie-packed tacos, flavorful soups and sandwiches plus robust salads and grain bowls. Of course, wash it all down with cold-pressed juices or organic tea. Tip: Not sure what to order? The eatery’s vegan black bean burger is served with ripe avocado and spicy jalapeno aioli. Enough said!

Detour through Wine Country: Cruise through nearby Edna Valley for postcard-worthy vineyards, charming tasting rooms and plenty of opportunities to savor the present moment in all of its slow-moving deliciousness.

Take a workshop: Learn something new to expand your view. Nestled in the hills of east of Arroyo Grande, Branch Mill Organic Farm & Retreat Center offers weekly classes and monthly workshops focused on all facets of wellbeing. Whether you’re into meditation, yoga, reiki or sound baths, there’s a workshop to try. Tip: Depending on when you visit, ask about upcoming full moon celebrations.

Explore Montaña de Oro: Soak up the last drops of SLO CAL sunshine in enchanting Los Osos. Whether on horseback or foot, you’re sure to find inner peace at Montaña de Oro State Park. Named for the “mountains of gold” that return each spring, discover pebbly beaches, exceptional trails and shimmering tidepools galore.

Evening - dinner and a sunset show

Shine on: Explore SLO CAL feeling—and looking—your very best. AcuGlo Acupuncture in Los Osos blends ancient Chinese healing modalities with modern beautifying techniques. Experience the glow-inducing benefits of facial acupuncture, gua sha, facial reflexology and time-tested herbal remedies.

Dinner: Unwind in uncrowded Baywood, where local flavor abounds. A decades-long favorite nestled in an unassuming location, Nois Second Street Cafe offers up some of the best Thai curries, spring rolls and noodle dishes in all of SLO CAL. Grab an authentic Thai feast to-go and chow down at the base of the Baywood Park Pier. Overlooking the placid, back-bay waters, enjoy the best seats in the house. Sunsets in SLO CAL promise a watercolor show of pink and orange delight!

Morning - sunrise on the beach

Wake up to Morro Bay: Take in the sunrise from the Morro Bay Embarcadero, where kayakers, fishermen and otters congregate. Located on Morro Bay’s famous waterfront, Daisy’s Organic Coffee and Tea is here to perk up your senses with refreshing iced matcha drinks, oat milk macchiatos and superfood smoothies.

Breakfast: Just south on Highway 1 in Cayucos, tuck into a unique breakfast favorite. Hidden Kitchen is famous for crafting delicious gluten-free blue corn waffles topped with everything from mushrooms, corn and peppers to almond butter and organic maple syrup.

Stroll the dog beach: Traveling with your furry bestie? Hit the Cayucos Dog Beach and watch the pups romp and roll. A leisurely walk along the sand is a great way to keep active while taking in SLO CAL’s incredible views and wildlife.

Road trip up Highway 1: Venture farther north on scenic Highway 1 to Cambria, where towering pines cascade to the sea. Tip: Craving a moment of zen? Head to Moonstone Beach and listen to the waves roll in. 

Stop for tea: Observe tea time at Verde, a cozy Cambria tea shop home to dozens of luxury and organic teas. Be sure to check out the West Village’s art galleries, tasting rooms and shops. Tip: Nearby Spellbound Gift Shop and Garden provides calming candles, wind chimes and more in a whimsical, antique setting.

Afternoon - road trip a coastal dreamscape

Lunch: Grab a luscious lunch at Soto True Earth Market in Cambria, home to natural foods, local produce, sandwiches, prepared bowls, salads and fresh juices. Tip: The popular Chicken Curry wrap features chicken curry or plant based chicken curry salad, cucumbers, red onions, baby kale, miso vinaigrette, roasted almonds and garlic aioli wrapped in a spinach tortilla. Yum!

Cruise to San Simeon and Ragged Point: An awe-inspiring drive, “The Gateway to Big Sur” provides the perfect setting to recount the weekend’s high notes. “Cliffside views” are sure to make your gratitude list today—this scenic stretch of Highway 1 reveals iconic lookout points, photo opps and even a secret waterfall (if you know where to look).

Cruise Highway 46: Roll from coast to countryside on Highway 46 East. This unique scenic route cuts from Highway 1 to Paso Robles, where wine tasting rooms and vineyards abound. Tip: The vegan cheese menu is world class at The Vreamery. Located within the vibrant Paso Market Walk, find a few plant-based treasures to enjoy on the road.

Evening - savor the local terrain

Dinner: Taste the best of local bounty at Thomas Hill Organics in downtown Paso Robles. Here, thoughtful plates are piled high with regional goodness. Pair your meal with local wine and an epic dessert, like the restaurant’s rich flourless chocolate cake.

After-dinner steps: Ready to walk it off? Nearby Atascadero is the perfect place to stretch your legs at sunset. The Three Bridges Oak Preserve Trail is a moderate loop with an out-and-back option for those looking to extend their time in SLO CAL’s dreamy scenery.

Choose your own path

Leaving SLO CAL is never easy. Good thing you’ve got one last day to enjoy more special moments of zen. Mix-and-match your Monday for an epic end to a stellar SLO CAL wellness weekend. Tip: It makes good sense to extend the fun an additional day, as Mondays see less travel-related traffic and it’s cheaper to fly out. What to do? Revisit a few of your favorite SLO CAL spots or check out an array of diverse outdoor activities ranging from zip-lines to wildlife viewing.

More wellness weekend ideas in SLO CAL

Go seaweed foraging: At Marley Family Seaweeds in Cayucos, book an unforgettable foraging tour along the SLO CAL coast. Named Lonely Planet's “Top 6 Places to Go Foraging in the US,” enjoy an intimate, hands-on experience. Yes, you’ll be identifying and picking your own seaweed superfood! The best part? A steamy bowl of seaweed ramen awaits participants at the end of the tour.

Light up the night: Check out Paso Robles’ Sensorio Exhibit for a bright idea come sundown. Combining the grandeur of wine country with otherworldly glowing lights, there’s no better place to cap off a dreamy wellness weekend in SLO CAL. Tip: Sensorio’s new Ter­race Expe­ri­ence + Plat­ter includes admis­sion, exclu­sive access to the Pri­vate Ter­race with guar­an­teed seat­ing, pri­or­i­ty entry at open­ing, pri­vate restrooms, Airstream bar, fire­side tables, heaters, refreshments and the best views of the exhi­bi­tion.

Cheers to your travels: SLO CAL is a great place to clink and drink fancy cocktails (and non-alcoholic mocktails). Cheers to an amazing wellness weekend at Alchemist’s Garden in Paso Robles, where the libations are mixed with fresh citrus and herbs. Did you know that SLO CAL is also home to a vibrant craft distillery scene? Check out a range of cool tasting rooms, many of which offer educational tours as well as tastings. When it comes to wellness in SLO CAL, it’s all about balance!

Explore farmers markets: Ready to experience local flavor in the freshest way possible? Farmers markets unfold seven days of the week in SLO CAL. Meet local purveyors while picking up fresh produce and artisanal products. Find fresh-baked goodies in Baywood, local honey in Paso Robles and a mix of entertainment, hot food and vendors in downtown San Luis Obispo. Tip: Running Friday evenings from 4-8 p.m. the seasonal Avila Beach Farmers Market comes with an astounding sunset view.

Discover preserves and open spaces: Ditch the hustle and bustle in favor of SLO CAL’s famous flora and fauna. A vast number of preserves and open spaces make this slice of paradise truly magical. These precious, protected areas allow visitors to hike, mountain bike or even horseback ride along pristine coastal bluffs, oak-studded wilderness and rolling green meadows. Tip: Located in Cambria, The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a peaceful 430-acre open space property that hugs the Pacific Ocean. Get out and explore!

Cycle SLO CAL: There’s nothing like viewing SLO CAL’s stunning scenery from behind two handlebars. With an impressive network of cycling routes to explore from Nipomo to Ragged Point, there’s a perfect ride for everyone. Cruise on an e-bike through Pismo Beach or challenge yourself to a long-haul ride through San Simeon’s towering cliffs. Whatever level you’re at, find awesome opportunities to spin.

Get some shut-eye: Catching up on sleep isn’t just important—it’s a perfectly suitable hobby in SLO CAL. With a plethora of amazing lodging options to choose from, rest easy in no time. Whether you fancy a resort by the ocean or a cottage surrounded by vineyards, discover a sleep oasis in SLO CAL. Go ahead, sleep in.