Ultimate Guide to Shabang, SLO CAL's Coolest Music Festival

Shabang Music Festival comes from humble roots. The beloved event originated as a modest DIY gathering nestled in the mountains above Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Initiated by three college students, their intention was to host "The Last Shabang" for a group of 20 friends, driven by their mutual passion for music and community-building. Fast forward to today, and the festival has evolved into a highly-anticipated West Coast weekend event, drawing in over ten thousand attendees annually!

While the tunes are top notch, so’s the setting: Shabang Music Festival is famous for showcasing SLO CAL’s stunning scenery alongside illustrious music acts. As you arrive into town, take in views of Mission architecture, rolling hills and majestic oaks. From pristine beaches to wildflower-dotted hiking trails, SLO CAL is the perfect destination for an epic music festival getaway.

Situated amidst the picturesque Dairy Creek Golf Course in San Luis Obispo, the 2024 Shabang Music Festival offers up a dreamy hangout accessible to all of SLO CAL’s awesome outdoor wonders. The venue features a grassy, sunny expanse with plenty of room to stretch out, dance and mingle.

Who’s playing? SLO CAL hosts an array of heavy-hitters during this year’s Shabang Music Festival. Prepare to be blown away by a dynamic lineup of 60+ artists gracing multiple stages—yes, you’ll want to plan your itinerary ahead of time, ensuring you catch all your favorite acts (and some new ones too).

Get pumped for headliners like two-time GRAMMY-winner Thundercat plus cool rising stars on the scene. Don’t miss Canadian indie-pop outfit Peach Pit, beloved for their catchy hooks and dreamy melodies, or Noizu, who blends house and techno bops to perfection. Plus, catch GRAMMY-nominated SIDEPIECE, known for infectious beats and NYC house icons Walker & Royce, both sure to be highlights of this year’s festival. Learn more about the action-packed 2024 Shabang artist lineup here.

Tip: Get ready for the fun with an epic road trip soundtrack! Check out this handy Spotify playlist of Shabang Music Festival artists.

^{Photo courtesy of Shabang}

Keep the vibes high with Shabang’s eclectic marketplace, complete with an array of food and drink options to keep everyone hydrated and happy. There are no ins or outs during the festival, so it’s good to know that folks can find local purveyors, art installations and activities like yoga and workshops onsite at the Shabang Music Festival grounds.

Explore the colorful Vendor Village, catch performances from live painters and aerialists (yes, people dancing in midair) and don't forget to check out the silent-disco Haüs Party for a unique experience. In case you were wondering: Yes, there’s plenty of cocktails, beer and hard seltzers available at multiple bars in the area, with non-alcoholic drinks on-hand, too.

Keep the good times rolling! Make the most of your Shabang Music Festival experience with the best insider tips on all things SLO CAL. Surrounded by incredible sights and destinations, you’ll want to spend some time hiking local peaks, discovering regional history and splashing through coastal wonders.

Whether you're interested in exploring SLO CAL’s restaurants and breweries, or can’t wait to hit the local hot springs, there’s so much more to explore while you’re here. From scenic Highway 1 and Hearst Castle to ziplines and ATV rides, SLO CAL is all about savoring every moment along the journey. 

1. Explore SLO CAL's Breweries and Beyond

Crack open a cold one! Craft beer flows freely in SLO CAL, home to welcoming taprooms and sprawling beer gardens. Grab a chair or unfurl a picnic blanket at BarrelHouse Brewing Company in Paso Robles’ Tin City, where you can kick back in the sun while food trucks and live music enliven the vibe each weekend. Nearby, in downtown Paso, The Backyard on Thirteenth combines a relaxed dog-friendly “backyard” hangout with 28 rotating taps featuring craft beer, wine, hard kombucha, hard seltzer and more.

In San Luis Obispo, a trip to iconic Central Coast Brewing Co. is always in order (be sure to try a taste of their award-winning Monterey Street Pale Ale) or head to local hangout Liquid Gravity, where creative house-brewed selections are enjoyed around a crackling fire pit (be sure to ask about the giant Jenga and check the calendar for live music nights and events). With two laid back beer gardens in San Luis Obispo and Atascadero, Ancient Owl Beer Garden and Bottle Shop is known for unique bottled and on-tap offerings sourced from microbreweries across the country. Try a new favorite or give a flight of local brews a go—there's always something fresh to sample. 

Tip: Hitting the breweries and wondering where you'll eat? While many SLO CAL breweries serve appetizers and small plates, some are known for hearty meals: Humdinger Brewing Co. in Arroyo Grande is famous for outrageously tasty comfort fare, while ManRock Brewing Company in Grover Beach serves up sizzling pizzas and melty nachos to share with the gang. When it comes to enjoying a killer meal with friends, the Rod & Hammer restaurant at SLO Brew The Rock is ideal: With a 30-barrel brewhouse on-site, find dozens of brews and housemade spirits alongside a generous menu of pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers and more. 

2. Try Famous SLO CAL Eats

Make room for SLO CAL's famous local eats. Truly, SLO CAL is all about enjoying bold flavors without the white tablecloth. Find an array of awesome casual eats served hot across the region, from classic tri-tip sandwiches topped with salsa to irresistible pizzas and tantalizing tacos. The San Luis Obispo Tri-Tip Challenge is beloved by local Cal Poly SLO college students (and you’re invited to partake in the fun, too). Hike The Cal Poly “P,” Madonna Mountain and Bishop’s Peak followed by an iconic tri-tip sandwich at Firestone Grill in Downtown San Luis Obispo. Now you’re practically a local! 

When it comes to crowd-pleasing, affordable meals, there’s no shortage of popular options in SLO CAL: Go for locally-loved Woodstock’s Pizza in downtown San Luis Obispo (vegan and gluten-free options available) or grab thick, Detroit-style squares from Benny’s Pizza Palace and Social Club nearby. While you’re in SLO CAL, be sure to spice it up with authentic Mexican food: Stop at Zorro’s Cafe & Cantina in Pismo Beach for a zesty plate of huevos rancheros or carne asada tacos. For a grab-and-go lunch to write home about, order a sky-high sandwich from High Street Deli, with locations in Baywood/Los Osos and San Luis Obispo (always half off at 4:20 p.m.). 

Craving a juicy burger with a side of local color? Sylvester’s Burgers in Oceano and Atascadero is known for slathering generous patties with epic toppings. Meanwhile, Frank’s Chili Dogs in downtown San Luis Obispo has been curing morning hangovers with robust dogs, breakfast burritos and burgers since 1977. When it comes to dessert, not much competes with Linn's Olallieberry Pie—a Cambria staple—or a slice of pink champagne cake from SLO's fabulously kitschy Madonna Inn. 

Looking for lighter fare? For vegetarian, plant-based and vegan eats, look no further than the American comfort menu offered at Ziggy’s (locations in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles), where you can find everything from a meticulously-crafted vegan Crunchwrap Supreme to a thick dairy-free milkshake. After a day of exploring Morro Rock, kick back then with a cold Whalebird Kombucha and a plate of famous tempeh tacos at Shine Cafe in Morro Bay. Similarly, any of the epic sandwiches, sides and soups at Y Not Organic in Arroyo Grande are well worth the visit. Heading out to Paso Robles for a day of brewery or winery hopping? Stop at Paso Market Walk for awesome vegan cheeses and charcuterie courtesy of the Vreamery. Yep, they’ll even pack a plant-based picnic basket just for you and your buds! 

3. Get Outside in SLO CAL

SLO CAL is all about soaking up outdoor fun, so grab your friends and get outside! From exciting mountain biking trails to world class hiking, there’s so much terrain to explore. Check out SLO CAL’s awesome surf spots, the ultimate playground for new and skilled surfers and SUPers alike (gear can be rented easily from a plethora of local surf shops). When it comes to hiking, there’s dozens of wide open spaces calling your name: From the oak-and-ocean views of the Pismo Preserve to the vibrant allure of Montaña de Oro’s tide pools, immerse yourself in the diverse grandeur of SLO CAL scenery.  

Looking for a wild ride in SLO CAL? Gallop through coastal hills on a Clydesdale in Cambria or test your rugged resolve at Vista Lago Adventure Park in Arroyo Grande. For true thrill-seekers, an Xtreme Hummer Adventure through the Oceano-Nipomo dunes is a must. On a more relaxing note, couples and small groups can bask in the beauty of SLO CAL oak forest while soaking in a natural mineral spring hot tub in Avila Beach, sunbathe sans swimsuit at Pirate's Cove or find zen with a multitude of outdoor yoga classes available across the region. You and your besties can even forage for seaweed with Kelpful, followed by a bowl of hot ramen. Truly, the sky’s the limit in SLO CAL.  

Rest easy: Festival-goers are sure to find the perfect stay in SLO CAL. Lodging options in SLO CAL are as diverse as they come, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for economy stays, cozy neighborhood spots or funky boutique hotels, you'll find the perfect crash pad. Traveling with a group of friends? Check out SLO CAL vacation rentals, many of which come complete with Instagram-worthy amenities like fire pits, pools and outdoor patio areas.  

Dreaming of waking up to waves? With plenty of cool oceanfront hotels to choose from, it's easy to check-in to comfort by the sea in SLO CAL. Greet the seabirds at Avila Lighthouse Suites, the only all-suite oceanfront hotel in Avila Beach. With customizable lodging options ranging from 550-to-1,100-square-feet, chill on a private balcony with your partner, lounge on the sun deck solo or mingle with friends in a heated pool overlooking sand and surf. 

Of course, you’ll also discover SLO CAL’s classic hotels and motels, offering up a slice of laid back Americana charm. In Paso Robles, the retro-inspired Farmhouse Motel features a chill garden setting and close proximity to bars and nightlife, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Tin City and wine tasting rooms. For a truly unforgettable stay worth the splurge, check out SLO CAL's top-rated boutique hotels, like The Hotel Butler and San Luis Creek Lodge in San Luis Obispo. With their modern decor, impeccable service and plush extras, they'll take your trip to the next level!  

SLO CAL is a magical place, where you'll explore downtown San Luis Obispo's Bubblegum Alley one moment and coastal bluffs the next. Groove with the day’s adventures accordingly! Be sure to bring comfortable footwear that can transition from city to beach to countryside, as you never know just where the road to SLO CAL will take you. While the temperature is generally mild all year long, expect warmer daytime temps in Spring, with nighttime temperatures dipping into the low 40s or 50s—so be sure to bring both a sun hat as well as a light jacket. That said, you won't have much need for formal attire around here. Restaurants, bars, breweries and tasting rooms are famously warm and welcoming (no velvet rope required).  

Tip: Pack smart for Shabang, too! The fest is a cash-free event, so be sure to bring your smartphone, identification and a debit or credit card. You’ll also want to carry a reusable bottle, which can be refilled at several water stations located throughout the festival. Have more festival-related questions? Check out this handy Shabang FAQ, here. 

Located approximately midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, SLO CAL is convenient to get to via plane, train or car. Fly into the charming SLO County Airport (SBP), complete with local craft beer bar, or take the romantic Amtrak Pacific Surfliner along the coast, offering a unique view of the region. With plenty of enticing road stops and EV charging stations along the way, a SLO CAL road trip is always a classic treat. What about getting to Shabang? Once you arrive in San Luis Obispo, easily find a party shuttle, private shuttle or public transportation option that works for you. You can also take an Uber, Lyft or hop on a bicycle. SLO CAL is known for ample bike lanes and heavenly scenic routes.