Year-Round Adventures in San Luis Obispo County

Fall is the perfect time to indulge in wine tasting experiences at one of SLO CAL's renowned tasting rooms. Due to the region's ideal grape-growing conditions, the wine industry is the jewel in SLO CAL's crown. As the leaves change colors, the vineyards come alive with the flavors of the season. Coinciding with the grape harvest season, fall offers visitors the unique opportunity to witness the winemaking process firsthand and even participate in harvest-related activities like grape stomping. Each of the 250+ wineries here are incredibly unique, so you're sure to find one just your speed and with your favorite varietals! 

For more tastes of SLO CAL, explore Tin City, a vibrant industrial hub nestled in Paso Robles. this eclectic community is a haven for small, artisanal producers who have transformed repurposed industrial buildings into a charming mix of tasting rooms, breweries, wineries and distilleries. Each establishment is run by passionate and hardworking artisans dedicated to their craft and the community they've built together. Throughout the year, Tin City hosts numerous events, providing an opportunity to energetic buzz and creativity in a fun, festive atmosphere. 

To experience the agricultural bounty that SLO CAL has to offer, venture out to one of the many local family-owned farms. Avila Valley Barn in Avila Beach offers a delightful array of activities for everyone. Visitors can hand-feed and pet farm animals, purchase freshly baked pies and savor an ice cream cone on the way to the beach. Talley Farms in the Arroyo Grande Valley grows a variety of crops all year long, and is a perfect stop for those looking to experience SLO CAL's beautiful landscapes. At SLO Creek Farms in San Luis Obispo you can pick fresh apples, pumpkins, flowers and more! 

Winter brings a unique beauty to the Central Coast, with opportunities to observe wildlife, experience the thrill of a big wave along the coast or try a crafty workshop. 

Winter is the prime time to experience SLO CAL wildlife, as monarch butterflies typically rest their wings at Pismo Preserve from late October to February. Shorebird viewing and birdwatching activities in Morro Bay also abound in winter, elephant seals breed in San Simeon December to March and grey whales migrate along the SLO CAL coast from January to March. If you set out to wander through the beautiful nature that SLO CAL has to offer, you're sure to catch a glimpse of some of the wild locals! 

Winter in SLO CAL can get a little cool - especially at night, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop! Wine tasting takes on a different atmosphere in the offseason, with no crowds come one-of-a-kind experiences and some killer discounted prices at local wineries. Explore the charming town of Cambria with its storied vintage stores and local eateries. Linn's is a must stop for fresh-baked pastries, fruit preserves, jellies, butters and more. Rainy days are perfect for indoor activities like touring the iconic Hearst Castle, taking a bread-making class at House of Bread or immersing yourself in art and culture at SLOMA. And the Central Coast Aquarium is a stand out kid favorite! 

Spring is a stunning time to visit SLO CAL, as the landscape comes to live with blooms of May flowers. From picturesque hillsides to coastal bluffs, wildflowers can be seen in plenty nearly anywhere you go! However, if you're looking for the top viewing spot, head to Carrizo Plain National Monument. It's the largest single native grassland remaining in California and the expansive views of wildflowers in this area are truly spectacular. 

Due to the abundance of wildflowers, green rolling hills and moderate temperatures, spring is one of the best times for a hike in San Luis Obispo County. From coastal trails like the Bluff Trail at Montana de Oro to more rigorous hilly trails like the Rinconada Trail near Santa Margarita Lake, exploring SLO CAL's hiking trails will immerse you in the beautiful nature that this region has to offer. Pair a hike with a fresh smoothie or coffee from a local cafe or a browse through a local bookshop and you're set for an incredible day in SLO CAL! 

As the temperatures rise, locals and visitors alike flock to the refreshing waters of Lopez Lake and Nacimiento Lake for swimming, boating and kayaking. Pack a picnic basket and spend the day enjoying the sunshine and various water activities. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at Laguna Lake or Santa Margarita Lake for some carppie, red-ear sunfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass. Or if you're feeling adventurous, cast a line at Pismo Pier or Harford Pier for some ocean fish. While you're out there keep an eye out for marine life, including pelicans, humpback whales, dolphins, otters, seals and sea lions. 

For a more relaxing afternoon activity, explore one of the local farmers' markets in Cambria, Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo or Los Osos for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Finally, don't miss the excitement of the California Mid-State Fair hosted at the iconic Paso Robles Event Center from mid to late July, where you can indulge in delicious food, witness livestock shows, enjoy headlining live entertainment and experience the trill of carnival rides and games.