Visitor's Magazine
Plan Your Adventure Today
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Cool ocean breezes and warm invitations are surely what you’ll discover all along the upper coastal reaches in The Land of SLO CAL. Whether you’re mountain biking in Montaña de Oro State Park or stand-up paddleboarding in the shadows of Morro Rock, there are activities a-plenty all around these parts. But whatever your idea of leisure may be, don’t be surprised if you find yourself under the captivating spell of the sun and sand, waves and wonders in this magical coastal region.
Up toward the northern parts in The Land of SLO CAL, you’re sure to find plenty to sip, savor and simply soak up. With its vine-draped hills, majestic oaks and abundant olive trees, world-class wines and farm-to-table fare, this is where cowboy country meets fine cuisine. No matter if you find yourself among downtown Paso’s modern-day makers' shops or Templeton’s historic old-world charm, you’re sure to get a warm welcome wherever you may roam.
Classic California comes alive down along the southernmost section in The Land of SLO CAL. Around here, your beach cruiser can be 4-wheel drive, with the only stretch of sand left that allows vehicles. And when the tide is high, you can hop inland just a bit for more fun in the dunes. Mosey just to the east and you’ll find yourself in another sneaky good winemaking and agricultural area where friendly families and folks make farm-to-table a way of life in this lush fertile landscape.
Looking for a smile? Spend some time in San Luis Obispo — long celebrated as one of the "Happiest Places in America." This is the spirited soul of The Land of SLO CAL, its warm Mediterranean climate and friendly folks welcome you. With thousands of acres of protected open space. Countless hikes with stunning 360° views. And a walkable downtown filled with historic architecture, the beautifully restored Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, and quaint, comfortable hotels in turn-of-the-century buildings.
Classic California is alive and well in the towns of Pismo Beach and Shell Beach. Just a stone’s throw off scenic Highway 1, and located a few miles from downtown San Luis Obispo, these seaside sisters share a coastline. Yet, each has its own unique beach vibes. Kayaking the Dinosaur Caves, hiking, horseback riding and fishing are all part of the Pismo Beach experience. But if you ask visitors, they’ll say you can come simply to take in the fresh sea air. Couples and families alike enjoy surfing the day away, kicking back in the warm sand, or strolling along the iconic Pismo Pier. Venture off the beach to uncover a quaint downtown filled with surf shops, wine tasting and Pismo’s famous clam chowder.
Nestled among the vine-draped hills just up from the sun-soaked California coastline, you’ll find El Paso de Robles. It’s translated as “The Pass of the Oaks” thanks to the abundant oak trees sprinkled all about the area. But here in The Land of SLO CAL, locals just call it “Paso.” This is cowboy-country meets world-class wine country. Where more than 40 grape varieties ripen to perfection. Come take a tour of our nearly 250 tasting rooms. You’ll be rubbing elbows and chatting up friendly winemakers and farmers at every turn. Check out the picturesque wine trail that winds through vineyards all the to way to Hearst Castle on the coast.
Routinely named one of the world’s best scenic drives, San Luis Obispo County’s 80-mile (128 kilometers) stretch of Highway 1 is all about the landscapes, from the majestic rocky shore off Ragged Point all the way down to the wild, windswept dunes of Oceano.
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