Things To Do

Downtown SLO Farmers' Market

San Luis Obispo is famous for its farmers' market, which is considered one of the best in California. Crowds flock to this weekly event on Higuera Street (between Nipomo and Osos streets). Locals come to shop for fresh produce, and out-of-town visitors enjoy the street food. San Luis Obispo restaurants bring their specialties to outdoor stands, selling everything from pizza to sushi. Live music adds to the festive ambience. The farmers' market is held on Thursday evenings from 6pm to 9pm, except in bad weather and on major holidays.

Oceano Dunes SVRA

The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area allows visitors with OHVs (off-highway vehicles) to drive right on the beach. However, the recreation area limits the number of vehicles each day, and ATV safety training is recommended. This unique state park is comprised of 1,200 acres of unique coastal terrain, including open sand dunes and over five miles of sandy beach. Some of the rolling sand dunes are as high as 100 feet. Other outdoor activities at Oceano Dunes are surfing, horseback riding, fishing, bird-watching, and camping.

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery

Montaña de Oro State Park

This park features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park's trails. There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The best-known beach is Spooner's Cove, across from the campground. The park's name, "Mountain of Gold," comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring.

Linn's Restaurant

Top Dog Coffee Bar

Ontario Ridge Trail

Pacific Umi Sushi

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle, San Simeon, is a National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark located on the Central Coast of California in the United States. The joint concept of William Randolph Hearst, the publishing tycoon, and his architect Julia Morgan, it was built between 1919 and 1947.

Avila Beach

In a protected cove of San Luis Obispo Bay, this picturesque beach tends to be warmer than nearby Pismo Beach because surrounding hillsides shelter it from winds. The beach has a wide, sandy shoreline (ideal for sunbathing) and a palm-fringed boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants featuring outdoor terraces. The relatively calm ocean environment is great for bodyboarding or learning to surf. Other outdoor activities include fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing. Families will appreciate the small playground and the pleasant picnic area.