San Luis Obispo County Travel Guide

California

Panoramic view of spring flowers and green rolling hills in Carrizo Plain National Monument, San Luis Obispo County, California
Panoramic view of spring flowers and green rolling hills in Carrizo Plain National Monument, San Luis Obispo County, California
#Hiking along the coast of Avila Beach in California. While hiking in this area, BEWARE, because on your left from this spot, is the Nude Beach. Yup, it's the only nude beach that I know of that still exist in California. P.s. It was an accidental find for us, and no, we didn't go. #Waterlust #WeekendGetaway
A fave spot to wander the beach or just nap on the warm sand, sometimes I'll even fly a kite!
The high tide tonight at Shell Beach gave us quite a show. There was a large pod of dolphins off shore and birds flying and diving into the water everywhere; the Pelicans were my favorite to watch. Usually we come here during low tide to explore the pools, but this was a different experience and one not to be missed.

Popular cities in San Luis Obispo County

Central Coast California featuring a statue or sculpture and heritage architecture
Paso Robles
Known for Dining, Wineries and Bars
On California’s central coast, visit a city with a long winemaking history, watersports and picturesque hikes.

Reasons to visit

  • Sensorio
  • Firestone Walker Brewing
  • Sculpterra Winery
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Morro Bay
San Luis Obispo
Known for Beaches, Sea and Wineries
San Luis Obispo, with its small-town, Californian charm, offers heritage sites, outdoor adventure and a thriving arts scene.

Reasons to visit

  • Avila Hot Springs
  • Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
  • Bubblegum Alley
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Pismo Beach which includes tropical scenes, a sunset and general coastal views
Pismo Beach
Known for Beaches, Sea and Excursions
Pismo Beach evokes old-world California with its rugged coastal scenery and its emphasis on outdoor living.

Reasons to visit

  • Pismo Beach Pier
  • Monarch Butterfly Grove
  • Pirates Cove
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San Simeon which includes religious aspects, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
San Simeon
Known for Beaches, Historical and Castle
As the half-way stop between LA and San Francisco, this Big Sur beach destination is the perfect place to take a break and recharge.

Reasons to visit

  • Hearst Castle
  • Elephant Seal Vista Point
  • Piedras Blancas Lighthouse
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Cambria
Cambria
Known for Beaches, Sea and Walking
With the sometimes turbulent Pacific Ocean to the west and mountains to the east, this coastal town has a beautiful setting and many exciting things to do.

Reasons to visit

  • Moonstone Beach Park
  • Moonstone Beach
  • Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
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Morro Bay
Morro Bay
Known for Dining, Shopping and Beaches
Observe the seals, gulls and falcons in this tranquil town with pristine beaches, a charming harbor and a state park.

Reasons to visit

  • Morro Rock
  • Morro Rock Beach
  • Morro Bay Golf Course
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