What does San Luis Obispo County have to offer?

[Inkblot]

I'm not from around here so I'm not really familiar with what there is to do in the area. What places/events/activities are there that might warrant a trip to anywhere in San Luis Obispo County for my friends and I?

[mirandam4]

There are many things to do in San Luis Obispo County. If you have never visited this area, I highly suggest you do so. There are several beach towns that are perfect for a day at the beach. Avila Beach is a very popular beach destination, as there is a quaint little downtown area with several restaurants and shops within walking distance to the beach.

If you are looking for something a little more active, there are many hiking trails to choose from; some of which offer beach views, and others which offer gorgeous mountain views. The city of Paso Robles is the home to Lake Nacimiento, which is a great lake for recreational boating, wakeboarding, and just enjoying the sun. Paso Robles is also the home of over 100 different wineries, so if you are a fan of wine tasting, this is the perfect place. Check out Paso Robles Wineries - PasoWineries.com for more information on all the different wineries and tasting rooms, including a wine tasting map. Edna Valley right outside San Luis Obispo also has a handful of tasting rooms that are good to visit if you want to stay close to "SLO".

If you are into the night life, downtown SLO (San Luis Obispo) is a great place with several different bars all in one area. Downtown SLO is also great during the day, with a large variety of shops and restaurants to browse. There is also the mission, which is a good place to visit if you are into history. Also, check out the history museum in San Luis to learn about the history of the area, and how it came to be today.

Hope there was some helpful information that persuaded you to come and visit the San Luis Obispo area. Enjoy!

[Inkblot]

Well, that sounds like exactly the same things I could do here in Santa Barbara already. I could probably get my friends on board with a hiking or wine tasting trip though. Thanks for the suggestions.

[Brie]

But does Santa Barbara have the Cove beach on old Hearst (now State) property? Is Santa Barbara the gateway to the magnificent Big Sur? I think not.

[mirandam4]

Good point Brie! Hearst Castle is a pretty amazing place to visit! There are some good state camp grounds around the area as well. Big Sur is just its own world...such a gorgeous area! Lots of hiking up there as well,
including a trail that ends in front of a large waterfall.

[Inkblot]

Ah, see now that sounds more interesting. Some friends went up to Hearst Castle awhile ago but I couldn't make it. Maybe I should convince them on a return trip.

[mirandam4]

If you need a little help convincing them, Hearst Castle has five or six different tours. So even if they have been before, they could always go on a different tour and see completely different areas of the castle. Also, November (and sometimes going into December) is birthing season for the elephant seals. They lay out on the beach by the hundreds. There isn't much action going on, but it is pretty extraordinary.

[Inkblot]

Is there a specific beach where you can find the elephant seals? Just so I could look up directions online if I wanted to go have a look.

[mirandam4]

Piedras Blancas is the most popular view point. It is located 7.7 miles north of San Simeon along scenic Coast Highway One.
There are usually docents in blue jackets hanging out there in case you have any questions. The Friends of the Elephant Seal office and visitor center is located in Plaza del Cavalier in San Simeon. Address: 250 San Simeon Ave. Suite 3B San Simeon, CA 93452.

Hope that helps! Enjoy! Remember...November is the best time to go.