When it’s sunny and 75 nearly all year around, anytime is a good time to hit up the local beaches. San Luis Obispo is centrally located to a multitude of beaches including The Strands in Morro Bay, Cayucos, Pirate’s Cove, and Point Sal! Looking to go beach-tasting? Here is sample of some of our favorite beaches in San Luis Obispo:
Shell Beach
Looking for a hidden local spot? Shell Beach is the place to be! Shell Beach is nestled along the cliffs of the Central Coast. You often see surfers ripping in the waves and kayakers setting off to explore the remote coastline. Surfboard and wetsuit rentals are available at Shell Beach Surf Shop. Although the beach offers plenty of space to soak up the sun on the sand, it’s also fun to inspect the tide pools for star fish or shore crabs! We highly suggest bringing take-out and watching a sunset by the water or from a park bench above.
Montana De Oro
Montana De Oro State Park, or MDO, is another off the beaten path beach. Spooner’s Cove is the main drag of MDO situated among rugged cliffs and sycamore tree groves. If you want a bit of an adventure, you can hike over the sand dunes and discover secluded beaches below. As a cheap thrill, you can enjoy running down the sand hills! We’ll admit, it’s not quite as fun trying to run back up.
Avila Beach
Finally, animal lovers and paddle boarding enthusiasts, unite in Avila! While laying out at Port San Luis, big and small dogs alike will likely cruise over and say hello, as this is the designated off-leash dog beach and stopping grounds for many local pups. Avila Beach Paddleboards offers kayaking and stand-up paddle (SUP) boarding rentals. Vincent and Emily Shay, the owners, even lead guided adventures to the Point San Luis Lighthouse!
Additionally, Avila Beach has a pier and promenade! On the promenade, you can meander through local art studios and boutiques. Avila offers a mixture of food options from to-go acai bowls at Kravabowl to clam chowder from Custom House. On Friday nights, Seasonal Farmers’ Markets take place on the promenade with fresh produce and live music. And for those over 21, an abundance of wine tasting rooms are in walking distance, plus Mr. Rick’s, which has a large beach front patio, festive music, and pool tables!
Now it’s time for you to get out there and have some fun in the sun! When thinking of things to do in San Luis Obispo, look no further than all the beaches just a short 15 minute drive from SLO.
Enjoy beach tasting!