Day One

Morning: Soar Above Wine Country

Kick off your SLO adventure with an adrenaline rush right in town. Head to Laguna Lake Park for some thrilling mountain biking on the Cerro San Luis trails, offering stunning views and heart-pounding descents. If climbing is more your style, test your skills at The Pad Climbing, an indoor bouldering gym perfect for all levels. For water lovers, rent a kayak or paddleboard at the Central Coast Kayaks outpost and explore the nearby coastline. However you choose to get your thrills, SLO offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and local charm to keep your heart racing.

Mid-Day: Brews, Bites, and Local History

Refuel with a laid-back lunch at Central Coast Brewing, a SLO favorite known for its award-winning craft beers and relaxed vibe. Sip on a crisp Monterey Street Pale Ale or a bold Lucky Day IPA while soaking up the local scene. Pair your brew with a bite from a nearby food truck or grab a table at Firestone Grill, where their famous tri-tip sandwich is a must-try. After lunch, take a stroll through downtown SLO to explore historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past.

Evening: Cocktails and Curiosities

End your day with a nightcap at Sidecar, a beloved SLO cocktail bar known for its inventive drinks and cozy, vintage charm. Whether you’re in the mood for a smoky mezcal creation or a perfectly balanced old-fashioned, the expert bartenders craft each cocktail with precision. Pair your drink with locally inspired small plates, like their famous truffle fries or a seasonal charcuterie board. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the tree-lit streets of downtown SLO, where live music, hidden speakeasies, and late-night treats await.

Day Two

Morning: Coastal Vibes and Creative Finds

Start your day in San Luis Obispo with a stop at Scout Coffee, a local favorite known for its rich espresso, house-made pastries, and welcoming atmosphere. Savor a velvety honey latte or grab a flaky croissant or hearty breakfast burrito to-go before setting out for a refreshing morning outdoors.

For a scenic start to your day, head to Montaña de Oro State Park, just a short drive from downtown. Wander the Bluff Trail, where dramatic cliffs meet the Pacific, or take a peaceful stroll along Spooner’s Cove, a hidden gem perfect for tide pooling and soaking up the ocean breeze. Whether you’re watching for sea otters in the waves or simply enjoying the rugged coastal beauty, it’s the perfect way to ease into the SLO pace of life.

Mid-Day: A Creative Stroll Through SLO

Back in San Luis Obispo, get inspired at the SLO Museum of Art, where a rotating lineup of exhibitions highlights emerging and established artists from all over the Central Coast. The museum’s collection—contemporary paintings, thought-provoking sculptures and immersive installations—is a love letter to the region’s creative spirit. Find more local originals for sale over at Junk Girls, a one-of-a-kind shop filled with upcycled treasures and vintage oddities where every piece tells a story.

Evening: Golf, Views & Fireside Sips

Wrap up your day with a relaxed round at Dairy Creek Golf Course, a scenic nine-hole course nestled in the rolling hills just outside SLO. With sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Not a golfer? No worries—grab a drink and enjoy the casual, welcoming vibe at Bottlecraft in SLO Public Market, where local brews and bites make for a great way to kick back after an active day.

Afterward, stretch your legs with a sunset hike up Islay Hill, one of the city’s iconic Nine Sisters peaks. From the top, take in panoramic views as the golden hour light washes over the valley.

Cap off the night at Hotel San Luis Obispo, where you can sip a glass of local wine by the fire at Ox + Anchor’s outdoor lounge. With cozy seating, twinkling lights, and a warm SLO breeze, it’s the perfect spot to toast to another unforgettable day on the Central Coast.