Beaches in San Luis Obispo
Swimming, surfing, sandcastles—what’s better than a day at the beach? There are many nearby beaches in San Luis Obispo—some say the best in California! Each beach has something special to offer SLO visitors searching for outdoor activities, from tide pools and marine life to beach-front playgrounds and recreational vehicle access.
San Luis Obispo Beaches
Looking for nearby San Luis Obispo beaches? Located about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo is the ideal destination to enjoy sand, surf, sun, shopping, attractions and entertainment, and great restaurants.
After your beach day, don’t forget to check out local things to do, including visiting Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and catching a meal at a restaurant in SLO. With so many things to do, it’s hard to choose what to do first!
Staying awhile? San Luis Obispo hotels offer cozy, trendy, quiet or fun accommodations. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a hotel in SLO to make your trip that much more special.
How Far Is San Luis Obispo From the Ocean?
Looking for your next getaway and awesome beach day? So how far is San Luis Obispo from the ocean, anyway? Many nearby beaches are within ten to twenty minutes of SLO, including Avila Beach, Pismo Beach and Morro Bay.
Looking for a road trip? Other must-visit beaches, including Montaña de Oro State Park, Moonstone Beach, San Simeon, Piedras Blancas and Oceano Dunes are less than one hour’s drive from downtown SLO.
Don’t miss Avila Beach’s Instagram worthy boardwalk or Montaña de Oro State Park’s absolutely breathtaking and diverse terrain.
Pro tip: if you find yourself slightly south of Piedras Blancas, keep your eyes peeled for the local elephant seal colony!
Check out some of the local favorites below or explore the top beaches along the Central Coast, featured on our #ShareSLO blog.