Are you looking for a fun and exciting family vacation destination? Look no further than San Luis Obispo County, located on the central coast of California. With its mild climate, stunning natural landscapes, and endless activities, this region has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Known as “SLO Cal” by locals, this county offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food and wine. You can explore charming towns, relax on beautiful beaches, and discover unique attractions that will create lasting memories for your family. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to SLO Cal.
1. Pismo Beach – Sand Dunes, Clam Digging, and More
Pismo Beach is a must-visit destination on your family trip to SLO Cal. Located just a short drive from San Luis Obispo, this charming beach town offers a variety of activities that will keep the whole family entertained.
The Great Outdoors
Pismo Beach is famous for its sand dunes, which are the largest in California. These towering dunes offer a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, dune buggy rides, and even camping. Your kids will love running up and down the dunes and spotting different animal tracks in the sand. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
Clam Digging
For a unique experience with your family, try clam digging at Pismo Beach. This activity involves searching for clams in the sand and then cooking them for a delicious meal. All you need is a shovel, bucket, and a fishing license, which you can easily obtain from the local bait and tackle shop. It’s a fun and affordable way to bond with your loved ones while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful beach.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
If you’re visiting SLO Cal between October and February, be sure to stop by the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo Beach. Located just off Highway 1, this grove is a favorite spot for monarch butterflies to rest during their annual migration from Canada to Mexico. This natural phenomenon is a must-see for kids and adults alike. You can take a guided tour or simply wander through the grove and observe these beautiful creatures up close.
2. San Luis Obispo – Discovering the “Happiest City in America”
San Luis Obispo, also known as SLO, is the county’s largest city and offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities.
Downtown San Luis Obispo
The heart of the city is its charming downtown area, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take a stroll down Higuera Street and stop by Bubblegum Alley, a local landmark covered in chewed gum. Your kids will love adding their own pieces of gum to the ever-growing collection. For a sweet treat, visit the iconic candy shop, Powell’s Sweet Shoppe, where you can find all sorts of delicious treats from homemade fudge to old-fashioned candies.
Children’s Museum
For a fun and educational experience, head to the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum. This interactive museum features hands-on exhibits that will keep your little ones engaged for hours. They can pretend to be chefs in the farmer’s market exhibit, dig for fossils in the dinosaur pit, and even learn about gravity in the ball wall. It’s a great way to keep your kids entertained while also learning about science, art, and culture.
Outdoor Adventures
If your family loves the great outdoors, San Luis Obispo has plenty of options for you to explore. You can hike the iconic Bishop Peak, one of the nine volcanic plugs in the county, or take a stroll through the scenic San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden. For a more leisurely activity, rent bikes and explore the city’s bike-friendly trails. And don’t forget to stop by Avila Valley Barn, where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables and enjoy delicious homemade pies.
3. Morro Bay – Sea Lions, Kayaking, and More
Located on the coast of SLO Cal, Morro Bay is a charming seaside town that offers a variety of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities.
Morro Rock
The most famous landmark in Morro Bay is the 576-foot-high Morro Rock, also known as “the Gibraltar of the Pacific”. This stunning rock formation is a haven for local wildlife, including sea lions, birds, and even peregrine falcons. You can take a short hike around the base of the rock or simply admire it from afar. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture a family photo with this iconic backdrop.
Kayaking in the Bay
For an unforgettable experience, take a guided kayak tour of Morro Bay. Your family will paddle through the calm waters of the bay, getting up close and personal with the abundant sea life, including otters, seals, and birds. You’ll also have the chance to explore the expansive estuary and learn about its ecosystem and history from knowledgeable guides.
Embarcadero
After a day of adventure, head to the Embarcadero, Morro Bay’s waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Take a walk along the harbor, browse unique souvenirs, and stop by the famous Morro Bay Aquarium, where you can touch and feed various sea creatures. And don’t forget to try some fresh seafood, such as clam chowder or fish and chips, at one of the local eateries.
4. Cambria – Exploring a Quaint Coastal Village
Located between San Simeon and Morro Bay, the small seaside village of Cambria is a hidden gem in SLO Cal that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for families to enjoy.
Moonstone Beach
Cambria is home to Moonstone Beach, a gorgeous stretch of coastline with crystal clear water and stunning views. The beach gets its name from the small, white stones that can be found along its shores. Your kids will love collecting these unique stones and searching for seashells while you lounge on the soft sand. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some seals resting on the rocks or dolphins playing in the waves.
Historic Main Street
Take a stroll down Cambria’s charming Main Street, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. You can find unique gifts, clothing, and home decor made by local artists and artisans. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic East Village, where you can admire beautifully preserved Victorian houses and buildings. And if your family loves antiques, make sure to stop by the Cambria Antique Mall, featuring over 50 dealers selling vintage items from furniture to jewelry.
Hearst Castle
Just a short drive from Cambria, you’ll find the grandiose Hearst Castle, a National Historic Landmark and former residence of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. This opulent mansion features 165 rooms, 127 acres of gardens, and one of the largest private zoos in the world. Take a guided tour and learn about the castle’s history and the eccentricities of its owner. Your kids will be fascinated by the lavish interior and the exotic animals still roaming the property.
5. Paso Robles – Wine Tasting and Family Fun
No trip to SLO Cal would be complete without a visit to Paso Robles, a charming city known for its award-winning wineries, delicious food, and family-friendly activities.
Wine Tasting
Paso Robles is home to over 200 wineries and vineyards, making it a paradise for wine lovers. While adults can enjoy the region’s famous Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, kids can participate in their own grape juice tasting. Many wineries offer family-friendly activities such as picnics, horseback riding, and even hot air balloon rides. It’s a great opportunity to relax, unwind, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Children’s Museum at the Children’s Museum of Paso Robles. This interactive museum features fun and educational exhibits that will keep your kids engaged while learning about science, art, and culture. They can dig for dinosaur bones, play instruments, and even design and build their own rollercoaster. The museum also offers a variety of workshops and classes, making it a perfect destination for a rainy day.
Water Parks and Splash Pads
On a hot summer day, there’s no better place to be than a water park or splash pad. Paso Robles offers two fantastic options for families: Ravine Water Park and Barney Schwartz Park Splash Pad. Ravine Water Park features thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools for older kids and adults, while the splash pad at Barney Schwartz Park is perfect for younger children. Both parks have designated areas for toddlers, so everyone in the family can cool off and have fun.
6. Avila Beach – Relaxation and Adventure by the Ocean
Avila Beach is a small, quaint beach town located just a short drive from San Luis Obispo. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and relaxing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to end your family vacation in SLO Cal.
Avila Beach Golf Resort
If your family loves golf, be sure to visit the Avila Beach Golf Resort. This beautiful 18-hole course offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Beginners can take a lesson at the driving range, and experienced players can challenge themselves with a round of golf. And after your game, relax on the patio with a delicious meal and a glass of local wine.
Bob Jones Trail
For a scenic bike ride or leisurely walk, head to the Bob Jones Trail, a paved path that runs alongside the San Luis Obispo Creek from Avila Beach to San Luis Obispo. You’ll pass through lush greenery, over wooden bridges, and see wildlife such as birds and squirrels along the way. There are also picnic tables and benches where you can stop for a snack or rest.
Central Coast Aquarium
Before heading home, make a final stop at the Central Coast Aquarium, located in the heart of Avila Beach. This small but informative aquarium features exhibits about marine life found along the central coast of California. Your kids can touch sea stars, sea cucumbers, and other creatures at the tide pool exhibit, learn about sharks and rays, and even attend a feeding demonstration. It’s a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Conclusion
San Luis Obispo County, or SLO Cal, is an ideal destination for a family vacation. With its diverse landscapes, charming towns, and endless activities, it offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy. From sand dunes and kayaking to wine tasting and relaxing on the beach, SLO Cal has it all. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this beautiful region in California.