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  • By Cheryl Crabtree

Locals who want to sunbathe on the beach know that when the fog rolls in along California’s Central Coast, they should head to Avila Beach, a sunny pocket of paradise about 10 miles south of San Luis Obispo city. (Avila’s geographic orientation often allows it to avoid getting socked in.) Indulge in fresh seafood straight from the boats and explore the town on foot. Or rent a bike and ride out to Port San Luis, or up and down the Bob Jones City-to-Sea Trail. Avila is a small town, but it offers many opportunities for outdoor adventure and other activities, from hiking and kayaking to wine tasting. Or just plunk down a towel and chair and relax on the sand.

Point San Luis Lighthouse, Lighthouse Road, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Central Coast Aquarium avila beach

Avila Valley Barn, Avila Beach Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA

Sycamore Springs, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Mersea's Seafood Restaurant, Avila Beach Drive, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Custom House, Front Street, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Ocean Grill, Front Street, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Blue Moon Over Avila, Front Street, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Point San Luis Lighthouse, Lighthouse Road, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, Avila Beach Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA

Bob Jones Trail Head, Ontario Road, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA

Olde Port Beach, California, USA

Avila Village Inn, Laurel Place, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Avila La Fonda Hotel, San Miguel Street, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Avila Beach Market, Front Street, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Custom House, Front Street, Avila Beach, CA, USA

Best Places for Breakfast in the San Luis Obispo area

Custom House

A beachside restaurant with stunning views of the Avila Pier and the Pacific Ocean, Custom House fills you up for the day with eggs benedict, huevos rancheros, pancakes, waffles, yogurt parfaits, and more. It’s also open for lunch and dinner.

Avila Beach Market

For a fast-casual breakfast, stop by Avila Beach Market, a local favorite. Order at the counter and find a table overlooking the pier. The menu is very diverse; you might pick up a breakfast burrito, an açaí bowl, a smoothie, or fresh pastries.

Best Things To Do in the Morning in the San Luis Obispo area

Point San Luis Lighthouse

The historic Point San Luis Lighthouse dates back to 1890. The guided tour (hike and shuttle options — you must be accompanied by a docent) offers stunning views of the coastline and insight into local history.  Reserve a spot well in advance, especially in summer.

Central Coast Aquarium

A small aquarium that offers hands-on marine science education and a chance to interact with local marine life, the Central Coast Aquarium occupies a prime spot near Avila’s main beach area.

Best Places for Lunch in the San Luis Obispo area

Blue Moon Over Avila

For a French-inspired lunch with a side of ocean views, head to Blue Moon Over Avila, a wine bar and bistro across from the beach and pier. The croque monsieur, French onion soup, and quiche lorraine are great choices.

Mersea's

At the end of Harford Pier in Port San Luis, you’ll find Mersea’s, a super casual seafood restaurant known for its fantastic views, fresh catches, particularly the seafood and chicken bowls, fish & chips, and scrumptious clam chowder in a bread bowl. 

Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in the San Luis Obispo area

Openverse

Avila Valley Barn

Head up the creek canyon to Avila Valley Barn, a fun and family-friendly locale offering fresh produce, homemade goodies, and a petting zoo. Kids love the hay and pony rides, and don’t leave without a fresh seasonal pie.

Sycamore Mineral Springs

Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the natural mineral hot springs at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. Each hillside hot tub is private and offers serene views. Reserve a tub for an hour.

Best Places for Dinner in the San Luis Obispo area

Ocean Grill

Enjoy upscale dining at Ocean Grill, known for its innovative menu and sweeping ocean views. The pan-seared scallops and lobster mac and cheese are standout dishes. 

Gardens of Avila

Feast on farm-to-table fare at Gardens of Avila, an upscale restaurant at Sycamore Springs Resort. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

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Best Places to Stay in the San Luis Obispo area

Avila La Fonda

For a cozy, romantic lodging option, consider Avila La Fonda Hotel. The entire property combines the image and ambience of an authentic Mexican Village with early California, from stained glass windows depicting local scenes, red tile roofs, and wrought iron railings to Mexican and Californian art throughout.  

Avila Village Inn

Avila Village Inn, a boutique hotel in a resort village with condos, athletic club, markets, and services, offers luxurious amenities like private balconies, fireplaces, and easy access to the Bob Jones City-to-Sea Trail. 

After Dark in the San Luis Obispo area

Bonfire on the Beach

Wrap up your day with a cozy bonfire at Olde Porte Beach. The beach allows fires in designated rings in the warmer months (usually March–October).

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