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Grab some hiking shoes and water and leave everything else behind as you immerse yourself in endless hiking trails throughout Wine Coast Country. Numerous simple, moderate and challenging hiking trails occupy each region within the county. Whether your preferred hike involves a view of the coastline, country or mountains, you will have no problem finding a path that matches your skill level and desired scenery. Check out the Coastal Discovery Trail Map and download a map of all of our county hiking trails.

Try the Bob Jones Trail, which begins right off Highway 101 and guides you up to the Avila Pier. The trail is scenic and offers a variety to see and do along the way. Cyclists can loop back on Avila Beach Drive, which has wide shoulders. For the southern segment, park at Avila State Beach off Avila Beach Drive or at the park-and-ride lot on Ontario Rd. For the northern segment, access is at Prado Road (no parking).

Ontario Ridge Trail is a rugged, sometimes-steep track crossing a 700-foot hill above the Shell Beach bluff, with spectacular ocean views. Start at the Shell Beach trailhead or at Cave Landing in Avila Beach and hike the full loop. Along the way you’ll be surrounded by coastal sage on a rugged trail, passing views of Pirate’s Cove, Avila Valley, San Luis Obispo, Shell Beach and beyond.

The Pecho Coast Trail comprises 3.75 miles round trip along a scenic coastal trail to the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse. Native plants and animals can be seen along the trail. Wildflowers and gray whales swimming offshore are some of the highlights. NOTE: all hikes along the Pecho Coast Trail are docent-led and require a reservation. Local history of Avila Beach and the Chumash tribe that once lived here can be learned from docent naturalists.  Looking to hike further? The Rattlesnake Canyon Trail winds past the Point San Luis Lighthouse and loops back for a round-trip total of 8 miles. To preserve and maintain the space, the trail is limited to a set number of hikers on specified dates.