Nestled in the curve of San Luis Obispo Bay, midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, colorful Avila Beach works its down-to-earth charms any time of year, but early November shines a spotlight on one of the quiet enclave’s claims to fame: its stellar wineries. The Harvest On the Coast Festival, held at the lush, waterfront Avila Beach Golf Resort and select area wineries, includes an outdoor grand tasting, live auction, plenty of varied tasting room stops offering wine specials, live music, and more. In the fertile Avila Valley, you can enjoy a full day of wine tastings right by the sea. Another Avila Beach must: tour picturesque Point San Luis Lighthouse, founded in 1890 and reachable by trolley, guided hike, or kayak.