If you’re planning a trip to California’s Central Coast, there’s no better place to make a home base than Avila Beach. It’s tucked into its own sunny cove, meaning it’s often warmer and less windy than nearby beach towns. Just far enough from the highway, you get a peaceful retreat away from the rest of the world, but you’re only a few minutes from the highway so you still get easy access to all the best places.
In San Luis Obispo County, it’s easier to measure travel in minutes. With almost no traffic and plenty of winding backroads, time is the most accurate way to talk about travel. Below are the county’s top destinations and how easy it is to get to each of them from your Avila Beach stay.
Avila Valley
Right around the corner!
Just around the corner from downtown Avila is a valley full of little gems to explore. Take a walk through the lush and green Bob Jones Trail, stop by the Avila Valley Barn for fresh pies, or soak in a hillside mineral hot spring. Start or end your day without going too far.
Pismo Beach
10 minutes south.
Pismo Beach is where one can experience a classic California beach town. The sandy beaches spread far in both directions, only broken up by bustling piers with endless surfers on either side. Try some world-famous clam chowder or rent an e-bike to cruise along the coast. It’s a great trip for those who don’t want to spend their days driving far.
Downtown San Luis Obispo
20 minutes inland.
SLO is the big city of the county, with hidden alleyways lined with art and endless foodie options. The Thursday Night Farmers’ Market is a famous, blending live music, fresh produce, and street food into a multi-block party every week. Staying in Avila keeps you close enough to enjoy the scene, but far enough to sleep in peace.
Oceano Dunes
20 minutes south.
The dunes of Oceano are one of California’s only drive-on beaches. Experience them by car, ATV, or even take a horseback tour. The shoreline is a wonderful walk that feels infinite, with rolling sand as far as the eye can see. From Avila, it’s just a short drive to this wild and natural playground.
Edna Valley Wine Country
15-minute drive inland.
When wandering Avila, tasting rooms and wine menus will boast Edna Valley wine. Only a short drive inland is one of this incredible region, known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Experience tasting rooms that are relaxed and uncrowded. Strike up a conversation with the person sitting next to you and it just might be the winemaker. It’s the kind of wine country that feels like a secret.
Paso Robles Wine Country
45 minutes north.
Paso Robles is a more recognizable wine scene for many, and it is the bold red wine lover’s paradise. Famous for its Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rhone-style blend, there are over 300 tasting rooms to indulge in. From small and rustic to upscale and classic, it’s a fantastic day trip from Avila before returning to the gorgeous beachside for sunset.
Hearst Castle
75 minutes north.
High above the coastline sits Hearst Castle. It’s a mind-blowing estate with sweeping views from the start of Big Sur down to Morro Bay. The scenic drive from Avila is gorgeous, showing off the character of all the neighboring beach towns along the way. Learn the fascinating history of the castle with one of their tours and imagine the Hollywood parties of the past.
After sipping wine, dune-riding, and castle-touring, Avila Beach is a peaceful place to land each night. Wake up with sunshine, sea air, and the perfect small town to start the next day’s adventure. Stay here, and the best of the Central Coast is always just a short, beautiful drive away.
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