With the new nonstop flight launching this April from Seattle to San Luis Obispo, it’s the perfect time to plan a getaway to sunny California. Long-awaited, Alaska Airlines will be servicing the San Luis Obispo Airport with daily, direct flights to and from Seattle.
Situated halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along the Central Coast, San Luis Obispo is a slice of paradise that will allow you to relax and unwind while tapping into your adventure side. From the lush green hills and outdoor adventure to the booming craft beer and culinary scene, discover 12 reasons you should visit San Luis Obispo today!
1. Sunshine
When it’s sunny and 75 nearly year-round, San Luis Obispo offers the perfect getaway from Seattle. San Luis Obispo’s mild climate rarely drops below 50 or goes above 90, providing visitors with the ideal vacation weather.
2. Vibrant Green Hills & Wildflowers
Springtime means lush, green rolling hills in San Luis Obispo! You might even feel like you’ve traveled to Ireland with the vibrant scenery and blooming wildflowers on the hillsides. We promise San Luis Obispo’s breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty won’t disappoint!
3. Beach Tasting
Ready for sand between your toes, sunshine and the sound of waves crashing in the background? The Central Coast is lined with picture-perfect beaches less than 15-minutes from Downtown San Luis Obispo. When visiting, we highly encourage you plan a day trip to one of the top beaches along the Central Coast.
4. Booming Craft Beer Scene
With local breweries and cideries popping up throughout the city, San Luis Obispo stands out as a craft beer destination. From one-of-a-kind sour brews from Libertine Brewing Co. to brewery tours at SLO Brew Rock, it’s time to start planning your beer tasting day. Hop on San Luis Obispo’s Beer Trail or Cider Trail to taste your way through all the city’s local hot spots.
5. Bustling Downtown
Lined with local boutiques, quaint art galleries, interactive museums and delicious eats, Downtown San Luis Obispo offers a variety of activities within a few short blocks. Discover the top 5 things to do in Downtown San Luis Obispo, including lovable landmarks like Bubblegum Alley and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.
6. World-Famous Thursday Night Farmers’ Market
Downtown Thursday Night Farmers’ Market brings the lively and friendly community together with fresh produce, handmade crafts, legendary tri-tip and barbecue, farm-to-table dinners under $10 and live, local entertainment. Plan a long weekend to San Luis Obispo so you can experience this bucket list Farmers’ Market!
7. Local Artisans
San Luis Obispo is home to a talented group of creative and contemporary artisan makers. Selling at local pop-ups and downtown boutiques to teaching courses throughout town, our makers scene has something to offer you whether you’re seeking a unique SLO souvenir or hoping to learn the art of hand lettering.
While exploring Downtown San Luis Obispo, keep your eye out for painted utility boxes, designed by local artists, and colorful, fiberglass cows on display for CowParade, an international renowned art exhibit that is calling San Luis Obispo home through May 2017.
8. Wine Tasting Galore
Located just 15-minutes from the heart of downtown, San Luis Obispo wine country offers over 25 wineries to taste at and tour. Known for producing some of California’s finest Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, you are sure to find a wine you’ll love with the plethora of wineries throughout San Luis Obispo.
As a bonus, Edna Valley and San Luis Obispo wine country provides visitors with a welcoming, laid-back wine tasting experience that is completely down-to-earth. Time to sip through Edna Valley!
9. Lively Arts & Culture
From its state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center to local talent and headliner concerts at the iconic Fremont Theatre, San Luis Obispo offers a lively arts and culture scene. Be sure to check out our events calendar and book your tickets in advance!
On the first Friday of every month, Art After Dark takes place in Downtown San Luis Obispo, allowing visitors and locals alike to tour galleries and non-traditional art venues, and it’s all for free.
10. Endless Outdoor Adventure
With breathtaking landscapes and close proximity to the ocean, San Luis Obispo is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking the peaks and surfing local spots to zip lining over vineyards and golfing on inland and coastal courses. It’s a great time to start planning your outdoor adventure today.
11. Culinary Delights
San Luis Obispo’s ever-evolving food and drink culture is something to be celebrated, standing out as a foodie destination. Delight your taste buds at local restaurants, which source most of their food within the county. Don’t miss out on SLO’s innovative drink concoctions at Sidecar, Luna Red and many more.
Before visiting San Luis Obispo, we highly recommend checking out our top 10 eats in San Luis Obispo, best brunch spots and complete list of happy hours.
12. Laid Back Lifestyle
As you can see, San Luis Obispo offers the perfect getaway from life’s hustle and bustle. With its laid-back, relaxed lifestyle, no one is in a hurry, and certainly no one is in any rush to leave.
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Start planning your SLO getaway by exploring our list of accommodations and endless things to do. We hope to see you soon in San Luis Obispo!