Snow can be massively overrated. This is especially true when the calendar says winter should be coming to a close, but the storms just keep rolling in well into spring. All that shoveling and scraping gets pretty old when you should be enjoying some quality sunshine and blue skies.
We feel ya. That’s why we have a friendly suggestion: get away from that lingering chill and head straight to San Luis Obispo to Live the SLO Life for a long weekend.
With direct flights from many major western cities, SLO is your perfect home base away from home and your hidden Central Coast getaway, offering warm, sunny days, comfortable nights and plenty of fun to be had everywhere you turn.
Let’s look at what you can expect when you visit San Luis Obispo on your next trip.
What’s the Central Coast Really Like in April and May?
For those living in Denver, cold and snowy is par for the course well into early summer. Those in the Bay Area or the Pacific Northwest often forget what the sun really looks like because clouds constantly blanket the area. So, when we tell you it’s really, really nice here this time of year, we’re not exaggerating.
A quick look at Accuweather confirms it: it’s warm and sunny here in March and beyond. With daytime highs that routinely reach the high 60s or low 70s and nights that rarely dip below the mid-50s, SLO is perfectly positioned in the Central Coast to give you the getaway you’ve been pining for all winter long.
And did we mention the crowds? Fact is, we’re bustling in the summer, but March and April are tailor-made for travelers looking for the best of both worlds. From short to non-existent lines at museums to walking right up to the podium and getting the table of your choice at your new favorite new restaurant, you’ll find it downright roomy on your next trip. No traffic, no lines, great weather… It’s kind of perfect here!
While here, you can check out the blooming wildflowers that ring the town, go for a hike on an uncrowded trail or explore the diverse array of public art found around town. The hills are greener, the colors a little brighter and the people friendlier when spring is in full bloom in San Luis Obispo.
Special MidWeekend Promotion 2022
As a bonus, if you book a midweek stay through the end of March, you can earn a $100 gift card bundle as part of our MidWeekend promo. You’ll get a custom itinerary and gift cards to kickstart your shopping, all while creating lifelong memories of your weekend in SLO. Learn more about the promotion here.
Things to Do During Your Long Weekend
So, you’ve scored your MidWeekend deal, secured your airfare and are ready to roll into town to see the sights. Great! These suggestions will help add a little local flavor to your itinerary.
First of all, if you’re here on a Thursday night, YOU. SIMPLY. CANNOT. miss the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market. One of the most iconic farmers’ markets in the entire West, this weekly event happens all year long, so no need to worry about whether it’s happening when you visit. Dozens of vendors sell fresh fruit and produce, flowers, ready-made eats, spirits, household goods and more each week. There’s often live music and entertainment on hand, as well. Located on Higuera St., the farmers’ market kicks off at 6 p.m. and runs until 9 p.m. Note: area shops tend to stay open longer on farmers’ market nights, offering you a chance to fully explore our vibrant downtown.
With this being the perfect time of year for a visit, you’ll be able to find outdoor activities at your own pace. Here’s a small sampling of adventures you can check out on your next trip:
- Chilling on the beach
- Extreme Adventure (come on, you know you want to click that!)
Events are in full swing this time of year, too. From concerts at the Fremont Theater and SLO Brew Rock to theater performances and Art In the Garden, there’s never a shortage of things happening around town. Other upcoming events include the Poly Royal Rodeo and the SLO International Film Festival held in April. See our complete list of events here.
Getting Here to Get Away
If you’re traveling for weekend trips from Los Angeles or from up north in the Bay Area, you might consider driving, as we’re only about four hours from each. If you want to get here quicker, consider one of the many daily flights into San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, which offers non-stop flights from the following Western cities:
- Denver, Colorado (DEN)
- San Francisco, California (SFO)
- Seattle, Washington (SEA)
- Portland, Oregon (PDX)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Phoenix (PDX)
- Many more
Recently expanded, the airport offers a quality, easy-going travel experience, especially this time of year. Rental cars are available at the airport, making it super simple to get around town.
When you do visit us, don’t forget to share your photos on social media using #ShareSLO and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for plenty of travel inspiration and tips!