San Luis Obispo County Travel Guide

California

A grassy field with wildflowers and a mountain range in the background.
A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, a clear blue sea, and a distant town.
A harbor with sailboats, a prominent rock formation, and industrial chimneys.
A harbor with numerous sailboats, a prominent rock formation, and industrial chimneys in the background.
A coastal city at sunset with a pier extending into the ocean, a lit-up waterfront, and a backdrop of mountains.

Popular cities in San Luis Obispo County

Pismo Beach
Known for Beaches, Sea and Excursions
Pismo Beach evokes old-world California with its rugged coastal scenery and its emphasis on outdoor living.

Reasons to visit

  • Pismo Beach Pier
  • Monarch Butterfly Grove
  • The Spa at Dolphin Bay
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San Luis Obispo
Known for Beaches, Sea and Wineries
San Luis Obispo, with its small-town, Californian charm, offers heritage sites, outdoor adventure and a thriving arts scene.

Reasons to visit

  • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
  • Avila Hot Springs
  • Fremont Theater
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Paso Robles
Known for Dining, Wineries and Bars
On California’s central coast, visit a city with a long winemaking history, watersports and picturesque hikes.

Reasons to visit

  • Vina Robles Winery and Amphitheater
  • Justin Vineyards and Winery
  • Firestone Walker Brewing
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Cambria
Known for Beaches, Sea and Walking
With the sometimes turbulent Pacific Ocean to the west and mountains to the east, this coastal town has a beautiful setting and many exciting things to do.

Reasons to visit

  • Moonstone Beach
  • Moonstone Beach Park
  • Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
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Morro Bay
Known for Dining, Shopping and Beaches
Observe the seals, gulls and falcons in this tranquil town with pristine beaches, a charming harbor and a state park.

Reasons to visit

  • Morro Rock
  • Morro Rock Beach
  • Morro Strand State Beach
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San Simeon
Known for Beaches, Historical and Castle
As the half-way stop between LA and San Francisco, this Big Sur beach destination is the perfect place to take a break and recharge.

Reasons to visit

  • Hearst Castle
  • Elephant Seal Vista Point
  • Piedras Blancas Lighthouse
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Stay near popular San Luis Obispo County attractions

A historic building with two towers, palm trees, and a well-maintained garden.

Hearst Castle

9.4/10 (2,346 reviews)
You can learn about the history of San Simeon with a stop at Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
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