Road Trips from San Luis Obispo: Exploring the Beautiful Surrounding Areas
Posted on 06 Feb, 2021 at 12:00 am - by Amelia Frankland
San Luis Obispo serves as an excellent base for embarking on road trips that showcase the diverse beauty of California's Central Coast. Whether you're seeking picturesque coastal views, enchanting vineyards, or quaint towns, the surrounding areas have something to offer. Here are a few road trips worth considering:
Highway 1 Coastal Drive: Ragged Point to Cambria
One of the most iconic road trips along the Central Coast is the scenic drive on Highway 1. Start your journey in San Luis Obispo and head north towards Ragged Point. As you wind along the coastline, prepare to be captivated by dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and panoramic ocean views. Along the way, make sure to stop at the charming town of Cambria, known for its historic architecture and artistic community.
Edna Valley Wine Trail: San Luis Obispo to Paso Robles
For wine enthusiasts, the Edna Valley Wine Trail offers a delightful road trip experience. Begin your journey in San Luis Obispo and head east towards the scenic Edna Valley. This wine region is known for its cool-climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Explore the various wineries along the route, enjoy wine tastings, and soak in the picturesque vineyard views. Continue your journey to Paso Robles, another renowned wine region, and savor the diversity of its award-winning wines.
Morro Bay and Montana de Oro State Park
If you're looking for a road trip that combines coastal beauty with natural wonders, a visit to Morro Bay and Montana de Oro State Park is a must. Start in San Luis Obispo and head west towards Morro Bay, where you'll be greeted by the iconic Morro Rock. Explore the picturesque waterfront, visit the charming shops and restaurants, and take a leisurely stroll along the Embarcadero. From Morro Bay, continue south to Montana de Oro State Park, a hidden gem featuring rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse hiking trails. Be sure to catch a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Pismo Beach and Oceano Dunes
A road trip to Pismo Beach and the Oceano Dunes offers a mix of beachside relaxation and thrilling adventures. From San Luis Obispo, head south to Pismo Beach, where you can soak up the sun on the sandy shores, explore the vibrant downtown area, and indulge in fresh seafood. For an adrenaline rush, venture into the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, where you can experience the thrill of off-roading on the expansive sand dunes.
San Luis Obispo to Solvang
For a charming and picturesque road trip, make your way from San Luis Obispo to Solvang. Start by driving southeast through scenic rolling hills and vineyards until you reach Solvang, a Danish-inspired town known for its windmills, half-timbered buildings, and delicious pastries. Stroll through the town's charming streets, explore the unique shops, and immerse yourself in Danish culture and cuisine.
These road trips from San Luis Obispo offer a taste of the diverse beauty and enchanting destinations that surround the city. So, fuel up your car, pack some snacks, and get ready for unforgettable adventures just a short drive away from San Luis Obispo.
Top things to do in San Luis Obispo (US)
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Amelia has a great eye for photography. She has traveled to over 30 countries and has produced great videography and photos, along with penning them down with her writing skills. She has also worked with many top travel photographers.