Epic Travel → North America → The West Coast → Southern California → Southern Pacific Coast → San Luis Obispo

Location: South of Big Sur, California

Time Required: 1 – 3 hours depending on which stops you choose.

Red Tape/Notes: None.

What’s Nearby?: Cambria, Santa Barbara

SLO (or SLO Town if you’re being precise…the county is also often called SLO so it can get a little confusing) is one of California’s oldest communities, having been founded in 1772 by the rather prolific Father Junipero Serra with the building of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa (more information on the mission is below). It’s mostly known for being the location of Cal Poly, but there are some other interesting things to do and see in the area.

Pirate’s Cove at Avila Bay – Be forewarned, this is a clothing optional beach! If you’re not afraid of seeing the occasional unclad person, this is a nice stop with some cool sea caves. There’s also a fairly mediocre climbing route to be found here, but the scenery is nice enough that we still felt like it was a worthwhile side trip.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa – This mission eventually grew into SLO Town, and is still an active mission, holding regular mass services. They also offer docent-led tours and have lovely gardens and a gift shop. For more information, visit their website.

Guadalupe-Nopomo Dunes -Encompassing an 18-mile stretch of coastline from SLO (San Luis Obispo to you non-locals) down to Santa Barbara county, this is the second largest dune system in California. If you’re looking for a diversion on your drive home, this is definitely different. I imagine you could take some lovely sunrise or sunset pictures here if you timed things correctly…we’ve never been bothered enough to do this though.

Epic Travel → North America → The West Coast → Southern California → Southern Pacific Coast → San Luis Obispo