Wine, culture, history, and spectacular rugged coastal scenery make San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway more than just a path from one point to another, but a destination in itself. Peruse art galleries, dine on expertly prepared seafood and backpack through riparian forests. The activity along the byway is varied and unique enough to satisfy the urbane traveler, the unshaven road-tripper, and everyone in between.
As you travel the byway, enjoy the abundant protected lands along the coast. Bring your mountain bike or backpack to fully experience the region's rugged natural beauty and mild weather, perfect for an afternoon in the outdoors. Montana de Oro State Park features a seven-mile stretch of pristine beach, for example, and the area surrounding Morro Bay bristles with oceanside forests and protected wildlife areas. The Morro Bay Estuary hosts a multitude of birds during the winter as a vital stopover on the Pacific Flyway. The William R. Hearst Memorial State Beach draws ocean enthusiasts of all stripes, including sea kayakers, deep-sea fishermen, and swimmers and sunbathers.
Spend evenings in the city enjoying the area's mild evenings and fine dining. Visit the Mission De San Luis Obispo at the center of the city, exploring the gardens and walking the intricately decorated halls of this historic building. While in the San Luis Obispo, experience the city's thriving downtown area and the historic railroad district. Be sure to visit the weekly farmers market every Thursday evening. With barbecues, live music, and fresh produce covering six blocks, the market invites travelers from all over. Cap off the evening with a visit to one of the local wineries, and then stroll among the downtown shops and art galleries before slipping into a nightclub or watching the sun set on the beach. For a quieter atmosphere, relax in Harmony, a small coastal town started by dairy farmers and full of local artisans and their shops.
While driving San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway might only take a couple of hours, the relatively short distance packs in several weeks' worth of fun. From primitive camping and hot dogs and soda around the fire to plush hotels and five star restaurants serving fine local wines, you might just give in to the temptation to stay longer than you plan.
Looking Into the Past on the San Luis Obispo Scenic Byway
Watching for Sea Life on the California Coast