San Luis Obispo County Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

A grassy field with wildflowers and a mountain range in the background.
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.
A coastal scene with a rocky island, calm blue waters, and a row of boats anchored near the shore.

Popular cities in San Luis Obispo County

A pier with a Christmas tree at sunset.
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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A harbor with multiple boats docked, a rocky island in the background, and various plants in the foreground.
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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A colorful courtyard with a yellow building, a wooden bench, and a shop with a sign reading "Cinnabar".
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 Park
  • Moonstone Beach
  • Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
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A harbor with multiple boats docked, a rocky island in the background, and various plants in the foreground.
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 Bay Golf Course
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A brick building with a statue in front, labeled "Public Library."
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
  • Ravine Waterpark
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A historic building with ornate architecture, including a bell tower and a dome, surrounded by tall palm trees.
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
  • San Simeon Pier
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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 local history of San Simeon during your trip to a top site such as Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
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