Day trips from San Luis Obispo, CA
From San Luis Obispo, California
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
San Luis Obispo, nestled in the heart of California's Central Coast, offers a wealth of day trip opportunities. From scenic coastal drives to historic towns and natural wonders, there's something for every interest within a 200-mile radius. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, these day trips from San Luis Obispo promise unforgettable experiences for you and your friends.
1. Morro Bay
Just a short drive north of San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay is a charming coastal town known for its iconic Morro Rock and beautiful waterfront. Spend the day exploring the Morro Bay State Park, where you can hike, picnic, and enjoy stunning views of the coastline. Don't miss the Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History to learn about the area's rich history and wildlife.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Morro Rock
- ✓Morro Bay State Park
- ✓Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History
- ✓Waterfront dining
Available Tours (1)
2. Cambria
Cambria is a picturesque coastal town with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Visit the historic Hearst Castle, a magnificent estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Explore the beautiful beaches, such as Leffingwell Landing and Moonstone Beach, and enjoy the town's art galleries and unique shops.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hearst Castle
- ✓Leffingwell Landing
- ✓Moonstone Beach
- ✓Art galleries and shops
Available Tours (9)
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3. Santa Barbara
Known as the 'American Riviera,' Santa Barbara offers a blend of Spanish colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Visit the Santa Barbara Mission, stroll along the waterfront, and explore the historic downtown area. Don't miss the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Old Mission Santa Barbara Museum.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Santa Barbara Mission
- ✓Waterfront
- ✓Santa Barbara Museum of Art
- ✓Old Mission Santa Barbara Museum
Available Tours (10)
Santa Barbara City Wine & History Walking Tour
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Private Santa Ynez Wine Tasting
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Santa Barbara City Tour
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The Original Downtown Food Tour (Mini)
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Canyon Horseback Riding Tour
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Discover Santa Barbara Cruise
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Santa Barbara Sunset Sail
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Private Mountain and City Helicopter Flight Santa Barbara
Offered by Sky High Helicopters
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Private Santa Barbara Grand Adventure
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Wine Country from Santa Barbara, Solvang
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4. Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a popular coastal destination with a variety of activities. Visit the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, where you can see thousands of monarch butterflies during their migration season. Explore the Pismo Beach Pier and enjoy the town's shops, restaurants, and beaches.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove
- ✓Pismo Beach Pier
- ✓Shops and restaurants
- ✓Beaches
Available Tours (10)
Beach Cruiser Rentals
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Single Surreys Rentals
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Guided E-Bike Tour of Pismo Beach, Shell Beach and Avila Beach
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Banana Bike Rentals
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Full Day Surfboard Rentals
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Kayak Tours
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Double Surreys Rentals
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Electric Bikes Rentals
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4 Hour Kayak Rentals
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SUP Rentals
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5. San Simeon
San Simeon is home to the famous Hearst Castle and the beautiful Elephant Seal Vista Point. Take a guided tour of the Hearst Castle to learn about its history and architecture. Watch the elephant seals at the vista point, and explore the nearby San Simeon Creek for hiking and wildlife viewing.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hearst Castle
- ✓Elephant Seal Vista Point
- ✓San Simeon Creek
- ✓Hiking trails
6. Solvang
Solvang is a charming Danish-inspired town with a unique blend of European architecture and California charm. Visit the Solvang Danish Village, explore the town's art galleries, and enjoy the local wineries. Don't miss the Old Mission Santa Ines, a historic mission founded in 1804.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Solvang Danish Village
- ✓Art galleries
- ✓Local wineries
- ✓Old Mission Santa Ines
Available Tours (7)
Five Hour Luxury Private Wine Tour Transportation
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Six Hour Luxury Private Wine Tour Transportation
Book Now →Wine Country from Santa Barbara, Solvang
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Seven Hour Luxury Private Wine Tour Transportation
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Eight Hour Luxury Private Wine Tour Transportation
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Private Customized Wine Tour All Inclusive" Package"
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Solvang Food & Photo Tour
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7. Big Sur
Big Sur is a stunning coastal region known for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and scenic drives. Visit the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Explore the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and enjoy the town's art galleries and shops.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Bixby Creek Bridge
- ✓Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- ✓Art galleries and shops
- ✓Scenic drives
Available Tours (10)
Forest Treasures Hunt & Hiking Excursion
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Concierge Services
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Boogie Board Rentals
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Carmel Valley Hiking Excursions
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Big Sur's Magical Mystery Tour Under the Stars
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Private Hiking Excursion
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Private Full Day Hiking Excursion
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Soft Top Packages
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Big Group Lesson
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Hard Top Rentals
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8. San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo is a vibrant college town with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Visit the San Luis Obispo Mission, explore the historic downtown area, and enjoy the town's museums and art galleries. Don't miss the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art and the San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum.
What to See & Do:
- ✓San Luis Obispo Mission
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
- ✓San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum
9. Paso Robles
Paso Robles is a charming town known for its wineries and historic downtown area. Visit the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum, explore the town's art galleries, and enjoy the local wineries. Don't miss the Paso Robles Event Center, a historic venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Paso Robles Pioneer Museum
- ✓Art galleries
- ✓Local wineries
- ✓Paso Robles Event Center
Available Tours (10)
Three Day e-Bike Rental in Paso Robles
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Private Paso Robles Wine Tour
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Paso Robles Hotel & Private Wine Tour Package
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Full Day e-Bike Rental in Paso Robles
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Paso Robles Private Wine Tour
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Paso Robles Wine Tours, Edna Valley Wine Tours, & Beyond • Destination Drivers Booking
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Sunset at the Vineyards Sidecar Wine Adventure Paso Robles
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Scenic Sidecar Vineyard Tour Paso Robles
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Vineyard Rides Paso Robles Sidecar Wine Adventure
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Two Day e-Bike Rental in Paso Robles
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10. Atascadero
Atascadero is a picturesque town with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Visit the Atascadero Lake Park, explore the town's art galleries, and enjoy the local wineries. Don't miss the Atascadero Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town's history and culture.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Atascadero Lake Park
- ✓Art galleries
- ✓Local wineries
- ✓Atascadero Historical Society Museum
11. Los Osos
Los Osos is a charming town known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visit the Montaña de Oro State Park, explore the town's art galleries, and enjoy the local wineries. Don't miss the Los Osos Oaks State Reserve, a beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Montaña de Oro State Park
- ✓Art galleries
- ✓Local wineries
- ✓Los Osos Oaks State Reserve
12. Cayucos
Cayucos is a quaint coastal town with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Visit the Cayucos State Beach, explore the town's art galleries, and enjoy the local shops and restaurants. Don't miss the Cayucos Pier, a historic pier that offers beautiful views of the coastline.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cayucos State Beach
- ✓Art galleries
- ✓Local shops and restaurants
- ✓Cayucos Pier
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