If you have been following along with my Instagram stories this past weekend then you know we are staying up in San Luis Obispo, CA. About ten miles away from there is a cute little beach town called Avila Beach. We decided to head over there for the day and had the best time! It’s very family friendly, has expansive white sandy beaches, multiple piers, and a few natural hot springs. Many of the shops and resorts along the beach are quaint, whimsical, and charming. With only one road in a one road out, it is definitely a hidden paradise on the Central Coast.
Beaches
Avila Beach offers a year-round warmer climate as it is tucked away in the Port San Luis Harbor and sheltered by the hills of the Avila Valley. It has the most sunshine of any other local beach towns!
City Beach – Large white sandy beach that lines the waterfront town including shops, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms. This is also where the swing set on the sand and wooden pier are. Great for kids as the waves are very gentle.
Fisherman’s Beach – Also known as the dog beach as dogs are allowed to roam off leash here.
Pirate’s Cove – This is a clothing optional beach. If you plan to go here, keep in mind that the trail to Pirates Beach is somewhat steep and can be challenging.
Cave Landing Beach – This is a hidden and hard-to-reach beach below Cave Landing. I heard the trail to get there is very steep (I’m talking you have to use the provided ropes to rappel down). It looks amazing online, next time we are here without the kids I am definitely stopping by!
Where To Eat
Avila Market – Located right on Main St, this magnolia-esque market had a line out the door! They have everything from sandwiches and wraps to acai bowls to clam chowder. Grab something to go and eat it at the beach! Also, downstairs is a market with quick food items, wine, novelties, toiletries, etc.
Custom House – Offering both indoor and outdoor dining, this is a great place for people watching! They have both traditional breakfast and fresh seafood.
Where To Stay
Avila Beach is a pretty small town and could be explored in one day in my opinion. But if you are looking to spend more time there, I recommend Avila Lighthouse Suites. This boutique hotel is right on the water, has the same local charm, and an amazing pool.
Things To Do
Pirate-themed Playground – There is a small park at the north end of the waterfront with a playground and grassy areas.
Central Coast Aquarium – This modest size aquarium offers hands-on marine life exhibits & activities focusing on local species. Check their schedule for feeding times!
Point San Luis Lighthouse – It was built in 1890 and has since been restored to it’s historic glory. Available to explore by tour only.
Bob Jones Trail – This 3 miles (one way) well-paved, mostly flat path connects Downtown Avila Beach and the area behind the Avila Valley Barn. You will find the trailhead (and parking lot) on Ontario Road and the trail ends close to the main pier. You can also bike!
Things To Do Right Outside Of Town
Avila Valley Barn – Located just a few miles from the beach, this farm is fun for the whole family! They have apple picking, hay rides, a petting zoo, and the girls got to ride ponies. Especially great in the Fall!
Sycamore Mineral Springs – This resort and spa looks amazing! You can rent jacuzzis filled with their mineral hot springs water that are located high up in the hills. Jacuzzi rentals are open to the public and priced per hour. I wanted to do this so bad, but there is a 6 year old age minimum. Next time!
Avila Hot Springs Resort – Another local hot springs, however this one looks more like one big soaking pool. They do have water slides though!
Kelsey See Canyon Winery – Located five minutes from downtown Avila Beach, this small family owned winery is kid friendly and has country charm. Bring a picnic and enjoy the spectacular views!
Tucked away behind apple orchards, hot springs and tree filled mountains, Avila is a gem on the Central Coast! We had so much fun exploring this quaint beach town!
Stay tuned for my San Luis Obispo travel guide later this week.