San Luis Obispo County has something for all who enjoy the outdoors; everything from pristine beaches, quiet country roads, and a mild, sunny climate. Abundant wildlife includes seals, sea otters, sea mammals, monarch butterflies in winter, and over 200 species of birds. If you prefer to be active outdoors, there’s more info under the links below.
Naturally, there are also abundant opportunities for active outdoor activities: golfing, fishing, swimming, biking, kayaking, hiking, surfing etc.
San Luis Obispo County is also where art galleries abound – most presenting the paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photographs and other creations of the many talented local artists that have chosen to live here. In addition there are live theatre venues, symphony performances and a variety of museums.
There’s always something exciting going on in San Luis Obispo County – plays, concerts, fairs, festivals, sporting events, holiday celebrations, special museum exhibitions and other events.
And don’t forget the crown jewel of the Central Coast – Hearst Castle – if you want to see world class art and antiques.
Find Activities
Priority Listings
San Luis Obispo Symphony
"It's not the big city ... it just sounds like it." See the Events Calendar" for our active schedule, including our annual Pops Concert, held outdoors next to the Pacific, on… more >>
Central Coast Exploration Station
We are designed for youth of all ages, and is filled with interactive science exhibits about the human body, weather, electricity and more. Additionally there are rotating science… more >>
Central Coast Outdoors
Come explore the incredible outdoor world of the Central Coast with us. Kayak eco-tours of Morro Bay National Estuary. Bicycling tours down the coast or to the winery regions… more >>
CentralCoastGolfTrail.com
Welcome to California’s Central Coast Golf Trail… Where it is always a perfect time to golf! The Central Coast Golf Trail, situated in the heart of California halfway between… more >>
Chablis Cruises
Come aboard our two story riverboat and enjoy a champagne brunch or summer dinner, while cruising the calm waters of the bay. We are also available for private charters. Sunday… more >>
Clark Center for the Performing Arts
Since opening in 2002, the Clark Center for the Performing Arts has become the Central Coast’s premier venue for world-class, professional performing arts in an intimate setting.… more >>
Jack House & Gardens
Historic living museum of Victorian home ca. 1880 with many original furnishings. The Jack House and Gardens are located in the heart of San Luis Obispo, within walking distance… more >>
Monarch Dunes Golf Course
Surrounded by windswept dunes and eucalyptus trees, coastal vistas and amber-colored hillsides, enjoy the newest golf course in San Luis Obispo County. Designed by Damian Pascuzzo,… more >>
Performing Arts Center
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407-0441
Phone: (805) 756-2787
Tollfree: (888) 233-2787
Visit Website
Offering flexible, state-of-the-art meeting and banquet spaces configured over four levels. Host an intimate Board Meeting for 2 to 32 in the elegance of the Founders Lounge,… more >>
Prime Outlets at Pismo Beach
Located along the famous California Highway 101 in the popular oceanside resort town of Pismo Beach, this outlet center is easily accessible to both north and southbound tourists… more >>
Standard Listings
Allocco's Italian Bakery
Visit our outlet bakery & enjoy fresh Italian Taralli (Pretzels), Biscotti, Cookies, Foccacia, Pizza and more. Also available at many Farmers Markets and Wine Shops. more >>
Apple Farm Gift Shop and Millhouse
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 544-2040
Tollfree: (800) 255-2040
Fax: (805) 544-0236
Visit Website
Decorative and unique collectibles of home accessories. Ice cream and candy shop. more >>
Aramark / Hearst Castle Gift & Food Service
Books, souvenirs, gifts, Persian rugs, tapestries, castle replicas, statuary, fine art prints, jewelry, and more. Espresso, fudge shop and snack bar. more >>
ARTS Obispo, San Luis Obispo County Arts Council
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406
Phone: (805) 544-9251
Fax: (805) 544-1522
Visit Website
Visit ARTS Space Obispo weekdays from 10 to 4 for contemporary exhibitions of work by local artists. ARTS Obispo also hosts annual county-wide OPEN STUDIOS ART TOUR, and many… more >>
Avila Beach Golf Resort
Seaside resort between San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach. The back nine transverses a tidal estuary. Golfers of all abilities will enjoy the challenge of this scenic course. more >>
Avila Valley Barn
Fresh produce, hayrides, pumpkin patch, u-pick / we-pick produce. Country gift shop & home-made ice cream. more >>
B.J.'s ATV Rental Inc.
All sizes of ATV's for all ages. Friendly, helpful personnel. On-site Repairs. Vehicles and services for film shooting in off-road areas. more >>
Beach Butlerz, LLC
Offers beach furniture rentals, experts in beach parties and provide spa services while relaxing on the beach. more >>
Cal Poly Arts
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
Phone: (805) 756-7111
Tollfree: (888) 233-2787
Fax: (805) 756-5656
Visit Website
Presenting touring performing events throughout the year. Music, dance, plays, concerts, ballet, comedy, speakers. Check "Calendar of Events" for listings. more >>
California Clydesdales - Pines by the Sea Ranch
See 70+ award-winning clydesdales on a working ranch. Meadows, monterey pines, birdwatching, ocean views. Wedding site. Family fun. Reservations required. more >>
Carrizo Plain National Monument
Nationally protected wilderness & ecotourism area deep in the interior of the county. Bird-watching, hiking, camping & more. Follow all safety precautions and other guidelines… more >>
Central Coast Coffee Roasting Company
Los Osos, CA 93402
Phone: (805) 528-7317
Tollfree: (800) 382-6837
Fax: (805) 528-1150
Visit Website
Look for us in the stores ! Local coffee roaster supplying gourmet "SLO Roasted Coffee" from Paso Robles to Carpinteria. more >>
Central Coast Railroad Festival
Annual Festival at rail related locations throughout San Luis Obispo County. Come celebrate Rail's history and future with modeling, rides, exhibits, seminars, special programs… more >>
Central Coast Renaissance Festival
San Luis Obispo, CA 93428
Phone: (805) 927-0199
Tollfree: (800) 688-1477
Visit Website
Enjoy our annual Festival in July. Authentic music, delicious food and drink & unique crafts. See a real, full contact joust, period comedy, plays, dances & spectacles, including… more >>
Central Coast Shakespeare Festival
Outdoor Summer repertory theater. 2008 season cancelled. 2009 will probably present Shakespeare's "The Tempest" and one other great classical work. 2007 presented the drama "Richard… more >>
Charles Paddock Zoo
A perfect place to spend the day. The Zoo is the home of rare Indo-Chinese tigers, spider monkeys, meerkats, a beautiful aviary and many more unique species. more >>
City of San Luis Obispo - Parks & Recreation Department
Providing recreational opportunities to city residents and visitors. Visit our website for information and maps. more >>
Concierge Service of San Luis Obispo County
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: (805) 772-6439
Tollfree: (877) 621-7653
Fax: (805) 772-6412
Visit Website
Relax and let us make all your vacation arrangements. Includes catering, day spas, dining, fishing, fitness centers, golf, wine tours and more. All you have to do is enjoy! more >>
Crux Climbing Center
World class indoor rock climbing attraction for individuals, families, parties and groups to 100 plus. Check website for more detail. more >>
Cypress Ridge Golf Course
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Phone: (805) 474-7979
Tollfree: (888) 781-4653
Fax: (805) 474-7975
Visit Website
Rated 4½ Stars by Golf Digest's Best Places to Play, this Peter Jacobsen Signature Course is as challenging as it is beautiful. Mature cypress trees, lush green fairways and… more >>
Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos (D.A.N.A.)
State Historical Landmark. Oldest residence in SLO County. Open Sundays 12-4 & by appointment. Free. more >>
DAYLIGHT Home & Garden
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 547-1234
Tollfree: (800) 549-1250
Fax: (805) 781-3328
Over 20,000 feet of home furnishings and decor from around the world. Featuring home gallery and outdoor living center. more >>
Estrella Warbird Museum
Military aircraft, memorabilia and artifacts museum. Meeting site. Special events. Open Saturday 10 am to 4 pm & Sunday noon to 3 pm. Groups 10 or more Mon thru Thurs by appointment. more >>
Festival Mozaic
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 781-3009
Tollfree: (877) 881-8899
Fax: (805) 781-3011
Visit Website
Year round performances featuring a Summer Festival with internationally acclaimed artists and music. In Missions, wineries and other beautiful venues. Formerly known as SLO… more >>
Friends of the Elephant Seal
Suite 3B
San Simeon, CA 93452
Phone: (805) 924-1628
Fax: (805) 924-1629
Visit Website
Providing education & docents at the elephant seal viewing sites. Enjoy the elephant seals from a safe distance! Great ecotourism experience! Family fun. more >>
Gallery at Marina Square
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: (805) 772-1068
Fax: (805) 772-5194
Visit Website
Featuring Central Coast artists. On the waterfront in Morro Bay. Open 7 days; different artist featured monthly. Painting - jewelry - photography- sculpture - pottery. more >>
Gallery at the Network
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 788-0886
Fax: (805) 543-7281
Visit Website
Offers an atmosphere of exceptional fine art. A pleasant blend of contemporary and traditional art, we offer a wide selection of original paintings, Fine Art Prints, designer… more >>
Get Off the Couch, Potato ~ Sports Productions Inc.
Producer of the Central Coast Cancer Challenge, a multi-sport outdoor event raising funds for cancer support thru the Wellness Community and LIVESTRONG. Couch Potato is sports… more >>
Gold Coast Barbershop Chorus
Let us sing for you! Experience the beautiful ringing chords and great sounds of barbershop harmony presented by the members of the chorus or one of their entertaining quartets. more >>
Great American Melodrama
Live professional theater with song, dance, comedy reviews. Plays year 'round. Family entertainment. Check "Calendar of Events" for schedule. Film services. Food & wine available. more >>
Green Acres Lavender Farm
We are the first and largest Lavender Grower and Distiller in San Luis Obispo County, with over 13,000 plants growing on our farm. Visit us today at the farm or purchase some… more >>
Hearst Castle (R)
San Simeon, CA 93452
Tollfree: (800) 444-4445
Fax: (805) 927-2041
Visit Website
Tours offered daily. Evening Tours available Spring and Fall. See full Tab on left toolbar for more information. more >>
Hearst Castle Theater
The Hearst Casle Theater is a GIANT SCREEN theater showing the interpretive film, "Hearst Castle: Building the Dream", as the companion film to the EXPERIENCE TOUR at Hearst… more >>
History Center of San Luis Obispo County
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 543-0638
Fax: (805) 781-2919
Visit Website
County history museum in original Carnegie library, next to Mission San Luis Obispo. Also owns Dallidet Adobe & Gardens. Open Wed. - Sun. 10-4PM. Gift and books available. more >>
Hunter Ranch Golf Course
The only 4 1/2 star facility on California's central coast. Meandering through stands of century old Oaks, a sparkling lake adds to the test. In the heart of the Paso wine… more >>
Jack Creek Farms
Enjoy old-fashioned hospitality at our family farm. Sample apple cider, pomegranate slushes, local honey, homemade fudge & baked goods. Farm animals & demo gardens. Picnic area.… more >>
Juan Bautista de Anza / National Historic Trail
Discover the route of Juan Bautista de Anza, who led a contingent of 30 soldiers and their families from Mexico to San Francisco in 1775-76. Trail follows much of Hwys 1 and… more >>
Kayak Shack
Premier location to begin your kayak or canoe adventure in Morro Bay! Rental facility is adjacent to the National Estuary; See all that the State Park has to offer! more >>
Laguna Lake Municipal Golf Course
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: (805) 781-7309
Fax: (805) 781-7292
Visit Website
Rated one of the best-maintained layouts on the Central Coast. Low fees, quality maintenance, great views & friendly staff make this an experience worth repeating. more >>
Let's Go Ballooning !
Hot air balloon rides over the beautiful vineyards of Paso Robles. Up to four passengers per flight. A truly unique experience - don't miss it. Call to reserve. more >>
Med Stop Urgent Care Center
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: (805) 549-8880
Fax: (805) 549-8743
Provides adult and pediatric urgent care. more >>
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Enjoy the beauty and history of our beautiful and historic Mission, located on Mission Plaza in the heart of the city of San Luis Obispo. more >>
Mission San Miguel Arcangel
Enjoy the beauty and history of our Mission, located just off of Highway 101, north of Paso Robles. Interior indefinitely closed to all visitors. more >>
Morro Bay Art Association
Two floors of fine art in old-town Morro Bay. Rotating exhibits, and special events to raise funds for art scholarships. Open 7 days a week, Noon - 3:30 PM. more >>
Morro Bay Golf Course
A favorite for anyone who wants to feel they're playing a Pebble Beach-like track at a fraction of the cost. Situated inside Morro Bay State Park, the ocean views are stunning.… more >>
Murder in Mind Productions
Interactive Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre performed by Professional Actors at the Spyglass Inn Restaurant in Shell Beach and select locations throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa… more >>
Museum of Natural History
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: (805) 772-2694
Fax: (805) 772-7129
Visit Website
A great family adventure! 26 interactive exhibits for all ages. Exhibits cover local habitats & conservation. Open daily 10-5, except Thanksgiving, XMAS, New Year's. Low Admission… more >>
North County Historical Co-op
Promoting the historical sites in northern SLO County. Includes: Atascadero Historical Society, Camp Roberts Historical Society, Estrella Warbird Museum, Paso Robles Historical… more >>
Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
Recreation opportunities, including off-highway vehicle use, surf fishing, hiking, beach combing & bird watching. Great ecotourism experience! more >>
Onboard Nautical Events
A perfect venue for group events, celebrations, weddings, receptions, holiday parties and corporate off-sites. This 72' luxury motor yacht setting offers intimate fine dining… more >>
Opera San Luis Obispo
Suite 208
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: (805) 541-5369
Fax: (805) 541-5384
Visit Website
Delivering professional opera to SLO County for over 25 years. Experience the passion, joy and heartbreak that is opera. See the "Events Calendar" for details, coupons and other… more >>
Otter Productions, Inc.
Concert and live music event production & promotion. Check "Calendar of Events" for our offerings. more >>
Paso Robles Event Center
Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone: (805) 239-0655
Tollfree: (800) 909-3247
Fax: (805) 238-5308
Visit Website
Many events throughout year, including annual county fair with top-name entertainment, exhibits, horse & livestock show, and carnival. Facilities rental for events. more >>
Patriot Sportsfishing
Avila Beach, CA 93424
Phone: (805) 595-7200
Tollfree: (800) 714-3474
Fax: (805) 627-1601
Visit Website
Whale watching, fishing excursions, private charters, tackle store. Located on the Harford Pier in beautiful Avila Beach. more >>
Pewter Plough Playhouse & Cafe
"The Jewel Box of Community Theatres" presenting live plays year round. See "Calendar" for details. more >>
Piedras Blancas Lighthouse
Historic Lighthouse. Open for tours only once a month. Check 'Calendar of Events' for dates & times. Call to arrange for reservations Mon - Fri 9AM - 4PM. more >>
Port San Luis Harbor District
Avila Beach, CA 93424
Phone: (805) 595-5400
Fax: (805) 595-5404
Visit Website
The district provides opportunities for boating recreation and coastal access to beaches, piers and the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse and public safety and boater education. more >>
Rios - Caledonia Adobe
Old inn & stage coach stop - next to Mission San Miguel - awaits discovery by the history buff. Gift shop. Open 10-4 Fri-Sat-Sun. Organization also maintains Estrella Adobe Chruch.… more >>
River Oaks Golf Course
6-Hole Player Development Golf Course, the first of its kind in the nation! Ideal for the new golfer to the advanced - providing the perfect venue to begin the game golf or hone… more >>
River Oaks Hot Springs Spa
Offering private indoor and outdoor (hillside) natural mineral springs tubs for soaking, therapeutic massages and facials, specials, spa packages, romance packages and gift certificates.… more >>
Rock Kayak Co.
Whre your adventure begins. Kayak rentals, sales, tours and lessons. Guided tours for fishing and sight seeing on the Bay and Cayucos bluffs. more >>
Salisbury Fine Arts
Representing a select group of national & international artists who work with a broad range of styles in all mediums. Located in a beautiful restored school house and tasting… more >>
San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
Free and open to the public. Our mission is to connect people and plants in new and exciting ways. Garden Tours. Monthly talks. Children's Plant Family Camp. Ecotourism experience!… more >>
San Luis Obispo Children's Museum
21 indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits that challenge children to learn while having fun. Museum store and birthday parties. more >>
San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 543-3654
Fax: (805) 543-3697
Visit Website
The San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau is a non-governmental, non-profit, voluntary membership corporation that's purpose is to protect and promote agricultural interests throughout… more >>
San Luis Obispo County Parks & Recreation Department
We offer a wide range of hiking trails, biking trails, golf courses, campgrounds, pools and more. What do you want to do today? more >>
San Luis Obispo Folk Music Society (SLOFOLKS)
Bringing high-quality live music to the Central Coast. Performances in wineries and other venues. See our website and Calendar of Events for more information. more >>
San Luis Obispo Gallery Association
Marketing group for leading art galleries in the city of San Luis Obispo. Involved with "Art after Dark" and many other local art events. more >>
San Luis Obispo International Film Festival
Every March, showing features, documentaries, shorts and animation from around the world, with filmmaking workshops, Q & A's and celebrity receptions and awards nights. Check… more >>
San Luis Obispo Little Theatre
See "Events Calendar" for our active schedule. Long-time local community theatre providing quality year round theatrical productions. more >>
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
Three public galleries of fine art and crafts by California artists. Gift shop with works by local artists. Located next to Mission San Luis Obispo and Mission Plaza. more >>
San Luis Obispo Vocal Arts Ensemble
A 50-60 voice community adult choir with world-wide acclaim. Concerts in leading local venues, including PAC and SLO Mission. Check website for locations & dates. more >>
Sea Pines Golf Course Resort
Los Osos, CA 93402
Phone: (805) 528-5252
Tollfree: (888) 732-7463
Fax: (805) 528-8231
Visit Website
Offering a challenging 9 hole course that allows guests to view the ocean from most tees and greens. Offering the only lodging on a golf course within 100 miles. more >>
Seaside Gallery, The
Representing many nationally known artists, including Coa Yong, Pino, and Susan Rios. Authorized dealer of Rhythm Clocks, and Kitty's Critters. more >>
Showcase by the Sea
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Phone: (805) 773-9424
Tollfree: (888) 773-9424
Fax: (805) 773-9423
Visit Website
Thomas Kinkade signature gallery featuring fine art, collectibles and gift items. more >>
Siena Home Boutique
Here you will find unique and unusual decorative pieces for your home as well as special gifts for friends and family. Fine Home Decor - Jewelry - Candles & Soaps - Glassware… more >>
SLO Walking Tours
Fun, Informative walking tours provide a taste of historic and contemporary San Luis Obispo, including the Mission, Chinatown, Bubblegum Alley and more. more >>
San Luis Obispo Parks Open Space & Trails Foundation
Foundation to encourage parks, open space and trails in San Luis Obispo County. Hiking, Biking, and Equestrian Maps for trails throughout San Luis Obispo County. Great ecotourism… more >>
South County Historical Society
Visit our complex of historical buildings & collections near downtown Arroyo Grande. Open Sat 12-3, Sun 1-4. Victorian Gazebo available for weddings. more >>
Steve's ATV Rentals
ATV Rentals and Hummer tours. Making ATV Riding Safe, fun and easy! Vehicles and services for off-road film shooting. more >>
Steynberg Gallery
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 547-0278
Fax: (805) 783-1504
Visit Website
Art Gallery. African Masks, Shona sculpture from Zimbabwe, oil paintings and fine art from Africa and local artists. more >>
Sub Sea Tours and Kayaks
Dive without getting wet, or search for whales, sea otters and birds on our wildlife tours. Paddle the bay with a kayak or canoe. more >>
The California State Parks / SLO County
Serving the many State Beaches & State Parks in San Luis Obispo County, including Morro Rock, Montana de Oro, Oceano Dunes & many beaches. Great ecotourism experience! Family… more >>
The Spa Central Coast
Escape the pressure of life and enter our peaceful haven where a team of dedicated and well-trained experts will care for your individual needs and transport you to a state of… more >>
Virg's Landing / Sportsfishing
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: (805) 772-1222
Tollfree: (800) 762-5263
Fax: (805) 772-2921
Visit Website
Make your fishing vacation one you won't forget! Charters, sport fishing, whale watching and nature watch. Complete tackle shop. more >>
We Olive
Retail store featuring locally produced and imported olive oils. Daily olive oil tastings. Also offerng dipping oils, tapenades, salsas, soaps etc. more >>
Willis & Bennett, Inc.
Unique furniture, antiques, accessories and home decor individually selected from China and other international locales. Open 7 days a week. more >>































