What Makes San Luis Obispo the Ideal Place for a Summer Vacation?
If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect summertime vacation destination, put San Luis Obispo at the top of your list. Nestled along the central coast of California, SLO offers nearly limitless possibilities when it comes to the things you can do when visiting here in summer, when there’s even more sunshine to enjoy. Continue reading to discover some of the top reasons San Luis Obispo is an amazing place to visit in the summertime.
Peaceful Walks Surrounded by Natural Beauty
Natural beauty abounds in San Luis Obispo, especially in the summer. One of the best places to take a peaceful walk through an assortment of gardens, plants, and truly unique botanical collections is the five-acre Leaning Pine Arboretum, which can be found on the north side of the Cal Poly campus. The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is a similar location that’s also worth checking out during your summertime visit to SLO.
Fresh Fruit & Veggies
The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Association presents five farmers’ markets throughout the county during the summer months. There’s one in SLO that’s held twice weekly, and popular farmers’ markets are also held in nearby Arroyo Grande and Morro Bay. If you enjoy fresh fruits, veggies, and other locally grown fare, a summertime visit to SLO can be a welcome treat.
Hikes with Amazing Views
If you have a passion for hiking, you’ll absolutely love visiting San Luis Obispo in the summertime. A popular spot for hiking in the SLO area is Bishop Peak. At more than 1,500 feet, it’s the tallest part of the mountain range known as the Nine Sisters. It’s home to a single-track trail to the summit, where you’ll find a gorgeous view as a reward for your trek to the top. Located to the south of SLO, Johnson Ranch Open Space is another popular place to hike, bike, and take in the sights.
Numerous Easily Accessible Attractions
Summer is a perfect time to take road trips. Even if you don’t drive your car to SLO for your summertime visit, you can always rent one locally and take a drive along the nearby California Highway 1 Discovery Route. The part of this roadway that passes through San Luis Obispo County is peppered with an assortment of attractions and places to visit while out and about on a day trip, including:
• Local wineries
• Boutique shops
• Park trails
• Restaurants and other eateries
Plenty of Spectacular Beaches to Enjoy
Cradled by more than 80 miles of coastline, San Luis Obispo is a beach lover’s summertime delight. For instance, Pismo Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the area. Surfing, beach volleyball, kayaking, and fishing are just some of the many summertime activities you can enjoy when visiting various SLO-area beaches. After a day of fun in the sun and coastal breezes, take a walk along the sand under the clear starry sky before returning to your hotel. SLO visitors who enjoy summertime beach activities will adore San Luis Obispo.
Summer Movies under the Stars
San Luis Obispo is home to the Sunset Drive-In, one of the few remaining drive-in movie theaters in California. Summer is a perfect time to visit this family-friendly theater, which shows a pair of new releases every night.
If you’re ready to plan your vacation in “The Happiest City in America,” make your reservation today at Sands Inn & Suites, a premier San Luis Obispo hotel. Visitors return again and again to our AAA Three-Diamond property, which features soothing Spanish-inspired décor, a tranquil fountain area, a heated outdoor pool and spa, and amenities such as free WiFi, gym access, and parking. Call us at (800) 441-4657 today to reserve your room or suite.