San Luis Obispo County (a.k.a. SLO CAL) is an expansive region with 100 miles of picturesque coastline along Highway 1 and the bucolic Paso Robles and Edna Valley wine countries inland. Explore its character-rich, timeless beach towns, from San Simeon, Cambria and Cayucos to Morro Bay, Avila Beach and Pismo Beach. And don’t miss vibrant downtown San Luis Obispo, a highly walkable college town.
Leashes are optional at a few fabulous beaches in the county: “Dog Beach” adjacent to Cayucos State Beach; Morro Bay’s North Point Beach and Olde Port Beach and Fisherman’s Beach in Avila Beach. For an on-leash romp, head to the stretch of sand between Pismo State Beach and the Oceano Dunes State Park . Take Fido on a hike at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve in Cambria, along the Bob Jones Trail to the beach in Avila or the Johnson Ranch Open Space in SLO.
Winery dogs are beloved in SLO CAL and your pups are welcome at wineries in close proximity to the coastal route such as Baileyana Winery, Chamisal Vineyards and Wolff Vineyards. Hearst Ranch Winery bears the distinction of being the only winery located right on the water, where you can sip while savoring ocean views. When bellies growl, head to Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill (Cambria), The Spoon Trade (Grover Beach) and Luna Red (SLO)—among the several dog-friendly choices.
Plentiful coastal lodgings that welcome pets include Pismo Lighthouse Suites, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, Cambria Pines Lodge and The Pacific Motel. In downtown San Luis Obispo, consider a stay at the newly transformed Petit Soleil or Michelin Key awarded San Luis Creek Lodge.
