Getaway Time

Isn't it time you took things SLO? It's actually much easier than you think. San Luis Obispo (SLO) is centrally located just a few hours from San Francisco and Los Angeles. It's a Central Coast getaway with a secret: In February and March it's absolutely awesome, with green rolling hills, warm weather, wine country, beaches, bluffside hikes, bike trails, and brew pubs! The sweet seaside has everything from wine country to strolls in state parks within twenty minutes, or hikes leaving right from town! Then there are the creekside restaurants and cool little shops. Accommodations range from romantic B&Bs to chic boutiques and excellent value options. SLO is where you need to go for your next quick escape. Three favorite ideas:

Rock and Roll Icons: Famous for its distinct ancient volcanic formations, get up close to the iconic scenery on a sunset kayak to Morro Rock, a long-extinct volcano formed millions of years ago.

Bike and Brunch (and Beers): Hands down one of the nicest and safest casual biking paths in San Luis Obispo is along the paved Bob Jones Trail through woods paralleling San Luis Creek. Roll into Avila, home to a serene beach and a car-free downtown that's blissfully uncrowded this time of year. Back in SLO, head to a downtown brewpub or grab brunch al fresco style on a patio overlooking the creek.

Hike From Town: Take to the hills on one of San Luis Obispo's hiking trails leaving right from town. Lace up the boots for the floral-filled Irish Hills and get gorgeous views of verdant hills out to the ocean. Wildflowers will be blooming soon!