48 Hours on the Central Coast

San Luis Obispo County Winter 2016 Getaway

People say that California has it all. Perhaps there'’s no truer representation of that than San Luis Obispo County. From the dramatic coastline to the green hills, seaside villages, and two world- class wine regions, San Luis Obispo County is all that'’s good about California!

Wine, Beer, and Moonshine Cheer: With over 280 wineries split between Paso Robles and Edna Valley, there'’s no shortage of vintages and fresh points of view! Fear not, beer brethren, San Luis Obispo County made CraftBeers.com's list for America'’s Beeriest Beach Towns. Find more than a dozen micro-breweries pouring IPAs, porters, sours, and ciders. If grappa and moonshine appeal, visit one of the many new distilleries in the county.

Morros, Beaches, Biking, Hiking: San Luis Obispo County is an outdoor dreamscape in winter. Ancient volcanic mountains (morros) top out to epic coastal views, and secluded bluffside hiking trails bring solitude and the drama of the sea like nowhere else in the state. Beach hopping by bike or just strolling Cambria, Pismo Beach, or Avila Beach (named #4 of the Top 10 Beaches in the US by Better Homes & Gardens) at sunset is a relaxing way to spend the day. Find your perfect itinerary.

Local Eats: From dockside seafood cooked-to-order in Morro Bay to the savory sustainable grass-fed beef at restaurants in Paso Robles and fresh vegetables served at the city of San Luis Obispo's lively farmers' market, San Luis Obispo County fully embraces the locally sourced lifestyle.

SLO IN LOVE WITH YOU: Whether your romantic weekend includes your significant other or your dog (or both), San Luis Obispo County has a range of accommodations and activities to keep everyone perfectly, and _fur_fectly happy. (FYI, there are some awesome winter rates right now—book before they're snapped up).

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