1. Overview of Avila Beach
There’s plenty to see and do off California’s Pacific Coast Highway — from the sea lion rookery north of San Simeon to the vineyards of Edna Valley. However, the coastal community of Avila Beach is often — mistakenly — overlooked.
2. Climate and Attractions
Thanks to Avila’s protected location on the northern side of San Luis Obispo Bay, the weather tends to be a little warmer and a little sunnier than the rest of the Central Coast, making the palm tree-lined beachfront even more appealing. Moreover, while the stretch of white sand, pier, oceanfront restaurants, and shops are an obvious draw, look a little closer, and you’ll find an outdoor-lover’s paradise.
3. Outdoor Activities
From Highway 1, you can hop on the Bob Jones Trail, a paved biking and walking trail that leads straight to the beach. The three-mile, one-way path runs next to San Luis Obispo Creek and the fields of Avila Valley Barn, a local farm. You can pick up peaches, raspberries, blackberries, or apples from the farm stand (depending on the season) or visit Avila Hot Springs, a public pool and hot mineral springs with camping and cabins for rent.
4. Mineral Springs and Spas
The hot mineral soaking pool at Avila Hot Springs is a must, but travelers who come to Avila Beach for the natural hot water won’t want to leave without a visit to Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. The resort has funneled their share of mineral water to 24 open-air tubs — set on a scenic hillside — that anyone can rent by the hour. Furthermore, visitors can rent the expansive, private, human-made lagoon with a waterfall by the hour. Guests staying overnight at the resort will enjoy their own private tubs adjacent to their rooms.
5. Marine Life and Viewing Opportunities
In addition to hot springs, warm weather, and a stunning strip of sand, the coastal waters off Avila Beach are home to sea otters and sea lions, and perhaps most notably, pods of gray whales. It is estimated that up to 20,000 gray whales pass Avila Beach on their bi-annual journey between Mexico and Alaska. The great mammals can often be viewed right from Avila Beach Pier, but for an up-close look, you might want to join a tour with Avila Beach Whale Watching or rent a kayak and paddle into the bay.
6. Historic Lighthouse and Hiking
Kayaking is the perfect mode of transportation for those looking to visit the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse, which has looked out over Avila and the bay since 1889. The lighthouse features a beautiful tree swing facing the ocean and conducts tours every Wednesday and Saturday. Visitors who aren’t keen on paddling across the bay can take a shuttle or make their way to the lighthouse on the Pecho Coast Trail, which is just under four miles.
Learn more about the coastal enclave of Avila Beach here.
