Avila Beach takes its independent spirit seriously. Situated near the ocean, the hills, and wine estates, the walkable village hosts galleries and boutiques to suit most any aesthetic whim. It’s hard to imagine that there’s so much to do and see in one place like Avila Beach, and we haven’t even discussed the surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding or fishing off the pier. The town has long embraced its role as the liaison between the sea and the woodlands and between the field and the vineyard. Spend a few days here, and you’ll depart smitten with your surroundings and seduced by the sea air. Avila Beach is a place where you can pick your perfect paradise.
While in Avila Beach, take a step back in time to the Point San Luis Lighthouse. Visit this historic lightstation, on the National Register of Historic Places and still in operation under the auspices of the U.S. Coast Guard. The lighthouse is tucked away past the town of Avila Beach, reachable by a docent-led trolley, by kayak, or by hiking in with Pecho Coast Trail Guides. Hikes take about an hour to reach the light station, and offer views of the ocean perfect for whale watching during migration. The two-storey keeper’s building harkens back to Victorian Gothic design atop windswept bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Tours are available Wednesdays and Saturdays at noon, 1pm, and 2pm, year-round.
Journey under the sea at the Central Coast Aquarium. This thoughtfully-designed aquarium is home to dozens of species, from the giant Pacific octopus and sharks to tidepool creatures like sea stars and rock crabs. For young visitors, the aquarium offers touch tanks and interactive exhibits designed to foster a lifelong love for the ocean and coastal conservation. The aquarium hosts a range of educational experiences, including Sharks After Dark, a monthly adults-only evening event in which local experts discuss marine topics like oceanography…deliciously paired with appetizers and wine. On regular days throughout the year, the Central Coast Aquarium invites trained divers to help with a dive cleanup. Landlubbers are also welcome to help with beach cleanup days. On the last Thursday or Saturday of the month, the aquarium invites young learners to hear a brief talk on the species of the month, then sets them out with their parents with a Beachcomber’s Guide with everything needed to navigate an adventure to discover the wonderful world under the waves, including Tide Pool Tips, Directions, Photos, Links to Check Tides, and Animal Information.
Enjoy down-home fun at the Avila Valley Barn. A favorite roadside stop since 1985, this sprawling farm is a hoot for the whole family! Shop for seasonal fruits and vegetables, including world-famous See Canyon apples grown just down the road, as well as jams, jellies, baking mixes and flowers. Kids (and kids of all ages) will love the petting zoo with goats, sheep, ponies, ducks, alpacas, and even peacocks. The shop offers decor, cookbooks, linens, a legendary children’s toy section, and other goods, while the deli sells piled-high sandwiches, ice cream, candy and handmade fudge. The Avila Valley Barn is open year-round, with a pumpkin patch and hayrides each fall, Christmas trees and greenery in winter, and pony rides and U-pick berries and peaches in the summer.
Things to Do in Avila Beach
Come experience Avila Beach like the locals.
Where to Stay in Avila Beach
Plan your stay at one of the many hotels or vacation rentals in Avila Beach.
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Round AboutRound AboutAvila Beach
Round up the whole family and book a vacation to the memorable Round About vacation rental in Avila Beach, California.
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Amore AvilaAmore AvilaAvila Beach
Amore Avila is a welcoming vacation rental house in scenic Avila Beach along the famed California Central Coast.
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Beach Bum Holiday RentalsBeach Bum Holiday RentalsPismo Beach
Come up for a breath of fresh air and experience the friendly surrounding atmosphere of the Central California Coast!
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Inn at Avila BeachInn at Avila BeachAvila Beach
Inn at Avila Beach is an option for those seeking an all-inclusive place to stay with views of the Pacific Ocean and many amenities to enjoy.
Avila Beach Travel Videos
Events in Avila Beach
Plan your next roadtrip to Avila Beach around events and happenings.
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Halloween at the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market
Kick off the Halloween weekend with us with a fun-filled evening of costumes, candy, and karaoke! Halloween Festivities return to the Downtown SLO on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 5–8 PM. Activities include…
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Spartan Ultra Weekend
Spartan Trail, scheduled to be held in San Luis Obispo County at Santa Margarita Ranch, is a trail race with distances of 10k, 10k Night Run, Half Marathon and 50k.
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Harvest on the Coast
The SLO Coast Wine collective is thrilled to announce “Harvest on the Coast.” The event celebrates the latest harvest as well as past releases from the newly-formed San Luis Obispo…
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SLO Holiday Parade
The Annual Downtown SLO Holiday Parade has drawn thousands to downtown San Luis Obispo since 1976. Held on the first Friday in December, the parade has become a much-loved holiday tradition…
Travel Articles About Avila Beach
Read about why Avila Beach is the perfect California Highway 1 road trip for those seeking a special California beach town experience.
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Point San Luis LighthousePoint San Luis LighthouseAvila Beach
Founded in 1890, Point San Luis Lighthouse has saved many lives in its time, and remains a beacon over San Luis Bay. Visit a piece of history on Highway 1.
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Avila Valley BarnAvila Valley BarnSan Luis Obispo
When it comes to old-fashioned fun and farm-fresh flavor, the Avila Valley Barn fits the bill. Once a tiny fruit stand, the Avila Barn now offers a petting zoo, hayrides, gift store, sweet shop and bakery.
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Biking Avila BeachBiking Avila BeachAvila Beach
For a beginners path, great for kids, try the Bob Jones Trail. Or visit Central Coast Outdoors for more recommendations.
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Bird Watching on the Central CoastBird Watching on the Central CoastLos Osos
Ideal climate, terrain, and proximity to the Pacific Flyway makes the SLO CAL stretch of Highway 1 one of the finest birding regions in the world.
Where to Eat in Avila Beach
Check out all the restaurants and good eats in Avila Beach.
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Custom HouseCustom HouseAvila Beach
While dining at Custom House, you are just steps away from the beautiful Pacific Ocean.
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KravaBowlKravaBowlAvila Beach
KravaBowl is bringing acai bowls to Avila Beach, along with cold pressed juices, fresh salads, breakfast bowls and smoothies.
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Mulligan’s Bar & GrillMulligan’s Bar & GrillAvila Beach
Located on one of the most beautiful settings on the Central Coast, Mulligan's offers casual, comfortable dining along with a full bar.
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Hula HutHula HutAvila Beach
Hula Hut features freshly made salads, sandwiches, wraps and smoothies.
Connect With Avila Beach
Official travel map and social media for Avila Beach.
More to Explore on Highway 1
Check out these other amazing places on the Highway 1 Road Trip in San Luis Obispo County.
Explore the Highway 1 Road Trip
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