Slow Down in SLO CAL. 

San Luis Obispo County, California (SLO CAL) is quietly making itself a vacation destination. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, a booming spirits scene, or a quiet day at the spa, SLO CAL has something for the whole family.

Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along California’s Central Coast, SLO CAL brings together the best of the Golden State. The county boasts over 80 miles of coastline and beaches, the third-largest wine region in the state, rich history (including the iconic Hearst Castle and two California missions), and outdoor adventures on land and on the water.

Here are a few noteworthy things to check out:

• Booming Spirits Scene: With an increasing number of local distilleries, many of which are “sustainable spirits” which involve recycling the too-often discarded free-run juice from wine (or saignée) for their distilling. The region may have over 250 wineries, but the emerging spirits scene is an unexpected way to explore the destination. Two popular distilleries in the area are Dorwood Distillery and Ascendant Spirits.

• Outdoor Adventure: Adventurers will find an endless array of quintessentially California activities on land and on the sea, including mountain biking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and hiking. Explore the Oceano Coastal Dunes by buggy (the only beach in California that allows motor vehicles). Go horseback riding through vineyards in Paso Robles, stand up paddle board to an oyster farm in Morro Bay, or cycle through the rolling hills between the coast and the valley. Make sure to check out the horseback tours at Halter Ranch Vineyard!
  
• New Developments: new hotels slated to open in 2018, renovations on the historic Pismo Beach Pier, increased direct lift access, and more. One of the most exciting new additions is The Rooftop at Inn at the Pier. Offering unbeatable views of the Pacific coastline and just walking distance from the historic Pismo Beach Pier, The Rooftop is a must do.

One of my favorite things about SLO CAL is their dedication to keeping local truly local. Sitting down for a meal at one of SLO CAL’s many restaurants, it’s possible that everything on your table came from within the county. From the flowers to the wine, to the fresh seafood and local vegetables, SLO CAL is dedicated to keeping it local and giving visitors that unique California experience.

With direct flights leaving Sea-Tac Airport every day, it couldn’t be easier for Seattleites to head south for a weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation. The best airport to fly into is theSan Luis Obispo County Regional Airport. Next time you’re looking for a vacation that allows you to truly slow down, consider SLO CAL.

Start planning your trip here: https://www.slocal.com/.

Photos by Visit SLO CAL.