Best Day Trips from Paso Robles
Neighboring towns worth the drive.
Paso makes a perfect base — these charming Central Coast towns are all an easy day trip away. Looking for things closer to home first? See things to see and do in Paso Robles.
Central Coast Map
SLO CAL, the county's official tourism site, has an interactive map covering all the towns above and more, with drive times between each.
Inland Towns
- TempletonJust minutes south. This is where I taught school for 14 years, so I know it well — take a stroll down Main Street, where it still feels like the old west, then head out to the wineries in the Templeton Gap or El Pomar District. I also like to stop at Finley Family Nursery to satisfy my need to find unique plants for my garden.
- AtascaderoA historic colony town about 15 minutes south, anchored by a restored 1918 double-domed City Hall. Downtown has boutique shops, murals, and the Sunken Gardens, and it's home to the Central Coast Zoo and Atascadero Lake Park — both already favorites of mine.
- Santa MargaritaA tiny historic town south of Paso — home to Margarita Adventures ziplining and The Range, a local favorite for steak and country dining. The Range is one of my favorite restaurants, and their coffee crusted ribeye steak is delicious. It's a cash-only restaurant, so come prepared.
- San Luis ObispoAbout 30 minutes south — a lively college town with a famous downtown, mission, and weekly Thursday farmers market. KroBar Craft Distillery is here too, if you're headed that way and want a stop for spirits.
- San MiguelA small, historic town about 10 minutes north on the way to Camp Roberts — home to the 1797 Mission San Miguel Arcángel, with its original, restored frescoes, and the 1835 Rios-Caledonia Adobe. It's also the gateway to the Pleasant Valley Wine Trail.
Beach Towns
- Morro BayA classic fishing harbor under the iconic Morro Rock — seafood, kayaking, otters, and whale watching.
- CayucosThis is my favorite Central Coast beach town — an old-fashioned spot with a historic pier, saltwater taffy, and a relaxed, nostalgic feel. It's a quick drive from Paso, and where I go when the days here get too hot. There's a wonderful dog beach for my dog, Jimmy, to play, plus a collection of shops and restaurants.
- CambriaA coastal artist's village near Hearst Castle — pine-covered hills, Moonstone Beach boardwalk, galleries, and cozy inns. I really enjoy the Cambria Christmas Market. From late November through December, it transforms Cambria Pines Lodge with over 3 million lights.
- Pismo BeachClassic California charm, anchored by a historic 1,200-foot pier built in 1928 — surfing, fishing (no license needed), and the oceanfront boardwalk. The Monarch Butterfly Preserve and Oceano Dunes are both close by.
- Avila BeachQuieter and smaller than Pismo, just to the north — its own wooden pier, a dog-friendly beach, and Avila Valley Barn, a working farm with animals, produce, and fresh-baked treats. The Bob Jones Trail connects it to Pismo Beach for an easy walk or bike ride. It's also home to a great concert venue — Concerts at the Cove at the Avila Beach Golf Resort, with major touring acts and sweeping ocean views, May through October.
