6 Things that Make San Luis Obispo an Ideal Holiday Destination

December 7, 2020

Winter holidays can get rough across the United States. It gets so cold in some states that residents crave warmer climates. One of the most popular places they select is the Central California coastal community of San Luis Obispo (SLO). Here are several reasons this city works for a warm winter getaway.

1. Mild Temperatures

December is dry in SLO, with only five days of rain on average. The rest of the month features mild, sunny days, and the average daily temperature is 65 degrees. At night, temperatures dip into the 40s. Warm jackets and sweaters are a necessity for activities after sundown, such as taking a leisurely stroll along the city’s palm tree-lined sidewalks or the serene coastline.

2. Special Events

The holidays in and around SLO feature several special events to get visitors in the holiday spirit. The menorah lighting and community Hanukkah party at the SLO mission takes place during the holiday’s eight nights and features traditional Jewish music, food, and activities such as dreidel spinning. In the nearby village of Arroyo Grande, shop owners dress up and welcome visitors with food, music, and special merchandise. After enjoying a day full of great food and fun activities, you’ll be ready to grab some hot cocoa and head back for a relaxing evening at your hotel near San Luis Obispo. 

3. Pismo Beach

Some travelers might recognize this name from classic Bugs Bunny cartoons. Pismo Beach is definitely meant for a visit while you’re in SLO. There are 23 miles of coastline where you can spend time soaking up the sun. You can also dip your feet in the Pacific, though it can be chilly during the winter. After enjoying the pristine beach, check out the area’s many opportunities to shop and dine on fresh seafood.

4. Avila Beach

If visitors find Pismo Beach too chilly in the winter, they can move over to Avila Beach. Protected by the cliffs that surround San Luis Obispo Bay, this coastal area stays warmer thanks to a lack of wind. Like Pismo, Avila has a wide swath of warm sand and a pleasant boardwalk.

5. SLO’s Historic Downtown

San Luis Obispo was incorporated as a city in 1850, but its history goes back to the late 18th century. As one of the area’s oldest European-based communities, it features several Spanish-style buildings, and many of them are found in SLO’s historic downtown. The heart of this area is Higuera Street, where visitors find an eclectic mix of restaurants, some of which overlook San Luis Obispo Creek.

6. Hiking

Though it doesn’t feature the peaks and trails of other California cities, SLO has its fair share of great places to hike. Among them are the 1,500-foot Bishop Peak and Avila trails. The latter has an advantage, as visitors can soak their tired muscles in the hot mineral springs.

San Luis Obispo, CA, offers an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family, and you’ll love exploring “The Happiest City in America” while staying with us at Sands Inn & Suites. We’re the local San Luis Obispo hotel visitors return to again and again because we offer all the amenities our guests need for a relaxing vacation, including an outdoor pool, an on-site gym, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs with digital cable. Call us at (800) 441-4657 today to reserve your room or suite. 

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