Best Travel Guide Avila Beach, California

Avila Beach, CaliforniaGuide was updated: 2025-06-23

As its own self-contained oasis of relaxation, Avila Beach is California’s whisper of a getaway. Far more calm and smaller than other cities along the coast, Avila Beach is a veritable resort town. Visitors are invited to shed their worries at the shoreline and take to the multitude of amenities and entertainment. Dine alongside sunsets, sip on local wines, decompress in the mineral hot springs, and feel rejuvenated with a stay in Avila Beach.

Do & See

Most visitors to Avila Beach spend their time partaking in all of the activities offered by the beach and ocean like hiking, surfing, fishing, and cycling. Of course, there are other draws to the area, like wine tastings at the local wineries and nearby attractions like Hearst Castle, The Charles Paddock Zoo, and the Central Coast Aquarium.

Central Coast Aquarium

The Central Coast Aquarium has been providing a close look at marine life for visitors of all ages since 1994. With desires of cultivating ocean stewardship in the community, Central Coast provides opportunities for hands-on science and oceanic exhibits and programs. They invite everyone to 'dive in and connect below the surface.'

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Hearst Castle

Built by William Randolph Hearst in a cliff overlooking San Simeon in 1919, Hearst Castle now offers tours exploring its grand rooms, upstairs suites, cottages and kitchens. The Neptune pool has been fixed in 2018, and provides a fitting setting for its surrounding sculptures. If you want to know more about the history of the building, a theater with explanatory screenings is also available.

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Wine Tasting

San Luis Obispo county is the third-largest producer of wine in California. Some of Avila Beach's finest wineries are: Avila Wine & Roasting Company, Peloton Cellars, Laetitia Vineyard & Winery and Alapay Cellars Tasting Room, the latter standing out as the largest winery in Avila Beach.

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Bob Jones Bike Trail

Nature enthusiasts have little issues finding fun in Avila Beach. The Bob Jones Trail is great not only for biking, but for hiking as well. Bike rentals are available at the beginning of the trail, which will guide you along plush gardens and peaceful streams.

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Avila Hot Springs

A hot mineral soaking pool is just one of the many amenities on the site of the natural Avila Hot Springs. Camping and other lodging, as well as a heated pool, showers, and an arcade are also available. The Springs themselves have a history that's over a century old.

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Avila Beach Surfing

Surfing is a favorite among the many ocean-centric activities in Avila Beach. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, equipment rentals and lessons are readily available. Avila Beach Surf School and Van Curaza Surf School are excellent choices to kick off your surfing adventure.

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Population:	1,594 (2024)
Currency:	US Dollar, $1 = 100 cents
Emergency Numbers:	911
Newspapers:	San Luis Obispo Tribune: www.sanluisobispo.com/latest-news
Website:	www.visitavilabeach.com »
Opening Hours:	Most stores are open daily from 9am to 9pm, or later. Most bars and clubs close around 2am.
Tourist Information:	San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center 895 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA +1 805 781 2777

United States

Avila Beach, California

Do & See

Central Coast Aquarium

Hearst Castle

Wine Tasting

Bob Jones Bike Trail

Avila Hot Springs

Avila Beach Surfing