We decided to return to the Central Coast of California for Memorial Weekend. We went last year for about 2 days and we knew we wanted to return to explore some more. This time Adam, who is such a planner when it comes to vacations and mini getaways, decided to visit many more new areas we missed last time. I wanted to write about it because I know many of us who are born and raised in the bay area have not taken the time to explore the Central Coast. We visited San Simeon, Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach and Santa Barbara. So here it is...
Friday
HEARST CASTLE: We left our home from the East Bay and drove 2 hours south to Hearst Castle, located in San Simeon. We got tickets for the tour and it did not disappoint. There is so much history to absorb on this tour which left me wondering why I had not visited sooner. When I got in the car, I was on my phone googling the entire Hearst family to the point where I found his great granddaughter on Instagram.
About an hour away, we arrived to Pismo Beach, Ca and checked in at The Cliffs Resort. This is our second time staying here because its so nice, family friendly and close to so many fun areas. We went swimming and the resort hosted a movie night of Ratatouille.
Saturday
AVILA BEACH: I wish we could have slept in but it wasn't possible because of our 2 toddlers. So we took a 15 min. drive to San Luis Obispo for breakfast (good eats list is below). We took advantage of the sunny day and went to Avila Beach. Its a small little city with cute shops and eating areas. AVILA VALLEY FARMS: After, we visited Avila Valley Farms. Ate corn on the cob and fed lots of animals some cabbage. The kids were easily entertained and did not want to leave so we had a few melt downs on the way to the car.
check out my boy's swimsuit post HERE
When the boys woke up from their naps (including Adam) we went to downtown San Luis Obispo to visit and have dinner. Luckily, we had time to go back home and jump in the Jacuzzi. My favorite thing to do at a hotel.
Sunday
PISMO DUNES: Adam and Asael got up real early to spend a few hours in the dunes. So me and Judah stayed behind and went to have breakfast at a cute little spot in Pismo. Asael loved it, so I'm sure we will be back this year again. Hopefully Judah can join them next time.
SANTA BARBARA: By 1:30p we arrived in Santa Barbara, which is 1.5 hours south of Pismo Beach. As soon as we arrived I immediately fell in love with this small city. Its so charming and quaint. We walked along State Ave. and did a little bit of shopping. We also visited the Old Mission of Santa Barbara because it was hosting an arts festival. We'll be visiting again for sure.
Monday
One thing that makes me happy is a nice brunch so we went to Marisol which is located at The Cliffs Resort. They have a wide selection of savory and sweet during the buffet hours and it left us full to head home. We are looking forward in returning and staying here again. Their hospitality and warm welcoming is truly amazing.
It was a total of 4 days in the central coast of California and we felt like there was so much to do. I hope you guys visit these places soon. Please leave comment below of other things to do that you can share with me. I can add it to my list for next time. Thanks for reading along.
XOXO, Crystal Cara
