San Luis Obispo Holidays

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Your San Luis Obispo Holiday

Lock in a San Luis Obispo holiday package and prepare for a fabulous getaway. Renowned for its lively atmosphere and outdoorsy activities, there's tons to love about this lively city. Want to explore? Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and Fremont Theatre are just three of the top-rated places to visit during your trip to San Luis Obispo. No matter your travel plans or budget, putting together the ultimate tailored San Luis Obispo holiday is a piece of cake with Expedia.

Where to stay in San Luis Obispo

Find the best San Luis Obispo areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Luis Obispo
A white church with a cross on top, surrounded by trees and a stone wall.

Downtown San Luis Obispo

3 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

If you're spending some time in Downtown San Luis Obispo, Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa are top sights worth seeing.

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Old Town Historic District

While Old Town Historic District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater.

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A valley with a town surrounded by mountains.

Lower Higuera

While Lower Higuera isn't home to many top sights, Madonna Plaza Shopping Center and Downtown SLO Farmers' Market are some notable places to visit nearby.

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A rugged mountainous landscape with rolling hills and a winding path.

Foothill

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While there might not be top attractions in Foothill, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fremont Theater and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

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MoJo

While MoJo may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Fremont Theater and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

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Things to do in and around San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike, offering a wealth of activities such as educational trips, scenic drives, and adventure opportunities. Visitors can enjoy holiday events and live music, as well as unwind in local spas and recreational areas. This charming Californian city promises a delightful blend of natural beauty and vibrant experiences for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, bustling with local vendors in the heart of San Luis Obispo. If you're up for a drive, check out Pismo Beach Surf Shop, a great stop for surf gifts, or head to Madonna Plaza Shopping Center for family-friendly shopping.

Recreation

Experience the charm of San Luis Obispo at the Fremont Theater, where cinematic magic meets family-friendly entertainment. Unwind at Laguna Lake Park, a serene spot perfect for relaxation amidst nature. Enjoy captivating performances at the Performing Arts Center, showcasing culture and romance in a vibrant atmosphere.

Adventure

At Avila Valley Barn, enjoy fresh produce and farm activities in a charming setting. Cycle along the Bob Jones City to Sea Bike Trail, located 12.9km from San Luis Obispo, for stunning views. Hike the Reservoir Canyon Trail for an exhilarating adventure surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Nightlife

In San Luis Obispo, enjoy vibrant nightlife at venues like Downtown's lively bars and the iconic Fremont Theatre. Experience live music at SLO Brew or craft cocktails at the stylish The Marigold. The atmosphere is welcoming, with plenty of options for dancing, socialising, and enjoying local brews.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is a delightful destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its stunning beaches, historic colleges and universities, and rejuvenating hot springs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re after family-friendly activities or a scenic getaway, the attractions in and around San Luis Obispo promise an enriching and enjoyable vacation.

  • Bubblegum Alley: Experience the quirky charm of Bubblegum Alley, a vibrant street adorned with thousands of colourful pieces of chewed gum stuck to its walls. This unique attraction showcases the playful spirit of the local community, offering a perfect backdrop for fun photos and a taste of the city's whimsical side.
  • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of California Polytechnic State University. This historic institution features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, making it a pleasant place to stroll while appreciating its contributions to education and innovation.
  • Avila Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate at Avila Hot Springs, where natural mineral waters provide a soothing experience. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this outdoor haven is perfect for unwinding, soaking in hot springs, and enjoying quality time with friends and family.

Best time to go to San Luis Obispo

The best time to visit San Luis Obispo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.7°F (14.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May60.8°F (16.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June65.5°F (18.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July68.7°F (20.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.4°F (20.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October64.6°F (18.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November57.6°F (14.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to San Luis Obispo

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to San Luis Obispo.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to San Luis Obispo.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

San Luis Obispo Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
U.S dollars
Closest Airport
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP)
Population
47,300
Max Temp Winter
18ºC
Max Temp Summer
27ºC
Top Sights
Avila Hot Springs, Morro Bay State Park and Avila Beach

Top hotels in San Luis Obispo

Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

1631 Monterey St San Luis Obispo CA
Fully refundable
£124
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo
Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

210 Madonna Rd San Luis Obispo CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£61
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (1,363 reviews)
"We paid $245 for one night because it was moving day for Calpoly. This is a $60 night motel that has lumpy pillows and an old bed. The staff that took us in seems almost asleep. Will try to avoid this place and maybe just stay farther away if there are no other options in slo next time."

Reviewed on 21 Aug 2026

Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo
Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn

100 Madonna Road San Luis Obispo CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£139
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Madonna Inn
See all 2,207 properties in San Luis Obispo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Where to go when
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Stay near popular San Luis Obispo attractions

A modern architectural building with curved surfaces and palm trees in the foreground.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

9.4/10 (2,266 reviews)
Cal Poly's "Learn by Doing" philosophy comes alive through hands-on facilities and the unique Architecture Graveyard. Explore the Leaning Pine Arboretum's five Mediterranean climate gardens during your campus visit.
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A clear blue pool with lounge chairs and a red building in the background.
Photo by GypsySol ☀️

Avila Hot Springs

8.8/10 (640 reviews)
This historic hot springs retreat has offered therapeutic mineral soaking since 1907. Enjoy the 104°F artesian pool, then cool off in the freshwater swimming area with exhilarating water slides.
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A pink and white building with a row of circular windows and a decorative finial.
Photo by Marjorie Stevens

Fremont Theater

8.2/10 (246 reviews)
This historic Art Deco theatre has lit city centre SLO with its neon marquee since 1941. Experience concerts or films beneath ornate ceilings in either padded theatre seats or the intimate general admission pit.
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A church sign with a Mass schedule and a Sacrament of Reconciliation notice.
Photo by Candy Candy Dayal

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

9.0/10 (1,335 reviews)
Founded in 1772, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa captivates with its unique L-shaped church design. Explore the mission's museum artefacts and serene gardens through free daily guided tours.
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A vineyard with rows of grapevines extending towards a mountain range under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo by Karen Grubb

Edna Valley Vineyard

8.6/10 (263 reviews)
Edna Valley Vineyard crafts exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a stunning coastal climate setting. Savour a flight of limited-release wines while taking in panoramic views of rolling vineyards and hills.
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A town nestled between hills and a river.

Laguna Lake Park

Laguna Lake Park offers scenic trails around a picturesque lake with views of Cerro San Luis. Enjoy the disc golf course or bring your four-legged friend to the dedicated off-leash area for some outdoor fun.
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A dense collection of colorful mushrooms and fungi.

Bubblegum Alley

8.0/10 (1,204 reviews)
This 15-foot high alley showcases thousands of pieces of colourful chewed gum stuck to its walls. Bring your own bubble gum to leave your mark on this quirky San Luis Obispo landmark.
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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market

9.0/10 (6 reviews)
Every Thursday, Higuera Street becomes a vibrant marketplace with 100+ vendors selling fresh produce and local cuisine. Stroll through city centre SLO while enjoying live music and the community's festive atmosphere.
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What to do in San Luis Obispo

Long, Wide, Low and stable with Giant paddle tires, this is the Only REAL Dune Buggy Experience at the Oceano Dunes.

Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach

£105
per adult
Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach
San Luis Obispo Self Guide Walking Tour

San Luis Obispo: GPS-Guided Walking Audio Tour Via App

£8
per traveller
San Luis Obispo: GPS-Guided Walking Audio Tour Via App
Scenic Sidecar Vineyard Adventure San Luis Obispo

Scenic Vineyard Tour Adventure San Luis Obispo

£34
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Scenic Vineyard Tour Adventure San Luis Obispo
See all activities in San Luis Obispo

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my San Luis Obispo holiday with Expedia?
With great-value airfares, car hire and hotel choices all in one place, Expedia makes planning your San Luis Obispo adventure a cinch. Plus, we can help you bundle your bookings into a package holiday so you can enjoy even more savings. Choose from fabulous stays, add flights and/or a hire car (and maybe even some exciting activities!) and score incredible prices. Need to cancel? Expedia offers a flexible cancellation policy for many reservations. To learn more, make your way to our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in San Luis Obispo?
March, June and July are the busiest months in San Luis Obispo, while September, October and December are generally a lot quieter. To give you an idea of what type of weather to expect, the average daytime temperature in January, the coolest month in San Luis Obispo, is 11ºC. The warmest time here is July, when temperatures reach an average of 20ºC.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in San Luis Obispo?
Travellers visiting San Luis Obispo often stay in Old Town Historic District. Madonna Inn and La Cuesta Inn are popular getaways in this neighbourhood. But it's not the only exciting place around town! Downtown San Luis Obispo is another great area and where you'll find Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo and Spyglass Inn.
How do I get a cheap holiday to San Luis Obispo?
Bundle your flights and hotels, toss in extras such as tours, and save with a San Luis Obispo holiday. You won't just enjoy amazing discounts on your adventure — you'll have lots of choice within your reach too. When you book with Expedia, you can choose from more than 400 airlines and 321,000 properties all over the world. Your next big adventure starts right here, right now! Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you book a flight and hotel together with Expedia.
What should I do on my San Luis Obispo holiday?
Make sure your holiday in San Luis Obispo is a memorable one by visiting its best attractions. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Avila Hot Springs and Avila Beach Golf Resort are among the things you must see while you're in the area.
What is the best neighbourhood to stay in when on holiday in San Luis Obispo?
If it's your first time in San Luis Obispo, find a stay in Downtown San Luis Obispo. This neighbourhood is home to some fantastic sights, such as Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.
Do I need a visa for my San Luis Obispo holiday?
Look up the most up-to-date information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for leisure, study or business will determine if you require a visa for San Luis Obispo. Familiarise yourself with the application process, including the required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Finalise your application well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. Some visas can take several weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my San Luis Obispo holiday?
Do a little research into the sorts of things people in San Luis Obispo wear, and maybe even look up style blogs for some fashion inspiration. Aim to create a versatile wardrobe filled with pieces that work for your destination and show off your unique style. Daytime temperatures in January, San Luis Obispo's coolest month, average around 11ºC. July marks this destination's warmest month when average temperatures reach 20ºC. Our top tip? Take the guesswork out of what to pack and check the local weather conditions.
What does an Expedia San Luis Obispo holiday include?
With Expedia, you can select a combination of car hires, hotels and flights to build your ideal San Luis Obispo package. Once you've made your booking, simply add on the fun stuff like tours and experiences. Don't forget, the more you bundle, the more pounds you'll save! Expedia features many properties, with the most popular in San Luis Obispo including private holiday homes and apartments. With Expedia, you can expect the flexibility and freedom to design your holiday any way you want.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later San Luis Obispo holidays?
We certainly do. Expedia has teamed up with online lender Klarna to help you easily pay for your trip in instalments. Simply click on the payment plan that suits you best during the checkout process and take the stress out of budgeting for your next trip. Make sure you bundle your flights, car hire and hotel with Expedia to get the biggest bang for your buck. Browse our flexible payment options below:
  • Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers the ability to pay in multiple instalments that suit all types of budgets, so you can lock in that well-deserved holiday sooner.
  • No-deposit holidays: When you come across an unbeatable deal but your budget doesn't quite cover it yet, Klarna's no-deposit holiday plan will allow you to Book Now, Pay Later to lock it in.
Can I choose my airline with a San Luis Obispo Expedia holiday?
Yes, you sure can. We have more than 400 partner airlines throughout the world, so go with the carrier that matches your budget and travelling style.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.