Avila Beach Travel Guide

Looking for a beach getaway? Avila Beach, is home to beautiful beaches, a laidback atmosphere, and a multitude of fun activities. From the white sandy beaches and bustling pier to picturesque lighthouses and water sports, Avila Beach is great for all ages. There is additionally a great selection of restaurants here, serving up delicious seafood, as well as candy and ice cream shops, and wine-tasting bars.

Things to Do in Avila Beach

Naturally, Avila Beach City Beach is a favorite spot in Avila Beach. The white sand is perfect to lay back and relax, while the turquoise blue waters provide a much-needed cool off from the heat. The Avila Pier is also great for visitors to enjoy a stroll along the San Luis Bay -- if you're lucky, you may even be able to spot whales from the pier.

Pirates Cove beach is another popular spot in Avila, where visitors can unwind on the beach and explore the sea caves. It's also possible to visit the Point San Luis Lighthouse from here, which was built in 1890 and is a great photo opportunity.

For something more active, The Bob Jones Trail is ideal for bike-riding and soaking in the beach view.

Best Time to Visit Avila Beach

The best time to visit Avila Beach is during the summer months when it's hot. Spring is also a pleasant time of year to arrive and generally has cheaper accommodation.

A Local's Guide to Avila Beach Vacation Rentals

Avila Beach is a slice of Californian paradise, with white beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, and quaint vacation rentals dotted on the hillside. The town is nestled in a picturesque valley, with the ocean in front and rolling hills providing a beautiful backdrop, making it the perfect destination for those that want to get away from busy day to day life. Many people are drawn to the small-town vibe the area has, and with only 1000 residents, it certainly is small. Despite its size, there are still a great many hotels and condo rentals in Avila which will allow you to explore the rugged, undeveloped beauty of this part of the Californian coast.

Another draw is the beach itself, sheltered from the wind by Point San Luis, it often has a warmer climate than some of the surrounding beaches. This makes Avila Beach condo rentals a popular option. Although small, there are still plenty of other things to keep visitors entertained apart from the beach. Why not take a walk through the stunning Avila Valley down the Bob Jones Trail, or stretch your legs on a walk to Point San Luis Lighthouse. The town has many hiking and biking options, whether you just want a short walk to the beach, or a longer hike along the San Luis Creek, the town has options for all. Alternatively, hire a bike from one of the shops in town and explore the area on two wheels.

There are a range of attraction in town, a favorite being the Central Coast Aquarium. The aquarium allows you to see marine life up-close, and learn about the local habitats and ecosystems. The regular farmers' markets are also a big draw, with a huge amount of fresh produce, food booths, family entertainment, and much more.

Avila Beach shares much of its history with the surrounding San Luis Obispo County, and like its neighboring town, has become a hotspot for a getaway -- especially thanks to the large number of Avila Beach vacation rentals that have sprung up along the ocean and in San Luis Obispo.

If you are looking for a place to rest your head at night, you will find many rentals in Avila Beach. There are hotels so close to the water that you will be able to smell the ocean, such as the San Luis Bay inn, which is only a few steps to the sand. A vintage beach house rental is a great option for a larger family or group of friends thanks to the shared living space, or a townhouse rental a short walk to the town center means that you will have quick access to all the attractions. Most of the shops along Main Street have an Avila Beach rental house above them, or you could go for something bigger a little away from Main Street, such as a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom town home 1.5 blocks from the sea. Rentals offer a range of amenities, from pools to shared living rooms. There is even a resort set on top of an ancient natural mineral springs.

If you can’t find the ideal rental in Avila Beach California, then nearby Pismo beach is another option. A classic beach town, the area has a white beach and spectacular sunset views at night, as well as an award-winning boardwalk. There are many accommodation options here as well, and for a large group, a Pismo Beach 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo is a must.