Best San Luis Obispo North County Hangouts to Beat the Heat

Where to chill when it’s 100+ degrees

We all know that feeling when the heat saps your energy and leaves you feeling like a lethargic noodle. Here are five great things to do in the sizzling Paso Robles summer:

1) Awaken Your Inner Artist at Studios on the Park

This open-studio art center occupies a sprawling former auto parts store in the heart of downtown Paso Robles. Here you can absorb the varying art genres in each mini studio bay, and even meet the artists themselves. Rotating exhibitions in the main hall are always a part of the mix, as well as art classes and workshops for both adults and children. And don’t forget to check out the local art retail shop, which is packed with distinctive items ideal for gifts. It’s one of the best things to do in Paso Robles when the heat is on. (studiosonthepark.org, 1130 Pine Street, Paso Robles.). If you want to know where to stay in downtown Paso Robles, just find your perfect place with Digs Vacation Rentals.

2) Embrace the Escape of the Cinema

You won’t break a sweat in one of the North County’s air-conditioned movie theaters where you can lose yourself in the diversion of film. Both Park Cinemas in Paso Robles and the Colony Cinemas in Atascadero offer the latest movie titles, modern recliner seating, local beer and wine, fresh popcorn and more. Now you know where to find some of the best movie theaters in SLO County. (parkcinemas.com, 1100 Pine Street, Paso Robles / Colony Cinemas, 6917 El Camino Real, Atascadero)

3) Chill Out in The Backyard on Thirteenth

Welcoming to families and dogs alike, this outdoor wine and beer garden is creatively composed from repurposed shipping containers. The festive, casual atmosphere is studded with white lights, cooling water misters and music. Guests enjoy a variety of offerings from the on-site restaurant, plus a wide range of craft and non-alcoholic beverages. The Backyard on Thirteenth is your spot for great craft beer in Paso Robles. (thebackyardpaso.com, 1300 Railroad Street, Paso Robles).

4) Walk the Planks of the Historic Cayucos Pier

There’s nothing like invigorating, seaside air—especially in the reliably cool north coast area that’s only a 30-minute, picturesque drive from Paso Robles. The quaint village of Cayucos is perched along coastal bluffs just north of Morro Bay. Here, the 953-foot Cayucos Pier is the perfect place to stroll and absorb the sights and sounds of Estero Bay, including fishing, surfing and wildlife viewing. Originally built in 1875 by Captain James Cass, the pier was nearly destroyed by storms in 2013; then lovingly reopened in 2015 thanks to the fundraising efforts of a passionate community. Other North County cool spots along the coast include the Embarcadero in Morro Bay with wide-open views of stunning Morro Rock, and the charming boardwalk along Moonstone Beach in Cambria.

5) Head Underground at Booker Wines

The Cave Experience at Booker Wines is cool in more ways than one! This below ground hideaway from the heat is decked out with luxurious lounge furniture that faces an exposed calcareous limestone rock wall that was discovered during construction. Guests also enjoy a turntable on which they can spin their favorite tunes while imbibing in library wines and charcuterie. It’s the ultimate in Paso Robles wine tasting. (bookerwines.com, 2644 Anderson Road, Paso Robles). Other cool cave experiences can be found at Eberle Winery and Robert Hall Winery, both conveniently located right off Highway 46 East.

At Digs Vacation Rentals, we offer properties that are near all off these destinations on California’s Central Coast. If you are looking for a special place to stay in Paso Robles and beyond, we’ve got you covered.