4 Central Coast Hidden Gems You Probably Didn’t Know About
One of the best parts about living on the Central Coast? There are so many places locals love that visitors (and honestly even longtime locals) still don’t know about. From hidden coastal spots to unexpected food finds, here are a few Central Coast hidden gems worth adding to your list.
Cal Poly Ice Cream Drive Thru: A drive through in San Luis Obispo? YEP! Most people know about Cal Poly, but not everyone knows you can grab ice cream from the Cal Poly Creamery Drive-Thru on Fridays—and yes, it’s absolutely worth the stop. Made by Cal Poly students, the ice cream is locally loved and comes in fun flavors you won’t find at a regular grocery store. It’s the perfect quick treat after school, before sports practice, or for one of those “I’m going to be a cool mom today” activities. GRAB MORE INFO HERE:https://calpolycreamery.com/drive-thru/
Oceano Dunes Sand Boarding: Yes, you can actually go sandboarding on the dunes here on the Central Coast—and kids think it’s the coolest thing ever. Head to Oceano Surf Shack, rent a board, and spend an afternoon climbing, sliding, and getting absolutely covered in sand (worth it). Ask the owners at Oceano Surf Shack for tips on where to go board where no vehicles are allowed. It feels a little like snowboarding meets the beach and makes for a fun, different family adventure. GRAB MORE INFO HERE: https://www.oceanosurfshack.com/sandboarding
Watch How Candy Is Made: Tucked away in Paso Robles, Sticky USA’s candy-making class is one of those unexpectedly fun things kids (and honestly adults) end up loving. You get to watch old-fashioned candy being made, learn how it works, and even make your own candy creation to take home. You’ll get to watch candy artists pull, twist, and sculpt molten sugar into something beautiful. Don’t forget to make an appointment online so you’re guaranteed a spot. And yes, you’ll get to sample! GRAB MORE INFO HERE: https://stickyusa.com/pages/see-how-its-made
Bob’s Well Bread: My hot take is….Bob’s Well Bread has the best pastries on the Central Coast. Located in Los Alamos, this spot is worth the drive for more than just the pastries. Grab breakfast, wander the property, and if you time it right, you can catch fresh bread coming out of the oven. Make it a day trip and explore some of the other hidden gems in Los Alamos or head to Los Olivos for a day of wine tasting. GRAB MORE INFO HERE: http://bobswellbread.com/
The Green Olive: Tucked inside an unassuming liquor store in Shell Beach, TheGreen Olive is one of those places locals quietly swear by. If you didn’t know it was there, you’d probably drive right past it—but inside you’ll find some of the best casual Mediterranean food on the Central Coast. Think fresh gyros, wraps, hummus, and Greek comfort food that somehow always hits the spot. I was a little hesitant at first, but now its one of my favorite spots on the Central Coast to grab a quick lunch or dinner. My tip: Grab a large tub of the green sauce because it is SOOO good! GRAB MORE INFO HERE:https://thegreenolivepismobeach.com/
