New England may be famous for fall foliage, but California holds its own when it comes to beautiful drives. Long stretches of highway can take locals and visitors alike through some of the most gorgeous beachside towns on earth. Get ready to travel up the coast, where there will be plenty of easy stops, scenic vistas, and memories to be made.
Have dined at its finest at Bella Vista. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the ocean and islands off Montecito's Butterfly Beach while delighting in their organic, Italian-inspired, California-coastal cuisine. Get ready to have your taste buds taken on an unforgettable journey.
After brunch, head across the street to Butterfly Beach. You can stroll along the sand or along the sidewalk, depending on how you feel about the soft stuff. According to your ambition, your stroll can take you to nearby beaches or you can enjoy the luxe neighborhood.
As you drive north through Central California’s wine country, you’ll notice fall colors at vineyards. Stop for lunch at Goshi Japanese Restaurant in San Luis Obispo, an authentic spot serving some of the best sushi you’ll find outside of Los Angeles. Be prepared to wait and take the time to explore the small shopping center, formerly a historic creamery.
For a quick hike, head over to Cave Landing in Avila Beach. Only half a mile or so, the easy trek offers beautiful views of California’s Central Coast.
To enjoy the bounty of California’s harvest, head over to Avila Valley Barn. The farm offers seasonal u-pick produce, including apples if you happen to be there during the fall, along with other seasonal fun and entertainment.
Head inland onto the 101 to check out Mission San Miguel. Still an active place of worship, Mission San Miguel was temporarily an inn during its long history and the site of a major massacre. Since then, there have been numerous stories of hauntings.
After a long day, unwind for a drink and delicious meal at the Hatch. This Paso Robles spot boasts a very cool ambiance, with a brick interior and interesting light fixtures. For a hearty dinner, try the Hatch Burger—made with bacon, white cheddar, Hatch sauce, and sea salt and vinegar chips. Try their excellent cocktails, too, like the “Hatch a Plan” made with vodka, pistachio syrup, and lime ginger beer.
Now it’s time to rest. Stay the night at the beautiful Paso Robles Inn, which features deluxe mineral spa rooms. After you’ve been traveling, it’s the perfect way to relax. These rooms feature your own private hot springs mineral tub. Make sure to wrap yourself up in one of their plush bathrobes when you’re done!
For breakfast, we’re heading to Pismo Beach! Huckleberry’s is a classic spot for “Southern cookin’ with a California twist.” Their breakfast specialties include “Tom’s Scramble”—a homemade buttermilk biscuit topped with either sausage or chicken fried steak, and scrambled eggs and Huck’s country gravy.
Now, with a belly full of breakfast and your road trip wrapping up, check out the stunning shores of Pismo Beach. The waterfront sights in Pismo Beach are immaculate. Check out Silver Shoals Park, Margo Dodd Park Beach, Memory Park, and Pismo Pier from some of the most beautiful views of your trip!
Have dined at its finest at Bella Vista. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the ocean and islands off Montecito's Butterfly Beach while delighting in their organic, Italian-inspired, California-coastal cuisine. Get ready to have your taste buds taken on an unforgettable journey.
