This Old School California Coastal Town Has Sensational Beaches, Antique Storefronts, And Farm-Fresh Feasts

There's so much to explore in California beyond the well-known cities and celebrity hangouts; it's not called the Golden State for nothing. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, in the central part of the state, sits the coastal town of Arroyo Grande. It's a charming town that leans into Victorian culture with its preserved 19th-century buildings, Old-World storefronts, and a historic swing bridge that's full of character. And what's a Californian coastal town without some excellent surf?

Tucked into the rolling hills of San Luis Obispo County, Arroyo Grande is the perfect mix of historic charm and natural beauty. The walkable town is lined with antique shops, wooden storefronts, and cozy cafes that are perfect for people watching and forgetting where you're supposed to be. And despite its tucked-away feel, Arroyo Grande is surprisingly reachable. The nearest airport, San Luis Obispo County Regional (SBP), is just over 15 minutes away. For international travelers, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is around a three-hour drive south, making Arroyo Grande an easy stop on a California highway 1 road trip. With nearby beaches, beautiful shops, and weekly farmers markets overflowing with local produce, Arroyo Grande invites visitors to savor everything the Central Coast has to offer.

Despite being inland by just a few miles, Arroyo Grande is a popular starting point to visit some of California's most breathtaking coastlines (like this section that rivals Italy's Cinque Terre). Just over a five-minute drive away, Pismo Beach offers up big sandy shores, dramatic cliffs, and waves that draw both surfers and leisurely beachgoers. It's the perfect spot for a morning surf or an afternoon of sunbathing with a good book. For a more exciting kind of beach day, head to the nearby Oceano Dunes, where sand meets the Pacific and dune buggying is all the craze. Want somewhere you can take your dog for a leisurely walk? Head to Grover Beach, where you can stroll along the water's edge and enjoy a beautiful sunrise or sunset.

And don't worry, it's not just a location for beach-lovers. If you prefer to hit the trails, Arroyo Grande's nature will be your new playground. The Lopez Lake Recreation Area is the perfect place to escape for some peace and quiet. With 22 miles of shoreline to explore and lake temperatures that can reach up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, this is the best place to enjoy a post-hike cool-down dip. And after your dip, why not try ziplining through the trees at Vista Lago Recreation Park? For something a bit longer, try The Bob Jones City to Sea Trail, a local favorite. The trail starts just off Highway 101 and follows the San Luis Obispo Creek before finishing at Avila Beach.

Downtown Arroyo Grande feels like stepping into another era, in the best way. Known locally as the Village, Arroyo Grande's downtown area is a charming mix of antique stores, quirky boutiques, and vintage storefronts. For incredible jewelry finds, don't miss out on Wovan, a local business dedicated to creating beautiful, handmade goods. The clay earrings are to die for, especially those in the aptly named Beach collection. For antique hunting, you can't go amiss with a search at The Green Vase Antiques. The building itself is a restored cottage from 1886, so even if you don't find a new antique item for your home, you'll still be immersed in history.

After a cozy morning exploring all the shops Arroyo Grande has to offer, it's time to indulge in the fantastic food and drinks scene. Food here focuses on local, farm-fresh ingredients. Think wholesome, nourishing vibes. Stop by the two weekly farmers markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays to stock up on homegrown vegetables and seasonal flowers, before stopping by the ever-popular Mule Bakery for some vanilla bean scones, which one Google reviewer claimed was "Probably the best vanilla scone [they] have ever had."

For a cozy, sit-down spot, enjoy a mix of seasonal menus, as many local restaurants source their produce from nearby farms, such as Michelin-mentioned restaurant Ember. Ember serves up wood-fired Italian-inspired food, all from ingredients found along California's Central Coast. It's the perfect way to round off a day of beach-hopping and vintage treasure hunting in Arroyo Grande. After exploring Arroyo Grande, make sure to make the 20-minute drive to San Luis Obispo, the California city known for its outdoor adventures and wine scene.