Avila Beach vacation rentals

An oasis of sand and surf off the Pacific Coast Highway

Tucked into scenic San Luis Obispo Bay on the central California coast, the sheltered waters of Avila Beach are a haven for swimmers and surfers, thanks to year-round temperatures that are much warmer than other beaches in the region. Once a major shipping port, today the town is a popular vacation destination offering everything from boutique surf shops to epic hikes and relaxing spas. Approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on famous Highway 1, an Avila Beach vacation rental is a perfect stop on one of the great American road trips.

Pamper yourself mind, body, and soul

Vacation is a perfect time to find your Zen. A centrally located Avila Beach vacation rental puts you on the doorstep of the renowned Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, where you can pamper yourself with a massage and yoga class, or find the right holistic treatment to align your chakras. For premium golfing, head to Avila Beach Golf Resort. Young and old alike will enjoy a visit to the Central Coast Aquarium and the Point San Luis Lighthouse, dating from 1890. If the great American road trip is on your bucket list, world-famous Highway 1 is right nearby.

Something for everyone, from whale watching to wineries

The warm waters and pristine sands of Avila Beach are a dream come true for beach bums and surfer dudes. A picturesque pier offers recreational fishing, top-notch whale watching, and some killer sunset views. Rejuvenate your senses with massages, yoga classes, and a range of other holistic therapies at one of the local spas, or indulge in some delicious local vintages at one of the coastal wineries. The famous Bob Jones Trail draws bikers and hikers from far and wide. Farm-to-table aficionados will love the farmers' market, agritourism offerings, and apple picking at the many nearby orchards.

You'll fall in love with microclimates

You don't have to be a scientist to appreciate how a microclimate can improve your vacation -- thanks to its sheltered position, Avila beach is sunnier and warmer than most other beaches in the area. Winters are only slightly cooler than summers, with highs in the 70s from November to April, and in the 80s from May through October. Even in the colder months, the lows just barely dip into the 40s at night, so feel free to leave the winter gear at home. Summers can see drought conditions, so stock up on the bottled water.

Bask in hot springs and chill out in cool ocean waters

Rocky cliffs bookend pristine sands at Avila Beach. With an Avila Beach vacation rental, you'll be surrounded by widely varying landscapes — mineral hot springs, apple orchards, and lush oak forests. Budding marine biologists will find an ocean playground at their doorstep, with regular gray and humpback whale sightings in San Luis Obispo Bay, and an entire pier dedicated to California Polytechnic State University's marine research program. Rolling vineyards and manicured trails round out the picture, offering something for every outdoor lover in your group.

Transportation to and around Avila Beach

The nearest airport is in San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), located 6.6 mi (10.6 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into Santa Maria, CA (SMX-Santa Maria Public), which is 25.1 mi (40.3 km) away.