San Luis Obispo has so much to do! Hiking, horseback riding, wine tasting, eating, beaches, sail boats, arts, performances, etc. Finding the right thing for you “to do” can intimidating. The great news is, tours exist to let you sample the whole gamut.  Tours are defined as “a journey for pleasure in which many different places are visited”. I find that tours combine three elements of pleasure: the ability to visit many spots rather than just one, a guided experience about all that you’re seeing and doing, and the concierge service of tailoring personal, future ideas to each individual.

Here’s my personal list of fun tours to experience in the San Luis Obispo area.

Sailing & Whale Watching: This time of the year is primo whale watching. You can spot Humpback and Grey Whales, and sometimes even Orcas! Sailing is a perfect way to enjoy a little salt life, see a plethora of wildlife, and a wonderful place to enjoy a bottle of local wine. Try SLOSailing or SLO.Tours.

Wine or Beer Tasting: SLO county is a mecca land for wineries and breweries alike. A safe and sober way to see at least three to five locations in one day is to book a tour bus. Not only do you get a safe ride to each destination, you will also learn fun facts about the brew masters, wine makers, properties and histories of all. Try Breakaway Tours, Hop On Beer Tours or Toast Tours.

Adventure Tours: Wanna get out and get physical? How about horseback riding at Central Coast Trail Rides or The Madonna Inn. Large mammals not your thing?  Try zip lining at Margarita Adventures or download the Adventure Aid app. Adventure Aid is a local based app to find guides to take you mountain biking, surfing, SUP, yoga, climbing, etc, all outdoor, active adventures!

Food Tours: Taste of SLO – Walking Food Tour is your ticket to lunch at five unique locations, with all wine, beer and spirits included. Not only will you eat your way through downtown, you’ll also learn about spots to visit in the future, and visit local hotspots. This tour is for all activity levels, and accommodates vegetarians, non-drinkers, and all ages are welcome.

Helicopter Tour:  Feeling like a baller? Need an epic proposal plan? Here’s your tour, Helipro Inc! Enjoy a  private tour in a brand new, air conditioned helicopter over the central coast.

Kayaking and Paddleboard Tours: Combine the best of physical activity, nature watching, and the ocean by taking a kayak or paddle board out. These guided tours show you how to use equipment properly, and take you to some of the best scenic viewpoints on the coast. Bonus: expensive equipment included. Look up Central Coast Kayaks or Avila Beach Paddlesports.

Happy touring my friends, enjoy your time in San Luis Obispo!