Things to Do in the Autumn at Sycamore Springs, Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo
Each season brings a new energy to Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and the Central Coast.
There are 2 key things you need to know about the Central Coast from September through mid-November:
- Autumn is the best weather of the year with temperatures reaching 70–80°F. And the summer rush of tourists has died down, so you can enjoy the best beach days without the crowds.
- The seasonal traditions surrounding winery & farm harvests shine bright in this agricultural area! Grab your camera because the colors of the season are truly spectacular.
This is one of the few places in the world that you can join locals surfing on sunny beaches in the morning and hop on a tractor with locals to ride through farms in the afternoon. You won’t want to miss this truly unique time of year on the Central Coast!
Explore this guide of Things to Do This Autumn at Sycamore Springs, Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo. Explore this list of fun activities, free events, and local hot spots to add to your bucket list!
SEASONAL TRADITIONS
1) The Destination for Annual Autumn Traditions
- Why People Love It: The Central Coast is a beloved destination for picture-perfect autumn traditions. Spend an afternoon at local farms for U-pick apples, hayrides, pony rides, corn roasts, apple cider, and even animal petting areas. This is when our agricultural community shines!
- Price: Varies by location.
- Pro Tip: Famous nearby spots include Sycamore’s neighbors Avila Valley Barn, Brookshire Farms (San Luis Obispo), and The Pumpkin Patch (San Luis Obispo).
2) Experience the Winery Harvest Season
- Why People Love It: Autumn marks the exciting harvest season at the vineyards!
- Follow Avila’s small but mighty Wine Trail! Visit vineyards, including Kelsey Vineyards with their peacocks and Maidenstone Wine. Head to wine tasting rooms in Downtown Avila, including Peloton Cellars, Alapay Cellars, and Pierfront Wine and Brew.
- Drive over to the famous Paso Robles and Edna Valley winery areas for even more award-winning wines!
- Price: Varies by location.
- Pro Tip: Kelsey Vineyards has peacocks while Sinor-LaValle has local oysters. Go for the wine but stay for the unique finds!
3) Shhh! Enjoy Secret Summer with the Locals
- Distance from Sycamore: 4min drive west or 15min bike ride on the Bob Jones Trail.
- Why People Love It: Locals know that autumn is the best time for the beach with the warmest and sunniest days of the year – even compared to summer. Temperatures can reach 70–80°F this time of year, so summer keeps shining on the Central Coast!
- Website: https://visitavilabeach.com/
- Price: Free!
AT SYCAMORE
4) Visit the Secret Garden During Harvest Season
- Why People Love It: Autumn marks harvest season when our 2-acre Chef’s garden is overflowing with fresh produce! The season’s best shines on wood-fired pizzas and fresh seasonal dishes. Bask in the sunniest days of the year while enjoying live music and cozy outdoor movie night under the stars.
- Website: See the calendar of events here https://www.sycamoresprings.com/calendar-of-events
- Price: Entrance is free!
- Pro Tip: Even on the hottest days of the year, the evenings cool down significantly. Bring a jacket and a cozy blanket for after the sun sets.
5) Endless Summer at the Pool
- Why People Love It: Locals know that autumn is the best time of year in Avila, with temperatures reaching 70–80°F. Keep summer vibes alive with a full-blown pool day! Reserve a cabana for a relaxing afternoon with seasonal snacks and drinks.
- Website & Price: Hotel guests receive complimentary access. See our $30 pool passes for non-hotel guests.
- Pro Tip: Looking for a family pool day? Sycamore Hotel guests have complimentary access to Avila Hot Springs (2min drive from Sycamore), where there’s even a pool slide!
6) Flow Through a Yoga Class Surrounded by Nature
- Why People Love It: Autumn is a season of transition – it reminds us of the beauty of change. Let the rhythm of the season guide your practice at one of San Luis Obispo’s most unique yoga studios. Class sizes are small and intimate. Daily classes are open to anyone and yogis of all levels.
- Website: https://www.sycamoresprings.com/spa/yoga
- Price: $10.00 per class for hotel guests and $20.00 per class for non-hotel guests.
- Pro Tip: Align with the powerful harvest moons of autumn with a special Full Moon Yoga class held monthly.
7) Treat Your Sweetheart to a Mineral Tub with Extra Special Additions
- Why People Love It: Sometimes, the sweetest way to celebrate love is just an hour together wrapped in nature, sweet treats, and mineral springs magic. Chilled sparkling rosé prosecco, scented oils, and decadent chocolate truffles set the stage for a perfectly romantic autumn day.
- Website: See the Sweetheart Soak https://www.sycamoresprings.com/hot-tubs/hillside-hot-tubs
- Price: $130 for 2 people.
- Pro Tip: Bring a towel, a change of clothes, flip-flops, and a wet swimsuit bag for your trip down the hillside hot tub stairs after your mineral springs soak.
8) Lovely Seasonal Dishes with Garden Fresh Ingredients
- Why People Love It: Our 2-acre garden’s pumpkins, squash, and leafy greens lead to hearty and comforting seasonal favorites at The Gardens of Avila Restaurant! For breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you (and your pups!) can enjoy a garden-to-table meal alfresco.
- Website: https://www.sycamoresprings.com/dining
- Price: See menus
- Pro Tip: This spot is great for large groups! The tables on the Old Stone patio are modular so they can accommodate groups of different sizes.
9) Rent a Bike and Enjoy the Autumn Trails
- Why People Love It: Cruise the Bob Jones Trail surrounded by autumn colors. Rent a bike at our Shoppe and cruise the beautiful trail.
- Website: https://www.sycamoresprings.com/spa/bike-rental
- Price: Standard bikes and cruisers: $15 per hour or $35 per day
- Pro Tip: Grab lunch at the Secret Garden and bike down to Downtown Avila for a special treat, such as pumpkin ice cream, at local shops.
IN AVILA BEACH
10) Lay on the Sand and in the Sun
- Distance from Sycamore: 4min drive west or 15min bike ride on the Bob Jones Trail.
- Why People Love It: While Pismo Beach often gets the June gloom, Avila Beach is often blocked from the fog and can be up to 10 degrees warmer!
- Website: https://visitavilabeach.com/
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: The pirate-themed playground and swingset on the sand are a local favorite for kids of all ages!
11) Hike to the Lighthouse
- Why People Love It: Crisp autumn mornings are ideal for exploring the Pecho Coast Trail. Take in panoramic coastal views, native flora, and migrating whales against the sparkling ocean—a truly bright and beautiful season to hike.
- Website: https://www.pge.com/en/about/in-your-community/recreational-areas.html?WT.mc_id=Vanity_trails
- Price: $10 per person.
- Pro Tip: The hike to Point San Luis Lighthouse is a 3.75-mile roundtrip hike along steep cliffs and coastal bluffs with narrow dirt trails, steep grades (up to 45 percent), crumbling earth, and possibilities of other strenuous hiking conditions. Wear proper hiking shoes and sun protection. But it is worth the journey!
12) Kayak to Hidden Beaches
- Why People Love It: Autumn light makes the harbor shimmer under clear skies. Paddle past sea otters, kelp forests, and secret coves while enjoying the sunny weather for a peaceful escape.
- Website: https://www.avilabeachpaddlesports.com/
- Price: $40-60 for a single kayak, depending on duration.
- Pro Tip: Ask a local about the route to the special scenic beach on the way to the lighthouse that’s only accessible by kayak.
13) Spot Gray Whales on Their Migration
- Why People Love It: From late September through November, see whales on over 90% of trips just offshore. Find a spot with a view or (even better) get up close with one of our amazing whale watching tours that dock from Avila Beach.
- Website: https://www.avilabeachwhalewatching.com/
- Price: Approx. $125 per person for a 2hr whale watching tour
- Pro Tip: Plan ahead for your tour! Tours typically launch in the early morning with calmer seas earlier in the day. Wear layered clothing because, despite warm land temperatures, offshore winds can get chilly.
14) Bring Your Pup to Olde Port Beach
- Distance from Sycamore: 5min drive west on Avila Beach Drive
- Why People Love It: This is one of the only beaches that allow dogs to be off-leash! Let your best friend ride the waves, make new friends, and live their best life on the sand.
- Website: https://www.portsanluis.com/2162/Beach-Regulations
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: Grab breakfast before or dinner after at The Gardens of Avila or grab a wood-fired pizza at The Secret Garden with your 4-legged friend.
15) “Sea” our the Aquarium
- Distance from Sycamore: 4min drive west or 15min bike ride on the Bob Jones Trail.
- Why People Love It: Kids and marine enthusiasts of all ages will love the hands-on touch tanks, daily animal feedings, shark encounters, and the opportunity to meet over 50–75 indigenous marine species.
- Website: https://www.centralcoastaquarium.org/
- Price: $10 adults and $8 children.
- Pro Tip: This is a fantastic place for a kid’s birthday party. Check out their party package, which includes accommodations for up to 12 kids and 12 adults.
16) Bark with the Sea Lions at Olde Port Pier
- Distance from Sycamore: 6min drive west or 25min bike ride on the Bob Jones Trail.
- Why People Love It: You can’t help but laugh and bark along to these blubbering babes! Watch them sunbathe and fidget with each other to find their perfect spot on the dock among their friends.
- Website: https://californiathroughmylens.com/sea-lions-san-luis/
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: Find a placard on the dock that tells you more about our local celebrities.
17) Find Booty at Pirate’s Cove
- Distance from Sycamore: 3min drive west down Avila Beach Drive.
- Why People Love It: See amazing views as you traverse the top of the bluffs. Multiple paths and views! Uncover Smuggler’s Cave. Warning: If you find yourself on the sand, know that this is a clothing-optional beach.
- Website: https://www.slocal.com/listing/pirates-cove-beach-and-caves/5638/
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: If you’re traversing the bluffs, wear proper shoes because coastal bluffs are known for steep grades and crumbling dirt paths.
IN PISMO BEACH & OCEANO
18) Explore the Famous Downtown Pismo Beach
- Distance from Sycamore: 10min drive south
- Why People Love It: Pismo Beach was recently awarded the Top Coastal Small Town of 2025 by USA Today. Stroll Downtown Pismo Beach with its retro shops, iconic pier, and tasty bites. Stop by one of the amazing annual events like The Classic Car Show during the summer.
- Website: https://experiencepismobeach.com/beach-and-outdoors/beaches/beach-tips/
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: Our friends at SeaVenture Restaurant has the best views for a romantic sunset dinner.
19) Act Like a Local at Shell Beach
- Distance from Sycamore: 5min drive south. Map to the South Palisades Park South Staircase to see tidepools at low tide.
- Why People Love It: This is a no-frills, dog-friendly beach beloved by surfers.
- Website: https://www.californiabeaches.com/map/shell-beach-area-pismo-beach/
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: Just a few blocks further is the Dinosaur Caves Park. It is an amazing park for kids with (we think) the best views of any park in California.
20) Ride an ATV on the Oceano Dunes
- Distance from Sycamore: Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is 15min drive south.
- Why People Love It: This is a one‑of‑a‑kind thrill on 1,500+ acres of ever‑shifting beach dunes! Riders love carving their own paths on the sand. There’s something magical about speed, sand, and surf all in view! This is the only California State Park where you can legally drive right on the beach.
- Website: https://experiencepismobeach.com/beach-and-outdoors/oceano-dunes/
- Price: Varies
- Pro Tip: Many visitors rent ATVs from local businesses like BJ’s ATV Rentals.
21) Hike one of the Pismo Preserve Trails
- Distance from Sycamore: 8min drive south.
- Why People Love It: There are 8 different routes to take on foot, bike, or horse! Each one has amazing bird’s eye views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. See the sea from a unique vantage point high above sea level.
- Website: https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/california/pismo-preserve
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy with a view. Some trails lead to a special picnic table that’s just calling for a family picnic.
IN SAN LUIS OBISPO
22) Conquer 3 Hikes in the “Tri Tip Challenge”
- Distance from Sycamore: Hikes vary in location. Average 15-20min drive.
- Why People Love It: Take on a well-known local challenge! Achieve what the local college students call “The Tri Tip Challenge,” where you do 3 iconic hikes, then top it off with a tri tip sandwich.
- Website:
- Bishops Peak https://slocountyparks.com/trails/bishop-peak-natural-area/
- Cerro San Luis Obispo https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/cerro-san-luis-obispo-loop
- Cal Poly ‘P’ Ridge https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/the-p–2
- Price: A local’s tri tip sandwich.
- Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and hike early or late when the sun isn’t at its highest.
23) Stroll the Famous San Luis Obispo Farmers Market
- Distance from Sycamore: 12min drive north.
- Why People Love It: This is one of the largest Farmers’ Markets in America. Live music and performances, locally grown produce, artisan-made treats, and local restaurants line the streets of Downtown SLO every Thursday. Enjoy the warm autumn nights as the market stays open from 6-9 pm.
- Website: https://downtownslo.com/farmers-market
- Price: Free!
- Pro Tip: Arrive early and park in one of the parking structures. Carefully read signs if you opt for street parking.
24) Go to a Concert at the Historic Fremont Theater
- Distance from Sycamore: 12min drive north.
- Why People Love It: The iconic pink marquee sign is a landmark of Downtown SLO. Over the decades, Fremont has evolved from a classic cinema into a dynamic cultural hub. It hosts nightly concerts, indie and classic films, and comedy acts. Legends like Yes, Adam Ant, Los Lobos, and Lindsey Buckingham have graced its stage.
- Website: https://www.fremontslo.com/
- Price: Ticket prices vary.
- Pro Tip: The San Luis Obispo International Film Festival takes place every spring and the Fremont is a key venue for movie screenings! It is worth making a return trip for!
Autumn adventures and cozy wellness await at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa. Slow down, savor the the best weather of the year, and let the season unfold naturally.