The Central Coast from Pismo Beach, north to Half Moon Bay
This region of the Central Coast captures the quintessential difference of the geography of California beaches.
Again, there is a lot of debate of where “Northern California” starts, but for our sakes, we will start at Pismo Beach on the Central Coast because we have visited Pismo Beach and adjoining Avila Beach and San Luis Obispo, a number of times.
Avila Beach and Pismo Beach are only separated by a few miles, yet, this area is clearly where the “division” of NorCal beaches from SoCal beaches begin. Pismo Beach is the start of the SoCal beach, beaches that tend to have a warmer and drier climate with long stretches of sand with gentle waves and gradual slopes into the water, and more importantly, you can GET IN THE WATER on most SoCal beaches.
From Avila Beach north, you are now entering NorCal beach terrain, beaches that tend to be cooler and wetter. The water temperature is often colder and the waves are typically stronger. The beaches tend to me more rugged, with cliffs and rocky shorelines and the terrain is definitely more varied than their SoCal counterparts. Beaches in Northern California, just have more “character,” even though, you may freeze your butt off 😎
Beach towns in Northern California, tend to be smaller and more low-key, with more of a focus on hiking and fishing, whereas in Southern California, towns tend to be more developed, corporate, and have a higher concentration of tourists.
So what are our recommendations?
These are places that we have actually visited, stayed at, or ate at.
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![SeaVenture Hotel in Pismo Beach]()
Sea Venture Beach Hotel and Restaurant in Pismo Beach
The Sea Venture Beach Hotel and Restaurant was a wonderful stay. There are many options in the Pismo Beach area and we were looking for a place on the beach and we found it!
Watch our YouTube video here
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![Sycamore Mineral Springs & Resort]()
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa in Avila Beach
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa We stayed here when Patti had her broken ankle, so unfortunately, we could not enjoy the hot tub together. The staff was amazing here. Our unit was across the road, and it’s a bit of a hike but the staff will shuttle you 24-7 over the bridge to your room.
See our YouTube video HERE
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![Blue Moon Over Avila in Avila Beach]()
Blue Moon Over Avila
The Blue Moon Over Avila the BEST place to eat in Avila Beach! Man, we got word about this place and we were so thankful. The dining options are a bit limited in Avila Beach, and that is okay. We always went to the Custom House on Front Street because we thought that was the only place to dine and it got old. Go to the Blue Moon instead!
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![Costanoa KOA in Santa Cruz]()
Costanoa KOA in Santa Cruz
Resort with camping, glamping, RV hookups, and a lodge in a beautiful setting.
Watch our YouTube video HERE
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![Pescadero State Beach]()
Pescadero State Beach North
Pescadero State Beach North There are so many beaches along this stretch in Pescadero, but what we’ve found, is that Pescadero State Beach North has less people, and that’s what we prefer!
See our YouTube video HERE
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![Nicks Cove in Tomales Bay]()
Nick's Cove in Tomales Bay
Nick’s Cove is awesome. We have always had this stay on our radar, but it’s pricey, and is always booked. When we planned this weekend, there happen to be an opening which was clearly a cancelation, and I believe the price was lowered just to fill the room. You need to plan ahead if you want to stay here, but it is definitely worth the stay.
Watch our YouTube video HERE
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![Inn at Mavericks]()
Inn at Mavericks
The Inn at Mavericks Hotel in Half Moon Bay, technically, in Princeton By the Sea. Fabulous! As you can see by the picture, there are only six units, so, reserving ahead of time is suggested. Love the rooms here as they are quite spacious, and the views are tremendous!
Watch our YouTube video HERE
