Hiking & Biking

The City to Sea Bob Jones Trail follows the Old Pacific Coast Railroad right-of-way. It is eventually going to be joined by a trail system leading from San Luis Obispo to Avila Beach.

The trail is easy and is an idea ones for families. It is paved and you can walk, jog, bike or skate along its scenic route. From the trail you will see a variety of key spots along the way including Woodstone’s Marketplace, and many bridges that span across the creek as well as a great view of the town of Avila. The trail is approximately one and a half miles long, making it an easy morning hike with plenty of time and hopefully energy left, to relax at the beach afterwards.

The light house trail offers breathtaking scenery on the ocean below. It is said that many visitors witness whales, otters and other marine wild life in action while they are hiking although the real treasure of this hike is the Lighthouse tour at the end. Starting in Port San Luis, hikers make their way towards the coast where the lighthouse in Avila sits. The lighthouse at Avila is considered one of the most important historical monuments of California’s central coast however, don’t expect to have to battle huge crowds. It is relatively unknown to the public and for this reason, a hike on the light house trail makes for a delightful afternoon of hiking.

Part of the Coastal Access System’s programs to open coastal access to the public, the Pecho Coast Trail is 3.7 miles of beauty starting in Avila Beach. Due to the delicate nature of the trail habitat, all hikers must be led by trained docents and therefore all hikes must be scheduled. You can pass by the Port San Luis light house on the trail as well as view the Nipomo Dunes. The hike is moderately easy and the trails are rugged.

The steep trail that leads to Pirates Cove offers some of the most breathtaking scenery around. It is not an easy hike and in fact it is not recommended that tourists go alone. Bring a partner to enjoy this natural pier. However, be forewarned as Pirate’s Cove is a ‘clothing optional’ beach.