- The list below includes 81 free or cheap things to do in or near San Luis Obispo, California, including 53 different types of inexpensive activities like Hiking Trails, Movie Theaters, Parks and Historic Buildings.
- From California Polytechnic University to Bishop Peak, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in San Luis Obispo and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Atascadero and Paso Robles.
Showing 111-120 of
128
39.0 Miles
88%
16 votes
750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452
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Lined with Eucalyptus trees, W R Hearst Memorial State Beach offers visitors a place to sunbathe and watch the neighboring seals. The beach has a boardwalk where local fisherman fish for rockfish.
39.0 Miles
80%
10 votes
750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452
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The Hearst Castle Visitor Center is the first location visitors should stop at on their trip to the Hearst Castle. Guests can stop by one of the many restaurants available for a meal or visit the gift shop for souvenirs.
39.9 Miles
San Simeon's most prominent place to visit is the beautiful and historical Hearst Castle. Having taken over 28 years to complete, the home is a masterpiece featuring 165 rooms and 127 acres of garden available to tour.
43.1 Miles
A great sight-seeing spot to watch the famous San Simeon elephant seals in their natural habitat is Piedras Blancas. The area also features a lighthouse that is popular with tourists visiting the area.
44.0 Miles
94%
119 votes
Tours meet at the former Piedras Blancas Motel 1.5 miles North of the light station, Cambria, CA
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At the Piedras Blancas Light Station, guests will be able to take a guided tour of the lighthouse. The location also features a gift shop that sells mugs, t-shirts, watercolor prints, and ball caps.
44.1 Miles
97%
31 votes
Jalama Road, Lompoc, CA 93436
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Housed on a 300-acre ranch, the Return to Freedom, American Wild Horse Sanctuary is dedicated to preserving the freedom, diversity and habitat of wild horses. The sanctuary cares for over 400 horses.
44.5 Miles
97%
295 votes
2295 Purisima Road, Lompoc, CA 93436
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The nearly 2,000-acre La Purisima State Historical Park is home to 25 miles of hiking trails, livestock and the eleventh of 21 Spanish Missions established in Alta California. The site recreates life during the 1820's, where the residents engaged in blacksmithing, candle making, farming and weaving.
44.7 Miles
With plenty of benches, a separate area for large and small dogs, and an escape-proof entry, Barkin Park is a safe an convenient way to make sure dogs are getting their exercise.
45.2 Miles
Elephant Seal Rookery is a delightful stop along California Highway 1 and serves to protect the Elephant Seals and their pups. Visitors can observe the elephant seals as they lounge, play and swim while learning about their history.
45.2 Miles
Situated on the Santa Ynez River, River Park provides visitors with opportunities for fishing, picnics, horseshoe, and volleyball. The park also features a 35 spot RV campground and 4 picnic pavilions.