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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2024

Welcome to the december 2024 edition of our newsletter!

As the year draws to a close, December invites us to pause and reflect. It’s a time to celebrate the experiences that brought us joy, the places that left us inspired, and the moments that connected us to the beauty of San Luis Obispo County.

This month, we’ve curated a special edition of the newsletter to highlight some of our favorite hikes, wineries, and restaurants from 2024—a showcase of what makes SLO County truly unforgettable. To help you savor the season, local chef Candice Custodio shares an exclusive recipe perfect for holiday gatherings. And because December wouldn’t be complete without twinkling lights, we’ve rounded up three magical ways to see holiday displays that are sure to brighten your evenings.

As you reflect on your own adventures from the past year and dream of those still to come, let this edition inspire new discoveries and treasured traditions. From all of us at San Luis Obispo Guide, we wish you a joyful and peaceful holiday season. 🌟

HIKES OF THe YEAR
restaurantS of the YEAR
winerIES of the YEAR
RECIPE OF THe MONTH
SPECIAL EVENT SPOTLIGHTS
EVENT CALENDAR
HIKES OF THE YEAR

2024 was an incredible year of discovering new hikes, trekking old favorites, and enjoying the fresh air, sunshine, and beauty of SLO County.
Of all the outdoor adventures we experienced in 2024, here are our top four favorites.

#1: BOG THISTLE TRAIL | IRISH HILLS

The Bog Thistle Trail offers an immersive nature experience within the Irish Hills Natural Reserve. With its recent expansion and connection to other trails, it provides a diverse hiking experience suitable for various skill levels and interests…READ MORE

#2: BLACK HILL

The Black Hill Trail in Morro Bay, California, is a scenic and enriching hiking experience that offers both seasoned hikers and casual walkers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Central Coast…READ MORE

#3: MOONSTONE BEACH BOARDWALK

Moonstone Beach Boardwalk stretches approximately one mile along the rugged Pacific shoreline, providing visitors with breathtaking views, an abundance of wildlife, and a peaceful retreat from the everyday hustle…READ MORE

#4: LAGOON TRAIL

The Lagoon Trail in Oceano is a delightful gem for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience, offering a serene environment that showcases the natural beauty of California’s Central Coast...READ MORE

RESTAURANTS OF THE YEAR

2024 offered the opportunity to try restaurants that had been on our bucket list for a while, and try new places that we only recently discovered.
Of all the incredible meals we had in 2024, these are our top four favorites.

#1: Lunada Garden Bistro

Lunada emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the flavors of California’s Central Coast. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a family lunch, or a romantic dinner, the bistro’s garden setting provides a perfect backdrop…READ MORE

#2: MIRAZUR RESTAURANT

Mirazur specializes in an “upscale and casual fare” with a particular focus on European-American flavors, but with a French twist. This combination has made it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining experience…READ MORE

#3: THE PORCH

The Porch is more than just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot, a home away from home, and a testament to the hard work and vision of its owners that offers a warm, welcoming environment where you can relax and enjoy the best of what Santa Margarita has to offer...READ MORE

#4: pismo fish & chips

Pismo Fish & Chips is a beloved dining spot in Pismo Beach known for its classic fish and chips and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Established in 1969, this family-owned restaurant has built a reputation for serving fresh, high-quality seafood in a casual and relaxed setting…READ MORE

WINERIES OF THE YEAR

With over 200 wineries just in SLO County to enjoy and explore, we had an incredible time discovering new places that represented some of the best SLO County has to offer. Of all the wonderful places we visited in 2024, these are our top four favorites.

#1: CASTORO CELLARS

Castoro Cellars stands as a beacon of exceptional wine, vibrant culture, and community engagement. Established in 1983 by husband-and-wife team Niels and Bimmer Udsen, this winery has grown from humble beginnings into one of the most celebrated destinations in the Paso Robles AVA…READ MORE

#2: CASS

CASS Winery is a testament to Paso Robles Wine Country’s vibrant winemaking heritage. Founded in 2000 by Steve Cass and Ted Plemons, the winery has grown from a shared vision into a celebrated institution within the Paso Robles AVA producing world-class wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area….READ MORE

#3: RASMUSSEN VINEYARDS & WINERY

Rasmussen Winery, located in Paso Robles, CA, offers a welcoming and intimate wine-tasting experience that captures the essence of small-batch, family-owned wine production...READ MORE

#4: DAOU VINEYARDS

At DAOU Vineyards you can expect to experience luxurious wine tasting, breathtaking views of Paso Robles, and a personal connection to the rich history of the Daou family…READ MORE

CHEF’S CORNER

SPICED PEAR PANCAKES

By Chef Candice Custodio

PRINT RECIPE

Chef Candice Custodio

A Cal Poly Alumni, Chef Candice Custodio is a Los Angeles native now permanently residing on the Central Coast. She has held various positions as an Executive Chef, Restaurant/Menu Consultant, Private Chef, and has been featured on the Food Network’s Chopped. She is currently the Chef at Kindred Oak Farm in Paso Robles, and Owner and Chef and Club SupSup.

SPECIAL EVENT SPOTLIGHT

CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET

Every year when the Cambria Christmas Market turns on the lights you can see and feel the magic of the season ✨ This year they’ve added one million more lights and new displays, and it’s truly a sight to be seen! From the singing and dancing to traditional food, drink (and even Krampus!), we know the Cambria Christmas Market is where you’ll make those treasured holiday memories the whole family will remember. 

✨ WHEN & WHERE ✨

November 29 – December 31, 2024

Cambria Pines Lodge
2905 Burton Drive
Cambria, CA 

✨WHAT TO EXPECT ✨

🌟 3 Million sparkling lights
🎅 Santa Claus
🚂 Train rides
🍺 Biergarten serving Barrelhouse Brewing Co beers
🎶 Live music 
🎁 Traditional German Market with vendors selling food, drinks, and seasonal gifts

✨ TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT ✨
  • The entire market takes about 2 – 3 hours to see
  • Bring a jacket or sweater – it gets cold at night
  • Make sure to check out the Parking Page for important information – you don’t park at the Christmas Market
  • Pets are welcome! However, they cannot ride the shuttles to the event so make sure to check out the VIP Parking packages, book a pet-friendly room at the hotel, or make other accommodations
TICKETS

CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH

Christmas at the Santa Margarita Ranch is the newest holiday tradition for the whole family! You’ll get to ride an authentic steam train from Santa Margarita Ranch to Santa’s Village, and see fun and unique displays along the ride. Once at Santa’s Village, you’ll find food, games, a marketplace full of local vendors, pony rides, and of course SANTA! 

✨ WHEN & WHERE ✨

November 29 – December 22

Santa Margarita Ranch
9000 Yerba Buena Ave
Santa Margarita, CA 93453

✨WHAT TO EXPECT ✨

🚂 A 2-mile ride on a real steam train with exciting, unique displays along the route
🍽️ Food Vendors
♟️ Giant Board Games
🐴 Pony Rides
🛤️ An old handcar to experience riding the rails the old way!
🪄 A magic show
🛍️ Vendor Marketplace
🎅 The chance to meet Santa and write him a letter!

✨ TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT ✨
  • Plan to spend 1 – 2 hours at the ranch. This gives you plenty of time for your train ride, food, drinks, games, and Santa!
  • It gets cold at night, so make sure to wear a jacket.
  • Santa Margarita Ranch is a working farm, so wear warm closed-toed shoes.
  • After your train ride, make sure to stick around and explore Santa’s Village where you can meet Santa and write him a letter.
TICKETS

NATURE NIGHTS

Now in their third year, Nature Nights at San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is an immersive outdoor holiday, light, art, and music experience that features exhibitions throughout their eight acres of gardens. We were thankful to be invited back to Nature Nights this year, and it was such an elevated experience. The new light displays and artwork set in nature are truly stunning, the food and drink options were delicious, and getting to make s’mores at their fire pit while listening to live music was the perfect way to end the night. 

✨ WHEN & WHERE ✨

November 27 – December 28, 2024

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
3450 Dairy Creek Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

✨WHAT TO EXPECT ✨

✨ new and updated displays across the gardens
🎶 live music on two stages 
🍽️ food vendors & drink options
🛍️ an artist marketplace
🔥 a fire pit (where you can make s’mores!!) 
🎅 and a few visits from Santa! 

✨ TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT ✨
  • The entire exhibit takes 1 – 2 hours to view, including time to enjoy a delicious meal, s’mores, and the live music
  • The trail of lights can be dark in spots, and mostly unpaved compact dirt. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes to stay warm and safe.
  • It can get cold once the sun goes down, so bring a jacket or sweater.
TICKETS
EVENT CALENDAR
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7:30 pm - 12:00 am

Dear Evan Hansen

Cal Poly Performing Arts Center Harold Miossi Hall
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12:00 am - 7:30 pm

Dear Evan Hansen

Cal Poly Performing Arts Center Harold Miossi Hall
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SHOP SLO GUIDE

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the person that loves SLO County? Check out our products below inspired by the place we love to call home!

Cards About SLO
$17

Coloring SLO County
$13

Luis is Lost
$15

NEXT MONTH

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading our newsletter! ❤️

We’ll be back next month with even more ideas to hike around SLO County; a new bar, restaurant, and winery of the month; another extra special recipe from Chef Candice Custodio; and more special events you don’t want to miss! 

See you next month!

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We love San Luis Obispo County, and created this site as a guide for visitors and locals to explore everything this county has to offer.  Whether you are looking for beaches, wineries, mountains, great food and drink, fun, events, or sunshine, you can find it all in our small piece of paradise.

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