The Heart of the Central Coast
Nestled between Paso Robles and Santa Margarita is the quaint town of Atascadero. Just a 25 minute drive to the coast and with an abundance of local vineyards all around there is so much to do and see while staying at The Carlton Hotel. With its rolling hills, oak trees, numerous parks, casual eateries, and of course the Atascadero Lake Park, the town is a fantastic place for visitors and locals alike.
Paso Robles Wine Country
Located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles is the fame the Paso Robles wine region. The Central Coast offers plenty of attractions, wineries and dining experiences. Downtown Paso Robles you can browse through artisan shops and enjoy regional wine tasting lounges, listen to live entertainment or perhaps just sit an enjoy a coffee at a café and let the day pass you by.
Hearst Castle
A must see when visiting the Central Coast is Hearst Castle, a historic estate in San Simeon, just a short 45 minute drive from the hotel. the castle was built during 1919 and 1947 by William Randolph Hearst, a publishing tycoon, and Julia Morgan the architect. Guided tours and tickets can be purchased in advance online .
Pismo Beach
Located on the Central Coast of California, Pissmo Beach and is famous for its wine country, parks, hiking trails, beaches as well as the monarch butterfly annual migrations. There are long white beaches ideal for long strolls, water activities and taking in a beach sunset. From The Carlton Hotel expect to be beachside in 30 minutes.
California Polytechnic State University
Cal Poly a leading Polytechnic school has a student base of over 21,000. Offering 150 major and minor programs and 50 graduate degrees, alumni of the institute go onto successful careers. The campus is just 17 miles from the hotel and a nice drive to attend a graduation ceremony or other school function.
Mid-State Fair
No summer is complete without a trip to the Mid State Fair held annually in Paso Robles. The fair runs for roughly 2 weeks usually in July. Featuring concerts and live music of big headliners, carnival rides, pageant contests, livestock, horseshows and of course the food. Carnival and fair food to your hearts content. Details of the state fair can be found on their website.
Morro Bay
A unique seaside town along Californias coast lies Morro Bay. As you will see when you arrive a massive, ancient volcanic plug known as Morro Rock, stands 576 feet from the ocean floor. The beaches are beautiful where you can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, tide pooling, and eating fresh seafood right off the fisherman’s boat. Best of all Morro Bay is just 17 miles from the hotel.
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
An active a Spanish mission that was founded on September 1, 1772 by Father Junípero Serra in San Luis Obispo. The mission’s walls were built to be 50 to 60 feet high, which was in accordance with Vatican law. This law stated the structure be built as tall as the local tree and, in this case, the pine. Just a short 20 minute drive from The Carlon Hotel.