Bob Jones Trail
A scenic, accessible trail connecting San Luis Obispo to Avila Beach, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bob Jones Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, accessible trail connecting San Luis Obispo to Avila Beach, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.
"This easy, beautiful trail leads you through shady trees to the sunny shores of Avila Beach!"
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible
This trail is great for all ages and fitness levels, even strollers and wheelchairs!
🚲 Bike or Walk
Perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk to Avila Beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Secret Garden
Accessible via Bob Jones Trail
A hidden oasis with wood-fired pizza, local drinks, and live music. Dog-friendly and perfect for a relaxed stop.
Avila Beach Shoreline
End of the Bob Jones Trail
The trail culminates at the picturesque Avila Beach, offering stunning ocean views and a chance to relax by the waves.
Shady Sycamore Groves
Along the Bob Jones Trail
Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride through lush, shady sycamore trees, a refreshing contrast to the sunny coast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Parking Tips
Best Time for a Peaceful Stroll
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible
This trail is great for all ages and fitness levels, even strollers and wheelchairs!
🚲 Bike or Walk
Perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk to Avila Beach.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a great outing for furry friends too.
🎶 Live Music Spot
Check out The Secret Garden for live music and a unique outdoor dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible
This trail is great for all ages and fitness levels, even strollers and wheelchairs!
🚲 Bike or Walk
Perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk to Avila Beach.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a great outing for furry friends too.
🎶 Live Music Spot
Check out The Secret Garden for live music and a unique outdoor dining experience.
👃 Be Prepared for Smells
You might encounter some odors near the water treatment facility.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bob Jones Trail for its accessibility, natural beauty, and the rewarding destination of Avila Beach. The unique charm of The Secret Garden is a frequent highlight, offering a delightful stop with food and drinks. Some mention potential odors near a water treatment facility and parking can be challenging during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trailhead is located off Prado Road in San Luis Obispo. You can also access it from Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.
Parking is available at the main trailhead on Prado Road, but it fills up fast. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa offers parking, especially if you plan to visit The Secret Garden.
Yes, the trail is well-marked and easily accessible from its starting points. Many visitors find it straightforward to navigate.
Yes, the trail leads directly to Avila Beach, making it a convenient way to reach the coast without driving.
From Highway 101, take the Avila Beach Drive exit and head towards Avila Beach. The main trailhead will be on your left off Prado Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bob Jones Trail is free to access and enjoy.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific access points like The Secret Garden may have their own hours.
No advance booking is required as the trail is free and open to the public.
The main restriction is to keep dogs on a leash. Be mindful of other users and the natural environment.
While the trail itself is accessible, it's best to use it during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The Bob Jones Trail is approximately 2.6 miles one-way, making it a moderate length for a walk or bike ride.
Absolutely! It's a relatively flat and easy trail, perfect for toddlers and young kids.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Bob Jones Trail as long as they are kept on a leash.
You'll experience shady sycamore groves, coastal breezes, and eventually, beautiful ocean views as you approach Avila Beach.
Restroom facilities are available at the Avila Beach end of the trail.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Secret Garden, accessible from the trail, offers wood-fired pizza and drinks. You'll also find dining options at Avila Beach.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend time at Avila Beach. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The Secret Garden serves wood-fired pizza, local wine, beer, and kombucha. They also offer cinnamon rolls.
Yes, The Secret Garden is dog-friendly, so your pets can join you for a meal or drink.
The main trailhead is in San Luis Obispo, where you'll find numerous dining options. Closer to the trail's end, Avila Beach offers many restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush sycamore trees, the unique vibe of The Secret Garden, and the stunning coastal scenery at Avila Beach.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the coastal glow and the trail's natural beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances and park rules before flying a drone.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both the trail's details and the expansive ocean views.
The entire trail offers scenic beauty, but the approach to Avila Beach and the pier provide classic coastal photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget: Pack plenty of snacks, water, and beach essentials. The Secret Garden offers a fun, casual stop with pizza and drinks if you need a break along the way.
🚴♀️ Cyclists & Bikers
+1 The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe, car-free environment for most of its length. Consider: Renting bikes in the area if you don't have your own. The trail is also a great way to access The Secret Garden for a refreshing stop.
🚶♂️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
The gentle incline makes it an accessible hike for most, and the destination at Avila Beach provides a beautiful coastal reward. Best enjoyed: During cooler parts of the day, like mornings or late afternoons, to fully appreciate the serene atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring The Secret Garden
+1Here, you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, local wines, and craft beers in a charming outdoor setting. It's also a dog-friendly venue, making it a great place to relax with your furry companions. Keep an eye out for live music performances, which add to the vibrant ambiance.
Pro-tip: Arrive early if you want to snag a good seat, especially on weekends. It's a popular pit stop for those biking or hiking the trail.
Biking the Bob Jones City to Sea Trail
+2Many visitors enjoy starting in San Luis Obispo and biking the 2.6 miles to Avila Beach. The trail winds through shady sycamore groves, offering a pleasant escape from the sun before opening up to coastal views. It's a popular choice for families looking for an active outing.
+1Key features for cyclists: The trail is well-maintained and offers a safe passage away from car traffic for most of its length. You can easily rent bikes in the area if you don't have your own.
+1Family Fun on the Bob Jones Trail
Families can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride, spotting local flora and fauna along the way. The trail's destination, Avila Beach, is a fantastic reward, offering a safe and enjoyable beach experience for kids to play in the sand and shallow waters.
Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited until you reach Avila Beach. Consider bringing beach toys for extra fun once you arrive.
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