Favorite Spots for a Central Coast Picnic

The Central Coast has the best vibes: beautiful, relaxed and still somehow focused. I find myself running into go-getters on a daily basis. Dream chasers are the normal around here.

Some of my favorite ways to fill my soul are to cruise to the beach for a picnic. Lounging outside with some yummy food, friends, and the salty breeze. Here's a little roundup of my favorite picnic spots here on the coast, perfect for a (cheap!) romantic date or a good time with your buddies.

Pismo Beach

I could say so much about this little coastal town where I fell in love with this state (and my husband). Nightly, we would find ourselves on walks down to the beach, laying on a blanket with our friends and looking up at the stars. Beach bonfires and poppies are dotted all over the southern part of the beach, while the northern shore boasts of hidden caves when the tides are just right. Always a favorite.

Montaña De Oro

When I discovered this little state park, I was hooked on this Central Coast life. Not only is this state park so varied in terrain (eucalyptus forests, sandy beaches, hiking trails, sand dunes) but it is such a gorgeous spot for soaking in all that California goodness. The blend of forest and surf makes your picnic feel more secluded, even on the busiest of days.

San Simeon 

This picture was taken on one of San Simeon's foggy days, the misty waves calling my soul to rest. Definitely one of my favorite beaches for getting away and calming my soul. There's something about those tall, tall trees butting up to the shoreline that makes me feel like I'm so small.


What are some of your favorite spots along the coast? I would love to hear them! 

xo, 

Sabrina

Adventures with Matt // Pinnacles National Park

Looking forward to getting an annual pass to this spot. Just a stone's throw away, Pinnacles National Park features amazing - pinnacles - that shoot up just like something out of the high desert. We loved hiking up the trails and showing Juniper her trees + berries with her name. Getting out and exploring is the best way to fill us up with peace, unity, and adventure. I love our family. 

Adventures with Matt // The 46

Number one favorite pastime? Adventuring with Matt. 

When I'm feeling grumpy and mean, like an alley cat, just take me out into the wild. After about five minutes I'll remember who I am, who Jesus is, and that everything really is beautiful. We are looking forward to bringing out our little bear cub to explore with us soon-- only 6 more weeks until we meet her! 

If you're hanging in the Central Coast, I highly recommend a trip down the 46 from Paso Robles to Cambria. That drive (not only FULL of awesome wineries that I can't visit right now) is amazing and scenic and everything you want in a Sunday drive. Plus, you spill out into the piney-beaches of Cambria where you can eat your picnic lunch and fall in love with the waves. Perfect.

Adventures with Matt: Montaña De Oro Exploring

I love this place more than anywhere else. I don't come here enough, even though it's so close to me. But it keeps those smells of eucalyptus and salt air special, the overcast skies still peace-giving and absence does make the heart grow fonder. I love the discovery here--it finds me every time. The towering trees quiets my spirit like nothing else and I feel the Creator's presence in every growing bit around me. Thankful that places like this exist in a world that feels so lost and heavy at times.