Paso Robles is a popular staycation destination among Californians, and is known for its abundance of vineyards. It has hot springs and unique cultural attractions – so we reckon it’s totally worth considering even if you’re from elsewhere in the United States. Surrounded by towering mountains, atmospheric deserts and coastal paradises, Paso Robles is a great base for exploring rural California.
This location doesn’t come without its issues, however! Getting around can be tricky, so you’ll need to plan your accommodation wisely. It’s best to consider staying somewhere close to everything you want to visit – even if you’re bringing your own car. Unfortunately, there aren’t many extensive neighborhood guides online.
That’s where we come in! We love Paso Robles, and have combined our personal experience with advice from locals and travel experts to give you the ultimate Paso Robles destination guide. Whether you’re visiting for wine, art, or adventure, we’ve got a little something for everyone in our guide to the three best places to stay around Paso Robles.
So, let’s jump right in!
The Rock Loft | Trendy Holiday Home in Paso Robles
Airbnb Plus properties are hand-selected for their stylish interiors, unbeatable locations, and above-and-beyond guest service. This particular loft is just outside Paso Robles, and sits on the historic Adelaida Wine Trail. The interiors blend rustic charm with modern design to create a stylish and functional space. You’ll get to enjoy gorgeous views of Paso Robles from the window, and there are plenty of vineyards just a short drive away.
Vaquero Loft | Romantic Loft Near Paso Robles
This is another charming loft, and it’s super affordable! Located in neighboring Templeton, this is a fantastic choice for young couples looking for an affordable getaway. It’s a tranquil spot, and comes with gorgeous views over the river. It even has a decked patio next to a small pond.
Garden Street Inn | Artsy Hotel Near Paso Robles
This cute bed and breakfast in the heart of San Luis Obispo is the perfect spot to get your creative juices flowing. The traditional exterior gives way to ornate interiors that respect both modern design and European style. The hotel is surrounded by greenery, and is only a short walk away from the art galleries of San Luis Obispo.
Paso Robles
A historic resort town, Paso Robles has a long-established tourism industry. This makes it the perfect spot for first-time visitors heading to the area. Given it’s quite a small destination, we’ve featured it as a single area.
Templeton
Templeton is just south of Paso Robles and offers something a little different. It doesn’t see the same tourism numbers as its two larger neighbors, so you’ll find the town has a more authentic vibe.
San Luis Obispo
Only 30 minutes south of Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo is a great alternative if you’re bringing the car. It’s actually a larger city, so if you want something else beyond just the wineries, this is the place to be.
Top 3 Neighborhoods to Stay in Paso Robles
Paso Robles itself is quite a small and secluded town in California. For this reason, it’s pretty important to bring a car to get around. The other two areas that we’ve highlighted are also well worth visiting, so we recommend taking a day trip where you can. This way, you get to see the full diversity of the Paso Robles Wine Country region.
The town of Paso Robles is pretty small, so we’ve counted it as its own area. It’s the best option for first-time visitors, as you’ll get the best insight into everything the region has to offer. If you don’t have a car to hand, you’ll be able to benefit from great tour providers in the town.
Just south of Paso Robles is Templeton. This town offers a similar array of attractions but is much more affordable than its northern neighbor, making it a popular spot with budget travellers. It also has more of a local atmosphere – a great choice if you want something a little more authentic.
Last but certainly not least, San Luis Obispo is about 30 minutes south of Paso Robles. Located within the same county, it’s super easy to travel around other areas of the state from here. San Luis Obispo is also a larger town, giving you more options for restaurants and nightlife. The city is known for its creative spirit, with a sizable gallery district and an endless selection of local boutiques.
Still undecided? Don’t worry – we’ve got you. Keep reading for detailed guides to each town, as well as our top accommodation and activity picks in each.
1. Paso Robles – Best Place to Stay in Paso Robles for Your First Time
A historic resort town, Paso Robles has a long-established tourism industry. This makes it the perfect spot for first-time visitors heading to the area, as there’s plenty of visitor information around town. Plus, getting around is super easy even without a car, as there are plenty of fantastic tour providers in the town.
What makes Paso Robles unique from other wine destinations in the United States is the incredible hiking opportunities. The scenic vineyards come with stunning views of the town, and the trails leading up to them are so rewarding. This makes it an excellent destination for adventure travelers.
The Rock Loft | Charming Loft in Paso Robles
This one is just outside Paso Robles in the hills heading towards Adelaida. This gives you stunning views across the town, as well as quick access to some of the most popular vineyards. The stylish interiors create a bright space during the day, and the log burner makes for cosy winter nights.
Allegretto Vineyard Resort | Lavish Hotel in Paso Robles
Kick back and relax in this extravagant hotel on the outskirts of Paso Robles. Sometimes you need the added convenience of a hotel, but Allegretto Vineyard Resort goes beyond this! It’s designed to mimic the luxurious hotels of Tuscany, with traditional architecture and sturdy interiors. The cabanas are perfect for when you want to unwind and soak up the California sun.
Vintage Ranch | Rustic Cottage in Paso Robles
This one is a little more rustic, but still super stylish and welcoming. It’s a cute and affordable option for anyone heading to Paso Robles for a romantic getaway or a small retreat. It was actually featured on an episode of ‘Stay Here’ on Netflix and is located on a working winery, so you can’t get much more authentic than this.
Vintage Ranch is one of our favourites in Paso Robles but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Paso Robles
- Try out a unique wine country experience with Wings and Wine; the opportunity to give falconry a go while enjoying some delicious wine.
- Beyond just wine, Paso Robles has a fascinating history waiting to be discovered – learn more about it on this Happy Hour History Tour.
- Paso Robles is also known for its natural hot springs. Head to the Paso Robles Inn to kick back, relax and soak up the geothermal goodness.
- There are far too many wineries to list here, but if you need some help deciding, the Grapeline Paso Robles offers some excellent excursions.
- Señor Sancho’s is a vibrant restaurant offering up delectable Mexican cuisine, tasty cocktails, and good vibes.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Templeton – Where to Stay Near Paso Robles on a Budget
Templeton is just south of Paso Robles and offers something a little different. It doesn’t see the same tourism numbers as its two larger neighbors, so you’ll find the town has a more authentic vibe to it. This also makes it a great spot for budget travelers keen to enjoy an affordable staycation in the USA.
The Main Street District is home to local artisans and restaurants showcasing the best local flavors. There are some great wineries a short drive away, and getting to both Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo will only take you around 15 minutes by car.
Wine Country Retreat | Cozy Cabin in Templeton
This enchanting cabin outside Templeton is nestled among the trees, and is the perfect getaway for adventurers. A former military bunker, it has been creatively restored to a cosy and style place to stay. The cabin is spacious and inviting, and the small dining area and fire pit outside are perfect for creating a romantic atmosphere in the evenings.
Vaquero Loft | Quirky Hideaway in Templeton
This peaceful little bolthole is the perfect antidote to a busy life! With its own private pond, you’ll get to bask among nature while enjoying your breakfast. The vineyards are within driving distance, so you’ll never be too far from all the main attractions. That being said, it is a little secluded, so definitely one for those that need an escape.
Croad Vineyards | Affordable Hotel in Templeton
This is another hotel with Tuscan vibes, though it’s much more affordable than our Paso Robles pick! Nevertheless, it maintains comfortable interiors and charming décor to ensure you won’t feel like you’re staying in a budget hotel. It’s also located within a vineyard, so you can roll straight out of bed and enjoy the biggest attractions in the area.
Things to See and Do in Templeton
- Templeton Historical Society Museum is a fascinating insight into the town’s past and rural Californian culture in general.
- Take a walk down Main Street and check out the endless antique stores, local crafts and laid-back eateries.
- It’s not just about wine; gin and whiskey are distilled here, too, so make sure to check out Pendray’s Distillery and Bethel Road Distillery while you’re here.
3. San Luis Obispo – Best Area Near Paso Robles for Creatives
Only 30 minutes south of Paso Robles, staying in San Luis Obispo is ideal if you’re bringing the car. It’s actually a larger city, so if you want something beyond the wineries, this is the place to be. San Luis Obispo is mostly known for its burgeoning art gallery scene, so it’s a great place to check out up and coming talent from across Southern California.
It’s also an excellent choice for adventure travelers. Hiking and mountain biking are popular activities for locals and visitors alike. With scenery this beautiful on your doorstep, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to gorgeous trails and hidden photo spots.
Mid-Century Design | Stylish Guest Suite in San Luis Obispo
This is another stunning Airbnb Plus property right in the creative heart of San Luis Obispo! The stylish mid-century design gives the property a retro vibe, while the modern interiors ensure utmost comfort. It can sleep up to four guests across two bedrooms, so it’s a good option for small groups and families. The main attractions in San Luis Obispo are also only a short walk away.
The Downtown House | Central Bungalow in San Luis Obispo
This bungalow also has a mid-century vibe, but is a little bit more affordable. Downtown San Luis Obispo is right on the doorstep, so you don’t get much better than this for location. The interiors provide a unique vibe and general homely atmosphere.
Garden Street Inn | Luxurious Hotel in San Luis Obispo
Creative guests should make a beeline for this gorgeous little bed and breakfast in the heart of the town. The main gallery district is a two-minute walk away, while the rooms in this hotel are their own works of art. Inspired by the French countryside aesthetic, you’ll certainly get to fill your artistic soul staying in this gem. Plus, the hotel includes breakfast each day!
Things to See and Do in San Luis Obispo
- San Luis Obispo offers more than just wine tasting: you can also sample the delectable local cuisine on two food tours – one Downtown and one Uptown.
- Foraging is a valuable traveler skill, and the town offers experiences on the coast, you’ll get to learn how to spot edible seaweed and other delicacies.
- The Santa Lucia hills are a must-visit for adventurous travelers; alongside stunning views, they also come with epic biking trails and challenging hikes.
- San Luis Obispo Museum of Art is the largest gallery in the city, but make sure you spend some time exploring the quirky smaller galleries nearby.
- Sidecar offers a hip dining experience with farm-to-table style cuisine and a calm atmosphere.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Paso Robles
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Paso Robles and where to stay.
What To Pack For Paso Robles
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Paso Robles
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Paso Robles is the perfect staycation destination for anyone traveling in the USA. Its location within wine country provides gorgeous scenery, and plenty of picturesque spots where you can get away from the crowds and admire stunning views. It’s mostly visited by Californian residents, and should definitely be considered as an alternative vacay spot.
Paso Robles takes our top spot for the best area to stay in. The Downtown area is well connected to other cities in the region, and there are some fantastic hiking trails heading deep into wine country for those looking for more adventure.
That being said, each place has something different to offer. San Luis Obispo is a haven for creatives and adventure travelers, while Templeton is a bit more laid-back and affordable. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming trip to Paso Robles!
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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