Avila’s Invigorating and Beautiful Hiking Trails

There’s more to Avila than shops and a beautiful coastline. The quaint beach paradise also boasts a wide array of hikes and trails, ranging from challenging climbs to more leisurely strolls. Take in coastal views stretching from Point Sal to Point San Luis or meander beneath a lush covering of live oaks and sycamore trees. Whether you’re looking for a heart-rate raising, all-day adventure or an hour excursion to keep active, Avila has a hike for you.

Bob Jones Trail

Extending from the Ontario Road parking lot to downtown Avila Beach, the Bob Jones Trail is a local favorite. The 5-mile, family-friendly, round trip track follows a paved pathway past a tidal estuary alive with wildlife. The trail is suitable for walkers, strollers, joggers and cyclists. If you’re walking, expect to spend little more than two hours on the trail, but if you’re keen on taking a break, you’ll pass by Woodstone Market along the way, a deli serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a nice selection of wines and beers.

Pirates Cove – Mallagh Landing Trail

Known for a colorful history that includes pirates and bootleggers, the Mallagh Landing Trail is one of the most scenic areas on the Central Coast. Still, hikers might want to save this trip for the adults since the beach at Pirate’s Cove is known for its clothing-optional attire. The walk only takes about 20 minutes to traverse, covering just a half-mile round trip. The hike passes through a natural tunnel, which opens to sweeping coastal views, and is a favorite spot for fisherman. The terrain gains 100 feet, with coastal scrub lining the trail.

Sycamore Crest Trail

A popular spot, the scenic Sycamore Crest Trail is accessible from the Sycamore Hot Springs Resort and is open to the public. Travel the steep, wide dirt road along Ontario Hill, the ridge which divides Avila and Shell Beach, and admire the oak and manzanita grove and breathtaking ocean views. Reaching 575 feet of elevation and coming in at 1.75 miles roundtrip, the hike is short, but challenging.

Shell Beach Bluff and Ontario Ridge Trail

Running parallel, the Shell Beach Bluff and Ontario Ridge Trail are two separate hikes that meet to form a popular loop. The Shell Beach Bluff is a paved, flat, wheel-chair accessible path overlooking the ocean. Conversely, the Ontario Ridge Trail follows a steep and rugged trail. The combined loop travels around 2.8 miles, reaching up to 675 feet in elevation. Tackle the whole hike or just a portion, depending on your preference for a short and easy walk or a more rigorous hike.

Pecho Coast Trail & Rattlesnake Canyon Trail

If you’re looking to discover a glimpse of an untouched and quiet area of California, head up to the Pecho Coast Trail behind Port San Luis, and a little further back, the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail. Both occupy coastline owned by PG&E and require reservations on docent-led hikes. Hikes begin at 8:45 AM from Fisherman’s Memorial at Port San Luis Harbor. The Pecho Coast Trail is a 3.75-mile trek between Port San Luis and the Point San Luis Lighthouse, an active light station that’s been protecting local waters since 1889. Beyond the Pecho Coast Trail, is the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, an 8-mile roundtrip hike. Enjoy views of the untouched coastline, and native plants and species, including whales, dolphins and otters. The terrain is varied for both hikes, and is steep and narrow at times.

Happy Trails, Hikers!