Need help with itinerary

Question

I'm going to San Luis Obispo for a week in October. I will be available to do activities from 2 pm onwards. Have two full days where I think we will go to Moro Bay/Pismo Dunes. I would like to hike a couple of days to see some great scenery. Any recommendations that are near SLO. It is safe to hike solo? What time does it get dark. I will have a car so I can drive if it is close.

Question regarding Moro Bay? Is it worth to hire a boat to see the otters and other wild life or can you see them from the shore. I do have a telephoto lens.

Any suggestions for off the beaten path activities.

Thanks,

Answer

San Luis Obispo and the surrounding Central Coast offer a variety of scenic hikes, wildlife viewing opportunities, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, all within a reasonable drive. Since you’ll be available from 2 pm onwards, most of your activities will need to be relatively short or oriented toward late afternoon and sunset.

For hiking near SLO, there are several options that provide beautiful scenery without requiring a full day commitment. Most trails are generally safe for solo hikers during daylight hours, but it’s always wise to let someone know your plans and carry a charged phone, water, and a map or GPS. In October, sunset in San Luis Obispo is typically around 6:30–7:00 pm, so plan hikes accordingly.

Bishop Peak: This iconic peak offers a 3–4 mile round trip with panoramic views of SLO. Start your hike a couple of hours before sunset for stunning views.
Montaña de Oro State Park: Located about 20 minutes from SLO, it has several trails including the Bluff Trail and Valencia Peak. You can see ocean cliffs, wildflowers, and tide pools.
Poly Canyon or Cerro San Luis Obispo Trails: Shorter hikes near Cal Poly with nice views of rolling hills and city scenery. Great for an afternoon hike when time is limited.

Regarding Morro Bay and Pismo Beach:

Wildlife Viewing: You can see sea otters, harbor seals, and various shorebirds from the shore at Morro Bay, especially near the Embarcadero and Morro Rock. If you have a telephoto lens, this is often sufficient for good photography.
Boat Tours: Hiring a boat can enhance the experience, particularly if you want closer encounters with otters, harbor seals, and even occasional sea birds and pelicans. It also gives a different perspective of the bay and its natural surroundings.
Pismo Dunes: Ideal for off-road adventures and scenic drives. Make sure to check rental and vehicle regulations if you want to drive in the dunes.

For off-the-beaten-path activities near SLO:

Explore the back roads around Los Osos and Montana de Oro for quiet coastal views and tide pools.
Visit the hidden waterfalls near Santa Margarita or the Irish Hills for short hikes and less crowded scenery.
Check out local wineries and small tasting rooms along the Edna Valley wine region for afternoon visits.
Stroll through the downtown SLO Farmers’ Market on Thursday evening if your schedule aligns—it’s lively and offers local food, crafts, and music.

Overall, your itinerary could balance two afternoons for shorter scenic hikes, two full days at Morro Bay/Pismo Dunes for both beach and wildlife activities, and one or two late afternoons exploring the back roads, coastal viewpoints, or wine country.