California stands out as a superior vacation destination due to its varied landscapes, breathtaking beaches, stunning national parks and warm, year-round climate. Traditionally, embarking on a road trip has always been my favorite mode of travel as it allows for a flexible and personalized journey, embracing spontaneity and always leaving me reveling in the freedom and adventure it promises. However, I recently stumbled upon the Pacific Surfliner at the request of a client, and it altered my perception (almost) entirely. The plethora of captivating stops along the route, coupled with the luxury of not being behind the wheel, somewhat transformed my idea of coastal exploration. Embracing the Surfliner's convenience and the allure of its varied destinations, I concluded that this was an easier way to navigate my favorite coastline, as it allowed me to immerse myself fully in the scenic beauty and diverse experiences along the way.
Where to Begin the Experience
The Pacific Surfliner runs between San Luis Obispo and San Diego. When embarking on this adventure, my planning began with San Luis Obispo as the starting point — a charming locale boasting historic sites and a vibrant atmosphere. From here, my journey offered a myriad of possibilities with 29 stops along the route.
When crafting an itinerary enriched by the Surfliner’s stops, advisors will find travelers can explore each destination at their pace. To do this, one can book a multi-city ticket (at no additional cost) to unlock the opportunity for multiple stops along the route, allowing the flexibility to discover various captivating destinations at leisure. However, be sure to plan trips in advance, including stopovers, keeping in mind that connections are not guaranteed so create an itinerary that allows sufficient time for travelers to connect to their next destination.
Recommended Starting Point: SLO County
One could start this adventure in San Diego or even in Los Angeles, but personally, I would start the experience by flying into San Luis Obispo (SLO county), renting a car and heading for the Apple Farm Inn, simply because there is such a huge variety of places to explore in this region.
The Apple Farm Inn is centrally located, making it an ideal hub for easy access to SLO wine country, the serene shores of Pismo Beach, which beckon with their picturesque sunsets and outdoor activities such as surfing and horseback riding, and the well-known pier, perfect for seaside relaxation and coastal adventures. The picturesque farmstead areas of SLO County offer a well-rounded exploration of the area's diverse attractions. And The Apple Farm Inn itself is a charming and cozy retreat that blends rustic elegance with modern comforts amidst scenic surroundings, providing a delightful stay in San Luis Obispo.
With its vibrant downtown scene, brimming with boutique shops, eclectic eateries (Guiseppe’s is a MUST) and wine tasting bars, San Luis Obispo sets the stage for urban exploration. Venturing further, wine enthusiasts can delight in the nearby wine country, where they can immerse themselves in the lush vineyards and tasting rooms that characterize the Central Coast's viticultural richness, including Paso Robles which is known for its rolling vineyards, acclaimed wineries, countryside tranquility and burgeoning culinary scene. For those seeking outdoor adventures, nearby trails offer hiking and biking opportunities amidst breathtaking landscapes. A visit to the scenic Morro Bay and Avilla Beach is highly recommended — Think sleepy fishing village paired with breathtaking scenery.
Other Memorable Stops Along the Way
- Santa Barbara: “Stearns Wharf” — an iconic landmark with panoramic views, shops and eateries along the waterfront. “Funk Zone” — a trendy district with art galleries, wine tasting rooms and vibrant street art & Wine Country.
- Los Angeles: Union Station
- Anaheim: Disneyland
- San Juan Capistrano: “Mission San Juan Capistrano” — a historical site renowned for its gardens, architecture and history.
- San Clemente: A charming town popular for its stunning shoreline and serene beaches.
Onboard The Pacific Surfliner
The Surfliner offers a truly breathtaking experience, traversing the stunning California coastline with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Passengers are treated to a seamless blend of comfort and scenic beauty as they journey through charming cities and quaint beach towns. The train's spacious, comfortable seating and amenities provide an ideal setting to relax and soak in the coastal splendor. Whether admiring the rhythmic crashing of waves against the shore or witnessing the sun dip below the horizon, each moment aboard the Surfliner is an immersive experience, promising an unforgettable adventure along California's mesmerizing coast.
The spacious seating allows passengers to relax, and there are a variety of food options available onboard, from snacks to freshly prepared meals and beverages in the Market Café, complementing the journey with culinary delights. For those seeking an enhanced experience, upgrades offer added amenities like business class seating, priority boarding and complimentary snacks. Both Business Class and Unreserved Coach offer at-seat amenities which include power outlets, free Wi-Fi, dropdown tray tables, footrests, overhead lights and large picture windows. There are also restrooms, luggage storage and table seating for groups of three or four. Do remember to tell travelers to sit on the west side of the train for those unforgettable views. When planning the trip, consider travelers’ interests, desired activities and the time available to make the most of this unique 350-mile train journey. Tell travelers to imagine themselves relishing this picturesque train ride, pausing for a few hours or days at any station, with the only concern being that they have the right timetable to seamlessly continue their journey to the next adventure on their itinerary.
San Diego — The Final Destination
My journey aboard the Pacific Surfliner ended in sunny San Diego, a vibrant city on California's southern coast brimming with an array of captivating tourist attractions. From the world-famous San Diego Zoo and its diverse animal habitats to the historic USS Midway Museum which offers a glimpse into naval history, this city caters to diverse interests. Travelers can embrace the laid-back vibes of the iconic Gaslamp Quarter, known for its bustling nightlife and eclectic dining options. Or, for a blend of relaxation and exploration, Coronado Island won’t disappoint, with its pristine beaches and the historic Hotel del Coronado which is renowned for its grandeur and panoramic ocean views. Choosing the ultimate hotel in San Diego, marks the perfect finale to a most enjoyable train journey, ensuring a memorable and luxurious end to the adventure. Two of my favorite properties in this area are Hotel del Coronado and Kona Kai resort as both promise an unforgettable stay in the heart of San Diego.
About the Author
comments