San Luis Obispo

I've lived in San Luis Obispo ('SLO') for about 10 years. I loved the atmosphere (friendly residents, safe neighborhood), and access to various outdoor activities nearby (the beach, bay, hiking, hot springs, etc.). It is a beautiful small city. There are no traffic nor parking problems. Very low crime rate- I've lost my wallet twice and it got back to me even before I realized I've lost it! I believe SLO is good for families, professionals or students. SLO has a nice public highschool and a private highschool. I do see that the price of houses are going up, but nowhere near the Bay Area housing prices (I currently live in the Bay). I was renting the whole time I was living in SLO, but rent definitely has gone up; a two-bedroom apartment ranging from 2000-2400 per month.

For traveling visitors, I would recommend the following places:
1. SLO Downtown (bars and restaurants): Goshi (Japanese retaurant), Firestone (tri-tip sandwhich), Guissppe's (Italian), High Street Deli (Sandwhich), Splash Cafe (Clam chowder), Big Sky (American, vegetarian), SLO Brewing Co., Foremost Wine Bar, Luis Wine Bar, Frog & Peach (live music)
SLO (outdoor activities): Hiking at Bishop's Peak, Madonna, small hiking trails spread throughout the town
2. Avila Beach (15 min south from SLO): The beach, pier fishing (pier on main beach is currently closed- go to the pier located at the very end of Avila beach for pier fishing) the cliff on 'Cave Landing Dr.', Sycamore Mineral Hot Springs, Hiking trails. Avila Beach is somewhat quieter than Pismo Beach
3. Pismo Beach (20 min. south from SLO): The beach, small shops, the original Splash Cafe (clam chowder). Pier fishing
4. Morro Bay (15 min north from SLO on highway 1): Giovanni's Dockside Too (dockside dining; casual, bbq oysters, fish & chips, live music, occasional sea otters and sea lion viewing), small art galleries throughout, sea salt candies, Kayaking (kayak rental shops), Morro Rock (climbing is not allowed- dangerous)

There are many more cool towns and places to go near SLO (Cambria, Cayucos, Hearst Castle, Sea Elephant Beach, etc). I still visit SLO from time to time, to unwind from city craziness. My husband and I are young professionals, and we dream of retiring in this small but beautiful town someday.