Embark on an unforgettable journey with us from the sun-drenched vineyards of Paso Robles to the breathtaking Pacific coastline.
Just a short, scenic 30-mile drive from downtown Paso Robles, a treasure trove of coastal wineries awaits. We’ll take you on a journey along the picturesque Highway 46 West Wine Trail, where rolling hills give way to salty sea air. Discover off-the-beaten-path tasting rooms, and uncover the magic that happens when vineyard meets shoreline.
That’s right: Swirl bold reds and fresh whites backdropped by breathtaking ocean views or indulge in a seaside sunset on a breezy tasting room patio. Ready to trade your picnic blanket for a beach towel? Let’s uncork the ultimate guide to coastal escapes in Paso Robles Wine Country.
Your Route to Coastal Bliss
Ready for the ultimate Paso Robles Wine Country coastal road trip? The journey from vineyards to the Pacific is an adventure in itself. Hop on iconic Highway 46 West and enjoy a truly scenic drive, all year round. Wind through rolling hills and lush vines, stopping at a rainbow of wine tasting rooms along the way. Welcome to the Paso Robles Highway 46 West Wine Trail, one of Paso’s scenic route to the coast.
How to get there
Before we dive into the best Paso Robles beach day wineries and coastal towns, let’s map out your journey from the heart of Paso Robles wine country to the stunning Pacific coast.
The Route: Highway 46 West to Highway 1
- Starting Point: Downtown Paso Robles, CA
- Destination: Highway 1 and the Pacific Ocean
- Total Distance: Approximately 30 miles to the coast
Step-by-Step Directions:
- From downtown Paso Robles, head south on Spring Street.
- Merge onto US-101 South.
- Take the exit for CA-46 West toward Cambria/Hearst Castle.
- Follow CA-46 West for about 23 miles, stopping at tasting rooms along the way. Cruise on until you reach Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway).
At this junction, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the coastal gems of Cambria, Harmony, Cayucos, and Morro Bay. Plus, San Simeon is just a short drive north on Highway 1.
Drive Time: The journey from Paso Robles to the coast only takes about 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact starting point. But remember, this scenic route is part of the adventure – don’t rush it! Wine tasting rooms are visible from your car window. You’ll also want to download this Paso Robles Wineries map to ensure to hit all the best spots.
Things to consider before you go
Weather Watch: As you travel west, you’ll notice a drop in temperature and an increase in coastal fog, especially during summer months. The California Central Coast can be 10-15 degrees cooler than inland Paso Robles, so pack accordingly. A light jacket, sunglasses and beach towel or picnic blanket are all good items to pack for your Paso beach day trip.
Seasonal Views: The drive offers stunning vistas of rolling hills and vineyards. In winter and spring, the terrain is painted in rich hues of emerald, punctuated by colorful wildflowers. Summer brings cascading slopes of gold backed by blue skies, and in the fall, Paso Robles’ exciting harvest season sets the vines ablaze in festive reds, browns and yellows. The end destination: The majestic Pacific Ocean, is beautiful and accessible year-round.
The wines: The cooling effect of the ocean breezing through Paso’s Westside–and especially the famed Templeton Gap–helps foster the development of complex, balanced wines. Enjoy this chill coastal influence, sip by sip!
Must-sip stops along Highway 46 West:
As you cruise along this scenic route to the Pacific Coast, be sure to stop at these unique Highway 46 West wine tasting rooms:
Four Lanterns Winery
Illuminating Highway 46 West is the best and brightest vintages, Four Lanterns Winery shines its light on 35 acres of the prestigious Willow Creek AVA. Named for the owners’ four daughters, this family-owned tasting room offers a warm, inviting experience complemented by an expansive green lawn perfect for picnicking with the fam. Specializing in Rhône and Bordeaux-style wines, Four Lanterns capitalizes on the natural strengths of their terroir to craft beautifully complex, balanced vintages. It goes without saying that this Highway 46 West winery offers up a chill experience for wine lovers, families and even four-legged friends.
Address: 2485 West Hwy 46, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 5 PM
Niner Wine Estates
Traveling along gorgeous Highway 46 West, look for the iconic heart-shaped hill and settle in for estate-grown cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir. Niner Wine Estates’ LEED-certified winery and on-site restaurant make for a perfect afternoon pit-stop from Paso to the Pacific. The estate features a stately tasting room and a beautiful patio overlooking Westside vineyards. Kick back and sample tastings of their meticulously crafted wines, focusing on Bordeaux and Burgundian varietals. Tip: Looking for a special sit-down meal in Paso Robles? Book a table at Niner Wine Estates for a farm-to-table experience at their restaurant, which showcases seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
Address: 2400 CA-46, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
Tooth & Nail Winery
Wine tasting in a castle—why not? Opulent red blends, fresh eats and gothic-esque architecture make this a must-visit hangout—for a quick tasting, concert or even Sunday brunch. Tooth & Nail Winery stands out on Highway 46 West with its unique storybook setting and adventurous wine offerings. Known for robust reds like the “The Fiend” and “The Possessor,” the winery offers a fun and engaging tasting experience that begins with a trek across a real-life moat. Tip: The castle’s rooftop terrace and grand hall create a memorable backdrop for wine tasting events and live music nights. Check the calendar before you go!
Address: 3090 Anderson Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
Sextant Family Wines
Ready for two tasting rooms near the sea? Chart a course for excellence with Sextant Family Wines, where Old World varietals meet Central Coast terroir. Proprietors Nancy and Craig Stoller have cultivated their family-owned estate from San Luis Obispo to Monterey, crafting small-lot, site-specific wines that truly embody their coastal influence. Experience their award-winning wines at two unique locations near the coast. The Paso Robles Estate Winery on scenic Highway 46 West offers panoramic views and serves as an ideal stop on your wine country cruise to the beach. The Edna Valley Tasting Room, just five miles from the Pacific, showcases cool climate varietals (pinot noir, chardonnay) and features a gourmet deli perfect for pairings.
Sextant Family Wines Paso Robles: 2324 W. HWY 46, Paso Robles, CA 93446
San Luis Obispo: 1653 Old Price Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM (both locations)
Hope Family Wines
For those about to lounge, Hope Family Wines is a must-visit stop along Highway 46 West in Paso Robles. Crowned 2022 American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, this family-owned hangout is home to the iconic Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon, which ranked 7th in the world. The Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar serves up award-winning wines in a vibrant, new-world atmosphere that’s as bold as their vintages. With eclectic decor, cozy lounge-style seating and a casual approach to world-class wines, it’s the ideal spot for everyone. Explore their five unique brands – Austin Hope, Treana, Quest, Troublemaker, and Liberty School – and discover why this winery remains at the forefront of Paso Robles winemaking.
Note: Hope Family Wines is located about 1 mile from Highway 46 West in Paso Robles. The winery is easily accessible, making it a convenient stop if you’re traveling along this scenic route.
Address: 1585 Live Oak Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
Castoro Cellars
“Dam Fine Wine” isn’t just a clever slogan – it’s a promise. Enjoy organic wines in beautiful picnic areas or challenge your friends to a game of disc golf before heading to the beach. Castoro Cellars is celebrated for its broad range of varietals, including zinfandel, cabernet sauvignon, and chardonnay, so take your pick! The relaxed atmosphere and stunning vineyard views make this tasting room a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Plus, there’s always something fun happening, from live music to yoga in the vineyard.
Note: Castoro Cellars is approximately 2.5 miles from Highway 46 West in Paso Robles. It’s a short drive from the highway, making it an easy and popular stop along the Highway 46 West wine trail.
Address:1315 N Bethel Road, Templeton, CA 93465
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Learn more about the wineries of Highway 46 West
Highway 46 West Dining Spotlight:
Barton’s Kitchen at Barton Family Wines
Looking for a quick nosh or a leisurely lunch on Highway 46 West in Paso Robles? Located at the Barton Family Wines tasting room, Barton’s Kitchen is a popular stop for hungry folks en route to the sea. Expect a farm-fresh culinary experience with an approachable menu that features locally-sourced ingredients picked at peak flavor. Whether you go for the mouthwatering tri-tip sandwich, gourmet flatbreads, the famous “wine country mac and cheese” or a seasonal salad topped with vibrant produce and house-made vinaigrette, you’re sure to fuel-up with a smile. Tip: Vegan and vegetarian options available, so everyone can eat their heart out.
Seating and Ambiance
Enjoy your meal in a relaxed and inviting outdoor seating area, where you can soak up the Paso Robles sunshine amidst the scenic Westside vineyard views. Choose from plenty of shaded spots, ensuring a lovely setting for a leisurely lunch.
More to Explore
While you’re here, Indulge in a flight of Barton Family Cellars exceptional wines, featuring robust reds and crisp whites. For those looking for something different, the winery also offers unique spirits tastings, showcasing their artisanal, small-batch bottles.
Address: 2174 Highway 46 West Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Thursday – Monday, 11 AM – 5 PM
Coastal Day Trips: Paso Robles to the Pacific
Looking for a refreshing day trip from Paso Robles to Highway 1 and back, with more to do and see? Stop and stretch your legs here:
Harmony: Tiny Town, Big Flavors
Blink and you might miss it, but trust us, the tiny artist’s alcove of Harmony, CA is worth hitting the brakes for. This pint-sized town (population: 18—if you count the cows) packs a punch. While you’re here, watch glassblowers create incredible works of art, stop for a selfie and explore the delightfully miniature post office.
Winery Spotlight: Harmony Cellars:
Perched on a hilltop with views that’ll make your jaw drop, Harmony Cellars is the heart and soul of this tiny artist haven. This family-owned gem crafts a delightful range of wines, from crisp chardonnays to bold reds. Sip your wine on their expansive patio, drinking in panoramic views of rolling hills (those cooling ocean breezes aren’t bad either).
Tip: Don’t miss Harmony Cellars zinfandel – it’s a spicy, fruity testament to Paso’s terroir. For a real treat, time your visit with one of the winery’s regular events. Nothing beats live music, gourmet nibbles and stellar wines as the sun sets over Harmony.
How to Drive from Paso Robles to Harmony, CA via Highway 46 West
- Start in Paso Robles: Begin your journey from downtown Paso Robles, heading south on US-101.
- Take the Highway 46 West Exit: Merge onto Highway 46 West (Exit 228) towards Cambria. Follow the signs for approximately 20 miles. Enjoy the scenic vineyard views along the way!
- Turn onto Harmony Valley Road: As you near the coast, turn left onto Harmony Valley Road, a small, winding road that leads directly into the charming town of Harmony, CA.
Arrive in Harmony: After about 5 miles, you’ll arrive in Harmony. Take your time exploring this quaint village, known for its artisan shops and laid-back vibe.
Cayucos: Surf, Sand, and Sauvignon Blanc
Laid-back vibes and epic waves – that’s Cayucos in a nutshell. But there’s more to this beach town than just catching rays. From famous cookies to a historic pier, this chill coastal escape is full of refreshing surprises.
Winery Spotlight: Cayucos Cellars:
Tucked away in this classic surf town, Cayucos Cellars is the definition of a coastal oasis. This family-run winery specializes in small-batch, handcrafted wines that capture the essence of the coast. Step into their cozy seaside tasting room, and you might find yourself chatting with the winemaker himself. Their approach is refreshingly unpretentious—it’s all about letting the grapes speak for themselves.
Be sure to try Cayucos Cellars’ cabernet sauvignon, a stand-out offering with deep, complex flavors. Post-tasting treat? Four words: Brown. Butter. Cookie Company. Trust us, these melt-in-your-mouth bites are the perfect palate cleanser after a day of wine tasting.
How to Drive from Paso Robles to Cayucos, CA via Highway 46 West
- Begin in Paso Robles: Start your trip from downtown Paso Robles, heading south on US-101.
- Exit onto Highway 46 West: Take Exit 228 to merge onto Highway 46 West towards Cambria. Follow the highway for about 21 miles, enjoying the picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.
- Continue Straight onto Highway 1 South: When Highway 46 West ends, merge onto Highway 1 South, following signs for Cayucos.
- Arrive in Cayucos: Drive 5 more miles on Highway 1, and you’ll reach the seaside town of Cayucos. Explore its historic pier, beachfront, and charming downtown area.
Cambria: Where Pinot Meets the Pines
Charming doesn’t begin to describe the seaside village of Cambria. This groovy Highway 1 enclave is a feast for the senses, from its pine-scented air to its shimmering moonstones. Shop the eclectic downtown boutiques, grab a bite of olallieberry pie and prepare for wines that shimmer with coastal terroir.
Winery spotlight: Stolo Vineyards & Winery
Nestled in a picturesque valley just three miles from the Pacific, Stolo Vineyards crafts wines that are the very definition of coastal cool. Their estate-grown grapes benefit from Cambria’s foggy mornings and sun-soaked afternoons, resulting in wines of remarkable depth and balance.
Be sure to try the pinot noir, which is delicate yet complex—Cambria in a glass. But don’t overlook their chardonnay and sauvignon blanc, which shine with bright acidity and mineral notes, thanks to that fresh ocean influence. Sip your flight in a restored 100-year-old dairy barn, or lounge on their grassy lawn surrounded by vineyards and coastal hills. It’s the perfect blend of rustic and refined.
Lastly, stroll along Moonstone Beach. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful sea glass, treasured souvenirs for locals and travelers alike.
How to Drive from Paso Robles to Cambria, CA via Highway 46 West
- Start in Paso Robles: Begin your journey in downtown Paso Robles and head south on US-101.
- Merge onto Highway 46 West: Take Exit 228 to merge onto Highway 46 West, heading towards Cambria. Continue on this scenic highway for approximately 24 miles, passing through vineyards and rolling hills.
- Turn Right onto Highway 1 North: When Highway 46 West ends, turn right onto Highway 1 North towards Cambria.
- Arrive in Cambria: After about 4 miles, you’ll arrive in the charming coastal town of Cambria. Explore its unique shops, art galleries, and stunning coastal views.
San Simeon: Castles, Seals, and Cabernet
From an opulent mansion to blubbery beachgoers, San Simeon is a fabulous escape blending history, wildlife and historic wine.
Winery Spotlight: Hearst Ranch Winery
With a coastal tasting room that boasts one of the best views on the Central Coast, Hearst Ranch Winery provides a fabulous day trip from Paso Robles Wine Country.
Discover wines that pay homage to the legacy of William Randolph Hearst, with each bottle telling a story of the land’s rich heritage. The cabernet sauvignon, grown on the historic Hearst Ranch in Paso Robles, is bold and structured – a wine fit for a media mogul.
But it’s not all about reds. Their chardonnay, bright and refreshing, perfectly captures the cool coastal vibes of Highway 1. Enjoy your tasting flight on their seaside patio, where the crash of waves provides the perfect soundtrack (you might even feel the ocean spray on your skin).
Can’t-miss moment: Along your drive through San Simeon, say hello to the elephant seals at the nearby Piedras Blancas Rookery. These gentle giants are the ultimate beach bums, and viewing is free for anyone looking to stop and stretch their legs.
How to Drive from Paso Robles to San Simeon, CA via Highway 46 West
- Begin in Paso Robles: Start your journey in downtown Paso Robles and head south on US-101.
- Take the Highway 46 West Exit: Merge onto Highway 46 West (Exit 228) toward Cambria. Drive through the scenic vineyards and rolling hills for about 24 miles.
- Turn Right onto Highway 1 North: When Highway 46 West ends, turn right onto Highway 1 North toward San Simeon.
- Continue to San Simeon: Drive north on Highway 1 for approximately 8 miles, and you’ll reach San Simeon, home to the famous Hearst Castle, Hearst Ranch Winery and beautiful coastal vistas.
Morro Bay: Rock Star Views and Vino
That giant rock in the bay? It’s well worth the visit. Morro Bay serves up natural wonders with a side of delicious wine. From the bustling embarcadero to happy otters, find your new happy place along bayside waters.
Winery Spotlight: Absolution Cellars
With Morro Rock as a backdrop, Absolution Cellars‘ bayside tasting lounge offers a wine experience that’s unique to the Morro Bay Embarcadero. This boutique winery specializes in hand-crafted, limited-production single-vineyard wines that showcase the best of the Central Coast.
Their diverse selection of wines are true showstoppers, each a unique portrait of place and time. For something special, try their single-vineyard offerings, which offer an honest expression of each grape.
This intimate tasting lounge encourages lingering, so feel free to hang out for the sunset! Grab a glass of your favorite and head to Absolution Cellars’ popular outdoor seating area. As you sip and gaze out at Morro Rock, enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the Embarcadero and maybe catch sight of local marine life, including pelicans, seals and otters.
How to Drive from Paso Robles to Morro Bay, CA via Highway 46 West
- Start in Paso Robles: Begin your journey in downtown Paso Robles, heading south on US-101.
- Merge onto Highway 46 West: Take Exit 228 to merge onto Highway 46 West towards Cambria. Drive through the scenic vineyards for about 21 miles.
- Continue onto Highway 1 South: When Highway 46 West ends, merge onto Highway 1 South towards Morro Bay.
- Arrive in Morro Bay: Drive about 5 more miles on Highway 1, and you’ll reach Morro Bay. Explore the iconic Morro Rock, the waterfront, and charming downtown.
Making the Most of Your Coastal Wine Adventure
Ready to hit the road? Here are some insider tips to ensure your Paso-to-coast wine odyssey is nothing short of spectacular:
- Double-check the location: Several Paso Robles wineries have sister locations on the coast, offering a seamless blend of inland and beachside wine experiences. That said, it can be easy to mix these tasting rooms up! Be sure to check which location you’re heading to before you head out the door.
- Dress for Success: We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again. Layer up, Westside wine travelers! Coastal temps can be fickle. That breezy sundress perfect for Paso might need a cozy sweater once you hit Morro Bay.
- Bring Home the Bottles: Many of these coastal wineries offer exclusive wines you won’t find anywhere else. Pack a wine carrier (or grab one at your first stop) to bring home some liquid memories.
- Don’t want to drive? Book a Tour! Yes, several Paso Robles Wineries tours are available to transport you from wine country to the beach. From custom itineraries to inclusive adventures complete with gourmet lunch stops, it’s easy to find a tour that’s right for you.
See you in Paso Robles for the perfect beach day
There you have it, folks—the ultimate guide to blending Paso’s world-class wines with the Central Coast’s seaside splendor. From the rolling vineyards of Paso Robles to the crashing waves of Cayucos, every sip, every view and every moment in between is sure to leave you thirsty for more. Luckily, we have plenty of additional ideas, itineraries and tips to help plan your next Paso Robles Wine Country trip.
Photo by Yaroslav Khodan on Unsplash