Two Favorite Central Coast Farmers’ Markets

Two Favorite Central Coast Farmers’ Markets

By Tracey Winikoff

If there’s one thing we know how to do here on our beautiful Central Coast, it’s farmers’ markets.

There’s a little somethin’ somethin’ in our soil that produces the best fruit and vegetables on the coast. And this time of year, we clamor for it.

Sure, we have fabulous fruit stands dotting our back roads and highways. But our farmers’ markets are true entertainment destinations for all ages.

San Luis Obispo County plays host to two of the best.

The Avila Beach Farmers’ Market and Downtown San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market bring the whole shebang, including the freshest produce, live music, delectable goods, and artisan vendors.

So push aside those pesky house projects and leave your summer gear in storage a little longer.

Grab the family—we’re heading outdoors to our local farmers’ market faves!

Avila Beach Farmers’ Market

Fridays turn into Friyays through August 30th in one of the most beautiful farmers’ market settings in the nation.

Set amidst the crashing waves and golden-hued sunsets, the Avila Beach Farmers’ Market welcomes visitors to the Promenade from 4–8 p.m.

Celebrating its 23rd season, this beachfront farmers’ market serenades visitors with live music while strolling among vendor booths, sampling the freshest produce from nearby farms, and dining on fabulous food from local restaurants and artisans.

Once you’ve filled up on the best foods the Central Coast has to offer, kick off your shoes, dig your toes into the warm sand, and enjoy the tunes as you relax and enjoy the salty ocean air.

As if it couldn’t get any better, hop on the free trolley for a stress-free ride into town without the parking hassle, and you’ll get a free market buck to spend at the farmers’ market. For the trolley schedule, visit www.slorta.org/schedules-fares/avila-trolley/.

While the Avila Beach Farmers’ Market is open to everyone, they kindly request that you leave your beloved pets at home. For general market information, head to https://visitavilabeach.com/avila-beach-farmers-market/.

Downtown San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market

San Luis Obispo may be a vibrant college town, but on Thursday evenings at 6 p.m., the downtown area transforms into an eclectic entertainment mecca.

Enjoy the crème de la crème of farmers’ markets. After all, the Downtown San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market was voted Best Farmers’ Market in California.

With more than 100 vendors spread across five blocks of Higuera, visitors will enjoy fresh produce, some of the best BBQ you’ll ever taste, local restaurant fare, baked treats, crafts, colorful stalls showcasing olive oils, honey, jams, and more––and let’s not forget live music.

For market information, visit https://downtownslo.com. Pets, except for service animals, are not permitted at the market.

Street parking can be hard to come by, so consider using one of the three downtown parking structures. Cyclists, take advantage of the Bike Valet (secure bike parking service) at the Bike Plaza (corner of Monterey Street and Morro Street).

Whether you’re feeling a beachy vibe or lively downtown scene, there’s a farmers’ market to suit everyone’s mood.

Who’s hungry and ready to have some fun?!