Adam Stirrup & Natalya Ferdinandi
Things To Do
Cambria Christmas Lights
Holiday Magic at the Cambria Pines Lodge: Festive light displays that typically run through December 31, features 3 million twinkling Christmas lights, and is a German inspired artisan vendor market.
The Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville
A Ferdinandi Christmas Favorite, The Great American Melodrama: The Holiday Extravaganza Lively, family‑friendly theatre with comedy, dance, and festive tunes for the Melodrama's Vaudeville Revue. It's a perfect group outing, with food and drinks; tickets recommended.
Biddle Ranch Vineyard
Wine tasting in Edna Valley (10–20 min from SLO): Boutique wineries with gorgeous rolling‑vine views; many require reservations on weekends/holidays.
Madonna Inn
Brunch & Bites: Step into the Madonna Inn’s Copper Café or Gold Rush Steak House this December, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a glittering holiday dream. Think plush pink booths, gold accents dripping from chandeliers, and garlands of twinkling lights intertwined with ornaments and oversized bows. Every corner sparkles!
Avila Beach Paddlesports
On the Water: Paddleboarding in Avila Beach (10–15 min from Pismo): Calm harbor, easy rentals on the promenade; great morning activity before the breeze picks up.
Avila Ridge Trail
Local hikes Bishop Peak (SLO): Popular summit hike with panoramic views (moderate). Ontario Ridge / Shell Beach Bluff Trail (Shell Beach): Coastal ridgeline and ocean bluffs (easy–moderate). Pismo Preserve: Network of ocean‑view trails for all levels.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
A large monarch butterfly population winters over at the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove from November through February. See thousands of Monarchs cluster in the eucalyptus trees.