San Luis Obispo California has been named by Oprah Winfrey as “the happiest place in America.” New York Times best-selling author and explorer, Dan Buettner, called San Luis Obispo the top spot for the happiest places in the United States in his book Thrive. San Luis Obispo was also one of ten recommended best places to see by the L.A. Times. I was fortunate to live there for nearly 30 years with my three boys, and here are some photos that show some of the highlights.
Whale breaching at Morro Bay
Hearst Castle, San Simeon
Hearst Castle pool
Monarch butterfly grove: Pismo Beach
San Luis Obispo Mission (1772), with bronze sculpture of local bear
Iconic, kitschy Madonna Inn: famous restaurant, theme hotel rooms, and great live music for swing dancing
California wildflowers: Eastern San Luis Obispo county
Historic Queen Anne house: San Luis Obispo
Vineyard near our home in Templeton
Elephant seals during their migration and breeding: San Simeon
D’Anbino Cellars: wine and top live music venue by award-winning cousins in music, film, and tv
“Goatee” surfing: Pismo Beach
Starr Treks 
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