On the Road with Dan: A Three-Day Wine Country Escape to Paso Robles
There’s something magical about Paso Robles. Known to locals as “Paso”, and tucked between the rugged California coastline and golden inland hills, this Central Coast town has quietly transformed into one of the country’s most compelling wine destinations. For travelers in search of rolling vineyards, memorable dining, and a splash of coastal relaxation, Paso offers the perfect weekend away.
We recently enjoyed a three-day adventure that blended wine country’s finest with the comfort of a beachside stay at Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach. Perched right on the sand, this Marriott Autograph Collection property became my retreat each evening, offering ocean breezes, Baja-inspired cuisine at its signature restaurant Pequin Coastal Cocina, and fire pits ideal for unwinding after long days among the vines.
Discovering Willow Creek
Our first stop was the Willow Creek District, where the intimate charm of Paso’s smaller producers shines. At Truss Wines, tastings unfold in a setting that feels more like a private garden party than a formal winery visit, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay poured beside serene vineyard views. The young owners were engaging, enthusiastic and generous with their time and wine pours. It was an easy decision to join their wine club!
A short drive away, Alex Baer, the proprietor and winemaker at AllBaer Wines welcomed us by appointment only, rewarding guests with expressive Rhône-style reds crafted in small, passionate batches. Listening to Alex describe his vision, it felt like a mix between a chemistry lesson and artistic expression. His Petite Syrah was the highlight of that tasting. The day’s finale came at McPrice Myers, where bold Syrah and Grenache pair beautifully with the relaxed atmosphere of their tasting patio. Each glass here tells a story of craftsmanship and care, the kind that keeps Paso’s wine scene refreshingly approachable.
Icons of Adelaida
Day two was dedicated to Paso legends. Daou Vineyards, perched high on a hilltop, pairs sweeping vistas with plush tasting rooms and some of the most highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon in the region. Just as memorable, Austin Hope delivers a playful spirit—whether at their vineyard estate or their lively downtown tasting room Hope on Park. Lunch was the highlight at Justin Winery, where farm-to-table dining transforms local ingredients into perfect pairings for their Bordeaux-inspired wines. Few experiences capture Paso’s blend of sophistication and rustic charm quite like this.
Boutique Discoveries
The final day offered time for hidden gems. Aleksander Wines, produced by former NBA player Aleksander “Sasha” Vujačić and his family, brilliantly crafts Bordeaux blends with an Old World soul. This is my personal favorite winery in the entire Paso region! At Guyomar Wine Cellars, limited-production vintages of Pinot Noir and Zinfandel reflect patience and precision, shared through appointment-only tastings that feel deeply personal.
For a closing act, we circled back to Justin, where the refined library tastings reminding us just how deep Paso’s wine bench really is—from family labels to household names.
Beyond the Bottle
Paso Robles is more than a destination for sipping. Downtown Paso offers an inviting mix of boutique shopping, art galleries, and shaded sidewalks around the town square. Food lovers will discover inventive cuisine at Thomas Hill Organics and Latin-inspired flair at La Cosecha, both local favorites.
After dark, nothing compares to Sensorio: Field of Light, Bruce Munro’s immersive art installation. Thousands of glowing spheres ripple across the landscape, shifting colors under the night sky. It’s surreal, breathtaking, and worth planning your evening around.
History buffs will appreciate a detour to Mission San Miguel, established in 1797, or the Pioneer Museum, where the region’s ranching roots are preserved in vintage carriages and storefront displays. Even nearby towns like Templeton and Cambria offer antique shops and historic architecture that whisper of early California days.
Coastal Comfort
At the end of each day, retreating to Vespera Resort provided the perfect contrast. Whether it was a sunset stroll along the Pismo Pier, a cocktail by the fire pits, or simply listening to waves from the balcony, the coast offered a balance to Paso’s indulgence. Wine country may inspire adventure, but the ocean restores you for the journey home.
Where to Stay
- Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach – Oceanfront luxury with Baja-inspired dining and direct beach access.
- Airbnbs & Vineyard Stays – For travelers seeking rustic intimacy, Paso offers charming vineyard cottages and modern farmhouses among the vines.
What to See
- Sensorio: Field of Light – A must-see evening art experience.
- Mission San Miguel – Historic California mission founded in 1797.
- Downtown Paso – Boutique shops, tasting rooms, and a walkable town square.
Where to Eat
- Justin Winery Restaurant – Farm-to-table fine dining.
- Thomas Hill Organics – Garden-inspired dishes with local ingredients.
- La Cosecha – Vibrant Latin cuisine in downtown Paso.
The Takeaway
A Paso Robles weekend blends discovery with indulgence: boutique wineries, powerhouse producers, farm-fresh dining, immersive art, and historic gems. With the Pacific coast just thirty minutes away, the rare combination of wine country adventure and beachside luxury makes this region a getaway that feels both restorative and unforgettable.
So pack lightly, book your tastings, and leave space in the trunk for a few bottles. Paso Robles is waiting, glass in hand.
Photo cutlines:
Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, a Marriott Autograph Collection Property
Aleksander, a boutique wine by two-time NBA Champion Sasha Vujacic and family
Paso offers award winning wineries, outstanding dining options and breathtaking views
