This Central Coast Holiday Road Trip & Shopping Guide has tips for shopping, dining, and enjoying the festivities in Arroyo Grande and the Five Cities area. Bring along visiting friends and family and enjoy earning bonus points at each Local Rewards location mentioned!
Here are 7 ideas for your itinerary from our Arroyo Grande Branch Manager, Eduardo Guzman:
1. Start With Coffee
“This is such a cool little spot.” — Eduardo
Tribe Coffeehouse is a quaint little shop right next to the SESLOC branch in Arroyo Grande. Start your day with a specialty coffee or tea and a pastry. They also a fun selection of carefully sourced gift ideas, from bags of beans to candles and books. Tribe Coffeehouse is also a participating Local Rewards business, which means you earn bonus rewards points¹ when you use your HomeFREE Checking™ debit or Visa Signature Rewards® credit card. You can redeem your points for gift cards, cash back, and many more awesome rewards at seslocrewards.org², helping you stretch your holiday budget.
2. Check Out a Local Bakery
“Anything from here is sure to be a hit.” — Eduardo
If you need to pick up a dessert for your holiday dinner, look no further than Arroyo Grande Bakery. This participating Local Rewards business creates a variety of fun and festive cake and cupcake designs, as well as pies and cookies. Check them out (and maybe get a pastry to enjoy while you’re there).
3. Browse Farm Supply
“Farm Supply isn’t just for farmers!” — Eduardo
Head over to Farm Supply Company for a little shopping. In addition to having it all for ranchers and farmers, they have a wide selection of clothing, accessories, indoor and outdoor home essentials. All five Farm Supply locations on the Central Coast participate in the Local rewards program, so be sure to pay with your eligible SESLOC card to earn bonus rewards points.
4. Pop Into Pismo
“Hot chowder on a cold day is an unbeatable combo!” — Eduardo
Splash Café in Pismo Beach is a Central Coast institution, and if you’re in the area you’ll need to stop for a taste of their award-winning Clam Chowder. Their line of spices and hot sauces make great stocking stuffers, and they can even ship their iconic shirts or chowder nationwide. Don’t forget to pay with your HomeFREE Checking™ debit or Visa Signature Rewards® credit card to earn bonus rewards points!
5. Surf’s Up!
“Have a little seaside fun, especially if you have out-of-town visitors.” — Eduardo
While you’re in Pismo, check out Moondoggies Beach Club if you need to pick up the perfect gift for the surf enthusiast in your life (or at least someone that always dreams of the beach). This locally owned shop carries surfboards, surf accessories, and a wide variety of iconic shirts, hoodies, and more. Be sure to pay with your eligible SESLOC debit or credit card to earn bonus rewards points on your purchase.
If you plan your visit for Saturday, December 16, take a short walk to the Addie Street Surfer Parking Lot to check out the 5th Annual AmpSurf Pismo Beach Santa Surf and Christmas Costume Event, where surfers spread holiday cheer by hitting the waves dressed like Santa, elves, and more. It’s a unique beachside tradition!
6. Gather for a Cozy Dinner
“This is a great place to go for a celebration.” — Eduardo
Mason Bar and Kitchen is a participating Local Rewards business in the Village of Arroyo Grande, offering up farm-fresh local cuisine in a family-friendly environment. Plus, the award-winning bar is the perfect spot to gather with friends and sample an inspired selection of wine, beer, and unique hand-crafted cocktails.
7. Enjoy Holiday Celebrations in the Village of Arroyo Grande
“Love the atmosphere here during the holidays!” — Eduardo
The Village of Arroyo Grande kicks off the holiday season with their annual holiday parade in the evening on Sunday, December 2. The parade concludes with a tree lighting celebration and caroling. Or visit the historic village the following Sunday, December 10, to experience Elegant Evening — a community tradition with live music, Santa, delicious food, and wine tasting as you shop local business and enjoy the festive decorations.
If you’re looking for more holiday inspo this season, check out our tips for taking a joy ride to other Central Coast locations. Or, check out the complete Local Rewards Business Directory here.