Climbing the Coast

The 350-mile stretch of unspoiled shoreline that makes up California’s Central Coast is one of the most scenic driving-routes in the world. But its captivating natural beauty can cause one to easily overlook the fun and games and amenities that its seaside communities can offer.

TRENDING OXNARD

Just an hour northwest (60 miles) of Los Angeles on the Gold Coast, the harbor city of Oxnard greets Angelenos with a familiar scene of street festivals and eclectic food tours.

On the second Saturday of the month, the Oxnard Art Beat packs the city’s center with live music, art shows, dancing and dining as part of a visual and performing arts showcase of local talent that rivals that of L.A.’s own Downtown Artwalk.

Gourmet Food Trucks take over Heritage Square on the first Thursday of each month between 6 and 10 p.m., serving up fresh bites on the streets of downtown. Popular trucks such as Don Chow, DOSA, Ahn-Joo and more are always expected to be on hand.

Show your aspiring taste buds a good time at the Wine, Chocolate & Cheese Tours held one weekend per month — and pair offerings at various Ventura County tasting rooms, including popular Oxnard wineries Magnavino, Herzog and Rancho Ventavo.

For additional information, visit the Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau online at www.visitoxnard.com.

RISK IT ALL IN SANTA YNEZ

Head further north (approx. 70 miles) and you’ll discover the Chumash Casino Resort and a gaming floor with more than 2,000 slot machines and a number of table games such as blackjack and poker. Free plays, loads of cash prizes and weekly luxury-car giveaways make this resort the region’s favorite getaway spot to press your luck.

A six-time recipient of the AAA Four Diamond award, the Chumash Casino Resort Hotel boasts 106 spacious guest rooms — including 17 lavish suites — with many of the rooms featuring a private balcony where guests can enjoy a glass of local wine and admire the magnificent countryside views.

The hotel is also home to the only full-service spa in the Santa Ynez Valley and features three restaurants — The Chumash Café, the Creekside Buffet and the Four-Diamond-rated The Willows.

Visit www.chumashcasino.com for more information and special offers.

UNWIND IN SAN LUIS OBISPO

For those looking to recharge after playing all night at Chumash, there’s the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort — just 60 miles north of Santa Ynez — tucked quietly away amid the 100-plus acres of forest, hills and meadows of the picturesque Avila Valley.

This darling oasis has long been considered one of the top mineral springs destinations in the world. Soak your stress away in hot sulfur baths or relax in the fresh warm waters of your personal sanctuary and let thermal water therapy restore your body to neutral.

Hike or bike on one of the area’s coastal trails ranging from 1.5 to 6 miles in length and boasting jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Coastline.

Book your stay today at www.sycamoresprings.com.

—Manny Frasier, Custom Publishing Writer