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EXTREME<br />
TURN UP THE THRILL<br />
PARAGLIDE OVER CAYUCOS<br />
Who said the beach is only for relaxing? Adrenaline junkies and<br />
adventure seekers flock to Cayucos for the cool coastal breezes<br />
that make for great flying conditions. Not for the faint of heart,<br />
paragliding provides an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the beach<br />
below. Pack your gear or head into town for rentals and lessons.<br />
RENT A KAYAK<br />
Discover hidden coastal caves, hard-to-access beaches and<br />
quiet estuaries by kayak. Oceanfront rental companies abound,<br />
complete with friendly local guides who will gladly provide<br />
recommendations for specific kayaking routes and prime wildlife<br />
viewing. Take pleasure in the calming sounds of waves below<br />
and sea birds above. Explore the Dinosaur Caves in Shell Beach,<br />
which were named for the brontosaurus statue that once stood<br />
watch atop the bluff.<br />
TOUR THE OCEANO DUNES<br />
Unlike any other beach in California, the 3,500-acre Oceano<br />
Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) offers a one-of-akind<br />
space for thrill seekers to explore. Hire a Hummer in Oceano<br />
for an offroad joyride through this otherworldly landscape or<br />
sandboard down mountains of snow-white sand. Follow posted<br />
rules and regulations to stay safe.<br />
GO ROCK CLIMBING<br />
Explore <strong>SLO</strong> <strong>CAL</strong> vertically from a number of popular outdoor<br />
climbing destinations, such as Cerro Cabrillo in Morro Bay State<br />
Park, which leads to breathtaking panoramic views. Granite walls<br />
that dot the area’s many morros present challenges that are best<br />
suited for intermediate and experienced climbers. Beginners can<br />
also get in on the action by honing their skills at one of San Luis<br />
Obispo ’s indoor climbing gyms, where locals and visitors alike are<br />
welcome to practice and play.<br />
SUMMIT CERRO ALTO<br />
Nestled under a canopy of oaks near Atascadero , adventurous<br />
hikers will find the trailhead for <strong>SLO</strong> <strong>CAL</strong>’s highest peak: Cerro<br />
Alto, which translated from Spanish means “high hill.” And, with<br />
its summit standing in at 2,624 feet, it certainly is a peak worthy<br />
of the effort required to take in the countywide views that can be<br />
found on a clear day. This one is not for the novice—expect to huff<br />
and puff at many points during the 5.35-mile loop.<br />
76 | <strong>2021</strong> <strong>SLO</strong> <strong>CAL</strong>® VISITORS MAGAZINE