Paso Robles
The Ultimate Paso Robles Wine Weekend: A Road Trip from LA
Last fall we took a magical road trip north from LA where I FELL IN LOVE…. with a town called Paso Robles. I love exploring a new town or city, and I get really excited about good wine... marry those together and put it in California with a few of our best friends? Dream trip.
Though I was tempted to gate keep this destination (and I did for about a year) it’s just too good not to share. Right now it’s nowhere on the same level as Napa in terms of crowds and prices, which makes it even more of a gem!
I always wanted to do a Cali road trip. And while this was only about 3.5 hours from Los Angeles, we made it more of a road trip by stopping along the coast. It’s only made me want to go back again to see more! I can confirm, that California’s Central Coast is a road-tripper’s dream—rolling vineyard-covered hills, stunning coastline, and world-class wineries.
It’s a beautiful drive up Highway 101, and we stopped for a coastal lunch in Cambria before heading inland to explore Paso Robles’ best wineries. From sipping at Booker, Daou, Denner, and Cass to experiencing the magical Sensorio Field of Light, this itinerary blends top-notch wine, food, and scenic beauty for the ultimate getaway.
Read on for all the details and more tips!
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🏨 Where to Stay
🏨 There are some great places to stay during your trip to Paso. We stayed in a really cute AirBnb within walking distance to Main street. But if you are someone who enjoys hotels more, here are a few more options!
The beautiful Hotel Cheval
Geneseo Inn – My top pick! A one-of-a-kind boutique hotel set on Cass Winery's estate, featuring modern luxury suites made from repurposed shipping containers nestled within the vineyards.
Allegretto Vineyard Resort – A Tuscan-inspired wine country retreat.
Hotel Cheval – A charming, boutique hotel in downtown Paso. We had drinks at their adorable bar, The Pony Club!
Farm Blanc et Rouge - A picturesque farm and vineyard offering a unique blend of wine, fresh produce, and farm-to-table experiences, surrounded by animals!
Unique: Airbnbs in the vines – We found a great house just a short walk to town. But you can also stay in a vineyard for the ultimate wine country experience.
Day 1: LA to Paso Robles (with a Coastal Stop in Cambria)
🚗 Drive Time: ~3.5 hours from LA to Cambria (then ~40 minutes to Paso Robles). Grab some snacks in Malibu and prepare for a gorgeous drive.
Midday: Lunch in Cambria at Moonstone Beach
Halfway to Paso, stop in Cambria—a charming seaside town along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Take a stroll on the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk before heading to lunch in town! Options below.
🍽️ Robin’s Restaurant – A cozy, farm-to-table spot known for fresh seafood or for a quick and delicious sandwich try the Redwood Cafe.
📍 Pro Tip: If you prefer oceanfront dining, Sea Chest Oyster Bar offers unbeatable seafood and views.
🚗 Continue to Paso Robles via Hwy 46, enjoying breathtaking vineyard views.
Day 1 Afternoon: Welcome to Paso & Wine at Cass Winery
🍷 First Tasting: Cass Winery
A laid-back vineyard retreat offering Rhône-style wines.
Try the Roussanne and Rockin’ One red blend while soaking in the vineyard patio views.
Bonus: They also have an on-site café if you’re still a little hungry.
Day 1 Evening: Sensorio Field of Light & Dinner at Il Cortile
🌅 Sensorio Field of Light – This mesmerizing art installation features thousands of glowing fiber-optic lights spread across rolling hills, creating a magical, immersive experience. Best viewed after sunset!
🍽️ Dinner: Il Cortile Ristorante
An upscale Italian favorite with house-made pasta.
Must-try: The short rib ravioli or black truffle risotto paired with a Paso Robles red.
Day 2: Ultimate Paso Wine Tasting
Start with a Morning Sweet Treat!
☕ Twisted and Glazed – Pick up a brioche-style donut and espresso before heading out for wine tastings.
First Stop: Tasting at Booker Vineyard
🍷 Booker Vineyard is a boutique winery producing some of the most sought-after Rhône-style wines in California. The modern, minimalist tasting room is sleek and welcoming, letting the wine take center stage.
Their My Favorite Neighbor Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout— no notes. The small-group setting makes it feel like a personalized experience, rather than a rushed tasting. We idled with the family dog Ella for a few hours!
📍 Pro Tip: Reservations are required, and if you can, opt for their estate tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking process.
Lunch: Paso Market Walk
🍽️ Paso Market Walk – A food hall-style market featuring multiple local eateries.
Fish Gaucho Taqueria: Fresh tacos & margaritas.
In Bloom: Seasonal farm-to-table dishes.
Just Baked: Sweet treats for dessert.
Afternoon: Wine & Views at Daou & Denner
Perched high in the Adelaida Hills, this winery is known for its Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and breathtaking views.
Best Experience: Sunset tasting with a cheese board.
You know when you are sipping a glass of sauvignon blanc at 10am its going to be a great day!
I was absolutely stunned by the views. The sweeping 360 degree landscapes made this one of my favorite wine tasting experiences I’ve had before!
There is nothing better than a top notch cheese plate!
A hidden gem producing small-batch, high-quality blends.
Try: The Ditch Digger Rhône-style blend and Mother of Exiles Cabernet blend.
Pro Tip: By appointment only—book ahead.
Time for more Tastings? Here is where I’m going:
If you have an extra day, here are a few more vineyards that I’d highly recommend. These are some of my favorite brands of wine in the world!
🍷 Justin Winery – A Paso Robles icon known for its Bordeaux-style blends, with a stunning estate, fine dining, and an exclusive wine cave tour.
🍷 Austin Hope Winery – Famous for its bold, fruit-forward Cabernet Sauvignon, this family-run winery offers a chic, laid-back tasting room experience. I love it their Cab Sav and all their big, approachable reds.
Where to Dine
🍽️ Les Petites Canailles – (Loved this, especially their caviar tots!) It’s a Michelin-recognized French bistro.
🍽️ Fish Gaucho – A modern Mexican cantina featuring elevated Baja-style seafood, handcrafted margaritas, and a lively atmosphere.
🍽️ Il Cortile Ristorante – (Delicious!) An upscale Italian favorite offering house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and seasonal truffle dishes, perfect for a romantic night out.
🍽️ The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar – A fan favorite and rustic-chic eatery specializing in wood-fired rotisserie meats, craft cocktails, and comfort food with a Southern twist.
As you can tell, I love Paso, and I can’t wait to go back again in the future. This road trip offers a little bit of everything—coastline, vineyards, art, and incredible food.
While I have had the privilege of visiting other wine regions like Napa, Tuscany, the North Fork and the Douro Valley.. I think Paso Robles really rivals the very best of them.
🍷 Cheers to the perfect weekend getaway! 🍷
Thanks!
Xx Gab