Named one of the happiest cities in the United States, by the Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index, which surveys more than 350,000 Americans in all 50 states on their level of life satisfaction, San Luis Obispo, California, continues to rank near the top in terms of happiness. Residents report a stress-free existence, peace of mind and plenty of opportunities for healthy dining and recreation.

San Luis Obispo (SLO) continues to evolve into a bustling travel destination and center for innovation. Since the arrival of tech companies, especially aerospace firms and organizations such as Amazon and the Cal Poly HotHouse, the landscape of this charming city has transformed, and travelers are adding SLO to their bucket lists more than ever.

© Tanveer Badal

This new face of SLO attracts more people to visit and move to the area. Hotel San Luis Obispo caters to the changing demographic by offering guests elevated, luxury accommodations while showcasing the playful and easygoing aspects of California’s beach towns and the modern capabilities of an urban destination.

California-based Piazza Hospitality opened Hotel San Luis Obispo, its first property on California’s Central Coast, in late 2019. Nestled in the heart of San Luis Obispo’s vibrant downtown, Hotel San Luis Obispo serves as the perfect home base for visitors exploring attractions of the Central Coast, as well as a lively social hub for local residents.

Ox + Anchor © Tanveer Badal

The property offers a relaxed retreat with 78 luxurious guestrooms and suites showcasing the historic downtown buildings, hotel gardens and surrounding mountains. Reflecting the Central Coast’s rugged ranch and coastal influences in its architecture and interior design, the art-filled Hotel San Luis Obispo utilizes natural materials such as rusted Corten steel, light woods and blues in the room palette, and plant selections such as heritage olive trees and succulents.

The hotel property provides many amenities for its guests including a 50-foot garden terrace swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a lobby lounge complete with the S.Low bar, fireplace, an adjacent garden courtyard serving all-day refreshments, a full-service contemporary spa, a spacious fitness center and valet parking.

© Tanveer Badal

Hotel San Luis Obispo also offers two on-site restaurants led by Executive Chef Ryan Fancher, a member of the Best Chefs America guide. Fancher oversees Piadina, a fresh California take on Italian cuisine based around the wood-fired oven, and the Michelin recognized Ox + Anchor, a modern spin on the classic steakhouse. Guests can also relax and enjoy a variety of bites and beverages at S.Low Bar in the hotel’s lobby or The Rooftop Terrace and High Bar.

Tucked away in the garden courtyard of Hotel San Luis Obispo, Sol Spa is known for its rejuvenating and soothing treatments inspired by the natural radiance of the sun and healing properties of the sacred tone, “sol.” Sol Spa features a tranquil indoor-outdoor relaxation lounge, steam rooms, a couple’s suite and access to the hotel’s swimming pool and Jacuzzi.