Five Indie It sites: Arroyo Grande, 93420

1. Pismo Beach State Park: The beach is located in the town of Oceano off Highway 1. A long expanse of golden sand with dunes, crashing Pacific Ocean breakers, ATV’s and cars allowed to drive on the sand. Near the towns of Grover Beach, Arroyo Grande, Los Osos. The famous Pismo Clams are gone. Bring a jacket because the wind blows. Walk with your lips closed unless you like the taste of grit. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=595

2. The Café Andreini Coffee House: Billed as the hottest coffee house on the central coast. Not sure what that means in web-speak, but they make a delicious latte and pastries. A place to find a little peace. Linger and ponder their motto.www.cafeandreini.net     131 East Branch Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420. (805) 481-6117.

Mission Soledad

 3. Missions of California: The 21 missions that comprise California’s historic Mission Trail are all located on or near Highway 101, near the original El Camino Real.  El Camino Real ( The Royal Road) was named in honor of the Spanish monarchy which financed expeditions into California and the establishment of catholic missions a day’s ride apart. Most have outbuildings and chapels worth exploring.

Nuestra Senora de la Soledad, the 13^th mission: Founded in 1791.

“The padres named this mission for Our Lady of Solitude in 1791, which fits the isolated location of Soledad. Settled next to the Salinas River in the pastures and rolling hills 45 miles south of Monterrey, this lonely outpost was cold, damp and frequently whipped by winds. The soil was rich and the water plentiful however, and by 1805 Soledad was producing more than 100,000 bushels of wheat per year, owned nearly 17,000 head of livestock, and had become well-known for its hospitality. The chapel and one wing of the quadrangle have been completely restored and the church still has the original tile floor. A small museum is housed in the quadrangle.” http://www.parks.ca.gov/

Address: 36641 Ft. Romie Rd., Soledad, 93960, (831) 678-2586    Call for hours.

4. The Windmill Restaurant, Soledad, CA.

Multi-generational, family-worthy menu. Sandwiches and salads are varied, delicious and reflect local produce.

Exit 302 from Highway 101. Phone: (831) 678-17751167 Front Street, Soledad, CA 93960. Lunch, Dinner and possibly breakfast. A restful change from fast food.

5. Talley Vinyard

www.talleyvineyards.com

Estate Bottled Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from California’s South Central Coast.

3031 Lopez Drive Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
(805) 489-0446

@2012 Ann Bodle-Nash