contents

Welcome 6

Beach Cities Map 10

Avila Beach 12

Grover Beach 20

Pismo Beach 26

Oceano 32

Arroyo Grande 38

Nipomo 46

California Welcome Center 50

Hotels 52

Chamber Staff and Board of Directors 63

Chamber Ambassadors and

Leadership South County 64

Advertiser Index 66

South SLO County Visitor’s Guide is a publication

of South County Chambers of Commerce.

________________________________________

SOUTH COUNTY

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Hours of operation vary.

Please call ahead to visit our offices: (805) 489-1488

SCCC LOCATIONS

Arroyo Grande office and

South County Regional Center:

800A West Branch St. • Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

By appointment only

The Launch Pad cowork office:

391 Front St., Suite E • Grover Beach, CA 93433

California Welcome Center at

Pismo Beach Premium Outlets

333 5 Cities Dr #100 • Pismo Beach, CA 93449

(805) 668-7354

Mailing Address:

PO Box 672 • Arroyo Grande, CA 93421

E-mail: office@southcountychambers.com

Online: southcountychambers.com

Cover photo in this Visitor Guide

is provided by Vivian Krug Cotton.
photobyvivian.com

facebook.com/SouthCountyChambers

@southcountychambers

@countychambers

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Copyright © 2024 Town Square Publications

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(847) 427-4905 | tbusby@tspubsdigital.com

www.TownSquarePublications.com

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While every effort has been made to make the information contained herein as

accurate as possible, neither the South County Chambers of Commerce nor

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welcome

South San Luis Obispo County is the perfect place to live, work, and/or play! Located in the center of California on the coast, the County is halfway between L.A. and S.F. We have it all. Warm weather, sandy beaches, great nightlife, an abundance of out-door activities, deep cultural roots, history, hip shopping districts, and some of the best sunsets you will ever see!

Here are just a few of the outdoor adventures that await your exploration.

MONARCH BUTTERFLY GROVES

• Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove

One of the largest monarch butterfly colonies in North America, the Pismo Beach Butterfly Grove, sees thousands of butterflies annually.

• Monarch Dunes Butterfly Grove in Nipomo

In Nipomo, the 19-acre Monarch Dunes Butterfly Habitat became a preserved sanctuary in 2006.

• The Western Monarch Trail

Want to see more monarch butterflies? The Western Monarch Trail (westernmonarchtrail.com) shares the best sites to see these gentle, iconic creatures as they migrate across the West.

WHALES WATCHING IN SOUTH COUNTY

Whale watching can be both idyllic and exciting in picturesque Avila Beach. Many tours are available. Every now and then the whales are close enough to shore to see them from the beach as well. Find gray whales migrating between December and April, while humpbacks can be spied offshore throughout the year. Don’t miss the plentiful seabird population, too!

NOT-TO-MISS HIKES

• The Pismo Preserve - Over 11 miles of diverse trail traversing serene oak woodlands and coastal ridgelines with stunning ocean views.

• Meadow Creek Trail - This boardwalk trail is located off the free parking lot at the Ocean end of Grand Avenue. Follow the trail across the creek and into the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.

• Dunes Trail - Entrance is near the Oceano Dunes Nature Preserve. Park in the free parking lot at the end of Pier Avenue. The trailhead is behind the public restrooms.

• Oso Flaco Lake - This is a great spot for animal viewing. This trail takes hikers over the lake and out to the dunes and the beach.

• Ontario Ridge - Mountain Biking is allowed on the trails. Note that there are multiple trailheads for this hike. This is the most strenuous hike on our list … be prepared for lots of incline.

• Bob Jones Trail - Good for Families. This trail is paved, shady, and good for a variety of activities. The end of this path will take you through the golf course and into downtown Avila Beach.

#love4local

Kathy McCorry

CEO, South County Chambers of Commerce

southcountychambers.com

avila beach

The road to Avila Beach — just off Highway 101 — takes you through a lush, oak valley lined with spas featuring natural, mineral hot springs, massage, yoga instruction, and sense therapies. Journey a little further and the welcoming paradise of Avila Beach appears. With its sunny and warm microclimate, Avila Beach is a breath of fresh salt air, with amenity-laden hotels, oceanfront restaurants, local wines, shopping, and activities for all to enjoy.

Sunny beach: Avila Beach offers a unique microclimate that repels fog most days. If other local beaches are foggy and cool, give Avila a try if you are seeking some warm sun. Olde Port Beach (also known as Dog Beach) is a local’s favorite for a place to bring your dogs to play off leash.

Avila Beach offers days worth of fun on top of the beach itself. Be sure to check out:

Aquarium: The Central Coast Aquarium invites you to experience the ocean, not just the beach. See marine life up close and personal, engage with the amazing animals, and learn about the local habitats and ecosystems.

Farmers’ Market: Avila Beach Farmers’ Market is every Friday from 4-8 pm from April through September on the promenade (Front Street) by the pier. Stop by and you will find fresh produce, food booths, entertainment, and family fun.

Bob Jones Trail: The Bob Jones Trail is a well-paved, county-maintained bike and walking trail also known as the City to the Sea Trail. The trail starts across the street from the parking lot on Ontario Road and ends in downtown Avila Beach. This trail is great for all levels of hiking and biking.

Avila Ridge Trail: Hiking enthusiasts won’t want to miss this opportunity to climb to a stunning panoramic view in about 30 minutes. The Avila Ridge Trail, also called the Ontario Ridge Trail, is a rugged, sometimes-steep track crossing a 700-foot hill above the Shell Beach bluff, with spectacular ocean views. Start at the Shell Beach trailhead or at Cave Landing in Avila Beach.

Lighthouse: Point San Luis Lighthouse is one of the best-kept secrets on the Central Coast and a fun day adventure for the whole family. Established in 1890 and operated until the 1970s, this hidden gem was fully restored to museum quality in 1995. Today the lighthouse offers docent-led tours with a van ride from Wild Cherry Canyon in Avila Beach to the lighthouse. Private tours are available for various groups.

Golf: The Avila Beach Golf Resort includes a par 71, 6500-yard championship course. The front nine is situated within oak-lined valleys. The back nine transverses a tidal estuary. Golfers of all abilities will enjoy the challenge of this scenic course.

Avila Hot Springs: This distinctive destination offers an Olympic-sized, freshwater heated swimming pool with two slides and a separate, old-fashioned 20’ x 20’ hot mineral soaking pool. Dry tent camping is available as well as seasonal lawn camping. Cabin rentals include unlimited pool use during regular business hours.

Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa: This luxurious health club features programs in tennis, swimming, yoga, aerobics, aqua aerobics, and weight training. Two pools are available.

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort: This historic resort rests atop hot mineral springs and spans more than 100 acres of forest, hills, and meadows. The ideal environment to refresh, renew, and restore one’s mind, body, and spirit. Follow the hiking trail to experience a sweeping, mountaintop ocean view.

Avila Barn: Don’t miss this family-fun attraction that locals love. This is more than a fruit and vegetable stand. There is also a sweet shoppe, gifts, farm animals, and tractor rides.

Fun galore: There’s always something to do in Avila Beach. Consider RV camping, bicycle rentals, sailing, paddlesports, whale watching, fishing, shopping, dining, and visiting one of their several wine-tasting rooms. Check out Flying Flags for seaside campsites, spacious RV sites, and beach cottages.

Piers: Avila Beach has three piers: the Avila Beach Pier, the Harford Pier (Olde Port Pier), and the Cal Poly Pier. The Harford Pier is used for fishing, restaurants, and commercial fishing. Take a walk (or a drive) down this pier and check out the sea mammals and then step into one of the restaurants for a bite.

TROLLEY: The Avila-Pismo Beach Trolley provides free service seasonally from the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets to Avila Beach. Check slorta.org for the current schedule.

– From visitavilabeach.com

grover beach

In Grover Beach, you’ll find the perfect base camp for your next family trip, reunion, or group getaway. And consider leaving the car at home with a convenient Amtrak station.

Explore miles of open beaches

Stroll the beach boardwalk, a scenic trail that starts near the end of West Grand Avenue and meanders through the dunes before continuing to the Monarch Butterfly Grove. 

Ride horses, duck into a dune buggy, or motor ATVs over the roller coaster sand mounds at nearby Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area.  Come nightfall, build a campfire on the beach and witness a spectacular sunset, or grab dinner downtown where the vibe is laid back and casual. 

The West End

Don’t miss the palm tree-lined “West End” of Grover Beach with its restaurants and shops. Walk from there to the beach or head east on Grand Avenue to find more options for shopping and dining.

Thrifting

Did you know Grover Beach offers a great collection of thrift shops in South San Luis Obispo County? Check out our recommendation for the perfect low-cost, shop-till-you-drop (into a beach chair) day plan at visitgroverbeach.com/thingstodo.

Dining

Dining in Grover Beach is always casual and never stuffy. Slide into a booth and order beachy favorites and barbecue. Visit one of the city’s delectable farm-to-table restaurants.

With two breweries located close to each other and another nearby, beer tasting is easy. Sip a hoppy IPA over a wood-fired pizza pie. Sample a saison while playing board games. Soak up sunshine on the patio with a frothy, frosty glass in hand. 

Don’t miss Monarch Grove Winery Tasting Room, a small production winery and tasting room.

Famous Strawberries

Be sure to stop by Okui’s strawberry stand between March and September, for some unusually sweet strawberries that are grown on site. These candy-sweet strawberries are popular among both locals and visitors. You will also find other local fruit such as nectarines, blueberries, raspberries, and more.

Cannabis

Grover Beach offers a wide selection of cannabis shops that carry something for anyone with green dreams (or looking to try responsibly).

Art

Grover Beach has beautiful art displays throughout the city that capture the vibrancy and diversity of this unique community. Look for murals and art displays on the utility boxes.

The Dunes

The west end of Grover Beach is the entrance to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA)—known for recreational and environmental benefits. The Dunes are perfect for picnics, surfing, horseback riding, dog walking, and kicking your feet up by a bonfire. The Dunes are home to many unique flora and fauna, including the Snowy Plover.

Cowork Space

If you need to get some work done while you are travelling, consider renting cowork space at The Launch Pad in Grover Beach. This unique, cowork environment is situated in a desirable location— just a short walk from the “West End” of Grand Avenue with its shopping and restaurants, the beach boardwalk, and the Monarch Butterfly Grove. Choose from private offices or open desk seating. Enjoy high-speed fiber optic internet service, a conference room with audio/visual capabilities, and a kitchenette.

– from slocal.com and visitgroverbeach.com

pismo beach

Classic California Pismo Beach is famous for its miles of beautiful, white sand beaches, outstanding accommodations, and a rich wine region only minutes away. Residents and guests enjoy surfing the waves, walking the beach, kayaking the coastline, and shopping in town or at the nearby Pismo Beach Premium Outlets.

It’s all here waiting for you: a gentle climate, where sand, sun, sea and sky converge to create the ideal getaway. California’s golden past is alive and well in Pismo Beach. Come experience the best California has to offer in Pismo Beach.

Pismo Beach Pier Plaza: Colorful, illuminated seven-foot-tall letters spell out Pismo Beach with a marine-inspired playground. Fish or whale watch from the iconic wooden pier.

Whale Surfing Playground: This fun playground is located in the newly updated Pier Plaza. The main objects on the playground are the humpback whale and the surf boards. The humpback whale is already an iconic creature in the area, but the playground and scenario create an even more memorable experience for the kiddos.

The Pier: The renovated historic Pismo Beach Pier hosts vintage Airstream trailers; each offering different experiences to enjoy, including a concessionaire serving appetizers and drinks and a visitor’s center.

Shell Beach Streetscape: Another great attraction is Shell Beach Streetscape. Featuring an 18-block pedestrian-bike path, with updated streetscape waterways and landscaping, the walkable path meanders along shops and cafes in Shell Beach.

Activities: Pismo Beach and nearby Shell Beach offer spectacular rocks, caves, cliffs, beaches, and coves that are perfect for exploring by kayak. Local companies offer tours and rentals. You can also play a round of golf, horseback ride on the beach, explore tidepools, fish off the pier, or surf for the best waves. Kiteboarding is a possibility when the wind is right. Consider renting equipment to try any of these activities during your stay: an electric bike, motorized scooter, surfing, sea kayaking, or standup paddleboarding.

Spectacular sunsets: Crowds of spectators are always drawn to witness the changing colors of the sky as they reflect off the water.

Wildlife: Almost everyone knows about the Pismo clams, but focus has recently shifted to the Monarch Butterfly Grove nearby. The popular grove is one of the winged creatures most spectacular migration stops in the country. While you are on the beach, be sure and scan the ocean for whales, otters, and seals.

Shopping: Downtown provides a charming, retro feeling with its bowling alley, quaint stores, bars, diner, surf shops, arcade, and pool hall. Carving out time to shop unique gifts shops will be a must.

Hiking: The Pismo Preserve offers over 900 acres of recreational opportunities. Visitors enjoy over 10 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Events: Don’t miss the annual events in Pismo Beach including the Clam Festival, Car Show, Jazz Jubilee by the Sea, Fourth of July fireworks show, as well as national and international surfing competitions. Visit experiencepismobeach.com and click on the Events tab to view the calendar.

For more information and to book your stay, go to experiencepismobeach.com. Learn more on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest.

- From experiencepismobeach.com

oceano

An amazing little beach town located just three

miles south of Pismo Beach off Highway 1.

• Discover a lagoon, nature trails, historic train depot and more.

• Take in lively theater shows at the Melodrama.

• Go horseback riding on the beach.

• Take to the skies in a biplane from our small airport.

• Explore miles of sand dunes, and much more.

Find family fun at Oceano’s one-of-a-kind beach. We’ve seen whales, dolphins, crabs, clams, seals, sea otters, sting rays, a variety of birds, and horses. Some less common sightings include a zebra, pet rooster, and a camel! The Oceano dunes area offers recreational opportunities and is one of the most visited state parks in California.

Retro diner: Rock & Roll Diner is an Oceano favorite with locals and visitors alike. Deemed the most unique 50’s diner on the Central Coast, they offer good food and family fun in a classic train car setting. Enjoy dining in their boxcar with 50s memorabilia and tunes.

Fresh, local produce: Have you visited Hayashi’s Fruit Stand? Their fruit stand has been a staple in Oceano since the 1960s and started after locals would pass by their farm fields and ask to purchase what they saw growing there.

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA): The Oceano Dunes SVRA is one of only a handful of beaches legal to drive on in California. Visitors can also enjoy thrill rides on the Oceano Dunes with touring companies who do all the driving in their fleet of real USMC Humvees.

Camping: Campsites are available year-round on the beach and in the open dune area and include bathroom facilities.

Theater: The Great American Melodrama, a tucked-away Central Coast treasure, offers live, professional theater at its very best all year long. Each show is followed by a vaudeville revue. Entertainment ranges from dramatic to uproarious, sentimental to contemporary. Concessions at the Melodrama include simple showtime fare like chili dogs, pretzels, and popcorn.

Old Train Depot: Built in 1904 the Oceano Depot was once an important building in South San Luis Obispo County. All passenger, freight, telegraph, and mail service passed in and around the depot. The Oceano Train Depot has been restored to near original condition. Visitors can tour this real, turn-of-the-century train depot that remains virtually untouched.

Horseback riding: For those who have always wanted to stay, play, and gallop on the beach, the Pacific Dunes Ranch makes riding horseback a fun and safe bucket-list experience. The ranch offers one-hour trail rides on the beach and dunes with their own horses and gear, led by an experienced guide. Overnight boarding is also available for those bringing their own horse.

Airport: The County Airport in Oceano is located just a few minutes’ walk from some of the most beautiful coastline in California. You can embark on an adventurous flight with Banner Airways. They supply your leather jacket, helmet, goggles, and life jacket. You’ll fly in the exact aircraft that were used to train American Pilots during WWII and get a birds-eye view of this scenic area.

– From Discover Oceano and Highway1RoadTrip.com

arroyo grande

Come stay awhile in Arroyo Grande! This charming, one-of-a-kind town is home to a quaint historical village with dozens of unique shops, fine boutiques, and outdoor areas you’ll love to explore. California’s only swinging bridge is located in the Village. The original was built in1875 with rope and no sides, but now it has modern enhancements.

Hike some of the most beautiful trails anywhere. Relax at a spa or the beach just a few minutes away. Whatever you choose, it’s time well spent.

• If you get caught in a traffic jam in downtown Arroyo Grande, it might be because of the roosters.

• Arroyo Grande is a Spanish name that translates into multiple meanings, including “Big Riverbed” and “Big Gulch.”

The Village

A walkable shopping and dining experience that will keep you coming back! Parking is free. So are the friendly welcomes you receive in every shop you enter. From antiques to art. Coffee to decadent desserts. Clothing to home goods. The village gives you the shopping experience worth the entire day.

Wine tasting

Check out some of these great wine-tasting options in Arroyo Grande: Laetitia Vineyard & Winery, Peacock Cellars, Kynsi Winery, Timbre Winery, Lindquist Family Wines & Verdad Tasting Room, Talley Vineyards, Center of Effort, Alban Vineyards, DePaola Winery, Toucan Wines, and Wedell Cellars. Learn more at visitarroyogrande.org/sip2.

Lopez Lake

Plan a visit to Vista Lago Adventure Park and Mustang Waterpark in the summer! Both are located at Lopez Lake, where you can also go camping, fishing, kayaking, and more. For more information, please visit lopezlakemarina.com.

Parks, Hiking, and Biking

Lopez Lake isn’t the only place in Arroyo Grande to enjoy nature! This lovely town has numerous nearby trails just waiting to be explored. As its name suggests, the Big Falls/Little Falls trail offers gorgeous views of waterfalls.

Farms and Farmers’ Markets

Take the whole family to pick your own fruit at Halcyon Farms—or shop for fresh strawberries, veggies, flowers, and specialty foods at Arroyo Grande’s farmers’ markets. The farmers’ market in the Village of Arroyo Grande draws a crowd from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m. every Saturday. On Wednesday mornings, get juicy oranges, crisp greens, bread, and more at the farmers’ market from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Smart & Final parking lot outside of the downtown area. Learn more at visitarroyogrande.org.

The Clark Center for the Performing Arts

Created to inspire, entertain, and educate through the power of cultural and performing arts. Their theater is a state-of-the-art hub for cultural and community productions, as well as a professional setting for vocational and educational events. Visit clarkcenter.org for a list of upcoming shows.

Turtle Rescue

For over 30 years, the Turtle and Tortoise Rescue of Arroyo Grande has been fulfilling its mission to rescue, protect, and house turtles, tortoises, and other animals in its ecologically friendly five-acre sanctuary.

Their ranch is home to over 300 animals at any given time, many coming from neglected homes, indoor environments, or other harmful situations, with a handful of endangered and protected species. Visit turtleandtortoiserescueofarroyogrande.org for more information.

– From Visit Arroyo Grande

nipomo

Nipomo, a Chumash word meaning “the foot of the hills,” is a small, charming community that is home to several golf courses, miles of horse trails, nearby scenic Oso Flaco Lake, the historic Dana Adobe, and some of the best weather the Central Coast has to offer.

Nipomo Native Garden: If you’ve ever been curious about California native plants, the Nipomo Native Gardens boasts 12 acres of botanical native plants that will satisfy any curiosity. This space is a wonderland of diverse native species endemic to the Nipomo Mesa and Nipomo Dunes. Learn more at nipomonativegarden.org.

Historic houses: 

• Dana-Powers house, built in 1882, stands on a portion of the historic 37,888-acre Rancho Nipomo. A private residence, it has been home to six generations of Danas. The house still stands at 535 Mehlschau Rd. in Nipomo.

• Kaleidoscope Inn was constructed of redwood in 1887 by a retired rancher Vitalis Runels. It is a historic bed and breakfast run by father-daughter team Kevin and Beki that also serves as a wedding venue. Visit kaleidoscopeinn.com to book a reservation and find out more.

HISTORIC PARK: The Dana Adobe at Rancho Nipomo provides a step back in time to early California. Originally part of the lands of the Chumash, Rancho Nipomo became a Mexican Land Grant given to Captain William Goodwin Dana in 1837. Initially about 48,800 acres, and the surrounding property provides visitors with a deeper understanding of California’s history. The family’s residence was built in 1839 and is open for guided tours. The Historic Park includes a Mission Grape vineyard, original Tallow Vat, small gardens, miles of hiking trails, museum and much more. More information is available at danaadobe.org

Swap meet: More than a swap meet, more than a flea market, this is where everyone goes to find anything—especially a bargain. More than 300 vendors converge every Sunday at 6 a.m.

Luffa Farm: Luffas come from plants, and Nipomo’s Luffa Farm welcomes visitors to see how it’s done. The Luffa Farm is one of the only of its kind in the U.S. and grows an heirloom variety of luffa.

Golfing: Play a round in three of the country’s finest golf courses, all in one destination. Each of Nipomo’s three golf resorts boasts world-class courses and amenities.

• Blacklake Golf Resort offers 27 holes in three nine-hole layouts

for a unique golfing experience that challenges even the best

golfer’s game.

• Monarch Dunes Golf Club includes a traditional 18-hole course as

well as a challenge course comprised of 12 three-par holes.

• Cypress Ridge enjoy an award-winning championship course

(also a Peter Jacobsen Signature Course) voted one of Golf Digest’s

“Best Places to Play” (and one of the Central Coast’s most sought-

after wedding venues).

– Highway1RoadTrip.com

welcome

to the California Welcome Center - Pismo Beach

Helpful information for San Luis Obispo County visitors and residents

Have questions or need more information? Stop into the California Welcome Center—Pismo Beach! The Welcome Center is open seven days a week. Call (805) 668-7354 for the most current hours. The Welcome Center is managed by South County Chambers of Commerce.

Who We Are

We are part of Visit California’s Welcome Center program aiming to provide visitors with the best experience possible while traveling throughout the state. Participating Welcome Centers share local knowledge and are staffed with personal travel concierges who are ready to provide information about San Luis Obispo County to enhance your visit regardless of your travel goals.

Where to Find Us

The Pismo Beach California Welcome Center (CWC) is conveniently located off Highway 101 in the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets. Take the Five Cities Drive Exit (190A) from the North and 4th Street Exit (189) from the South. Alternatively, give us a call, shoot us a text, or send over an email, and staff will be happy to help with directions.

See You Soon!

First time visitor or resident, there’s always something new to discover. Recommendations, maps, brochures, insider tips, and more are all awaiting you at the CWC Pismo Beach for free. We look forward to seeing you soon, and in the meantime, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest local travel news and information.

333 5 Cities Drive #100

Pismo Beach, CA 93449

(805) 668-7354

info@cwcpismo.com

@cwcpismo on Facebook & Instagram

places to stay

in South SLO County

Cap off an adventurous day in south county by catching some z’s at a luxury hotel or a quaint B&B. Choose from a variety of accommodations where you can relax and recharge, while being right where you want to be, whether that’s among rolling vineyard hills, a balcony with a view of the beautiful ocean sunsets and a sandy beach, or in the midst of a bustling nightlife in Pismo Beach or Arroyo Grande.

Ideally located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, South County San Luis Obispo boasts lodging options at every price point and for every type of trip. Whether a romantic getaway, family vacation, road trip with friends, or business trip, discover the perfect place to stay and end your day with a restful night’s sleep.

Revitalize your senses at a luxurious spa. Sip a glass of local wine at a historic B&B. Breathe in the ocean air from the deck of a vacation rental. Unwind in nature at an RV park and campground. The choice is yours with a range of pet-friendly and family-friendly opportunities.

No matter how long your trip may be — one night, a weekend, a week or even longer — check-in and be our guest. Kick off your shoes, sit back and settle into a SLO CAL state of mind. To learn more go to VisitSLOCAL.com

South County Chambers of Commerce

2024 Board of Directors

“We are excited about our diverse Board slate for 2024 comprising local leaders who represent various industries and communities in South County,” said Kathy McCorry, CEO for South County Chambers of Commerce. “These individuals will help guide our regional Chamber to the next level of success. As the catalyst, convener, and champion for the business community, we look forward to continuing to work alongside our elected officials to strengthen the economic stability of our region.”

Joshua Erdman

Chairperson

Torchlight Marketing

Kristen Palera

Immediate Past Chairperson

Two Moons Lodge

Adam Verdin

Vice Chairperson

Old Juan’s Mexican Cantina

Anthony Salas

Treasurer

Epic Entertainment

Kim Banks

Secretary

BBSI

Ron Reilly

Director

Garing, Taylor and Associates

David Pier

Director

Clark Center

Mary Gardner

Director

SLO Regional Transit Authority

Nicole Moore

Director

Seacrest Hotel and Resort

Mary Ishikawa

Director

Allstate

Eduardo Guzman

Director

SESLOC

Michael Keleman

Director

Tenet Health

Scott Robertson

Director

Dignity Health

South County Chambers of Commerce Staff

Kathy McCorry,

Chief Executive Officer

Email: ceo@southcountychambers.com

Paige Jones

Office Administrator

Email: CWC@southcountychambers.com

Kyrstin Pull

Event Coordinator

Email: kyrstin@southcountychambers.com

Rod Brown

Marketing Coordinator

Email: marketing@southcountychambers.com

Dale Aldrich

Business Liaison

Email: business@southcountychambers.com

leadership

SOUTH COUNTY

Leadership South County is a nine-month, community-focused, leadership development program dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering tomorrow’s business and community leaders. This program will help individuals develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take their leadership skills to the next level while fostering meaningful relationships with like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive difference in the community.

Leadership development topics include:

• Purpose, vision, and values

• Goal setting and execution

• Effective communication

• Performance management

• Inclusion and diversity

• Leading change

• Appreciation and celebration

• Increasing productivity

• Leadership mindset and habits

Community focus areas include:

• Business and manufacturing

• Arts and education

• Recreation and tourism

• Housing

• Wine and agriculture

• Environmental sustainability

• Nonprofit organizations

• Government

• Regional cooperation

South County Ambassadors

South County Chambers of Commerce ambassadors welcome new members and assist at Chamber events. These Chamber members are a valuable part of the business community and serve a key role at Chamber breakfasts, luncheons, membership mixers, ribbon cuttings, community meetings, and other special events. They represent various industries across South San Luis Obispo County.

Vanessa Oms

Chair

Envoy Mortgage, Ltd.

Samantha Coelho

Vice Chair

Balanced Beauty Boutique

Kim Banks

Barrett Business Services Inc (BBSI)

Kassi Dee

Nan’s Books & Crystals

Fernando Granados

Envoy Mortgage, Ltd.

Donna Milne

1st Capital Bank

Lettie Fuller

Mechanics Bank -

Arroyo Grande

Carole D Brown

Gold Coast Express Registration

Rachelle Krelle

Rachelle Krelle- eXp Realty

Alicia Paniagua

Cuesta College

Andrew Paul

Edward Jones Investments

Kris Sinay

Garing, Taylor & Associates Inc

Kimberley Victor

Mary Kay * Cultivating Beauty

Heidi Brodmarkle-Brun

Heidi Brodmarkle-Brun

with Damsel in Defense

Erika Weber

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center

Michael Leon

Burke & Pace Lumber Co

Melinda Bagby

SESLOC Federal Credit Union

Joe Pivovaroff

Sentinel Security Solutions

Hugo A Pinon

Central Coast Sotheby’s

International Realty

Mary Rowan-Ishikawa

Allstate Suncoast Insurance Services Inc

Kimberly Wybenga

Eckerd Connects